WO2018229792A2

WO2018229792A2 - A dispensing device for dispensing agricultural items

Info

Publication number: WO2018229792A2
Application number: PCT/IN2018/050383
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sharad Patil; Nandita YENAGI
Original assignee: Sharad Patil; Yenagi Nandita
Priority date: 2017-06-11
Filing date: 2018-06-11
Publication date: 2018-12-20
Also published as: WO2018229792A3

Abstract

The present disclosure envisages a delivery pipe for dispensing at least one of a granular material or a powder material from a storage tank, the delivery pipe comprising a delivery pipe having a first end coupled to an outlet of the storage tank and a second end coupled to an end ejector, wherein the end ejector facilitates the required discharge of the granular material or the powder material therefrom; an elongate mount provided in the interior of the delivery pipe, wherein a plurality of buckets are mounted on the elongate mount; and displacing means coupled with the elongate mount for facilitating linear reciprocating motion of the elongate mount and the plurality of buckets within the delivery pipe, thereby providing a de-clogging and a de-scaling effect for efficient discharge of at least one of the granular and the powder mater from the delivery pipe.

Description

A DISPENSING DEVICE FOR DISPENSING AGRICULTURAL ITEMS

FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a dispensing device for use in agricultural and related industries.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In agricultural industries and other related crop/plant growing fields like gardens, orchids, nursery, forest and the like, dispensing seeds or fertilizers by broadcasting method, either in granule form or powdered form, is a challenging task and more challenging is dispensing seeds or fertilizers from one crop to another crop. Conventionally, seeds or fertilizers are carried manually in hand-held baskets and dispensed manually. Weight limitations are associated with carrying seeds or fertilizers in such hand-held basket as an individual can carry approximately 7 to 8 kilograms. Manual dispensing is time consuming and laborious task and it is difficult to get labors to perform such laborious task. Also, manual dispensing has other disadvantages associated therewith. For instance, fertilizers may fall on open soil and not at the place where the crop is planted and hence contaminates the soil and causes wastage of fertilizers. Also, the distributions of seeds or fertilizers are non-uniform resulting in improper cropping or inadequate spread of fertilizers resulting in non- uniformity of fertilizer absorption by plant and spoiling of crops resulting in poor yield of crops. Also, at times, uncontrolled undesirable growth of weeds is observed. Further, due to extreme weather conditions, such as rain, it becomes difficult to spread seeds or fertilizers from one crop to another crop. [0003] Alternatively, tractors are used to dispose seeds or fertilizers. However, when the land is small, it is difficult and inconvenient to move tractors thereon. Also, tractors are used only at the time of sowing and cannot be used (for fertilizing) once the crops start growing.

[0004] There are some prior art documents referring to fertilizer or seed dispensers. US Publication No. 4474327 titled as "Fertilizer spreader" discloses a fertilizer container that contains fertilizers. However, the fertilizer spreader does not work efficiently when clogging of fertilizers occurs in the fertilizer container. Also, dispensing fertilizers in desired pattern and position is not explicitly mentioned. USPatentNo.6729558 titled "Granular fertilizer spreader" discloses a fertilizer spreader which has provision to prevent clogging of fertilizers in the container. However, the US Patent No.6729558is used only for dispensation of fertilizers.

Furthermore, the US Patent No.6729558 fails to disclose mechanisms for de-clogging the spray pipe.

[0005] Hence, there is a need for a dispensing device that alleviate aforementioned drawbacks.

SUMMARY

[0006] In accordance with one aspect, the present disclosure envisages a delivery pipe for dispensing at least one of a granular material or a powder material from a storage tank, the delivery pipe comprising a delivery pipe having a first end coupled to an outlet of the storage tank and a second end coupled to an end ejector, wherein the end ejector facilitates the required discharge of the granular material or the powder material therefrom; an elongate mount provided in the interior of the delivery pipe, wherein a plurality of buckets are mounted on the elongate mount; and displacing means coupled with the elongate mount for facilitating linear reciprocating motion of the elongate mount and the plurality of buckets within the delivery pipe, thereby providing a de-clogging and a de-scaling effect for efficient discharge of at least one of the granular and the powder mater from the delivery pipe.

[0007] In one embodiment, the delivery pipe is defined by a flexible portion and a rigid portion, wherein the flexible portion and the rigid portion can either be formed integrally or assembled as separate pipes.

[0008] In another embodiment, the elongate mount is a cable supported in the interior of the rigid portion and the flexible portion.

[0009] In another embodiment, the plurality of buckets are mounted on the cable such that the buckets supported within the interior of the flexible portion have a spherical configuration, whereas the buckets supported within the rigid portion have a conical configuration.

[0010] In another embodiment, the elongate mount is a cable supported in the interior of the flexible portion and a rod supported in the rigid portion such that an end of the cable is coupled with an end of the cable mechanically to form the elongate mount. The plurality of buckets are mounted on the elongate mount such that the buckets supported within the cable in the interior of the flexible portion have a spherical configuration, whereas the buckets supported on the rod in the interior of the rigid portion have a conical configuration. [0011] In another embodiment, the delivery pipe further comprises a plurality of vibrators mounted at pre-determined locations along the length of the delivery pipe for providing a de-clogging and a de-scaling effect for efficient discharge of at least one of the granular material and the powder material from the storage tank.

[0012] In another embodiment, the vibrators are configured to vibrate simultaneously as well as progressively in a pre-determined sequence.

[0013] In another embodiment, the displacing means is at least one selected from a group consisting of a motor, a relay, and mechanical means.

[0014] In another embodiment, a delivery pipe for dispensing at least one of a granular material or a powder material from a storage tank. The delivery pipe comprises a delivery pipe having a first end coupled to an outlet of the storage tank and a second end coupled to an end ejector, wherein the end ejector facilitates the required discharge of the granular material or the powder material therefrom; and at least one vibrator mounted at pre-determined locations along the length of the delivery pipe for providing a de-clogging and a de-scaling effect for efficient discharge of at least one of the granular material and the powder material from the storage tank.

[0015] In another embodiment, the vibrators are configured to vibrate simultaneously as well as progressively in a pre-determined sequence. [0016] In another embodiment the delivery pipe further comprises a handle extending in an inclined manner from a location adjacent an operative top portion of the delivery pipe. The handle is linearly displaceable on the delivery pipe for varying the operational height of the delivery pipe. [0017] In accordance with one aspect, the present disclosure envisages an end ejector to be connected to an operative end of a delivery pipe extending from a storage tank for dispensing at least one of a granular material and a powder material, the end ejector comprising a cylindrical body having a connection portion for connecting with the delivery pipe; a helical screw rotatably supported within the cylindrical body; a disc mounted on the helical screw, wherein the disc is coupled with an actuating means for facilitating a rotational oscillatory motion of the disc by unwinding and winding an actuating element on the surface of the disc; a freewheeling mechanism provided between the disc and the helical screw for facilitating unidirectional rotational coupling between the disc and the helical screw for providing rotational motion to the helical screw while the disc is displaced by the actuating means in said rotational oscillatory motion; and an outlet provided on the cylindrical body adjacent to the helical screw such that the rotation of the helical screw facilitates translation of the granular material or the powdered material within the cylindrical body for facilitating metered discharge of the granular material or the powdered material therefrom.

[0018] In another embodiment, the actuating means is a trigger provided on the delivery pipe, and the actuating element is a cable that facilitates coupling between the trigger and the disc. The actuating means, in one embodiment, is a motor that can be controlled using a trigger provided on the delivery pipe. [0019] In another embodiment, a single pitch of the helical screw facilitates a discharge of a pre-determined amount of the granular material or the powdered material, and the metered discharge of the granular material or the powdered material is facilitated by metering the number of rotations of the helical screw. [0020] In another embodiment, the end ejector further comprises an energy storage device coupled with the disc such actuating element and the energy storage device facilitate the rotational oscillatory motion of the disc when the actuating means is actuated. [0021] In another embodiment, the energy storage device is at least one selected from a group consisting of a spring, a coil, and resilient rubber element.

[0022] The present disclosure further disclosure another embodiment of the end ejector. The end ejector to be connected to an operative end of a delivery pipe extending from a storage tank for dispensing at least one of a granular material and a powder material, the end ejector comprising a cylindrical body having a connection portion for connecting with the delivery pipe, the cylindrical body having a first opening configured thereon; a nozzle disposed within the cylindrical body and having a second opening, wherein the nozzle is rotatably supported within the cylindrical body so that the first and second openings coincide on the rotation of the nozzle to form an outlet for allowing the granular and the powder materials to be discharged therefrom; and at least one track provided on the cylindrical body for slidably mounting a sliding cover thereon for covering at least one of the first and the second openings, wherein the sliding cover is coupled with a trigger provided on the delivery pipe, and the actuation of the trigger effects the sliding of the sliding cover on the at least one track, thereby selectively covering the first and second openings.

[0023] In another embodiment, an opening of variable size is provided to the end ejector by the rotation of the nozzle and consequently by the overlapping of the first opening and the second opening.

[0024] In another embodiment, the end ejector further comprises energy storage device disposed on the cylindrical body and configured for varying the tension required to slidably displace the sliding cover.

[0025] In another embodiment, the end ejector further comprises a cover for covering at least a portion of the cylindrical body. [0026] In another embodiment, the end ejector further comprises a shape mechanism connected at the outlet of the end ejector to uniformly dispense at least one the granular material and the powder material in a pre-defined shape.

OBJECTS

[0027] Objects of the present disclosure are listed below:

• The main object of the present disclosure is to provide a multi- purposedispensing device for dispensing agricultural items.

• It is another object of the present disclosure to providea dispensing device that is light weight and thus minimizes the human efforts for carrying the dispensing device from one place to another.

• It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a dispensing device that enables uniform dispensing of items at desired point and in desired quantity, and hence prevents wastage of item being dispensed.

· It is still another object of the present disclosure to provide a dispensing device that reduces undesirable growth of weeds.

• It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a portable and easy to handle dispensing device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the disclosure will best be understood from the following description of various embodiments thereof, selected for the purposes of illustration, and shown in the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic view of adispensing device, in according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic internal view of a cleaning mechanism used in a static storage tank of the dispensing mechanism of FIG 1 ;

FIG. 3a is a schematic perspective view of a storage tank with compartments of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1, wherein the items are delivered separately through separated delivery pipes; FIG. 3b is a schematic perspective view of a storage tank with compartments of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1, wherein the delivery pipes are connected with each other so as to mix items just before being dispensed;

FIG. 4a is aschematic cross-sectional view of a mixing unit of a storage tank of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4b is a schematic view of a mixing unit of FIG. 4a;

FIG. 5a is a schematic cross-sectional view of a mixing unit of a storage tank of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5b is a schematic view of few components of the mixing unit of FIG. 5a;

FIG. 6a is a schematic perspective view of a rotating storage tank of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 6b is a sectional view of the rotating storage tank of FIG. 6a;

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the delivery pipe with a cleaning mechanism of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of vibrators of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 9a is an internal view of a helical screw mechanism of an end ejector of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 9bis another internal view of a helical screw mechanism of the end ejector of the dispensing device of the FIG. 19a;

FIG. 10a is a diagrammatic perspective view of a spring loaded slider mechanism of an end ejector of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1;

FIG. 10b is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the spring loaded slider mechanism of the FIG. 10a;

FIG. 11a is a diagrammatic view of a shape mechanism of an end ejector of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1, wherein the shape mechanism is in closed position;

FIG. 1 lb is a diagrammatic view of the shape mechanism of FIG. 11a;

FIG. 11c is a diagrammatic view of conventional O-shaped item in cluster or concentrated form such as fertilizer positioned near a crop/plant;

FIG. 1 Id is a diagrammatic view of U-shaped item of the present disclosure, such as fertilizer, positioned near a crop/plant; FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a funnel of an end ejector of the dispensing device of the FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 illustrates a schematic isometric view of the dispensing device of FIG. 1; FIG. 14a and FIG. 14b illustrate views of the end ejector, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 15 illustrates a schematic view of a control mechanism to be employed in the delivery pipe, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The present disclosure will now be described in brief with reference to the accompanying drawings. Now, refer in more detail to the exemplary drawings for the purposes of illustrating non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a dispensing device (100) for dispensing agricultural items in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. Some of the agricultural items are seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and the like. Agricultural items can be in granular form or powdered form. The dispensing device (100) mainly comprises a storage tank (10), a delivery pipe (20) and an end ejector (30).

[0031] The storage tank (10) are used to store one or more items can be in same form or different. When there is more than one item in any form, the items can either be in separated compartments or in same compartments. A provision may additionally be provided for mixing items that are stored in one compartment or a portion of the storage tank (10) is rotated for enabling mixing. The storage tank (10) is provided with a belt-like arrangement (11) that enables user to hang the storage tank (10) at user's back. Hanging the storage tank (10) at users back provides him ease to carry heavy load which otherwise is not possible to be carried in conventional handheld buckets

[0032] In accordance with a first embodiment of the storage tank (10) as illustrated in FIG.2, the storage tank (10) is a static storage tank with a single compartment (12ai). The single compartment (12ai) has one end (12aii) inclined so that the items therewithin can be concentrated towards the outlet (12aiii) of the single compartment (12ai).The outlet (12aiii) is connected to the delivery pipe (20). The single compartment (12ai) has a cleaning mechanism which is typically a push-pull mechanism that comprises at least one flexible element (12aiv and 12av) such as low springs. The cleaning mechanism helps unclogging and prevents scaling of agricultural items within the storage tank and thus enables increase in flow-rate of agricultural items. Further, the push-pull mechanism has at least one longitudinal pliable element of which one is a straight pliable element (12avi) another is an inclined pliable element (12avii). One or more pivots (12aviii) are also provided within the single compartment (12ai). Typically, the inclined pliable element (12avii) passes through the pivots (12aviii). The straight pliable element (12avi) and the inclined pliable element (12avii) have a plurality of buckets (12aix) attached thereon that move along with the straight pliable element (12avi) and the inclined pliable element (12avii). These buckets (12aix) push items within the single compartment

(12ai) to outside the single compartment (12ai) through the outlet (12aiii). More specifically, if items are clogged on the inner wall of the single compartment (12ai), the buckets (12aix) help removing the clogged items by scraping. In one embodiment, the buckets (12aix) are of triangular/cone shaped and positioned in such a way that the base of triangular/coned shaped bucket (12aix) is towards the outlet of the storage tank (10) and the apex is directed towards the opposite wall of the outlet of the storage tank (10). When the push-pull mechanism is actuated for cleaning, i.e. when the straight pliable element (12avi) and the inclined pliable element (12avii) are pulled, the base of the bucket (12aix) moves towards the outlet of the storage tank (10) directing items to flow towards the outlet of the storage tank (10) thus enabling cleaning. When the push-pull mechanism is de-actuated after cleaning, i.e. when the straight pliable element (12avi) and the inclined pliable element (12avii) are released, due to the two flexible elements (12aiv and 12av), the straight pliable element (12avi) and the inclined pliable element (12avii) are retracted and moves in the direction of the apex of the bucket (12aix). Owing to the apex the items in from of the bucket

(12aix) are move aside instead of moving upwards. Hence, the shape of the bucket (12aix) plays an important role. The cleaning mechanism which cleans and removes/prevents clogging of the items within the storage tank (10) is not limited to the push-pull mechanism and the type of push-pull mechanism and any mechanism and types can be used/varied as per the need of the user that enables efficient cleaning and prevents/reduces clogging.

[0033] In accordance with a second embodiment of the storage tank (10), the storage tank (10) is a static storage tank with multiple compartments (10b). Multiple compartments are provided so as to prevent chemical reaction or side effects between two or more different types of materials kept/stored within the static storage tank. For instance, seeds and fertilizers need to be separately stored since seeds get affected. FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b, illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a perspective view of a multiple compartment (10b) split in two compartments (lObi and lObii) by a partition wall (lObiii). The number of partition wall can be altered based on the number of compartment requirements. Also, the partition can be adjusted so that desired volume of the compartments can be achieved. The two compartments (lObi and lObii) can store different types of items separately stored in the storage tank (10). Each of the two compartments (lObi and lObii) is connected to respective delivery pipes (20i and 20ii) that separately carry items from each compartment (lObi and 10bii)and separately deliver items through their respective delivery pipes (20i and 20ii). Alternatively as illustrated in FIG. 3b, an additional connecting pipe (lObiv) is provided that connects the two delivery pipes (20i and 20ii) so that a mixture of items is formed and transported further down the delivery pipes (20i and 20ii). Thus, an advantage is achieved that the items can be separately delivered or can be mixed and delivered. The flow from the multiple compartments (10b) to the delivery pipes (20i and 20ii) can be altered using flow control valves (lObv and lObvi). Triggers (not illustrated in Figures) are provided to enable flow of items from each compartment (lObi and lObii) to the respective delivery pipes (20i and 20ii). Each trigger can be individually operated or simultaneously operated. The cleaning mechanism can be present in the static storage with multiple compartments (10b). [0034] In accordance with a third embodiment of the storage tank (10), the storage tank (10) is a static storage tank is provided with a mixing unit. The mixing unit ensures that the items within the storage tank (10) get mixed with each other. There is need for mixing because higher density items get settled at the bottom and low density items remain above the higher density items. For instance, suppose if the storage tank (10) is filled with granule fertilizers and powdered fertilizers, it so happens that because of user's walking, jerks are experienced by the storage tank (10) each time when the user takes a new step powder fertilizers being of high density settles at the bottom of the storage tank (10) and granular fertilizers remain above the powder fertilizers. Due to this there is disproportionate feed of granule fertilizers and powdered fertilizers. Hence, in order to avoid such disproportionate feed, the mixing unit is used that mixes the items within the storage tank (10). In one embodiment, the mixing unit can be provided in the static storage tank with a single compartment (12ai) and/or the static storage tank with multiple compartments (10b). The mixing unit can be of any structure that is movable within the storage tank (10) and capable to mix items contained within the storage tank (10) so as to prevent any one or more items to settle at the bottom of the storage tank (10) and another to remain above the settled ones. Various non-limiting structures of the mixing unit are described in the present disclosure in the following exemplary embodiments.

[0035] FIG. 4a and FIG. 4b disclose a first exemplary embodiment of the mixing unit (10c) fitted in the storage tank (10). The mixing unit (10c) mixes items/fertilizer/seeds/granules of variable density and feeds the mixed fertilizer in uniform proportion. The mixing unit includes a rotatable rod (lOci), arms (lOcii) extending from the rod (lOci), a plurality of scooped elements (lOciii) are provided on at least a portion of arms (lOcii) and a plurality of slidable elements (lOciv). The rod (lOci) is rotatably fitted in the storage tank (10). In one embodiment, the rod (lOci) is rotated by a flexible cable (not illustrated in Figures) which when pulled by the user rotates the rod (lOci). Other rotating mechanisms of the rod (lOci), whether manual or automated, are well within the scope of the present disclosure. The rotation of the rod (lOci) rotates the arms (lOcii). The rotation of the arms (lOcii) rotates the plurality of scooped elements (lOciii). In one embodiment, the scooped elements (lOciii) are made of substantially triangular shaped elements. The scooped elements (lOciii) are spaced at pre-determined distances from each other such that a space (lOcv) is formed between adjacently disposed scooped elements (lOciii). The slidable elements (lOciv) are connected with each other and are slidable between the width of the scooped elements (lOciii) and width of the space (lOv). Typically, width of the slidable elements (lOciv) is equal to width of the space (lOcv). In one embodiment, the sliding movement of the slidable elements (lOciv) is provided by a protrusion (lOcvi). The protrusion (lOcvi) is connected to the outermost slidable element (lOciv).

[0036] When the rod (lOci) is rotated, the arm (lOcii) is rotated and rotates the scooped elements (lOciii), the slidable elements (lOciv) and the protrusion (lOcvi). As the rod (lOci) rotates, the arm (lOcii) also rotates and during rotation the protrusion (lOcvi) selectively comes in contact with a portion (10a) of the inner surface of the storage tank (10) and selectively is spaced apart from remaining portion of the inner wall of the storage tank (10) or inner wall of ring (lOcvii). Additionally, a ring(s) (lOcvii) is provided that facilitate easy opening and closing of the slidable elements (lOciv). When the protrusion (lOcvi) is selectively comes in contact with the portion

(10a) of the inner wall of the storage tank (10) or inner wall of ring (lOcvii), the protrusion (lOcvi) is pushed due to contact with the inner wall of either of the storage tank (10) or the ring (lOvi)such that the slidable elements (lOciv) extendspushes inside/pushes in such a way that the slidable elements (lOcivi) slides/pushes inside in the width of the space (lOv) and temporarily closes the space (lOv). The temporary closure of the space (lOv) by the slidable elements (lOciv) and the profile of the scooped elements (lOciii) carry items positioned in the vicinity along with them such that there is change in direction and position of flow of the items during rotation. When the protrusion (lOcvi) is selectively spaced apart from the remaining portion (10b) of the inner wall of the storage tank (10) or the inner wall of the ring (lOcvii), the slidable elements (lOciv) is retracted towards the width of the scooped elements (lOciii), because of spring force exerted by springs (not illustrated in Figures), causing temporary opening of the space (10v) thus releasing carried items at desired position. Thus, the items are carried from one place to another because of the slidable feature of the sliding elements (lOciv). The sliding of the slidable element (lOciv) is controllable or altered as per the need of the user by varying inner surface profile of the storage tank (10). The mixing unit thus enables desired mixing of the items within the storage tank (10).

[0037] FIG. 5a and FIG. 5b disclose a second exemplary embodiment of the mixing unit (lOd) fitted in the storage tank (10). The mixing unit (lOd) includes a rotatable rod (lOdi), a plurality of projecting elements (lOdii) and a rod rotating mechanism (not illustrated in Figures). The rotatable rod (lOdi) is positioned between the walls of the storage tank (10). The plurality of projecting elements (lOdii) is projected from the rotatable rod (lOdi) in a pre-defined pattern/arrangement. The rod rotating mechanism rotates the rotatable rod (lOdi) so that the projecting elements

(lOdii) get rotated within the storage tank (10). The rotation of the projecting elements (lOdii) mix items contained within the storage tank (10). Typically, the projecting elements (lOdii) are oars, spokes, forks, blades, arrows, helical shaped, ribbon shaped or any combinations or shapes thereof. The rod rotating mechanism can be a belt drive, chain drive or gear drive or other like mechanisms that can transmit rotatable motion the rotatable rod (lOdi). The rod rotating mechanism can be manually actuated by using a cable/rod (not illustrated in Figures) pulled and released by a handle/hook/lever attached to the cable/rod. Alternatively, the rod rotating mechanism can be externally powered, typically, using electric motors powered by batteries to actuate the rod rotating mechanism. In one embodiment, a freewheel mechanism (not illustrated in Figures) is provided that rotates the rotatable rod (lOdi) in one direction and prevents rotation in another direction.

[0038] In accordance with a fourth embodiment of the storage tank (10) as illustrated in FIG. 6a and FIG. 6b, the storage tank (10) is a rotating storage tank (lOe) and can be provided with or without a mixing unit such as flaps. The rotating storage tank (lOe) mixes items/fertilizer/seeds/granules of variable density and feeds the mixed fertilizer in uniform proportion. In one embodiment, the rotating storage tank (lOe) includes a frame (lOei), an inner drum (lOeii), an outer rotary drum (lOeiii) and a freewheel mechanism (lOeiv). The frame (lOei), the inner drum (lOeii) and the outer rotary drum (lOeiii) are connected to each other by using a nut-bolt arrangement (lOev) or any other fastener. Agricultural items to be dispensed are disposed between the inner drum (lOeii) and the outer rotary drum (lOeiii). The frame (lOei) is connected to a belt (not illustrated in Figures) which can be worn by a user to hang the rotating storage tank (lOe) on the user back. The inner drum (lOeii) is fixed to the frame (lOei). The outer rotating drum (lOeii) is rotated to mix items contained therewithin. In one embodiment, a pulling rod/ handle/hook/lever (lOevi) is provided that enables rotation of the outer rotating drum (lOeii). Additionally, the outer rotating drum (lOeii) is provided with a plurality of blades (not illustrated in Figures) that provides efficient mixing of items. In one exemplary embodiment, the outer rotary drum (lOeiii) is configured with driven gear teethes (lOeviii) that meshes with a driver gear teethes (lOeix) which is mounted on the freewheel mechanism (lOeiv).

The driver gear teethes (lOeix) is rotated by a hand operated rod/rope or can be rotated by electric power/any other external power. Alternative methods of rotating the driver gear teethes (lOeix) are well within the scope of the present disclosure. When the driver gear teethes (lOiex) are rotated, the driven gear teethes (lOeviii) rotates causing rotation of the outer rotary drum (lOeiii) thereby enabling mixing of items therewithin. The rotation of the outer rotary drum (lOeiii) can be continuous or intermittent. During operative rotating configuration, springs (not illustrated in the Figures) of the freewheel mechanism (lOeiv) get tensioned. During operative non- rotating configuration, the tensioned spring are released causing rotation of the freewheel, the driver gear teethes (lOiex) and the shaft in the direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the shaft during operative rotating configuration thereby enabling freewheel between the driver gear teethes (lOix) and the driven gear teethes (lOdviii) till the tension in the springs are released. During freewheel, the outer rotary drum (lOeiii) does not rotate and remain in that particular position and during next operating rotating configuration the outer rotary drum (lOeiii) again move to a next incremental position. Thus, the outer rotary drum (lOeiii) moves periodically in incremental position. Further, a sealant (not illustrated in Figures) and/or a lining (not illustrated in Figures) to provide sealing between the contact of the outer rotating drum (lOdiii) and the inner drum (lOeii). In rotating storage tank (lOd), the sealant will be placed at outer side of rotating drum and inner side of stationary outer drum). The sealing between the contact of the outer rotating drum (lOdiii) and the inner drum

(lOeii) helps in reducing/preventing material/item leakage. The sealant is made of any elastic/stretchable materials which are self lubricating. The lining reduces friction between the rotating outer rotating drum (lOdiii) and the stationary inner drum (lOeii) and helps a smooth rotation. The lining can be of poly nylon or poly propylene material or any other like materials. The rotation of the outer rotating drum (lOdiii) is either done by manual force such as manual crank or levers or automatic force such as electric force stored in battery, force generated due to solar energy.

[0039] In one embodiment, the delivery pipe (20) is connected to the storage tank (10) for facilitating dispensation of at least one of a granular material or a powder material from the storage tank (10). The delivery pipe (20), in one embodiment, is defined by a flexible portion (20a) and a rigid portion (20b), wherein the flexible portion (20a) and the rigid portion (20b) can either be formed integrally or assembled as separate pipes. A first end (20a') of the delivery pipe (20) is connected to the storage tank, while at a second end (20b') of the delivery pipe (20) is coupled to the end ejector (30), wherein the end ejector facilitates the required discharge of the granular material or the powder material therefrom. More specifically, the flexible pipe (20a) is connected to the storage tank (10) and the rigid pipe (20b). The rigid pipe (20b) is further connected to the end ejector (30).The flexible pipe (20a) provides flexibility to move the pipe (20). In one embodiment, the portion of the flexible pipe (20a) near to the storage tank (10) is more flexible than the portion of the flexible pipe (20a) near the rigid pipe (20b). Moreover, the flexibility of the flexible pipe (20a) reduces and rigidity of the flexible pipe (20a) increases as the flexible pipe (20a) progresses from the storage tank (10)to the rigid pipe (20b). The reduction in flexibility and increasing rigidity of the flexible pipe (20a) prevents lagging/sagging of the flexible pipe (20a) due to the weight/mass of the items passing therethrough and maintains a desired height of the flexible pipe (20a) and the rigid pipe (20b) so that items can smoothly pass/convey from the flexible pipe (20a) to the rigid pipe (20b).

[0040] The flexible pipe (20a) and the rigid pipe (20b) are provided with a push-pull mechanism (illustrated in FIG.7) that cleans and hence prevent clogging of items within the flexible pipe (20a) and the rigid pipe (20b) and thus enables increase in the rate of flow from the storage tank (10) to the end ejector (30). The push-pull mechanism, which forms part of the delivery pipe (20) includes a bendable element (22), a plurality of first buckets (24) and a plurality of second buckets (26). The bendable element (22), in the present disclosure, has been also been referred to as an elongate mount for the reason that the plurality of buckets are mounted on the elongate mount. The elongate mount (22) is provided in the interior of the delivery pipe (20). More specifically, the bendable element (22) is positioned and movable within the flexible pipe (20a) and the rigid pipe (20b) .According to an embodiment of the present invention, the elongate mount or the bendable element (22) is a cable that supported in the interior of the rigid portion (20a) and the rigid pipe (20b). According to another embodiment, elongate mount (22) is a cable supported in the interior of the flexible portion (20a) and a rod supported in the rigid portion (20b) such that an end of the cable is coupled with an end of the cable mechanically to form the elongate mount. Within the portion of the flexible pipe (20a), the bendable element (22) mounts the plurality of first buckets (24) and within the portion of the rigid pipe (20b), the bendable element (22) mounts the plurality of second buckets (26). When the bendable element (22) is pulled, the first buckets (24) and the second buckets (26)enables cleaning of the flexible pipe (20a) and the rigid pipe (20b) and hence prevent clogging. In one embodiment, the first buckets (24) are spherical in shape and the second buckets (26) are triangular or conical in shape. The spherical shape of the first buckets (24) prevents the first buckets (24) from piercing the flexible pipe (20a) which can be a possibility when conical shaped buckets are used. Also, if conical shape is used then there is a possibility that the edge may get stuck with the flexible pipe (20a) or other edges formed, for example, a joint joining of flexible pipe (20a) to rigid pipe (20b). The cleaning methodology of the first buckets (24) and the second buckets (26) is similar to the bucket (12aix) used in the first embodiment of the present disclosure of the static storage tank with a single compartment (12ai) and hence is not described again to avoid repetition. The push-pull mechanism which cleans and removes/prevents clogging of the items within the storage tank (10) is not limited to the above mentioned push-pull mechanism and any other mechanism can be used/varied as per the need of the user that enables efficient cleaning and prevents/reduces clogging and enables faster flow rate. In one embodiment, the bendable element (22) is provided with a plurality of spokes to help scraping of deposited material to prevent scale formation. In another embodiment, the delivery pipe (20) is further provided with a plurality of vibrators mounted at pre-determined locations along the length of the delivery pipe (20) for providing a de-clogging and a de-scaling effect for efficient discharge of at least one of the granular material and the powder material from the storage tank (10). The vibrators can be configured to vibrate simultaneously or progressively in a pre-determined sequence along with the usage of the elongate mount (22) and the plurality of buckets mounted on the elongate mount (22). [0041] In another embodiment, the delivery pipe (20) comprises cleaning mechanism in the form of a plurality of vibrators (40) (illustrated in FIG. 8) positioned at pre-determined distances on the static storage tank (10) and the delivery pipe (20). These vibrators (40) prevent clogging of items within the inner walls of the static storage tank (10) and the delivery pipe (20). All the vibrators (40) can be simultaneously and continuously/intermittently vibrated or can be progressively vibrated wherein vibration progresses from the delivery pipe (20) to the storage tank (10) or vice-versa. The power unit (not illustrated in Figures) and the circuitry (not illustrated in Figures) of the vibrators (40) can be positioned anywhere on the dispensing device (100). In one embodiment, the cleaning mechanism such as the push-pull mechanism and the vibrators (40) both are provided for cleaning and prevention of clog.

[0042] The end ejector (30) is provided at the end portion of the delivery pipe

(20). More specifically, the end ejector (30) is provided at the end of the rigid pipe (20b) of the delivery pipe (20). The end ejector (30) controls the flow/feed of items so that the items can be dispensed in optimum quantity, variable quantity, desired place of feeding (within the soil, in desired shape surrounding the crop/plant or feeding under a layer of water), the shape of items to be fed or any other parameter. Thus end ejector (30) can be an end delivery mechanism, a targeting mechanism or an inserting mechanism. In one embodiment, the end ejector (30) is controlled by a handle/trigger attached to the rigid pipe (20b). In an exemplary embodiment, the handle/trigger is attached above or below depending upon the better ergonomic requirements of the user. The handle and the trigger are better illustrated in Fig. 13. As seen in Fig. 13, the delivery pipe (20) comprises the handle (40a) and a trigger (40b) provided on the handle (40a). In one embodiment, the handle (40a) extends in an inclined manner from a location adjacent an operative top portion of the delivery pipe (20). Furthermore, the handle (40a) can be linearly displaceable on the delivery pipe (20) for varying the operational height of the delivery pipe. More specifically, the inclination of the handle (40a) allows for the ergonomic handling of the delivery pipe (20) so that the user has to expend minimum effort in maneuvering the delivery pipe

(20). Furthermore, the variation in the operational height of the delivery pipe (20) is required so that users of all body types, either tall or short, can easily wield the delivery pipe (20) with minimum effort.

[0043] In one embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 9a and FIG. 9b, the end ejector (30) is a helical screw mechanism (30a). The end ejector (30) is to be connected to an operative end of the delivery pipe (20) extending from a storage tank

(10) for dispensing a granular material or a powder material or both. The helical screw mechanism (30a) enables delivery of desired quantity of items. The helical screw mechanism (30a) can either have a rigid helical ribbon or flexible/elastic helical ribbon typically of polymeric material. The flexible helical ribbon can be with or without shaft, generally of metallic material. The helical screw mechanism (30a) includes an enclosed pipe (30ai) (also referred to as cylindrical body) having a connection portion (30a') for connecting with the delivery pipe (20), a shaft (30aii) disposed within the enclosed pipe (30ai) or cylindrical body (30ai), a helical screw (30aiii) supported on the shaft, a disc (30av) is mounted on the helical screw (30aiii), wherein the disc (30av) is coupled with an actuating means for facilitating a rotational oscillatory motion of the disc (30av) by unwinding and winding an actuating element on the surface of the disc(30v). In an embodiment, the actuating means is the trigger (40b) and the actuating element is a cable. In another embodiment, the actuating means is a motor that can be controlled using a trigger provided on the delivery pipe. The end ejector (30) further comprises a free-wheeling mechanism (30aiv) provided between the disc (30v) and the helical screw (30aiii) for facilitating unidirectional rotational coupling between the disc (30av) and the helical screw (30aiii) for providing rotational motion to the helical screw (30aiii) while the disc (30av) is displaced by the actuating means or the trigger (40b) in said rotational oscillatory motion. The end ejector (30) further comprises outlet (30aviii) provided on the cylindrical body (30ai) adjacent to the helical screw (30aiii) such that the rotation of the helical screw (30aiii) facilitates translation of the granular material or the powdered material within the cylindrical body (30ai) for facilitating metered discharge of the granular material or the powdered material therefrom. More specifically, the end ejector employs the usage of the bendable element (22) of the push pull mechanism of the rigid pipe (20b), at least one pivot (30avi), a trigger/switch cable (30avii) that is coupled with the trigger (40b), and an item outlet (30aviii). The enclosed pipe (30ai) is connected to the delivery pipe (20) and receives items from the delivery pipe (20). The shaft (30aii) is fitted in the enclosed pipe (30ai).The helical screw (30aiii) receives items from the delivery pipe (20) in the space between adjacently disposed teethes of the helical screw (30aiii). The teeth can also be termed as blade or face. The free-wheeling mechanism (30aiv) enables the shaft (30aii) to rotate in one-direction and prevents rotation in another direction. The disc (30av) is provided on the freewheel mechanism (30aiv). The bendable element (22) is wound around the disc (30av) in one direction. The bendable element (22) passes through the pivot (30avi) so that the buckets are prevented from being in excess contact with the surrounding of pipe to reduce wear and tear. The trigger/switch cable or the actuating element (30avii) is wound around the disc (30av) in the direction opposite to the direction in which the bendable element (22) is wound. The item outlet (30aviii) dispenses item from the helical screw (30aiii) to the desired place. Moreover, the item outlet (30aviii) dispenses specific/ optimum quantity thereby maintaining consistency due to the consistent pitch of helical screw or ribbon. Also, the dispensing can be for each pitch of rotation of the helical screw (30aiii) or alternate pitch of rotation of the helical screw (30aiii) or any desired pitch of rotation of the helical screw (30aiii). More specifically, a discharge of a pre-determined amount of the granular material or the powdered material, and the metered discharge of the granular material or the powdered material is facilitated by metering the number of rotations of the helical screw.

[0044] As the trigger/switch cable (30avii) is wound on the disc (30av) of freewheel mechanism (30avii) initially itself and when the trigger/switch cable (30avii) is controllably actuated/pulled, a forward rotation of freewheel mechanism

(30avii) is caused as un-winding (of trigger/switch cable (30avii)) takes place. During this the shaft (30aii) of helical screw (30aiii) and freewheel mechanism (30aiv) are engaged. The connection causes the helical screw (30aiii) to rotate and transmit items received in the space of the helical screws (30aiii) from the delivery pipe (20) to the item outlet (30aviii). During rotation of the shaft (30aii), the bendable element (22) is wound around the disc (30av) and thus the bendable element (22) is pulled (forward) towards the end ejector (30). This movement of bendable element (22) creates tension in an energy storage device coupled with the disc such actuating element and the energy storage device facilitate the rotational oscillatory motion of the disc when the actuating means is actuated. In an embodiment, the energy storage device is at least one selected from a group consisting of a spring, a coil, and resilient rubber element.

For the purpose of the present explanation, considering the energy storage device to be a spring to which the bendable element (22) is connected. When, the trigger/switch cable (30avii) is de-actuated (released) by the user, the tension in the spring is released and the bendable element (22) gets un-wound from the disc (30av) causing rotation of only freewheel to initial position. The freewheel mechanism (30aiv) and the shaft (30aii) are dis-engaged during reverse rotation hence the free-wheel mechanism (30aiv) alone rotates back to initial state (position) and the shaft (30aii) remains stationary at that position, during reverse rotation of the freewheel mechanism (30aiv) trigger/switch cable (30avii) is again winded. Thus, during freewheeling, the items are not able to flow out of the end ejector (30).

[0045] In another embodiment, the end ejector (30) is a spring loaded slider mechanism (30b) (illustrated in Figures 10a and 10b). The spring loaded slider mechanism (30b) includes an inner pipe (30bi), an adjustable nozzle (30biii), at least two springs (30bvii) and a slider (30bviii). The inner pipe (3 Obi) is connected to end of the delivery pipe (20b). The inner pipe is configured with a first groove (30bii).

The adjustable nozzle (30biii) also has a second groove (30biv) and has tracks (30bv) configured on the inner walls of the adjustable nozzle (30biii). The adjustable nozzle (30biii) also has at least one pivot (30bvi) through which a flexible wire (30bix) is passed. The adjustable nozzle (30biii) has pins (not illustrated in Figures) for supporting the springs (30bvii).The slider (30bviii) is sandwiched between the adjustable nozzle (30biii) and the inner pipe (3 Obi) and moves in the track of the adjustable nozzle (30biii) with one degree of freedom. The slider (30bviii) enables controlled opening and controlled closing of the item flow. The slider (30bviii) is connected to the flexible wire (30bix) which can be pulled and released by the user to pull and release the slider (30bviii). [0046] When the user pulls the flexible wire(30bix), the slider (30bviii) is pulled in the first direction i.e. the slider (30bviii)slides away from the first groove (30bii) and the second groove (30biv) thereby enabling items to be dispensed which are passing through the first groove (30bii) and the second groove (30biv). During sliding away the slider (30bviii) tensions the springs (30bvii). When the user leaves the flexible wire (30bix), the tension in the springs (30bvii) is released which causes the slider (30bviii) to be pushed in the second direction i.e. the slider (30bviii) slides towards from the first groove (30bii) and the second groove (30biv) thereby closing the first groove (30bii) and the second groove (30biv) and preventing flow of items from the first groove (30bii) and the second groove (30biv). The amount of flow of items can be controlled by the user. The slider mechanism (30b) is connected to the push-pull mechanism (not illustrated in diagram) for actuating and de-actuating the slider mechanism (30b). The actuating and de-actuating of the push-pull mechanism is caused with the slider mechanism (30b) simultaneously. [0047] Another construction of the end ejector (30) is illustrated in FIG. 14a and 14b, comprises a cylindrical body (30ei) having a connection portion (30eii) for connecting with the delivery pipe (20), the cylindrical body (30ei) having a first opening (30eiii) configured thereon. The end ejector (30) further comprises a nozzle (30eiv) disposed within the cylindrical body (30ei) and having a second opening (30ev), wherein the nozzle (30eiv) is rotatably supported within the cylindrical body

(30ei) so that the first and second openings (30eiii, 30ev) coincide on the rotation of the nozzle (30iv) to form an outlet for allowing the granular and the powder materials to be discharged therefrom. More specifically, the size of outlet is variable based on the degree of overlap between the first and second openings (30eiii, 30ev). At least one track (30evi) is provided on the cylindrical body (30ei) for slidably mounting a sliding cover (30evii) (also referred to slider) thereon for covering at least one of the first and the second openings (30eiii, 30ev). More specifically, the sliding cover (30evii) covers the outlet of the end ejector that is formed by first and the second openings (30eiii, 30ev). The sliding cover is coupled with the trigger (40b) provided on the delivery pipe (20), and the actuation of the trigger (40b) effects the sliding of the sliding cover (30evii) on the at least one track (30evi), thereby selectively covering the first and the second openings (30eiii, 30ev). The end ejector (30) further comprises energy storage device (30eviii) disposed on the cylindrical body (30ei) and configured for varying the tension required to slidably displace the sliding cover (30evii). [0048] Referring to FIG. 14a and 14b, the coupling between the trigger (40b) and the sliding cover (30evii) is herein after described. The sliding cover (30evii) comprises a pair of connecting portions (30eix) and the cylindrical body (30ei) has a pair of support portions (30ex) provided thereon. The pair of pair of connecting portions (30eix) are configured to receive arms of a U shaped bracket (30exi) and the support portions (30ex) are configured to receive the base of the U shaped bracket

(30exi), such that a pivotal connection is formed between the base of the U shaped bracket (30exi) and the support portions (30ex). A cable, extending from the trigger (40b) connects to the U shaped bracket (30exi) for transmitting the motion of the trigger (40b) to the U shaped bracket (30exi). When triggered, the U shaped bracket (30exi) pivots about the support portions (30ex) such that the arms of the U shaped bracket (30exi), which are connected to the sliding cover (30evii), move to facilitate the sliding of the sliding cover (30evii) along the tracks (30evi). The energy storage device (30eviii) is a spring whose tension can be adjusted for varying the effort required by the user to actuate the sliding cover (30evii).

[0049] In accordance with yet another embodiment, the end ejector (30) is provided with a provision (not illustrated in Figures) wherein the end ejector (30) ejects/sows items such as seed/fertilizer within the soil so as to avoid wastage of fertilizer due to undesirable spreading.

[0050] In accordance with another embodiment as illustrated in exemplary

Figures 11a to l id, the end ejector (30) additionally includes a shape mechanism (30c) that ejects items in a determined shape, typically surrounding a crop. The shapes can either be U-shape, O-shape or any other desired shape and can be in a cluster or concentrated form. Conventionally as illustrated in FIG. 11c, a drop (l lci) of item, such as fertilizer, is positioned near the crop (1 lcii). As the distance "X" is more there might be possibility that the crop may not get adequate fertilizer and hence result in poor growth. Hence, there is need for the shape mechanism (30c) that positions the items in desired shape. [0051] The shape mechanism (30c) includes a pair of arms (30ci and 30cii), a spring (30ciii) is provided between the pair of arms (30ci and 30cii), a pair of feeder bars (30civ and 30cv) configured with a plurality of holes (30cvi) in a defined patterns. The pair of feeder bars (30civ and 30cv) is pivotally connected at one end with each other. An actuating element (30cvii) is provided that moves the pair of arms (30ci and 30cii) such that distance between the arms (30ci and 30cii) are increased or decreased. The movement of the arms (30ci and 30cii) moves the feeder bars (30civ and 30cv). More specifically, when the arms (30ci and 30cii) are substantially away from each other, then a portion of the two feeder bars (30civ and 30cv) overlap each other to close the overlapping holes (30cv) in a pre-determined pattern. This closer of overlapping holes (30cv) prevents/restricts items to flow therefrom. The items are only able to flow from the open holes of the feeder bars (30civ and 30cv).

[0052] In another situation, when the arms (30ci and 30cii) are substantially towards each other, then the two feeder bars (30civ and 30cv) are away from each other and all the holes (30cv) are open. The items are able to flow from the open holes

(30cv) of the feeder bars (30civ and 30cv) which configure U-shape formation (U) as shown in exemplary FIG. l id around the crop (l ldi). Thus, the items are assured to fall at desired location in desired pattern and thus ensure that roots of the plant/crop receive adequate items such as fertilizers. Alternatively, O-shaped formation (O) (not illustrated in Figures) or any other shape formations can also be achieved.

[0053] In accordance with another embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 12, the end ejector (30) additionally includes a funnel (30d) for dispensing items in a desired place in form of a cluster. The funnel (30d) prevents floating away or scattering of items. For instance, in farms like rice transplanted farms water is usually filled upto 3 to 6 inches above the surface, hence if fertilizers are dispensed, then there is a possibility that the fertilizers get floated away. Thus, to prevent floating and scattering, funnels (30d) are used for proper positioning of items. The dispensing device prevents evaporation of item/fertilizer as the fertilizers are dispensed in the mud and not on the surface of water in case crops are dipped at a particular distance in the water while dispensing fertilizers.

[0054] In one embodiment, the end ejector (30)such as a slider or a helical screw mechanism of delivery pipe (20), a bottle or any of the shape mechanism (30c) such as the U shaped funnel/feeder is provided. The shape mechanism (30c) such as the U shaped funnel is above water level and below water level guide is the vertical pipe which is inserted below water level and then releases item/material at the bottom of crop/plant.

[0055] In all of the above described embodiments, the cable, wire or any trigger element is positioned at an angle (Example: 45 degree) so as to provide ergonomic benefit to the user by maintaining the wrist substantially straight causing less pulling stress during dispensing of large quantity of material. Further, the system has easy pipe controlling so that the weight of pipe and the weight of items contained therewithin are easy to handle. [0056] Optionally, all different types of storage tank (10) described in the foregoing paragraphs can have at least one flow control valves similar to storage tank with multiple compartments (10b) for flow of one or more item(s) therewithin.

[0058] The present disclosure also envisages a control mechanism (50) to be employed within the delivery pipe (20) for regulating the flow of fertilizer form the storage tank (10) into the delivery pipe (20). Typically, the delivery pipe (20) is filled with fertilizer always, and the weight of the delivery pipe (20) has to be borne by the hands of the user, which can be painful. The control mechanism (50) alleviates this drawback.

[0059] The control mechanism (50), which forms a part of the delivery pipe

(20), comprises a stimulator unit (50i) that has a sensor (50ii) connected thereto and configured to sense the presence of the at least one granular material or the at least one powder material within the delivery pipe upto a predefined height or point in delivery pipe (20), wherein, when the sensor (50ii) senses that the delivery pipe (20) is empty, the stimulator unit (50i) is configured to communicate with a flow control valve employed at the storage tank (10) to instruct the flow control valve to be actuated for allowing at least one the granular material and the powder material to be discharged from the storage tank (10) into delivery pipe (20), thereby filling the delivery pipe upto the predefined point/height for further use. Once the fertilizer is filled upto the predefined point, the sensor senses and is configured to communicate with a flow control valve employed at the storage tank (10) to instruct the flow control valve to be de- actuated, thereby stopping the flow of material into the delivery pipe. This cycle is repeated every time the material from the delivery pipe (20) is exhausted. The advantage is that as the limited / required material is discharged from the storage into delivery pipe (20) thus relieving the user form carrying more weight in hand. [0060] As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the present disclosure may easily be produced in other specific forms without departing from its essential characteristics. The present embodiments is, therefore, to be considered as merely illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the disclosure being indicated by the claims rather than the foregoing description, and all changes which come within therefore intended to be embraced therein.

ADVANTAGES

[0061] The disclosure provides many advantages as listed out below:

1) The multi-purpose dispensing device for dispensing agricultural items;

2) The cost-efficient dispensing device that minimizes human efforts and time for carrying the dispensing device from one place to another;

3) The dispensing device that enables uniform dispensing in desired amount of items at desired point and hence prevents wastage of item and spoilage/contamination of soil resulting in increased yield;

4) The dispensing device that reduces undesirable growth of weeds and prevents disease caused to crops/plants and enable early inter cultivation; 5) The dispensing device that enables delivery of items substantially uniformly to all crops/plants;

6) The dispensing device that facilitates proper growth of crop/plants especially young ones to enable their rapid growth; and

7) The portable and easy to handle and operate the dispensing device.

Claims

A delivery pipe for dispensing at least one of a granular material or a powder material from a storage tank, the delivery pipe comprising:

-a first end coupled to an outlet of the storage tank and a second end coupled to an end ejector, wherein the end ejector facilitates the required discharge of the granular material or the powder material therefrom;

-an elongate mount provided in the interior of the delivery pipe, wherein a plurality of buckets are mounted on the elongate mount; and

-displacing means coupled with the elongate mount for facilitating linear reciprocating motion of the elongate mount and the plurality of buckets within the delivery pipe, thereby providing a de-clogging and a de-scaling effect for efficient discharge of at least one of the granular and the powder matter from the delivery pipe.

The delivery pipe as claimed in claim 1, wherein the delivery pipe is defined by a variably flexible portion and a rigid portion, wherein the flexible portion and the rigid portion can either be formed integrally or assembled as separate pipes.

The delivery pipe as claimed claim 2, wherein the elongate mount is a cable supported in the interior of the rigid portion and the flexible portion.

The delivery pipe as claimed claim 3, wherein the plurality of buckets are mounted on the cable such that the buckets supported within the interior of the flexible portion have a spherical configuration, whereas the buckets supported within the rigid portion have a conical configuration.

The delivery pipe as claimed claim 2, wherein the elongate mount is a cable supported in the interior of the flexible portion and a rod supported in the rigid portion such that an end of the cable is coupled with an end of the cable mechanically to form the elongate mount.

6. The delivery pipe as claimed claim 5, wherein the plurality of buckets are mounted on the elongate mount such that the buckets supported within the cable in the interior of the flexible portion have a spherical configuration, whereas the buckets supported on the rod in the interior of the rigid portion have a conical configuration.

7. The delivery pipe as claimed in claim 4 and claim 6, wherein the delivery pipe further comprises a plurality of vibrators mounted at pre-determined locations along the length of the delivery pipe for providing a de-clogging and a descaling effect for efficient discharge of at least one of the granular material and the powder material from the storage tank.

8. The delivery pipe as claimed in claim 7, wherein the vibrators are configured to vibrate simultaneously as well as progressively in a pre-determined sequence.

9. The delivery pipe as claimed in claim 1, wherein the displacing means is at least one selected from a group consisting of a motor, a relay, and mechanical means.

10. A delivery pipe for dispensing at least one of a granular material or a powder material from a storage tank, the delivery pipe comprising:

-a first end coupled to an outlet of the storage tank and a second end coupled to an end ejector, wherein the end ejector facilitates the required discharge of the granular material or the powder material therefrom; and

-at least one vibrator mounted at pre-determined locations along the length of the delivery pipe for providing a de-clogging and a de-scaling effect for efficient discharge of at least one of the granular material and the powder material from the storage tank.

11. The delivery pipe as claimed in claim 10, wherein the vibrators are configured to vibrate simultaneously as well as progressively in a pre-determined sequence.

12. The delivery pipe as claimed in claim 1 and claim 10, further comprising a handle extending in an inclined manner from a location adjacent an operative top portion of the delivery pipe.

13. The delivery pipe as claimed in claim 12, wherein the handle is linearly displaceable on the delivery pipe for varying the operational height of the delivery pipe.

14. The delivery pipe as claimed in claim 1 and claim 10, further comprise a stimulator unit that has a sensor connected thereto and configured to sense the presence of the at least one granular material and the at least one powder material within the delivery pipe upto a predefined height or point, wherein, when the sensor senses that the delivery pipe is empty, the stimulator unit is configured to communicate with a flow control valve employed at the storage tank to instruct the flow control valve to be actuated for allowing at least one the granular material and the powder material to be discharged from the storage tank into delivery pipe, thereby filling the delivery pipe upto the predefined height or point for further use.

15. An end ejector to be connected to an operative end of a delivery pipe extending from a storage tank for dispensing at least one of a granular material and a powder material, the end ejector comprising:

-a cylindrical body having a connection portion for connecting with the delivery pipe;

-a helical screw rotatably supported within the cylindrical body;

-a disc mounted on the helical screw, wherein the disc is coupled with an actuating means for facilitating a rotational oscillatory motion of the disc by unwinding and winding an actuating element on the surface of the disc; and

-a free-wheeling mechanism provided between the disc and the helical screw for facilitating unidirectional rotational coupling between the disc and the helical screw for providing rotational motion to the helical screw while the disc is displaced by the actuating means in said rotational oscillatory motion; and

-an outlet provided on the cylindrical body adjacent to the helical screw such that the rotation of the helical screw facilitates translation of the granular material or the powdered material within the cylindrical body for facilitating metered discharge of the granular material or the powdered material therefrom.

16. The end ejector as claimed in claim 15, wherein the actuating means is a trigger, and the actuating element is a cable that facilitates coupling between the trigger and the disc.

17. The end ejector as claimed in claim 16, wherein the actuating means is at least one of motor, a solenoid, a relay, and mechanical means that can be controlled using the trigger.

18. The end ejector as claimed in claim 15, wherein a single pitch of the helical screw facilitates a discharge of a pre -determined amount of the granular material or the powdered material, and the metered discharge of the granular material or the powdered material is facilitated by metering the number of rotations of the helical screw.

19. The end ejector as claimed in claim 15, further comprising an energy storage device coupled with the disc such that the actuating element and the energy storage device facilitate the rotational oscillatory motion of the disc when the actuating means is actuated.

20. The end ejector as claimed in claim 19, wherein the energy storage device is at least one selected from a group consisting of a spring, a coil, and a resilient rubber element.

21. An end ejector to be connected to an operative end of a delivery pipe extending from a storage tank for dispensing at least one of a granular material and a powder material, the end ejector comprising: -a cylindrical body having a connection portion for connecting with the delivery pipe, the cylindrical body having a first opening configured thereon;

-a nozzle disposed within the cylindrical body and having a second opening, wherein the nozzle is rotatably supported within the cylindrical body so that the first and second openings coincide on the rotation of the nozzle to form an outlet for allowing the granular and the powder materials to be discharged therefrom; and

-at least one track provided on the cylindrical body for slidably mounting a sliding cover thereon for covering at least one of the first and the second openings, wherein the sliding cover is coupled with a trigger provided on the delivery pipe, and the actuation of the trigger effects the sliding of the sliding cover on the at least one track, thereby selectively covering the first and second openings.

22. The end ejector as claimed in claim 21, wherein an opening of variable size is provided to the end ejector to adjust the dispensed quantity of at least one granular material or powder material by the rotation of the nozzle and consequently by the overlapping of the first opening and the second opening.

23. The end ejector as claimed in claim 21, further comprising an energy storage device and configured for varying the tension required to slidably displace the sliding cover.

24. The end ejector as claimed in claim 21, further comprising a cover for covering at least a portion of the cylindrical body.

25. The end ejector as claimed in claim 21, wherein the actuating means is at least one of motor, a solenoid, a relay, and mechanical means that can be controlled using a trigger

26. The end ejector as claimed in claim 15 and claim 21, further comprising a shape mechanism connected at the outlet of the end ejector to uniformly dispense at least one the granular material and the powder material in a predefined shape.

27. The end ejector as claimed in claim 15 and claim 21, further comprising a funnel (30d) for dispensing items in a desired place in the form of a cluster.