AUTOMATED PHEROMONE DISPENSER FOR SUSTAINABLE PEST MANAGEMENT IN AGRICULTURE

Abstract

This invention provides an automated pheromone dispenser with programmable release mechanisms, environmental sensors, and IoT connectivity for precision pest management. Powered by solar energy, the dispenser adjusts pheromone dispersal based on real-time environmental conditions, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. It offers a scalable, sustainable solution that integrates with modern agricultural practices, supporting effective pest control with minimal ecological impact.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to agricultural pest management technology, specifically an automated pheromone dispenser designed to control pest populations by leveraging pheromones for behavior disruption. It integrates environmental sensors and IoT connectivity, enabling precision-based pest control that reduces chemical pesticide dependency and promotes sustainable farming.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Traditional pest control methods heavily rely on chemical pesticides, which often lead to environmental pollution, pest resistance, and health risks for both farmers and consumers. These methods also pose risks to non-target organisms, such as beneficial insects. Sustainable alternatives, such as pheromone dispensers, have been developed but are typically manually operated, lacking precision and requiring frequent maintenance. This invention addresses these limitations by providing an automated pheromone dispenser that is programmable, solar-powered, and capable of adjusting release patterns based on real-time environmental conditions. The device is designed to support Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, offering a targeted, eco-friendly approach that reduces labor costs and enhances pest control effectiveness across different crop types and farm sizes.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
The invention provides an automated pheromone dispenser with programmable release mechanisms, built-in environmental sensors, and IoT connectivity for remote monitoring and control. This dispenser releases pheromones at optimal times to disrupt pest mating cycles or lure pests to traps, minimizing chemical pesticide use. The system is solar-powered, featuring replaceable pheromone cartridges, and is designed to adapt to varying environmental conditions, ensuring effective and efficient pest control. This technology offers a practical and scalable solution that integrates with modern precision agriculture practices, helping farmers improve crop yields and reduce ecological impact.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The illustrated embodiments of the subject matter will be understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and methods that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:
FIGURE 1: ILLUSTRATES THE STRUCTURE OF THE PHEROMONE DISPENSER, HIGHLIGHTING ITS MAIN COMPONENTS, INCLUDING THE PHEROMONE RESERVOIR AND MICROMECHANICAL VALVES.
The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a"," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes" and/or "including," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", "third", and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
The Automated Pheromone Dispenser is a sophisticated device designed to optimize pheromone-based pest control in agricultural settings. The device includes a programmable release mechanism that controls the timing, dosage, and frequency of pheromone dispersal. The dispenser stores pheromones in replaceable cartridges, each containing a specified amount of pheromone compound targeted toward specific pest species. The dispensing mechanism uses micromechanical valves to regulate the release pattern based on pest behavior, environmental data, and crop-specific requirements.
Equipped with environmental sensors, the device monitors real-time data, including temperature, humidity, and wind speed, to adjust pheromone release dynamically. This ensures optimal diffusion and effectiveness, maximizing the pheromones' impact on pest behavior. For example, the device can increase pheromone release when conditions favor pest activity or adjust the release during unfavorable conditions to conserve pheromone resources. The solar power system sustains the dispenser, making it suitable for remote locations where power access may be limited. Photovoltaic cells recharge the device's battery, allowing continuous operation throughout the growing season. A battery backup system ensures functionality during low sunlight periods, providing consistent pest control.
The IoT connectivity feature allows the device to be monitored and controlled remotely. Through a mobile app or cloud-based platform, farmers can view real-time data on environmental conditions and pheromone levels, adjust dispensing schedules, and receive alerts for maintenance or cartridge replacement. This connectivity enables farmers to integrate the device seamlessly into their IPM strategies, scaling pest management efforts as needed. The dispenser is also designed to integrate with existing data-driven agricultural systems, enhancing its adaptability to various farm setups.
The pheromone cartridges are long-lasting, reducing the frequency of replacements and labor costs. When a cartridge nears depletion, an alert is sent to the farmer, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous pest control. The system also includes an automatic calibration feature that maintains effective pheromone dosing, compensating for environmental variations and ensuring consistent performance.
, Claims:1. An automated pheromone dispenser for agricultural pest management, featuring programmable release mechanisms to optimize pheromone dispersal based on pest behavior and environmental conditions.
2. The dispenser as claimed in Claim 1, wherein environmental sensors monitor temperature, humidity, and wind speed, adjusting pheromone release patterns for maximum efficacy.
3. The dispenser as claimed in Claim 1, wherein IoT connectivity enables remote monitoring and control of pheromone release schedules and provides real-time data on pheromone levels.
4. The dispenser as claimed in Claim 1, wherein it is powered by photovoltaic cells, allowing continuous operation in remote farming areas without external power sources.
5. The dispenser as claimed in Claim 1, wherein replaceable pheromone cartridges are incorporated, each containing pest-specific pheromones that reduce the need for chemical insecticides.
6. A method of pest management as claimed in Claim 1, involving the automated release of pheromones through a programmable, environmentally-responsive dispenser to control pest populations sustainably.

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