Mobile Horticulture Workstation for In-Field Plant Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current horticultural processing methods are labor-intensive and inefficient, particularly when it comes to processing a large number of immature plants, as they require transportation to remote facilities for processing, which is costly and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A portable, self-powered horticultural processing unit with a multi-level configuration and compact footprint, equipped with conveying platforms, hydraulic lifts, and onboard generators, allowing for efficient processing of plants directly in the field using a combination of conveyor belts, rotary belts, and horticultural machinery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If plants are transported to remote facilities for processing, then processing can be performed with stationary machinery, but transportation costs and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal transportation (moving plants to remote facilities) to vertical integration (bringing processing capabilities directly to the field location). The mobile workstation consolidates multiple processing functions into a single mobile unit that can be positioned at the field, eliminating the need for plant transportation while maintaining processing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile workstation integrates multiple horticultural processing functions (pruning, spacing, fertilization, etc.) into a single multi-functional unit. This allows various processing operations to be performed on-site without requiring multiple separate facilities or transportation of plants between different processing locations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If horticultural processing machinery is made portable, then transportation costs are reduced, but the machinery becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple processing functions, power sources, and support systems into a single integrated mobile workstation. By merging the generator, hydraulic lift, conveying platforms, and various horticultural processing mechanisms into one unified unit, the system achieves mobility without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile workstation is designed as a self-contained modular unit that can be independently transported and deployed. The segmentation of processing functions into integrated modules allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system mobility and reducing the complexity burden of any single component.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact mobile workstation is designed, then field processing becomes feasible, but access for loading vehicles becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile workstation incorporates a hydraulic lift system that enables dynamic height adjustment of the conveying platforms. This allows the workstation to transition between a compact configuration for field deployment and an elevated configuration that provides adequate clearance and access for loading vehicles, effectively resolving the conflict between compact footprint and vehicle accessibility.
4Productivity
If multiple conveying platforms are used to process large numbers of plants, then processing capacity increases, but the apparatus becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple conveying platforms arranged in sequence to create a continuous flow of plants through the processing system. Each platform performs a specific processing function while maintaining continuous movement, eliminating idle time and maximizing processing capacity without requiring complex batch processing mechanisms.
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
Enables efficient and effective processing of a large number of immature plants in the field, reducing labor and transportation costs by providing a mobile workstation that can perform various horticultural operations, such as pruning, spacing, and fertilization, while maintaining a compact and versatile design.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic lift attached to the wheel and suspension assembly configured to lift the apparatus off the ground and onto the wheel and suspension assembly
Implementation Method 2
a generator configured to power the unit and provide standardized electrical connections
Implementation Method 3
a wheel and suspension assembly upon which the frame is mounted
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile, self-powered, horticultural processing unit capable of facilitating the processing of a large number of plants, is disclosed. In particular a modular unit with a multi-level configuration and a compact footprint capable of performing a variety of different horticultural operations is the subject of present embodiments. The unit may utilize a wheel and suspension assembly attached to a hydraulic lift and towing hardware which permits the unit to be towed as a trailer. The unit may comprise a plurality of conveying platforms which permit access by a forklift, as to allow many plants to be input and removed from the unit at once. The unit may assist in the fully or partially automated pruning, canning, fertilizing, treating, and spacing of plants potted in individual containers. Collectively, the cost and labor involved with growing and maintaining plants in the field may be greatly reduced.