Smart Conveyor Plant Trimming via AI and Vacuum
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for post-harvest processing of plants like Cassava and Cannabis, such as trimming, are largely manual and inefficient, leading to outdated solutions with high labor requirements and limited scalability.
Innovation Solution
A smart conveyor system integrating robotic features, artificial intelligence, and automated functions for scalable, safe, and efficient plant trimming, utilizing direct-drive motors and vacuum technology to reduce energy consumption and increase throughput while minimizing manual labor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual trimming methods are used, then labor flexibility is maintained, but productivity is low and labor requirements are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical trimming operations with an automated robotic system that uses computer-controlled motors, sensors, and processing algorithms to perform trimming tasks automatically, thereby increasing productivity while reducing labor requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic trimming system is designed to operate autonomously without continuous human intervention, using its own integrated sensors and processing systems to make real-time decisions about trimming operations, thus maintaining high productivity with minimal labor
2Productivity
If mechanical trimming devices are used, then trimming speed increases, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic trimming system operates in periodic cycles, activating motors and processing units only when needed based on sensor input, rather than continuously running, thereby maintaining high trimming speed while reducing overall energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts operational parameters such as motor speed, processing intensity, and active components based on real-time conditions, allowing the system to maintain high productivity while optimizing energy consumption by reducing power usage during low-demand periods
3Ease of operation
If centralized processing is used, then system control is simplified, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the trimming system into modular segments with independent processing units, each capable of autonomous operation, while a central controller coordinates overall system function, thereby simplifying control operations while managing system complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary control layer between individual processing components and the central management system, using communication protocols and control algorithms to mediate coordination, thereby simplifying user control while managing the complexity of multi-component integration
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 provides a scalable, efficient, and safer solution for plant trimming, reducing energy consumption and labor needs, while maintaining high-quality output and adaptability to varying production demands.
Implementation Method 1
vacuum technology to reduce energy consumption and increase throughput
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments according to the present invention relate to an apparatus and method for plant transportation using a smart conveyor. Embodiments of the present invention provide enhanced capabilities as a result of integrating robotic features, automations, artificial intelligence, queuing, fault control, automatic transport, scalability, safety measures, smaller footprint, and other computerized functions, along with a creative business model. In design of this invention the following high-level requirements were achieved: scalable for small, medium, and large businesses; safer than other machines in the market; sanitation consideration; simplicity in maintenance, and automated functions to reduce the need for labor (e.g., integration of robotics, AI, and/or other computerized systems).