Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a plantation and habitat control device for vegetative propagated crops that enables automatic plantation of crops to minimize manual labor while simultaneously monitoring real-time soil conditions and enhance planting efficiency and crop management.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The need for plantation and suitable habitat for vegetative propagated crops is crucial to ensure their healthy growth, productivity, and sustainability. Proper plantation ensures that these crops receive optimal sunlight, water, soil nutrients, and protection from pests and diseases. The suitable habitat provides the right climate, soil type, and moisture levels that support root development and the overall health of the crop. Moreover, a well-planned plantation helps maintain genetic uniformity and high-quality yield, which is essential for commercial production and conservation of these crops.

[0003] Traditional methods of plantation and habitat management for vegetative propagated crops often rely on manual techniques such as selecting planting material from healthy plants, simple land preparation using basic tools, and natural irrigation from rainfall or nearby water sources. These methods usually involve planting cuttings, tubers, or shoots directly into the soil without advanced soil testing or pest control measures. While these practices have been useful but they come with several drawbacks. They often result in inconsistent crop quality and lower yields due to limited control over environmental factors like soil fertility, moisture, and pests. Additionally, traditional methods are labor-intensive and time-consuming, limiting scalability.

[0004] US3765347A relates to a planting device comprises a hollow conical member, which consists of at least two segments, being pivotally connected to a rotatably arranged holder having a guide for the plant. The segments may be locked in a first position in which relative narrow longitudinally extending openings are generated between the segments which are so shaped that mould will be pressed into the conical member through said openings when the holder is rotated. After planting the locking is released thereby admitting the segments to be automatically swung outwardly when the device is lifted up.

[0005] NL2025152B1 relates to a planting machine for plants, such as seedlings, wherein this planting machine is provided for arranging plants on a field so that after their application to the field the plants comprise an above-ground portion extending above ground and an underground portion extending below ground, the latter planting machine comprises a detection system for detecting the plants after the plants have been applied to the field, this detection system comprising at least one measuring instrument for detecting the above-ground portions of the plants and a method for mapping the position of plants on a field.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are available in the market that helps the user in plantation and habitat control for vegetative propagated crops. However, the devices mentioned in the prior arts are lacks in determining real-time soil conditions for improving crop management and productivity. In addition, these existing devices are incapable of determining the condition of parent crops for ensuring the selection of healthy plants for better propagation and higher crop quality.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be capable of determining real-time soil conditions for improving crop management and productivity. In addition, the developed device also needs to be capable of determining the condition of parent crops for ensuring the selection of healthy plants for better propagation and higher crop quality.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that enables automatic plantation of vegetative propagated crops, minimizing manual labor and enhancing planting efficiency.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of determining real-time soil conditions for improving crop management and productivity.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of determining the condition of parent crops for ensuring the selection of healthy plants for better propagation and higher crop quality.

[0012] 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

[0013] The present invention relates to a plantation and habitat control device for vegetative propagated crops that is capable of monitoring real-time soil conditions and assesses the health of parent crops to improve crop management, ensure the selection of healthy plants, and enhance overall productivity.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a plantation and habitat control device for vegetative propagated crops, comprising a cuboidal body equipped with a plurality of motorized wheels to maneuver in a farm field, a storage chamber to store a plurality of parent crops which are to be planted, a screw conveyor coupled with the storage chamber to transfer the crops towards a processing chamber, a motorized cutter installed within the processing chamber to slice a partial segment of the crop to be sown within the farm field and is coupled with an angle sensor to regulate the cutting angle of the cutter at a pre-defined angle, a soil quality assessment module installed over the body via an articulated link to contact with a ground surface of the field and determine real time soil condition.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises of a soil quality management module comprises of a group of sensors to determine real time soil condition and feed the value to the processor to disperse required chemicals or water contents to maintain the soil quality, a fertilizer storage section and water storage section along with a plurality of valves and pipes to regulate flow of water and fertilizer corresponding to the real time soil condition, a sowing module comprises of a robotic arm with a digging unit to sow the partial segment of crops, a GPS (global positioning system) and internet module is connected with the processor for real time prediction of weather to regulate the soil management module, a sensing suite to determine the condition of parent crops based on which the processor halts or initiates the operation of the cutter and a battery is associated with the device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0016] 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

[0017] 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 an isometric view of a plantation and habitat control device for vegetative propagated crops.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The present invention relates to a plantation and habitat control device for vegetative propagated crops that enables automatic plantation of crops while assessing the condition of parent plants to ensure healthy selection, minimize manual labor, and enhance planting efficiency and crop quality.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a plantation and habitat control device for vegetative propagated crops is illustrated, comprises of a cuboidal body 101 equipped with a plurality of motorized wheels 102, a storage chamber 103, a screw conveyor 104 coupled with the storage chamber 103 to transfer the crops towards a processing chamber 105, a motorized cutter 106 installed within the processing chamber 105, a soil quality assessment module 107 installed over the body 101 via an articulated link 108, a fertilizer storage section 109 and water storage section 110 along with a plurality of valves 111 and pipes 112 installed in the body 101, a sowing module 113 comprises of a robotic arm 113a with a digging unit 113b installed on the body 101, an integrated robotic link 114 installed in the body 101 and a waste chamber 115 installed in the body 101.

[0023] The device discloses herein includes a cuboidal body 101 equipped with a plurality of motorized wheels 102 to maneuver in a farm field. The cuboidal body 101 of the device is made of durable, lightweight materials such as aluminum or reinforced plastic, which provide strength and resistance to environmental factors like moisture, dust, and impact, while keeping the overall weight manageable for ease of movement.

[0024] The motorized wheels 102 work by combining electric motors with wheel assemblies to provide controlled movement and steering for the device. Each motorized wheel consists of a small electric motor connected directly to the wheel axle, which converts electrical energy into mechanical rotation. When electrical power is supplied, the motor’s internal components such as the rotor and stator interact to create a magnetic field that causes the rotor to spin. This spinning motion turns the wheel, propelling the device forward or backward.

[0025] A user is required to activate the device manually by pressing a button installed on the body 101 and linked with a processor associated with the device. The button is a type of switch that is internally connected with the device via multiple circuits that upon pressing by the user, the circuits get closed and starts conduction of electricity that tends to activate the device and vice versa.

[0026] A storage chamber 103 configured to store a plurality of parent crops which are to be planted. The storage chamber 103 is constructed from lightweight yet durable materials such as high-quality plastic which provide strength and resistance to environmental factors. These materials ensure that the parent crops remain protected from physical damage and external contaminants during storage. The chamber is often insulated or ventilated to maintain optimal humidity and temperature levels, preventing spoilage or drying out of the crops. Its design allows for easy loading and unloading of the planting material, ensuring smooth operation during the plantation process.

[0027] A sensing suite configured to determine the condition of parent crops, based on which the processor halts or initiates the operation of the cutter. The sensing suite includes vision sensors (infrared sensors), spectral sensors, or color sensors, which analyze the appearance, texture, color, and surface defects of each crop segment.

[0028] When the parent crop enters the storage chamber 103, the sensing suite captures data such as discoloration, bruising, mold, size irregularity, or signs of disease. This data is then transmitted to the processor, which uses pre-defined criteria to compare the crop’s condition against a set threshold.

[0029] If the crop meets the required standard, the processor initiates the cutter operation, allowing the segment to be sliced and prepared for planting. However, if the crop is identified as damaged or below threshold quality, the processor halts the cutter and activates an integrated robotic link 114 to divert the defective crop into a waste chamber 115. The robotic link 114 typically has an end-effector such as a gripper or clamp which securely holds the defective crop. The arm then moves in a controlled sequence to transport the crop from the assessment area and dump it into the waste chamber 115.

[0030] A screw conveyor 104 coupled with the storage chamber 103 to transfer the crops towards a processing chamber 105. The screw conveyor 104 is made of stainless steel or high-strength, corrosion-resistant metal to ensure durability. The stainless steel is preferred for its resistance to rust and ease of cleaning, which helps maintain hygiene when handling crops. The conveyor 104 consists of a helical screw blade, also known as an auger, enclosed within a cylindrical tube that is connected to the storage chamber 103.

[0031] The working of the screw conveyor 104 involves the rotation of the helical screw inside the tube, powered by an electric motor. As the screw turns, it moves the parent crops along the length of the tube from the storage chamber 103 towards the processing chamber 105. The rotational motion creates a continuous forward push, gently conveying the crops without causing damage. This allows controlled, uniform transfer of planting material, ensuring steady feeding into the processing chamber 105.

[0032] The processing chamber 105 is constructed from sturdy, corrosion-resistant materials to ensure durability and hygiene during operation. A motorized cutter 106 installed within the processing chamber 105 to slice a partial segment of the crop to be sown within the farm field. The motorized cutter 106 operates by using a high-speed rotating blade powered by an electric motor. When the parent crop is fed into the processing chamber 105, the motor activates the cutter 106, causing the blade to spin rapidly. As the crop passes through the chamber, the rotating blade precisely slices a partial segment from it, ensuring the cut is clean and uniform. This partial segment is the portion intended for planting in the farm field.

[0033] The motorized cutter 106 is coupled with an angle sensor operatively coupled with the processor to regulate the cutting angle of the cutter 106 at a pre-defined angle. The angle sensor detects the rotational orientation of the cutter 106 blade by measuring angular displacement, usually through potentiometers, optical encoders, or Hall-effect sensors. When the motorized cutter 106 moves, the angle sensor continuously sends data to the processor, which interprets the exact angle of the blade relative to a reference position.

[0034] The processor then compares this data to the pre-defined cutting angle programmed into the device. If the cutter 106 deviates from the desired angle, the processor sends corrective signals to the motor controlling the cutter 106, adjusting its position accordingly. This control ensures that the cutter 106 maintains a consistent and accurate angle throughout the slicing process, resulting in uniform and precise cuts of the crop segments.

[0035] A laser sensor is integrated with the cutter 106, which monitors the cutter 106 sharpness in real-time. The sensor continuously checks the cutter 106 condition and compares it to a predefined threshold value. When the laser sensor detects that the sharpness has fallen below this threshold, it notifies the user that the cutter 106 has become blunt. This helps in timely maintenance and ensures the cutting process remains efficient and precise.

[0036] A soil quality assessment module 107, installed over the body 101 via an articulated link 108, the soil assessment module 107 configured with the processor to contact with a ground surface of the field and determine real time soil condition. The articulated link 108 used herein mainly comprises of motor controllers, arm and end effector.

[0037] The arm is the essential part of the articulated link 108 and it comprises of three parts, the shoulder, elbow and wrist. All these components are connected through joints, with the shoulder resting at the base of the arm, typically connected to the processor. The elbow is in the middle and allows the upper section of the arm to move forward or backward independently of the lower section which enables the soil assessment module 107 to be lowered or extended from the main body 101 so it can make direct contact with the ground surface of the field.

[0038] The soil quality assessment module 107 comprises of a group of sensors selected from moisture sensor, pH sensor, temperature sensor, NPK (nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium) sensor to determine real time soil condition and feed the value to the processor. The moisture sensor measures the water content in the soil by detecting changes in electrical resistance or capacitance. The pH sensor checks the acidity or alkalinity of the soil using a probe that measures hydrogen ion concentration.

[0039] The temperature sensor detects the soil's thermal level, often through thermistors or digital sensors that change resistance with temperature. The NPK sensor evaluates the levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) by analyzing chemical reactions or electrical conductivity in the soil. Each sensor collects its respective data and sends the readings to the processor, which analyzes the information to help make decisions for optimal planting and crop management.

[0040] A soil quality management module integrated with the processor to disperse required chemicals or water contents to maintain the soil quality up to a threshold level based on the crops. The soil quality management module comprises of a fertilizer storage section 109 and water storage section 110 along with a plurality of valves 111 and pipes 112 to regulate flow of water and fertilizer corresponding to the real time soil condition.

[0041] The fertilizer storage section 109 and the water storage section 110 are made of corrosion-resistant materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or stainless steel to ensure safe storage and prevent chemical reactions or leaks. The fertilizer section stores liquid or soluble nutrients, while the water section holds irrigation water, both ready to be dispensed as needed.

[0042] The network of valves 111 and pipes 112 connects these storage sections to the soil delivery outlets. These valves 111 are typically electrically operated solenoid valves 111, which use an electromagnetic coil to open or close a passage within the valve body 101. When the processor receives data from the soil sensors indicating a need for water or nutrients, it sends an electrical signal to the corresponding valve. This signal energizes the solenoid coil, creating a magnetic field that lifts a plunger or opens a gate inside the valve, allowing liquid to flow through. When the desired amount has been dispensed, the processor cuts off the signal, deactivating the coil and causing the valve to close.

[0043] A sowing module 113 configured to pick and sow the partial segment of the crop within the farm field. The sowing module 113 comprises of a robotic arm 113a with a digging unit 113b to sow the partial segment of crops. The robotic arm 113a comprises of a robotic link 114 and a clamp attached to the link. The robotic link 114 is made of several segments that are attached together by joints also referred to as axes. Each joint of the segments contains a step motor that rotates and allows the robotic link 114 to complete a specific motion of the arm. Upon actuation of the robotic arm 113a by the processor, the motor drives the movement of the clamp to accurately grasp and place the crop segments into the soil.

[0044] A pressure sensor is integrated with the link to continuously monitor and regulate the pressure exerted during planting, allowing the device to adapt to varying soil conditions and billet sizes. The pressure sensor operates using piezoelectric elements, it relies on the piezoelectric effect, which is the ability of certain materials (like quartz or certain ceramics) to generate an electrical charge when mechanical stress or pressure is applied to them.

[0045] The robotic arm 113a presses a crop segment into the soil, the mechanical force exerted during planting applies pressure to the piezoelectric element within the sensor. This element deforms slightly under pressure, and in response, it produces a small voltage. The amount of voltage generated is directly proportional to the amount of pressure applied.

[0046] This voltage signal is then sent to the processor, which interprets it as a measure of how much force is being used. If the force exceeds or falls below the desired threshold, the processor instantly adjusts the movement or torque of the robotic arm 113a to ensure the right amount of pressure is maintained.

[0047] The processor activates an inbuilt communication module for establishing a wireless connection between the processor and a computing unit that is inbuilt with a user-interface and accessed by the user to provide real time update in a graphical and tabular format regarding the soil parameters, sensor readings, historical trends, instant alerts, weather changes, irrigation schedules, fertilizers used. The user interacts with the interface through a touch screen, keyboard, or other input methods available on the computing unit. The computing unit mentioned herein includes, but not limited to smartphone, laptop, tablet.

[0048] The communication module mentioned herein includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module. The communication module used in the device is preferably the Wi-Fi module. The Wi-Fi module enables wireless communication by transmitting and receiving data over radio frequencies using IEEE 802.11 protocols. It connects to a network via an access point, converting digital data into radio signals.

[0049] The module processes TCP/IP protocols for data exchange, interfaces with microcontrollers through UART/SPI, and ensures encrypted communication using WPA/WPA2 security standards for secure and efficient wireless connectivity. The processor is configured with machine learning protocol that stores and learns data of the soil condition with plant growth efficiency to update standard values of parameters to be maintained for optimal growth.

[0050] A database is interconnected with the device to store crucial information and data. The database stores historical soil conditions, sensor readings, and device activity logs. It enables trend analysis and informed decision-making for crop management. The database allows remote access to live sensor data through the mobile application or cloud interface. The user monitors soil health, device status, and environmental conditions from any location. The real-time updates help in timely interventions and operational adjustments.

[0051] A GPS (global positioning system) and internet module is connected with the processor for real time prediction of weather at the real time location in order to regulate the soil management module to dispense water corresponding to the weather condition in order to prevent overwatering of crop. The GPS works by receiving signals from a network of satellites orbiting the Earth. At any given time, the GPS module connects to at least three to four satellites, each sending precise time-stamped data about its position.

[0052] By calculating the time, it takes for the signals to travel from the satellites to the receiver, the GPS module determines the exact location (latitude, longitude, and elevation) of the device. Once the real-time location is established, the internet module uses this information to fetch localized weather data from online sources. This weather data such as rainfall forecasts, humidity levels, or temperature is then processed by the processor. If rain is predicted or humidity is high, the processor adjusts the operation of the soil management module.

[0053] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device which is connected to the processor 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 preferably 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.

[0054] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the cuboidal body 101 as disclosed in the invention is mounted on motorized wheels 102 for movement across farm fields. The storage chamber 103 holds parent crops and transfers them via the stainless-steel screw conveyor 104 into the processing chamber 105. The sensing suite, equipped with vision, color, and spectral sensors, assesses the crop’s condition and signals the processor to either activate the motorized cutter 106 for slicing or direct the robotic link 114 to discard defective crops into the waste chamber 115. The motorized cutter 106, aided by the angle sensor, ensures accurate cuts at predefined angles, while the laser sensor monitors cutter 106 sharpness. The soil quality assessment module 107, mounted via the articulated link 108, uses moisture, pH, temperature, and NPK sensors to evaluate soil condition. Based on this, the soil management module equipped with fertilizer and water storage section 109,110, solenoid valves 111, and pipes 112 dispenses inputs accordingly. The sowing module 113, with the robotic arm 113a and pressure-sensing clamp, ensures proper planting force based on billet size and soil condition using piezoelectric feedback. The GPS and internet module enables location-based weather prediction to prevent overwatering.

[0055] 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 plantation and habitat control device for vegetative propagated crops, comprising:
i) a cuboidal body 101 equipped with a plurality of motorized wheels 102 to maneuver in a farm field;
ii) a storage chamber 103 configured to store a plurality of parent crops which are to be planted;
iii) a screw conveyor 104 coupled with the storage chamber 103 to transfer the crops towards a processing chamber 105;
iv) a motorized cutter 106 installed within the processing chamber 105 to slice a partial segment of the crop to be sown within the farm field;
v) a soil quality assessment module 107, installed over the body 101 via an articulated link 108, the soil assessment module 107 configured with a processor to contact with a ground surface of the field and determine real time soil condition;
vi) a soil quality management module integrated with the processor to disperse required chemicals or water contents to maintain the soil quality up to a threshold level based on the crops; and
vii) a sowing module 113, configured to pick and sow the partial segment of the crop within the farm field.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor is wirelessly coupled with a user interface to provide real time update in a graphical and tabular format regarding the soil parameters, sensor readings, historical trends, instant alerts, weather changes, irrigation schedules, fertilizers used.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the motorized cutter 106 is coupled with an angle sensor operatively coupled with the processor to regulate the cutting angle of the cutter 106 at a pre-defined angle.
4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the soil quality assessment module 107 comprises of a group of sensors selected from moisture sensor, pH sensor, temperature sensor, NPK (nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium) sensor to determine real time soil condition and feed the value to the processor.

5) The device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the processor is configured with machine learning protocol that stores and learns data of the soil condition with plant growth efficiency to update standard values of parameters to be maintained for optimal growth.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the soil quality management module comprises of a fertilizer storage section 109 and water storage section 110 along with a plurality of valves 111 and pipes 112 to regulate flow of water and fertilizer corresponding to the real time soil condition.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sowing module 113, comprises of a robotic arm 113a with a digging unit 113b to sow the partial segment of crops.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a sensing suite configured to determine the condition of parent crops, based on which the processor halts or initiates the operation of the cutter 106.

9) The device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the processor is configured to operate an integrated robotic link 114 to dump the parent crop in a waste chamber 115 in case the condition of the parent crop is below a threshold level.

10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a GPS (global positioning system) and internet module is connected with the processor for real time prediction of weather at the real time location in order to regulate the soil management module to dispense water corresponding to the weather condition in order to prevent overwatering of crop.