Seed Conveying Line Camera Detection for Calibration-Free Counting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seed counting methods on seed drills are prone to inaccuracies due to changing thousand-grain weights and flow properties, and current systems are cumbersome, imprecise, and susceptible to contamination.
Innovation Solution
A detection system using a mobile device equipped with a camera, mounted on a seed delivery line via a holding device, which allows for precise seed detection through image analysis, with adjustable positioning and protection mechanisms to prevent contamination, and includes an evaluation unit to determine seed flow accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If calibration tests are used to determine metering device settings, then the seed distribution can be adjusted, but the process is cumbersome and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual calibration procedures with an automated optical detection system using cameras and image processing algorithms. The system automatically counts seeds, calculates flow rates, and determines metering device settings without requiring manual calibration tests, thereby eliminating labor-intensive operations and reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system performs self-calibration by automatically capturing images of seeds, processing the images to count seeds and measure flow rates, and using this data to determine optimal metering device settings. The system serves itself by eliminating the need for external calibration procedures and providing automatic adjustment recommendations.
2Ease of operation
If indirect measurement methods are used for seed counting, then calibration can be eliminated, but the measurement precision is comparatively imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces indirect measurement methods (such as inductance coils or piezoelectric crystals) with direct optical imaging and image processing. The camera system directly captures images of individual seeds, and algorithms precisely count and analyze them, providing superior measurement precision while maintaining the calibration-free operation advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates visual copies (images) of the actual seeds using a camera, then analyzes these copies to determine seed count and flow rate. This copying approach allows for precise measurement without physical contact or indirect sensing, thereby improving accuracy while eliminating the need for calibration against physical standards.
3Measurement precision
If optical sensors are used for grain counting, then seed detection can be performed, but contamination can distort the measurement result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable or easily cleanable protective covers for the camera lens that can be replaced when contaminated. This approach allows the optical sensor to maintain high measurement precision by using fresh, uncontaminated viewing surfaces for each measurement cycle, effectively eliminating distortion from contamination while keeping the solution cost-effective.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary protective cover between the camera lens and the seed flow environment. This cover prevents direct contact between the optical sensor and contaminants in the seed stream, thereby protecting measurement precision while allowing continuous operation. The cover acts as a barrier that mediates between the sensing requirement and the contaminated environment.
4Measurement precision
If a camera system is mounted on the seed delivery line, then precise seed detection can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the mounting device to serve multiple functions: securing the camera, positioning it at optimal angles, protecting it from contamination, and potentially adjusting its position. By combining these functions into a single multi-functional component, the system achieves precise seed detection while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity through functional integration.
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 high-precision seed counting by analyzing images from a mobile device, accounting for seed velocities and coverage, ensuring accurate seed distribution per unit area, and facilitating automatic adjustment of the metering device.
Implementation Method 1
A detection system (10) is proposed, by means of which seeds (S) within a seed conveying line (30) can be detected. To this end, a mobile terminal (12) is used, on which a camera (14) is mounted by means of a holding device (60).
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
The invention relates to a detection system (10) for seeds (S, S1-S6), comprising a seed conveying line (30, 30a, 30b), a mobile device (12) which has a camera (14) for generating images (A, A1-A6) of a recording area (38) of the seed conveying line (30, 30a, 30b) located within the seed conveying line (30, 30a, 30b), and a holding device (60) for attaching the mobile device (12) to the seed conveying line (30, 30a, 30b) and/or a seed coulter of a seed drill (200) in a non-destructively detachable manner.