Product On Demand Nozzle Assembly for Precision Seeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seeding systems either require precise seed placement, which is not practical for high-rate seeding applications, or they lack the precision needed for optimal yield due to volumetric metering, which is not suitable for all agricultural practices.
Innovation Solution
A seeding and planting system that incorporates a product on demand pick-up assembly with a hopper configured to entrain products using an air stream, conveying them through conduits and utilizing a meter and conveyor assembly to maintain a predetermined quantity, along with a distribution system featuring vertically spaced nozzles for precise seed distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If volumetric metering is used for high-rate seeding, then seeding rate is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the seeding process into two distinct stages: a high-rate volumetric seeding phase that deposits seed bands at high efficiency, followed by a precision singulation phase that individually places selected seeds at precise locations. This segmentation allows each stage to optimize for its specific function without compromise
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary volumetric seeding to create seed bands at high rate before the precision placement operation. This preliminary action deposits excess seed that will later be selectively removed and re-placed individually, allowing the high-rate operation to occur first without compromising final precision
2Manufacturing precision
If singulating technology is used for precise seed placement, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines two previously separate operations—volumetric band seeding and individual seed placement—into a single integrated platform. The seed band creator deposits seed bands, and the same platform then singulates and places individual seeds from those bands, eliminating the need for separate equipment and reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The seeding platform is designed to perform multiple functions: it can create seed bands at high rate, singulate individual seeds from those bands, and place them with precision. This multi-functional design consolidates what would traditionally require separate specialized equipment into one universal system
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 efficient and precise seed distribution, accommodating both high-rate and precise seeding applications by maintaining a consistent seed supply and ensuring optimal seed placement, thereby improving agricultural productivity.
Implementation Method 1
an air stream flowing into the pick-up assembly entrains product therein and conveys product downstream through a plurality of conduits
Data Source
AI summary
A product on demand nozzle assembly includes a chamber at least partially defined by an external wall and an array of vertically spaced nozzles. Each nozzle has an air inlet, an air and entrained product outlet extending from the external wall, and an entrainment zone between the air inlet and the air and entrained product outlet to receive a product therein to be distributed.