Automated Input Dispenser with Electronic Scale Recording
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural operators face challenges in accurately mixing and dispensing inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds, and recording relevant data, leading to inefficiencies and errors due to the lack of automated systems that can handle real-time adjustments and inventory management, especially in livestock and grain crop applications.
Innovation Solution
A portable and stationary input dispenser/recorder system equipped with electronic scales, CPU, and wireless communication that automates the mixing and dispensing of inputs based on operator criteria, including weather conditions, and records data for inventory management and farm management activities, while ensuring accurate measurement and cleaning of containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual mixing and recording of inputs is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated electronic systems. Electronic scales automatically weigh inputs, a computer-controlled dispensing system automatically mixes and dispenses chemicals, and a recorder automatically logs all data. This substitution eliminates human error in measurement and recording while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
2Productivity
If automated mixing and recording systems are implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional integrated system where a single device performs multiple operations: electronic scales weigh inputs, the same system controls dispensing, mixing, and recording. This universal approach increases productivity by automating all steps in one workflow while managing complexity through consolidation rather than separate devices for each function.
3Loss of information
If real-time data tracking and management are enabled, then loss of information is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-recording system where the automated dispensing equipment automatically logs all input weights, mixing parameters, and dispensing data without requiring manual data entry. The system self-monitors and self-documented operations, eliminating information loss from manual recording errors while keeping the data management system relatively simple through automatic capture rather than complex manual data handling.
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid mixing station controlled by a computer to dispense predetermined amounts of liquid inputs based on parameters provided by an operator or program. Specifically, the invention is designed to accurately mix liquids and has an inner frame associated with a recipient tank, and an outer frame associated with the inner tank by load bars connected to the computer. The load bars signal the computer regarding weight change on the inner frame. Associated with the outer frame are minor input containers, each in fluid communication with a unique conduit and means to convey the fluid controlled by the computer. The parameters are used by a selected program and the CPU to provide appropriate ratio, sequence, and isolation of inputs. The station includes means for full removal and mix of all contents in a container, full removal of all contents from the recipient, and full clean-out of main conduit.