Unwanted plant removal system having a stabilization system
US9609859B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 13, 2013 |
| Grant date | Apr 4, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 18, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA01M21/04
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and methods are provided for 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 removal device configured to damage a target on the unwanted plants; a guidance system configured to direct at least one laser beam toward the unwanted plant; a stabilization system configured to provide feedback compensation to one or both of the three-dimensional imager and the guidance system; and a chassis configured to support the three-dimensional imager, the laser device, the guidance system, and the stabilization system. The chassis is configured to be moved across the area.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.