Stem cutting device and use thereof

Abstract

The present application relates to a device to longitudinal clean cutting of a plant stem, e. g. of cereal crops stems, such as wheat or corn stems, and a method of use thereof. The solution is implemented as a portable device.

Description

BCS243023 Foreign CountriesStem cutting device and use thereof

[0001] The present invention relates to a device to longitudinal clean cutting of a plant stem, e. g. of cereal crops stems, such as wheat or corn stems, and a method of use thereof. The solution is implemented as a portable device.

[0002] BACKGROUND

[0003] Improved varieties of cereal crops through the development and adoption of breeding technologies have underpinned the increase of total cereal crop production.

[0004] For example, the production of hybrid wheat seed relies on male sterility, the blocking of pollen production, to prevent self-pollination. One method of preventing self-pollination in the female plants is to apply a chemical hybridizing agent (CHA) inducing male sterility through suppression of pollen formation. One challenge in Fl hybrid wheat production is to determine the right time for the application of the CHA for the genotype. For this purpose, the length of the growing tassel in the stem, the so-called ‘spike’, is measured in the field between growth stage GS30 and GS33 (BBCH scale, Meier, U. (2001). "Growth stages of mono- and dicotyledonous plants". BBCH Monograph. doi: 10.5073 / bbch0515). At a certain spike length, it is time to apply the CHA. Typically, determining the spike length is done manually by using a pocketknife and cutting a certain portion of the stem lengthwise to uncover the spike.

[0005] As a further example, same method is used for the production of hybrid corn seeds, wherein the tassel length is measured to determine right time for CHA treatment.

[0006] Manual method for stem cutting is slow, not safe and not ergonomically sound.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] There was a need for a tool with better handling and safety, withstanding the use outside in the field and able to cut different stem diameters. . . .

[0009] The appended claims may serve as a summary of the disclosure.

[0010] Proposed tool is easy to use, offers comfortable and safe handling, improve reproducibility of cutting practices, providing clear stem cut-offs. In an embodiment, stem cutoffs can be imaged, characteristics of the spike can be extracted by image analysis.

[0011] DETAILLED DESCRIPTION

[0012] Subjects of the invention and preferred embodiments are presented hereinafter.

[0013] In addition, the invention is described in detail. In this presentation and this description, no distinction is made between the individual subjects of the inventionBCS243023-2-(method, system, etc..). The elucidations that follow shall instead apply analogously to all subjects of the invention, irrespective of the context in which they are made (imaging device, system, method).

[0014] The term “plant” herein refers to the grasses crop plant, e. g. sugarcane or cereal crop plants, wherein the term “cereal crop plant” covers small grain cereals, such as wheat, corn and rice.

[0015] The term “stem” as used therein refers to the main stem of the crop plant, which is used to determine growth stage, typically defined by growth stage as described for example by Hyles et al [ Hyles, J., Bloomfield, M.T., Hunt, J.R. et al. Phenology and related traits for wheat adaptation. Heredity 125, 417-430 (2020). https: / / doi.org / 10.1038 / s41437-020-0320-l]

[0016] The term “spike” as used herein refers to the inflorescence of the cereal crop, from its formation. Growth stage is assigned based on predefined spike morphological criteria, in particular, but not limited to, the size of the inflorescence or spike at the time of stem cutting. In the wheat example, growth stages of interest for spike measurements are from GS30 to GS33 under the BBCH scale system (BBCH scale, Meier, U. (2001). "Growth stages of mono- and dicotyledonous plants". BBCH Monograph. doi:10.5073 / bbch0515)

[0017] The term “cut off’ as used herein refers to the piece of stem collected from the field at heading phase and cut off lengthwise with the device of the application.

[0018] First subject matter of the application is a cutting device comprising:A base plate comprising a flat surface (also referred to as cutting / sliding surface) with at least one straight open channel with defined diameter positioning in the length of the base plate, said open channel (also referred to as cutting lane) being designed to securely hold a plant stem during cutting, said open channel comprising a through hole (also referred to as stem hole) configured to introduce the plant stem into the open channel from below the base plate;A slider holding a blade, said slider being designed to be sliding along the flat surface of the base for cutting the stem positioned in the open channel.

[0019] Details of the components:

[0020] Base plate and cutting lanes:

[0021] In an embodiment, the base plate is made from durable materials such as stainless steel, plastic, or a combination of both. In an embodiment, the base plate is made of plastic, in particular thermoplastic. The base plate features a flat, stable surface,BCS243023-3- with a defined length. In an embodiment, dimensions of the device are chosen for ergonomic handling using users’ forearm and hand grip.

[0022] In the length of the base plate, at least one open channel is designed to securely hold a plant stem for and during cutting. The open channel builds a lane wherein the plant stem is positioned for and during cutting. In an embodiment, cross-section (diameter) of the open channel is dimensioned to fit with cross sectional dimensions of a plant stem at growth stage(s) of interest.

[0023] In an embodiment, the base plate comprises a plurality of parallel cutting lanes. In an embodiment, parallel cutting lanes have different diameters, to allow positioning of plant stems of various thickness settings, ranging from thin stems to thicker stems. Users select best fitting cutting lane for secure positioning of the plant stem to be cut. In an embodiment, depth of the cutting lane is chosen so circa half of the plant stem at growth stage(s) of interest fits into the cutting lane. In an embodiment, the cross section of a cutting lane is semi-circular or nearly semi-circular.

[0024] In an embodiment, the stem hole is a circular through hole in the base plate at the bottom of an open channel of similar diameter as said though hole. In an embodiment, the stem hole is from 0,5 to 1,5 mm, preferably 1 mm larger than the channel diameter connected therewith. In an embodiment, the stem hole has an angle a to the surface of base plate from minus 30 to minus 50 degrees, e. g. minus 45 degrees (Fig. 11). The plant stem is introduced in the stem hole from below and bended into the connected open channel (cutting lane). Angle of the stem hole is chosen to allow easy introduction and convenient bending of the plant stem in the cutting lane. Protruding part of the stem below the base plate can stabilize position of the plant stem in the cutting lane.

[0025] In an embodiment, each open channel comprises pins rising out of the channel bottom defined by the base plate below the cutting surface; said pins are configured to maintain the plant stem in the cutting lane during cutting, preventing slippage. In an embodiment, several pins are distributed along the length of the cutting lane. The pins fix the plant stem in the guiding lane at bending, and while the slider is guided along the base plate for cutting. In an embodiment, pins are positioned at the bottom of the cutting lane In an embodiment, pins are fixed in cut outs in the base plate. In an embodiment, pins height is chosen to raise just below the cutting surface. In an embodiment, pins are set at pin angle P of plus 210 to plus 230 degrees, e. g. plus 125 degrees to the surface of the base plate, that is oriented against the cutting direction atBCS243023-4- the bottom of the cutting lane. Cross section pin form is discretionary (e.g. round or square). In an embodiment, the pins are centered into the cutting lane. In an embodiment, first pins are positioned close to the opening of the stem hole in the cutting lane.

[0026] In an embodiment, the base plate comprises a start and an end position for the slider; the slider is moved from start to end position for cutting.

[0027] Slider:

[0028] The slider is configured to be slid on the base plate, fitting the width of the base plate. Slider is slid lengthwise along the base plate from a starting position to an end position moving the blade towards the base plate positioned on the user’s forearm.

[0029] In an embodiment, the blade is fixed in the slider to be guided with an angle 5 from plus 1 to plus 30 degrees, preferably 2 to 15 degrees, for example 5 degrees to the surface of the base plate (cutting surface).

[0030] In an embodiment, the knife blade is fixed in the slider in a removable manner using fastening means. The fastening means as used therein may comprise a screw, a bolt, or a magnet.

[0031] In an embodiment, the knife blade is fixed on the slider using magnets.

[0032] In an embodiment, the knife blade is positioned in a blade holder, wherein said blade holder is fixed to the slider. In an embodiment, the blade holder is fixed in a removable manner for example with a retainer nut and a retainer screw. In an embodiment, the knife blade is fixed on the blade holder using magnets.

[0033] In an embodiment, the slider comprises stem feeders, that is open channels sized and positioned complementary to corresponding cutting lanes in the base plate. Stem feeders are configured to engage the plant stem rising out from the stem hole into the cutting lane when sliding the slider from the starting position into the end position, so the knife blade cleanly engages the stem without slippage. In an embodiment, the stem feeders are funnel-shaped open channels.

[0034] In an embodiment, plant stem is cut half or nearly half so spike summit is intact after cutting. In an embodiment, the height of the cutting (cutting line) is adjustable. This can be achieved by selecting the best fitting cutting lane. Additionally, or alternatively, the height of the knife blade is adjustable in relation to the base plate. For this purpose, the slider may comprise a mechanism that allows users to set the desired cutting height. This can be achieved through a dial or lever that raises or lowers the knife blade. In an embodiment, the blade holder is fixed to the slider by a blade holderBCS243023-5- retainer screw inserted in a slotted hole of the blade holder and maintained by retainer nut. For height setting, the slider comprises set screws in corresponding set holes to lower or increase knife blade height by adjusting position of the blade holder retainer screw in the slotted hole. Setting knife blade height can be achieved by way of:Loosening the blade holder retainer screw, which keeps the blade holder in position in the slider;Lowering the blade holder until the cutting edge of the knife blade rests on the base plate;Adjusting set screws down, so they touch the blade holder;Raising the set screws up 1-2 mm;Pushing the blade holder up towards the set screws and tightening the blade holder retainer screw;Making a test cut with a test material.Reiterating as needed.

[0035] In an embodiment, the blade holder retainer screw is an Allen screw.

[0036] In an embodiment, the set screws are M3x0.5 mm, that means one complete turn of the set screw equals 0.5 mm travel of the screw. Raising the screw 1 mm can be achieved by rotating the set screws two complete turns anti-clockwise. Similarly, the blade can also be lowered by turning the screw clockwise if needed. Then, the blade holder is pushed against the set screws and the blade holder retainer screw (e.g. Allen screw) is tightened.

[0037] In an embodiment, it is advisable to conduct a test cut with a representative piece of stem of about 10 to 20 cm containing a spike, wherein the spike a few centimeters away from lower end of the piece of stem (for introducing into proper stem hole and bending). Test cut allows assessing the depth of the cut. Ideally the knife blade should cut the stem lengthwise in half or just above half. If blade height is not proper, users can reiterate loosening the blade holder retainer screw and turn the set screws in either direction to raise or lower the knife blade, tighten the blade holder retainer screw as needed.

[0038] In an embodiment, it can be useful to adjust blade height in consideration of the stem parameter of interest. Such adjustment can be made easily at any time in the field using the method described above.

[0039] In an embodiment, the slider components holding the knife blade are made from durable materials such as stainless steel, plastic, or a combination of both. In anBCS243023-6- embodiment, the slider is made from plastic, in particular thermoplastic. In an embodiment, the slider is designed to be securely hold by the user for cutting. In an example, the slider comprises a knob at its top for convenient grip.

[0040] In an embodiment, the slider is configured to shield the knife blade for safety. For example, the blade holder and the stem feeders are configured so the cutting edge of the knife blade is not protruding from the slider.

[0041] In an embodiment, the slider body is configured so the upper stem cut off is smoothly guided though the slider body during the cutting process and does not clog the sliding / cutting. For this purpose, the slider body is designed to be partially hollow. It is also advantageous to limit the weight of the device, designed to be a portable hand-held device. In an embodiment, the bottom side of the hollow slider body is built by the blade holder as described above. The blade holder can be stabilized using ribs.

[0042] In an embodiment, the device comprises sliding elements improving sliding of the slider on the base plate. In an embodiment, the base plate and / or sliding side of the slider contacting the base plate during use of the device are at least partially coated with sliding material, for example Teflon. Coating is used to improve sliding of the slider along the flat surface of the base plate during cutting between the starting position and the end position of the slider. In an embodiment, the base plate comprises Teflon lining strips parallel to the cutting lanes. In an embodiment, the slider comprises Teflon linings / pads configured to slide on the Teflon lining strips of the base plate, when the slider is positioned on the base plate. In an embodiment, Teflon lining strips are renewable.

[0043] In an embodiment, the device comprises a sliding system designed to assemble the base plate and the slider while facilitating linear motion of the slider along the base plate with minimal resistance in a convenient manner. In an embodiment, the base plate comprises guiding rails or guiding brackets configured to guide the slider. In an embodiment, the comers of the slider are chamfered for reduced jam in the guiding brackets. In an embodiment, the slider comprises sliding pads for positioning and guiding the slider into the guiding brackets. In an embodiment, the corners of the sliding pads are chamfered for better sliding into the guiding brackets. Users manually control the speed and position of the slider within the sliding system. In an embodiment, the sliding system comprises sliding stops, designed to stop linear motion at front and end of the device, so the slider is maintained in the sliding system when the device is assembled for use or transport. This embodiment is particularly safe as the blade isBCS243023-7- hidden at any time when the device is assembled for use or transport. In an embodiment, some or all sliding stops are configured to allow removal of the slider out of the guiding rails or brackets for maintenance. In an embodiment, sliding stops are removable screws, so the slider can be removed from the guiding rails, e. g. for cleaning or maintenance. In an embodiment, the sliding system comprises sliding guards for maintaining the slider at start and / or end position during transport. Sliding guards are configured so the slider can overcome the siding guards under users’ sliding strength.

[0044] In an embodiment, the blade is made from high-carbon stainless steel, ensuring sharpness and longevity.

[0045] In an embodiment, blades are interchangeable; replacement blades can be provided.

[0046] Further Safety and Ergonomic Features:

[0047] In an embodiment, the dimensions LxWxH (Length, Width, Height) of the device and components thereof are chosen in consideration of ergonomic use.

[0048] In an embodiment, the slider comprises safety guards or hand shields to protect fingers from the sharp blade.

[0049] In an embodiment, the device comprises locking mechanisms for safe storage and transport.

[0050] In an embodiment, the base plate comprises a grip to hold the base plate.

[0051] In an embodiment, the base plate comprises one or two arm rests, wherein said arm rest is designed for comfortable positioning of the base plate on the user’s forearm.

[0052] In an embodiment, the grip is positioned at one end of the base plate and an arm rest is positioned opposite the grip.

[0053] In an alternative embodiment, the grip is positioned below the base plate and one or two arm rests are positioned at the one or both ends of the base plate. This embodiment allows flexible positioning of the device by users, wherein slider can be pushed or pulled as preferred along the base plate. This embodiment also allows for different grip shapes to allow for ergonomic right-handed and left-handed operation.

[0054] In an embodiment, the base plate comprises a strap hole for attaching a shoulder strap. In an embodiment, the strap hole is positioned at an arm rest.

[0055] In an embodiment, the base plate comprises a ruler to measure the stem spike in the cut off.

[0056] In an embodiment, outer edges of the base plate are chamfered, or rounded off.BCS243023-8-

[0057] In an embodiment, the base plate and slider are configured to be hollow where possible to reduce mass of the device. Some or all thermoplastic components can be 3- D printed.

[0058] Functionality:

[0059] The stem cutting device operates by positioning the plant stem in a cutting lane with adequate diameter and sliding the slider along the base plate, push-pulling the blade towards the base plate through the plant stem. As the blade is pulled through the plant stem, this latter is cut with precision.

[0060] In an example, the plant stem is collected in the field.

[0061] A further subject matter of the application is a method for using the device described above, said method comprising:Positioning the slider in a backward position;Introducing a piece of plant stem comprising a spike (10-20 cm) into the best fitting stem hole;Sliding the slider to the opposite side.

[0062] In an embodiment, users position the device on his / her forearm, gripping the device with corresponding hand using the grip. Users grips the slider with other hand for sliding, pulling the slider along the base plate towards end position.

[0063] When leaving the start position, the stem feeder of the slider captures the stem rising out the stem hole, bending it into the cutting lane wherein the stem can be grabbed by the pins.

[0064] In an embodiment, the method further comprises taking the stem out of the stem hole and cutting lane. The method can further comprise measuring the spike using a ruler. In an embodiment, users can capture image of the cut off using a camera for later measurements.

[0065] In an embodiment, cutting is improved by selecting cutting lane with best fitting diameter for the plant stem to be cut.

[0066] The design allows consistent, even pressure, resulting in uniform cutting with minimal effort and slippage.

[0067] Maintenance:

[0068] In an embodiment, the stem cutting system is designed for easy cleaning and maintenance. In an embodiment, components can be separated for cleaning.

[0069] In an embodiment, most components are dishwasher safe, though hand washing is recommended for the blade to maintain its sharpness.BCS243023-9-

[0070] Regular inspection of the blade for dullness or damage is recommended for optimal performance.

[0071] In summary, the device allows achieving precision cuts, combining efficiency with safety and ergonomic features.A lengthwise cut of a crop stem can provide a farmer with valuable information regarding the health and development of the crop. Here are some examples of key insights that can be gained:On Disease Diagnosis:Fungal Infections: The presence of discoloration, lesions, or rotting can indicate fungal diseases (such as Fusarium or rust in Wheat).Bacterial Infections: Signs of bacterial infections may appear as water-soaked areas or dark streaks.On Pest Damage:Insect Infestation: Visible tunnels or holes within the stem can reveal damage from pests like aphids or stem borers.On Nutritional Status and Moisture Content:Nutrient Deficiencies: Yellowing or stunted growth visible in the cut can indicate deficiencies in essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium.Water Stress: A dry, brittle stem may indicate insufficient moisture, while overly soft stems could suggest waterlogging.On Growth Stages:Developmental Indicators: Beyond measuring spike as described above, observing the number of internodes and / or their length can help determine the growth stage of the crop, which is crucial for timing management practices such as fertilization and pest control.On Stem Strength / Lodging Potential: Assessing the thickness and rigidity of the stem can help predict the plant's ability to withstand wind and rain without lodging.On Varietal Characteristics / Genetic Traits: Different crop varieties may exhibit specific stem characteristics, allowing farmers to assess the performance of different cultivars.On Overall Plant Health:BCS243023-10-Cell Structure: Examining the cellular structure can provide insights into overall plant health and vigor, including the presence of healthy vascular tissue.On Root Development:• Examining the cut root for root development and characterization and how the nutrients are taken up.By analyzing these factors, farmers can make informed decisions on crop management, including irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting strategies, ultimately leading to improved yield and quality.In an embodiment, obtained cut off can be imaged.In an embodiment, acquired image(s) can be submitted to computer-implemented image analysis for determination of one or more of stem characteristics.

[0072] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0073] In the drawings:

[0074] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of the device 10 in 3D side view from above, wherein slider 40 is in end position.

[0075] Fig. 2 shows the device 10 of Fig. 1 from below.

[0076] Fig. 3 shows another embodiment of the device 10 in 3D side view from above front, wherein the slider is in start position.

[0077] Fig. 4 shows the embodiment of Fig. 3 in 3D side view from below, wherein the slider is in start position.

[0078] Fig. 5 shows the embodiment of the device 10 of Fig. 3 in 3D side view from above rear, wherein the slider is in end position.

[0079] Fig. 6 shows details of the slider 40 in a 3D side view from above; arrow shows sliding direction for cutting.

[0080] Fig. 7 shows details of the slider 40 in a 3D side view from below; arrow shows sliding direction for cutting.

[0081] Fig. 8 shows details of a removable blade holder 50 in a 3D side view from above.

[0082] Fig. 9 shows the removable blade holder 50 of Fig. 8 in a 3D side view from below.

[0083] Fig. 10 shows a cut view of the base plate 20, lengthwise along a cutting lane, before pins 25 are mounted.BCS243023-11-

[0084] Fig. 11 shows details of a cut view of the device 10 along a cutting lane, showing in particular orientation of the stem hole 21, the mounted pins 25 and the knife blade 51 relative to the base plate 20 and to the direction of sliding for cutting (shown by the broad arrow).Reference signs:Stem cutting device 10Base plate 20Stem hole 21Cutting lanes 24Pins 25Cut out for pins 26Pinhole 27Arm rest 30Grip 31Attachment for shoulder strap 32Ruler 33Guiding rails 34Sliding strip 35Sliding stop screw / Hole for sliding strop screw 36Slider 40Stem feeder 42Sliding pads 43Chamfered edge of sliding pad 44Blade height adjustment screws / Holes for height adjustment screws 45Slider grip / knob 46Blade holder 50Blade holder body 51BCS243023-12-Blade holder edge for set screws 52Sloted hole for blade holder retainer screw 53Blade holder retainer screw and nut 54Blade holder retainer screw 55Knife blade 56Ribs 57Sliding plan 60Cutting surface ACutting direction B

[0085] DETAILLED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0086] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of the device 10 in 3D side view from above, wherein slider 40 is in end position. Base plate 20 comprises several cutting lanes 24 of different diameters. Each cutting lane 24 comprises a stem hole (hidden) and pins 25 distributed along the cutting lane 24 for grabbing the stem when in position in the cutting lane 24. The base plate 20 further comprises guiding brackets 34 and sliding strips 35 for guiding slicer 40 during use of the device. Guiding stops 36 are positioned at each end of the guiding strips to stop sliding of slider 40 and maintain said slider 40 in the guiding brackets at any time during transport or use of device 10. Integrated ruler 33 can be used to measure the stem spike in the cut off. For cutting, users hold grip 31 and can uses either one of the arm rests 30 on his forearm, so he can either pull or push slider 40 from the start position (as shown in Fig. 1) into the end position in the direction of cutting indicated by arrow B for convenience. For better transport, a hole for attachment of a shoulder strap 32 is provided. In the present embodiment, attachment for shoulder strap 32 is positioned in any one of the arm rests 30, out of the sliding zone for better use. Slider 40 comprises a slider body 41, carrying elements of slider 40:Grip 46 is designed to be gripped by the users;Blade holder 50 is designed to carry a removable knife blade (hidden);Sliding pads 43 (hidden in the view) are fixed to slider body 41 and inserted in the guiding rails 34.In the embodiment of Fig. 1, slider body 41 is configured so the upper stem cut off is smoothly guided though slider body 41 during the cutting process and does not clog the sliding / cutting. In the embodiment as shown, slider body 41 is at least partially hollow above blade holder 50.BCS243023-13-Slider body 41 is configured to host blade holder 50, which is fixed to the slider body 41 by blade holder screw 54. Slider 40 comprises a blade height setting system comprising blade holder retainer screw 54 and blade height adjustment holes 45 for adjustment screws (not shown).

[0087] Fig. 2 shows the device 10 of Fig. 1 from below, wherein a front grip is fixed on base plate 20 for hand grip; arm rest 30 is positioned opposite hand grip 31 so device 10 can be positioned on users’ forearm. Fig. 2 shows entry of stem holes 21 for introducing the plant stem into device 10 for cutting. Removable pins 25 are inserted into cut out for pins and pinholes so they reach through base plate 20 into the cutting lanes 24. Arrangement of pins is configured so the stem is grabbed by the pins when the stem is guided into cutting lane 24 by slider 40. The embodiment of Fig. 1 and 2 comprises 2 pins 25 per cutting lane 24. Slider 46 is shown in starting position; pin orientation is opposite to cutting direction (arrow B) for better grabbing of the stem.

[0088] Fig. 3 shows another embodiment of the device 10 in 3D side view from above front, wherein slider 40 is in start position. In this embodiment, a grip is positioned in the middle of base plate 20 together with two arm rests 30. Users can select preferred positioning of the device on his forearm for either pushing or pulling slider 40 for cutting. Cutting directions is signaled by arrow B for convenient use.

[0089] Fig. 4 shows the embodiment of Fig. 3 in 3D side view from below, wherein the slider is in start position. Grip 3 IB can be used alternatively to grip 31 A if preferred by users. For this purpose, grip 31 is removably fixed to base plate 20, for example using a screw.

[0090] Fig. 5 shows the embodiment of the device 10 of Fig. 3 in 3D side view from above rear, wherein the slider is in end position. Exit of stem holes 21 into cutting lanes 24 are shown, first pin 25 is in the vicinity of said exit for better grabbing of plant stem (not shown) when slider 40 is slid over base plate 20. For better guiding of the plant stem into the cutting lane, slider 40 comprises stem feeder 42 configured to engage, bend and guide the plant stem reaching out from stem hole 21 into cutting lane 24. In the embodiment of Fig. 5, stem feeder 42 is configured as funnel-shaped open channel, parallel to and with diameter similar to corresponding cutting lane 24 opposite thereof. As slider 50 slides above stem holes 21, plant stem reaching out of stem hole 21 is engaged by stem feeder 42, bent into cutting lane 24, grabbed by pins 25 therein, so knife blade can precisely cut said plant stem at desired height with minimal slippage. Upper part of the cut off is nicely guided by stem feeder 42 through hole slider body 41. In other words, plant stem is guided into a channel build by cutting lane 24 and corresponding stem feeder 42 for cutting by knife blade 56 at desired height.BCS243023-14-

[0091] Fig. 6 shows details of slider 40 in a 3D side view from above; arrow B shows sliding direction for cutting. Sliding pads 43 are fixed to slider body 41. Edges 44 of sliding pads 43 are chamfered for better sliding when slider 50 is positioned between the guiding brackets of base plate 20.

[0092] Fig. 7 shows details of slider 40 in a 3D side view from below; arrow B shows sliding direction for cutting. Fig. 7 shows open channel stem feeders 42 opening into hole slider body 51 above knife blade 56. In the embodiment of Fig. 7, knife blade 56 is fixed to slider body 41 using removable blade holder 50, which body 51 is fixed to slider body 41 by way of retainer screw and nut 54. In the embodiment, knife blade 56 is removably fixed to blade holder body 51 using magnets. Note that height of knife blade 56 can be set so sliding surface of the guiding pads 43 is below the cutting edge of knife blade 56.

[0093] Fig. 8 shows details of removable blade holder 50 in a 3D side view from above. Blade holder body 51 is as light as possible. It comprises a larger edge 52 opposite the cutting edge of blade for contacting with blade height adjustment screws 45, when blade holder 50 is mounted into slider 40. Ribs 57 reinforce and stiffen blade holder 50 for better stability during use. Removal blade holder 50 is configured to nicely guide the upper part of the cut-off via the stem feeder 42 through the blade holder 50 into the hole slider body 41.

[0094] Fig. 9 shows the removable blade holder 50 of Fig. 8 in a 3D side view from below.

[0095] Fig. 10 shows a cut view of base plate 20, lengthwise along a cutting lane 24, before pins 25 are inserted into pin cut out 26 and pin hole 27 at the bottom of cutting lane 24 with proper orientation to stem hole 21. Pins 25 are fixed, for example glued on base plate 20 from below, so pins 25 reach out though pin hole 27 into cutting lane 24 below cutting surface A build by the surface of base plate 20.

[0001] Fig. 11 shows details of a cut view of device 10 along a cutting lane 24, showing the orientation of the stem hole 21, the orientation and positioning of mounted pins 25 and knife blade 56 relative to the surface of base plate 20 building cutting surface A and to the direction of sliding for cutting shown by arrow B. Angle a is the angle of the center of the stem hole to cutting surface A. Angle P relates to the angle of the pins to the cutting surface A. Angle 5 relates the angle of knife blade to the cutting surface A. Angle is positive in the direction of cutting B (counterclockwise in Fig. 11).

Claims

BCS243023-15-CLAIMS1. A device comprising:A base plate comprising a flat surface with at least one straight open channel with defined diameter positioning in the length of the base plate, said open channel being designed to securely hold a plant stem during cutting, said open channel comprising a through hole configured to introduce the stem into the open channel from below the base plate;A slider holding a blade, said slider being designed to be sliding along the flat surface of the base for cutting of the stem positioned in the open channel.

2. The device according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of parallel open channels of different diameters.

3. The device according to any of claims 1 or 2, wherein the through hole is configured with an angle a of minus 30 to minus 60 degrees, preferred minus 45 degrees to the surface of the base plate.

4. The device according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein each open channel comprises pins positioned at the bottom of the open channel configured to maintain the stem in place in the channel during cutting.

5. The device according to any of claims 4, wherein the pins rise out from the bottom of the open channel with a pin angle P is from plus 30 to plus 60 degrees, to the surface of the base plate, directed into the open channel.

6. The device according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the through hole is 1 mm larger than the open channel it is connected to.

7. The device according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the slider further comprises a stem feeding channel configured for bending and guiding the stem into the corresponding open channel.

8. The device according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the slider is configured so upper part of cut stem can be guided through a slider opening above the blade9. The device according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the blade is positioned with an angle 5 relative to the surface of base plate set from plus 1 to plus 30 degrees.

10. The device according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the blade is adjustable in height.

11. The device according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the blade is attached to a blade holder using magnets.

12. The device according to any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the slider and / or the base plate comprises elements made of or coated with a sliding material.BCS243023-16-13. The device according to any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the slider comprises sliding pads and the base plate further comprises guiding rails capable of maintaining and guiding the sliding pads.

14. The device according to any of the claim 1 to 13, wherein the slider has chamfered corners.

15. A method for using the device according to any one of the claims 1 to 14, comprising:Positioning the slider in a backward position;Introducing a piece of plant stem comprising a spike (10-20 cm) into the best fitting stem hole;Sliding the slider to the opposite side;Taking the stem out of the stem hole and cutting lane;Measuring the spike.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the blade is maintained on the slider using a blade holder with adjustable blade height, the method further comprising setting the blade height by way of:Loosening a blade holder retainer screw, which keeps the blade holder in position in the slider;Lowering the blade holder until a cutting edge of the blade touches the base plate;Lowering the set screws so they touch the blade holder;Raising the set screws as needed;Pushing the blade holder up towards the set screws and tightening the blade holder retainer screw;Making a test cut with a test material.Reiterating as needed.

Images