Autonomous Garden Work Modules for Adaptive Plant Care
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current garden care technologies lack the ability to autonomously navigate and perform specific plant care tasks based on real-time environmental parameters and seasonal information, requiring user intervention and lacking adaptability in tool usage.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous outdoor device equipped with a sensor system that records environmental parameters, creates a 3D map of the garden, and interacts with a database to determine plant care needs, allowing for task-specific tool assignment and execution, such as watering, cutting, or cleaning, using interchangeable work modules and a communication network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the work device is equipped with multiple task-specific tools, then the versatility and adaptability of the device is improved, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides tools into separate, interchangeable work modules that can be independently attached or detached from the main chassis. Each module contains a specific tool (e.g., mower, edger, blower) that can be selected based on the task requirements, avoiding the need to integrate all tools simultaneously into one complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The chassis is designed with a universal interface and control system that can accommodate multiple different work modules. The modular architecture allows the same base platform to perform various functions by simply changing the attached module, thereby achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
2Extent of automation
If the device uses sensor systems and databases for autonomous operation, then the automation level and task precision are improved, but the device complexity and information processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary database that stores pre-programmed task sequences and environmental parameters. Instead of requiring complex real-time decision-making algorithms in the control device, the system queries the database for pre-determined instructions based on sensor inputs, thereby reducing the computational complexity of the control system while maintaining high automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor systems continuously monitor environmental conditions (e.g., plant health, soil moisture, weather) and feed this information back to the control device, which then queries the database for appropriate task adjustments. This feedback loop enables autonomous adaptation to changing conditions without requiring complex predictive algorithms, as the database contains pre-analyzed response strategies.
3Measurement precision
If the device performs investigative journeys to determine plant growth status, then the measurement precision and task accuracy are improved, but the time consumption and productivity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary investigative journeys to map the terrain and identify plant locations, growth statuses, and task requirements before actual maintenance operations begin. By pre-collecting and analyzing data during these investigative phases, the system optimizes subsequent maintenance routes and tasks, reducing the time needed for actual work execution while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The device dynamically adjusts its investigative behavior based on priority levels and environmental conditions. For high-priority areas or rapidly changing conditions, the system intensifies monitoring frequency and detail. For stable, low-priority areas, it reduces investigative intensity. This dynamic adaptation balances measurement precision with time efficiency, preventing unnecessary prolonged investigations while ensuring critical areas receive adequate attention.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a self-propelled, mobile work device (1) which carries task-specific tools (10', 11'). The tools (10', 11') are assigned to different work modules (10, 11). The work device (1) can select which of the different work modules (10, 11) to use. The work modules (10) can be an irrigation tool (10'), a cutting tool (11'), a mowing tool, a sweeping tool, a fertilizer distribution tool, or a soil cultivation tool. Plant processing is carried out with the aid of a planning tool that includes a database. Task data is transmitted to the work device via the planning tool.