Particulate Metering Blend Control for Row-by-Row Fertilizer Delivery
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing particulate metering systems struggle to independently control the blend and application rate of multiple fertilizers at separate discharge points, such as rows in a field, requiring a system that can adjust rates and blends on a row-by-row basis.
Innovation Solution
A particulate metering system with variable blend and application rate controls, featuring a flow path with multiple inputs, a mixing area, and metering controls to manage the ratio and introduction rate of particulate inputs, along with air-particulate interfaces and accelerators to control the blend and discharge of particulates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a particulate metering system uses a single mixed flow path for multiple fertilizers, then the system structure is simplified, but the ability to independently control blend and application rate at separate discharge points is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the flow path into multiple separate conduits, each handling a specific fertilizer input. Each conduit has its own metering control mechanism, allowing independent adjustment of application rates and blends at different discharge points while maintaining overall system functionality.
2Productivity
If the system meters multiple particulate types simultaneously at a single point, then the metering process is simplified, but the precision of blend control at separate discharge points deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements local control mechanisms at each discharge point, allowing different blend ratios and application rates to be precisely controlled for different fertilizer types at different locations. Each discharge point has its own metering controls that can be independently adjusted to achieve the desired local composition and flow rate.
3Manufacturing precision
If the system uses separate metering controls for each input, then the blend control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs universal control mechanisms that can regulate multiple inputs through a single control interface. The metering controls are designed to handle different particulate types and flow rates using the same basic control architecture, reducing the number of separate control systems needed while maintaining precise blend control capability.
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 control over the blend and application rate of fertilizers at separate discharge points, minimizing torque and clogging, and optimizing distribution across rows.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of air inputs fluidly connected to the plurality of discharges
Implementation Method 2
operated conveyances can be in communication with the two or more particulate sources and the particulate-air confluence
Implementation Method 3
a particulate-air mixing area is within the flow path and comprises a confluence of one of the air inputs and one or more of the particulate inputs
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
An improved particulate metering system is provided. The system includes a flow path having an inlet in communication with an intake and an outlet in communication with a discharge. The flow path receives a first input and a plurality of inputs, each of the plurality of inputs having a separate origin. A mixing area within the flow path comprises a confluence of the first input and one or more of the plurality of inputs. One or more metering controls are in operable communication with the first input and the plurality of inputs for controlling a blend of the plurality of inputs at the confluence.