NOVEL TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED HARVEST BINS FOR HORTICULTURE PRODUCE

Abstract

This invention provides a modular, portable storage bin system for horticultural crops, featuring temperature, humidity, and gas control mechanisms powered by solar energy. Equipped with IoT-enabled sensors for real-time monitoring, the bins maintain optimal storage conditions to extend crop shelf life and reduce post-harvest losses. Designed for off-grid use, the bins support sustainable agricultural practices and enhance the quality and marketability of fresh produce.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to agricultural technology and post-harvest management, focusing on a temperature-controlled harvest bin system for extending the shelf life of horticultural produce. Designed to optimize storage conditions, this system integrates temperature, humidity, and gas composition controls, making it suitable for maintaining the quality of perishable crops during storage and transport.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Post-harvest losses in horticulture pose a significant challenge, particularly for perishable produce like fruits, vegetables, and herbs, which require precise environmental conditions to prevent spoilage. Traditional storage solutions, such as refrigerated storage and insulated containers, are often impractical for small-scale farmers or those in remote regions due to high costs and the reliance on constant electricity. These methods typically do not offer the specific control over temperature, humidity, and gas composition required for different crop types, leading to accelerated spoilage, diminished quality, and financial loss. This invention addresses these issues by providing portable, energy-efficient bins equipped with real-time environmental monitoring and control systems that adapt to the unique storage needs of various crops. By maintaining optimal storage conditions through smart sensors and IoT-enabled control, these bins reduce post-harvest spoilage and enhance produce marketability for both small-scale and commercial agricultural operations.
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 introduces modular, temperature-controlled harvest bins specifically designed to preserve horticultural crops. These bins incorporate temperature, humidity, and gas control mechanisms powered by solar energy and rechargeable batteries, making them suitable for use in off-grid locations. IoT-based sensors continuously monitor storage conditions, alerting users to deviations that could impact produce quality. Through tailored settings for each crop type, the system maximizes shelf life and reduces spoilage, supporting sustainable agriculture by reducing reliance on grid power and enhancing the efficiency of produce storage and transport.
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 BIN'S STRUCTURE, SHOWING THE INSULATED BODY, TEMPERATURE CONTROL UNIT, HUMIDITY CONTROL MECHANISM, AND GAS REGULATION SYSTEM.
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 Novel Temperature Controlled Harvest Bins for Horticulture Produce are portable, modular storage units developed to preserve the quality and extend the shelf life of perishable crops. Each bin is constructed with lightweight, durable, and insulated materials that maintain a stable internal environment by minimizing heat exchange between the interior and external surroundings. This insulation is essential for maintaining the ideal temperature and humidity for various crop types, protecting the produce from spoilage caused by environmental fluctuations during storage and transit.
The temperature control system within each bin is compact and energy-efficient, capable of maintaining precise temperature ranges specific to the crops being stored. The system is designed to cool or slightly heat the interior as needed, accommodating crops with different optimal storage requirements. For instance, leafy vegetables require temperatures between 1°C and 4°C, while other crops like tomatoes may need slightly warmer storage conditions around 10°C to 12°C. This feature allows farmers to store a diverse range of produce under conditions tailored to each crop's needs, enhancing the bin's versatility.
The humidity regulation mechanism within the bins ensures that moisture levels remain consistent, as fluctuations in humidity can lead to rapid crop deterioration. The system includes either a misting unit or humidity-retaining pads, which release or absorb moisture as necessary to maintain a stable humidity level. This is particularly important for crops such as leafy greens, which require high humidity to retain freshness, and for produce like garlic, which needs lower humidity to avoid mold. By providing a controlled humidity environment, the bins support the quality and longevity of different types of horticultural produce.
The gas composition management system in each bin regulates the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide, creating a modified atmosphere that benefits crops like apples and avocados, which ripen more slowly in low-oxygen environments. This system features gas sensors that monitor the internal atmosphere, adjusting the gas composition as needed to optimize storage conditions for various fruits and vegetables. The ability to modify the gas environment enhances the bin's effectiveness for high-value crops that require controlled atmospheres to prolong freshness.
IoT-enabled sensors embedded within each bin continuously monitor temperature, humidity, and gas composition, transmitting real-time data to a connected mobile app or web platform. This technology allows farmers and transporters to track the internal conditions remotely and receive alerts if any parameter deviates from the optimal range. This feature enables timely interventions to prevent spoilage, ensuring that the produce maintains peak quality during its journey from farm to market. The bins are powered by solar panels integrated into the top surface, supplemented by rechargeable batteries for nighttime operation or in low-light conditions. This design allows the bins to function independently of grid electricity, making them suitable for use in remote or off-grid areas, supporting sustainable agricultural practices by reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
, Claims:1. A temperature-controlled harvest bin for horticultural produce, comprising an insulated body, temperature control unit, humidity regulation mechanism, and gas composition management system, specifically designed to maintain optimal conditions for perishable crops.
2. The bin as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the temperature control unit provides adjustable cooling or heating to maintain crop-specific temperature ranges between 0°C and 15°C.
3. The bin as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the humidity regulation mechanism includes a misting system or humidity-retaining pads to maintain stable moisture levels based on crop requirements.
4. The bin as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the gas composition management system regulates oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, creating a modified atmosphere beneficial for certain fruits and vegetables.
5. The bin as claimed in Claim 1, wherein IoT-enabled sensors monitor internal temperature, humidity, and gas composition, providing real-time data and alerts to users via a mobile app or web platform.
6. The bin as claimed in Claim 1, wherein solar panels and rechargeable batteries power the temperature control and monitoring systems, allowing off-grid operation and energy independence.

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