Device for preparing a fertilizer solution for use with a fertilization system

Abstract

The present application provides a device (1) for dissolving in an aqueous liquid a substantially water-soluble substance, optionally comprising insoluble solid substances, and optionally for filtering the aqueous solution of the substantially water-soluble substance to remove the insoluble solid substances. The device (1) comprises: a container (2) for containing the aqueous liquid, wherein the inside of the container is divided into two separate compartments, a mixing compartment (12) and a filtering compartment (14), separated by a vertically positioned filtering screen (13) comprising a filter; mixing means positioned in the mixing compartment; an outlet (17) in the lower half of one of the walls of the mixing compartment (12) or in the base of the mixing compartment for removing the insoluble solid substances from the mixing compartment (12); a grid (4) positioned above the mixing compartment (12), the grid comprising means (5) for opening a bag positioned on or above the grid (4); and electronic means (20), optionally comprising a digital display, connected to a sensor (19).

Description

Apparatus for preparing fertilizer solutions for use with fertilization systems Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for preparing fertilizer solutions for use with irrigation systems, particularly for removing insoluble solids from substantially water-soluble substances after dissolution, particularly for removing substantially water-soluble fertilizers containing small amounts of insoluble substances before dissolving the substantially water-soluble substances in water and providing them to the irrigation system. Background Technology

[0002] Fertilization is a technique that involves dissolving a defined amount of nutrients in water and distributing the fertilizer-containing water to crop fields via an irrigation system. This technique allows for the rapid and accurate distribution of nutrients to crops, ensuring optimal growth. Fertilization reduces the total amount of water used on a farm and also reduces fertilizer use because these fertilizers are provided to crops at the right time and in the right amount. Therefore, fertilizer losses in the field through leaching or gaseous losses (such as ammonia) are reduced, positively impacting agricultural activities.

[0003] Although irrigation systems are very common on both large and small farms, fertilization is still considered a complex technology today that requires farmers to perform complex calculations and use advanced equipment.

[0004] Fertilization also requires the use of very pure fertilizer products containing very small amounts of water-insoluble material, also known as fine powder, to avoid clogging irrigation equipment such as water lines, sprinklers, and / or drippers. This type of fertilizer is more expensive than fertilizers containing water-insoluble granules, which is another drawback against its use.

[0005] EP3799711 (Yara, 2021) discloses an apparatus for preparing a fertilizer solution, which includes a container divided into two compartments, a mixing device, and an outlet. The apparatus may also include a grid located above the container and a device for cutting through fertilizer bags.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for a simple system for dissolving substantially water-soluble substances containing insoluble solids in an aqueous liquid and for filtering the aqueous solution of the water-soluble substances to remove the insoluble solids. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The inventors have designed a novel device comprising a container for containing an aqueous liquid, wherein the interior of the container is divided into two separate compartments: a mixing compartment and a filtering compartment separated by a vertically positioned filter screen including a filter. The device further comprises: a mixing device positioned within the mixing compartment; an outlet located in the lower half of one of the walls of the mixing compartment or in the base of the mixing compartment for removing insoluble solids from the mixing compartment; a grid positioned above the mixing compartment, the grid including means for opening a bag positioned on or above the grid; and electronic devices, optionally including a digital display connected to a sensor. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The following description of specific embodiments of the system according to this disclosure is given by way of example only and is not intended to limit this description, its application, or use. In the drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same or similar parts and features.

[0009] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the device according to the present disclosure as viewed from the outside.

[0010] Figure 2 is an embodiment identical to the one shown in Figure 1, but viewed from above, the cover and grid have been removed. Detailed Implementation

[0011] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing this invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Definitions of terms are included in further guidance to better understand the teachings of this invention.

[0012] All references cited in this specification are hereby considered to be incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0013] As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings:

[0014] Unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein refer to both the singular and plural indicators. As an example, “compartment” refers to one or more compartments.

[0015] As used herein, “about” in relation to measurable values ​​such as parameters, quantities, durations, etc., means a variation of a specific value and starting from that specific value by + / -20% or less, particularly + / -10% or less, more particularly + / -5% or less, even more particularly + / -1% or less, and even more particularly + / -0.1% or less, provided that such variation is suitable for implementation in the disclosed invention. However, it should be understood that the value referred to by the modifier “about” is itself specifically disclosed.

[0016] As used herein, “comprising,” “including,” and “consisting of,” as well as “having,” “including,” “containing,” and “comprising,” are synonymous with “having,” “including,” “containing,” and these words are inclusive or open-ended terms that specify the presence of the following content, such as a component, and do not exclude or prevent the presence of additional, unlisted components, features, elements, components, or steps known in or disclosed in the art.

[0017] The range of values ​​referenced by an endpoint includes all numbers and fractions contained within that range, as well as the endpoint being referenced.

[0018] Unless otherwise defined, the expressions “percentage by weight,” “%wt” or “% by weight” herein and throughout the specification mean the relative weight of the corresponding component based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0019] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides a novel apparatus comprising: a container for containing an aqueous liquid, wherein the interior of the container is divided into two separate compartments, a mixing compartment and a filtering compartment separated by a vertically positioned filter screen including a filter; a mixing device positioned within the mixing compartment; an outlet located in the lower half of one of the walls of the mixing compartment or in the base of the mixing compartment for removing insoluble solids from the mixing compartment; a grid positioned above the mixing compartment, the grid including means for opening a bag positioned on or above the grid; and electronic means, optionally including a digital display connected to a sensor.

[0020] The device includes a container for holding an aqueous liquid. The container is divided into two separate compartments: a mixing compartment and a filtering compartment, separated by a vertically positioned filter screen including a filter. The filter screen separates the two compartments such that the aqueous liquid in either compartment is only allowed to pass through the filter from one compartment to the other.

[0021] The mixing compartment is configured to receive substantially water-soluble substances, such as solid fertilizer products containing insoluble solids, as well as aqueous liquids. When the mixing device is activated, the dissolution of the substantially water-soluble substances in the aqueous liquid within the mixing compartment is accelerated. The mixing device also homogenizes the aqueous solution.

[0022] A filter compartment contains, stores, or holds the filtered aqueous solution.

[0023] Aqueous liquids can be water or essentially water, that is, water that includes small amounts, for example less than 1.0% by weight, or even less than 0.1% by weight of other elements, compounds or impurities.

[0024] Aqueous liquids can also be mixtures of water and co-solvents, such as polyols.

[0025] Basically, water-soluble substances can be fertilizer products, that is, products containing one or more elements needed by crops. These elements are divided into three groups: major nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium; minor nutrients magnesium, calcium, and sulfur; and micronutrients copper, iron, manganese, zinc, boron, molybdenum, and nickel.

[0026] Producing fertilizer products suitable for direct application to fertilization systems is very expensive because these products must contain very small amounts, such as less than 0.5% by weight, of water-insoluble materials, or impurities. Therefore, it is desirable to have a device that can use fertilizer products containing slightly more, for example, between 0.6% and 1.5% by weight of water-insoluble materials, as this would be much cheaper for farmers.

[0027] The device according to the invention can also be used with 100% water-soluble substances.

[0028] In one embodiment, the water-soluble substance is essentially a water-soluble substance that includes water-insoluble impurities, such as less than 2.0% by weight, i.e., between 0% by weight and 2.0% by weight, or less than 1.5% by weight, i.e., between 0% by weight and 1.5% by weight.

[0029] To ensure that fertilization or irrigation systems are not clogged by insoluble materials, the container includes a filter screen containing a filter. The filter will prevent any particles larger than a predetermined size from entering the filter compartment and ensure that the solution present in the filter compartment can be safely distributed into the irrigation system.

[0030] The mesh size of the filter can be adjusted according to the requirements of the irrigation system. For example, the filter can have a mesh size between 50 μm and 200 μm, meaning that all particles larger than the filter's mesh size will be blocked. In one embodiment, the filter has mesh sizes of 50 μm, 60 μm, 70 μm, 80 μm, 90 μm, 100 μm, 150 μm, and 200 μm. In one embodiment, the filter is a stainless steel mesh.

[0031] In one embodiment, the filter screen comprises a filter surrounded between two rigid plates. The filter can be very thin and have low rigidity. To hold the filter in place within the filter screen, it is preferable to surround the filter between two rigid plates. The rigid plates can be made of plastic such as polyethylene or stainless steel. The rigid plates include, for example, large pores with diameters between 1 and 20 cm, 5 and 20 cm, 5 and 15 cm, or 1 and 15 cm to allow solution to pass through the filter.

[0032] In one embodiment, the filter screen may include more than one filter surrounding two rigid plates. The filters may have the same or different mesh sizes. For example, the filter screen may include a filter with a mesh size of 200 μm and a filter with a mesh size of 50 μm. These two filters may be of the same size and stacked on top of each other, with the filter with the larger mesh size facing the mixing compartment and the filter with the smaller mesh size facing the filtering compartment. In this configuration, the first filter blocks any insoluble particles with a size greater than 200 μm, and the second filter blocks insoluble particles with a size between 50 μm and 200 μm. This arrangement will extend the lifespan of the second filter while obtaining an aqueous solution with a very small amount of insoluble particles.

[0033] In one implementation, the filter reaches the bottom of the container or is 5% below the container's height. A filter reaching the bottom or near the bottom of the container ensures that the level of the aqueous solution in both the mixing and filtration compartments is the same at all times. If the filter does not reach a sufficiently low level, a portion of the solution prepared in the mixing compartment will stagnate there and will not be able to reach the filtration compartment. This will result in a waste of water-soluble substances that can never be used.

[0034] In one embodiment, the container is made of plastic, such as polyethylene, preferably non-transparent polyethylene. Polyethylene is an inexpensive and inert material, especially for aqueous solutions. Polyethylene can be easily welded or bonded together and has good mechanical strength to contain the aqueous composition internally and resist shear forces during mixing. In one embodiment, the container is non-transparent to prevent degradation of the aqueous solution under sunlight when the device is used to store the aqueous composition.

[0035] The device also includes a mixing device positioned in a mixing compartment. The mixing device allows the user to mix substantially water-soluble products and aqueous liquids, such that the water-soluble product dissolves in the aqueous liquid.

[0036] In one implementation, the hybrid device is a mechanical hybrid device powered by a motor, such as an electric motor.

[0037] In one embodiment, the mixing device includes an air duct having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet of the air duct is configured to receive air, particularly compressed air, and the outlet of the duct is located in a mixing compartment. The device may include means for supplying air to the inlet of the air duct. Such means for supplying air may be electrically powered, such as a blower or air compressor, or manually powered, such as a bellows or a container containing compressed air. The means for supplying air to the air duct may be included in the device, i.e., permanently attached or coupled to the device. Alternatively, the means for supplying air to the inlet may be a separate device.

[0038] It was discovered that mixtures of water-soluble products and aqueous liquids can be mixed by blowing air into the mixing container. The advantage of this mixing device is that the water-soluble product and water can be added to the mixing tank in any specific order. When using a mechanical mixing device, it was observed that a certain amount of water, for example, 20 to 25% of the container volume, needs to be added before any product is added to dissolve. Otherwise, the product will begin to clump and clog the mixing device.

[0039] Furthermore, an air duct was observed to have a beneficial effect on the filter because it requires less maintenance, i.e., less cleaning, compared to mechanical mixing devices. Without being bound by theory, it is assumed that the air bubbles blown into the mixing container and / or the turbulence generated by these bubbles remove water-insoluble particles from the filter and keep them circulating when the device for supplying air to the air duct is activated. This effect results in a larger portion of the water-insoluble material settling at the bottom of the mixing container rather than remaining in the filter. The filter then requires less frequent cleaning, reducing the workload for the device user.

[0040] It is also conceivable that mixing devices including air ducts reduce the risk of damage to the device in the event of accidental objects falling into the mixing compartment. When the device includes mechanical mixing devices, such as rotating blades, there is a risk that the mixing devices and / or the device may be damaged due to the introduction of foreign objects, such as fertilizer bags. Grids typically prevent these objects from falling into the mixing compartment, but grids may be damaged during the life of the device, or the user may decide to remove the grids.

[0041] In one implementation, the air outlet reaches 20% below the height of the mixing chamber. When air is blown near the bottom of the mixing container, the product dissolves more quickly in the aqueous liquid, ensuring effective mixing throughout the chamber. Blowing air to 20% above the height of the mixing chamber will eventually dissolve the product, but will take longer.

[0042] In one embodiment, the air conduit includes two or more outlets, particularly three outlets, located within the mixing compartment. The air conduit may include a junction connecting an air inlet to two or more outlets. The junction may be triangular in the case of two outlets or cross-shaped in the case of three outlets. When the mixing device includes more than one outlet, mixing is more turbulent, and product dissolution occurs within a shorter timeframe. More turbulent mixing also reduces the risk of stagnant solid material in the mixing container, such as in corners.

[0043] Very good results were obtained with the air duct comprising three outlets located at the bottom of the mixing container, wherein the air duct includes a cross-shaped joint connecting the air inlet and the three air outlets. The four branches, namely one inlet and three outlets, are located in the same plane and are positioned at 90° to adjacent branches. Such an air duct can be easily constructed using standard piping equipment, such as plastic pipes and joints.

[0044] In one embodiment, the device includes means for preheating the air supplied to the air duct. In one embodiment, the air blown into the air duct is preheated, particularly to a temperature above ambient. This can be achieved by using a blower that includes heating elements to heat the air it blows, or by using a separate air heater unit to preheat the air before it is supplied to the means for supplying the air to the air duct. Preheating the air before it is supplied to the mixing chamber will heat the aqueous solution in the mixing chamber. This may be advantageous when the ambient temperature and therefore the temperature of the aqueous solution in the mixing chamber are low, for example, below 20°C, 15°C, or 10°C. Heating the water in the mixing chamber will accelerate the dissolution of water-soluble substances in the aqueous solution. Preheating the air can also be used to heat the entire device, for example, in cases where ice has formed in the mixing or filtering chamber.

[0045] The device also includes a grid positioned above the mixing compartment, the grid including means for opening bags, particularly fertilizer bags, positioned on or above the grid.

[0046] The product to be dissolved in the device is typically packaged in bags, particularly plastic bags, weighing between 1 and 25 kg. The user must lift the bag above the opening of the mixing chamber, for example, by opening it with a sharp object, while holding the bag above the opening and pouring its contents into the mixing chamber with as little spillage as possible. If the bag is small enough to be carried with one hand, the operation can be done safely and efficiently, but this is very difficult with larger bags, especially if the user is not very strong or has a disability. Therefore, a grid is placed above the mixing chamber so that the user can place the product bag on it.

[0047] The grid provides a location where the bag can be safely placed without tilting the device.

[0048] This may still be a challenge for larger bags, but it greatly simplifies other steps, such as opening the bag and emptying its contents, because users can now use both hands to perform these steps.

[0049] In addition, a device for opening the bag is positioned on or above the grid, allowing the bag to be opened when the user places it on the grid. The device can be an object with a sharp point that opens the bag by piercing, punching, or cutting an opening, such as a hole, in the bag packaging when the bag is placed next to or on top of the device. The bag can be placed directly next to or above the device for user-operated opening. Alternatively, the device can be configured such that the user can place the bag on the grid and then simply push or flip the bag onto the device.

[0050] The device for opening the bag can be fixed, i.e., permanently attached to the grid. Preferably, the device for opening the bag does not require user handling; instead, the bag is simply opened by placing it in contact with the device.

[0051] The device for opening can be designed to open the bag from any location on the bag, especially at the bottom.

[0052] In one embodiment, the device for opening the bag is at least partially made of metal, such as steel or stainless steel. The metal object can be sharpened to effectively open the bag by piercing or puncturing its packaging.

[0053] In one embodiment, the device for opening the bag is made of plastic, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or high-density polypropylene (HDPP). Plastics such as HDPE and HDPP can be made into very durable objects that are sharp enough to open bags, particularly fertilizer bags.

[0054] In one embodiment, the device for opening the bag has a triangular shape. In another embodiment, the device for opening the bag has a triangular shape and is positioned on a grid.

[0055] In one embodiment, the device for opening the bag has a trapezoidal shape, i.e., a quadrilateral with two opposite sides parallel. In another embodiment, the device for opening the bag has an isosceles trapezoidal shape.

[0056] In one embodiment, the device for opening the bag includes elements or portions having a triangular wave shape or a sawtooth wave shape.

[0057] In one embodiment, the device for opening the bag has a height ranging from 10 to 50 cm, from 10 to 40 cm, from 10 to 30 cm, from 15 to 50 cm, from 15 to 40 cm, or from 15 to 30 cm. In another embodiment, the device for opening the bag has a length ranging from 20 to 60 cm, from 30 to 60 cm, from 20 to 50 cm, from 25 to 50 cm, from 30 to 55 cm, or from 30 to 50 cm.

[0058] The device for opening the bag when it is placed on the device is particularly attractive because once the bag is punctured or perforated by the device, the contents of the bag are released. This eliminates the need for further manipulation of the bag by the user, such as tilting the bag onto the grid.

[0059] The grid should be strong enough to support the bag the user is supposed to use, allowing bags, such as 1kg, 10kg, or up to 25kg, to be placed on the grid without causing any deformation or damage. In one embodiment, the grid is made of stainless steel, a strong material that will not rust in a wet environment. Alternatively, the grid can be made of plastic, such as polyethylene. Plastic is also non-reactive in wet environments and can be made strong enough to withstand heavy loads, such as a 25kg bag, by using the correct dimensions, such as thickness.

[0060] In one implementation, the grid is adapted to support large bags. Large bags are very large bags, typically made of plastic, that can contain materials such as fertilizer, ranging from 100 kg to 1500 kg. Large bags are used on very large farms. The advantage of large bags compared to smaller bags is the lower cost per unit weight of fertilizer.

[0061] The grid has a defined mesh size, which can be quite large, such as 1 to 5 centimeters. The grid prevents any large items, such as bags, from entering the mixing compartment, but it does not require a small mesh size to filter water-insoluble particles. This task is accomplished by a filter within the container.

[0062] The device according to this disclosure allows a user to perform several operations in a single device: the device is a container for fertilizer products, in which the fertilizer products can be immediately dissolved in an aqueous liquid and delivered to the irrigation system. Users do not need additional equipment, such as scales, to measure specific amounts of fertilizer, and / or separate mixing devices to dissolve the substance in the aqueous liquid. This device reduces potential errors from farmers, reduces farm waste, and is more economical.

[0063] In one embodiment, the device includes means for lifting a large bag above a mixing compartment. As mentioned above, the large bag contains a significant amount of material and cannot be lifted by hand. Therefore, the device may include means for lifting such a bag above the mixing compartment, such as a small crane. The means for lifting the bag can be electrically or manually operated, for example, using a pulley system to assist the user.

[0064] In one embodiment, the apparatus includes means for metering an aqueous solution of a filtered water-soluble substance to an external water line. The apparatus may include elements that allow the filtered aqueous solution to be mixed with or injected into the external water line. The resulting mixture can then be dispensed to crops. The means for metering may be a Venturi-based system or... A chemical injector is a water-driven, non-electric chemical injector that accurately injects chemicals into water lines. The syringe works using volumetric proportions, thus ensuring that the chemical mixture remains constant regardless of changes in pressure and flow rate.

[0065] In one embodiment, the device includes electronic components, which optionally include a digital display connected to a sensor. The electronic components can be used for various purposes in the device according to the invention. The electronic components including a digital display can be a useful addition to the device because they allow for quick and easy communication with the user. Different kinds of information can be displayed on the display and communicated to the user. Sensors connected to the electronic components can measure different parameters relevant to the user. The sensors and electronic components can provide the user with accurate data, which improves the performance of the device.

[0066] Electronic devices can be placed on the walls of the container or above the mixing or filtering compartments.

[0067] The electronic device may include a processing unit and / or a storage unit. The electronic device is capable of processing signals from various sensors and may optionally display the signals from the sensors on a digital display of the electronic device.

[0068] In one implementation, the sensor is capable of detecting the level of the aqueous solution in the mixing compartment. Knowing the level of liquid remaining in the container is useful to the user. The walls of the container and / or device may be opaque and prevent the user from visually inspecting the level of liquid remaining in the container. The device may also be sealed with a lid, which prevents the user from visually determining the level of the aqueous solution remaining in the container. Knowing the exact level in the container is advantageous because it allows the user to properly plan their activities, for example, when they need to order more water-soluble products.

[0069] In one embodiment, the electronic device includes a communication module capable of wirelessly communicating with a remote third party via a network such as a Wi-Fi network, a mobile network, or a combination of Wi-Fi and mobile networks. Examples of mobile networks that the communication module can be configured to use include 2G networks such as GSM, 3G networks, 4G networks such as LTE, LTE Advanced, LTE Advanced Pro, WiMAX, or WiMAX-Advanced, and / or 5G networks. In one embodiment, the electronic device can be configured to send an order for water-soluble products once the level in the container reaches a predetermined level. This ensures that the user always has sufficient water-soluble products and solutions available for use.

[0070] In one embodiment, the sensor used to detect the level of the aqueous solution in the mixing compartment is a pressure sensor. These sensors are well known in the art and provide a reliable assessment of the remaining liquid in the container. Alternatively, a radar-based sensor can be used to detect the level of the aqueous solution.

[0071] In one embodiment, the device includes a sensor for measuring the conductivity of an aqueous solution in a container. The sensor may be located in a mixing or filtering compartment, or downstream of the device's outlet. The conductivity of the aqueous fertilizer solution is related to the ion content of the fertilizer solution. The sensor may measure the conductivity of a solution prepared in the device, or it may measure the conductivity of a mixture comprising a solution prepared in the device and mixed with an external water line. Farmers can use the conductivity of the fertilizer solution to determine whether they have added sufficient fertilizer product to the device. The sensor for measuring conductivity may be connected to electronic devices.

[0072] In one embodiment, the device includes an inlet valve in the mixing compartment, particularly an electronically controlled inlet valve, i.e., a valve that can be opened and closed by an electronic controller. The electronically controlled inlet valve can be connected to and controlled by an electronic device. The inlet valve can be connected to a water source and allow automatic filling of the container. It is conceivable that a user can issue commands to the electronic device via a wireless connection or via a digital display to fill the container to a predetermined level. The electronic device, including a sensor for detecting the level of the aqueous solution in the container, can then open the valve to begin filling the mixing compartment and close the valve when the sensor indicates that the desired level in the mixing compartment has been reached. The electronically controlled inlet valve reduces the workload for the user, as they do not need to remain beside the container while it is being filled, and ensures the correct concentration of the final aqueous solution, thereby improving the reliability of the device for the user.

[0073] In one embodiment, the device includes an outlet valve contained within a filter compartment. The valve may be electronically controlled, particularly by an electronic device. The outlet valve allows for the automatic removal of the filtered aqueous solution to a fertilization system. The valve may be located at the bottom of the filter compartment or connected to a water pipe or conduit leading to the bottom of the filter compartment. The valve may be electronically controlled to switch the distribution of the aqueous solution on and off. Specifically, the outlet valve should be closed when the inlet valve is open.

[0074] In one embodiment, the device includes an inlet valve, particularly an electronically controlled inlet valve, in the mixing compartment as described above, and an outlet valve, particularly an electronically controlled outlet valve, included in the filtering compartment as described above.

[0075] In one embodiment, the volume ratio of the filtration compartment to the mixing compartment is in the range of 1:1 to 1:5, particularly 1:3. It may be preferred that the filtration compartment be at least as large as the mixing compartment to allow for easier removal or transfer of the mixed solution and the filtered solution to the irrigation system.

[0076] In one embodiment, the mixing compartment includes a water inlet. The inlet, having a standard connection for a water hose or line, simplifies the filling of the container with water. The water line or hose can be securely attached to the device as water is added to the container.

[0077] The inlet can also be located above the mixing or filtering compartment, wherein the device includes a cover that at least partially covers the filtering compartment. If the mixing and filtering compartments are connected by a permeable filter reaching the bottom of the container, the water levels in both compartments are the same at all times. Therefore, water can be added to either the mixing or filtering compartment.

[0078] In one embodiment, the filter compartment is sealed by a lid. The user does not need to add anything to the filter compartment, therefore the lid can prevent any object from entering the compartment and contaminating the filtered solution. In one embodiment, the lid of the filter compartment includes an opening for water absorption. The opening can be a hole through which a water hose can be introduced. Alternatively, the opening can be an adapter connected to a hose inserted into the filter compartment, through which the user can connect their irrigation system to the adapter and pump the solution out of the filter compartment.

[0079] In one embodiment, the device includes a removable cover for covering a grid positioned above the mixing compartment. Covering the grid can be advantageous when no product is being added to the mixing compartment. This ensures that no unwanted objects fall into the mixing compartment and contaminate the solution in the container. However, since the grid needs to be accessible when product is added to the mixing container, a removable cover is preferred. The removable cover can be attached to the device, for example via a hinge, which allows the cover to be opened and closed as needed.

[0080] In one embodiment, the filter in the filter screen covers more than about 50%, particularly more than about 70%, and at most about 95% of the filter screen surface. The maintenance requirements of the filter may depend on its size, because smaller filters are clogged more quickly than larger filters because smaller filters have a smaller surface area to accumulate water-insoluble impurities.

[0081] In one embodiment, the filter has a mesh size ranging from 50 micrometers to 200 micrometers. It has been observed that filters with mesh sizes between 50 and 200 micrometers provide filtered solution that does not clog most irrigation lines. The mesh size of the filter can be selected accordingly based on the specific irrigation setup of the user.

[0082] In one embodiment, the container has a rectangular cuboid shape defined by four upright rectangular sidewalls and a rectangular bottom wall. Alternatively, the container has a cylindrical shape, which is commonly available, especially for large volumes exceeding 1000 liters.

[0083] In one embodiment, the container has a volume of 1,000 to 5,000 liters. For example, the container could be a standard medium bulk container (IBC) made of plastic or metal. It is conceivable that this disclosure will be particularly meaningful for farms with cultivated land of 1 to 50 hectares that already have irrigation systems but do not use such systems to provide fertilizer to their crops. A container with a volume of 1,000 to 5,000 liters requires 1 to 50 kg of fertilizer each time it is empty, which is manageable for small farms employing only one or two people.

[0084] In one implementation, the container has a volume greater than 5,000 liters, such as 10,000 liters or 15,000 liters. Large farms can use larger containers to reduce the time interval between two refills. Such farms can use large bags of fertilizer.

[0085] In one embodiment, the device according to this disclosure includes a battery. It may be advantageous for the device to include its own power source, allowing it to be used in locations where it is not connected to a power outlet. The battery can power any power-demanding components of the device, such as blowers, sensors, water pumps, or electronic devices including digital displays.

[0086] In one embodiment, the device includes a solar panel. The solar panel may be attached to the device, such as to a wall or cover of the device, and may be used to power components of the device that require electricity to operate.

[0087] In one embodiment, the device includes a battery and a solar panel connected to the battery. The solar panel can be used to charge the battery, rather than directly powering the components of the device.

[0088] In another aspect, this disclosure provides a method for dissolving a water-soluble substance, optionally including an insoluble solid, in an aqueous liquid and optionally for filtering the aqueous solution of the water-soluble substance to remove the insoluble solid, the method comprising: (i) providing an apparatus according to this disclosure; (ii) using a device for opening a bag to open a bag comprising the water-soluble substance, optionally including an insoluble solid, thereby providing the water-soluble substance into a mixing compartment; (iii) providing a quantity of the aqueous liquid into the mixing compartment; and (iv) activating the mixing device until the water-soluble substance is substantially dissolved.

[0089] In one implementation, the aqueous liquid supplied to the mixing compartment is water. Standard tap water can be used if it meets the purity requirements for irrigation. Alternatively, rainwater or well water can be used. If the water source is unsuitable for agricultural use, the water can be treated according to standard procedures to obtain suitable water for irrigation.

[0090] Adding water-soluble substances and water to the mixing compartment can be done in any particular order: the substance can be added completely before adding any water to the compartment; the container can be filled with water to the desired level before adding any substance; or water and water-soluble substances can be added simultaneously.

[0091] Once the water-soluble substance is dissolved in the aqueous liquid, the device can be connected to the user's irrigation system to distribute the solution to the field.

[0092] In another aspect, this disclosure provides the use of an apparatus according to this disclosure for removing insoluble solids from a substantially soluble fertilizer by dissolving the substantially soluble fertilizer in an aqueous liquid and separating the insoluble solids by filtration.

[0093] Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of the device according to the invention. The device 1 includes a container with four rectangular walls 2. The container is partially closed by a lid 3 covering a portion of a filter compartment 14 and a mixing compartment 12. The remaining portion of the mixing compartment not covered by the lid 3 is covered by a grid 4. A device 5 for opening a bag is seated on the grid 4. The device 5 is made of metal, particularly stainless steel, and includes four legs joined together at the top of the device 5. The top of the device 5 is sharp enough that it can cut open a plastic bag containing a water-soluble substance when the bag is placed on top of the device 5. When the device 5 cuts the bag, the water-soluble substance begins to fall through the grid 4 into the mixing compartment 12. The device includes a removable lid 6 attached to the lid 3 via a hinge 7. When a user wants to add water or substance to the mixing compartment 12, the removable lid 6 can be opened wide to facilitate this addition, and after addition, the lid 6 is closed to cover the grid 4. The device 1 may also include a water inlet 8 for supplying water to the container. Alternatively, the inlet 8 may be located on the cover 3 and above the mixing or filtering compartment. The device may include an outlet 16 located on one of the walls of the container and connected to the filtering compartment of the device, allowing a solution containing dissolved substances to drain from the device 1. Alternatively, the outlet 16 may be located on the cover 3 above the filtering compartment 14. Alternatively, the cover 3 may be removable and a water hose or pipe may be introduced from the top of the device. The device 1 includes an outlet 17 located in the lower half of the front wall of the mixing compartment 12 for removing insoluble solids from the mixing compartment 12.

[0094] Figure 2 shows a view of the device shown in Figure 1 from above, where the cover 3 and grid 4 have been omitted for clarity. Device 1 includes a blower 9 for blowing air into the mixing chamber 12 and mixing the substance with an aqueous liquid. The blower 9 can be battery-operated or connected to the power grid via an electrical connection. The blower rests on a small platform 15 located at approximately the same height as the grid 4. The outlet of the blower 9 connects to the inlet 10 of an air duct 18, which continues into the mixing chamber 12. The air duct 18 includes three outlets 11 located at the bottom of the mixing chamber 12. A filter screen 13, including a filter (not shown) with a mesh size of 50 μm, separates the mixing chamber 12 from the filter chamber 14. Device 1 also includes an electronic device 20 containing a digital display, embedded in one of the walls of device 1, allowing the user to view the digital display. The device 20 is connected to the sensor 19 in the mixing chamber 12, for example, to detect the level of the aqueous solution in the mixing chamber 12.

Claims

1. An apparatus for dissolving a substantially water-soluble solid fertilizer product in an aqueous liquid to obtain an aqueous solution, said apparatus comprising: (i) a container for containing an aqueous liquid, wherein the interior of the container is divided into two separate compartments, a mixing compartment and a filtering compartment, separated by a vertically positioned filter screen including a filter for filtering the aqueous solution to remove insoluble solids in the presence of such solids, wherein the filter has a mesh size between 50 micrometers and 200 micrometers; (ii) a mixing device positioned in the mixing compartment; (iii) an outlet located in the lower half of one of the walls of the mixing compartment or in the base of the mixing compartment for removing the insoluble solids from the mixing compartment; and (iv) a grid positioned above the mixing compartment, the grid including means for opening a bag positioned on or above the grid; and (v) an electronic device connected to a sensor.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The mixing device includes an air tube having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet of the air tube is configured to receive air from a device for supplying air to the inlet, and the outlet of the tube is located in the mixing compartment.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The air duct includes two or more outlets.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The air pipe has three outlets.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The outlet of the air duct is 20% below the height of the mixing compartment.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The volume ratio of the filtration compartment to the mixing compartment is in the range of 1:1 to 1:

5.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The mixing compartment includes a water inlet.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The filter compartment is sealed by a cover.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The cover includes an opening for water absorption.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a removable cover for covering the grid positioned above the mixing compartment.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The filter in the filter screen covers more than 50% of the surface of the filter screen.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The sensor is capable of detecting the level of the aqueous solution in the mixing compartment.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein, The sensor is a pressure sensor or a height sensor.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The sensor is configured to measure the conductivity of an aqueous solution.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The device includes wheels.

16. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The filter in the filter screen covers more than 70% of the surface of the filter screen.

17. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The filter in the filter screen covers up to 95% of the surface of the filter screen.

18. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The electronic device includes a digital display.

19. A method for dissolving a water-soluble solid fertilizer in an aqueous liquid to obtain an aqueous solution and filtering the aqueous solution to remove the insoluble solids in the presence of the insoluble solids, the method comprising: (i) Providing an apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 18; (ii) Using the device for opening the bag to open the water-soluble solid fertilizer, thereby providing the water-soluble substance into the mixing compartment; (iii) A certain amount of aqueous liquid is provided into the mixing compartment; (iv) The mixing device is activated until the substantially water-soluble substance is dissolved.

20. Use of the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the apparatus is used to remove the insoluble solids from the substantially soluble fertilizer by dissolving the substantially soluble fertilizer in an aqueous liquid and separating the insoluble solids by filtration.

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