Agricultural Nozzle Assembly with Rotatable Fluid Outlet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural implement systems face challenges in precisely applying fluid applications, such as fertilizers and chemicals, between rows of plants due to difficulties in controlling the application process, leading to inefficiencies and waste.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a fluid applicator system with a frame, applicator arms, and flexible members that adjust position based on plant contact, ensuring precise orientation and positioning of fluid outlets to apply applications directly to the rhizosphere or between rows, utilizing feelers and linkage mechanisms to pivot fluid outlets for targeted spraying or dribbling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluid applications are applied between rows of plants using conventional sprayers or sidedress bars, then the application can be performed, but precise control of the application placement is difficult leading to inefficiency and waste
Solution Approach 1:
The application unit incorporates a movable nozzle assembly that can dynamically adjust its position and orientation relative to the plant rows. The nozzle is mounted on a movable carriage that travels along guides, allowing real-time repositioning to achieve precise placement between rows or at specific locations, thereby reducing fluid waste through targeted application
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs sensors to detect the position of plant rows and provides feedback to the control system. This feedback mechanism enables automatic adjustment of the nozzle position and orientation to maintain precise application placement, preventing both under-application and over-application waste
2Measurement precision
If a selectable nozzle system is implemented to place applications between rows or at specific locations, then application precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The application unit is divided into modular components: a frame, a movable carriage assembly, a nozzle assembly, and a control system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently and facilitates easier maintenance and adjustment, reducing the operational complexity despite the enhanced precision capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The movable nozzle assembly can be positioned to perform multiple application functions: placing fluid between rows, applying at specific locations along the row, and adjusting orientation for different application patterns. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated mechanism rather than multiple separate devices, thereby managing complexity while providing versatile precise application
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are implements and applicators for placement of fluid applications with respect to agricultural plants of agricultural fields. In one embodiment, a nozzle includes a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a rotatable member to rotate over the fluid outlet to selectively expose the fluid outlet to at least one opening to provide fluid flow from the fluid outlet through the opening. Upon the rotatable member rotating over the fluid outlet, a different number of openings is in fluid communication with the fluid outlet.