Cannabis Stem Harvesting System with Counter-Rotating Stripping Orifices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional manual and automated cannabis stem-leaf separation methods are inefficient and ineffective due to the unique stem structure of cannabis plants, leading to yield inefficiencies and potential operator safety issues.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring a frame member, die member, rotating cylindrical members, and a rotation system with multiple orifices that accommodate varying stem diameters, utilizing counter-rotating wheels to grip and pull the stem through a stripping orifice, efficiently separating leaves and buds from the stem.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional manual separation methods are used, then operator flexibility is maintained, but harvesting efficiency and productivity are extremely low
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the separation task into multiple specialized components: a die member with multiple orifices for different stem sizes, rotating cylindrical members for gripping and pulling, and a collection system for separated material. Each component performs a specific function that contributes to overall high-speed separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The die member is designed with multiple orifices of different sizes to accommodate various stem diameters within a single device. The rotating cylindrical members can adjust their pressure and rotation speed to handle different plant varieties and stem characteristics, making the system universally applicable to diverse cannabis plants.
2Productivity
If automated stem-leaf separation processes from other crops are used, then automation is achieved, but accuracy and efficiency are insufficient due to cannabis plant differences
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multiple orifices with different local geometries and sizes tailored to specific stem diameter ranges. Each orifice is optimized for a particular stem size category, ensuring accurate separation for small, medium, and large stems without compromising separation quality for any specific size group.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating cylindrical members dynamically adjust their operational parameters including rotation speed and applied pressure based on the specific plant characteristics being processed. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain high separation accuracy across varying plant types while operating at high speeds.
3Adaptability or versatility
If single orifice strippers are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different stem thicknesses is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The die member integrates multiple orifices of varying sizes into a single component, allowing the device to handle a wide range of stem diameters without requiring multiple separate tools or complex adjustment mechanisms. This multi-functional design achieves versatility while maintaining relative structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines multiple orifices that would traditionally require separate stripping devices into a single integrated die member. This merging of functions allows simultaneous handling of different stem sizes through one unified component, reducing the number of separate devices needed while expanding adaptability.
4Productivity
If high-speed automated separation is implemented, then productivity increases, but yield inefficiencies and material loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces harsh mechanical cutting or tearing mechanisms with a gentler friction-based stripping method. The rotating cylindrical members use controlled friction and rubbing against the orifice edges to remove leaves and buds, which preserves plant material integrity and reduces crushing or damage to desirable components during high-speed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The orifices serve as an intermediary element between the gripping mechanism and the plant material. Rather than direct contact between the rotating members and the leaves/buds, the orifices mediate the stripping action through friction, allowing controlled removal of plant material while minimizing damage and maximizing recovery of valuable components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves rapid and thorough removal of plant material with minimal waste and damage, allowing for high-speed harvesting with adjustable pressure to accommodate different stem sizes and plant varieties, enhancing efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing counter-rotating wheels to grip and pull the stem through a stripping orifice
Data Source
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AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention relates to a system for cannabis stem harvesting configured to specifically separate the leaves and buds from the stem. The system includes a frame member, die member, first rotating cylindrical member, second rotating cylindrical member, and a rotation system. The die member is coupled to the frame member and includes a plurality of orifices disposed within a plate. The first and second rotating cylindrical members are coupled to the frame member in a vertical configuration and oriented substantially adjacent to the die member. The vertical configuration of the first and second rotating cylindrical members defines a pinch region therebetween as a region across which a first and second circumferential surface of the first and second rotating cylindrical members are closest in proximity. The rotation system is coupled to the frame member and at least one of the first and second rotating members.