DESC:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
AND
The Patents Rules, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(Section 10 and Rule 13)

TITLE
Automated Soil Testing Machine and a Method of Soil Testing Thereof

APPLICANT
(a) Bharuwa Agri Science Private Limited
(b) An Indian Company,
(c) Room No. 7, Divya Yog Mandir, Dadubagh, Kankhal,
Haridwar – 249408, Uttarakhand, INDIA

PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to an automated soil testing machine and a method of soil testing thereof. Particularly this invention relates to an automatic soil testing machine for use to test multiple parameters simultaneously and generate a test report automatically.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Nowadays farmers opt for soil testing so as determine fertility, the expected growth potential of the crops, fertilizer / nutrition’s requirements, and dosage, and also to select crops to be cultivated in particular pieces of agricultural land. The soil test also ascertains the use of the amount of specific fertilizer, for example, nitrogen, phosphorus and/or potassium needed to grow the crop. The amount of fertilizer to be used in that piece of land is also suggested on the basis of nutrients available to cultivate specific crops in that piece of agricultural land. Currently, in India, soil testing is done manually and for this purpose sample of the particular field is collected manually and sent to the lab for testing the amount of nutrients already available in the field.
US patent number (US4869115A) discloses an automatic and continuous soil sampling machine comprising:
(a) a wheel-supported frame structure adapted to move through a field during a soil sampling operation; and
(b) soil sampling means for penetrating the ground and flinging samples of soil from the ground into and through the air to where the soil samples are caught; said soil sampling means comprising:
a disk rotativity mounted on the frame structure and adapted to penetrate downwardly into the ground during a soil sampling operation;
soil particle flinging means carried by the disk for engaging and flinging soil particles upwardly from the ground;
drive means for rotativity driving the disk as the frame structure is pulled through the field such that the soil flinging means carried by the disk engages soil particles within the ground and flings them upwardly and out of the ground in such a manner that the flung soil particles become airborne; and
a soil catcher carried by the soil sampling machine spaced rearwardly of said disk for catching and collecting a portion of the airborne soil particles while permitting the remaining particles to fall to the ground.
Indian patent application number (20191101209) discloses a soil testing kit comprising a plurality of bottles having different regents contained therein, scoops, syringe, test tubes, and graduated test tubes, wash bottle, filter paper, droppers, spoon, funnel, glass marking pencil, and glass rods, so as to facilitate testing processes conducted for the testing availability of different nutrients contained in the soil samples, plurality of colour mapping charts being provided to match colour, developed during testing, of different nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, soil pH and organic carbon) present in the soil.
There are disadvantages associated with the conventional soil testing system. One of the disadvantages is that soil samples are tested manually and therefore there are chances of human errors in the test reports.
Another disadvantage associated with the conventional soil testing system is that conventional systems are incapable to complete the analysis of the soil.
Yet another disadvantage associated with the conventional soil testing system is that sample processing / testing time is a much higher and more complicated process.
Still another disadvantage associated with the conventional soil testing system is that there is no direct linkage with the soil sample collection and sample preparation process.
A further disadvantage associated with the conventional soil testing system is that results can be manipulated.
Another disadvantage associated with the conventional soil testing system is that there is wastage and misutilization of the chemicals and resources and also reports are delayed.
Yet another disadvantage associated with the conventional soil testing system is that testing labs are situated at long distances and not approachable by the farmers.
Still another disadvantage associated with conventional soil-testing machines is that they have large attachments and parts that have to be pulled through the field or soil to be tested. Also, it takes time to secure the large attachments with each other and skilled and trained people are needed for setting up such connections and getting accurate results.
A further disadvantage associated with conventional automated soil-testing machines is that the machines are of complicated and therefore maintenance cost is high and it limits frequent use of the machine for the soil testing and to understand dynamic, environmental, and ecological nature of the soil.
Therefore, there is a need to invent an automated soil testing machine which is capable to provide information about procuring the soil sample and providing the test reports of the soil sample.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an automated soil testing machine and a method of soil testing thereof, which obviates the disadvantages associated with the soil testing methods and systems known in the prior art.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an automated soil testing machine and method which is capable to provide a complete analysis of multiple parameters of a soil sample automatically and simultaneously.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an automated soil testing machine and method to provide results about a soil sample without involving humans and therefore there is no chance of human errors occurrence.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide an automated soil testing machine and method which is simple and easy to operate, and reports are not delayed and are delivered in a timely manner.
A further object of the present invention is to provide an automated soil testing machine and method which can be integrated with soil collection and sample preparation process.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an automated soil testing machine and method to provide results which cannot be manipulated.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an automated soil testing machine and method capable to provide results using minimum amounts of chemicals and other resources, that is, there is an efficient utilization of chemicals and resources.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to this invention, there is provided an automated soil testing machine comprising a body having a lower compartment, a middle compartment and an upper compartment adapted to be rail mounted in the body, multiple holes being provided in the lower compartment to hold multiple bottles of reagents, multiple pumps being provided in the upper compartment such that to pump up a particular reagent from the respective bottle in a prefixed amount needed for soil testing, bent pipes adapted to be connected with outputs of the pumps being secured at upper surface of the body such that to facilitate pouring of the reagent over a respective inlet hole, multiple mixture unit assemblies connected with a control unit being provided in the middle compartment such to receive reagent and soil sample through the inlet hole and mix the same as commanded by the control unit, color detecting sensors provided in each mixture unit assembly being connected with the control unit to sense the color of the sample and convey respective sensing signals to the control unit provided to match the colour signals with prefeed colour database so as obtain soil test results , an application means being provided to send testing commands to the control unit to obtain different soil test results and generate soil test report automatically, a power supply being provided with body such that to supply power to all components .
Further according to this invention, there is provided a method for automatic soil testing comprising: Taking soil samples from a field and filing a preset weight of the same in test tubes, Activating the testing machine and connecting testing application to the machine with the help of an application means, Registering a farmer by creating an account of the farmer and providing a login ID and password to the farmer, Feeding sample details, for example, farmer name, land size, khasra number, last crop name, etc., Selecting the testing parameters using the application means and placing the soil sample test tube on a prefixed inlet hole, Sending commands regarding the selected testing parameters to a control unit to operate a selected pump and a mixture unit assembly such that to pour required reagent into a sample test tube by the pump in pre-set amounts, Shaking and filtering the sample, if required, to obtain the filtrate, Pouring the prepared sample / filtrate into the mixture unit assembly through the inlet hole and mixing the same till generating color in the sample, Sensing the generated color by color sensors and draining the sample from the mixture unit assembly by exit valve, Matching the sensed color with a database by the control unit to check the availability of the parameter in the soil and sending the same to the application means, and Showing the obtained test result on a screen of the application means and saving the same on the user ID for records.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
An automated soil testing machine and method of soil testing thereof in a preferred embodiment is herein described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings and example wherein;
Figure 1 (a, b, c, d), illustrates a perspective view, a front open view, and a line drawing of front view, a side view of the automated soil testing machine,
Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram to show the connection of the components of the automated soil testing machine,
Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a lower compartment along with bottles of reagents,
Figure 4 (a, b, c,) illustrates a perspective view, a side view, a line drawing of a middle compartment along with mixture unit assemblies,
Figure 5 ( a, b) illustrates a side cut view of machine to show an upper compartment along with pumps, and middle compartment.
Figure 6 illustrates a flow diagram of a method of soil testing,
Figure 7 (a, b, c) illustrates a sample taking process from an agriculture field,
Figure 8 (a, b, c, d, e, f) illustrates a login in application, connecting to control unit, filing details of the sample and selecting testing parameters of the soil,
Figure 9 illustrates an application screen result of organic carbon with the required reagent,
Figure 10 illustrates an application screen result of availability of nitrogen with the required reagent,
Figure 11 illustrates an application screen result of availability of phosphorus with the required reagent,
Figure 12 illustrates an application screen result of availability of potassium with the required reagent,
Figure 13 illustrates an application screen result of availability of Sulphur with the required reagent,
Figure 14 illustrates an application screen result of availability of manganese with the required reagent,
Figure 15 illustrates an application screen result of availability of boron with the required reagent,
Figure 16 illustrates an application screen result of availability of Zinc with the required reagent,
Figure 17 illustrates an application screen result of availability of Iron with the required reagent,
Figure 18 illustrates an application screen result of availability of Copper with the required reagent,
Figure 19 (a, b, c) illustrates method of pH testing and loading on the application,
Figure 20 (a, b, c) illustrates method of testing electrical conductivity (EC) and loading on the application, and
Figure 21 illustrates the supporting equipments, like, shaker, sieve, EC meter, pH meter, etc.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
An automated soil testing machine and method of soil testing thereof is herein described and illustrated with numerous specific details so as to provide a complete understanding of the invention. However, these specific details are exemplary details and should not be treated as a limitation to the scope of the invention. The invention may be performed with slight modifications. Throughout this specification the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises or comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusions of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusions of any other element, integer or step or group of elements, integers or steps.
Referring to drawings, particularly Figure 1 (a, b, c) a perspective view, a front view, and a side view of the automated soil testing machine are shown. The automated soil testing machine comprises a body (1), for example, a rectangular body provided to accommodate components of the machine. The body (1) has a lower compartment (2), a middle compartment (3), and an upper compartment (4) adapted to be rail mounted in the body (1) such that the compartments can be pushed in and pushed out as and when required for maintenance and cleaning of components of the machine. Multiple holes (5) (see Figure 3) are provided in the lower compartment (2) to hold multiple bottles (6) of reagents. Multiple pumps (7) are provided in the upper compartment (4) such that to pump up a particular reagent from the respective bottle (6) in a prefixed amount needed for soil testing. Bent pipes (8) adapted to be connected with outputs of the pumps (7) are secured at an upper surface of the body (1) such that to facilitate the pouring of the reagent. The inlet holes (9), for example, are provided in the shape of a funnel or provided an external funnel to facilitate the pouring of soil samples and reagents. Multiple mixture unit assemblies (10) (see figure 4 (a, b, c)) connected with a control unit (11), are provided in the middle compartment (3) to receive mixture of reagent and soil sample through the inlet hole (9) and mixed the same as commanded by the control unit (11). Color detecting sensors (12) provided in each mixture unit assembly (10) is connected with the control unit (11) to sense the color of the sample and convey respective sensing signals to the control unit (11) provided to match the color signals with prefeed color database (13) (see figure 2) so as obtain soil test results. An application means (14), for example, a smartphone, tablet, or computer, installed a soil testing application/app therein, is provided to send testing commands to the control unit (11) to obtain different soil test results and generate soil test report automatically. A power supply (15) is provided with the body (1) such that to supply power to all components. Multiple wheels (16), for example, four wheels, are provided at each corner of the lower surface of the body (1) to make the soil testing machine portable. Openable doors (17, 18, 19) are provided at all sides of the body (1) such that to access the compartments through the rail mount provided in the body of the machine as and when required. A stand (20) secured at an upper surface of the body (1) is provided to accommodate the means, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer. In other embodiment, an interface screen is provided over the stand (20) to show the test result and feed the commands. A pair of fans (21, 22) is provided at the sides of the body (1) to dissipate heat.
Multiple parameters of the soil, for example, 12 parameters, can be tested simultaneously. Each bottle (6) is filled with a specified reagent provided to test a particular parameter. For all bottles, for example, 12 bottles, each bottle is connected with a specified pump (7) through a respective connecting pipe such that to supply the respective reagent. All pumps, each pump pumped up the reagent over a specified inlet hole to prepare a particular sample of soil to test particular parameters. The prepared sample is poured through the same inlet hole to the mixture unit assembly (10) to test the specified parameters of the soil.
Referring to Figure 2, a block diagram to show the connection of the components of the automated soil testing machine is shown. The control unit (11) is provided to control and operate all components automatically. A sample mixing mechanism (51), for example, the bottles of reagent, the pumps, and the mixture unit assemblies, are connected with the control unit (11) to take operating commands from the control unit (11) and mix the sample accordingly. A sample detection mechanism (52), for example, color sensors, is connected to the control unit (11) to sense the sample and sent it to the control unit (11). An application/computer application (14) is connected to the control unit (11) via connecting means, for example, a connecting cable, Bluetooth, or WiFi to facilitate input of commands regarding the selection of soil testing parameters to operate the selected test and feeding details of the farmers to generate the soil test report. The application means (14) comprises, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer having a soil testing app (41) provided therewith. An LCD display (53) connected to the control unit (11) is provided with either the application (14) or an individual to show the testing details. A power supply (15), for example, a battery, or an external power supply, is connected with the control unit and other components of the machine to supply the required power.
The control unit (11) comprises an electric board, for example, a controller, or microcontroller, is connected with pumps, and mixing unit assemblies and the application means with help of the connecting means, for example, connecting wire, to monitoring, control, and adjustments of the parameters and performance. Users can set desired values, monitor the progress, and receive feedback from the components through the interface screen/application, while the control unit ensures that the pumps and mixing units operate according to the specified requirements.
Referring to Figure 3, a perspective view of a lower compartment along with bottles of reagents is shown. The lower compartment (2) comprises a base plate (61) provided to rail mount in the lower section of the body (1). An expanded section (62) is provided over the base plate (61) and multiple holding holes (5) are provided in the expanded section (62) to hold the bottles (6) of the reagent.
Referring to Figure 4 (a, b, c,) a perspective view, a side view and a line drawing of a middle compartment along with mixture unit assemblies are shown. The middle compartment (3) comprises a base plate (31) provided to rail mount in the middle section of the body (1). Multiple mixture unit assemblies (10) are secured over the base plate (31). The mixture unit assembly (10) comprises a body (32) has a mixture motor (33) provided therewith provided such that to mix the sample inside the body (32). An inlet pipe (34) is provided at the upper side of the body (32) to facilitate entry of the sample inside the body (32). Exit valves (35) is provided at the lower side of the body (32) to drain out the sample as when required. A PCB (printed circuit board) (36) provided with each motor.
Referring to Figure 5 (a, b) a side cut views of machine to show an upper compartment along with pumps, and middle compartment are shown. The upper compartment (4) is provided to hold the multiple pump (7) therewith. In one embodiment, the upper compartment (4) is also divided in to section such that to hold more pumps therewith. The pump (7) is provided to pump up the reagent from the bottles through the inlet and outlet connecting pipes.
Referring to figure 6, a flow diagram of the soil testing is shown. The method for automatic soil testing comprises in following method steps. Soil samples are taken from an agriculture field/land and filed the same in test tubes in preset amount. At least 12 testing parameters, for example, organic carbon, available Nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium, available sulphur, manganese, boron, zinc, iron, copper, soil pH, EC (Electrical Conductivity), are selected and process in the machine to obtain result simultaneously. The testing machine is activated and connected testing application to the machine with the help of an application means. A farmer of the field is register by creating their account and provided a login ID and password to the farmer. Farmer and sample details, for example, farmer name, land size, khasra number, last crop name, etc. are fed in the application. The testing parameters (one to twelve parameters) are selected using the application means/apps and placed the soil sample test tube on a prefixed inlet hole. The selected commands regarding the selected testing parameters are sent to a control unit to operate respective selected pumps and respective mixture unit assemblies such that to pour required reagent into the sample test tubes by the pumps in pre-set amounts. The mixture of soil samples and reagents of each test tubes are shaken for preset time, if required and the same are filtered to obtain the filtrate. The shaking is done by a shaker for preset time and filtering is done by using a filter paper manually. The obtained prepared samples / filtrates are poured into the respective mixture unit assembly through the respective inlet hole and mixed the same by mixture unit assembly till generating color in the sample. The generated color of each sample is sensed by color sensors and drained the sample from the mixture unit assembly by exit valve. The sensed color of each sample is matched with a database by the control unit to check the availability of the respective parameter in the soil and sent the same to the application means by the control unit. The obtained test results are shown on a screen of the application means and saving the same on the user ID for records.
Referring to figure 7 (a, b, c) a sample taking process from an agriculture field is shown. Multiple points are selected from whole field in zigzag pattern (shown in figure 7 (a)). The grass and weeds are cleaned form the soil surface. V shape dig are made at every point 15-20 cm deep from surface of the field to take sample of the (soil shown in figure 7 (b)). The taken soil is mixed properly and make 4 parts of soil and take only 2 parts diagonally as shown in figure 7 (c). The mixed soil is dried under shade and crushed the same into fine form to use as sample. The sample of soil is filed in the test bottles in adequate weight.
An exemplary method of soil testing was conducted using the soil testing machine. The method the parameters to test the soil parameters is explain in following.
Referring to Figure 8 (a, b, c, d, e, f), a login in application, connecting to control unit, filing details of the sample and selecting testing parameters of the soil are shown. Go to the soil testing app on mobile. The application / app of the soil testing was opened in a smartphone to register, create an account of a farmer and login the same therein (see the fig 8(a)). The control unit as well as all components of the machine is connected with the soil testing app and status of the connection of the device was shown in the application (see the fig. 8 (b, c, d)). A click button provided in the application was clicked to add Sample and a fling form was opened to fill the soil sample details. The details, farmer name, father name, mobile number, address, khasara number, field/farm size, last crop namem etc. were filed in the form and saved the same therein (see the fig. 8 (e)). After saving the details, a start test menu was opened in the application and show the all testing parameters of the soil in the menu to select as desired of the farmer. All parameters, organic carbon, available Nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium, available sulphur, manganese, boron, zinc, iron, copper, soil pH, EC (Electrical Conductivity) were selected from the application to test these parameters (see fig. 8 (f)).
The all-selected parameters were sent to control unit by the application and control unit operated the all components of the machine to test the all parameters simultaneously. Testing method of each parameter is explain in following.
Method of testing organic carbon
For testing of the organic carbon in the soil, we were taken 1 - 2 gram, preferably 1 gram of soil sample with the help of spatula in provided test bottle. The bottle was placed on provided space of organic carbon test, below the bent pipe of the machine. From the smartphone application, select Organic Carbon Test. Click OC-A displayed on the smartphone screen to add 5 – 15 ml, preferably 10 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Click OC-B displayed on the screen to add 5 – 15 ml, preferably 10 ml of another reagent automatically from bent pipe. Shake the solution in bottle for 1 - 3 min, preferably 1 min and keep the solution settle for 15 – 25 mins preferably 20 min. Filter the solution into the bottle using funnel and filter paper. Pour the obtained coloured filtrate in the respective test funnel on machine. Click on RESULT and observe the reading on display. Results can be saved by clicking SAVE. Click DRAIN to discard the solution. (See the fig. 9)
Method of testing availability of nitrogen
For testing of availability of nitrogen in the soil, take 3 - 6 gm, preferably 4 gram of soil sample with the help of spatula in provided bottle. Place the bottle on provided space of nitrogen test, below the bent pipe of the machine. On smartphone application, select Nitrogen Test. Click N1 displayed on the smartphone screen to add 5 – 15 ml, preferably 10 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Shake the solution in bottle for 1 - 3 min, preferably 1 min, and keep the solution settle for 8 - 16 mins, preferably 10 mins. Filter the solution into the bottle using funnel and filter paper. Take 3- 6 ml, preferably 4 ml of filtrate in bottle. Click DW displayed on the smartphone screen to add 4 – 8 ml, preferably 6 ml of Distilled Water automatically from bent pipe. Add 3 - 6 drops of Nitro 2 solution manually. Shake the solution for 3 – 8 mins, preferably 5 mins. Pour the obtained coloured filtrate in the respective test funnel on machine. Click on RESULT and observe the reading on display. Results can be saved by clicking SAVE. Click DRAIN to discard the solution. (See fig. 10).
Method of testing availability of phosphorus
For testing of availability of phosphorus in the soil, take 1 - 3 gm, preferably 1 gram of soil sample with the help of spatula in provided bottle. Place the bottle on provided space of Phosphorus test, below the bent pipe of the machine. On smartphone application, select Phosphorus Test. Click P1 displayed on the smartphone screen to add 2 – 8 ml, preferably 5 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Add 1 -2 pinch of Phos 2 powder. Shake the solution for 30 minutes with using shaker. Filter the solution into the bottle using funnel and filter paper. Take 1-3 ml, preferably 2 ml of filtrate in bottle. Click P3, P4, P5 and DW (Distilled Water) displayed on the smartphone screen one by one to add 0.25 ml, 2 ml, 1 ml, 10 ml of other reagents respectively automatically from bent pipe. Leave the solution for 15 - 25 minutes, preferably 20 mins. Pour the obtained coloured filtrate in the respective test funnel on machine. Click on RESULT and observe the reading on display. Results can be saved by clicking SAVE. Click DRAIN to discard the solution. (see the fig. 11)
Method of testing availability of potassium
For testing of availability of potassium in the soil, take 1 - 3 gm, preferably 1 gram of soil sample with the help of spatula in provided bottle. Place the bottle on provided space of Potassium test, below the bent pipe of the machine. On smartphone application, select Potassium Test. Click K1A displayed on the smartphone screen to add 2 – 8 ml, preferably 5 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Add 1-2 pinch of Potash 2 powder. Shake the solution for 25 - 35 minutes, preferably 30 mins with the help of shaker. Filter the solution into the bottle using funnel and filter paper. Take 1 – 3 ml, preferably 1 ml of filtrate in bottle. Click K3, K4 displayed on the smartphone screen one by one to add 1 ml of each reagent automatically from bent pipe. Add 0.15 – 0.35 ml, preferably 0.25 ml of Potash 5 (6 drops). Click K6 to add 1 ml, DW to add 10 ml of reagents automatically from bent pipe. Leave the solution for 15 - 25 minutes, preferably 20 minutes. Pour the obtained coloured filtrate in the respective test funnel on machine. Click RESULT and observe the reading on display. Results can be saved by clicking SAVE. Click DRAIN to discard the solution. (See the figure 12).
Method of testing availability of Sulphur
For testing of availability of Sulphur in the soil, take 2 - 6 gm, preferably 3 gm of soil sample with the help of spatula in provided bottle. Place the bottle on provided space of Sulphur test, below the bent pipe of the machine. On smartphone application, select Sulphur Test. Click S1 displayed on the smartphone screen to add 510 – 20 ml, preferably 15 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Shake the solution for 25 - 35 minutes, preferably 30 minutes with the help of shaker. Filter the solution into the bottle using funnel and filter paper. Take 4 - 8 ml, preferably 6 ml of filtrate in bottle. Add 0.10 – 0.6 gm, preferably 0.30 gram of S2 manually. Click S3 to add 0.3 ml and DW to add 1.2 ml of reagent one by one automatically from bent pipe. Leave the solution for 10 minutes. Pour the obtained coloured filtrate in the respective test funnel on machine. Click RESULT and observe the reading on display. Results can be saved by clicking SAVE. Click DRAIN to discard the solution. (See the figure 13).
Method of testing availability of manganese
For testing of availability of manganese in the soil, take 3 - 6 gm, preferably 4 gm of soil sample with the help of spatula in the provided bottle. Place the bottle on provided space of Manganese test, below the bent pipe of the machine. On smartphone application, select Manganese Test. Click Mn1 displayed on the smartphone screen to add 10 – 30 ml, preferably 20 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Shake the solution for 25 – 35 minutes, preferably 30 minutes with the help of shaker. Filter the solution into the bottle using funnel and filter paper. Take 5 - 15 ml, preferably 10 ml of filtrate. Click Mn2 displayed on the smartphone screen to add 2 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Add 0.3 – 0.5 gm, preferably 0.4 gram Mn3 manually. Keep in a hot water bath for 10 - 20 minutes, preferably 15 minutes till color changes. Pour the obtained coloured filtrate in the respective test funnel on machine. Click RESULT and observe the reading on display. Results can be saved by clicking SAVE. Click DRAIN to discard the solution. (See the figure 14).
Method of testing availability of Boron
For testing of availability of Boron in the soil, take 5 - 15 gm, preferably 10 gm of soil sample with the help of spatula in the bottle. Place the bottle on provided space of Boron test, below the bent pipe of the machine. On smartphone application, select Boron Test. Click B1 displayed on the smartphone screen to add 10 – 30 ml, preferably 20 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Shake the solution for 25 - 35 min, preferably 30 with the help of shaker. Filter the solution into the bottle using funnel and filter paper. Take 4 - 8 ml, preferably 6 ml of filtrate. Click B2 displayed on the smartphone screen to add 2 ml of another reagent automatically from bent pipe. Add 1 - 3 ml, preferably 2 ml B3 reagent manually. Keep the solution for 25 - 35 min. Pour the obtained coloured filtrate in the respective test funnel on machine. Click RESULT and observe the reading on display. Results can be saved by clicking SAVE. Click DRAIN to discard the solution. (See the figure 15).
Preparing Filtrate for Zinc, Iron & Copper Test
Take 2 - 6 gm of soil sample with the help of a spatula in the bottle. Click ZnFeCu displayed on the smartphone screen to add 10 – 30 ml, preferably 20 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Shake the solution for 25 - 35 minutes with the help of shaker. Filter the solution into the bottle using funnel and filter paper to obtain the filtrate for Zinc, Iron & Copper Test.
Method of testing availability of Zinc
Take 1 - 3 ml of filtrate in the bottle. Place the filtrate bottle on provided space of Zinc test, below the bent pipe of the machine. On smartphone application, select Zinc Test. Click Zn1A (for alluvial soils) displayed on the smartphone screen to add 3 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Click Zn1B (for black soils) displayed on the smartphone screen to add 3 ml of another reagent automatically from bent pipe. Click Zn2 displayed on the smartphone screen to add 2 ml of reagent automatically from bent pipe. Add 0.5 - 3 ml of Zn3 to the bottle manually. Add 1 - 3 ml of Zn4-1 to the bottle manually. Shake the contents and keep it for 10 - 20 min. Pour the obtained coloured filtrate in the respective test funnel on machine. Click RESULT and observe the reading on display. Results can be saved by clicking SAVE. Click DRAIN to discard the solution. (See the figure 16).
Method of testing availability of Iron
Take 2 - 6 ml of filtrate in the bottle. Place the filtrate bottle on provided space of Iron test, below the bent pipe of the machine. On smartphone application, select Iron Test. Click ZnFeCu-B, F1, F2 displayed on the smartphone screen one by one to add 2 ml of each reagent automatically from bent pipe. Shake the contents and keep it for 10 - 20 min. Pour the obtained coloured filtrate in the respective test funnel on machine. Click RESULT and observe the reading on display. Results can be saved by clicking SAVE. Click DRAIN to discard the solution. (See the figure 17).
Method of testing availability of Copper
Take 4 - 8 ml of filtrate in the bottle. Place the filtrate bottle on provided space of Copper test, below the bent pipe of the machine. On smartphone application, select Copper Test. Click Cu1, Cu2 displayed on the smartphone screen one by one to add 3 ml and 1.5 ml of reagents respectively from bent pipe. Shake the contents and filter into the bottle using funnel and filter paper. Take 2 - 6 ml of filtrate. Click again Cu2 displayed on the screen to add the reagent again. Add 1 - 3 ml of Cu3 manually. Shake the contents and keep it for 10 -20 min. Pour the obtained coloured filtrate in the respective test funnel on machine. Click RESULT and observe the reading on display. Results can be saved by clicking SAVE. Click DRAIN to discard the solution. (See the figure 18).
Method of testing pH of soil
For testing of testing pH of in the soil, take 10 - 30 grams of soil in the beaker using a spatula. Pour 30 -50 ml of distilled water into this beaker. Stir the mixture for about 25 - 35 minutes. Remove the cap from the pH meter and switch it on. Dip the electrode into the solution. Note the reading when the display is stabilized. Input the reading in app. (See the figure 19 (a, b, c))
Method of testing electrical conductivity (EC)
For testing of electrical conductivity (EC) of the soil, take 15 - 30 grams of soil in the beaker using a spatula. Pour 30 -50 ml of distilled water into this beaker. Stir the mixture for about two minutes then leave to settle for 25 - 35 minutes. Remove the cap from the E.C. meter and switch it on. Dip the electrode into the solution. Note the reading when the display is stabilized. Input the reading in app. ( see the fig 20 (a, b, c)).
Further, the supporting equipments, like, shaker, sieve, EC meter, pH meter, etc, are shown in the fig. 21.
Certain features of the invention have been described with reference to the example embodiments. However, the description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the example embodiments as well as other embodiments of the invention, which are apparent to the persons skilled in the art to which the invention pertains, are deemed to lie within the spirit and scope of the invention.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM
1. An automated soil testing machine comprising a body (1) having a lower compartment (2), a middle compartment (3) and an upper compartment (4) adapted to be rail mounted in the body (1), multiple holes (5) being provided in the lower compartment (2) to hold multiple bottles (6) of reagents, multiple pumps (7) being provided in the upper compartment (4) such that to pump up a particular reagent from the respective bottle (6) in a prefixed amount needed for soil testing, bent pipes (8) adapted to be connected with outputs of the pumps (7) being secured at upper surface of the body (1) such that to facilitate pouring of the reagent over a respective inlet hole (9), multiple mixture unit assemblies (10) connected with a control unit (11) being provided in the middle compartment (3) such to receive reagent and soil sample through the inlet hole (9) and mix the same as commanded by the control unit (11), color detecting sensors (12) provided in each mixture unit assembly (10) being connected with the control unit (11) to sense the color of the sample and convey respective sensing signals to the control unit (11) provided to match the colour signals with prefeed colour database (13) so as obtain soil test results , an application means (14) being provided to send testing commands to the control unit (11) to obtain different soil test results and generate soil test report automatically, a power supply (15) being provided with body (1) such that to supply power to all components .
2. The automated soil testing machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body (1) has wheels (16) provided at lower surface of the body (1) to make the soil testing machine portable.
3. The automated soil testing machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body (1) has openable doors (17, 18, 19) provided at all sides of the body (1) to access the components provided in the body of the machine as and when required.
4. The automated soil testing machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (11) comprises an electric board, for example, a controller, or microcontroller, is connected with pumps, and mixing unit assemblies and the application means with help of the connecting means, for example, connecting wire.
5. The automated soil testing machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inlet holes (9) are of the shape of a funnel to allow the pouring of soil samples and reagents.
6. The automated soil testing machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein each bottle (6) is filled with a specified reagent and connected with a specified pump (7) through a respective connecting pipe such that to supply the respective reagent to a specified mixture unit assembly (10) to test specified parameters of the soil.
7. The automated soil testing machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mixture unit assembly (10) comprises a body (31) having a mixture motor (32) provided therewith, an inlet pipe (33) being provided at upper side of the body (31) to provide the sample, and an exit valve (34) being provided at lower side of the body (31) to drain out the sample as when required.
8. The automated soil testing machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the application means (14) comprises, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer having a soil testing app (41) provided therewith and connected with the control unit (11), via connecting means, for example, a connecting cable, Bluetooth, or WiFi.
9. The automated soil testing machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body (1) has a stand (20) secured at an upper surface of the body to accommodate a means, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer.
10. The automated soil testing machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body (1) has a pair of fans (21, 22) provided at sides of the body (1) to dissipate heat.
11. A method for automatic soil testing comprising:
I. Taking soil samples from a field and filing a preset weight of the same in test tubes,
II. Activating the testing machine and connecting testing application to the machine with the help of an application means,
III. Registering a farmer by creating an account of the farmer and providing a login ID and password to the farmer,
IV. Feeding sample details, for example, farmer name, land size, khasra number, last crop name, etc.,
V. Selecting the testing parameters using the application means and placing the soil sample test tube on a prefixed inlet hole,
VI. Sending commands regarding the selected testing parameters to a control unit to operate a selected pump and a mixture unit assembly such that to pour required reagent into a sample test tube by the pump in pre-set amounts,
VII. Shaking and filtering the sample, if required, to obtain the filtrate,
VIII. Pouring the prepared sample / filtrate into the mixture unit assembly through the inlet hole and mixing the same till generating color in the sample,
IX. Sensing the generated color by color sensors and draining the sample from the mixture unit assembly by exit valve,
X. Matching the sensed color with a database by the control unit to check the availability of the parameter in the soil and sending the same to the application means, and
XI. Showing the obtained test result on a screen of the application means and saving the same on the user ID for records.
12. The method for automatic soil testing as claimed in claim 1, wherein the soil sample is taken from multiple points of a field from 15-20 cm deep of upper surface of the field and mixing the same properly, drying the mixed soil under shade and crushing the same into fine form to use as sample.
13. The method for automatic soil testing as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least 12 testing parameters, for example, organic carbon, available Nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium, available sulphur, manganese, boron, zinc, iron, copper, soil pH, EC (Electrical Conductivity), are selected and process in the machine to obtain result simultaneously.
14. The method for automatic soil testing as claimed in claim 1, wherein the process step of shaking is done by a shaker for preset time and filtering is done by using a filter paper manually.
Dated this 30th day of July 2022.