Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an autonomous metal detection device that is designed for automated detection, retrieval, and cleaning of metal objects from the ground surface, thereby enabling efficient and accurate metal object recovery within minimal manual labour, and with increased operational efficiency.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Metal detecting has long been used to locate buried treasures, historical artifacts, and even valuable metals like gold and silver. In earlier times, people relied on basic handheld tools, which typically used simple electrical circuits or magnetic fields to detect metal objects underground. However, these early tools had many limitations. As these often lacked the ability to differentiate between types of metals, meaning users might end up digging for objects that doesn’t have any value. Additionally, these tools had poor depth detection, leading to inefficient searches and often requiring large areas to be dug up. The process was time-consuming and frustrating, especially when it yielded false signals or non-metallic objects. While effective to some extent, these early methods didn’t offer the precision and ease of use that modern metal detectors provide. As a result, users spent a lot of time and effort for minimal results, highlighting the need for improved equipment for detection of metal.

[0003] Conventionally, some ways were used by people for detecting metals. People use VLF detectors as these have ability to discriminate between different types of metals. VLF-based systems used two coils, where one is used for transmitting a signal and one for receiving it. These detectors might detect different metal types and adjust their sensitivity, making them ideal for detecting coins, jewellery, and relics. But may not effectively pick up small or fine objects like tiny gold nuggets or small coins, especially in mineralized ground or areas with high levels of interference. So, people use some machines for detecting metal as these machines detects metals with accuracy and even able to detect tiny gold nuggets or small coins. But these are relatively heavy and causes discomfort or fatigue during prolonged use. In some cases, users may experience strain or back issues due to the weight or improper ergonomics of the design.

[0004] US8473235B2 discloses an apparatus for scanning a product to detect metal in that product. The apparatus comprises a drive coil, for generating an electromagnetic field in the product, and a detection coil arranged to detect fluctuations in the magnetic field caused by the presence of a metallic particle in the product. A drive circuit for the drive coil comprises a plurality of switches driven by a controller, which switch alternately connect the drive coil across a potential difference to cause the drive coil to be driven at an operating frequency determined by operation of the switches. Using a switching circuit to drive the drive coil greatly increases the number of frequencies at which the drive coil may be operated. The invention has particular application to the food industry.

[0005] US7579839B2 discloses a real time electronic metal detector including a magnetic transmitter and a receiver, wherein the receiver includes approximate sine-wave weighted synchronous demodulation and a switched voltage signal is applied to the magnetic transmitter and the said receiver approximate sine-wave weighted synchronous demodulation is selected to receive synchronously with the switched voltage signal, such that the switched voltage signal and the receiver approximate sine-wave weighted synchronous demodulation may be altered by means of operator selection.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of detecting metal. However, these devices are incapable of preventing damage to the object while gripping the metal object during retrieval. Additionally, these existing devices also lack in cleaning the retrieved metal object effectively.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be capable of determining precise location and depth of buried metal objects and autonomously guiding to the object's position for retrieval. In addition, the developed device also needs to provide a visual means to alert the user as the metal object is detected, thereby improving ease of use and accuracy in locating metal targets.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of automatically detecting, retrieving, and cleaning metal objects from the ground surface, in view of enabling efficient and accurate recovery with minimal manual labour and enhanced operational efficiency.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of determining precise location and depth of buried metal objects and autonomously guiding to the object's position for retrieval.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of securely gripping the metal object during retrieval and ensuring its safe transfer for cleaning, while preventing damage to the object.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of cleaning the retrieved metal object effectively, in order to remove dirt and debris, thereby ensuring the object is ready for further handling.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing a visual means to alert the user when metal object is detected, thereby improving ease of use and accuracy in locating metal targets.

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

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The present invention relates to an autonomous metal detection device that is capable of facilitating automatic detection, retrieval, and cleaning of metal objects from the ground, thereby ensuring efficient and accurate recovery with minimal manual effort and improved operational efficiency.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an autonomous metal detection device comprises of a cuboidal housing having four L-shaped telescopic rods, attached underneath the housing, by means of primary ball and socket joints, for quadrupedal locomotion of the housing, a rectangular flap is attached at an upper edge of the housing by means of pivot joints for opening or closing of the housing, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit, installed in the housing and integrated with a magnetic field sensor embedded in the hosing, to determine metal objects located beneath ground, plurality of LEDs (light emitting diodes) embedded on the housing, are actuated when metal object is detected to provide a visual alert to a user, a holographic projection unit to project an image onto the ground surface to indicate position of the metal object for recovery, and a GPR (ground penetrating radar) installed with the housing to detect a depth of the metal object underneath ground surface.

[0017] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a hollow cuboidal structure incorporated with the housing by means of an L-shaped telescopic bar having secondary ball and socket joints at the ends, a sharp plate is attached underneath the structure by means of a sliding unit, for digging into the ground surface for retrieving the metal object, an air cushion lined within the structure, connected with an inflation unit disposed in the structure, to enable a secure grip onto the metal object during retrieval, an L-shaped telescopic link attached on a dual axis lead screw mechanism incorporated within the housing, the link having a motorized brush at an end for cleaning of the metal object, a nozzle provided on a water tank located within the housing, sprays water on the metal object during cleaning.

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

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

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

[0023] The present invention relates to an autonomous metal detection device that is capable of accurately locating and measuring depth of buried metal objects, and autonomously navigating to the object’s position for retrieval. Additionally, the proposed device also provides a visual alert to notify the user upon detection of a metal object, thereby enhancing the ease of use and precision in identifying and retrieving metal targets.

[0024] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of an autonomous metal detection device is illustrated, comprising a cuboidal housing 101 having four L-shaped telescopic rods 102, attached underneath the housing 101, by means of primary ball and socket joints 103, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104, installed in the housing 101, a holographic projection unit 105 installed in the housing 101, a hollow cuboidal structure 106 incorporated with the housing 101 by means of an L-shaped telescopic bar 107 having secondary ball and socket joints 108.

[0025] Figure 1 further illustrates a sharp plate 109 is attached underneath the cuboidal structure 106 by means of a sliding unit 110, an L-shaped telescopic link 111 attached on a dual axis lead screw mechanism 112 incorporated within the housing 101, the link 111 having a motorized brush 113 at an end, a nozzle 114 provided on a water tank 115, a rectangular flap 116 is attached at an upper edge of the housing 101, plurality of LEDs (light emitting diodes) 117 embedded on the housing 101.

[0026] The device disclosed herein comprises of a cuboidal housing 101 which is equipped with four L-shaped telescopic rods 102, each of which is attached underneath the housing 101 by means of primary ball and socket joints 103. These joints facilitate the quadrupedal locomotion of the housing 101, enabling the housing 101 to move in a stable and controlled manner. The telescopic rods 102 are configured to adjust their length, allowing the housing 101 to adapt its height and movement according to the operational requirements.

[0027] The primary ball and socket joints 103 provide rotational movement, for ensuring that the housing 101 maintains flexibility during movement and adjust to different terrains or angles. This arrangement ensures that the housing 101 move smoothly while supporting its structural integrity and any additional components within the housing 101.

[0028] A rectangular flap 116 is affixed to the upper edge of the housing 101 through pivot joints, allowing the flap 116 to open and close as required. These pivot joints enable the flap 116 to rotate along a defined axis, providing a controlled movement that facilitates the opening or closing of the housing 101. The flap 116 serves as a protective cover or access point for the internal components of the housing 101. The pivot joints are designed to allow smooth and reliable operation, in view pf ensuring that the flap 116 remains securely in place when closed and is easily opened when access to the interior is needed.

[0029] The pivot joint comprises of a ring and cylindrical portion that are linked with each other to provide rotational movement to the flap 116 The ring is powered by a motor that is activated by the microcontroller to the rotate the ring to move the cylindrical portion due to which the flap 116 tilts. The motor is typically controlled by an electronic control unit that regulates its speed and direction. The joint consists of a hinge mechanism that enables rotation of the shaft that results in the motion of the flap 116 for opening or closing of the housing 101.

[0030] The housing 101 is installed with an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 which is integrated with a magnetic field sensor that is embedded in the hosing, to determine metal objects located beneath ground. The imaging unit 104 disclosed herein comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 104 in form of an optical data.

[0031] The imaging unit 104 also comprises of the processor which processes the captured images. This pre-processing involves tasks such as noise reduction, image stabilization, or color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis which utilizes machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information from the visual data which are processed by the microcontroller to determine metal objects located beneath ground.

[0032] The magnetic field sensor works by measuring disturbances in the Earth’s natural magnetic field. When metal is present, it disrupts the surrounding magnetic field, creating anomalies that the sensor detects. The sensor, typically based on magneto resistive, fluxgate, or Hall effect module, and sends data on these field changes to a processor. The processor analyses the changes, and accordingly filtering out natural magnetic noise to highlight signals unique to metal objects. This data enables the microcontroller to identify the location and depth of metal objects.

[0033] As the metal objects located beneath ground is detected, the microcontroller actuates primary ball and socket joints 103 and the rods 102 synchronously. The primary ball and socket joints 103 mentioned here consists of a ball-shaped element that fits into a socket, which provides rotational freedom in various directions. The ball is connected to a motor, typically a servo motor which provides the controlled movement. The rods 102 are attached to the socket of the motorized ball and socket joint, the microcontroller sends precise instructions to the motor of the motorized ball and socket joint. The motor responds by adjusting the ball and socket joint and rotates the ball in the desired direction, and this motion is transferred to the socket that holds the rods 102. As the ball and socket joint move, it provides the necessary movement to the rods 102 I order to aid the rods 102 in performing required operation.

[0034] The rods 102 herein are pneumatically actuated, wherein the pneumatic arrangement of the rods 102 comprises of a cylinder incorporated with an air piston and the air compressor, wherein the compressor controls discharging of compressed air into the cylinder via air valves which further leads to the extension/retraction of the piston. The piston is attached to the telescopic rods 102, wherein the extension/retraction of the piston corresponds to the extension/retraction of the rods 102. The actuated compressor allows extension of the rods 102 to translate the housing 101 to location of the metal object.

[0035] At the same time plurality of LEDs (light emitting diodes) 117 (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers) is embedded on the housing 101, and these LEDs (light emitting diodes) 117 are actuated when a metal object is detected. Upon detection, the LEDs are illuminated to provide a visual alert to the user, signaling the presence of the metal object. The LEDs (light emitting diodes) 117 serve as a clear and immediate indicator, allowing the user to quickly identify the location of the detected object.

[0036] The LEDs (light emitting diodes) 117 light bulbs mentioned herein is a two-lead semiconductor light source also known as p-n junction which produce the lighting when constant voltage is supplied across the diode. When the voltage is supplied across the diode, the electrons recombine with the electrons hole in the diode which result in conversion of electron into photons which is another form of light, that glow in view of providing a visual alert to a user regarding the detection of metal.

[0037] Synchronously, the microcontroller generates a command and regulates the actuation of a holographic projection unit 105 installed on the housing 101. The holographic projection unit 105 disclosed herein, comprises of multiple lens. After getting the actuation command from the microcontroller, a light source integrated in the projection unit 105 emits various combination of lights toward the lens which is further portrayed to project the pre-saved virtual images for depicting an appropriate way to indicate position of the metal object for recovery.

[0038] The housing 101 is installed with a GPR (ground penetrating radar) which detect depth of the metal object underneath ground surface. The Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) works by emitting high-frequency electromagnetic waves into the ground using a transmitter. When these waves encounter different materials, such as a metal object, these are reflected back to the surface by the object's boundary. The receiver then detects the reflected waves. By analysing the time, it takes for the signals to return, GPR determine the depth and location of the metal object. The data is processed to create an image of the subsurface, allowing for precise mapping of the metal object’s position and depth beneath the ground.

[0039] A hollow cuboidal structure 106 is incorporated into the housing 101 via an L-shaped telescopic bar 107, which is equipped with secondary ball and socket joints 108 at both ends. These secondary joints allow for flexible movement and angular adjustment of the cuboidal structure 106 relative to the housing 101, providing a range of motion necessary for operational adjustments. Beneath the hollow cuboidal structure 106, a sharp plate 109 is attached by means of a sliding unit 110, allowing the plate 109 to move smoothly along a predefined path. The sliding unit 110 ensures controlled movement of the sharp plate 109, enabling the plate 109 to adjust its position precisely, as needed, for the intended function.

[0040] The bar 107 works in the same manner as of rods 102 and position the hollow cuboidal structure 106 at an appropriate position. The secondary ball and socket joints 108 work in the similar panner as of primary ball and socket joints 103 and on actuation provide required movement to the bar 107 in order to aid the bar 107 to get positioned.

[0041] Synchronously, the microcontroller actuates the sliding unit 110. The sliding arrangement consists of a pair of sliding rail fabricated with grooves in which the wheel of a slider is positioned that is further connected with a bi-directional motor via a shaft. The microcontroller actuates the bi-directional motor to rotate in clockwise and anti-clockwise direction that aids in rotation of shaft, wherein the shaft converts the electrical energy into rotational energy for allowing movement of the wheel to translate over the sliding rail by a firm grip on the grooves. The movement of the slider results in translation of the sharp plate 109 for digging into the ground surface to retrieve the metal object, with the metal object being scooped up by the cuboidal structure 106 during the digging process.

[0042] An air cushion is incorporated within the cuboidal structure 106 and is connected to an inflation unit that is also disposed within the cuboidal structure 106. The air cushion is designed to inflate and deflate as required, thereby enabling a secure and stable grip on the metal object during the retrieval process. When the cuboidal structure 106 is positioned to scoop or engage with the metal object, the inflation unit activates the air cushion, causing it to expand and conform to the shape of the object. This ensures a firm grip, preventing slippage and facilitating efficient retrieval. The inflation unit is controlled by the microcontroller to regulate the level of inflation, providing the necessary force to hold the object securely while minimizing the risk of damage or displacement.

[0043] The inflating unit works by controlling the flow of air into an air cushion, causing it to expand and create pressure. The unit typically includes a compressor or air pump connected to the air cushion through a valve or tubing. When activated, the inflating unit pushes air into the cushion, causing it to inflate to a predetermined level. The level of inflation is regulated by the microcontroller to ensure a firm grip on the object while preventing over-inflation. Once the desired pressure is achieved, the air cushion conforms to the shape of the object, ensuring a secure hold during retrieval.

[0044] An L-shaped telescopic link 111 is attached to a dual-axis lead screw mechanism 112 incorporated within the housing 101. The link 111 is designed to move in multiple directions, providing precise positioning and flexibility during operation. At one end of the link 111, a motorized brush 113 is mounted, which is used for cleaning the metal object. The dual-axis lead screw mechanism 112 enables the brush 113 to reach different areas of the metal object, ensuring thorough cleaning. This arrangement allows for efficient, automated cleaning of the object while ensuring that the link 111 and brush 113 maintain proper alignment and contact with the surface of the metal object.

[0045] The dual-axis lead screw mechanism 112 operates by using two lead screws, each mounted along different axes, to provide precise linear movement in two directions. When the motor is activated, the motor drives the lead screws, causing the attached components, the telescopic link 111 or brush 113, to move along the X and Y axes. This allows for controlled positioning and movement of the brush 113 to the desired location. The lead screws convert rotational motion from the motor into linear motion, offering high precision and load-bearing capacity for tasks that require accurate adjustments, such as cleaning objects.

[0046] The motorized brush 113 works by using a small electric motor to drive its bristles in a rotating or oscillating motion. When activated, the motor transmits rotational force to a shaft connected to the brush 113, causing the bristles to move across the surface of the object. The brush 113 may rotate continuously or move back and forth, depending on its design. This motion helps dislodge dirt, debris, or contaminants from the surface of the object being cleaned. The motorized action ensures efficient cleaning with consistent pressure, allowing the brush 113 to cover a larger area and provide thorough cleaning with minimal user intervention.

[0047] The housing 101 is installed with a water tank 115, wherein the tank 115 is arranged with a nozzle 114 which sprays water on the metal object during cleaning. The electronic nozzle 114 works by utilizing electrical energy to automize the flow of water in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of a fluid into kinetic energy. Upon actuation of nozzle 114 by the microcontroller, the electric motor or the pump pressurizes the incoming water, increasing its pressure significantly. High pressure enables the water to be sprayed out with a high force, thus cleaning the metal object.

[0048] Moreover, a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device and supplying a voltage to the components. The battery used herein is preferably a Lithium-ion battery which is a rechargeable unit that demands power supply after getting drained. The battery stores the electric current derived from an external source in the form of chemical energy, which when required by the electronic component of the device, derives the required power from the battery for proper functioning of the device.

[0049] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the cuboidal housing 101 as disclosed in the invention possesses four L-shaped telescopic rods 102, attached underneath the housing 101, by means of primary ball and socket joints 103, for quadrupedal locomotion of the housing 101. Then the rectangular flap 116 is attached at the upper edge of the housing 101 by means of pivot joints for opening or closing of the housing 101. Thereafter the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104, installed in the housing 101 and integrated with the magnetic field sensor embedded in the hosing, to determine metal objects located beneath ground. At the same time plurality of LEDs (light emitting diodes) 117 embedded on the housing 101, are actuated when metal object is detected to provide the visual alert to the user. Synchronously, the holographic projection unit 105 to project the image onto the ground surface to indicate position of the metal object for recovery. Thereafter the GPR (ground penetrating radar) installed with the housing 101 to detect the depth of the metal object underneath ground surface. Afterwards the hollow cuboidal structure 106 incorporated with the housing 101 by means of the L-shaped telescopic bar 107 having secondary ball and socket joints 108 at the ends.

[0050] In continuation, then the sharp plate 109 is attached underneath the cuboidal structure 106 by means of the sliding unit 110, for digging into the ground surface for retrieving the metal object. Thereafter the air cushion lined within the cuboidal structure 106, connected with the inflation unit disposed in the cuboidal structure 106, to enable the secure grip onto the metal object during retrieval. Now the L-shaped telescopic link 111 attached on the dual axis lead screw mechanism 112 incorporated within the housing 101, the link 111 having the motorized brush 113 at the end for cleaning of the metal object. Further the nozzle 114 provided on the water tank 115 located within the housing 101, sprays water on the metal object during cleaning.

[0051] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An autonomous metal detection device, comprising:

i) a cuboidal housing 101 having four L-shaped telescopic rods 102, attached underneath said housing 101, by means of primary ball and socket joints 103, for quadrupedal locomotion of said housing 101;
ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104, installed in said housing 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said housing 101, in synchronisation with a magnetic field sensor embedded in said hosing, to determine metal objects located beneath ground to trigger said microcontroller to actuate said primary ball and socket joints 103 and said rods 102 to translate said housing 101 to location of said metal object and actuate a holographic projection unit 105 to project an image onto said ground surface to indicate position of said metal object for recovery;
iii) a hollow cuboidal structure 106 incorporated with said housing 101 by means of an L-shaped telescopic bar 107 having secondary ball and socket joints 108 at the ends, wherein a sharp plate 109 is attached underneath said cuboidal structure 106 by means of a sliding unit 110, for digging into said ground surface for retrieving said metal object, wherein said metal object is scooped by said cuboidal structure 106;
iv) a GPR (ground penetrating radar) installed with said housing 101 to detect a depth of said metal object underneath ground surface, to trigger said microcontroller to actuate said bar 107, said secondary ball and socket joints 108, and said sliding unit 110 to dig said ground surface to retrieve said metal object and place in said housing 101; and
v) an L-shaped telescopic link 111 attached on a dual axis lead screw mechanism 112 incorporated within said housing 101, said link 111 having a motorized brush 113 at an end for cleaning of said metal object, wherein a nozzle 114 provided on a water tank 115 located within said housing 101, sprays water on said metal object during cleaning.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a rectangular flap 116 is attached at an upper edge of said housing 101 by means of pivot joints for opening or closing of said housing 101.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an air cushion lined within said cuboidal structure 106, connected with an inflation unit disposed in said cuboidal structure 106, to enable a secure grip onto said metal object during retrieval.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of LEDs (light emitting diodes) 117 embedded on said housing 101, are actuated when metal object is detected to provide a visual alert to a user.