Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a plant maintenance device that is capable of helping in plant maintenance with minimal manual effort in caring for plants and provides protection to plants during their vulnerable growth stages by shielding them from external damage in order to enhance plant safety and promotes healthier growth.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Plant maintenance means taking care of plants to help them grow strong and healthy. Plant maintenance involves protecting them from harmful weeds, giving them the right amount of water and nutrients, and keeping the soil in good condition. Plant maintenance is important because the process brings many benefits to farming and gardening. Plant maintenance helps plants grow stronger and healthier, which leads to better harvests. By caring for plants properly, they are protected from harm and given the right support to thrive. Overall, plant maintenance ensures healthy crops, higher yield, and long-term success in farming.

[0003] Traditional plant maintenance is done by hand, using simple tools and human effort. Farmers prefer watering plants manually, pull out weeds by hand, dig the soil with basic tools, and spread fertilizers or compost without measuring exact needs. But the manual process requires a lot of time and physical labour, which is tiring and slow. Traditional methods are not always accurate, since farmers gives too much or too little water and nutrients. Manual weeding also damages crops if not done carefully. In larger fields, the manual methods become difficult to manage every plant equally, leading to uneven growth.

[0004] US20100064581A1 discloses an automated plant watering system including an outer container, an inner container spaced from the interior of the outer container to define a water reservoir therebetween. A submersible pump is in communication with the water reservoir and is controlled by a programmable controller so that water will be delivered to growing plants, seeds, etc., not only at predetermined times but upon the soil moisture.

[0005] US20150000190A1 discloses a controlled environment agricultural system having a self-regulating grow module that automatically waters the plant without over-watering or under-watering. The system may further comprise a self-regulating lift mechanism with an optic sensor, the lift mechanism capable of raising, lowering, and rotating each grow module independently of any other grow module, to monitor and provide individual attention to individual plants within a crop in order to maximize growth and plant yield.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are disclosed in prior art that helps in plant maintenance operation, however these existing devices often waters the plants without measuring the moisture level which leads to overwatering and low watering. Additionally, these existing devices also fail in protecting the plant from the external damage cased due to vulnerable weather conditions and fails to nourishes the soil with required nutrients which compromises the growth of the plants.

[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 helping in plant maintenance with minimal manual efforts and enhance the plants growth by nourishing the soil with the water and required nutrients. Additionally, the developed device also needs to remove the invasive plants from the cultivated field and protects the plants from external damage in order to increase the plant life.

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 providing help in plant maintenance operation while reducing dependency on manual farming practices and requiring minimal human effort, thereby saving time and making maintenance cost-effective.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that effectively detects vulnerable growth stages and provides shielding to the plants in order to protect the plants and avoids risk of external damage for enhancing plant life.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that easily detects the growth of the invasive plants over the cultivated field and efficiently removes them, thereby preventing competition for space and promoting healthier crop growth.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that continuously monitors soil health parameters and improve the soil fertility by nourishes the soil with water and required nutrients for encouraging better crop productivity.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that improves soil health by manipulating soil, breaking up compacted layers and promoting root development in order to enhance aeration and nutrient absorption.

[0014] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The present invention relates to a plant maintenance device that is designed to provide maintenance to the cultivated plants with proper safety and effectively eliminates invasive plants for promoting better plant health and contributes in plant well-being while enhances crop yield and supports sustainable farming practices.

[0016] According to an aspect of the present invention, a plant maintenance device, comprises of a hollow structure which is placed over a cultivated field, a plurality of iris openings is integrated with lower and upper portion of the hollow structure to allow the growth and emergence of plants through the hollow structure, a covering arrangement is positioned above each iris opening and includes a plurality of scissor lift arrangements positioned above each iris opening that extends or retracts to shield the plants during vulnerable growth stages from external damage that is detected via a camera installed over the hollow structure, a hydraulic piston assembly is arranged underneath the hollow structure to adjust the height of the hollow structure based on plant height detected via the camera, an inspection module is installed on inner side the hollow structure and includes an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit mounted on a rotatable joint to detect invasive plant using phenotypic fingerprinting based on leaf shape, size, and color, an invasive plant removal unit is positioned on the bottom portion of the hollow structure and includes a plurality of laser emitters mounted on a rotary joint that provides multidirectional movement to the laser emitters to emit focused laser beams towards detected invasive plants in order to effectively weed them out, a soil digging module is arranged beneath the hollow structure to aerate the soil, break up compacted soil layers, and prepare the soil surface for planting or nutrient absorption, the soil digging module comprises a plurality of articulated claw-like digging arms connected to an actuator to allow precise soil penetration and manipulation, a soil depth sensor to monitor depth of the soil being dug, a pressure and proximity sensors to monitor proper alignment and ensure the correct amount of pressure and an RPM sensor integrated with the arms to monitor speed of the rotation during the digging.

[0017] According to another aspect of the present invention, the device further comprises of a sensing suite installed underneath the hollow structure to detect soil health parameters including soil moisture, pH levels, nutrient content (including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), and soil temperature, an additive dispensing unit is attached to the hollow structure to dispense water and nutrient chemicals into the soil based on real-time data received from the sensing suite and comprises a water chamber for storing irrigation water, a multi-sectioned chemical container for storing various nutrients and fertilizers separately, and a mixing reservoir fluidly connected to both the water chamber and chemical container for mixing water with chemicals, the additive dispensing unit further comprises a a stirrer installed within the mixing reservoir to homogenize the chemical-water mixture and dispense the resultant solution into the soil through an iris lid connected to the reservoir by a conduit, a level sensor integrated with the water chamber to monitor water levels and generate alerts on a computing unit connected to a control unit accessible remotely by a user for timely refilling and a weight sensor which is integrated with each section of the chemical container to monitor the quantity of chemicals and generate alerts to the computing unit when refilling is required, an IoT communication module enables wireless data transmission between the computing unit and hollow structure for real-time status and control.

[0018] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a plant maintenance device; and
Figure 2 illustrates a bottom view of the device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0021] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0022] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0023] The present invention relates to a plant maintenance device that provides aid in plant maintenance operations for eliminating the need for full manual intervention and enhances soil fertility by delivering essential nutrients and performing timely soil conditioning in order to support improved plant growth and overall health.

[0024] Referring to Figure 1 and 2 a perspective view of a plant maintenance device and a bottom view of the device are illustrated, respectively, comprising a hollow structure 101, a plurality of iris openings 102 is integrated with lower and upper portion of the hollow structure 101, a plurality of scissor lift arrangements 103 is positioned above each iris opening 102, a hydraulic piston assembly 104 is arranged underneath the hollow structure 101, a camera 105 is installed over the hollow structure 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 201 is mounted on the bottom portion of the hollow structure 101 by a rotatable joint 202, a plurality of laser emitters 203 is positioned on the bottom portion of the hollow structure 101 by a rotary joint 204.

[0025] In continuation, a soil digging module 205 arranged is beneath the hollow structure 101 and comprises a plurality of articulated claw-like digging arms 205a connected to an actuator 205b, a sensing suite 206 is installed underneath the hollow structure 101 and includes a moisture sensor 206a, pH sensor 206b, NPK (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) sensor 206c, and tensiometer 206d, an additive dispensing unit 207 attached to the hollow structure 101 and comprises a water chamber 207a, a multi-sectioned chemical container 207b connected to a stirrer 207c, a mixing reservoir 207d is connected to both the water chamber 207a and the multi-sectioned chemical container 207b, an iris lid 208 is connected to the mixing reservoir 207d coupled via a conduit 209.

[0026] The device disclosed herein comprises a hollow structure 101 which is placed over a cultivated field. The hollow structure 101 is constructed from lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy combined with UV-stabilized polycarbonate panels, providing durability and weather resistance. The materials are chosen to withstand harsh outdoor conditions such as rain, wind, and UV exposure without degrading.

[0027] A plurality of iris openings 102 is integrated with lower and upper portion of the hollow structure 101 to allow plants to grow from the field and pass smoothly through the openings 102. Each iris opening 102 remains open by default to permit unobstructed plant emergence while offering safer environment to grow. The iris openings 102 ensure stability and prevent deformation from external forces such as wind or debris.

[0028] A microcontroller is integrated within the hollow structure 101. The microcontroller, used herein, is preferably an Arduino microcontroller. The Arduino microcontroller used herein controls the overall functionality of the linked components. The microcontroller is integrated with multiple machine learning protocols and models built directly into its structure 101, allowing it to perform complex data analysis.

[0029] A camera 105 is installed over the hollow structure 101 to monitor the condition of the plants. The microcontroller sends a signal to activate the camera 105 as the hollow structure 101 is placed. The camera 105 continuously captures a series of the images of plants. These images are then fed to a processor integrated with the microcontroller. The processor applies image processing protocols and processes the images using color filtering and edge detection. The processor then measures the vertical dimensions of the plant regions in each image to calculate the growth height. Using machine learning protocols, the processor continuously analyses and calculates the height data to track growth trends. This real-time data is then fed to the microcontroller.

[0030] A hydraulic piston assembly 104 is arranged underneath the hollow structure 101 to adjust the height of the hollow structure 101 based on plant height. Upon detection of the plant height by the camera 105, the microcontroller sends a signal to actuate the hydraulic piston assembly 104 which is powered by a hydraulic actuator. Upon actuation, the hydraulic actuator operates by directing pressurized fluid from a hydraulic pump through control valves into one side of a sealed cylinder containing a piston connected to piston assembly 104. This fluid pressure causes the piston assembly 104 to extend smoothly and lifts the hollow structure 101 to a height that provides adequate clearance above the tallest plants, enabling healthy and unrestricted growth.

[0031] In an embodiment of the present invention, the extension or retraction of the height of the hollow structure 101 is powered by pneumatic piston assembly. The pneumatic piston assembly is powered by pneumatic actuator include a pneumatic cylinder containing a piston connected to a piston rod. Compressed air is supplied from an air compressor through directional control valves to either side of the piston inside the cylinder. Upon actuation, compressed air is directed into the rear chamber of the cylinder, pushing the piston and causing the piston rod to extend outward, thereby raising the hollow structure 101 at a required height to provide adequate clearance above the tallest plants.

[0032] A covering arrangement is positioned above each iris opening and operable to extend and shield plants during vulnerable growth stages from external damage detected via the camera 105. The covering arrangement includes a plurality of scissor lift arrangements 103 to shield the plants from external damage. During the plant growth, the camera 105 captures images of the plants and surroundings which is analysed by the processor using AI protocols trained to detect external threats such as pest activity, heavy winds, or intense sunlight. This data is then fed to the microcontroller. Upon detecting these adverse weather conditions, the microcontroller sends a signal to actuate the scissor lift arrangements 103.

[0033] Each scissor lift arrangement 103 comprises a set of crossed arms arranged in an "X" configuration, pivotally connected at the center. The lower ends of the arms are anchored to the hollow structure 101, while the upper ends support a protection above the plant. A motorized actuator, such as a geared electric motor coupled with a lead screw arrangement, is connected to the base of the scissor lift arrangement 103. Upon actuation, the motor rotates the lead screw, which drives a carriage that pushes the lower ends of the arms outward. As the lower ends move apart, the pivot at the center causes the crossed arms to extend vertically, thereby raising the scissor lift arrangements 103. This vertical movement shields the plant from external damage such as pests or harsh weather. When the external threat subsides, the motor reverses its rotation, retracting the sliding nut, pulling the lower ends of the arms back together.

[0034] An inspection module is installed on inner side the hollow structure 101 to detect invasive plant using phenotypic fingerprinting based on leaf shape, size, and color. The inspection module includes an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 201 mounted on a rotatable joint 202. During the plant growth, the microcontroller sends a signal to activate the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 201 and the rotatable joint 202. The imaging unit 201 consists of high-resolution lens to capture of images of plants surface. During operation, the rotatable joint 202 provides multi-directional movement to the imaging unit 201 to scan across different sections beneath the hollow structure 101, providing comprehensive coverage of the cultivated area.

[0035] The captured images are fed to the processor which performs phenotypic fingerprinting by analyzing key visual characteristics of each plant including leaf shape, size, and color. Utilizing a pre-trained machine learning protocols, the processor evaluates these phenotypic features by comparing them against a linked reference database of known invasive and desirable plant species. Through this comparison, the processor detects distinctive patterns and anomalies indicative of invasive plants by identifying deviations in leaf, growth behaviour, and coloration specific to invasive species. Upon detecting the invasive plant, the microcontroller precisely flags its location relative to the hollow structure 101, facilitating accurate targeting for removal.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the rotatable joint 202 mentioned above is a ball and socket joint which provides multi-directional movement to the imaging unit 201. The ball and socket joint provides a 360-degree rotation to the imaging unit 201 to orient at any desired angle for effective monitoring. The ball and socket joint comprises a spherical ball securely housed within a matching socket, allowing smooth multidirectional movement. The ball joint connected to a DC motor rotates freely within the socket, delivering the required rotational motion to the imaging unit 201. Upon actuation, the motor drives the rotation by applying torque to the ball joint, enabling the imaging unit 201 to move at desired angle and scan different areas beneath the hollow structure 101 for precise monitoring of invasive plants.

[0037] In another embodiment of the present invention, the rotatable joint 202 used here is a gimbal joint to provides multi-directional movement to the imaging unit 201. The gimbal joint consists of two or more pivoting frames arranged orthogonally, allowing independent rotation about multiple axes (typically pitch and yaw). The imaging unit 201 is fixed to the innermost frame, which rotates freely to achieve precise directional control. Each axis of the gimbal is actuated by servo motors controlled. Upon actuation, the servo motors rotate their respective axes, enabling smooth and accurate orientation of the imaging unit 201 across a wide range of motion for allowing the imaging unit 201 to detect the invasive plants effectively.

[0038] An invasive plant removal unit is positioned on the bottom portion of the hollow structure 101 and includes a plurality of laser emitters 203 to emit focused laser beams towards detected invasive plants to effectively weed them out. Each laser emitter 203 mounted on a rotary joint 204 enabling multi-directional movement for precise targeting. Upon receiving location data of detected invasive plants from the inspection module, the microcontroller sends a signal to actuate the rotary joint 204. Upon actuation, the rotary joint 204 rotates the laser emitters 203 and precisely aligns the laser emitters 203 with the targeted invasive plant.

[0039] In an embodiment of the present invention, the rotary joint 204 used here is a spherical joint which provides multi-directional movement to the laser emitters 203. The spherical joint consists of a rounded ball element attached to the base of the laser emitter and housed within a socket that permits free rotation along multiple axes. The spherical joint is mechanically linked to servo motors, which apply controlled torque to rotate the ball inside the socket. Upon receiving target coordinates from the inspection module, the microcontroller sends a signal to actuate the servo motors, which rotate the spherical joints to pan, tilt, or swivel the laser emitters 203 toward the precise location of the invasive plant for removal.

[0040] Once properly aligned, the microcontroller sends a signal to activate the laser emitters 203 to deliver a focused beam of controlled intensity and duration. Each emitter 203 then delivers a highly focused, coherent beam of laser with precisely controlled intensity and duration. The emitted laser beam is concentrated onto the stem or leaf tissue of the targeted invasive plant. This focused energy is rapidly absorbed by the plant’s surface, causing localized heating that disrupts cell structure, denatures proteins, and removes chlorophyll, effectively killing the plant tissue. The damage is sufficient to prevent regrowth while leaving surrounding healthy crops unharmed due to the precision of the beam and controlled targeting.

[0041] An IoT communication module is provided for enabling wireless data transmission between a computing unit and hollow structure 101 for real-time status and control. This IoT communication module uses Wi-Fi protocols to establish secure, low-latency communication with a user interface accessible via the computing unit such as mobile phone or personal computer. The user gives commands related to soil manipulation and manipulation through the computing unit by an application. These commands are formatted into data packets by the application and transmitted over the local network to the communication module. Upon reception, the communication module decodes the data and passes the instructions to the microcontroller. The microcontroller interprets the commands and actuates the appropriate action.

[0042] A soil digging module 205 is arranged beneath the hollow structure 101 to aerate the soil, break up compacted soil layers, and prepare the soil surface for planting or nutrient absorption. The soil digging module 205 comprises a plurality of articulated claw-like digging arms 205a to open and close to grasp, loosen, and turn the soil effectively. The articulated claw-like digging arms 205a are connected to an actuator 205b which are servo motor for providing precise angular movement to the digging arms 205a by rotating their joints through controlled torque. Upon processing the input command from the user, the microcontroller sends a signal to actuate the servo motors. Upon actuation, the rotor of servo motor spins which produces torque. The torque causes the digging arms 205a to rotate around the pivot, enabling angular movement. The angular movement allows the claws to mimic a grasping motion, enabling them to engage with the soil surface accurately.

[0043] Each claw-like digging arm 205a consists of multiple linked segments connected through pivot joints, forming an articulated arrangement that mimics natural digging motion. As the servo motors power the digging arms 205a, the digging arms 205a moves downward into the soil. The claws then open to penetrate the ground and close to grasp and lift compacted soil. The arms 205a oscillate to loosen the soil layers, allowing better aeration and promoting root growth. This action enables controlled and efficient soil manipulation.

[0044] A soil depth sensor is integrated with the soil digging module 205 to monitor depth of the soil being dug, ensuring precise operation according to the requirements. During the digging, the microcontroller sends a signal to activate the soil depth sensor. The soil depth sensor used herein is an ultrasonic distance sensor. Upon activation, the soil depth emits high-frequency ultrasonic sound waves directed downward toward the top of the moving digging arms 205a. These sound waves travel through the air, hit the surface of the digging arms 205a, and reflect back to the soil depth sensor. The soil depth sensor then calculates the time taken for the echo to return (Time-of-Flight) and uses this to determine the distance between the soil depth sensor and the digging arms 205a which indicates the depth of soil digging. This depth data is converted into an electrical signal and sent to the microcontroller, which compares it with the desired depth value. If there's a deviation with pre-fed value, the microcontroller adjusts the servo motor's rotation, increasing or reducing the digging arm's movement to ensure safer digging.

[0045] A pressure sensor is integrated into the soil digging module 205 to measure the force applied by the digging arms 205a during soil penetration. As the digging arms 205a engage with the soil, the microcontroller sends a signal to activate the pressure sensor. The pressure sensor operates by detecting mechanical stress, typically through strain gauges bonded to a flexible element within the pressure sensor. When the digging arms 205a apply force to the soil, this causes deformation in the pressure sensor’s element, which changes the electrical resistance of the strain gauges. This change in resistance is converted into an electrical voltage signal proportional to the applied pressure., which continuously monitors the resistance encountered. If the pressure exceeds a predefined threshold, indicating overly compacted soil or risk of damage to nearby plant roots, the microcontroller then adjusts the torque of the servo motors, reducing or increasing force accordingly, preventing damage to the tool or surrounding crops while maintaining efficient soil loosening.

[0046] A proximity sensor is integrated into the soil digging module 205 to detect the spatial alignment and position of the digging arms 205a relative to the ground. As the digging arms 205a engage with the soil, the microcontroller sends a signal to activate the proximity sensor in sync with the pressure and soil depth sensors. The proximity sensor used here is an infrared (IR) sensor, where an IR emitter sends out infrared light pulses toward the digging arms 205a or soil surface. When the emitted IR light hits an object, such as the digging arm or ground, the light reflects back to an IR receiver within the proximity sensor. The detector of the proximity sensor measures the intensity and time delay of the reflected light to determine the distance between the proximity sensor and the object. This distance data is sent to the microcontroller, allowing it to accurately track the position of the digging arms 205a. This ensures the digging arms 205a are properly aligned during digging operation for effective digging and preventing accidental collisions with underground obstructions or nearby structure.

[0047] An RPM sensor is integrated with the digging arms 205a to monitor the rotation speed during soil digging. As the digging arms 205a engage with the soil, the microcontroller sends a signal to activate the RPM sensor. The RPM sensor uses a light emitter and a photodetector aimed at a rotating disc attached to the motor shaft of the digging arms 205a. This disc has evenly spaced reflective markings. As the disc rotates, the RPM sensor detects the reflected light pulses each time a reflective marking pass by. By counting these pulses over a specific time interval, the sensor calculates the rotational speed (RPM) of the digging arms 205a. This speed data is continuously sent to the microcontroller, which compares it against preset limits to ensure safe operation. If the RPM exceeds the safe threshold, indicating a risk of damaging nearby plants, the microcontroller adjusts the servo motor’s control signals to reduce the rotation speed. Conversely, if the RPM is too low, the microcontroller commands to increases motor speed to maintain effective soil digging.

[0048] A sensing suite 206 is installed underneath the hollow structure 101 and includes moisture sensor 206a, pH sensor 206b, NPK (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) sensor 206c, and tensiometer 206d to detect soil moisture, pH levels, nutrient content (including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), and soil temperature. During the plant growth, the microcontroller sends a signal to activate the sensing suit for monitoring soil health parameters in real-time.

[0049] The moisture sensor 206a detects the water content in the soil by measuring its electrical conductivity or dielectric constant. Typically, the moisture sensor 206a consists of two probes which are inserted into the soil that act as electrodes in an electrical circuit. A small, constant voltage is applied across the probes, and the moisture sensor 206a measures the resulting current flowing between them and then calculates the electrical resistance of the soil between the probes. Since wet soil conducts electricity better than dry soil, a lower resistance value indicates higher moisture levels. The moisture sensor 206a converts this resistance measurement into an electrical signal proportional to the soil’s moisture content. This analog or digital signal is then transmitted to the microcontroller, which processes the data in real time to determine the moisture level of soil.

[0050] Simultaneously, the pH sensor 206b measures the acidity or alkalinity of the soil by detecting the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺) present in the soil solution. The pH sensor 206b typically consists of two electrodes including a glass electrode and a reference electrode. The glass electrode has a special pH-sensitive glass membrane that interacts selectively with hydrogen ions in the soil moisture. When the pH sensor 206b is inserted into moist soil, hydrogen ions from the soil solution exchange with ions in the glass membrane, creating an electrical potential (voltage) across the membrane. The reference electrode provides a stable voltage for comparison. The voltage difference generated between the glass electrode and the reference electrode is directly proportional to the pH level of the soil where the more acidic or alkaline the soil, the greater the voltage difference. This voltage signal, usually in the millivolt range, is sent to the microcontroller’s analog-to-digital converter, which digitizes and interprets the soil pH level.

[0051] Simultaneously, the NPK (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) sensor 206c uses ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) to detect nutrient levels in the soil by measuring specific ions: nitrate (NO₃⁻) for nitrogen, phosphate (PO₄³⁻) for phosphorus, and potassium (K⁺) ions. Each electrode is designed to selectively interact with its target ion in the soil moisture, generating an electrical potential proportional to the ion concentration based on the Nernst equation. Upon activation, the electrodes are inserted into the soil, the electrodes detect ion activity and produce voltage signals. These analog signals are sent to the microcontroller, which digitizes and processes them using calibration curves to determine precise nutrient concentrations.

[0052] Simultaneously, the tensiometer 206d measures soil water tension, indicating how strongly water is held by soil particles and its availability to plants. The tensiometer 206d consists of a porous ceramic cup that is connected to a sealed tube filled with water, which is attached to a vacuum sensor. When the ceramic cup is inserted into the soil, water moves between the soil and the tensiometer 206d until equilibrium is reached. As the soil dries, water is drawn out from the ceramic cup, creating a negative pressure (vacuum) inside the tube. The vacuum sensor detects this negative pressure and converts it into an electrical signal proportional to the soil’s moisture tension. This signal is then transmitted to the microcontroller, which processes the data to assess soil moisture levels.

[0053] An additive dispensing unit 207 is attached to the hollow structure 101 to dispense water and nutrient chemicals into the soil based on real-time data received from the sensing suite 206. A water chamber 207a is installed at the bottom portion of the hollow structure 101 for storing irrigation water and connected to a mixing reservoir 207d. A multi-sectioned chemical container 207b is positioned at the bottom portion of the hollow structure 101 to hold various nutrients and fertilizers separately. Each section of the multi-sectioned chemical container 207b is connected to the mixing reservoir 207d. The mixing reservoir 207d receives water from the water chamber 207a and required chemical from the multi-sectioned chemical container 207b.

[0054] In an embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing of water and chemicals into the mixing reservoir 207d is achieved by solenoid valves integrated with the water chamber 207a and each section of the multi-sectioned chemical container 207b. These solenoid valves are connected to the mixing reservoir 207d via pipes. Based on real-time soil data received from the sensing suite 206, the microcontroller processes the requirements for water and specific nutrients and then sends electrical signals to actuate the respective solenoid valves. Each solenoid valve contains a coil that, creates a magnetic field upon actuation. This magnetic field pulls a plunger inside the valve, lifting and opening the valve and allow water or chemicals to flow by gravity into the mixing reservoir 207d. The microcontroller stops sending the electrical signal after pre-fed time, the coil is de-energized, and a spring forces the plunger back down, closing the valve and stopping the flow.

[0055] A stirrer 207c is installed within the mixing reservoir 207d to homogenize the chemical-water mixture. The stirrer 207c is connected to a motor shaft driven by an electric motor controlled by the microcontroller. When the dispensing stops, the microcontroller sends a signal to actuate the motor. Upon actuation, the motor shaft rotates, causing the attached stirrer 207c blades to spin inside the reservoir 207d. This rotational motion continuously agitates the mixture, ensuring uniform blending of water and chemicals and prepare the homogenous mixture.

[0056] An iris lid 208 connected to the mixing reservoir 207d is operatively coupled via a conduit 209 for controlled dispensing of the chemical-water mixture into the soil. The iris lid 208 consists of multiple overlapping blades arranged in a circular pattern, which open or close to regulate the flow of the mixture. The blades are linked to a DC motor. Upon preparing the chemical-water mixture, the microcontroller sends a signal to the motor. Then the motor rotates or slides the blades apart, creating an opening for the mixture to flow through the conduit 209 into the soil. The iris lid 208 opens for pre-fed time to dispense required amount of the mixture on the soil. After the dispensing the required amount of the mixture, the motor closes the iris lid 208 by bringing the blades back together.

[0057] In an embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing of the chemical-water mixture into the soil is achieved by a nozzle connected to the mixing reservoir 207d by the conduit 209. The nozzle is equipped with a small outlet which opens upon receiving an electrical signal from the microcontroller. When the microcontroller sends the signal, the inlet energizes, lifting an internal plunger to open the nozzle, allowing the chemical-water mixture to flow out in a controlled stream or spray. The microcontroller regulates the outlet opening duration to dispense the precise amount needed. After dispensing, the outlet closes by the plunger returning to its resting position, stopping the flow and preventing leakage.

[0058] A level sensor is integrated with the water chamber 207a to monitor water levels and generate alerts on a computing unit for alerting the user for timely refilling. The level sensor in the water chamber 207a uses an ultrasonic transducer mounted at the top to detect water level. The ultrasonic transducer emits high-frequency sound pulses toward the water surface, which reflect back to the level sensor. The level sensor measures the time taken for the echo to return, calculating the distance to the water surface. This distance is converted into an electrical signal proportional to the water level and sent to the microcontroller. The microcontroller compares the measured level with preset thresholds. If the water level falls below the minimum limit, the microcontroller triggers the alert. This alert is transmitted via the IoT communication module to the computing unit, allowing the user to monitor and refill the water chamber 207a remotely and on time.

[0059] A weight sensor is integrated with each section of the multi-sectioned chemical container 207b to monitor the quantity of chemicals and generate alerts to the computing unit when refilling is required. The weight sensor here uses a load cell to measure the quantity of chemicals present. The load cell consists of strain gauges that deform under the weight of the chemicals, producing a change in electrical resistance. This change is converted into an electrical signal proportional to the load. The weight sensor continuously sends this signal to the microcontroller, which compares the measured weight against a preset minimum threshold. When the chemical level drops below this threshold, the microcontroller triggers an alert. This alert is transmitted via the IoT communication module to the computing unit, notifying the user to refill the multi-sectioned chemical container 207b container timely.

[0060] A battery is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.

[0061] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the hollow structure 101 as disclosed in the invention is placed over the cultivated field. The plurality of iris openings 102 allows plant growth and emergence of plants through the hollow structure 101. The camera 105 continuously scans plant height and track growth and causes the hydraulic piston assembly 104 to adjust the height of hollow structure 101 for plant clearance. The covering arrangement including the plurality of scissor lift arrangements 103 shield plants during vulnerable stages detected by the camera 105. The inspection module including the rotatable joint 202 moves the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 201 which detects invasive plants by analyzing leaf characteristics by using phenotypic fingerprinting. The invasive plant removal unit including the rotary joint 204 provides multi-directional movement to the plurality of laser emitters 203 for targeting and eliminates invasive plants precisely.

[0062] In continuation, the IoT communication module transmit the user command provided through the computing unit regarding soil penetration. The soil digging module 205 with the plurality of articulated claw-like digging arms 205a, actuated by the actuator 205b, grasp, loosen, and turn the soil effectively while the soil depth sensor, pressure sensor, proximity sensor, and RPM sensors monitor digging parameters like depth of the soil being dug alignment of the digging arms 205a, pressure applied and speed of the rotation for preventing damage and ensure safer digging a. The sensing suite 206 with the moisture sensor 206a, pH sensor 206b, NPK sensor 206c, and tensiometer 206d continuously monitors soil conditions. The additive dispensing unit 207 is provided where the water and nutrients stored in the water chamber 207a and the multi-sectioned chemical container 207b are mixed in the mixing reservoir 207d by the stirrer 207c. The iris lid 208 connected to the mixing reservoir 207d then dispenses the mixture into the soil through the conduit 209. The level sensor continuously monitors water level in the water chamber 207a, while the weight sensor tracks chemical quantities in the multi-sectioned chamber and triggers refill alerts via the IoT communication module.

[0063] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A plant maintenance device, comprising:

i) a hollow structure 101, adapted to be placed over a cultivated field;

ii) a plurality of iris openings 102 integrated with lower and upper portion of the structure 101, to allow the growth and emergence of plants through the hollow structure 101;

iii) a covering arrangement positioned above each iris opening, operable to extend and shield plants during vulnerable growth stages from external damage detected via a camera 105 installed over the hollow structure 101;

iv) an inspection module installed on inner side the hollow structure 101, the inspection module configured to detect invasive plant using phenotypic fingerprinting based on leaf shape, size, and color;

v) an invasive plant removal unit positioned on the bottom portion of the hollow structure 101, to selectively target and weed off the detected invasive plants;

vi) a soil digging module 205 arranged beneath the hollow structure 101, the soil digging module 205 configured to aerate the soil, break up compacted soil layers, and prepare the soil surface for planting or nutrient absorption;

vii) a sensing suite 206 installed underneath the hollow structure 101, the sensing suite 206 configured to detect soil moisture, pH levels, nutrient content (including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), and soil temperature; and

viii) an additive dispensing unit 207 attached to the hollow structure 101, configured to dispense water and nutrient chemicals into the soil based on real-time data received from the sensing suite 206.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a hydraulic piston assembly 104 arranged underneath the hollow structure 101, configured to adjust the height of the hollow structure 101 based on plant height detected via the camera 105.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the covering arrangement includes a plurality of scissor lift arrangements 103 positioned above each iris opening that extends or retracts to shield the plants from external damage.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inspection module, includes an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 201 mounted on a rotatable joint 202, for continuous improvement in invasive plant detection.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the invasive plant removal unit, includes a plurality of laser emitters 203 to emit focused laser beams towards detected invasive plants to effectively weed them out, each laser emitter mounted on a rotary joint 204 enabling multi-directional movement for precise targeting.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the soil digging module 205, include:

a. a plurality of articulated claw-like digging arms 205a configured to open and close, to grasp, loosen, and turn the soil effectively;
b. an actuator 205b connected to the arms to control the opening and closing motions, allowing precise soil penetration and manipulation;
c. a soil depth sensor to monitor depth of the soil being dug, ensuring precise operation according to the requirements;
d. a pressure and proximity sensors monitor proper alignment and ensure the correct amount of pressure is applied for effective soil digging; and
e. an RPM sensor integrated with the arms to monitor speed of the rotation during the digging and accordingly regulates the arms to prevent plant damage.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensing suite 206 includes moisture sensor 206a, pH sensor 206b, NPK (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) sensor 206c, and tensiometer 206d to monitor soil health parameters in real-time.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the additive dispensing unit 207, comprises:

a. a water chamber 207a for storing irrigation water, a multi-sectioned chemical container 207b for storing various nutrients and fertilizers separately, and a mixing reservoir 207d fluidly connected to both the water chamber 207a and chemical container 207b for mixing water with chemicals;
b. a stirrer 207c installed within the mixing reservoir 207d to homogenize the chemical-water mixture and dispense the resultant solution into the soil through an iris lid 208 connected to the reservoir 207d, allowing precise application;
c. a level sensor integrated with the water chamber 207a configured to monitor water levels and generate alerts on a computing unit connected to a control unit, accessible remotely by a user for timely refilling; and
d. a weight sensor integrated with each section of the chemical container 207b to monitor the quantity of chemicals and generate alerts to the computing unit when refilling is required.

9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the iris lid 208 connected to the mixing reservoir 207d is operatively coupled via a conduit 209 for controlled dispensing of the chemical-water mixture into the soil.

10) The device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an IoT communication module enabling wireless data transmission between the computing unit and hollow structure 101 for real-time status and control.