Agricultural Spray Detection Sensor Positioning for Drift Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for detecting the spatial distribution of the spray fan of agricultural working machines face challenges in reliability and accuracy, especially under changing environmental conditions, due to high pivoting speeds and limited sensor resolution, leading to potential mechanical strain and increased risk of failure, as well as difficulties in controlling edge areas and drift.
Innovation Solution
Positioning sensors laterally offset with respect to the distributor linkage, combined with air movement detection and the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, allows for precise detection of the spray fan's spatial distribution and drift, even in adverse conditions, ensuring accurate and reliable control of the spray pattern.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a central detection device with high pivoting speed is used to detect the entire spray fan in real time, then the detection coverage is improved, but the mechanical strain and risk of failure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single central detection device into multiple detection devices positioned at different locations (e.g., at the ends of the distributor linkage). Each device detects a specific section of the spray fan, eliminating the need for high-speed pivoting while achieving complete real-time coverage of the entire spray fan width.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point central detection approach to a distributed multi-point detection arrangement along the distributor linkage. This spatial redistribution allows simultaneous detection across the entire spray fan width without mechanical pivoting, resolving the contradiction between coverage and reliability.
2Device complexity
If the detection device is positioned centrally, then the system complexity is reduced, but the resolution and sensitivity for outer areas deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places detection devices at multiple locations including the outer ends of the distributor linkage, allowing direct close-range detection of outer spray fan areas. This segmentation of detection positions improves resolution and sensitivity for edge areas without requiring a single complex centralized system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes detection quality for different regions by positioning sensors locally at strategic locations (e.g., outer ends) where they can directly detect local spray characteristics with high resolution. Each detection device is optimized for its specific location, improving overall measurement precision across the entire spray fan.
3Measurement precision
If the sensor detects outer areas of the spray fan, then the control of edge areas is improved, but the light intensity to be detected decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions detection devices at the outer ends of the distributor linkage before the spray fan fully develops, allowing detection of outer areas at closer range where light intensity is still sufficient. This preliminary positioning enables effective detection of edge areas without the light intensity loss that would occur with distant central detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical pivoting system with optically optimized sensor positioning at outer locations. By using sensors with appropriate optical characteristics positioned at strategic locations, the system achieves effective detection of low-intensity backscattered light from outer areas without relying on mechanical movement to improve signal strength.
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
This approach enables continuous real-time detection and adjustment of the spray fan's distribution, preventing material drift beyond defined limits and ensuring optimal application quality, while reducing mechanical stress and maintaining system reliability.
Implementation Method 1
This light is scattered in the spray mist and the backscattered portion is recorded by a sensor
Implementation Method 2
the arrangement of at least one device for detecting the direction(s) and strength of the air movement(s) on the distributor linkage
Data Source
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AI summary
System for detecting the spatial distribution of the spray pattern of a liquid and/or liquefied plant protection product and/or fertilizer, which is diluted by means of a carrier liquid and which is distributed by an agricultural machine via a distribution boom attached to the machine, wherein the liquid and/or liquefied plant protection product and/or fertilizer is pressurized during the distribution process and applied to the ground and/or to the plants growing on the ground in the form of a spray pattern by means of at least one suitable sensor.In order to create a system and a procedure that ensures reliable detection of the spatial distribution of the spray pattern of an agricultural machine even under changing environmental conditions, it is provided that at least one sensor is positioned at least approximately at the height of the distributor boom, spaced away from and next to the outer spray nozzle by means of a support device, in the direction of travel.