Methods and system for rinse of a fluid tank

Abstract

A method of rinsing a fluid tank of a sprayer system with sensor detection includes determining, with a sensor, a clean water baseline sensor signal during a calibration mode when fluid from a rinse tank is pumped through a fluid line and through the sensor, upon completing the calibration mode, initiating a rinse mode to begin the rinsing of the fluid tank by pumping the fluid from the rinse tank into the fluid tank, pumping the fluid from the fluid tank through a fluid line and through the sensor, determining a sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid exiting the fluid tank during the rinse mode, and comparing the sensor signal of the sensor during the rinse mode with the clean water baseline sensor signal of the sensor during the calibration mode.

Description

Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WOMETHODS AND SYSTEM FOR RINSE OF A FLUID TANKCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to US Application No. 63 / 683430, filed 15 August 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] When applying chemicals to a field, such as fertilizer, herbicide, insecticide, or pesticide, there can be some chemicals remaining in a tank and fluid lines of a sprayer implement. A tank storing the chemical may need to be rinsed after completing application of the chemical to the field. Cleaning the tank is time consuming, requires an operator to make multiple trips in and out of a cab, and can be messy. The operator rinsing a tank will not know if the tank has been sufficiently cleaned or not. An insufficient rinse can cause crop damage.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] FIG. 1 is an illustration of an agricultural crop sprayer;

[0004] FIG. 2 illustrates a method for calibrating a rinse sensor and precisely rinsing a tank of a concentrate of a sprayer system in accordance with one embodiment;

[0005] FIGs. 3A and 3B illustrate a method for rinsing a sprayer tank with sensor detection to determine when the sprayer tank has been sufficiently rinsed in accordance with one embodiment;

[0006] FIG. 4 illustrates a fluid application system 400 having a calibration mode and rinse mode for rinsing one or more tanks and fluid lines in accordance with one embodiment;

[0007] FIG. 5 illustrates a calibration mode of a fluid application system 500 for calibrating a sensor in accordance with one embodiment;

[0008] FIG. 6 illustrates a rinse mode (e.g., continuous rinse mode) of a fluid application system 600 for rinsing a fluid tank in accordance with one embodiment;

[0009] FIG. 7 illustrates a flush back to fluid tank of a fluid application system 700 for rinsing a fluid tank in accordance with one embodiment;

[0010] FIG. 8 illustrates a flush to boom mode of a fluid application system 800 for rinsing a fluid tank in accordance with one embodiment;

[0011] FIG. 9 illustrates a flush to boom mode of a fluid application system 900 for rinsing a fluid tank in accordance with one embodiment;Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WO

[0012] FIG. 10 shows an example of a block diagram of an implement 140 (e.g., sprayer, spreader, irrigation implement, etc.) in accordance with one embodiment; and

[0013] FIG. 11 shows an example of a block diagram of a system 100 that includes a machine 102 (e.g., agricultural vehicle, tractor, combine harvester, etc.) and an implement 1240 (e.g., planter, cultivator, plough, sprayer, spreader, irrigation implement, etc.) in accordance with one embodiment.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0014] In an aspect of the disclosure there is provided a method of rinsing a fluid tank of a sprayer system of an agricultural implement with automated sensor detection to automatically determine when the fluid tank is rinsed sufficiently clean and then providing feedback to the operator for when the fluid tank is rinsed sufficiently clean. The method includes determining, with a sensor, a clean water baseline sensor signal that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid during a calibration mode when fluid from a rinse tank is pumped through a fluid line and through the sensor, upon completing the calibration mode, initiating a rinse mode to begin the rinsing of the fluid tank by pumping the fluid from the rinse tank through a fluid line and then entering into the fluid tank, pumping the fluid from the fluid tank through a fluid line and through the sensor, determining a sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid exiting the fluid tank during the rinse mode when the fluid from the fluid tank is pumped through the sensor, and comparing the sensor signal of the sensor during the rinse mode with the clean water baseline sensor signal of the sensor during the calibration mode.

[0015] In one example of this method, the method further comprises initiating the calibration mode by pumping a fluid, with a first pump, from the rinse tank of the sprayer system through the fluid line, through the sensor, and through a fluid line to enter a fluid tank.

[0016] In one example of this method, the method further comprises determining whether a measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches a measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

[0017] In one example of this method, the method further comprises upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predeterminedAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO threshold, determining that the fluid tank has been sufficiently rinsed clean, providing feedback to a monitor for confirmation that the rinse is complete, and terminating the rinse mode.

[0018] In one example of this method, the method further comprises upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode not matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, determining that the fluid tank has not been sufficiently rinsed clean and continuing the rinse mode until the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

[0019] In one example of this method, the rinse mode comprises a continuous rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped with the first pump into the fluid tank continuously for a predetermined time period and simultaneously during the same predetermined time period fluid is pumped with a second pump out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

[0020] In one example of this method, the sensor comprises an optical absorbance sensor or electrical conductivity sensor for precisely measuring a characteristic of the fluid of the rinse tank.

[0021] In one example of this method, the fluid tank contains a carrier fluid or liquid and contains a chemical including a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, or an insecticide that is applied to an agricultural field.

[0022] In one example of this method, pumping the fluid from the rinse tank through a fluid line to enter a fluid tank comprises pumping the fluid through a valve and a flow check device before entering into the fluid tank.

[0023] In one example of this method, the fluid from the rinse tank is recirculated back to the fluid tank, pushed backwards into the fluid tank, or sprayed out of a boom of the agricultural implement.

[0024] In an aspect of the disclosure there is provided a sprayer system comprising a rinse tank, a fluid tank, a first pump in fluid communication with the rinse tank and the fluid tank, a second pump in fluid communication with the fluid tank, a sensor configured to sense one or more sensor signals when fluid is pumped through the sensor and a controller to control operations for a calibration mode and a rinse mode. The controller is configured during the calibration mode to cause the first pump to pump a fluid from the rinse tank of the sprayerAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO system through a fluid line, through the sensor to sense a clean water baseline sensor signal, and through a fluid line to enter the fluid tank, and upon completing the calibration mode, to initiate a rinse mode to initiate rinsing of the fluid tank by causing the first pump to pump the fluid from the rinse tank through a fluid line and then entering into the fluid tank and to cause the second pump to pump the fluid from the fluid tank through a fluid line and through the sensor to determine a sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid exiting the fluid tank during the rinse mode, and to compare the sensor signal of the sensor during the rinse mode with the clean water baseline sensor signal of the sensor during the calibration mode.

[0025] In one example of the sprayer system, the controller is further configured to determine whether a measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches a measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

[0026] In one example of the sprayer system, the controller is further configured, upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, to determine that the fluid tank has been sufficiently rinsed clean, and to provide feedback to a display monitor for confirmation that the rinse is complete and to terminate the rinse mode.

[0027] In one example of the sprayer system, the controller is further configured, upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode not matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, to determine that the fluid tank has not been sufficiently rinsed clean and to continue the rinse mode until the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

[0028] In one example of the sprayer system, the rinse mode comprises a batch rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped into the fluid tank for a first time period to fill the fluid tank to a predetermined level and subsequently during a second time period fluid is pumped out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

[0029] In one example of the sprayer system, the rinse mode comprises a continuous rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped into the fluid tank continuously for aAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO predetermined time period and simultaneously during the same predetermined time period fluid is pumped out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

[0030] In one example of the sprayer system, the sensor comprises an optical absorbance sensor or electrical conductivity sensor for precisely measuring a characteristic of the fluid of the rinse tank.

[0031] In one example of the sprayer system, wherein the fluid tank contains a carrier fluid or liquid and contains a chemical including a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, or an insecticide that is applied to an agricultural field.

[0032] In one example of the sprayer system, pumping the fluid from the rinse tank through a fluid line to enter the fluid tank comprises pumping the fluid through a valve and a flow check device before entering into the fluid tank.

[0033] In one example of the sprayer system, fluid from the rinse tank is recirculated back to the fluid tank, pushed backwards into the fluid tank, or sprayed out of a boom of the agricultural implement.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] All references cited herein are incorporated herein in their entireties. If there is a conflict between a definition herein and in an incorporated reference, the definition herein shall control.

[0035] Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 illustrates an agricultural implement, such as a sprayer 10. While the system can be used on a sprayer, the system can be used on any agricultural implement that is used to apply fluid to soil, such as a side-dress bar, a planter, a seeder, an irrigator, a tillage implement, a tractor, a cart, or a robot. An example of a sprayer is described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 153,621, filed on 25 February 2021, and International Application No. PCT / IB2022 / 051220, filed on 11 February, 2022, which published as WO 2022 / 180477 on 01 September, 2022.

[0036] FIG. 1 shows an agricultural crop sprayer 10 used to deliver chemicals to agricultural crops in a field. Agricultural sprayer 10 comprises a chassis 12 and a cab 14 mounted on the chassis 12. Cab 14 may house an operator and a number of controls for the agricultural sprayer 10. An engine 16 may be mounted on a forward portion of chassis 12 in front of cab 14 or may be mounted on a rearward portion of the chassis 12 behind the cab 14. The engine 16 may comprise, for example, a diesel engine or a gasoline powered internal combustion engine. TheAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO engine 16 provides energy to propel the agricultural sprayer 10 and also can be used to provide energy used to spray fluids from the sprayer 10.

[0037] Although a self-propelled application machine is shown and described hereinafter, it should be understood that the embodied invention is applicable to other agricultural sprayers including pull-type or towed sprayers and mounted sprayers, e.g. mounted on a 3 -point linkage of an agricultural tractor.

[0038] The sprayer 10 further comprises a fluid storage tank 18 used to store a spray fluid to be sprayed on the field. The fluid can include chemicals, such as but not limited to, herbicides, pesticides, and / or fertilizers. Fluid storage tank 18 is to be mounted on chassis 12, either in front of or behind cab 14. The stored chemicals may be dispersed by the sprayer 10 one at a time or different chemicals may be mixed and dispersed together in a variety of mixtures. The sprayer 10 further comprises a rinse water tank 20 used to store clean water (e.g., well water), which can be used for storing a volume of clean water for use to rinse the plumbing and tank 18 after a spraying operation.

[0039] At least one boom arm 22 on the sprayer 10 is used to distribute the fluid from the fluid tank 18 over a wide swath as the sprayer 10 is driven through the field. The boom arm 22 is provided as part of a spray applicator system, which further comprises an array of spray nozzles arranged along the length of the boom arm 22 and suitable sprayer plumping used to connect the fluid storage tank 18 with the spray nozzles. The sprayer plumping will be understood to comprise any suitable tubing or piping arranged for fluid communication on the sprayer 10.

[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates a method for calibrating a sensor (e.g., rinse sensor) for precisely measuring a characteristic of a fluid passing through the sensor during a calibration mode of a sprayer system in accordance with one embodiment. The sprayer system can include one or more spray booms, a primary fluid tank, a rinse tank, one or more concentration tanks, and different spray system architectures as disclosed herein. At operation 202, the method includes a calibration mode to initiate calibration by pumping a fluid (e.g., water, well water), with a first pump, from a rinse tank through a fluid line and then through a rinse sensor. In one example, the fluid can be pumped through a flow check device and a valve (e.g., 3 way valve) before passing through the rinse sensor.

[0041] At operation 204, the method includes pumping the fluid with the first pump through a fluid line to enter a fluid tank. In one example, the fluid can be pumped through a valve (e.g., 2Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WO way valve) and a flow check device before entering into the fluid tank. This fluid tank can contain a carrier fluid or fluid, such as water, and optionally, it can contain a chemical (such as a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, an insecticide, etc.) that is applied to a field.

[0042] At operation 206, the method includes determining one or more clean water baseline sensor signals (e.g., sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid, voltage reading, clean water reference) during the calibration mode when the fluid from the rinse tank is pumped through the sensor, which can be any type of sensor (e.g., optical absorbance sensor, electrical conductivity sensor, spectral analysis-based sensor(s), fluoroscopy-based sensor(s), etc.) appropriate for precisely measuring a characteristic (e.g., purity or cleanliness of the fluid, residue concentration) of the fluid of the rinse tank. The sensor can measure one or more characteristics of the fluid at different times for the one or more clean water baseline sensor signals.

[0043] At operation 208, the method includes stopping the pumping of the fluid through the sensor to end the calibration mode.

[0044] FIGs. 3A and 3B illustrate a method for rinsing a sprayer tank with sensor detection to determine when the sprayer tank has been sufficiently rinsed in accordance with one embodiment. The sprayer system can include one or more spray booms, a primary fluid tank, a rinse tank, one or more concentration tanks, and different spray system architectures as disclosed herein. At operation 302, the method includes a rinse mode (e.g., batch rinse mode, continuous rinse mode) to initiate rinsing of the sprayer tank by pumping a fluid (e.g., water, well water), with the first pump, from the rinse tank through a fluid line and then entering into the sprayer tank. In one example, the fluid can be pumped through a first flow check device, through a valve (e.g., 3 way valve), and through a second flow check device before entering into the sprayer tank.

[0045] At operation 304, the method includes spraying the fluid into the sprayer tank with tank rinse nozzles (e.g., a bar of tank rinse nozzles located within the sprayer tank). At operation 306, fluid in the fluid tank exits the fluid tank by pumping the fluid with a second pump through a fluid line that is connected to the sensor.

[0046] For a batch rinse mode, fluid from the rinse tank is pumped into the sprayer tank for a first time period to fill the sprayer tank to a predetermined level and subsequently during a second time period fluid is pumped out of the sprayer tank to the sensor. For a continuous rinseAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO mode, fluid from the rinse tank is pumped into the sprayer tank continuously for a predetermined time period and simultaneously during the same predetermined time period fluid is pumped out of the sprayer tank to the sensor. The continuous rinse mode provides quicker rinsing, a cleaner rinse of the tank, uses less water, and ends when clean as determined by a measured characteristic of the one or more sensor signals during the rinse mode matching the measured characteristic of the one or more sensor signals during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

[0047] In one example, the fluid exiting the sprayer tank can be pumped through a valve (e.g., 2 way valve), a flow meter, and a flow check device before passing through the sensor and then being flushed to a boom of the sprayer or agricultural implement. This fluid tank can contain a carrier fluid or fluid, such as water, and optionally, it can contain a chemical (e.g., a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, an insecticide, etc.) that is applied to a field.

[0048] At operation 308, the method includes determining one or more sensor signals (e.g., sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid exiting the sprayer tank, voltage reading) during the rinse mode when the fluid from the sprayer tank is pumped through the sensor, which can be any type of sensor (e.g., optical absorbance sensor, electrical conductivity sensor, spectral analysis-based sensor(s), fluoroscopy-based sensor(s), etc.) appropriate for precisely measuring a characteristic (e.g., purity or cleanliness of the fluid, percentage of transmitting light that passes through the fluid, residue concentration, etc.) of the fluid of the sprayer tank. The sensor can measure one or more characteristics of the fluid at different times for the one or more sensor signals.

[0049] At operation 310, the method includes comparing the one or more sensor signals of the sensor during the rinse mode with the one or more sensor signals of the same sensor during the calibration mode. Comparing sensor signals from the same sensor during the calibration mode and the rinse mode eliminates issues related to comparing sensor signals from two different sensors, which can have manufacturing differences and temperature differences that affect sensor measurements depending on location of installation of two different sensors on a sprayer system.

[0050] At operation 312, the method includes determining whether a measured characteristic of the one or more sensor signals of the sensor during the rinse mode matches the measured characteristic of the one or more sensor signals of the same sensor during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold. If the measured characteristics match within a predeterminedAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO threshold, then at operation 314, the method determines that the sprayer tank has been sufficiently rinsed, provides feedback within a software application that is being displayed on a monitor or display device of an operator for confirmation that the rinse of the fluid tank is complete, and will terminate the rinse mode. The software application can generate agricultural data (e.g., planting data, GPS data, fluid application data, calibration and rinse mode data, flow rates, etc.) for displaying data for different agricultural operations.

[0051] If the measured characteristics do not match within a predetermined threshold, then at operation 314, the method determines that the sprayer tank has not been sufficiently rinsed and will continue the rinse mode until the measured characteristics of the one or more sensor signals during the calibration and rinse modes match within a predetermined threshold.

[0052] FIG. 4 illustrates a fluid application system 400 having a calibration mode and rinse mode for rinsing one or more tanks and fluid lines in accordance with one embodiment. The application system 400 has the fluid tank 410. This can contain a carrier fluid or fluid, such as water, and optionally, it can contain a chemical (e.g., a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, an insecticide, etc.) that is applied to an agricultural field. The application system 400 contains a rinse tank 420 and at least one auxiliary tank (not shown). There can be any number of auxiliary tanks depending on the number of chemicals to be applied.

[0053] Rinse tank 420 is connected to a fluid line 422, which connects to pump 424 (e.g., 12 Volt rinse pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate), flow check device 426, a valve 428 (e.g., 3 way valve), a sensor 430, a fluid line 431, a valve 432 (e.g., 2 way valve), a flow check device 434, and a pressure sensor 436. A fluid tank 410 includes tank rinse nozzles 412 and is connected to a fluid line 441 for exiting fluid, a valve 440 (e.g., 3 way valve), a pump 442 (e.g., 12 Volt pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate), a valve 444, a flow meter 446, a flow check device 448, and the sensor 430. The sensor 430 can be installed anywhere in a fluid path from the fluid tank 410 to the boom 470. In FIG. 4, the sensor is installed between the pump 424 and the boom 470. The sensor 430, and valves 428 and 432 can be positioned on a sprayer control module for a local controller area network (CAN) of an implement. The sprayer control module provides output (e.g., rinse pump control, valve 428 output, valve 432 output) and input (e.g., from the sensor 430, pressure sensor for diagnostics). Line 476 provides communication from pump 424 to sensor 430. Line 477 provides communication from pump 442 to fluid tank 410.Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WO

[0054] The boom 470 includes nozzles that are spread across a width of the boom to apply fluid to soil, undesired plants, and / or rows of plants in a field.

[0055] During a sprayer system rinse mode, a rinse tank 420 includes water and optionally a cleaning agent that is used to rinse the chemical concentrate out of the fluid tank and fluid lines of the sprayer system. The rinse can include water with a cleaning agent and may be repeated several times for removing the concentrate from the fluid lines of the sprayer system. Different flow paths will be activated for A mode (continuous rinse mode) and B mode (calibration mode).

[0056] FIG. 5 illustrates a calibration mode of a fluid application system 500 for calibrating a sensor in accordance with one embodiment. The application system 500 includes similar components in comparison to the components of the application system 400. The application system 500 has the fluid tank 510. This can contain a carrier fluid or fluid, such as water, and optionally, it can contain a chemical (e.g., a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, an insecticide, etc.) that is applied to an agricultural field. The application system 500 contains a rinse tank 520 and at least one auxiliary tank (not shown). There can be any number of auxiliary tanks depending on the number of chemicals to be applied.

[0057] Rinse tank 520 is connected to a fluid line 522, which connects to pump 524 (e.g., 12 Volt rinse pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate), flow check device 526, a valve 528 (e.g., 3 way valve), a sensor 530, a fluid line 531, a valve 532 (e.g., 2 way valve), a flow check device 534, and pressure sensor 536. A fluid tank 510 includes tank rinse nozzles 512 and is connected to a fluid line 541 for exiting fluid, a valve 540 (e.g., 3 way valve), a pump 542 (e.g., 12 Volt pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate), a valve 544, a flow meter 546, a flow check device 548, and the sensor 530. Line 576 provides communication from pump 524 to sensor 530. Line 577 provides communication from pump 542 to fluid tank 510.

[0058] The boom 570 includes nozzles that are spread across a width of the boom to apply fluid to soil, undesired plants, and / or rows of plants in a field.

[0059] During a sprayer system calibration mode, a rinse tank 520 includes water and optionally a cleaning agent that is used to rinse the chemical concentrate out of the fluid tank and fluid lines of the sprayer system. The rinse can include water with a cleaning agent and may be repeated several times for removing the concentrate from the fluid lines of the sprayer system. Different flow paths will be activated for A mode (continuous rinse mode) and B mode (calibration mode). During calibration mode, the fluid paths 550-557 show the flow of the fluid from the rinse tankAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO520 through pump 524, flow check device 526, valve 528, sensor 530, valve 532, flow check device 534, and then into fluid tank 510.

[0060] FIG. 6 illustrates a rinse mode (e.g., continuous rinse mode) of a fluid application system 600 for rinsing a fluid tank in accordance with one embodiment. The application system 600 includes similar components in comparison to the components of the application system 600. The application system 600 has the fluid tank 610. This can contain a carrier fluid or fluid, such as water, and optionally, it can contain a chemical (e.g., a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, an insecticide, etc.) that is applied to an agricultural field. The application system 600 contains a rinse tank 620 and at least one auxiliary tank (not shown). There can be any number of auxiliary tanks depending on the number of chemicals to be applied.

[0061] Rinse tank 620 is connected to a fluid line 622, which connects to pump 624 (e.g., 12 Volt rinse pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate), flow check device 626, a valve 628 (e.g., 3 way valve), a sensor 630, a fluid line 631, a valve 632 (e.g., 2 way valve), a flow check device 634, and pressure sensor 636. A fluid tank 610 includes tank rinse nozzles 612 and is connected to a fluid line 641 for exiting fluid, a valve 640 (e.g., 3 way valve), a pump 642 (e.g., 12 Volt pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate), a valve 644, a flow meter 646, a flow check device 648, and the sensor 630. Line 676 provides communication from pump 624 to sensor 630. Line 677 provides communication from pump 642 to fluid tank 610.

[0062] The boom 670 includes nozzles that are spread across a width of the boom to apply fluid to soil, undesired plants, and / or rows of plants in a field.

[0063] During a sprayer system rinsing mode, a rinse tank 620 includes water and optionally a cleaning agent that is used to rinse the chemical concentrate out of the fluid tank and fluid lines of the sprayer system. The rinse can include water with a cleaning agent and may be repeated several times for removing the concentrate from the fluid lines of the sprayer system. Different flow paths will be activated for A mode (continuous rinse mode) and B mode (calibration mode). During rinsing mode, the fluid paths 650-654 show the flow of the fluid from the rinse tank 620 through pump 624, flow check device 626, valve 628, flow check device 634, and then into fluid tank 610 and then fluid paths 660-661 show the flow of the fluid exiting from the fluid tank 610 through sensor 630 to boom 670.Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WO

[0064] Valves can be controlled with a controller, such as controller 200 described in International Publication No. WO2020 / 178663, which can be connected to a monitor 1000, such as is described in U.S. Patent Number 8,078,367.

[0065] Examples of flow meters described herein include, but are not limited to, electromagnetic flow meters, such as EM FlowSense ™ from Precision Planting LLC. Examples of valves described herein include, but are not limited to, ball valves, such as EMHD control valves from Precision Planting LLC, pulse width modulation valves, or gated valves. A flow check device can be a check valve.

[0066] FIG. 7 illustrates a flush back to fluid tank of a fluid application system 700 for rinsing a fluid tank in accordance with one embodiment. The application system 700 includes similar components in comparison to the components of the application system 400 though not all components and fluid paths are shown in FIG. 7. The application system 700 has the fluid tank 710. This can contain a carrier fluid or fluid, such as water, and optionally, it can contain a chemical (e.g., a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, an insecticide, etc.) that is applied to an agricultural field. The application system 700 contains a rinse tank 720 and at least one auxiliary tank (not shown). There can be any number of auxiliary tanks depending on the number of chemicals to be applied.

[0067] Rinse tank 720 is connected to a fluid line 722, which connects to pump 724 (e.g., 12 Volt rinse pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate), flow check device 726, a sensor 730, a fluid line 731, a flow meter 746, a valve 744, and pressure sensor 736. A fluid tank 710 includes tank rinse nozzles 712 and is connected to a fluid line 741 for exiting fluid, a valve 740 (e.g., 3 way valve), and a pump 742 (e.g., 12 Volt pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate). Line 576 provides communication from pump 524 to sensor 530. Line 777 provides communication from pump 742 to fluid tank 710.

[0068] The boom 770 includes nozzles that are spread across a width of the boom to apply fluid to soil, undesired plants, and / or rows of plants in a field.

[0069] During a flush back to tank mode, a rinse tank 720 includes water and optionally a cleaning agent that is used to rinse the chemical concentrate out of the fluid tank and fluid lines of the sprayer system. The rinse can include water with a cleaning agent and may be repeated several times for removing the concentrate from the fluid lines of the sprayer system. During flush back to tank mode, the fluid paths 750-753 show the flow of the fluid from the rinse tankAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO720 through pump 724, flow check device 726, sensor 730, flow meter 746, valve 744, and then into fluid tank 710. The fluid can also be flushed backwards past the pump 742 into the fluid tank 710 as shown with fluid path 755.

[0070] FIG. 8 illustrates a flush to boom mode of a fluid application system 800 for rinsing a fluid tank in accordance with one embodiment. The application system 800 includes similar components in comparison to the components of the application system 400 though not all components and fluid paths are shown in FIG. 8. The application system 800 has the fluid tank 810. This can contain a carrier fluid or fluid, such as water, and optionally, it can contain a chemical (e.g., a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, an insecticide, etc.) that is applied to an agricultural field. The application system 800 contains a rinse tank 820 and at least one auxiliary tank (not shown). There can be any number of auxiliary tanks depending on the number of chemicals to be applied.

[0071] Rinse tank 820 is connected to a fluid line 822, which connects to pump 824 (e.g., 12 Volt rinse pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate), flow check device 826, and a sensor 830. Other components include a fluid line 831, a flow check device 848, a flow meter 846, a valve 844, and pressure sensor 836. A fluid tank 810 includes tank rinse nozzles 812 and is connected to a fluid line 841 for exiting fluid, a valve 840 (e.g., 3 way valve), and a pump 842 (e.g., 12 Volt pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate). Line 876 provides communication from pump 824 to sensor 830. Line 877 provides communication from pump 842 to fluid tank 810.

[0072] The boom 870 includes nozzles that are spread across a width of the boom to apply fluid to soil, undesired plants, and / or rows of plants in a field.

[0073] During a flush back to boom mode, a rinse tank 820 includes water and optionally a cleaning agent that is used to rinse the chemical concentrate out of the fluid lines of the sprayer system. The rinse can include water with a cleaning agent and may be repeated several times for removing the concentrate from the fluid lines of the sprayer system. During flush back to boom mode, the fluid paths 850-852 show the flow of the fluid from the rinse tank 820 through pump 824, flow check device 826, sensor 830, and then into a fluid path to the boom 870.

[0074] FIG. 9 illustrates a flush to boom mode of a fluid application system 900 for rinsing a fluid tank in accordance with one embodiment. The application system 900 includes similar components in comparison to the components of the application system 800 though not allAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO components and fluid paths are shown in FIG. 9. The application system 900 has the fluid tank 910. This can contain a carrier fluid or fluid, such as water, and optionally, it can contain a chemical (e.g., a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, an insecticide, etc.) that is applied to an agricultural field. The application system 900 contains a rinse tank 920 and at least one auxiliary tank (not shown). There can be any number of auxiliary tanks depending on the number of chemicals to be applied.

[0075] Rinse tank 920 is connected to a fluid line 922, to valve 940 (e.g., 3 -way valve) that connects to pump 942 (e.g., 12 Volt rinse pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate), flow check device 948, and a sensor 930. Other components include a fluid line 931 that connects three way valve 940 to fluid tank 910, a flow check device 948, a flow meter 846, a valve 944, and pressure sensor 936. Fluid tank 910 includes tank rinse nozzles 912 and is connected to fluid line 941 for exiting fluid, valve 940 (e.g., 3 way valve), and pump 942 (e.g., 12 Volt pump with 15-20 gallon per minute flow rate). Line 931 provides fluid communication from pump 942 to sensor 930. Line 977 provides communication from pump 942 to fluid tank 910.

[0076] The boom 970 includes nozzles that are spread across a width of the boom to apply fluid to soil, undesired plants, and / or rows of plants in a field.

[0077] During a flush back to boom mode, a rinse tank 920 includes water and optionally a cleaning agent that is used to rinse the chemical concentrate out of the fluid lines of the sprayer system. The rinse can include water with a cleaning agent and may be repeated several times for removing the concentrate from the fluid lines of the sprayer system. During flush back to boom mode, the fluid path 950 shows the flow of the fluid from the rinse tank 920 through pump 942, flow check device 948, sensor 930, and then into a fluid path to the boom 970.

[0078] FIG. 10 shows an example of a block diagram of an implement 140 (e.g., sprayer, spreader, irrigation implement, etc.) in accordance with one embodiment. The implement 140 includes a processing system 1200, memory 105, and a network interface 115 for communicating with other systems or devices. The network interface 115 can include at least one of a GPS transceiver, a WLAN transceiver (e.g., WiFi), an infrared transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, Ethernet, or other interfaces from communications with other devices and systems. The network interface 115 may be integrated with the implement network 150 or separate from the implement network 150 as illustrated in FIG. 10. The I / O ports 129 (e.g., diagnostic / on board diagnosticAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO(OBD) port) enable communication with another data processing system or device (e.g., display devices, sensors, etc.).

[0079] In one example, the implement 140 is a self-propelled implement that performs operations for fluid applications of a field. Data associated with the fluid applications can be displayed on at least one of the display devices 125 and 130.

[0080] The processing system 1200 may include one or more microprocessors, processors, a system on a chip (integrated circuit), or one or more microcontrollers. The processing system includes processing logic 126 for executing software instructions of one or more programs and a communication unit 128 (e.g., transmitter, transceiver) for transmitting and receiving communications from the network interface 115 or implement network 150. The communication unit 128 may be integrated with the processing system or separate from the processing system.

[0081] Processing logic 126 including one or more processors may process the communications received from the communication unit 128 including agricultural data (e.g., planting data, GPS data, fluid application data, flow rates, etc.). The system 1200 includes memory 105 for storing data, images 108, and programs for execution (software 106) by the processing system. The memory 105 can store, for example, software components such as fluid application software for analysis of fluid applications for performing operations of the present disclosure, or any other software application or module, images (e.g., captured images of crops, images of a spray pattern for rows of crops), alerts, maps, etc. The memory 105 can be any known form of a machine readable non-transitory storage medium, such as semiconductor memory (e.g., flash; SRAM; DRAM; etc.) or non-volatile memory, such as hard disks or solid-state drive. The system can also include an audio input / output subsystem (not shown) which may include a microphone and a speaker for, for example, receiving and sending voice commands or for user authentication or authorization (e.g., biometrics).

[0082] The processing system 1200 communicates bi-directionally with memory 105, implement network 150, network interface 115, display device 130, display device 125, and I / O ports 129 via communication links 131-136, respectively.

[0083] Display devices 125 and 130 can provide visual user interfaces for a user or operator. The display devices may include display controllers. In one embodiment, the display device 125 is a portable tablet device or computing device with a touchscreen that displays data (e.g., PWM data for PWM valves, nozzle condition data, planting application data, fluid calibration or fluidAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO application data including calibration and rinse modes, captured images, localized view map layer, high definition field maps of as-applied fluid or fluid application data, as-planted or as- harvested data or other agricultural variables or parameters, yield maps, alerts, etc.) and data generated by an agricultural data analysis software application and receives input from the user or operator for an exploded view of a region of a field, monitoring and controlling field operations. The operations may include configuration of the machine or implement, reporting of data, control of the machine or implement including sensors and controllers, and storage of the data generated. The display device 125 may be a display (e.g., display provided by an original equipment manufacturer (OEM)) that displays images and data for a localized view map layer, as-applied fluid or fluid application data, as-planted or as-harvested data, yield data, controlling an implement (e.g., planter, tractor, combine, sprayer, etc.), steering the implement, and monitoring the implement (e.g., planter, combine, sprayer, etc.). A cab control module 1270 may include an additional control module for enabling or disabling certain components or devices of the implement.

[0084] The implement 140 (e.g., planter, cultivator, plough, sprayer, spreader, irrigation implement, etc.) includes an implement network 150 having multiple networks. The implement network 150 having multiple networks (e.g., Ethernet network, Power over Ethernet (PoE) network, a controller area network (CAN) serial bus protocol network, an ISOBUS network, etc.) may include one or more pumps 156 for pumping fluid from a rinse tank, a fluid tank, and one or more auxiliary storage tank(s) 190 to row units of the implement, communication module 180 for receiving communications from controllers and sensors and transmitting these communications. In one example, the implement network 150 includes valve and nozzle assemblies 50, lights 60, and vision guidance system 71 having cameras and processors.

[0085] Sensors 152 (e.g., a rinse sensor for sensing characteristics of fluid, speed sensors, seed sensors for detecting passage of seed, downforce sensors, actuator valves, OEM sensors, flow sensors, etc.), controllers 154 (e.g., drive system, GPS receiver, controller(s) for one or more pumps, valves, and a rinse sensor for fluid applications, calibration mode, and rinse mode as described herein), and the processing system 120 control and monitoring operations of the implement.

[0086] The OEM sensors may be moisture sensors or flow sensors, speed sensors for the implement, fluid application sensors for a sprayer, or vacuum, lift, lower sensors for anAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO implement. For example, the controllers may include processors in communication with a plurality of sensors. The processors are configured to process data (e.g., fluid application data) and transmit processed data to the processing system 120. The controllers and sensors may be used for monitoring motors and drives on the implement.

[0087] FIG. 11 shows an example of a block diagram of a system 100 that includes a machine 102 (e.g., agricultural vehicle, tractor, combine harvester, etc.) and an implement 1240 (e.g., planter, cultivator, plough, sprayer, spreader, irrigation implement, etc.) in accordance with one embodiment. The machine 102 includes a processing system 1200, memory 105, machine network 110 that includes multiple networks (e.g., an Ethernet network, a network with a switched power line coupled with a communications channel (e.g., Power over Ethernet (PoE) network), a controller area network (CAN) serial bus protocol network, an ISOBUS network, etc.), and a network interface 115 for communicating with other systems or devices including the implement 1240. The machine network 110 includes sensors 112 (e.g., speed sensors), controllers 111 (e.g., GPS receiver, radar unit) for controlling and monitoring operations of the machine or implement. The network interface 115 can include at least one of a GPS transceiver, a WLAN transceiver (e.g., WiFi), an infrared transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, Ethernet, or other interfaces from communications with other devices and systems including the implement 1240. The network interface 115 may be integrated with the machine network 110 or separate from the machine network 110 as illustrated in Figure 8. The I / O ports 129 (e.g., diagnostic / on board diagnostic (OBD) port) enable communication with another data processing system or device (e.g., display devices, sensors, etc.).

[0088] In one example, the machine is a self-propelled machine that performs operations of a tractor that is coupled to and tows an implement for planting or fluid applications of a field. Data associated with the planting or fluid applications can be displayed on at least one of the display devices 125 and 130.

[0089] The processing system 1200 may include one or more microprocessors, processors, a system on a chip (integrated circuit), or one or more microcontrollers. The processing system includes processing logic 126 for executing software instructions of one or more programs and a communication unit 128 (e.g., transmitter, transceiver) for transmitting and receiving communications from the machine via machine network 110 or network interface 115 or implement via implement network 150 or network interface 160. The communication unit 128Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WO may be integrated with the processing system or separate from the processing system. In one embodiment, the communication unit 128 is in data communication with the machine network 110 and implement network 150 via a diagnostic / OBD port of the I / O ports 129 or via network devices 113a and 113b. A communication module 113 includes network devices 113a and 113b. The communication module 113 may be integrated with the communication unit 128 or a separate component.

[0090] Processing logic 126 including one or more processors may process the communications received from the communication unit 128 including agricultural data (e.g., planting data, GPS data, fluid application data, flow rates, etc.). The system 1200 includes memory 105 for storing data and programs for execution (software 106) by the processing system. The memory 105 can store, for example, images 108 of crops, weeds, insects and other field conditions as well as software components such as fluid application software for analysis of planting applications for performing operations of the present disclosure, or any other software application or module, images (e.g., captured images of crops), alerts, maps, etc. The memory 105 can be any known form of a machine readable non-transitory storage medium, such as semiconductor memory (e.g., flash; SRAM; DRAM; etc.) or non-volatile memory, such as hard disks or solid-state drive. The system can also include an audio input / output subsystem (not shown) which may include a microphone and a speaker for, for example, receiving and sending voice commands or for user authentication or authorization (e.g., biometrics).

[0091] The processing system 1200 communicates bi-directionally with memory 105, machine network 110, network interface 115, display device 130, display device 125, and I / O ports 129 via communication links 130-136, respectively.

[0092] Display devices 125 and 130 can provide visual user interfaces for a user or operator. The display devices may include display controllers. In one embodiment, the display device 125 is a portable tablet device or computing device with a touchscreen that displays data (e.g., PWM data for PWM valves, planting application data, fluid or fluid application data including calibration mode and rinse mode for the sprayer, captured images, localized view map layer, high definition field maps of as-applied fluid or fluid application data, as-planted or as-harvested data or other agricultural variables or parameters, yield maps, alerts, etc.) and data generated by an agricultural data analysis software application and receives input from the user or operator for an exploded view of a region of a field, monitoring and controlling field operations. The operationsAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO may include configuration of the machine or implement, reporting of data, control of the machine or implement including sensors and controllers, and storage of the data generated. The display device 130 may be a display (e.g., display provided by an original equipment manufacturer (OEM)) that displays images and data for a localized view map layer, as-applied fluid or fluid application data, calibration and rinse mode information for rinsing a fluid tank, as- planted or as-harvested data, yield data, controlling a machine (e.g., planter, tractor, combine, sprayer, etc.), steering the machine, and monitoring the machine or an implement (e.g., planter, combine, sprayer, etc.) that is connected to the machine with sensors and controllers located on the machine or implement.

[0093] A cab control module 1270 may include an additional control module for enabling or disabling certain components or devices of the machine or implement. For example, if the user or operator is not able to control the machine or implement using one or more of the display devices, then the cab control module may include switches to shut down or turn off components or devices of the machine or implement.

[0094] The implement 1240 (e.g., planter, cultivator, plough, sprayer, spreader, irrigation, implement, etc.) includes an implement network 150 having multiple networks, a processing system 162 having processing logic 164, a network interface 160, and optional input / output ports 166 for communicating with other systems or devices including the machine 102. The implement network 150 having multiple networks (e.g., Ethernet network, Power over Ethernet (PoE) network, a controller area network (CAN) serial bus protocol network, an ISOBUS network, etc.) may include a pump 156 for pumping fluid from a primary and one or more auxiliary storage tank(s) 190 to row units of the implement, communication modules (e.g., 180, 181) for receiving communications from controllers and sensors and transmitting these communications to the machine network. In one example, the communication modules include first and second network devices with network ports. A first network device with a port (e.g., CAN port) of communication module (CM) 180 receives a communication with data from controllers and sensors, this communication is translated or converted from a first protocol into a second protocol for a second network device (e.g., network device with a switched power line coupled with a communications channel , Ethernet), and the second protocol with data is transmitted from a second network port (e.g., Ethernet port) of CM 180 to a second network port of a second network device 113b of the machine network 110. A first network device 113a having firstAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO network ports (e.g., 1-4 CAN ports) transmits and receives communications from first network ports of the implement. In one example, the implement network 150 includes valve and nozzle assemblies 50, lights 60, vision guidance system 71 having cameras and processors, and autosteer controller 900 for various embodiments of this present disclosure. The autosteer controller 900 may also be part of the machine network 110 instead of being located on the implement network 150 or in addition to being located on the implement network 150.

[0095] Sensors 152 (e.g., a rinse sensor, speed sensors, seed sensors for detecting passage of seed, downforce sensors, actuator valves, OEM sensors, flow sensors, etc.), controllers 154 (e.g., drive system for seed meter, GPS receiver, controller(s) for one or more pumps and valves for fluid applications as described herein), and the processing system 162 control and monitoring operations of the implement.

[0096] The OEM sensors may be moisture sensors or flow sensors for a combine, speed sensors for the machine, seed force sensors for a planter, fluid application sensors for a sprayer, or vacuum, lift, lower sensors for an implement. For example, the controllers may include processors in communication with a plurality of seed sensors. The processors are configured to process data (e.g., fluid application data, seed sensor data) and transmit processed data to the processing system 162 or 1200. The controllers and sensors may be used for monitoring motors and drives on a planter including a variable rate drive system for changing plant populations. The controllers and sensors may also provide swath control to shut off individual rows or sections of the planter. The sensors and controllers may sense changes in an electric motor that controls each row of a planter individually. These sensors and controllers may sense seed delivery speeds in a seed tube for each row of a planter.

[0097] The network interface 160 can be a GPS transceiver, a WLAN transceiver (e.g., WiFi), an infrared transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, Ethernet, or other interfaces from communications with other devices and systems including the machine 102. The network interface 160 may be integrated with the implement network 150 or separate from the implement network 150 as illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0098] The processing system 162 communicates bi-directionally with the implement network 150, network interface 160, and I / O ports 166 via communication links 141-143, respectively. The implement communicates with the machine via wired and possibly also wireless bidirectional communications 104. The implement network 150 may communicate directly withAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO the machine network 110 or via the network interfaces 115 and 160. The implement may also by physically coupled to the machine for agricultural operations (e.g., planting, harvesting, spraying, etc.). The memory 105 may be a machine-accessible non-transitory medium on which is stored one or more sets of instructions (e.g., software 106) embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The software 106 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the memory 105 and / or within the processing system 1200 during execution thereof by the system 100, the memory and the processing system also constituting machine-accessible storage media. The software 106 may further be transmitted or received over a network via the network interface 115.EXAMPLES

[0099] The following are nonlimiting examples.

[0100] Example 1 - In an aspect of the disclosure there is provided a method of rinsing a fluid tank of a sprayer system of an agricultural implement with automated sensor detection to automatically determine when the fluid tank is rinsed sufficiently clean and then providing feedback to the operator for when the fluid tank is rinsed sufficiently clean. The method includes determining, with a sensor, a clean water baseline sensor signal that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid during a calibration mode when fluid from a rinse tank is pumped through a fluid line and through the sensor, upon completing the calibration mode, initiating a rinse mode to initiate rinsing of the fluid tank by pumping the fluid from the rinse tank through a fluid line and then entering into the fluid tank, pumping the fluid from the fluid tank through a fluid line and through the sensor, determining a sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid exiting the fluid tank during the rinse mode when the fluid from the fluid tank is pumped through the sensor, and comparing the sensor signal of the sensor during the rinse mode with the clean water baseline sensor signal of the sensor during the calibration mode.

[0101] Example 2 - the method of Example 1, further comprises initiating the calibration mode by pumping a fluid, with a first pump, from the rinse tank of the sprayer system through the fluid line, through the sensor, and through a fluid line to enter a fluid tank.

[0102] Example 3 - the method of any of Examples 1-2, further comprises determining whether a measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches a measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WO

[0103] Example 4 - the method of any of Examples 1-3, further comprises upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, determining that the fluid tank has been sufficiently rinsed clean, providing feedback to a monitor for confirmation that the rinse is complete, and terminating the rinse mode.

[0104] Example 5 - the method of any of Examples 1-4, further comprises upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode not matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, determining that the fluid tank has not been sufficiently rinsed clean and continuing the rinse mode until the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

[0105] Example 6 - the method of any of Examples 1-5, wherein the rinse mode comprises a continuous rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped with the first pump into the fluid tank continuously for a predetermined time period and simultaneously during the same predetermined time period fluid is pumped with a second pump out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

[0106] Example 7 - the method of any of Examples 1-6, wherein the sensor comprises an optical absorbance sensor or electrical conductivity sensor for precisely measuring a characteristic of the fluid of the rinse tank.

[0107] Example 8 - the method of any of Examples 1-7, wherein the fluid tank contains a carrier fluid or liquid and contains a chemical including a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, or an insecticide that is applied to an agricultural field.

[0108] Example 9 - the method of any of Examples 1-8, wherein pumping the fluid from the rinse tank through a fluid line to enter a fluid tank comprises pumping the fluid through a valve and a flow check device before entering into the fluid tank.

[0109] Example 10 - the method of any of Examples 1-9, wherein the fluid from the rinse tank is recirculated back to the fluid tank, pushed backwards into the fluid tank, or sprayed out of a boom of the agricultural implement.

[0110] Example 11 - a sprayer system comprising: a rinse tank; a fluid tank; a first pump in fluid communication with the rinse tank and the fluid tank; a sensor configured to sense one or moreAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO sensor signals when fluid is pumped through the sensor; and a controller to control operations for a calibration mode and a rinse mode, wherein the controller is configured during the calibration mode to cause the first pump to pump a fluid from the rinse tank of the sprayer system through a first fluid line, through the sensor to sense a clean water baseline sensor signal, and through a second fluid line to enter the fluid tank, and upon completing the calibration mode, to initiate a rinse mode to initiate rinsing of the fluid tank by causing the first pump to pump the fluid from the rinse tank through the second fluid line and then entering into the fluid tank and to cause the first pump to pump the fluid from the fluid tank through the first fluid line and through the sensor to determine a sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid exiting the fluid tank during the rinse mode, and to compare the sensor signal of the sensor during the rinse mode with the clean water baseline sensor signal of the sensor during the calibration mode.

[0111] Example 12 - the sprayer system of Example 11, wherein the controller is further configured to determine whether a measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches a measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

[0112] Example 13 - the sprayer system of Example 12, wherein the controller is further configured, upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, to determine that the fluid tank has been sufficiently rinsed clean, and to provide feedback to a display monitor for confirmation that the rinse is complete and to terminate the rinse mode.

[0113] Example 14 - the sprayer system of Example 11, wherein the controller is further configured, upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode not matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, to determine that the fluid tank has not been sufficiently rinsed clean and to continue the rinse mode until the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

[0114] Example 15 - the sprayer system of Example 11, wherein the rinse mode comprises a batch rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped into the fluid tank for a first timeAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO period to fill the fluid tank to a predetermined level or volume and subsequently during a second time period fluid is pumped out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

[0115] Example 16 - the sprayer system of Example 11, wherein the rinse mode comprises a continuous rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped into the fluid tank continuously for a predetermined time period and simultaneously during the predetermined time period fluid is pumped out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

[0116] Example 17 - the sprayer system of Example 11, wherein the sensor comprises an optical absorbance sensor or electrical conductivity sensor for precisely measuring a characteristic of the fluid of the rinse tank.

[0117] Example 18 - the sprayer system of Example 11, wherein the fluid tank contains a carrier fluid or liquid and contains a chemical including a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, or an insecticide that is applied to an agricultural field.

[0118] Example 19 - a sprayer system comprising: a rinse tank; a fluid tank; a first pump in fluid communication with the rinse tank and the fluid tank; a second pump in fluid communication with the fluid tank; a sensor configured to sense one or more sensor signals when fluid is pumped through the sensor; and a controller to control operations for a calibration mode and a rinse mode, wherein the controller is configured during the calibration mode to cause the first pump to pump a fluid from the rinse tank of the sprayer system through a first fluid line, through the sensor to sense a clean water baseline sensor signal, and through a second fluid line to enter the fluid tank, and upon completing the calibration mode, to initiate a rinse mode to initiate rinsing of the fluid tank by causing the first pump to pump the fluid from the rinse tank through the second fluid line and then entering into the fluid tank and to cause the second pump to pump the fluid from the fluid tank through the first fluid line and through the sensor to determine a sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid exiting the fluid tank during the rinse mode, and to compare the sensor signal of the sensor during the rinse mode with the clean water baseline sensor signal of the sensor during the calibration mode.

[0119] Example 20 - the sprayer system of Example 19, wherein the controller is further configured to determine whether a measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches a measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WO

[0120] Example 21 - the sprayer system of Example 20, wherein the controller is further configured, upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, to determine that the fluid tank has been sufficiently rinsed clean, and to provide feedback to a display monitor for confirmation that the rinse is complete and to terminate the rinse mode.

[0121] Example 22 - the sprayer system of Example 19, wherein the controller is further configured, upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode not matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, to determine that the fluid tank has not been sufficiently rinsed clean and to continue the rinse mode until the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

[0122] Example 23 - the sprayer system of Example 19, wherein the rinse mode comprises a batch rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped into the fluid tank for a first time period to fill the fluid tank to a predetermined level or volume and subsequently during a second time period fluid is pumped out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

[0123] Example 24 - the sprayer system of Example 19, wherein the rinse mode comprises a continuous rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped into the fluid tank continuously for a predetermined time period and simultaneously during the predetermined time period fluid is pumped out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

[0124] Example 25 - the sprayer system of Example 19, wherein the sensor comprises an optical absorbance sensor or electrical conductivity sensor for precisely measuring a characteristic of the fluid of the rinse tank.

[0125] Example 26 - the sprayer system of Example 19, wherein the fluid tank contains a carrier fluid or liquid and contains a chemical including a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, or an insecticide that is applied to an agricultural field.

[0126] Example 27 - the sprayer system of Example 19, wherein pumping the fluid from the rinse tank through the second fluid line to enter the fluid tank comprises pumping the fluid through a valve and a flow check device before entering into the fluid tank.Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WO

[0127] The foregoing description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention and is provided in the context of a patent application and its requirements. Various modifications to the preferred embodiment of the apparatus, and the general principles and features of the system and methods described herein will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art. Thus, the present invention is not to be limited to the embodiments of the apparatus, system and methods described above and illustrated in the drawing figures, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WOCLAIMS1. A method of rinsing a fluid tank of a sprayer system of an agricultural implement with automated sensor detection comprising: determining, with a sensor, a clean water baseline sensor signal that is indicative of a characteristic of a fluid during a calibration mode when fluid from a rinse tank is pumped through a fluid line and through the sensor; upon completing the calibration mode, initiating a rinse mode to initiate rinsing of the fluid tank by pumping the fluid from the rinse tank through a fluid line and then entering into the fluid tank; pumping the fluid from the fluid tank through a fluid line and through the sensor; determining a sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid exiting the fluid tank during the rinse mode when the fluid from the fluid tank is pumped through the sensor; and comparing the sensor signal of the sensor during the rinse mode with the clean water baseline sensor signal of the sensor during the calibration mode.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: initiating the calibration mode by pumping a fluid, with a first pump, from the rinse tank of the sprayer system through the fluid line, through the sensor, and through a fluid line to enter a fluid tank.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining whether a measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches a measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

4. The method of claim 3, further comprising: upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, determining that the fluid tank has been sufficiently rinsed clean; providing feedback to a monitor for confirmation that the rinse is complete; and terminating the rinse mode.

5. The method of claim 3, further comprising:Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WO upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode not matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, determining that the fluid tank has not been sufficiently rinsed clean; and continuing the rinse mode until the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the rinse mode comprises a continuous rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped with the first pump into the fluid tank continuously for a predetermined time period and simultaneously during the predetermined time period fluid is pumped with a second pump out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises an optical absorbance sensor or electrical conductivity sensor for precisely measuring a characteristic of the fluid of the rinse tank.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the fluid tank contains a carrier fluid or liquid and contains a chemical including a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, or an insecticide that is applied to an agricultural field.

9. The method of claim 1 , wherein pumping the fluid from the rinse tank through a fluid line to enter a fluid tank comprises pumping the fluid through a valve and a flow check device before entering into the fluid tank.

10. The method of claim 1 , wherein fluid from the rinse tank is recirculated back to the fluid tank, pushed backwards into the fluid tank, or sprayed out of a boom of the agricultural implement.

11. A sprayer system comprising: a rinse tank; a fluid tank; a first pump in fluid communication with the rinse tank and the fluid tank; a sensor configured to sense one or more sensor signals when fluid is pumped through the sensor; and a controller to control operations for a calibration mode and a rinse mode, wherein the controller is configured during the calibration mode to cause the first pump to pump a fluid fromAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO the rinse tank of the sprayer system through a first fluid line, through the sensor to sense a clean water baseline sensor signal, and through a second fluid line to enter the fluid tank, and upon completing the calibration mode, to initiate a rinse mode to initiate rinsing of the fluid tank by causing the first pump to pump the fluid from the rinse tank through the second fluid line and then entering into the fluid tank and to cause the first pump to pump the fluid from the fluid tank through the first fluid line and through the sensor to determine a sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid exiting the fluid tank during the rinse mode, and to compare the sensor signal of the sensor during the rinse mode with the clean water baseline sensor signal of the sensor during the calibration mode.

12. The sprayer system of claim 11, wherein the controller is further configured to determine whether a measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches a measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

13. The sprayer system of claim 12, wherein the controller is further configured, upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, to determine that the fluid tank has been sufficiently rinsed clean, and to provide feedback to a display monitor for confirmation that the rinse is complete and to terminate the rinse mode.

14. The sprayer system of claim 11, wherein the controller is further configured, upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode not matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, to determine that the fluid tank has not been sufficiently rinsed clean and to continue the rinse mode until the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

15. The sprayer system of claim 11 , wherein the rinse mode comprises a batch rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped into the fluid tank for a first time period to fill the fluid tank to a predetermined level or volume and subsequently during a second time period fluid is pumped out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

16. The sprayer system of claim 11 , wherein the rinse mode comprises a continuousAtty Dkt. No.: 24164WO rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped into the fluid tank continuously for a predetermined time period and simultaneously during the predetermined time period fluid is pumped out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

17. The sprayer system of claim 11, wherein the sensor comprises an optical absorbance sensor or electrical conductivity sensor for precisely measuring a characteristic of the fluid of the rinse tank.

18. The sprayer system of claim 11, wherein the fluid tank contains a carrier fluid or liquid and contains a chemical including a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, or an insecticide that is applied to an agricultural field.

19. A sprayer system comprising: a rinse tank; a fluid tank; a first pump in fluid communication with the rinse tank and the fluid tank; a second pump in fluid communication with the fluid tank; a sensor configured to sense one or more sensor signals when fluid is pumped through the sensor; and a controller to control operations for a calibration mode and a rinse mode, wherein the controller is configured during the calibration mode to cause the first pump to pump a fluid from the rinse tank of the sprayer system through a first fluid line, through the sensor to sense a clean water baseline sensor signal, and through a second fluid line to enter the fluid tank, and upon completing the calibration mode, to initiate a rinse mode to initiate rinsing of the fluid tank by causing the first pump to pump the fluid from the rinse tank through the second fluid line and then entering into the fluid tank and to cause the second pump to pump the fluid from the fluid tank through the first fluid line and through the sensor to determine a sensor signal of the sensor that is indicative of a characteristic of the fluid exiting the fluid tank during the rinse mode, and to compare the sensor signal of the sensor during the rinse mode with the clean water baseline sensor signal of the sensor during the calibration mode.

20. The sprayer system of claim 19, wherein the controller is further configured to determine whether a measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches a measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.Atty Dkt. No.: 24164WO21. The sprayer system of claim 20, wherein the controller is further configured, upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, to determine that the fluid tank has been sufficiently rinsed clean, and to provide feedback to a display monitor for confirmation that the rinse is complete and to terminate the rinse mode.

22. The sprayer system of claim 19, wherein the controller is further configured, upon the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode not matching the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold, to determine that the fluid tank has not been sufficiently rinsed clean and to continue the rinse mode until the measured characteristic of the sensor signal during the rinse mode matches the measured characteristic of the clean water baseline sensor signal during the calibration mode within a predetermined threshold.

23. The sprayer system of claim 19, wherein the rinse mode comprises a batch rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped into the fluid tank for a first time period to fill the fluid tank to a predetermined level or volume and subsequently during a second time period fluid is pumped out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

24. The sprayer system of claim 19, wherein the rinse mode comprises a continuous rinse mode that includes fluid from the rinse tank being pumped into the fluid tank continuously for a predetermined time period and simultaneously during the predetermined time period fluid is pumped out of the fluid tank through the sensor.

25. The sprayer system of claim 19, wherein the sensor comprises an optical absorbance sensor or electrical conductivity sensor for precisely measuring a characteristic of the fluid of the rinse tank.

26. The sprayer system of claim 19, wherein the fluid tank contains a carrier fluid or liquid and contains a chemical including a fertilizer, a pesticide, a herbicide, or an insecticide that is applied to an agricultural field.

27. The sprayer system of claim 19, wherein pumping the fluid from the rinse tank through the second fluid line to enter the fluid tank comprises pumping the fluid through a valve and a flow check device before entering into the fluid tank.

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