Agricultural nutrient application using real-time spectral analysis of living crops

Abstract

An agricultural nutrient applicator includes a container and a nutrient dispensing assembly operably coupled to the container to deliver nutrient from the container. A spectral reflectance crop sensing system is provided that includes an optical window. A presentation assembly is mounted to the agricultural nutrient applicator and is configured to position a live plant in a field proximate the optical window of the spectral reflectance crop sensing system as the agricultural nutrient applicator moves. A controller is coupled to the spectral reflectance crop sensing system and the nutrient dispensing assembly. The controller is configured to obtain information from the spectral reflectance crop sensing system indicative of a measured nutrient level in the live plant and determine a remedial nutrient amount based on the measured nutrient level and a target nutrient level. The controller controls the nutrient dispensing assembly based on the remedial amount.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This description relates to agricultural nutrient applicators. More specifically, this description relates to agricultural nutrient applicators that provide nutrient application control based on nutrient analysis of living crops. Background Technology

[0002] Effective selection, application, and timing of nutrients for growing crops are essential for modern agriculture. As technology has improved the ability to deliver precise levels of nutrients to individual rows of plants, yields have also increased. With the help of positioning systems such as GPS, farmers can accurately map the nutrient content of their soil and then use GPS, combined with nutrient maps on tractors, to deliver varying amounts of nutrients (such as fertilizer) to different parts of their fields as needed, rather than applying a predetermined amount across the entire field.

[0003] The above discussion is provided only as general background information and is not intended to help determine the scope of the subject matter for which protection is sought. Summary of the Invention

[0004] An agricultural nutrient applicator includes a container and a nutrient dispensing assembly operatively coupled to the container to deliver nutrients from the container. A spectral reflectance crop sensing system is provided, including an optical window. A presentation assembly is mounted to the agricultural nutrient applicator and configured to position live plants in the field near the optical window of the spectral reflectance crop sensing system as the agricultural nutrient applicator moves. A controller is coupled to the spectral reflectance crop sensing system and the nutrient dispensing assembly. The controller is configured to acquire information from the spectral reflectance crop sensing system indicating a measured nutrient level in the live plants and to determine a remedial nutrient amount based on the measured nutrient level and a target nutrient level. The controller controls the nutrient dispensing assembly based on the remedial amount.

[0005] The present invention is provided to introduce selected concepts in a simplified form, which are further described in the detailed embodiments below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to embodiments that address any or all the shortcomings pointed out in the background art. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a schematic top view of an agricultural nutrient applicator according to one embodiment.

[0007] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a spectral crop sensing module according to one embodiment.

[0008] Figure 3A This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the presentation components of a spectral crop sensing module for seedlings and particularly fragile small plants, according to one embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3B This is a schematic perspective view of the presentation components of a spectral crop sensing module for seedlings and particularly fragile small plants, according to one embodiment.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the presentation components of a spectral crop sensing module according to another embodiment.

[0011] Figure 5A and Figure 5B These are a top plan view and a schematic perspective view of the presentation components of a spectral crop sensing module according to another embodiment.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a method for applying nutrients to agricultural crops according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the control system of an agricultural nutrient applicator according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a method for applying agricultural nutrients according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of a method for measuring nutrient levels in a living crop according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 10 Is Figure 1 The block diagram shown illustrates an agricultural nutrient applicator, in addition to the agricultural nutrient applicator communicating with components in a remote server architecture.

[0017] Figure 11 This is where it can be deployed (for example). Figure 7 An example of a computing environment for a component or a portion thereof. Detailed Implementation

[0018] As mentioned above, the effective selection, application, and timing of nutrients delivered to growing crops are crucial for effective agriculture. The embodiments described herein typically employ equipment / technology in novel ways to provide an understanding of growing (i.e., living plants with roots in the soil) crops. This information allows for more precise nutrient delivery to growing crops based on their actual needs. Agricultural nutrient delivery systems and methods for delivering nutrients to growing crops are described below.

[0019] Recently, spectral analysis of plant material has provided a wealth of information about harvested plants and in laboratory settings. For example, near-infrared reflectance (NIR) technology generates near-infrared light towards the harvested crop and analyzes the reflected signals. As used herein, near-infrared refers to light with wavelengths starting at 800 nm to 2,500 nm. This technology can produce results almost instantly and is used in both laboratory settings and harvesting operations. During harvesting, NIR is used to determine the moisture, dry matter, protein, starch, fiber, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and sugar content of the harvested crop. Farmers can use this information to plan fertilization for the next season. A commercially available product using this technology is sold under the trade name HarvestLab 3000 and is available from Deere & Company in Morin, Illinois. The HarvestLab 3000 device can be used in both laboratory settings and with harvesters to acquire data virtually in real time, allowing this data to be correlated with harvester location for future planning.

[0020] It is also believed that similar techniques can be used in conjunction with mid-infrared reflectance (MIR) technology, which employs illumination with wavelengths greater than 2500 nm but less than approximately 8000 nm. Furthermore, the embodiments described below include the use of a combination of NIR and MIR. While much of this disclosure is directed toward NIR, this is for illustrative purposes and is equally applicable to MIR.

[0021] According to the embodiments described below, spectroscopic techniques (such as NIR techniques) are applied to growing crops to assess nutrient levels. However, using spectroscopic techniques (such as NIR) with growing crops presents significant challenges. First, spectroscopic sensors can be adversely affected by ambient light (e.g., sunlight). While this is easily controlled in laboratory environments or in agricultural machinery where crops have been cut from the ground, it is very difficult when crops remain rooted to the ground. Second, spectroscopic techniques require significant delivery of the material being sensed to the optical spectroscopic sensor. Again, this is easily addressed in laboratory environments or in environments where crops have been cut / removed from the ground. A third difficulty is that the process of presenting the growing crop to the spectroscopic sensor should not damage the crop. The embodiments set forth below generally overcome some or all of these challenges, thereby allowing the application of spectroscopic techniques (such as NIR and / or MIR) to growing crops, thus allowing the use of the wealth of information provided by such techniques to inform growth processes (e.g., nutrient delivery).

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic top plan view of an agricultural nutrient applicator according to one embodiment. Although in Figure 1The examples illustrated herein show a self-powered agricultural nutrient applicator, but those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be practiced with any suitable agricultural machinery, whether self-propelled or towed. In some embodiments, the agricultural machinery is an agricultural nutrient applicator. However, embodiments can also be practiced with agricultural machinery that scouts crops to determine nutrient requirements and associates those requirements with location. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein are equally applicable to nutrient applicators that apply dry, liquid, and / or gaseous nutrients. Further, the embodiments are equally applicable to nutrient applicators that apply, for example, side-dress and top-dress applications. As used herein, agricultural nutrient applicators are intended to encompass sprayers, spreaders, side-dress rigs, and high-capacity nutrient applicators used in agriculture.

[0023] Agricultural nutrient applicator 100 includes a chassis 102 supported by wheels or rails 104 for movement over fields with growing crops. The nutrient applicator 100 includes a nutrient container or tank 105 connected to a nutrient applicator assembly 106 to dispense nutrients to the crops in the field. The nutrient may be in the form of dry nutrient, liquid nutrient, gaseous nutrient, or a combination thereof. Figure 1 As shown, the applicator assembly 106 includes a cantilever with a plurality of nozzles 108 mounted on the cantilever and arranged to dispense nutrients. According to one embodiment, the nutrient applicator 100 includes or is coupled to a spectral crop sensing module 110 configured to position a living plant (i.e., a growing crop) in contact with an optical window that allows infrared light to pass through, such that the reflection of this infrared light can be received by a sensor of the spectral crop sensing module 110, thereby providing crop measurements of at least one of water, nitrogen, potassium, and protein, as well as measurements of other items that may limit nitrogen, potassium, and / or protein uptake or protein accumulation. Examples of such other items include phosphorus and sulfur, as well as essential plant micronutrients. The spectral crop sensing module 110 is mounted relative to the agricultural nutrient applicator 100 such that optical spectral techniques (such as NIR and / or MIR) are unaffected by sunlight and do not damage the growing plant. Understandably, assuming that a crop can be in any stage of its life cycle from seedling to mature plant, the spectral crop sensing module 110 may include different techniques / mechanisms for carefully presenting the plant to the optical sensor in a technically effective manner, without being excessively affected by ambient sunlight, and without damaging the plant.

[0024] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of a spectral crop sensing module according to one embodiment. The spectral crop sensing module 110 typically includes a housing 112 housing an infrared reflective (NIR and / or MIR) transmitter / receiver module 114. The transmitter / receiver module 114 is configured to transmit infrared light 116 through an optical window 118 to be reflected from the growing plant 120. The reflected light 122 is received by the transmitter / receiver module 114 and signals a controller 124, which analyzes the signal according to known techniques to determine nutrient levels, etc., in the growing plant. Examples include nitrogen, potassium, water, phosphorus, sulfur, calcium, and protein (although technically protein is not a nutrient but an organic compound composed of amino acids / nutrients). As an agricultural nutrient applicator passes over the growing plant, these measurements of substantially real-time nutrient levels in the growing crop can be compared to target nutrient levels in a normal crop at its current life stage (e.g., seedling, intermediate crop, or mature crop), and the necessary levels of various nutrients can be determined to correct any deficiencies, which can be calculated in real-time and applied to the growing plant. Furthermore, although... Figure 1 The embodiment shown employs a single spectral crop sensing module 110, but it is clearly conceivable that multiple such sensor modules could be used to provide additional granularity levels, extending down to the individual rows of the plant.

[0025] According to the embodiments described below, multiple detachable mechanical components are presented to farmers for crops at different maturity levels, for presenting growing crops to optical sensors.

[0026] Figure 3A This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the presentation component 150 of a spectral crop sensing module 110 for seedlings and particularly fragile small plants. Component 150 typically includes a tapered leading edge 152 and a bottom 154 having an aperture 156. An optical window 118 is disposed near or even within the aperture 156. A housing 112 is disposed above the aperture 156. The housing 112 is typically closed, allowing only light that can enter the component's optical window 118 to pass through the aperture 156.

[0027] In some examples, component 150 is made of a relatively low-friction material (such as plastic), and component 150 is hingedly connected below the chassis 102 of the agricultural nutrient applicator 100, allowing the component 150 to be raised and lowered by the operator of the applicator. Figure 3AAs shown, component 150 also includes a cable 160 connected to an automatic height control system 161, which controls the vertical movement of the presentation component 150 relative to the chassis 102. The automatic height control system 161 controls the height of the presentation component 150 to obtain accurate measurements of the live plant without damaging it. Thus, as the actuator 160 is lowered or the cable is lengthened, the presentation component 150 descends until it contacts the ground below the chassis 102. Additionally, the cable 160 may include a spring, or be coupled to a spring (such as a tension spring), allowing the presentation component 150 to be selectively biased relative to the ground. As the agricultural nutrient applicator 100 travels across the field, the plant 120 will pass through window 118 in the direction indicated by arrow 162. The presentation component 150 includes one or more opaque curtains or bellows 159 that block ambient light. Because housing 112 prevents all light except that passing through window 118 from entering the spectral crop sensing module 110, the system essentially isolates the sensor from sunlight and other sources of error. Furthermore, the sensor makes close optical contact with the growing plant, allowing for the acquisition of effective infrared reflected signals. Moreover, by providing selectable bias to the presentation component as it slides over or passes over the crop, the growing crop will not be damaged.

[0028] Figure 3B This is a schematic perspective view of the presentation component 164 of a spectral crop sensing module for seedlings and particularly fragile small plants according to one embodiment. Figure 3B The embodiments illustrated in the figure are similar to those in Figure 3A The embodiment illustrated in the figure, and similar components are similarly numbered. Component 158 ​​includes four links 158 configured to pivotally connect to the chassis 102 of the agricultural nutrient applicator to allow for lowering or raising of component 164. Component 164 also includes a surface profile 165 in the leading edge 152 to present more plant material to the optical window 118 below the housing 112.

[0029] about Figure 3A and Figure 3B The described embodiment is particularly useful for small cereal crops in the early season. The design can be embodied in a simple sled with a hole or opening in the bottom through which a sensor can view and see the crop. Such a design can use the weight of the sled and sensor to press down on the crop to obtain sufficient readings, or the sled can be selectively biased to provide only an additional or reduced force relative to gravity. The sled can be formed from any suitable material, as long as it is opaque. In one example, the sled is formed from opaque plastic.

[0030] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the presentation component 170 of a spectral crop sensing module 110 according to another embodiment. The presentation component 170 is designed for small cereal crops late in the season (e.g., before the first node of the stem is visible, Feekes growth stage 6). Component 170 includes two floats 172, 174 that separate taller crops so that the taller crops pass through area 176. Additionally, the presentation component 170 includes a location 178 for a housing 112 for a spectral sensor (e.g., an NIR and / or MIR sensor). Preferably, a window 118 is positioned and arranged to observe the lower portion of the crop. This lower portion of the crop is considered to be where nutrient deficiency can be detected first, because for a deficiency of mobile nutrients (e.g., nitrogen) in the plant, relocation would move nutrients from older plant tissue to newer tissue / reproductive parts. Similar to presentation component 150, presentation component 170 can also be selectively deployed below the chassis 102 of agricultural nutrient applicator 100. Additionally, as described above, the embodiments described herein may include multiple such presentation components and spectral sensors to provide increased granularity information related to growing crops.

[0031] Figure 5A and Figure 5B These are, respectively, a top plan view and a schematic perspective view of the presentation component 200 of the spectral crop sensing module 110 according to another embodiment. Component 200 is designed for mature, row-shaped crops. Component 200 may include one or more stem lifters 201 to elevate branches, and component 200 typically has a relatively large chamber 202 to allow the crop to pass through, while still controlling ambient light. On one side is a conveyor 204 for moving the crop directly through the chamber 202. The conveyor is designed to operate at a speed synchronized with ground speed to avoid damaging the plant. On the other side is one or more apertures that allow spectral sensors (such as NIR and / or MIR sensors) within housing 112 to view and scan the crop through window 118. Preferably, one side of component 200 includes a spring or other optional biasing mechanism (schematically shown at reference numeral 206) to select the amount of bias applied to the crop material such that sufficient readings are obtained using the spectral sensors, rather than too much force, to damage the crop passing through the chamber 202.

[0032] Figure 6This is a flowchart of a method for applying nutrients to an agricultural crop according to one embodiment. Method 300 begins at block 302, where a reflectance response is acquired from a living crop using infrared reflectance technology. At block 304, this reflectance response is used to calculate one or more nutrient levels in the living crop. Examples of nutrients used for this nutrient level calculation include nitrogen 306, moisture 307, potassium 308, protein 309, phosphorus 310, sulfur 311, and calcium 312. Next, at block 314, the measured nutrient levels(one or more) are compared to target levels for the living crop. This target can be adjusted based on the living crop's position in its life cycle (e.g., seedling, intermediate crop, mature crop) and other suitable factors. For example, additional sensors and techniques can be used to acquire additional information related to the living crop, which can be combined with spectrally derived nutrient information. Examples of additional sensors include (located on the applicator, provided by satellite imaging, and / or mounted on manned or unmanned aerial systems) visible spectral cameras, biomass sensors, etc., which can assess the presence and / or color of the live crop. In any case, at box 316, the amount of remedial nutrients for the live crop is determined based on a comparison of the measured nutrient level with a target level. Next, at box 318, the amount of remedial nutrients calculated in box 316 is actually applied to the live crop.

[0033] As shown in dashed box 320, method 300 may also include storing information, as such information may be useful for subsequent operations. Examples of such stored information may include measured nutrient levels 322, applied nutrients 324, the location of the nutrient applicator 326 (via GPS signal or other suitable location information), and / or the application time 328. The information may be stored locally in the agricultural nutrient applicator or wirelessly transmitted to a remote nutrient information data storage device.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a control system for an agricultural nutrient applicator according to one embodiment. The control system 400 includes an applicator controller 402, which in one example may be a microprocessor. The controller 402 includes or is coupled to a suitable memory to execute a sequence of instructions to provide measurement and / or control functions related to the applicator's functionality. The controller 402 is coupled to one or more spectral sensors 404, each of which may include its own controller and transmitter / receiver (e.g.,...). Figure 2(As shown). As an example of using multiple spectral sensors 404, NIR and / or MIR sensors 404 can be mounted on each segment of a multi-segment cantilever of an agricultural sprayer. Thus, if the sprayer has five segments, five such sensors 404 will be used. As another example of using multiple such spectral sensors, in a high-capacity nutrient applicator with an air cantilever, there are two segments, and therefore two spectral sensors 404 will be used. As the applicator moves across the field, the controller 402 receives information from the spectral sensors 404 indicating the nutrient levels of the growing crop / living plant passing through one or more optical windows of the sensors 404.

[0035] The controller 402 is also coupled to a location detection system 406, which provides indication of the geographic location of the agricultural nutrient applicator. In one example, the location detection module 406 uses known GPS technology to provide the latitude and longitude location of the applicator. However, embodiments may include any suitable location detection system that provides useful location information related to the applicator. Suitable examples of location sensors include any suitable Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) that provides geographic location and time information to a suitable receiver anywhere on Earth. In one example, the GNSS device is a GPS receiver. However, other suitable GNSS devices, such as the Russian (GLONASS) system, may be used. Furthermore, differential GPS technology may also be used for module 154. Finally, a non-GNSS-based location signaling system (such as LORAN or mobile / Wi-Fi triangulation) may be used for the location detection module 406. Thus, with the connection between the controller 402 and both the sensor(s) 404 and the location detection system 406, the actual measured nutrient levels in the living crop can be correlated with the location of the living crop in order to apply the necessary nutrients or take other appropriate remedial actions. In addition, as mentioned above, the nutrient information can be associated with location information stored locally by the controller 402, or stored in a remote data system using wireless communication.

[0036] like Figure 7As shown, controller 402 is coupled to wireless communication module 408, which allows controller 402 to communicate wirelessly with one or more remote devices, preferably bidirectionally. Examples of suitable wireless communications include, but are not limited to: Bluetooth (e.g., Bluetooth 2.1 with power rating 2); Wi-Fi specifications (e.g., IEEE 802.11.a / b / g / n); known RFID specifications; cellular communication technologies (e.g., GPRS / GSM / CDMA); WiMAX (IEEE 802.16) and / or satellite communication. Using wireless communication module 408, controller 402 can transmit measured nutrient information, applied nutrient information, location data, and / or time data to suitable remote devices, such as cloud-based nutrient information storage devices 111 (e.g., cloud-based nutrient information storage devices 111). Figure 9 (As shown).

[0037] In addition, the controller 402 can be coupled to one or more additional sensors 410, which can provide additional information related to the growing crop. Such additional sensors may include a visible spectrum camera, a biomass sensor, a soil sensor, an oxygen sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor, etc., where the visible spectrum camera can provide indications of crop presence, height, and / or color. Information from one or more of these additional sensors 410 can be provided to the controller 402 to adjust the functionality of the agricultural nutrient applicator 100. For example, the visible spectrum camera can be used to determine an estimate of crop biomass, which is then used to provide an indication of the crop life cycle, providing information for target nutrient levels.

[0038] like Figure 7 As shown, controller 402 is also connected to nutrient distribution system 412, which controls the individual nozzles of the nutrient applicator or other suitable nutrient flow / delivery mechanism. In this way, the rate of nutrient flow or delivery to the crop as the agricultural nutrient applicator passes over it can be based on actual measurements of nutrients in the crop. Based on actual measurements of the plant's needs in the field, this provides the plant with the specific nutrients it requires.

[0039] Figure 8This is a flowchart of a method for applying agricultural nutrients according to one embodiment. Method 420 begins at box 420, where one or more spectral sensors are used to sense the live crop, as described above. For example, a single spectral sensor located below the agricultural nutrient applicator can sense the live plant passing beneath that sensor. Next, at box 424, at least one additional sensor or detector is used to acquire additional information about the crop or field. In one example, a visible light and / or multispectral camera 428 is used to observe the overall width of the nutrient applicator and determine the relative health of the crop. The spectral sensor signal is then used to measure the center row or segment. Next, at box 433, the location of the spectral sensor signal is associated with the additional sensor information. In the example of acquiring additional information from the visible light / multispectral camera, the camera's output across the width of the nutrient applicator is compared to the output at the center where the spectral sensor is located. If the camera determines that the crops have similar health across the width (e.g., indicated by color), the value measured by the spectral sensor is applied across the entire width. This is an example of inferring the spectral sensor response based on the additional sensor or detector, as indicated in box 434. However, if the camera detects an area with more or less green than the location of the spectral sensor, the values(s) acquired by the spectral sensor can be adjusted up or down based on the difference. The adjusted values ​​are then provided to the applicator to deliver(one or more) of the necessary nutrients to the plant. Therefore, very precise nutrient application can be achieved using relatively low-cost sensor components.

[0040] like Figure 8 As shown, other examples of additional sensors that can be used are biomass sensor 426 and / or normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) sensor 430. When the spectral sensor signal is coupled to the biomass sensor signal 426, the biomass sensor signal 426 can be used to determine the amount of crop (biomass) present, and the spectral sensor signal can quantify the nutrient levels in that crop. Combined, these two inputs can be used to accurately predict the amount of nutrients required to maximize yield and protein in the crop.

[0041] Other types of sensors and information can also be used, as indicated in box 432. As an example of other information, images acquired from aerial drones or satellites can be used to divide the field into different zones of relatively healthy plants. Then, as the nutrient applicator moves across the field along with a spectral sensor, it will quantify the nutrient level in each zone and then apply the appropriate ratio to each zone.

[0042] It is understood that the use of one or more additional sensors can facilitate intelligent adjustments to spectral measurement-based nutrient delivery. In some examples, the required nutrient level is inferred based on images acquired across the width of the applicator and / or from manned or unmanned aerial systems / satellites. However, embodiments can also use additional sensors / information to determine whether there is little or no crop in the field section below the applicator. In these cases, the applicator can prevent the delivery of excessive nutrients, as excess nutrients would simply be wasted or applied at levels toxic to plants. This helps to eliminate the need for nutrient application in areas without crops, thus saving input costs and protecting the environment. It can also be aided by designating areas with little or no crops so that the output of spectral sensors in these areas can be ignored.

[0043] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of a method for measuring nutrient levels in a living crop according to one embodiment. Method 450 begins at block 452, where infrared light (near-infrared, mid-infrared, or both) is directed to the living crop and the reflected signal is acquired. While this can be achieved using a presentation component located above or below a nutrient applicator, it can also be achieved using a presentation component that is dragged or otherwise conveyed through the living crop. For example, in Figure 3A The rendering component shown can be simply dragged across the crop. In another example, the rendering component can form part of an autonomous vehicle that is commanded or otherwise programmed to traverse the crop to detect nutrient levels.

[0044] Next, at box 454, the reflected signal is used to calculate one or more nutrient levels in the living crop. In doing so, known calibrations or characteristics of the infrared reflected signal are used to determine the nutrient-related substance levels. Examples of nutrient-related substance levels include, but are not limited to: nitrogen 456, water 458, potassium 460, protein 462, phosphorus 464, sulfur 466, and calcium 468.

[0045] Next, at box 470, determine the location of the presentation system and / or the plant. This can be accomplished using a suitable location detection system, such as location detection system 406 (e.g., Figure 7 (As shown). Next, at box 472, the measured nutrient level 474 and location 476 are stored. Preferably, the time / date of measurement 478 is also stored. Such storage can be in a local data storage device, a remote data storage device, or both. This stored data can then be used to inform agricultural decisions, such as applying nutrients to living crops and the manner of applying such nutrients (e.g., lateral or top fertilization).

[0046] Processors and servers have been mentioned in this discussion. In one embodiment, a processor and server include a computer processor having associated memory and timing circuitry (not shown separately). Processors and servers are functional parts of a system or device to which they belong, and are activated by and facilitate the function of other components or items within those systems.

[0047] Many data storage devices are also discussed. It should be noted that these data storage devices can be divided into multiple data storage devices. For a system accessing these data storage devices, all data storage devices can be local, all data storage devices can be remote, or some data storage devices can be local while others are remote. All these configurations are considered in this paper.

[0048] Furthermore, the accompanying diagram shows multiple boxes, with functionality assigned to each box. It should be noted that fewer boxes can be used, thus requiring fewer components to perform the function. Conversely, more boxes can be used, with functionality distributed across more components.

[0049] It should be noted that the foregoing discussion has described various different systems, components, and / or logic. It should be understood that such systems, components, and / or logic can be constituted by hardware items (such as processors and associated memory or other processing units, some of which are described below) that perform functions associated with those systems, components, and / or logic. Furthermore, the systems, components, and / or logic can be constituted by software loaded into memory and subsequently run by a processor, server, or other computing unit, as described below. The systems, components, and / or logic can also be constituted by different combinations of hardware, software, firmware, etc., some examples of which are described below. These are merely some examples of different structures that can be used to form the systems, components, and / or logic described above. Other structures may also be used.

[0050] Figure 10 Is Figure 1 The block diagram shown illustrates an agricultural nutrient applicator 100, except that the agricultural nutrient applicator 100 communicates with elements in a remote server architecture 500. In an example embodiment, the remote server architecture 500 can provide computing services, software services, data access services, and storage services that do not require the end user to know the physical location or configuration of the system delivering the services. In various different embodiments, the remote server can deliver the services over a wide area network (such as the Internet) using appropriate protocols. For example, the remote server can deliver applications over a wide area network, and the remote server can be accessed through a web browser or any other computing component. Figure 1The software or components shown, along with the corresponding data, can be stored on servers at remote locations. Computing resources in a remote server environment can be consolidated at a remote data center location, or they can be distributed. Remote server infrastructure can deliver services through a shared data center, even if the remote server infrastructure appears as a single access point for users. Therefore, the components and functions described herein can be provided from remote servers at remote locations using a remote server architecture. Alternatively, the components and functions can be provided from conventional servers, or they can be installed directly or otherwise on client devices.

[0051] Figure 10 Another embodiment employing a remote server architecture is described. Figure 10 It also shows consideration Figure 7 Some components are located at a remote server location 502, while others are not located at that remote server location. By way of example, the nutrient information data storage device 111 may be located at location 502 schematically shown in the cloud. It is explicitly considered that the cloud-based nutrient information data storage device 111 may be located in a single location, or may be split or otherwise distributed across multiple physical locations. Regardless of their location, they can be directly accessed by the applicator control system 400 via a network (WAN or LAN), they can be hosted at a remote site as a service, or they can be provided as a service or accessed by a connection service residing at a remote location. Furthermore, the data can be stored virtually anywhere, and the data can be accessed intermittently by the relevant parties or forwarded to the relevant parties. For example, a physical carrier may be used instead of an electromagnetic carrier, or a physical carrier may be used in addition to an electromagnetic carrier. In such embodiments, in cases where cellular coverage is poor or absent, another mobile machine (such as a fuel vehicle or fertilizer transport vehicle) may have an automated information collection system. When the applicator approaches a fuel vehicle to refuel, the system automatically collects information from the applicator using any type of temporary wireless connection. When the fuel vehicle reaches a location with cellular (or other) wireless coverage, the collected information can then be forwarded to the main network. For example, the fuel vehicle might enter a covered location while refueling another machine or at a main fuel storage location. All of these architectures are considered in this paper. Furthermore, information can be stored on the applicator until it enters a covered location.

[0052] Figure 11 This is where it can be deployed (for example). Figure 7 An example of a computing environment for a component or a portion thereof. Reference Figure 11An exemplary system for implementing some embodiments includes a general-purpose computing device in the form of a computer 810. Components of the computer 810 may include, but are not limited to: a processing unit 820 (which may include a processor 108), system memory 830, and a system bus 821 that connects various system components, including the system memory, to the processing unit 820. The system bus 821 may be any of several types of bus architectures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of various bus architectures. Regarding... Figure 7 The described memory and program can be deployed in Figure 11 In the corresponding part.

[0053] Computer 810 typically includes a variety of computer-readable media. Computer-readable media can be any available medium accessible to computer 810, and includes volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable media can include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media are distinct from and do not include modulated data signals or carriers. Computer-readable media include hardware storage media, which include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any way or by any technique for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer storage media include, but are not limited to: RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical disc storage devices, magnetic tape, magnetic tape, disk storage devices or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired information and is accessible to computer 810. Communication media can implement computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a transmission mechanism, and includes any information delivery medium. The term "modulated data signal" refers to a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in a manner that encodes information in the signal.

[0054] System memory 830 includes computer storage media in the form of volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM) 831 and random access memory (RAM) 832. The basic input / output system 833 (BIOS) (which contains basic routines such as those that help transfer information between components within computer 810 during startup) is typically stored in ROM 831. RAM 832 typically contains data and / or program modules that are readily accessible to and / or currently being operated by processing unit 820. By way of example and not limitation, Figure 11 The operating system 834, application program 835, other program modules 836, and program data 837 are shown.

[0055] Computer 810 may also include other removable / non-removable volatile / non-volatile computer storage media. This is just one example. Figure 11 A hard disk drive 841 is shown that reads from or writes to non-removable non-volatile magnetic media, a disk drive 851, a non-volatile disk 852, an optical disk drive 855, and a non-volatile optical disk 856. The hard disk drive 841 is typically connected to the system bus 821 via a non-removable memory interface (such as interface 840), and the disk drive 851 and the optical disk drive 855 are typically connected to the system bus 821 via a removable memory interface (such as interface 850).

[0056] Alternatively or additionally, the functions described herein may be performed at least in part by one or more hardware logic components. For example, but not limited to, illustrative types of hardware logic components that may be used include field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (e.g., ASICs), application-specific standard products (e.g., ASSPs), single-chip systems (SOCs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), and the like.

[0057] The above discussion and Figure 11 The driver and its associated computer storage medium shown provide storage for computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for computer 810. For example, in Figure 11 In this diagram, hard disk drive 841 is shown storing operating system 844, application programs 845, other program modules 846, and program data 847. Note that these components may be the same as or different from operating system 834, application programs 835, other program modules 836, and program data 837.

[0058] Users can input commands and information to computer 810 through input devices such as keyboard 862, microphone 863, and pointing devices 861 (such as mouse, trackball, or touchpad). Other input devices (not shown) may include joysticks, game controllers, satellite dishes, scanners, etc. These and other input devices are typically connected to processing unit 820 via user input interface 860, which is coupled to the system bus, but may also be connected via other interfaces and bus structures. Visual display 891 or other types of display devices are also connected to system bus 821 via an interface such as video interface 890. In addition to the monitor, the computer may also include other peripheral output devices, such as speakers 897 and printers 896, which can be connected via peripheral output interface 895.

[0059] Computer 810 operates in a networked environment using a logical connection (such as a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)) to one or more remote computers (such as remote computer 880).

[0060] When used in a LAN networking environment, computer 810 connects to LAN 871 via a network interface or adapter 870. When used in a WAN networking environment, computer 810 typically includes a modem 872 or other devices for establishing communication over a WAN 873 (such as the Internet). In a networking environment, program modules can be stored in remote memory storage devices. For example, Figure 11 This demonstrates that remote application 885 can reside on remote computer 880.

[0061] It should also be noted that the different embodiments described herein can be combined in different ways. That is, portions of one or more embodiments can be combined with portions of one or more other embodiments. All of this is considered herein.

[0062] Example 1 is an agricultural nutrient applicator including a container and a nutrient dispensing assembly operatively coupled to the container to deliver nutrients from the container. A spectral reflectance (NIR) crop sensing system is provided, including an optical window. A presentation assembly is mounted to the agricultural nutrient applicator and configured to position live plants in a field near the optical window of the spectral reflectance crop sensing system as the agricultural nutrient applicator moves. A controller is coupled to the spectral reflectance crop sensing system and the nutrient dispensing assembly. The controller is configured to acquire information from the spectral reflectance crop sensing system indicating a measured nutrient level in the live plants and to determine a remedial nutrient amount based on the measured nutrient level and a target nutrient level. The controller controls the nutrient dispensing assembly based on the remedial nutrient amount.

[0063] Example 2 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the spectral reflectance crop sensing system is configured to generate light with a wavelength between 800 nm and 2500 nm, the generated light passing through the optical window and being reflected from the living plant to provide an NIR response indicating the measured nutrient level.

[0064] Example 3 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the spectral reflectance crop sensing system is configured to generate light with a wavelength between 2500 nm and 8000 nm, the generated light passing through the optical window and being reflected from the living plant to provide a response indicating the measured nutrient level.

[0065] Example 4 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the presentation component includes a bottom surface configured to slide over the living plant, the bottom surface having a hole disposed near the optical window.

[0066] Example 5 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the presentation component includes a tapered leading edge.

[0067] Example 6 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the presentation component includes a surface profile configured to move the living plant toward the hole.

[0068] Example 7 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the presentation component includes an opaque curtain to block ambient light.

[0069] Example 8 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein an automatic height control system controls the height of the presentation component to provide a suitable reflected signal without damaging the living plant.

[0070] Example 9 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the presentation component includes a plurality of float-shaped structures arranged in parallel, and wherein the spectral reflectance crop sensing system is disposed between the plurality of float-shaped structures.

[0071] Example 10 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the spectral reflectance crop sensing system is configured to observe the lower part of the living plant.

[0072] Example 11 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the presentation component includes a transmitter configured to move the live plant through the optical window of the spectral reflectance crop sensing system.

[0073] Example 12 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the transmitter is configured to selectively bias the live plant against the optical window.

[0074] Example 13 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the presentation component includes a plurality of stem lifters.

[0075] Example 14 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, wherein the presentation component can be selectively deployed below the agricultural nutrient applicator.

[0076] Example 15 is any or all of the previous examples of agricultural nutrient applicators, and further includes a second spectral reflectance crop sensing system.

[0077] Example 16 is an agricultural nutrient applicator of any or all of the previous examples, and further includes an additional sensor operatively coupled to the controller, which is adapted to use signals from the additional sensor to modify the amount of remedial nutrient based on the additional sensor signals.

[0078] Example 17 is a method for providing nutrients to agricultural plants in a field. The method includes: directing infrared light to the plant while the plant is in the field and acquiring a reflective response signal; determining a measured nutrient level in the plant based on the reflective response signal; comparing the measured nutrient level with a target level to determine a remedial nutrient level; and applying the remedial nutrient level to the plant.

[0079] Example 18 is a method of providing nutrients to agricultural plants in any or all of the previous examples, wherein the presentation component of an agricultural nutrient applicator that moves relative to the plant is used to direct infrared light to the plant.

[0080] Example 19 is a method of providing nutrients to agricultural plants in any or all of the previous examples, wherein the nutrients are selected from the group consisting of water, nitrogen, potassium, protein, phosphorus, sulfur and calcium.

[0081] Example 20 is a method of providing nutrients to agricultural plants in any or all of the previous examples, and further includes acquiring additional sensor information to adjust the level of said remedial nutrients.

[0082] Example 21 is a method of providing nutrients to agricultural plants in any or all of the previous examples, wherein the additional sensor information indicates the condition of the plant across the width of the agricultural nutrient applicator, wherein an infrared crop sensing system is disposed below the chassis of the agricultural nutrient applicator, and wherein the controller of the agricultural nutrient applicator is configured to correlate the additional sensor information at the location of the infrared crop sensing system with the reflected response signal to infer adjusted remedial amounts for other locations across the width of the agricultural nutrient applicator.

[0083] Example 22 is a method for measuring nutrients in agricultural plants in a field. The method includes: directing infrared light to the plant while it is in the field and acquiring a reflected response signal; determining a measured nutrient level in the plant based on the reflected response signal; determining the location of the plant; and storing the measured nutrient level and location in a data storage device.

[0084] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological actions, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described above. Rather, the specific features and actions described above are disclosed as examples of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. An agricultural nutrient applicator, comprising: Chassis; container; A nutrient dispensing assembly, operatively coupled to the container to deliver nutrients from the container; A spectral reflectance crop sensing system having an optical window and being positioned below the chassis of the agricultural nutrient applicator; A presentation component is mounted to the agricultural nutrient applicator and is configured to position live plants in the field into contact with the optical window of the spectral reflectance crop sensing system as the agricultural nutrient applicator moves. and A controller is connected to the spectral reflectance crop sensing system and the nutrient distribution component. The controller is configured to acquire information from the spectral reflectance crop sensing system indicating the nutrient level measured in the living plant, and to determine a remedial nutrient amount based on the measured nutrient level and a target nutrient level. The controller is further configured to control the nutrient distribution component based on the remedial nutrient amount.

2. The agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 1, wherein, The spectral reflectance crop sensing system is configured to generate light with a wavelength between 800 nm and 8000 nm, the generated light passing through the optical window and being reflected from the living plant to provide a response indicating the measured nutrient level.

3. The agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 1, wherein, The presentation component includes a bottom surface configured to slide over the living plant, the bottom surface having a hole disposed near the optical window.

4. The agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 3, wherein, The rendering component includes a tapered leading edge.

5. The agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 3, wherein, An automatic height control system controls the height of the presentation component to provide a suitable reflected signal without damaging the living plant.

6. The agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 1, wherein, The presentation component includes a plurality of parallel pontoon-shaped structures, wherein the spectral reflectance crop sensing system is disposed between the plurality of pontoon-shaped structures.

7. The agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 6, wherein, The spectral reflectance crop sensing system is configured to observe the lower part of the living plant.

8. The agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 1, wherein, The presentation component includes a transmitter configured to move the live plant through the optical window of the spectral reflectance crop sensing system.

9. The agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 8, wherein, The transmitter is configured to selectively bias the live plant against the optical window.

10. The agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 8, wherein, The presentation component includes multiple stem lifters.

11. The agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 1, further comprising a second spectral reflectance crop sensing system.

12. The agricultural nutrient applicator of claim 1, further comprising an additional sensor operatively coupled to the controller, the controller being adapted to use signals from the additional sensor to modify the amount of remedial nutrient based on the signals from the additional sensor.

13. A method for providing nutrients to agricultural plants in a field using the agricultural nutrient applicator according to claim 1, the method comprising: When the agricultural plant comes into contact with the optical window of the spectral reflectance crop sensing system in the field, infrared light is directed to the agricultural plant, and a reflection response signal is obtained from the spectral reflectance crop sensing system. The nutrient levels measured in the agricultural plants are determined based on the reflected response signal; The measured nutrient levels are compared with a target level to determine the remedial nutrient levels; The remedial nutrient level is applied to the agricultural plants; as well as Additional sensor information is acquired to adjust the remedial nutrient level, wherein the additional sensor information indicates the condition of the agricultural plant across the width of the agricultural nutrient applicator, wherein an infrared crop sensing system is disposed below the chassis of the agricultural nutrient applicator, and wherein the controller of the agricultural nutrient applicator is configured to correlate the additional sensor information at the location of the infrared crop sensing system with the reflected response signal to infer adjusted remedial amounts for other locations across the width of the agricultural nutrient applicator.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The nutrients are selected from the group consisting of water, nitrogen, potassium, protein, phosphorus, sulfur and calcium.

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