Seeder control system and operating method thereof

Abstract

An operating method of a system for controlling a seeder, according to an embodiment of the present invention, may comprise the steps of: generating an initial map corresponding to an arable land by using pre-stored map data; setting a driving path of the seeder on the basis of the initial map, the size of the seeder, and the size of the arable land; determining a seedable section on the basis of the number of propagation device modules possessed by the seeder, the current location of the seeder, and the driving path; calculating the number of seedable propagation device modules corresponding to the seedable section; and controlling the propagation device modules of the seeder on the basis of the number of seedable propagation device modules.

Description

Seeder control system and its operating method

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for controlling a seeding device and an operating method thereof, and more particularly, to a system for supporting a seeding device to sow and / or apply seeds in a farmland and an operating method thereof.

[0002] Smart agriculture is emerging globally as a means to address various challenges facing agriculture today. However, it still faces limitations: the high initial investment required to implement smart agriculture technologies, the difficulty of deploying a wide range of sensors across large farmlands, the difficulty of effectively processing the diverse data generated from deployed sensors, and the low cost-to-utility ratio. To compensate for the high initial investment, automation of most agricultural tasks is key to smart agriculture.

[0003] In particular, autonomous driving technology has been applied to agricultural vehicles, enabling them, such as tractors, to perform tasks without human intervention. Although autonomous driving technology is being applied to agricultural vehicles, each farmland has its own unique characteristics and characteristics, and a system that supports uniform vehicle operation across different fields is bound to be inefficient.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need to develop a system that supports agricultural vehicles to perform work according to the conditions of the farmland.

[0005] The present invention is intended to solve the above problems, and provides a system and an operating method thereof for controlling a seed drill by determining the driving path of the seed drill and whether to sow based on data taken of the position of the seed drill and the cultivated field.

[0006] An operating method of a system for controlling a seeder according to one embodiment of the present invention may include the steps of: generating an initial map corresponding to a cultivated field using previously stored map data; setting a driving path of the seeder based on the initial map, the size of the seeder, and the size of the cultivated field; confirming a seedable section based on the number of radio module modules possessed by the seeder, the current location of the seeder, and the driving path; calculating the number of seedable radio module modules corresponding to the seedable section; and controlling the radio module of the seeder based on the number of seedable radio module modules.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a step of collecting photographing data of the surroundings of the seeder by utilizing a sensor unit included in the seeder;

[0008] A step of analyzing the above shooting data to detect a sudden event;

[0009] A step of resetting the driving route based on the above sudden event.

[0010] may include more.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the seeding device may further include: a step of collecting GPS information and distance measurement data; a step of measuring a first position of the seeding device based on the GPS information; a step of measuring a second position of the seeding device based on the distance measurement data; a step of comparing the first position and the second position to detect an error; and a step of determining whether the detected error is within a preset threshold range.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the detected error is within a preset threshold range, a step of controlling the seeder to maintain the status quo may be further included.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the detected error is outside a preset threshold range, the method may further include: a step of correcting the position of the seeder by assigning different weights to the first position and the second position in consideration of the driving path of the seeder and whether or not the sudden event has occurred; and a step of controlling the driving of the seeder based on the corrected position.

[0014] The seed drill control system of the present invention can control the seed drill to sow or apply seeds according to the conditions of the farmland.

[0015] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects described above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0016] In order to more fully understand the drawings cited in the detailed description of the present invention, a brief description of each drawing is provided.

[0017] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram schematically illustrating a seeding machine control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the detailed configuration of the server illustrated in Figure 1.

[0019] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a seeder according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of a seeding machine control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of a seeding machine control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of a seeding machine control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of a seeding machine control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a seed control server according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to specific embodiments, but rather encompasses various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the embodiments of the present invention. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar components.

[0026] In this document, the expressions “has”, “may have”, “includes”, or “may include” indicate the presence of a feature (e.g., a number, function, operation, or component such as a part), but do not exclude the presence of additional features.

[0027] In this document, the expressions "A or B," "at least one of A and / or B," or "one or more of A and / or B" can include all possible combinations of the listed items. For example, "A or B," "at least one of A and B," or "at least one of A or B" can all refer to cases where (1) at least one A is included, (2) at least one B is included, or (3) at least one A and at least one B are included.

[0028] The terms "first," "second," "first," or "second" used herein may describe various components, regardless of order and / or importance, and are used only to distinguish one component from another, without limiting the components. For example, without departing from the scope of the rights set forth in this document, the first component may be renamed the second component, and similarly, the second component may be renamed the first component.

[0029] The expression "configured to" as used herein can be used interchangeably with, for example, "suitable for", "having the capacity to", "designed to", "adapted to", "made to", or "capable of". The term "configured to" does not necessarily mean "specifically designed to".

[0030] In this document, the words "command", "instruction", "control information", "message", "information", "data", "packet", "data packet", "intent" and / or "signal" transmitted and received between the first electronic device(s) and the second electronic device(s) may include or refer to human-perceivable ideas or specific electrical representations (e.g., digital codes / analog physical quantities) regardless of their expressions. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention disclosed in this document pertains that the exemplary expressions listed above may be interpreted in various ways depending on the context in which they are used. In this document, "A is greater than B" not only simply means "A is greater than B" but also includes the meaning of "A is equal to or greater than B."

[0031] The terms used in this document are used only to describe specific embodiments and may not be intended to limit the scope of other embodiments. The singular expression may include the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art described in this document. Terms defined in general dictionaries among the terms used in this document may be interpreted as having the same or similar meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this document. In some cases, even if a term is defined in this document, it cannot be interpreted to exclude the embodiments of this document.

[0032] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram schematically illustrating a seeding machine control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, a seeding control server (150, hereinafter referred to as server) according to one embodiment of the present invention can communicate with an electronic device (110) and a seeder (130) via a network. For example, the electronic device (110) may be a terminal used by a seeding manager (e.g., a farmer who uses a seeder to sow seeds in a field). In addition, the seeder (130) may be an agricultural vehicle capable of sowing and applying seeds in a field. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the seeder (130) may be a machine that combines an agricultural vehicle, such as a tractor, and a seeding device. The seeding device can sow seeds or apply seeds (an act of spraying pesticides or fertilizers on a field) by adjusting a radio module under certain control. The radio module is connected to multiple seeding passages possessed by the seeder (130), so that the opening and closing of the seeding passages can be determined by turning the radio module ON / OFF, thereby determining whether or not to sow seeds through the seeding passages.

[0034] For reference, the electronic device (110) may be implemented as a computer capable of connecting to a remote server or terminal via a network. For example, the computer may include a notebook, desktop, or laptop equipped with a web browser. Additionally, the electronic device (110) may be implemented as a terminal capable of connecting to a remote server or terminal via a network. For example, the electronic device (110) is a wireless communication device that ensures portability and mobility, and may include all types of handheld-based wireless communication devices such as navigation, PCS (Personal Communication System), GSM (Global System for Mobile communication), PDC (Personal Digital Cellular), PHS (Personal Handphone System), PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), IMT (International Mobile Telecommunication)-2000, CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access)-2000, W-CDMA (W-Code Division Multiple Access), Wibro (Wireless Broadband Internet) terminals, smartphones, smartpads, tablet PCs, etc.

[0035] The server (150) can be communicatively coupled with at least one electronic device (110). The server (150) can be communicatively coupled with at least one seeder (130). Furthermore, communication between the electronic device (110) and the seeder (130) can be achieved via a network. For example, the electronic device (110) and the seeder (130) can exchange data within an app or web service-based program in which the server (150) is implemented.

[0036] A server (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be implemented as a computer device or multiple computer devices that provide commands, code files, contents, services, etc. The server (150) may be implemented in the form of a self-manufactured web page or application (APP) operated by an individual or a company, and in this case, data may be exchanged between the server (150) and the electronic device (110) by a user accessing the web page or application through the electronic device (110).

[0037] The server (150) can receive a request to start / stop operation of the seeder from the electronic device (110). In addition, the server (150) can receive a request for information on the current location of the seeder from the electronic device (110).

[0038] The server (150) can provide commands to the seeder (130) to start / stop operation. In addition, the server (150) can receive the current location of the seeder (130), image data captured at the current location, and other sensing data from the seeder (130).

[0039] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the seeder (130) can collect data on the current location, surrounding conditions, progress angle, inclination, etc. of the seeder by utilizing the mounted sensing device (e.g., camera, gyro sensor, acceleration sensor, angle sensor, GPS, etc.).

[0040] Figure 2 is a block diagram schematically showing the detailed configuration of the server (150) illustrated in Figure 1.

[0041] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the server (150) may include a bus (210), a display (220), a communication circuit (230), a database (240), a memory (250), an I / O interface (260), and a processor (270). In other embodiments, the server (150) may omit at least one of the above components or may additionally include other components.

[0042] For reference, the components (210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270) of the server (150) illustrated in FIG. 2 are merely exemplary components for explaining a seeding machine control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. That is, it is clear that the server (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention may additionally include other components in addition to the illustrated components.

[0043] The bus (210) can electrically connect the components (220 to 270) to each other. The bus (210) can include circuitry for communication (e.g., control messages and / or data) between the components (220 to 270).

[0044] The display (220) can display text, images, videos, icons, or symbols that constitute various contents. The display (220) can include a touch screen and can receive touch, gesture, proximity, or hovering input using an electronic pen or a part of the user's body.

[0045] For example, the display (220) may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) display, or an electronic paper display. The display (220) may be implemented as included in the server (150), or may be implemented separately from the server (150) but operatively connected to the server (150).

[0046] The communication circuit (230) can establish a communication channel between the server (150) and external devices. The communication circuit (230) can access the network (280) via wireless or wired communication to communicate with the external devices. For example, the communication circuit (230) can transmit and receive necessary data with the electronic device (110) and the seeder (130). More specifically, the server (150) can transmit various data, including the current location of the seeder (130), surrounding conditions, and seeding (or application) status, to the electronic device (110) via the communication circuit (230). The server (150) can receive various data, including a seeder (130) operation start / end request message, from the electronic device (110) via the communication circuit (230).

[0047] The database (240) may be implemented on the memory (250) or on a separate storage medium. The database (240) may store all of the contents, details, etc. of data transmitted and received with the electronic device (110) and the seeder (130). The data stored in the database (240) may be regularly updated according to a predetermined cycle, and may be updated periodically when new data is input through the electronic device (110) or the seeder (130).

[0048] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the database (240) may store various information provided from the seeder (130). For example, the database (240) may store data such as current location information of the seeder (130), image data captured around the seeder (130), the travel path of the seeder (130), a map corresponding to the cultivated field, a map indicating the sowing status, a map indicating the application status, and the like. For example, the database (240) may operate in a cloud manner.

[0049] According to various embodiments, the data stored in the database (240) is sensitive user information, and thus may be distributed and stored on a blockchain network to enhance the security of its use. When the database (240) is distributed and stored on a blockchain network, the history of transmission, modification, deletion, and addition of information contained in the database (240) can be more securely managed on the blockchain network.

[0050] The memory (250) may include volatile and / or non-volatile memory. The memory (250) may store instructions or data related to at least one other component of the server (150). For example, the memory (250) may store instructions that, when executed, cause the processor (270) to perform various operations described herein. For example, the instructions may be included in a package file of an application program.

[0051] The I / O interface (260) can perform a role of transmitting commands or data input from a user or other external device to other components of the server (150). The I / O interface (260) can be implemented in hardware or software, and can be used as a concept encompassing a user interface (UI) and a terminal for communication with other external devices.

[0052] The processor (270) may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), or a communication processor (CP). The processor (270) is electrically connected to the memory (250), the display (220), and the communication circuit (230) via the bus (210), and during operation, may execute operations or data processing related to control and / or communication of other components according to commands, programs, or software stored in the memory (250). Therefore, the execution of the commands, application programs, or software may be understood as the operation of the processor (270).

[0053] The processor (270) can generate an initial map corresponding to the cultivated land using previously stored map data. The established initial map can include information about the cultivated land, such as the size of the cultivated land, the outline of the cultivated land, and the shape of the cultivated land.

[0054] The processor (270) can set the driving path of the seeder (130) based on the generated initial map. Specifically, the processor (270) can set the driving path of the seeder (130) by considering the size of the seeder (130), the size of the cultivated field, the seedable area, etc.

[0055] The seeder (130) can drive according to the above-described driving path. While driving, the seeder (130) can monitor the surrounding conditions using a mounted camera, etc., and provide various data to the server (150).

[0056] The processor (270) receives various data on the surrounding conditions of the seeder (130) while it is driving from the seeder (130), and analyzes the data to detect unexpected events. For example, the processor (270) analyzes the photographed data provided from the seeder (130) and, if the seeder (130) has difficulty driving along the set driving path due to damaged farmland or large rocks, it can reset the driving path.

[0057] The processor (270) can identify the location where an unexpected event is detected and update the initial map generated above. For example, the processor (270) can identify the location where an unexpected event is detected based on the location information of the seeder (130). In this way, the virtual map of the cultivated field can be continuously updated to enable efficient driving by referencing it when the seeder (130) is re-driven in the future.

[0058] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the processor (270) can calculate the seedable section of the seeder (130). Specifically, the processor (270) can check the seedable section by considering at least one of the size of the farmland, the number of seeding propagation device modules possessed by the seeder (130), the size of the seeder (130), the current location of the seeder (130), and the driving path of the seeder (130), and can calculate the number of seedable propagation device modules corresponding to the section.

[0059] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the processor (270) can calculate the usable section of the seeder (130). Specifically, the processor (270) can check the usable section by considering the size of the farmland, the number of usable propagation device modules possessed by the seeder (130), the size of the seeder (130), the current location of the seeder (130), etc., and calculate the number of usable propagation device modules corresponding to the section.

[0060] In the above, the processor (270) distinguishes between a sowing section and a usable section and individually calculates the number of sowing radio wave modules and the number of usable radio wave modules, but this is not limited to this and can be confirmed and calculated simultaneously.

[0061] The processor (270) can control the seeding propagation module (and the trial propagation module) by referring to the calculated seedable section (and the trialable section) and the number of seedable propagation device modules (and the number of trialable propagation device modules). For example, if the number of seedable propagation device modules corresponding to a specific seedable section is calculated to be 5, the processor (270) can provide a command signal to the seeder (130) so that the seeder (130) can sow using only 5 propagation device modules in the section.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the processor (270) may receive current location information of the seeder (130) from the seeder (130). For example, the processor (270) may receive GPS information of the seeder (130) from the seeder (130). In addition, the processor (270) may receive various data from the seeder (130) that can indirectly determine the location of the seeder (130). For example, the processor (270) may receive photographic data, distance measurement data, etc. from the seeder (130). The photographic data may include information about the surrounding environment where the seeder (130) is located. The distance measurement data may include information about the distance from the location of the seeder (130) to the edge of the cultivated field. The processor (270) may calculate the location of the seeder (130) based on the provided photographic data, distance measurement data, etc.

[0063] The processor (270) can detect an error by comparing the calculated position with GPS information. The processor (270) can determine whether the detected error is within a preset threshold range. If the error is within the threshold range, the processor (270) can control the seeder (130) to maintain the status quo. On the other hand, if the error is outside the threshold range, the processor (270) can correct the position of the seeder (130). For example, the processor (270) can correct the position of the seeder (130) by applying different weights to the calculated position and GPS information in consideration of the driving path of the seeder (130), the occurrence of an unexpected event, etc. In addition, the processor (270) can control the driving of the seeder (130). For example, the processor (270) can control the driving of the seeder (130) by slowing down the driving speed of the seeder (130), changing the driving path, or terminating the driving.

[0064] The network (280) may include at least one of a telecommunications network, a computer network, the Internet, or a telephone network. A wireless communication protocol for accessing the network (280) may use, for example, at least one of LTE (Long-Term Evolution), LTE-A (LTE Advanced), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), WCDMA (Wideband CDMA), UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), WiBro (Wireless Broadband), GSM (Global System for Mobile communications), or 5G standard communication protocols. However, this is merely exemplary, and various wired and wireless communication technologies applicable in the relevant technical field may be utilized depending on the embodiment to which the present invention is applied.

[0065] In this way, according to the server (150) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the seed drill automatically performs seeding (and application) in a farmland, but sets a driving path according to the condition of the farmland and controls the seed drill so that the seed drill can effectively sow (and application) by changing the seeding method, thereby enabling efficient smart farming to be implemented.

[0066] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a seeder (130) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] The seeder (130) may include a driving control unit (310), a radio device module control unit (320), a sensor unit (330), a communication unit (340), and a memory (350). In another embodiment, the seeder (130) may omit at least one of the above components or may additionally include other components.

[0068] The driving control unit (310) can control components (e.g., motor, wheels, etc.) related to the driving of the seeder (130) so that the seeder (130) can operate based on the driving command provided from the server (150). The driving control unit (310) can control the direction, speed, etc. of the seeder (130).

[0069] The radio module control unit (320) can control the components (e.g., radio module, etc.) related to seeding of the seeder (130) so that the seeder (130) can sow seeds in the farmland based on the seeding radio module open command provided from the server (150). For example, when the number of seedable radio module modules corresponding to the seedable section is determined, the radio module control unit (320) can receive information on the number of seedable radio module modules from the server (150) and control at least one radio module so that only the corresponding number of radio module modules can be opened.

[0070] The sensor unit (330) may include all sensing devices capable of monitoring and detecting the surrounding conditions of the seeder (130). The sensor unit (330) may include a camera, a lidar sensor, an acceleration sensor, an angle sensor, a gyro sensor, a soil measurement sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, etc. For example, the sensor unit (330) may collect data (photographed data) obtained by photographing the conditions of the surrounding farmland of the seeder (130) using a camera. As another example, the sensor unit (330) may collect information on the surrounding temperature and humidity of the seeder (130) using a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor. As another example, the sensor unit (330) may collect data (direction data) on the driving direction of the seeder (130) using an angle sensor. For another example, the sensor unit (330) can collect data on the soil quality (soil data) of the farmland where the seeder (130) is located by using a soil measurement sensor. For another example, the sensor unit (330) can collect distance measurement data that can measure the straight-line distance from the current position of the seeder (130) to the edge of the farmland by using a lidar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or the like. For another example, the sensor unit (330) can collect speed data of the seeder (130) by using an acceleration sensor. For another example, the sensor unit (330) can collect data on the inclination information of the seeder (130) by using a gyro sensor (tilt data).

[0071] The communication unit (330) can establish a communication channel between the seeder (130) and the server (150). The communication unit (330) can access a network via wireless or wired communication and communicate with external devices. For example, the seeder (130) can provide data collected from the sensor unit (330) to the server (150). The server (150) can analyze the various data provided and control the operation of the seeder (130).

[0072] The memory (350) may include volatile and / or non-volatile memory. The memory (350) may store commands or data related to at least one other component of the seeder (130). For example, the memory (350) may store instructions that, when executed, cause the driving control unit (310), the radio device module control unit (320), and the sensor unit (330) to perform various operations described herein. For example, the instructions may be included in a package file of an application program.

[0073] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of a seeding machine control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] In step S401, the server (150) may generate an initial map corresponding to the cultivated land using previously stored map data. The established initial map may include information about the cultivated land, such as the size of the cultivated land, the outline of the cultivated land, and the shape of the cultivated land.

[0075] In step S403, the server (150) can set the driving path of the seeder (130) based on the generated initial map. Specifically, the server (150) can set the driving path of the seeder (130) by considering the size of the seeder (130), the size of the cultivated field, the seedable area, etc.

[0076] The seeder (130) can drive according to the above-described driving path. While driving, the seeder (130) can monitor the surrounding conditions using a mounted camera, etc., and provide various data to the server (150).

[0077] In step S405, the server (150) receives various data on the surrounding conditions of the seeder (130) while it is driving from the seeder (130), and analyzes the data to detect unexpected events. For example, the server (150) can analyze the photographed data provided from the seeder (130) to determine whether the seeder (130) is having difficulty driving along the set driving route, such as due to damaged farmland or the presence of large rocks.

[0078] In step S407, if the server (150) determines that driving along the preset driving route is difficult, the server may reset the driving route.

[0079] In step S409, the server (150) can identify the location where the sudden event was detected and update the initial map generated above. For example, the server (150) can identify the location where the sudden event was detected based on the location information of the seeder (130). In this way, the virtual map of the cultivated field can be continuously updated to enable efficient driving by referencing it when the seeder (130) is re-driven in the future.

[0080] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of a seeding machine control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] In step S501, the server (150) can generate an initial map corresponding to the farmland using previously stored map data. The established initial map can include information about the farmland, such as the size of the farmland, the outline of the farmland, and the shape of the farmland.

[0082] In step S503, the server (150) can set the driving path of the seeder (130) based on the generated initial map. Specifically, the server (150) can set the driving path of the seeder (130) by considering the size of the seeder (130), the size of the cultivated field, the seedable area, etc.

[0083] In step S505, the server (150) can calculate the seedable section of the seeder (130). Specifically, the server (150) can check the seedable section by considering the size of the farmland, the number of seeding propagation device modules possessed by the seeder (130), the size of the seeder (130), the current location of the seeder (130), etc., and can calculate the number of seedable propagation device modules corresponding to the section.

[0084] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the server (150) can calculate the usable section of the seeder (130). Specifically, the server (150) can check the usable section by considering the size of the farmland, the number of usable radio wave modules possessed by the seeder (130), the size of the seeder (130), the current location of the seeder (130), etc., and can calculate the number of usable radio wave modules corresponding to the section.

[0085] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the server (150) may receive soil data from the seeder (130). Based on the soil data, the server (150) may determine the amount of fertilizer (e.g., the amount of fertilizer) to be transmitted by one radio wave module according to a preset standard.

[0086] In the above, the server (150) distinguishes between a sowing section and a trial section and individually calculates the number of sowing radio device modules and the number of trial radio device modules, but this is not limited to this and can be confirmed and calculated simultaneously.

[0087] In step S507, the server (150) can control the seeding propagation module (and trial propagation module) by referring to the calculated seedable section (and trialable section) and the number of seedable propagation device modules (and the number of trialable propagation device modules). For example, if the number of seedable propagation device modules corresponding to a specific seedable section is calculated to be 5, the server (150) can provide a command signal to the seeder (130) so that the seeder (130) can sow using only 5 propagation device modules in the section.

[0088] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the server (150) can generate a virtual map containing sowing information for a cultivated field where sowing (or application) has been completed. For example, the server (150) can generate a sowing map (or application map) based on the driving path of the seeder (130) on the initial map initially generated. The manager can check the sowing map using the electronic device (110). The manager can check the sowing map to determine whether there are areas requiring additional sowing, etc.

[0089] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the server (150) can generate data predicting changes in soil quality and data predicting the growth of seedlings according to soil quality changes by overlapping the sowing map and the application map. Furthermore, the server (150) can separately generate growth prediction data predicting the growth of crops to be cultivated in the corresponding farmland and cultivation guide data for effective growth.

[0090] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of a seeding machine control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] In step S601, the server (150) may receive current location information of the seeder (130) from the seeder (130). For example, the server (150) may receive GPS information of the seeder (130) from the seeder (130), and the server (150) may measure the first location of the seeder (130) based on the GPS information. In addition, the server (150) may receive various data from the seeder (130) that can indirectly determine the location of the seeder (130). For example, the server (150) may receive photographic data, distance measurement data, etc. from the seeder (130). The photographic data may include information about the surrounding environment where the seeder (130) is located. The distance measurement data may include information about the distance to the edge of the cultivated field in the four directions of east, west, south, and north based on the location of the seeder (130). The server (150) can measure the second position of the seeder (130) based on the provided shooting data, distance measurement data, etc.

[0092] In step S603, the server (150) can detect an error by comparing the first position and the second position.

[0093] In step S605, the server (150) can determine whether the detected error is within a preset threshold range.

[0094] If the error is within the critical range ('Yes' in step S605), in step S611, the server (150) can control the seeder (130) to maintain the status quo.

[0095] On the other hand, if the error is outside the critical range ('No' in step S605), in step S607, the server (150) can correct the position of the seeder (130). For example, the server (150) can correct the position of the seeder (130) by applying different weights to the calculated position and GPS information, taking into account the driving path of the seeder (130), whether an unexpected event has occurred, etc.

[0096] Additionally, in step S609, the server (150) can control the driving of the seeder (130). For example, the server (150) can control the driving of the seeder (130) by slowing down the driving speed, changing the driving path, or terminating the driving.

[0097] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of a seeding machine control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] In step S701, the server (150) can confirm the position of the seeder (130). For example, the server (150) can confirm the position of the seeder (130) by utilizing at least one of the first position, the second position, and the corrected position described in FIG. 6.

[0099] In step S703, the server (150) can check whether the position of the seeder (130) is within a danger range. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the danger range may mean an area within a certain distance from the edge of the farmland.

[0100] In step S705, the server (150) can control the driving of the seeder (130) depending on whether the seeder (130) is located within a danger range. For example, if the seeder (130) is located within a danger range, the server (150) can slow down the driving speed of the seeder (130), terminate driving, or change the driving path.

[0101] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the risk range can be divided into a first risk range and a second risk range. While the first risk range refers to a first critical distance from the edge of the farmland, the second risk range may refer to a distance from the first critical distance to the second critical distance. The first critical distance may be shorter than the second critical distance.

[0102] The server (150) can control the operation of the seeder (130) differently when the position of the seeder (130) is within the first danger range and when the position of the seeder (130) is within the second danger range. For example, when the seeder (130) is within the second danger range, the server (150) can control the seeder (130) to slow down the speed of the seeder (130). On the other hand, when the seeder (130) is within the first danger range, the server (150) can forcibly stop the operation of the seeder (130).

[0103] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a seed control server according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 8, a computing system (1000) according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document may include an MCU (1010), a memory (1020), an input / output I / F (1030), and a communication I / F (1040).

[0105] The MCU (1010) may be a processor that executes various programs for controlling a seeder stored in a memory (1020), processes various data that can check the state of the seeder's surroundings through these programs, and performs the functions of the server (150) shown in the aforementioned FIG. 2.

[0106] The memory (1020) can store various programs related to seeder control. In addition, the memory (1020) can store various data that can be used to check the surrounding conditions of the seeder received from the client.

[0107] Such memories (1020) may be provided in multiple numbers as needed. The memories (1020) may be volatile memories or non-volatile memories. As volatile memories (1020), RAM, DRAM, SRAM, etc. may be used. As non-volatile memories (1020), ROM, PROM, EAROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memories, etc. may be used. The examples of the memories (1020) listed above are merely examples and are not limited to these examples.

[0108] The input / output I / F (1030) can provide an interface that enables data transmission and reception between an input device (not shown) such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel, and an output device (not shown) such as a display and the MCU (1010).

[0109] The communication I / F (1040) is a component capable of transmitting and receiving various data with the server, and may be any device capable of supporting wired or wireless communication. For example, programs for managing various data related to seeder control or other data can be transmitted and received from a separately provided external server via the communication I / F (1040).

[0110] In this way, a computer program according to one embodiment disclosed in this document may be implemented as a module that is recorded in a memory (1020) and processed by an MCU (1010) to perform each function illustrated in FIG. 2, for example.

[0111] Although all components constituting the embodiments of the present invention have been described as being combined or operating in combination, the present invention is not necessarily limited to such embodiments. That is, within the scope of the present invention, all components may be selectively combined and operated one or more times.

[0112] Meanwhile, the various embodiments described herein may be implemented by hardware, middleware, microcode, software, and / or a combination thereof. For example, the various embodiments may be implemented in one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, other electronic units designed to perform the functions presented herein, or a combination thereof.

[0113] Additionally, for example, various embodiments may be embodied or encoded in a computer-readable medium containing instructions. Instructions embodied or encoded in the computer-readable medium may cause a programmable processor or other processor to perform a method when the instructions are executed, for example. The computer-readable medium includes a computer storage medium, which may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer. For example, such a computer-readable medium may include a RAM, a ROM, an EEPROM, a CD-ROM or other optical disk storage medium, a magnetic disk storage medium, or other magnetic storage devices.

[0114] Such hardware, software, firmware, etc. may be implemented within the same device or within separate devices to support the various operations and functions described herein. Additionally, components, units, modules, components, etc. described as “units” in the present invention may be implemented together or individually as separate but interoperable logic devices. The depiction of different features for modules, units, etc. is intended to highlight different functional embodiments and does not necessarily imply that they must be realized by separate hardware or software components. Rather, the functionality associated with one or more modules or units may be performed by separate hardware or software components, or integrated into common or separate hardware or software components.

[0115] Although operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be construed as requiring that these operations be performed in the particular order depicted, or in any sequential order, or that all depicted operations be performed to achieve the desired results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Furthermore, the distinction between various components in the embodiments described above should not be construed as requiring such distinction in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the components depicted may generally be integrated together into a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0116] The electronic device, server, or external device according to the various embodiments of the present document described above may include, for example, at least one of a smartphone, a tablet PC, a mobile phone, a video phone, a desktop PC, a laptop PC, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), an MP3 player, a mobile medical device, a camera, or a wearable device.

[0117] According to various embodiments, the wearable device may include at least one of an accessory type (e.g., a watch, a ring, a bracelet, an anklet, a necklace, glasses, contact lenses, or a head-mounted device (HMD)), a fabric or clothing-integrated type (e.g., an electronic garment), a body-attached type (e.g., a skin pad or tattoo), or a bio-implant type (e.g., an implantable circuit).

[0118] In some embodiments, the electronic device or external device may be a home appliance. The home appliance may include, for example, at least one of a television, a digital video disk player (DVD player), an audio device, a refrigerator, an air conditioner, a vacuum cleaner, an oven, a microwave oven, a washing machine, an air purifier, a set-top box, a home automation control panel, a security control panel, a TV box, a game console, an electronic dictionary, an electronic key, a camcorder, or an electronic picture frame.

[0119] In another embodiment, the electronic device, external device, or wearable device may include at least one of various medical devices (e.g., various portable medical measuring devices (such as a blood glucose meter, a heart rate meter, a blood pressure meter, or a body temperature meter), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), a camera, or an ultrasound machine), a navigation device, a satellite navigation system (Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)), an event data recorder (EDR), a flight data recorder (FDR), an automobile infotainment device, a home robot, or an internet of things device (e.g., a light bulb, various sensors, an electric or gas meter, a sprinkler device, a fire alarm, a thermostat, a streetlight, an exercise machine, a hot water tank, a heater, a boiler, or the like).

[0120]

[0121] As described above, the best practice embodiments have been disclosed in the drawings and specifications. While specific terminology has been used herein, it is solely for the purpose of describing the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true technical protection scope of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A step of creating an initial map corresponding to the farmland by utilizing the previously stored map data; A step of setting a driving path of the seeder based on the initial map, the size of the seeder, and the size of the cultivated field; A step of confirming a seeding possible section based on the number of radio wave device modules possessed by the above seeder, the current location of the above seeder, and the driving path; A step of calculating the number of sowing possible propagation device modules corresponding to the above sowing possible section; and A step of controlling the propagation device module of the seeder based on the number of the above-mentioned sowing-capable propagation device modules. A method of operating a system for controlling a seeder including:

2. In claim 1, A step of collecting photographing data of the surroundings of the seeder by utilizing a sensor unit included in the seeder; A step of analyzing the above shooting data to detect a sudden event; A step of resetting the driving route based on the above sudden event. A method of operating a system for controlling a seeder including:

3. In claim 2, The step of the above seeder collecting GPS information and distance measurement data; A step of measuring a first position of the seeder based on the GPS information; A step of measuring the second position of the seeder based on the distance measurement data; A step of detecting an error by comparing the first position and the second position; A step of determining whether the above detected error is within a preset threshold range; A method of operating a system for controlling a seeder including:

4. In claim 3, A step for controlling the seeder to maintain the status quo when the detected error is within a preset threshold range. A method of operating a system for controlling a seeder including:

5. In claim 3, If the detected error is outside the preset threshold range, a step for correcting the position of the seeder by giving different weights to the first position and the second position in consideration of the driving path of the seeder and whether or not the sudden event occurred; and A step of controlling the movement of the seeder based on the above-mentioned corrected position. A method of operating a system for controlling a seeder including:

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