Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a sports ground dew removal system that is developed for efficient removal and prevention of dew accumulation over outdoor surfaces such as sports fields by performing predictive, real-time, and intelligent management of ground moisture, thereby ensuring usability and safety of areas such as sports fields by carrying out surface conditioning tasks with minimal or no human intervention.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In many outdoor sports, especially during early mornings or colder seasons, dew formation on the ground delay games, affect ball movement, and even pose safety risks to players. Traditionally, ground staff have handled this by manually dragging cloth mats, using brooms, or rolling out water-absorbent tools across the field to clear the moisture. While these methods may work to some extent, they demand a lot of time, energy, and manpower—especially when dealing with large fields. These tasks often have to be repeated multiple times depending on weather changes, which might be frustrating and tiring. Moreover, the results are rarely consistent, with some areas still left wet or uneven. This not only disrupts schedules but also lead to game cancellations or suboptimal playing conditions. Overall, the conventional approach lacks efficiency and makes it difficult for groundskeepers to manage dew removal in a quick, reliable, and hassle-free manner.

[0003] Traditionally, manual dragging of dew rollers were done for removing des from ground surface, as workers manually pull heavy rollers covered with absorbent fabric across the field to collect dew. But the process is Labor-intensive and time-consuming. These rollers provide inefficient coverage, especially on large fields. So, people also use high-powered blowers to remove moisture, or vacuum-based machines to suck surface dew. But these are not feasible for large-scale or regular dew removal.

[0004] US6574819B1 discloses about an invention that includes devices and methods for removing dew from grassy areas, such as golf courses. One embodiment comprises a plurality of beaded lines comprising lead weights which are disposed within an outer synthetic rope sheath. The ends of the flexible elongated member comprise means for attaching the elongated member to at least one and preferably two separate tractors. Dew is removed by connecting at least one of the aforesaid devices to at least one tractor and dragging the device across the grassy area.

[0005] US20050147470A1 discloses about an invention that includes an apparatus for removal of dew from vegetation of grass surfaces, especially putting greens of golf courses, comprises a number of rollers that are grouped into at least two parallel rows of several rollers each, in which the longitudinal axles of the rollers of one row are aligned, a bearing arrangement for freely rotatable mounting of rollers in the mentioned group, and an operating device articulated to it, by means of which the apparatus can be pushed over the grass surface during rolling of the rollers on the vegetation.

[0006] Conventionally, many systems have been developed for removing dew from the ground surface. However, these systems are incapable of achieving efficient and timely surface conditioning operations that minimizes operational accuracy. Additionally, these systems also lack the ability to perform continuous monitoring and learning from environmental patterns, and are insufficient in ensuring that surface conditioning operations are uniformly performed across large areas,

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to be capable of achieving efficient and timely surface conditioning operations, for minimizing downtime and labour requirements while maximizing operational accuracy. In addition, the developed system also needs to be capable of continuous monitoring and learning from environmental patterns, thereby improving future operational efficiency and ensuring that surface conditioning operations are uniformly performed across large areas.

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 system that provide an autonomous means for maintaining surface dryness across large open grounds by effectively identifying and mitigating dew accumulation.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that ensure consistent surface treatment across expansive terrains with minimal dependence on manual labour, thereby minimizing the consumption of time during the operation.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of responding to changing environmental conditions in real time and adjusting its operations accordingly.

[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 sports ground dew removal system that facilitate independent operation for preserving ground aridity throughout expansive outdoor spaces by accurately detecting and removing dew buildup, thereby perform the operation with high efficiency and within minimal time consumption.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a sports ground dew removal system comprises of a housing translated by means of a plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels provided underneath the housing for locomotion of the housing over the sports ground, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit, installed in the housing in synchronisation with a LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor embedded on the housing to determine terrain of the ground for an unobstructed navigation across the ground for dew removal by actuation of the wheels, a dew point sensor provided with the housing detects dew on the ground, a dew removal unit provided in the housing for removing detected dew, the dew removal unit comprises a chamber attached underneath the housing, a pair of telescopic links pivotally joined with each lateral portion of the chamber, a pair of motorised rollers are provided between opposing links, a moisture absorbent fabric is looped around the rollers to absorb dew from the ground surface, a partition plate is configured with iris holes is provided within the chamber, the links retract the fabric into the chamber, the fabric is stretched and rolled at a high speed for removal of absorbed dew to be drained via the iris holes into bottom portion of the chamber, and a sensing unit provided with the housing for detecting weather conditions on the ground.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the system further includes a prediction module linked with a microcontroller connected with the sensing unit, predicts magnitude of dew to be expected to actuate a communication unit provided in the housing to notify a computing unit of an authority regarding the prediction, the predictions are stored in a database linked with the microcontroller, along with actual dew occurred measured by the dew point sensor, to improve predictions by the prediction module, based on the prediction, the wheels are actuated to translate the housing and the nozzles are actuated to apply the solution at predefined time intervals, a user interface is adapted to be installed with the computing unit of the authority, to enable communication with the communication unit and remote access and operation of the system, a tank provided within the housing for storage of anti-dew solution, a plurality of nozzles arranged underneath the housing, connected with the tank via a conduit for spraying the solution over the ground for prevention of dew, the nozzles are regulated to spray a quantity of the solution in accordance with predicted dew, and a GPS (global positioning system) unit provided in the housing records an instant location of the housing and areas of the ground traversed by the housing to determine subsequent areas to be traversed for dew removal and solution spraying.

[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 a perspective view of a sports ground dew removal system

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 sports ground dew removal system that enable autonomous means to uphold dry conditions over wide exterior areas such as grounds through precise recognition and resolution of surface moisture presence. Additionally, the present invention also ensures that surface conditioning operations are uniformly performed across large areas to ensure consistent surface treatment across expansive terrains.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of a sports ground dew removal system is illustrated, comprising a housing 101 translated by means of a plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels 102 provided underneath the housing 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103, installed in the housing 101, a dew removal unit provided in the housing 101 comprises a chamber 104 attached underneath the housing 101, a pair of telescopic links 105 pivotally joined with each lateral portion of the chamber 104, a pair of motorised rollers 106 are provided between opposing links 105, a tank 107 provided within the housing 101, a plurality of nozzles 108 arranged underneath the housing 101, a partition plate 109 is configured with iris holes 110 is provided within the chamber 104.

[0023] The system disclosed herein comprising a housing 101 which is configured for translational movement across a sports ground by means of a plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels 102 disposed on an underside portion of the housing 101. The wheels 102 are operatively adapted to facilitate controlled locomotion of the housing 101 in multiple directions without requiring reorientation of the structure, thereby enabling dynamic and responsive navigation over the ground surface during operation.

[0024] The housing 101 is installed with an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 that works in sync with a LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor embedded on the housing 101 to determine terrain of the ground. The imaging unit 103 disclosed herein 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 103 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 103 also comprises of a processor which processes the captured images.

[0025] This pre-processing involves tasks such as noise reduction, image stabilization, or color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis which utilizes machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information from the visual data which are processed by the microcontroller to determine terrain of the ground.

[0026] Synchronously, the LiDAR sensor sends out rapid laser pulses in a sweeping motion towards ground for determining terrain of the ground. These pulses travel through the air and interact with the ground. When the laser pulses encounter the ground, the laser bounces off from the surface of the ground. The LiDAR sensor precisely measures the time it takes for these laser pulses to travel to the surface of the ground and back to the sensor and calculations is performed by the sensor based on the time interval between the sending signal and receiving echo to determine terrain of the ground.

[0027] As the terrain of the ground is determined, the microcontroller actuates the wheels 102. The omnidirectional wheel 102 comprises a wheel coupled with a motor via a shaft that is designed to move the housing 101 in any direction without changing the orientation of the housing 101 offering exceptional maneuverability to the housing 101. Upon actuation of the wheel 102 by the microcontroller, the motor starts to rotate in clockwise or anti-clockwise direction in order to provide movement to the wheel 102 via the shaft. The wheel 102 thus enables the housing 101 for an unobstructed navigation across the ground for dew removal.

[0028] A dew point sensor provided with the housing 101 is configured to detect the presence of dew on the surface of the ground. The dew point sensor operates by measuring the ambient temperature and relative humidity in the surrounding environment. Internally, the sensor uses a thermoelectric cooling mechanism to lower the temperature of a small surface within the sensor until condensation begins to form. The point at which condensation is first detected is identified as the dew point. This detection triggers an electrical signal that is transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller then interprets this signal as the presence of dew on the ground surface and initiates corresponding operations to perform dew removal.

[0029] As the presence of dew on the ground is determined, the microcontroller actuates a dew removal unit provided in the housing 101 for removing detected dew. The dew removal unit comprises a chamber 104 affixed to the underside thereof. A pair of telescopic links 105 are pivotally connected to respective lateral portions of the chamber 104, wherein the links 105 supporting a pair of motorised rollers 106 positioned between opposing ends. A moisture absorbent fabric is operatively looped around the rollers 106 in a continuous configuration, such that during operation, the fabric engages with the ground surface to facilitate the absorption of dew present thereon through rotational movement of the rollers 106.

[0030] The links 105 are pneumatically actuated, wherein the pneumatic arrangement of the links 105 comprises of a cylinder incorporated with an air piston and the air compressor, wherein the compressor controls discharging of compressed air into the cylinder via air valves which further leads to the extension/retraction of the piston. The piston is attached to the telescopic links 105, wherein the extension/retraction of the piston corresponds to the extension/retraction of the links 105. The actuated compressor allows extension of the links 105 to position the rollers 106 on the ground surface for absorption of dew.

[0031] The pair of motorized rollers 106 mentioned above is a mechanical unit designed to rotate on its axis with the help of an integrated electric motor. The cylindrical roller tube serves as a surface for supporting, and unwinding the fabric. The motorized roller 106 is equipped with an electric motor that provides the rotational power necessary to turn the roller 106. The motor is connected to the roller tube through a drive mechanism, which involves gears, belts to transfer the motor’s rotational force to the roller 106, causing it to rotate to absorb dew from the ground surface.

[0032] A partition plate 109 having a plurality of iris holes 110 is structurally disposed within the chamber 104 and positioned to separate an upper fabric-receiving region from a lower fluid collection portion. The telescopic links 105 are operatively configured to retract the moisture absorbent fabric into the chamber 104 following surface-contact operation. Upon retraction, the fabric is held in a stretched condition and subjected to high-speed rotational motion via associated rollers 106. This induced motion facilitates the mechanical release of accumulated dew from the fabric surface. The released liquid is directed downward through the iris holes 110, allowing for controlled drainage into the bottom portion of the chamber 104 for containment or disposal.

[0033] The housing 101 is integrated with a sensing unit which comprises an optical rain sensor configured to detect the occurrence of rainfall, a humidity sensor adapted to measure ambient humidity levels, and a temperature sensor for detecting ambient temperature. The sensing unit is operative to monitor environmental parameters relevant to weather conditions present on the ground.

[0034] The optical rain sensor functions by emitting an infrared beam across the surface of a transparent medium. When no rain is present, the beam reflects internally and is received at the detector. Upon rainfall, droplets on the surface disrupt total internal reflection, scattering or absorbing the beam. This reduction in reflected signal intensity is detected by the sensor’s receiver. The change triggers an output signal indicating the presence of rain.

[0035] Afterwards, the humidity sensor operates by using a hygroscopic material whose electrical characteristics vary with the amount of moisture in the air. As ambient humidity changes, the dielectric constant or resistance of the material changes proportionally. These changes are converted into electrical signals, which are interpreted by an onboard analog-to-digital converter. The resulting digital output represents the real-time relative humidity of the environment.

[0036] Further, the temperature sensor functions by utilizing a thermistor or semiconductor-based sensing element whose resistance or voltage output varies predictably with temperature. The sensor continuously monitors ambient thermal conditions and produces corresponding analog signals. These signals are converted into digital temperature values via an integrated converter. The digital data is processed by the microcontroller to determine the current environmental temperature in real time. The temperature readings are used in conjunction with humidity and rainfall data to evaluate weather conditions, trigger predictive calculations, and support automated decisions regarding surface treatment operations.

[0037] A prediction module, operatively linked to the microcontroller and connected to the sensing unit, is configured to predict the magnitude of dew likely to accumulate on the ground. Based on the environmental data received from the sensing unit, the prediction module processes this information to forecast the expected dew formation. Upon completing the prediction, the module actuates a communication unit within the housing 101, which transmits the prediction data to a computing unit of an authority, enabling timely notification of the predicted conditions for further decision-making and operational planning. The computing unit mentioned herein is wirelessly linked with the microcontroller via a communication module which includes, but not limited to GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module, Bluetooth module, Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module. Preferably, the communication module used in the system is Wi-Fi module.

[0038] The predictions are stored in a database operatively linked with the microcontroller, wherein the actual dew occurrence, as measured by the dew point sensor, is also recorded. The stored data, including both predicted and actual dew values, is used by the prediction module to refine and enhance the accuracy of future dew predictions, thereby improving the predictive model's effectiveness over time and enabling more precise control of subsequent operational actions.

[0039] A user interface is configured for installation with the computing unit of the authority, facilitating communication with the communication unit integrated into the housing 101. This interface enables remote access and operation of the system, allowing authorized personnel to monitor, control, and adjust system parameters from a distance. The interface ensures seamless interaction between the system’s components and external operators, providing them with the ability to receive updates, issue commands, and make operational decisions without direct physical engagement with the system.

[0040] A tank 107 is housed within the housing 101, for the storage of an anti-dew solution. The tank 107 is connected to a plurality of nozzles 108, which are strategically arranged underneath the housing 101 to distribute the solution over the ground surface. The nozzles 108 are connected to the tank 107 via a conduit, allowing for the efficient transfer of the solution. The operation of the nozzles 108 is regulated to spray a precise quantity of the anti-dew solution in direct accordance with the magnitude of dew predicted by the system. This regulation ensures that the application of the solution is optimized, preventing dew accumulation without excess use of the solution.

[0041] The electronic nozzle 108 works by utilizing electrical energy to automize the flow of anti-dew solution in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of a fluid into kinetic energy. Upon actuation of nozzle 108 by the microcontroller, the electric motor or the pump pressurizes the incoming anti-dew solution solution, increasing its pressure significantly. High pressure enables the solution to be sprayed out with a high force, thus spraying the solution over the ground for prevention of dew, wherein the nozzles 108 are regulated to spray a quantity of the solution in accordance with predicted dew.

[0042] Furthermore, based on the prediction, the wheels 102 are directed to translate the housing 101 across the designated ground area, with movement coordinated according to the predicted conditions. Simultaneously, the nozzles 108 are actuated to release the anti-dew solution at predefined time intervals, ensuring that the solution is applied to the ground in accordance with the anticipated magnitude of dew. This ensures efficient and targeted application of the solution to mitigate dew formation based on real-time predictions.

[0043] A GPS (global positioning system) unit provided in the housing 101 is configured to capture and record the real-time geographic location of the housing 101 during its operation. The GPS unit logs coordinates corresponding to the regions of the ground traversed by the housing 101. The recorded location data is utilized to determine subsequent ground areas that remain untraversed, for the purpose of completing dew removal and solution spraying operations. This facilitates efficient area coverage while preventing redundant traversal, thereby optimizing the operational sequence and ensuring full execution of functional tasks across the designated surface area.

[0044] The GPS (global positioning system) unit operates by receiving timing signals from a network of satellites orbiting the Earth. The GPS (global positioning system) unit calculates the precise position of the housing 101 by triangulating signals from at least four satellites, determining latitude, longitude, and elevation. As the housing 101 moves across the ground, the GPS unit continuously updates its coordinates and transmits this data to the microcontroller. The system then maps the movement path, storing details of ground areas already traversed. This data is analyzed in real time to identify areas yet to be covered, for dew removal and solution spraying.

[0045] Moreover, a battery is associated with the system for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the system and supplying a voltage to the components. The battery used herein is preferably a Lithium-ion battery which is a rechargeable unit that demands power supply after getting drained. The battery stores the electric current derived from an external source in the form of chemical energy, which when required by the electronic component of the system, derives the required power from the battery for proper functioning of the system.

[0046] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the housing 101 is translated by means of the plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels 102 provided underneath the housing 101 for locomotion of the housing 101 over the sports ground. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103, in synchronisation with the LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor determine terrain of the ground for the unobstructed navigation across the ground for dew removal by actuation of the wheels 102. Then the dew point sensor detects dew on the ground. Synchronously, the dew removal unit removes detected dew. The dew removal unit comprises the chamber 104 attached underneath the housing 101. The pair of telescopic links 105 pivotally joined with each lateral portion of the chamber 104. And the pair of motorised rollers 106 are provided between opposing links 105. Thereafter moisture absorbent fabric which is looped around the rollers 106 absorb dew from the ground surface. The partition plate 109 is configured with iris holes 110 is provided within the chamber 104. The links 105 retract the fabric into the chamber 104. The fabric is stretched and rolled at the high speed for removal of absorbed dew to be drained via the iris holes 110 into bottom portion of the chamber 104. The sensing unit detects weather conditions on the ground. And the prediction module linked with the microcontroller connected with the sensing unit, predicts magnitude of dew to be expected to actuate the communication unit provided in the housing 101 to notify the computing unit of the authority regarding the prediction.

[0047] In continuation, the predictions are stored in the database linked with the microcontroller, along with actual dew occurred measured by the dew point sensor to improve predictions by the prediction module. Based on the prediction the wheels 102 translate the housing 101 and the nozzles 108 apply the solution at predefined time intervals. Further the user interface is adapted to be installed with the computing unit of the authority, to enable communication with the communication unit and remote access and operation of the system. The tank 107 provided within the housing 101 for storage of anti-dew solution. Plurality of nozzles 108 connected with the tank 107 via the conduit for spraying the solution over the ground for prevention of dew. Furthermore, the nozzles 108 are regulated to spray the quantity of the solution in accordance with predicted dew. Moreover, the GPS (global positioning system) unit records the instant location of the housing 101 and areas of the ground traversed by the housing 101 to determine subsequent areas to be traversed for dew removal and solution spraying.

[0048] 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 sports ground dew removal system, comprising:

i) a housing 101 translated by means of a plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels 102 provided underneath said housing 101 for locomotion of said housing 101 over said sports ground;

ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103, installed in said housing 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said housing 101, in synchronisation with a LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor embedded on said housing 101 to determine terrain of said ground for an unobstructed navigation across said ground for dew removal by actuation of said wheels 102;

iii) a dew point sensor provided with said housing 101 detects dew on said ground, to actuate a dew removal unit provided in said housing 101 for removing detected dew;

iv) said dew removal unit comprises a chamber 104 attached underneath said housing 101, a pair of telescopic links 105 pivotally joined with each lateral portion of said chamber 104, wherein a pair of motorised rollers 106 are provided between opposing links 105, wherein a moisture absorbent fabric is looped around said rollers 106 to absorb dew from said ground surface;

v) a sensing unit provided with said housing 101 for detecting weather conditions on said ground, wherein a prediction module linked with a microcontroller connected with said sensing unit, predicts magnitude of dew to be expected to actuate a communication unit provided in said housing 101 to notify a computing unit of an authority regarding said prediction; and

vi) a tank 107 provided within said housing 101 for storage of anti-dew solution, wherein a plurality of nozzles 108 arranged underneath said housing 101, connected with said tank 107 via a conduit for spraying said solution over said ground for prevention of dew, wherein said nozzles 108 are regulated to spray a quantity of said solution in accordance with predicted dew.

2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing unit comprises an optical rain sensor to detect rain sensor, a humidity sensor for detecting ambient humidity and a temperature sensor to detect ambient temperature.

3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a partition plate 109 is configured with iris holes 110 is provided within said chamber 104, wherein said links 105 retract said fabric into said chamber 104, wherein said fabric is stretched and rolled at a high speed for removal of absorbed dew to be drained via said iris holes 110 into bottom portion of said chamber 104.

4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein based on said prediction, said wheels 102 are actuated to translate said housing 101 and said nozzles 108 are actuated to apply said solution at predefined time intervals.

5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a GPS (global positioning system) unit provided in said housing 101 records an instant location of said housing 101 and areas of said ground traversed by said housing 101 to determine subsequent areas to be traversed for dew removal and solution spraying.

6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said predictions are stored in a database linked with said microcontroller, along with actual dew occurred measured by said dew point sensor, to improve predictions by said prediction module.

7) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a user interface is adapted to be installed with said computing unit of said authority, to enable communication with said communication unit and remote access and operation of said system.