Agrokruh

Function
The agrokruh is designed to be the primary vegetable producer for a homestead or community. Large-scale automation is desirable for reduced labor input and better resource management. Minimal soil compaction is a main consideration in long term soil health, so a system that does not roll wheels along a field is ideal.

Central Mast/Cistern/Power Supply
A cylindrical concrete footing reinforced with steel provides a heavy anchor for the base of the structure. A cistern may be integrated with the concrete design to provide local water caching. A flanged steel tube extends upward from the center of the concrete footing, providing a stationary mounting point for the main beam and bearings. Above the beam mounting location, an additional long steel tube is bolted on to allow for mounting of solar panels and wind turbines. Battery mounting boxes are integrated around the steel tube.

Main Beam
A steel I-beam or similar high-strength low deflection material provides the rail upon which the tool head slides. Along the beam are cable chains and retractable hose hangars to house, guide and protect vulnerable components and allow them to move with the tool head. At one end of the beam is welded a steel cylinder which sleeves over the steel tube of the center mast. At the other end is the mounting point for the perimeter carriage. A belt or chain running the length and affixed to the underside of the beam at either end and partially covered by a channel or trough provides the traction surface for movement of the tool head.

Perimeter Carriage
A large drive wheel and several support idler wheels attached to a structural frame and vertical post affix to the outside end of the main beam, locating the beam on the outer perimeter of the agro-circle. A substantial electric motor is attached to the frame to drive the wheel, and power is routed to the carriage along the main beam.

Rolling Frame
A sturdy steel frame hangs from the main beam on a series of rollers. A belt or chain and pinion system and drive motor allow locating tool head along the main beam with precision. Attachment points and quick connect fittings and connectors for hose and cable are integrated with the frame.

Z-Axis Plate
A heavy gauge rectangular or square steel plate hanging from the rolling frame with 4 large holes and 4 mounting points for large motors, as well as alignment and carrier bearing mounts. A large leadscrew passes through each hole and is supported on the carrier bearings and coupled to each large motor.

Z-Plane
A rectangular frame or plate joined at each corner to a pivoting joint. The joint is welded or otherwise affixed to a large nut that threads on to the large leadscrews hanging from the Z-axis plate.