Method and system for variable output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining

Abstract

Examples herein generally relate to a method and system for variable output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining. In at least one example, the method includes determining an output flow rate for the air seeder; determining a rotational speed for a primary metering roller to achieve the output flow rate, wherein the primary metering roller is associated with the primary bin; determining if the rotational speed is within a target speed range of the primary metering roller; if not, determining an operating speed for each of (i) the primary metering roller; and (ii) a secondary metering roller associated with a secondary bin; and operating the primary and secondary metering rollers, at the corresponding operating speeds, to deposit agricultural product from the air seeder at the output flow rate.

Description

TITLE: METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR VARIABLE OUTPUT FLOW RATE OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT USING AIR CART BIN CHAININGCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims priority to, and the benefit of, United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 715,049, filed on November 1, 2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] Various examples are described herein that generally relate to deposition of agricultural product (e.g., seeds, fertilizer, etc.) over a field, and in particular, to a method and system for variable output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining.BACKGROUND

[0003] Air carts are used for dispensing granular agricultural product (e.g., seeds, fertilizers, micronutrients, inoculants, etc.) over fields. An air cart often includes one or more frame-mounted bins. The bins are filled with selected product, and the air cart and an air seeder are moved through the field to dispense the product.

[0004] To this effect, it is desirable to control the output flow rate of product from the air cart bins. This is because dispensing too much, or too little of a product, can have consequential effects including damaging the field or undesired product yield.SUMMARY

[0005] According to one broad aspect, there is disclosed a method for variable output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining, the method comprising: determining an output flow rate for the air seeder, wherein the air seeder is fluidically coupled to a primary air cart bin and at least one secondary air cart bin, each retaining agricultural product; determining a rotational speed for a- 1 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vlprimary metering roller to achieve the output flow rate, wherein the primary metering roller is associated with the primary bin; determining if the rotational speed is within a target speed range of the primary metering roller; if not, determining an operating speed for each of (i) the primary metering roller; and (ii) a secondary metering roller associated with a secondary bin; and operating the primary and secondary metering rollers, at the corresponding operating speeds, to deposit agricultural product from the air seeder at the output flow rate.

[0006] In another broad aspect, there is provided a system for variable output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining, the system comprising: an air seeder for depositing the agricultural product; a primary air cart bin and at least one secondary air cart bin, each coupled to the air seeder and each comprising: a receptacle area for retaining agricultural product; and at least one volumetric metering assembly fluidically coupled to the receptacle area and the air seeder, each volumetric metering assembly comprising (i) a metering roller, and (ii) a motor coupled to the metering roller; and at least one processor operatively coupled to each motor, in each volumetric metering assembly, and configured to operate the metering rollers by executing the above method.

[0007] Other features and advantages of the present application will become apparent from the following detailed description taken together with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the application, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the application will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] For a better understanding of the various embodiments described herein, and to show more clearly how these various embodiments may be carried into effect, reference will be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show at least one example embodiment, and- 2 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vlwhich are now described. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings described herein.

[0009] FIG. 1 A is an example image of an air seeding system that includes an air cart coupled to an air seeder, which are together moved over a field by a vehicle.

[0010] FIG. IB is an image of an example air cart including a plurality of air cart bins.

[0011] FIG. 1C is a schematic illustration of an air cart bin coupled to an air seeder.

[0012] FIG. 2A is a side view of an air cart bin with a plurality of volumetric metering assemblies.

[0013] FIG. 2B is an image of a metering system including a plurality of volumetric metering assemblies.

[0014] FIG. 2C is an image of an example volumetric metering assembly.

[0015] FIG. 3 A is an air seeder system maneuvering around obstacles (e.g., trees) in a field.

[0016] FIG. 3B shows the unequal deposition rate of agricultural product over a field while the air cart seeder is turning, and while turn compensation is not applied.

[0017] FIG. 3C shows a similar case to FIG. 3B, but while turn compensation is applied.

[0018] FIG. 4 A is a schematic illustration of two chained air cart bins coupled to an air seeder.

[0019] FIG. 4B is a schematic illustration of a plurality of chained air cart bins coupled to an air seeder.

[0020] FIG. 4C is a schematic illustration of two chained air cart bins coupled to an air seeder, wherein the air seeder includes a plurality of air seeder sections.

[0021] FIG. 4D is a schematic illustration of a plurality of chained air cart bins coupled to an air seeder, wherein the air seeder includes a plurality of air seeder sections.

[0022] FIG. 4E is a schematic illustration of another example configuration of two chained air cart bins coupled to an air seeder.- 3 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0023] FIG. 4F is a schematic illustration of another example configuration of a plurality of chained air cart bins coupled to an air seeder, wherein the air seeder includes a plurality of air seeder sections.

[0024] FIG. 5 is a plot showing deposition rate as a function of time, before and after activating air cart bin chaining.

[0025] FIG. 6A is a process flow for an example method for achieving variable output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining.

[0026] FIG. 6B is a process flow for an example method for determining roller speeds for achieving variable output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining.

[0027] FIG. 6C is a process flow for an example application, of the method of FIG. 6A, for turn compensation.

[0028] FIG. 6D is a process flow for an example method for varying output flow rate in real time or near real time.

[0029] FIG. 7 is a simplified hardware block diagram for an example system for controlling output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining.

[0030] Further aspects and features of the example embodiments described herein will appear from the following description taken together with the accompanying drawings.DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

[0031] Disclosed examples provide for a method and system for achieving variable output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining.I. GENERAL OVERVIEW

[0032] FIG. 1A shows an example air seeder system 100. Air seeder system 100 includes an air cart 102 and an air seeder 104, which are together moved over a field by a vehicle 108 (e.g., a tractor).- 4 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0033] As further shown in FIG. IB, air cart 102 includes one or more frame-mounted air cart bins 150a - 150c, which may be chained together. Each bin 150 retains granular agricultural product that is dispensed over the field. The granular product includes seeds, fertilizers, micronutrients, inoculants and the like.

[0034] In use, each air cart bin 150 feeds granular product to the air seeder 104 (FIG. 1A) using one or more pressurized air conduits 110. In this manner, the air cart bins 150 are said to be “fluidically coupled” to the air seeder 104, via conduits 110.

[0035] Granular product is channeled through the pressurized conduits 110 to different sections of the air seeder 120a- 120g. Different sections of the air seeder 120a- 120g, in turn, dispense product over different field strips or regions 106a - 106g.

[0036] FIG. 1C schematically illustrates a top-down view of the air seeder system 100, including the air cart 102, air seeder 104 and vehicle 108. In this example, the air cart 102 includes only a single bin 150.

[0037] As exemplified, air cart bin 150 includes a lower opening 112 for dispensing granular product. Granular product, inside the bin 150, is typically drawn into the lower opening 112 via gravitational pull. The lower opening 112 is in further communication with one or more volumetric metering assemblies 114a - 114n, collectively defining a “volumetric metering system” 116.

[0038] Each volumetric metering assembly 114 is coupled to a conduit 110a - HOn (e.g., a pressurized conduit). For example, first metering assembly 114a feeds product into the conduit 110a, second metering assembly 114b feeds product into conduit 110b, and so forth. The conduits 110a - 1 lOn then couple to different air seeder sections 120a - 120n.

[0039] More generally, the metering assemblies 114 each operate to control the output flow rate of product from the air cart bin 150 into the respective conduits 110. In turn, this allows the metering assemblies 114 to control the output flow rate of product dispensed from each air seeder section 120 over each field strip 106a - 106n.

[0040] FIGs. 2A - 2C illustrate the construction of the volumetric metering assemblies 114 in greater detail.- 5 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0041] As best shown in FIGs. 2A and 2B, a single air cart bin 150 includes one or more associated metering assemblies 114a - 114e. Typically the metering assemblies 114 are disposed at a lower end of the bin 150, below the lower opening 112. Product 204 inside an inner volume or receptacle 206 of the bin 150 is drawn into the metering system 116 via gravitational pull. Each metering assembly 114 is therefore said to be in “fluid communication” (or fluidically coupled) with the bin receptacle 206.

[0042] FIG. 2C illustrates a single instance of a volumetric metering assembly 114. As exemplified, metering assembly 114 includes a metering roller 202 retained (or mounted) inside a housing 204. A motor 206 is further operatively coupled to the roller 202. Motor 206 rotates the roller 202 within the housing 204 along a rotation axis, and at a desired rotational speed.

[0043] A top portion of the metering assembly 114 includes an inlet 208. Inlet 208 receives granular product from the bin 150. As the product is received through the inlet 208, the roller 202 rotates to dispense the product into the lower pressurized conduit 110. Conduit 110 then conveys the product downstream to the air seeder 104.

[0044] In some examples, different types of rollers 202 are mounted in different volumetric metering assemblies 114 (FIG. 2C). This is because different roller types offer different advantages for different product types.

[0045] By way of example, larger granular product (e.g., larger seeds) may require “larger” rollers 202. Larger rollers 202 include fins that are more spaced apart and / or deeper grooves for accommodating larger sized product. In contrast, smaller granular product may require smaller rollers 202. “Smaller” rollers 202 include fins that are more closely spaced apart and / or shallower grooves.

[0046] The roller type, used in each metering assembly 114, also depends on the desired deposition rate from the air seeder 104. For instance, as compared to “smaller” rollers, “larger” rollers can achieve higher product flow rates and are therefore more suited for higher deposition rate applications.

[0047] As used herein, the “product flow rate” or “product application rate” refers to the volume of product released from a metering assembly 114 and / or an air seeder section 120 per unit of time (e.g., kilograms or pounds per minute).- 6 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0048] In contrast, the “deposition rate” refers to the volume of product deposited from each air seeder section 120 over a unit area of field (e.g., kilograms or pounds per acre). Accordingly, the deposition rate varies based on, among other factors: (i) the output product flow rate from each metering assembly 114 and air seeder section 120, as well as (ii) the speed and / or directional travel of the air seeder 104. This is explained in further detail below

[0049] To this effect, in system 100 (FIG. 1C), rollers 202 which are mounted in different metering assemblies 114, are operated at the same or different speeds. Operating the rollers 202 at different speeds achieves different output flow rates, and thereby, controls the deposition rate of product over the field.

[0050] More broadly, it is appreciated that as the air seeder 104 moves over the field, it may be necessary to vary the roller speeds in the volumetric metering assemblies 114a - 114n. This is because the deposition rate may, itself, need adjustment.

[0051] In particular, there are a number of reasons why the system 100 may need to adjust the speed of metering rollers 202 to vary the deposition rate from air seeder 104, as it moves over the field:

[0052] 1) Location: Higher or lower crop yields are desired over some field locations compared to others. As the air seeder 104 moves over the field, the system may need to adjust the roller speeds, in metering assemblies 114, to deposit more or less product at different field location. In FIG. 1C, the roller speeds may also be adjusted to achieve different deposition rates along different field strips 106a - 106g.

[0053] 2) Travelling Speed: The speed of the rollers 202 is also adjusted based on the travelling speed of the air seeder 104. For example, if the air seeder 104 is travelling at higher speeds, the rollers 202 may also operate at higher speeds. This enables the system 100 to maintain the same deposition rate along a field strip 106, notwithstanding the faster travelling speed of air seeder 104. In contrast, if the air seeder 104 is travelling at slower speeds, the rollers 202 are also operated at slower speeds to maintain a constant deposition rate.

[0054] 3) Travelling Direction: The traveling direction of air seeder 104 also affects the operating speed of the rollers 202, in metering assemblies 114.- 7 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0055] In one example application, the roller speeds 202 are adjusted when the air seeder 104 is effecting a directional turn, such as to achieve “turn compensation”. To better explain the concept of turn compensation, reference is made to FIG. 3A. As exemplified, in the course of dispensing product, the system 100 may travel and turn around obstacles (e.g., trees) along a turning path 350.

[0056] While the system 100 turns along the path 350, challenges are presented in equalizing the deposition rate of product along different field strips 106a - 106d. This is best shown in FIG. 3B, whereby the radially inward field strip 106a is denser with deposited product than the radially outward field strip 106d.

[0057] The reason for the inconsistency in FIG. 3B is because each air seeder section 120a - 120n (FIG. 1 C) is in fact dispensing product at the same output flow rate. For example, as shown, air seeder section 120a is aligned to dispense product along the radially outward field strip 106a. Further, air seeder section 120d is aligned to dispense product along the radially inward field strip 106d.

[0058] If each air seeder section 120a, 120d outputs product at the same flow rate, the inconsistency in FIG. 3B results. This is because the outer seeder section 120a is in fact travelling faster (e.g., along the radial outer curve edge) than the inner air seeder section 120d. Accordingly, if outputting product at the same flow rate - the outer section 120a is dispensing less product per acre than the inner section 120d, because it is travelling faster.

[0059] To mitigate for this inconsistency, turn compensation is applied to equalize the deposition rates along different field strips 106 (FIG. 3C). Turn compensation is achieved by variably controlling the roller speed, in each metering assembly 114a - 114d (FIG. 1C), coupled to different air seeder section 120a - 120d.

[0060] When turn compensation is applied, the outer seeder section 120a is controlled to deposit product at a higher or lower output flow rate compared to the inner seeder section 120d. This is accomplished by controlling the speed of rollers 202, in the corresponding metering assemblies 114a, 114d, to vary the output flow rate of product.

[0061] In this manner, the outer and inner seeder sections 120a, 120d are now operated to achieve equal deposition rates along the outer and inner field strips 106a, 106d (FIG. 3C). The- 8 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vlintermediate air seeder sections 120b, 120c are also controlled to vary the product flow rate to equalize the deposition rates over the field strips 106c, 106b.

[0062] In view of the foregoing, the speed of rollers 202, in metering assemblies 114, may need to dynamically adjust to achieve variable output flow rates such as to control the deposition rate. As noted, this accommodates various factors including: (i) field location, (ii) air seeder travelling speed; and (iii) air seeder travelling direction, e.g., turning.

[0063] An important challenge in achieving variable output flow rates, using rollers 202, is ensuring that the rollers 202 are operating within their tolerated speed range. Many rollers 202 have an operating speed range defined by a minimum and maximum rated speed.

[0064] If a roller 202 is operating below its minimum speed, the roller experiences “pulsating” and suffers from regular or intermittent variations in movement or pressure. In contrast, if a roller 202 is operating above its maximum speed, it experiences “reaching” whereby it rotates too quickly to receive product between its grooves (FIG. 2C).

[0065] Problems with pulsating and reaching limit the speed at which rollers 202 can be practically operated. This, in turn, limits the flow rate from the metering assembly 114, and in turn, the extent to which the deposition rate over the field is varied to accommodate location, speed and direction of air cart 104. The operational limits of the roller motor 206 (FIG. 2C) also limits the output flow rate and deposition rate over the field.

[0066] In view of the foregoing, examples herein provide methods and systems for using air cart bin chaining to enable variable output flow rates from the air seeder 104. It is believed that the disclosed examples overcome the problem of operating rollers 202, or their associated motors 202, above or below their rated speeds. As explained, this is accomplished by combining the output of metering assemblies 114 in different air cart bins 150 that are chained together.- 9 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vlII. EXAMPLE SYSTEM FOR VARIABLE OUTPUT FLOW RATE USING AIR CART BIN CHAINING

[0067] FIGs. 4A - 4E show example configurations for an air seeder system 400 that accommodates variable output flow rates of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining techniques.

[0068] As exemplified, system 400 includes multiple bins 150 coupled (e.g., chained) together, such that they move together with the air seeder 104. In at least one example, the system includes a primary bin 150a and at least one secondary bin 150b. System 400 can include any number of secondary bins 150b. This includes only a single secondary bin 150b (FIGs. 4A - 4D) or multiple secondary bins 150b (FIGs. 4E and 4F). Each of the bins 150a, 150b can carry the same or different product.

[0069] A feature of system 400 is that volumetric metering assemblies 114, in different bins 150, fluidically couple to a common air seeder section 120. This allows combining outputs of multiple metering assemblies 114, in different bins 150, to accommodate higher and lower flow rates of product from the same air seeder section 120.

[0070] To further clarify this concept, reference is made to FIGs. 4A and 4B which exemplify a simplified case of the air cart bin chaining concept.

[0071] In this example, each bin 150 includes only a single metering assembly 114. As shown in FIG. 4A, the metering assembly 114, in each bin 150, may be fluidically coupled to a common air seeder section 120 via a shared conduit 110. For example, in FIG. IB, a common conduit 110 intersects multiple metering assemblies 114 in different bins 150. As exemplified in FIG. 4B, it is also possible that the metering assemblies 114 use separate conduits 110a, 110b to couple to a common air seeder section 120.

[0072] As used herein, a metering assembly 114i in the primary bin 150a is referred to as a “primary metering assembly” which includes a “primary metering roller”. Further, a metering assembly 1142 in any secondary bin 150b is referred to as a “secondary metering assembly” which includes a “secondary metering roller”.- 10 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0073] In operation, the system in FIGs. 4 A and 4B initially operates only the primary metering assembly 114i (primary bin 150a). This allows depositing product from air seeder 104, via air seeder section 120.

[0074] As explained previously, as the air seeder 104 travels over the field, the system may need to increase or decrease the output flow rate from air seeder section 120. For example, this can result from changes in the location, speed or travelling direction of the air seeder 104.

[0075] If the system needs to vary the output flow rate, the system may determine if the new output flow rate requires operating the roller 202 (or associated motor 206) - in primary metering assembly 114i - outside of its operating range. For example, the new output flow rate may be very high, such that the system may need to operate the roller 202 beyond its maximum rated speed.

[0076] To mitigate this problem, the system activates (or operates) the secondary volumetric metering assembly 1142 (secondary bin 150b). In this manner, the system combines the output of the primary and secondary bins 150a, 150b to achieve a higher output flow rate. The higher output flow rate is achieved while operating rollers 202, in either primary or secondary assembly 114, at speeds lower than their maximum rated speed.

[0077] FIG. 5 shows a plot 500, that further illustrates the effect of using bin chaining as exemplified in FIGs. 4 A and 4B.

[0078] During initial time period 502, only the primary metering assembly 114i is operated to dispense product from air seeder section 120. Product is dispensed at a first flow rate and results in a first deposition rate over the field, as shown by plot line 550ai (e.g., 300 pounds per acre).

[0079] At time instance 506, it is desired to achieve a higher deposition rate 550c (e.g., 400 pounds per acre). However, this requires operating the roller, in primary assembly 114i, beyond its maximum rated speed.

[0080] Accordingly, at time instance 506, the system concurrently operates the secondary assembly 1142. This enables the system to maintain the roller speed, of primary assembly 114i, to within its tolerated speed rage. The primary assembly 114i therefore achieves a lower deposition rate after time instance 506 (e.g., 250 pounds per acre).- 11 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0081] In particular, the system operates the secondary assembly 1142 (plot line 550b) to mitigate the lower deposition rate from the primary assembly 114i. For example, the secondary assembly 1142 is operated to achieve a deposition rate of 150 pounds per acre.

[0082] As such, the combined deposition rate from both metering assemblies (plot line 550c) is approximately 400 pounds per acre. This higher combined target deposition rate is achieved without operating the rollers 202, in either the primary or secondary assembly 114, beyond their corresponding rated speeds. As such, the use of bin chaining techniques enables achieving higher output flow and deposition rates from air seeder 104.

[0083] FIGs. 4C - 4F exemplify further configurations 400c, 400d for the system 400 applying the same method of operation.

[0084] More generally, FIGs. 4C - 4D exemplify configurations where each bin 150 now includes more than one metering assembly 114. The air seeder 104 itself also includes more than one air seeder section 120a - 120n.

[0085] Metering assemblies 114i - 114nin different bins 150 again couple to common air seeder sections 120. For example, first primary and secondary assemblies 114ai, 114a2 couple to the same first air seeder section 120a. Further, second primary and secondary assemblies 114bi, 114b2 couple to the same second air seeder section 120b, and so on. Again, similar to FIG. 4B, it is not necessary that the same conduit 110 is used to couple metering assemblies 114 to the same air seeder section 120.

[0086] In at least one example, an air seeder section 120 in a system 400 is coupled to: (i) at least one primary metering assembly 114i, in the primary bin 150a; and (ii) at least one secondary metering assembly 1142, in at least one secondary bin 150b.

[0087] Using the exemplified configurations, each air seeder section 120 is supported by a back-up secondary metering assembly 1142. This enables replicating the principle, shown in plot 500 (FIG. 5), whereby each air seeder section 120 is supported using metering assemblies 114 in primary and secondary bins 150. For example, higher deposition rates are achievable from each air seeder section 120 by combining outputs of the primary and secondary metering assemblies 114i, 1142 coupled to that air seeder section 120.- 12 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0088] As detailed below, the configurations illustrated in FIGs. 4C and 4D can support turn compensation (FIG. 3C). For instance, to equalize deposition rate during a turn, configurations 400c, 400d enable the outer seeder section 120a to deposit product at a much higher output flow rate (along field strip 106a) compared to an inner seeder section 120d. This is because the outer seeder section 120a can dispense product using the combined output of the primary and secondary metering assemblies 114ai, 114a? associated with that seeder section 120a.

[0089] As used herein, each air seeder section 120 is said to be “associated” with the one or more metering assemblies 114 (in each bin 150) that are fluidically coupled to that air seeder section 120.

[0090] It is possible that an air seeder section 120 is “associated” with more than one metering assembly 114, in the same bin 150. In other words, it is not necessary that the air seeder section 120 is always associated with one assembly 114 per bin 150.

[0091] For instance, in FIG. 4D, first seeder section 120a is “associated” with primary metering assembly 114ai (primary bin 150a), as well as two secondary metering assemblies 114a2, 114b2 (secondary bin 150b). This is because first seeder section 120a is fluidically coupled to each of the metering assemblies via common conduits 110a, 110ai and 110a2. This configuration allows operating one or both of the secondary metering assemblies 114a2, 114b2 to support variable output flow rates from first seeder section 120a.

[0092] By extension, a single metering assembly 114 can be “associated” with more than one air seeder section 120. For instance, in FIG. 4D, secondary metering assembly 114c2 is associated with both the second and third air seeder sections 120b, 120c via separate conduits 110b, 110c. This allows the secondary metering assembly 114c2 to support the flow rate for one or both of the second and third air seeder sections 120b, 120c.

[0093] FIGs. 4E and 4F exemplify still further configuration 400e, 400f of system 400.

[0094] In these configurations, the system now includes more than one secondary bin 150bi -150bn. Each secondary bin 150b includes corresponding secondary metering assemblies 1142 - H4n.- 13 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0095] Again, in these examples, an air seeder section 120 is associated with: (i) at least one primary metering assembly 114i, in the primary bin 150a; and (ii) at least secondary one metering assembly 1142, in one or more secondary bins 150.

[0096] An advantage of this configuration is that more variable output flow rates are achieved through operating more metering assemblies associated with the same air seeder section 120. For example, in plot 500 (FIG. 5B), metering assemblies 114 associated with the same air seeder section 120 are concurrently operable to achieve even higher deposition rates while operating each metering roller at a lower speed.III. EXAMPLE METHODS FOR VARIABLE OUTPUT FLOW RATE USING AIR CART BIN CHAINING

[0097] The following are various example methods for achieving variable output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining. In at least one example, the methods in FIGs. 6A - 6D are executed or performed, fully or partially, by processor 704 of controller 702 (FIG. 7).

[0098] (i) General Method.

[0099] FIG. 6A is a process flow for an example method 600a for achieving variable output flow rate of agricultural product using air cart bin chaining.

[0100] Concurrent reference is also made to the air seeder systems 400a, 400b (FIGs. 4A and 4B). Method 600a assumes a simplified case where the system includes two air cart bins 150a, 150b, each including a single metering assembly 114i, 1142, respectively.

[0101] At 602a, a target deposition rate is identified for depositing agricultural product from the air seeder system 400a, 400b. The target deposition rate corresponds to the rate (e.g., volume per acre) of product that the air seeder 104 is desired to deposit from air seeder section 120.

[0102] The target deposition rate, at 602a, is identifiable in various manners. In some cases, the target deposition rate is determined by an operator. For instance, the operator inputs a target deposition rate into a user input interface of a controller 702 (FIG. 7).- 14 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0103] In other cases, the target deposition rate is determined automatically. For instance, the controller 702 automatically determines the target deposition rate based on one or more deposition rate factors. Example deposition rate factors include: (i) product type; (ii) location; and (iii) one or more motion parameters.

[0104] (i) Product Type: Different types of products (e.g., seeds) may need to be deposited over the field at different deposition rates, e.g., to achieve different product yields. Accordingly, for different product types, the controller 702 can determine the appropriate deposition rate.

[0105] In at least one example, controller 702 stores reference product type data. This reference data associates different product types with predefined deposition rates.

[0106] (ii) Location: The system may need to deposit different amounts of product in different locations of an agricultural field. For example, a lower rate of product may be deposited in some field locations as compared to other field locations, e.g., based on desired product yield in that location.

[0107] In at least one example, controller 702 also stores reference location data. The reference location data correlates different deposition rates with different locations in the field. To this effect, controller 702 can monitor the location of the system (e.g., air seeder) in the field using various techniques. For instance, this includes using location sensors forming part of the sensor subsystem 712, e.g., GPS (FIG. 7).

[0108] (iii) Motion Parameters: Motion parameters can include, for example, the (a) travelling speed; and (b) travelling direction of the system, or air seeder 104.

[0109] (a) Travelling Speed: In some cases, the deposition rate is controlled in view of the travelling speed of the system. For instance, the system may want to maintain a constant deposition rate, irrespective of the travelling speed. In other cases, the system may calibrate the deposition rate to the travelling speed.

[0110] Controller 702 can also monitor travelling speed in various manners. For instance, as shown in FIG. 7, the control system can use the sensor subsystem 712 comprising one or more speed sensors that generate speed data. In some cases, the speed sensors 712 simply comprise speedometer(s) directly integrated in the vehicle 108 (FIG. 1A). In other cases, vehicle speed is also determined through monitoring changing location data over time, using location sensors (see below).- 15 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0111] (b) Travelling Direction: The travelling direction also influences the target deposition rate. For instance, if the air seeder 104 is turning, then the target deposition rate is adjusted to effect turn compensation (FIG. 3C). As explained previously, turn compensation is achieved by operating different air seeder sections 120 to dispense product at different output flow rates.

[0112] In some examples, a memory 706 of controller 702 (FIG. 7) stores reference motion data. The reference data associates different motion parameters with different adjustments to the deposition rate. Accordingly, controller 702 may (i) monitor the one or more motion parameters; (ii) using the reference data, determine an appropriate adjustment to the deposition rate associated with the monitored motion parameters.

[0113] At 604a, the system determines the output flow rate from the air seeder section 120, that achieves the target deposition rate. In other words, the system determines how much product should exist the air seeder section 120 per unit time (e.g., minute) to achieve a given deposition rate over the field.

[0114] In some cases, the determination at 604a is based on the motion parameters. For example, if the air cart is travelling at higher or lower speeds, the flow rate is accordingly adjusted to achieve the target deposition rate.

[0115] At 606a, a rotational speed is determined for roller 202, in the primary metering assemblies 114i, to achieve the target flow rate at 604a.

[0116] The appropriate rotational speed can be determined based on the type of roller mounted (e.g., installed) in the primary assembly 114i . This is because different roller types deposit at different flow rates, when operated at different rotational speeds. For example, different roller types include different physical properties that affect their output flow rate, at different speeds. These physical properties include, for instance, the length of the roller fins, the spacing between adjacent fins as well as the number and depth of grooves between fins.

[0117] In some examples, controller 702 stores predefined mapping data that associates (i) different roller types, to (ii) different operating speeds of that roller type to achieve different output flow rates. Accordingly, at 606a, the controller 702 uses the predefined mapping data to determine the correct roller speed to achieve the target output flow rate at 604a.- 16 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0118] To this end, controller 702 can also store information about which roller type is mounted in the primary volumetric metering assembly 114i to help identify the correct predefined mapping data.

[0119] At 608a, the system identifies a target speed range for the roller in primary assembly 114i. The purpose of act 608a is to determine if the rotational speed, determined at 606a, is within the target speed range of that roller.

[0120] In some examples, the target speed range defines the maximum and minimum rated speed for that roller. Operating the roller within that range avoids pulsating (i.e., roller is rotating too slowly) or reaching (i.e., roller is rotating too quickly).

[0121] In other examples, the target speed range defines any other predefined maximum and minimum speed for operating the roller (e.g., any preferred speed range). It is also possible that the target speed range is defined only by an upper value or a lower value, rather than both maximum / minimum values.

[0122] Controller 702 can again store predefined reference data that associates (i) different target speed ranges, with (ii) different roller types. Accordingly, at 608a, controller 702 uses this reference data to determine the correct target speed range for the particular roller mounted in primary volumetric assembly 114i.

[0123] In other examples, controller 702 determines the target speed range at 608a based on a user input. It is also possible to automatically determine the target speed range when the roller is mounted a volumetric metering system 114. For instance, a roller housing can include a scannable code that identifies the operating speed range to the controller 702. In still other cases, the system (e.g., air cart bin) is configurable to use only a single type of roller having a known target speed range.

[0124] At 610a, the system determines if the rotational speed (as determined at 606a), is within the target speed range for the roller (as determined at 608a).

[0125] At 612a, based on 610a, the system determines if the target rotational speed is within the target speed range.- 17 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0126] If the target speed range is expressed by both minimum and maximum values, the determination at 612a involves determining if the rotational speed is at and / or between the maximum and minimum values.

[0127] Otherwise, if the target speed range is expressed as only a minimum or maximum value, then the determination at 612a involves determining if the rotational speed is at or above the minimum value, or at or below the maximum value.

[0128] If the determination at 612a is negative, then at 614a, the roller in primary assembly1141 (primary bin 150a) is simply operated at the rotational speed (606a). This allows dispensing product from the air seeder 104 (FIGs. 4 A and 4B) at the target deposition rate (602a).

[0129] Otherwise, at 616a, if the target rotational speed is not within the target speed range - then, at 616a, the system operates the secondary assembly 1142 (secondary bin 150b) (FIGs. 4A and 4B).

[0130] For example, if the rotational speed (606a) is too high, then the system operates the secondary metering assembly 1142 to compensate for operating the primary metering assembly 1142 at a lower speed (e.g., lower than the desired rotational speed) while achieving the higher target deposition rate.

[0131] In other cases, if the determined rotational speed (606a) is too low, then the system operates the secondary metering assembly 1142 to compensate for operating the primary assembly1142 at a higher speed.

[0132] More generally, at act 616a, the system determines an operating roller speed for each of the primary and secondary assemblies 114i, 1142.

[0133] As shown in plot 500 (FIG. 5), the objective is to operate the primary and secondary assemblies 114i, 114i such as, to cumulatively, achieve the target deposition rate (602a).

[0134] In some examples, the system determines operating speeds, at 616a, for the primary and secondary assembly 114i, 1142 such to ensure they are both operating within their respective target speed ranges. The method for determining the speed, at 616a, is explained in greater detail in method 600b (FIG. 6B).- 18 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0135] At 618a, the rollers in the corresponding primary and secondary assemblies 114i, 1142 are operated at the corresponding speeds determined at 616a, such as to achieve the target deposition rate (602a). In some examples, this involves controller 702 operating the respective motors 206 (FIG. 2C) coupled to each roller in each metering assembly 114.

[0136] (ii) Example Method for Determining Roller Speeds for Primary and Secondary Volumetric Metering Assemblies.

[0137] As explained in method 600a (FIG. 6 A), at act 616a, operating speeds are determined for the primary and secondary metering assemblies 114i, 1142 to achieve the target deposition rate, initially determined at act 602a.

[0138] FIG. 6B is an example method 600b for determining roller speeds, for the primary and secondary assemblies 114i, 1142 during act 616a, of method 600a (FIG. 6A). Continued reference is made to FIGs. 4 A and 4B.

[0139] At 602b, an objective rotational speed is determined for the roller, in primary assembly 114i. The objective rotational speed is a speed that is within the target speed range identified at 608a (FIG. 6A).

[0140] In some examples, the objective rotational speed is selected as any value within the target speed range. For example, this can be a mid-point value within the range. It is also possible that the manufacturer of the roller has specified an ideal operating speed within the target speed range, which is selected as the objective speed at 602b.

[0141] In some examples, the objective speed is selected based on the desired rotational speed, determined at 604a (FIG. 6A).

[0142] For example, if the desired rotational speed (determined at 606a) was higher than the target speed range - then at 602b, the system selects the objective rotational speed as the maximum limit of the target speed range. Accordingly, the system selects the maximum speed the roller can practically achieve that is as close as possible to the desired speed identified at 604a.- 19 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0143] Alternatively, if the desired rotational speed (determined at 606a) is lower than the target speed range - then at 602b, the system selects the objective rotational speed as being the minimum possible limit of the target speed range.

[0144] At 604b, a realizable deposition rate is determined. The realizable deposition rate is the deposition rate achieved by the roller, in the primary assembly 114i, when operated at the objective rotational speed (act 602b).

[0145] In some cases, the realizable deposition rate is determined by (i) initially, determining the output flow rate that the roller achieves, when operated at the objective speed. This can be based on reference data showing the roller’s output at different speeds; and (ii) subsequently, determining the deposition rate realized at that output flow rate. This can be based on, for example, how fast the air seeder is moving and various other motion parameters previously determined.

[0146] At 606b, the difference between the target deposition rate (act 602a in FIG. 6 A) and the realizable deposition rate (act 604b in FIG. 6B) is determined. This difference is referred to herein as the “differential deposition rate”.

[0147] At 608b, an operating speed is determined for the roller in the secondary assembly 1142 (FIG. 4A), to achieve the differential deposition rate.

[0148] The controller may again use predefined reference data to determine what roller speed, for the given secondary roller, achieves a deposition rate equal to the differential deposition rate.

[0149] Accordingly, the result of method 600b is as shown in plot 500 of FIG. 5. In particular, by (i) operating the primary assembly 114i at the objective rotational speed, to output the realizable deposition rate (plot line 550a2); and (ii) operating the secondary assembly 1142 at an operating roller speed to output the differential deposition rate (plot line 550b) - the cumulative output of both the deposition rates is accordingly the target deposition rate (plot line 550c).

[0150] (Hi) Example Method for Determining Roller Speeds for Multiple Secondary Bins.

[0151] The example method 600b (FIG. 6B) assumes a simplified case where the air seeder system 400 includes a single secondary bin. However, as exemplified in FIG. 4E, the system 400 may- 20 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vlinclude one or more secondary bins 150bi - 150bn. Each secondary bin 150 includes a metering assembly 1141 - 114n, coupled to the same air seeder section 120.

[0152] In these examples, the system can activate all, or any subset, of the metering assemblies114i - H4nfor greater combined deposition rates. This is advantageous if the target deposition rate requires operating the rollers, in metering assemblies 114i, 1142 (FIGs. 4A and 4B) beyond their maximum (or ideal) operating range.

[0153] More generally, the system can determine operating roller speeds for metering assemblies 114, in as many secondary bins 150b, to achieve the target deposition rate. This is accomplished while ensuring that each roller is operating at its preferred roller speed (e.g., maximum or any other ideal operating speed).

[0154] (iv) Example Application for Multiple Air Seeder Sections.

[0155] FIG. 6 A was applied in an example involving an air seeder system 400a, 400b including only a single volumetric metering assembly 114 per bin. However, the same method is applicable where, as shown in FIGs. 4C - 4D and 4F, the air seeder 104 includes more than one air seeder section 120a - 120n. In these examples, it is possible to iterate the same method 600a for each air seeder section 120a - 120n.

[0156] For example, at 602a, target deposition rates are determined for each air seeder section 120a - 120n.

[0157] In some examples, if the seeder system enables sectional control, then 602a involves determining different target deposition rates for each air seeder section 120. For instance, in FIGs. 4C and 4D, a first target deposition rate is determined for air seeder section 120a, a second target deposition rate is determined for air seeder section 120b, and so forth.

[0158] In other examples, the system may not use (or enable) sectional control. In these cases, the same target deposition rate is identified for each air seeder section 120. The same deposition rate may be used, for example, during turn compensation to equalize product distribution in each field strip 106 (FIG. 3C).- 21 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0159] At 604a, the system determines the output flow rate from each air seeder section to achieve the target deposition rate. In some cases, this is based on the motion parameters associated with each air seeder section 120.

[0160] For example, if the air seeder 104 is performing a turn, the radial outer section 120a may be travelling faster than the radial inner section 120d. Accordingly, to equalize deposition rates, the flow rate from the outer section 120a is higher than the radial inner section 120d.

[0161] At 606a, the system can identify the primary assemblies 114i (primary bin 150a) associated with each air seeder section 120. The system can then determine the rotational speed, for the roller in that metering assembly 114, that achieves the output flow rate for that air seeder section 120.

[0162] Acts 608a - 618a are then individually executed, for each roller - in each primary metering assembly 114i - in the same manner as described above.

[0163] For example, in respect of each primary assembly 114i, the system can (i) at 608a, identify the target speed range for the roller in that metering assembly; (ii) at 610a and 612a, determine if the rotational speed (606a) is within the target speed range; (iii) if so, at 614a, that roller is operated at the corresponding rotational speed; and (iv) otherwise, at 616a and 618a, if the rotational speed for a given primary roller is not within target speed range - then the system identifies one or more secondary assemblies 1142 (secondary bins 150bi - 150bn) associated with the same air seeder section 120. The system may then determine operating speeds, for these metering assemblies (616a), and operate the assemblies at these speeds (618a) (see method 600b in FIG. 6B).

[0164] Accordingly, method 600a is effectively iterated for each air seeder section 120 within the air seeder system 400.- 22 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0165] (v) Example Application for Turn Compensation.

[0166] FIG. 6C is a process flow for an example method 600c using air cart bin chaining for variable output flow rate of product, and specifically, in an example application involving turn compensation.

[0167] Method 600c is accordingly an example application of method 600a (FIG. 6A) using turn compensation, where the air cart includes more than one seeder section 120 (FIGs. 4C - 4D and 4F) allowing for sectional control.

[0168] At 602c, the system monitors the travel direction of the air seeder 104 to determine whether the air seeder 104 is turning, or otherwise is travelling along a linear path.

[0169] The travel direction of the air seeder 104 is monitored in various manners. In at least one example, speed sensors 712a of sensor subsystem 712 (FIG. 7) are used to determine if the air seeder 104 is turning. For instance, a speed sensor 712a can be positioned on either side of the seeder 104, and the differential speed of the inner and outer ends of the air seeder 104 is used to determine if the air seeder is turning.

[0170] In other examples, the travel direction of the air seeder 104 is monitored using location data generated by a location sensor 712b of sensor subsystem 712 (FIG. 7). For example, the system can determine whether the travel path of the air cart is turning based on changing GPS data.

[0171] In still other examples, any other sensor is used to monitor the travelling direction, e.g., magnetometers.

[0172] At 604c, based on the directional data, the system determines whether the air seeder 104 is turning. If not, the method returns to 602c to continue monitoring.

[0173] Otherwise, at 606c, the system determines one or more motion turning parameters. The motion parameters relate to any data regarding the air seeders turning motion. In some examples, this includes: (i) the speed of turning; and (ii) the curvature of the turn. The motion parameters are used to determine the appropriate turn compensation. In some examples, motion parameters are determined (or interpolated) for each air seeder section 120. This allows accommodating for the faster moving outer end of the air seeder, versus the slower moving inner end.- 23 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0174] At 608c, based on the motion parameters, the system identifies a target deposition rate and output flow rate for each air seeder section 120, to achieve turn compensation. This is similar to acts 602a and 604a, when applied to air seeders 104 that include multiple sections 120.

[0175] (vi) Trigger Event for Dynamic Variable Rate Deposition.

[0176] In some examples, the system is able to vary the deposition rate in real time or near real-time.

[0177] FIG. 6D is a process flow for an example method 600d for updating the output flow rate in real time or near real time.

[0178] As shown, at 602d, the system monitors for one or more trigger events for varying the deposition rate and / or output flow rate. For example, this includes changes to the location, speed or direction of the air seeder 104, as explained previously.

[0179] At 604d, a determination is made as to whether a trigger event was identified. If not, the method returns to 602d. Otherwise, at 606d, the system can identify an updated target deposition rate and / or output flow rate based on the type of trigger event. Identifying the updated target deposition and / or output flow rate can occur in a similar manner as previously described for act 602d for normally identifying a target deposition rate.

[0180] The method may then resume to act 604a in FIG. 6 A. In some examples, method 600d is applied separately for each individual air seeder section 120, where the air seeder 120 includes multiple sections. In this way, the target deposition rate may be updated individually or collectively for all air seeder sections.

[0181] (vii) Alternate or Specific Examples.

[0182] In some examples, method 600a can be implemented without performing act 602a. For example, the desired output flow rate for an air seeder section 120 can be immediately determined. This can be determined in the same manner as the target deposition rate was identified at act 602a. For example, the same deposition rate factors can be used to determine the output flow rate.

[0183] Further, method 600b can be implemented using output flow rate rather than deposition rate. In these examples, at 604b, the system determines a realizable flow rate at the objective rotational- 24 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vlspeed. At 606b, a differential flow rate is determined between the target flow rate and the realizable flow rate. At 608b, the operating roller speeds are determined to achieve the differential flow rate.IV. EXAMPLE CONTROL SYSTEM

[0184] FIG. 7 shows an example system 700 for achieving variable output flow rate of agricultural product using bin chaining. As shown, the system includes a controller 702, coupled to one or more of motor system 708, a communication interface 710 and a sensor subsystem 712.

[0185] Controller 702 can include one or more processors 704 and a memory 706.

[0186] Processor 704 can include one or more electronic devices that is / are capable of reading and executing instructions stored on a memory to perform operations on data, which may be stored on a memory or provided in a data signal. The term "processor" includes a plurality of physically discrete, operatively connected devices despite use of the term in the singular. Non-limiting examples of processors include devices referred to as microprocessors, microcontrollers, central processing units (CPU), and digital signal processors.

[0187] Memory 706 can include a non-transitory tangible computer-readable medium for storing information in a format readable by a processor, and / or instructions readable by a processor to implement an algorithm. The term "memory" includes a plurality of physically discrete, operatively connected devices despite use of the term in the singular. Non-limiting types of memory include solid- state, optical, and magnetic computer readable media. Memory may be non-volatile or volatile. Instructions stored by a memory may be based on a plurality of programming languages known in the art, with non-limiting examples including the C, C++, Python ™, MATLAB ™, and Java ™ programming languages.

[0188] To that end, it will be understood by those of skill in the art that references herein to controller 702 as carrying out a function or acting in a particular way imply that processor 704 is executing instructions (e.g., a software program) stored in memory 706 and possibly transmitting or receiving inputs and outputs via one or more interfaces. In some examples, memory 706 stores the methods 600a - 600d (FIGs. 6A - 6D), explained herein.- 25 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

[0189] Motor subsystem 708 can include one or more roller motors 206a - 206n. These are roller motors for controlling different rollers 202 in different volumetric metering systems 114 in the same or different air cart bins 150 (FIG. 2C). In turn, this allows the controller 702 to control the rotation speed of rollers in different metering systems 114, as described herein.

[0190] Communication interface 712 can include any interface, e.g., an antenna, for transmitting and / or receiving data over a communication network.

[0191] System 700 can also include a sensor system 712, which includes various sensors including speed sensors 712a and location sensors 712b (e.g., GPS). Speed sensors 712a can include various sensors for monitoring the speed of the system or air seeder 104, e.g., sensors coupled to the air cart wheels.V. INTERPRETATION

[0192] Various systems or methods have been described to provide an example of an embodiment of the claimed subject matter. No embodiment described limits any claimed subject matter and any claimed subject matter may cover methods or systems that differ from those described below. The claimed subject matter is not limited to systems or methods having all of the features of any one system or method described below or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses or methods described below. It is possible that a system or method described is not an embodiment that is recited in any claimed subject matter. Any subject matter disclosed in a system or method described that is not claimed in this document may be the subject matter of another protective instrument, for example, a continuing patent application, and the applicants, inventors or owners do not intend to abandon, disclaim or dedicate to the public any such subject matter by its disclosure in this document.

[0193] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced- 26 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vlwithout these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. Also, the description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0194] It should also be noted that the terms “coupled” or “coupling” as used herein can have several different meanings depending in the context in which these terms are used. For example, the terms coupled or coupling may be used to indicate that an element or device can electrically, optically, or wirelessly send data to another element or device as well as receive data from another element or device. As used herein, two or more components are said to be “coupled”, or “connected” where the parts are joined or operate together either directly or indirectly (i.e., through one or more intermediate components), so long as a link occurs. As used herein and in the claims, two or more parts are said to be “directly coupled”, or “directly connected”, where the parts are joined or operate together without intervening intermediate components.

[0195] It should be noted that terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. These terms of degree may also be construed as including a deviation of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the term it modifies.

[0196] Furthermore, any recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints herein includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range (e.g. 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.90, 4, and 5). It is also to be understood that all numbers and fractions thereof are presumed to be modified by the term "about" which means a variation of up to a certain amount of the number to which reference is being made if the end result is not significantly changed.

[0197] The example embodiments of the systems and methods described herein may be implemented as a combination of hardware or software. In some cases, the example embodiments described herein may be implemented, at least in part, by using one or more computer programs, executing on one or more programmable devices comprising at least one processing element, and a data storage element (including volatile memory, non-volatile memory, storage elements, or any combination thereof). These devices may also have at least one input device (e.g. a pushbutton- 27 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vlkeyboard, mouse, a touchscreen, and the like), and at least one output device (e.g. a display screen, a printer, a wireless radio, and the like) depending on the nature of the device.

[0198] It should also be noted that there may be some elements that are used to implement at least part of one of the embodiments described herein that may be implemented via software that is written in a high-level computer programming language such as object oriented programming or script-based programming. Accordingly, the program code may be written in Java, Swift / Objective- C, C, C++, Javascript, Python, SQL or any other suitable programming language and may comprise modules or classes, as is known to those skilled in object oriented programming. Alternatively, or in addition thereto, some of these elements implemented via software may be written in assembly language, machine language or firmware as needed. In either case, the language may be a compiled or interpreted language.

[0199] At least some of these software programs may be stored on a storage media (e.g. a computer readable medium such as, but not limited to, ROM, magnetic disk, optical disc) or a device that is readable by a general or special purpose programmable device. The software program code, when read by the programmable device, configures the programmable device to operate in a new, specific and predefined manner in order to perform at least one of the methods described herein.

[0200] Furthermore, at least some of the programs associated with the systems and methods of the embodiments described herein may be capable of being distributed in a computer program product comprising a computer readable medium that bears computer usable instructions for one or more processors. The medium may be provided in various forms, including non-transitory forms such as, but not limited to, one or more diskettes, compact disks, tapes, chips, and magnetic and electronic storage. The computer program product may also be distributed in an over-the-air or wireless manner, using a wireless data connection.

[0201] The term “software application” or “application” refers to computer-executable instructions, particularly computer-executable instructions stored in a non-transitory medium, such as a non-volatile memory, and executed by a computer processor. The computer processor, when executing the instructions, may receive inputs and transmit outputs to any of a variety of input or- 28 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vloutput devices to which it is coupled. Software applications may include mobile applications or “apps” for use on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets or other “smart” devices.

[0202] A software application can be, for example, a monolithic software application, built inhouse by the organization and possibly running on custom hardware; a set of interconnected modular subsystems running on similar or diverse hardware; a software-as-a-service application operated remotely by a third party; third party software running on outsourced infrastructure, etc. In some cases, a software application also may be less formal, or constructed in ad hoc fashion, such as a programmable spreadsheet document that has been modified to perform computations for the organization’s needs.

[0203] Software applications may be deployed to and installed on a computing device on which it is to operate. Depending on the nature of the operating system and / or platform of the computing device, an application may be deployed directly to the computing device, and / or the application may be downloaded from an application marketplace. For example, user of the user device may download the application through an app store such as the Apple App Store™ or Google™ Play™.

[0204] The present invention has been described here by way of example only, while numerous specific details are set forth herein in order to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that these embodiments may, in some cases, be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the description of the embodiments. Various modification and variations may be made to these exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which is limited only by the appended claims.- 29 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method for variable output flow rate of agricultural product, the method comprising: determining an output flow rate for the air seeder, wherein the air seeder is fluidically coupled to a primary air cart bin and at least one secondary air cart bin; determining a rotational speed for a primary metering roller to achieve the output flow rate, wherein the primary metering roller is associated with the primary bin; determining if the rotational speed is within a target speed range of the primary metering roller; if not, determining an operating speed for each of (i) the primary metering roller; and (ii) a secondary metering roller associated with a secondary bin; and operating the primary and secondary metering rollers, at the corresponding operating speeds, to deposit agricultural product from the air seeder at the output flow rate.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the primary and secondary metering rollers are mounted in corresponding volumetric metering assemblies, each volumetric metering assembly comprising a motor operatively coupled to the roller.

3. The method of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the operating speed, for each of the primary and secondary rollers, is selected within the target speed range of each roller.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising initially, identifying a target deposition rate for the air seeder, and determining the output flow rate that achieves the target deposition rate.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein determining the operating speed, for each of the primary and secondary rollers, further comprises: identifying an objective rotational speed, for the primary metering roller, that is within its target speed range;- 30 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vldetermining a realizable deposition rate that is achieved when the primary metering roller is operated at the objective rotational speed; determining a differential deposition rate as between (i) the realizable deposition rate and (ii) a target deposition rate; and determining the operating speed for,- the primary metering roller as the objective rotational speed, and- the secondary metering roller as a rotating speed that achieves the differential deposition rate.

6. The method of any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein identifying the target deposition rate is based on one or more deposition rate factors including that the: (i) air seeder travelling direction; (ii) air seeder travelling speed; and (iii) air seeder being located in a predefined spatial region.

7. The method of any one of claims 4 to 6, further comprising: monitoring for a trigger event for varying the output flow rate and / or target deposition rate; and- updating the output flow rate and / or target deposition rate based on the trigger event.

8. The method of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the air seeder comprises a plurality of air seeder sections, and identifying the output flow rate comprises identifying the output flow rate for each air seeder section, and the output flow rate is the same or different for each air seeder section.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the primary air cart bin comprises a plurality of primary metering rollers, and the secondary air cart bin comprises a plurality of secondary metering rollers, wherein, each of the primary and secondary metering rollers are associated with an air seeder section, of the plurality of air seeder sections of the air seeder.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising, for each of the plurality of primary metering rollers,- 31 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vldetermining the rotational speed, for the primary roller, to achieve the output flow rate in respect of an air seeder section associated with that primary metering roller; if the target rotational speed is not within a corresponding target speed range for that primarily roller, then identifying at least one secondary metering roller associated with the same air seeder section; determining the operating speed for each of (i) the primary metering roller; and(ii) the at least one secondary metering roller; and operating the primary and at least one secondary metering rollers at the corresponding operating speeds to deposit the agricultural product from the associated air seeder section.

11. A system for variable output flow rate of agricultural product, the system comprising: an air seeder for depositing the agricultural product; a primary air cart bin and at least one secondary air cart bin, each comprising: a receptacle area for retaining agricultural product; and at least one volumetric metering assembly fluidically coupled to the receptacle area and the air seeder, each volumetric metering assembly comprising (i) a metering roller, and (ii) a motor coupled to the metering roller; and at least one processor coupled to each motor, in each volumetric metering assembly, and configured to operate the metering rollers; a non-transitory memory storing computer executable instructions, which when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to execute a method comprising: determining an output flow rate for the air seeder; determining a rotational speed for a primary metering roller to achieve the output flow rate, wherein the primary metering roller is associated with the primary bin; determining if the rotational speed is within a target speed range of the primary metering roller;- 32 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vlif not, determining an operating speed for each of (i) the primary metering roller; and (ii) a secondary metering roller associated with a secondary bin; and operating the primary and secondary metering rollers, at the corresponding operating speeds, to deposit agricultural product from the air seeder at the output flow rate.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the operating speed, for each of the primary and secondary rollers, is selected within the target speed range of each roller.

13. The system of any one of claims 11 to 12, the method further comprising initially, identifying a target deposition rate for the air seeder, and determining the output flow rate that achieves the target deposition rate.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein determining the operating speed, for each of the primary and secondary rollers, further comprises: identifying an objective rotational speed, for the primary metering roller, that is within its target speed range; determining a realizable deposition rate that is achieved when the primary metering roller is operated at the objective rotational speed; determining a differential deposition rate as between (i) the realizable deposition rate and (ii) a target deposition rate; and determining the operating speed for,- the primary metering roller as the objective rotational speed, and- the secondary metering roller as a rotating speed that achieves the differential deposition rate.

15. The system of any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein identifying the target deposition rate is based on one or more deposition rate factors including that the: (i) air seeder travelling direction; (ii) air seeder travelling speed; and (iii) air seeder being located in a predefined spatial region.- 33 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl16. The system of any one of claims 13 to 15, the method further comprising: monitoring for a trigger event for varying the output flow rate and / or target deposition rate; and- updating the output flow rate and / or target deposition rate based on the trigger event.

17. The system of any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the air seeder comprises a plurality of air seeder sections, and identifying the output flow rate comprises identifying the output flow rate for each air seeder section, and wherein the output flow rate is the same or different for each air seeder section.

18. The system of any one of claims 16 or 17, wherein the primary air cart bin comprises a plurality of primary metering rollers, and the secondary air cart bin comprises a plurality of secondary metering rollers, wherein, each of the primary and secondary metering rollers are associated with an air seeder section, of the plurality of air seeder sections of the air seeder.

19. The system of claim 18, further comprising, for each of the plurality of primary metering rollers, determining the rotational speed, for the primary roller, to achieve the output flow rate in respect of an air seeder section associated with that primary metering roller; if the target rotational speed is not within a corresponding target speed range for that primarily roller, then identifying at least one secondary metering roller associated with the same air seeder section; and determining the operating speed for each of (i) the primary metering roller; and (ii) the at least one secondary metering roller.

20. The system of claim 19, further comprising operating the primary and at least one secondary metering rollers at the corresponding operating speeds to deposit the agricultural product from the associated air seeder section.- 34 -WSLEGAL\053276\00221\42125799vl

Images