An agricultural machine with adjustable height and width and a method thereof

Abstract

The subject matter discloses an agricultural machine (100) with adjustable height and width. The agricultural machine (100) comprises a chassis (102) where the height and width of the chassis (102) are adjustable, plurality of wheels (104) connected to the chassis (102) with a connecting element (108), a suspension mechanism comprising a spring-based shock absorber (202) coupled to the chassis (102), a plurality of telescopic rods (204) for variable height adjustment at each wheel (104), removable lugs (106) on the wheels (104), with adjustable angles for modifying traction based on field terrain, enhancing grip and locomotion for various soil conditions, a sideward wheel adjustment mechanism (300) and a braking mechanism (400). To be published with: Figure 1

Specification

Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The field of disclosure generally relates to an agricultural machine. More specifically, it relates to an agricultural machine whose height and width can be adjusted based on various factors like terrain of the field, type of soil, type of crops, and crop spacing etc.

BACKGROUND
[002] Various types of machines are used in agricultural activities. The machines may be used for tilling, marking, seeding, fertilizing, harvesting etc. Various crops are cultivated under different conditions.
[003] For example, paddy and groundnut are extensively cultivated across India and they require vastly different growing conditions. Paddy fields often feature loamy soils with varying degrees of waterlogging, while groundnut fields thrive in drier, arid conditions.
[004] Additionally, variations within paddy cultivation itself, including different soil types and crop variants, complicate the development of a single agricultural machine capable of handling different crops. These differences in terrain, soil, water requirements, and crop spacing present significant challenges in mechanization, making it difficult to create a versatile agricultural machine that can efficiently operate in such diverse environments.
[005] Agricultural fields exhibit diverse and unpredictable environmental conditions, presenting challenges for automated systems to operate effectively across various terrains. These conditions require technology that can adapt to changes in soil type, moisture levels, and landscape features, which is currently difficult to achieve consistently.
[006] Different crops have unique requirements for soil preparation, fertilizing, and seeding. Implementing automated systems that can meet these specific needs involves significant adjustments, complicating the design and deployment of such technology. This necessity for customization makes the systems less flexible and more challenging to standardize.
[007] Mobile workstations and sensors used in known arts must be highly adaptable to manage the diverse characteristics and growth patterns of various crops. Developing technology that can handle this level of adaptability is both technologically challenging and expensive. This complexity increases the cost and difficulty of deploying automated systems in diverse agricultural settings.
[008] Due to variability in crop types, automated systems may exhibit inconsistent performance and efficiency. This inconsistency necessitates ongoing calibration and updates to maintain the effectiveness of the technology. The need for continuous adjustments can lead to increased operational costs and downtime.
[009] The physical dimensions of agricultural machines may limit their ability to adjust to the optimal spacing required for certain crops. Crops with very specific or tight spacing needs pose a particular challenge, as the machine may not be able to achieve the precise spacing necessary for optimal growth and yield. This limitation can impact the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the automated systems.
[0010] The claimed subject matter addresses these issues and proposes to provide an adjustable agricultural machine which can be adjusted to various types of terrains, soil, crops etc.
 
OBJECT OF INVENTION
[0011] The principal object of this disclosure is to provide an agricultural machine.
[0012] A further object of the disclosure is to provide an agricultural machine which can be adjusted to different terrains by adjusting the width and height of the agricultural machine.
[0013] A further object of the disclosure is to provide an agricultural machine which can be adjusted to different soil conditions by adjusting movable lugs of the agricultural machine.
[0014] A further object of the disclosure is to provide an agricultural machine which can be adjusted to different crop spacing by adjusting width of wheels of the agricultural machine.


BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[0015] This disclosure is illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which, like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures.
[0016] The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the drawings, in which:
[0017] Figure 1 illustrates an agricultural machine with adjustable height and width, in accordance with an embodiment.
[0018] Figure 2 illustrates a suspension mechanism and telescopic rods of the agricultural machine, in accordance with an embodiment.
[0019] Figure 3 illustrates a sideward wheel adjustment mechanism of the machine, in accordance with an embodiment.
[0020] Figure 4 illustrates a wheel with removable lugs, in accordance with an embodiment.
[0021] Figure 5 illustrates a wheel width adjustment mechanism of the machine, in accordance with an embodiment.
[0022] Figure 6 illustrates a braking mechanism of the agricultural machine, in accordance with an embodiment.


STATEMENT OF INVENTION
[0023] The claimed subject matter discloses an agricultural machine with adjustable height and width. The 'agricultural machine' may be referred as 'machine' henceforth.
[0024] An agricultural machine comprises a chassis 102 where the height and width of the chassis 102 are adjustable, plurality of wheels 104 connected to the chassis 102 with a connecting element 108, a suspension mechanism comprising a spring-based shock absorber 202 coupled to the chassis 102. The machine further comprises a plurality of telescopic rods 204 for variable height adjustment at each wheel 104, a first end of the telescopic rods 204 connected to the chassis 102 and a second end of the telescopic rods 204 connected to the wheels 104 through the connecting element 108, enabling the adaptation of height of chassis 102 to different crop types and field conditions. The machine further comprises removable lugs 106 on the wheels 104, with adjustable angles for modifying traction based on field terrain, enhancing grip and locomotion for various soil conditions. The machine further comprises a sideward wheel adjustment mechanism 300 featuring adjustable connectors 302 and semi-circular structures 304 with spaced slots, allowing precise alignment for various crop row spacing and improved vehicle balance. The machine further comprises a braking mechanism 400 comprising braking rods 402 acting on the lugs 106, the braking rods 402 angularly positioned and actuated by an actuator 404 to interfere with movement of wheels 104 for effective braking.
[0025] The claimed subject matter discloses an agricultural machine, wherein the width adjustment mechanism 500 of the chassis 100 comprises M20 holes 502 on each side of L-shaped rods 504 at the corners of the chassis 100, securing the L-shaped rods 504 with nuts and bolts, allowing for width adjustment of the chassis 100 to accommodate different field conditions.
[0026] The claimed subject matter discloses an agricultural machine, wherein the removable lugs 106 on the wheels 104 are designed to change angles to push wet soil backwards in fields, improving traction and vehicle movement in muddy and slaggy conditions.
[0027] The claimed subject matter discloses an agricultural machine, wherein the sideward wheel adjustment mechanism 300 is designed to adjust the distance 308 between the wheel rims 306A, 306B through linked connectors 302A, 302B and slots 304, enhancing compatibility with various types of soil and crop spacing.
[0028] The claimed subject matter discloses an agricultural machine, wherein the actuator 404 of the braking system 400 is designed to push the upper end of the braking rod 402 forward, thereby rotating the lower end of the braking rod 402 to interfere with the movement of the wheels 104, providing effective braking power.
[0029] The claimed subject matter discloses an agricultural machine, wherein the lugs 106 are removable thereby allowing for easy transportation of the agricultural machine 100 on normal roads and plain surfaces.


DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[0031] The subject matter discloses an agricultural machine whose height and width can be adjusted based on different factors like, terrain of the field, type of soil and type of crops, crop spacing etc.
[0032] Figure 1 illustrates an agricultural machine 100 with adjustable height and width in accordance with an embodiment.
[0033] Shown in figure 1 is the machine 100 comprising a chassis 102, a plurality of wheels 104, removable lugs 106 connected to the wheels, a connecting element 108 to connect the wheels 104 to the chassis through a telescopic rod.
[0034] The height and width of the chassis 102 is adjustable to cater to different conditions of the terrain, soil type, crop spacing, crop height etc.
[0035] Figure 2 illustrates a suspension mechanism and telescopic rods of the agricultural machine.
[0036] The suspension mechanism comprises a spring-based shock absorber 202 wound around the rod-like structure which connects the chassis 102 to the motor holder 206. The rod-like structure comprises a telescopic rod 204 which enables height adjustment of the chassis 102.
[0037] To increase the height of the chassis 102, the telescopic rod 204 can be expanded. Further, to decrease the height of the chassis 102, the telescopic rod 204 can be collapsed.
[0038] Figure 3 illustrates a width adjustment mechanism of the machine 100. The width adjustment mechanism 300 comprises an L shaped rod 302 at each corner of the chassis 102 with M20 holes 304 on each arm of the L shaped rod 302. These M20 holes 304 are provided for adjusting the length of the edge rods of the chassis 102, thereby allowing for adjustment of the width of the chassis 102.
[0039] The L shaped rod 302 is secured to the edge rods of the chassis 102 with a nut and a bolt. Different M20 holes 304 for nut and bolt are used for varying the width of the machine 100.
[0040] Figure 4 illustrates a wheel 104 with removable lugs 106.
[0041] The wheel frame 402 is manufactured with sturdy spokes such that it is strong and with high load tolerance. The lugs 106 help to have grip in the muddy and slaggy fields and also push the wet soil backwards to have better locomotion for the vehicle.
[0042] The movability of the lugs 106 will help to adjust the angle of the lugs 106 in different angles to adjust the surface area exposal between the wheel and the soil which adjusts the friction force with respect to the terrain and application. The removability feature of the lugs 106 will allow the vehicle to be moved even on a normal road or plain surface for shorter distances near the farm without any discomfort.
[0043] Figure 5 illustrates a wheel width adjustment mechanism of the agricultural machine 100.
[0044] The wheel width adjustment feature will provide the vehicle balance, improvement of traction and compatibility with any type of soil. Both wheel rims 506A, 506B have a link each, 502A, 50B which join at a semi-circular structure 504 with slots with equal spacing to adjust the angle between the links 502A, 504B which in turn adjusts the distance 508 between the two wheel rims 506A, 506 to vary the width of the wheels 104.
[0045] Figure 6 illustrates a braking mechanism 600.
[0046] The braking mechanism comprises a braking rod 602 and an actuator 604. The braking rod 602 is initially positioned in an angular manner without interfering with movement of the wheels 104. Whenever the braking is required, the actuator 604 actuates the braking rod 602. The braking rod 602 is hinged at a point in the upper half, so whenever the actuator 604 pushes the upper end of the braking rod 602 forward the lower end of the braking rod 602 rotates and interferes with movement of the wheel 104 and enables braking of the machine 100.
[0047] The claimed subject matter provides various advantages. Some examples are mentioned below:
[0048] The claimed subject matter provides a machine which can be adapted to any terrain, soil type, crop type, crop spacing etc. by adjusting its various features like height, width, removable lugs, width of the wheels etc. This eliminates the requirement of maintaining different machines for the above-mentioned features.
[0049] The disclosure provides a versatile and adaptable machine that can efficiently operate in different fields, like loamy and waterlogged soils, drier soil etc. The disclosure addresses the challenges of mechanizing agricultural processes across different crop types, soil types, and growth stages, offering a comprehensive solution to enhance farming efficiency and productivity.
[0050] The disclosure provides an adaptable agricultural machine designed to accommodate the varying needs of different crops, for example paddy and groundnut farming. The machine features removable lugs on wheels, allowing for traction adjustment based on field terrain by modifying lug angles. Sideward wheel adjustment provides precise control for different crop row spacing, while brakes acting on the lugs ensure effective braking. Additionally, the width-adjustable wheels and height-and-width adjustable chassis offer flexibility to adapt to different crop types and field conditions at various stages of cultivation.
[0051] This disclosure offers an adjustable agricultural machine to function efficiently across a wide range of terrains and crop requirements, reducing the need for multiple specialized machines. This versatility not only improves operational efficiency but also lowers costs for farmers by providing a single, adaptable solution for diverse agricultural needs.
[0052] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described here.
, Claims:We claim:
1. An adjustable agricultural machine (100) comprising:
a chassis (102) wherein height and width of the chassis (102) are adjustable;
a plurality of wheels (104) connected to the chassis (102) with a connecting element (108);
a suspension mechanism comprising a spring-based shock absorber (202) coupled to the chassis (102);
a plurality of telescopic rods (204) for variable height adjustment at each wheel (104);
multiple removable lugs (106) attached to the wheels (104), comprising adjustable angles for modifying traction based on field terrain, enhancing grip and locomotion for various soil conditions;
a sideward wheel adjustment mechanism (300) featuring adjustable connectors (302) and semi-circular structures (304) with spaced slots, allowing precise alignment for various crop row spacing and improved vehicle balance; and
a braking mechanism (400) comprising braking rods (402) acting on the lugs (106).

2. The agricultural machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the width adjustment mechanism (500) of the chassis (100) comprises holes (502) on each side of L-shaped rods (504) at the corners of the chassis (100), and wherein the L-shaped rods (504) are secured with nuts and bolts, for enabling width adjustment of the chassis (100) to accommodate different field conditions.

3. The agricultural machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the removable lugs (106) on the wheels (104) are designed to change angles for improving traction and vehicle movement in muddy and slaggy conditions, and
wherein the lugs (106) are designed to be removable thereby allowing for easy transportation of the agricultural machine (100) on roads and plain surfaces.

4. The agricultural machine of claim 1, wherein the sideward wheel adjustment mechanism (300) enables adjusting a distance (308) between the wheel rims (306A, 306B) through linked connectors (302A, 302B) and slots (304), for enhancing compatibility with various types of soil and crop spacing.

5. The agricultural machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the braking rods (402) are angularly positioned and actuated by an actuator (404) to interfere with movement of wheels (104) for effective braking, and
wherein the actuator (404) of the braking system (400) is used to push the upper end of the braking rod (402) forward for rotating the lower end of the braking rod (402) to interfere with the movement of the wheels (104), to provide effective braking power.

6. The agricultural machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a first end of the telescopic rods (204) is connected to the chassis (102) and a second end of the telescopic rods (204) is connected to the wheels (104) through the connecting element (108), enabling variation of height of chassis (102) to different crop types and field conditions.

7. A method of manufacturing an agricultural machine (100) with adjustable height and width, the method comprising:
manufacturing a chassis (102) with holes (502) on each side of L-shaped rods (504) at the corners of the chassis (102) for width adjustment of the chassis (102) and securing the L-shaped rods (504) with nuts and bolts;
coupling a plurality of wheels (104) to the chassis (102) with a connecting element (108);
coupling a suspension mechanism comprising a spring-based shock absorber (202) to the chassis (102);
manufacturing a plurality of telescopic rods (204) for variable height adjustment at each wheel (104);
coupling multiple removable lugs (106) to the wheels (104) wherein angles of the lugs are adjustable;
coupling a sideward wheel adjustment mechanism (300) to the wheels (104); and
coupling a braking mechanism (400) ) comprising braking rods (402) acting on the lugs (106), to the chassis (102).

8. The method of manufacturing an agricultural machine (100) as claimed in claim 7, comprising:
enabling width adjustment of the chassis (100) to accommodate different field conditions by using a width adjustment mechanism (500) of the chassis (100) comprising holes (502) on each side of L-shaped rods (504) at the corners of the chassis (100), and wherein the L-shaped rods (504) are secured with nuts and bolts;
changing angles for improving traction and vehicle movement in muddy and slaggy conditions by using removable lugs (106) on the wheels (104); and
adjusting a distance (308) between the wheel rims (306A, 306B) through linked connectors (302A, 302B) and slots (304), through the sideward wheel adjustment mechanism (300).

9. The method of manufacturing an agricultural machine (100) as claimed in claim 7, comprising:
rotating a lower end of the braking rod (402) to interfere with the movement of the wheels (104) to provide effective braking power, by using an actuator (404) of the braking system (400) to push an upper end of the braking rod (402) forward.

10. The method of manufacturing an agricultural machine (100) as claimed in claim 7, comprising:
connecting a first end of the telescopic rods (204) to the chassis (102);
connecting a second end of the telescopic rods (204) to the wheels (104) through the connecting element (108); and
enabling variation of height of chassis (102) to different crop types and field conditions.


Date: 21st November 2024 Signature:
Name of signatory: Nishant Kewalramani
(Patent Agent)
IN/PA number: 1420

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