Spreader Control via Mobile Device Sensor Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for spreading particulate materials, such as broadcast spreaders, face challenges in accurately managing and monitoring operational attributes like application rates and coverage areas, due to variations in spreader types, material types, and travel speeds.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a spreader with a hopper, impeller, and wheels, integrated with a mobile device that receives data from sensors to determine and present operational attributes based on the spreader type, material type, and travel speed, allowing for accurate management and monitoring of the spreading process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional broadcast spreaders are used to distribute particulate material, then the spreading operation can be performed, but accurate management and monitoring of application rates and coverage areas cannot be achieved due to variations in spreader types, material types, and travel speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device serves multiple functions: it identifies spreader type, stores operational attributes for different spreader-material combinations, receives sensor data, calculates application rates, and provides feedback to the operator. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate devices into a single universal control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors travel speed via sensor and uses this information to calculate and display real-time application rates to the operator. This feedback loop enables the operator to adjust travel speed or other parameters to achieve the desired application rate, directly resolving the measurement and control precision issue.
2Manufacturing precision
If operational attributes are not monitored, then the spreader can operate without complex monitoring systems, but accurate determination of application rates and coverage areas cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device automatically performs calculations of application rates based on sensor data and stored operational attributes without requiring manual intervention. The system self-monitors travel speed, retrieves appropriate parameters based on identified spreader and material types, and computes application rates autonomously, providing precision control with minimal operator burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-stores operational attributes for multiple spreader types and material combinations in the mobile device. This preliminary preparation of data allows the system to quickly retrieve and use appropriate parameters when operation begins, enabling accurate application rate determination without real-time complex calculations or manual lookups.
3Measurement precision
If the system accounts for multiple spreader types, material types, and travel speeds, then accurate operational attribute determination is achieved, but the system requires complex data storage and processing
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device stores operational attributes organized by specific spreader types and material types, allowing the system to retrieve only the relevant data needed for the current operation. This organized, localized storage approach efficiently manages the quantity of data by structuring it to match the specific combinations of equipment and materials being used.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for managing spreading of particulate material over a surface by a spreader. One step of the method includes receiving a selection of a type of the spreader. An additional step includes receiving a selection of a type of the particulate material to be spread by the spreader. An additional step includes obtaining data indicative of a travel speed of the spreader, with the data being received from a sensor associated with the spreader. An additional step includes determining an operational attribute of the spreader. The determination is based on (i) the type of the spreader, (ii) the type of the particulate material, and (ii) the travel speed of the spreader. A further step includes presenting the operational attribute.