Near-Infrared Grain Spectroscopy for Kernel Weight and Size
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing precision farming methods fail to determine mass-specific and size-specific variables of grain crops, such as thousand kernel weight and grain dimensions, which are crucial for optimizing planting rates and fertilizer application, as they primarily focus on yield measurement without considering individual grain characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using near-infrared spectroscopy to measure grain crops, determining mass-specific and size-specific variables like thousand kernel weight, density, and dimensions by analyzing grain spectra, and correlating these with protein and starch content to derive accurate grain characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If yield maps are generated during harvesting by means of suitable measuring equipment, then yield determination is improved, but mass-specific and size-specific variables of grain crops cannot be determined
Solution Approach 1:
The near-infrared sensor system is designed to perform multiple measurement functions simultaneously - it can determine both yield (mass-specific variables) and grain characteristics (size-specific variables) using a single sensor arrangement during harvesting operations, eliminating the need for separate measurement systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If ingredients such as starch and protein contents are measured, then planning of precision farming measures is improved, but mass-specific variables like thousand kernel mass and density cannot be determined in a simple manner
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the measurement approach by using near-infrared spectroscopy to directly detect mass-specific and size-specific variables through spectral characteristics, rather than requiring complex mechanical measurement systems. This parameter change enables simple determination of thousand kernel mass, density, and grain dimensions while maintaining precision farming planning capabilities
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
Enables precise determination of grain characteristics for site-specific agronomic planning, allowing optimized planting rates and fertilizer application, enhancing yield potential by adjusting planting density and fertilization based on grain-specific data.
Implementation Method 1
recording a spectrum of the grain crops with a sensor operating in the near-infrared range
Data Source
AI summary
A method for measuring at least one of a mass-specific or size-specific variable of grain crops, the method comprising the following steps: recording a spectrum of the grain crops with a sensor operating in the near-infrared range; and deriving the at least one of mass-specific or size-specific variable from the spectrum.