Planter Controller Seed Plate Speed Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current planter control systems for seed research plots are difficult to calibrate for accuracy and limited in stored information, requiring extensive manual adjustments and re-calibration with changes in plot or seed plate size, consuming significant time for experienced and inexperienced operators alike.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing a controller connected to a distance measuring device that adjusts the rotational speed of the seed plate based on sensed ground speed and distance traveled, automatically achieving desired plot characteristics, and includes sensors for real-time monitoring and error detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual calibration method is used, then the planter can be operated, but the calibration time is excessive and accuracy is difficult to achieve

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplot length accuracyVSAvoidcalibration time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical calibration process with an automated electronic control system. The controller receives ground speed signals from a distance measuring device and automatically adjusts the seed plate rotational speed, eliminating the need for manual trial-and-error calibration and significantly reducing calibration time while improving plot length accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback loop where the controller continuously monitors ground speed from the distance measuring device and adjusts the seed plate rotational speed accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures accurate plot length measurement by dynamically compensating for variations in planting speed, achieving precision without extensive manual calibration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing control system is used, then basic planting can be performed, but the system is limited in stored information and calibration versatility

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecalibration versatilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed with memory capabilities to store multiple calibration parameters including plot length, alley length, number of cells on plate, and seed spacing. This allows the system to adapt to different planting configurations and research plot requirements without requiring additional hardware or complex recalibration procedures, enhancing versatility while maintaining manageable system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10624256B2Method of operating a planter for planting seeds in a field for experimental purposes

Publication Date: 2020.04.21 GARY W CLEM

AI summary

A method of operating a planter where plot characteristics are input into a controller that is associated with a planter. A distance measuring device associated with the controller senses ground speed and distance traveled and transmits the sensed information to the controller. The controller then automatically adjusts the rotational speed of a seed plate of a row planter mounted to the planter based upon the sensed information to achieve the input plot characteristics.