Adaptable tool for bush pruning

Abstract

An adaptable bush-cutting aid, comprising: i) a platform 101 designed to be positioned on a ground surface, with several wheels 102 arranged under the platform 101 to move the platform 101 close to a bush to be trimmed; ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103, installed on the platform 101 and paired with a processor to capture and process multiple images near the platform 101 or to determine the height of the bush, wherein a plate 112 is arranged with the platform 101 by means of a scissor lift arrangement 104 having several links that are crosswise connected to each other by means of several motorized rotary joints 105, which are actuated by an integrated microcontroller to position the plate 112 to the upper part of the bush; iii) a touch-interactive display panel 106 installed on the plate 112 to enable a user to provide input specifications regarding a user-desired shape to be formed in the socket, after which the microcontroller evaluates certain sections from which the socket is to be cut, wherein a vertical support frame 107 is installed on the plate 112 to assemble several components of the device; iv) an elongated element with a plurality of motorized cutting devices 110 attached to the frame 107 by means of a hydraulically actuated rod, which is actuated by the microcontroller to extend / retract in order to position the element near the upper section, wherein the microcontroller actuates the cutting devices 110 to trim the rated sections of the socket to achieve the user-specified shape; and v) an ultrasonic sensor embedded in the frame 107 to detect waste generated by trimming, whereupon the microcontroller actuates a linear actuator 111 installed on the frame 107 and connected to a curved plate 112 to position the plate 112 near the waste generated in order to collect the waste, thereby assisting the user in efficiently trimming the bushes.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an adaptable shrub trimming auxiliary device capable of assisting the user in efficiently trimming the shrubs according to the user's requirements and collecting the generated waste after trimming to trim the shrubs efficiently. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Pruning shrubs is important for maintaining aesthetics, promoting plant health, and ensuring safety. Regular pruning removes dead or overgrown branches, stimulates new growth, and prevents disease. Pruning shrubs also improves air circulation and sunlight exposure, contributing to a lush and vibrant landscape while reducing the risk of accidents caused by overgrown vegetation. Therefore, people want a tool that trims shrubs easily and efficiently.

[0003] Traditionally, manual pruning shears and hedge trimmers are used. Manual pruning shears require considerable physical effort and are time-consuming, especially for larger shrubs. The manual pruning shear method also does not produce precise cuts, resulting in uneven growth. Hedge trimming, while faster, causes damage if used carelessly, resulting in torn or shredded foliage. Furthermore, both methods require manual labor and are not suitable for extensive or intricate pruning tasks. Therefore, there is a need to develop an innovative tool that is more time-efficient and consistent than traditional methods and that meets the changing demands of the modern world.

[0004] WO2007121213A3 discloses the present invention in relation to a tree pruning device which may comprise a first frame part and a second frame part which are spaced apart from one another. Each frame part may have a generally circular shape so that the entire frame of the device can be positioned around the trunk of a tree. A vertical actuator connects the first and second frame parts and is operable to increase or decrease the distance between these parts. A horizontal actuator may be positioned on each of the parts, each horizontal actuator operating to extend into the interior of each frame part and engage a tree trunk. In addition, a cutting device may be positioned on the first frame part to assist in cutting or pruning the tree.Although WO'213 discloses an invention relating to a tree trimming device capable of assisting in the cutting or pruning of trees, the invention lacks in collecting debris at the time of trimming the bush, preventing the manual effort required to do so.

[0005] CN207151280U discloses a kind of topiaries machine, including base plate, support and bracket adjusting device are installed on described base plate trimming driving device and trimming transmission device are installed on described support the trimming driving device is connected with trimming transmission device described trimming transmission device is connected with clipping device. The utility model solve the problems such as existing manually build the high and low efficiency of shrub cost, suggest that a kind of rate is high, the topiaries machine can be made of a variety of modeling scissors to cut different size of shrub. Although CN'280 disclosed about an invention which relates to a kind of topiaries machine which consist of a variety of additional functions such as using a variety of modeling scissors to cut different size of shrub.However, the invention does not detect the presence of insects / animals / objects and warn the user accordingly to prevent injury to insects / animals / objects.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are capable of trimming bushes. However, these devices are unable to assist the user in efficiently trimming bushes according to the user's requirements, nor are they capable of collecting the debris generated during the trimming process.

[0007] To overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages, there is a need in the art to develop a device capable of assisting the user in efficiently trimming shrubs according to the user's requirements. Furthermore, the device should also be capable of collecting the waste generated during the trimming process. SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The main object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of assisting the user in efficiently trimming the bushes according to the user's requirements, so that the user can trim the bushes in a safe manner, thereby eliminating the user's manual efforts.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of detecting the presence of insects / animals / objects and alerting the user accordingly, thereby preventing injury to insects / animals / objects.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of collecting the waste generated during the pruning of the bush, thereby eliminating the physical effort required to collect the waste.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon closer examination of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to an adaptable bush pruning auxiliary device that enables efficient pruning of the bushes by assisting the user and also collecting the waste generated after pruning to enable efficient pruning of the bushes.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable bush-cutting auxiliary device comprises a platform designed to be positioned on a ground surface, with a plurality of wheels arranged beneath the platform to move the platform close to a bush to be cut; an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the platform and paired with a processor to determine the height of the bush; the plate is arranged with the platform by means of a scissor-lift arrangement having a plurality of links connected by means of a plurality of motorized pivots to position the plate up to the top of the bush; an interactive touch display panel is installed on the plate to allow a user to provide input specifications regarding the user's desired shape to be formed in the bush;a vertical support frame is installed on the plate to assemble several components of the device.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed devices further comprise a hydraulically operated rod, which is operated by the microcontroller for extension / retraction to position the element near the upper section for trimming the evaluated sections of the bushing to achieve the user-specific shape, an ultrasonic sensor embedded in the frame to detect debris generated by trimming, a linear actuator installed on the frame and connected to a curved plate to position the plate near the generated debris to collect the debris, an angle sensor embedded in the frame to monitor the inclination angle of the element with respect to the bushing, the motorized ball joint integrated between the rod and the frame to tilt the element,to maintain the alignment of the cutting device with the sections being evaluated, an element embedded in the ultrasonic sensor to detect the presence of an obstacle, such as an insect / animal / object, in the socket, a speaker installed on the plate to generate audio signals to notify the user to remove the obstacle, a battery configured with the device to provide a continuous power supply for electronically operated components connected to the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations are possible which would fall within the scope of the present invention. SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0017] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from the following description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. Figure 1 shows an isometric view of an adjustable bush cutting aid. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description contains the preferred best mode of carrying out an embodiment of the present invention. It will be apparent from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments, but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms “comprising,” “comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with “including,” “with,” and “characterized by”) may be replaced by the respective partially closed terms “consists essentially of,” “consists essentially of,” and the like, or the respective closed terms “consists of,” “consists of,” and the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to both the singular and the plural, unless explicitly stated that only the singular is meant.

[0021] The present invention relates to an adaptable bush trimming tool capable of assisting the user in efficiently trimming bushes according to their preferences. Furthermore, the proposed device is capable of collecting the waste generated during the trimming of the bushes.

[0022] Referring to Fig.1 is an isometric view of an adaptable bush cutting auxiliary device comprising a platform 101 designed to be positioned on a ground surface, wherein a plurality of wheels 102 are arranged below the platform 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 is installed on the platform 101, a scissor lift assembly 104 is connected by means of a plurality of motorized pivot joints 105, an interactive touch display panel 106 is installed on the plate, a vertical support frame 107 is installed on the plate, a speaker 108 is installed on the plate, a motorized ball joint 109 is integrated between the rod and the frame 107, a plurality of motorized cutting devices 110 are connected to the frame 107, a linear actuator 111 is connected to the frame 107, a curved plate 112 is connected to the linear actuator 111.

[0023] The device disclosed here consists of a platform 101 designed for positioning on a floor surface. Platform 101 serves as the main structure and is constructed of strong and lightweight materials such as hardened steel and aluminum alloy. These materials provide the necessary strength while keeping the weight of the device manageable, ensuring a long service life.

[0024] The above-proposed platform 101 is also equipped with an interactive touch display panel 106, which allows the user to enter specifications regarding a desired shape to be formed in the socket. The touch-interactive display panel 106 consists of several tiny electrically active wires. When the user touches the options presented on the screen, the wires are pressed together, closing the circuit. This results in a voltage flow through the circuit. This voltage flow is detected as electrical signals by a microcontroller connected to the screen. The signals are further processed by the microcontroller to determine the user's input regarding the desired shape of the socket. At the same time, the microcontroller evaluates specific sections where the socket should be trimmed.In addition, a vertical support frame 107 is installed on the plate 112 for the assembly of several components of the device.

[0025] In addition, several motorized wheels 102, ranging in number from 4 to 6, are arranged beneath the platform 101 to move the platform 101 near a bush to be trimmed. Each of the wheels 102 is coupled to a DC motor, which is activated by the microcontroller to set the wheels 102 in a circular motion. The operating principle of the DC motor is based on the interaction between a magnetic field and an electric current. When an electric current flows through the wire coil, also called the armature, it generates a magnetic field. This magnetic field interacts with the stationary magnets, called the stator, and causes the armature to rotate.Rotation is achieved by reversing the direction of current flow in the armature coil using a commutator and brushes that provide continuous motion to the motor and drive the wheels 102 in a circular motion to move the platform 101 near a bush to be trimmed.

[0026] The platform 101 proposed above is equipped with an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 for capturing and processing multiple images in the vicinity of the platform 101 to determine the height of the bush. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 is equipped with AI (artificial intelligence) protocols encoded in the microcontroller and used to process and analyze the images captured by the camera, allowing it to perform various tasks beyond conventional image capture. The AI ​​analysis is performed locally on the camera itself, and real-time processing on the camera enables immediate reactions and faster decision-making. The camera captures images of the platform 101 using special lenses designed to capture high-quality imagery.The captured data is then preprocessed by the processor to improve its quality and prepare it for AI analysis. This preprocessing includes tasks such as noise reduction, image stabilization, and color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis, which use machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information from the images. Based on this, the bush height is determined.

[0027] After the height of the bushing has been determined, a plate 112 is configured with the platform 101 and connected to a scissor lift 104 to position the plate 112 up to the top of the bushing. The scissor lift 104 consists of a scissor mechanism consisting of interconnected, intersecting metal beams resembling scissors. When the scissor arms are extended, the plate 112 is raised and positioned under the brush, and when they are retracted, the plate 112 is lowered. The scissor lift 104 is hydraulically driven, with hydraulic cylinders installed in the mechanism, which are connected to a hydraulic unit associated with the device. The hydraulic unit consists of a hydraulic pump, a solenoid valve, and a hydraulic piston-cylinder. The hydraulic pump used here draws the hydraulic oil from a reservoir and mechanically pressurizes the fluid.The hydraulic pump consists of two main parts, including a motor and a propeller.

[0028] The motor rotates the propeller, which uses the power of the engine drive to draw hydraulic oil from the reservoir and compress it to high pressure. The compressed hydraulic oil is then directed through an outlet hose via the solenoid valve into the cylinder. Upon a signal from the microcontroller, the solenoid valve opens, allowing the pressurized oil to enter the cylinder. The solenoid valve consists of a spool and a solenoid coil, which, when energized, creates a magnetic force that tends to open the spool and allow oil to flow into the jack. The pressurized oil in the cylinder tends to push the piston out of the cylinder, causing the hydraulic jacks to extend to lift the plate 112 and position the plate 112 all the way to the top of the bushing in a cruciform manner.

[0029] An elongated element is positioned on plate 112 up to the upper part of the bushing. This element is provided with a hydraulically actuated rod to position the element near the upper part. The hydraulic rod is driven by a hydraulic power unit consisting of a hydraulic cylinder, a hydraulic compressor, a hydraulic valve, and a piston, which work together to allow the rod to extend or retract as required. The microcontroller actuates the valve to allow hydraulic fluid from the compressor to flow into the cylinder. The hydraulic fluid builds pressure against the piston, causing the piston to push and extend. The piston is connected to the component, and due to the applied pressure, the component extends. Similarly, the microcontroller retracts the component by closing the valve, resulting in the piston's retraction.The microcontroller controls the extension / retraction of the element to position the element near the upper part.

[0030] Additionally, an angle sensor is integrated into frame 107 to monitor the angle of inclination of the element relative to the socket. The angle sensor operates on the principle of detecting changes in magnetic fields or optical signals. By analyzing these changes, the angle sensor precisely determines the angle of the element relative to the socket.

[0031] Based on the determined angle of the element, a motorized ball joint 109, integrated between the rod and the frame 107, is actuated by the microcontroller to tilt the element. The ball joint 109 is a coupling consisting of a ball joint securely locked within a socket joint 109. The ball joint is capable of 360-degree rotation within the socket, thus effecting the required rotational movement of the component. The ball joint 109 is driven by a DC motor actuated by the microcontroller, tilting the element to maintain the alignment of a knife with the parts being evaluated.

[0032] After maintaining alignment, the cutting device is connected to an elongated element for trimming the rated parts of the bushing. The cutting device consists of a motor connected to a series of blades for cutting the rated parts of the bushing. The motor is the key component that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to move the blade to achieve the bushing shape specified by the user.

[0033] Furthermore, an ultrasonic sensor is embedded in the frame 107 to detect debris generated during trimming. The ultrasonic sensor emits high-frequency waves near the frame 107 and measures the time it takes for the waves to rebound after hitting the surface. The sensor is typically oriented to measure the presence of debris. The ultrasonic sensor collects a large amount of data by scanning the entire surface near the frame 107, forming a three-dimensional point cloud that represents the presence of debris. The ultrasonic sensor sends the data to the microcontroller, which processes the acquired data and detects debris generated by trimming.

[0034] After detecting the waste generated by trimming, the microcontroller actuates a linear actuator 111, which is installed on the frame 107 and connected to a curved plate 112, to position the plate 112 near the generated waste and collect the waste. The linear actuator 111 consists of a motor, a lead screw, and a nut. When activated by the microcontroller, the motor generates a rotational force, which is then converted into linear motion by the interaction between the lead screw and the nut. The lead screw, driven by the motor, rotates and causes the nut to move along its thread. This motion pushes or pulls the connected chain, exerting pressure on the desired rivet.As the actuator extends, it exerts the necessary force to position the plate 112 near the generated waste and collect the waste, thereby assisting the user in efficiently trimming the bushings.

[0035] Furthermore, the imaging unit 103 detects the presence of an obstacle, such as an insect / animal / object, in the bush. When an obstacle is detected, the microcontroller instructs the mower to stop to avoid harmful accidents. Furthermore, upon detecting an insect / animal / object, the microcontroller controls a speaker 108 installed on the board 112 to generate audio signals and prompt the user to remove the obstacle. The speaker 108 receives signals from the microcontroller, converts them into sound waves through the vibration of a diaphragm, and generates audible sounds with the help of an amplification and control circuit to notify the user to remove the obstacle.

[0036] Finally, a battery (not shown in the diagram) is connected to the device to power all the electrical and electronic components necessary for its proper operation. The battery is connected to the microcontroller and supplies it with direct current (DC). The microcontroller then sends this current to the specific electrical or electronic components, depending on the sequence of operations, so they can effectively perform their respective functions.

[0037] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the platform 101 is designed to be positioned on the ground surface. A plurality of wheels 102 are arranged beneath the platform 101 to move the platform 101 near the bush to be trimmed. Next, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 is installed on the platform 101 and paired with the processor to capture and process a plurality of images near the platform 101 to determine the bush height. After the bush height has been determined, the plate 112 is positioned on the platform 101 by means of the scissor lift assembly 104 having a plurality of links crisscrossed by a plurality of motorized pivots 105, which are actuated by the built-in microcontroller to position the plate 112 to the top of the bush.Additionally, an interactive touch display 106 is installed on the plate 112, allowing the user to enter specifications regarding the shape desired by the user to be formed in the bushing. Next, the vertical support frame 107 is installed on the plate 112 to mount several components of the device, including the elongated member with a plurality of motorized cutters 110. These cutters are connected to the frame 107 by means of the hydraulically actuated rod, which is extended / retracted by the microcontroller to position the member near the top. The microcontroller then actuates the cutters 110 to trim the evaluated sections of the bushing to achieve the shape specified by the user. The ultrasonic sensor embedded in the frame 107 also detects the residue generated during trimming.Based on this, the microcontroller actuates the linear actuator 111, which is installed on the frame 107 and connected to the curved plate 112, to position the plate 112 near the generated debris and collect the debris, thus assisting the user in efficiently trimming the bushes. The angle sensor is embedded in the frame 107 to monitor the inclination angle of the element relative to the bush. Based on this, the microcontroller actuates the motorized ball joint 109, integrated between the rod and the frame 107, to tilt the element to maintain the alignment of the cutting tool with the parts being trimmed. Additionally, the ultrasonic sensor is embedded to detect the presence of obstacles such as insects / animals / objects in the bushes. When the obstacle is detected, the microcontroller controls the cutting device to prevent accidents.When the presence of an insect / animal / object is detected, the microcontroller activates the speaker 108 installed on the board 112 to generate audio signals and notify the user to remove the obstacle.

[0038] Although the scope of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] WO 2007121213A

[0004] CN 207151280U

[0005]

Claims

[1] An adaptable bush cutting auxiliary device comprising: i) a platform 101 designed to be positioned on a ground surface, with a plurality of wheels 102 arranged below the platform 101 to move the platform 101 near a bush to be trimmed; ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 installed on the platform 101 and paired with a processor to capture and process a plurality of images in the vicinity of the platform 101 or to determine the height of the bush, wherein a plate 112 is arranged to the platform 101 by means of a scissor lift assembly 104 comprising a plurality of links crisscrossed by means of a plurality of motorized pivots 105 actuated by a built-in microcontroller to position the plate 112 up to the top of the bush; iii) a touch-interactive display panel 106 installed on the board 112 to enable a user to provide input specifications regarding a user-desired shape to be formed in the socket, after which the microcontroller evaluates specific sections from which the socket is to be cut, a vertical support frame 107 being installed on the board 112 to assemble several components of the device; iv) an elongated member having a plurality of motorized cutting devices 110 mounted on the frame 107 by means of a hydraulically actuated rod actuated by the microcontroller to extend / retract to position the member proximate the upper portion, wherein the microcontroller actuates the cutting devices 110 to trim the rated portions of the bushing to achieve the user-specified shape; and v) an ultrasonic sensor embedded in the frame 107 to detect debris generated by trimming, whereupon the microcontroller actuates a linear actuator 111 installed on the frame 107 and connected to a curved plate 112 to position the plate 112 near the generated debris to collect the debris, thereby assisting the user in trimming the bushes efficiently. [2] Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an angle sensor is embedded in the frame 107 to monitor the angle of inclination of the element with respect to the bushing, whereupon the microcontroller actuates a motorized ball joint 109 integrated between the rod and the frame 107 to tilt the element to maintain the alignment of the cutting tool with the evaluated sections. [3] The device of claim 1, wherein an ultrasonic sensor is embedded in the element to detect the presence of an obstacle, such as an insect / animal / object, in the bush, wherein in case of detection of the obstacle the microcontroller instructs the cutting machine to stop to avoid harmful accidents. [4] The device according to claim 1 and 3, wherein the microcontroller, upon detecting the presence of an insect / animal / object, actuates a speaker 108 installed on the plate 112 to generate audio signals to notify the user to remove the obstacle. [5] The device of claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with the device to provide a continuous power supply to electronically operated components connected to the device.

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