Sprayer Monitoring Module for Consistent Application Rate Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprayers often apply crop protection compositions or fertilizers unevenly due to variations in application parameters, leading to ineffective use, unnecessary costs, or damage, and require new equipment to implement existing solutions for consistent application rates.
Innovation Solution
A monitoring module is integrated into existing sprayers, comprising connecting elements, a flow chamber, a flow meter, a control unit, and an energy supply to measure and transmit spray composition flow rates, enabling data transmission to a computer system for monitoring and documenting the spraying process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a flow meter and monitoring system are integrated into existing sprayers, then measurement precision and application rate consistency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is segmented into independent functional modules: a flow meter for measuring spray composition flow rate, a distance sensor for measuring nozzle-to-target distance, a GPS sensor for location tracking, and a controller for data processing. This modular segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving measurement precision while keeping the overall system complexity manageable through clear functional separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring module is designed with multi-functionality to reduce overall device complexity. A single integrated module performs multiple tasks: flow rate measurement, distance measurement, GPS location tracking, and data transmission. This universal approach allows one component to fulfill multiple monitoring needs, improving application rate consistency without proportionally increasing system complexity.
2Productivity
If monitoring and control systems are added to portable sprayers, then productivity and application efficiency are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system operates autonomously without requiring continuous user intervention. The flow meter automatically measures spray composition flow rate, the distance sensor continuously monitors nozzle-to-target distance, and the GPS sensor tracks location. The controller automatically processes this data and provides feedback, allowing the system to self-regulate and improve productivity while maintaining ease of operation through minimal user input requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automatic feedback mechanisms where the controller receives data from sensors and provides real-time information to the user about application rate, distance, and location. This automated feedback loop enables the sprayer to self-correct and maintain optimal performance, improving productivity while keeping operation simple through automatic adjustments rather than requiring complex manual controls.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing sprayers are equipped with monitoring modules, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring module is designed as a universal component that can be integrated into various types of portable sprayers. It features a standardized interface with connecting elements that can be attached to different sprayer models, and a controller that can process data from various sensor types. This universal design improves adaptability and versatility across different sprayer systems while reducing manufacturing precision requirements through standardized connection protocols and flexible mounting options.
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 module allows for consistent application rates by measuring and tracking spray composition flow, providing data for users to adjust and document their spraying processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing waste.
Implementation Method 1
a flow meter for measuring a quantity of spray composition which flows through the flow chamber per unit time
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the application of plant protection agents, fertilisers and/or pesticides by means of a (preferably portable) sprayer or a small appliance (such as, for example, a bicycle tyre sealant injector). The present invention relates to a monitoring module with which existing sprayers can be equipped in order to control, track and/or document the spraying process. The present invention further relates to a method, a system and a computer program product for monitoring spraying processes.