Automated Nozzle Holder Positioning for Worn Spray Nozzles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for spraying plant treatment on fields utilize high-density spray nozzles that wear out over time, requiring manual replacement and are prone to human error, especially when switching between different types of applications.
Innovation Solution
A farming machine with a treatment mechanism that includes a plurality of nozzle holders, each with multiple nozzles, automatically adjusts their position based on plant treatment instructions using a control system that determines the current position of the nozzle holders and adjusts them to the desired treatment position, and can identify and replace blocked or worn-out nozzles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual nozzle replacement is used, then nozzle wear and different application types can be handled, but labor burden and human error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle holder is made dynamically adjustable through an automated positioning system that can shift the nozzle holder laterally to align different nozzles with the valve. This dynamic adjustment eliminates manual replacement while maintaining adaptability to different application types, directly resolving the contradiction between versatility and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to automatically detect nozzle conditions (clogging, wear) and triggers automated repositioning of the nozzle holder without human intervention. The system serves itself by monitoring its own state and making necessary adjustments, eliminating manual labor while preserving adaptability
2Device complexity
If uniform high-density spray nozzles are used, then simple design is maintained, but nozzle wear requires frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of replacing worn nozzles, the system recovers functionality by automatically repositioning the nozzle holder to bring a fresh, unused nozzle into the active position. This extends the service life of the nozzle set while maintaining reliability, resolving the contradiction between design simplicity and performance consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle holder is designed with dynamic repositioning capability that allows it to shift laterally to access multiple nozzles in sequence. This dynamic feature enables the system to maintain reliable performance by switching to unused nozzles while keeping the overall design relatively simple
3Ease of operation
If automated nozzle adjustment is implemented, then labor burden is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical nozzle replacement mechanisms with a simpler lateral positioning system controlled by sensors and a control unit. This substitution reduces operational complexity while achieving automated adjustment, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
A control system acts as an intermediary between the sensors that detect nozzle conditions and the nozzle holder positioning mechanism. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system by centralizing the control logic and automating the decision-making process, reducing manual intervention while managing complexity
4Reliability
If nozzles are manually replaced, then blocked or worn nozzles can be identified, but time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors provide continuous feedback on nozzle performance by detecting parameters such as spray pattern, flow rate, or clogging conditions. This feedback enables real-time identification of blocked or worn nozzles and triggers automated repositioning, maintaining reliability while eliminating the time loss associated with manual inspection and replacement, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and productivity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Automated nozzle adjustments ensure precise and efficient application of treatment fluids to plants, reducing manual labor and minimizing errors in nozzle replacement and alignment.
Implementation Method 1
The control system determines the current position of the nozzle holder by receiving a magnetic field measurement produced by magnets positioned in the nozzle holder
Data Source
AI summary
A treatment mechanism for dispensing treatment fluid onto one or more plants in a field is described. The treatment mechanism includes a valve for regulating the dispensing of treatment fluid and a nozzle holder comprising a plurality of nozzles. Each nozzle is configured to dispense treatment fluid and to couple to the valve. The treatment mechanism further includes a control system configured to receive a plant treatment instruction for treating the plants. The plant treatment instruction includes a treatment position for the nozzle holder. The control system is further configured to determine a current position of the nozzle holder and adjust the current position of the nozzle holder to the treatment position for the nozzle holder. The control system is further configured to actuate the treatment mechanism such that the plants are treated via a nozzle of the plurality of nozzles.