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Autonomous Herbal Propagules Planting Device

Abstract: An autonomous herbal propagules planting device, comprises of a body 101 with a set of omnidirectional wheels 102 for maneuverability and stability on an agricultural terrain, a compartment 103 configured for storage of seeds, a bio-responsive metering drum 104 with variable slots adapting to seed size coupled to a main drive shaft via a gear-sprocket coupling for synchronized seed release, a controlled air vortex unit 105 positioned ahead of a furrow opener for aligning and singulating seeds for precise seed placement over the agricultural terrain, a container 106 a rotating clamp-and-blade unit 107 to uniformly trim medicinal herb cuttings, an articulated link 108 on a two-axis linkage equipped with a robotic gripper 109 for precise handling and placement of cuttings into pre-dug soil pits, a flexible flap 110 via a cam linkage arrangement 111 to push soil over planted seeds or cuttings.

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Patent Information

Application #
Filing Date
13 October 2025
Publication Number
46/2025
Publication Type
INA
Invention Field
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Status
Email
Parent Application

Applicants

SR University
Ananthasagar, Hasanparthy (PO), Warangal-506371, Telangana, India.

Inventors

1. Yenikapalli Anil Kumar
SR University, Ananthasagar, Hasanparthy (PO), Warangal-506371, Telangana, India.
2. Kalluri Praveen
SR University, Ananthasagar, Hasanparthy (PO), Warangal-506371, Telangana, India.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an autonomous herbal propagules planting device that is capable of autonomously planting herbal propagules and accurately placing cuttings, ensuring optimal growth conditions and uniform soil placement for consistent herb growth.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The need for herbal propagules planting is increasingly recognized due to their significant role in preserving biodiversity, promoting sustainable agriculture, and supporting the medicinal and aromatic plant industry. Herbal plants are valuable sources of bioactive compounds used in traditional medicine, natural remedies, and modern pharmaceuticals. Additionally, cultivating herbal plants through propagules ensures genetic consistency and better adaptation to environmental conditions, which enhances their medicinal properties. Furthermore, the practice promotes environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on wild harvesting, conserving natural habitats, and supporting local ecosystems.

[0003] Traditional methods of herbal propagules planting involve manual seed collection, propagation through cutting, and using naturally occurring seedlings or suckers. In these methods, seeds are harvested from wild plants or from plants that have already been cultivated. Propagation by cuttings or dividing rootstocks is commonly used for plants that do not easily propagate by seeds. However, these techniques have several drawbacks. The use of wild plants for seed collection leads to overharvesting, threatening plant populations and reducing genetic diversity. Moreover, traditional methods often lack consistency in plant quality and genetic uniformity, making it challenging to achieve reliable growth and medicinal potency. The reliance on manual labor for planting, maintaining, and harvesting is also time-consuming and labor-intensive, which limit scalability and efficiency. Additionally, without controlled environmental conditions, plants are exposed to pests, diseases, and weather fluctuations, which negatively impact crop yield and overall plant health.

[0004] US10827694B2 relates to devices for directionally placing a plant propagule inside a tubular hollow member, including a platform element arranged such that a foldable member can be placed thereon; an actuating dispensing arrangement for placing a foldable member on the platform element, an arrangement for placing a plant propagule on a foldable member placed on the platform element optionally, including a way for identifying an imaginary line on the foldable member stretching through the root forming end to the shoot forming end of the propagule being directionally placed during operation; an actuating folding arrangement for folding the foldable member along said imaginary line to form a folded foldable member; an actuating dispensing arrangement for providing a tubular hollow member having a first open end; and an actuating placing arrangement for placing said folded foldable member (la) into the tubular hollow member through the first open end. Related methods for handling plant propagules, in particular somatic plant embryos.

[0005] US2016316639A1 relates to a method for planting a plant propagule with a root forming end and a shoot forming end, comprising the steps of providing a growth substrate and an elongated tubular hollow member, inserting the root forming end of the propagule into the hollow member such that the shoot forming end does not enter the hollow member; and withdrawing the hollow member through the growth substrate in the direction opposite of the shoot forming end, whereby the propagule is planted in a hole in the substrate left by the hollow member, with the root forming end located within the substrate and the shoot out of the substrate. Associated devices are also provided.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are available in the market that helps the user in herbal propagules planting. However, these existing devices mentioned in the prior arts lack in accurately and uniformly planting herbal propagules ensuring optimal placement in the soil for consistent growth. In addition, these mentioned devices also fail in monitoring soil and environmental conditions in real time to ensure optimal planting conditions, improves crop yield, and enhances resource efficiency.

[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 utilizing solar energy for efficient operation reducing reliance on external power sources. In addition, the developed device also needs to be capable of accurately and uniformly planting herbal propagules ensuring optimal placement in the soil for consistent growth.

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 autonomously planting herbal propagules with cutting placement ensuring optimized growth conditions for herbs.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of accurately and uniformly planting herbal propagules ensuring optimal placement in the soil for consistent growth.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of monitoring soil and environmental conditions in real time to ensure optimal planting conditions, improves crop yield, and enhances resource efficiency.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of utilizing solar energy for efficient operation reducing reliance on external power sources.

[0013] 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

[0014] The present invention relates to an autonomous herbal propagules planting device that monitors soil and environmental conditions in real time to optimize planting, improve crop yield, and enhance resource efficiency, while utilizing solar energy to reduce reliance on external power sources.

[0015] According to an aspect of the present invention, an autonomous herbal propagules planting device, comprises of a body installed with a set of omnidirectional wheels for maneuverability and stability on an agricultural terrain, a compartment configured for storage of seeds, mounted on a mid-section of the body, a bio-responsive metering drum arranged at the base of the compartment with variable slots adapting to seed size coupled to a main drive shaft via a gear-sprocket coupling for synchronized seed release.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, the device further comprises of a controlled air vortex unit positioned ahead of a furrow opener integrated with the slots for aligning and singulating seeds for precise seed placement over the agricultural terrain, a container mounted vertically on the center of the body with a rotating clamp-and-blade unit to uniformly trim medicinal herb cuttings, an articulated link mounted on the front side of the body on a two-axis linkage equipped with a robotic gripper for precise handling and placement of cuttings into pre-dug soil pits, a flexible flap attached to the body via a cam linkage arrangement to push soil over planted seeds or cuttings and a battery is associated with the device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0017] 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

[0018] 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 an autonomous herbal propagules planting device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] The present invention relates to an autonomous herbal propagules planting device that autonomously plants herbal propagules and cuts, while monitoring real-time soil and environmental conditions to ensure optimal planting, improve crop yield, and enhance resource efficiency.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an autonomous herbal propagules planting device is illustrated, comprising a body 101 installed with a set of omnidirectional wheels 102, a compartment 103 mounted on the body 101, a bio-responsive metering drum 104 arranged at the base of the compartment 103, a controlled air vortex unit 105 integrated with the slots, a container 106 mounted vertically on the body 101 configured with a rotating clamp-and-blade unit 107, an articulated link 108 mounted on the front side of the body 101 equipped with a robotic gripper 109.

[0024] Figure 1 further illustrates a flexible flap 110 attached to the body 101 via a cam linkage arrangement 111, an electronic nozzle 112 is attached with a multi-sectioned vessel 113 configured at the body 101, a plurality of cylindrical press rollers 114 are mounted after the flap 110, a cam-driven motorized furrow shaper 115 is mounted on a rear portion of the body 101, a self-cleaning unit 116 comprising a rotating brush 116a and air nozzles 116b is installed with the body 101 and a motorized dual-axis solar tracking panel 117 is mounted on an upper surface of the body 101.

[0025] The device disclosed herein includes a body 101 installed with a set of omnidirectional wheels 102 for maneuverability and stability on an agricultural terrain. The body 101 is constructed from a durable, lightweight material such as steel, aluminum, or reinforced plastic, which ensures both strength and resistance to the harsh conditions of agricultural terrain. Each wheel is equipped with rollers 114 positioned at an angle, typically 45°, around its circumference. When the wheel turns, the rollers 114 generate a pushing and pulling force that enables movement in any direction without the need for the vehicle to change its orientation. To move forward or backward, all the wheels 102 rotate in the same direction at the same speed, creating a uniform force that propels the vehicle in a straight line. For lateral movement (side-to-side or strafing), the wheels 102 rotate in opposite directions: two wheels 102 moving forward and two moving backward causing the vehicle to shift sideways. Additionally, by adjusting the speeds and directions of each wheel individually, the vehicle moves diagonally or rotate in place.

[0026] A user-input interface is provided with the body 101 to allow a user to provide commands for initiating and controlling the operational modes of the device, including selection between seed planting mode and cutting planting mode. The user-input interface comprises of a user-interface inbuilt in a connected computing unit for receiving remote commands and a touch display unit for receiving tactile input from the user.

[0027] The microcontroller activates an inbuilt communication module for establishing a wireless connection between a microcontroller and the computing unit that is inbuilt with the user-interface and accessed by the user for
enabling the user to give input commands for selection between seed planting mode and cutting planting mode. The user interacts with the interface through a touch screen, keyboard, or other input methods available on the computing unit. The computing unit mentioned herein includes, but not limited to smartphone, laptop, tablet.

[0028] The communication module mentioned herein includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module. The communication module used in the device is preferably the Wi-Fi module. The Wi-Fi module enables wireless communication by transmitting and receiving data over radio frequencies using IEEE 802.11 protocols. It connects to a network via an access point, converting digital data into radio signals. The module processes TCP/IP protocols for data exchange, interfaces with microcontrollers through UART/SPI, and ensures encrypted communication using WPA/WPA2 security standards for secure and efficient wireless connectivity.

[0029] For receiving tactile input from the user, the touch display unit is used. The touch display unit as mentioned herein is typically an (Liquid Crystal Display) screen that presents output in a visible form. The screen is equipped with touch-sensitive technology, allowing the user to interact directly with the display using their fingers. A touch controller IC (Integrated Circuit) is responsible for processing the analog signals generated when the user inputs details. The touch controller is typically connected to the inbuilt microcontroller linked with the panel through various interfaces which may include but are not limited to SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit). The microcontroller processes user commands and actuates the required components for seed planting mode and cutting planting mode.

[0030] A compartment 103 configured for storage of seeds mounted on a mid-section of the body 101. The compartment 103 is constructed from a durable, weather-resistant material that withstand the demands of agricultural environments. The compartment 103 is made from high-strength plastic, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, which is both lightweight and resistant to moisture, UV radiation, and corrosion. Additionally, the interior of the compartment 103 is designed with smooth surfaces to prevent damage to the seeds.

[0031] A bio-responsive metering drum 104 arranged at the base of the compartment 103 with variable slots adapting to seed size, operatively coupled to a main drive shaft via a gear-sprocket coupling for synchronized seed release. The drum is made from durable materials like plastic or metal, with the slots arranged in such a way that they it expand or contract in response to environmental conditions or the characteristics of the seed. For instance, if the seeds are larger, the slots widen to accommodate them, while smaller seeds cause the slots to close, ensuring that only the right number of seeds are dispensed per rotation. This adaptability helps optimize seed planting, preventing waste and ensuring consistent seed placement, which is especially crucial in agricultural operations requiring precise sowing.

[0032] The main drive shaft provides the necessary rotational power to operate. This shaft is connected to the gear-sprocket coupling, a mechanical linkage that transmits motion from the drive shaft to the metering drum. The gear-sprocket coupling functions by meshing gears and sprockets, which work in tandem to synchronize the rotation of the drum with the movement of the drive shaft. As the drive shaft rotates, the sprockets engage with one another, transferring motion to the drum in a controlled manner. The gear-sprocket arrangement allows for a consistent speed and torque transfer, ensuring that the drum's rotation remains synchronized with the overall movement, thus allowing for an accurate and even release of seeds.

[0033] A controlled air vortex unit 105 positioned ahead of a furrow opener integrated with the slots for aligning and singulating seeds for precise seed placement over the agricultural terrain. The primary function of the air vortex is to use controlled airflow to manipulate the movement of seeds as they are fed into the furrow opener. The air vortex generates a swirling column of air, which creates a dynamic flow pattern that ensures each seed is isolated and directed accurately into the furrow. By aligning and singulating seeds, the air vortex prevents clumping, overlapping, or irregular distribution, which can occur when seeds are not properly spaced.

[0034] The vortex unit 105 works in tandem with the seed metering arrangement, which ensures a uniform seed drop. The controlled airflow helps in maintaining an even, consistent seed flow, preventing blockages or irregular spacing due to seed size or shape variation. As the seeds are pushed through the slots and guided by the air vortex, they are placed at precise intervals in the furrow, optimizing the seed depth and spacing, which is crucial for uniform crop emergence and growth.

[0035] A container 106 mounted vertically on the center of the body 101 configured with a rotating clamp-and-blade unit 107 to uniformly trim medicinal herb cuttings. The container 106 is made from a durable, lightweight material such as high-grade plastic or stainless steel, chosen for its ability to withstand wear and tear, especially when exposed to moisture and plant sap during the cutting process. The rotating clamp-and-blade unit 107 consists of a rotating clamp that secures the plant stems firmly but gently, preventing them from shifting or slipping during the trimming process. The clamp is usually equipped with adjustable arms or gripping arrangements that accommodate different stem sizes, ensuring flexibility when trimming various types of medicinal herbs. As the clamp rotates, it moves the herb cuttings into the path of sharp, high-speed blades positioned at precise angles.

[0036] These rotating blades, powered by a motor, cut the herb stems with high precision. The speed and angle of the blades is fine-tuned for different types of cuts whether it's a simple snip, a clean trim, or more intricate cuts for specific medicinal uses. The rotating clamp-and-blade ensures that each cutting is trimmed uniformly, producing consistent lengths and reducing the risk of damage to the plant material. As the unit rotates, the cutting process becomes highly efficient, with herbs being continually fed.

[0037] An articulated link 108 mounted on the front side of the body 101, operable on a two-axis linkage powered by stepper motors, equipped with a robotic gripper 109 for precise handling and placement of cuttings into pre-dug soil pits. The articulated link 108 contains an end effector and several segments that are attached together by motorized joints also referred to as axes. Each joint of the segments contains a step motor that rotates and allows the articulated link 108 to complete a specific motion in translating the equipped end effector. The end effector further comprises of a pair of jaws hinged with each other by means of a bi-directional step motor. On actuation the step motor rotates and enables the opening/closing of the jaws of the effector for releasing/gripping the cuttings to place into pre-dug soil pits.

[0038] The first axis of two-axis linkage controls the horizontal movement of the articulated link 108. This axis allows the robotic gripper 109 to move forward and backward, adjusting the position of the gripper along the horizontal plane. The second axis controls the vertical movement of the articulated link 108, allowing the robotic gripper 109 to raise or lower the cuttings. Together, these two axes provide a combination of horizontal and vertical mobility, enabling the gripper to reach different locations, adjust to varying depths, and place cuttings into specific areas of the soil pit with precision. The stepper motors, which power the linkage provide fine-tuned control over both axes. The stepper motors work by rotating in discrete steps, allowing for precise, repeatable positioning. This ensures that the articulated link 108 moves with accuracy in both directions without the risk of overshooting or undercutting the intended path.

[0039] An electronic nozzle 112 is attached with a multi-sectioned vessel 113 stored with hydrating gel or fine water mist and configured at the body 101. The multi-sectioned vessel 113 is made from durable, moisture-resistant materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), or stainless steel. The HDPE is commonly used due to its excellent resistance to water and chemicals, lightweight nature, and flexibility, making it ideal for storing the hydrating substances without compromising the vessel 113 integrity. The polypropylene offers similar benefits but with enhanced resistance to temperature fluctuations, while stainless steel is chosen for more robust, long-lasting applications, providing resistance to corrosion and wear.

[0040] The microcontroller actuates the nozzle which works by converting the pressure energy of a fluid into kinetic energy to increase the fluid flow. Upon actuation a pump which consists of a motor, pump chamber, inlet and outlet valves and connecting tubing. The motor drives a diaphragm to creates suction in the pump chamber, drawing hydrating gel or fine water mist from the vessel 113 through the inlet valve. The hydrating gel or fine water mist is then pressurized and pushed through the outlet valve toward the nozzle significantly increasing pressure for effective application, then an electric current passes through a solenoidal coil which winds around plunger, generates a magnetic field that pulls the plunger upward. This motion opens the nozzle internal valve, allowing hydrating gel or fine water mist to pass through nozzle internal valve to dispense the hydrating gel or fine water mist at the base of cuttings to promote root development.

[0041] A flexible flap 110 attached to the body 101 via a cam linkage arrangement 111 is made from a flexible, durable material such as rubber, silicone, or a polyethylene-based composite. These materials are chosen for their flexibility, resilience, and ability to conform to the contours of the soil while withstanding repeated movement and outdoor environmental conditions. The Rubber or silicone flap 110 are particularly effective because they easily bend and adapt to different soil textures, ensuring even coverage over planted seeds or cuttings. The flap 110 flexibility also prevents it from damaging or compacting the soil excessively, allowing for optimal seed or cutting burial without disrupting their placement.

[0042] The cam linkage arrangement 111 converts rotational motion into linear or oscillating motion, controlling the movement of the flap 110. The cam a rotating disk or wheel with an off-center or contoured profile, is connected to a linkage arrangement 111 that is attached to the flap 110. As the cam rotates, its shape causes the linkage to move in a specific manner, which in turn drives the flap 110 to push soil over the planted seeds or cuttings. The cam's shape determines how the flap 110 moves: a smooth, gradual curve cause a gentle, consistent action, while a more irregular cam profile create varying movements for more complex soil covering patterns. The cam linkage arrangement 111 works by transmitting the rotational motion of a motor or axle through the cam, which forces the flap 110 to shift back and forth in a controlled manner. This motion ensures that the flap 110 moves at the right time and with the right force, gently pushing soil over the seeds or cuttings, covering them evenly to promote good soil-to-seed contact and enhance germination.

[0043] A plurality of cylindrical press rollers 114 is mounted after the flap 110 for stabilizing soil around planted crops. As the press rollers 114 move over the soil, they apply a compressive force that presses the soil gently but firmly around the planted seeds or cuttings. This action helps eliminate air pockets and any loose, uncompacted soil, ensuring the soil is more solidified and stable. By pressing the soil down, the rollers 114 also create a more even, level surface, which is essential for protecting the crops from wind or water erosion, as the soil is now compacted more tightly around the roots. Additionally, the pressure from the rollers 114 enhance moisture retention around the seed, which is crucial for promoting seed germination and early root development.

[0044] The flap 110 places the soil over the seeds or cuttings, and the rollers 114 then stabilize the covering by compressing it. The rotational movement of the cylindrical rollers 114 ensures that the entire area around each planted crop is uniformly pressed, preventing uneven soil coverage that could result in poor root establishment. Depending on the design, the rollers 114 are adjustable in pressure, allowing operators to fine-tune the compaction according to the soil type, moisture content, and desired planting depth.

[0045] A cam-driven motorized furrow shaper 115 mounted on the rear portion of the body 101 is driven by a motor, which powers a cam arrangement to control the movement of the furrow shaper 115. The cam works by converting the rotational motion of the motor into precise linear or oscillating motion, which in turn adjusts the position and angle of the side blades of the furrow shaper 115. The cam typically consists of a rotating disk or wheel with a specifically designed profile, which, as it turns, interacts with a follower or linkage attached to the side blades. The shape and contours of the cam dictate how the blades move, allowing for adjustable trenching parameters. By altering the cam profile, the width, depth, and angle of the furrow is adjusted, allowing for optimal customization based on the type of seed or cutting being planted, the soil conditions, and the required planting depth. These side blades, mounted on the rear, carve through the soil to form the trench while simultaneously controlling the soil's shape around the planting area. By using a cam-driven arrangement, the furrow shaper 115 provides a high degree of precision and repeatability in trench creation, ensuring that the soil is shaped consistently for ideal seed or cutting placement.

[0046] A plurality of soil and environmental sensors are integrated with the body 101, the sensors configured to measure parameters including soil moisture, pH, temperature, and microbial activity. The Soil moisture sensors detect the water content in the soil using capacitance or resistive methods, adjusting irrigation or planting depth based on moisture levels to ensure the soil isn't too dry or overly saturated. The pH sensors measure the soil's acidity or alkalinity, using ion-selective electrodes to gauge hydrogen ion concentration the microcontroller adjusts planting conditions if the pH is outside the optimal range for crop growth.

[0047] The temperature sensors measure the soil's temperature, ensuring planting occurs within the ideal temperature range for seed germination and root development. The microbial activity sensors monitor soil health by measuring the respiration rate of microbes, often using CO2 sensors this helps to adjust aeration or fertilizer application to maintain a healthy microbial environment. The microcontroller continuously analyses the feedback from all these sensors, adjusting planting parameters such as irrigation, soil amendments, or planting depth to create optimal conditions for crop growth, improving yield, and minimizing resource waste.

[0048] A self-cleaning unit 116 comprising a rotating brush 116a and air nozzles 116b is installed with the body 101 to remove debris and maintain hygienic conditions. The rotating brush 116a consists of bristles made from durable materials like nylon or polypropylene, which are designed to withstand wear and effectively scrub surfaces without damaging the machinery. As the brush 116a rotates, the bristles make contact with the equipment’s surfaces such as the soil channels, furrow openers, or seed dispensers and dislodge any accumulated debris, plant matter, or soil clumps that could obstruct the operation. The brush 116a rotation creates a mechanical scrubbing action that loosens stubborn residue, allowing it to be cleared away.

[0049] The air nozzles 116b are used to blow away any remaining debris or particles that the brush 116a do not have removed completely. These nozzles 116b are powered by compressed air from a small air compressor. The nozzles 116b are designed to direct a high-velocity stream of air at key areas of the machine, such as around the brush 116a, seed hoppers, or furrow openers. The force of the air stream dislodges finer particles, dust, or any leftover debris, ensuring that the machine remains clean and hygienic for continued operation.

[0050] A motorized dual-axis solar tracking panel 117 coupled with an integrated sun sensor is mounted on a rotating hinge stand on an upper surface of the body 101 to tilt and rotate for maximum solar energy absorption. The dual-axis solar tracker allows the solar panel to tilt along two axes horizontal and vertical enabling it to follow the sun's path both throughout the day and across the seasons. The horizontal axis rotates the panel to track the sun's east-to-west movement, while the vertical axis adjusts the tilt to optimize the angle based on the sun's height in the sky. This dual-axis tracking increases the panel’s efficiency by ensuring it is always positioned at the optimal angle for maximum sunlight exposure, as opposed to fixed panels that can only capture sunlight effectively for part of the day.

[0051] The sun sensor typically uses photodiodes or photovoltaic cells that respond to the intensity of sunlight. These sensors are calibrated to detect the sun's direction and provide feedback to the microcontroller, which then adjusts the movement of the solar panel. The sensor works by measuring the intensity of light from different directions, identifying where the sunlight is coming from, and sending this data to the motorized tracking arrangement. Based on the sensor's feedback, the microcontroller then calculates the optimal position for the panel, adjusting its tilt and rotation accordingly to keep the panel facing directly toward the sun.

[0052] The rotating hinge enables the panel to rotate around both the horizontal and vertical axes. The motors connected to the hinge are controlled by the feedback from the sun sensor, moving the panel in fine increments to ensure precise alignment with the sun. As the sun moves across the sky, the hinge mechanism allows the panel to adjust in real time, providing the necessary rotation and tilt to optimize solar energy capture.

[0053] A supercapacitor bank is housed beneath the solar panel mount, stores and supplies power to the device. The supercapacitor bank is charged by the solar panel, which captures energy from sunlight and converts it into electricity. During daylight hours or when the panel is actively receiving sunlight, the supercapacitors rapidly store the excess energy generated. When the solar panel is not producing enough energy due to cloud cover or at night, the supercapacitor bank supplies the stored energy to the device.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the body 101 as disclosed in the invention is mounted with a set of omnidirectional wheels 102 for enhanced maneuverability and stability on agricultural terrain. The user-interface enables command input for selecting between seed and cutting planting modes, with wireless connectivity provided by the Wi-Fi communication module. The seed storage compartment 103 houses the bio-responsive metering drum 104 that adjusts slot size for consistent seed release. The controlled air vortex unit 105 positioned ahead of the furrow opener ensures precise seed placement by singulating seeds through controlled airflow. The container 106 for medicinal herb cuttings integrates the rotating clamp-and-blade unit 107 for precise trimming. The articulated link 108 with the two-axis linkage, powered by stepper motors, handles and places cuttings into soil pits. The multi-sectioned vessel 113 stores hydrating gel, which is dispensed via the electronic nozzle 112 to promote root development. the flexible flap 110, operated by the cam linkage arrangement 111, covers planted seeds, followed by cylindrical press rollers 114 to stabilize the soil. The cam-driven motorized furrow shaper 115 creates adjustable trenches for seed or cutting placement, while environmental sensors monitor soil conditions, ensuring optimal planting parameters. The self-cleaning unit 116, powered by the rotating brush 116a and air nozzles 116b, maintains hygiene, and the dual-axis solar tracking panel 117, coupled with the sun sensor and rotating hinge, maximizes energy absorption, with the supercapacitor bank storing and supplying power to the device.

[0056] 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) An autonomous herbal propagules planting device, comprising:

i) a body 101 installed with a set of omnidirectional wheels 102 for maneuverability and stability on an agricultural terrain;
ii) a compartment 103 configured for storage of seeds, mounted on a mid-section of the body 101;
iii) a bio-responsive metering drum 104 arranged at the base of the compartment 103 with variable slots adapting to seed size, operatively coupled to a main drive shaft via a gear-sprocket coupling for synchronized seed release;
iv) a controlled air vortex unit 105 positioned ahead of a furrow opener integrated with the slots for aligning and singulating seeds for precise seed placement over the agricultural terrain;
v) a container 106 mounted vertically on the center of the body 101, configured with a rotating clamp-and-blade unit 107 to uniformly trim medicinal herb cuttings;
vi) an articulated link 108 mounted on the front side of the body 101, operable on a two-axis linkage powered by stepper motors, equipped with a robotic gripper 109 for precise handling and placement of cuttings into pre-dug soil pits;
vii) a flexible flap 110 attached to the body 101 via a cam linkage arrangement 111, the flap 110 configured to push soil over planted seeds or cuttings; and
viii) a microcontroller operatively connected to device, configured to control and coordinate the operation of the device components based on user inputs and sensor data.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a user-input interface is provided with the body 101, to allow a user to provide commands for initiating and controlling the operational modes of the device, including selection between seed planting mode and cutting planting mode.

3) The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the user-input interface comprises of a user-interface inbuilt in a connected computing unit for receiving remote commands and a touch display unit for receiving tactile input from the user.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an electronic nozzle 112 is attached with a multi-sectioned vessel 113 stored with hydrating gel or fine water mist and configured at the body 101, the microcontroller actuates the nozzle for dispensing hydrating gel or fine water mist at the base of cuttings to promote root development.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of cylindrical press rollers 114 are mounted after the flap 110 for stabilizing soil around planted crops.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a cam-driven motorized furrow shaper 115 with adjustable side blades is mounted on a rear portion of the body 101 to create trenches with variable width, depth, and angle optimized for seed or cutting planting modes.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of soil and environmental sensors are integrated with the body 101, the sensors configured to measure parameters including soil moisture, pH, temperature, and microbial activity, and the microcontroller adjusts planting parameters based on real-time sensor feedback.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a self-cleaning unit 116 comprising a rotating brush 116a and air nozzles 116b is installed with the body 101 to remove debris and maintain hygienic conditions.

9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a motorized dual-axis solar tracking panel 117 coupled with an integrated sun sensor is mounted on a rotating hinge stand on an upper surface of the body 101, configured to tilt and rotate for maximum solar energy absorption.

10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a supercapacitor bank is housed beneath the solar panel mount stores and supplies power to the device.

Documents

Application Documents

# Name Date
1 202541098791-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
2 202541098791-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
3 202541098791-PROOF OF RIGHT [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
4 202541098791-POWER OF AUTHORITY [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
5 202541098791-FORM-9 [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
6 202541098791-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
7 202541098791-FORM 1 [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
8 202541098791-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
9 202541098791-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
10 202541098791-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
11 202541098791-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
12 202541098791-DRAWINGS [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
13 202541098791-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13
14 202541098791-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [13-10-2025(online)].pdf 2025-10-13