WO2025199185A1

WO2025199185A1 - Customized mixing and aerial-based treatment for automated lawn care

Info

Publication number: WO2025199185A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/020500
Authority: WO
Inventors: James G. MCCLURE JR.
Original assignee: Alacs LLC
Current assignee: Alacs LLC
Priority date: 2024-03-20
Filing date: 2025-03-19
Publication date: 2025-09-25
Anticipated expiration: 2026-09-20

Abstract

The disclosed system and method pertain to automated lawn care applications. A mobile platform houses a custom mix station that creates a custom mixed solution of lawn care products based on individual lawn conditions. A plurality of aerial drones or robotic vehicles, each equipped with a spray tank and application nozzles, receive the custom mixed solution from the custom mix station and apply the solution to a lawn. A docking station on the mobile platform houses, refills, and recharges the drones or vehicles. The system also includes a communication software that logs lawn conditions, products used, and enters the information into a database.

Description

CUSTOMIZED MIXING AND AERIAL-BASED TREATMENT FOR AUTOMATED LAWN CARE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/567,871 filed March 20, 2024 entitled “CUSTOMIZED MIXING AND AERIAL-BASED TREATMENT FOR AUTOMATED LAWN CARE,” the contents of which being incorporated by reference in their entirety herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of automated lawn care, and more specifically, to systems, methods, and devices that utilize aerial drones and robotic vehicles for the custom mixing and precise application of lawn care products.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Lawn care is a field that involves the maintenance and enhancement of lawns and other landscaped areas. This typically includes tasks such as mowing, fertilizing, weed control, and pest management. Over the years, various methods and tools have been developed to assist in these tasks, ranging from manual tools to motorized equipment and vehicles. One common aspect of lawn care is the application of various products such as fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. These products are typically applied in a liquid or granular form to the lawn or landscaped area. The application process often involves mixing the product with water in a tank, and then spraying or spreading the mixture onto the lawn using a hose or spreader. The mixture is typically prepared off-site and transported to the location in a truck or other vehicle.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system for lawn care applications is provided. The system includes a mobile platform, which can be positioned on a truck or other mobile vehicle. The system includes a custom mix station located on the mobile platform, the custom mix station configured to create a custom mixed solution of lawn care products based on individual lawn conditions. The system includes a plurality of aerial vehicles, at least one of the aerial vehicles being equipped with a spray tank and application nozzles, the aerial vehicles being configured to receive the custom mixed solution from the custom mix station and apply the solution to a lawn or other area. The system includes a docking station located on the mobile platform, the docking station configured to house, refill, and recharge the drones or vehicles.

[0006] The custom mix station may comprise a plurality of containers, each container holding a different concentrated lawn care product. The docking station may be configured to refill and recharge the drones or vehicles. The drones or vehicles may be equipped with at least one of a real time kinetic (RTK) module and a global positioning system (GPS) for precise navigation and application of the custom mixed solution. The system may further comprise a communication software configured to log lawn conditions, products used, and enter the information into a database.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for lawn care applications is provided. The method includes diagnosing individual lawn conditions. To this end, one or more drones or unmanned aerial vehicles can detect conditions associated with a lawn to be treated using an imaging device or other sensor, which can be communicated to a mobile platform or a remote server for analysis to diagnose lawn conditions. The method further includes creating a custom mixed solution of lawn care products based on the diagnosed lawn conditions and environmental data. The method includes loading the custom mixed solution onto a plurality of aerial drones or robotic vehicles. The method includes applying the custom mixed solution to a lawn using the drones or vehicles, wherein the diagnosing, creating, loading, and applying are performed by a system located on the mobile platform. [0008] The diagnosing of individual lawn conditions may be performed by a reconnaissance drone equipped with a camera and/or image recognition software. The custom mixed solution may be created by a custom mix station comprising a plurality of containers, each container holding a different concentrated lawn care product. The loading of the custom mixed solution onto the drones or vehicles may be performed by a docking station located on the mobile platform, the docking station configured to refill and recharge the drones or vehicles. The drones or vehicles may be configured to apply the custom mixed solution in a grid pattern over the lawn and to avoid obstacles on the lawn during the application of the custom mixed solution.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a system for automated lawn care is provided. The system includes a mobile platform positioned on a mobile vehicle. The system includes a custom mix station on the mobile platform, the custom mix station configured to create a custom mixed solution of lawn care products. The system includes a plurality of aerial vehicles, at least one of the aerial vehicles equipped with a spray tank and application nozzles, the aerial vehicles configured to receive the custom mixed solution from the custom mix station and apply the solution to a lawn. The system includes a docking station on the mobile platform configured to house and service the aerial vehicles. The system includes a control system configured to coordinate operations of the custom mix station, aerial vehicles, and docking station.

[0010] The custom mix station may comprise a plurality of containers, each container holding a different concentrated lawn care product. The docking station may be configured to refill the spray tanks and recharge batteries of the aerial vehicles. At least one of the aerial vehicles may be equipped with a camera and image recognition software for diagnosing lawn conditions. The aerial vehicles may be equipped with at least one of a real time kinetic (RTK) module and a global positioning system (GPS) for navigation.

[0011] The system may further comprise communication circuitry configured to send requests comprising log lawn conditions, products used, to enter information into a database. The control system may be configured to generate application patterns for the aerial vehicles based on diagnosed lawn conditions. The custom mix station may be configured to adjust the custom mixed solution based on environmental data. The aerial vehicles may be configured to avoid obstacles on the lawn during application of the custom mixed solution. The mobile platform may be a vehicle configured to transport the system between different lawn care sites.

[0012] The foregoing general description of the illustrative embodiments and the following detailed description thereof are merely exemplary aspects of the teachings of this disclosure and are not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the disclosure. Moreover, in the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an automated treatment system for lawn care, featuring satellites transmitting signals to vehicles navigating a lawn, an automated mower in proximity to its base station, and a beacon serving as a reference point for the system, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2 depicts an isometric view of an automated treatment system for lawn care applications, showcasing a base station serving as the central hub for the system, various vehicles positioned around it, an automated mower adjacent to the lawn, and a base vehicle equipped with a retractable roof providing access to a mix station, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIGS. 3-4 present two views related to a drone bay system for an aerial drone, with FIG. 3 showing a side perspective of the drone bay and FIG. 4 presenting an aerial view of the drone bay according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 5 depicts a flowchart of a method for automated lawn care applications, outlining the process from diagnosing individual lawn conditions to applying a custom mixed solution to a lawn using drones or vehicles, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and devices that leverage advanced technologies such as aerial drones, robotic vehicles, real time kinetic (RTK) technology, and/or global positioning system (GPS) satellite technology for the automated and precise application of lawn care products.

[0019] Referring to FIG. 1 , an automated treatment system 100 for lawn care is depicted. In some aspects, the automated treatment system 100 may include a plurality of vehicles 105a, 105b, which may include, for example, unmanned aerial vehicles. Further, in some examples, the unmanned aerial vehicles include “mini-drones,” as understood in the field of UAVs. The vehicles 105 can thus be referred to herein as "drones" in some implementations. It is understood, however, that one or more of the vehicles 105 described herein, can be a land- based vehicle, such as a land-based mower, applicator, or like vehicle.

[0020] A mini-drone, often referred to as a micro-drone or a small unmanned aerial vehicle, can include a compact and lightweight vehicle 105 that is typically used for various purposes including recreational flying, photography, surveillance, and in some cases, as part of technological systems for tasks such as data collection. Mini-drones are often characterized by their small size, ease of use, and often, their ability to be operated within the line of sight of the user.

[0021] In some embodiments, the vehicles 105, which may be aerial drones or robotic vehicles, can be equipped with advanced imaging devices, such as cameras. These cameras can serve multiple purposes, including capturing high- resolution images of the lawn for diagnosing lawn conditions, identifying obstacles, and guiding the precise application of lawn care products. In some embodiments, the imaging devices are configured to capture high-resolution images that can provide detailed information about a lawn or other area. The high-resolution images can reveal minute details that may not be visible to the naked eye, such as tiny weeds, pests, or signs of disease. This can greatly enhance the accuracy of the lawn diagnosis, leading to more effective lawn care treatments.

[0022] The cameras on the vehicles 105 can serve multiple purposes, making them a versatile tool in the lawn care process. One of their functions is to capture images of the lawn for diagnosing lawn conditions. By analyzing the images, the system can identify issues such as nutrient deficiencies, disease infestations, or pest damage. This information can then be used to determine the appropriate lawn care products to apply, as well as the correct amounts and application methods, as will be described. In addition to diagnosing lawn conditions, the cameras can also be used to identify obstacles on the lawn. These could include physical objects such as rocks, garden furniture, or toys, as well as natural features like trees or shrubs. By identifying these obstacles, the system can ensure that the vehicles 105 navigate around them safely and efficiently, preventing damage to both the vehicles and the obstacles.

[0023] Furthermore, the cameras can guide the precise application of lawn care products. By providing real-time images of the lawn, they can help the system to determine the exact locations where the products are to be applied. This can ensure that the products are applied evenly and accurately, maximizing their effectiveness, and minimizing waste. For instance, if the images reveal a patch of weeds in a particular area of the lawn, the system can direct the vehicles 105 to apply a weed killer to that specific area, rather than spraying it over the whole lawn. This targeted application can not only save on lawn care products but also reduce the environmental impact of the lawn care process.

[0024] In various embodiments, the vehicles 105 can be configured for remote operation, providing flexibility and convenience in controlling their movements and functions. This remote operation can be facilitated through various means, such as a dedicated controller or a smartphone application. The dedicated controller can be a handheld device with buttons, joysticks, or other input mechanisms that allow the operator to control the movements of the vehicles, adjust their settings, and initiate or stop their operations. The controller may also have a display screen that shows real-time data from the vehicles, such as their location, status, and the images captured by their cameras. On the other hand, the smartphone application provides an accessible and user-friendly interface for controlling the vehicles. The application can be downloaded and installed on a smartphone, turning the smartphone into a portable control center for the vehicles. The application may have a graphical user interface that displays real-time data from the vehicles and provides interactive controls for operating the vehicles. The application may also have features for viewing and analyzing the images captured by the vehicles, setting up automated tasks for the vehicles, and managing the data logged by the vehicles. These remote control options not only make it easier to operate the vehicles but also allow the operator to stay at a safe distance from the lawn care operations, reducing the risk of exposure to lawn care products.

[0025] The vehicles 105 may navigate a lawn or other areas, while potentially navigating around various obstacles 115, such as trees. In some cases, the vehicles 105 may be equipped with a real time kinetic (RTK) module (not shown) and/or a GPS module (not shown) for precise navigation and application of a custom mixed solution. This technology may allow the vehicles 105 to apply custom mixed solutions in desired regions of a lawn or other area, improving the accuracy and efficiency of the lawn care applications. In some configurations, the vehicles 105 may be configured to apply the custom mixed solution in a grid pattern over the lawn. In other configurations, the vehicles 105 may be configured to avoid obstacles 115 on the lawn during the application of the custom mixed solution.

[0026] In some aspects, the diagnosing of individual lawn conditions may be performed by a reconnaissance drone, which may be a functional variation of the vehicle 105a. The reconnaissance drone may be equipped with a camera and image recognition software. This allows the reconnaissance drone to identify specific lawn conditions and relay the information back to a custom mix station located on a mobile platform. Alternatively, the image recognition software can be located remotely from the reconnaissance drone, such as in a base vehicle or in a remote data center, as will be described.

[0027] An automated mower 120 is depicted in proximity to an automated mower base station 125, where the automated mower base station 125 may provide charging or storage functionality. In some cases, the automated mower 120 may be managed by the vehicles 105a, 105b, which in turn receive navigation data from satellites 110a and 110b.

[0028] A beacon 130 can be positioned on the ground, serving as a reference or navigation point for the automated treatment system 100 and the vehicles 105 thereof. In some aspects, one or more of the vehicles 105 can act as an antenna and can fly in a fixed position over a quick-reference (QR) coded beacon or other beacon featuring a visual identification, replacing normal static RTK antenna placement on the property being treated. This vehicle 105 may receive and relay satellite GPS signals to a lawn spray delivery drone, which may be a variation of the vehicles 105a, 105b.

[0029] The system 100 can include a coordinated system where the satellites 110a and 110b provide navigation data to the vehicles 105a and 105b, which in turn, manage the automated mower 120 and interact with the beacon 130 to perform lawn care tasks. This coordinated system may allow for a more efficient and precise application of lawn care products, potentially reducing waste and improving the health of the lawn.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 2, an isometric view of an automated treatment system 100 for lawn care applications is depicted. The base station 102 serves as the central hub for the system, with various vehicles 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, and 105g positioned around it, ready to perform their designated tasks. In some embodiments, these vehicles may be unmanned aerial vehicles or robotic vehicles, each equipped with a spray tank and application nozzles. The vehicles may be configured to receive a custom mixed solution from a custom mix station 145 and apply the solution to a lawn.

[0031] In some cases, the custom mixed solution is created by the custom mix station 145, which is located on a mobile platform, such as a base vehicle 135. The custom mix station 145 may comprise a plurality of containers, each container holding a different concentrated lawn care product. These concentrated lawn care products, referred to as concentrates 155, may be stored within the mix station 145, ready to be mixed into the custom solutions as dictated by the specific lawn conditions. The concentrates 155 can be stored in individually removable and replaceable containers such that a field technician can easily swap concentrates 155, for instance, when concentrates 155 are fully used up, or for particular desired treatments. Thus, the containers are detachably attachable to the custom mix station 145 or receptacles thereof.

[0032] A variety of fertilizers and chemicals can be stored as concentrates 155 in the containers to nurture and maintain healthy turf. Such chemicals can include, for example, nitrogen-based fertilizers, phosphorus-based fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, iron supplements, lime, sulfur, and so forth. To this end, nitrogenbased fertilizers can be used to stimulate lush, leafy growth and can be typically applied during the grass's peak growing seasons, which are spring and summer. These fertilizers come in both quick-release forms for immediate growth and slow- release forms for prolonged nourishment. Phosphorus-based fertilizers can provide robust root development, especially useful when establishing new lawns or repairing damaged areas. Potassium-based fertilizers contribute to the overall resilience of the grass, enhancing its resistance to diseases and tolerance to drought conditions.

[0033] Herbicides, commonly known as weed killers, can be employed to manage unwanted vegetation, with selective herbicides targeting specific weeds without harming the grass, and non-selective herbicides eliminating all vegetation for spot treatments or comprehensive lawn overhauls. Pesticides can be applied to control lawn-damaging pests such as grubs and chinch bugs. Fungicides can be used to prevent or treat common fungal diseases that can lead to unsightly brown patches, dollar spots, or rust diseases in the turf.

[0034] Additionally, iron supplements can be used to deepen the green color of the grass without promoting excessive growth, while lime can be applied to increase soil pH when it becomes overly acidic, which can impede nutrient absorption by the lawn. In contrast, sulfur can be used to decrease soil pH in overly alkaline conditions. The custom mix station is configured to concoct a bespoke solution that may include any combination of these products, tailored to the specific conditions diagnosed in the lawn based on data collected from the lawn using various sensors.

[0035] In some aspects, the diagnosing of individual lawn conditions may be performed by a reconnaissance drone, which may be a functional variation of the vehicle 105a. The reconnaissance drone may be equipped with a camera and image recognition software. This allows the reconnaissance drone to identify specific lawn conditions and relay the information back to the custom mix station 145.

[0036] The base vehicle 135 can be equipped with a retractable roof 140, which provides access to the mix station 145 where the custom solutions for lawn treatment are prepared. The solution mix tank 150 holds the mixed solutions, which are then distributed to the vehicles via a pump 160. The base vehicle 135 can include a locking mechanism or other storage mechanism, that forms a connection with a vehicle 105 and retains or stores the vehicle 105 in or on the base vehicle 135. The base vehicle 135 can include a box truck, cargo van, or like vehicle.

[0037] In some configurations, the loading of the custom mixed solution onto the drones or vehicles is performed by a docking station located on a mobile platform. To this end, the docking station can be configured to refill and recharge the vehicles 105. This docking station may be a functional variation of the base station 102.

[0038] In some cases, the vehicles 105 may be equipped with an RTK module and/or a GPS module for precise navigation and application of the custom mixed solution. This technology may allow the vehicles to apply the custom mixed solution exactly where it is on the lawn, potentially improving the accuracy and efficiency of the lawn care applications. In some configurations, the vehicles 105 may be configured to apply the custom mixed solution in a grid pattern over the lawn. In other configurations, the vehicles 105 may be configured to avoid obstacles 115 on the lawn during the application of the custom mixed solution.

[0039] The system 100 can be configured to automate the process of diagnosing, mixing, and applying lawn care products with precision and efficiency. This automated treatment system 100 may provide improved lawn care applications, potentially reducing waste and improving the health of the lawn. The mix, as determined by the base station, can be determined as a function of data collected about a lawn or other area to be treated, a time of year, environmental data, such as recent weather conditions (e.g., rain levels, humidity, etc.), types and amounts of concentrates 155 available in the mixing station, as well as other data. The mix can be determined automatically, and can be approved or modified by a field technician. In some embodiments, one or more machine learning techniques using a feedback loop can be utilized.

[0040] Referring to FIGS. 3-4, two views related to a drone bay system for an aerial drone are depicted. In some aspects, the drone bay system may be a part of the base station 102. FIG. 3 shows a side perspective of the drone bay with an example vehicle 105, which may be a reconnaissance drone in some cases. The reconnaissance drone, also referred to as the central drone component 105, is illustrated in its landing area within the drone bay. The landing area may be designed to securely house the reconnaissance drone when it is not in use, and to facilitate its takeoff and landing during operation.

[0041] In some configurations, the drone bay may include a retractable roof 140. The retractable roof 140 can be configured to open and close for vehicle 105 access, providing protection for the reconnaissance drone when it is not in use and allowing it to easily take off and land when in operation. The retractable roof 140 may be operated manually or automatically, depending on the specific configuration of the system 100.

[0042] The drone bay may also include various other features, such as a solution mix, refill nozzle, and electronic connections. These features may facilitate the refilling and recharging of the reconnaissance drone, as well as its communication with other components of the system 100. For instance, the solution mix may be provided by the mix station 145, which is located on the mobile platform. The refill nozzle may be used to load the custom mixed solution onto the reconnaissance drone, preparing it for the application process. The electronic connections may enable the reconnaissance drone to communicate with the mix station 145 and the docking station, among other components of the system 100.

[0043] In some embodiments, the vehicle 105 can include magnetic locking legs to secure the vehicle 105 during maintenance operations such as refilling and recharging. In some embodiments, magnetic induction may be employed to charge a battery of the vehicle 105 wirelessly. Alternatively, when the magnetic locking legs are attached to the bay, an electrical current is applied to one or more of the legs, which in turn charges the battery of the vehicle 105. The locking mechanisms ensure that the vehicle 105 remains stationary and properly aligned within the drone bay, facilitating safe and efficient servicing.

[0044] In further embodiments, the vehicle 105 may include pyramid-shaped guides that assist the vehicle 105 in achieving a precise and controlled landing by guiding it to the correct position within the bay. These guides are designed to work in conjunction with the vehicle's navigation system to ensure accurate placement during landing operations. The drone bay system, as depicted in FIG. 3, is an example of the integration of various components working together to support the operational efficiency of the automated treatment system 100. The design and functionality of the drone bay contribute to the overall effectiveness of the lawn care applications by ensuring that the aerial vehicles are properly maintained, refilled, and ready for deployment.

[0045] FIG. 4 presents an aerial view of the drone bay, highlighting the central drone component 105 and showing the retractable roof 140 and open sides underneath for servicing. The open sides underneath the bay may facilitate maintenance and servicing of the reconnaissance drone. For instance, they may provide easy access to the reconnaissance drone for tasks such as refilling its spray tank, recharging its battery, or performing any repairs or adjustments that may be necessary.

[0046] In some operational variations, the diagnosing of individual lawn conditions may be performed by the reconnaissance drone, which is equipped with a camera and image recognition software. This allows the reconnaissance drone to identify specific lawn conditions and relay the information back to the custom mix station 145. The reconnaissance drone may be configured to fly over the lawn area, noting obstacles and specific lawn conditions present, and relay this information back to the custom mix station 145. This process may allow for a more accurate and efficient creation of the custom mixed solution, potentially improving the health of the lawn and reducing waste.

[0047] Referring now to the flowchart depicted in FIG. 5, the operational workflow of the automated treatment system 100 for lawn care applications is illustrated. The process begins with the initial setup, where the system 100 is deployed to the lawn care site and the mobile platform, such as the base vehicle 135, is positioned strategically to serve as the central hub for the operations.

[0048] The first operational phase involves the reconnaissance drone, which may be one of the vehicles 105, conducting a diagnostic flight over the lawn area. Equipped with a camera and advanced image recognition software, the reconnaissance drone captures images and data pertaining to the lawn’s condition, including but not limited to grass health, weed presence, pest infestations, and soil moisture levels.

[0049] Upon completion of the diagnostic flight, the data collected by the reconnaissance drone is transmitted to the custom mix station 145 located on the mobile platform. The custom mix station 145, utilizing the diagnostic data, determines the precise formulation of the custom mixed solution. This formulation can be a function of the individual lawn conditions, environmental data, the type and amount of concentrates 155 available, and the specific requirements for lawn care products.

[0050] Once the custom mixed solution is formulated, the next phase involves the preparation of the solution. The custom mix station 145, comprising a plurality of containers each holding different concentrated lawn care products, mixes the concentrates 155 in the solution mix tank 150 to create the custom mixed solution. The pump 160 then facilitates the transfer of the solution to the aerial vehicles' spray tanks.

[0051] The aerial vehicles, which include a fleet of drones or robotic vehicles equipped with spray tanks and application nozzles, dock at the docking station located on the mobile platform. Here, they are refilled with the custom mixed solution and their batteries are recharged, preparing them for the application phase. In the application phase, the aerial vehicles, now loaded with the custom mixed solution, take off and navigate the lawn area. They are guided by precision navigation systems, which may include RTK modules and GPS technology, ensuring that the solution is applied accurately and efficiently. The vehicles are programmed to apply the solution in a grid pattern, covering the lawn comprehensively while avoiding obstacles such as trees and garden features.

[0052] Throughout the process, a communication software integrated into the system 100 logs all relevant data, including lawn conditions before and after treatment, the specific products used, and the quantities applied. This information is then entered into a database for record-keeping and analysis, which can be used for future lawn care planning and to refine the system's performance. The flowchart concludes with the post-application phase, where the aerial vehicles return to the docking station for any additional refilling or recharging as may be necessitated by the lawn's size or the treatment's complexity. The system 100 then stands ready for the next operation or for relocation to another lawn care site. This flowchart represents a high-level overview of the operational workflow of the automated treatment system 100, providing a clear and systematic approach to modern lawn care applications. [0053] Various advantages of the system 100 are now described. For the customer, a less expensive, more precisely applied lawn application is provided. The customer has more choices in products used on individual applications including organic options. The system 100 provides custom Blended Solution specific to their lawn conditions, and uses less pesticide and fertilizers used in mono mix for “blanket treatments.” For the technician, there is less pesticide exposure, less physically demanding work and less opportunity for misdiagnosis or misapplication of products, which can be particularly expensive specialty products to be applied by hand.

[0054] For the environment, the reduction of many tons nationwide of overapplication of fertilizer and pesticide products in consumer landscapes, public parks, and public/private campuses affecting storm water, ground water, pollinator, and wildlife populations. There will be less carbon emissions from gasoline powered spray pumps and with lawn care trucks producing more work per route, less carbon emissions and traffic from trucks on the road.

[0055] For lawn care companies, it is estimated that aerial drone and robotic delivery of custom mixed lawn care applications from the system 100 will reduce the use of fertilizer and pesticides, labor costs, vehicle use, insurance, fuel, and liability by up to fifty percent over current applications. There will be significant gains in employee retention from less physically demanding work will make sufficient staffing much more obtainable. The improved quality of precision applications done with photo recognition condition specific machine learning with robotics and aerial drones will improve customer experience and retention for lawn care companies away from the annual loss of nearly 35% loss to a more manageable 10% industry average resulting in less customer acquisition costs that require spring telemarketing campaigns that annoy customers and are costly for lawn care companies.

[0056] In some implementations, the automated treatment system 100 may be deployed to a lawn care site using a truck. The mobile platform, which may include the base vehicle 135, can be permanently affixed to the truck or removed and positioned near the lawn or area to be treated. This flexibility in deployment may allow for optimal positioning of the system 100 relative to the treatment area. [0057] Once in position, a reconnaissance drone, which may be one of the vehicles 105, may conduct an initial survey of the lawn. This drone may be equipped with various imaging devices and sensors to collect data about the lawn's condition. The data collected may include visual imagery, spectral analysis, soil moisture readings, and other relevant environmental parameters. The drone may transmit this data to the mobile platform or directly to a remote server for analysis. In some cases, the drone may have onboard processing capabilities to perform initial diagnostics.

[0058] Based on the collected data, lawn conditions may be diagnosed. This diagnosis may take into account not only the current state of the lawn but also environmental data such as recent and forecasted weather patterns, local soil characteristics, and any known drought conditions. Using this comprehensive set of data, a custom mixing solution may be determined.

[0059] The custom mix station 145 located on the mobile platform may then create the custom mixing solution. This process may involve combining various concentrates 155 in precise ratios as determined by the diagnosis. Once prepared, the solution may be loaded onto the treatment drones using the pump 160 and a network of fluid pathways integrated into the docking station.

[0060] A treatment plan may then be formulated, taking into account factors such as the capacity of each drone, the size of the area to be treated, and the specific requirements of different sections of the lawn. In some scenarios, different drones may be loaded with different treatment solutions to address varied conditions across the lawn. The order of treatment may also be determined as part of this plan.

[0061] If multiple drones are to be utilized, a communication drone may be deployed first. This drone may implement an RTK protocol to enhance the precision of GPS positioning for all the treatment drones. The communication drone may serve as an intermediary, relaying data between the treatment drones and the mobile platform or a remote computing device. This may be particularly useful in situations where direct line-of-sight communication between all drones and the base station is not possible.

[0062] After the treatment is completed, the drones may return to the mobile platform. Here, they may be serviced, which can include refilling their tanks, recharging their batteries, and performing any necessary maintenance. The system 100 may then be prepared for transport to the next lawn care site, with the drones securely docked in the base station 102 for the journey. This operational scenario demonstrates the flexibility and efficiency of the automated treatment system 100, showcasing its ability to provide customized, precise lawn care treatments across various locations.

[0063] In some implementations, the automated treatment system may utilize advanced imaging technologies to diagnose lawn conditions with high precision. Multispectral imaging sensors mounted on the reconnaissance drone may capture data across various wavelengths of light, including visible and near-infrared spectra. This technology may allow for the detection of plant stress, nutrient deficiencies, and pest infestations before they become visible to the naked eye. By analyzing the reflectance patterns of different wavelengths, the system may identify areas of the lawn that require specific treatments or interventions.

[0064] Thermal imaging cameras may also be incorporated into the diagnostic toolkit of the reconnaissance drone. These sensors may detect temperature variations across the lawn, which can be indicative of soil moisture levels, irrigation issues, or areas of disease. By creating a thermal map of the lawn, the system may identify hot spots that could signify dry patches or cool areas that might indicate overwatering or poor drainage. This information may be beneficial in formulating a targeted treatment plan that addresses specific areas of concern rather than applying a uniform solution across the entire lawn.

[0065] In some embodiments, the system may employ Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology to create highly detailed three-dimensional (3D) models of the lawn and surrounding landscape. LiDAR sensors may emit laser pulses and measure the time it takes for the light to reflect back, allowing for precise mapping of the terrain. This technology may be particularly useful in identifying subtle changes in lawn topography, which can affect drainage patterns and grass health. The 3D models generated by LiDAR may also assist in planning efficient flight paths for the treatment drones and avoiding obstacles during application.

[0066] Hyperspectral imaging may be another advanced technology integrated into the lawn diagnosis process. Unlike multispectral imaging, which captures data in a few distinct wavelength bands, hyperspectral imaging may collect data across hundreds of continuous spectral bands. This high level of spectral resolution may allow for the detection of subtle variations in plant health, soil composition, and even the presence of specific pests or pathogens. By analyzing the unique spectral signatures of different lawn conditions, the system may provide highly accurate and detailed diagnoses, enabling the creation of exceptionally tailored treatment solutions.

[0067] The foregoing description sets forth exemplary aspects of the present disclosure. It should be recognized, however, that such description is not intended as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. Rather, the description also encompasses combinations and modifications to those exemplary aspects described herein.

[0068] A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

[0069] The features, structures, or characteristics described above may be combined in one or more embodiments in any suitable manner, and the features discussed in the various embodiments may be interchangeable, if possible. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided in order to fully understand the embodiments of the present disclosure. However, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that the technical solution of the present disclosure may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or other methods, components, materials, and the like may be employed. In other instances, well- known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the present disclosure.

[0070] Although the relative terms such as “on,” “below,” “upper,” and “lower” are used in the specification to describe the relative relationship of one component to another component, these terms are used in this specification for convenience only, for example, as a direction in an example shown in the drawings. It should be understood that if the device is turned upside down, the “upper” component described above will become a “lower” component. When a structure is “on” another structure, it is possible that the structure is integrally formed on another structure, or that the structure is “directly” disposed on another structure, or that the structure is “indirectly” disposed on the other structure through other structures.

[0071] In this specification, the terms such as “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are used to indicate the presence of one or more elements and components. The terms “comprise,” “include,” “have,” “contain,” and their variants are used to be open ended, and are meant to include additional elements, components, etc., in addition to the listed elements, components, etc. unless otherwise specified in the appended claims.

[0072] The terms “first,” “second,” etc. are used only as labels, rather than a limitation for a number of the objects. It is understood that if multiple components are shown, the components may be referred to as a “first” component, a “second” component, and so forth, to the extent applicable.

[0073] The above-described embodiments of the present disclosure are merely possible examples of implementations set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS Therefore, the following is claimed:

1 . A system for lawn care applications, comprising: a mobile platform; a custom mix station located on the mobile platform, the custom mix station configured to create a custom mixed solution of lawn care products based on individual lawn conditions; a plurality of aerial vehicles, at least one of the aerial vehicles being equipped with a spray tank and application nozzles, the aerial vehicles being configured to receive the custom mixed solution from the custom mix station and apply the solution to a lawn or other area; and a docking station located on the mobile platform, the docking station configured to house, refill, and recharge the drones or vehicles.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the custom mix station comprises a plurality of containers, each container holding a different concentrated lawn care product.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the docking station is configured to refill and recharge the drones or vehicles.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the drones or vehicles are equipped with at least one of a real time kinetic (RTK) module and a global positioning system (GPS) for precise navigation and application of the custom mixed solution.

5. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a communication software configured to log lawn conditions, products used, and enter the information into a database.

6. A method for lawn care applications, comprising: diagnosing individual lawn conditions; creating a custom mixed solution of lawn care products based on the diagnosed lawn conditions and environmental data; loading the custom mixed solution onto a plurality of aerial drones or robotic vehicles; and applying the custom mixed solution to a lawn using the drones or vehicles, wherein the diagnosing, creating, loading, and applying are performed by a system located on a mobile platform.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the diagnosing of individual lawn conditions is performed by a reconnaissance drone equipped with a camera and image recognition software.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein the custom mixed solution is created by a custom mix station comprising a plurality of containers, each container holding a different concentrated lawn care product.

9. The method of claim 6, wherein the loading of the custom mixed solution onto the drones or vehicles is performed by a docking station located on the mobile platform, the docking station configured to refill and recharge the drones or vehicles.

10. The method of claim 6, wherein the drones or vehicles are configured to apply the custom mixed solution in a grid pattern over the lawn and to avoid obstacles on the lawn during the application of the custom mixed solution.

11. A system for automated lawn care, comprising: a mobile platform positioned on a mobile vehicle; a custom mix station on the mobile platform, the custom mix station configured to create a custom mixed solution of lawn care products; a plurality of aerial vehicles, at least one of the aerial vehicles equipped with a spray tank and application nozzles, the aerial vehicles configured to receive the custom mixed solution from the custom mix station and apply the solution to a lawn; a docking station on the mobile platform configured to house and service the aerial vehicles; and a control system configured to coordinate operations of the custom mix station, aerial vehicles, and docking station.

12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the custom mix station comprises a plurality of containers, each container holding a different concentrated lawn care product.

13. The system of claim 11 , wherein the docking station is configured to refill the spray tanks and recharge batteries of the aerial vehicles.

14. The system of claim 11 , wherein at least one of the aerial vehicles is equipped with a camera and image recognition software for diagnosing lawn conditions.

15. The system of claim 11 , wherein the aerial vehicles are equipped with at least one of a real time kinetic (RTK) module and a global positioning system (GPS) for navigation.

16. The system of claim 11 , further comprising communication circuitry configured to send requests comprising log lawn conditions, products used, to enter information into a database.

17. The system of claim 11 , wherein the control system is configured to generate application patterns for the aerial vehicles based on diagnosed lawn conditions.

18. The system of claim 11 , wherein the custom mix station is configured to adjust the custom mixed solution based on environmental data.

19. The system of claim 11 , wherein the aerial vehicles are configured to avoid obstacles on the lawn during application of the custom mixed solution.

20. The system of claim 11 , wherein the mobile platform is a vehicle configured to transport the system between different lawn care sites.