Claims:We claim:

1. A portable device (100), comprising:
a storage unit (101);
a tube (102) comprising a first end (102a) and a second end (102b), wherein the second end of the tube (102b) is connectable to the storage unit (101), the tube (102) is configured to convey material received at the first end (102a) to the storage unit (101);
at least one air source (103) in fluid communication with the tube (102) facilitates movement of the material in the tube (102); and
at least one vibrator (104) coupled to the tube (102), wherein the at least one vibrator (104) facilitates movement of the material from the first end of the tube (102a) to the storage unit (101).

2. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a means to supply power to the at least one air source (103) and vibrator (104), wherein the means (113) is at least one of mechanical power source and electrical power source.

3. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first end of the tube (102a) is equipped with a picking unit (106) for receiving the material.

4. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a handle (111) pivotally attached to the picking unit (106) and a latch (108a) to rotatably adjust position of the handle (111).

5. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first end of the tube (102a) is provisioned with a flap (107) to control air pressure in the tube (102).

6. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage unit (101) comprises a plurality of provisions (117) to accommodate the second end of the tube (102b), and a latch (108b) coupled to the second end of the tube (102b) to switch the second end of the tube (102b) between the plurality of provisions (117).

7. A machine (110) for harvesting fibrous crops, the machine (110) comprising:
a picking unit (106) for harvesting the fibrous crop;
a storage unit (101) for storing the harvested fibrous crop;
a tube (102) configured to convey fibrous crop from the picking unit (106) to the storage unit (101);
wherein, the tube (102) comprises a first end (102a) connected to the picking unit (106) and a second end (102b) connected to the storage unit (101);
at least one air source (103) disposed in fluid communication with the tube (102) to facilitate movement of the fibrous crop in the tube (102); and
at least one vibrator (104) coupled to the tube (102), wherein the at least one vibrator (104) facilitates the movement of the fibrous crop from the picking unit (106) to the storage unit (101).

8. The machine (110) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the picking unit (106) is connected to the first end of the tube (102a) by a rotatable joint (109).

9. The machine (110) as claimed in claim 7 comprises a handle (111) pivotally attached to the picking unit (106) and a latch (108a) to rotatably adjust position of the handle (111).

10. The machine (110) as claimed in claim 7 wherein the at least one vibrator (104) vibrates the tube (102) to keep the fibrous crop in a suspended state.

11. The machine (110) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the picking unit (106) comprises a flap (107) to control air pressure in the tube (102).

12. The machine (100) as claimed in claim 7 comprises a means (113) to supply power to the at least one air source (103), vibrator (104) and picking unit (106), wherein the means (113) is at least one of mechanical power source and electrical power source.

13. The machine (110) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the storage unit (101) is configured as a backpack, and a bottom portion of the storage unit (101) is configured with a closure (115), the closure (115) is operable between a closed position and an open position.

14. The machine (110) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the storage unit (101) comprises a plurality of provisions (117) to accommodate the second end of the tube (102b) and a latch (108b) coupled to the second end of the tube (102b) to switch the second end of the tube (102b) between the plurality of provisions (117).

15. A storage unit (101) configured as a backpack comprising:
a frame (101a) configured as a support structure for the storage unit (101);
at least one provision provided in the frame (101a), wherein the at least one provision (101a) is connectable to a tube (102);
a storage bag (101b) connectable to the frame (101a) for storing a material conveyed by the tube (102);
a closure (115) provisioned at bottom portion of the storage bag (101b), wherein the closure (115) is operable between a closed position and an open position for storing and unloading the material; and
at least one string (116c) having a first end (118a) and a second end (118b), wherein the first end (118a) is connected to the closure (115) and the second end (118b) is connected to a locking unit such that when the string (116c) is coupled to the locking unit, the closure (115) will be in closed position;
wherein, upon detaching the locking unit (116c), the closure (115) moves to open position to unload the material.

16. The storage unit (101) as claimed in claim 16 comprises a plurality of straps (116d) fixed to the frame (101a).

17. The storage unit (101) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the locking unit comprises a male buckle (116a) attached to the second end of the atleast one string (118a) and a female buckle (116b) attached to the at least one plurality of straps (116d).
, Description:TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to the field of agricultural machinery. Particularly but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a machine for harvesting low density materials. Further embodiments of the disclosure disclose a portable machine for harvesting the fibrous crops.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Fiber crops are crops grown for their fibers. Such fibers are used for applications such as but not limiting to making of paper, cloth and rope. The fiber crops include crops such as but not limiting to coir, cotton, jute etc. Most of these fibrous crops are manually harvested in some parts of the world. During manual harvesting, fibrous crops such as seed of the cotton are pulled from the bur with a small pulling force. Though the trash content is low at this stage, after the seed cotton is pulled out, when it is to be stored in a bag considerable amount of contamination is added. The storage medium generally used during the manual harvesting is a cloth bag and this cloth bag is tied around the waist of a person. However, manual harvesting poses many problems such as increased labour time. Also, the cloth bags which are tied around waist causes inconvenience to the user to bear the weight as the fiber crops are filed and also cause obstruction to move around the field. Further, since harvesting is done for a limited period of time there will be huge demand for the labours, hence during harvesting season there might be shortage of skilled labours. If the labours are not skilled enough they might pick dry leaves along with the seeds of fibrous crops during harvesting, this leads to increased contamination, Contamination may also increase when it is stored at places such as warehouse. Furthermore, fibrous crops such as cotton are stored in white colored polyester fertilizer bags which get mixed with the cotton and later become difficult to segregate from seed cotton. Additionally, need for skilled labour adds to the cost of harvesting.

With the development of agricultural industries, efforts have been made to develop machines for harvesting fibrous crops to overcome the problems of manual harvesting. One such development is introduction of a handled device, which includes a picker mechanism used to pick fibrous crops from the burr, and a bag attached to the picker mechanism to store the harvested fibrous crops. Even in such handled devices, one end of the bag is tied around the waist of a person up to the knees and the other end is connected to the hand held machine. The bag provided for collection adds additional weight on the hand of the person as the harvesting progresses. Further as the bag is provided at the front it causes difficulties to move around the field, since the bag is filled with fibrous crops, this also limits the picking visibility of fibrous crops as the bag comes in line of sight while accessing the crop.

In another conventional machine which is used for harvesting fibrous crops, an IC engine carried at the back by a user is employed to run the picking mechanism. There is also a trolley which has a bag to store the transferred fibrous crops. Vacuum is created by the IC engine and is transferred to front end of the picking mechanism through a picking arm. The fibrous crops are then sucked into a hose which transfers the fibrous crops into trolley. The trash content in this machine is high as the vacuum created sucks dry leaves and other unnecessary material. The weight of the IC engine mounted on the back of the user is high to operate it for long periods of time and the engine also produces lots of noise, emitting lot of pollutants causing pollution. Fuel consumption is yet another problem in such machines, and also the engine requires constant maintenance for optimum operation. The trolley which has bag for storing fibrous crops is to be pulled during harvesting which further adds to the inconvenience of the user.

Conventionally, mechanical harvesters are also used for harvesting of fibrous crops in large fields. The mechanical harvester primarily comprises pickers and strippers. Pickers are used to pick fibrous crops from the plant and strippers use stripping brushes to strip fibrous crop from the plant. The harvesters comprise a vacuum based suction unit which transfers the fibrous crop to the storage unit. However, these mechanical harvesters pose some difficulties such as the operator of the harvester needs to be skilled enough to achieve high efficiency and to ensure smooth operation of the harvester. Further, the pickers and strippers are exclusively designed to be used in large farm lands, the harvesters are not feasible for usage in countries where people hold small lands. These machines also require special crop patterns for efficient harvesting of fibrous crops and they require the plants to be dry before harvesting. The harvesters also need regular servicing and maintenance for smooth functioning. Such harvesters also require huge initial cost, and hence not suitable for micro farming.

Additionally, in conventional harvesting machines, bags provided for storage are usually provided in the front of the user. By providing the bag in front of the user, it causes obstruction while picking fibrous crops and hence the user cannot effectively move around the field. Furthermore, to unload harvested fibrous crops the user has to manually move the bags to convenient places and unload these crops. Further, in some of the conventional harvesting machines trolleys are used for carrying the storage bag. The use of such trolleys to carry the storage bags can cause problems like maneuverability trolleys in the fields, add to number of components in the machine, heaviness of the machine, cost and the like.

In light of the foregoing discussion, there is a need to develop an improved machine with a simple device for conveying and storing fibrous crops during harvesting to overcome one or more limitations stated above.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

One or more shortcomings of the conventional machines are overcome by machine and device as claimed and additional advantages are provided through the provision of machine and device as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

In one non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided a portable device comprising a storage unit, a tube which comprises a first end and a second end. The second end of the tube is connected to the storage unit and the tube is configured to convey material received at the first end to the storage unit. The device further comprises at least one blower provisioned proximal to the first end of the tube, the blower directs air from the first end of the tube to the second end of the tube to facilitate movement of the material in the tube. The device also comprises at least one vibrator coupled to the tube, the at least one vibrator facilitates movement of the material from the first end of the tube to the storage unit.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the device comprises a means to supply power to the at least one air source and vibrator, the means is at least one of mechanical power source and electrical power source.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the first end of the tube is equipped with a picking unit for receiving the material.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the device comprises a handle pivotally attached to the picking unit and a latch to rotatably adjust position of the handle.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the first end of the tube is provisioned with a flap to control air pressure in the tube.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the storage unit comprises a plurality of provisions to accommodate the second end of the tube, and a latch coupled to the second end of the tube to switch the second end of the tube between the plurality of provisions.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided a machine for harvesting fibrous crops. The machine comprises a picking unit for harvesting the fibrous crop, a storage unit for storing the harvested fibrous crop, and a tube configured to convey fibrous crop from the picking unit to the storage unit. The tube comprises a first end connected to the picking unit and a second end connected to the storage unit. The machine further comprises at least one blower provisioned proximal to the first end of the tube, the blower directs air from the first end of the tube to the second end of the tube to facilitate movement of the fibrous crop in the tube and at least one vibrator coupled to the tube, wherein the at least one vibrator facilitates the movement of the fibrous crop from the picking unit to the storage unit.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the picking unit is connected to the first end of the tube by a rotatable joint.

In an embodiment of the disclosure the machine comprises a handle pivotally attached to the picking unit. The machine also comprises a latch to rotatably adjust position of the handle.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the at least one vibrator vibrates the tube to keep the fibrous crops in a suspended state.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, there is provided a storage unit configured as a backpack. The storage unit comprises a frame configured as a support structure for the storage unit, there is at least one provision provided in the frame, the at least one provision is connectable to a tube. The storage unit further comprises a storage bag connectable to the frame for storing a material conveyed by the tube, a closure provisioned at bottom portion of the storage bag, the closure is operable between a closed position and an open position for storing and unloading the material. The storage unit has at least one string having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the closure and the second end is connected to a locking unit such that when the string is coupled to the locking unit, the closure will be in closed position. The locking unit upon detaching, the closure moves to open position to unload the material.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the storage unit comprises a plurality of straps fixed to the frame.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the locking unit comprises a male buckle attached to the second end of the atleast one string and a female buckle attached to the at least one plurality of straps.

It is to be understood that aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several aspects and embodiments may be combined together to form a further embodiment of the disclosure.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING FIGURES

The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

FIG.1 illustrates perspective view of a machine for harvesting fibrous crops according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG.2 illustrates sectional perspective view of picking unit of machine of FIG.1 with flap mechanism provided therein, in accordance with some embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG.3 illustrates a perspective view of the picking unit of the machine of FIG.1 with latch mechanism for operating a handle, in accordance with some embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG.4 illustrates another sectional perspective view of the picking unit of machine of FIG.1 showing belt and shaft drive system for power transmission to the blower and the picking unit, in accordance with some embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG.4A illustrates perspective view of the picking unit of the machine of FIG. 1 showing alternate variant of power transmission system for the blower and the picking unit, in accordance with some embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG.5 illustrates perspective view of tube for conveying fibrous crops and vibrator mechanism of the machine of FIG.1, in accordance with some embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG.5A illustrates alternate variant of vibrator mechanism for the machine of FIG.1, in accordance with some embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG.6 illustrates the storage unit of the machine of FIG.1, in accordance with some embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG.7 illustrates exploded view of the storage unit of the machine of FIG.6.

FIG.8 illustrates detailed view of a latch mechanism provisioned in the storage unit for operating the tube between a plurality of provisions, in accordance with some embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG.9 illustrates storage unit of FIG. 6 showing closure in closed and open position respectively.

FIG.10 illustrates a device for conveying and storing material, in accordance with some embodiment of the present disclosure.

The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the system illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The foregoing has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the disclosure, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure.

To overcome one or more drawbacks mentioned in the background, the present disclosure discloses a machine for harvesting the fibrous crop and a device provided in the machine for effectively conveying and storing material. The material for which the machine is used is typically a fibrous crop such as cotton, coir etc. Fibrous crops such as cotton either manually picked or machine picked is conveyed and stored at a desired position using optimum energy and convenience. The machine disclosed in the present disclosure ensures that the fiber crop is freely accessible to the harvester, lighter in weight and consumes less power to transfer and store the fiber crop, thereby increasing the productivity of the user. The machine is portable and is very convenient to carry and move around the field during harvesting of fibrous crops. Further, the machine disclosed is economical and is easy to operate.

The present disclosure discloses a machine to convey and store material such as fibrous crops. The machine maybe used in conjunction with a conventional picking unit or can be used even in case of manual picking of fibrous crops. The machine comprises a conventional picking unit to pick the fibrous crop such as cotton. Once the fibrous crop has been picked by the picking unit, it is to be stored effectively without contaminating the fibrous crops. The machine comprises a tube to convey the picked fibrous crops to a storage unit, at one end of the tube there is a provision of blower to blow the air and facilitate movement of fibrous crop towards the storage unit. The machine is also provided with a vibrator to ensure that the fibrous crops when conveyed through the tube is freely suspended without any friction, thereby ensuring effective transfer of the fibrous crops to the storage unit. The storage unit comprises a main frame which is robust in design to damp any excess vibrations of the vibrator.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the picking unit is provided with a rotatable handle to accommodate both left and right hand users. The machine comprises a power source such as battery to supply power for operation of picking unit and blower. In an embodiment of the disclosure, a simple mechanism is used to operate the bottom portion of the storage unit to unload the stored fibrous crops.

The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof used in the specification, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a system or method that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or method. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.

Henceforth, the present disclosure is explained with the help of one or more figures of exemplary embodiments. However, such exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limitations of the present disclosure.

FIG.1 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure which illustrates perspective view of a machine (110) for harvesting fibrous crops. The machine (110) comprises a picking unit (106) to pick the fibrous crops from its plant. In an embodiment, the fibrous crops include but not limiting to cotton, coir etc. The picking unit (106) is any conventional picker and the machine (110) disclosed in the disclosure may also be used in case of manual harvesting, i.e. the machine (110) can also be used when fibrous crops are handpicked. The picking unit (106) comprises of a plurality of pickers in the form of pins or blades mounted on a spindle. The spindle [not shown] is supported by a frame of the picking unit through bearings, such that the spindle carrying the pickers rotates. The spindle is coupled to a driving means for operation. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the picking unit (106) is driven by a flexible shaft (112) coupled to a belt drive mechanism. Further, the picking unit (106) is provided with a handle (111). The handle (111) is provided for a user to hold the picking unit (106), and the handle (111) is rotatable by a user to accommodate right hand and left hand users.

The machine (110) further comprises a tube (102) to convey fibrous crops such as cotton picked from the picking unit (106). The tube (102) comprises two ends i.e. the first end (102a) and the second end (102b). The first end (102a) of the tube (102) is connected to the picking unit (106), and the second end (102b) is coupled to a storage unit (101). In an embodiment of the disclosure, the tube (102) is flexible and is made of plastic reinforced with helical metal rings. Further, the machine (110) comprises a blower (103) mounted proximal to the first end of the tube (102a). The blower (103) blows air to facilitate and direct movement of the fibrous crops from the picking unit (106) towards second end of the tube (102b), and then to the storage unit (101). Further, the storage unit (101) is provided in the machine (110) to store the harvested fibrous crops. The second end of the tube (102b) is attached to the storage unit (101) to convey the fibrous crops. The storage unit (101) comprises a main frame (101a) and a storage bag (101b). The main frame (101a) is a solid structure on which the tube (102) and a motor (105) to supply power to the blower (103), picking unit (106) is mounted. The storage bag (101b) of the storage unit (101) is attached to the main frame (101a). The storage unit (101) is further provided with shoulder straps which can be used as a backpack by the user, this allows the user to carry the machine (110) easily and the user would be able to move around the field conveniently during harvesting of fibrous crops. The fibrous crop which is picked by the picking unit (106) needs to be conveyed to the storage unit (101) using a tube (102). During such movement, the fibrous crop should freely suspended in order to transfer it effectively without friction, hence the machine (110) comprises at least one vibrator (104) coupled to the tube (102). The at least one vibrator (104) is configured to vibrate the tube (102) such that the fibrous crop is maintained in a suspended state during the movement from first end (102a) of the tube to the second end (102b) of the tube (102).

FIG.2 is an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure which illustrates a sectional view of the picking unit (106) of the machine (110) with a flap (107) provided at the mouth of the picking unit (106). The blower (103) of the machine (110) is provided near the picking unit (106), and is configured to blow air form the first end (102a) of the tube (102) to the second end (102b) of the tube (102) to transfer the picked fibrous crop through the tube (102). The blower (103) is driven by a belt drive system, the belt drive system is in turn driven by the flexible shaft (112) of the machine (110). The main frame (101a) of the storage unit (101) has a motor (105) which supplies the necessary power for driving the blower and the picking unit (106) through the flexible shaft (112). The picking unit (106) is connected to the first end of the tube (102) such that a mouth portion of the picking unit (106) resides proximal to the first end of the tube (102a). As shown in the FIG. 2, a flap (107) is provisioned in the picking unit (101) to control air pressure in the tube (102). The flap (107) is configured to be operated between an open and closed position. During normal functioning of the machine (110) i.e. when there is no blockage in the tube (102), the flap (107) is in open position letting the air to flow from first end of the tube (102a) to the second of the tube (102b). When there is a blockage in the tube (102) i.e. when fibrous crop is clogged in the tube (102), there is a backflow of air in the tube (102) and the air tries to escape through the mouth of the picking unit (106). The flap (107) is positioned such that the returning air pushes the flap (107) into closed position. In the closed position, the flap (107) doesn’t allow the air to escape through the mouth of the picking unit (106) and hence the pressure starts building up inside the tube (102). The pressure built inside the tube (102) helps to unclog the tube (102). Further, when the tube (102) is not clogged, the flap (107) automatically moves to open position, as the air flows from the mouth of the picking unit (106) to the tube (102). The mouth of the picking unit (106) is provided with provisions to fix one side of the flap such that the flap (107) can pivot about its fixed position. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the flap (107) is made of a thin flexible plastic sheet or any polymeric material or metal.

Referring to FIG.3, the picking unit (106) of the machine (110) is provided with a handle (111) for holding the picking unit (106) by a user. The handle (111) provided can pivot around the axis of fixture i.e. it is made rotatable to accommodate both right hand and left hand users. The latch mechanism comprises a latch (108a) mounted on the picking unit (106). The handle (111) is initially locked, when the latch (108a) is pressed the handle (111) is unlocked, and hence the position of the handle (111) can be changed by rotating it to the desired position of the user. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the latch (108a) is a spring operated release latch. When the release latch is pressed, the column supported by the spring moves down and the lock system of the handle (111) is unlocked allowing the user to rotate the handle (111) to the desired position. Once the handle (111) is moved to the desired position the column moves back to the lock position.

Referring now to FIG.4, it illustrates a mechanism for driving the blower (103) and the picking unit (106) of the machine (110). The blower (103) and the picking unit (106) are driven by a belt drive, and said belt drive is coupled with the flexible shaft (112). One end of the flexible shaft (112) is connected to the motor (105) which is mounted on the main frame (101a) of the storage unit (101), and the other end is provided at a driving gear. The driving gear provided at the end of the flexible shaft (112) meshes with the driven gear provided in the picking unit (106). In an embodiment of the disclosure, the driving gear and the driven gears are bevel gears. The driven gear provided in the picking unit (106) is coupled to a first pulley for receiving the power transmitted from the driving gear, and then transfer it to the picking unit (106) and the blower (103). The blower (103) and the spindle of the picking unit (106) are provided with a second and third pulley respectively, and are coupled with the first pulley through a belt drive. During operation, the flexible shaft (112) drives the driving gear which drives the first pulley through the driven gear. The first pulley drives the second and third pulley through the belt drive. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the second pulley is connected to the shaft which runs the fan of the blower (103), and the third pulley drives the picking unit (106).

FIG.4A illustrates an alternate power transmission arrangement for the blower (103) and the picking unit (106) of the machine (110). In this arrangement, necessary power to drive the blower (103) is supplied by coupling the motor (105) directly with the blower (103). The picking unit (106) is driven by a belt drive, wherein the belt is connected between the motor (105), and the spindle of the picking unit (106) with the help of pulleys. Further, it is to be understood that the blower (103) and picking unit (106) of the machine (110) can be powered with various other arrangements and the above described arrangements should not be construed as a limitation for power transmission. In an alternative exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, each blower (103) and the picking unit (106) are driven by two separate motors, and the motors are powered by a power source such as but not limiting to battery.

FIG.5 is an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure which illustrates a perspective view of tube (102) for conveying fibrous crops picked by the picking unit (106) in the machine (110). As shown in FIG.5, the tube (102) comprises two ends i.e. the first end (102a) and the second end (102b). The first end of the tube (102a) is connected to the picking unit (106) and the second end of the tube (102b) is connected to the storage unit (101). The primary function of the tube (102) is to receive and transfer material such as fibrous crops picked by the picking unit (106) to the storage unit (101). In an embodiment, the fibrous crops include cotton, coir etc. The picking unit (106) is connected to the first end of the tube (102a), such that the fibrous crop harvested by the picking unit (106) is transferred into the tube (102). In an embodiment of the disclosure, the outlet of the picking unit (106) is configured to reside in the first end of the tube (102).

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the picking unit (106) is connected to the first end (102a) of the tube (102) through a rotatable joint (109) [shown in FIG.5]. The rotatable joint (109) is an attachment which locks the outlet of the picking unit (106) with the first end of the tube (102a), they are arranged concentric to one another as shown in the detailed view of a portion of the rotatable joint (109). The rotatable joint (109) allows free rotation of the tube (102) without causing any twists, and hence doesn’t offer any restriction for the user to move around in the field during harvesting of fibrous crops. Further, the length of the tube (102) can be freely adjusted which allows the user to reach out to any fiber crop on the plant without any obstruction. In an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, the tube (102) is made of polymeric material, and is supported by helical metal rings which ensure that the diameter from the first end of the tube (102a) to the second end of the tube (102b) remains the same without deformation in the shape. One should not consider use of such tube (102) as limitation to the present disclosure, as the person skilled in the art can use any other type of tubes such as flexible hose, pipe etc. without altering scope of the present disclosure.

The fibrous crop such as cotton after entering the tube (102) should be freely suspended to ensure smooth conveyance of the fibrous crops to the storage unit (101). Therefore, the machine (110) comprises at least one vibrator (104) to facilitate movement of the fibrous crops in the tube (102). In an embodiment of the disclosure, at least one vibrator (104) is attached on the outer surface of the tube (102) which ensures that the fibrous crop such as cotton is freely suspended inside the tube (102). Vibrations produced by the at least one vibrator (104) is experienced in the tube (102) which prevent clinging of the fibrous crop to the inner surface of the tube (102), thereby maintains the fibrous crop in a freely suspended state. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the at least one vibrator (104) comprises of a vibrator motor (104a), an offset mass (104c) and a fixture (104b) which is used to mount the vibrator (104) at a desired position.

The at least one vibrator (104) is fixed to a tube (102) at any desired position between the first and second end (102a and 102b) using a fixture (104b). In an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, the fixture is clamp. The offset mass (104c) is mounted on an output shaft of the vibrator motor (104a), such that the offset mass (104c) rotates eccentrically about the axis of the motor (104a) shaft. This rotation of the offset mass (104c) generates vibrations, and transfers theses vibrations to the tube (102). The vibrations generated by the vibrator (104) are optimized to keep the fiber crop suspended in the tube (102) without clinging to the inner surface. In order to lock the position of the vibrator (104) on the tube (102) a step is provided such that it clings on to two of the metal supporting rings of the tube (102) [shown in FIG. 5]. The step design ensures locking of the vibrator (104) at its position without moving or loosening due to vibrations.

FIG.5A illustrates alternate embodiment of the vibrator mechanism in the machine (110). In this mechanism the vibrator motor (104a) is placed on the main frame (101a) of the storage unit (101) and the vibrations are created using a crank rocker mechanism. The crank- rocker mechanism comprises a crank coupled to the motor (104a) and rocker arm for connecting the crank to the clamp (104b) provided on the tube (102). When the motor (104a) rotates the crank also rotates with the motor (104a), during such rotation of the crank, the rocker arm makes a rocking motion. This rocking motion creates vibrations in the tube (102) to suspend the fiber crop inside the tube (102), thereby ensures that fibrous crop does not cling to the inner surface.

FIG.6 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure which illustrates perspective view of the storage unit (101) of the machine (110). The storage unit (101) of the machine (110) is configured to store material such as light density material including but not limiting to fibrous crops. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the storage unit (101) is configured as a backpack, and is designed to collect and store fiber crop such as cotton. The tube (102) is connected to the storage unit (101), such that it delivers the picked fibrous crops for collection and storage in the storage unit (101) during harvesting. Since, the storage unit (101) is configured as backpack, it is easy for the user to move around the field and also facilitates easy transportation over short distances within the field. The storage unit (101) is made up of two units – frame (101a) and storage bag (101b).

Referring to FIG.7, it illustrates exploded view of the storage unit (101) of FIG.6. The storage unit (101) comprises of frame (101a) alternatively referred to as main frame and the storage bag (101b). The main frame (101a) is a rigid support structure made of suitable material such as but not limiting to plastic, metal or composite material. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the main frame (101a) is provided with shoulder straps and waist belt. The main frame (101a) extends from shoulders to the lower back portion of the user and a cushioning material such as but not limiting to foam material is attached to the main frame (101a) to provide a cushioning effect by supporting the lower back portion of the user. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the foam material is affixed using a covering of netted material usually made of fabric material and can be supported by bolts or adhesive material. The shoulder straps are made wide and are provided with cushions so that user doesn’t feel the weight of the backpack while operating. Further, the main frame (101a) has a plurality of provisions (117) to connect the second end of the tube (102b) which delivers the fiber crop for storage. The main frame (101a) comprises a provision to accommodate a power source (113). In an embodiment of the disclosure, the power source (113) is a rechargeable battery and it supplies power for operating the machine (110). The provision to accommodate the power source is made of stiff canvas material to bear the weight of the power source (113). In an embodiment of the disclosure, the position of the power source (113) is at the lower back portion of the inner surface of the main frame (101a).

Further, the storage bag (101b) is attached or mounted on the main frame (101a) with the help of hooks which are attached by using fasteners such as bolts and nuts. In an embodiment of the disclosure, these hooks are provided on the periphery of the main frame (101a) which facilitates easy removal and replacement of the bag. In an alternate embodiment of the disclosure, the storage bag (101b) is connected to the main frame (101a) through a plurality of fasteners. The storage bag (101b) of is used for collection of the fibrous crops, delivered through the tube (102). The storage bag (101b) facilitates easy storage and transportation medium for the fibrous crops. The storage bag (101b) takes the shape of the main frame (101a) on which it is mounted. The top and bottom portion of the storage bag (101b) are open to facilitate entry and exit of fibrous crops. During the time of harvest the bottom portion of the storage bag is closed by a closure (115), providing temporary storage of fibrous crops, and during the time of unloading the closure (115) is opened to unload the stored fibrous crops. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the closure (115) is opened and closed by means of strings which are provided and passes through the guide ways on the main frame (101a). A stiff cloth material is used for the closure (115) to ensure that cotton stored does not fall out because of its self-weight. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the closure (115) is provided with a plurality of small eyelets to attach strings to it and the top of the storage bag (101b) is also provided with a plurality of eyelets to attach the storage bag (101b) to the main frame (101a).

Referring to FIG.8, it illustrates detailed view of a latch mechanism provided in the storage unit (101) for operating the tube (102) of the machine (110). The main frame (101a) of the storage unit (101) comprises a latch (108b) at the top. The latch (108b) helps in changing the mounting side of the second end of the tube (102), this helps in accommodating both the right hand and left hand users. When the latch (108b) is pressed, the column supported by the spring moves down and the lock system opens which allows the user to rotate an support member (114) to the other position, once the member (114) is moved to the desired position the column moves back to the lock position. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the external member (114) moves in a circular motion to change the position to the other side. The support member (114) has a provision to accommodate the second end of the tube (102b), and carries the second end of the tube (102b) between plurality of provisions (117) in the main frame (101a) of the storage unit (101).

FIG.9 illustrates storage unit (101) of the machine (110) in normal and unloading condition. During harvesting, the closure (115) provided at the bottom portion of the storage bag (101b) is in closed position, such that the bag stores the fibrous crops received from the tube (102). The storage unit (101) is provided with buckles (116a and 116b) on the shoulder straps to control opening and closing of closure (115). Further, a pair of strings (116c) are provided between the buckles (116a and 116b) and the closure (115), such that one end of each string is connected to the closure (115) goes through guide ways and comes out of the shoulder straps to connect the other end to the male buckle (116a), while the female buckle (116b) is permanently attached to the end of the shoulder strap. During harvesting, the bottom portion of the storage bag is closed by a closure (115), providing temporary storage of fibrous crops and during the time of unloading the closure (115) is opened to unload the stored fibrous crops. To unload the stored fibrous crops the user unbuckles and the closure (115) opens due to the weight of the fibrous crops. After unloading, when the closure (115) is to be closed again, the user just has to pull the string (116c) and lock the male buckle (116a) with the female buckle (116b). The guideways ensure smooth movement of the string without any obstruction.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the storage bag (101b) used in the storage unit (101) is made of cotton material or polymer wire mesh material. The storage bag (101b) is made such that, the storage bag (101b) grows in size as the storage bag (101b) is filled with the fibrous crops. The storage bag (101b) assumes a convenient shape and volume while the storage bag (101b) is filled with the fibrous crops. In such a storage bag (101b) arrangement, the bag can be removed from the frame once the bag is filled with the fibrous crop of required quantity and is replaced with a new bag by attaching it to the frame (101a) for storing the fibrous crops. Alternatively, user can unload the fibrous crop stored in the storage bag (101b), and attach the same storage bag (101b) to the frame for reuse.

The use of machine (110) for harvesting of cotton as described in foregoing paragraphs is exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. One should not construe such exemplary embodiments as limitation to the present disclosure, as the person skilled in the art may employ the machine (110) for picking other fibrous material such as coir from coconut husk, and harvesting any other fibrous crop from the field.

FIG.10 is an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure which illustrates a portable device (100) for conveying and storing material. The device (100) can be used with any conventional picking unit and may as well be used in case of manual picking. The device (100) comprises a storage unit (101) to store material picked by the user. The material is generally fibrous crops like cotton, coir etc. The device (100) comprises a tube (102) to convey the material to the storage unit (101), the material maybe handpicked or can be picked with the aid of a picking unit (106). The tube (102) is flexible and hence provides easy reach for the picking units to pick up the material. The device (104) further comprises a blower (103) to blow air at the receiving end of the tube (102) to facilitate movement of the material inside the tube (102), the blower (103) ensures that the material is conveyed to the storage unit (101). During such movement, the fibrous crop should freely suspended in order to transfer it effectively without friction, hence the machine (110) comprises at least one vibrator (104) coupled to the tube (102). The at least one vibrator (104) is configured to vibrate the tube (102) such that the fibrous crop is maintained in a suspended state during the movement from first end (102a) of the tube to the second end (102b) of the tube (102).

The blower (103) as described in foregoing paragraphs is just an example of the air source which could be used in the present disclosure. One should not construe such example as a limitation to the present disclosure, as the person skilled in the art may employ the other air sources such as pumps, fans, suction devices etc. Further, the air source (103) employed herein can be configured either to blow air or to create suction pressure to suck air or both.

In an embodiment of the disclosure, the first end of the tube (102a) maybe configured to have a single inlet or multiple inlets for entry of material into the tube (102) and the second of the tube (102b) maybe configured to have a single outlet or multiple outlets for exit of material from the tube (102). Therefore, number of inlets or outlets of the tube (102) should not be considered as a limitation to the present disclosure.

It is to be understood that the machine (110), suction devices maybe employed to harvest and/or transport and store any low density material such as leaves, husk of coconut etc and the use of machine (110) for harvesting fibrous crops should not be considered as any form of limitation of the present disclosure.

Advantages of the present disclosure:

The present disclosure discloses a machine to for harvesting fibrous crops. The machine is simple in construction, effectively conveys and store material such as fibrous crops with minimum contamination. The storage unit is configured as a backpack with less weight thus allowing the user to move around the field conveniently without any obstruction. Also, the tube is flexible and hence the picking unit of the machine can reach out to plants at different places during harvesting.

The present disclosure discloses a machine in which the picking unit is configured with a flap to prevent clogging of material in the tube. The picking unit is provided with a handle which is rotatable to accommodate both the right hand and left hand users and therefore improves user convenience. The tube of the machine is coupled to the vibrator to vibrate the tube to keep the material in suspended state and thus doesn’t allow the material to cling to the inner surface of the tube. The machine is provided with a simple mechanism to unload the stored material. Further, the picking unit of the machine is provided sideways and thus not obstructing the operating line of sight, this improves the accuracy of picking fibrous crops.

Equivalents:

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding the description may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated in the description.

Table of Referral Numerals:

Reference Number Description
100 Portable device for conveying and storing material
101 Storage unit
101a Main frame of the storage unit
101b Storage bag of the storage unit
102 Tube
102a First end of the tube
102b Second end of the tube
103 Air source / Blower
104 Vibrator
104a Vibrator motor
104b Clamp for vibrator motor
104c Offset mass
105 Motor
106 Picking unit
107 Flap
108a Latch for operating the handle
108b Latch for operating support member
109 Rotatable joint
110 Machine for harvesting fibrous crops
111 Handle
112 Flexible shaft
113 Power source / Power means
114 Support member
115 Closure
116a Male buckle
116b Female buckle
116c Strings
116d Straps
117 Provisions for the tube
118a First end of the string
118b Second end of the string