Self-Propelled Operator Platform for Espalier Vineyard Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual maintenance processes in espalier vineyards are inefficient, costly, and hazardous due to adverse weather conditions, and existing mechanical solutions are not suitable for high-quality production, as they either produce lower quality results or are prohibited in certain breeding practices.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled machine with a frame, driving wheels, and a support plane that adjusts in height and is insulated from the ground, providing a safe and efficient working environment for operators, equipped with adjustable support arms, a coating structure for protection from atmospheric conditions, and automatic trajectory control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual processes are used for maintenance operations in espalier vineyards, then operators can perform all necessary operations throughout the year, but working conditions become difficult and slower due to adverse atmospheric conditions such as cold, wind, rain, wet ground, and low visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a self-propelled machine as an intermediary carrier that transports the operator through adverse atmospheric conditions. The machine includes a support plane that keeps the operator insulated from wet and slippery ground, a coating structure that protects against cold, wind, and rain, and an automatic trajectory control system that maintains visibility and navigation accuracy. This intermediary vehicle resolves the contradiction by allowing operators to work efficiently while protected from harmful atmospheric factors.
2Productivity
If operators carry necessary work tools manually, then they can perform maintenance operations, but this causes further working condition difficulties and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the operator's work tools with the machine structure itself. The machine includes integrated tool holders, storage compartments, and mounting points for pruning shears, saws, and other maintenance equipment. This integration eliminates the need for operators to manually carry tools, reducing physical burden and improving ease of operation while maintaining full operational capability throughout the year.
3Productivity
If mechanical processes are used for maintenance operations, then time and production costs are reduced, but production quality becomes lower and some breeding rules prohibit their use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hybrid system where the machine provides self-service through automatic trajectory control, speed regulation, and position maintenance, while the operator retains manual control over precision maintenance operations. The automatic navigation system handles routing and positioning, freeing the operator to focus on quality craftsmanship. This division allows mechanical efficiency in navigation while preserving manual precision in actual maintenance tasks, satisfying both productivity and quality requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A self-propelled machine of assistance of a maintenance processes of rows - in espalier yarns - comprising a frame with elongated shape that extends between a first end and a second end, a couple of driving wheels to move the machine and a directional wheel. The frame comprises at least one support arm and at least one support plane for an operator functionally connected to said at least support arm, such that said support plane is - in use - in a skim configuration with respect to the ground plane. In this way, the operator on board of the support plane maintains a height next to the ground plane, which is ideal with respect to the row to be processed. The operator it is therefore insulated by the ground and in ideal conditions, especially when the ground is wet, slippery and soft.