Abstract: A climber plant care device, comprises of a frame 101 comprising multiple rings 102 connected by means of multiple telescopic rods 103 for supporting plant, rods 103 are joined by means of hinges 104 for supporting frame 101, a net 106 is attached with multiple arms 105 for covering plant, an imaging unit 107 is to determine damage to plant, a speaker 108 to generate an audio alert to inform user, a telescopic gripper 110 mounted on a circular slider 109 for gripping and positioning stems of plant, multiple electrochromic panels 111 via pivot joints 112 for shielding plant from rain, multiple nozzles 113 with a water tank 114 for watering plant, a motorised clipper 116 via an L-shaped telescopic link 117 for clipping dried parts, a receptacle 118 stored with pesticides having sprayers 119 for spraying pesticide, vibration units 120 for vibrating frame 101 for shredding of dried leaves.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a climber plant care device that is capable of covering the plant to protect the plant from excessive rain and sunlight. In addition, the device is also capable of shedding dried leaves from the plant in an automated manner, thereby reducing time consumed in manually collecting the dried leaves from the plant.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Climber plants, with their natural inclination to ascend and adorn vertical spaces, bring a unique dimension of beauty and functionality. However, the seemingly effortless elegance of climbing plants belies their specific needs for care and attention. Neglecting these requirements lead to stunted growth, sparse foliage, reduced flowering, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases, ultimately diminishing their ornamental value and potential benefits. Understanding and implementing proper climber plant care is therefore crucial for maximizing their ability to fulfill their purpose, whether it's providing shade, screening unsightly areas, or adding vertical interest.
[0003] Traditional methods of caring for climber plants often involve providing basic support structures like wooden stakes, roughly constructed trellises from branches, or simply allowing them to scramble along existing walls. Watering was typically done manually with buckets or hoses, often inconsistently and relying on visual assessment of soil dryness. Fertilization, involved the occasional application of animal manure or homemade compost. Pruning was usually reactive, addressing overgrown or dead sections with basic hand tools. Pest and disease control were often limited to physical removal or the use of crude, sometimes ineffective, homemade remedies. However, these traditional methods came with several drawbacks like inadequate or unstable support structures could lead to plant damage or collapse. Inconsistent watering could result in both under and overwatering, stressing the plants. Nutrient deficiencies might go unaddressed due to infrequent or insufficient fertilization. Reactive pruning could lead to neglect of proper shaping and airflow, increasing the risk of diseases. These methods, while resourceful, often lacked the precision and understanding of plant-specific needs.
[0004] WO2023074979A1 relates to a plant care device. According to the present invention, provided is the plant care device comprising: a base; a support on which plants are loaded and which enables water to be drained; a water tray which is formed at the base, and which has the support provided thereon so as accommodate water discharged from the plants; a water tank part formed at the base so as to store the water to be supplied to the plants; a head part which is formed at the base so as to have a length in the vertical direction, and which includes a nozzle provided at the upper portion thereof so as to receive the water from the water tank part and supply the water to the plants, and a lighting module for illuminating the plants; and a control part for controlling the operations of the water tank part and the lighting module.
[0005] US2009173003A1 relates to a plant care device includes an outer pot manufactured from a first predetermined material and having a first predetermined size and a first predetermined shape. Such outer pot further includes a first drainage aperture having a first predetermined diameter disposed through a bottom portion thereof for allowing liquid to pass therethrough. An inner pot is manufactured from a second predetermined material and has a second predetermined size and a second predetermined shape for holding at least one of soil, at least one plant, liquid, fertilizer, at least one seed, and a combination thereof, and fits releasable within such outer pot. Such inner pot further includes a second drainage aperture having a second predetermined diameter disposed through a bottom portion thereof for allowing liquid to pass therethrough.
[0006] Conventionally, many devices are available in the market that helps the user in taking care of climber plant. However, the devices mentioned in the prior arts are lacks in covering the plant to protect the plant from excessive rain and sunlight. In addition, these existing devices are incapable of shedding dried leaves from the plant in an automated manner, thereby reducing time consumed in manually collecting the dried leaves from the plant.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of spraying the pesticide over the plant for ensuring efficient and targeted pest control and comprehensive protection to the plants while minimizing environmental impact through reduced chemical runoff. In addition, the developed device also needs to be capable of covering the plant to protect the plant from excessive rain and sunlight.
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 covering the plant to protect the plant from excessive rain and sunlight.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of shedding dried leaves from the plant in an automated manner, thereby reducing time consumed in manually collecting the dried leaves from the plant.
[0011] Yet, another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of spraying the pesticide over the plant for ensuring efficient and targeted pest control and comprehensive protection to the plants while minimizing environmental impact through reduced chemical runoff.
[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 climber plant care device that is capable of covering the plant to protect the plant from excessive rain and sunlight. Additionally, the device is also capable of spraying the pesticide over the plant for ensuring efficient and targeted pest control and comprehensive protection to the plants while minimizing environmental impact through reduced chemical runoff.
[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a climber plant care device, comprises of a frame comprising a plurality of rings connected by means of a plurality of telescopic rods attached through the rings for supporting a climber plant, rods are joined with an annular base by means of hinges for supporting the frame over a ground surface, a phototropic sensor is embedded with the frame for detecting angle of incident light to actuate the hinges to angle the frame and the plant towards the incident light for maximum exposure to light, a plurality of arms each one is configured with a plurality of pin joints connected along outer periphery of the base, a net is attached with the arms for covering the plant, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit is installed on the frame for recording and for processing images in a vicinity of the frame to determine damage being caused to the plant, a speaker is provided on the frame to generate an audio alert to prevent the damage and actuate the pin joints to extend the net to cover the plant, a circular slider is installed on an upper-most ring, an articulated telescopic gripper mounted on the slider for gripping and positioning stems of the plant for optimal growth, a plurality of electrochromic panels is attached with the rods and the upper-most ring by means of pivot joints for shielding the plant from rain and excessive sunlight, a sun sensor is provided on the frame to detect excessive sunlight on the plant to actuate the pivot joints to rotate the panels inwards and the panels to increase opacity to limit sunlight passing through.
[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a rain sensor is installed with the frame detects excessive rain to actuate the pivot joints to cover the plant by the panels, a plurality of nozzles is arranged with the base connected with a water tank provided on the base for watering the plant, a moisture sensor is connected with the base by means of a pneumatic pin for inserting into soil and detecting moisture of the soil to enable regulation of watering by the nozzles, a circular sliding unit is installed with the base, a motorised clipper is attached with the sliding unit by means of an articulated L-shaped telescopic link for clipping of dried parts of the plant, vibration units is mounted on the frame for vibrating the frame for shredding of dried leaves from the plant, a receptacle attached with the base stored with pesticides with a plurality of sprayers arranged over the frame for spraying the pesticide over the plant upon detection of pests on the plant, a nutrient sensor is configured with the base for detecting nutrients in the soil and a communication unit coupled with the microcontroller is actuated to generate a notification via a user interface adapted to be installed with a computing unit regarding supplementing the plant with additional nutrients 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 climber plant care 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 the climber plant care device that is capable of covering the plant to protect the plant from excessive rain and sunlight. Furthermore, the device is also capable of shedding dried leaves from the plant in an automated manner, thereby reducing time consumed in manually collecting the dried leaves from the plant.
[0022] Referring to Figure 1, a climber plant care device is illustrated, comprises of a frame 101 comprising a plurality of rings 102 connected by means of a plurality of telescopic rods 103, rods 103 are joined with an annular base by means of hinges 104, a plurality of arms 105 each is configured with a plurality of pin joints, a net 106 is attached with the arms 105, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 107 installed on the frame 101, a speaker 108 provided on the frame 101, a circular slider 109 is installed on an upper-most ring an articulated telescopic gripper 110 mounted on the slider 109, a plurality of electrochromic panels 111 attached with the rods 103 by means of pivot joints 112, a plurality of nozzles 113 arranged with the base connected with a water tank 114, a circular sliding unit 115 installed with the base, a motorised clipper 116 is attached with the sliding unit 115 by means of an articulated L-shaped telescopic link 117, a receptacle 118 attached with the base, a plurality of sprayers 119 arranged over the receptacle 118, a plurality of vibration units 120 is mounted on the frame 101 and a sun sensor 121 is provided on the frame 101.
[0023] The device discloses herein includes a frame 101 comprising a plurality of rings 102 connected by means of a plurality of telescopic rods 103 attached through the rings 102 for supporting a climber plant. Each rod is adjusted in length due to its telescopic nature, allowing for customization of the frame 101's size to accommodate the specific growth needs of the plant. The rods 103 are extended or retracted to provide optimal support as the plant grows and spreads.
[0024] These telescopic rods 103 extend or retract for providing optimal support as the plant grows and spreads. The telescopic rods 103 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 rods 103. 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 rods 103 and due to applied pressure the rods 103 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the rod by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the rods 103 for supporting a climber plant.
[0025] At the base of the frame 101, the rods 103 are joined to an annular base using hinges 104. The hinges 104 allow the frame 101 to be positioned over a ground surface in a stable manner while enabling some flexibility. The hinges 104 provide a pivoting function that permits the frame 101 to be tilted or adjusted in angle, ensuring that it is positioned properly to provide maximum support for the climbing plant. The hinges 104 comprise of a pair of leafs that are screwed with the surface of the flap. The leafs are connected with each other by means of a cylindrical member integrated with a shaft coupled with a DC (Direct Current) motor to provide required movement to the hinges 104. The rotation of the shaft in clockwise and anti-clockwise direction provides required tilting movement to the hinges 104, that in turn tilt the flap rods 103 towards/away from each other to provide maximum support for the climbing plant.
[0026] Once the frame 101 is positioned over the ground, the telescopic rods 103 are locked into place, and the hinged base provides stability and balance. The frame 101 remains stationary on the ground, supporting the plant's growth while adapting to changes in the plant’s size and shape.
[0027] A phototropic sensor is embedded with the frame 101 for detecting angle of incident light to actuate the hinges 104 to angle the frame 101 and the plant towards the incident light for maximum exposure to light. The sensor comprises a light-sensitive element, such as a photodiode, that detects changes in light intensity. When light strikes the sensor, it generates an electrical signal based on the intensity and direction of the light. The sensor continuously monitors the angle of the incident light, and when it detects a change in the light's direction, the sensor sends a signal to actuate the hinges 104. This allows the frame 101 and plant to tilt or adjust, positioning them towards the light source for maximum exposure.
[0028] A plurality of arms 105, each is configured with a plurality of pin joints, connected along the outer periphery of the base. These arms 105 function as extendable and foldable supports for a net 106 that is attached to them. Each pin joint along the arms 105 allows for controlled articulation, meaning the arms 105 are rotated or folded at specific points. This multi-joint configuration enables the arms 105 to be extended outward and upward around the plant or retracted when not in use.
[0029] When fully deployed, the arms 105 form a dome-like or canopy-like structure above and around the plant. The net 106 attached to these arms 105 acts as a protective covering, shielding the plant from harsh sunlight, or environmental disturbances while still allowing air and light to pass through. The pin joints allow the arms 105 to be positioned precisely, making it easy to raise, lower, or reshape the net 106 coverage as needed.
[0030] For determining the damage being caused to the plant, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 107 installed on the frame 101 for recording and processing the images in a vicinity of the frame 101. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 107 is a camera module, that captures images in vicinity of the frame 101 to determine damage being caused to the plant. The imaging unit 107 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images in vicinity of the frame 101, and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 107 in form of an optical data.
[0031] The imaging unit 107 also comprises of a processor that is integrated 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.
[0032] Upon detecting the damage to the plant a microcontroller actuates a speaker 108 provided on the frame 101 to generate an audio alert to prevent the damage and actuate the pin joints to extend the net 106 to cover the plant. The speaker 108 operates by receiving an audio signal from the microcontroller, which selects a pre-stored corrective message or generates real-time voice instructions based on the detected damage to the plant. The speaker 108 then converts the electrical signal into sound waves, ensuring that the user receives clear and immediate feedback to extend the net 106 to cover the plant.
[0033] Additionally, a circular slider 109 is installed on the upper-most ring, providing a smooth and adjustable platform for positioning the plant stems. The slider 109 is designed to move along the ring's circumference, enabling the attachment of an articulated telescopic gripper 110. The robotic gripper 110 comprises of gripping fingers, an actuator, force sensors, and a control unit. The gripping arrangement with mechanical fingers or claws that open and close to grasp objects. The actuator, powered by either a pneumatic or electric unit, drives the fingers to open and close for grabbing the stems of the plant while multiple force sensors that ensures an optimal grip by adjusting the applied pressure to prevent damage to the stem. Once the gripper 110 secures the stems, the microcontroller commands it to grip and hold the stems of the plant at various positions to encourage optimal growth.
[0034] The movement and positioning of the gripper 110 are controlled based on data captured by an imaging unit 107, which tracks the position of the plant stems. The imaging unit 107 ensures that the gripper 110 adjusts dynamically to the plant’s growth patterns, positioning the stems in such a way that supports the plant’s healthy development and maximizes sunlight exposure.
[0035] For shielding the plant from rain and excessive sunlight, a plurality of electrochromic panels 111 is attached with the rods 103 and the upper-most ring by means of pivot joints 112. The panels 111 are composed of an electrochromic material sandwiched between conductive layers. When an electrical current is applied to the electrochromic layer, it undergoes a reversible change in color or opacity, transitioning from transparent to opaque. This transformation enables the panels 111 to control the amount of sunlight and UV radiation that reaches the plant, offering protection from excessive sunlight while still allowing light penetration when needed. Additionally, the panels 111 shield the plant from rain by becoming more opaque, helping to prevent water from reaching the plant. The use of pivot joints 112 allows the panels 111 to be repositioned based on environmental conditions, ensuring that the plant is optimally protected at all times, adapting to changes in weather and light conditions for optimal growth.
[0036] A sun sensor 121 is provided on the frame 101 to detect excessive sunlight on the plant to actuate the pivot joints 112 to rotate the panels 111 inwards and the panels 111 to increase opacity to limit sunlight passing through. The sun sensor 121 typically comprises a photodiode that is sensitive to light, along with an associated processing unit. The photodiode detects the intensity of the sunlight and converts the light energy into an electrical signal. When the light intensity exceeds a predefined threshold, indicating that the plant is receiving too much sunlight, the sensor sends a signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller then activates the pivot joints 112 connected to the panels 111, causing them to rotate inwards, adjusting their position to reduce direct exposure to the sunlight. In addition, the panels 111 have an opacity-adjusting arrangement that increases the panels 111' opacity, effectively limiting the amount of sunlight passing through. This ensures the plant receives an optimal amount of sunlight, preventing overheating or damage due to excessive exposure while maintaining efficient photosynthesis.
[0037] A rain sensor is installed with the frame 101 which detects excessive rain to actuate the pivot joints 112 to cover the plant by the panels 111. The rain sensor comprises a conductive sensor that reacts to the amount of rain falling on it. When rainwater hits the sensor, the moisture changes the electrical properties of the sensor, such as resistance, which is detected by the sensor's control unit. Once the rain sensor detects a certain level of rainfall, it sends a signal to the microcontroller, which then activates the pivot joints 112 connected to the panels 111. This action causes the panels 111 to rotate and move into position, effectively covering the plant and shielding it from further rain. The panels 111 provide a protective cover, preventing the plant from being overexposed to water and ensuring its safety during heavy rainfall.
[0038] A plurality of nozzles 113 are arranged with the base, connected with a water tank 114 provided on the base, for watering the plant in accordance with type and dimensions of the plant determined by an identification module linked with the imaging unit 107. The nozzles 113 work by efficiently distributing water to the plant based on dimensions of the plant, which are determined by the identification module linked to the imaging unit 107. Each nozzle comprises a spray head, a valve, and a connection to the water tank 114. The spray head is designed to release water in a fine mist or spray, ensuring uniform coverage of the plant. The valve arrangement controls the flow of water, opening and closing in response to signals, which is informed by the data from the imaging unit 107. The nozzles 113 are connected to a water tank 114 on the base for supplying water. When the plant’s type and dimensions are identified, the control unit activates the nozzles 113, releasing the correct amount of water in a targeted manner.
[0039] The identification module works by processing visual data captured by the imaging unit 107, typically using cameras or sensors, to determine the plant’s type, size, and growth stage. The module analyzes the images using advanced image recognition algorithms, which detect key characteristics such as the plant's shape, size, and color. It classifies the plant based on its species and growth stage, distinguishing between different stages of development like seedling, mature plant, or flowering. Once the plant is identified, the module communicates this information to the control unit, enabling it to make real-time adjustments, such as regulating water flow.
[0040] A moisture sensor is connected with the base by means of a pneumatic pin for inserting into soil and detecting moisture of the soil to enable regulation of watering by the nozzles 113. The sensor comprises of electrodes (or probes) and a sensor circuit. The electrodes are inserted into the soil, and they measure the electrical resistance between them, which changes depending on the moisture level in the soil. Water conducts electricity, so the higher the moisture content, the lower the resistance, and vice versa. If the soil is too dry, the sensor will trigger a signal to activate the watering unit. Conversely, if the soil has sufficient moisture, the watering unit will remain inactive, preventing overwatering.
[0041] A circular sliding unit 115 installed with the base and a motorised clipper 116 is attached with the sliding unit 115 by means of an articulated L-shaped telescopic link 117 for clipping of dried parts of the plant as detected by the imaging unit 107 in synchronisation with a colour sensor provided on the frame 101.
[0042] The circular sliding unit 115 works by enabling smooth and controlled movement of the component along the base in the circular motion. The sliding unit 115 comprises a base that provides stability and support for the entire unit, ensuring it remains fixed while allowing precise movement. The sliding arrangement consists of rails, bearings, or rollers that reduce friction, allowing the attached sliding element to move effortlessly along the base. The sliding element is the part that moves and is usually connected to a tool, such as a motorized clipper 116. A motor powers the movement of the sliding element, ensuring smooth and precise motion. Additionally, a lubrication unit is commonly included to minimize friction between moving parts, enhancing performance and extending the lifespan of the unit.
[0043] The motorized clipper 116 is powered by the pneumatic unit, the clipper 116’s extension and retraction are controlled by a combination of air compressor, air cylinder, air valves, and a piston. When activated by the microcontroller, the air compressor supplies pressurized air to the air cylinder, causing the piston to extend and move the clipper 116 forward. This allows the clipper 116 to reach and cut the identified dried parts of the plant. The air valves regulate the airflow, ensuring smooth and controlled movement of the clipper 116 during both extension and retraction. After the clipping action, the microcontroller signals the air valves to reverse the airflow, retracting the piston and drawing the clipper 116 back to its initial position. This allows for precise and efficient clipping of the dried parts, with the telescopic link 117 enabling the clipper 116 to move to various positions based on the plant’s condition.
[0044] The telescopic link 117 works by allowing adjustable extension and retraction, enabling precise control over the position of attached components, motorized clipper 116. It comprises multiple nested cylindrical sections that slide within each other, similar to a telescope, allowing the link 117 to extend and shorten as required. This enables flexible movement in mechanical arrangement, providing the ability to adjust the reach and angle of the clipper 116.
[0045] The telescopic link 117 is powered by the pneumatic unit, which drives the extension and retraction. When activated, pressurized air or fluid is directed into the link 117, causing it to extend and move the attached component forward to reach the target area. Conversely, the arrangement reverses the flow, retracting the link 117 and returning the component to its original position. The telescopic link 117 ability to adjust its length dynamically allows for clipping with varying distances.
[0046] The color sensor works by detecting the color of plants part through the reflection of light. The sensor consists of a light source, typically LEDs emitting red, green, and blue light, and a set of photodetectors that capture the reflected light. When light is emitted onto the plants part, the light reflects back in varying amounts depending on the color of the surface. The photodetectors measure the intensity of the reflected red, green, and blue light. The sensor’s processing unit then analyzes these values to determine the color by comparing the intensity levels of each primary color. For example, if the sensor detects more red light and less blue and green, it identifies the color as red. The output is typically given in RGB values or a color code which is used by microcontroller for further processing.
[0047] Additionally, a plurality of vibration units 120 is mounted on the frame 101 for vibrating the frame 101 for shedding of dried leaves from the plant. The vibration unit works by generating controlled vibrations that are transmitted to the frame 101, which in turn shakes the plant to help shed dried leaves. The vibration helps dislodge the dried parts of the plant, ensuring they fall off without damaging the healthy portions. The vibration unit typically comprises a motor connected to an unbalanced flywheel. When the motor is powered on, the rotating weight creates an uneven force, causing the entire unit to vibrate. These vibrations are transferred through the frame 101, creating shaking motions that help loosen the dried leaves. The vibration unit is carefully calibrated to produce just enough force to shed the dried leaves without harming the plant.
[0048] Upon detection of pests on the plant by the imaging unit 107, a receptacle 118 is attached with the base stored with pesticides, with a plurality of sprayers 119 arranged over the frame 101 for spraying the pesticide over the plant. The sprayer comprises of a liquid reservoir (receptacle 118) that holds the pesticide, a pump to move the liquid from the reservoir to the sprayer nozzles, a series of tubes that channel the liquid, and nozzles through which the liquid is released in a controlled spray pattern. The sprayer operates when the pump is activated, pushing the liquid through the tubing and into the nozzles. The nozzles then atomize the liquid, breaking it down into fine droplets that are evenly distributed over the plant. The sprayer is equipped with multiple nozzles arranged to cover the entire plant area, ensuring efficient and uniform application of the pesticide.
[0049] A nutrient sensor is configured with the base for detecting nutrients in the soil and upon detection of inadequate nutrients in the soil. A communication unit coupled with the microcontroller is actuated to generate a notification via a user interface adapted to be installed with a computing unit, regarding supplementing the plant with additional nutrients. The sensor comprises of electrochemical sensors or optical sensors that interact with the soil and measure the nutrient levels. These sensors detect the ion concentration in the soil, which correlates with the nutrient levels. The electrochemical sensors measure changes in voltage or current as they interact with specific nutrients, while optical sensors use light absorption or reflection techniques to assess nutrient content.
[0050] Once the sensor is configured with the base and inserted into the soil, it continuously monitors the nutrient levels. If the nutrient concentration falls below an optimal threshold, indicating inadequate nutrients for healthy plant growth, the sensor sends a signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the data and activates the communication unit, which then generates a notification through a user interface. This notification, which is communicated to a computing unit, alerts the user about the need to supplement the plant with additional nutrients.
[0051] 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 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.
[0052] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the frame 101, is comprising of multiple rings 102 connected by telescopic rods 103, for supporting the plant and is stabilized by hinges 104 that allow for adjustable positioning. The net 106 is secured with multiple arms 105, each configured with pin joints, to cover the plant for providing protection. The imaging unit 107 that monitors the plant for any damage, sends real-time data to activate the speaker 108, which generates an audio alert to inform user for preventing further harm to the plant. The telescopic gripper 110, mounted on the circular slider 109, is used for gripping and precisely positioning the plant stems. For protection from weather-related threats, electrochromic panels 111, is mounted on pivot joints 112, which automatically adjust to shield the plant from excessive rain by increasing opacity and positioning the panels 111 to cover the plant. For watering, multiple nozzles 113, are connected to the water tank 114, which ensure that the plant receives adequate hydration. Simultaneously, the motorized clipper 116, connected via the L-shaped telescopic link 117, is deployed to clip dried parts of the plant. If pests are detected, the receptacle 118 containing pesticides is activated, and sprayers 119 positioned on the frame 101 distribute the pesticide over the plant. Additionally, vibration units 120 are mounted on the frame 101 to gently vibrate it, aiding in the shedding of dried leaves from the plant.
[0053] 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 climber plant care device, comprising:
i) a frame 101 comprising a plurality of rings 102 connected by means of a plurality of telescopic rods 103 which are attached through said rings 102 for supporting a climber plant, wherein said rods 103 are joined with an annular base by means of hinges 104, said base for supporting said frame 101 over a ground surface;
ii) a plurality of arms 105, each configured with a plurality of pin joints, connected along outer periphery of said base, wherein a net 106 is attached with said arms 105 for covering said plant;
iii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 107, is installed on said frame 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said frame 101, to determine damage being caused to said plant to trigger a microcontroller to actuate a speaker 108 provided on said frame 101 to generate an audio alert to prevent said damage and actuate said pin joints to extend said net 106 to cover said plant;
iv) a circular slider 109 is installed on an upper-most ring, with an articulated telescopic gripper 110 mounted on said slider 109 for gripping and positioning stems of said plant for optimal growth, in accordance with position of stems as captured by said imaging unit 107;
v) a plurality of electrochromic panels 111 is attached with said rods 103 and said upper-most ring by means of pivot joints 112, for shielding said plant from rain and excessive sunlight;
vi) a plurality of nozzles 113 arranged with said base, is connected with a water tank 114 provided on said base, for watering said plant in accordance with type and dimensions of said plant determined by an identification module linked with said imaging unit 107;
vii) a circular sliding unit 115 installed with said base wherein a motorised clipper 116 is attached with said sliding unit 115 by means of an articulated L-shaped telescopic link 117 for clipping of dried parts of said plant as detected by said imaging unit 107 in synchronisation with a colour sensor provided on said frame 101; and
viii) a receptacle 118 is attached with said base stored with pesticides, with a plurality of sprayers 119 are arranged over said receptacle 118 for spraying said pesticide over said plant upon detection of pests on said plant by said imaging unit 107.
2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a phototropic sensor is embedded with said frame 101 for detecting angle of incident light to actuate said hinges 104 to give angle of said frame 101 and said plant towards said incident light for maximum exposure to light.
3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of vibration units 120 is mounted on said frame 101 for vibrating said frame 101 for shedding of dried leaves from said plant, when said imaging unit 107 detects dried leaves of said plant.
4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a sun sensor 121 is provided on said frame 101 to detect excessive sunlight on said plant to actuate said pivot joints 112 to rotate said panels 111 inwards and said panels 111 to increase opacity to limit sunlight passing through.
5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a rain sensor is installed with said frame 101 which detects excessive rain to actuate said pivot joints 112 to cover said plant by said panels 111.
6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a moisture sensor is connected with said base by means of a pneumatic pin for inserting into soil and detecting moisture of said soil to enable regulation of watering by said nozzles 113.
7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a nutrient sensor is configured with said base for detecting nutrients in said soil, wherein upon detection of inadequate nutrients in said soil said a communication unit coupled with said microcontroller is actuated to generate a notification via a user interface adapted to be installed with a computing unit, regarding supplementing said plant with additional nutrients.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202541037448-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 2 | 202541037448-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 3 | 202541037448-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 4 | 202541037448-PROOF OF RIGHT [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 5 | 202541037448-POWER OF AUTHORITY [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 6 | 202541037448-FORM-9 [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 7 | 202541037448-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 8 | 202541037448-FORM 18 [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 9 | 202541037448-FORM 1 [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 10 | 202541037448-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 11 | 202541037448-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 12 | 202541037448-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 13 | 202541037448-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 14 | 202541037448-DRAWINGS [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 15 | 202541037448-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |
| 16 | 202541037448-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [17-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-17 |