Seed Retrieval Apparatus with Isolated Row Containers

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for retrieving discard seed from seed planting devices are inefficient, as they mix seeds from different row planters, making it difficult to salvage and reuse seeds in case of mechanical errors or planting errors, requiring significant time and labor.

Innovation Solution

A seed retrieval apparatus with seed discard tubes and containers that isolate discard seed from each row planter, using vacuum sources with filters to draw and collect seeds into separate containers, allowing for efficient repackaging and reuse.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If seed is directed to a single seed discard hopper from all row planters, then seed evacuation is simplified, but seed isolation and reusability are lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseed evacuation systemVSAvoidseed reusability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the single seed discard hopper into multiple separate seed containers, each connected to a specific row planter through dedicated seed discard tubes. This segmentation allows each row planter's seed to be collected and stored separately, maintaining seed isolation and reusability while simplifying the overall evacuation process through automated vacuum collection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual methods are used to remove seed from row planters, then seed isolation is achieved, but time and labor requirements increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseed isolationVSAvoidseed retrieval time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual seed removal methods with an automated vacuum-based collection system. Vacuum sources draw seed from each row planter through seed discard tubes into separate containers, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining seed isolation. This mechanical automation significantly reduces the time and labor required for seed retrieval.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs vacuum pressure differential to automatically transport seed from row planters to collection containers. The vacuum sources create negative pressure that draws seed through the seed discard tubes, enabling automated seed evacuation without manual handling. This pneumatic system efficiently isolates and collects seed from multiple row planters simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

3Adaptability or versatility

If seed containers are added to isolate discard seed from each row planter, then seed reusability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseed isolationVSAvoidseed retrieval apparatus

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the seed containers to serve multiple functions: they collect discarded seed from row planters, isolate seed by row planter, store seed for later reuse, and can be easily detached and replaced. The seed discard tubes and vacuum system also serve dual purposes of normal seed evacuation and automated seed retrieval. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite adding isolation capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 the efficient isolation and repackaging of discard seeds from each row planter, reducing time and labor, and preserving seed viability by preventing mixing and damage.

Implementation Method 1

a vacuum source configured to apply vacuum to the second ends of the seed discard tubes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVacuum: Vacuum

Implementation Method 2

The vacuum source may comprise a filter configured to prevent removal of the discard seed from the seed discard hopper by the vacuum source

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS8677915B2Seed retrieval apparatus and method

Publication Date: 2014.03.25 PIONEER HI BREED INTERNATIONAL INC

AI summary

A seed retrieval apparatus for use with a seed planting device having row planters may be used in instances of mechanical failures of the seed planting device and/or planting errors. The seed retrieval apparatus may include a discard hopper located on the seed planting device which is configured to receive discard seed from the row planters. Further, seed discard tubes of the seed retrieval apparatus each define a first end in fluid communication with a respective row planter and a second end in fluid communication with the seed discard hopper. Additionally, seed containers respectively couple to the second ends of the seed discard tubes, wherein each seed container is configured to receive and isolate discard seed from a respective row planter. Accordingly, the discard seed may be repackaged and planted.