PRECISION AUTOMATED CARROT HARVESTER WITH INTEGRATED CLEANING AND GRADING SYSTEM

Abstract

ABSTRACT The invention is a precision automated carrot harvester designed to enhance the efficiency of carrot harvesting by integrating uprooting, cleaning, and grading into a single machine. Featuring a precision uprooting mechanism that minimizes root damage, the harvester ensures efficient extraction of carrots. An advanced cleaning system employs rotating brushes and high-pressure air blowers to thoroughly remove soil and debris, while an automated grading and sorting mechanism categorizes the produce based on size and quality using advanced sensors. The collection system is designed for efficient transport, reducing handling damage. Equipped with a user-friendly control panel, the harvester allows for real-time adjustments to optimize performance in various agricultural conditions. This innovative solution significantly reduces labor costs, improves product quality, and increases overall operational efficiency, making it a vital advancement in modern agricultural technology. Dated this …….Day of October, 2024 Dr. Monica Gulati Registrar Lovely Professional University

Specification

Description:The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner it
is to be performed.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The technical field of the invention pertains to agricultural engineering and automation, specifically focusing on machinery designed for the harvesting of root vegetables, particularly carrots. It involves the integration of advanced mechanical systems for uprooting, cleaning, and grading produce, leveraging technologies such as precision engineering, automated sorting, and efficient cleaning methods. This invention addresses the need for improved efficiency and reduced labor costs in agricultural practices, contributing to enhanced productivity and product quality in large-scale farming operations. The system's adaptability to various soil conditions and carrot sizes further emphasizes its significance in modern agricultural technology.
BACKGROUND
[002] The increasing demand for fresh produce, coupled with labor shortages in agriculture, has heightened the need for efficient carrot harvesting solutions. Traditional manual harvesting methods are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and often lead to inconsistencies in product quality. As a result, farmers face challenges in meeting market demands while managing rising operational costs. Automating the harvesting process can significantly alleviate these issues by improving efficiency and reducing the dependence on manual labor.
[003] CN102697436B, focus on specific aspects of the harvesting process, like cleaning, without integrating the full cycle of uprooting, cleaning, and grading. This indicates a gap in the market for a comprehensive solution that addresses all stages of carrot processing. Similarly, US20140039532A1 highlights a carrot harvesting machine but lacks a robust cleaning and sorting mechanism, underscoring the need for a holistic approach that enhances the overall efficiency of the harvesting process.
[004] Many traditional harvesting machines are not designed to adapt to varying soil conditions or different carrot sizes, which can lead to inefficiencies and damage during harvest. The complexity of agricultural environments necessitates a more versatile design capable of adjusting to factors like soil type and moisture levels. Current machines often require manual adjustments or exhibit rigidity, further complicating the harvesting process and increasing labor costs.
[005] Automation can significantly enhance the consistency and quality of harvested carrots. Precision uprooting mechanisms are crucial for minimizing damage during extraction, preserving the quality of the produce. Additionally, advanced cleaning technologies, such as rotating brushes and air blowers, ensure that soil and debris are thoroughly removed before the carrots proceed to the grading stage, thereby improving product quality.
[006] A reliable grading and sorting system is essential for achieving uniformity in size and quality, which is critical for meeting market standards and consumer expectations. Automated sensors can facilitate this process by categorizing carrots based on predefined criteria, reducing variability and ensuring that only high-quality produce reaches consumers. This system can enhance farmers' reputations and improve customer satisfaction.
[007] The incorporation of efficient collection and loading systems in a carrot harvester can streamline logistics, minimizing handling damage during transport. By efficiently gathering cleaned and graded carrots into bins or trailers, the system ensures that produce is protected as it moves from the field to storage or processing facilities. This aspect is crucial for maintaining the integrity and market value of the harvested carrots.
[008] The development of an integrated harvesting system can lead to better overall profitability for farmers. By addressing labor costs, improving product quality, and streamlining logistics, this innovation makes large-scale carrot production more feasible and appealing. In a competitive agricultural market, where efficiency and quality are key differentiators, such advancements can position farmers favorably against their competitors.
[009] The proposed precision automated carrot harvester aims to fill the gaps identified in existing technologies by offering a comprehensive solution that integrates uprooting, cleaning, and grading. This invention not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures high-quality output, adaptability to various agricultural conditions, and reduced reliance on manual labor, marking a significant advancement in agricultural machinery.
SUMMARY
[010] The invention is a precision automated carrot harvester designed to streamline the harvesting process by integrating uprooting, cleaning, and grading into a single machine. It features a precision uprooting mechanism that minimizes root damage, allowing for efficient extraction while preserving the quality of the carrots. This advanced design reduces the reliance on manual labor, addressing labor shortages and rising costs in agriculture.
[011] The cleaning system employs a combination of rotating brushes and high-pressure air blowers to thoroughly remove soil and debris, ensuring that the carrots are clean and ready for market. This thorough cleaning not only enhances the product quality but also prepares the carrots for the subsequent grading process, which is crucial for meeting market standards.
[012] An automated grading and sorting mechanism utilizes sensors to categorize carrots based on size and quality, ensuring uniformity in the final product. This feature addresses inconsistencies often found in manually harvested produce and improves marketability, enhancing customer satisfaction and farmer reputation.
[013] The collection and loading system is designed to handle large volumes of harvested carrots while minimizing handling damage during transport. This ensures that the quality of the produce is maintained from the field to storage or processing facilities, further adding value to the harvesting operation.
[014] This innovative carrot harvester significantly increases operational efficiency and reduces labor costs, providing farmers with a cost-effective solution for large-scale carrot production. By integrating advanced technologies and automation into the harvesting process, the invention not only improves productivity but also enhances the overall quality and consistency of harvested carrots, positioning it as a vital advancement in agricultural machinery.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[015] The foregoing detailed description of embodiments is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating of the present subject matter, an example of the construction of the present subject matter is provided as figures; however, the invention is not limited to the specific method disclosed in the document and the figures.
[016] The present subject matter is described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to various features of the present subject matter.
[017] Figure 1provides the working prototype of the invention.
[018] The given figures depict an embodiment of the present disclosure for illustration and better understanding only.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[019] Some of the embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[020] The precision automated carrot harvester is designed as an all-in-one solution to streamline the carrot harvesting process, integrating uprooting, cleaning, and grading into a cohesive system. Its robust chassis ensures stability and support for various components while allowing for easy maneuverability in large fields. This design is essential for maximizing efficiency in large-scale farming operations, where time and resource management are critical.
[021] The uprooting mechanism employs precision-engineered blades or prongs that penetrate the soil effectively, loosening and lifting the carrots with minimal root damage. This design prioritizes the integrity of the produce, reducing the likelihood of breakage during extraction. The blades are crafted from durable materials that can withstand different soil conditions, enhancing the harvester's adaptability to various agricultural environments.
[022] In one embodiment it is provided that, the cleaning system features a dual-action approach, incorporating rotating brushes that agitate the carrots to dislodge soil particles and high-pressure air blowers that remove remaining debris. This combination ensures thorough cleaning, making the carrots ready for market without compromising their quality. The advanced cleaning process minimizes the need for further washing, saving time and resources in post-harvest processing.
[023] After cleaning, the carrots move to the grading and sorting mechanism, which utilizes a conveyor system equipped with advanced sensors and algorithms. This system categorizes the carrots based on size and quality, ensuring uniformity that meets market standards. The automated grading process reduces variability compared to manual sorting, providing a more consistent product and enhancing marketability.
[024] The collection and loading system is designed to handle large volumes of harvested carrots efficiently, utilizing bins or trailers that gather the cleaned and graded produce. This system minimizes handling damage during transport, ensuring the carrots maintain their quality as they move from the field to processing or storage facilities. The design facilitates quick loading and unloading, improving logistical efficiency.
[025] In one embodiment it is provided, that Operators can control the harvester via a user-friendly control panel that allows for real-time adjustments of settings such as uprooting depth, cleaning intensity, and grading criteria. This flexibility is crucial for adapting to varying field conditions, enabling operators to optimize performance during each harvest. The feedback provided by the control panel aids in proactive management of the entire harvesting process.
[026] Testing results indicate a significant increase in harvesting speed compared to traditional methods, leading to higher productivity levels. The integration of automation allows for faster completion of tasks that would typically require more manual labor. This improvement is especially valuable in an agricultural landscape facing labor shortages, where efficiency gains can directly translate to increased profitability.
[027] Enhanced quality of harvested carrots is a major advantage of this invention. The combination of precise uprooting, thorough cleaning, and automated grading ensures that the produce meets high market standards. Fewer defects and greater uniformity not only improve consumer satisfaction but also help farmers achieve better pricing for their products, thus enhancing overall profitability.
[028] In one embodiment it is provided, thatDiscussions around the impact of this technology highlight its role in addressing multiple challenges faced by modern farmers, including labor dependency and efficiency. The harvester's design empowers farmers to optimize their operations while producing high-quality carrots, making it a significant advancement in agricultural technology. Its ability to adapt to various environments further enhances its relevance in diverse farming contexts.
[029] The construction of the harvester employs advanced materials and engineering practices that ensure durability and longevity, making it a sound investment for agricultural operations. Farmers benefit from reduced maintenance costs and increased operational reliability, which contribute to better long-term financial outcomes. This durability makes the harvester a viable option for a range of agricultural applications.
[030] In one embodiment it is provided, that the invention reflects a broader shift toward more sustainable and efficient farming practices. By embracing automation and innovative design, the harvester addresses the growing demands of the agricultural sector while ensuring quality and consistency in produce. This alignment with sustainability goals positions the harvester as a forward-thinking solution in modern agriculture.
[031] The precision automated carrot harvester is a transformative technology that not only enhances the efficiency of carrot harvesting but also improves the overall quality of the produce. Its integration of advanced systems for uprooting, cleaning, and grading marks a significant step forward in agricultural machinery, supporting farmers in meeting consumer demands while increasing profitability and sustainability in their operations.
[032] Referring to figure 1, image depicts a modern precision automated carrot harvester, showcasing a robust and compact design optimized for efficiency in large-scale agricultural operations. The harvester features a wide chassis with sturdy wheels, allowing it to navigate various field terrains with ease. Prominent in the foreground is the uprooting mechanism, equipped with precision-engineered blades that dig into the soil, gently lifting carrots while minimizing damage. Adjacent to this, a series of rotating brushes can be seen, part of the advanced cleaning system, which effectively dislodges soil and debris from the harvested carrots. Above the conveyor belt, sensors and automated sorting technology work seamlessly to categorize the carrots by size and quality as they move through the machine. The collection system at the rear is designed to efficiently gather the cleaned and graded produce into bins or trailers, ready for transport. The control panel, located on the operator's side, features various adjustable settings for real-time management of the harvesting process, ensuring adaptability to different soil conditions and carrot sizes. Overall, the image highlights the integration of advanced technology in agricultural machinery, emphasizing its role in improving harvesting efficiency and product quality.
Dated this …….Day of October, 2024

Dr. Monica Gulati
Registrar
Lovely Professional University
, Claims:We claim:
1. An automated carrot harvester comprising:
A. a precision uprooting mechanism designed to minimize root damage during extraction;
B. a cleaning system utilizing rotating brushes and high-pressure air blowers to remove soil and debris from harvested carrots;
C. a grading and sorting mechanism equipped with automated sensors to categorize the carrots based on size and quality;
D. a collection and loading system for efficiently gathering and transporting the cleaned and graded carrots;
E. a user-friendly control panel that allows real-time adjustments of operational settings for enhanced adaptability to varying agricultural conditions.
2. The automated carrot harvester of claim 1, wherein the precision uprooting mechanism includes adjustable blades that can be positioned at varying depths, allowing the harvester to accommodate different soil types and carrot sizes effectively. This feature enables the machine to operate optimally in diverse agricultural conditions, ensuring minimal damage to the carrots during extraction while maximizing efficiency in harvesting.
3. The automated carrot harvester of claim 1, wherein the cleaning system further comprises a water spray system integrated with the rotating brushes to enhance the cleaning efficiency. This addition allows for a more thorough removal of soil and debris, utilizing water to soften any stubborn particles that adhere to the carrots, resulting in cleaner produce that meets higher market standards.
4. The automated carrot harvester of claim 1, wherein the grading and sorting mechanism utilizes machine learning algorithms to improve the accuracy of size and quality categorization over time. By analyzing data collected from previous harvests, the system can adapt its sorting criteria, increasing precision and ensuring that the carrots consistently meet the desired specifications for size and quality.
5. The automated carrot harvester of claim 1, wherein the collection and loading system is equipped with a conveyor belt that automatically transfers the cleaned and graded carrots into bins or trailers. This design minimizes manual handling, reducing the risk of damage to the carrots during transfer and streamlining the overall harvesting workflow for enhanced efficiency.
6. The automated carrot harvester of claim 1, wherein the user-friendly control panel features a digital display that provides real-time feedback on the performance of each harvesting component. This interface allows operators to monitor and adjust settings as needed, facilitating immediate responses to any issues that may arise during the harvesting process, thus optimizing overall productivity.
7. The automated carrot harvester of claim 1, further comprising a GPS navigation system that assists in optimizing the harvester's route through the fields. This technology enables precise tracking of the harvesting process, allowing for efficient coverage of the fields and reducing overlap or missed areas, ultimately maximizing the yield from each harvesting cycle.
8. The automated carrot harvester of claim 1, wherein the overall structure is constructed from lightweight, durable materials to enhance maneuverability and reduce wear during operation. This design choice not only improves fuel efficiency and speed in the field but also prolongs the lifespan of the harvester, ensuring that it remains operational with minimal maintenance requirements over time.
Dated this …….Day of October, 2024

Dr. Monica Gulati
Registrar
Lovely Professional University

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