Agricultural laser system

Abstract

This application relates to an agricultural laser system intended to extend, supplement, or replace the functions performed by conventional tools for tasks such as pruning, weeding, cutting, drying, and photostimulation. The system employs one or more lasers and includes a power module (1-A), a control module (1-B), a compressed gas and / or ventilation module (1-C), a temperature control module (1-D), a power distribution module (1-E), a laser module (2-A), a constraint and laser beam guide module (2-B), and a positioning wheel (3). Advantages of this system include reduced size and weight, the ability to move at relatively high speeds, low fuel consumption and operating costs, the ability to operate in a positive pressure environment to prevent damage to optical components or along the laser beam path, or operation outside of a positive pressure environment, modularity, and adaptability to crops of various sizes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to agricultural laser systems for use in agricultural production, intended to enhance, supplement, or replace the functions performed by conventional tools, such as brush cutters and harvesters, as well as to enhance, supplement, or replace the functions performed by pesticides and / or desiccants for controlling and eliminating weeds and pests on cultivated plants, and also for stimulating the growth or yield of cultivated crops, for pruning, weeding, cutting, drying, light stimulation, or other operations, for general crops such as, but not limited to, soybeans, corn, cotton, sugarcane, and legumes. The advantages of this system include: reduced system size and weight; ability to move at relatively high speeds with low fuel consumption and low operating costs; the ability of the optics to operate in a positive pressure environment or not to operate in a negative pressure environment to avoid damage caused by dust or organic residues that may accumulate on the optical components or along the laser beam path; modularity of the system; and adaptability to crops of various sizes. Background Technology

[0002] Based on common knowledge of technical means related to agricultural production and control, the currently available technical means are as follows:

[0003] Cutting: The act of dividing organic material, such as leaves, stems, grains, fruits, roots and other plant structures, into one or more parts through cutting steps that have or do not have a thermal effect, depending on the function of the process. For example, cutting the base of a plant stem using the cutting platform of a harvester during harvesting.

[0004] Pruning: The cutting of specific structures of a plant, such as leaves and the top region, in this case referred to as the removal of apical meristem, to control its vertical position from the ground upwards. This has the tendency to cause the central structure to stop developing and to produce lateral and lower branches, thereby increasing plant yield. In this case, preferably, a cutting process with a thermal effect is used to promote the removal of the part of interest while simultaneously scorching the plant to prevent disease from invading unprotected areas and causing plant disease.

[0005] Weed control: Clearing between plants in the same or different rows of plant beds for the purpose of cutting, burning and / or eliminating invasive species and weeds present in the crop. In this case, the cutting process, with or without heat effect and / or dehydration, is used to promote drying and the extinction and / or reduction of accompanying invasive species.

[0006] Drying: Controls weeds and pests before sowing, before canopy closure, before harvest, or at other appropriate times. Drying green stems standardizes plant maturity for harvest. Drying is used to predict harvest and improve seed quality.

[0007] Photostimulation: Photochemical effects (photostimulation) are used to alter cell metabolism and / or plant morphology, promoting the biological regulation of plants, such as soybeans, corn, cotton, sugarcane, legumes, and other crops, including vegetables, as well as activities in vertical farms.

[0008] For many years, the scientific community has been studying the application of lasers in agriculture and has provided application examples in several fields.

[0009] Searching Brazilian and international patent databases, we found the following publicly available information:

[0010] US Patent 3652844A discloses a laser system for selectively removing vegetation from terrestrial or aquatic areas. This invention can be mounted on boats, aircraft, or land vehicles. Although described for weed control in water, it can also be used for weed control operations along waterways, roadsides, railway or power lines, passageways, or residential or agricultural areas. The goal is to eliminate weeds without the use of chemical agents. Essentially, the system consists of a laser and a set of mirrors that fork the laser beam, directing it towards the desired target. The laser beam can be emitted horizontally or vertically. The laser used depends on the application. The document cites an N2-CO2-He laser (650W output) for eliminating aquatic plants that float to the surface.

[0011] US Patent 9609858B2 discloses a system for removing excess plants using variable optical elements. The system comprises an image generator, an image processor, a laser device, and a guidance system. The system can be mounted on a tractor. This invention aims to remove excess plants or weeds using laser beams. Essentially, the system identifies excess plants through image recognition and positions multiple laser beams onto them. The document states that the most effective location for laser destruction of weeds or excess plants is the meristematic tissue area. It further states that typical excess plants or weeds have a target meristematic tissue area of ​​approximately 1 mm or smaller, which can be destroyed by laser to stop its growth. As the excess plant grows larger, more energy is required for effective destruction. The document discloses that a CO2 laser can be used for this application. The laser output power can vary depending on the size of the plant; for larger plants, greater laser power and exposure time are required to destroy them.

[0012] US patents US6269617B1 and US6374584B1 disclose laser mowing systems. The goal of these documents is to replace bladed cutting systems with laser systems for cutting vegetation, allowing for adjustable cutting height and speed. In US6269617B1, the system consists of a rotating laser beam generator with one or more laser beams of adjustable angle. Rotation control and cutting height are controlled via a user interface. The system is suitable for tractors, automobiles, or portable equipment. In the second document, US6374584B1, the system has a fixed laser. The emitted beam is split into several paths by a reflector, forming several cutting lines. The system is mounted inside a device with two beam protection walls. The cutting system is driven by a tractor. Neither document specifies the type, power, or wavelength of the laser used for cutting vegetation.

[0013] US Patent 5915949A discloses a method and system for laser pest control. This invention uses lasers to eliminate pests hidden behind or inside objects. It advocates eliminating pests without damaging barriers. This method can be used for controlling ants and termites in common household building materials, as well as for controlling agricultural pests in farmland. One specific method involves repeatedly scanning locations where pests frequently appear using an automated laser scanning system. This can provide continuous pest control in infested areas without the use of mechanical traps or chemical agents, and without human intervention. The proposed system includes a laser source capable of killing or harming pests, a scanner capable of guiding the laser beam generated by the light source to locate pests within the scanning area, and a disposable attractant to lure pests into the scanning area. The document states that this method is best suited for use in remote areas, thus avoiding accidental contact with humans or animals. The document shows that CO2, Nd-YAG, Nd-glass, helium-neon, ruby, gallium aluminum arsenide, dye, helium-cadmium, argon lasers, krypton, or KTP-YAG lasers can be used for the proposed system. The document further states that the wavelength range of these known lasers is approximately 0.4 to 10.6 micrometers, but wavelengths outside this range, such as all infrared, visible, and ultraviolet light, can also be used. Regarding laser power, the document discloses that, depending on the type of pest, the laser source power level should be at least 2 watts for animals such as rodents, and at least approximately 0.1 watts for insects and other small or microscopic organisms.

[0014] US Patent 9374990B2 discloses a laser method and system for controlling pests. This system is proposed to replace traditional pest control methods such as pesticides and electric traps. The system has a housing with perforated sidewalls, within which a laser is installed. When insects enter the perforated walls, they are struck by the laser beam. The document discloses several types of lasers, such as CO2, Nd-YAG, Nd-glass, helium-neon, ruby, gallium aluminum arsenide, dye, helium-cadmium laser, argon, krypton, or KTP-YAG. These known lasers have wavelengths ranging from approximately 0.4 to 10.6 micrometers, but wavelengths outside this range, such as all infrared, visible, and ultraviolet light, can also be used. The document also indicates that both continuous and pulsed lasers can be used.

[0015] US Patent 6,834,483 discloses a method for harvesting sugarcane or other plants (such as corn) using one or more lasers. This method has the advantage of using a laser system instead of traditional cutting blades. During blade cutting, the sugarcane stalks come into contact with bacteria when cut due to the glucose in the stalks. With the use of a laser, the laser beam interacts with the organic material during cutting, burning the stalks. This prevents bacterial contamination. For this invention, the laser system can be installed in a tire-equipped vehicle, where it can be powered by a generator. The laser system includes one or more lasers, a cutting mechanism containing a camera, an ultrasonic controller, and controlled radar. The document states that the laser beam needs to be focused. However, the document does not specify which type of laser can be used in the cutting process.

[0016] US Patent 7,875,862 discloses an ultraviolet laser beam system for weed eradication. The emission wavelength of the laser is controlled according to the plant to be eradicated. The system includes at least one ultraviolet laser, a laser power supply, a laser cooler, and, if necessary, a computer. The advantage of this system is that the ultraviolet light emission wavelength can be selected to eliminate only the target plant without damaging surrounding vegetation. Furthermore, the system can be used in aerial vehicles or ground vehicles, where the laser system can be fixed or rotated. The document specifies that the wavelength of the ultraviolet laser must be between 200 and 400 nanometers, within which the wavelength is adjusted according to the plant to be eradicated.

[0017] US Patent 2016050852A1 discloses an agricultural robot system that can quickly and hygienically cut flower stems or thin flowers, for example, for harvesting, diluting liquids, and thinning flowers such as strawberries, grapes, tomatoes, and cherries. This system has the advantage of replacing manual cutting work with robotic systems. The system consists of a laser beam generator, a galvanometer scanning system for performing the cutting or thinning work, a camera for recording the processing, and an image recognition unit for starting or stopping the process. The document does not disclose which laser or wavelength can be used for the cutting or thinning process.

[0018] Chinese patent CN101589705B discloses a laser weeding robot system. The system includes an autonomous vehicle, for example, capable of navigating in the wild. The document references the use of laser diodes but does not disclose the laser wavelength suitable for this application. The laser beam is guided by a reflector whose angle can be adjusted according to the cutting height.

[0019] Chinese patent CN110326444A discloses a system for pruning plants using a laser beam. This system could be used in aircraft. The document does not disclose the type of laser that can be used.

[0020] Current technical solutions suffer from drawbacks such as slow speed, high fuel consumption, and high operating costs. All optical devices may or may not operate in a positive pressure environment to avoid damage caused by dust or organic residues that may accumulate on optical components or along the laser path; the system lacks modularity and cannot be adapted to crops of all sizes. Summary of the Invention

[0021] The subject of this patent application is a "laser system for agricultural applications," designed to overcome the limitations, inconveniences, and drawbacks of existing sterilizers. Through an innovative structure of one or more lasers, it operates autonomously or in a controlled manner for operations such as pruning, weeding, cutting, drying, and photostimulating common crops, including but not limited to soybeans, corn, cotton, sugarcane, and beans. Its advantages include reduced system size and weight; relatively high speeds with low fuel consumption and operating costs; the ability of the optical devices to operate in a positive pressure environment to avoid damage from dust or organic residues that may accumulate on the optical components or along the laser path; modularity; and adaptability to crops of various sizes.

[0022] Regarding the prior art patents, the following is a comparative evaluation of the prior art solutions and the relevant solutions proposed in this patent application:

[0023] As the subject of this patent application, this system has advantages over the system proposed in document US3652844A because, in addition to eliminating weeds or other pests, it can also be easily used for trimming, weeding, cutting, drying, light stimulation, etc. Furthermore, the proposed system includes more than one laser option, such as: solid-state lasers with semiconductors or crystals, such as Nd:YAG lasers; gas lasers, such as CO and CO2 lasers; and optical fibers using dopants such as erbium, ytterbium, and holmium, or nonlinear effects, etc.

[0024] As the subject of this patent application, this system has advantages because it uses variable optical elements for plant control, thus providing functionality different from that proposed in document US9609858B2. The system operates on a towed platform. The proposed system can operate in several ways, such as autonomous or controlled operation, and can be manually or unmanned, on portable equipment, mobile platforms, self-propelled or towed by vehicles (e.g., tractors), or manually operated. In addition, the proposed system provides several laser options and laser operating modes.

[0025] As the subject of this patent application, this system has an advantage because it provides cutting functions beyond those described in documents US6269617B1 and US6374584B1. Neither of these documents specifies the type of laser that can be used. Furthermore, these documents are limited to systems that are manually operated or towed by a vehicle. In the system proposed in this patent application, the laser system can be used for a variety of functions, such as mowing, weeding, cutting, drying, and photostimulation. The system proposed in this patent application also provides several laser operation options.

[0026] As the subject of this patent application, this system has advantages and improvements over the systems proposed in documents US5915949A and US9374990B2 because it provides several laser and laser operation control options, which can contribute to the development of insect control systems and methods.

[0027] As the subject of this patent application, this system offers advantages and improvements over the system proposed in document US6834483 because it is modular in design, allowing it to be easily used for several different applications besides cutting plants, such as weeding and pruning. Furthermore, the proposed system provides diverse laser options for various applications, and it can be operated autonomously or in a controlled manner, and can be manually or unmanned on portable equipment or mobile platforms. It can be self-propelled or towed by vehicles (such as tractors), or manually operated. Finally, the system does not require the use of only a focused beam; a collimated beam can also be used.

[0028] As the subject of this patent application, this system has advantages and improvements over the system proposed in document US7875862 because it proposes a modular system for use in different applications. This can be achieved simply by replacing the laser module and the reflector. Thus, the proposed system is not limited to simply eradicating plants.

[0029] As the subject of this patent application, this system has advantages and improvements over the system proposed in document US2016050852A1 because, in addition to cutting, the system can be modularly adapted for other functions such as trimming, weeding, drying, and light stimulation. The system can also be easily installed on a robotic system.

[0030] As the subject of this patent application, this system has advantages and improvements over the system proposed in document CN101589705B because it can perform functions other than weeding, such as trimming, cutting, drying, and light stimulation. Furthermore, this system has the advantage of covering a large area, meaning that a greater number of lasers can cover a larger area, thereby increasing speed and reducing working time.

[0031] As the subject of this patent application, this system has advantages and improvements over the system in document CN110326444A because it covers a larger trimming area and can be used for functions other than trimming. This prior art document also does not specify the type of laser and wavelength that can be used.

[0032] The existing technical problems and how the invention in this patent application solves these technical problems:

[0033] a) Existing systems are limited to eliminating weeds or other pests. This invention solves this problem and can be easily applied to mowing, weeding, cutting, drying, light stimulation, etc.

[0034] b) Existing systems operate on a limited number of operating platforms. The present invention solves this problem with the proposed system, which can operate in a variety of ways, such as autonomously or in a controlled manner, and can be manually or unmanned on portable devices or mobile platforms, self-propelled or towed by vehicles (e.g., tractors) or manually operated.

[0035] c) Existing systems operate with limited functionality. This invention solves this problem because, in addition to eliminating weeds or other pests, the system provides a variety of laser and laser operation control options, and can collaboratively develop insect control systems and methods.

[0036] d) Existing systems operate with limited laser options, a problem addressed by this invention, as it encompasses more than one laser option, such as: solid-state lasers with semiconductors or crystals, like Nd:YAG lasers; gas lasers, like CO and CO2 lasers; optical fibers using dopants such as erbium, ytterbium, and holmium, or nonlinear effects, etc.

[0037] e) Existing systems operate at low speeds, resulting in low productivity. This invention solves this problem by using a small platform for multi-purpose operation.

[0038] f) Existing systems do not operate in a positive pressure environment, which can lead to damage caused by dust or organic residues accumulating on optical components or along the laser beam path. This invention solves this problem by using an inert gas (such as nitrogen) or air to generate positive pressure. Attached Figure Description

[0039] To better understand this invention, the following figures are provided:

[0040] Figure 1 This illustrates a possible schematic configuration of the mobile laser system proposed in this application.

[0041] Figure 2 This illustrates a possible schematic configuration structure to demonstrate an example of the application of a mobile laser system on a tractor and an example of the system's modularity.

[0042] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates a possible schematic configuration for emitting a laser beam used in the system proposed in this invention.

[0043] Figure 4 The flowchart illustrates the connection relationships between modules.

[0044] Figure 5This illustrates a possible schematic configuration structure to demonstrate a plant cutting application scheme, for example, for cutting the base of plant stems during harvesting, as an alternative to the cutting platform of a harvester.

[0045] Figure 6 This illustrates a possible schematic configuration structure for an example of a plant cutting application.

[0046] Figure 7 This illustrates a possible schematic configuration structure for an example of a plant pruning application.

[0047] Figure 8 This illustrates a possible schematic configuration structure for an example of a plant pruning application.

[0048] Figure 9 This illustrates a possible schematic configuration structure for an example of a plant weeding application.

[0049] Figure 10 This illustrates a possible schematic configuration structure for an example of a plant drying application.

[0050] Figure 11 This illustrates a possible schematic configuration structure for an example of a plant drying application.

[0051] Figure 12 This illustrates a possible schematic configuration structure for an example of plant stimulation application.

[0052] Figure 13 This illustrates a possible schematic configuration structure for an example of plant stimulation application. Detailed Implementation

[0053] According to the above figures, the system of this patent application includes a main module 1, which is equipped with a power module 1-A. This power module includes a dedicated combustion generator, a generator connected to the power output terminal of the traction vehicle or an auxiliary shaft, a battery pack or photovoltaic system, a filter, a rectifier, fuses, circuit breakers, residual current circuit breakers, surge protection devices, a frequency converter, a power protection system and a power control system, as well as cables and connectors. This power module can also be bidirectionally connected to a control module 1-B, a compressed gas and / or ventilation module 1-C, a temperature control module 1-D, and a positioning wheel 3. It is also equipped with a control module 1-B, which includes functions for monitoring operating conditions, tripping, current, voltage, power, polarization, focusing, frequency, and bandwidth. The system includes a controller for wavelength, etc., and this control module is bidirectionally connected to the laser module 2-A and the laser beamguide module 2-B; it also includes a compressed gas and / or ventilation module 1-C, including a compressor, gas tank, filter, dryer, pressure gauge, electrical connector, gas connector, and other devices, and is bidirectionally connected to the laser beamguide module 2-B; it also includes a temperature control module 1-D, which includes a compressor, condenser, evaporator, heat exchanger, expansion valve, ventilation system, thermoelectric pad, etc., and is bidirectionally connected to the laser module 2-A and the laser beamguide module 2-B; and it also includes a power distribution module 1-E, which includes a set of cables, hoses, etc., and is bidirectionally connected to the main... The system comprises module 1, secondary module 2, laser module 2-A, laser light guide module 2-B, and positioning wheel 3. The system also includes secondary module 2, which has expansion capabilities within a long structure articulated between modules. This secondary module is equipped with laser module 2-A, which has the expansion capability of multiple modules within the same secondary module 2. This laser module includes semiconductor or crystal (e.g., Nd:YAG) lasers, gas (e.g., CO, CO2) lasers, optical fibers employing dopants (e.g., erbium, ytterbium, holmium) or nonlinear effects, and is unidirectionally connected to laser light guide module 2-B. This secondary module is also equipped with constraint and laser light guide module 2-B, including refractive elements 2-B-1 with optional arrangement. The reflector 2-B-2, in its optional arrangement, can have up to six degrees of freedom, including three linear degrees of freedom and three rotational degrees of freedom. It can emit laser L towards the plant P through straight-end emission at 0 degrees, "L-shaped" emission at 90 degrees, "L-shaped" emission at any angle α1 (alpha1), "Z-shaped" emission at any angle α1 (alpha1), and other shapes formed by angles α1 (alpha1) and α2 (alpha2). This secondary module is also equipped with a user protection module 2-C, which includes a plate made of acrylic material, glass, metal, wood, or a combination of these materials, which serves as a barrier against the laser.The system also includes positioning wheels 3, which include horizontal positioners, vertical positioners, rotary positioners, distance detectors, and manual and / or automatic single-axis, dual-axis, and three-axis positioning controllers.

[0054] A structural configuration for cutting plant P includes a main module 1, which has a power distribution module 1-A, a control module 1-B, a compressed gas and / or ventilation module 1-C, a temperature control module 1-D, and a power distribution module 1-E; the configuration also includes a secondary module 2, the number of which matches the application and is hinged to adapt to the application terrain; the secondary module includes a laser module 2-A, which is located on a mechanical structure and can have different numbers in the same secondary module 2 to improve processing efficiency; the secondary module also includes a constraint and laser beam guide module 2-B, each of which is positioned at an angle of interest relative to the plant bed and includes a refractive element 2-B-1 and a reflector 2-B-2, wherein each optical element is fixed or movable; the secondary module also includes a user protection module 2-C; the configuration also includes positioning wheels 3 capable of single-axis, dual-axis, and tri-axis positioning.

[0055] A structural configuration for pruning plants P, particularly soybeans and legumes (but not limited to these), includes a main module 1 having a power distribution module 1-A, a control module 1-B, a compressed gas and / or ventilation module 1-C, a temperature control module 1-D, and a power distribution module 1-E; the configuration also includes a secondary module 2, the number of which matches the application and is hinged to adapt to the application terrain; the secondary module includes a laser module 2-A, which is located on a mechanical structure and can have different numbers within the same secondary module 2 to improve processing efficiency; the secondary module also includes a constraint and laser beam guide module 2-B, each of which is positioned at an angle of interest relative to the plant bed and includes a refractive element 2-B-1 and a reflector 2-B-2, wherein each optical element is fixed or movable; the secondary module also includes a user protection module 2-C; the configuration also includes positioning wheels 3 capable of single-axis, dual-axis, and tri-axis positioning.

[0056] A structural configuration for weeding plants (P) and weeds (ED) includes a main module 1, which has a power distribution module 1-A, a control module 1-B, a compressed gas and / or ventilation module 1-C, a temperature control module 1-D, and a power distribution module 1-E. The configuration also includes secondary modules 2, the number of which matches the application and is hinged to adapt to the application terrain. The secondary modules include a laser module 2-A, which is mounted on a mechanical structure and can have different numbers within the same secondary module 2 to improve processing efficiency. The secondary modules also include a constraint and laser beamguide module 2-B, each positioned at an angle of interest relative to the plant bed and weeds (ED), and includes a refractive element 2-B-1 and a reflector 2-B-2, where each optical element is fixed or movable. The secondary modules also include a user protection module 2-C. The configuration further includes positioning wheels 3 capable of single-axis, dual-axis, and tri-axis positioning.

[0057] A structural configuration for drying plants (P) and weeds (ED) includes a main module 1 having a power distribution module 1-A, a control module 1-B, a compressed gas and / or ventilation module 1-C, a temperature control module 1-D, and a power distribution module 1-E. The configuration also includes secondary modules 2, the number of which is matched to the application and hinged to adapt to the application terrain. Each secondary module includes a laser module 2-A, which is mounted on a mechanical structure and can have different numbers within the same secondary module 2 to improve processing efficiency. The secondary modules also include constraint and laser beamguide modules 2-B, each positioned at an angle of interest relative to the plant bed and weeds (ED), and including a refractive element 2-B-1 and a reflector 2-B-2, where each optical element is fixed or movable. The secondary modules also include a user protection module 2-C. The configuration further includes positioning wheels 3 capable of single-axis, dual-axis, and tri-axis positioning. The laser beam of the emission system covers a large area to enhance the illumination of at least one focused beam or a large area, the illuminated area having a length at least the same as the laser beam.

[0058] A structural configuration for photostimulation of plant P includes a main module 1 having a power distribution module 1-A, a control module 1-B, a compressed gas and / or ventilation module 1-C, a temperature control module 1-D, and a power distribution module 1-E; the configuration also includes a secondary module 2, the number of which matches the application and is hinged to adapt to the application terrain; the secondary module includes a laser module 2-A, which is located on a mechanical structure and can have different numbers in the same secondary module 2 to improve processing efficiency; the secondary module also includes a constraint and laser beamguide module 2-B, each of which is positioned at an arbitrary angle of interest relative to the plant bed and weed ED, and includes a refractive element 2-B-1 and a reflector 2-B-2, wherein each optical element is fixed or movable; the secondary module also includes a user protection module 2-C; the configuration also includes positioning wheels 3 capable of single-axis, dual-axis, and tri-axis positioning. The laser beam of the emission system covers a large area to enhance the illumination of at least one focused beam or a large area, the illuminated area having a length at least the same as the laser beam.

[0059] The system of this patent application operates in the following manner:

[0060] In the case of cutting:

[0061] according to Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, during the cutting process, the laser beam L is directed through the laser light guide module 2-B and has automatic or manual height adjustment, with or without feedback. The positioning wheel 3 can be moved automatically or manually so that it is positioned between the rows of plant beds without damaging the crop plant P. Typically, the laser beam L is directed towards the base of the plant P to perform the cut, but this direction is not limited to this height (e.g., ...). Figure 5 (As shown). The cutting can be performed orthogonally to the plant bed rows or along the axial direction of the plant bed rows. The cutting can be performed with or without thermal effects, a distinction made by the configuration of the laser module 2-A. The system can cut a single row of plants or cut multiple rows of plants simultaneously. The mechanical cutting function performed by conventional harvester cutting platforms can be replaced by laser cutting. The advantages are reduced grain waste caused by the mechanical impact of the blades on the plants and improved cutting accuracy in height and position upon initial contact with the crop.

[0062] according to Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the specific process of cutting plant structures, such as leaves, stems, branches, twigs, and the apical region (known as apical pruning), is illustrated. Large-scale pruning of cultivated crops benefits from pruning with control over the vertical position from the ground up (e.g., pruning...). Figure 7(As shown). Vertical control of the pruning height can be adjusted manually or automatically, with or without feedback, and with or without sensor assistance. Positioning wheels 3 can be moved automatically or manually to position themselves between plant bed rows without damaging the crop plants P. The cuts are typically parallel to the ground, but not limited to this angle; cuts can be performed at different angles, and, in the case of multiple laser modules 2-A, each laser module can have its own individual vertical height control. The laser beam L can also be perpendicular to the direction of equipment movement, i.e., perpendicular to the plant bed rows, or parallel to the plant bed rows. The system can prune one row of plants or prune multiple rows of plants simultaneously.

[0063] In the case of weeding:

[0064] according to Figure 9 As shown, when weeding is performed, the beam of laser module 2-A is directed to the necessary area via laser light guide module 2-B to perform cleaning, that is, to remove plant varieties ED that are different from the target cultivated crop from the same or different plant bed rows, or between plant bed rows. The purpose is to cut, burn, and / or eliminate invasive varieties or weeds appearing in the crop. Positioning wheels 3 can be moved automatically or manually to position themselves between plant bed rows without damaging the crop plants P. In such cases, a cutting process with or without thermal effects is employed to promote the death and subsequent extinction and / or reduction of the invasive species ED. Figure 9 This demonstrates the effect of lasers on invasive species between crop plant bed rows, killing the weed by severing the plant stems near the ground.

[0065] In dry conditions:

[0066] according to Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the drying process utilizes radiation from laser module 2-A. The goal of this radiation is not to cut the plant or its parts, but rather to irradiate as much of the entire plant as possible (P). Figure 10 The radiation can be applied to a single plant bed or multiple plant beds to increase dehydration intensity, causing plant death. The positioning wheel 3 can be moved automatically or manually to position itself between the plant beds without damaging the crop plant P. The intensity, exposure time, wavelength, and other parameters of the laser radiation applied to the plant will determine whether the final result is complete plant extinction, such as in the case of weed and pest control, or for ripening before harvest.

[0067] Under light stimulation:

[0068] according to Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the stimulation from the radiation of the laser beam L comes from the irradiation of all or most of the plant (e.g., Figure 12 As shown), the stimulation preferably acts on the structures responsible for photosynthesis and optical absorption. The laser operation of laser module 2-A will promote the stimulatory effect of electronic excitation on the plant. The radiation of the laser beam L acts on the entire plant P, which can act on only one row of plants or on multiple rows. The intensity, wavelength, modulation, and exposure time of the laser, as well as other laser variables, will affect the type of target stimulation and the variety of the affected plant. Multiple laser modules 2-A can be used in parallel, or as... Figure 13 The scanning laser in the example is used to illuminate as many plants or crops as possible. The positioning wheel 3 can be moved automatically or manually so that it is positioned between the rows of plant beds without damaging the crop plants P.

Claims

1. A method for operating an agricultural laser system comprising a main module (1) equipped with: a power supply module (1-A) comprising a dedicated combustion generator, an electric generator, a battery pack, a photovoltaic system, a filter, a rectifier, a fuse, a circuit breaker, a residual current circuit breaker, a surge protection device, a frequency converter, a power supply protection system and a power supply control system, as well as cables and connectors; a control module (1-B) comprising controllers of operating status, tripping, current, voltage, power, polarization, focusing, frequency, bandwidth and wavelength; a temperature control module (1-D) comprising a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, a heat exchanger, an expansion valve, a ventilation system, a thermoelectric mat; a power distribution module (1-E) comprising a set of cables and hoses; the agricultural laser system further comprises secondary modules (2) which can be replicated and multiplied by varying the number of secondary modules (2) connected to the main module (1), providing the system with the ability to expand or reduce the total coverage area, the secondary modules (2) being equipped with: a laser module (2-A) which can be replicated and multiplied in the same secondary module (2); a user protection module (2-C) comprising a plate made of acrylic material, glass, metal, wood or a combination thereof, provided as a barrier to the laser, characterized in that, The power supply module (1-A) is connected to the power output or auxiliary shaft of the trailer and is bidirectionally connected to the control module (1-B), the compressed gas and / or ventilation module (1-C), the temperature control module (1-D) and the positioning wheel (3), the control module (1-B) is bidirectionally connected to the laser module (2-A), the restraint and laser light guide module (2-B); the compressed gas and / or ventilation module (1-C) includes a compressor, a gas tank, a filter, a dryer, a pressure gauge, an electrical connector, uses gas to generate positive pressure, and is bidirectionally connected to the restraint and laser light guide module (2-B); the temperature control module (1-D) is bidirectionally connected to the laser module (2-A) and the restraint and laser light guide module (2-B); the power distribution module (1-E) is bidirectionally connected to the main module (1), the secondary module (2), the laser module (2-A), the restraint and laser light guide module (2-B) and the positioning wheel (3); the secondary module (2) has a long structure and an inter-module hinged expansion capability, is equipped with a laser module (2-A), the laser module (2-A) has a plurality of module expansion capabilities in the same secondary module (2), the laser module (2-A) includes a solid-state light emitting device using a semiconductor or crystal, gas, an optical fiber with a dopant, and the solid-state light emitting device is unidirectionally connected to the restraint and laser light guide module (2-B); the restraint and laser light guide module (2-B) includes a refractive element (2-B-1) and a mirror (2-B-2) with optional arrangement, the optional arrangement has six degrees of freedom, including three linear degrees of freedom and three rotational degrees of freedom, and emits through a straight end of 0 degrees, an "L-shaped" emission of 90 degrees, an "L-shaped" emission of an arbitrary angle α1 (alpha1), a "Z-shaped" emission of an arbitrary angle α1 (alpha1), and other shape emissions formed by an angle α1 (alpha1) and an angle α2 (alpha2), so that the emitted laser beam (L) is directed to and reaches the plant (P); the positioning wheel (3) includes a horizontal positioner, a vertical positioner, a rotary positioner, a distance detector, and a single-axis positioning controller, a two-axis positioning controller and a three-axis positioning controller manually and / or automatically.

2. A method of operating an agricultural laser system, characterized by, The cutting plant (P) is completed in the following steps in order: a) The laser beam (L) is directed through the restraint and laser light guide module (2-B), and the laser beam (L) is height-adjustable, and the laser beam (L) is controlled using six-axis control with three linear degrees of freedom and three rotational degrees of freedom; automatic or manual cutting with or without feedback; b) The positioning wheel (3) can be automatically or manually moved under the control of up to three axes selected from horizontal movement, vertical movement and rotary movement, so as to be positioned between the plant bed rows without damaging the cultivated plants (P); c) said laser beam (L) is directed to the region of the stem of the plant (P) close to the ground to cut it, but not limited to this height; said cutting can be performed orthogonally or axially to the plant bed rows, or at any other angle between them; d) said cutting can be performed with or without thermal effect by controlling the laser module (2-A) to promote or not the burning of the plant; e) said cutting is generally parallel to the ground, but not limited to this angle, the cutting can be performed at different inclinations, each laser having its vertical height control and respective angle control in the case of several laser modules (2-A) in the same secondary module (2) or in different secondary modules (2); f) the system can simultaneously cut single or multiple rows of plants; g) the ability to expand the secondary modules (2) between them in a long and articulated structure allows a large expansion as the device moves over the crop to ensure the correct height of the pruning even in the case of topographic elevations; and h) the ability to expand the laser modules (2-A) in a single secondary module (2) allows a more efficient control and action during the cutting.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, Cutting the plant (P) structure is performed in the following sequence of steps: a) said laser beam (L) is controlled to perform the cutting by means of a six-axis height control with 3 linear degrees of freedom and 3 rotational degrees of freedom; b) said control is done by positioning the output laser beam through a mirror (2-B-2) and a refractive element (2-B-1), where each optical element is fixed or movable; c) said laser beam (L) is directed to the top region (RA) of the plant (P) to cut it, but not limited to this height, said cutting can be performed orthogonally or axially to the plant bed rows, or at any other angle between them; d) the positioning wheels (3) can be moved automatically or manually, positioning them between the plant bed rows, thus not damaging the cultivated plants (P); e) said cutting is generally parallel to the ground, but not limited to this angle, the cutting can be performed at different inclinations, each laser having its vertical height control and respective angle control in the case of several laser modules (2-A) in the same secondary module (2) or in different secondary modules (2); f) said laser beam (L) is directed to the region of the plant (P) close to the ground to perform said cutting, but not limited to this height, said cutting can be performed orthogonally or axially to the plant bed rows, or at any other angle between them; g) said laser beam (L) can also be perpendicular to the direction of movement of the device, thus perpendicular to the plant bed rows, or parallel or at any other angle between them; h) the system can simultaneously prune one or more rows of plants; i) the ability to expand the secondary modules (2) between them in a long and articulated structure allows a large expansion as the device moves over the crop to ensure the correct height of the pruning even in the case of topographic elevations; and j) the capacity of expansion of the laser module (2-A) in a single secondary module (2) allows a more efficient control and action during the cutting process.

4. The method for operating an agricultural laser system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The weeding is carried out according to the following sequence of steps: a) the laser beam (L) emitted by the laser module (2-A) is directed, through the constraints and the laser light guide module (2-B), to the areas where the cleaning is required, located in the same bed row or in different bed rows or between bed rows, with the aim of cutting, burning and / or eliminating the invasive species or weeds present in the crop; b) the positioning wheels (3) can be moved automatically or manually under three- axis control, so as to be positioned between the bed rows, without damaging the cultivated plants (P); c) the cutting process with or without thermal effect is performed, in order to cause the death and subsequent extinction and / or reduction of the forage grasses, weeds (ED) and harmful crops; d) the laser acts between the rows of the crop with the aim of cutting the stems of the weed plants close to the ground, or at any other height of interest, in order to kill the weed plants; e) the capacity of expansion of the secondary module (2) between the secondary modules (2) in a long and articulated structure allows a large expansion as the device moves on the crop, in order to ensure the correct height for weeding, even in the case of a topography that rises; and f) the capacity of expansion of the laser module (2-A) in a single secondary module (2) allows a more efficient control and action during the weeding process.

5. The method for operating an agricultural laser system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The drying is carried out according to the following sequence of steps: a) the laser beam (L) emitted by the laser module (2-A) is directed, through the constraints and the laser light guide module (2-B), to the areas where the drying is required, in order to eliminate and / or accelerate the process of killing the weed plants present in the crop; b) the positioning wheels (3) can be moved automatically or manually under three- axis control, so as to be positioned between the bed rows, without damaging the cultivated plants (P); c) the intensity and the exposure time of the laser radiation on the weed plants, and the wavelength, other parameters in the operating conditions of the laser, will determine whether the final result is the complete extinction of the weed plants in an instant, or the creation of a lethal damage that causes the death of the weed plants in a few days, for various plants, including forage grasses, weeds (ED) and harmful crops, or for the ripening for the harvest; d) a plurality of laser modules (2-A) can be used in the same secondary module (2), in such a way that their beams can be positioned in the same plane or in different planes, parallel or not to the ground, in order to make the cutting more efficient, or with a laser with a scanning function, in order to illuminate the largest possible extension of the plants or crops; e) the capacity of expansion of the secondary module (2) between the secondary modules (2) in a long and articulated structure allows a large expansion as the device moves on the crop, in order to ensure the correct height for drying, even in the case of a topography that rises; and f) the capacity of expansion of the laser module (2-A) in a single secondary module (2) allows a more efficient control and action during the drying process.

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