Electronic Metering for Low-Rate Granular Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current agricultural product dispensing systems face challenges such as increased chemical concentration leading to higher costs, inaccurate application rates due to mechanical wear, and exposure risks for agricultural workers, as well as inefficiencies in granular product placement on uneven terrain and windy conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an agricultural product container with a memory circuit for data storage, an application rate meter device, and precision placement equipment, which includes a placement tube assembly mounted between depth wheels for accurate and efficient dispensing of low application rate dry granular products, reducing exposure risks and improving placement accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If chemical concentration is increased to reduce handling quantity, then the quantity of chemicals handled is reduced, but the cost per unit weight increases and more accurate dispensing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical chain-driven dispensing systems with electronic control systems that use sensors, microprocessors, and electronic meters to control chemical flow. This substitution enables precise metering of concentrated chemicals through electronic regulation rather than mechanical means, resolving the contradiction between handling reduced quantities and maintaining dispensing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and electronic monitoring that provide feedback on actual chemical application rates. This feedback loop allows the electronic control system to adjust and maintain precise dispensing rates even when handling concentrated chemicals, ensuring accuracy while reducing overall chemical handling quantities.
2Reliability
If mechanical chain driven dispensers are used, then the system is simple and robust, but wear and tear alters the application rate by as much as 15%
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wear-prone mechanical chain-driven components with electronic metering systems that have no moving parts subject to wear. Electronic sensors, valves, and control circuits maintain consistent application rates without degradation from friction or mechanical wear, improving reliability while accepting increased electronic system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic control system continuously monitors and self-adjusts chemical flow rates based on sensor feedback, automatically compensating for any variations without requiring manual calibration or maintenance. This self-regulating capability maintains consistent application rates over time without the wear-related drift inherent in mechanical systems.
3Productivity
If manual record keeping is used, then the system is simple, but record keeping and reporting efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic control system automatically records chemical application data through sensors and microprocessors, continuously capturing information on quantities dispensed, timing, and location. This automated data collection and reporting system dramatically improves record-keeping efficiency while integrating seamlessly with the existing electronic dispensing control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs record-keeping functions continuously and automatically as chemicals are dispensed, eliminating the need for separate manual recording activities. Data is captured in real-time throughout the dispensing process, improving productivity without adding discrete operational steps or complexity.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If closed container systems are used, then worker exposure to hazardous chemicals is reduced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs electronic control systems with sealed containers and closed-loop piping that automatically transfer and dispense chemicals without manual handling or open transfers. This electronic automation of the entire chemical handling process maintains closed containment, minimizing worker exposure while the integrated electronic system manages the complexity of sealed container operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for dispensing agricultural products includes an agricultural product container having a memory circuit associated therewith for storing data, the stored data including data unique to the container and the quantity of material dispensed including specific rates of application. An application rate meter device is operatively connected to the agricultural product container and is configured to dispense the agricultural product from the agricultural product container. Precision placement equipment includes a placement tube assembly operatively connected to the application rate meter device to place the agricultural products in the desired locations for efficient activity of the agricultural product. Each placement tube assembly is mounted between depth wheels of a depth control wheel assembly of a planter for placement of product in-furrow between the depth wheels.