Centrifugal Spreader Distribution Pattern Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the scattering pattern of a centrifugal spreader are cumbersome, time-consuming, or require specialized equipment, especially when dealing with changes in fertilizer quality or insufficient data, necessitating a more efficient and flexible approach to adjust the distribution of fertilizer grains across the direction of travel.
Innovation Solution
A method using a smartphone or digital camera to record oblique views of the spread fertilizer, analyzing image data in different color ranges to distinguish between soil, vegetation, and fertilizer, with an inclination sensor and GPS for precise area-specific calculations, allowing for flexible on-site assessment and adjustment of fertilizer distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a measuring bowl with anti-spray loss grids is used to collect and weigh fertilizer grains, then the distribution pattern can be determined, but the procedure becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical weighing system (measuring bowl with grids) with an optical measurement system using a camera to capture images of fertilizer distribution. Image processing algorithms then analyze the captured images to determine the distribution pattern, eliminating the need for physical collection and weighing of fertilizer grains while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (image) of the fertilizer distribution pattern instead of physically collecting and measuring the actual fertilizer grains. The camera captures visual information that replicates the distribution data, allowing for rapid analysis without handling the physical material.
2Measurement precision
If a separate vehicle with a camera system is used to image spread fertilizer granules, then the distribution can be determined, but specialized equipment and separate vehicles are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the smartphone serve multiple functions: it acts as both the imaging device (camera) and the processing unit (computer) for analyzing fertilizer distribution. The smartphone's camera captures images and its processor analyzes the distribution pattern, eliminating the need for dedicated specialized equipment and integrating multiple functions into a single universal device.
Solution Approach 2:
The smartphone performs self-service by using its own built-in camera to capture images and its own processing capabilities to analyze the fertilizer distribution. The device serves itself as both the measurement instrument and the analysis system, removing the need for separate specialized equipment.
3Ease of manufacture
If image data is analyzed without considering inclination, then processing is simpler, but area-specific fertilizer quantity calculations are inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the inclination sensor to provide feedback about the camera's orientation, and this information is fed back into the image processing algorithm. The system continuously monitors and adjusts for inclination effects, ensuring accurate area-specific calculations while maintaining relatively simple processing through automated compensation.
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 a precise and efficient determination of fertilizer distribution across the cultivation area, reducing errors caused by vegetation and ensuring accurate adjustment of spreading patterns without the need for separate vehicles or complex equipment, facilitating real-time optimization of spreading settings.
Implementation Method 1
the inclination of the oblique views is determined
Implementation Method 2
image data generated in the oblique views is analyzed in different color ranges using an image evaluation unit in order to distinguish between soil, vegetation and fertilizer
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A method and a device for determining the spreading pattern (20) of a centrifugal spreader (1) on an agricultural field (2) are described. A spreading fan (3a) generated by the centrifugal spreader (1) is moved across the field (2) in the direction of travel (1a), and several sub-areas (2a) of the fertilized field (2), differing in their position perpendicular to the direction of travel (1a), are digitally imaged. Furthermore, the sub-areas (2a) are imaged in oblique views (6), the inclination (12) of the oblique views (6) is determined, and the image data generated in the oblique views (6) are analyzed in different color ranges to distinguish between soil (2b), vegetation (2c), and fertilizer (3). From this, a quantity of fertilizer (DM) per unit area of soil is calculated. Thus, the spreading pattern (20) can be determined on-site by a person standing on the field (2) by recording the oblique views (6).