A Multipurpose Agricultural Tool for Seed Sowing and Seedling Planting and Method of Operation

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Title: A Multipurpose Agricultural Tool for Seed Sowing and Seedling Planting and Method of Operation The present disclosure proposes a multipurpose agricultural tool (100) for seed sowing and seedling planting operations. The multipurpose agricultural tool (100) comprises a cylindrical hollow tube (102), a stationary disc (104), a rotational disc (108), a lid (116), an actuation unit (126), and a shovel member (156). The rotational disc (108) and the stationary disc (104) are configured to dispense at least one seed upon rotation of the rotational disc during seed sowing operation. The actuation unit (126) is configured to be operated by the user manually to perform seed sowing and seedling planting operations. The shovel member (156) is actuated by the actuation unit (126) to open and close for dispensing at least one seed and at least one plant during seed sowing and seedling planting operations.

Specification

Description:DESCRIPTION:
Field of the invention:
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the technical field of agricultural tools and equipment, in specific, relates to a multipurpose agricultural tool for seed sowing and seedling planting operations, which eliminates the need for attaching or detaching mechanical components during these operations, thereby providing enhanced efficiency and ease of use.
Background of the invention:
[0002] Agricultural tools and equipment have evolved significantly over the centuries, reflecting the growing needs of farmers for more efficient and reliable means of performing essential tasks. One of the key areas of focus has been the development of tools that aid in seed sowing and seedling planting operations. These operations are foundational to crop cultivation and directly impact the yield and quality of produce. Traditional methods, which often rely on manual labor or basic mechanical devices, present several challenges, including labor intensity, time consumption, and inconsistencies in planting depth and spacing. As a result, there is a growing demand for more sophisticated tools that can streamline these operations.

[0003] In manual sowing and planting, achieving uniform seed distribution and optimal planting depth are critical factors for successful crop growth. Uneven sowing can lead to crowding of plants or inefficient use of available land, which ultimately reduces crop yields. Similarly, inconsistent planting depth can affect the germination rate and growth of seedlings, leading to suboptimal plant development. Traditional tools, such as hand-held seed drills or basic seedling planters, require constant human intervention and adjustment, which introduces variability and inefficiency into the process.

[0004] Mechanized solutions have been introduced over time to address some of these challenges. For instance, seed drills and planters equipped with mechanical parts have reduced the manual effort required and improved the precision of seed placement. However, many of these tools have their own limitations. They often require the attachment and detachment of different components for seed sowing and seedling planting, making them cumbersome and time-consuming to operate. This not only slows down the overall process but also requires additional training for operators to handle the equipment effectively.

[0005] Another significant challenge in modern agricultural practices is the need to balance efficiency with ease of use. Farmers often work under time constraints and must cover large areas of land within short planting windows. Therefore, tools that can perform multiple tasks without requiring extensive modifications or adjustments are highly desirable. While many existing machines offer efficiency in specific tasks, they are typically limited in their functionality, necessitating the use of multiple tools or frequent reconfiguration of equipment.

[0006] In addition to the operational challenges, the cost of agricultural equipment is another factor that influences its adoption. Farmers, particularly in developing regions, may not have access to advanced machinery due to high costs or the lack of availability of spare parts. This often leads them to rely on outdated or inefficient methods, which further exacerbates the problems of low productivity and labor intensity. Therefore, affordable, multi-functional tools that can perform a range of tasks while minimizing operational complexity are critical to improving farming practices globally.

[0007] Environmental sustainability is another growing concern in agriculture. The demand for tools that can reduce soil disturbance and ensure minimal environmental impact during sowing and planting is increasing. Traditional plowing and seed sowing methods can lead to soil erosion and nutrient depletion. By minimizing the number of passes over a field and reducing soil disturbance, multi-purpose tools can help preserve soil structure and health, which is essential for long-term agricultural productivity.

[0008] The diversity of crop types and farming methods also presents unique challenges. Farmers may need to sow seeds of varying sizes or plant seedlings with different growth characteristics, requiring tools that offer versatility and adaptability. Standard sowing or planting tools are often limited in their ability to handle such variability, necessitating specialized equipment for different crops. This further increases the complexity of farm operations and adds to the cost burden for farmers, who must invest in multiple tools to manage their diverse agricultural needs.

[0009] In recent years, there has been an increasing trend towards precision agriculture, which emphasizes the use of technology to optimize field-level management. While this approach has shown promising results in terms of increased productivity and resource efficiency, the associated tools and equipment often require advanced technical knowledge and may be too complex or expensive for small-scale farmers. There remains a gap in the market for simpler, more accessible tools that can deliver the benefits of precision agriculture without the need for high-tech solutions or specialized skills.

[0010] Another aspect of modern agriculture is the need for tools that are adaptable to different soil conditions and terrains. Fields vary in their composition, moisture levels, and surface characteristics, making it essential for sowing and planting tools to be versatile. Tools that can adjust to different soil types without losing efficiency are highly valued in agricultural operations. Many existing tools struggle with this adaptability, requiring adjustments or modifications that can be time-consuming and difficult to perform in the field.

[0011] Furthermore, labor shortages in agriculture have been a growing concern worldwide, with fewer people entering the farming profession due to its physically demanding nature. This has further driven the need for tools and equipment that can automate or reduce the physical effort required for key tasks like seed sowing and seedling planting. Tools that can perform multiple functions without the need for constant human intervention are becoming increasingly valuable as they allow farmers to focus on other critical areas of their operations.

[0012] By addressing all the above-mentioned problems, there is a need for a multipurpose agricultural tool for seed sowing and seedling planting operations, which eliminates the need for attaching or detaching mechanical components during these operations, thereby providing enhanced efficiency and ease of use. There is also a need for a multipurpose agricultural tool that seamlessly combines seed sowing and planting operations, thereby eliminating the need for separate tools or machines, thereby saving time and simplifying the process for users. There is also a need for a user-friendly multipurpose agricultural tool that incorporates a simple push-button mechanism, thereby making it accessible to users with varying levels of expertise in agricultural tasks. There is also a need for a multipurpose agricultural tool that enhances time efficiency by integrating seed sowing and planting tasks into a single device, thereby eliminating the need for attaching or detaching components and reducing overall operation time.

[0013] Additionally, there is also a need for a multipurpose agricultural tool that is versatile and adaptable to various terrains, such as uneven or rocky surfaces, thereby making it suitable for different agricultural environments and small-scale lands. There is also a need for a multipurpose agricultural tool that is compact and portable, thereby ensuring that it is lightweight and easy to carry and use across different areas of a farm or garden without requiring significant physical effort. There is also a need for a multipurpose agricultural tool that is cost-effective, thereby offering a low-cost solution for small-scale farmers or gardeners by eliminating the need for expensive equipment and complex, power-intensive machines. Further, there is also a need for a multipurpose agricultural tool with a compact and durable design, thereby ensuring long-lasting performance even in challenging agricultural conditions.
Objectives of the invention:
[0014] The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool for seed sowing and seedling planting operations that eliminates the need for attaching or detaching mechanical components during these operations, thereby providing enhanced efficiency and ease of use.

[0015] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that seamlessly combines seed sowing and planting operations, thereby eliminating the need for separate tools or machines, thereby saving time and simplifying the process for users.

[0016] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a user-friendly multipurpose agricultural tool that incorporates a simple push-button mechanism, thereby making it accessible to users with varying levels of expertise in agricultural tasks.

[0017] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that enhances time efficiency by integrating seed sowing and planting tasks into a single device, thereby eliminating the need for attaching or detaching components and reducing overall operation time.

[0018] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that is versatile and adaptable to various terrains, such as uneven or rocky surfaces, thereby making it suitable for different agricultural environments and small-scale lands.

[0019] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that is compact and portable, thereby ensuring that it is lightweight and easy to carry and use across different areas of a farm or garden without requiring significant physical effort.

[0020] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that is cost-effective, thereby offering a low-cost solution for small-scale farmers or gardeners by eliminating the need for expensive equipment and complex, power-intensive machines.

[0021] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool with an ergonomic design that minimizes physical strain by combining multiple tasks into a single action, thereby making it particularly beneficial for agricultural workers who perform extended operations.

[0022] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that promotes reduced physical effort during farming tasks, thereby ensuring ease of use and accessibility for users of all experience levels.

[0023] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that ensures a cost-efficient and labor-saving alternative to traditional sowing and planting tools, thereby contributing to better overall farming productivity.

[0024] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that ensures uniform seed placement and consistent planting depth, thereby leading to improved crop germination and growth.

[0025] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that is easy to operate, thereby minimizing the need for extensive training or technical expertise for farmers.

[0026] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that reduces the time and labor required for seed sowing and planting, thereby increasing overall farming productivity.

[0027] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that incorporates a push button that is configured to be actuated by a user manually to convert the linear pressing action into rotary motion using plurality of gears, which rotates a rotational disc to dispense a single seed.

[0028] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that incorporates a lid and the rotational disc together, defining a hollow structure, thereby enabling seedling operations where the push button opens a shovel member for digging and closes the soil without removing a collecting chamber.

[0029] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool that minimizes soil disturbance during sowing and planting operations, thus promoting environmental sustainability and soil health.

[0030] Further objective of the present invention is to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool with a compact and durable design, thereby ensuring long-lasting performance even in challenging agricultural conditions.
Summary of the invention:
[0031] The present disclosure proposes a multipurpose agricultural tool for seed sowing and seedling planting and method of operation. The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0032] In order to overcome the above deficiencies of the prior art, the present disclosure is to solve the technical problem to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool for seed sowing and seedling planting operations, which eliminates the need for attaching or detaching mechanical components during these operations, thereby providing enhanced efficiency and ease of use.

[0033] According to one aspect, the invention provides a multipurpose agricultural tool. In one embodiment herein, the multipurpose agricultural tool comprises a cylindrical hollow tube, a lid, a rotational disc, a stationary disc, an actuation unit, and a casing. In one embodiment herein, the cylindrical hollow tube with a slot provided with a shovel member at one end and an opening at another end. In one embodiment herein, the cylindrical hollow tube comprises a handle for securing a grip to the user in handling the multipurpose agricultural tool during seed sowing and seedling planting operations.

[0034] In one embodiment herein, the lid is provided with an inlet at a top portion and a hollow extension at a bottom portion. The lid is detachably affixed to the cylindrical hollow tube through the opening. In one embodiment herein, the lid comprises plurality of nudges for facilitating easy removal to the user while loading the plurality of seeds. In one embodiment herein, the rotational disc with a first slot disposed within the cylindrical hollow tube underneath the lid, thereby forming a seed storage unit for storing seeds that needs to be sown. The rotational disc is rotatably connected to a first spur gear through studs. In one embodiment herein, the stationary disc with a second slot is securely positioned within the cylindrical hollow tube beneath the rotational disc.

[0035] In one embodiment herein, the rotational disc is configured to be rotated to align the first slot with the second slot of the stationary disc, thereby allowing the at least one seed from the seed storage unit to be directed to a discharge opening of the cylindrical hollow tube for sowing the at least one seed in a field using the shovel member. In one embodiment herein, the discharge opening of the cylindrical hollow tube is configured with an eccentric cut to enable effective digging of the shovel member within the soil during seed sowing and seedling planting operations. In one embodiment herein, the actuation unit is configured to be actuated by a user to perform a seed sowing operation by rotating the rotational disc that aligns the first slot with the second slot.

[0036] In one embodiment herein, the actuation unit comprises a fixed column, and a rotatable shaft. In one embodiment herein, the fixed column is configured to receive a push button having a protruding member with a spring from a top end, wherein the fixed column having at least two extended members on both sides. In one embodiment herein, the rotatable shaft having a V-shaped groove is rotatably secured within the fixed column at a bottom end. The one end of the rotatable shaft is inserted into the push button, thereby positioning the protruding member into the V-shaped groove and another end is adapted to secure a second spur gear, which is detachably engaged with the first spur gear through the slot. In one embodiment herein, the protruding member is configured to be guided along the V-shaped groove upon actuating the push button by the user manually, thereby providing a rotary motion to the rotatable shaft and the second spur gear for dispensing at least one seed.

[0037] In one embodiment herein, the rotatable shaft is configured to rotate in a direction when the push button is actuated by the user, thereby rotating the first spur gear to align the first slot with the second slot for performing the seed sowing operation. In one embodiment herein, the casing with a support member affixed to an outer surface of the cylindrical hollow tube. The casing is configured to receive and enclose a portion of the second spur gear, which is connected to the rotatable shaft by insertion into the casing through an aperture. In one embodiment herein, the actuation unit comprises a snap connector having plurality of snap pins securely positioned to at least one extended member of the fixed column. The plurality of snap pins is configured to be interchanged within plurality of channels for engaging and disengaging the second spur gear with the first spur gear during seed sowing and seedling planting operations.

[0038] In one embodiment herein, the at least one snap pin is configured to be inserted within at least one channel, by the user manually, thereby disengaging the second spur gear with the first spur gear and enabling the user to load at least one plant through the inlet for performing seedling planting operation. In one embodiment herein, the at least one snap pin is configured to be inserted within at least one channel by the user manually, thereby engaging the second spur gear with the first spur gear and rotating the rotational disc for performing seed sowing operation.

[0039] In one embodiment herein, the shovel member is pivotally connected to the discharging opening through a pivot member and is operatively connected to the actuation unit via a cable, which is flexibly connected to a hook member of the push button and the pivot member. In one embodiment herein, the cable enables the shovel member to open and close upon actuation of the actuation unit, thereby digging the soil to dispense at least one seed and at least one plant during seed sowing and seedling planting operations. In one embodiment herein, the cable is guided through a pulley, which is rotatably positioned within a notch provided on the support member of the casing.

[0040] According to another aspect, the invention provides a method for operating the multipurpose agricultural tool for seed sowing and seedling planting operations. At one step, the user opens the lid via the plurality of nudges to load the plurality of seeds into the seed storage unit via the inlet and closes the lid upon loading. At another step, the user inserts the at least one snap pin of the snap connector into the at least one channel on the casing, thereby engaging the second spur gear with the first spur gear. At another step, the user actuates the push button, thereby pulling the cable to enable the shovel member to open for digging the soil to perform the seed sowing operation.

[0041] At another step, the protruding member of the rotatable shaft is enabled to guide along the V-shaped groove due to spring force upon actuation of the push button, thereby generating the rotary motion to the rotatable shaft and rotating the second spur gear 138. At another step, the first spur gear is rotated upon rotating the second spur gear, thereby enabling the rotational motion to the rotational disc and aligning the first slot of the rotational disc with the second slot of the stationary disc for dispensing at least one seed into the soil to perform the seed sowing operation, and closing the shovel member upon releasing the push button to cover the at least one seed with soil.

[0042] At another step, the user inserts the at least one snap pin into the at least one channel, thereby disengaging the second spur gear with the first spur gear. At another step, the user actuates the push button, thereby pulling the cable to enable the shovel member to open and dig the soil for performing the seedling planting operation. Further, at other step, the user loads at least one plant through the inlet and dispenses the at least one plant into the soil through the discharge opening, thereby performing the seedling planting operation and the shovel member is closed upon releasing the push button to cover the at least one plant with soil.

[0043] Further, objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from a study of the following portion of the specification, the claims, and the attached drawings.
Detailed description of drawings:
[0044] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention, and, together with the description, explain the principles of the invention.

[0045] FIG. 1A illustrates a schematic view of a multipurpose agricultural tool, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0046] FIGs. 1B-1C illustrate exploded views of the multipurpose agricultural tool, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0047] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of an actuation unit in connection with a casing, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0048] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic view of the actuation unit of the multipurpose agricultural tool, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0049] FIGs. 4A-4D illustrate perspective views of the multipurpose agricultural tool while loading plurality of seeds into a seed storage unit, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0050] FIGs. 5A-5F illustrate perspective views of the multipurpose agricultural tool while performing a seed sowing operation, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0051] FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of the multipurpose agricultural tool while performing a seedling planting operation, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0052] FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of a method for operating the multipurpose agricultural tool for seed sowing and seedling planting operations, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
Detailed invention disclosure:
[0053] Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps.

[0054] The present disclosure has been made with a view towards solving the problem with the prior art described above, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a multipurpose agricultural tool for seed sowing and seedling planting operations, which eliminates the need for attaching or detaching mechanical components during these operations, thereby providing enhanced efficiency and ease of use.

[0055] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 1A refers to a schematic view of the multipurpose agricultural tool 100. The proposed multipurpose agricultural tool 100 ensures uniform seed placement and consistent planting depth, thereby leading to improved crop germination and growth. The multipurpose agricultural tool 100 is easy to operate, thereby minimizing the need for extensive training or technical expertise for farmers. The multipurpose agricultural tool 100 is capable of adjusting to different soil types and conditions, thereby ensuring adaptability for various agricultural environments. The multipurpose agricultural tool 100 reduces the time and labor required for seed sowing and planting, thereby increasing overall farming productivity.

[0056] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIGs. 1B-1C refer to exploded views of the multipurpose agricultural tool 100. In one embodiment herein, the multipurpose agricultural tool 100 comprises a cylindrical hollow tube 102, a lid 116, a rotational disc 108, a stationary disc 104, an actuation unit 126, and a casing 140.

[0057] In one embodiment herein, the cylindrical hollow tube 102 with a slot 103 provided with a shovel member 156 at one end and an opening 105 at another end. In one embodiment herein, the cylindrical hollow tube 102 comprises a handle 166 for securing a grip to the user in handling the multipurpose agricultural tool 100 during seed sowing and seedling planting operations. In one embodiment herein, the lid 116 is provided with an inlet 120 at a top portion and a hollow extension 122 at a bottom portion. The lid 116 is detachably affixed to the cylindrical hollow tube 102 through the opening 105. In one embodiment herein, the lid 116 comprises plurality of nudges 118 for facilitating easy removal to the user while loading the plurality of seeds.

[0058] In one embodiment herein, the rotational disc 108 with a first slot 114 disposed within the cylindrical hollow tube 102 underneath the lid 116, thereby forming a seed storage unit 124 for storing seeds that needs to be sown. The rotational disc 108 is rotatably connected to a first spur gear 106 through studs 110. In one embodiment herein, the stationary disc 104 with a second slot 112 is securely positioned within the cylindrical hollow tube 102 beneath the rotational disc 108.

[0059] In one embodiment herein, the rotational disc 108 is configured to be rotated to align the first slot 114 with the second slot 112 of the stationary disc 104, thereby allowing the at least one seed from the seed storage unit 124 to be directed to a discharge opening 155 of the cylindrical hollow tube 102 for sowing the at least one seed in a field using the shovel member 156. In one embodiment herein, the discharge opening 155 of the cylindrical hollow tube 102 is configured with an eccentric cut to enable effective digging of the shovel member 156 within the soil during seed sowing and seedling planting operations. In one embodiment herein, the actuation unit 126 is configured to be actuated by a user to perform a seed sowing operation by rotating the rotational disc 108 that aligns the first slot 114 with the second slot 112.

[0060] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2 refers to an exploded view of the actuation unit 126 in connection with the casing 140. In one embodiment herein, the actuation unit 126 comprises a fixed column 130, and a rotatable shaft 134. In one embodiment herein, the rotatable shaft 134 is configured to rotate in a direction when the push button 150 is actuated by the user, thereby rotating the first spur gear 106 to align the first slot 114 with the second slot 112 for performing the seed sowing operation. In one embodiment herein, the casing 140 with a support member 165 affixed to an outer surface of the cylindrical hollow tube 102. The casing 140 is configured to receive and enclose a portion of the second spur gear 108, which is connected to the rotatable shaft 134 by insertion into the casing 140 through an aperture 142.

[0061] In one embodiment herein, the actuation unit 126 comprises a snap connector 144 having plurality of snap pins (146A, 146B) securely positioned to at least one extended member 135 of the fixed column 130. The plurality of snap pins (146A, 146B) is configured to be interchanged within plurality of channels (148, 149) for engaging and disengaging the second spur gear 138 with the first spur gear 106 during seed sowing and seedling planting operations.

[0062] In one embodiment herein, the at least one snap pin 146A is configured to be inserted within at least one channel 148, by the user manually, thereby disengaging the second spur gear 138 with the first spur gear 106 and enabling the user to load at least one plant through the inlet 120 for performing seedling planting operation. In one embodiment herein, the at least one snap pin 146B is configured to be inserted within at least one channel 149 by the user manually, thereby engaging the second spur gear 138 with the first spur gear 106 and rotating the rotational disc 108 for performing seed sowing operation.

[0063] In one embodiment herein, the shovel member 156 is pivotally connected to the discharging opening 155 through a pivot member 157 and is operatively connected to the actuation unit 126 via a cable 158 (as shown in FIG. 4A), which is flexibly connected to a hook member 159 of the push button 150 and the pivot member 157. In one embodiment herein, the cable 158 enables the shovel member 156 to open and close upon actuation of the actuation unit 126, thereby digging the soil to dispense at least one seed and at least one plant during seed sowing and seedling planting operations. In one embodiment herein, the cable 158 is guided through a pulley 160, which is rotatably positioned within a notch 164 provided on the support member 165 of the casing 140. The pulley 160 comprises plurality of stoppers 162 (as shown in FIG. 1C), which is configured to prevent the cable 158 from slipping during seed sowing and seedling planting operations.

[0064] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3 refers to a schematic view of the actuation unit 126 of the multipurpose agricultural tool 100. In one embodiment herein, the fixed column 130 is configured to receive a push button 150 having a protruding member 154 with a spring 152 from a top end. The fixed column 130 having at least two extended members (135, 136) on both sides. In one embodiment herein, the rotatable shaft 134 having a V-shaped groove 132 is rotatably secured within the fixed column 130 at a bottom end. The one end of the rotatable shaft 134 is inserted into the push button 150, thereby positioning the protruding member 154 into the V-shaped groove 132 and another end is adapted to secure a second spur gear 108, which is detachably engaged with the first spur gear 106 through the slot 103. In one embodiment herein, the protruding member 154 is configured to be guided along the V-shaped groove 132 upon actuating the push button 150 by the user manually, thereby providing a rotary motion to the rotatable shaft 134 and the second spur gear 138 for dispensing at least one seed.

[0065] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIGs. 4A-4D refer to perspective views of the multipurpose agricultural tool 100 while loading the plurality of seeds into the seed storage unit 124. In one embodiment, the multipurpose agricultural tool 100 is initially configured by inserting the first snap pin 146A into the first channel 148 of the actuation unit 126 as shown in FIG. 4A. At this stage, the second spur gear 138, which is connected to the rotatable shaft 134 housed within the fixed column 130, remains disengaged from the first spur gear 106 as shown in FIG. 4B. Simultaneously, the first and the second slots 112 and 114 on the rotational disc 108 and stationary disc 104 are not aligned as shown in FIG. 4C, thereby keeping the shovel member 156 in a closed state as shown in FIG. 4B. For seed sowing operations, the seed storage unit 124 must be loaded with the desired seeds. To achieve this, the user removes the lid 116 using the plurality of nudges 118 and fills the plurality of seeds into the seed storage unit 124 via the inlet 120 as shown in FIG. 4D.

[0066] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIGs. 5A-5F refer to perspective views of the multipurpose agricultural tool 100 while performing the seed sowing operation. Once the seed storage unit 124 is filled, the user unlocks the primary snap connection by disengaging the first snap pin 146A from the first channel 148 and inserting the second snap pin 146B into the second channel 149, as shown in FIG. 5A. This causes the second spur gear 138 to engage with the first spur gear 106, as shown in FIG. 5B. The secondary snap pin 146B connection secures the actuation unit 126 in position for operation. With both the first and second spur gears 106 and 138 engaged, the user holds the handle 166 and inserts the tool into the soil, as shown in FIG. 5D. By pressing the push button 150 on the actuation unit 126, the seed dispensing mechanism is activated. When the push button 150 is pressed, the spring 152 inside the push button 150 compresses, as shown in FIG. 5C. As the push button 150 is pressed, the cable 158 connected to the hook member 159 of the push button 150 is pulled downward, as shown in FIG. 5D. This action causes the cable 158 to pull, thereby opening the shovel member 156 to penetrate the soil.

[0067] Simultaneously, the pressing of the push button 150 rotates the rotatable shaft 134 within the fixed column 130, as shown in FIG. 5C. The protruding member 154 on the button 150 follows the V-shaped groove 132 of the rotatable shaft 134, thereby transferring the rotary motion to the second spur gear 138. The rotational disc 108, positioned above the stationary disc 104, rotates as shown in FIG. 5C. As the rotational disc 108 rotates, at least one seed from the seed storage unit 124 enters the first slot 112 of the rotational disc 108 and moves along it until the first and the second slots 112 and 114 align as shown in FIG. 5E, thereby allowing the seed to be dispensed through the cylindrical hollow tube 102 into the soil, as shown in FIG. 5F. Upon releasing the push button 150, the protruding member 154 returns along the V-shaped groove 132, thereby causing the rotatable shaft 134 to revert to its original position. The rotational disc 108 also realigns, and the cable 158 retracts, closing the shovel member 156 and covering the seed with soil. The spring 152 returns the push button 150 to its default position upon completing the seed sowing operation.

[0068] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 6 refers to side view of the multipurpose agricultural tool 100 while performing the seedling planting operation. For seedling operations, the user disengages the at least one snap pin 146B from the at least one channel 149 and inserts the at least one snap pin 146A into the at least one channel 148. This disengages the second spur gear 138 from the first spur gear 106. If seedling is done after sowing, the user follows the same procedure. Otherwise, the user can press the push button 150 without altering the actuation unit's 126 position to open the shovel member 156 and insert the seedling through the cylindrical hollow tube 102, as shown in FIG. 6. The at least one plant is inserted through the hollow extension 122 into the soil. The user releases the push button 150 and closes the shovel member 156, thereby covering the plant with soil upon completing the seedling planting operation.

[0069] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 7 refers to a flow chart 700 of a method for operating the multipurpose agricultural tool 100 for seed sowing and seedling planting operations. At step 702, the user opens the lid 116 via the plurality of nudges 118 to load the plurality of seeds into the seed storage unit 124 via the inlet 120 and closes the lid 116 upon loading. At step 704, the user inserts the at least one snap pin 146B of the snap connector 144 into the at least one channel 149 on the casing 140, thereby engaging the second spur gear 138 with the first spur gear 106. At step 706, the user actuates the push button 150, thereby pulling the cable 158 to enable the shovel member 156 to open for digging the soil to perform the seed sowing operation.

[0070] At step 708, the protruding member 154 of the rotatable shaft 134 is enabled to guide along the V-shaped groove 132 due to spring force upon actuation of the push button 150, thereby generating the rotary motion to the rotatable shaft 134 and rotating the second spur gear 138. At step 710, the first spur gear 106 is rotated upon rotating the second spur gear 138, thereby enabling the rotational motion to the rotational disc 108 and aligning the first slot 112 of the rotational disc 108 with the second slot 114 of the stationary disc 104 for dispensing at least one seed into the soil to perform the seed sowing operation, and closing the shovel member 156 upon releasing the push button 150 to cover the at least one seed with soil.

[0071] At step 712, the user inserts the at least one snap pin 146A into the at least one channel 148, thereby disengaging the second spur gear 138 with the first spur gear 106. At step 714, the user actuates the push button 150, thereby pulling the cable 158 to enable the shovel member 156 to open and dig the soil for performing the seedling planting operation. Further, at step 716, the user loads at least one plant through the inlet 120 and dispenses the at least one plant into the soil through the discharge opening 155, thereby performing the seedling planting operation and the shovel member 156 is closed upon releasing the push button 150 to cover the at least one plant with soil.

[0072] Numerous advantages of the present disclosure may be apparent from the discussion above. In accordance with the present disclosure, a multipurpose agricultural tool is disclosed. The proposed invention provides the multipurpose agricultural tool 100 for seed sowing and seedling planting operations, which eliminates the need for attaching or detaching mechanical components during these operations, thereby providing enhanced efficiency and ease of use.

[0073] The proposed multipurpose agricultural tool 100 ensures uniform seed placement and consistent planting depth, thereby leading to improved crop germination and growth. The multipurpose agricultural tool 100 is easy to operate, thereby minimizing the need for extensive training or technical expertise for farmers. The multipurpose agricultural tool 100 is capable of adjusting to different soil types and conditions, thereby ensuring adaptability for various agricultural environments. The multipurpose agricultural tool 100 reduces the time and labor required for seed sowing and planting, thereby increasing overall farming productivity. The multipurpose agricultural tool 100 offers a cost-effective solution for farmers, particularly small-scale operators, by eliminating the need for multiple specialized tools. The multipurpose agricultural tool 100 minimizes soil disturbance during sowing and planting operations, thus promoting environmental sustainability and soil health. The multipurpose agricultural tool 100 is configured with a compact and durable design, thereby ensuring long-lasting performance even in challenging agricultural conditions.

[0074] It will readily be apparent that numerous modifications and alterations can be made to the processes described in the foregoing examples without departing from the principles underlying the invention, and all such modifications and alterations are intended to be embraced by this application.
, Claims:CLAIMS:
I/We Claim:
1. A multipurpose agricultural tool (100) for seed sowing and seedling planting operations, comprising:
a cylindrical hollow tube (102) having a slot (103) provided with a shovel member (156) at one end and an opening (105) at another end;
a lid (116) provided with an inlet (120) at a top portion and a hollow extension (122) at a bottom portion, wherein the lid (116) is detachably affixed to the cylindrical hollow tube (102) through the opening (105);
a rotational disc (108) with a first slot (114) disposed within the cylindrical hollow tube (102) underneath the lid (116), thereby forming a seed storage unit (124) for storing seeds that needs to be sown, wherein the rotational disc (108) is rotatably connected to a first spur gear (106) through studs (110);
a stationary disc (104) with a second slot (112) securely positioned within the cylindrical hollow tube (102) beneath the rotational disc (108),
wherein the rotational disc (108) is configured to be rotated to align the first slot (114) with the second slot (112) of the stationary disc (104), thereby allowing the at least one seed from the seed storage unit (124) to be directed to a discharge opening (155) of the cylindrical hollow tube (102) for sowing the at least one seed in a field using the shovel member (156);
an actuation unit (126) configured to be actuated by a user to perform a seed sowing operation by rotating the rotational disc (108) that aligns the first slot (114) with the second slot (112),
wherein the actuation unit (126) comprises:
a fixed column (130) configured to receive a push button (150) having a protruding member (154) with a spring (152) from a top end, wherein the fixed column (130) having at least two extended members (135, 136) on both sides;
a rotatable shaft (134) having a V-shaped groove (132) rotatably secured within the fixed column (130) at a bottom end, wherein one end of the rotatable shaft (134) is inserted into the push button (150), thereby positioning the protruding member (154) into the V-shaped groove (132) and another end is adapted to secure a second spur gear (108), which is detachably engaged with the first spur gear (106) through the slot (103),
wherein the rotatable shaft (134) is configured to rotate in a direction when the push button (150) is actuated by the user, thereby rotating the first spur gear (106) to align the first slot (114) with the second slot (112) for performing the seed sowing operation; and
a casing (140) with a support member (165) affixed to an outer surface of the cylindrical hollow tube (102), wherein the casing (140) is configured to receive and enclose a portion of the second spur gear (108), which is connected to the rotatable shaft (134) by insertion into the casing (140) through an aperture (142).
2. The multipurpose agricultural tool (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuation unit (126) comprises a snap connector (144) having plurality of snap pins (146A, 146B) securely positioned to at least one extended member (135) of the fixed column (130), wherein the plurality of snap pins (146A, 146B) is configured to be interchanged within plurality of channels (148, 149) for engaging and disengaging the second spur gear (138) with the first spur gear (106) during seed sowing and seedling planting operations.
3. The multipurpose agricultural tool (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the protruding member (154) is configured to be guided along the V-shaped groove (132) upon actuating the push button (150) by the user manually, thereby providing a rotary motion to the rotatable shaft (134) and the second spur gear (138) for dispensing at least one seed.
4. The multipurpose agricultural tool (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the shovel member (156) is pivotally connected to the discharging opening (155) through a pivot member (157) and is operatively connected to the actuation unit (126) via a cable (158), which is flexibly connected to a hook member (159) of the push button (150) and the pivot member (157).
5. The multipurpose agricultural tool (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein
the cable (158) enables the shovel member (156) to open and close upon actuation of the actuation unit (126), thereby digging the soil to dispense at least one seed and at least one plant during seed sowing and seedling planting operations, and
the cable (158) is guided through a pulley (160), which is rotatably positioned within a notch (164) provided on the support member (165) of the casing (140).
6. The multipurpose agricultural tool (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein
the at least one snap pin (146A) is configured to be inserted within at least one channel (148), by the user manually, thereby disengaging the second spur gear (138) with the first spur gear (106) and enabling the user to load at least one plant through the inlet (120) for performing seedling planting operation,
the at least one snap pin (146B) is configured to be inserted within at least one channel (149) by the user manually, thereby engaging the second spur gear (138) with the first spur gear (106) and rotating the rotational disc (108) for performing seed sowing operation.
7. The multipurpose agricultural tool (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cylindrical hollow tube (102) comprises a handle (166) for securing a grip to the user in handling the multipurpose agricultural tool (100) during seed sowing and seedling planting operations.
8. The multipurpose agricultural tool (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lid (116) comprises plurality of nudges (118) for facilitating easy removal to the user while loading the plurality of seeds.
9. The multipurpose agricultural tool (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the discharge opening (155) of the cylindrical hollow tube (102) is configured with an eccentric cut to enable effective digging of the shovel member (156) within the soil during seed sowing and seedling planting operations.
10. A method for operating a multipurpose agricultural tool (100) for seed sowing and seedling planting operations, comprising:
opening, by a user, a lid (116) via plurality of nudges (118), thereby loading plurality of seeds into a seed storage unit (124) via an inlet (120) and closing the lid (116) upon loading;
inserting, by the user, at least one snap pin (146B) of a snap connector (144) into at least one channel (149) on a casing (140), thereby engaging a second spur gear (138) with a first spur gear (106);
actuating, by the user, a push button (150), thereby pulling a cable (158) to enable a shovel member (156) to open for digging the soil to perform a seed sowing operation;
enabling a protruding member (154) of a rotatable shaft (134) to guide along a V-shaped groove (132) due to spring force upon actuation of the push button (150), thereby generating a rotary motion to a rotatable shaft (134) and rotating the second spur gear (138);
rotating the first spur gear (106) upon rotating the second spur gear (138), thereby enabling a rotational motion to a rotational disc (108) and aligning a first slot (112) of the rotational disc (108) with a second slot (114) of the stationary disc (104) for dispensing at least one seed into the soil to perform the seed sowing operation, and closing the shovel member (156) upon releasing the push button (150) to cover the at least one seed with soil;
inserting, by the user, at least one snap pin (146A) into at least one channel (148) on the casing (140), thereby disengaging the second spur gear (138) with the first spur gear (106);
actuating, by the user, the push button (150), thereby pulling the cable (158) to enable the shovel member (156) to open and dig the soil for performing a seedling planting operation; and
loading, by the user, at least one plant through the inlet (120) and dispensing the at least one plant into the soil through a discharge opening (155), thereby performing the seedling planting operation and closing the shovel member (156) upon releasing the push button (150) to cover the at least one plant with soil.

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