Agricultural Data Processing Module for Field Operation Monitoring

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Operators of agricultural machinery face difficulties in timely and efficient monitoring and controlling of planting and harvesting operations due to the complexity of analyzing data and maps provided by display monitors, which can lead to challenges in optimizing field operations.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a data transfer and processing module that communicates with sensors and controllers on agricultural implements, generates display data for multiple display devices, and allows for bi-directional communication, enabling easier interaction and analysis of field operations data, including a cloud-based system for data analytics and real-time monitoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If a display monitor shows coverage maps and planting data, then operators can monitor field operations, but the complexity of analyzing the data and maps makes it difficult to operate the machine and implement in a timely manner

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefield operation dataVSAvoidmachine operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides field operations monitoring into separate functional modules: a display monitor for visual coverage maps, a data bus for communication, and a processor for analyzing planting data. This segmentation allows each component to handle specific tasks, reducing the cognitive load on the operator while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that acts as a mediator between the sensors/collectors and the display monitor. This intermediary processor pre-analyzes planting data and prepares coverage map information before presenting it to the operator, filtering complex data into actionable insights that ease operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If a display monitor provides coverage map data, then operators can see planted regions, but the complexity of analyzing the data prevents timely decision-making

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage map accuracyVSAvoiddecision-making time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary analysis of planting data through a dedicated processor that continuously calculates coverage maps and identifies unplanted regions before the operator needs to make decisions. This preliminary processing of data ensures high measurement precision is already achieved, allowing the operator to simply review pre-analyzed information and make timely decisions without performing complex analysis themselves.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The display monitor provides continuous feedback coverage map information to the operator, showing real-time planting status and unplanted regions. This feedback loop allows the operator to make timely decisions about swath control and replanting operations based on immediately available, precisely analyzed data rather than waiting for manual analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11690310B2Systems and method for monitoring, controlling, and displaying field operations
Publication Date: 2023.07.04 MONSANTO TECHNOLOGY LLC
  • US11690310B2 patent drawing
  • US11690310B2 patent drawing
  • US11690310B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Described herein are systems and method for monitoring and controlling field operations including planting and harvesting operations. In one embodiment, a data processing system of a machine includes a data transfer and processing module that communicates bi-directionally with different types of controllers and sensors mounted on the machine or an implement attached to the machine. The data transfer and processing module is configured to execute instructions to receive signals from these controllers and sensors, process these signals, and generate data for monitoring and controlling field operations of the machine. At least one display device is coupled to the data transfer and processing module. The at least one display device displays the data for monitoring and controlling field operations of the machine or implement to a user or operator.