ADVANCED DUAL-ACTION HARVESTER FOR EFFICIENT BAJRA AND SORGHUM CROP PROCESSING

Abstract

Advanced Dual-Action Harvester for Efficient Bajra and Sorghum Crop Processing This invention describes an advanced harvester designed for the efficient and economical harvesting of Bajra (Pearl Millet) and Sorghum. It integrates dual-action cutting mechanisms that simultaneously process earheads and stalks, significantly reducing labor requirements and harvesting time. The upper cutter efficiently severs earheads, while a lower cutter positioned below handles stalks, enhancing operational speed and safety. A conveyor system transports severed earheads to a collection area, ensuring minimal handling damage. The harvester is mounted on a chassis with adjustable guiding wheels, making it adaptable to varied terrain, thus maintaining consistent performance across different field conditions. The inclusion of a transparent monitoring system allows real-time operational oversight. This innovative harvester is a step forward in agricultural technology, providing a practical solution to the challenges of traditional harvesting methods by improving yield efficiency and reducing costs.

Specification

Description:[0001] This invention relates to the field of agricultural science, more particularly a harvesting apparatus designed for the efficient, safe, and economical harvesting of Bajra (Pearl Millet) and Sorghum. This invention pertains to mechanised agricultural equipment that integrates dual-action cutting mechanisms capable of simultaneously processing the stalks of crops. The harvester is designed to address the challenges associated with manual harvesting methods such as labor intensity, time consumption, and the physical risk to workers. Furthermore, this system incorporates advanced features such as terrain adaptability, transparent monitoring for operational oversight, and adjustable components to enhance its utility across various agricultural landscapes. This invention significantly contributes to modernising agricultural practices, offering a robust solution that increases productivity, reduces labor costs, and improves the quality and speed of crop processing.

PRIOR ART AND PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED

[0002] Bajra (pearl millet) and sorghum are staple crops grown in arid and semi-arid regions due to their high drought tolerance and ability to thrive in nutrient-poor soils. These crops are integral to food security, especially in regions like India and Africa, where they serve as a primary source of nutrition for millions of people. However, the harvesting process for both crops remains a significant challenge. Traditional manual harvesting is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and often leads to post-harvest losses due to improper handling or delays, further exacerbating food insecurity.

[0003] In regions where mechanised harvesting is used, the equipment often fails to cater specifically to the unique characteristics of bajra and sorghum crops. Both crops have tall stalks, and their grains are typically harder and larger than other cereals like wheat or rice. The harvesting machinery currently available in the market is generally designed for these more common crops, leading to inefficiencies when used for bajra and sorghum. Issues like grain shattering, incomplete threshing, and high fuel consumption make it difficult for farmers to adopt mechanical harvesting as a cost-effective solution.

[0004] The existing methods for harvesting bajra and sorghum present significant drawbacks that limit their efficiency and accessibility, particularly for smallholder farmers. One of the primary issues is that most mechanised solutions, such as combine harvesters, are designed for more common cereals like wheat and rice. These machines are not optimised for the unique characteristics of bajra and sorghum, which have larger grains, tougher stalks, and varying heights. As a result, when these machines are used, they often lead to grain damage, incomplete threshing, and high post-harvest losses. The inability of these machines to cater specifically to the structural properties of bajra and sorghum crops causes significant inefficiencies and wastage during the harvesting process.

[0005] Additionally, the cost of mechanised harvesters is prohibitively high for many small and medium-sized farmers. The initial investment required to purchase such equipment, along with the ongoing maintenance expenses, makes them inaccessible to a majority of farmers who cultivate bajra and sorghum. These machines are also typically fuel-intensive, leading to further operational costs that are unsustainable, especially in regions where access to affordable fuel is limited. The combination of high fuel consumption and maintenance costs significantly reduces the economic feasibility of these methods for smallholder farmers, who already operate with narrow profit margins.

[0006] Moreover, despite mechanisation, there remains a substantial need for manual intervention. Many of the existing machines either require manual reaping or are inefficient in separating grains from the stalks, forcing farmers to supplement the mechanical process with additional labor. This defeats the primary purpose of mechanisation, which is to reduce labor dependency and time consumption. Consequently, farmers are left to deal with a partially mechanised process that still involves considerable human effort, diminishing the potential gains from adopting these technologies.

[0007] Post-harvest losses are another major drawback of the current methods. Grain shattering, over-threshing, and spillage are common problems that occur due to the unsuitability of these machines for bajra and sorghum. These losses not only reduce the overall yield but also lower the quality of the harvested grains, impacting their market value. In some cases, the damage to the grains is so severe that it affects storage and leads to further deterioration over time. Despite modifications to some of the machines, these issues persist, underlining the inadequacy of current harvesting solutions for these specific crops.

[0008] The existing methods fail to address the specific harvesting challenges posed by bajra and sorghum. The high costs, inefficiencies, and continued reliance on manual labor, coupled with significant post-harvest losses, highlight the urgent need for crop-specific mechanisation solutions. Without addressing these drawbacks, the promise of mechanised harvesting for these essential crops remains largely unrealised. Several technologies have been developed to address the challenges of harvesting bajra and sorghum, though none have completely solved the issue. One of the most common methods involves the use of combine harvesters, which are typically designed for crops like wheat and rice. These machines can perform reaping, threshing, and winnowing in a single process. However, the structure of bajra and sorghum - with their larger, tougher grains and tall stalks - makes them unsuitable for this type of equipment. The result is often high levels of grain damage, incomplete threshing, and significant post-harvest losses. Despite some attempts to adapt these machines to suit bajra and sorghum, they have not been fully effective.

[0009] Another approach has been using forage harvesters, primarily for chopping silage rather than harvesting grain. While forage harvesters can manage the tall and thick stalks of bajra and sorghum, they are not designed to thresh or separate the grains. This means that after using a forage harvester, additional manual or mechanical steps are still required to collect the grains, negating much of the time and labor savings that mechanisation is meant to offer. These machines also fail to address the key challenge of grain preservation, as improper handling during harvest can lead to spoilage.

[0010] Overall, the existing technologies, while varied, have not yet provided a comprehensive solution to the challenges of harvesting bajra and sorghum. Combine harvesters and forage machines struggle to adapt to the crops' specific characteristics, and the modifications made to existing harvesters have not addressed all the inefficiencies or the high costs associated with mechanisation. Portable threshers offer some benefits but fall short in delivering a fully mechanised, labor-saving solution. These limitations in prior art highlight the need for continued innovation and development of more effective harvesting equipment tailored specifically to these crops.

[0011] To resolve the above-mentioned problem, an Advanced Dual-Action Harvester for Efficient Bajra and Sorghum Crop Processing is designed to combine the cutting of earheads and stalks into a single operation. It is mounted on a power tiller with a 10-15 horsepower rating; this machine uses an upper and a lower cutter to handle different crop parts effectively. The upper cutter, designed with either reciprocating or rotary action, targets the earheads, while the lower cutter focuses on the stalks, thus streamlining the harvesting process. Transparent guiding sheets help monitor operation, and stabilising components ensure precision and safety. This machine significantly reduces time and labor costs and offers a solution adaptable to various agricultural terrains, promoting widespread use among India's middle-class farmers.

THE OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION:

[0012] The existing solutions for harvesting bajra and sorghum are fraught with several problems that limit their effectiveness and practicality. One of the most significant issues is the incompatibility of current mechanised harvesters with the unique structural characteristics of these crops. Combine harvesters, primarily designed for grains like wheat and rice, are ill-suited to handle the larger, tougher grains and tall, fibrous stalks of bajra and sorghum. This mismatch often results in excessive grain damage, incomplete threshing, and higher post-harvest losses. Despite some modifications to these machines, such as adjusting drum speeds or adding specialised cutting mechanisms, they still fall short in fully addressing these crops' needs.

[0013] Another major drawback is the high cost associated with mechanised harvesters, which renders them inaccessible to many small and medium-scale farmers. The initial investment required to purchase these machines is often prohibitive, especially in developing regions where bajra and sorghum are staples. Beyond the upfront cost, ongoing maintenance and fuel expenses further strain farmers' finances. This issue is compounded by the fact that many of these machines are fuel-intensive, particularly in the arid and semi-arid regions where these crops are grown, making their operation economically unfeasible for smallholder farmers.

[0014] It has already been proposed that many of the existing solutions still require significant manual intervention. Machines like portable threshers, while more affordable, only address the threshing part of the process and require farmers to reap the crops, which is labor-intensive and time-consuming manually. Even with larger combine harvesters, grain separation and proper handling often require manual adjustment, undermining the potential labor savings that mechanisation is supposed to provide. This reliance on human labor reduces the overall efficiency and time savings that mechanised harvesting should ideally offer.

[0015] Another critical issue with existing solutions is the substantial grain loss that occurs during harvesting. Whether due to grain shattering, over-threshing, or inefficient separation, many machines fail to preserve the integrity of the grains, leading to significant post-harvest losses. This reduces the total yield and affects the quality and market value of the produce. In some cases, grains are damaged to the point where they are unsuitable for long-term storage, further exacerbating the problem by increasing waste and reducing farmers' profitability. The current methods of mechanised harvesting for bajra and sorghum remain inadequate for meeting the specific needs of these crops. The high costs, inefficiencies, and continued reliance on manual labor, coupled with substantial grain losses, underscore the limitations of existing solutions. Without addressing these problems, the potential benefits of mechanisation for bajra and sorghum harvesting remain largely unrealised.

[0016] The principal objective of the invention is an advanced dual-action harvester specifically tailored for the efficient and economical harvesting of Bajra and Sorghum. This system integrates upper and lower cutting mechanisms, each designed to optimise harvesting by cutting the earheads and the stalks, respectively. Additionally, the harvester is equipped with transparent monitoring capabilities to allow real-time operational oversight and is built to adapt seamlessly to various terrains, thus enhancing usability and effectiveness in diverse agricultural settings.

[0017] Another objective of the invention is to develop an upper-cutting mechanism that utilises either reciprocating or rotary actions to sever the earheads from the crops efficiently. This mechanism should be capable of precise alignment and cutting, reducing the physical effort required and minimising crop loss during harvesting.

[0018] The further objective of the invention is a lower-cutting mechanism positioned strategically beneath the upper cutter to handle the stalks immediately after the earheads are cut. This design aims to facilitate a smooth flow of crop processing, ensuring that both plant components are harvested efficiently and with minimal wastage.

[0019] The further objective of the invention is to incorporate a transparent guiding sheet within the harvester's architecture to allow operators to observe and monitor the cutting process directly. This feature is intended to enhance the operational transparency of the harvester, allowing for immediate adjustments and maintenance to optimise performance.

[0020] The further objective of the invention is to engineer the harvester to perform effectively across varied agricultural terrains. This involves the utilisation of adjustable guiding wheels and a stabilising system that can be modified in real-time to accommodate different soil conditions and crop heights, thereby ensuring consistent operation and reducing the risk of crop damage or inefficient harvesting.
[0021] The further objective of the invention is to focus on the safety and ergonomic design of the harvester to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries commonly associated with manual harvesting methods. This includes the development of safety features that protect operators from the moving parts of the machine and ergonomic considerations that make the harvester easy and comfortable to operate over extended periods.

[0022] The further objective of the invention is to ensure that the harvester is cost-effective, not only in terms of initial investment but also in terms of maintenance and operation. The design should cater specifically to the economic capabilities of middle-class farmers, providing them with a affordable yet highly efficient harvesting solution and capable of increasing their profitability.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Despite the ongoing efforts to develop efficient harvesting systems for bajra and sorghum, the current solutions remain largely inadequate. One of the primary challenges lies in the complexity of these crops' physical characteristics. Bajra and sorghum have larger and harder grains compared to wheat and rice, along with tall, sturdy stalks that complicate mechanised harvesting. Existing harvesters, originally designed for other cereals, struggle to manage these features effectively. As a result, farmers face significant grain loss, damage, and inefficiencies when using these machines, even if the equipment has been slightly modified to accommodate the crops' requirements.

[0024] Another persistent issue is the economic accessibility of mechanised solutions. While large-scale farming operations can afford the high costs associated with advanced machinery, smallholder farmers, who constitute the majority of bajra and sorghum producers, find these machines prohibitively expensive. Even where modified combine harvesters have been introduced, the high initial investment and substantial maintenance and fuel costs prevent widespread adoption. This economic barrier is especially problematic in regions where these crops are grown, as many of these areas are economically underdeveloped, and farmers work on tight margins.

[0025] In addition to cost, the performance of existing machines remains a major limitation. For instance, forage harvesters, while capable of cutting the tall stalks, fail to efficiently separate the grains from the stalks, leading to extra steps in the harvesting process. Similarly, portable threshers, although more affordable, only assist in one stage of harvesting - the separation of grain from stalks - and do not address the manual labor required for reaping. Thus, although these tools offer partial solutions, they do not provide the full mechanisation farmers require to significantly reduce labor and increase efficiency.

[0026] The high fuel consumption of existing harvesting machinery also presents a substantial challenge, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where bajra and sorghum are commonly grown. These regions often have limited access to affordable fuel, making the use of large, fuel-intensive machines both economically and logistically difficult. As a result, even those farmers who can access mechanised harvesters find that the operational costs are unsustainable, further discouraging adoption. The need for machines that are both fuel-efficient and tailored to the unique conditions of these regions remains a critical gap in the current technological landscape.

[0027] Furthermore, the lack of crop-specific design in most mechanised solutions leads to considerable post-harvest losses. Grain shattering, incomplete threshing, and over-processing are frequent problems when using harvesters not optimised for bajra and sorghum. These issues decrease the quantity of usable produce and reduce its quality, negatively impacting the market value of the harvested grains. The combination of physical damage to the grains and inefficient harvesting methods results in lower profits for farmers, undermining the potential benefits of mechanisation.

[0028] Despite efforts to improve mechanised harvesting for bajra and sorghum, the challenges posed by the crops' unique characteristics, the high cost of equipment, the fuel inefficiency, and the persistent need for manual labor remain unresolved. Even with various technological advancements, current methods fail to fully address the complex needs of smallholder farmers, who continue to face substantial barriers to mechanised harvesting. The development of affordable, efficient, and crop-specific harvesting solutions is still a critical necessity for improving productivity and sustainability in the cultivation of these essential crops.

[0029] So here in this invention a harvesting machine for Bajra and Sorghum, crucial crops in India's agricultural landscape. The harvester features a unique dual-action mechanism that efficiently cuts both earheads and stalks during a single pass over the field. It comprises an upper and lower cutter, integrated into a system mounted on a power tiller. The upper cutter, which can operate via reciprocating or rotary motion, swiftly cuts the earheads, which are then transported to a collecting pan by a conveyor system. The lower cutter simultaneously processes the stalks, guided by stabilisers and wheels to ensure clean cuts and proper disposal. This dual-action approach significantly enhances harvesting efficiency, reduces labor costs, and minimises injury risks, making it an invaluable asset for middle-class farmers across varied terrains.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] While the present invention is described herein by example, using various embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognise recognise invention is neither intended to be limited that to the embodiment of drawing or drawings described nor designed to represent the scale of the various components. Further, some features that may form a part of the invention may not be illustrated with specific figures for ease of illustration. Such omissions do not limit the embodiment outlined in any way. The drawings and detailed description are not intended to restrict the invention to the form disclosed. Still, on the contrary, the invention covers all modification/s, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. The headings are used for organisational purposes only and are not meant to limit the description's size or the claims. As used throughout this specification, the worn "may" be used in a permissive sense (That is, meaning having the potential) rather than the mandatory sense (That is, meaning, must).

[0031] Further, the words "an" or "a" mean "at least one" and the word "plurality" means one or more unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein is solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," or "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents and any additional subject matter not recited, and is not supposed to exclude any other additives, components, integers or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents acts, materials, devices, articles and the like are included in the specification solely to provide a context for the present invention.

[0032] In this disclosure, whenever an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase "comprising", it is also understood that it contemplates the same component or group of elements with transitional phrases "consisting essentially of, "consisting", "selected from the group comprising", "including", or "is" preceding the recitation of the element or group of elements and vice versa.

[0033] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited in its application to the details outlined in the following description or exemplified by the examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0034] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. Besides, the descriptions, materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. Methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention.

[0035] The present invention is an advanced Dual-Action Harvester for Bajra and Sorghum represents a significant leap forward in agricultural technology, specifically engineered to meet the challenges faced by farmers in India. The core purpose of this system is to provide a highly efficient, cost-effective, and safe method for harvesting Bajra and Sorghum, crops essential to the agricultural landscape of regions like Maharashtra and Gujarat. This harvester addresses the prevalent issues associated with traditional harvesting methods, which are often labor-intensive, time-consuming, and fraught with risks of physical injury.

[0036] Designed with precision, the harvester integrates two distinct cutting mechanisms that operate simultaneously to streamline the harvesting process. This dual-action functionality allows for the earheads and stalks of the crops to be cut in a single pass over the field, thereby drastically reducing the time and effort required compared to conventional methods. By simplifying the harvesting process, the system not only increases productivity but also diminishes the labor costs associated with the manual cutting and collection of crops.

[0037] Further enhancing its utility, the harvester is equipped with a transparent monitoring feature. This machine offers operators the ability to visually confirm the machine's effectiveness in real-time, ensuring that adjustments can be made promptly to maintain optimal performance throughout the operation. Such transparency is crucial for maximising yield and minimising waste during the harvesting process.

[0038] Additionally, the harvester is adept at navigating the diverse and often challenging agricultural terrains found across India. It is designed to adjust to various land conditions, ensuring reliable performance regardless of uneven ground or varying crop heights. This adaptability is vital for maintaining consistent efficiency and preventing damage to the crops or the machine. The Advanced Dual-Action Harvester for Bajra and Sorghum encapsulates a design ethos that prioritizes efficiency, safety, and adaptability. It offers a transformative solution for middle-class farmers, enabling them to meet the demands of modern agriculture with reduced physical strain and enhanced economic returns. This harvester is not merely a tool but a revolutionary step towards modernising the agricultural practices surrounding some of India's most vital crops.

[0039] The machine's architecture is both pragmatic and innovative, ensuring that it not only performs its intended function with high efficiency but also withstands the varied agricultural landscapes of India. The harvester's main body is mounted on a sturdy chassis supported by large, durable wheels that facilitate smooth navigation across uneven terrain. These wheels are specifically designed to adjust in height, allowing the harvester to operate efficiently on irregular land surfaces, which are common in the regions where Bajra and Sorghum are cultivated. The frame of the harvester, constructed from high-grade steel, provides a solid foundation for the mounting of both the upper and lower cutting mechanisms, ensuring durability and reliability during the harvesting process.

[0040] Visually, the harvester is striking, featuring a streamlined design that integrates all operational components seamlessly. The upper part of the machine hosts the upper cutter assembly, which is slightly elevated above the main body to facilitate the efficient cutting of the earheads. This section is characterised by its sleek, metallic surfaces and sharp lines that suggest movement and precision. Below this, the lower cutter is positioned closer to the ground for optimal stalk cutting. Both cutters are encased in protective housings that shield the mechanical parts from environmental elements and reduce the risk of accidental contact with the operators.

[0041] A notable feature of the harvester's design is the transparent monitoring sheet. Made from a high-strength, clear material, this component allows operators to view the internal workings of the machine, specifically the processing of the earheads. This transparency not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the harvester but also serves a critical functional purpose, enabling real-time monitoring and adjustments to ensure peak performance.

[0042] Additionally, the harvester is equipped with various sensors and control panels that are strategically placed and easily accessible. These panels provide digital readouts and controls for adjusting the machine's settings, enhancing the user's ability to fine-tune operations according to specific needs.

[0043] The Advanced Dual-Action Harvester for Bajra and Sorghum incorporates a series of intricately integrated components, each designed to fulfill specific functions that collectively enhance the machine's performance and efficiency. This detailed description elucidates the roles of these components and their interplay, which is pivotal in optimising the harvesting process for both earheads and stalks.

[0044] At the core of the harvester's functionality is the dual cutting mechanism, consisting of the upper cutter and the lower cutter. The upper cutter is ingeniously designed to operate with precision over the crop canopy, targeting the earheads specifically. It is equipped with either reciprocating or rotary blades, depending on the configuration, which are adept at swiftly cutting through the earheads without pulling or damaging the stalks. This component's efficiency is enhanced by its placement on an elevated platform above the main body of the harvester, which allows it a broader range of motion and reduces the likelihood of clogging or jamming with plant residue.

[0045] Beneath the upper cutter, the lower cutter takes on the task of processing the stalks. This cutter is positioned at an optimal height to engage the stalks immediately after the earheads have been removed, ensuring a clean and uniform cut. The strategic positioning helps in maintaining the balance of the machine, distributing the workload evenly between the upper and lower parts of the harvester, and facilitating a smooth flow of the stalks towards the exit chute.

[0046] A critical component that enhances the functionality of the cutting mechanisms is the conveyor system. Positioned between the upper and lower cutters, the conveyor serves as a bridge that transports the cut earheads from the point of cutting to the collection pan. This system is designed to be robust yet gentle enough to handle the earheads without causing damage, ensuring that the quality of the harvest is preserved. The conveyor's speed and movement are synchronised with the cutting actions, which maximises throughput and efficiency.

[0047] The harvester's transparent monitoring sheet plays a dual role in both operation and safety. Located along the side of the conveyor, this sheet provides operators with a clear view of the internal workings, particularly the transition of the earheads from the upper cutter to the conveyor. This visibility is crucial for real-time monitoring and troubleshooting, allowing operators to make adjustments on the fly to optimise performance and reduce downtime.

[0048] Supporting these primary components are the guiding wheels and stabilisers. The guiding wheels are crucial for maneuvering the harvester across varied terrains. They are designed to adjust in height, which is particularly beneficial in uneven fields where consistent depth of cut is critical for efficient harvesting. The stabilisers complement this by holding the crops in an upright position as they pass through the cutters, minimising the risk of tangling and ensuring that the stalks are evenly cut.

[0049] Finally, the power tiller, to which the entire assembly is mounted, provides the necessary power and mobility for the harvester. It houses the engine that drives both the upper and lower cutters, as well as the conveyor system. The power tiller's robust design and powerful output are essential for the harvester to perform under the strenuous conditions typical of agricultural fields, ensuring that the machine can operate for extended periods without overheating or power loss.

[0050] Together, these components form an integrated system that is highly efficient in the harvesting of Bajra and Sorghum. Each component not only fulfills a specific role but also interacts seamlessly with the others to enhance the overall functionality and reliability of the harvester. This integrated approach to design and functionality ensures that the harvester is not only effective in its primary task but also robust, safe, and easy to operate, embodying the pinnacle of innovation in agricultural machinery.

[0051] The operation of the Advanced Dual-Action Harvester for Bajra and Sorghum is a finely orchestrated process, designed to maximise efficiency and minimise labor and time expenditure during the harvesting of these essential crops. This system employs a series of mechanised actions, synchronised to facilitate a seamless transition from cutting to collection, ensuring the entire process is conducted with optimal precision and efficacy.

[0052] The working of the harvester commences with the initial engagement of the pick-up reel, which gently lifts the crops towards the cutting mechanisms. This component is crucial as it ensures that the crops are aligned correctly for precise cutting, preventing any tangling or misalignment that could affect the quality of the harvest.

[0053] Once the crops are aligned, the upper cutter is activated. This cutter is specifically designed to target the earheads, which contain the grains of the Bajra and Sorghum. Equipped with sharp, fast-moving blades, either reciprocating or rotating depending on the model, the upper cutter swiftly and efficiently severs the earheads from the stalks. This part of the process is critical as it determines the quality of the harvest; therefore, the action of the upper cutter is meticulously calibrated to ensure it cuts cleanly without damaging the grains.
[0054] Simultaneously with the action of the upper cutter, the lower cutter engages. This component operates close to the ground and is responsible for cutting the stalks of the crops after the earheads have been removed. The positioning and operation of the lower cutter are pivotal for preparing the stalks for subsequent collection or disposal, facilitating a clean and orderly field post-harvest.

[0055] The severed earheads and stalks are then managed by separate pathways within the harvester. The earheads are conveyed via a conveyor system, which transports them from the point of cutting to a collection pan. This system is designed to handle the earheads delicately to prevent any damage that could compromise the quality of the grain. The transparency of the conveyor's casing allows for monitoring of the process, ensuring that any issues can be quickly identified and addressed.

[0056] Concurrently, the stalks are directed away from the blades and towards the side of the machine by the stabilisers and guiding wheels. These components ensure that the stalks are neatly deposited on the ground, aiding in the cleanup of the field and preparing it for future agricultural activities. The guiding wheels also play an essential role in stabilising the harvester as it moves across varying terrains, maintaining consistent performance regardless of ground conditions.

[0057] Finally, the entire system is powered and propelled by a power tiller, which not only supplies the necessary energy for the cutters and conveyor but also supports the mobility of the harvester across the field. The integration of the power tiller ensures that the harvester can operate efficiently and continuously, even in extensive and demanding agricultural environments.

[0058] This comprehensive and synchronised operation of the Advanced Dual-Action Harvester not only enhances the efficiency of the harvesting process but also significantly reduces the physical strain on laborers and the time required to clear a field. Through meticulous design and precise engineering, this system ensures that the harvesting of Bajra and Sorghum is as economical, safe, and productive as possible.

[0059] Case Study Example: During the peak harvesting season, a significant challenge arose on a farm in the arid region of Gujarat: the demand for Bajra and Sorghum surged unexpectedly, compounded by an acute shortage of labor and the pressing need to harvest within a narrow window to maximise both yield and profitability. Traditionally, the region had relied heavily on manual labor for harvesting, a process not only time-consuming but also prone to inefficiencies and high costs during peak times. The scarcity of available labor during the peak season further exacerbated these problems, threatening the farm's ability to meet harvesting deadlines and potentially leading to considerable crop loss and reduced financial returns.

[0060] In response to these challenges, the farm opted to deploy the Advanced Dual-Action Harvester for Bajra and Sorghum. This harvester was specifically designed to operate efficiently under conditions of labor shortage and tight schedules. The dual-action cutting mechanisms, which feature integrated upper and lower cutters, allowed for the simultaneous cutting of earheads and stalks, significantly speeding up the harvesting process. By mechanising tasks that previously required extensive manual labor, the harvester substantially reduced labor dependency and increased operational speed.

[0061] The harvester's design proved exceptionally beneficial given the uneven and rugged terrain of the farm. Its adjustable guiding wheels and stabilisers adapted seamlessly to varying land conditions, ensuring continuous operation without the need for frequent stops and adjustments, which are often necessary with less sophisticated machinery. Additionally, equipped with a transparent monitoring feature, the harvester allowed operators to visually inspect the internal processing of the crops, ensuring optimal functionality of the cutting mechanisms. This capability was particularly crucial during the peak season when the volume of crops processed was significantly higher than usual. Operators could make real-time adjustments to the machine settings, avoiding potential breakdowns or inefficiencies that could disrupt the harvesting process.

[0062] The introduction of the Advanced Dual-Action Harvester transformed the harvesting operations on the farm. With the harvester's efficiency, the farm was able to process up to three times the amount of Bajra and Sorghum per day compared to manual methods. This increase in operational capacity helped the farm meet the increased market demand within the required timelines, maximising crop yield and profitability. The deployment of this harvester demonstrated how technological innovation could effectively mitigate the challenges of labor shortages and increased demand during critical peak seasons, helping the farm not only meet its harvesting deadlines but also set a new standard in operational efficiency and crop management within the region, showcasing the harvester's transformative potential in modern agriculture.

[0063] While there has been illustrated and described embodiments of the present invention, those of ordinary skill in the art, to be understood that various changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, modifications, substitutions and modifications, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims and their equivalents.

FIGURE DESCRIPTION

[0064] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate an exemplary embodiment and explain the disclosed embodiment together with the description. The left and rightmost digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears in the figures. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components. Some embodiments of the system and methods of an embodiment of the present subject matter are now described, by way of example only, and concerning the accompanying figures, in which:

[0065] Figure - 1 illustrates the Model of system, showcasing an integrated harvesting mechanism designed to efficiently collect earheads and cut stalks simultaneously. At the forefront, the Pick-Up Reel (01) gathers the earheads from the crops, feeding them into the Upper Cutter(02), which is responsible for detaching the earheads from the stalks. Once the earheads are removed, they are transported to the collecting pan through the Conveyor system(03), ensuring a smooth and continuous operation. The Guiding Sheet (06) directs the earheads into the collection pan, while its transparent nature allows the operator to visually monitor the system's efficiency. Supporting the upper cutting mechanism (05) is the Supporting Member, which extends over the lower cutting section (04), providing the necessary stability. Beneath the upper system, the Lower Cutter is positioned to handle the stalks. After the earheads are removed, the stalks are guided by the Stabilizer(07), ensuring they are properly aligned for cutting. Once cut, the stalks are directed to fall to the ground by the Guiding Wheels(08), which work in conjunction with toothed belt strips (11) to ensure precise placement. The system utilises a Pulley (09) connected to a vertical drive line (10), facilitating the transfer of power across the various components. Mounted on a Power Tiller (12), the entire assembly can move across uneven terrain while maintaining the flexibility to adjust its height according to the crop's stature. This ensures that both earheads and stalks are efficiently harvested in a single pass. The design of this system ensures a streamlined and effective process, minimising crop waste and maximising operational efficiency. , Claims:1. A harvesting apparatus for Bajra and Sorghum, comprising:
An upper cutter configured to sever earheads from crops;
A lower cutter positioned beneath the upper cutter, configured to sever stalks from the crops subsequent to the severance of the earheads;
A conveyor system positioned to receive and transport the severed earheads from the upper cutter to a collection area;
A chassis supporting the upper cutter, lower cutter, and conveyor system, wherein the chassis is mountable on a power tiller;
A monitoring system incorporating a transparent component enabling visual inspection of the conveyor system;
Adjustable guiding wheels attached to the chassis for terrain adaptability, facilitating movement across varied agricultural fields.
2. The harvesting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the upper cutter includes a reciprocating blade mechanism to enhance precision in severing earheads.
3. The harvesting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lower cutter includes a rotary blade mechanism, facilitating efficient and clean cutting of stalks close to the ground.
4. The harvesting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the conveyor system is equipped with a speed control mechanism to synchronise the speed of the conveyor with the cutting rate of the upper cutter, optimising the transport of severed earheads.
5. The harvesting apparatus of claim 1, further comprising stabilisers associated with the lower cutter for maintaining the orientation of stalks as they are fed into the lower cutter, thereby ensuring a consistent cutting height and reducing the risk of jamming.
6. The harvesting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the adjustable guiding wheels are equipped with a height adjustment mechanism, enabling the apparatus to maintain optimal contact with the ground irrespective of terrain irregularities.
7. The harvesting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the transparent component of the monitoring system is made from a high-durability, scratch-resistant material, providing enduring visibility and protection against environmental conditions.
8. The harvesting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the chassis includes a modular design allowing for the addition of auxiliary components such as additional conveyors or cutting mechanisms for specific harvesting requirements.

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