Localized Turf Data Mapping for Uniform Grass Growth Treatment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for maintaining athletic field turf grass result in uneven growth and recovery due to human error and non-uniform treatment, leading to inefficiencies and suboptimal maintenance practices.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a moveable lighting apparatus is used to stimulate grass growth by generating localized turf grass data maps through sensor-collected data, which are then utilized to optimize the placement of artificial lighting systems, ensuring uniform treatment based on grass density and compaction levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional manual maintenance methods are used for turf grass, then human operators can perform fertilization, irrigation and mowing, but the treatment is uneven and produces inaccurate results due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service maintenance by using autonomous sensors and data processing to identify treatment needs without human intervention. The turf maintenance system automatically maps grass density, compaction levels, and growth patterns, then directs maintenance operations to specific areas based on actual conditions rather than uniform schedules.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical maintenance operations are replaced with an automated system that uses sensors, GPS mapping, and data analysis to determine treatment requirements. The system substitutes human judgment with objective measurement and algorithmic decision-making to achieve consistent, accurate treatment application.
2Ease of operation
If uniform treatment is applied across the entire turf field, then maintenance scheduling is simplified, but areas with different growth rates receive inappropriate treatment levels
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by dividing the turf field into zones with distinct characteristics based on measured parameters such as grass density, compaction, and growth rate. Each zone receives customized treatment levels matched to its specific conditions, allowing high-growth areas to receive more intensive maintenance while low-growth areas receive reduced treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The turf field is segmented into multiple treatment zones based on sensor data mapping. The system creates discrete regions with similar characteristics and applies differentiated maintenance schedules to each segment, transforming a single uniform treatment approach into multiple targeted treatments across the field.
3Reliability
If frequent maintenance operations are performed on the entire field, then grass health is maintained, but resource consumption and time expenditure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by performing maintenance operations only in areas that actually require treatment based on sensor-detected conditions. Instead of treating the entire field uniformly, the system identifies specific zones needing attention and applies maintenance selectively, reducing overall resource consumption while maintaining grass health where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses continuous feedback from sensors that monitor grass density, compaction, moisture levels, and growth patterns to dynamically adjust maintenance operations. This feedback loop ensures maintenance is performed based on actual field conditions rather than fixed schedules, optimizing resource use while maintaining grass health.
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 enhances grass growth uniformity and reduces resource consumption by providing precise, data-driven placement of lighting systems, improving maintenance efficiency and grass health.
Implementation Method 1
a lighting unit for emitting light downward
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for generating a localized data map, the method including (a) traversing an area with a machine, the machine including at least one sensor, wherein the sensor is configured to receive data; (b) collecting data of the area utilizing the sensor; and (c) communicating the data to generate a localized data map. A system and method for generating a localized turf grass data map, the method including (a) traversing an area of turf grass with an outdoor power equipment machine, the outdoor power equipment machine including at least one sensor, wherein the sensor is configured to receive data; (b) collecting turf grass data utilizing the sensor; and (c) communicating the turf grass data to generate a localized turf grass data map.