Mobile Horticulture Workstation With Multi-Level Plant Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current horticultural processing systems are inefficient and labor-intensive, particularly when handling large numbers of immature plants, due to the size and linear configuration of machinery, which complicates mobile processing and requires remote transportation.
Innovation Solution
A portable horticultural processing system with a modular, multi-level configuration and compact footprint, equipped with a wheel and suspension assembly for towing, conveying platforms, and onboard power, allowing for efficient processing of plants in the field with access by forklifts and integrated horticultural machinery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If horticultural processing machinery is made large and linearly configured, then processing capability is improved, but mobility and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The horticultural processing system is divided into multiple modular processing units that can be independently configured and assembled. Each unit performs a specific function (e.g., pruning, spacing, canning, watering) and can be attached to the conveying platform as needed, allowing the system to maintain high processing capability while being mobile and adaptable to different field conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from traditional linear ground-based machinery to a multi-level three-dimensional configuration. Plants are conveyed through multiple levels (upper and lower platforms) with processing machinery positioned at different heights and angles, enabling complex processing operations within a compact mobile footprint that does not require large linear space.
2Productivity
If horticultural processing machinery is made large and linearly configured, then processing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying platform is designed as a universal base that can accommodate multiple types of processing machinery and perform various horticultural operations. The same platform structure supports different processing units (pruning machines, spacing devices, canning equipment, watering systems) that can be configured for different plant types and processing requirements, reducing overall system complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable components that can be dynamically adapted to different processing needs. Processing machinery can be positioned at variable locations along the conveying path, and the platform configuration can be modified to handle different plant sizes, pot types, and processing sequences, allowing high productivity without permanent complex installations.
3Productivity
If plants are transported to remote facilities for processing, then processing efficiency is improved, but loss of time and transportation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service processing by bringing the processing capability directly to where the plants are grown. The mobile workstation can be positioned in the field or greenhouse and process plants in place, eliminating the need to transport plants to remote facilities. This maintains processing efficiency while eliminating transportation time and associated costs.
4Volume of moving object
If multiple levels of conveying platforms are used, then space utilization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-level conveying platform employs a nested structure where upper and lower levels are vertically stacked with intermediate support structures. The platforms are arranged concentrically or in nested configurations that maximize space utilization while maintaining structural simplicity. Processing machinery on different levels can operate independently, reducing the complexity of coordinating multiple levels.
Data Source
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AI summary
A mobile, self-powered, horticultural processing unit (100) capable of facilitating the processing of a large number of potted 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 utilizes 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 comprises 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.