Sensor-Integrated Linkage for Plant Characteristic Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current agricultural implement technologies face challenges in accurately controlling fluid applications between rows, particularly in determining plant characteristics such as stalk diameter, which affects the precision and efficiency of fertilization and spraying processes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of sensors into application units that detect positional changes of linkage members or flexible members to determine plant characteristics, allowing for real-time data collection and precise fluid distribution based on plant dimensions and locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional fluid application methods are used between rows, then application coverage is achieved, but precision in controlling application to specific plant characteristics is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The application unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it applies fluid to plants while simultaneously detecting plant characteristics through integrated sensors. The linkage members serve both as mechanical components for fluid delivery and as sensor mounting structures, eliminating the need for separate detection systems and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the fluid application mechanism with plant characteristic detection by integrating sensors directly onto the linkage members. This merging of functions allows the same structural components to serve dual purposes: delivering fluid and measuring plant properties, thereby improving precision without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Loss of substance
If fluid application is applied uniformly between rows, then coverage is achieved, but resource wastage occurs due to lack of precision
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to detect plant characteristics in real-time and provides feedback to control the fluid application process. Based on the detected plant characteristics, the system adjusts the amount and location of fluid application, ensuring that resources are applied precisely where needed and reducing wastage from uniform application methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements variable fluid application rates based on local plant characteristics detected by sensors. Instead of uniform application, the system adjusts application parameters locally according to each plant's specific needs, improving resource efficiency and reducing overall fluid wastage while maintaining high distribution precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If simple application units are used, then device complexity is low, but ability to detect and respond to plant characteristics is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage members are designed to serve multiple functions: they mechanically connect fluid delivery components while simultaneously supporting sensors for detecting plant characteristics. This multi-functionality allows the application unit to adapt to varying plant conditions without requiring entirely separate detection and application systems, thereby improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
4Manufacturing precision
If real-time plant detection is implemented, then application precision is improved, but data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential plant characteristic data needed for fluid application control from the sensor measurements. Rather than processing all possible plant data, the system focuses on specific characteristics relevant to fluid application, reducing data processing requirements while maintaining high application precision through targeted information extraction.
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
Enhances the precision and efficiency of fluid application by accurately determining plant characteristics, ensuring optimal distribution of fertilizers and chemicals, leading to improved crop health and reduced resource wastage.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor for sensing deflection of the plant contacting member by the plant to determine plant characteristics of the plant
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are implements and applicators having sensors to determine plant characteristics of agricultural plants of agricultural fields. In one embodiment, an implement includes a frame to be positioned in operation between first and second rows of plants, a plant contacting member being pivotally coupled to the frame in operation such that the plant contacting member to be deflected rearwardly with respect to a direction of motion of the frame upon the plant contacting member contacting a plant of the first row of plants. The implement includes a sensor for sensing deflection of the plant contacting member by the plant to determine plant characteristics of the plant. The implement can also apply material to plants.