Device for receiving and processing cartridges for releasing biological agents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for receiving and processing cartridges for releasing biological agents, developed to integrate efficiently with the cartridges already known in the prior art, improving the handling, operation, and implementation thereof, wherein the device comprises integrated mechanisms for loading and aligning the cartridges, activation systems for releasing the contents thereof, and, optionally, a control system configured for manual, semi-automatic, or automatic operation.

Description

[0001] "DEVICE FOR RECEIVING AND PROCESSING CARTRIDGES FOR THE RELEASE OF BIOLOGICAL AGENTS"

[0002] FIELD OF APPLICATION

[0003]

[0001] The present invention is contained in the technical field of stationary means for capturing or killing insects, referring more precisely to a device for receiving and processing cartridges for the controlled release of biological pest control agents and other substances.

[0004]

[0002] The present device was developed to enable efficient integration with cartridges already provided for in the prior art, improving their handling, operation and implementation. The device comprises integrated mechanisms for loading and aligning the cartridges, activation systems for releasing their contents and, optionally, a control system configurable for manual, semi-automatic or automatic operation.

[0005] DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF THE ART

[0006]

[0003] The growing resistance of pests to chemical insecticides and the consequent increase in costs and environmental impacts highlight the urgency of innovating in biological pest control. Biological pest control is increasingly recognized as an effective and environmentally sound strategy for pest management in both agricultural and urban environments. This type of control involves the use of biological organisms, such as predators, parasitoids, sterile insects, pheromones, and pathogens, which reduce pest populations naturally. However, the effectiveness of this type of control crucially depends on the ability to distribute these biological agents effectively, homogeneously, safely, quickly, and efficiently.

[0007]

[0004] One of the most persistent challenges in the use of chemical insecticides is the resistance to molecules that pest species develop over time. Resistance is induced by the continuous and repetitive use of chemical compounds, which not only reduces the effectiveness of these products but also leads to a cycle of dose escalation and the development of new, more toxic products. This results in higher costs and significant impacts on the environment and health due to the overuse of chemicals.

[0008]

[0005] The state of the art provides some possible solutions to these technical problems, such as for example document WO201 9046837 - SEED DISTRIBUTION ASSEMBLY FOR AN AERIAL VEHICLE, whose abstract describes a seeding assembly for an aerial vehicle, as shown and described, with a distribution assembly (10) that includes a structure (500) selectively attachable to an aerial vehicle (20) and at least one distribution device (60, 200, 310, 400) coupled to the structure. The distribution device has a body (70) that defines a cavity (72) for receiving a plurality of agricultural products (80, 220) and a barrel (120) for discharging the plurality of products. A control device (150) configured to communicate with the aerial vehicle and the distribution device to coordinate the timing of product discharges and the spacing of a subsequent discharged product relative to the speed of the aerial vehicle.A system and a method associated with the distribution set are contemplated.

[0009]

[0006] Another prior art document that presents a possible solution to the indicated technical problem is document CN1 10294126 - AGRICULTURAL UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE MOUNTED BIOLOGICAL CONTROL MATERIAL DELIVERY DEVICE AND METHOD, whose abstract refers to a device and method for delivering biological control material mounted on an unmanned agricultural aerial vehicle. With an unmanned agricultural aerial vehicle serving as a platform, the device comprises a control system and a storage chamber. The dispensers used to package biological control materials, such as Trichogramma sp. eggs, are arranged in the storage chamber. A dispenser outlet is formed at the bottom of the storage chamber. A motor connected to the control system is used to drive the dispensers to the dispenser outlet which is arranged in the storage chamber. The dispenser outlet communicates with a transmitter.The emitter is connected to the control system and is used to launch the releasers out of the storage chamber in an accelerated manner. Each releaser consists of an upper half-cavity portion and a lower half-cavity portion that are detachably connected, wherein the specific gravity of the lower half-cavity portion is greater than that of the upper half-cavity portion. The releaser is provided with a plurality of channels that communicate sequentially; the final channel is a release channel disposed on the outer surface of the releaser and used to communicate with the exterior, and a one-way check valve is disposed at one outlet of the release channel.When the release devices fall, the bottoms of the lower half of the cavity are always kept facing downwards, one-way check valves can be used to effectively prevent blockage of the release channels and backflow of rainwater, and Trichogramma sp. eggs can be released without impacting and separating the release devices, thus contributing to their protection.

[0010]

[0007] However, it is noted that the cited documents present solutions, but without the necessary effectiveness for these applications. In this sense, it is understood that the state of the art would benefit from the advent of a stationary device for the release of biological agents, providing an agile, efficient, automated and precisely controlled way to distribute such biological agents.

[0011] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012]

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a device for receiving and processing cartridges for the release of biological agents, capable of automatic or manual activation.

[0009] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a device for receiving and processing cartridges for the release of biological agents comprising a precise cartridge alignment system, ensuring the targeted release of agents into the environment, optimizing effectiveness and reducing manual handling of said device.

[0013]

[0010] Furthermore, another objective of the present invention is to provide a device for receiving and processing cartridges for the release of biological agents, comprising mechanisms for loading and activating the release of the cartridge contents.

[0014] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015]

[0011] The subject matter of this invention will become fully clear in its technical aspects from the detailed description that will be made based on the figures below, in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of the device for receiving and processing cartridges for the release of biological agents, comprising the housing and the cartridges already installed, in its configuration for operation with two cartridges;

[0017] FIG 2 shows a perspective view of the cartridge used with the device for receiving and processing cartridges for the release of biological agents;

[0018] FIG 3 shows a perspective view of the cartridge used with the device for receiving and processing cartridges for the release of biological agents, indicating the position of the lower barrier (2a);

[0019] FIG. 4 shows a front perspective view of the device for receiving and processing cartridges for the release of biological agents, without the cartridges, in which it is possible to visualize its structure, the rail system and the mechanical locking mechanism, in its configuration for operation with two cartridges;

[0020] FIG. 5 shows a rear perspective view of the device for receiving and processing cartridges for the release of biological agents, in which it is possible to visualize the structure of the device, as well as the mechanical locking mechanism, the motor shaft and the motor, in its configuration for operation with a cartridge; and

[0021] FIG. 6 shows a rear perspective view of the device for receiving and processing cartridges for the release of biological agents, in which it is possible to visualize the structure of the device, as well as the coupling mechanism and the motor shaft, in its configuration for operation with a cartridge.

[0022] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023]

[0012] In accordance with the objectives presented through the brief description, the present patent application: “DEVICE FOR RECEIVING AND PROCESSING CARTRIDGES FOR THE RELEASE OF BIOLOGICAL AGENTS”, presents a device (1), designed for receiving, aligning, processing and activating cartridge-type packaging (2), intended for the controlled release of biological control agents and other substances, for use with a vehicle that ensures its movement in areas of interest.

[0024]

[0013] The device (1) is designed to accommodate, process, and interact with packaging containing biological agents and other substances, which are used in the planned and controlled release of these agents into the environment, aiming at the sustainable and effective reduction of pest infestations. The device (1) is particularly applicable in interfacing with advanced cartridge-style packaging systems (2) that prepare and package these biological agents, facilitating storage, transport, and precise application in both agricultural and urban environments. This technology is especially relevant for sectors seeking alternative pest control methods that minimize environmental impacts and maximize operational efficiency, adapting to the specific needs of different infestation scenarios.

[0025]

[0014] The device structure (1) comprises all the mechanical components necessary for its effective operation, wherein the power supply systems and control electronics can be embedded in the device itself (1), which enables autonomous operation with respect to the vehicle used to carry out its transport. The device (1) can also be configured to use the vehicle's own electronic systems, as well as support at least one cartridge (2).

[0026]

[0015] The device (1) also comprises a rail system (3), integrated into the structure (10) of the device (1), functioning as mechanical guides, ensuring the support and precise alignment of the cartridges (2) as they are inserted into said device (1), from insertion to the activation point, reducing the risk of operational errors.

[0027]

[0016] The device (1) is equipped with a hot swap system comprising two elements to ensure efficient operation in the field. The first element of the hot swap system is a mechanical locking mechanism (4) that secures each cartridge (2) in the device (1), ensuring stability and safety during processing and activation of said cartridge (2). The second element of the hot swap system is a coupling mechanism (5) that connects the lower barrier (2a) of the cartridge (2) to the motor shaft (6). The motor shaft (6), in turn, acts as a reel, enabling the actuation of the lower barrier (2a) of the cartridge (2) after its activation.

[0028]

[0017] The coupling mechanism (5) allows precise alignment and smooth integration of the lower cartridge barriers (2) with the device release system (1), facilitating controlled opening thereof for effective distribution of the substances contained in said cartridges (2). To this end, the coupling mechanism (5) has a substantially pyramidal shape and is located inside the motor shaft (6), in its inner portion, accessible through an opening.

[0029]

[0018] The junction of the coupling mechanism (5) and the mechanical locking mechanism in the hot swap allows the device (1) to perform quick and safe cartridge changes (2), minimizing downtime and maximizing operational efficiency, since they function as locks and positioners of the cartridge itself (2), facilitating the execution of these actions.

[0030]

[0019] The rotor shaft system (6) is equipped with a quick motor disengagement system (7) that facilitates the alignment of the ends of the lower barriers (2a) with the inner cells of the cartridges (2) and allows the lower barriers to be unwound from the cartridges (2) after operation. The motor disengagement (7) is designed to operate efficiently, allowing the lower barriers to be unwound easily so that the cartridge (2) can be removed and replaced in the field quickly and efficiently.

[0031]

[0020] The device (1) may or may not be equipped with a control system, which includes control software and independent and dedicated power supply. This system allows configuration and programming of release parameters, including, but not limited to: distance, time, location via global positioning systems, and specific volume of agents to be released. The control system can operate automatically based on predefined conditions or be manually activated by the operator, as required for each specific type of application.

[0032]

[0021] Additionally, the device (1) can be equipped with a functionality that allows dynamically adjusting the opening speed of the cartridge packages (2), synchronizing it with the speed of the vehicle transporting it. This capability is enabled by the use of global positioning sensors, which provide precise data on the speed and movement of the vehicle in real time. This automatic adjustment of the opening speed ensures that the release of biological agents is optimized for maximum effectiveness, regardless of variations in vehicle speed. This technology not only improves the accuracy of agent distribution in the field, but also contributes to a more uniform and efficient application, ensuring a constant flow of the released material.

[0033]

[0022] In variants of the device (1) with integrated global positioning systems, the route traveled by the vehicle can be recorded and subsequently extracted for the preparation of application reports, demonstrating the route taken by the vehicle.

[0034]

[0023] Additionally, the device (1) can be equipped with an accelerometer that optimizes the activation time of the cartridges (2), ensuring that opening only occurs when the machine is in effective motion, reducing material waste and increasing the accuracy and safety of the application. This motion sensor detects dynamic variations in the speed and acceleration of the transport vehicle, allowing the control system to automatically adjust the flow rate and release time of the biological agents based on the actual operating conditions.

[0035]

[0024] Alternatively, the device (1) can be connected directly to the vehicle controllers, allowing it to use electrical power as well as receive drive commands directly and in an integrated manner with the vehicle.

[0036]

[0025] The device (1) can handle one or more cartridges (2), which can be driven by the rotor shaft (6) simultaneously or alternately, allowing granular control over the release of the substances contained within the cartridges (2).

[0037]

[0026] Although initially designed for the release of biological agents, the versatility of the device (1) allows its adaptation for the controlled distribution of various other substances, making it suitable for a wide range of applications in agricultural and urban environments. This device (1) represents a significant advance in substance delivery technology, offering a more efficient, precise and safe method for pest control and other essential applications.

[0038]

[0027] It should be understood that the present description does not limit the application to the details described herein and that the invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or performed in a variety of ways, within the scope of the claims. Although specific terms have been used, such terms should be interpreted in a generic and descriptive sense, and not for the purpose of limitation.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. “DEVICE FOR RECEIVING AND PROCESSING CARTRIDGES FOR THE RELEASE OF BIOLOGICAL AGENTS”, intended for the controlled release of biological control agents and other substances, for use with a vehicle that ensures its movement in areas of interest, characterized by the fact that it has a device (1) for receiving, aligning, processing and activating cartridge-type packaging (2), wherein the device (1) has a hot swap system comprising a mechanical locking mechanism (4) that fixes each cartridge (2) in the device (1), and a coupling mechanism (5) that connects the lower barrier (2a) of the cartridge (2) to the motor shaft (6), said coupling mechanism (5) being located inside the motor shaft (6), in its inner portion, accessible through an opening.

2. “DEVICE”, according to claim 1, characterized in that the device (1) has autonomous operation with respect to the vehicle used for its transport, comprising power supply systems, mechanical and electronic control components.

3. “DEVICE”, according to claim 1, characterized in that the device (1) also comprises a rail system (3), integrated into the structure (10) of the device (1), functioning as mechanical guides, ensuring the support and precise alignment of the cartridges (2) as they are inserted into said device (1), from insertion to the activation point, reducing the risk of operational errors.

4. “DEVICE”, according to claim 1, characterized in that the motor shaft (6) acts as a reel, enabling the actuation of the lower barrier (2a) of the cartridge (2) after its activation.

5. “DEVICE”, according to claim 1, characterized in that the coupling mechanism (5) has a pyramidal shape.

6. “DEVICE”, according to claim 1, characterized in that the rotor shaft system (6) is equipped with a quick motor disengagement system (7) that facilitates the alignment of the ends of the lower barriers with the inner cells of the cartridges (2) and allows the lower barriers to be unwound from the cartridges (2) after operation.

7. “DEVICE”, according to claim 2, characterized in that the control system allows the configuration and programming of release parameters, including, but not limited to: distance, time, location via global positioning systems, and specific volume of agents to be released.

8. “DEVICE”, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (1) can be equipped with a functionality that allows dynamically adjusting the opening speed of the cartridge packages (2), synchronizing it with the speed of the vehicle transporting it.

9. “DEVICE”, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (1) can be equipped with an accelerometer that optimizes the activation time of the cartridges (2), ensuring that opening occurs only when the machine is in effective motion, detecting dynamic variations in the speed and acceleration of the transport vehicle, allowing the control system to automatically adjust the flow rate and release time of the biological agents based on the actual operating conditions.

10. “DEVICE”, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (1) can operate one cartridge (2) or more cartridges (2) simultaneously or alternately.

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