In-Line Flow Meter for Agrichemical Nozzle Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current agrichemical application systems face issues with nozzle blockages, leading to inadequate distribution, as existing monitoring systems are imprecise, not suitable for dark-colored fluids, and do not provide real-time flow rate data for individual nozzles, resulting in growth abnormalities in fields.
Innovation Solution
A system with in-line flow meters connected to each conduit delivering agrichemicals, providing precise flow rate data to a control module that displays information to the operator, allowing for real-time monitoring and alerting of deviations from set thresholds, and optionally regulating flow rates through variable rate technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mechanical ball monitor system is used to indicate flow, then the system can indicate whether liquid is flowing or not, but the system is imprecise and cannot quantify the amount of liquid flowing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical ball monitor system with an electronic flow meter that uses electromagnetic or other non-mechanical sensing principles to measure flow rate. This substitution enables precise quantification of liquid flow while reducing mechanical complexity and maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic sensor or flow meter as an intermediary device between the liquid flow and the monitoring system. This intermediary converts physical flow parameters into electrical signals that can be precisely measured, displayed, and used for control purposes.
2Ease of operation
If the Redball spray monitor system is positioned behind the tractor driver, then the system can be mounted on the cultivator, but the driver must frequently turn around or use a camera to view the monitor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements immediate visual feedback by positioning flow meters and displays so that the driver can directly observe flow status without turning around. The system provides real-time feedback on liquid flow to each nozzle, enabling the driver to quickly identify and respond to clogged nozzles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single centralized monitor that requires driver movement to view, to multiple distributed flow meters with individual displays or a comprehensive digital display system. This dimensional change in monitoring architecture allows the driver to obtain all necessary information from a single fixed position.
3Loss of information
If a single flow meter is used for the entire system, then the system can indicate total flow rate, but it cannot identify the amount of liquid supplied to each individual nozzle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single flow metering function into multiple segmented flow meters, with each flow meter assigned to a specific nozzle or group of nozzles. This segmentation enables independent measurement and monitoring of liquid flow to each individual nozzle, providing detailed information for precise agricultural application.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for estimating a flow rate of an agrichemical includes a conduit delivering the agrichemical from a repository to an application in a field, and a flow meter connected in-line with the conduit. The flow meter provides an estimate of a flow rate of the agrichemical through the conduit.