On-board computer guides agricultural sprayer filling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for filling storage containers in agricultural distribution machines, such as field sprayers, do not provide clear instructions for mixing complex spray mixtures, leading to potential errors during the filling process.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing an on-board computer with a display to guide users through the filling process by storing and retrieving specific operation steps, including instructions for coupling lines, filling carrier liquid and active substances, and confirming each step, ensuring accurate and error-free mixing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a computing device is provided to simplify mixing of spray mixtures, then the complexity of mixing different active ingredients is reduced, but the user is not given instructions on how to carry out the mixings
Solution Approach 1:
The system stores multiple pre-defined mixing plans in the memory of the computing device, each containing complete instructions for specific mixing operations. When a user selects a plant protection measure, the corresponding pre-prepared mixing plan with all necessary instructions is automatically retrieved and displayed, eliminating the need for users to search for or remember mixing procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing device acts as an intermediary between the user and the complex mixing process. It retrieves stored mixing plans and presents them in a user-friendly format through the display device, translating complex mixing requirements into clear, step-by-step instructions that guide the user through the entire process.
2Reliability
If detailed instructions are provided for all filling operations, then the user can carry out operations without errors, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filling process is divided into distinct operational steps, each stored as a separate instruction in the mixing plans. The display device presents these instructions sequentially, showing users one step at a time (e.g., couple filling line, fill carrier liquid, fill active ingredient, uncouple lines). This segmentation makes complex procedures manageable and reduces system complexity by organizing information in modular units.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing device serves multiple functions: it stores mixing plans, retrieves selected plans, displays instructions, and guides users through the filling process. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional system, the patent avoids the need for separate devices for each function, thereby managing system complexity while providing comprehensive guidance.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for filling a reservoir container of an agricultural spreading machine, in particular a field sprayer having a display and/or an on-board computer having another display device, wherein, in the memory of the on-board computer, one or more filling programs for filling the reservoir container with a carrier fluid and with active ingredients for various plant protection uses are stored, wherein, when a certain plant protection measure to be carried out is called up, an output device of the on-board computer issues a plan of operation with instructions for the operator on the display and/or in another suitable manner for the operator, wherein, in accordance with the plan, the reservoir container of the distribution machine is filled with a carrier fluid and with the active ingredient intended for the given application, in the intended manner and with the intended quantity, wherein the user is guided by means of the on-board computer through the filling process by means of the appropriate illustrations and/or instruction on the display and/or on another output device.