Unwanted plant removal system having variable optics
US10051854B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 24, 2017 |
| Grant date | Aug 21, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 24, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2201/06113
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Embodiments of an apparatus and methods can removing unwanted plants or weeds from an area such as an agricultural plot or lawn. The apparatus includes a three-dimensional imager configured to capture plant images and locate plants; an image processor configured to distinguish between wanted and unwanted plants based upon the captured plant images; at least one laser device configured to emit a laser beam having power sufficient to damage the unwanted plants; a guidance system configured to direct at least one laser beam toward the unwanted plant; and a chassis configured to support the three-dimensional imager, the laser device, and the guidance system. The chassis is configured to be moved across the area.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.