Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention operates in material handling systems, focusing on conveyor apparatuses for the gentle transfer of harvested soft materials in agriculture, particularly delicate tea shoots.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This background of the invention addresses the challenges associated with the transfer of harvested soft materials, particularly delicate tea shoots, from a harvester to a storage container. Traditional conveying systems often lack the precision and gentleness required for handling such delicate materials, leading to potential damage and a decrease in overall product quality.

[0003] The prior art US4176511A discloses about an endless conveyor which has a plurality of individual conveying elements which are slidably movable to an extended position laterally of the conveying direction during a conveying run of the conveyor. When the conveyor is mounted on a harvester for harvesting the crop of a row of bushes, vines or canes, the individual elements in their extended position extend below crop dislodging means of the harvester and catch the crop and convey it to a collecting station and this avoids waste. In order to prevent the conveyor from fouling obstacles such as a plant or post during harvesting, there is a device for maintaining the linear speed of the conveyor zero relative to the ground.

[0004] But the above prior is not addressing the below requirements.
• There is a need for a conveyer to transport soft materials like flower, tender tea shoots…etc.
• There is a need for optimized weight and design to move the harvester in the variable terrain condition.
• Further, the prime mover should not consume much power for carrying the conveyer apparatus.
The proposed patent is designed for addressing all of the above requirements.

[0005] Conventional conveyors may not be optimized for space and weight efficiency, resulting in increased operational costs and limitations in practical applications. Additionally, the need for separate mechanisms for harvesting and conveying may contribute to a more complex and costly overall system.

[0006] Recognizing these challenges, the applicant’s existing patent application IN202141047749 addressed the shortcomings of existing systems by introducing a transportable conveyor apparatus with integrated tea leaf harvesting. The conveyer ensures the gentle transfer of delicate materials.

[0007] The present invention relates to a lightweight and right angle conveyer apparatus for transferring the harvested soft materials from a harvester into a storage container. The main features of the invention is a flexible contact members sequentially arranged to form a comb shaped structure which is attached with a first and second conveyers for enabling physical contact with the harvested soft materials. The first conveyer being actuated in a pitch axis by means of a vane pump inspired actuator to move the harvested soft materials towards a first direction. A second conveyers fixed next to the first conveyer includes at least two comb shaped structures, each being enabled alternatively in a roll axis by means of a cyclic actuator towards the second decided direction thereby safely transferring the harvested soft materials in the right angle or decided angle. Even though, the prior art need further modification in terms of material handling and optimized conveyer process. Those challenges are addressed in the proposed invention though its unique configurations.

[0008] The present invention aims to address the shortcomings of existing systems and prior arts by introducing a transportable conveyor apparatus with integrated tea leaf harvesting. The background encompasses the need for a solution that not only ensures the gentle transfer of delicate materials but also optimizes space, reduces weight, and streamlines the overall conveying process.

[0009] By dividing the system into three segments and incorporating a lightweight conveyor unit capable of transferring materials at various angles, the invention aims to create an efficient and space-saving structure for material handling. The inclusion of a tea leaf harvesting device and multiple filters enhances the precision of harvesting and ensures a seamless filling process during material conveyance.

[0010] In traditional static Z conveyors, the operation typically initiates with an infeed section, where items are loaded onto the top region of the conveyor belt. The belt then moves in a bottom-to-top direction, with loading being achieved either manually by operators or through an automated feeding mechanism.

[0011] In contrast, the proposed invention introduces an innovative approach, eliminating the necessity for an infeed section. Instead, items are conveyed through the bottom region of the belt, facilitated by a supportive bottom enclosure surface. The belt now moves in a bottom-to-top direction. Notably, this design negates the need for both manual and automated feeding mechanisms, streamlining the material handling process.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
[0012] An object of the invention is to address the limitations and challenges present in the prior art by introducing a comprehensive and technologically advanced system that eliminates the requirement for complex conveyor apparatus.

[0013] Another object of the invention is to provide a conveyor apparatuses for gentle and efficient transfer of harvested soft materials.

[0014] Yet another object of the invention is to optimize space utilization and minimize weight and corresponding costs in material handling systems.

[0015] Yet another object of the invention is to address challenges related to conveying delicate materials, like tea shoots, from harvester to storage container.

[0016] Yet another object of the invention is to enhance precision, gentleness, and overall efficiency in the material transfer process.

[0017] Yet another object of the invention is to provide a bottom enclosure that serves as a foundation for an innovative conveyor apparatus and operate the conveyor apparatus in a bottom-to-top direction to enhance material handling capabilities thus distinguish the conveyer from traditional systems.

[0018] Yet another object of the invention is to divide the conveying process into three segments to optimize the size of the conveyer and enhance efficiency in material transfer.

[0019] Yet another object of the invention is to eliminate the need for an infeed section in the material handling process.

[0020] Further object of the present application will be highly appreciated and be easily understood upon reading the detailed description taking into consideration the appended drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention presents a specialized conveyor apparatus designed for the gentle and efficient transfer of harvested soft materials, particularly emphasizing space optimization and weight reduction. Equipped with integrated tea leaf harvesting capabilities, the conveyor enhances precision and overall efficiency. Its unique design, featuring segmentation of the conveying process and a bottom-to-top direction, distinguishes it from conventional systems. The invention extends its applicability to broader agricultural machinery, addressing challenges in delicately handling materials during harvesting. Key features include the elimination of the infeed section, adoption of a bottom-to-top conveyor direction, and incorporation of a supportive bottom enclosure, contributing to an innovative and space-efficient structure. Overall, the invention converges at the intersection of agriculture, material handling technology, and conveyor systems, with a focused objective of optimizing space, reducing weight, and enhancing the efficiency of transferring delicate materials in agricultural harvesting applications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0021] For a fuller understanding of the invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the invention which shows the configuration of Z conveyer.
[0023] FIG. 2 illustrates the embodiment of the invention which shows the collection chamber configuration.
[0024] FIG. 3 illustrates the embodiment of the invention which shows the Z shaped conveyer with collection chamber configuration.
[0025] FIG. 3 illustrates the embodiment of the invention which shows side view of the oval shaped configuration more specifically it illustrates the flexible member (111) of the oval shaped conveyer.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

S.NO Components Reference numeral
1. Space-efficient conveyor apparatus 101
2. Z-Shaped conveyer 102
3. Belt 103
4. Rollers 104
5. Bottom panel 105
6. Flexible members 106
7. Materials 107
8. Collection chamber 108
9. Primary collection chamber 108a
10. Secondary collection chamber 108b
11. Storage chamber 109
12. Oval shaped conveyer 110
13. Flexible member of oval shaped conveyer 111
14. Conveyer belt of oval shaped conveyer 112
15. Filter gab 113
16. Z conveyer motor 114
17. Oval conveyer motor 115

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0026] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein, however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0027] All referenced methods are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Furthermore, where a definition or use of a term in a reference, which is incorporated by reference herein, is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0028] While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been discussed to facilitate disclosure of the invention, Applicants in no way disclaim these technical aspects, and it is contemplated that the claimed invention may encompass one or more of the conventional technical aspects discussed herein.

[0029] The present invention may address one or more of the problems and deficiencies of the prior art discussed above. However, it is contemplated that the invention may prove useful in addressing other problems and deficiencies in a number of technical areas. Therefore, the claimed invention should not necessarily be construed as limited to addressing any of the particular problems or deficiencies discussed herein.

[0030] In this specification, where a document, act or item of knowledge is referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not an admission that the document, act or item of knowledge or any combination thereof was at the priority date, publicly available, known to the public, part of common general knowledge, or otherwise constitutes prior art under the applicable statutory provisions; or is known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which this specification is concerned.

[0031] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0032] The present invention discloses about the space-efficient conveyor apparatus (101) unfolds as an advanced system for the gentle and efficient transfer of delicate agricultural materials, specifically designed for tea leaves. In this apparatus, the innovative conveyor apparatus (101) presents a space-efficient solution tailored for the gentle and efficient transfer of delicate agricultural materials. At its core, the apparatus integrates a Z-shaped conveyor (102), equipped with a belt (103) and precisely positioned rollers (104), ensuring a seamless transition of materials across varying elevations. A defining feature is the incorporation of a Z-shaped conveyor (102) with a bottom panel (105) and an array of flexible members (106) extending vertically from the conveyor belt (103) at specific intervals. This strategic design enables the draggable conveyance of materials (107) from a intentionally positioned collection chamber (108) to a designated storage chamber (109). The collection chamber (108) is deliberately placed subsequent to the harvesting chamber (109) and segmented into a primary collection chamber (108a) and secondary collection chambers (108b) on either side. Particularly, the primary collection chamber (108a) facilitates the direct diversion of collected materials to the Z-shaped conveyor (102), while each secondary chamber (108b) houses an oval-shaped conveyor (110) and horizontally extending flexible members (111). The latter enables the controlled conveyance of materials from the harvesting chamber (109) to the primary chamber (108a) within the confines of the closed collection chamber (108). Significantly, each flexible member (111) is permitted through a filter gap (113), ensuring regulated conveyance by preventing the escape of collected materials. This advanced solution for the delicate transfer of agricultural materials, setting new standards in efficiency and precision.

[0033] Z-Shaped Conveyor Integration (102): At the core of this embodiment is the incorporation of a Z-shaped conveyor (102), seamlessly combining a well-engineered belt (103) and strategically positioned rollers (104). This design ensures smooth material transitions across varying elevations.

[0034] Innovative Draggable Conveyance System (106): A defining feature of this embodiment is the inclusion of a bottom panel (105) and an array of flexible members (106) vertically extending from the conveyor belt (103) at predetermined intervals. This inventive setup enables the efficient and draggable conveyance of delicate materials (107) from a accurately positioned collection chamber (108) to a designated storage chamber (109).

[0035] Collection Chamber (108): The placement of the collection chamber (108) subsequent to the harvesting chamber (109) signifies a strategic design, streamlining the material transfer process.

[0036] Primary and Secondary Collection Chambers (108a and 108b): Within the collection chamber (108), a division into primary (108a) and secondary (108b) chambers is executed. These secondary chambers (108b) are positioned on either side of the primary collection chamber (108a).

[0037] Efficient Diversion to Z-Shaped Conveyor (102): The primary collection chamber (108a) serves a pivotal role by directly diverting collected materials to the Z-shaped conveyor (102).

[0038] Oval-Shaped Conveyor and Horizontal Flexible Members (110 and 111): Each secondary chamber (108b) accommodates an oval-shaped conveyor (110) and horizontally extending flexible members (111). This intricate design ensures the draggable conveyance of materials from the harvesting chamber (109) to the primary chamber (108a) within the confines of the closed collection chamber (108). Thus reduces the requirement of increased width Z shaped conveyer (102) thereby reducing the weight and material requirements, and also assist to obtain economic significance.

[0039] Filter Gap for Controlled Conveyance (113): Another important feature is the allowance of each flexible member (111) through a purposefully placed filter gap (113).This implementation acts as a control mechanism, preventing the escape of collected materials and maintaining a regulated conveyance process.
This embodiment represents a pinnacle in the evolution of material transfer systems, showcasing a meticulous design that synergizes with operational precision, achieving the gentle, efficient, and controlled transfer of delicate agricultural materials, with a specialized focus on tea leaves.

[0040] In another aspect of the invention discloses about motor, the Z conveyer (102) and Oval conveyer (110) being controlled via dedicated motors (114 and 115) respectively.

[0041] APPLICATION OF PROPOSED INVENTION
[0042] Tea Harvesting: The integrated conveyor with tea leaf harvesting capabilities ensures the gentle and efficient transfer of freshly harvested delicate tea shoots, enhancing precision and efficiency in the tea production process.

[0043] Agricultural Machinery: The invention's applicability extends to broader agricultural machinery, providing innovative solutions for the transfer of various harvested soft materials, preserving their quality during conveyance.

[0044] Soft Material Handling: Beyond tea leaves, the invention is suitable for handling a range of soft materials, addressing challenges in the efficient and gentle transfer of delicate agricultural produce.

[0045] ADVANTAGES OF PROPOSED INVENTION
[0046] Gentle Material Transfer: The system ensures the gentle handling of harvested soft materials, preserving their quality during the transfer process.

[0047] Precision and Efficiency: Equipped with tea leaf harvesting capabilities, the conveyor enhances precision and overall efficiency in the transfer of delicate materials, contributing to improved production processes.

[0048] Space Optimization and weight reduction: The innovative design, featuring segmentation of the conveying process and a bottom-to-top direction, optimizes space utilization, making it suitable for scenarios where space efficiency is crucial. By eliminating the need for an infeed section and adopting a bottom-to-top conveyor direction, the invention reduces weight and associated costs, providing a lightweight and cost-effective material handling solution.

[0049] Versatility in Agriculture: The applicability of the invention extends beyond tea harvesting to broader agricultural machinery, addressing challenges in delicately handling various soft materials during harvesting.

[0050] Innovative Structure: The system's unique features, including the elimination of the infeed section, adoption of a bottom-to-top conveyor direction, and the incorporation of a supportive bottom enclosure, result in an innovative and space-efficient structure.

[0051] Cost-Effective Design: The invention achieves its intended purpose in a simple and cost-effective manner, making it an economically viable option for material handling processes.

[0052] Adaptability: The invention's versatile design allows for the handling of various soft materials, making it adaptable to different agricultural and material handling situations.
[0053] The advantages set forth above, and those made apparent from the foregoing description, are efficiently attained. Since certain changes may be made in the above construction without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matters contained in the foregoing description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
, Claims:WE CLAIM
1. A space-efficient conveyor apparatus (101) for gentle and efficient transfer of delicate agricultural materials, the apparatus (101) consisting of;
a. a Z-shaped conveyor (102) with a belt (103) and rollers (104) to facilitate smooth transitions of materials across different elevations,
Characterized by
b. the Z-shaped conveyor (102) incorporating a bottom panel (105) and plurality of flexible members (106) vertically extending from the conveyor belt (103) at specified intervals to enable the draggable conveyance of materials (107) from a collection chamber (108) to storage chamber (109),
c. the collection chamber (108) positioned subsequent to the harvesting chamber (109),
d. wherein the collection chamber (108) divided into primary collection chamber (108a) and secondary collection chambers (108b), wherein the secondary chamber (108b) provided in either side of the primary collection chamber (108a),
e. wherein the primary collection chamber (108a) directly diverting the collected materials to the Z-shaped conveyer (102) and each secondary chamber (108b) contains an oval shaped conveyor (110), and plurality of flexible members (111), and each horizontally extending from the conveyor belt (112) at specified intervals to enable the draggable conveyance of materials from the harvesting chamber (109) to the primary chamber (108a) and convey within the closed collection chamber (108),
f. wherein, each flexible members (111) allowed via filter gab (113) to restricts the escape of collected materials.

2. The space-efficient conveyor apparatus (101) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the delicate agricultural material is tea leaf.

3. The space-efficient conveyor apparatus (101) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus being mounted on the prime mover.

4. The space-efficient conveyor apparatus (101) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flexible member (106) and (111) have a comb shaped configuration.

5. The space-efficient conveyor apparatus (101) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the Z conveyer (102) and Oval conveyer (110) being controlled via dedicated motors (114 and 115) respectively.