Multi-tank spray system fluid management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural sprayers with multiple tanks face challenges in efficiently managing fluid levels and pump operations, leading to inefficiencies and potential dry-running issues, which can disrupt spraying operations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-tank spray system with sensors and a tank module that controls valves and pumps based on spray mode and fluid levels, ensuring optimal fluid distribution and preventing dry-running conditions by dynamically connecting and disconnecting tanks and pumps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If multiple tanks are used to increase fluid capacity, then the duration of spraying operation is improved, but the complexity of managing fluid levels and pump operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the fluid storage into multiple separate tanks (first tank, second tank) rather than using a single large tank. Each tank can be independently managed and connected to the pump through control valves, allowing segmented control of fluid supply while maintaining extended operational duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between tanks based on fluid levels. The control module monitors fluid levels in real-time and automatically switches from the first tank to the second tank (or vice versa) when needed, creating a dynamic fluid management system that extends operation duration while managing complexity through automation.
2Reliability
If tanks are dynamically connected and disconnected to the pump, then dry-running conditions are prevented, but the complexity of control operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses fluid level sensors to continuously monitor the fluid levels in each tank and provides feedback to the control module. Based on this feedback, the control module automatically opens or closes the first control valve and second control valve to switch between tanks, preventing dry-running conditions without requiring complex manual control operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to automatically manage tank switching without requiring continuous manual intervention. The control module autonomously monitors fluid levels and switches between tanks based on predetermined conditions, making the system self-regulating and reducing operational complexity while ensuring reliable prevention of dry-running.
3Productivity
If automatic tank switching is implemented, then operational disruptions are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module serves multiple functions: it monitors fluid levels in both tanks, controls the first and second control valves for tank switching, manages the pump operations, and prevents dry-running conditions. This multi-functional control unit consolidates complexity into a single component while enabling automatic tank switching that maintains high spraying efficiency without operational disruptions.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-tank spray system includes a first tank, a second tank, a pump, and a plurality of valves including a first valve, a second valve, and an equalizing valve. A first end of the first valve is in fluid communication with the first tank, a second end of the first valve is in fluid communication with (i) a first end of the equalizing valve and (ii) an inlet of the pump. A first end of the second value is in fluid communication with the second tank. A second end of the second valve is in fluid communication with a second end of the equalizing valve. A tank module is configured to receive a spray mode, receive a measurement from at least one sensor of a plurality sensors, and control operation of the plurality of valves and the pump based on (i) the received spray mode and (ii) the received measurement.