SUSTAINABLE METHODS OF TRANSPORTING FODDER OVER LONG DISTANCES USING AIR MANIPULATION

Abstract

A sustainable, smart transport system for preservative hauling of fresh produce is a shipping container with an environmental control system continuously sensing and controlling the temperature, humidity, gas composition (nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide), and microbial growth. It functions on photovoltaic and regenerative kinetic energies, integrating sensors and a control system based on the ESP32 Thing Plus microcontroller for maintaining optimal storage conditions. A preservative treatment biodegradable chemical system made up of edible films and gel fluids prevents spoilage without affecting the quality. The system is equipped with an accompanying mobile application to monitor the produce online and get instant notifications. Shock-absorbing elements like airbags and hydraulic dampers guard produce against physical damage. Models of machine learning predict when the produce come to its shelf life's end, implying proactive management. This system reduces food waste and also presents an ecologically friendly, energy-efficient solution for optimizing the supply chain.

Specification

Description:This invention introduces a sustainable, smart preservation system for transporting fruits and vegetables, utilizing solar energy, DynaPower, and biodegradable chemicals to minimize environmental impact while maximizing the freshness of produce. The system maintains perfect conditions for storing the fruits and vegetables while being transported, so that they taste and appear to have just been harvested from the farm. The ESP32 Thing Plus is at the center of the system, coordinating all sensors, actuators, and systems for communication that monitor and control the environment in real time. What makes this smart environment different is the design especially for fresh produce with conditions that remove causes of deterioration such as discoloration, change in taste, and microbial growth, which lead to food waste. This is achieved through the continuous regulation of factors such as temperature, humidity, and the composition of gases distributed; this is done according to the specific requirements of the fruits and vegetables being transported.
The system allows the setting of climate for any specified commodity, whereby injection and evacuation of gases such as nitrogen and oxygen occur in controlled proportions to retard ripening and spoilage. The ESP32 Thing Plus microcontroller is the core of managing the sensors monitoring the contents in terms of gas levels, humidity, and temperature in the containers. It enables the system to predict the produce shelf life that has a bearing on adjusting the internal conditions accordingly. The system also equips itself with a robust ventilation system of airing out; it ensures there is full air circulation for proper airflow around the produces in such a way as to prevent the build-up of excessive moisture. This enables the fruits and vegetables to be fresh for an extended period of time by simulating the perfect conditions of the farm environment during transport.
To further enhance sustainability, the system relies on solar power and DynaPower for energy needs. The solar panels mounted on the roof of the transport vehicle use the energy from the sun to power ESP32 and all the sensors and actuators toward energy autonomy and minimal consumption of the non-renewable source power. The DynaPower technology is harnessed to extract energy from the motions in a vehicle, converting kinetic power into electrical power that energizes the functionality of the system. This system reduces the environmental impact of the transportation process by associating renewable energy sources. It makes the transport process even more green and cost-effective. Biodegradable chemicals for pest control and preservative are also used, adding to reducing the environmental footprint of the system.
The system also includes advanced shock absorption features to protect the produce from damage during transport. The hydraulic shock absorbers inhibit various vibrations, while the airbags extend in the event of sudden braking to create a means of shielding containers from each other and thus providing protection against spillage and loss of produce. These safety measures are quite crucial for long-distance travel where there might be abrupt shocks and rough roads, which further causes significant damage to fruits and vegetables. Thus, the system keeps a track of movement of the vehicle at all times with its in-built shock sensors and takes measures whenever necessary, such that the produce is saved from shocks as much as possible.
In terms of maintaining temperature and humidity levels, the system employs insulating materials such as fiberglass to ensure that the containers are shielded from external temperature fluctuations. A heating element is used to regulate the temperature inside the containers, while advanced condensation and evaporation techniques help manage humidity levels, ensuring that the produce remains fresh without the risk of excessive moisture and dehydration. The system also equipped with ultraviolet sensors that help in keeping the space pest-free by maintaining hygiene and making the environment not conducive to harmful microorganisms. Measurement systems for water intake and outgoing manage the levels as well as humidity, while modes of ventilation ensure the produce is always under air exchanges, fresh and clean. These integrations hence make the conditions ideal to transport fresh produce, waste and loss during transit reduced.
Moreover, the vehicle itself is modified to ensure safety in the event of an accident and unexpected event. In case of sudden impacts and accidents, the system includes lockdown modes that secure the containers in place to prevent spillage. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with safety mechanisms such as shock absorbers, airbags, and vibration dampeners to ensure that the contents remain undisturbed during transport. Together, these features ensure that the system operates efficiently, safely, and sustainably, preserving the quality of fruits and vegetables and minimizing losses that farmers typically face when transporting perishable goods over long distances. This invention represents a significant leap forward in the field of agricultural logistics, offering a smart, environmentally friendly solution for the transportation of fresh produce. The key aspects of the invention are described as:
Smart air Control System: A specialized air Control system that makes a customized environment for every fruit and vegetable put into the transport system. The mixture of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide provide the needed conditions. In unfavourable conditions, an automatic ventilation system is being found there, and the infusion of bacteria starts growing and mold appears that makes it problematical to lengthen the shelf life. This gives condition for preservations naturally stimulated and not a problem to the environment. The gasses are being brought back to the gas chamber and stored for reuse later. Because the chambers are well-equipped with lockdown and sealing conditions, chances of contaminations are very low.
Biodegradable preservation Mechanism: All the preservative methods used are biodegradable and do not have the effect on the actual taste of the subject. The configuration in which these fruits and vegetables are being placed is flexible and gives most exposure to all the chemicals that is being sprayed on. There is being gel fluids that avoid fungal growth.
Phantom Platform for air and water: There is a phantom platform with an air and water storage system at the bottom. There are air purifiers and water purifiers. Water is being used for the smart cleaning system of the layers and the vents so that the food is not contaminated. The water also be used for temperature maintenance instead of heating and cooling elements in layers because they are hard to fit in and not cost-effective too. There is being heating and cooling rods at the phantom platform; layers have a layering of water that act like a water bath.
According to the various embodiments of the present invention, Figure 1 illustrates the diagrammatic representation of the system for transporting fodder over long distances using air manipulation detailing various components such as: a single unit comprising porous bottom structure (1), RFID tag (2), fiber Glass made up with anti- fungal and anti-bacterial coating (3), hydraulic shock absorbers (4) the solar panels (5), conveyor belt (6), pipes for air transfer (7), moisture sensor (8), microcontroller (9), asynchronous fans for ventilation (10), and Tiny ML (11) with water tank with ceramic rings and diode balls along with gas chambers and three respective nodes for oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide.
According to various embodiments of the present invention, Figure 2 illustrates the flow-chart for the system for transporting fodder over long distances using air manipulation and its components along-with the process it follows.
This innovative system for transporting fruits and vegetables focuses on maintaining the freshness, quality, and safety of produce during transit through a combination of automated processes, advanced technologies, and smart materials. The detailed breakdown of the how the various phases and mechanisms in the system work together:
• Allocation of Vegetation to Designated Places
The first phase involves automating the allocation of fruits and vegetables into designated storage containers. This is achieved using adjustable containers that automatically adapt to the size of the produce, using a smart spring system controlled by an ESP32 Thing Plus and various sensors, including a pressure sensor. The flexible, low-density polyethylene keeps it in so that there is being proper storage without anything rotten inside. When papayas are placed in the storage, the pressure sensor detects the size and dimension of the container to be altered. Treatments with edible films are administered. Carboxymethyl Cellulose and Aloe Vera Gel is sprinkled by sprinklers before the produce is transferred into the container.
• Insulation and Temperature Maintenance
This phase focuses on maintaining a stable and controlled environment for the produce. For this purpose, a storage space on the vehicle is fitted with fiberglass insulation, and the phantom platform is filled with water in order to regulate the temperature. Such a cooling method does not apply any poisonous chemicals and instead harnesses the natural heat absorption of water circulating around containers.
The water temperature is monitored and adjusted using sensors to maintain optimal conditions. TDS sensors monitor the quality of water, and air blowers by solar panels provide constant blowing for temperature stability. There are heating and cooling sensors, which help regulate the water temperature in case it rises and lowers unpredictably.
• Usage of proper Ventilation and adequate mixture of gasses for food preservation
Effective ventilation and the correct mixture of gases (nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide) are crucial to preventing bacterial and fungal growth in stored produce. The whole system works on the basis of monitoring and adjusting the inner air composition inside the containers by gas sensors and vacuum pumps operated by the ESP32 Thing Plus.
The ESP32 Thing Plus controls the gas composition inside a container, observing real-time sensor data. A mixture of gases is pumped in and evacuated to decrease oxygen and increase nitrogen and carbon dioxide content, thus creating a scenario that allows for less bacterial growth.
• Pest prevention and Verification System
To prevent pests and bacterial growth, each container is equipped with a smart plastic mesh, proximity sensors, and anti-bacterial coatings on the inner walls. The system automatically locates incoming pests and flies and thus locks the produce inside the system.
Whenever the containers detect the presence of pests using proximity sensors, the containers are sealed to "lockdown" the containers to prevent further contamination by the pests. Meanwhile, motion sensors and a laser system are utilized for detection and neutralization of microbial threats. Additionally, if needed, a hybrid of TinyML and TensorFlow Lite models is utilized in monitoring the health of the fruits and vegetables.
• Quality Check and Updates of Life Expectancy
A combination of TinyML, TensorFlow Lite, and ESP32 camera modules is used to monitor the freshness and life expectancy of the produce. These devices continuously measure the size, color, and condition of produce and make a prediction for spoilage time through them.
Using data from the sensors, the system makes predictions regarding the shelf-life of the produce. This prediction is then sent to the farmer through a mobile application. In case the produce starts decaying, the system sends notifications to the farmer to remove the produce from the container so that it doesn't infect other items.
• Shock Absorption and Calamity Management
The final phase addresses the physical safety of the produce during transport. The containers offered have hydraulic shock absorbers along with an airbag system, which engages in case of any harsh deceleration and accident. The accelerometer sensor activates the airbags to open thereby creating a safe cover over the containers.
If the vehicle undergoes sudden deceleration and a bump, the shock absorbers help reduce the impact, and the airbag system is deployed to prevent any damage to the produce. There are also shock and vibration sensors checking incessantly the integrity of the containers; hence, the produce is safe.
The success of this system relies heavily on the integration of several advanced technologies working together seamlessly and its integration is detailed as:
• ESP32 Thing Plus Microcontroller
The main controller of this system is the ESP32 Thing Plus. It coordinates the whole food preservation process. A reason why a microcontroller is chosen is due to versatility and power efficiency, with perfect suitability in applications that are embedded. It has to collect data from the various sensors, process the data, and manage the actuators, such as fans, pumps, and gas valves. The ESP32 Thing Plus has 38 pins both digital and analog, that it's possible to connect a large number of sensors such as temperature, humidity, gas concentration, weight, and motion sensors. This enables effective adjustment in real-time of the internal conditions within the container in order to optimize the environment around the produce. This opens up communication with the Blink mobile application and also allows the farmer or transport operator to remotely monitor and manage the system.
• TinyML and TensorFlow Lite for Machine Learning
TinyML is a lightweight version of the full machine learning function, and it needs the low-power device. In the above system, the same is to be used for conducting real-time data analysis without cloud processing to ensure fast response times. Thus, with the aid of TinyML, the system is able to process data on its microcontroller directly, either from camera modules and gas sensors. For instance, the capability to analyze images captured by the camera and check for fruits and vegetables if they have signs of spoilage, size alteration, and over ripening. To deploy machine learning models for image classification and regression tasks, TensorFlow Lite employs the variant of TensorFlow that is more efficient. These models, powered by TensorFlow Lite, predict the shelf life of each produce and detect the presence of rotting or microbial growth, thereby ensuring storage conditions are optimal throughout transport.
• Energy Efficiency and Solar Power Integration
Energy efficiency is a key consideration in the design of this system, especially when transporting produce over long distances. The transport vehicle is fitted with solar panels on top and power the system using energy from renewable sources, as this is the source of most of the energy. This, therefore, means there is little dependency on a source of power outside itself, and it works throughout the duration of the trip. This is significant because the system operates on energy from the microcontroller, sensors, among other things like cooling fans and pumps. Also, this system utilizes regenerative energy through energy harvesting. Energy produced as a result of wheel movement in the vehicle is being used to charge the batteries of the system controlling this. Thus, power supply remains continuous while making up for reduced levels of energy consumption. Such a combination of solar energy and regenerative power be able to create an eco-friendly system for the retention of freshness in fruits and vegetables.
• Smart Mobile App Integration (Blink)
The Blink mobile application is the user interface for the farmer and transport operator, allowing them to check and control the system remotely. Users view real-time updates about the conditions inside transport containers regarding temperature, humidity, gas composition, and shelf life expected for that produce. This application also includes notices if it happens to detect abnormal conditions such as excessive moisture, spoilage, and temperature fluctuations, allowing the operator to take corrective actions right away. Such integration of the system ensures it is being managed practically even when the system is on the move so that the produce arrive at the end of the transport process in the most optimal condition. In this aspect, the application is connected to the ESP32 Thing Plus via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth in a very easy manner to allow interaction with the sensors and a user's mobile device.
• Sensor Integration for Environmental Monitoring
The system relies heavily on smart sensors to continuously monitor the environmental conditions inside the containers. These sensors comprise temperature sensors, humidity sensors, gas sensors, moisture sensors, and motion sensors; these monitor the characteristics of the storage container, such as temperature, humidity levels, and the types of gases present in the container, which influence the freshness of the produce. The ESP32 Thing Plus microcontroller receives the information from such sensors and controls the relevant actuator. Thus, in case the temperature exceeds a certain level, the cooling fans are switched on to bring the temperature back down. In case the system generates an unbalance of gas composition, then the appropriate gases are injected and evacuated to slow down the ripening process. This, in turn means that the accurate tracking of environmental factors, which keeps changing all the time, mean that every type of produce stay in its perfect condition for storage.
• Gas Control for Preservation (Nitrogen, Oxygen, and Carbon Dioxide)
Proper gas management plays a crucial role in the preservation of fruits and vegetables during transport. A storage environment is controlled through the use of gas sensors and automated pumps to manage the level of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. It adjusts the gas levels based on the data received from sensors and analyzed by TinyML models, thus making the environment hostile to the ripening process and microbial growth. Therefore, this reduces oxygen, which has a delaying effect on respiration, while nitrogen and carbon dioxide rise up to levels that ensure preservation of freshness and retardation of bacteria. The system contains gas tanks for the storage of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. The gas mixture can, therefore, be mixed and dispensed to each container through a regulated valve system. This system ensures an environment that prolongs the shelf life of the produce without any deterioration in its quality because of the accurate regulation of the gas mixture.
• Shock Absorption and Safety Mechanisms
Physical shock absorption is critical to ensuring that the produce remains undamaged during transport, especially in cases of sudden braking and bumpy roads. The system incorporates an airbag safety system and hydraulic shock absorbers. The accelerometer sensors monitor sudden changes in the movement of the vehicle, such as deceleration and bumps. Once a major shock has been detected, the airbag system is deployed, creating a protective barrier around the containers. This prevents anything inside the containers from bumping and getting damaged and retains its whole integrity. In addition, shock and vibration sensors measure the level of vibration going on in the vehicle. If it exceeds a certain height of vibration, the system triggers evacuation pumps for removing the air from the containers and compresses the produce to reduce its movement and absorb the shock. These safety mechanisms work in tandem to ensure protection against damage by physical forces during transport of such produce.
• Temperature Control and Insulation
Temperature control is critical to preserving the freshness of produce. Each container is built with fiberglass insulation, which helps maintain a stable internal temperature. The temperature sensors installed inside the containers constantly monitor the temperature and relay this data to the ESP32 Thing Plus. The system is capable of deciding whether to introduce cooling and heating mechanisms into adjusting the temperature. The bottom of the transport vehicle is being mounted with asynchronous fans to circulate air for efficient temperature regulation of the containers. It also supplies water that pre-cools through evaporation, making it safe without the need for chemicals. Water used for cooling is checked through the TDS sensor for contamination before entering the system. The temperature is being fine-tuned so that different kinds of produce that are going to need different temperatures are kept at their ideal conditions.
• Mobile Monitoring and Predictive Analytics
The system monitors environmental conditions and be able to predict the life expectancy of the produce. Machine learning models trained on the data being collected by sensors, such as camera modules and environmental sensors, make predictions about the lifespan of each item. For instance, by the size and color of the fruit, the system determines when it might ripen and go bad. Then it transmits this information to the Blink mobile application where it notifies the user as to how long every product is expected to last. It warns the farmer and transport operator approaching its end of life, so measures are being taken to accelerate delivery and isolate any spoiled produce in case of contamination.
• Mobile Application for Real-Time Management
The Blink mobile app is essential for providing users with real-time insights into the preservation system. It allows farmers, transporters, and vendors to access detailed information about the conditions inside the containers, including temperature, humidity, gas levels, and freshness status of the produce. Through the app, users also receive alerts in case of any anomalies, such as excessive moisture and temperature fluctuations, which affect the quality of the produce. The app offers remote monitoring and control, making it easier for the user to adjust settings, such as gas levels and temperature, without having to be physically present. The integration of the ESP32 Thing Plus microcontroller with the mobile app ensures that all system data is accurately reflected and updated in real time.
By combining these core technologies-ESP32 Thing Plus, TinyML, TensorFlow Lite, solar power, smart sensors, and mobile app integration-this system provides an intelligent and energy-efficient solution for preserving the freshness of fruits and vegetables during transport. The integration of these technologies ensures that produce remains in optimal condition, reducing waste and improving the efficiency of the supply chain.

, Claims:1. A sustainable preservation system for transporting fruits and vegetables, comprising:
i. a transport container for holding produce;
ii. a smart environmental control system within the transport container, including:
• a set of sensors for monitoring environmental parameters including temperature, humidity, gas composition (nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide), and microbial presence;
• an ESP32 Thing Plus microcontroller connected to the sensors, configured to process the sensor data and control one or more actuators;
• an actuator system for adjusting the environment within the container based on the sensor data, the actuator system including pumps, fans, gas injectors, and ventilation mechanisms;
• a combination of nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide gases injected or evacuated from the container to maintain a controlled atmosphere;
• a biodegradable chemical preservation system comprising an edible film sprayed on the produce and a gel fluid to prevent fungal growth;
iii. a mobile application integrated with the ESP32 Thing Plus, configured to enable remote monitoring and control of the system, including real-time updates on the freshness, shelf life, and environmental conditions of the produce.
2. The system of Claim 1, wherein the actuator system further includes hydraulic shock absorbers and airbags configured to protect the produce from physical damage during transport.
3. The system of Claim 1, wherein the sensors include temperature sensors, humidity sensors, gas sensors, motion sensors, and microbial sensors, and wherein the system uses the data from the sensors to dynamically adjust the internal environment in real-time.
4. The system of Claim 1, further comprising a regenerative energy system integrated with the transport vehicle, the regenerative energy system configured to capture kinetic energy from the vehicle's motion and convert it into electrical energy for powering the preservation system.
5. The system of Claim 1, wherein the mobile application is configured to send real-time notifications to a user if any environmental parameter exceeds predefined thresholds, including temperature, humidity, or gas levels, and allows the user to adjust the parameters remotely.
6. The system of Claim 1, wherein the transport container further comprises an insulating layer made of fiberglass to prevent external temperature fluctuations from affecting the internal environment of the container.
7. The system of Claim 1, wherein the gas injectors and evacuators are controlled by a combination of automated pumps and valves, and the gas composition is adjusted to maintain an oxygen concentration below a predefined threshold to slow the ripening process of the produce.
8. A method for transporting and preserving fresh produce comprising the steps of:
allocating the produce into a designated storage container with adjustable dimensions based on the size of the produce, wherein the container includes a pressure sensor that adjusts the container's size automatically to securely hold the produce;
applying an edible biodegradable coating to the produce to prevent spoilage;
placing the produce into the container, wherein the system automatically adjusts the internal environmental conditions using sensors and actuators to optimize temperature, humidity, and gas composition;
continuously monitoring the environmental parameters inside the container using the sensors;
adjusting the environmental conditions by injecting or evacuating gases, activating fans, and controlling temperature through a water-based phantom platform;
predicting the remaining shelf life of the produce using TinyML and TensorFlow Lite machine learning models based on real-time sensor data;
transmitting the shelf life predictions and environmental data to a mobile application for remote monitoring and management.
9. The method of Claim 8, wherein the prediction of shelf life using TinyML and TensorFlow Lite includes analyzing visual data from a camera module to assess the size, color, and condition of the produce and estimate its remaining freshness.
10. The method of Claim 8, further comprising the step of employing ultraviolet (UV) light or antimicrobial coatings to prevent microbial growth and pests within the container during transit.

Documents