Interlacing apparatus

Abstract

A system (100, 200, 300, 1900) including an interlacing apparatus (104, 204, 304, 1902) for producing and separating an interlaced substrate matrix embedded with a planting material (102). The interlacing apparatus (104, 204, 304, 1902) including a first annular table and a second annular table arranged concentrically and configured to rotate in opposite directions. Inner carriers with inner bobbins attach to the first annular table, while outer carriers with outer bobbins attach to the second annular table. Guiding means guide outer substrate strands to alternatively move over and under inner carriers during interlacing for production of the interlaced substrate matrix. For separation of the interlaced substrate matrix an input mechanism feeds the interlaced substrate matrix to a separating point, with annular tables, carriers and bobbins rotating in reverse to wind separated strands onto respective bobbins for reuse.

Description

INTERLACING APPARATUSFIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present subject matter, in general, relates to an apparatus capable of interlacing and separating substrates, and more particularly, but not exclusively, relates to an interlacing apparatus for producing and separating an interlaced substrate matrix for farming, particularly, but not exclusively, for marine farming.BACKGROUND

[0002] Over years, marine farming has become an increasingly important industry which provides variable products ranging from sustainable food sources to biofuels. In marine farming, vegetatively propagated marine farming has been widely adopted. Generally, vegetatively propagated marine farming includes attaching a planting material, for example, a seaweed propagule, to a substrate, say, a rope line, a tubular net, and a regular net. Examples of the seaweed propagule include, but are not limited to, a propagule of seaweed which may include Kappaphycus, Eucheuma, Halymenia, Gracilaria, Sargassum, Ulva, Gelidium, and Gelidiella. Various approaches have been developed over the years to attach a planting material to a substrate which include, but are not limited to, manually attaching the planting material to the substrate, using automated tools to create vacant spaces within the substrate to enable embedding the planting material to the substrate, and using complex machines which utilize displacement of carriers to entangle strands of a substrate to produce the resulting substrate where the planting material is attached during entanglement. The planting material attached to the substrate is then submerged underwater using one or more anchoring means allowing the planting material to grow. Once the planting material grows to a plant of a desired size, the substrate having the plant of the desired size is collected, and the plant of the desired size is separated from the substrate. In some instances, some portions of such harvested plants are occasionally reserved for reuse. Occasionally, the substrates are also reserved to be reused.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0003] The features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter will be better understood with regard to the following description, and accompanying figures. The use of the same reference number in different figures indicates similar or identical features and components.

[0004] Figure 1 A illustrates an interlacing system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0005] Figure IB illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with an implementation of the present subject matter, s

[0006] Figure 1C illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0007] Figure ID illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0008] Figure IE illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0009] Figure IF illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0010] Figure 1G illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0011] Figure 1H illustrates the system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0012] Figure II illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0013] Figure 1J illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0014] Figure IK illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0015] Figure IL illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0016] Figure IM illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter.

[0017] Figure 2A illustrates an interlacing system having an interlacing apparatus, in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0018] Figure 2B illustrates a structural mechanism of the interlacing apparatus facilitating production of an interlaced substrate matrix, in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0019] Figures 2C illustrates an expanded perspective view of an outer carrier in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0020] Figures 2D illustrates an expanded perspective view of the outer carrier in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0021] Figures 2E illustrates an expanded perspective view of an inner carrier in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0022] Figures 2F illustrates an expanded perspective view of an inner carrier in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0023] Figure 2G illustrates a cross-section view of a drive system in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0024] Figure 2H illustrates interactions of the drivers with the inner carriers, in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0025] Figure 21 illustrates interactions of the drivers with the inner carriers, in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0026] Figure 2J illustrates interactions of drivers, facilitated by actuators, in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0027] Figure 2K illustrates movement of an outer substrate strands in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0028] Figure 2L illustrates movement of the outer substrate strands, facilitated by switch mechanisms, in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0029] Figure 2M illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0030] Figure 2N illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0031] Figures 20 illustrates an expanded perspective view of an outer carrier in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0032] Figures 2P illustrates an expanded perspective view of an outer carrier in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0033] Figures 2Q illustrates an expanded perspective view of an inner carrier in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0034] Figures 2R illustrates an expanded perspective view of an inner carrier in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0035] Figure 2S illustrates the unwinding and separating mechanism of the interlacing apparatus 204 for the interlaced substrate matrix 236 in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0036] Figure 2T illustrates operation of drive systems for substrate strand separation of the interlaced substrate matrix 236 in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0037] Figure 3 A illustrates an interlacing system, having an interlacing apparatus, in accordance with another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0038] Figures 3B illustrates an expanded perspective view of an inner carrier and / or outer carrier of the interlacing apparatus in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0039] Figure 3C illustrates an outer carrier of the interlacing apparatus in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0040] Figure 3D illustrates the system in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0041] Figure 3E illustrates the interlacing system with the interlacing apparatus having guiding arms actuated by actuators in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0042] Figures 3F illustrates the interlacing system with the interlacing apparatus having guiding arms actuated by stepper motors in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0043] Figure 3G illustrates the interlacing system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0044] Figures 3H illustrates the expanded perspective view of the inner and / or outer carrier in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0045] Figure 4A illustrates inner bobbins and outer bobbins of the interlacing apparatus in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0046] Figure 4B illustrates the inner bobbins and the outer bobbins of the interlacing apparatus in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0047] Figure 5 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of six inner bobbins and in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0048] Figure 6 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of six inner bobbins and six outer bobbins in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0049] Figure 7 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of six inner bobbins and six outer bobbins in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0050] Figure 8 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of six inner bobbins and six outer bobbins in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0051] Figure 9 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of five inner bobbins and six outer bobbins in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0052] Figure 10 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of six inner bobbins and five outer bobbins in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0053] Figure 11 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of four inner bobbins and six outer bobbins in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0054] Figure 12 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of four inner bobbins and six outer bobbins in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0055] Figure 13 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0056] Figure 14 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0057] Figure 15 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of five inner bobbins and five outer bobbins in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0058] Figure 16 illustrates complete harvesting of planting material from interlaced substrate matrix in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0059] Figure 17 illustrates partial harvesting of planting material from interlaced substrate matrix in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0060] Figure 18A illustrates inner bobbins and outer bobbins of an interlacing apparatus in reverse operation in an interlacing system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0061] Figure 18B illustrates the inner bobbins and the outer bobbins of the interlacing apparatus in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0062] Figure 19A illustrates another example implementation of an interlacing system, having an interlacing apparatus in accordance with the present subject matter.

[0063] Figure 19B illustrates another example implementation of the interlacing system in accordance with the present subject matter

[0064] Figure 19C illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0065] Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale, andthe size of some parts may be exaggerated to more clearly illustrate the example shown. Moreover, the drawings provide examples and / or implementations consistent with the description; however, the description is not limited to the examples and / or implementations provided in the drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] In general, marine farming by vegetative propagation of a planting material, for example, a seaweed propagule, a seaweed fragment, and a physical piece of a seaweed tissue, initially includes attaching the planting material to a substrate, for example, a rope line, a tubular net, and a regular net. Once the planting material is attached to the substrate, it is then submerged underwater to allow the planting material to grow before being harvested. The attachment of the planting material to the substrate is thus amongst one of the most critical steps of marine farming by vegetative propagation to ensure that the entire marine farming process does not get compromised.

[0067] A conventional technique for attaching the planting material to the substrate includes manually tying the planting material to a twine and then manually knotting the twine to the substrate. Manually tying the planting material to the twine and knotting the twine to the substrate is a highly time-consuming process requiring substantial manpower and repetitive effort, especially in scenarios where multiple planting materials are required to be attached to one or more substrates. Additionally, these manual processes are required to be carried out on land which necessitates transporting the planting material to the shore and back. As a result, the planting material is kept out of water for long periods of time thereby causing the planting materials to undergo physiological stress which usually leads deteriorated organoleptic properties of the planting material and may also hinder growth of the planting material in the long term.

[0068] Further, other disadvantages are also associated with the process of manually attaching the planting material to the substrate which includes high operational costs due to the transportational cost of carrying the planting material to land and back. Moreover, manually selecting and attaching the planting materialto the substrate is also prone to human errors, for example, a person may select an unhealthy planting material and / or may loosely attach the planting material to the substrate. Consequently, the entire process not only becomes highly labor-intensive, time-consuming, and quality degrading, but rather also significantly elevates the overall cost of marine farming while being susceptible to potential human errors.

[0069] Another conventional technique for attaching the planting material to the substrate utilizes automated tools, for example, mechanical grippers. These automated tools tightly twist the substrate which creates vacant spaces in the substrate (due to separation of the substrate’s strands). The planting material is then embedded within the vacant space. This entire process is highly intricate and suffers from various limitations. Twisting the substrate, for example, a rope line, creates only small vacant spaces within the rope line’s strands. Large sized planting material is difficult to embed in such small vacant space and thus only small sized planting material can be used with such a technique. Further, embedding the small sized planting material into the small vacant space within the substrate is akin to threading a needle which makes the entire process of attaching the panting material highly difficult and time-consuming. Additionally, twisting the substrate to create vacant spaces introduces the substrate to high levels of stress and damage which is proportional to the degree of twisting of the substrate. This stress and damage are substantially high in cases where large vacant spaces are needed to accommodate large sized planting material. The substrate is therefore susceptible to breakage when submerged underwater or when reused, thereby, causing loss of harvest and monetary investment. Consequently, the entire process is highly time-consuming, difficult to implement, susceptible to damage, and limited in terms of application.

[0070] Another conventional technique for attaching the planting material to the substrate utilizes a complex machine to form the substrate and attach the planting material to the substrate while the substrate is being formed. Typically, such a complex machine uses one or more carriers to carry strands of the substrate, for example, one or more rope strands when the intended substrate to be formed is the rope line. The one or more carriers, which may be contra-rotating, carrying the substrate strands, are entirely displaced along respective set paths so that the one ormore carriers move in and out of each other’s path, instead of a simple over-and-under weaving motion, i.e., the one or more carriers follow complex, serpentine paths that twist and turn sharply in different directions.

[0071] The intricate movements of each of the one or more carriers carrying the substrate strands cause the substrate strands of the substrate to intertwine and entangle with each other. This produces the resulting substrate. The entangling of the substrate strands is performed around the planting material, thereby forming the substrate in a manner where the planting material is entangled within the substrate while the substrate is being formed. However, the entire displacement of the one or more carriers along their respective set paths where the one or more carriers move in complex serpentine paths introduces periodic decelerations. As a result, the operational speed of the one or more carriers is decreased. Therefore, the entanglement of the substrate strands happens slowly, which significantly increases the time required for attaching the planting material to the substrate. Moreover, the reduced speed of operation of the one or more carriers sometimes also causes reduced tension in the substrate strands while entangling. This often leads to a loosely structured substrate which again introduces potential for breakage when the substrate is submerged underwater or when reused, thereby, causing loss of harvest and monetary investment. Consequently, the entire process is highly timeconsuming, and susceptible to damage.

[0072] Further, conventional harvesting techniques usually involve manually separating the plant material and the substrate by hand, which is a tedious, time consuming, and error prone process. The separated substrate strands usually end up having kinks or residual twists. This makes it harder to reuse the separated substrate strands and also causes them to entwine in undesired patterns and get stuck easily. Therefore, the substrate, having the entangled substrate strands, is typically recycled before being reused.

[0073] Usually, in case of the substrate being made of a thermoplastic polymer, recycling the substrate requires melting the entangled substrate strands and then using the melted substrate strands either to make the substrate again or for another application. However, the recycled substrate strands typically have a lower strengththan that of the original substrate strands, and hence the recycled substrate strands must either be blended with virgin polymer material or be used for lower grade applications. Similarly, recycling the substrate made from natural fibers or thermoset material, such as aramid, is also not feasible. Therefore, conventionally, the substrate is either completely discarded or inefficiently recycled.

[0074] Therefore, no existing techniques exist for optimally attaching the planting material to the substrate and separating the substrate strands of the substrate for future reuse.

[0075] In an example implementation of the present subject matter, an interlacing apparatus is described. The interlacing apparatus is for producing and separating an interlaced substrate matrix, particularly for marine farming. In an example, the interlacing apparatus includes a first annular table, a second annular table co-axial with the first annular table, and carriers. In one example, a first set carriers may be attached to the first annular table and a second set of carriers may be attached to the second annular table. Each carrier of the interlacing apparatus may carry a respective bobbin for supplying a respective substrate strand which is initially wound around the respective bobbin. To produce the interlaced substrate matrix, the first annular table and the second annular table are rotated in opposite directions. This causes a first set bobbins of the first annular table, carried by their respective first set of carriers, and a second set of bobbins of the second annular table, carried by second set of carriers of the second annular table, to start rotating in opposite directions, and release their respective substrate strands. In an example, each substrate strand from each bobbin is guided using guiding means of the interlacing apparatus to follow their respective predetermined paths. In one example, each of the substrate strands from each of the one or more bobbins of the first annular table follow a first feeding path and each of the substrate strands from each of the one or more bobbins of the second annular table follow a second feeding path. In an example, the first feeding path and the second feeding path may be predetermined. In an example, the first feeding path and the second feeding path may be similar. In an example, the first feeding path and the second feeding path may be different.

[0076] The movement of each of the substrate strands along their respective predetermined paths, where each of the substrate strands of the one or more bobbins of the first annular table move along the first feeding path opposite to each of the substrate strands of the one or more bobbins of the second annular table moving along the second feeding path, facilitates interlacing of each of the substrate strands at an interlacing point. The interlacing of each of the substrate strands at the interlacing point forms the interlaced substrate matrix. In one example, a planting material is fed simultaneously between each of the substrate strands during their interlacing. The planting material therefore gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix during its production.

[0077] Further, the interlacing apparatus may also be capable of operating in reverse, i.e., in a manner which facilitates the separation of each of the interlaced substrate strands from the interlaced substrate matrix. For instance, in one example, the interlacing apparatus may be operated in reverse to separate each of the interlaced substrate strands from the interlaced substrate matrix once plant grown from the planting material has been harvested. The present subject matter thus provides an easy to use and efficient interlacing apparatus for producing and separating the interlaced substrate matrix. Furthermore, the present subject matter can be employed when intended for farming in both marine environments and tanks. Also, although the interlaced substrate matrix is intended for ocean planting, it may also be effectively employed for cultivating the planting material in tanks and / or inland reservoirs and / or naturally occurring water bodies.

[0078] In an example, the interlacing apparatus may include a support structure, the first annular table, and the second annular table. In one example, the support structure, the first annular table, and the second annular table may be concentrically arranged to have a common central axis. In one example, the first annular table and the second annular table may be arranged concentrically along common central axis while the support structure may not be concentric to the concentrically arranged the first annular table and the second annular table. Further, the first annular table and the second annular table may be capable of rotating, about the common central axis,in a first direction and a second direction, respectively. The first direction may be opposite to the second direction.

[0079] The first set of carriers, hereinafter interchangeably referred to as set of inner carriers, may carry the first set of bobbins, hereinafter interchangeably referred to as set of inner bobbins, while the first annular table rotates in the first direction. The second set of carriers, hereinafter interchangeably referred to set of outer carriers, may carry the second set of bobbins, hereinafter interchangeably referred to as set of outer bobbins, while the second annular table rotates in the second direction. The first set of bobbins and the second set of bobbins may hereinafter be collectively referred to as bobbins and may hereinafter be individually referred to as bobbin. In an example, the first set of carriers may rotate along an annular track on the second annular table, however, in the first direction. The first set of bobbins and the first set of carriers may therefore rotate in the first direction, i.e., opposite to the second direction, the second direction being rotational direction of the second set of bobbins and the second set of carriers.

[0080] In an example, each of the substrate strands may be wound over each of its respective bobbin prior to rotation of the first annular table and the second annular table. A first open end of each of the substrate strands may initially be attached to an extraction mechanism. In an example, the extraction mechanism may be provided along the common central axis so that once the bobbins start rotating, each of the substrate strands wound around each of its respective bobbins may start to unwind and get pulled by the extraction mechanism towards the interlacing point on the common central axis, thereby, consequently forming the interlaced substrate matrix.

[0081] Each of the substrate strands released by the first set of bobbins and the second set of bobbins, in a respective manner by their corresponding bobbins, may start to unwind along different feeding paths before getting interlaced with each other at the interlacing point on the common central axis. In an example, the feeding path followed by each of the substrate strands supplied by the first set of bobbins may be the first feeding path, while the feeding path followed by each of the substrate strands supplied by the second set of bobbins may be the second feedingpath. To facilitate the interlacing of each of the substrate strands, the movement of each of the substrate strands along the second feeding path may be controlled by the guiding means. The guiding means may guide each of the substrate strands supplied by the second set of bobbins, to alternatively move over and under the first set of carriers. This may thereby move each of the substrate strands from the second of bobbins over and under the substrate strands following the first feeding path in an alternate manner. The movement of each of the substrate strands along their respective feeding paths may therefore allow each of the substrate strands to alternatively move over and under other substrate strands, thereby, causing a desired interlacing pattern to be formed at the interlacing point to produce the interlaced substrate matrix.

[0082] In one example implementation of the present subject matter, the guiding means may include one or more deflectors and one or more guides. The one or more deflectors may be attached to the support structure. The one or more guides may be attached to the first set of carriers to be provided as part of the first set of carriers to be attached to the first annular table. The one or more deflectors and the one or more guides may work in tandem to facilitate each of the substrate strands supplied by the second set of carriers to follow the second feeding path. The one or more deflectors and the one or more guides may have similar or different geometries, i.e., shapes. In an example, each of the one or more deflectors may have a leading contour and a trailing contour. In an example, each of the one or more guides may have an upper contour and a lower contour.

[0083] In operation, as each of the substrate strands released by the first set of bobbins and the second set of bobbins, in a respective manner by their corresponding bobbins, start to unwind, a substrate strand, say, a first substrate strand, supplied by a bobbin, say, a first bobbin, of the second set of bobbins, may engage with a leading contour of a deflector. The deflector may deflect the first substrate strand to move over a carrier, say, a first carrier, of the first set of carriers, attached to the first annular table. This causes the first substrate strand to move over a second substrate strand, along an upper contour of a guide associated with the first carrier. The second substrate strand may be supplied by a bobbin, say a secondbobbin, of the first set of bobbins, carried by the first carrier. After moving over the second substrate strand, the first substrate strand may engage with a trailing contour of the deflector. The first substrate strand, upon engaging with the trailing contour of the deflector, may move under next adjacent carrier to the first carrier, say, a second carrier, of the first set of carriers, attached to the first annular table. This may cause the first substrate strand to move under a third substrate strand, supplied by a bobbin, say, a third bobbin, of the first set of bobbins, carried by the second carrier, along a lower contour of a guide associated with the second carrier. The alternate movement of the first substrate strand over and under the second substrate strand and third substrate strand, respectively, in a repetitive manner, may therefore form the desired interlacing pattern to produce the interlaced substrate matrix.

[0084] In another example implementation of the present subject matter, the guiding means may include one or more guiding arms. The one or more guiding arms may be mounted on the second annular table. In an example, the one or more guiding arms may be mechanical arms having respective pivot points around which the one or more guiding arms may swing to move their respective substrate strands, supplied by each of the second set of bobbins. In an example, each bobbin carried by a carrier of the second set of carriers may have a corresponding guiding arm to swing its substrate strand around a pivot point of the corresponding guiding arm.

[0085] In one example, the sum of the set of inner carriers and the set of outer carriers is greater than or equal to three. In another example, the sum of the set of inner carriers and the set of outer carriers is greater than or equal to two. In said example a core substrate may, however, be provided as a third substrate strand for the interlacing.

[0086] In operation, as each of the substrate strands released by the first set of bobbins and the second set of bobbins, in a respective manner by their corresponding bobbins, start to unwind, a substrate strand, say, a first substrate strand, supplied by a bobbin, say, a first bobbin, of the second set of bobbins, may be swung by a guiding arm, corresponding to the first bobbin. The guiding arm may swing the first substrate strand around its pivot point to move the first substrate strand over a carrier, say, a first carrier, of the first set of carriers, attached to thefirst annular table. This causes the first substrate strand to move over a second substrate strand. The second substrate strand may be supplied by a bobbin, say a second bobbin, of the first set of bobbins, carried by the first carrier. After moving over the second substrate strand, the first substrate strand may again be swung by the guiding arm. The first substrate strand, upon again being swung by the guiding arm, may move under next adjacent carrier to the first carrier, say, a second carrier, of the first set of carriers, attached to the first annular table. This may cause the first substrate strand to move under a third substrate strand, supplied by a bobbin, say, a third bobbin, of the first set of bobbins, carried by the second carrier. The alternate movement of the first substrate strand over and under the second substrate strand and third substrate strand, respectively, in a repetitive manner, may therefore form the desired interlacing pattern to produce the interlaced substrate matrix.

[0087] In an example, the produced interlaced substrate matrix, embedded with the planting material, may be subsequently submerged underwater using anchoring means. Upon submersion, the planting material may grow to a plant of desired size which may then be harvested, either partially or fully, by separating the plant, either partially or fully, from the interlaced substrate matrix.

[0088] In an example, the interlaced substrate matrix, after harvest, may be fed to the interlacing apparatus. The interlacing apparatus fed with the interlaced substrate matrix, may be run in reverse operation. The reverse operation may cause the interlacing apparatus to operate in reverse direction, i.e., opposite to its operational direction when compared to operational direction followed during production of the substrate matrix. The reverse operation of the interlacing apparatus may therefore be similar to that of the interlacing apparatus as discussed for production of the interlaced substrate matrix, but in reverse order. The reverse operation of the interlacing apparatus may separate the interlaced substrate matrix back into its individual substrate strands.

[0089] The present subject matter offers several technical benefits and advantages over conventional approaches used for vegetatively propagated marine farming. In the present subject matter, by using the guiding means to guide each of the substrate strands, from the second set of bobbins, alternatively over and under each of thesubstrate stands from the first set of bobbins, helps in eliminating the need of displacing entire carriers in serpentine patterns. As a result, there are no periodic decelerations as each carrier of the interlacing apparatus can rotate about its designated circular path allowing for high-speed operations of the interlacing apparatus while maintaining desired efficient interlacing of each of the substrate strands. Further, the faster operation of the interlacing apparatus also ensures that the resulting substrate matrix is tightly knit thus reducing the potential for breakage when the substrate matrix is submerged underwater or when reused. This reduces potential harvest loss and potential loss of monetary investment. This advantage is further facilitated by the guiding means of the present subject matter as each of the substrate strands from both the sets of bobbins follow their dedicated feeding paths to ensure that the intertwining happens efficiently. Additionally, while the present subject matter has been explained in a manner where each of the substrate strand from each of the second set of bobbins alternatively moves over and under each of the substrate stands from each of the first set of bobbins, it may be understood by a person skilled in the art that the second feeding path and the first feeding path may be selected as desired to have a desired interlacing pattern. This may give improved operational flexibility to a user of the interlacing apparatus thus helping the user to produce the interlaced substrate matrix of desired interlacing pattern.

[0090] Further, providing the first annular table and the second annular table along with the support structure in the concentric arrangement helps in controlling and managing the rotation of each of the annular tables. In one example, this in turn helps in controlling and managing the movement of both the sets of carriers and both the sets of bobbins such that each of the substrate strands from both the sets of bobbins are released at the same time and speed, which may be regulated, to get intertwined with each other at a regulated time and regulated speed. In another example, the movement of both the sets of carriers and both the sets of bobbins may be such that each of the substrate strands from both the sets of bobbins may not be released at the same time and speed, which may be regulated, to get intertwined with each other at a regulated time and regulated speed. This may not only ensure further operational flexibility but may also ensure that each of the substrate strandsget interlaced efficiently so that the interlaced substrate matrix doesn’t suffer from any stress and / or missed knots.

[0091] Moreover, the movement of each of the substrate strands from each of the second set of bobbins over and under each of the substrate strands from each of the first set of bobbins in alternate cycles ensures forming a well-knit substrate matrix where the planting material can be securely embedded. The interlacing of each of the substrate strands alternately over and under each other at the interlacing point allows the planting material to be securely intertwined within repetitive interlacing patterns at the interlacing point regardless of its size thereby increasing adaptability and adjustability. The planting material is thus embedded firmly in the interlaced substrate matrix without any manual intervention or risk of damage to each of the substrate strands. Further, by feeding the planting material between points where each of the substrate strands leave their respective bobbins and the interlacing point, it is ensured that sufficient time is available for the interlacing apparatus to securely intertwine the planting material within the substrate matrix. This ensures comprehensive attachment of the planting material in a secure, time-efficient manner with reduced manpower and effort, while eliminating drawbacks associated with conventional techniques. The alternating over and under pattern of each of the substrate strands around the planting material therefore eliminates the need for manually tying the planting material to the substrate matrix using twines and / or twisting the substrate matrix to create spaces, for embedding the planting material. Therefore, the present subject matter efficiently and completely overcomes the limitations of the conventional techniques thereby significantly reducing stress on each of the substrate strands and enhancing their usability and durability.

[0092] Furthermore, the interlaced substrate matrix produced by the interlacing apparatus not only allows for easy and safe harvesting of the plant when desired but also allows for the separation of the interlaced matrix into its individual substrate strands at least due to the capability of the interlacing apparatus to operate in reverse operation. This promotes the reuse and recycling of the interlaced substrate matrix. These features collectively enhance efficiency, sustainability, and versatility in farming operations, particularly, in marine farming operations.

[0093] The description hereinafter describes the interlacing apparatus, in accordance with the present subject matter. The manner in which the interlacing apparatus shall be implemented has been explained in detail with respect to Figures lAto 19C.

[0094] It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate the principles of the present subject matter. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements that, although not explicitly described herein, embody the principles of the present subject matter and are included within its scope. Furthermore, all examples recited herein are intended only to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects and implementations of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.

[0095] Figure 1 A illustrates an interlacing system 100, hereinafter referred to as the system 100, in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter. The system 100 may be for producing and separating an interlaced substrate matrix for farming activities, particularly, for marine farming activities. In an example, the interlaced substrate matrix may be an intertwined structure obtained subsequent to interlacing of at least three substrate strands amongst themselves in a predetermined interlacing pattern. Examples of the interlaced substrate matrix may include, but are not limited to, a rope line, multiple rope lines, a braided rope, a tubular net, and a regular net. In particular, the system 100 may facilitate feeding a planting material 102 between the at least three substrate strands during their interlacing to embed the planting material 102 within the interlaced substrate matrix for vegetatively propagated marine farming. Examples of the planting material 102 may include, but are not limited to, a seaweed propagule, a seaweed fragment, and a seaweed tissue. In an example, the system 100 may include a plurality of components which may collaborate to facilitate the embedding of the planting material 102 within the interlaced substrate matrix.

[0096] In an example, the system 100 may include an interlacing apparatus 104. The interlacing apparatus 104 may include a support structure 106, a first annulartable 108, and a second annular table 110. In an example, the support structure 106 may be a mechanical framework or component configured to bear at least the first annular table 108, and the second annular table 110, while simultaneously providing stability. In an example, the support structure 106 may be a framed structure providing a rigid framework to which one or more components of the system 100 and / or the interlacing apparatus 104 may be supported. In an example, the first annular table 108 and the second annular table 110 may be attached to the support structure 106. In one example, the support structure 106, the first annular table 108, and the second annular table 110 may be positioned concentrically to have a common central axis. In one example, the first annular table 108 and the second annular table 110 may be arranged concentrically along common central axis, while the support structure 106, may not be concentric to the concentrically arranged first annular table 108 and the second annular table 110.

[0097] In one example, the support structure 106, the first annular table 108, and the second annular table 110 may be connected to have a concentric arrangement where an outer diameter of the second annular table 110 may be more than an outer diameter of the support structure 106. The outer diameter of the support structure 106 may be more than an outer diameter of the first annular table 108. In another example, the support structure 106, the first annular table 108, and the second annular table 110 may be connected to have concentric arrangement where the outer diameter of the second annular table 110 may be less than the outer diameter of the support structure 106. The outer diameter of the support structure 106 may be more than the outer diameter of the first annular table 108. The first annular table 108 and the second annular table 110 may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as an inner annular table 108 and an outer annular table 110, respectively. In an example, the inner annular table 108 and the outer annular table 110 may rotate in a first direction and a second direction, respectively, about the common central axis. The first direction and the second direction may be opposite to each other.

[0098] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 104 may further include a first set of carriers 112-1...., 112-N respectively carrying a first set of bobbins 114-1...., 114-N. The first set of carriers 112-1...., 112-N may be attached to the inner annulartable 108. The interlacing apparatus 104 may further include a second set of carriers 116-1...., 116-M respectively carrying a second set of bobbins 118-1...., 118-M. The second set of carriers 116-1...., 116-M may be attached to the outer annular table 110. In one example, N and M may be integers indicating the number of carriers attached to the inner annular table 108 and the outer annular table 110, respectively. The first set of carriers 112-1...., 112-N may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as first set of carriers 112 or set of inner carriers 112 or inner carriers 112. The first set of bobbins 114-1...., 114-N may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as first set of bobbins 114 or set of inner bobbins 114 or inner bobbins 114. Further, the second set of carriers 116-1...., 116-M may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as second set of carriers 116 or set of outer carriers 116 or outer carriers 116. The second set of bobbins 118-1...., 118-M may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as second set of bobbins 118 or set of outer bobbins 118 or outer bobbins 118.

[0099] In an example, the inner carriers 112 and the outer carriers 116 may include mechanical structures with one or more components capable of supporting their respective bobbins while allowing their respective bobbins to rotate about their respective axes. Examples of the inner carriers 112 and the outer carriers 116 include, but are not limited to, brackets, mounts, clamps, and straps. Further, in an example, the inner bobbins 114 and the outer bobbins 118 may include mechanical structures around which their respective substrate strands can be wound. Examples of the inner bobbins 114 and the outer bobbins 118 include, but are not limited to, spools, cylindrical rollers, and spindles.

[0100] In an example, each of the inner and outer bobbins may supply a respective substrate strand for facilitating the production of the interlaced substrate matrix. Examples of a substrate strand may include, but are not limited to, a rope strand, a mesh strand, a thread strand, and a filament strand. Each of the substrate strands supplied by each of the inner bobbins 114, respectively, may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as inner substrate strands 120-1, ...., 120-N. The inner substrate strands 120-1...., 120-N may hereinafter be collectively referred to asinner substrate strands 120 and individually referred to as inner substrate strand 120. Each of the substrate strands supplied by each of the outer bobbins 118, respectively, may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as outer substrate strands 122-1...., 122-M. The outer substrate strands 122-1...., 122-M may hereinafter be collectively referred to as outer substrate strands 122 and individually referred to as outer substrate strand 122.

[0101] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 104 may include an annular track 124 associated with the outer annular table 110. The inner carriers 112 may rotate along the annular track 124, in the first direction, i.e., opposite to direction of rotation of the outer annular table 110, i.e., the second direction. The inner carriers 112 may therefore rotate opposite to rotational direction of the annular track 124. Examples of the annular track 124 may include, but are not limited to, a circular path, a grooved path, and a ring-shaped path on the outer annular table 110. The rotation of the inner carriers 112 in the first direction, i.e., opposite the rotation of the outer annular table 110 and the annular track 124 may further be facilitated by respectively dedicated drive systems.

[0102] In an example, each of the inner carriers 112 may be associated with a respective drive system. The inner carriers 112-1...., 112-N may be associated with drive systems 126-1...., 126-N, respectively. The drive systems 126-1...., 126-N may hereinafter be collectively referred to as drive systems 126. The inner bobbins 114 and the inner carriers 112 may thus be propelled by their respectively associated drive systems 126 to rotate in the first direction, i.e., opposite to second direction of rotation of the outer bobbins 118 and the outer carriers 116.

[0103] In an example, in operation, a first open end of each of the inner substrate strands 120 and each of the outer substrate strands 122 may initially be attached to an extraction mechanism (not shown in Figure 1 A). The extraction mechanism may be positioned along the common central axis of the inner annular table 108, the outer annular table 110, and the support structure 106. In an example, the extraction mechanism may be attached to the support structure 106. Once the inner bobbins 114 and the inner carriers 112 start rotating in the first direction, opposite to the outer bobbins 118 and the outer carriers 116, each of the inner substrate strands 120and each of the outer substrate strands 122 wound around their respective bobbins start to unwind and get pulled by the extraction mechanism. The extraction mechanism starts to pull each of the inner substrate strands 120 and each of the outer substrate strands 122 towards a point 128, hereinafter referred to as an interlacing point 128, on the common central axis, thereby forming an interlaced substrate matrix 130, similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as already described. Examples of the extraction mechanism may include but are not limited to roller drums, contrarotating rollers, contrarotating caterpillar tracks, or a winding spool.

[0104] In an example, each of the inner substrate strands 120 and each of the outer substrate strands 122 released by their corresponding inner bobbins 114 and the outer bobbins 118, respectively, may start to unwind simultaneously. The inner substrate strands 120 may rotate in the first direction while the outer substrate strands 122 may rotate in the second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction, along different feeding paths, respectively, before getting interlaced with each other at the interlacing point 128. In an example, a feeding path followed by the inner substrate strands 120 may be referred to as a first feeding path, while a feeding path followed by the outer substrate strands 122 may be referred to as a second feeding path. In an example, the first feeding path and the second feeding path may be predetermined. In one example, the first feeding path and the second feeding path may be similar. In another example, the first feeding path and the second feeding path may be different. Examples of the first feeding path and the second feeding path may include, but are not limited to, a circular path, a round path, an elliptical path, a straight path, a serpentine path, a braid path, a plain weave path, and a zig zag path.

[0105] In an example, to facilitate the interlacing between the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122, the movement of each of the outer substrate strands 122, along the second feeding path, may be controlled by guiding means (not shown in Figure 1A). The guiding means may be to guide each of the outer substrate strands 122. The guiding means may move each of the outer substrate strands 122 in a manner that each of the outer substrate strands 122 follows the second feeding path while alternatively moving over and under the inner carriers112. The guiding means may thereby move each of the outer substrate strands 122 over and under the inner substrate strands 120, in an alternate manner, while each of the inner substrate strands 120 rotate in the first direction along the first feeding path. In an example, the simultaneous movement of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 may cause a desired interlacing pattern, which may be predetermined, to be formed at the interlacing point 128 to produce the interlaced substrate matrix 130.

[0106] In one example implementation, the guiding means for facilitating the outer substrate strands 122 to follow the second feeding path includes one or more deflectors and one or more guides. The one or more deflectors are attached to the support structure 106. The one or more guides are attached, respectively, to the inner carriers 112 and are provided as part of their respective inner carriers 112 to be attached to the inner annular table 108 via respective drive systems 126. Each deflector of the one or more deflectors has a leading contour and a trailing contour. Each guide of the one or more guides has an upper contour and a lower contour. The one or more deflectors and the one or more guides work in tandem to guide each of the outer substrate strands 122 along the second feeding path.

[0107] For instance, as an outer substrate strand 122-1 of a bobbin 118-1 carried by a carrier 116-1 starts to unwind, it engages with a leading contour of a deflector and gets deflected to move over an inner carrier 112-1, along an upper contour of a guide associated with the inner carrier 112-1. The outer substrate strand 122-1 while moving over the inner carrier 112-1 also moves over inner substrate strand 120-1 supplied by inner bobbin 114-1 of the inner carrier 112-1. After moving over the inner substrate strand 120-1, the outer substrate strand 122-1 engages with a trailing contour of the deflector and gets dropped to move under an adjacent carrier, say inner carrier 112-2, adjacent to the inner carrier 112-1 along a lower contour of a guide associated with the inner carrier 112-2. The outer substrate strand 122-1 while moving under the inner carrier 112-2 also moves under inner substrate strand 120-2 supplied by inner bobbin 114-2 of the inner carrier 112-2. The movement of the outer substrate strand 122-1 respectively over and under the inner substrate strand 120-1 and the inner substrate strand 120-2, repetitively in an alternate manner, whilethe outer substrate strand 122-1 follows the second feeding path and the inner substrate strands 120-1 and 120-2 follow the first feeding path, creates desired interlacing pattern. In particular, the outer substrate strands 122 rotate oppositely to the inner substrate strands 120 in a repetitive manner. The outer substrate strands 122 rotate along the second feeding path and the inner substrate strands 120 rotate along the first feeding path. Consequently, the outer substrate strands 122 and the inner substrate strands 120 get interlaced at the interlacing point 128 to form the interlaced substrate matrix 130.

[0108] In another example implementation, the guiding means for facilitating the outer substrate strands 122 to follow the second feeding path includes one or more guiding arms. In an example, the one or more guiding arms may include mechanical arms mounted on the outer annular table 110 to swing the outer substrate strands 122, respectively, about their respective pivot points. In an example, each outer bobbin of the outer bobbins 118, carried respectively, by each outer carrier of the outer carriers 116, may have a corresponding guiding arm to swing its respective outer substrate strand 122.

[0109] For instance, as the outer substrate strand 122-1 unwinds from the outer bobbin 118-1 carried by the outer carrier 116-1, a guiding arm corresponding to the outer bobbin 118-1, swings the outer substrate strand 122-1 to move over the inner carrier 112-1. The outer substrate strand 122-1 while moving over the inner carrier 112-1 also moves over the inner substrate strand 120-1 supplied by the inner bobbin 114-1 of the inner carrier 112-1. After moving over the inner substrate strand 120-1, the outer substrate strand 122-1 again gets swung by the guiding arm to move under an adjacent carrier, say the inner carrier 112-2, adjacent to the inner carrier 112-1. The outer substrate strand 122-1 while moving under the inner carrier 112-2 also moves under the inner substrate strand 120-2 supplied by the inner bobbin 114-2 of the inner carrier 112-2. The movement of the outer substrate strand 122-1 respectively over and under the inner substrate strand 120-1 and the inner substrate strand 120-2, repetitively in an alternate manner, while the outer substrate strand 122-1 follows the second feeding path and the inner substrate strands 120-1 and 120-2 follow the first feeding path, creates desired interlacing pattern. The outersubstrate strands 122 rotate along the second feeding path and the inner substrate strands 120 rotate along the first feeding path. Consequently, the outer substrate strands 122 and the inner substrate strands 120 get interlaced at the interlacing point 128 to form the interlaced substrate matrix 130.

[0110] Although Figure 1 A has been described with reference to implementations having a minimum of three carriers, it may be understood that the interlacing apparatus 104 may have a variable number of carriers. In the description of Figure 1A, the interlacing apparatus 104 has been described with reference to having a minimum of three carriers, i.e., the sum of the inner carriers 112 and the outer carriers 116 may be greater than or equal to three, ensuring the presence of at least one carrier on either the inner annular table 108 or the outer annular table 110 for operations. However, in another implementation, as described in further detail in the following description, the interlacing apparatus 104 may operate with a total of only two carriers, i.e., with one inner carrier on the inner annular table 108 and one outer carrier on the outer annular table 110. In such two-carrier implementations, a core substrate, for example, a rope line, multiple rope lines, a braided rope line, a cord, and a cable passing may pass through center of the interlacing apparatus 104 through the hollow member along the common central axis. The core substrate may thus act as a third substrate strand to facilitate formation of the interlaced substrate matrix 130. In such an example, the hollow member may be positioned at top of the interlacing apparatus 104 to supply the planting material 102 downwards along the common central axis. The extraction mechanism may be positioned at bottom of the interlacing apparatus 104, opposite to the hollow member , to draw out the interlaced substrate matrix 130 formed at the interlacing point 128.[OHl] In an example, the interlaced substrate matrix 130 may simultaneously be embedded with the planting material 102 by feeding the planting material 102 to the interlacing apparatus 104 while the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 undergo interlacing with each other. While the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 undergo interlacing, a feed mechanism (not shown in Figure 1A) may supply the planting material 102 to the interlacing apparatus 104. Examples of the feed mechanism, included by the system100, may include, but is not limited to, screw conveyors, belt conveyors, gravity-fed chutes, and pistons, or a combination thereof. In one example, manual feeding of the planting material 102 may also be performed, i.e., without the use of the feed mechanism. In one example, the feeding mechanism itself may be fed by a hopper or another feed mechanism.

[0112] The feed mechanism may feed the interlacing apparatus 104 with the planting material 102, such that the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 undergo interlacing around the planting material 102 thereby intertwining the planting material 102 within themselves. The planting material 102 may thereby be embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130. In an example, the interlaced substrate matrix 130, embedded with the planting material 102, may subsequently be submerged underwater using one or more anchoring means. Upon submersion, the planting material 102 may grow to a desired size, which may then be harvested either partially or fully, by separating the plant (obtained after growth from the planting material 102) from the interlaced substrate matrix 130.

[0113] In an example, the interlaced substrate matrix 130, after harvest, may be fed to the interlacing apparatus 104. The interlacing apparatus 104 fed with the interlaced substrate matrix 130, may be run in reverse operation, i.e., in reverse order. This may cause the interlacing apparatus 104 to operate in reverse direction and manner when compared to its operation direction and manner during formation of the interlaced substrate matrix 130. Therefore, the reverse operation of the interlacing apparatus 104 may be similar to that of the interlacing apparatus 104 as discussed, but in reverse order, i.e., all the steps may be performed in a inverse sequential order when compared to sequential order of steps followed during the formation of the interlaced substrate matrix 130. The reverse operation of the interlacing apparatus 104 may separate the interlaced substrate matrix 130 back into its inner substrate strands 120 and outer substrate strands 122.

[0114] Figure IB illustrates the system 100 in accordance with an implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure IB, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be placed horizontally within the system 100. The horizontally placedinterlacing apparatus 104 may be fed with the planting material 102 by a feed mechanism 132. The feed mechanism 132 may be similar to the feed mechanism as already discussed in Figure 1A. In one example, as shown in Figure IB, the feed mechanism 132 may include at least a conveyer belt 134 rotating about a first sheave 136 and a second sheave 138. An example of the first sheave 136 may include, but is not limited to, a pulley, rotating cylinders, and a circular disc with one or more grooves. In an example, the first sheave 136 and the second sheeve 138 may be similar and may rotate in the same directions during operation. The planting material 102 may be supplied to the feed mechanism 132 via at least one of manual feeding, feeding through hopper, and feeding via one or more other feed mechanisms, which may be similar to the feed mechanism 132.

[0115] In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be supplied to the feed mechanism 132. The planting material 102 on supply to the feed mechanism 132 may lie on the conveyer belt 134, driven forward by the first sheave 136 and the second sheave 138. The first sheave 136 and the second sheave 138 may rotate in the same direction. The rotation of the first sheave 136 and the second sheave 138 may be such that the conveyer belt 134 may rotate towards the interlacing apparatus 104. The conveyer belt 134 may therefore carry the planting material 102 towards the interlacing apparatus 104 and may feed the planting material 102 to the interlacing apparatus 104 in a region 140, which may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as an interlacing region 140. The interlacing region 140 may be a region formed between points where each of the inner substrate stands 120 and each of the outer substrate strands 122 leave their respective bobbins, and the interlacing point 128. The interlacing region 140 may therefore be the region where the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 undergo interlacing to finally get interlaced at the interlacing point 128.

[0116] In some instances, the planting material 102 upon being fed to the interlacing apparatus may drop on a surface 142. In an example, the surface 142 be a chute positioned just beneath the feed mechanism 132 to provide sufficient residence time to the planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140. In one example, the surface 142 may be flat. In one example, the surface 142 may becurved. In one example, the surface 142 may be equipped with at least one of a mesh and one or more brushes to increase residence time of the planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140. The planting material 102 lying in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 are drawn forward by an extraction mechanism 144, while rotating in opposite directions, to converge at the interlacing point 128, the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128. In an example, the extraction mechanism 144 may be similar to the extraction mechanism as discussed under Figure 1 A.

[0117] The increased residence time of the planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140 not only ensures that no planting material escapes proper entanglement within the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 but rather also ensures that more repetitions of the desired interlacing pattern of each of the inner and outer substrate strands occurs around the planting material 102. This securely embeds and attaches the planting material 102 to the interlaced substrate matrix 130.

[0118] Figure 1C illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure 1C, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be inverted and placed vertically within the system 100. The inverted and vertically placed interlacing apparatus 104 may be fed with the planting material 102 by the feed mechanism 132. In one example, as shown in Figure 1C, the feed mechanism 132 may include at least a chute 146. The planting material 102 supplied to the feed mechanism 132 may be supplied via at least one of manual feeding, feeding through a hopper, and feeding via one or more other feed mechanisms, which may be similar to the feed mechanism 132.

[0119] In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be supplied to the feed mechanism 132. The planting material 102, once supplied to the feed mechanism 132, may lie on the chute 146. Gravity may drive the planting material 102 along a length of the chute 146, due toinclination of the chute 146, towards the interlacing apparatus 104. The chute 146 may therefore facilitate the planting material 102 to be dropped directly in the interlacing region 140. The planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while rotating in opposite directions, to converge at the interlacing point 128, the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128.

[0120] Figure ID illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure ID, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be inverted and placed vertically within the system 100. In an example, the inverted and vertically placed interlacing apparatus 104 may be fed with the planting material 102 by the feed mechanism 132. In one example, as shown in Figure ID, the feed mechanism 132 may include a belt driven conveyer 148. The planting material 102 supplied to the feed mechanism 132 may be supplied via at least one of manual feeding, feeding through a hopper, and feeding via one or more other feed mechanisms, which may be similar to the feed mechanism 132.

[0121] In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be supplied to the feed mechanism 132. The planting material 102 upon being supplied to the feed mechanism 132 may remain on the belt driven conveyer 148, while the belt driven conveyer 148 rotates in a direction towards the interlacing apparatus 104. This may cause the planting material 102 to eventually get dropped directly in the interlacing region 140. The planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while rotating in opposite directions, to converge at the interlacing point 128,the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128.

[0122] Figure IE illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure IE, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be inverted and placed vertically within the system 100. In an example, the inverted and vertically placed interlacing apparatus 104 may be fed with planting material 102 by the feed mechanism 132. In one example, the feed mechanism 132 may include a screw feeder 150. The planting material 102 supplied to the feed mechanism 132 may be supplied via at least one of manual feeding, feeding through a hopper, and feeding via one or more other feed mechanisms, which may be similar to the feed mechanism 132.

[0123] In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be supplied to the feed mechanism 132. The planting material 102 on being supplied to the feed mechanism 132, through a first opening 152, may enter within the screw feeder 150. The planting material 102 may then be driven forward by the screw feeder 150 and may then exit the screw feeder 150 from a second opening 154. The planting material 102 on exiting the screw feeder 150 via the second opening 154 may be dropped directly in the interlacing region 140. The planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while rotating in opposite directions, to converge at the interlacing point 128, the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128.

[0124] Figure IF illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure IF, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be inverted and placed vertically within the system 100. In an example, the inverted and vertically placed interlacing apparatus 104 may be fed with the planting material 102 by the feed mechanism 132. In one example, as shown in Figure IF, the feed mechanism 132 may include a piston feeder 156. Theplanting material 102 supplied to the feed mechanism 132 may be supplied via at least one of manual feeding, feeding through a hopper, and feeding via one or more other feed mechanisms, which may be similar to the feed mechanism 132.

[0125] In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be supplied to the feed mechanism 132. The planting material 102, upon being supplied to the feed mechanism 132, through a third opening 158, may enter within the piston feeder 156. Within the piston feeder 156, a piston 160 may push the planting material 102 out of the piston feeder 156 via a fourth opening 162. The planting material 102 on exiting the piston feeder 156 via the fourth opening 162 may be dropped directly in the interlacing region 140. The planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while rotating in opposite directions, to converge at the interlacing point 128, the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128.

[0126] Figure 1G illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure 1G, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be inverted and placed vertically within the system 100. In an example, the inverted and vertically placed interlacing apparatus 104 may be fed with planting material 102 by manual feeding.

[0127] In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be fed to the interlacing apparatus 104 by a user 164 of the system 100. Examples of feeding the planting material 102 to the interlacing apparatus 104 by the user 164 may include but are not limited to throwing the planting material 102, placing the planting material 102, and dropping the planting material 102 within the interlacing region 140. The planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120 and the outersubstrate strands 122 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while rotating in opposite directions, to converge at the interlacing point 128, the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128.

[0128] Figure 1H illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure 1H, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be placed at an incline within the system 100. In an example, the interlacing apparatus 104, placed at the incline, may be fed with the planting material 102 by the feed mechanism 132. The planting material 102 supplied to the feed mechanism 132 may be supplied via at least one of manual feeding, feeding through a hopper, and feeding via one or more other feed mechanisms, which may be similar to the feed mechanism 132.

[0129] In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be supplied to the feed mechanism 132. The planting material 102 upon being supplied to the feed mechanism 132, may eventually be dropped directly in the interlacing region 140. In one example, a plate guide 166 may be positioned below the interlacing region 140. The plate guide 166, in one example, may be a chute. The plate guide 166 may ensure that the planting material 102 has increased residence time to get entangled in the interlacing region 140. Examples of the plate guide 166 may include, but are not limited to, a flat plate, a half conical plate, and a curved plate. The plate guide 166 may therefore facilitate the embedding of the planting material 102 within the interlaced substrate matrix 130. In one example, the plate guide 166 may include a sheet, a mesh, a perforated sheet, or a combination thereof, and may further be supported by one or more structural elements for strength and stability. As shown in Figure 1H, the planting material 102 falling from the feed mechanism 132 is supported by the plate guide 166 in the interlacing region 140, allowing ample time for the interlacing apparatus 104 to embed the planting material 102 efficiently within the interlaced substrate matrix 130.

[0130] The planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while rotating in opposite directions, to converge at the interlacing point 128, the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128.

[0131] Figure II illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. In an example, as shown in Figure II, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be inverted and placed vertically within the system 100. In an example, the inverted and vertically placed interlacing apparatus 104, may have a member 168. The member 168 may be supported by the support structure 106 and may be concentrically arranged to the first annular table 108 and the second annular table 110. The member 168 may be hollow and may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as hollow member 168. Examples of the hollow member 168 may include, but are not limited to, a hollow cylindrical structure, a solid cylindrical structure, a hollow conical structure, a solid conical structure, a hollow tubular structure, and a solid tubular structure. When hollow, the hollow member 168 may have a primary opening 170 and secondary opening 172, the secondary opening 172 being opposite to the primary opening 170.

[0132] In one example, the planting material 102 may be fed to the interlacing apparatus 104 through the hollow member 168 which may be hollow. The hollow member 168 may be large enough to allow the planting material 102 to freely pass through the hollow member 168 via center of the interlacing apparatus 104, which may lie on the common central axis. In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be supplied into the hollow member 168 through the primary opening 170 either by manual feeding, through active feeding by using the feed mechanisms 132 as discussed in previous figures, or through a combination thereof. Figure II shows the feeding being done manually. The planting material 102 on entering the hollow member 168, may pass through entire length of the hollow member 168, through the center of the interlacing apparatus 104 and exit the hollow member 168 via the secondary opening 172. Upon exiting via the secondary opening 172, the planting material 102 mayeventually be dropped in the interlacing region 140 directly. The planting material 102. The planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while rotating in opposite directions, to converge at the interlacing point 128, the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128.

[0133] Figure 1J illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure 1 J, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be inverted and placed vertically within the system 100. In an example, the inverted and vertically placed interlacing apparatus 104, may have the hollow member 168 supported by the support structure 106.

[0134] In an example, as shown in Figure 1 J, the planting material 102 may be fed to the interlacing apparatus 104 through the hollow member 168 which may be hollow. The hollow member 168 may be large enough to allow the planting material 102 to freely pass through the hollow member 168 via the center of the interlacing apparatus 104. In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be entered into the hollow member 168 through the primary opening 170 either by manual feeding, through active feeding by using the feed mechanisms 132 as discussed in previous figures, or through a combination thereof.

[0135] In one example, as shown in Figure 1 J, the feeding of the planting material 102 may be facilitated using the belt driven conveyer 148. The planting material 102 on entering the hollow member 168, may pass through the entire length of the hollow member 168, through the center of the interlacing apparatus 104 and exit the hollow member 168 via the secondary opening 172. Upon exiting via the secondary opening 172, the planting material 102 may eventually be dropped directly in the interlacing region 140. The planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternativelymove over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while rotating in opposite directions, to converge at the interlacing point 128, the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128.

[0136] Figure IK illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure IK, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be inverted and placed vertically within the system 100. In an example, the inverted and vertically placed interlacing apparatus 104, may have the hollow member 168 supported by the support structure 106.

[0137] In an example, as shown in Figure IK, the planting material 102 may be fed to the interlacing apparatus 104 through the hollow member 168 which may be hollow. The hollow member 168 may be large enough to allow the planting material 102 to freely pass through the hollow member 168 via the center of the interlacing apparatus 104. In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be entered into the hollow member 168 through the primary opening 170 either by manual feeding, through active feeding by using the feed mechanisms 132 as discussed in previous figures, or through a combination thereof.

[0138] In one example, as shown in Figure IK, the feeding of the planting material 102 may be done using the screw feeder 150. The planting material 102 on entering the hollow member 168, may pass through the entire length of the hollow member 168, through the center of the interlacing apparatus 104, and exit the hollow member 168 via the secondary opening 172. Upon exiting via the secondary opening 172, the planting material 102 may eventually be dropped directly in the interlacing region 140. The planting material 102 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while rotating in opposite directions, to converge at the interlacing point 128, the planting material102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128.

[0139] Figure IL illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure IL, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be inverted and placed vertically within the system 100. The interlacing apparatus 104 may have the hollow member 168 supported by the support structure 106.

[0140] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 104 may include a core bobbin 171 positioned atop the interlacing apparatus 104 to supply a core substrate 174. The core bobbin 171 may be attached to the support structure 106 of the interlacing apparatus 104 and positioned along a top end of the interlacing apparatus 104 to supply the core substrate 174 downwards towards the first annular table 210 and the second annular table 212 along the common central axis. Examples of the core substrate 174 may include, but are not limited to, a rope line, multiple rope lines, a braided rope line, a cord, and a cable. In an example, the planting material 102 and the core substrate 174 may be fed to the interlacing apparatus 104 through the hollow member 168. The hollow member 168 may be large enough to allow the planting material 102 and the core substrate 174 to freely pass through the hollow member 168 via the center of the interlacing apparatus 104. In one example, the sum of the set of inner carriers 112 and the set of outer carriers 114 is greater than or equal to two. In said example, the core substrate 174 may, thus, act as a third substrate strand for the interlacing for the outer substrate strand 122 and the inner substrate strand 120 provided by the single outer carrier 114 and the single inner carrier 112. In another example, the sum of the set of inner carriers 112 and the set of outer carriers 114 is greater than or equal to three. In said example, the core substrate may act as an additional substrate strand for the interlacing. Furthermore, the core bobbin and the hollow member may be positioned at the top of the interlacing apparatus to supply the core substrate and planting material downwards along the common central axis. The extraction mechanism may positioned at the bottom, opposite to the core bobbin and hollow member, to draw out the interlaced substrate matrix formed at the interlacing point.

[0141] In operation, when the interlacing apparatus 104 is operated, the planting material 102 may be entered into the hollow member 168 through the primary opening 170 either by manual feeding, through active feeding by using the feed mechanisms 132 as discussed in previous figures, or through a combination thereof. In one example, as shown in Figure IL, the planting material 102 may be fed using the screw feeder 150. Simultaneously, the core substrate 174 may enter into the hollow member 168 through the primary opening 170 and exit through the secondary opening 172 and may further pass at least through the interlacing point 128. The planting material 102, upon entering the hollow member 168, may pass, by gravity action, through the entire length of the hollow member 168, through the center of the interlacing apparatus 104 and exit the hollow member 168 via the secondary opening 172. Upon exiting via the secondary opening 172, the planting material 102 may eventually be dropped in the interlacing region 140. Meanwhile, simultaneously, the core substrate 174 may also pass through the interlacing region 140 while the planting material 102 is present in the interlacing region 140. The planting material 102 and the core substrate 174 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120, the outer substrate strands 122, and the core substrate 174 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 rotate in opposite directions to converge at the interlacing point 128, the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128 also having the core substrate 174.

[0142] In some examples, the core substrate 174 may be thicker than each of the inner substrate strands 120 and each of the outer substrate strands 122. The core substrate 174 may therefore add strength to the resulting plant material embedded interlaced substrate matrix 130 where each of the interlaced substrate strands of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 hold the planting material 102 firmly around the core substrate 174. The resulting interlaced substrate matrix 130 with embedded planting material 102 is planted by tying only ends ofthe core substrate 174 in underwater environment, ensuring that the major load of the interlaced substrate matrix 130 is borne by the core substrate 174 when underwater, rather than by the planting material 102 or the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122.

[0143] Figure IM illustrates the system 100 in accordance with another implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure IM, the interlacing apparatus 104 may be inverted and placed vertically within the system 100. In an example, the inverted and vertically placed interlacing apparatus 104, may have the hollow member 168 supported by the support structure 106.

[0144] In operation, the planting material 102 may be entered into the hollow member 168 through the primary opening 170 either by manual feeding, through active feeding by using the feed mechanisms 132 as discussed in previous figures, or through a combination thereof. In one example, as shown in Figure IM the feeding may be done using the screw feeder 150. Simultaneously, the core substrate 174 may be entered into the interlacing region 140 from a side of the interlacing apparatus 104. The planting material 102 on entering the hollow member 168, may pass, by gravity action, through the entire length of the hollow member 168, through the center of the interlacing apparatus 104 and exit the hollow member 168 via the secondary opening 172. Upon exiting via the secondary opening 172, the planting material 102 may eventually be dropped in the interlacing region 140. Meanwhile, simultaneously, the core substrate 174 may also pass through the interlacing region 140 while the planting material 102 is present in the interlacing region 140 and may further pass at least through the interlacing point 128.

[0145] The planting material 102 and the core substrate 174 in the interlacing region 140 may get intertwined within the repetitive desired interlacing patterns of the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 that alternatively move over and under each other. As the inner substrate strands 120, the outer substrate strands 122, and the core substrate 174 are drawn forward by the extraction mechanism 144, while the inner substrate strands 120 and the outer substrate strands 122 rotate in opposite directions to converge at the interlacingpoint 128, the planting material 102 gets embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 130 at the interlacing point 128 also having the core substratel74.

[0146] In an example, the feed mechanism 132 therefore may include, but is not limited to, screw conveyors, belt conveyors (which may also be referred to as belt driven conveyors), gravity-fed chutes, piston feeders (which may include pistons for feeding), screw feeders, and combinations thereof to feed the planting material 102 to the interlacing apparatus 104 for production of the interlaced substrate matrix 130 having the embedded panting material 102.

[0147] Further, all the above implementations as described may be applicable to apparatuses that work on the same and / or similar principle of interlacing substrate strands as mentioned above for the interlacing apparatus 104.

[0148] Figure 2A illustrates an interlacing system 200, hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the system 200, which may be similar to the system 100, in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter. The system 200 may be for, in forward operation, embedding a planting material 202, which may be similar to the planting material 102, into an interlaced substrate matrix, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix 130, obtained subsequent to interlacing of at least three substrate strands amongst themselves in a predetermined interlacing pattern, similar to the predetermined interlacing pattern as already described in Figure 1 A. In an example, the system 200 may include an interlacing apparatus 204, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus 104. The interlacing apparatus 204 may be capable of being fed with the planting material 202, similar to as described at least in Figures IB to IM.

[0149] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 204 may include a support structure 206, which may be similar to the support structure 106. The support structure 206 may support a hollow member 208, which may be similar to the hollow member 168. The interlacing apparatus 204 may further include a first annular table 210 and a second annular table 212. The first annular table 210 and the second annular table 212 may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as an inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212, respectively. In an example, the inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212 may be similar to theinner annular table 108 and the outer annular table 110, respectively. In one example, the support structure 206, the hollow member 208, the inner annular table 210, and the outer annular table 212 may be concentrically arranged to have a common central axis. In one example, the hollow member 208, the inner annular table 210, and the outer annular table 212 may be arranged concentrically along common central axis while the support structure 206 may not be concentric to the concentrically arranged hollow member 208, the inner annular table 210, and the outer annular table 212. The inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212 may rotate about the common central axis but in opposite directions to each other. To facilitate the rotation, the inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212 may be mounted with rollers or bearings on the support structure 206.

[0150] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 204 may further include a first set of carriers 214-1...., 214-N respectively carrying a first set of bobbins 216-1...., 216-N. The first set of carriers 214-1...., 214-N may be attached to the inner annular table 210. The interlacing apparatus 204 may further include a second set of carriers 218-1...., 218-M respectively carrying a second set of bobbins 220-1...., 220-M. The second set of carriers 218-1...., 218-M may be attached to the outer annular table 212. In one example, N and M may be integers indicating the number of carriers attached to the inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212, respectively. In an example, the first set of carriers 214-1...., 214-N and the first set of bobbins 216-1...., 216-N may be similar to the first set of carriers 112-1...., 112-N, and the first set of bobbins 114-1...., 114-N, respectively. In an example, second set of carriers 218-1...., 218-M and the second set of bobbins 220-1...., 220-M may be similar to the second set of carriers 116-1...., 116-M and the second set of bobbins 118-1...., 118-M, respectively.

[0151] The first set of carriers 214-1...., 214-N may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as first set of carriers 214 or inner carriers 214. The first set of bobbins 216-1...., 216-N may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as first set of bobbins 216 or inner bobbins 216. Further, the second set of carriers 218-1...., 218-M may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as second set of carriers 218 or outer carriers 218. The second set ofbobbins 220-1... 220-M may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as second set of bobbins 220 or outer bobbins 220.

[0152] Each of the inner and outer bobbins may supply a respective substrate strand, similar to the substrate strands as already described, for facilitating the production of the interlaced substrate matrix. Each of the substrate strands supplied by each of the inner bobbins 216, respectively, may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as inner substrate strands 222-1, ...., 222-N, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands 120-1, ...., 120-N. The inner substrate strands 222-1...., 222-N may hereinafter be collectively referred to as inner substrate strands 222 and individually referred to as inner substrate strand 222. Each of the substrate strands supplied by each of the outer bobbins 220, respectively, may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as outer substrate strands 224-1...., 224-M, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands 122-1...., 122-M. The outer substrate strands 224-1...., 224-M may hereinafter be collectively referred to as outer substrate strands 224 and individually referred to as outer substrate strand 224.

[0153] In an example, the inner bobbins 216 and the outer bobbins 220 may be considered as mounted on the inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212, respectively, via their respective carriers. The inner bobbins 216 carried by the inner carriers 214 are thus mounted on the inner annular table 210 through the inner carriers 214. Similarly, the outer bobbins 220 carried by the outer carriers 218 are thus mounted on the outer annular table 212 through the outer carriers 218.

[0154] In an example, the inner carriers 214 may be accommodated within an annular track 226, which may be similar to the annular track 124, provided along the outer annular table 212. The inner carriers 214 may mate with the annular track 226 using respective protrusions 228-1...., 228-N, to enable smooth running of the inner carriers 214 along the annular track 226. The protrusions 228-1...., 228-N may hereinafter be collectively referred to as protrusions 228 and may hereinafter be individually referred to as protrusion 228. The inner carriers 214 may rotate along the annular truck 226 to run in a direction opposite to rotational direction of the outer annular table 212, the outer carriers 218, the outer bobbins 220, and the annular track 226. In particular, the inner annular table 210, the inner carriers 214,the inner bobbins 216, and the inner substrate strands 222 may rotate in a first direction while the outer annular table 212, the outer carriers 218, the outer bobbins 220, the outer substrate strands 224, and the annular track 226 may rotate in a second direction. The first direction and the second direction may be opposite to each other.

[0155] In an example, each of the inner carriers 214 may be associated with a respective drive system. The inner carriers 214-1...., 214-N may be associated with drive systems 230-1...., 230-N, respectively. The drive systems 230-1...., 230-N may hereinafter be collectively referred to as drive systems 230. The inner bobbins 216 and the inner carriers 214 may thus be propelled by their respectively associated drive systems 230 to rotate in the first direction, i.e., opposite to second direction of rotation of the outer bobbins 220 and the outer carriers 218. In an example, the drive systems 230-1...., 230-N, may be similar to the drive systems 126-1...., 126-N.

[0156] In an example, one end of each of the substrate strand supplied by the inner bobbins 216 and the outer bobbins 220 is tied to an extraction mechanism 232, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism 144. In an example, the extraction mechanism 232 may be attached to the support structure 206 of the interlacing apparatus 204 along the common central axis to draw substrate strands from the bobbins. The extraction mechanism 232 may be placed forward of the inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212, as shown in Figure 2A. The extraction mechanism 232 may be to pull each of the substrate strands out of the inner bobbins 216 and the outer bobbins 220 along the common central axis. Each of the substrate strands from each of the bobbins may thus converge at a point on the common central axis, hereinafter called an interlacing point 234, which may be similar to the interlacing point 128, to undergo interlacing and form an interlaced substrate matrix 236, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix 130. The planting material 202 may be fed to the interlacing apparatus 204 by a feed mechanism (not shown in Figure 2A), which may be similar to the feed mechanism 132. The feed mechanism may feed the interlacing apparatus 204 with plantingmaterial 202 in a region which may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as interlacing region, which may be similar to the interlacing region 140.

[0157] Each of the outer carriers 218 carrying their respective outer bobbins 220, to supply their respective outer substrate strands 224, for the interlaced substrate matrix 236, may include one or more outer guide elements to facilitate their respective outer substrate strands 224 in following a second feeding path, which may be similar to the second feeding path as already described in Figure 1 A. In an example, as shown in Figure 2B, an outer carrier 218-1 may include a first outer guide element 238 with which an outer substrate strand 224-1 initially engages when supplied by an outer bobbin 220-1, the outer bobbin 220-1 being carried by the outer carrier 218-1. An example, of the first outer guide element 238 may include, but is not limited to, a guide roller, a cylindrical roller, and a tubular roller. In one example, as shown in Figure 2B, the first outer guide element 238 is a roller guide. The outer carrier 218-1 may also include a second outer guide element 240 which engages with the outer substrate strand 224-1 after it is guided by the first outer guide element 238. In one example, the second outer guide element 240 may include a pulley 242 mounted on a tension control arm 244. Further, the outer carrier 218-1 may further include a third outer guide element 246 to receive the outer substrate strand 224-1 passing after it passes over the pulley 242. An example of the third outer guide element 246 may include but is not limited to a guide roller, a cylindrical roller, and a tubular roller. In one example, as shown in Figure 2B, the third outer guide element 246 is a roller guide. This arrangement may ensure that sufficient tension is maintained while the outer bobbin 220-1 supplies its outer substrate strand 224-1 thereby ensuring tight and secure interlacing within the interlaced substrate matrix 236 without any missed knots.

[0158] In an example, at least the outer carrier 218-1 may be associated with guiding means, which may be similar to the guiding means as already described in Figure 1A. In an example, the guiding means may include at least one or more deflectors. In one example, as shown in Figure 2B, the one or more deflectors may include a deflector 248, attached to the support structure 206, and which may be similar to the deflector as already described in Figure 1 A. The deflector 248 maybe of a desired geometry, i.e., shape to guide the outer substrate strand 224-1 while it is unwinding to facilitate the outer substrate strand 224-1 to follow the second feeding path. In an example, simultaneous to unwinding of the outer substrate strand 224-1, an inner bobbin 216-1 carried by an inner carrier 214-1 and an inner bobbin 216-2 carried by an inner carrier 214-2 may also start to supply their respective inner substrate strands for the interlaced substrate matrix 236. The inner substrate strands supplied by the inner bobbins, i.e., the first inner bobbin 216-1 and the second inner bobbin 216-2 may follow a first feeding path, which may be similar to the first feeding path as described in Figure 1A. Movement of the substrate strands along their respective feeding paths, i.e., of the outer substrate strands 224 along the second feeding path and of the inner substrate strands 222 along the first feeding path may be facilitated by the oppositely rotating outer annular table 212 and the inner annular table 210, respectively.

[0159] In an example, at least each of the inner carriers 214-1 and 214-2 may be associated with respective guiding means, which may be similar to the guiding means as already described in Figure 1A. In an example, the guiding means may include at least one or more guides. As shown in Figure 2B, the inner carrier 214-1 may be associated with a guide 250-1 and the inner carrier 214-2 may be associated with a guide 250-2. The guide 250-1 has an upper contour 251-1 and a lower contour 253-1. The guide 250-2 also has an upper contour 251-2 and a lower contour. 253-2. Each guide corresponding to each of the inner carriers 214 may have its own upper contour and a lower contour which may be of a desired geometry. Further, decks of each inner carrier 214-1 and inner carrier 214-2 may include two abutments comprising two slots.

[0160] The inner carrier 214-1 may have two slots 254-1 and 254-2 and the inner carrier 214-2 may have two slots 254-3 and 2544, respectively, engaging with their respective corresponding drive systems to drive their respective inner carriers 214-1 and 214-2 along the annular track 226. In an example, the annular track 226 may include radial gaps 256-1...., 256-N, which may hereinafter collectively be referred to as radial gaps 256. The radial gaps 256 may cause the annular track 226 to be segmented into separate sections which are circumferentially aligned with eachother. The radial gaps 256 thereby allows each of the outer substrate strands 224 to pass through radial gaps 256 allowing the outer substrate strands 224 to move over and under the inner carriers 214, in an alternate manner. In an example, the radial gaps 256 may allow the outer substrate strands 224 to pass under the inner carriers 214 by impacting the respective lower contours of the inner carrier’s guides when passing through the bottom of the radial gaps 256. Subsequently, the radial gaps 256 may allow the outer substrate strands 224 to pass over the inner carriers 214 by impacting the respective upper contours of the inner carrier’s guides when passing through the top of the radial gaps 256. The annular track 226 with the radial gaps 256 may therefore be segmented into separate circumferentially aligned sections similar to a segmented ring structure. The segmented ring structure of the annular track 226 facilitates the passage of the outer substrate strands 224 through the annular track 226 while accommodating the inner carriers 214.

[0161] Therefore, in an example, the radial gaps 256 may be designed to enable the outer substrate strands 224 to move at least beneath the inner carriers 214. The outer substrate strands 224 may follow predetermined path, which may be the second path, through these radial gaps 256, i.e., the outer substrate strands 224 may move over an inner carrier upon engaging with the deflector 248 and the inner carrier’s guide’s upper contour and then again move beneath a next subsequent inner carrier upon passing through a radial gap after being dropped by the deflector 248 along a lower contour of a guide corresponding to the next subsequent inner carrier. The radial gaps 256 may therefore facilitate these bidirectional interactions of the outer substrate strands 224, i.e., over and under the inner carriers 214 in an alternative manner, without which the outer substrate strands 224 may remain in their original position within a radial gap, i.e., without any movement.

[0162] Figures 2C and 2D illustrate perspective views of the outer carriers 218, particularly outer carrier 218-1, in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0163] In an example, as shown in Figure 2C, the outer carrier 220-1 carries the outer bobbin 220-1 which supplies the outer substrate strand 224-1. The outer carrier 218-1 further includes the first outer guide element 238, the second outerguide element 240 comprising the pulley 242 mounted on the tension control arm 244, and the third outer guide element 246. The first outer guide element 238 may engage with the outer substrate strand 224-1 to guide the outer substrate strand 224-1 towards the second outer guide element 240. The pulley 242, mounted on the tension control arm 244 of the second outer guide element 240 may facilitate the movement of the outer substrate strand 224-1 towards the third outer guide element 246. In one example, the deflector 248 may then facilitate the outer substrate strand 224-1 to be deflected at a maximum height 258 during deflection of the outer substrate strand 224-1 when passing over an inner carrier. In one example, the deflector 248 may then facilitate the outer substrate strand 224-1 to be dropped during deflection of the outer substrate strand 224-1 when passing under an inner carrier.

[0164] Further, as shown in Figure 2D, the outer carrier 218-1 may further include a ratchet mechanism 260 located at a base of the outer bobbin 220- 1. In an example, any mechanical device permitting motion in one direction while restricting motion in other direction may be used as the ratchet mechanism 260. The ratchet mechanism 260 may be released by a deflection of the tension control arm 244, when deflected over deflector 248 and the guides. In an example, the release of the ratchet mechanism 260 may allow the outer bobbin 220-1 to turn and feed the outer substrate strand 224-1 upwardly towards the interlacing point 234.

[0165] The release of the ratchet mechanism 260 may occur near the maximum height 258 during the outer substrate strand’s deflection process, facilitated by deflector 248. This mechanism of controlling the feeding of the outer substrate strands 224 in conjunction with the ratchet mechanism 260, may facilitate the controlled extraction of the outer substrate strands 224 from their respective outer bobbins 220 while maintaining appropriate tension, simultaneously regulating each of the outer bobbin’s rotation. In some examples, mechanisms utilizing tension or torsion springs, weights, or an electric stepper motor may be employed with the outer bobbins 220, either individually or in combination to their respective ratchet mechanisms, to achieve controlled outer substrate strand’s extraction in a regulated manner.

[0166] Figures 2E and 2F illustrate perspective views of the inner carriers 214, particularly inner carrier 214-1, in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject. As shown in Figure 2E, the inner carrier 214-1 carries the inner bobbin 216-1 which supplies the inner substrate strand 222-1. In an example, the inner carrier 214-1 further includes one or more inner guide elements to guide the inner substrate strand 222-1 to facilitate the inner substrate strand 222-1 to follow the first feeding path, which may be similar to the first feeding path as described in Figure 1A. The inner carrier 214-1 includes a first inner guide element 262 for initially receiving the inner substrate strand 222-1. An example of the first inner guide element 262 may include, but is not limited to, a guide roller, a cylindrical roller, and a tubular roller. The inner carrier 214-1 may further include a second inner guide element 264 to receive the inner substrate strand 222-1 after being guided by the first inner guide element 262. An example of the second inner guide element 264 may include, but is not limited to, an eye, a hook, a loop, a circular ring, and a semicircular ring. Furthermore, the inner carrier 214-1 may include a pulley 266 connected to a tension control spring 268 at bottom. The pulley 266 may be to receive the inner substrate strand 222-1 after it passes through the second inner guide element 264. Additionally, the inner carrier 214-1 may be equipped with a protrusion 228 located behind the guide 250-1 of the inner carrier 214-1, which may facilitate the guide 250-1 to smoothly run along the annular track 226.

[0167] In an example, as shown in Figure 2F, the inner carrier 214-1 may include a ratchet mechanism 270. In an example, any mechanical device permitting motion in one direction while restricting motion in the other direction may be used as the ratchet mechanism 270. As the pulley 266 is connected to the tension control spring 268, it may take up slack of the inner substrate strand 222-1 and minimize tension as the inner substrate strand 222-1 is being released to get interlaced. The pulley 266, when subjected to high tension while interlacing may release the ratchet mechanism 270 located under the inner bobbin 216-1 allowing the inner bobbin 216-1 to turn and feed the inner substrate strand 222-1. The pulley 266 facilitated with springy action in conjunction with the ratchet mechanism 270, may therefore facilitate the controlled extraction of the inner substrate strand 222-1 from itsrespective inner bobbins 216-1 while maintaining appropriate tension, simultaneously regulating the bobbin’s rotation. In some examples, mechanisms utilizing tension wire arms, weights, or an electric stepper motor can be employed with the inner bobbins 216, either individually or in combination to their respective ratchet mechanisms, to achieve controlled inner substrate strand’s extraction in a regulated manner.

[0168] Therefore, as the inner substrate strands 222 undergo unwinding, the outer substrate strands 224 may pass over and under the inner carriers 214 in an alternate manner. In some examples, the passing of the outer substrate strands 224 over and under the inner carriers 214 in the alternate manner may be properly timed and controlled. The movement of the outer substrate strands 224 over an inner carrier and then under the next adjacent inner carrier may further be facilitated by the one or more guides, at the bottom of each of the inner bobbins 216 where each guide of has its own upper and lower contours.

[0169] Figure 2G illustrates a cross-section view of drive systems 230, in particular a drive system 230-1, in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure 2G, the inner carrier 214-1 has its respectively corresponding drive system 230-1 for propelling the inner carrier 214-1 on the annular track 226 having radial gaps 256. In an example, the drive system 230-1 may include at least two drivers. Each driver of the drive system 230-1 may engage with its respective slot on the inner carrier 214-1 for driving the inner carrier 214-1. As shown in Figure 2G, in an example, the drive system 230-1 may have a driver 272-1 of the two drivers. The driver 272-1 may engage with the slot 254-1 of the inner carrier 214-1. The driver 272-1 of the drive system 230-1 may be fixed to a stud 274-1. In an example, the stud 274-1 may be a wheel -like structure. The two drivers of the drive system 230-1 may be similar. Each of the two drivers of the drive system 230-1 may be placed in a conico-radial guideway 276 in a conical rim 278 of the inner annular table 210. The conico-radial guideway 276 may have sufficient clearance to guide the two drivers of the drive system 230-1.

[0170] In an example, on a surface of rim 280 of the outer annular table 212, a cam groove 282 may be provided. Each of the studs fixed to underside of each of thedrivers of the drive system 230-1 may engage with the cam groove 282 and may be clutched within the cam groove 282. As the outer table 212 rotates in the direction opposite of rotational direction of the inner annular table 210, which carries the two drivers of the drive system 230-1, the cam groove 282, may act on each of the studs to project each of the drivers into engagement with the inner carriers 214 or withdraw them from it.

[0171] Figures 2H and 21 illustrate interactions of the drivers which move in and out of engagement with the inner carriers 214, particularly for inner carriers 214-1 and 214-2, in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0172] In an example, as understood from the Figure 2H and the aforementioned disclosure of the present subject matter, the cam groove 282 may engage with studs 274-1 and 274-2 of drivers 272-1 and 272-2 associated with the drive system 230-1 of the inner carrier 214-1. Ends of drivers 272-1 and 272-2 may respectively engage with corresponding slots 254-1 and 254-2 of the guide 250-1 associated with the inner carrier 214-1. Further, cam groove 282 may engage with studs 274-3 and 274-4 of drivers 272-3 and 272-4 associated with a drive system 230-2 of the inner carrier 214-2. Ends of drivers 272-3 and 272-4 may engage with slots 254-3 and 254-4 of guide 250-2 associated with the inner carrier 214-2. As shown, the outer substrate strand 224- 1 may engage with the deflector 248 at point A on the deflector 248 to move over the inner carrier 214-1. The outer strand 224-1 may then be dropped by the deflector 248 once it moves over the inner carrier 214-1.

[0173] As shown in Fig 2H, in the first instance, as the outer substrate strand 224-1 gets dropped to move under the inner carrier 214-2, the driver 272-3 is withdrawn from slot 254-3 into the conico-radial guideway 276 creating clearance for allowing the outer substrate strand 224-1 to pass beyond the driver 272-3 and under the lower contour 253-2 of the guide 250-2 of the inner carrier 214-2 to point B, while the driver 272-4 is still engaged with the slot 254-4. Each driver of driver system may thus engage and withdraw to accordingly provide the driving connection for its respective carrier.

[0174] As shown in Figure 21, once the outer substrate strand 224-1 passes beyond the driver 272-3, in the next instance, the driver 272-3 is engaged back into the slot 254-3 while the driver 272-4 is withdrawn from the slot 254-4. This allows the outer substrate strand 224-1 to move beyond the driver 272-4 to point C on the lower contour 253-2 of the guide 250-2 of the inner carrier 214-2 and freely exit out from under the guide 250-2 of the inner carrier 214-2 while ensuring that the inner carrier 214-2 is in constant contact with its drive system 230-2. The outer substrate strand 224-1 then moves over the next adjacent inner carrier to the inner carrier 214-2 and then again under subsequent inner carrier. This process is continued in a repetitive manner, while the inner bobbins 216 and the outer bobbins 218 supply their respective substrate strands, to facilitate production of the interlaced substrate matrix 236. As shown, the alternating up-down motion of the driver 272-3 and the driver 272-4 is due to the engagement of the stud 274-3 and the stud 274-4, respectively, with the cam groove 282, which guides their movement as the inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212 rotate in opposite directions. In an example, the drive systems 230 as described in the present subject matter may therefore ensure that the inner carriers 214 remain in constant contact with the rotating inner annular table 210 while allowing the oscillating outer substrate strands 224 to pass at least under the inner carriers 214. Further, as shown in Figures 2H and 21, as the outer substrate strands 224 are passed under the inner carriers 214, their respective drive system’s drivers are alternately engaged and disengaged with the slots of their respective guides to allow the passage of the outer substrate strands 224 along their respective inner contours. As the drivers of each of the drive systems 230 are withdrawn and returned into engagement with the corresponding inner carrier’s guide’s corresponding slots one after another, it is ensured that the outer substrate strands 224 do not face any obstruction in going between the inner carriers 214 and the inner annular table 210.

[0175] In an example, each of the drivers of each of the drive systems 230 may be alternately engaged and disengaged with their corresponding slots on their corresponding guides using corresponding actuator mechanisms which may be electronic and / or pneumatic. In an example, any actuator mechanism may beutilized, provided it ensures that the inner carriers 214 remain in constant contact with the rotating inner annular table 210 through the drive systems 230 and allows the passage of the outer substrate strands 224 under the inner carriers 214 without obstruction. Therefore, the engagement of the drive systems 230 may be such that they provide a clearance beneath the corresponding inner carrier 214, the clearance being aligned with a radial gap 256 on the annular track 226, to allow the outer substrate strands 224 to move without interruption during interlacing of the outer substrate strands 224 with the inner substrate strands 222.

[0176] For instance, as shown in Figure 2J, actuators may be used. In an example, actuators 284-1 and 284-2 may alternately engage and disengage with the inner carrier 214-2 to let the outer substrate strand 224-1 pass under the guide 250-2 of the inner carrier 214-2. Examples of an actuator may include, but is not limited to, an electronic and / or pneumatic actuator. The actuator 284-1 may actuate to withdraw the driver 272-3 from the slot 254-3 once the deflector 248 deflects the outer substrate strand 224-1 to pass under the inner carrier 214-2. Once the outer substrate strand 224-1 passes beyond the driver 272-3, the actuator 284-1 may again actuate to engage the driver 272-3 back with the slot 254-3. Simultaneous to the engagement of the driver 272-3 back with the slot 254-3, the actuator 284-2 may actuate to withdraw the driver 272-4 from the slot 254-4 thereby allowing the outer substrate strands 224-1 to freely pass under the inner carrier 214-2 without any obstructions. Once the outer substrate strand 224-1 passes beyond the driver 272-4, the actuator 284-2 may again engage the driver 272-4 back with the slot 254-4. The outer substrate strand 224-1 may thus move from Point A to Point C without any obstructions.

[0177] Figure 2K illustrates movement of the outer substrate strands 224, in particular the outer substrate strand 224-1, in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter. In an example, as shown in Figure 2K, the outer substrate strand 224-1 upon unwinding engages with a leading contour 286 on upper side of the deflector 248. This lifts up the outer substrate strand 224-1 over the inner carrier 214-1. The outer substrate strand 224-1 thus passes over the inner carrier 214-1 along the upper contour 251-1 of the guide 250-1. The outersubstrate strand 224-1 while moving over the inner carrier 214-1 also moves over inner substrate strand supplied by inner bobbin 216-1. After moving over the inner substrate strand supplied by the bobbin 216-1, the outer substrate strand 224-1 engages with a trailing contour 288 of the deflector 248 and gets dropped to move under next adjacent inner carrier which is the inner carrier 214-2. The outer substrate strand 224-1 thus impacts the lower contour 253-2 of guide 250-2 to move under the carrier 214-2. The outer substrate strand 224-1 while moving under the inner carrier 214-2 also moves under inner substrate strand supplied by the inner bobbin 216-2 of the inner carrier 214-2. The movement of the outer substrate strand 224-1 over and under the inner substrate strands supplied by the inner bobbin 216-1 and 216-2, respectively, in an alternate fashion creates the desired interlacing pattern as the outer substrate strand 224-1 rotates oppositely to the inner substrate strands of the bobbins 216-1 and 216-2 in a repetitive manner.

[0178] Therefore, the outer substrate strands 224 and the inner substrate strands 222 thus get interlaced at the interlacing point 234 to form the interlaced substrate matrix 236. Alternatively, different mechanisms can be employed to facilitate the movement of the outer substrate strand 224-1 over or under the inner carrier 214-1 and 214-2, respectively, in an alternate manner. For instance, in some scenarios, the deflector 248 may be omitted, allowing the outer substrate strands 224 to directly impact the outer and / or inner contours of their respective guides of their corresponding inner carriers to produce the interlaced substrate matrix 236.

[0179] In an example, as shown in Figure 2L, the movement of the outer substrate strand 224-1 to alternatively move over and under the inner carriers 214-1 and 214-2, respectively, and then back over inner carrier 214-3, in a repetitive manner, may be achieved using a switch mechanism for the outer substrate strand 224-1. The switch mechanism may be powered by an actuating member, for example, a cam or an electric motor. In an example, the outer substrate strand 224-1 may impact the upper contour 251-1 of the guide 250-1 to move over the inner carrier 214-1 along the upper contour 251-1. After passing over the inner carrier 214-1, the outer substrate strand 224-1 may engage with the lower contour 253-2, facilitated by a switch mechanism 290-1, which may be timed independently using meansincluding, but not limited to, a cam, and electric motor, thereby allowing the outer substrate strand 224-1 to impact the lower contour 253-2 of the guide 250-2 of the inner carrier 214-2 to move under inner carrier 214-2. After passing under the inner carrier 214-2, a switch mechanism 290-2 facilitated by means including, but not limited to, a cam, and electric motor, is timed independently to further enable the outer substrate strand 224-1 to impact upper contour 251-3 of guide 250-3 of the inner carrier 214-3 to move the outer substrate strand 224-1 over inner carrier 214-3. The alternate repetitive movement of the outer substrate strands 224 over and under the inner substrate strands 222 produces the desired interlacing.

[0180] The extraction mechanism 232 associated with the interlacing apparatus 204 may simultaneously keep pulling the outer substrate strands 224 and the inner substrate strands 222 during the entire process as described. The extraction mechanism 232 may therefore pull the final intertwined substrate strands, where the outer substrate strands 224 follow the second feeding path, i.e., from the outer bobbins 220 to the interlacing point 234, while the inner substrate strands 222 follow the first feeding path, i.e., from the inner bobbins 216 to the interlacing point 234, to produce the interlaced substrate matrix 236 out of the system 200. The extraction may be usually done in an even manner so that the entire interlaced substrate matrix 236 is uniform throughout its length. This may be done by means including but not limited to a capstan, winch, and a pulley such that the interlaced substrate matrix 236 and each of its constituent substrate strands always remain taut during the formation of the interlaced substrate matrix 236. Further, the speed of extraction and the tension of the outer substrate strands 224 and the inner substrate strands 222 may be controlled to determine and ensure multiple factors, including strength and stiffness of the said interlaced substrate matrix 236. In some examples, powered roller drums may be used for extraction purposes to pull the interlaced substrate strands from the interlacing region towards the interlacing point 234.

[0181] Figure 2M illustrates the system 200 in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter. In an example, the system 200 may be reverse operated for separation of the interlaced substrate matrix 236, say, after harvesting the planting material 202 which may have been embedded within theinterlaced substrate matrix 236 during its production during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus 204. The system 200 may therefore unwind and separate the interlaced substrate matrix 236 into its constituent individual substrate strands in reverse operation. In an example, the system 200 may include various components which may collaborate to facilitate separation of the interlaced substrate matrix 236 into its individual substrate strands.

[0182] In an example, the inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212 may rotate oppositely to each other along the common central axis but in directions opposite to directions described in the Figure 2A to 2L, i.e., during reverse operation, the first annular table 210 and the second annular table 212 may rotate in opposite directions to each other but in reverse compared to their respective rotational directions during forward operation as described in Figures 2A to 2L. Therefore, in reverse operation the inner annular table 210 may rotate in the second direction and the outer annular table 212 may rotate in the first direction.

[0183] In an example, during the reverse operation the inner and the outer bobbins may receive individual substrate strands of the interlaced substrate matrix 236 for respective wounding. The substrate strands received by the inner bobbins 216 may be the inner substrate strands 222. The substrate strands received by the outer bobbins 220 may be the outer substrate strands 224. In an example, during the reverse operation the inner carriers 214, may rotate along the annular track 226, however, in a direction opposite to direction of rotation of the outer annular table 212 and, in turn, the annular track 226. The rotation of the inner carriers 214 opposite to the rotation of the outer annular table 212 and the annular track 226 may be facilitated by respective drive systems 230. The inner bobbins 216 and the inner carriers 214 may thus be propelled by the drive systems 230 which may thus rotate the inner bobbins 216 and the inner carriers 214 in a direction opposite to direction of rotation of the outer bobbins 220 and the outer carriers 218.

[0184] In an example, a first open end of each substrate strand of the interlaced substrate matrix 236 may initially attach to bobbins while an input mechanism 291, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism 232, but configured to operate in revere direction compared to the extraction mechanism 232 as described inFigures 2A to 2L, feeds the interlacing apparatus 204. In an example, the input mechanism 291 may include a system of contra-rotating rollers, contra-rotating caterpillar tracks, or a spool / capstan capable of feeding the interlaced substrate matrix 236 to the interlacing apparatus 204.

[0185] The input mechanism 291 may feed the interlaced substrate matrix 236 to the interlacing apparatus 204 along the common central axis of the support structure 206 such that once the inner bobbins 216 and the inner carriers 214 start rotating in a direction opposite to the outer bobbins 220 and the outer carriers 218, the inner bobbins and carriers rotating in the second direction and the outer bobbins and carriers rotating in the first direction, the substrate strands around the bobbins start to get pulled by the counterrotating carriers and get wound around their respective bobbins. The interlaced substrate matrix 236 may be fed into the interlacing apparatus 204 by the input mechanism 291, which may ensure that the interlaced substrate matrix 236 is introduced at a controlled rate into the interlacing apparatus 204.

[0186] The unwinding and separating of the interlaced substrate matrix 236 resulting in separate individual substrate strands may be facilitated by the counterrotating inner and outer bobbins carried by respective carriers moving in specific orientation. The counterrotating bobbins may unwind the interlaced substrate matrix 236 by pulling the respective substrate strands in opposing directions which may be attached to them initially. The interlaced substrate matrix 236 may thus start to unwind and separate at a point, hereinafter called separating point 293, on the common central axis. The point at which the interlaced substrate matrix 236 separates into its individual strands may be the separating point 293. A region between the separating point 293 and the points where the separated substrate strands meet their corresponding bobbins may hereinafter be referred to as a separating region 295. Appropriate tension of the outer substrate strands 224 in the separating region 295 may be maintained by the input mechanism 291 and structure of the inner and outer carriers of the interlacing apparatus 204.

[0187] In an example, the input mechanism 291 supplying the interlaced substrate matrix 236 for getting separated into its individual substrate strands may start tofeed the interlacing apparatus 204 with the interlaced substrate matrix 236 while the inner bobbins 216 and outer bobbins 220 are simultaneously counterrotating in directions opposite to rotational directions compared to operational directions during forward operation. Therefore, in reverse operation the first annular table 210, the inner carriers 214, and the inner bobbins 216 may rotate in the second direction and the second annular table 212, the outer carriers 218, and the outer bobbins 220 may rotate in the first direction. The interlaced substrate matrix 236 may move along the common central axis till the separating point 293 and then separate into individual substrate strands to follow their respective winding paths before getting wound on their corresponding bobbins. The winding path followed by the inner substrate strands 222 during reverse operation may be referred to as first winding path and winding path followed by the outer substrate strands 224 during reverse operation may be referred to as second winding path. The first winding path may be similar to the first feeding path but in reverse direction. The second winding path may be similar to the second feeding path but in reverse direction.

[0188] In an example, to facilitate the separation of the substrate strands, the movement of the outer substrate strands 224 along the second winding path may be controlled by the guiding means. The guiding means may guide movement of the outer substrate strands 224 such that the outer substrate strands 224 follow the second winding path to alternatively move over and under inner carriers 214, but in a direction opposite to the direction as described in Figures 2A to 2L, thereby moving over and under the inner substrate strands 222 which follow the first winding path. In an example, the movement of the substrate strands along their respective winding paths allows the outer substrate strands 224 to alternatively move over and under inner substrate strands 222, but in reverse direction compared to the of forward operation, thereby, causing separation of the substrate strands of the interlaced substrate matrix 236 at the separating point 293 to be wound around their respective bobbins.

[0189] In an example, the guiding means including the one or more deflectors and the guides 250 of each of the inner carriers 214 may work in tandem to guide the outer substrate strands 224 along the second winding path. The outer substratestrands 224 may engage with the deflector 248 and the guides 250 each of the inner carriers 214 but in a direction opposite to the direction as compared to the forward operation described in Figures 2A to 2L to get unwound from the interlaced substrate matrix 236 at the separating point 293 and get wound around their respective outer bobbins 220.

[0190] In operation, while the input mechanism 291 feeds the interlacing apparatus 204, each of the inner carriers 214, the inner bobbins 216, and the inner substrate strands 220 rotate in the second direction, i.e., oppositely to each of the outer carriers 218, outer bobbins 220, and the outer substrate strands 224, which rotate in the first direction. The outer substrate strands 224 are alternatively moved, using guiding means, over and under the inner substrate strands 222 in a repetitive manner, but in opposite direction compared to direction during the forward operation of the interlacing apparatus 204. The outer substrate strands 224 are further drawn towards their respective outer bobbins 220 from the separating point 293 at which the interlaced substrate matrix 236 unwinds into its constituent individual substrate strands to get wound at their respective bobbins. The interlacing apparatus 204 is thus capable of separating the interlaced substrate matrix 236 into its individual constituent substrate strands.

[0191] Figure 2N illustrates the system 200 in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter. In an example, as shown in Figure 2N, the system 200 may include the interlacing apparatus 204. The interlacing apparatus 204, as already described, may further include the support structure 206 to support the hollow member 208. The interlacing apparatus 204 may further include the inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212 arranged concentrically to have coaxial central axes where the inner annular table 210 and the outer annular table 212 are to rotate oppositely. The support structure 206, the hollow member 208, the inner annular table 210, and the outer annular table 212 may be arranged concentrically to have the common central axis. In an example, the interlacing apparatus 204 may further include the inner carriers 214 carrying the inner bobbins 216 attached to the inner annular table 210 and the outer carriers 218 carrying outer bobbins 220 attached to the outer annular table 212.

[0192] In an example, during reverse operation, the inner bobbins 216 may receive the inner substrate strands 222 for wounding and the outer bobbins 220 may receive the outer substrate strands 224 for wounding from the interlaced substrate matrix 236 which may be provided to the interlacing apparatus 204 for unwinding into its individual substrate strands. The interlacing apparatus 204 may further include the annular track 226 on the outer annular table 212. The inner carriers 214 may be mated with the annular track 226 using respective protrusions, as shown using 228-N in Figure 2N. The inclusion of the annular track 226 may provide a guided path for the inner carriers 214, ensuring smooth and precise movement during separating process of the interlaced substrate matrix 236. The protrusions 228 of the inner carriers 214 may mate with the annular track 226 to allow the inner carriers 214 to run along the annular track 226 in a direction opposite to a rotational direction of the outer annular table 212.

[0193] In an example, the rotation of the inner carriers 214 along the annular track 226 may be facilitated by respective drive systems 230. The inner bobbins 216 and the inner carriers 214 may thus be propelled by respective drive systems 230 which may thus rotate the inner bobbins 216 and the inner carriers 214 in a direction opposite to direction of direction of rotation of the outer bobbins 220 and the outer carriers 218.

[0194] In an example, the system 200 may further include the input mechanism 291 for inputting the interlaced substrate matrix 236 into the interlacing apparatus 204 when needed to be unwounded. The input mechanism 291 may ensure consistent tension and alignment of the interlaced substrate matrix 236 during the unwinding process, contributing to the uniformity and quality of the substrate strands getting deposited on the respective bobbins.

[0195] In an example, the counterrotating inner and outer bobbins carried by their corresponding counterrotating carriers moving in specific orientations may unwind the interlaced substrate matrix 236 by pulling respective substrate strands in respective directions. The interlaced substrate matrix 236 may separate at the separating point 293 on the common central axis. The region between the separating point 293 and points where separated substrate strand meet their correspondingbobbins may be the separating region 295. The input mechanism 291 may maintain appropriate tension of the substrate strands in the separating region 295.

[0196] In an example, the interlaced substrate matrix 236 may be fed to the interlacing apparatus 204 which may separate the interlaced substrate matrix 236 into its constituent substrate strands. The input mechanism 291 may feed the interlaced substrate matrix 236 by guiding the interlaced substrate matrix 236 along the common central axis till the separating point 293. At the separating point 293 the interlaced substrate matrix 236 may get split into its individual constituent substrate strands by the action of the counterrotating carriers and bobbins on the counterrotating tables, as already described previously. The direction of movement of the tables, the carriers, and the bobbins may be set exactly opposite to the direction of movement of the tables, the carriers, and the bobbins which may have been followed during interlacing of the interlaced substrate matrix 236, i.e., the forward operation. Facilitated by the guiding means, this may cause the outer substrate strands 224 to follow the second winding path and the inner substrate strands 222 to follow the first winding path.

[0197] Figures 20 and 2P illustrate expanded perspective views of the outer carrier 218-1 in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter during reverse operation of the interlacing apparatus 204.

[0198] In an example, as shown in Figure 20, the outer carrier 218-1 carries the outer bobbin 220-1 which winds the outer substrate strand 224-1. The outer carrier 218-1 includes the one or more outer guide elements to facilitate the outer carrier 218-1 for spooling the outer substrate strand 224- 1 and winding it around the bobbin 220-1. The outer carrier 218-1 includes the third outer guide element 246 and the second outer guide element 240. The second outer guide element 240 may include the pulley 242 mounted on the tension control arm 244. In an example, the second outer guide element 240 may be a wire spring and may provide tension modulation when mounted by the pulley 242. Further, the outer carrier 218-1 may include the first outer guide 238. In an example, the outer carrier 218-1 may further include a positive torque providing unit 296-1. Examples of the positive torque providing unit 296-1 may include but are not limited to electrical motors. The positive torqueproviding unit 296-1 may provide positive torque to the outer bobbin 220-1 for winding the outer substrate strand 224-1. The torque on the bobbin 220-1 may ensure that once the outer substrate strand 224-1 separates from the interlaced substrate matrix 236 it is maintained to have a constant tension after it becomes slack on separating. Maintaining the constant tension facilitates the outer carrier 218-1 to wind the outer substrate strand 224-1 around the outer bobbin 220-1. Positive torque applied to the outer bobbin 220-1 is always maintained to never exceed safe working load of the substrate strands. Further, the deflector 248 may also facilitate the outer carrier 218 in winding the outer substrate strands 224 to their corresponding outer bobbins 220.

[0199] In an example, as shown in Figure 2P, the outer carrier 218-1 may further include an outer bobbin torque tension governing unit 297-1. Examples of the outer bobbin torque tension governing unit 297-1 may include but are not limited to a slip clutch. The outer bobbin torque tension governing unit 297-1 may be located below the outer bobbin 220-1. The outer carrier 218-1 and the outer bobbin 220-1 may thus rotate in the first direction, i.e., opposite to the second direction. This may facilitate the outer carrier 218-1 to pull the outer substrate strand 224-1 separated from the interlaced substrate matrix 236. The outer substrate strand 224-1, during reverse operation, follows a path from the third outer guide element 246 to the second outer guide element 240 to the first outer guide element 238 and consequently to the respective bobbin 220-1.

[0200] Figures 2Q and 2R illustrate expanded perspective views of the inner carrier 214-1 in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0201] In an example, as shown in Figure 2Q, the inner carrier 214-1 carries inner bobbin 216-1 which winds the inner substrate strand 222-1. The inner carrier 214-1 may include the one or more inner guide elements to facilitate the inner carrier 214-1 for spooling the inner substrate strand 222-1 and winding it around the bobbin 216-1. The inner carrier 214-1 further includes the pulley 266 connected to the tension control spring 268 at the bottom. In an example, the tension control spring 268 which may be tension spring for tension modulation may not be similar to thewire spring as described. The inner carrier 214-1 may further include the second inner guide element 264 and the first inner guide element 262. The inner carrier 214-1 may further include a positive torque providing unit 296-2 similar to the positive torque providing unit 296-1. The positive torque providing unit 296-2 may be located above the inner bobbin 216-1. The positive torque providing unit 296-2 may provide positive torque to the inner bobbin 216-1 for winding the inner substrate strand 222-1. The torque on the inner bobbin 216-1 ensures that once the inner substrate strand 222-1 separates from the interlaced substrate matrix 236, it is maintained to have a constant tension after it becomes slack on separating. Maintaining the constant tension facilitates the inner carrier 214-1 to wind the inner substrate strand 222-1 around the inner bobbin 216-1 as it rotates oppositely to the outer carriers 218 by mating with the annular track 226 using protrusions 228. Positive torque applied to the inner bobbin 216-1 is always maintained to never exceed the safe working load of the substrate strands. Further, the guide 250-1 may also facilitate the inner carrier 214-1 in winding the inner substrate strand 222-1 to inner bobbin 216-1.

[0202] In an example, as shown in Figure 2R, the inner carrier 214-1 may further include an inner bobbin torque tension governing unit 297-2, which may be similar to the outer bobbin torque tension governing unit 297-1. The inner bobbin torque tension governing unit 297-2 may be located above the inner bobbin 216-1. In an example, the inner carrier 214-1 and the inner bobbin 216-1 may thus rotate in the second direction during reverse operation. This may facilitate the inner carrier 214-1 to pull the inner substrate strand 222-1 separated from the interlaced substrate matrix 236. The inner substrate strand 222-1, during reverse operation, thus follows a path from the pulley 266 to the second inner guide element 264 to the first inner guide element 262 to eventually wind around the inner bobbin 216-1.

[0203] Figure 2S illustrates the unwinding and separating mechanism of the interlacing apparatus 204 for the interlaced substrate matrix 236 in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0204] In an example, as shown in Figure 2S, the unwinding and separating of the substrate strands from the interlaced substrate matrix 236 in the interlacingapparatus 204 is facilitated by deflectors and guides, associated with each of the outer substrate strands 224. These components, configured with the correct geometry, direct the outer substrate strands 224 above and below the inner carriers 214 and their bobbins 216 with precise timing to separate and free the substrate strands from the interlaced substrate matrix 236. As shown in Figure 2S, the deflector 248 lifts the outer substrate strand 224-1 over the inner carrier 214-1, while guide 250-2 of the inner carrier 214-2 controls the passage of the outer substrate strand 224-1 under the inner carrier 214-2. In an example, the outer substrate strand 224-1 is moving in direction as described in Figure 2N, i.e., opposite to the direction followed during the interlacing process, i.e., forward operation. The radial gaps 256-1 and 256-2 in the annular track 226 allows the outer substrate strand 224-1 to be guided inwardly and pass under the inner carriers 214 and also to be guided upwardly and exit from under the inner carriers 214. The passing of the outer substrate strand 224-1 from under the inner carriers 214 may be facilitated by respective drive systems 230 of the inner carriers 214. For instance, the drive system 230-2 of the inner carrier 214-2 may facilitate the outer substrate strand 224-1 to pass under the inner carrier 214-2 without any obstructions by working as an intermittent drive system which engages and disengages with the inner carrier 214-2 alternatively to allow free passage for the outer substrate strand 224-1. Alternative mechanisms, such as switch mechanisms powered by cams or electric motors, can also be used to facilitate substrate strand movement over or under the inner carriers 214 but in a direction opposite to the direction followed during interlacing process. Therefore, the plurality of radial gaps (256) may be provided at circumferentially spaced locations along the annular track (226) segmenting the annular track (226) into separate circumferentially aligned sections to allow passage to the outer substrate strands (224) through the annular track (226) during the movement of the outer substrate strands (224) along the second feeding path. As the first annular table (210) rotates opposite to the second annular table (212), the guiding means may guide an outer substrate strand to exit from one of the plurality of radial gaps (256) to pass over a first inner carrier and move back into the same radial gap (256) to pass under the second inner carrier.

[0205] Figure 2T illustrates operation of drive systems 230 for substrate strand separation of the interlaced substrate matrix 236 in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0206] In an example, as shown in Figure 2T, in the interlacing apparatus 204 including guides and one or more deflectors, the inner carriers 214 are propelled across the radial gaps 256 in the annular track 226 by their respective drive systems 230. These drive systems 230 ensure constant contact of the inner carriers 214 with the rotating inner annular table 210 while allowing the oscillating outer substrate strands 224 to pass underneath the inner carriers 214 in an alternate manner. For instance, as shown in Figure 2T, drive system 230-2 alternately engages and disengages to allow the outer substrate strand 224-1 to pass along the lower contour 253-2, of the respective guide 250-2 of the inner carrier 214-2. Further, the drive system 230-2 may include drivers 272-3, and 272-4, and associated with slots 254-3, and 254-4, respectively, which may be abutment slots to be coordinated by cam groove 282 to maintain engagement without posing obstructions to the outer substrate strand 224-1. During reverse operation, i.e., for separation of the interlaced substrate matrix 236, the mechanism may operate in a manner similar to as discussed in Figures 2H to 2L but in reverse order and the outer substrate strand 224-1 may follow the opposite path as compared to the path followed in Figures 2H to 2L. In an example, the drive systems 230 may be coordinated by electronically or pneumatically controlled actuators, to maintain engagement without obstructing the outer substrate strands 224. Further, any suitable drive system may be used, provided it maintains contact with inner carriers 214 and allows the outer substrate strands 224 the required clearance and passage. Therefore, each drive system 230 may ensure that its corresponding carrier always has a driving connection to mechanically drive its corresponding carrier.

[0207] Figure 3 A illustrates an interlacing system 300, hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the system 300, which may be similar to the system 100, in accordance with another example implementation of the present subject matter. The system 300, during forward operation, may be for embedding a planting material 302, which may be similar to the planting material 102, into an interlaced substratematrix, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix 130, obtained subsequent to interlacing of at least three substrate strands amongst themselves in a predetermined interlacing pattern, similar to the predetermined interlacing pattern as described already previously. In an example, the system 300 may include an interlacing apparatus 304, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus 104. The interlacing apparatus 304 may be capable of being fed with the planting material 302, similar to as described at least in Figures IB to IM.

[0208] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 304 may include a support structure 306, which may be similar to the support structure 106. The support structure 306 may support a hollow member 308, which may be similar to the hollow member 168. The interlacing apparatus 304 may further include a first annular table 310 and a second annular table 312. The first annular table 310 and the second annular table 312 may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as an inner annular table 310 and the outer annular table 312, respectively. In an example, the inner annular table 310 and the outer annular table 312 may be similar to the inner annular table 108 and the outer annular table 110, respectively. In one example, the support structure 306, the hollow member 308, the inner annular table 310, and the outer annular table 312 may be concentrically arranged to have a common central axis. In one example, the hollow member 308, the inner annular table 310, and the outer annular table 312 may be arranged concentrically along common central axis while the support structure 306 may not be concentric to the concentrically arranged hollow member 308, the inner annular table 310, and the outer annular table 312. The inner annular table 310 and the outer annular table 312 may rotate about the common central axis but in opposite directions to each other. During forward operation, i.e., during production of the interlaced substrate matrix having embedded planting material 302, the rotation of the inner annular table 310 may be in a first direction, similar to the first direction as already described previously. The rotation of the outer annular table 312 may be a second direction, similar to the second direction as already described previously. To facilitate the rotation, the inner annular table 310 and the outer annular table 312 may be mounted with rollers or bearings on the support structure 206.

[0209] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 304 may further include a first set of carriers 314-1...., 314-N respectively carrying a first set of bobbins 316-1...., 316-N. The first set of carriers 314-1...., 314-N may be attached to the inner annular table 310. The interlacing apparatus 304 may further include a second set of carriers 318-1...., 318-M respectively carrying a second set of bobbins 320-1...., 320-M. The second set of carriers 318-1...., 318-M may be attached to the outer annular table 312. In one example, N and M may be integers indicating the number of carriers attached to the inner annular table 310 and the outer annular table 312, respectively. In an example, the first set of carriers 314-1...., 314-N and the first set of bobbins 316-1...., 316-N may be similar to the first set of carriers 112-1...., 112-N, and the first set of bobbins 114-1...., 114-N, respectively. In an example, second set of carriers 318-1...., 318-M and the second set of bobbins 320-1...., 320-M may be similar to the second set of carriers 116-1...., 116-M and the second set of bobbins 118-1...., 118-M, respectively.

[0210] The first set of carriers 314-1...., 314-N may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as first set of carriers 314 or inner carriers 314. The first set of bobbins 316-1...., 316-N may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as first set of bobbins 316 or inner bobbins 316. Further, the second set of carriers 318-1...., 318-M may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as second set of carriers 318 or outer carriers 318. The second set of bobbins 320-1...., 320-M may hereinafter interchangeably be collectively referred to as second set of bobbins 320 or outer bobbins 320.

[0211] Each of the inner and outer bobbins may supply a respective substrate strand, similar to the substrate strands as already described, for facilitating the production of the interlaced substrate matrix, during the forward operation. Each of the substrate strands supplied by each of the inner bobbins 316, respectively, may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as inner substrate strands 322-1, ...., 322-N, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands 120-1, ...., 120-N. The inner substrate strands 322-1...., 322-N may hereinafter be collectively referred to as inner substrate strands 322 and individually referred to as inner substrate strand 322. Each of the substrate strands supplied by each of the outer bobbins 320,respectively, may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as outer substrate strands 324-1... 324-M, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands 122-1...., 122-M. The outer substrate strands 324-1...., 324-M may hereinafter be collectively referred to as outer substrate strands 324 and individually referred to as outer substrate strand 324.

[0212] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 304 may further include an annular gear 326. The annular gear 326 may be located inside the outer annular table 312. The annular gear 326 may rotate coaxially about the common central axis along the second direction. Further, a plurality of bevel gears may also be fixed to the outer annular table 312. The plurality of bevel gears although fixed to the outer annular table 312 may facilitate in moving the inner annular table 310 opposite to the outer annular table 312. The plurality of bevel gears may receive their motion from the annular gear 326. For instance, as shown in Figure 3A, a first bevel gear 328 and a second bevel gear 330 of the plurality of bevel gears may receive motion from the annular gear 326. Each of the plurality of bevel gears may have their teeth meshed with teeth of the annular gear 326, thereby reflecting fundamental characteristics of gear operation to drive the inner carriers 314 in opposite direction to the direction of rotation of the outer annular table 312.

[0213] In an example, each of the inner carriers 314, may be mated and in contact within an annular track 332, which may be similar to the annular track 124, on the outer annular table 312. The inner carriers 314 may be respectively mated with the annular track 332 using respective grooves, for instance, groove 334 as shown in Figure 3A to run smoothly along the annular track 332, in a direction opposite to rotational direction of the outer annular table 312, the outer carriers 318, the outer bobbins 320, and the annular track 332. The rotation of the inner carriers 314 oppositely to the rotation of the outer annular table 312 and the annular track 332 may be facilitated by respective drive systems, for instance, as shown in Figure 3 A, drive system 336. The drive system 336 may include the first bevel gear 328 and the second bevel gear 330 of the plurality of bevel gears as already described. The plurality of bevel gears may therefore serve as drive systems for the inner carriers 314. In an example, each of the inner carrier 314 may have a corresponding drivesystem including at least one bevel gear. The drive system of each of the inner carrier 314 may engage with its corresponding inner carrier, carrying the corresponding inner bobbin, to facilitate the inner carrier to run along the annular track 332 in a direction opposite to the outer carriers 318, carrying the outer bobbins 320. The inner carriers 314 and the inner bobbins 316 may thus rotate in the direction of the inner annular table 310.

[0214] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 304 may further include guiding means, which may be similar to the guiding means as already described, corresponding to each of the outer bobbins 320. As shown in Figure 3 A, the guiding means may include one or more guiding arms 338-1...., 338-M, which may be similar to the guiding arms as already described. In an example, the one or more guiding arms 338-1...., 338-M may be mechanical arms. The one or more guiding arms 338-1...., 338-M may be mounted on the outer annular table 312 about their respective pivot points 340-1. , 340-M. Each guiding arm of the one or more guiding 338-1...., 338-M may swing respective outer substrate strands 324 supplied by its corresponding outer bobbin about its respective pivot point.

[0215] In an example, as shown in Figure 3A, the outer bobbins 320-1. , 320- M may have corresponding guiding arms 338-1...., 338-M having corresponding pivot points 340-1. , 340-M. The guiding arms 338-1. , 338-M may hereinafter be interchangeably collectively referred to as guiding arms 338 and individually referred to as guiding arm 338. The pivot points 340-1. , 340-M may hereinafter be interchangeably collectively referred to as pivot points 340 and individually be referred to as pivot point 340. The guiding arms 338 may swing their corresponding outer substrate strands 324 about their respective pivot points 340 to move over and under the inner carriers 314 in an alternate manner.

[0216] In an example, the inner annular table 310 may be divided into sections, each carrying at least one inner carrier and its corresponding inner bobbin. This split design may create gaps between adjacent carriers of the inner carriers 314, allowing the outer substrate strands 324 from the outer bobbins 320 to pass over and underneath the inner carriers 314 in an alternate manner. For instance, as shown in Figure 3 A, a first gap 342-1 and a second gap 342-2, may facilitate the outersubstrate strands 324 to move over and under the inner carriers 314 when swung by the guiding arms 338, in an alternate manner. In an example, the first gap 342-1 and the second gap 342-2 may be similar to the radial gaps 256. In an example, each of the outer substrate strands 324 from the outer bobbins 320 may move under the inner carriers 314 by entering the gaps, say, the first gap 342-1 and the second gap 342-2 in the outer annular table 312 and staying there while the inner carriers 314 move over the first gap 342-1 and the second gap 342-2. Subsequently, the outer substrate strands 324 may move over the inner carriers 314 by exiting from the gaps, say, the first gap 342-1 and the second gap 342-2 once the inner carriers 314 have passed over the first gaps 342-1 and the second gap 342-2. This movement of the outer substrate strands 324 over and under the inner carriers 314 may be in an alternate manner, while the inner annular table 310 and the outer annular table 312 rotate oppositely, which may interlace the outer substrate strands 324 with the inner substrate strands 322 to produce the interlaced substrate matrix.

[0217] In operation, as an outer substrate strand, say, an outer substrate strand 324-1 starts to unwind from an outer bobbin 320-1, a guiding arm 338-1 corresponding to the outer bobbin 320-1, swings the outer substrate strand 324-1 to move it over an inner carrier 314-1. The outer substrate strand 324-1 while moving over the inner carrier 314-1 also moves over inner substrate strand 322-1 supplied by inner bobbin 316-1 of the inner carrier 314-1. After moving over the inner substrate strand 322-1, the outer substrate strand 324-1 again gets swung by the guiding arm 338-1 to move under an adjacent carrier to the inner carrier 314-1, say inner carrier 314-2 (not shown in Figure 3A). The outer substrate strand 324-1 while moving under the inner carrier 314-2 also moves under inner substrate strand 322-2 (not show in in Figure 3 A) supplied by inner bobbin 316-2 (not shown in Figure 3 A) of the inner carrier 314-2. The movement of the outer substrate strand 324-1 over and under the inner substrate strands, i.e., the inner substrate strand 322-1 and the inner substrate strand 322-2 in an alternate fashion creates the desired interlacing pattern as the outer substrate strand 324-1 rotates oppositely to the inner substrate strands 322-1 and 322-2 in a repetitive manner. The outer substrate strand 324-1 rotates is the second direction while the inner substrate strands 322-1 and 322-2 rotate in the firstdirection during forward operation. The outer substrate strands 324 and the inner substrate strands 322 get interlaced at an interlacing point 344, which may be similar to the interlacing point 128, to form an interlaced substrate matrix 346, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix 130.

[0218] In an example, one end of each substrate strand supplied by the inner bobbins 316 and the outer bobbins 320 is tied to an extraction mechanism 348, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism 144. In an example, the extraction mechanism 232 may be attached to the support structure 306 of the interlacing apparatus 304 along the common central axis to draw substrate strands from the bobbins. The extraction mechanism 348 may be placed forward of the inner annular table 310 and the outer annular table 312 to pull each of the outer substrate strands 324 and each of the inner substrate strands 322 out of their corresponding outer bobbins 320 and the inner bobbins 316 along the common central axis. Each of the substrate strands from each of the bobbins thus converge on the interlacing point 344 to undergo interlacing and form the interlaced substrate matrix 346. During the forward operation, the planting material 302 may be fed to the interlacing apparatus 304 by a feed mechanism, which may be similar to the feed mechanism 132. The feed mechanism may feed the interlacing apparatus 304 with the planting material 302 in a region hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the interlacing region, which may be similar to the interlacing region 140 as described. The mounted guiding arms 338 may swing the outer substrate strands 324 about the respective pivot points 340 physically over or under the inner carriers 314 as the inner carriers 314 and outer carriers 318 rotate in opposite directions, in an alternate manner, to create the required interlacing pattern. The movement of the substrate strands along their respective feeding paths, i.e., of the outer substrate strands 324 along a second feeding path, which may be similar to the second feeding path as already described, and of the inner substrate strands 322 along the first feeding path, which may be similar to the first feeding path as already described, may be facilitated by the oppositely rotating outer annular table 312 and the inner annular table 310, respectively, to produce the interlaced substrate matrix 346. In an example, the first feeding path and the second feeding path may bepredetermined. In an example, the first feeding path and the second feeding path may be similar. In an example, the first feeding path and the second feeding path may be different.

[0219] Figures 3B illustrates an expanded perspective view of an inner and / or outer carrier in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0220] In an example, the inner and / or outer carrier carrying the respective bobbin for supplying the respective substrate strand for the interlaced substrate matrix 346, may include a plurality of guiding elements to facilitate the substrate strands to follow their respective feeding paths.

[0221] As shown in Figure 3B, the inner and / or outer carrier may include at least one torsion spring 350, for controlling respective substrate strand’s tension. The inner and / or outer carrier may further include a ratchet mechanism 352, which may be similar to the ratchet mechanism 260. Further, the inner and / or outer carrier may include a static guide 354 and a guide pulley 356. A substrate strand from a bobbin may be supplied first to the guide pulley 356 which may be connected to the torsion spring 350. The substrate strand may next pass to the static guide 354 and then to the interlacing point 344. As the guide pulley 356 is connected to the torsion spring 350, it may take up the slack in the substrate strand and minimize tension as the substrate strand is getting interlaced. The guide pulley 356 when subjected to high tension while interlacing may release the ratchet mechanism 352 on the bobbin allowing the bobbin to turn and feed the substrate strand. The guide pulley 356 in conjunction with the ratchet mechanism 352, may thus facilitate the controlled extraction of the substrate strand from their respective bobbins while maintaining appropriate tension, simultaneously regulating the bobbin’s rotation. Alternatively, mechanisms such as tension wire arms, weights, and / or an electric stepper motor may also be employed with the bobbin, either individually or in combination, to achieve controlled substrate strand extraction in a regulated manner.

[0222] Figure 3C illustrates an outer carrier 318-1 of the interlacing apparatus 304 in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0223] As shown in Figure 3C, a guiding arm 338-1 may be mounted about pivot point 340-1. The outer substrate strand 324-1 may be directed along the guiding arm 338-1 via guiding first guiding arm pulley 358 and second guiding arm pulley 360 before reaching the interlacing point 344. In an example, the guiding arm 338-1 may be supported by a slider roller 362 resting on a cam profile channel 364 of the interlacing apparatus.

[0224] In an example, any carrier of the interlacing apparatus 304 may further include various means for guiding the respective substrate strand including, but not limited to, static guides, bobbins, and guide pulleys coupled to a tension modulator which may be a torsion spring, and a ratchet mechanism. The guide pulley may be coupled to tension modulator, such as the torsion spring, tension wire, weights, or an electric motor. This modulator may adjust the slack and tension in the substrate strand as it gets unwound to get interlaced. As shown, when the guide pulley 356 experiences high tension at its peak limit, it may trigger the ratchet mechanism 352 to turn the bobbin in the outer carrier 318-1 and release the substrate strand 324-1 for interlacing. In summary, the tension modulator which may be the torsion spring 350, of the guide pulley 356, in conjunction with the ratchet mechanism 352, may facilitate the controlled extraction of the outer substrate strand 324-1 from the respective bobbin while maintaining appropriate tension and regulating the bobbin’s rotation.

[0225] Figure 3D illustrates the system 300 with the interlacing apparatus 304 in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0226] As shown in Figure 3D, the interlacing apparatus 304 includes the outer annular table 312, the inner annular table 310 housed within the outer annular table 312, and the inner carriers 314 mounted on the inner annular table 310. Each of the inner carrier 314 carries the respective inner bobbin 316. Further, the interlacing apparatus 304 includes the outer carriers 318 mounted on the outer annular table 312 with each of the outer carriers 318 carrying respective outer bobbins 320. The interlacing apparatus 304 also includes the annular gear 326 located inside the outer annular table 312 and configured to rotate about the common central axis with the outer annular table 312 but at a different speed. In an example, driving systems 336,comprising a plurality of bevel gears fixed to the outer annular table 312 and receiving motion from the annular gear 326, for each inner carrier 314 is provided. The plurality of bevel gears is fixed to the outer annular table 312. The inner carriers 314 are driven by the respective bevel gears, ensuring continuous contact with at least two bevel gears at any time. The design prevents interference with the outer substrate strands 324 from the outer bobbins 318. The bevel gears act as drive systems as the inner carriers 314 are driven by a given bevel gear only momentarily until the adjacent bevel gear comes in contact with the inner carrier 314 and drives it. This allows the movement of the outer substrate strands 324 under the inner carriers 314 without obstructions. The interlacing apparatus 304 further includes the pivotable guiding arms 338 configured to respectively guide outer substrate strands 324 from the outer bobbins 320. This configuration allows for efficient interlacing of multiple strands from both inner and outer bobbins, providing a versatile system that can accommodate various interlacing patterns and rope structures, i.e., structures of the interlaced substrate matrix 346.

[0227] In an example, the inner annular table 310 may be divided into sections, each section carrying one inner carrier 314 and an inner bobbin 316, creating gaps between the inner carriers 314. The sectioned design of the inner annular table 310 enables the outer substrate strands 324 from the outer bobbins 318 to pass underneath the inner carriers 314, in an alternate manner, facilitating complex interlacing patterns without interference between the inner and outer substrate strands. Further, the guiding arms 338 may be mounted about their respective pivot points 340 and supported by respective slider rollers resting on the cam profile channel 364. The guiding arm 338 may move up and down while following the cam profile channel 364 through respective slider rollers. The cam profile channel 364 may determine the structure of the interlacing of substrate strands, enabling the guiding arm 338 to move over and under the inner bobbins 316 in various configurations, such as over one and under one inner bobbin and / or over two and under two inner bobbins, depending on the cam channel profile 364. This arrangement may allow for precise control of the movement of the guiding arm 338,enabling the creation of various interlacing structures by guiding the outer substrate strands 224 over and under the inner carriers 314 in different configurations.

[0228] Therefore, as shown in Figure 3D, the interlacing apparatus 304 may include the outer annular table 312 with the outer carriers 318 mounted thereon, each outer carrier 318 carrying a respective outer bobbin 320. The inner annular table 310 may be housed within the outer annular table 312 and may be divided into sections, each section carrying at least one inner carrier 314 with its corresponding inner bobbin 316. The sectioned design of the inner annular table 310 may create gaps between adjacent inner carriers 314, thereby enabling the outer substrate strands 324 to pass over and underneath the inner carriers 314 in an alternate manner. In an example, each section of the inner annular table 310 may be connected to adjacent sections via connecting elements, examples of which may include, but are not limited to, flexible couplings, hinged joints, and spoked arrangements extending from a central hub.

[0229] In an example, the annular gear 326 may be driven by a drive mechanism while the annular gear 326 may rotate at a speed different from the rotational speed of the outer annular table 312. The plurality of bevel gears, including the first bevel gear 328 and the second bevel gear 330, may be circumferentially distributed around the outer annular table 312 with their teeth meshed with teeth of the annular gear 326. As the annular gear 326 rotates relative to the outer annular table 312, the plurality of bevel gears may rotate about their respective axes, thereby engaging with and propelling the inner carriers 314 along the annular track 332 in a direction opposite to the rotational direction of the outer annular table 312. In an example, the spacing between adjacent bevel gears may be configured such that each inner carrier 314 remains in contact with at least two bevel gears at any given time during operation, ensuring continuous and smooth propulsion of the inner carriers 314.

[0230] Further, as shown, the cam profile channel 364 may be a stationary component which may be annular in shape, extending circumferentially around the interlacing apparatus 304, and may include a groove, a track, or a profiled surface having a varying height along its circumferential extent. Examples of the height variation profile may include, but are not limited to, a sinusoidal profile, a sawtoothprofile, a stepped profile, and a trapezoidal profile. In an example, the cam profile channel 364 may have a number of peaks and valleys corresponding to the number of inner carriers 314, such that as the outer annular table 312 rotates and carries the guiding arms 338 past each inner carrier 314, the slider roller 362 of each guiding arm 338 traverses one complete cycle of the cam profile channel 364.

[0231] Each of the guiding arms 338 may have its slider roller 362 positioned at a location offset from the pivot point 340. The slider roller 362 may be rotatably mounted on the guiding arm 338 and may rest within or upon the cam profile channel 364. As the outer annular table 312 rotates, the guiding arms 338 may be carried along while the cam profile channel 364 which may remain stationary. The relative motion may cause the slider roller 362 to follow the height variations of the cam profile channel 364. As the slider roller 362 moves upward along a rising portion of the cam profile channel 364, the guiding arm 338 may pivot about the pivot point 340, causing a distal end of the guiding arm 338 to move upward and thereby lifting the outer substrate strand 324 over an inner carrier 314. Conversely, as the slider roller 362 moves downward along a falling portion, the guiding arm 338 may pivot in an opposite direction, allowing the outer substrate strand 324 to pass under the next adjacent inner carrier 314.

[0232] In an example, the slider roller 362 may be maintained in contact with the cam profile channel 364 by one or more biasing means, examples of which may include, but are not limited to, a spring, a torsion spring at the pivot point 340, and gravity. In an example, the cam profile channel 364 may be interchangeable to accommodate different interlacing patterns, such as over-one-under-one or over-two-under-two configurations.

[0233] Figure 3E illustrates the system 300 with the interlacing apparatus 304 in accordance with the another example implementation of the present subject matter where up down movement of guiding arms 338 is facilitated by respective actuators.

[0234] As shown, in an example, each guiding arm 338 may be associated with a respective actuator, for instance, similar to actuator 366. Examples of the actuator 366 may include, but are not limited to, electronic actuators, pneumatic actuators, hydraulic actuators, and linear actuators. The actuator 366 may be mounted on theouter annular table 312 and may be operatively connected to its corresponding guiding arm 338-1. In operation, the actuator 366 may extend or retract to cause the guiding arm 338-1 to pivot about its pivot point 340-1, thereby moving the guiding arm 338-1 upward or downward.

[0235] In an example, the extension and retraction of the actuator 366-1 may be controlled by a controller, examples of which may include, but are not limited to, a programmable logic controller (PLC) and a microcontroller. One or more sensors, examples of which may include, but are not limited to, proximity sensors, optical sensors, and rotary encoders, may be provided to detect the rotational positions of the inner annular table 310 and the outer annular table 312. The controller may receive signals from the sensors and may actuate the actuators 366 accordingly to ensure that the guiding arms 338 swing the outer substrate strands 324 over and under the inner carriers 314 at appropriate times. In an example, the controller may store a plurality of actuation profiles corresponding to different interlacing patterns, and a user may select a desired interlacing pattern for the controller to execute. Therefore, a respective slider roller may rest on the cam profile channel 364 to support the respective guiding arm 338 during the up-and-down movement of the respective guiding arm. Alternately, for each guiding arm 338, a corresponding actuator may be mounted on the second annular table (312), at a location near a respective pivot point of the guiding arm may also be present to move the guiding arm up-and-down.

[0236] Figures 3F illustrates the system 300 with the interlacing apparatus 304 where up and down movement of the guiding arm 338 may be facilitated by respective stepper motors, for instance, stepper motor 368 at pivot point 340-1 of the guiding arm 338-1.

[0237] In an example, the stepper motor 368 may be mounted on the outer annular table 312 and may have its output shaft directly coupled to the guiding arm 338-1 or coupled via a gear mechanism, examples of which may include, but are not limited to, a spur gear arrangement and a planetary gear arrangement. In operation, the stepper motor 368 may rotate in discrete steps to pivot the guiding arm 338-1 about the pivot point 340-1, thereby moving the guiding arm 338-1 upward ordownward in a controlled manner. The stepper motor 368 may be controlled by a motor controller receiving control signals from a central controller based on predetermined timing sequences corresponding to the rotational positions of the inner carriers 314 and the outer carriers 318. In an example, the stepper motor 368 may be configured to operate in micro stepping mode to achieve smoother motion and finer positional resolution. In an example, feedback mechanisms, examples of which may include, but are not limited to, rotary encoders and Hall effect sensors, may be provided to monitor the angular position of the guiding arm 338-1 and provide closed-loop control for enhanced accuracy. The stepper motor-based actuation may be advantageous in applications requiring variable interlacing patterns, as the movement profile of each guiding arm 338 may be programmatically adjusted without requiring mechanical modifications to the interlacing apparatus 304. The system 300 may therefore produce the interlaced substrate matrix 346 in forward operation where during forward operation, the inner annular table 310, the inner carriers 314, the inner bobbins 316, and the inner substrate strands 322 rotate in the first direction while the outer annular table 312, the outer carriers 318, the outer bobbins 320, and the outer substrate strands 324 rotate in the second direction.

[0238] Figure 3G illustrates the system 300 in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter during reverse operation. In an example, the system 300 may be reverse operated for separation of the interlaced substrate matrix 346, say, after harvesting the planting material 302 which may have been embedded within the interlaced substrate matrix 346 during its production during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus 304. The system 300 may therefore unwind and separate the interlaced substrate matrix 346 into its constituent individual substrate strands in reverse operation. As shown in Figure 3G, the interlacing apparatus 304 may unwind and separate the interlaced substrate matrix 346 with two inner carriers and two outer carriers. However, the number of inner and outer carriers may be varied to accommodate any number of inner and outer carriers, depending on the number of substrate strands in the interlaced substrate matrix 346 which is to be unwound and its interlacing configuration.

[0239] In an example, during reverse operation, the inner annular table 310 and the outer annular table 312 may rotate oppositely to each other along the common central axis but in directions opposite to directions described during forward operation. Therefore, in reverse operation, the inner annular table 310 may rotate in the second direction and the outer annular table 312 may rotate in the first direction. In an example, during reverse operation, the inner bobbins 316 and the outer bobbins 320 may receive individual substrate strands of the interlaced substrate matrix 346 for respective winding. The substrate strands received by the inner bobbins 316 may be the inner substrate strands 322. The substrate strands received by the outer bobbins 320 may be the outer substrate strands 324. In an example, during reverse operation, the inner carriers 314 may rotate along the annular track 332 in a direction opposite to direction of rotation of the outer annular table 312 and the annular track 332. The rotation of the inner carriers 314 opposite to the rotation of the outer annular table 312 may be facilitated by the drive system 336 comprising the annular gear 326 and the plurality of bevel gears.

[0240] In an example, a first open end of each substrate strand of the interlaced substrate matrix 346 may initially be attached to respective bobbins while an input mechanism 370 feeds the interlacing apparatus 304. The input mechanism 370 may be similar to the extraction mechanism 348 but configured to operate in reverse direction compared to the extraction mechanism 348 as described during forward operation. In an example, the input mechanism 370 may include a system of contrarotating rollers, contra-rotating caterpillar tracks, or a spool capable of feeding the interlaced substrate matrix 346 to the interlacing apparatus 304. The input mechanism 370 may feed the interlaced substrate matrix 346 to the interlacing apparatus 304 along the common central axis such that once the inner bobbins 316 and the inner carriers 314 start rotating in a direction opposite to the outer bobbins 320 and the outer carriers 318, the substrate strands of the interlaced substrate matrix 346 start to get pulled by the counterrotating carriers and get wound around their respective bobbins.

[0241] In an example, the interlaced substrate matrix 346 may be fed into the interlacing apparatus 304 by the input mechanism 370, which may ensure that theinterlaced substrate matrix 346 is introduced at a controlled rate. The counterrotating bobbins may unwind the interlaced substrate matrix 346 by pulling the respective substrate strands in opposing directions. The interlaced substrate matrix 346 may thus start to unwind and separate at a separating point 372 on the common central axis. A region between the separating point 372 and the points where the separated substrate strands meet their corresponding bobbins may be referred to as a separating region. To facilitate the separation of the substrate strands, the movement of the outer substrate strands 324 along a second winding path, which may be similar to the second feeding path but in reverse direction, may be controlled by the guiding means. The inner substrate strands 322 may follow a first winding path, which may be similar to the first feeding path but in reverse direction.

[0242] In an example, the guiding arms 338 may guide the outer substrate strands 324 along the second winding path during reverse operation. The guiding arms 338 may swing the outer substrate strands 324 about their respective pivot points 340 but in a direction opposite to the direction as compared to forward operation. During reverse operation, the up-down movement of the guiding arms 338 may be facilitated by the cam profile channel 364 and the slider rollers 362, similar to forward operation but with the outer annular table 312 rotating in the first direction. As the outer annular table 312 rotates in the first direction, the guiding arms 338 may be carried along while the cam profile channel 364 remains stationary. The slider rollers 362 may traverse the cam profile channel 364 in a direction opposite to the direction during forward operation, causing the guiding arms 338 to pivot about their respective pivot points 340 in a controlled manner. In an example, where the guiding arms 338 are actuated by actuators 366 or stepper motors 368, the controller may be configured to actuate the actuators 366 or send step commands to the stepper motors 368 based on predetermined timing sequences corresponding to reverse operation. The movement profile for reverse operation may be an inverse of the movement profile used during forward operation.

[0243] Figures 3H illustrates the expanded perspective view of the outer carrier 318-1 in accordance with the another example implementation of the presentsubject matter. As already described in Figure 3B, the outer carrier 318-1 may be similar to the inner carrier 314-1. Therefore, the operation of the outer carrier 318-1 during the reverse operation of the system 300 may be similar to the operation of the inner carrier 314-1 during reverse operation of the system 300.

[0244] In an example, the outer carrier 318-1 operating in reverse direction to the direction as described during forward operation, may facilitate the separating of the interlaced substrate matrix 346. The outer carrier 318-1 may carry the outer bobbin 320-1 for winding the outer substrate strand 324-1 during reverse operation. In an example, the outer carrier 318-1 may include the static guide 354 and the guide pulley 356. The guide pulley 556 may be coupled to the torsion spring 350 for tension modulation. Since the guide pulley 356 may be connected to the torsion spring 350, the guide pulley 356 may absorb minor slack and tension changes in the outer substrate strand 324-1 as it gets unwound from the interlaced substrate matrix 346.

[0245] In an example, the outer carrier 318-1 may further include the outer bobbin torque tension governing unit 374. Examples of the outer bobbin torque tension governing unit 374 may include, but are not limited to, a slip clutch, a magnetic particle clutch, an electronic control system on a carrier motor, a torsion spring unit, and a friction roller. The outer bobbin torque tension governing unit 374 may be used to adjust the pulling tension of the outer substrate strand 324-1. As the outer bobbin 320-1 pulls the outer substrate strand 324-1 during winding, the outer bobbin torque tension governing unit 374 may ensure that the pulling tension never exceeds a set tension. In an example, the outer bobbin torque tension governing unit 374 may also be used to accelerate, decelerate, stall, and custom-adjust the pulling rate of the outer substrate strand 324-1 onto the outer bobbin 320-1 as required.

[0246] In an example, the outer carrier 318-1 may further include the positive torque providing unit 376. Examples of the positive torque providing unit 376 may include, but are not limited to, an electrical motor, a winding motor, a servo motor, a torque motor, and a coiled spring. The positive torque providing unit 376 may provide positive torque to the outer bobbin 320-1 for winding the outer substrate strand 324-1. The torque on the outer bobbin 320-1 may ensure that once the outersubstrate strand 324-1 separates from the interlaced substrate matrix 346, it is maintained to have a constant tension after it becomes slack on separating. In an example, positive torque applied to the outer bobbin 320-1 may be controlled to never exceed safe working load of the substrate strands.

[0247] In an example, the outer substrate strand 324-1, during reverse operation, may follow a path from the separating point 372 to the static guide 354, then to the guide pulley 356, and finally to the outer bobbin 320-1. The substrate strand 324-1 may then get spooled onto the outer bobbin 320-1 by the positive torque providing unit 376, which may cause the outer bobbin 320-1 to rotate and wind up the outer substrate strand 324-1. The interlacing apparatus 304 is thus capable of separating the interlaced substrate matrix 346 into its individual constituent substrate strands, thereby promoting reuse and recycling of the substrate strands.

[0248] The present subject matter as described therefore illustrates various example implementations of the present subject matter. However, the underlying principle of the interlacing of the substrate strands as described in the above implementations remains similar. The interlacing apparatus 104, 204, 304 as described in the present subject matter includes outer and inner sets of bobbins which rotate in opposing directions about a common central axis. The outer bobbins rotate in one direction, while the inner bobbins rotate oppositely to the outer bobbins. Substrate strands from the outer bobbins pass over and under the inner bobbins, in an alternate manner, interweaving in specific patterns to achieve the desired interlacing of substrate strands to create the interlaced substrate matrix. This process is continuous, and the resulting interlaced substrate matrix is pulled out of the system by means of extraction mechanism which may include contrarotating rollers, contrarotating caterpillar tracks, or a winding spool, and ensures that the interlaced substrate matrix is drawn out while maintaining appropriate tension.

[0249] Further, the interlacing apparatus 104, 204, 304 as described can have variable number of carriers with a minimum of 3 carriers, ensuring the presence of at least one carrier on either the inner annular table or outer annular table for operations. The interlacing pattern within the interlaced substrate matrix is determined by the number of carriers utilized and specific up-and-down weavingpattern of the substrate strands. Achieving the necessary weaving pattern of the interlacing can be controlled by regulating the independent rotational speeds of the inner and outer annular tables and the timing of the outer substrate strands passing over and under the inner substrate strands. By adjusting these parameters, the interlacing apparatus can further achieve requisite up-and-down interlacing pattern and the resulting interlacing structure within the interlaced substrate matrix can have desired interlacing pattern.

[0250] Figure 4A illustrates inner bobbins 400-1, 400-2, 400-3, 400-4, 400-5, and 400-6 and outer bobbins 402-1, 402-2, 402-3, 402-4, 402-5, and 402-6 of an interlacing apparatus (not shown in Figure 4A) in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0251] In an example, as shown in Figure 4 A, the six inner bobbins 400-1, 400-2, 400-3, 400-4, 400-5, and 400-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, in the system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 400-1, 400-2, 400-3, 400-4, 400-5, and 400-6 may be similar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. The inner bobbins 400-1, 400-2, 400-3, 400-4, 400-5, and 400-6 may be carried by their respective inner carriers, similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. Further, as shown in Figure 4A, the six outer bobbins 402-1, 402-2, 402-3, 402-4, 402-5, and 402-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 402-1, 402-2, 402-3, 402-4, 402-5, and 402-6 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures lAto 3H. The outer bobbins 402-1, 402-2, 402-3, 402-4, 402-5, and 402-6 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures lAto 3H. A combination of six inner bobbins and six outer bobbins may provide a total of twelve substrate strands, similar to the substrate strands as described in Figures 1A to 3H, for various interlacing patterns. This arrangement may thus enable diverse interlacing patterns and configurations for producing an interlaced substrate matrix, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, as the inner bobbins and the outer bobbins rotate oppositely (as shown by arrows) wherethe substrate strands attached to the outer bobbins 402-1, 402-2, 402-3, 402-4, 402- 5, and 402-6 alternatively move over and under the substrate strands attached to the inner bobbins 400-1, 400-2, 400-3, 400-4, 400-5, and 400-6.

[0252] Figure 4B illustrates the inner bobbins 400-1, 400-2, 400-3, 400-4, 400-5, and 400-6 and the outer bobbins 402-1, 402-2, 402-3, 402-4, 402-5, and 402-6 of the interlacing apparatus in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0253] In an example, as shown in Figure 4B, the six inner bobbins 400-1, 400-2, 400-3, 400-4, 400-5, and 400-6 may supply their corresponding inner substrate strands 404-1, 404-2, 404-3, 404-4, 404-5, and 404-6, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. Further, as shown in Figure 4B, the six outer bobbins 402-1, 402-2, 402-3, 402-4, 402-5, and 402-6 may supply their corresponding outer substrate strands 406-1, 406-2, 406-3, 406-4, 406-5, and 406-6, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H. The inner substrate strands 404-1, 404-2, 404-3, 404-4, 404-5, and 404- 6, and the outer substrate strands 406-1, 406-2, 406-3, 406-4, 406-5, and 406-6 may also rotate oppositely and undergo interlacing, which may be similar to as described in Figures lAto 3H, to converge at an interlacing point 408, which similar to the interlacing point as described in Figures lAto 3H. The interlacing of the substrate strands may form the interlaced substrate matrix 410, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures lAto 3H which may get drawn out by extraction mechanism 412, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism as described in Figures 1A to 3H. Example comprising six inner bobbins 400-1, 400-2, 400-3, 400-4, 400-5, and 400-6, and six outer bobbins 402-1, 402-2, 402-3, 402-4, 402-5, and 402-6 has been shown to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the present subject matter and it must be appreciated that the number of inner bobbins and outer bobbins may vary based on the size and type of interlacing required. This further enhances the adaptability, adjustability and applicability of the interlacing apparatus as described in the present subject matter.

[0254] Figure 5 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of six inner bobbins 500-1, 500-2, 500-3, 500-4, 500-5, and 500-6 and six outer bobbins 502-1,502-2, 502-3, 502-4, 502-5, and 502-6 in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0255] In an example, as shown in Figure 5, six inner bobbins 500-1, 500-2, 500-3, 500-4, 500-5, and 500-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, in the system which may be similar to the system as described in Figures lAto 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 500-1, 500-2, 500-3, 500-4, 500-5, and 500-6 may be similar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. The inner bobbins 500-1, 500-2, 500-3, 500-4, 500-5, and 500-6 may be carried by their respective inner carriers, which may be similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. Further, as shown in Figure 5, the six outer bobbins 502-1, 502-2, 502-3, 502-4, 502-5, and 502-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 502-1, 502-2, 502-3, 502-4, 502-5, and 502-6 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures 1 A to 4H. The outer bobbins 502-1, 502-2, 502-3, 502-4, 502-5, and 502-6 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, which may be similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. Further, the inner bobbins 500-1, 500-2, 500-3, 500-4, 500-5, and 500-6 may supply their corresponding inner substrate strands 504-1, 504-2, 504-3, 504-4, 504- 5, and 504-6, depicted using II, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands as described in Figures lA to 3H during interlacing. The outer bobbins 502-1, 502-2, 502-3, 502-4, 502-5, and 502-6 may supply their corresponding outer substrate strands 506-1, 506-2, 506-3, 506-4, 506-5, and 506- 6, depicted using 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, and 06, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0256] In an example, as shown in Figure 5, the up-and-down motion of outer substrate strands within the interlacing apparatus during forward operation moves the outer substrate strands 01, 03, 05, to traverse over the corresponding inner substrate strands II, 13, 15. Concurrently, outer substrate strands 02, 04, 06, positioned adjacent to the aforementioned outer substrate strands, traverse beneath inner substrate strands 12, 14, 16. In the subsequent operational instance (as shown from the direction of the arrow), the interlacing pattern progresses forward. Outersubstrate strands 01, 03, 05 now traverse beneath inner substrate strands 12, 14, 16, while outer substrate strands 02, 04, 06 traverse over inner substrate strands 13, 15, II. This alternating motion sequence perpetuates, resulting in a round braid pattern formation among the substrate strands from the interlacing apparatus thereby producing interlaced substrate matrix, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures 1A to 3H. Controlling the tightness of this resultant interlacing pattern is achievable through an extraction mechanism, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism as described in Figures 1A to 3H, and tension modulators, which may be similar to the tension modulators as described in Figures lAto 3H, of carriers. Plant material, similar to the plant material as described in Figures 1A to 3H, may be embedded in this interlaced substrate matrix with the required tightness of the substrate strands to be securely held in place.

[0257] Figure 6 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of six inner bobbins 600-1, 600-2, 600-3, 600-4, 600-5, and 600-6 and six outer bobbins 602-1, 602-2, 602-3, 602-4, 602-5, and 602-6 in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0258] In an example, as shown in Figure 6, the six inner bobbins 600-1, 600-2, 600-3, 600-4, 600-5, and 600-6 may be arranged within an interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, in the system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 600-1, 600-2, 600-3, 600-4, 600-5, and 600-6 may be similar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. The inner bobbins 600-1, 600-2, 600-3, 600-4, 600-5, and 600-6 may be carried by their respective inner carriers, which may be similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. Further, as shown in Figure 6, the six outer bobbins 602-1, 602-2, 602-3, 602-4, 602-5, and 602-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 602-1, 602-2, 602-3, 602-4, 602-5, and 602-6 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. The outer bobbins 602-1, 602-2, 602-3, 602-4, 602-5, and 602-6 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, which may be similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. Further, the inner bobbins 600-1, 600-2, 600-3, 600-4, 600-5, and 600-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding inner substrate strands 604-1, 604-2, 604-3, 604-4, 604-5, and 604-6, depicted using II, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H. The outer bobbins 602-1, 602-2, 602-3, 602-4, 602-5, and 602-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding outer substrate strands 606-1, 606-2, 606-3, 606-4, 606-5, and 606-6, depicted using 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, and 06, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0259] In an example, as shown in Figure 6, an interlacing pattern may be obtained. The outer substrate strands 01, 02, 03, and so forth, may pass over inner substrate strands II, 12, 13, respectively. In the subsequent instance (as shown from the direction of arrow), these same outer substrate strands may transition to pass under the inner substrate strands 12, 13, 14, respectively. Additionally, the outer substrate strand 06 may pass under the inner substrate strand II to complete the cycle, continuing the interlacing pattern among the substrate strands to make an interlacing pattern and produce an interlaced substrate matrix, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures lAto 3H. Controlling the tightness of this resultant interlacing pattern may be achievable through an extraction mechanism, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism as described in Figures lAto 3H, and tension modulators, which may be similar to the tension modulators as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, of carriers. Plant material, similar to the plant material as described in Figures lAto 3H, may be embedded in the interlaced substrate matrix with the required tightness of the substrate strands to be securely held in place.

[0260] Figure 7 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of six inner bobbins 700-1, 700-2, 700-3, 700-4, 700-5, and 700-6 and six outer bobbins 702-1, 702-2, 702-3, 702-4, 702-5, and 702-6 in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0261] In an example, as shown in Figure 7, the six inner bobbins 700-1, 700-2, 700-3, 700-4, 700-5, and 700-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus,which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, in a system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures lAto 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 700-1, 700-2, 700-3, 700-4, 700-5, and 700-6 may be similar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. The inner bobbins 700-1, 700-2, 700-3, 700-4, 700-5, and 700-6 may be carried by their respective inner carriers, which may be similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures 1 A to 4B. Further, as shown in Figure 7, the six outer bobbins 702-1, 702-2, 702-3, 702-4, 702-5, and 702-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 702-1, 702-2, 702-3, 702-4, 702-5, and 702-6 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. The outer bobbins 702-1, 702-2, 702-3, 702-4, 702-5, and 702-6 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, which may be similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. Further, the inner bobbins 700-1, 700-2, 700-3, 700-4, 700-5, and 700-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding inner substrate strands 704-1, 704-2, 704-3, 704-4, 704-5, and 704-6, depicted using II, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H. The outer bobbins 702-1, 702-2, 702-3, 702-4, 702-5, and 702-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding outer substrate strands 706-1, 706-2, 706-3, 706-4, 706-5, and 706-6, depicted using 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, and 06, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0262] In an example, as shown in Figure 7, an interlacing pattern is presented to highlight the versatility of the interlacing apparatus. As shown in the Figure 7, the outer substrate strand 01 may pass over two inner substrate strands, Il and 12, while outer substrate strand 02 may go under inner substrate strands 12 and 13. Similarly, the outer substrate strand 03 may pass over inner substrate strands 13 and 14, and outer substrate strand 06 may go under inner substrate strands 16 and II. In the subsequent instance (as shown by the direction of arrow), the interlacing pattern may shift, with outer substrate strand 01 passing under inner substrate strands 13 and 14, outer substrate strand 02 going over inner substrate strands 14 and 15, and the outer substrate strand 06 transitioning to go over inner substrate strands 12 and13. The interlacing pattern among the substrate strands may be continued to make an interlacing pattern and produce the interlaced substrate matrix, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures 1A to 3H. Controlling the tightness of this resultant interlacing pattern may be achievable through an extraction mechanism, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism as described in Figures lAto 3H, and tension modulators, which may be similar to the tension modulators as described in Figures lAto 3H, of carriers. Plant material, similar to the plant material as described in Figures lAto 2H, may be embedded in the interlaced substrate matrix with the required tightness of the substrate strands to be securely held in place.

[0263] Figure 8 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of six inner bobbins 800-1, 800-2, 800-3, 800-4, 800-5, and 800-6 and six outer bobbins 802-1, 802-2, 802-3, 802-4, 802-5, and 802-6 in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0264] In an example, as shown in Figure 8, the six inner bobbins 800-1, 800-2, 800-3, 800-4, 800-5, and 800-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, in the system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures lAto 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 800-1, 800-2, 800-3, 800-4, 800-5, and 800-6 may be similar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures lAto 3H. The inner bobbins 800-1, 800-2, 800-3, 800-4, 800-5, and 800-6 may be carried by their respective inner carriers, which may be similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. Further, as shown in Figure 8, the six outer bobbins 802-1, 802-2, 802-3, 802-4, 802-5, and 802-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 802-1, 802-2, 802-3, 802-4, 802-5, and 802-6 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. The outer bobbins 802-1, 802-2, 802-3, 802-4, 802-5, and 802-6 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures lAto 3H. Further, the inner bobbins 800-1, 800-2, 800-3, 800-4, 800-5, and 800-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding inner substrate strands 804-1, 804-2, 804-3, 804-4, 804-5, and 804-6, depicted using II,12, 13, 14, 15, and 16, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H. The outer bobbins 802-1, 802-2, 802-3, 802-4, 802-5, and 802-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding outer substrate strands 806-1, 806-2, 806-3, 806-4, 806-5, and 806-6, depicted using 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, and 06, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0265] In an example, as shown in Figure 8, an interlacing pattern exhibiting the operational adaptability of the interlacing apparatus is exhibited. The outer substrate strand 01 may traverse over two inner substrate strands, Il and 12, followed by the outer substrate strand 02 passing over inner substrate strand 12 and 13. Similarly, the outer substrate strand 03 may move over the inner substrate strands 13 and 14, and so forth, with the outer substrate strand 06 passing over inner substrate strands 16 and II, establishing an interlacing sequence among the substrate strands. Subsequently, the interlacing pattern may shift in the subsequent instance (as shown by the direction of the arrow), where the outer substrate strand 01 may now pass under the inner substrate strands 13 and 14, followed by the outer substrate strand 02 transitioning under inner substrate strands 14 and 15, and so on. This alternating motion may perpetuate, culminating into an interlaced substrate matrix, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix 1 A to 3H. Controlling the tightness of this resultant interlacing pattern may be achievable through an extraction mechanism, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism as described in Figures 1A to 3H, and tension modulators, which may be similar to the tension modulators as described in Figures lAto 3H, of carriers. Plant material, similar to the plant material as described in Figures 1A to 3H, may be embedded in this interlaced substrate matrix with the required tightness of the substrate strands to be securely held in place.

[0266] Extending further, in an example, the substrate strands supplied by the outer bobbins 802-1, 802-2, 802-3, 802-4, 802-5, and 802-6 may go over and under three substrate strands supplied by inner bobbins 800-1, 800-2, 800-3, 800-4, 800-5, and 800-6 to create an interlacing pattern. Therefore, in general, but not particularly, in the interlacing apparatus having bobbins carried by 2P carriers, i.e., with P carrierseach on the inner and outer annular tables, which may respectively be similar to the inner and outer tables as described in Figures lAto 3H, the substrate strands from the outer bobbins may be made to pass over and under a predetermined number of carriers Q. This value of Q may precisely divide the total number of outer carriers, i.e., P, ensuring a systematic interlacing pattern. The forementioned configurations may be extended to any number of even carriers, provided the minimum number of carriers stays 4. Also, as the number of carriers increases, the size of interlacing apparatus may also increase proportionately. This may allow the configurations and patterns as shown above to adapt seamlessly to varying quantities of carriers offering the flexibility in the interlacing apparatus design.

[0267] In one example, in a twelve-carrier interlacing apparatus having twelve bobbins as illustrated in Figures 4A to 8, one carrier may be removed to have the total number of carriers to be 11. Consequently, this configuration may result in one of two scenarios, i.e., either the inner annular table or the outer annular table may have five carriers, while the other table will have six carriers. Such configurations have been further described in Figures 9 and 10 below.

[0268] Figure 9 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of five inner bobbins 900-1, 900-2, 900-3, 900-4, and 900-5 and six outer bobbins 902-1, 902-2, 902-3, 902-4, 902-5, and 902-6 in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure 9, the five inner bobbins 900-1, 900-2, 900-3, 900-4, and 900-5, may be arranged within an interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H, in the system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures lAto 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 900-1, 900-2, 900-3, 900-4, and 900-5 may be similar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures lAto 3H. The inner bobbins 900-1, 900-2, 900-3, 900-4, and 900-5, may be carried by their respective inner carriers, which may be similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures lAto 3H. Further, as shown in Figure 9, the six outer bobbins 902-1, 902-2, 902-3, 902-4, 902-5, and 902-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 902-1, 902-2, 902-3, 902-4, 902-5, and 902-6 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures lAto3H. The outer bobbins 902-1, 902-2, 902-3, 902-4, 902-5, and 902-6 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, which may be similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. Further, the inner bobbins 900-1, 900-2, 900-3, 900- 4, and 900-5, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding inner substrate strands 904-1, 904-2, 904-3, 904-4, and 904-5, depicted using II, 12, 13, 14, and 15, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H. The outer bobbins 902-1, 902-2, 902-3, 902-4, 902-5, and 902-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding outer substrate strands 906-1, 906-2, 906-3, 906-4, 906- 5, and 906-6, depicted using 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, and 06, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0269] In an example, when implementing the substrate strand interlacing configuration as shown in Figure 9 the outer substrate strands 01, 03, 05, may traverse over the corresponding inner substrate strands II, 13, and 15. Concurrently (as shown by the direction of the arrow), outer substrate strands 02, 04, may be positioned adjacent to the aforementioned strands, to traverse beneath inner substrate strands 12 and 14. But specifically, as the outer substrate strand 06 moves under the missing carrier or the missing bobbin number six, as shown in Figures 4A to 8, its effect on the formation of the interlacing becomes nil as there is no substrate strand in that space. The operation sequence persists similar to interlacing configuration as described in Figure 5 although without the presence of sixth bobbin leading to a resultant interlacing that exhibits a less structured interlacing pattern compared to the twelve bobbin interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 4Ato 8. However, despite this variation, adjustments may be made to the extraction mechanism, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism as described in Figure lAto 2H, mechanism of tension control of the substrate strands, and tension modulators, which may be similar to the tension modulators as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, of carriers, to increase the tightness of the substrate strands within the resulting interlaced substrate matrix, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures lAto 3H. These adjustments may offer the capability to embed planting material, which may be similar to the planting materialas described in Figures 1 Ato 3H, into the interlaced substrate matrix and effectively secure it, compensating for the less structured interlacing pattern obtained due to the absence of a carrier in the configuration.

[0270] In an example, a similar behavior may be observed in the eleven-carrier interlacing apparatus depicted in Figure 10.

[0271] Figure 10 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of six inner bobbins 1000-1, 1000-2, 1000-3, 1000-4,1000-5, and 1000-6 and five outer bobbins 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, and 1002-5 in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure 10, the six inner bobbins 1000-1, 1000-2, 1000-3, 1000-4,1000-5, and 1000-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures lAto 3H, in the system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures lAto 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 1000-1, 1000-2, 1000-3, 1000-4, 1000-5, and 1000-6 may be similar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. The inner bobbins 1000-1, 1000-2, 1000-3, 1000-4, 1000-5, and 1000-6 may be carried by their respective inner carriers, which may be similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. Further, as shown in Figure 10, the five outer bobbins 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, and 1002-5 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, and 1002-5 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. The outer bobbins 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, and 1002-5 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, which may be similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. Further, the inner bobbins 1000-1, 1000-2, 1000-3, 1000-4, 1000-5, and 1000-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding inner substrate strands 1004-1, 1004-2, 1004-3, 1004-4, 1004-5, and 1004-6 depicted using II, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H. The outer bobbins 1002-1, 1002-2, 1002-3, 1002-4, and 1002-5, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding outer substrate strands 1006-1, 1006-2,1006-3, 1006-4, and 1006-5, depicted using 01, 02, 03, 04 and 05, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0272] In an example, as shown in Figure 10, the resulting interlacing may tend to display a less structured pattern when contrasted with twelve carrier interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 4Ato 8 due to the absence of sixth outer carrier, as present in Figures 4Ato 8. However, despite this variation, achieving planting material embedding may be made feasible by adjusting the extraction mechanism, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism as described in Figure 1 Ato 3H, mechanism for tension control of substrate strands, and tension modulators, which may be similar to the tension modulators as described in Figures 1A to 3H, of carriers. The above rationale may be extended to any odd number of bobbins carried by their respective carriers, provided the minimum number of bobbins carried by their respective carriers is 3.

[0273] With the above-described subject matter it may be understood that any specific carrier and its bobbin can be removed from even set of carriers and bobbins, similar to creating an odd carrier’s and bobbin’s system. Essentially, any odd-carrier interlacing system, expressed as 2P-1, may be derived by eliminating one carrier from a 2P even system, following the method described above. By adjusting the substrate strand tension and controlling the interlacing process, a planting material may be embedded and secured within the resulting interlaced substrate matrix, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, and any variations in interlacing due to odd number of carriers may be compensated. When a carrier is removed to create an odd carrier configuration, as described in Figures 9 and 10, the set of inner or outer carriers with the missing carrier may be equally spaced. Despite the change in spacing between carriers, the result may remain the same with those described in Figures 9 and 10.

[0274] Extending on the previous configurations as illustrated in Figures 9 and 10, one or more carrier and its bobbin may be removed from the twelve-carrier interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 4A to 8 to reduce the total number of carriers and its bobbins to ten.

[0275] Figure 11 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of four inner bobbins 1100-1, 1100-2, 1100-3, and 1100-4 and six outer bobbins 1102-1, 1102-2, 1102-3, 1102-4, 1102-5, and 1102-6 in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter. As shown in Figure 11, the four inner bobbins 1100-1, 1100-2, 1100-3, and 1100-4 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures lAto 3H, in the system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 1100-1, 1100-2, 1100-3, and 1100-4 may be similar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures lAto 3H. The inner bobbins 1100-1, 1100-2, 1100-3, and 1100-4 may be carried by their respective inner carriers, which may be similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures lAto 3H. Further, as shown in Figure 11, six outer bobbins 1102-1, 1102-2, 1102-3, 1102-4, 1102-5, and 1102-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 1102-1, 1102-2, 1102-3, 1102-4, 1102-5, and 1102-6 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures lAto 3H. The outer bobbins 1102-1, 1102-2, 1102-3, 1102-4, 1102-5, and 1102-6 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, which may be similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures lAto 3H. Further, the inner bobbins 1100-1, 1100-2, 1100-3, and 1100-4, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding inner substrate strands 1104-1, 1104-2, 1104-3 and 1104-4 depicted using II, 12, 13, and 14, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H. The outer bobbins 1102-1, 1102-2, 1102-3, 1102-4, 1102-5, and 1102-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding outer substrate strands 1106-1, 1106-2, 1106-3, 1106-4, 1106-5, and 1106-6, depicted using 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, and 06, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0276] As shown in Figure 11, the configuration showcases that in the context of substrate strand interlacing, when the outer carriers move over the spaces previously occupied by the removed carriers and their bobbins, their motion has no impact on the interlacing pattern formation due to the absence of substrate strandsin that space. Consequently, this absence leads to a less structured interlacing pattern. However, despite this, the interlacing pattern allows for plant material embedding, where the plant material may be similar to the plant material as described in Figures lAto 3H, by adjusting an extraction mechanism, which may be similar to the extraction mechanism as described in Figures 1A to 3H and adjusting mechanisms for tension control on the carriers for the substrate strands.

[0277] Figure 12 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of four inner bobbins 1200-1, 1200-2, 1200-4, and 1200-5 and six outer bobbins 1202-1, 1202-2, 1202-3, 1202-4, 1202-5, and 1202-6 in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0278] In an example, the six inner bobbins and six outer bobbins may be present in the interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H, as described in Figure 4. Third and sixth inner carrier may be removed thereby removing third and sixth inner bobbin. This may leave the interlacing apparatus in the system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H, with four inner bobbins as shown in Figure 12. In an example, the four inner bobbins 1200-1, 1200-2, 1200-4, and 1200-5 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus, similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures lA to 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 1200-1, 1200-2, 1200-4, and 1200-5 may be similar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. The inner bobbins 1200-1, 1200-2, 1200-4, and 1200-5 may be carried by their respective inner carriers, which may be similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. Further, as shown in Figure 12, the six outer bobbins 1202-1, 1202-2, 1202-3, 1202-4, 1202-5, and 1202-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 1202-1, 1202-2, 1202-3, 1202-4, 1202-5, and 1202-6 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. The outer bobbins 1202-1, 1202-2, 1202-3, 1202-4, 1202-5, and 1202-6 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, which may be similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures lAto 3H. Further, the inner bobbins 1200-1, 1200-2, 1200-4, and 1100-5, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding inner substrate strands 1204-1, 1204-2, 1204-4 and 1204-5 depictedusing II, 12, 14, and 15, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H. The outer bobbins 1202-1, 1202-2, 1202-3, 1202-4, 1202-5, and 1202-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding outer substrate strands 1206-1, 1206-2, 1206-3, 1206-4, 1206-5, and 1206-6, depicted using 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, and 06, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0279] As shown in Figure 12, this configuration may result in a similar effect to the previous configurations as described in Figures 9 and 10, where the absence of these carriers and their bobbins has no impact on the interlacing pattern. However, despite the similar absence of carriers, the resulting interlacing pattern may differ from the previously demonstrated configurations.

[0280] Analogous to the above-described interlacing apparatus having different configurations of inner and outer carriers and their bobbins, as shown in aforementioned figures, achieving ten carriers and ten bobbins arrangement in the interlacing apparatus may also be accomplished by removing two outer carriers, say outer carriers five and six as shown in Figure 13 or by removing outer carriers three and six as shown in Figure 14.

[0281] Figure 15 illustrates a substrate strand interlacing configuration of five inner bobbins 1500-1, 1500-3, 1500-4, 1500-5, and 1500-6 and five outer bobbins 1502-1, 1502-2, 1502-3, 1502-4, and 1502-5 in an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0282] In an example, six inner bobbins and six outer bobbins may be present in an interlacing apparatus as described in described in Figure 4. Sixth outer carrier and second inner carrier may be removed thereby removing sixth outer bobbin and second inner bobbin. This may leave the interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures lAto 3H, with five inner bobbins and five outer bobbins as shown in Figure 15. In an example, the five inner bobbins 1500-1, 1500-3, 1500-4, 1500-5, and 1500-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, in the system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures lAto 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 1500-1, 1500-3, 1500-4, 1500-5, and 1500-6 may be similar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures lAto 3H. The inner bobbins 1500-1, 1500-3, 1500-4, 1500-5, and 1500-6 may be carried by their respective inner carriers, which may be similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. Further, as shown in Figure 15, five outer bobbins 1502-1, 1502-2, 1502-3, 1502-4, and 1502-5 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 1502-1, 1502-2, 1502-3, 1502-4, and 1502-5 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. The outer bobbins 1502-1, 1502-2, 1502-3, 1502-4, and 1502-5 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, which may be similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures lAto 3H. Further, the inner bobbins 1500-1, 1500-3, 1500- 4, 1500-5, and 1500-6, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding inner substrate strands 1504-1, 1504-3, 1504-4, 1504-5, and 1504-6 depicted using II, 13, 14, 15 and 16, which may be similar to the inner substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H. The outer bobbins 1502-1, 1502-2, 1502-3, 1502-4, and 1502-5, during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus, may supply their corresponding outer substrate strands 1506-1, 1506-2, 1506-3, 1506-4, and 1506-5, depicted using 01, 02, 03, 04, and 05, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0283] Therefore, as shown in Figure 15, interlacing configurations may also be attained by removing one outer carrier and its bobbin and one inner carrier and its bobbin. The configuration may result in five carriers and their bobbins on each inner annular table and outer annular table, similar to the first annular table and the second annular table as described in Figures 1 A to 3H. In each of the scenarios, which results in a less defined interlacing pattern due to absence of certain substrate strands, planting material can be successfully embedded in interlaced substrate matrix similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0284] The interlacing apparatus is thus flexible to be extended further by removing carriers and their bobbins as needed while ensuring a minimum of 3 carriers within the interlacing apparatus. The placement positions of carriers on the inner and outer annular tables are flexible, similar to the adaptable carrier and bobbin configurations described above in Figures 4A to 15. It allows foraccommodating various carrier counts in each annular table while maintaining at least 3 carriers overall, where there is at least one carrier each on the inner and outer annular tables.

[0285] The interlacing apparatus as described in the present subject matter hence facilitates 'A' carrier substrate strand interlacing apparatus where A<=12 and A>=3 by utilizing the requisite number of carriers in the inner and outer tables annular tables and positioning them as necessary. Moreover, incorporating strand interlacing configurations as described in Figures 5, 6, and 7 are more alongside these variable carrier configurations which allows for the creation of a diverse array of interlacing patterns, further expanding the possibilities within system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures lAto 3H. The above interlacing and carrier configurations are not limited to just twelve - carrier interlacing apparatus and can be applied to any ‘n’ carrier interlacing apparatus. This permits the creation of diverse interlacing patterns within the interlaced substrate matrix where n>=3, utilizing ‘x’ inner carriers and ‘y’ outer carriers where x>=l and y>=l and x+y>=3. By deploying the required count of carriers on the inner and outer annular tables and positioning them strategically at designated positions in combination with the utilization of diverse strand interlacing configurations as described in Figures 4Ato 15 the interlacing apparatus is capable of achieving any desired pattern of interlacing ropes. Planting material can be embedded in any of these versatile interlacing substrate strands to securely hold them to create a planting material embedded interlaced substrate matrix.

[0286] Therefore, as described in the present subject matter an even number of carriers paired with the appropriate interlacing pattern of the substrate strands, results in the formation of a uniform round braid of interlaced substrate matrix. Conversely, odd number of carriers results in an interlacing pattern that deviates from a round braid and leads to a less defined interlacing pattern. Hence an even number of carriers is favored to ensure that the planting material is embedded neatly within the round braid of the interlaced substrate matrix generated by the interlacing apparatus. Further, through adjustments to the extraction mechanism and substrate strand tension control mechanism on the carriers which may include the tensionmodulators, even in the case of a non-round braid of the interlaced substrate matrix, the interlaced substrate strands can be held tight, and the planting material can be embedded in such interlaced substrate matrix to securely hold it in place. Further, the number of inner carriers, inner bobbins, inner substrate strands, outer carriers, outer bobbins, and the outer substrate strands may be varied as per the size and the type of interlacing required.

[0287] Further, as described in the Figures 1A to 15, the present subject matter where the system includes the interlacing apparatus is capable of embedding planting materials within the interlaced substrate matrix. The interlacing apparatus as described in the present subject matter can produce various interlacing patterns within which planting material gets entwined between the substrate strands to get attached to the interlaced substrate matrix. The planting material embedded interlaced substrate matrix is deployed underwater to allow the planting material to grow. Subsequently the planting material is harvested when grown to a desired size.

[0288] The interlaced substrate matrix produced by the present subject matter can be used with various harvesting methods for separating the grown planting material from the interlaced substrate matrix. Further, the interlaced substrate matrix produced by the present subject matter facilitates partial as well as complete harvesting.

[0289] In complete harvesting, the entire planting material which has grown to the desired size is removed from the interlaced substrate matrix. In contrast, partial harvesting involves cutting and removing only the younger, recently grown portions of the planting material.

[0290] Partial harvesting provides several benefits over complete harvesting. Allowing the mature part of the grown planting material to remain on the interlaced substrate matrix enables the interlaced substrate matrix to be submerged in water again, promoting the regrowth of the harvested portions. Also, when reseeding a new interlaced substrate matrix or the same interlaced substrate matrix, it is preferable to use cuttings from the younger, fast-growing sections of the planting material. Harvesting only the portions of the planting material that are away from the interlaced substrate matrix, which consist mostly of plant tissue that has grownduring the current cycle, ensures these younger sections can grow more rapidly when seeded into a new interlaced substrate matrix.

[0291] In complete harvesting, the interlaced substrate matrix can be passed through a small orifice, slit, or set of roller crushers to remove all planting material from the interlaced substrate matrix.

[0292] In contrast, in partial harvesting, a larger orifice, blade, or scissors may be used, which may have a sharp or serrated edge. Additionally, the edge may be rotating to provide a better slicing or sawing action. Apart from this, the planting material hanging on one or multiple sides of the interlaced substrate matrix may be trimmed off using a device similar to a hedge trimmer while allowing the older, mature portion of the planting material to remain attached. A linear reciprocating blade may also be used to remove planting materials in a manner similar to a hedge trimmer. In partial harvesting of planting material on the interlaced substrate matrix, the older portion of the planting material is left on the interlaced substrate matrix while the younger tips can be collected to be used again for seeding.

[0293] Figure 16 illustrates complete harvesting of planting material from interlaced substrate matrix in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0294] In an example, as shown in Figure 16, after being left in water and completing its growing cycle, a planting material 1600, which may be similar to the planting material as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H, embedded in interlaced substrate matrix 1602, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H, may be passed through an orifice 1604 of a hard surface 1606. The interlaced substrate matrix 1602 having the embedded planting material 1600 when passed through the orifice 1604 of the hard surface 1606 may cause the planting material 1600 of large size to fall off into smaller pieces 1608 or be completely removed. The resulting empty interlaced substrate matrix 1610 may be collected for reuse.

[0295] Figure 17 illustrates partial harvesting of a planting material 1700, which may be similar to the planting material as described in Figures lAto 3H, from an interlaced substrate matrix 1702, which may be similar to the interlaced substratematrix as described in Figures 1A to 3H, in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0296] In an example, as shown in Figure 17, a cutting tool 1704 which may include, but is not limited to cutters and scissors, may be used for partial harvesting of the planting material 1700 embedded in the interlaced substrate matrix 1702. The cutting tool 1704 may not cut older portion 1706 of the planting material 1700, which may be left on the interlaced substrate matrix 1702, while younger tips 1708 of the planting material 1700, may be cut and collected to be used again.

[0297] In one example, once a planting material is harvested from an interlaced substrate matrix, the interlaced substrate matrix may become devoid of any planting material and may thus be intended to be reused. As already discussed in the present subject matter, traditional techniques of reusing the interlaced substrate matrix usually involve melting the interlaced substrate matrix especially in cases where thermoplastic polymer is used to form the interlaced substrate matrix. The melted material is used to produce new substrates or for other applications. However, this is not an ideal approach as the melted material obtained from melting the interlaced substrate matrix results in substrate of lower strength. Consequently, the melted material is either mixed with virgin polymer which further increases the costs of recycling or is used for lower-grade applications. Thus, the interlaced substrate matrix, when separated from the planting material after harvest cannot be used in its original form and needs to be separated into its individual substrate strands for reuse. Further as discussed previously the interlaced substrate matrix may be separated into its constituent substrate strands by hand which is a highly time consuming and laborious process. Further, separation of the interlaced substrate matrix by hand leaves the substrate strands with kinks or residual twists making them harder to reuse and prone to entanglement.

[0298] In an example, to maximize the reuse of the interlaced substrate matrix, the present subject matter provides separating the substrate strands of interlaced substrate matrix onto spools which may be the bobbins, allowing intact substrate strands to be reused. Separating process proposed by the present subject matter is particularly effective for interlaced substrate matrix having embedded plantingmaterials as in such cases the interlaced substrate matrix is only used temporarily to embed or hold the planting material in place. The present subject matter describes a mechanical method as already described in the Figures 2M to 2T and 3G to 3H for separating the interlaced substrate matrix that minimizes residual twists in the substrate strands and involves separating and winding the interlaced substrate strands in the exact reverse order in which they were intertwined.

[0299] In an example, to unwind an interlaced substrate matrix of any configuration as discussed in the aforementioned figures of the present subject matter, the interlacing apparatus operates on the same fundamental idea and principle as used during interlacing process of substrate strands. However, to perform the separation of the interlaced substrate strands, the interlacing apparatus runs in the opposite direction compared to the interlacing process while following the same fundamental principle and idea. Thus, the interlacing apparatus which interlaces substrate strands to create interlaced substrate matrix, may be run in the reverse direction and order with certain modifications and additions to unwind and separate the interlaced substrate matrix. Similar to the subject matter as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, the interlacing apparatus may include guiding means, which may be the guiding means as described in Figures 1A to 3H, to unwind the interlaced substrate matrix having an interlacing pattern.

[0300] Figure 18A illustrates inner bobbins 1800-1, 1800-2, 1800-3, 1800-4, 1800-5, and 1800-6 and outer bobbins 1802-1, 1802-2, 1802-3, 1802-4, 1802-5, and 1802-6 of an interlacing apparatus in a system in accordance with an example implementation of the present subject matter during reverse operation of the interlacing apparatus.

[0301] In an example, as shown in Figure 18 A, six inner bobbins 1800-1, 1800-2, 1800-3, 1800-4, 1800-5, and 1800-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus as described in Figures 1A to 3H, and operating in reverse direction compared to direction of operation followed during forward operation. The interlacing apparatus may be in the system, which may be similar to the system as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. In an example, the inner bobbins 1800-1, 1800-2, 1800-3, 1800-4, 1800-5, and 1800-6 may besimilar to the inner bobbins as described in Figures 1A to 3H, and rotating in direction opposite to rotational direction followed during forward operation. The inner bobbins 1800-1, 1800-2, 1800-3, 1800-4, 1800-5, and 1800-6 may be carried by their respective inner carriers, which may be similar to the inner carriers as described in Figures 1A to 3H but rotating in direction opposite to operational direction followed during forward operation.

[0302] Further, as shown in Figure 18A, the six outer bobbins 1802-1, 1802-2, 1802-3, 1802-4, 1802-5, and 1802-6 may be arranged within the interlacing apparatus. In an example, the outer bobbins 1802-1, 1802-2, 1802-3, 1802-4, 1802-5, and 1802-6 may be similar to the outer bobbins as described in Figures lAto 3H but rotating in direction opposite to operational direction followed during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus. The outer bobbins 1802-1, 1802-2, 1802-3, 1802-4, 1802-5, and 1802-6 may be carried by their respective outer carriers, which may be similar to the outer carriers as described in Figures 1 A to 3H but rotating in direction opposite to operational direction followed during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus. The six inner and outer bobbins may provide a total of twelve substrate strands, similar to the substrate strands as described in Figures lAto 3H but moving in direction opposite to operational direction followed during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus. This arrangement may thus operate in reverse direction, as shown by arrows, to the direction of operation which may have been followed during interlacing, i.e., during forward operation and may enable unwinding patterns and configurations for interlaced substrate matrix, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as previously described.

[0303] Figure 18B illustrates the inner bobbins 1800-1, 1800-2, 1800-3, 1800-4, 1800-5, and 1800-6 and the outer bobbins 1802-1, 1802-2, 1802-3, 1802-4, 1802-5, and 1802-6 of the interlacing apparatus in accordance with the example implementation of the present subject matter.

[0304] In an example, as shown in Figure 18B, the six inner bobbins 1800-1, 1800-2, 1800-3, 1800-4, 1800-5, and 1800-6, during reverse operation of the interlacing apparatus, may wind their corresponding inner substrate strands 1804-1, 1804-2, 1804-3, 1804-4, 1804-5, and 1804-6, which may be similar to the inner substratestrands as described in Figures 1A to 3H but moving in direction opposite to operational direction followed during the forward operation of the interlacing apparatus. Further, as shown in Figure 18B, the six outer bobbins 1802-1, 1802-2, 1802-3, 1802-4, 1802-5, and 1802-6, during reverse operation of the interlacing apparatus, may wind their corresponding outer substrate strands 1806-1, 1806-2, 1806-3, 1806-4, 1806-5, and 1806-6, which may be similar to the outer substrate strands as described in Figures 1A to 3H, but moving in direction opposite to operational direction followed during forward operation of the interlacing apparatus. The separating of an interlaced substrate matrix 1808, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures lAto 3H into its constituent individual substrate strands, i.e., the inner substrate strands 1804-1, 1804-2, 1804-3, 1804-4, 1804-5, and 1804-6 and the outer substrate strands 1806-1, 1806-2, 1806-3, 1806-4, 1806-5, and 1806-6 may occur due to reverse operational direction of the inner bobbins 1800-1, 1800-2, 1800-3, 1800-4, 1800-5, and 1800-6 and the outer bobbins 1802-1, 1802-2, 1802-3, 1802-4, 1802-5, and 1802-6 compared to operational direction followed during interlacing process. The entire unwinding process may further be facilitated by guiding means, which may be similar to the guiding means as described in Figures 1 A to 3H, of the interlacing apparatus.

[0305] In an example, the inner substrate strands 1804-1, 1804-2, 1804-3, 1804-4, 1804-5, and 1804-6 and the outer substrate strands 1806-1, 1806-2, 1806-3, 1806-4, 1806-5, and 1806-6 may also rotate oppositely to the directions followed during interlacing process to separate at separating point 1810, which may be similar to the separating point as described previously, from the interlaced substrate matrix 1808. The separating of the substrate strands from the interlaced substrate matrix 1808 may be facilitated by feeding the interlaced substrate matrix 1808 to the interlacing apparatus by an input mechanism 1812 which may be similar to the input mechanism as previously described. This may facilitate winding the individual substrate strands of the interlaced substrate matrix 1808 onto their corresponding bobbins. Example comprising six inner bobbins and six outer bobbins has been shown only to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the present subjectmatter and it must be appreciated that the number of inner bobbins and outer bobbins, and their respective carriers may vary based on the size and type of interlaced substrate matrix being unwound. This further enhances the adaptability, adjustability and applicability of the interlacing apparatus as described in the present subject matter.

[0306] Further, mechanism to unwind and separate an interlaced substrate matrix into its individual substrate strands in all above-described implementations of the interlacing apparatus operates on the similar principle. The outer and inner sets of bobbins rotate in opposite directions to each other, around a common central axis, similar to the common central axis as described in Figures 1 Ato 3H. The rotational direction of each of the bobbins and carriers is opposite to the rotational direction followed during the forward operation, i.e., during production of the interlaced substrate matrix. The outer substrate strands being unwound are collected onto the outer bobbins, respectively, after passing over and under the inner bobbins. The motion of the outer substrate strands over and under the inner bobbins and their corresponding inner substrate strands occur in the exact opposite direction (as shown by arrows) to how the interlaced substrate matrix was originally interlaced. This process causes the individual substrate strands to become free and separate from the interlaced substrate matrix. Simultaneously, the inner substrate strands are wound onto the inner substrate strands, respectively.

[0307] Further, in an example, the above described subject matter may enable performing a method of producing an interlaced substrate matrix using the interlacing apparatus. The method may include rotating the first annular table and the second annular table oppositely. The method may include rotating a first annular table and a second annular table in opposite directions, supplying substrate strands from a first set of bobbins and a second set of bobbins, and guiding the substrate strands supplied by the second set of bobbins to move alternately over and under carriers of a first set of carriers. The method may further include pulling the interlaced substrate strands using an extraction mechanism to form the interlaced substrate matrix. The method may further include supplying planting material via afeed mechanism to be embedded in the interlaced substrate matrix during its formation.

[0308] Further, the above-described subject matter may enable performing a method of separating an interlaced substrate matrix using the interlacing apparatus into individual substrate strands. The method may include providing the interlacing apparatus, with interlaced substrate matrix and operating the interlacing apparatus to run in reverse order and direction to the order and direction of operation followed during interlacing process of the interlaced substrate matrix.

[0309] Further, although the aforementioned subject matter, as described in Figures 1A to 18B, has been described for the interlacing apparatus having a minimum of three carriers, in one example implementation of the present subject matter, a minimum of only two carriers carrying respective bobbins may also be possible. In an example, the two-carrier configuration may be applicable to both the systems 200 and 300, i.e., system 200 utilizing deflector 248 and guides 250 as guiding means, and the system 300 utilizing guiding arms 338 as guiding means.

[0310] Figure 19A illustrates an interlacing system 1900, hereinafter referred to as the system 1900, in accordance with another example implementation of the present subject matter and utilizing a minimum of two carriers. In an example, the system 1900 may be similar to the system as described in Figures 1A to 3H. Further, although the system 1900 has been described with reference to Figures 19Ato 19C, the complete structural details have not been repeated for the sake of brevity. It may be understood by a person skilled in the art that the structural components and operational mechanisms of the system 1900 may be similar to the corresponding components and mechanisms as described in detail with reference to Figures lAto 3H.

[0311] In an example, as shown in Figure 19 A, the system 1900 may include an interlacing apparatus 1902, which may be similar to the interlacing apparatus 104, 204, and 304. In an example, as shown in Figure 19A, the interlacing apparatus 1902 of the system 1900 may be implemented in an inverted position and placed vertically, similar to the configurations as described at least in Figure IL. The interlacing apparatus 1902 may include a support structure 1904, similar to thesupport structure 106, 206, and 306. In an example, the interlacing apparatus 1902 may further include an inner annular table 1906 and an outer annular table 1908 attached to the support structure 1904. In an example, the inner annular table 1906 and the outer annular table 1908 may be similar to the inner annular table 108, 210, and 310, and the outer annular table 110, 212, and 312, respectively. Further, the inner annular table 1906 and the outer annular table 1908 may hereinafter be interchangeably referred to as the first annular table 1906 and the second annular table 1908, respectively. The support structure 1904, the inner annular table 1906, and the outer annular table 1908 may be concentrically arranged to have a common central axis. The inner annular table 1906 may be configured to rotate in a first direction, for example, in clockwise or anti -clockwise direction, and the outer annular table 1908 may be configured to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction for the repetitive interlacing of substrate strands around a planting material 1910, similar to the planting material 102.

[0312] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 1902 may include a set of inner carriers 1912, such as inner carrier 1912-1 attached to the inner annular table 1906 respectively carrying a set of inner bobbins 1914, such as the inner bobbin 1914-1. In an example, the inner carrier 1912-1 and the inner bobbin 1914-1 may be similar to the inner carriers 112, 214, and 314, and the inner bobbins 114, 216, and 316, respectively. In an example, the interlacing apparatus 1902 may further include a set of outer carriers 1916, such as an outer carrier 1916-1 attached to the outer annular table 1908 respectively carrying a set of outer bobbins 1918, such as an outer bobbin 1918-1. In an example, the outer carrier 1916-1 and the outer bobbin 1918-1 may be similar to the outer carriers 116, 218, and 318, and the outer bobbins 118, 220, and 320, respectively. In an example, the inner bobbin 1914-1 may supply an inner substrate strand 1920-1 and the outer bobbin 1918-1 may supply an outer substrate strand 1922-1. In an example, the inner substrate strand 1920-1 and the outer substrate strand 1922-1 may be similar to the inner substrate strands 120, 222, and 322, and the outer substrate strands 122, 224, and 324, respectively. In one example, a sum of set of inner carriers 1912 and set of outer carriers 1916 may be greater than or equal to two. Further, although, for the sake of brevity, the system1900 has been explained using a two-carrier configuration it may be understood by a person skilled in the art that the number of inner carriers and outer carriers can be greater than two as previously explained with reference to figures lAto 15

[0313] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 1902 may include a core bobbin 1924 attached to the support structure 1904 of the interlacing apparatus 1902 and positioned along a top end of the interlacing apparatus 1902 to supply a core substrate 1926 downwards towards the inner annular table 1906 and the outer annular table 1908 along the common central axis. In an example, the core bobbin 1924 may be similar to the bobbins as already described in Figures 1A to 3H. Further, examples of the core substrate 1926 may include, but are not limited to, a rope line, multiple rope lines, a braided rope line, a cord, and a cable. The core bobbin 1924 may provide the core substrate 1926 in a downward direction along the common central axis. The core bobbin 1924 may remain in a stationary position to provide the core substrate 1926 along the common central axis. Unlike the inner bobbin 1914-1 and the outer bobbin 1918-1, the core bobbin 1924 may rotate about an horizontal axis to common central axis as the inner annular table 1906 and the outer annular table 1908 rotate oppositely to supply the core substrate 1926. The core substrate 1926 may thus itself act as a third substrate strand facilitating formation of a strong interlaced substrate matrix 1928, which may be similar to the interlaced substrate matrix as described in Figures lAto 3H. In an example, inner substrate strands 1920 supplied by the set of inner carriers 1912 and outer substrate strands 1922 supplied by the set of outer carriers 1916 may interlace around the core substrate 1926 at an interlacing point 1938 to form the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 along with the planting material 1910.

[0314] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 1902 may include a hollow member 1930 attached to the support structure 1904 and positioned concentrically with the inner annular table 1906 and the outer annular table 1908. The hollow member 1930 may have a primary opening 1932 and a secondary opening 1934 opposite to the primary opening 1932. The core bobbin 1924 may be attached to the support structure 1904 proximal to the hollow member 1930 to provide the core substrate 1926 through the primary opening 1932 of the hollow member 1930. Thecore substrate 1926 may enter through the primary opening 1932 and exit via the secondary opening 1934 of the hollow member 1930 to be dropped in an interlacing region, which may be similar to the interlacing region 140 as described, where the inner substrate strand 1920-1 and the outer substrate strand 1922-1 undergo interlacing around the core substrate 1926. The planting material 1910 may also be fed through the hollow member 1930 via the primary opening 1932 and may exit via the secondary opening 1934 to be dropped in the interlacing region along with the core substrate 1926.

[0315] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 1902 may include guiding means to guide the outer substrate strand 1922-1 to alternatively move over and under the inner carrier 1912-1 to cause the outer substrate strand 1922-1 to alternatively move over and under the inner substrate strand 1920-1 in a repetitive manner while being drawn out by an extraction mechanism 1936 of the system 1900 towards an interlacing point 1938. In an example, the guiding means may be the guiding means including the deflector 248, and the one or more guides 250, or the one or more guiding arms 338. In an example, the extraction mechanism 1936 may be similar to the extraction mechanism 144, 232, and 348, and may be connected to the support structure 1904. Further, in an example, the interlacing point 1938 may be similar to the interlacing point 128, 234, and 344.

[0316] In one example, the guiding means may include the one or more guides 250 attached to the set of inner carriers 1912, with each guide 250 having the upper contour, similar to upper contour 251-1 and the lower contour, similar to lower contour 252-1. The guiding means may also include the at least one deflector 248 having the leading contour 286 and the trailing contour 288. The deflector 248 and the one or more guides 250 may guide the outer substrate strands 1922 along a second feeding path. The leading contour 286 of the at least one deflector 248 may deflect the outer substrate strands 1922 to move over the set of inner carriers 1912 and the inner substrate strands 1920 along the upper contour of the guide 250 attached to the inner carrier 1912-1. The trailing contour 288 of the at least one deflector 248 may drop the outer substrate strands 1922 to move under the set ofinner carriers 1912 along a lower contour of the guide attached to the inner carrier 1912-1.

[0317] In another example, the guiding means may include the guiding arms 338 mounted on the second annular table 1908 about respective pivot points 340. The guiding arm 338 may swing about the pivot point 340 to alternatively move corresponding outer substrate strand 1922 provided by an outer bobbin 1914 over and under the set of inner carriers 1912 to cause the outer substrate strand 1922 to alternatively move over and under the inner substrate strands 1920 in a repetitive manner while being drawn out by the extraction mechanism 1936 to get interlaced at the interlacing point 1938 around the core substrate 1926 to produce the interlaced substrate matrix 1928.

[0318] In an example, the extraction mechanism 1936 may be attached to the support structure 1904 of the interlacing apparatus 1902 and positioned along the common central axis at a location beyond the interlacing point 1938. The core bobbin 1924 and the hollow member 1930 may be attached to the support structure 1904 on one side of the inner annular table 1906 and the outer annular table 1908, and the extraction mechanism 1936 and the interlacing point 1938 may be on another side of the inner annular table 1906 and the outer annular table 1908, opposite to the core bobbin 1924 and the hollow member 1930. In an example, when the interlacing apparatus 1902 is inverted and placed vertically, similar to the configuration as shown in Figure 19A, the core bobbin 1924 and the hollow member 1930 may be positioned at a top end of the interlacing apparatus 1902 and the extraction mechanism 1936 may be positioned at a bottom end of the interlacing apparatus 1902. A first open end of the inner substrate strand 1920-1, a first open end of the outer substrate strand 1922-1, and the core substrate 1926 may be attached to the extraction mechanism 1936 prior to rotation of the inner annular table 1906 and the outer annular table 1908. In an example, the extraction mechanism 1936 may pull the inner substrate strands 1920, the outer substrate strands 1922, and the core substrate 1926 towards the interlacing point 1938 to form the interlaced substrate matrix 1928. The extraction mechanism 1936 may further pull the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 from the interlacing point 1938.

[0319] Therefore, for the implementation as described in Figure 19A, the number of rotating carriers may be a minimum of two, instead of three. These rotating carriers may be positioned on the inner annular table 1906 and the outer annular table 1908, with one carrier on each table. This may not only reduce the size of the interlacing apparatus 1902 but may also simplify the operation of the interlacing apparatus 1902 along with a reduction in changeover time, and maintenance requirements thereby improving practical application and efficiency as opposed to conventional techniques of obtaining interlaced substrates. In an example, changeover time may refer to time required to replace used-up bobbins in carriers with new, full bobbins loaded with substrate.

[0320] Figure 19B illustrates the interlacing system 1900 in an upright configuration, similar to the configurations shown and described at least in Figures 1 A, 2A, and 3 A, in accordance with another example implementation of the present subject matter. In an example, the system 1900 in the upright configuration may include the interlacing apparatus 1902 placed upright within the system 1900. The structural components and operational mechanisms of the system 1900 in the upright configuration may be similar to the corresponding components and mechanisms as described with reference to figures already described, except for the orientation and positioning of certain components as described hereinafter.

[0321] In an example, in the upright configuration as shown in Figure 19B, the interlacing apparatus 1902 may include the support structure 1904 configured to bear and support the first annular table 1906 and the second annular table 1908. The first annular table 1906 and the second annular table 1908 may be arranged concentrically about the common central axis and attached to the support structure 1904. The first annular table 1906 may be configured to rotate in the first direction and the second annular table 1908 may be configured to rotate in the second direction opposite to the first direction for the repetitive interlacing of the substrate strands around the planting material 1910. To facilitate the rotation, the first annular table 1906 and the second annular table 1908 may be mounted with rollers or bearings on the support structure 1904.

[0322] In an example, in the upright configuration, the core bobbin 1924 and the hollow member 1930 may be attached to the support structure 1904 at a bottom end of the interlacing apparatus 1902. The hollow member 1930 may be positioned concentrically with the first annular table 1906 and the second annular table 1908 along the common central axis. The hollow member 1930 may have the primary opening 1932 at a bottom portion of the hollow member 1930 and the secondary opening 1934 at a top portion of the hollow member 1930, opposite to the primary opening 1932. The core bobbin 1924 may be attached to the support structure 1904 proximal to the hollow member 1930 and below the primary opening 1932 to provide the core substrate 1926 through the primary opening 1932 of the hollow member 1930.

[0323] In an example, the extraction mechanism 1936 may be attached to the support structure 1904 at a top end of the interlacing apparatus 1902, opposite to the core bobbin 1924 and the hollow member 1930. The extraction mechanism 1936 may be positioned along the common central axis at a location beyond the interlacing point 1938. The interlacing point 1938 may be located along the common central axis between the secondary opening 1934 of the hollow member 1930 and the extraction mechanism 1936. The core bobbin 1924 and the hollow member 1930 may thus be attached to the support structure 1904 on one side of the first annular table 1906 and the second annular table 1908, and the extraction mechanism 1936 may be attached to the support structure 1904 on another side of the first annular table 1906 and the second annular table 1908, opposite to the core bobbin 1924 and the hollow member 1930.

[0324] In an example, the core bobbin 1924 may remain in a stationary position to provide the core substrate 1926 upwards towards the first annular table 1906 and the second annular table 1908 along the common central axis. The core substrate 1926 may enter through the primary opening 1932 of the hollow member 1930 at the bottom portion and exit via the secondary opening 1934 at the top portion to be fed upwards into an interlacing region where the inner substrate strands 1920 and the outer substrate strands 1922 undergo interlacing around the core substrate 1926. In one example, the planting material 1910 may also be fed through the hollowmember 1930 via the primary opening 1932 and may exit via the secondary opening 1934 to be fed into the interlacing region along with the core substrate 1926. In another example, the planting material 1910 may be fed using a feed mechanism, which may be similar to the feed mechanism as described in Figures 1 A to 3H and may be fed from a point beyond the secondary opening 1934 in the interlacing region.

[0325] In an example, the set of inner carriers 1912 may be attached to the first annular table 1906 and may carry the set of inner bobbins 1914 to supply the inner substrate strands 1920. The set of outer carriers 1916 may be attached to the second annular table 1908 and may carry the set of outer bobbins 1918 to supply the outer substrate strands 1922. The set of inner carriers 1912 and the set of inner bobbins 1914 may rotate along the first annular table 1906 in the first direction to supply the inner substrate strands 1920 along a first feeding path towards the interlacing point 1938. The set of outer carriers 1916 and the set of outer bobbins 1918 may rotate along the second annular table 1908 in the second direction to supply the outer substrate strands 1922 along a second feeding path towards the interlacing point 1938.

[0326] In an example, the interlacing apparatus 1902 may include guiding means to guide the outer substrate strands 1922 to alternatively move over and under the set of inner carriers 1912 to cause the outer substrate strands 1922 to alternatively move over and under the inner substrate strands 1920 in a repetitive manner while being drawn out by the extraction mechanism 1936 towards the interlacing point 1938.

[0327] In an example, the set of inner carriers 1912 and the set of outer carriers 1916 may rotate oppositely such that the inner substrate strands 1920 and the outer substrate strands 1922 interlace with each other and around the core substrate 1926 at the interlacing point 1938 to form the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 along with the planting material 1910. The set of outer carriers 1916 and the set of inner carriers 1912 may engage twice in each rotation cycle of the first annular table 1906 and the second annular table 1908 such that the outer substrate strands 1922 may at least once pass over the inner substrate strands 1920 and at least once pass under theinner substrate strands 1920, in each rotation cycle, while the outer substrate strands 1922 and the inner substrate strands 1920 rotate around the core substrate 1926 to form the interlaced substrate matrix 1928.

[0328] In an example, a first open end of the inner substrate strands 1920, a first open end of the outer substrate strands 1922, and the core substrate 1926 may be attached to the extraction mechanism 1936 prior to rotation of the first annular table 1906 and the second annular table 1908. The extraction mechanism 1936 may pull the inner substrate strands 1920, the outer substrate strands 1922, and the core substrate 1926 upwards towards the interlacing point 1938 to form the interlaced substrate matrix 1928. The extraction mechanism 1936 may further pull the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 upwards from the interlacing point 1938. In an example, the extraction mechanism 1936 may include at least one of a roller drum, contrarotating rollers, contrarotating caterpillar tracks, a winding spool, a capstan, a winch, and a pulley, similar to the extraction mechanism as described in Figures lAto 3H.

[0329] Further, the substrate strand interlacing configuration in accordance with the implementation as described in Figures 19A and 19B may be better understood in combination with subject matter of Figure 19B as described below.

[0330] In an example, the inner carrier 1912-1 and the inner bobbin 1914-1 may rotate along the inner annular table 1906 in the first direction to supply the inner substrate strand 1920-1 along a first feeding path towards the interlacing point 1938. The outer carrier 1916-1 and the outer bobbin 1918-1 may rotate along the outer annular table 1908 in the second direction to supply the outer substrate strand 1922-1 along a second feeding path towards the interlacing point 1938. The core bobbin 1924 may provide the core substrate 1926 in a downward direction along the common central axis. The inner carrier 1912-1 and the outer carrier 1916-1 may rotate oppositely such that the inner substrate strand 1920-1, depicted using II, and the outer substrate strand 1922-1, depicted using 01, interlace with each other and around the core substrate 1926. The outer substrate strand 01 may be displaced along a set path while rotation and its displacement may be facilitated by the guidingmeans (not shown in Figure 19B) which may be similar to the guiding means as described in the aforementioned paragraphs.

[0331] In an example, as shown in Figure 19B, during operation of the interlacing apparatus 1902, the outer substrate strand 01 may initially pass over the inner substrate strand II at a first interaction point and subsequently pass under the inner substrate strand II at a second interaction point. The outer carrier 1916-1 and the inner carrier 1912-1 may engage twice in each rotation cycle of the inner annular table 1906 and the outer annular table 1908 such that the outer substrate strand 1922-1 may at least once pass over the inner substrate strand 1920-1 and at least once pass under the inner substrate strand 1920-1, in each rotation cycle, while the outer substrate strand 1922-1 and the inner substrate strand 1920-1 rotate around the core substrate 1926 to form the interlaced substrate matrix 1928. Therefore, the outer substrate strand 01 may alternate between passing above and below the inner substrate strand II as it wraps around the core substrate 1926. The inner substrate strand II and the outer substrate strand 01 may interlace around the core substrate 1926 at the interlacing point 1938 to form the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 along with the planting material 1910, while being drawn out by the extraction mechanism 1936.

[0332] The interlacing apparatus 1902 may also be capable of operating in reverse to separate the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 into its individual constituent substrate strands. The system 1900 may include an input mechanism (not shown in Figure 19A and 19B) configured to feed the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 to the interlacing apparatus 1902 to separate the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 into individual substrate strands. In an example, the input mechanism may be similar to the input mechanism 291.

[0333] In an example, to separate the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 into individual substrate strands, the inner annular table 1906 may rotate in the second direction to rotate the inner carrier 1912-1 and the inner bobbin 1914-1 in the second direction, and the outer annular table 1908 may rotate in the first direction to rotate the outer carrier 1916-1 and the outer bobbin 1918-1 in the first direction. The input mechanism may feed the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 at a separating point,similar to as already described in Figures 1 Ato 3H, at which the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 may separate into the outer substrate strand 1922-1, the inner substrate strand 1920-1, and the core substrate 1926. The guiding means may guide the outer substrate strand 1922-1 to alternatively move over and under the inner carrier 1912-1 while being drawn towards the outer bobbin 1918-1 from the separating point. The inner bobbin 1914-1 and the outer bobbin 1918-1 may receive and wind respective substrate strands separated from the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 for reuse. Similarly, the core bobbin 1924 may rotate oppositely compared to direction of rotation during the formation of the interlaced substrate matrix 1928 to wind the core substrate 1926 during de-interlacing and may be facilitate by torque generating means to rotate oppositely.

[0334] While this detailed description discloses certain specific embodiments for illustrative purposes, various modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the invention and not as a limitation.

Claims

We claim:

1. A system (200) comprising:an interlacing apparatus (204) to produce an interlaced substrate matrix (236) embedded with a planting material (102) by repetitive interlacing of substrate strands around the planting material (102), the interlacing apparatus (204) comprising:a first annular table (210) and a second annular table (212) arranged concentrically about a common central axis, wherein the first annular table (210) is to rotate in a first direction and the second annular table (212) is to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction for the repetitive interlacing of the substrate strands around the planting material (102);a set of inner carriers (214) and outer carriers (218) attached to the first annular table (210) and the second annular table (212), respectively, wherein a set of inner bobbins (216) and outer bobbins (220) are mounted on the set of inner carriers (214) and the outer carriers (218), respectively, to supply a respective substrate strand from among the substrate strands to an extraction mechanism (232) of the system (200), wherein the inner carriers (214) and the inner bobbins (216) are configured to rotate along the first annular table (210) to supply inner substrate strands (222) in the first direction, and wherein the outer carriers (218) and the outer bobbins (220) are configured to rotate along the second annular table (212) to supply outer substrate strands (224) in the second direction; andguiding means to guide movement of the inner substrate strands (222) along a first feeding path, and guide movement of the outer substrate strands (224) along a second feeding path to alternatively move over and under the inner carriers (214) to cause the outer substrate strands (224) to alternatively move over and under the inner substrate strands (222) in a repetitive manner while being drawn out by the extraction mechanism (232) to get interlaced at an interlacing point to produce the interlaced substrate matrix (236) embedded with the planting material (102), wherein the planting material(102) is regularly fed to the interlacing apparatus (204) to get intertwined with the substrate strands during interlacing of the substrate strands.

2. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the guiding means comprises:one or more guides (250) attached to the inner carriers (214), wherein each guide is attached to a corresponding inner carrier and includes an upper contour and a lower contour; andat least one deflector (248), wherein the at least one deflector (248) has a leading contour and a trailing contour, wherein the at least one deflector (248) and the one or more guides (250) are to guide the outer substrate strands (224) along the second feeding path, and wherein for the at least one deflector (248), the leading contour of the at least one deflector (248) is to deflect an outer substrate strand to move over a first inner carrier, from the inner carriers (214), and a corresponding inner substrate strand along an upper contour of a first guide attached to the first inner carrier, and wherein the trailing contour of the at least one deflector (248) is to drop the outer substrate strand to move under a second inner carrier adjacent to the first inner carrier along a lower contour of a second guide attached to the second inner carrier.

3. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the guiding means comprises:one or more guides (250) attached to the inner carriers (214), wherein each guide has an upper contour and a lower contour; andone or more switch mechanisms, wherein each switch mechanism is positioned adjacent to a corresponding inner carrier (214) and comprises an actuating member powered by at least one of a cam and an electric motor, wherein each switch mechanism is independently timed to allow a respective outer substrate strand to impact the upper contour or the lower contour of a corresponding guide to facilitate movement of the outer substrate strands (224) to alternatively move over and under the inner carriers (214).

4. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second annular table (212) comprises:an annular track (226) having a segmented ring structure and positioned concentric with the common central axis, wherein the annular track (226) comprises:a plurality of radial gaps (256) provided at circumferentially spaced locations along the annular track (226) segmenting the annular track (226) into separate circumferentially aligned sections to allow passage to the outer substrate strands (224) through the annular track (226) during the movement of the outer substrate strands (224) along the second feeding path, wherein as the first annular table (210) rotates opposite to the second annular table (212), the guiding means is to guide an outer substrate strand to exit from one of the plurality of radial gaps (256) to pass over the first inner carrier and move back into the same radial gap (256) to pass under the second inner carrier..

5. The system (200) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the interlacing apparatus (204) comprises:corresponding to each inner carrier, a dedicated drive system (230) mounted on the first annular table (210) to mechanically drive a corresponding inner carrier in the first direction on the annular track (226) along the second annular table (212), wherein each drive system (230) comprises:at least two drivers to engage with a corresponding guide of the corresponding inner carrier, wherein each driver of the at least two drivers is to engage with a corresponding slot on the corresponding guide to drive the corresponding inner carrier along the annular track (226) in the first direction, wherein during operation of the interlacing apparatus (204), one of the at least two drivers is to remain engaged with a corresponding slot while another of the at least two drivers is to selectively withdraw from a corresponding slot to:maintain a driving connection between the corresponding inner carrier and the drive system (230); andprovide a clearance beneath the corresponding inner carrier, the clearance being aligned with a radial gap on the annular track (226), to allow the outer substrate strands (224) to move without interruptionduring interlacing of the outer substrate strands (224) with the inner substrate strands (222).

6. The system (200) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the first annular table (210) comprises:a conical rim having a conico-radial guideway to accommodate, for each inner carrier, the at least two drivers of a corresponding drive system (230) to allow radial movement of the at least two drivers between an engaged position and a withdrawn position relative to the corresponding guide of the inner carrier.

7. The system (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the second annular table (212) comprises:a cam groove (282) on a surface of a rim of the second annular table (212), wherein the cam groove (282) is to physically engage with each of the at least two drivers via corresponding studs of each of the at least two drivers, wherein each stud clutched within the cam groove (282) upon engagement to guide the inner carriers (214) in a circular path along the second annular table (212).

8. The system (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein each driver of the drive systems (230) is associated with a corresponding actuator, wherein upon action of an actuator on a corresponding driver, the corresponding driver is to:engage with a corresponding slot on a corresponding guide by entering the corresponding slot upon moving outward from the conico-radial guideway; and withdraw from the corresponding slot on the corresponding guide by retracting from the corresponding slot upon moving inward into the conico-radial guideway, andwherein a first actuator corresponding to a first driver and a second actuator corresponding to a second driver are to alternately actuate to allow passage of the outer substrate strands (224) under the inner carriers (214) without obstruction while maintaining constant driving contact with the inner carriers (214), wherein:an outer substrate strand dropped by the trailing contour of the at least one deflector (248) to move under a first inner carrier along a lower contour of a corresponding guide passes through a clearance provided by withdrawal of the first driver from a first slot into the conico-radial guideway, the withdrawal actuated byaction of the first actuator, while the second driver remains engaged with a second slot to maintain driving contact with the first inner carrier;upon the outer substrate strand passing beyond the first driver to a first position, the first driver is engaged back into the first slot by action of the first actuator, while the second driver is simultaneously withdrawn from the second slot into the conico-radial guideway by action of the second actuator, to allow the outer substrate strand to move beyond the second driver to a second position and exit from under the corresponding guide of the first inner carrier; andthe outer substrate strand, upon exit from under the corresponding guide of the first inner carrier, moves over a next adjacent inner carrier along an upper contour of a guide of the next adjacent inner carrier upon engagement with the leading contour of the at least one deflector (248).

9. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each outer carrier comprises:a first outer guide element (238) comprising one of a guide roller, a cylindrical roller, and a tubular roller to receive an outer substrate strand supplied by an outer bobbin;a second outer guide element (240) comprising a pulley mounted on a tension control arm to receive the outer substrate strand after the outer substrate strand passes over the first outer guide element (238), wherein the tension control arm is to deflect in response to tension variations in the outer substrate strand upon being engaged by the at least one deflector (248) and the one or more guides (250) attached to the inner carriers (214);a third outer guide element (246) to receive the outer substrate strand from the second outer guide element (240), wherein the third outer guide element comprises one of a guide roller, a cylindrical roller, and a tubular roller, anda corresponding ratchet mechanism located at a base of a corresponding outer bobbin carried by the outer carrier, wherein the ratchet mechanism is mechanically coupled to the corresponding outer bobbin to control a rotation thereof, wherein the ratchet mechanism is to be released by deflection of a tension control arm of the corresponding outer carrier near a maximum height of deflection of an outersubstrate strand supplied by the outer bobbin to allow the respective outer bobbin to turn and feed the respective outer substrate strand.

10. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each inner carrier comprises:a first inner guide element (262) comprising one of a guide roller, a cylindrical roller, and a tubular roller to receive an inner substrate strand supplied by an inner bobbin;a second inner guide element (264) comprising one of an eye, a hook, a loop, a circular ring, and a semicircular ring to receive the inner substrate strand after the inner substrate strand passes over the first inner guide element (262);a pulley (266) connected to a tension control spring (268), wherein the pulley receives the inner substrate strand after the inner substrate strand passes over the second inner guide element, wherein the pulley and the tension control spring are to absorb slack in the inner substrate strand during unwinding of the inner substrate strand, anda corresponding ratchet mechanism located at a base of a corresponding inner bobbin carried by the inner carrier corresponding to the ratchet mechanism, wherein the ratchet mechanism is mechanically coupled to the corresponding inner bobbin to control rotation thereof, wherein the ratchet mechanism is to be released by a pulley of the corresponding inner carrier being subjected to high tension during interlacing to allow the respective inner bobbin to turn and feed a respective inner substrate strand.

11. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the extraction mechanism (232) is positioned along the common central axis at a location beyond the interlacing point, wherein a first open end of each of the inner substrate strands (222) and a first open end of each of the outer substrate strands (224) is to be attached to the extraction mechanism (232) prior to rotation of the first annular table (210) and the second annular table (212), wherein the extraction mechanism (232) comprises at least one of a roller drum, contrarotating rollers, contrarotating caterpillar tracks, a winding spool, a capstan, a winch, and a pulley.

12. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the interlacing apparatus (204) further comprises:a support structure to support the first annular table (210) and the second annular table (212), wherein the first annular table (210) and the second annular table (212) are attached to the support structure and rotate about the common central axis in opposite directions; anda hollow member supported by the support structure and positioned concentrically with the first annular table (210) and the second annular table (212), wherein the hollow member has a primary opening and a secondary opening opposite to the primary opening, wherein the planting material (102) is to enter through the primary opening, pass through the hollow member along the common central axis, and exit via the secondary opening to be dropped in an interlacing region where the inner substrate strands (222) and the outer substrate strands (224) undergo interlacing.

13. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising:a feed mechanism to supply the planting material (102) to the interlacing apparatus (204), wherein the feed mechanism comprises at least one of a screw conveyor, a belt conveyor, a gravity-fed chute, a piston feeder, and a belt driven conveyor.

14. A system (200) comprising:an input mechanism (291) to feed an interlaced substrate matrix at a controlled rate to a separating point at which the interlaced substrate matrix separates into individual substrate strands;an interlacing apparatus (204) to receive and separate the interlaced substrate matrix into individual substrate strands for reuse, the interlacing apparatus (204) comprising:a first annular table (210) and a second annular table (212) arranged concentrically about a common central axis, wherein the first annular table (210) and the second annular table (212) are configured to rotate in opposite directions for separation of the interlaced substrate matrix into individual substrate strands, wherein a direction of rotation of the first annular table (210) during separation is opposite to a direction of rotation of the first annular table (210) during production of the interlaced substrate matrix, andwherein a direction of rotation of the second annular table (212) during separation is opposite to a direction of rotation of the second annular table (212) during production of the interlaced substrate matrix;a set of inner carriers (214) and outer carriers (218) attached to the first annular table and the second annular table, respectively, wherein a set of inner bobbins (216) and a set of outer bobbins (220) are mounted on the set of inner carriers (214) and outer carriers (218), respectively, to receive and wind a respective substrate strand from among the individual substrate strands separated from the interlaced substrate matrix, wherein the inner carriers and the inner bobbins are configured to rotate along the first annular table to receive inner substrate strands (222) in a first direction, and wherein the outer carriers and the outer bobbins are configured to rotate along the second annular table to receive outer substrate strands (224) in a second direction opposite to the first direction; andguiding means to guide each of the outer substrate strands (224) to alternatively move over and under the inner carriers (214) to cause the outer substrate strands (224) to alternatively move over and under the inner substrate strands (222) in a repetitive manner while being drawn towards their respective outer bobbins (220) from the separating point, wherein the individual substrate strands separated at the separating point are wound onto their respective inner bobbins (216) and outer bobbins (220) for reuse.

15. The system (200) as claimed in claim 14, wherein:the guiding means is to guide movement of the inner substrate strands (222) along a first winding path from the separating point to the inner bobbins (216), wherein the first winding path is opposite to the first feeding path; andthe guiding means is to guide movement of the outer substrate strands (224) along a second winding path from the separating point to the outer bobbins (220), wherein the second winding path is opposite to the second feeding path.

16. The system (200) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the interlacing apparatus (204) comprises:for each outer carrier a corresponding positive torque providing unit to provide positive torque to a corresponding outer bobbin for winding a corresponding outer substrate strand; andfor each inner carrier a corresponding positive torque providing unit to provide positive torque to a corresponding inner bobbin for winding a corresponding inner substrate strand.

17. A system (300) comprising:an interlacing apparatus (304) to produce an interlaced substrate matrix (346) embedded with a planting material (302) by repetitive interlacing of substrate strands around the planting material (302), the interlacing apparatus (304) comprising:a first annular table (310) and a second annular table (312) arranged concentrically about a common central axis, the first annular table (310) configured to rotate in a first direction and the second annular table (312) configured to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction for the repetitive interlacing of the substrate strands around the planting material (302);a set of inner carriers (314) and a set of outer carriers (318) attached to the first annular table (310) and the second annular table (312), respectively, wherein a set of inner bobbins (316) and a set of outer bobbins (320) are mounted on the set of inner carriers (314) and outer carriers (318), respectively, to supply respective substrate strands from among the substrate strands to an extraction mechanism (348) of the system (300), and wherein the inner carriers (314) and the inner bobbins (316) are configured to rotate along the first annular table (310) to supply inner substrate strands (322) in the first direction along a first feeding path from the inner bobbins (316) to an interlacing point, and wherein the outer carriers (318) and the outer bobbins (320) are configured to rotate along the second annular table (312) to supply outer substrate strands (324) in the second direction; andone or more guiding arms (338) mounted on the second annular table (312) about a respective pivot point, wherein for each outer bobbin, acorresponding guiding arm is to swing about the respective pivot point to alternatively move the outer substrate strand provided by the outer bobbin over and under the inner carriers (314) along a second feeding path to the interlacing point to cause the outer substrate strand to alternatively move over and under the inner substrate strands (322) in a repetitive manner while being drawn out by the extraction mechanism (348) to get interlaced at the interlacing point to produce the interlaced substrate matrix (346) embedded with the planting material (302), the planting material (302) being regularly fed to the interlacing apparatus (304) to get intertwined with the substrate strands during interlacing of the substrate strands.

18. The system (300) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the interlacing apparatus (304) further comprises:a cam profile channel provided along the second annular table (312) to guide an up-and-down movement of the respective guiding arm; and one of:a respective slider roller resting on the cam profile channel to support the respective guiding arm during the up-and-down movement of the respective guiding arm; andfor each guiding arm, a corresponding actuator mounted on the second annular table (312), at a location near a pivot point of a guiding arm, to move the guiding arm up-and-down.

19. The system (300) as claimed in claim 17, wherein each outer carrier of the outer carriers (318) comprises:a static guide to guide an outer substrate strand supplied by a corresponding outer bobbin carried by the respective outer carrier;a guide pulley coupled to a torsion spring for tension modulation, the guide pulley absorbing slack and minimizing tension changes in the outer substrate strand as the outer substrate strand is interlaced; anda ratchet mechanism mechanically coupled to the corresponding outer bobbin to control rotation thereof, the ratchet mechanism configured to get released when the guide pulley is subjected to high tension during interlacing to allow the corresponding outer bobbin to turn and feed a respective outer substrate strand.

20. The system (300) as claimed in claim 17, wherein each inner carrier comprises: a static guide (354) to guide an inner substrate strand supplied by a corresponding inner bobbin carried by the respective inner carrier;a guide pulley (356) coupled to a torsion spring for tension modulation, the guide pulley (356) absorbing slack and minimizing tension changes in the inner substrate strand as the inner substrate strand is interlaced; anda corresponding ratchet mechanism (352) mechanically coupled to the corresponding inner bobbin to control rotation thereof, the ratchet mechanism (352) configured to be released when the guide pulley (356) is subjected to high tension during interlacing to allow the corresponding inner bobbin to turn and feed a respective inner substrate strand.

21. The system (300) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the extraction mechanism (348) is positioned along the common central axis at a location beyond the interlacing point, wherein a first open end of each of the inner substrate strands (322) and a first open end of each of the outer substrate strands (324) is attached to the extraction mechanism (348) prior to rotation of the first annular table (310) and the second annular table (312), the extraction mechanism (348) comprising at least one of a roller drum, contrarotating rollers, contrarotating caterpillar tracks, a winding spool, a capstan, a winch, and a pulley.

22. A system (300) comprising:an input mechanism (370) to feed an interlaced substrate matrix (346) to a separating point (372) at which the interlaced substrate matrix (346) separates into individual substrate strands;an interlacing apparatus (304) to receive and separate the interlaced substrate matrix (346) into individual substrate strands for reuse, the interlacing apparatus (304) comprising:a first annular table (310) and a second annular table (312) arranged concentrically about a common central axis, wherein the first annular table (310) and the second annular table (312) are configured to rotate in opposite directions for separation of the interlaced substrate matrix (346) into individual substrate strands, wherein a direction of rotation of the first annular table (310) duringseparation is opposite to a direction of rotation of the first annular table (310) during production of the interlaced substrate matrix (346), and wherein a direction of rotation of the second annular table (312) during separation is opposite to a direction of rotation of the second annular table (312) during production of the interlaced substrate matrix (346);a set of inner carriers (314) and a set of outer carriers (318) attached to the first annular table (310) and the second annular table (312), respectively, wherein a set of inner bobbins (316) and a set of outer bobbins (320) are mounted on the set of inner carriers (314) and outer carriers (318), respectively, to receive and wind a respective substrate strand from among the individual substrate strands separated from the interlaced substrate matrix (346), wherein the inner carriers (314) and the inner bobbins (316) are configured to rotate along the first annular table (310) to receive inner substrate strands (322) in a first direction, and wherein the outer carriers (318) and the outer bobbins (320) are configured to rotate along the second annular table (312) to receive outer substrate strands (324) in a second direction opposite to the first direction; andone or more guiding arms (338) mounted on the second annular table (312) about respective pivot points (340), wherein for each outer bobbin (320), a corresponding guiding arm (338) is to swing about a respective pivot point (340) to alternatively move a corresponding outer substrate strand (324) over and under the inner carriers (314) to cause the outer substrate strands (324) to alternatively move over and under the inner substrate strands (322) in a repetitive manner while being drawn towards their respective outer bobbins (320) from the separating point (372), wherein the individual substrate strands separated at the separating point (372) are wound onto their respective inner bobbins (316) and outer bobbins (320) for reuse.

23. The system (300) as claimed in claim 22, wherein the one or more guiding arms (338) are to guide movement of the outer substrate strands (324) along a second winding path from the separating point (372) to the outer bobbins (320), wherein the second winding path is opposite to a second feeding path followed during production of the interlaced substrate matrix (346).

24. The system (300) as claimed in claim 22, wherein each outer carrier (318) comprises:a positive torque providing unit (376) to provide positive torque to a corresponding outer bobbin (320) for winding a corresponding outer substrate strand (324), wherein the positive torque providing unit (376) maintains constant tension in the outer substrate strand (324) after separation from the interlaced substrate matrix (346); andan outer bobbin torque tension governing unit (374) to adjust pulling tension of the outer substrate strand (324), wherein the outer bobbin torque tension governing unit (374) ensures that the pulling tension does not exceed a set tension during winding.

25. A system (1900) comprising:an interlacing apparatus (1902) to produce an interlaced substrate matrix embedded with a planting material by repetitive interlacing of substrate strands around the planting material, the interlacing apparatus (1902) comprising:a first annular table (1906) and a second annular table (1908) arranged concentrically about a common central axis and attached to a support structure of the interlacing apparatus (1902), the first annular table (1906) configured to rotate in a first direction and the second annular table (1908) configured to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction for the repetitive interlacing of the substrate strands around the planting material;a set of inner carriers (1912) to carry a set of inner bobbins (1914) to supply inner substrate strands, the set of inner carriers (1912) attached to the first annular table (1906);a set of outer carriers (1916) to carry a set of outer bobbins (1918) to supply outer substrate strands, the set of outer carriers (1916) attached to the second annular table (1908); andguiding means to guide the outer substrate strands to alternatively move over and under the inner carriers (1912) to cause the outer substrate strands to alternatively move over and under the inner substrate strand in a repetitivemanner while being drawn out by an extraction mechanism (1936) of the system (1900) towards an interlacing point; anda core bobbin (1924) attached to the support structure of the interlacing apparatus (1902) at one end of the interlacing apparatus (1902) opposite to the extraction mechanism (1936) to supply a core substrate (1926) towards the first annular table (1906) and the second annular table (1908) along the common central axis, wherein the inner substrate strands and the outer substrate strands interlace around the core substrate (1926) at the interlacing point to form the interlaced substrate matrix along with the planting material, the interlaced substrate matrix being drawn out by the extraction mechanism.

26. The system (1900) as claimed in claim 25, wherein the interlacing apparatus (1902) further comprises:the support structure to support the first annular table (1906) and the second annular table (1908); anda hollow member attached to the support structure and positioned concentrically with the first annular table (1906) and the second annular table (1908), wherein the hollow member has a primary opening and a secondary opening opposite to the primary opening,wherein the core bobbin (1924) is attached to the support structure proximal to the hollow member to provide the core substrate (1926) through the primary opening of the hollow member, and wherein the core substrate (1926) is to enter through the primary opening and exit via the secondary opening of the hollow member to be dropped in the interlacing region where the inner substrate strand and the outer substrate strand undergo interlacing around the core substrate (1926).

27. The system (1900) as claimed in claim 25, wherein the set of inner carriers (1912) and the set of inner bobbins (1914) rotate along the first annular table (1906) in the first direction to supply the inner substrate strand along a first feeding path towards the interlacing point, and wherein the set of outer carriers (1916) and the set of outer bobbins (1918) rotate along the second annular table (1908) in the second direction to supply the outer substrate strand along a second feeding path towards the interlacing point, and wherein the core bobbin (1924) remains in astationary position to provide the core substrate (1926) towards the first annular table (1906) and the second annular table (1908) along the common central axis..

28. The system (1900) as claimed in claim 25, wherein the guiding means comprises:one or more guides attached to the inner carrier (1912-1), wherein each guide has an upper contour and a lower contour; andat least one deflector, wherein the at least one deflector has a leading contour and a trailing contour, wherein the at least one deflector and the one or more guides are to guide the outer substrate strand along the second feeding path, and wherein for the at least one deflector, the leading contour of the at least one deflector is to deflect the outer substrate strand to move over the set of inner carriers (1912) and the inner substrate strand along an upper contour of a guide attached to the inner carrier (1912-1), and wherein the trailing contour of the at least one deflector is to drop the outer substrate strand to move under the set of inner carriers (1912) along a lower contour of the guide attached to the inner carrier (1912).

29. The system (1900) as claimed in claim 25, wherein the guiding means comprises:a guiding arm mounted on the second annular table (1908) about a pivot point, wherein the guiding arm is to swing about the pivot point to alternatively move the outer substrate strand provided by the set of outer bobbins (1918) over and under the set of inner carriers (1912) to cause the outer substrate strand to alternatively move over and under the inner substrate strand in a repetitive manner while being drawn out by the extraction mechanism to get interlaced at the interlacing point around the core substrate (1926) to produce the interlaced substrate matrix.

30. The system (1900) as claimed in claim 25, wherein the set of outer carriers (1916) and the set of inner carrier (1912) engage twice in each rotation cycle of the inner annular table and the outer annular table, wherein the outer substrate strand at least once passes over the inner substrate strand and at least once passes under the inner substrate strand, in each rotation cycle, while the outer substrate strand and the inner substrate strand rotate around the core substrate (1926) to form the interlaced substrate matrix.

31. The system (1900) as claimed in claim 25, wherein the extraction mechanism is attached to the support structure of the interlacing apparatus (1902) and positioned along the common central axis at a location beyond the interlacing point, wherein the core bobbin (1924) and the hollow member are attached to the support structure on one side of the first annular table (1906) and the second annular table (1908) and wherein the extraction mechanism is attached to the support structure on another side of the first annular table (1906) and the second annular table (1908), opposite to the core bobbin (1924) and the hollow member, and wherein a first open end of the inner substrate strand, a first open end of the outer substrate strand, and the core substrate (1926) are attached to the extraction mechanism prior to rotation of the first annular table (1906) and the second annular table (1908), and wherein the extraction mechanism is to pull the inner substrate strand, the outer substrate strand, and the core substrate (1926) towards the interlacing point to form the interlaced substrate matrix, and wherein the extraction mechanism is to pull the interlaced substrate matrix from the interlacing point.

32. The system (1900) as claimed in claim 25, wherein the system (1900) further comprises an input mechanism configured to feed the interlaced substrate matrix to the interlacing apparatus (1902) to separate the interlaced substrate matrix into individual substrate strands, wherein to separate the interlaced substrate matrix into individual substrate strands:the first annular table (1906) is to rotate in the second direction to rotate the set of inner carrier (1912) and the set of inner bobbins (1914) in the second direction;the second annular table (1908) is to rotate in the first direction to rotate the set of outer carriers (1916) and the set of outer bobbins (1918) in the first direction;wherein the input mechanism is to feed the interlaced substrate matrix at a separating point at which the interlaced substrate matrix separates into the outer substrate strand, the inner substrate strand, and the core substrate (1926), wherein the guiding means guides the outer substrate strand to alternatively move over and under the set of inner carriers (1912) while being drawn towards the set of outer bobbin (1918) from the separating point; andwherein the set of inner bobbins (1914) and the set of outer bobbins (1918) are to receive and wind respective substrate strands separated from the interlaced substrate matrix, and the core bobbin (1924) is to receive and wind the core substrate (1926).

33. The system (1900) as claimed in claim 25, wherein a sum of the set of inner carriers (1912) and the set of outer carriers (1916) is greater than or equal to two.

Images