Method and apparatus for controlling weeds with solar energy
US11375707B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 12, 2019 |
| Grant date | Jul 5, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 8, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/40
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus worn by a user for controlling weeds using concentrated solar energy is disclosed. Solar energy may be concentrated by Fresnel lens over the wearer and directed by manual methods by the wearer at surfaces of weed plants to heat portions thereof causing damage. Shutters or other devices may be used to direct, and control intensity of concentrated, solar energy, such control preferably applied before significant concentration of the solar energy. In some embodiments, solar energy concentration apparatus may be integrated with solar photovoltaic cells for generating electric power for purposes such as an electrical temperature sensor, a camera and video display device for viewing underneath a crop canopy, control of solar intensity and other purposes.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.