Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a handheld weed removal device that is capable of detecting presence and dimension of weed in the surroundings to enable precise and efficient weed management. In addition, the device is also capable of uprooting weeds, collecting them, and storing the uprooted weeds efficiently, thereby reducing manual labor and ensuring effective weed disposal.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Weed removal is crucial for maintaining agricultural productivity, environmental balance, and economic sustainability. Weeds compete with crops for essential resources such as water, nutrients, and sunlight, leading to reduced yields and poor crop quality. They can also harbor pests and diseases, further threatening plant health. In addition, uncontrolled weed growth can lead to soil degradation and reduced soil fertility over time. In non-agricultural settings, unchecked weed growth can damage infrastructure, obstruct pathways, and create fire hazards in dry conditions. Removing weeds helps maintain soil fertility and promotes efficient land use.

[0003] Traditional weed removal methods include manual uprooting, tillage, and chemical herbicide application. Manual uprooting, though effective for small-scale farming and gardens, is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and impractical for large agricultural fields. Manual uprooting also increases the risk of soil disturbance and erosion. Tillage, which involves plowing or hoeing to remove weeds, can disrupt soil structure, reduce moisture retention, and lead to nutrient loss over time. Frequent tilling may also promote the germination of dormant weed seeds, leading to further infestations. Chemical herbicides are widely used for weed control, but their overuse poses significant environmental and health risks. Prolonged herbicide application can lead to soil and water contamination, harming beneficial organisms and reducing soil fertility.
[0004] US6722444B2 discloses a rotary hand-held tilling and weed removing device comprises a shaft; a “T” shaped handle and two lock collars and is attachable to the chuck of a power drill. The shaft is provided with rotary arms which allow tilling and weed removal in very confined areas and precision control from the shaft handle adds to the ease of use. This gardening tool has a simple design and does not require blade or tiller bar replacement making it very cost effective.

[0005] US2024407276A1 discloses an apparatus for removing weeds from the ground is described. The apparatus comprises an elongated shaft assembly with a top end attachable to a rotary driver; a helix mounted at a lower end of the elongated shaft, the helix shaped and sized to capture weed root material; and an anchoring structure assembly. The elongated shaft assembly is secured within the anchoring structure assembly and is able to rotate and translate longitudinally with respect to the anchoring structure assembly. The helix, when rotationally driven by the rotary driver, threads into the ground around the weed root material to capture the weed root material for removal from the ground.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are available in the market that helps the user in removing weed. However, these existing devices mentioned in the prior arts lack in detecting presence and dimension of weed in the surroundings to enable precise and efficient weed management. In addition, these existing devices are also incapable of uprooting weeds, collecting them, and storing the uprooted weeds efficiently for reducing manual labor and ensuring effective weed disposal.

[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 spraying an herbicide solution on ground surface for preventing re-growth of weed, ensuring long-term weed control. In addition, the developed device also needs to be capable of uprooting weeds, collecting them, and storing the uprooted weeds efficiently.
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 is capable of detecting presence and dimension of weed in the surroundings to enable precise and efficient weed management.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of uprooting weeds, collecting them, and storing the uprooted weeds, efficiently thereby reducing manual labor and ensuring effective weed disposal.

[0011] Yet, another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of spraying an herbicide solution on ground surface for preventing regrowth of weed, ensuring long-term weed control.

[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 handheld weed removal device that is capable of detecting presence and dimension of weed in the surroundings to enable precise and efficient weed management. Additionally, the device is also capable of spraying an herbicide solution on ground surface for preventing regrowth of weed, ensuring long-term weed control.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a handheld weed removal device, comprising an elongated shaft having a first portion configured with a handle gripped by a user and a second portion configured with a cylindrical hollow body is installed with a plate positioned near ground surface, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit mounted on the shaft for detecting presence of weed in surroundings, a holographic projection unit mounted on the shaft for projecting hologram to guide the user in positioning over the weed, an ultrasonic sensor arranged on the plate for detecting dimensions of the weed, a motorized sliders configured with the plate to translate a pair of curved sharp-edge jaws towards each other, an electromagnet is configured with the plate for attracting metal pieces in path of the jaws, a hydraulic link configured between the body and second portion to extend in synchronization with actuation of a rotating arrangement configured with the plate for rotating the plate in view of inserting the jaws in ground surface.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises of a tactile sensor installed with the jaws for detecting hardness of soil and regulates extension of the link, rotating arrangement includes a semi-circular member configuring a pin that is engaged with a helical groove carved in a cylindrical structure installed within the body and attached with the plate, a motorized slider moves the member for rotation of the structure along with the plate, a pair of motorized hinges configured between the jaws and sliders for tilting the jaws towards each other in view of gripping roots of the weed, an L-shaped telescopically operated rod is installed with the shaft and attached with a pair of bars in a V-shaped arrangement to retract for aligning the bars near the uprooted weed, a pair of motorized pin joints configured with the bars to strike the weed in view of removing soil from the weed, a robotic arm is configured with the shaft for collecting and transferring uprooted weed in a chamber attached with the shaft, an electronic sprayer attached with a container mounted on the shaft for spraying an herbicide solution on ground surface for preventing regrowth of weed 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 handheld weed removal device.

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 handheld weed removal device that is capable of detecting presence and dimension of weed in the surroundings to enable precise and efficient weed management. Furthermore, the device is also capable of uprooting weeds, collecting them, and storing the uprooted weeds efficiently, thereby reducing manual labor and ensuring effective weed disposal.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, a handheld weed removal device is illustrated, comprises of an elongated shaft 101 having a first portion configured with a handle 102 and a second portion configured with a cylindrical hollow body 103, a plate 104 installed with body 103, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 mounted on the shaft 101, a holographic projection unit 106 mounted on the shaft 101, a motorized sliders 107 configured with the plate 104, a hydraulic link 108 configured between the body 103 and second portion.

[0023] Figure 1 further illustrates a rotating arrangement 109 includes a semi-circular member 109a configuring a pin 109b that is engaged with a helical groove 109c carved in a cylindrical structure installed within the body 103, an L-shaped telescopically operated rod 110 is installed with the shaft 101 and attached with a pair of bars 111 in a V-shaped arrangement, a robotic arm 112 is configured with the shaft 101, a chamber 113 attached with the shaft 101, an electromagnet 114 is configured with the plate 104, an electronic sprayer 115 attached with a container 116 mounted on the shaft 101.

[0024] The device disclosed herein comprises an elongated shaft 101 designed to facilitate efficient weed removal and handling. The shaft 101 features two portions, each serving a specific function to enhance usability and performance. The first portion of the shaft 101 is configured with a handle 102, which is ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip for the user. The handle 102 is made from durable and lightweight materials, such as reinforced fiber composites, ensuring a balance between strength and ease of handling. To enhance user comfort, the handle 102 is textured, reducing the risk of slipping, even when operated in wet conditions. Additionally, the handle 102 is coated with soft, foam padding, which helps minimize hand fatigue during extended use. The second portion of the shaft 101 is configured with a cylindrical hollow body 103, wherein the body 103 is installed with a plate 104 positioned near ground surface playing a crucial role in the weed removal process by assisting in uprooting.

[0025] For detecting presence of weed in surroundings, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 paired mounted on the shaft 101. The imaging unit 105 is a camera module, that captures images of the surroundings in order to detect presence of weed in surroundings. The imaging unit 105 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings, and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 105 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 105 also comprises of the processor that is encrypted with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller.

[0026] Once the imaging unit 105 identifies the presence of weed, the inbuilt microcontroller activates a holographic projection unit 106 mounted on the shaft 101 for projecting hologram to guide the user in positioning over the weed. The holographic projection unit 106 functions by emitting focused light to create a holographic guide, assisting the user in accurately positioning the device over the detected weed. When activated by the inbuilt microcontroller, the projection unit 106 powers the light source, typically an LED or laser, to generate the hologram. The light is then directed through lenses or mirrors, which refine and shape the beam into a precise holographic pattern. This projected hologram provides a clear visual cue, enabling the user to align the device correctly over the weed for efficient removal.

[0027] An ultrasonic sensor is arranged on the plate 104 and works in synchronization with the imaging unit 105 to detect the dimensions of the weed. The sensor consists of an emitter that emits high-frequency ultrasonic sound waves directed toward the weed’s surface. These sound waves strike the weed and are reflected back, where they are received by a receiver inside the sensor. The sensor then measures the time taken for the waves to travel to the weed and return after reflection. By calculating the round-trip time and applying the speed of sound, the sensor accurately determines the shape and size of the weed. The acquired data is then transmitted to the microcontroller in the form of an electrical signal, allowing for precise weed identification and targeted removal.

[0028] Post detecting the dimension of the weed, the microcontroller actuates a motorized slider configured with the plate 104 to translate a pair of curved sharp-edge jaws towards each other. The slider consists of a sliding rail fabricated with grooves, along which a sliding unit moves. This sliding unit is connected to a bi-directional motor via a shaft 101. When the microcontroller actuates the motor, it rotates in clockwise and counter clockwise directions, converting electrical energy into rotational energy. This rotational motion drives the sliding unit along the rail, enabling the sharp-edge jaws to move towards each other in a controlled manner.

[0029] The jaws are made from durable, corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel ensuring longevity and resistance to wear. The jaws curved design enhances precision and grip, allowing them to conform to the shape of the weed for a firm hold. The sharp edges ensure a clean and effective cut while minimizing damage to the surrounding soil or crops.

[0030] A hydraulic link 108 configured between the body 103 and second portion to extend in synchronization with actuation of a rotating arrangement 109 configured with the plate 104 for rotating the plate 104 in view of inserting the jaws in ground surface. The hydraulic link 108 utilizes fluid pressure to generate linear motion, extending or retracting as needed. As the rotating arrangement 109 actuates, the hydraulic link 108 extends, causing the plate 104 to rotate and position the jaws at the correct angle for penetration into the soil. This motion enables the sharp-edge jaws to firmly engage with the weed's root, ensuring effective gripping, cutting, or uprooting. Once the operation is complete, the hydraulic link 108 retracts, restoring the plate 104 to its initial position.

[0031] For gripping the roots of the weed, a pair of motorized hinges configured between the jaws and sliders 107 for tilting the jaws towards each other. The motorized hinges integrate an electric motor with a traditional hinge arrangement to enable controlled, automated rotational movement of the jaws around a fixed axis. The hinges comprise of a pair of leafs that are screwed with the surface of the jaws. The leafs are connected with each other by means of a cylindrical member integrated with a shaft 101 coupled with a DC (Direct Current) motor to provide required movement to the hinges. The rotation of the shaft 101 in clockwise and anti-clockwise direction provides required tilting movement to the hinges, that in turn tilt the jaws towards/away from each other for gripping the roots of the weed.

[0032] The hydraulic link 108 is designed to extend and retract in synchronization with the actuation of a rotating arrangement 109 configured with the plate 104, allowing for precise insertion of the jaws into the ground surface. The hydraulic link 108 comprises a cylinder, a piston, hydraulic fluid, and control valves, all regulated by a microcontroller. The link 108 works by utilizing hydraulic pressure to extend and retract in coordination with the rotating arrangement 109. When activated, pressurized hydraulic fluid is directed into the cylinder, causing the piston to move and extend the link 108, pushing the jaws into the ground.

Once the jaws are positioned around the weed’s roots, the hydraulic link 108 stabilizes, maintaining firm contact. During extraction, the control valves reverse the fluid flow, retracting the piston and pulling the jaws upward while maintaining controlled force to minimize soil disruption.

[0033] The rotating arrangement 109 mentioned herein includes, a semi-circular member 109a configuring a pin 109b that is engaged with a helical groove 109c carved in a cylindrical structure installed within the body 103 and attached with the plate 104, where translation of the member through a motorized slider results in rotation of the structure along with the plate 104.

[0034] Once the weed is gripped, the microcontroller synchronizes the actuation of the rotating arrangement 109 and the hydraulic link 108, causing the link 108 to retract while simultaneously rotating the plate 104 in the opposite direction. This coordinated movement effectively lifts and extracts the roots from the soil, ensuring complete uprooting of the weed.

[0035] To optimize the weed removal process, a tactile sensor is installed with the jaws to detect the hardness of the soil. Based on this data, the microcontroller regulates the extension of the hydraulic link 108, ensuring efficient penetration and extraction of weeds while minimizing resistance. The tactile sensor works by measuring the pressure or force exerted on the jaws when they come into contact with the ground. When the sensor detects hard or compact soil, the sensor sends a signal to the microcontroller, prompting to increase the extension force of the hydraulic link 108, allowing the jaws to penetrate deeper with greater force. Conversely, if the soil is soft or loose, the microcontroller reduces the extension force, preventing unnecessary exertion and ensuring smooth operation.

[0036] An L-shaped telescopically operated rod 110 is installed with the shaft 101 and attached with a pair of bars 111 in a V-shaped arrangement to retract for aligning the bars 111 near the uprooted weed. These telescopic rod 110 extend or retract, allowing the bars 111 to be positioned near uprooted weed. The telescopic rod 110 are powered by a pneumatic unit that includes an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the rod 110. The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller, such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the rod 110 and due to applied pressure, the rod 110 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the rod 110 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the rod 110 to align bars 111 near uprooted weed.

[0037] The motorized pin joints are configured with the V-shaped bars 111 to facilitate soil removal from the uprooted weed. Once the bars 111 are properly aligned near the weed, the microcontroller actuates the pin joints, which use small motors or actuators to generate controlled pivoting. This movement causes the bars 111 to strike or shake the weed, effectively dislodging soil particles clinging to its roots. The rapid back-and-forth motion ensures that the weed is thoroughly cleaned without causing damage. After the soil is removed, the microcontroller deactivates the pin joints, stopping their movement. The bars 111 return to their neutral position, and the L-shaped telescopic rod 110 extends back, resetting for the next weed extraction.

[0038] Once the weed is uprooted, the microcontroller actuates a robotic arm 112 configured with the shaft 101, enabling it to move toward the uprooted weed. The arm 112 is equipped with gripping arrangement such as clamps which securely grasp the weed. After acquiring a firm hold, the robotic arm 112 lifts the weed and moves it toward the attached chamber 113. Using a pre-programmed motion path, it carefully deposits the weed into the chamber 113 before retracting back to its original position.

[0039] An electromagnet 114 is attached with the plate 104 to detect and attract metal pieces that is present in the path of the jaws, preventing potential damage to the gripping arrangement. The electromagnet 114 is activated by the microcontroller, generating a magnetic field when electric current passes through its coil. As the device moves along the ground, the electromagnet 114 attracts and lifts metal debris, such as nails, wires, or small metallic fragments, clearing the area before the jaws engage with the soil. Once the metal pieces are collected, the microcontroller can deactivate the electromagnet 114, allowing for controlled release of the debris into a separate disposal compartment.

[0040] To prevent regrowth of weed an electronic sprayer 115 attached with a container 116 mounted on the shaft 101 for spraying an herbicide solution on ground surface. The microcontroller controls the electronic sprayer 115, ensuring precise and targeted application of the herbicide. The sprayer 115 consists of a pump arrangement that draws the herbicide solution from the attached container 116. When activated, the pump pressurizes the liquid, forcing it through a nozzle that disperses the solution in a fine mist or controlled spray pattern. Additionally, the sprayer 115 is equipped with adjustable flow control, allowing it to regulate the quantity and intensity of the herbicide application based on the size of the treated area.

[0041] Lastly, a battery 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.

[0042] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the elongated shaft 101 as disclosed in the invention possesses a first portion configured with the handle 102 to be gripped by the user and a second portion configured with the cylindrical hollow body 103, wherein the body 103 is equipped with the plate 104 positioned near the ground surface. To detect the presence of weeds, the imaging unit 105 scans the surroundings. Once the weed is identified, the holographic projection unit 106 provides guidance for precise positioning. To determine the weed’s dimensions, the ultrasonic sensor is arranged on the plate 104. Based on this data, motorized sliders 107 activate to move the curved sharp-edged jaws toward each other, ensuring an effective grip. To insert the jaws into the ground, the hydraulic link 108 extends in synchronization with the rotating plate actuation, allowing for smooth penetration. The tactile sensor on the jaws assesses soil hardness, and the microcontroller adjusts the hydraulic link’s 108 extension accordingly to optimize force application. Once the jaws are in place, motorized hinges tilt them to grip the weed’s roots firmly. As the weed is uprooted, the L-shaped telescopically operated rod 110, along with the attached bars 111, aligns near the extracted weed to stabilize the process. To remove soil from the uprooted weed, motorized pin joints strike it. While this happens, the electromagnet 114 on the rotating plate 104 attracts metal pieces in the jaws' path to prevent obstructions. After the weed is fully extracted, the robotic arm 112 collects and transfers it to the chamber 113 attached to the shaft 101 for storage or disposal. To prevent regrowth, the electronic sprayer 115, connected to the container 116, dispenses the herbicide solution onto the treated ground surface.

[0043] 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 handheld weed removal device, comprising:

i) an elongated shaft 101 having a first portion configured with a handle 102 gripped by a user and a second portion configured with a cylindrical hollow body 103, wherein said body 103 is installed with a plate 104 positioned near ground surface;

ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 paired with a processor mounted on said shaft 101 for detecting presence of weed in surroundings, wherein an inbuilt microcontroller activates a holographic projection unit 106 mounted on said shaft 101 for projecting hologram to guide said user in positioning over said weed;

iii) an ultrasonic sensor arranged on said plate 104 that works in sync with said imaging unit 105 for detecting dimensions of said weed, wherein based on said detected dimensions, said microcontroller actuates a motorized slider 107 configured with said plate 104 to translate a pair of curved sharp-edge jaws towards each other;

iv) a hydraulic link 108 configured between said body 103 and second portion that is actuated by said microcontroller to extend in synchronization with actuation of a rotating arrangement 109 configured with said plate 104 for rotating said plate 104 in view of inserting said jaws in ground surface;

v) a pair of motorized hinges configured between said jaws and sliders 107 for tilting said jaws towards each other in view of gripping roots of said weed, wherein said microcontroller actuates said rotating arrangement 109 for rotating said plate 104 in synchronization with actuation of said link 108 to retract for extracting said roots, thereby uprooting said weed; and

vi) an L-shaped telescopically operated rod 110 is installed with said shaft 101 and attached with a pair of bars 111 in a V-shaped arrangement, wherein said microcontroller actuates said rod 110 to retract for aligning said bars 111 near said uprooted weed, followed by actuation of a pair of motorized pin joints configured with said bars 111 to strike said weed in view of removing soil from said weed.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a robotic arm 112 is configured with said shaft 101 for collecting and transferring uprooted weed in a chamber 113 attached with said shaft 101.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an electromagnet 114 is configured with said plate 104 for attracting metal pieces in path of said jaws.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein post uprooting of said weed, said microcontroller actuates an electronic sprayer 115 attached with a container 116 mounted on said shaft 101 for spraying an herbicide solution on ground surface in view of preventing regrowth of weed.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said rotating arrangement 109 includes a semi-circular member 109a configuring a pin 109b that is engaged with a helical groove 109c carved in a cylindrical structure installed within said body 103 and attached with said plate 104, wherein translation of said member through a motorized slider results in rotation of said structure along with said plate 104.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a tactile sensor is installed with said jaws for detecting hardness of soil, in accordance to which said microcontroller regulates extension of said link 108.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.