Seed Detection Sensor for Furrow Following Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seed sensors in row crop planters provide only a general estimate of seed location in the furrow, lacking precision, which hinders uniform crop growth and yield optimization.
Innovation Solution
A seed detection system incorporating a seed detection sensor, such as an accelerometer, integrated with a furrow following device that generates signals for precise seed location determination, processed by a controller to display and analyze seed spacing and placement parameters, enabling real-time adjustments and targeted applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a seed sensor is used to detect seed location, then seed detection capability is provided, but measurement precision of final seed resting location is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A reflective tape is placed on the furrow following device as an intermediary element. When seeds contact the furrow following device, they deflect light from the reflective tape, creating a detectable signal change that precisely indicates seed location and contact force, thereby solving the measurement precision problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical seed sensing mechanisms with an optical detection system using light sources, reflective tape, and optical sensors. This substitution enables more precise detection of seed location and furrow following device contact through light deflection rather than mechanical measurement.
2Loss of information
If general seed detection is used, then basic seed presence information is obtained, but detailed seed placement characteristics are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback about seed placement characteristics by detecting light deflection when seeds contact the furrow following device. This feedback mechanism captures detailed information about seed location, spacing, and placement force, preventing loss of seed placement characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes light reflection and deflection principles where seeds contacting the reflective tape change the light path, creating detectable optical signal changes that reveal detailed seed placement characteristics rather than just basic presence detection.
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
The system provides precise seed location data for improved seed placement, allowing for uniform crop growth, optimized yield, and cost-effective targeted applications of fertilizers and chemicals.
Implementation Method 1
A seed detection system incorporating a seed detection sensor, such as an accelerometer, integrated with a furrow following device that generates signals for precise seed location determination
Data Source
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AI summary
A seeding machine includes a main frame (14) and a row unit (118, 18) coupled to the main frame (14). The row unit (118, 18) has a row unit (118, 18) frame (130, 30) and a seed firmer coupled to the row unit (118, 18) frame (130, 30). The seeding machine also includes a seed detection sensor (148) coupled to the seed firmer. The seed detection sensor (148) is configured to detect seed position within an open furrow (136).