Seed Placement Sensing for Real-Time Spacing and Depth Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring seed spacing and seeding depth during planting are labor-intensive, prone to human error, and do not provide real-time feedback, which can lead to suboptimal planting conditions and reduced crop yields.
Innovation Solution
An automated seed planting assembly equipped with a camera, GPS unit, processor, light section sensor, and potentiometer, which captures images of seeds, determines their geographic coordinates, measures seed spacing and depth, and provides real-time data to operators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used to determine seed spacing and seeding depth, then labor requirements are reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to human error and labor-intensive processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement with an automated optical measurement system. A camera captures images of seeds in the furrow, and image processing algorithms automatically determine seed spacing and seeding depth, eliminating human error while maintaining high measurement efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the physical planting process by capturing images of seeds in the furrow. These images are then processed to extract measurement data, allowing repeated analysis without physical intervention and enabling precise measurement of multiple seeds simultaneously.
2Productivity
If automated measurement systems are implemented, then measurement precision and productivity improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple measurement functions into a single camera-based system. The same camera and image processing pipeline measure both seed spacing and seeding depth, as well as provide geo-location data when combined with GPS, reducing overall system complexity compared to separate measurement devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses image processing algorithms as an intermediary between the physical seed placement and the measurement data. The algorithms automatically extract spacing and depth information from camera images, serving as a bridge that simplifies the connection between the optical system and the measurement outputs.
3Reliability
If real-time measurement feedback is provided, then planting performance can be immediately optimized, but loss of time for data processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs measurements during the planting process itself rather than after completion. By capturing images of seeds as they are placed in the furrow and processing these images in real-time, the system provides immediate feedback on planting performance, allowing for timely adjustments without delaying the planting operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous measurement and feedback during the entire planting process. The camera continuously captures images, and the processing system continuously analyzes these images to provide ongoing feedback on seed spacing and depth, ensuring consistent planting quality throughout the operation without interruption.
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 enables precise, real-time measurement of seed spacing and depth, reducing labor and error, and allowing for immediate adjustments to planting parameters, thereby improving planter performance and crop yield.
Implementation Method 1
a camera configured to capture an image of the seed in the furrow
Implementation Method 2
a light section sensor positioned to be in facing relationship to the furrow and operable to detect the deepest portion of the furrow
Data Source
AI summary
A system for measuring real-time seed placement of seeds, such as corn seeds, during planting wherein the sensing and measurement (SAM) system comprises various elements selected from the group consisting of a high-speed camera, light-section sensor, potentiometer, GPS unit, data acquisition system, and a control computer. The SAM system measures seeding depth, seed spacing, and geo-location of the seed. It is mounted on a planter row unit located in between the closing wheels and the gauge wheels with the camera and light section sensor directly facing the furrow.