Abstract: A plant care and management device for outdoor setting comprising of a frame 101 configured to support a plurality of plant pots mounted via a pair of pneumatic linkages 102, a body arranged on the side of the frame 101 comprising a pneumatic link 117 integrated with a soil inspection unit 104 to assess soil quality of the plant pots, a water chamber 105 connected to a sprinkler 106 via a telescopic conduit 107 for controlled watering, a camera 108 for monitoring sunlight exposure and flower condition, a motorized sliding unit 109 to adjust the height and position of the pots, a motorized roller 110 with a metallic sheet 111 for shielding during high winds, a retractable shielding assembly 116 with motorized spindles 116b and mesh 116c for animal protection, a fertilizer box 112 with nozzle 113 to dispense fertilizer, a plurality of iris lids 115 for ventilation.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a plant care and management device for outdoor setting that is capable of maintaining plants in an outdoor setting by assessing their requirements and providing water and fertilizer accordingly in an automated manner, thus ensuring overall plant care and growth.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Plant care and maintenance is an essential task in both domestic and commercial outdoor environments. Healthy plant growth depends on a number of factors such as proper sunlight exposure, soil quality, balanced fertilization, and timely watering. In recent years, increasing interest in home gardening, terrace farming, and landscaped outdoor spaces has created a demand for device that help maintain plant health with minimal manual effort. Efficient management of these factors is necessary for achieving consistent plant development, especially when large numbers of plants are involved.
[0003] Traditionally, plant care is done manually. Gardeners or users usually check the soil by touch or use hand-held tools to measure moisture or pH levels. Watering is often done with watering cans or hoses without any precise control over quantity or timing. Fertilizer is added based on experience or fixed schedules, not always based on actual plant needs. Sunlight positioning is fixed and rarely adjusted. These manual methods are time-consuming, require regular supervision, and lead to overwatering, underfeeding, or poor sunlight exposure.
[0004] One of the main drawbacks of traditional methods is the lack of automation and data-driven control. Manual monitoring cannot consistently detect early signs of poor plant health such as nutrient deficiency, irregular soil moisture, or pest interference. External weather conditions such as wind and rainfall are also not taken into account when deciding irrigation or shielding. As a result, plants are often exposed to unnecessary stress, which reduces their growth potential and may lead to damage or loss. These limitations highlight the need for more advanced and automated solutions for outdoor plant care and management.
[0005] US6345470B1 discloses about a self-contained automatic watering method and system for plants that includes a container made up of an inner and outer pot nested together to define an annular space which serves as a reservoir for water to be used for watering a plant held in the inner pot. A distributor in the form of an inclined wall is located on the container at least partially surrounding a plant held in the container. A housing is easily detachably mounted on said container and extends into the reservoir. The housing contains a pump, a motor to drive the pump, and a conduit leading from the pump to the distributor for directing water into a plant held in the inner pot, and a controller for controlling the motor to initiate watering cycles according to a preselected program regarding the frequency of watering and quantity of water.
[0006] US9271454B1 discloses about an intelligent gardening system and method for monitoring and analyzing a moisture level in individual gardening pots and/or containers is provided. A system comprises a moisture measuring sensor integrated into a pot/container. A gardener can read moisture-related data using a mobile device, a computer, or a tablet, or directly from built-in display. The gardener can send the moisture level-related data along with other data (such as, a type of a plant, a soil type, size of a pot, a plant size, location, current weather, an air temperature, etc.) to a central server connected to a central gardening database or to a cloud service and receive gardening recommendations. The gardening recommendations can include other recommendations pertaining to a particular plant and gardening conditions.
[0007] Conventionally, many devices are available for managing and caring plant in outdoor setting. However, the cited arts show certain limitations, where the device fails to provide automatic solution for taking care of plants in outdoor areas. These devices do not work together smoothly to check conditions, make decisions, and take action based on real-time data. The devices do not easily adjust to changes in weather or the specific needs of each plant, which are important for keeping plants healthy with less manual work.
[0008] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to enable automated plant care and management in outdoor environments. The developed device needs to be capable of monitoring various plant-related conditions in real time, responding effectively to changing environmental factors, and reducing the need for manual supervision while ensuring consistent and healthy plant growth.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0010] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing an automated means for taking care of the plants in an outdoor setting, thus ensuring consistent care even in the absence of the user.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of monitoring environmental and soil conditions of the plants to ensures proper plant health management for better yield.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to device that is capable of delivering precise and controlled irrigation and nutrition to each plant based on specific requirements, thus promoting balanced nourishment and promoting plant health.
[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to device that is capable of protecting the plants from animals by means of a safety cover, thereby preventing damage to the plants without the need for constant manual monitoring or physical barriers.
[0014] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The present invention relates to a plant care and management device for outdoor setting that is capable of monitoring environment and soil condition of plants to help keep them healthy and their improving growth by providing the right amount of water and nutrients to each plant based on the needs, thus helps in ensuring proper care and balanced growth for better results.
[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plant care and management device for outdoor setting, comprising a frame developed to be installed on an outdoor setting, configured to support a plurality of plant pots mounted thereon via a pair of pneumatic linkages, a body arranged on the side of the frame, comprising a pneumatic link integrated with a soil inspection unit to assess soil quality of plant pots, a water chamber connected to a sprinkler via a telescopic conduit, the sprinkler configured to target individual pots for controlled watering, a camera embedded with the frame for monitoring sunlight exposure and flower condition of the pots, a motorize sliding unit provided on inner periphery of the frame, actuated by a microcontroller in sync with the linkages to adjust height and position of the pots to optimize sunlight exposure and aesthetic arrangement, an anemometer integrated with the frame to detect wind speed in surroundings, a motorized roller wrapped with a metallic sheet installed at the top periphery of the frame, the roller controlled to unroll the sheet upon detection of wind speeds exceeding a predetermined threshold, a fertilizer box connected to a nozzle via a telescopic tube, the nozzle configured to dispense fertilizer precisely to the pots based on NPK levels detected by the soil inspection unit.
[0017] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises of a retractable shielding assembly mounted on the pneumatic linkages of the pot to deter animal interference comprising of a ring-shaped unit positioned between the linkages, and integrated with a plurality of motorized spindles, a mesh wound around the spindles, designed to extend outward upon actuation to cover or surround the pot, a plurality of electromagnets located at both ends of the mesh to secure the mesh in place when deployed, an infrared (IR) thermal camera integrated with the camera to detect the presence of animals and trigger the spindles to unroll the mesh, thereby protecting the pot from animal disturbance, a communication module is integrated with the microcontroller for enabling wireless connectivity to a dedicated computing unit, the computing unit allows remote monitoring and control of plant conditions and device operations, a flow sensor is integrated with the sprinkler and nozzle for monitoring water and fertilizer flow to optimize watering/ fertilizing based on sensor data.
[0018] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a plant care and management device for outdoor setting.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0021] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.
[0022] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0023] The present invention relates to a plant care and management device for outdoor setting that is capable of maintaining plants in an outdoor setting by automatically assessing their needs for supplying water and fertilizer as required, while also protecting them from animals, this prevents damage to the plants without the need for constant manual supervision and promoting balanced nourishment and sustainable maintenance practices.
[0024] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of a plant care and management device for outdoor setting comprising of a frame 101 developed to be installed on an outdoor setting, a pair of pneumatic linkages 102 integrated with the frame 101 , a body 103 arranged on the side of the frame 101, comprising a pneumatic link 117 integrated with a soil inspection unit 104, a water chamber 105 connected to a sprinkler 106 via a telescopic conduit 107, a camera 108 embedded with the frame 101, a motorize sliding unit 109 provided on inner periphery of the frame 101, a motorized roller 110 wrapped with a metallic sheet 111 installed at the top periphery of the frame 101.
[0025] Figure 1 further comprises of a fertilizer box 112 connected to a nozzle 113 via a telescopic tube 114 attached with the frame 101, a plurality of iris lids 115 configured with the sheet 111, a retractable shielding assembly 116 mounted on the pneumatic linkages 102, the retractable shielding assembly 116 incudes a ring-shaped unit 116a positioned between the linkages 102, and integrated with a plurality of motorized spindles 116b a mesh 116c wound around the spindles 116b and a plurality of electromagnets 116d located at both ends of the mesh 116c.
[0026] The present invention includes a frame 101 developed to be installed on an outdoor setting where structured and plant maintenance is required. The outdoor setting herein includes but not limited to home gardens, backyards, terraces, balconies, rooftop gardens, and public landscaped areas for offering both functional support and aesthetic enhancement. The frame 101 is constructed from corrosion-resistant materials such as galvanized steel for preventing corrosion, moisture, and UV exposure. The material ensures the frame 101 maintains structural integrity over prolonged outdoor use.
[0027] In an embodiment of the present invention a user is required to access and presses a push button arranged on the frame 101 to activate the device for associated processes of the device. The push button when pressed by the user, closes an electrical circuit and allows currents to flow for powering an associated microcontroller of the device for operating of all the linked components for performing their respective functions upon actuation. The microcontroller, mentioned herein, is preferably an Arduino microcontroller. The Arduino microcontroller used herein controls the overall functionality of the linked components.
[0028] A user interface is installed in a computing unit linked with a microcontroller inbuilt in the device to wirelessly connect device with computing unit by means of a communication module. The user interface enables the user to provide input regarding activation of the device to plant care and management. The communication module includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module.
[0029] The Wi-Fi module contains transmitters and receivers that use radio frequency signals to transmit data wirelessly to the microcontroller. The wireless module typically includes components such as antennas, amplifiers, and processors to facilitate communication and further connected to networks such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks, allowing devices to exchange information over short or long distances for communication of wireless commands to facilitate operations of the device.
[0030] The frame 101 is configured with a pair of pneumatic linkages 102 to hold a plurality of plant pots for optimal plant care and enhancing display aesthetics. A pneumatic unit is associated with the linkages 102 to adjust the height of the linkages 102. The pneumatic linkages 102 are powered by a pneumatic unit that embodies an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves, and piston which work in collaboration to perform the extension and retraction of the linkages 102.
[0031] The microcontroller sends a signal to the pneumatic unit associated with the linkages 102 that leads to actuation of valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder from one end, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the linkages 102 and due to applied pressure the linkages 102 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the linkages 102 by pushing compressed air via the other end of the cylinder, by opening the corresponding valve resulting in retraction of the piston, and the retraction of the rod. The microcontroller sends a signal to the pneumatic unit associated with the linkages 102 to adjust the height of the linkages 102 and the pots attached to the linkages 102 in response to environmental conditions and user preferences, ensuring optimal plant care and enhancing display aesthetics.
[0032] In an embodiment of the present invention, the linkages 102 are configured with a bracket assembly to support each plant pot. These brackets are made of lightweight yet durable metal or reinforced polymer, shaped to cradle the base of the pot while providing side support to prevent slipping or tilting during movement. The bracket assembly is equipped with manually operated clamps (at least 2 to 3 in number) to hold each plant pot securely. These clamps are adjusted by hand, allowing the user to tighten or loosen them according to the size and shape of the pot and the user manually adjusts the clamps to press gently against the pot’s sides, ensuring a snug fit that prevents slipping or tilting during repositioning.
[0033] A camera 108 is mounted over the frame 101 to monitor the flower conditions and track sunlight exposure on each plant and determine optimal pot positioning to ensure proper growth conditions. The camera 108 captures periodic images of each plant pot to assess flower health, bloom status, and leaf coloration. Simultaneously, it tracks the angle and intensity of sunlight exposure across different times of the day. These image and light data are processed by an artificial intelligence protocol inbuilt in the microcontroller to monitor sunlight exposure and flower condition of the pots.
[0034] A motorized sliding unit 109 is mounted along the inner periphery of the frame 101 and connected to the linkages 102 to adjust the arrangement of the linkages 102. Based on the information from the camera 108, the microcontroller send signal to a motor connected to the sliding unit 109 to adjust the positioning of the pots via the pneumatic linkages 102.
[0035] The motorized sliding unit 109 operates along a guided rail mounted on the inner periphery of the frame 101. The sliding unit 109 consists of a motor-driven carriage, controlled by the microcontroller, based on data from the camera 108 regarding sunlight exposure or plant condition. The motor activates and moves the carriage horizontally or vertically along the frame 101 to reposition the pneumatic linkages 102 and thereby adjusts the location of the pots to optimize light exposure, spacing, and visual alignment.
[0036] A pneumatic link 117 is arranged on the side of the frame 101 that integrates a soil inspection unit 104 to assess soil quality of plant pots. The inspection unit 104 comprises multiple sensors including a soil moisture sensor, a pH sensor, a temperature sensor, and a NPK sensor to accurately assess the soil quality of each pot. The microcontroller sends a signal to the pneumatic unit associated with the device, to power the link 117 for positioning the inspection unit 104 to assess the soil properties. The link 117 works in the same manner as linkages described earlier.
[0037] The microcontroller periodically activates the soil moisture sensor to measure the volumetric water content in the pot's soil. The sensor typically consists of two probes inserted into the soil, which measure the electrical resistance or capacitance between them. Moisture alters the dielectric constant of soil, changing the resistance or capacitance values. These analog signals are converted to digital data and sent to the microcontroller, that compares the readings against predefined moisture thresholds to determine if irrigation is required.
[0038] The microcontroller initiates the soil pH sensor to evaluate the acidity or alkalinity of the soil. The pH sensor operates using an ion-sensitive electrode and a reference electrode, inserted into a soil-water mixture. The potential difference generated due to the activity of hydrogen ions in the soil solution is measured and converted into pH values. These values are processed and sent to the microcontroller for assessment.
[0039] The microcontroller activates the temperature sensor to monitor the thermal conditions of the soil. The sensor used herein is a thermistor that detects temperature changes based on resistance or voltage variation with temperature. The resulting electrical signal is processed by an onboard ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) and sent to the microcontroller. The microcontroller uses this data to assess environmental stress, regulate irrigation timing, and protect the plant from extreme temperatures.
[0040] The microcontroller triggers the NPK sensor to determine the concentration levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the soil. The sensor typically uses ion-selective electrodes or optical spectroscopy to measure nutrient presence. When inserted into the soil or a soil solution, it detects electrical potentials or light absorption patterns corresponding to each nutrient. These signals are digitized and interpreted by the microcontroller to evaluate soil fertility.
[0041] A fertilizer box 112 is installed over the frame 101 and connected to a nozzle 113 to dispense fertilizer directly into the pots based on the NPK readings provided by the soil inspection unit 104. If a deficiency is detected, the microcontroller activates the fertilizer nozzle 113 to dispense a measured quantity of nutrients, ensuring the plant receives balanced nourishment.
[0042] The microcontroller sends a control signal to a solenoid valve connected to the nozzle 113. This valve opens briefly, allowing a precise quantity of liquid or granular fertilizer to flow through a telescopic tube 114 to the nozzle 113. This valve opens in response to the electrical signal, allowing a measured quantity of fertilizer to pass through the telescopic tube 114 and nozzle 113. The telescopic tube 114 is powered by the pneumatic unit associated with the device and works in the same manner as pneumatic linkages 102 to position the nozzle 113 over the post for precise dispensing.
[0043] A flow sensor (not shown in figure) is integrated with the sprinkler 106 and nozzle 113 for monitoring water and fertilizer flow to optimize watering/ fertilizing. The flow sensor mentioned herein consists of a plastic valve from which water or fertilizer passes. A rotor along with a hall effect sensor is present that sense and measure the water or fertilizer flow. When water or fertilizer flows through the valve it rotates the rotor. By this, the change is observed in the speed of the rotor. This change is calculated as output as a pulse signal by the hall effect sensor.
[0044] Thus, the rate of flow of beverage is measured. The main working principle behind the working of the flow rate sensor is the Hall effect which means a voltage difference is induced in the conductor due to the rotation of the rotor. This induced voltage difference is transverse to the electric current. When the water passes through the sprinkler 106 or the fertilizer passes through nozzle 113, the rotor is rotated due to the flow of water or fertilizer thereby induces voltage that is transverse into an electrical signal that is transmitted to the microcontroller to optimize watering/ fertilizing. If the dispensed amount reaches the desired level, based on plant-specific nutrient requirements, the microcontroller closes the valve, stopping the flow.
[0045] A water chamber 105 is arranged with the frame 101 for watering plants. The chamber 105 is connected to a sprinkler 106 via a telescopic conduit 107. The telescopic conduit 107 is powered by the pneumatic unit associated with the device that works same manner as mentioned above working for pneumatic linkages 102 for targeting individual pots for controlled watering. The extension of the conduit 107 enables the sprinkler 106 to reach specific pots as identified by the soil inspection unit 104. The water flows through the conduit 107 and is released by the sprinkler 106 in a regulated manner.
[0046] The flow sensor is integrated with the sprinkler 106 for monitoring water and fertilizer flow to optimize watering/ fertilizing based on sensor data. The flow sensor operates by detecting the change in pressure of the liquid flowing through the sprinkler's conduit 107. This real-time data is sent to the microcontroller, which compares the flow rate against predefined thresholds based on pot size and soil condition. If any deviation is detected such as excessive flow indicating a leak or insufficient flow due to clogging, the microcontroller adjusts the valve or alerts the user. This ensures optimal watering and fertilizing, avoiding resource wastage and promoting healthier plant growth.
[0047] An anemometer is integrated with the frame 101 to measure surrounding wind speed. The anemometer operates by detecting the rotation of its small cup-like which spin faster as wind speed increases. These rotational signals are converted into electrical data and transmitted to the microcontroller that compares the data to a pre-defined threshold. When the measured wind speed exceeds a predefined threshold, the microcontroller sends a signal to a motor linked to a motorized roller installed at the top periphery of the frame 101, wrapped with a metallic sheet 111.
[0048] The motorized roller 110 comprises a cylindrical shaft connected to an electric motor, mounted at the top periphery of the frame 101. Upon receiving a signal from the microcontroller, triggered by the anemometer detecting wind speeds above a threshold. The motor rotates the shaft, causing the flexible metallic sheet 111 wound around it to unroll vertically. The roller 110 operates through a gear to ensure consistent torque and controlled deployment ensures that the plants are shielded from strong winds, reducing the risk of physical damage. Once wind speed normalizes, the motor reverses direction, rolling the sheet 111 back to its original position.
[0049] The sheet 111 is further integrated with a plurality of iris lids 115 for ventilation in view of protecting the plants while maintaining airflow. The iris lid is an adjusting circular aperture comprised of an actuation ring and a plurality of blades according to the size of the lid. The blades are engraved with the protrusions through which the actuation ring is affixed to each blade. The actuation ring is connected to a motor, which helps in the movement of the actuation ring leading to the movement of blades inward or outward to change the size of the opening. When the blades close, the aperture becomes smaller, closing the lid. When the blades open, the aperture widens, opening the lid. This adjustment allows the iris lid to control the ventilation according to the requirement of the plants.
[0050] To deter animal interference, a retractable shielding assembly 116 is mounted on the pneumatic linkages 102. The retractable shielding assembly 116 includes a ring- shaped unit 116a integrated with motorized spindles 116b around which a mesh 116c is wound. Upon detecting animals through an infrared thermal camera integrated with the camera 108, the spindles 116b extend the mesh 116c to cover the pot. Electromagnets 116d at both ends secure the mesh 116c in place during deployment.
[0051] The infrared thermal camera continuously scans the surroundings for heat signatures emitted by living creatures. When it detects the presence of an animal near the pot, based on temperature variations, the microcontroller sends a signal to a motor linked with the motorized spindles 116b to extend a mesh 116c around the pot. The motorized spindles 116b are small rotating shafts embedded within the ring- shaped unit 116a that guides the extension of the mesh 116c around the pot. When activated, the spindles 116b unwind the mesh 116c outward in a radial to form a protective enclosure around the plant pot. The mesh 116c is made of flexible, weather-resistant material, designed to expand and surround the pot without obstructing light or airflow. The mesh 116c acts as a physical barrier to deter small animals or birds from accessing or damaging the plant.
[0052] Once the mesh 116c is fully extended around the pot, electromagnets 116d located at both terminal ends of the mesh 116c activate to lock the mesh 116c into position. The electromagnets 116d are mounted at the ends of the mesh 116c. Once the mesh 116c is fully extended around the plant pot by the motorized spindles 116b, the electromagnets 116d are activated, powered by the microcontroller to create a magnetic field. This field pulls and locks metallic ends of the mesh 116c into place, ensuring the shield remains fixed and does not retract due to wind or vibrations. When the microcontroller decides to retract the mesh 116c (after the animal leaves), it cuts off power to the electromagnets 116d, releasing the lock.
[0053] The microcontroller governs the entire operation of the device by utilizing data stored in an interconnected database. This database records plant profiles, environmental data, performance logs, and sensor readings to support automated plant care and informed decision-making.
[0054] A GPS module synchronized with an internet module is integrated into the device for real-time location tracking and weather forecasting to support irrigation scheduling and suspending watering in case of predicted rainfall. The GPS module receives signals from multiple satellites in the GPS constellation. Each satellite transmits a signal that includes its position and the precise time of the signal. The GPS module uses these signals to calculate the distance from each satellite based on the time it took for the signal to reach the module. By receiving signals from multiple satellites, the module performs trilateration and calculates the exact position (latitude, longitude, and altitude) of the platform. The microcontroller receives the GPS coordinates to assess the weather of the specific location.
[0055] For example, if the device is installed on a terrace in Delhi which has hot and humid weather, the microcontroller will receive weather updates relevant to that exact location rather than general data. This weather information such as temperature, humidity, and especially the chance of rainfall. Based on these updates, the microcontroller decides whether to proceed with watering the plants or to pause the irrigation if rainfall is predicted soon. This prevents unnecessary water usage, protects the plants from overwatering, and helps in optimizing plant care based on the surrounding climate.
[0056] Lastly, a battery (not shown in figure) is installed within the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is generally a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirements.
[0057] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the camera as disclosed in the invention is embedded in the frame 101 captures images and records sunlight exposure data for each pot. This visual and environmental information is processed to determine optimal positioning for plant growth. Based on this analysis, the motorized sliding unit 109, actuated by the microcontroller, adjusts the height and lateral position of the pots using the pneumatic linkages 102. Simultaneously, the soil inspection unit 104 evaluates the quality of soil using integrated moisture, pH, temperature, and NPK sensors. If deficiencies or imbalances are detected, the microcontroller triggers the fertilizer box 112, which dispenses the appropriate amount of nutrients through the nozzle 113, monitored by the flow sensor for precision. The water chamber 105 supplies water through the telescopic conduit 107 to the sprinkler 106, which targets specific pots for irrigation.
[0058] In continuation, the flow sensor ensures accurate delivery, preventing overwatering or waste. When high wind speeds are detected by the anemometer, the microcontroller activates the motorized roller 110 at the top of the frame 101 to unroll the metallic sheet 111, protecting the plants. This sheet 111 includes iris lids 115 that maintain airflow while providing weather shielding. To prevent animal disturbances, the infrared thermal camera detects motion near the pots. If an animal is detected, the microcontroller activates motorized spindles 116b in the retractable shielding assembly 116, unrolling the mesh 116c around the pot. Electromagnets 116d secure the mesh 116c in position during deployment. Additionally, the GPS module synced with the internet module provides real-time location data and weather forecasts. If rain is predicted, the microcontroller automatically suspends watering.
[0059] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A plant care and management device for outdoor setting, comprising:
i) a frame 101 developed to be installed on an outdoor setting, configured to support a plurality of plant pots mounted thereon via a pair of pneumatic linkages 102;
ii) a body arranged on the side of the frame 101, comprising a pneumatic link 117 integrated with a soil inspection unit 104 to assess soil quality of plant pots;
iii) a water chamber 105 connected to a sprinkler 106 via a telescopic conduit 107, the sprinkler 106 configured to target individual pots for controlled watering;
iv) a camera 108 embedded with the frame 101 for monitoring sunlight exposure and flower condition of the pots;
v) a motorize sliding unit 109 provided on inner periphery of the frame 101, actuated by a microcontroller in sync with the linkages 102 to adjust height and position of the pots to optimize sunlight exposure and aesthetic arrangement;
vi) an anemometer integrated with the frame 101 to detect wind speed in surroundings;
vii) a motorized roller 110 wrapped with a metallic sheet 111 installed at the top periphery of the frame 101, the roller 110 controlled to unroll the sheet 111 upon detection of wind speeds exceeding a predetermined threshold,
viii) a retractable shielding assembly 116 mounted on the pneumatic linkages 102 of the pot to deter animal interference; and
ix) a fertilizer box 112 connected to a nozzle 113 via a telescopic tube 114, the nozzle 113 configured to dispense fertilizer precisely to the pots based on NPK levels detected by the soil inspection unit 104.
2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the soil inspection unit 104 comprises of a soil moisture sensor, a soil pH sensor, a temperature sensor, and a NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) sensor.
3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the metallic sheet 111 is integrated with a plurality of iris lids 115 for ventilation, thereby protecting the plants while maintaining airflow.
4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retractable shielding assembly 116 incudes:
a) a ring- shaped unit 116a positioned between the linkages 102, and integrated with a plurality of motorized spindles 116b,
b) a mesh 116c wound around the spindles 116b, designed to extend outward upon actuation to cover or surround the pot,
c) a plurality of electromagnets 116d located at both ends of the mesh 116c to secure the mesh 116c in place when deployed,
d) an infrared (IR) thermal camera integrated with the camera 108 to detect the presence of animals and trigger the spindles 116b to unroll the mesh 116c, thereby protecting the pot from animal disturbance.
5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a database is interconnected with the microcontroller for storing real-time sensor data, plant profiles, activities, performance metrics, and maintenance logs to facilitate informed decision-making and pot(s) management.
6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a GPS (Global Positioning System) module synced with an internet module is integrated with for real-time location tracking and weather forecasting, enabling location-specific irrigation scheduling, including suspension of watering upon predicted rainfall.
7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a communication module is integrated with the microcontroller for enabling wireless connectivity to a dedicated computing unit, the computing unit allows remote monitoring and control of plant conditions and device operations.
8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a flow sensor is integrated with the sprinkler 106 and nozzle 113 for monitoring water and fertilizer flow to optimize watering/ fertilizing based on sensor data.
9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pneumatic linkages 102 enable smooth and responsive positioning and adjustment of the pots based on environmental conditions and user preferences for optimized plant care and display aesthetics.
10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the motorized roller 110 and metallic sheet 111 with iris lids 115 operate in coordination to provide protective coverage and ventilation for the plants during adverse weather conditions.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202521062420-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 2 | 202521062420-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 3 | 202521062420-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 4 | 202521062420-PROOF OF RIGHT [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 5 | 202521062420-POWER OF AUTHORITY [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 6 | 202521062420-FORM-9 [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 7 | 202521062420-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 8 | 202521062420-FORM 18 [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 9 | 202521062420-FORM 1 [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 10 | 202521062420-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 11 | 202521062420-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 12 | 202521062420-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 13 | 202521062420-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 14 | 202521062420-DRAWINGS [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 15 | 202521062420-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 16 | 202521062420-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [30-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-30 |
| 17 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-07-14 |