Variable-Rate Chemical and Water Application by Field Zone
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Modern irrigation systems are limited by their inability to provide precise, real-time application of chemicals and water, often requiring multiple passes and leading to inefficiencies and waste due to imprecise targeting and over-application.
Innovation Solution
A system integrating image sensors and control devices to allow for variable rate application of chemicals and water, using separate systems for general and targeted delivery based on real-time field conditions, enabling simultaneous general irrigation and spot treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional irrigation systems apply chemicals and water uniformly across entire fields, then equipment complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but precision of application deteriorates and substance waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The irrigation system divides the field into multiple zones or segments, each with its own application rate control. The system segments the water and chemical delivery to match specific field conditions in different areas, allowing precise application to discrete locations rather than uniform distribution across the entire field.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different qualities or concentrations of water and chemicals to different locations based on local field conditions. Each area receives a customized application rate tailored to its specific needs, improving precision while the automated control system manages the complexity of these localized variations.
2Measurement precision
If traditional systems require multiple passes to collect information and apply applicants, then measurement precision can be improved, but productivity decreases and time loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the data collection and application functions into a single integrated operation. Image sensors and field analysis are combined with the irrigation application system, allowing both measurement and treatment to occur during one field pass, thereby improving productivity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary field analysis and prescription generation before the irrigation pass, so that when the system reaches the field, all necessary data processing and application planning is already complete. This allows the system to execute precise applications during the same pass without requiring additional time for data collection or analysis.
3Measurement precision
If traditional systems apply applicants in different passes, then targeted application can be improved, but energy consumption increases due to additional fuel requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the application process into controlled zones that can be addressed in a single pass, eliminating the need for multiple field traversals. By dividing the field into manageable segments with specific application requirements, the system achieves targeted delivery while reducing total energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous operation during a single field pass, collecting data and applying treatments without interruption. This continuous action eliminates the energy waste associated with multiple passes, idle time between operations, and repeated travel over the same field areas.
4Reliability
If traditional systems over-apply applicants to ensure coverage, then reliability of treatment is improved, but substance loss increases and environmental harm worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system delivers the precise quality and concentration of water and chemicals needed at each specific location, avoiding over-application. Each area receives exactly what is required based on its conditions, maintaining treatment reliability while minimizing substance loss and environmental impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time or near-real-time field data to control application rates, creating a feedback loop that prevents over-application. By monitoring field conditions and adjusting application accordingly, the system ensures reliable treatment delivery while reducing waste and harmful environmental effects.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for providing variable rate application of applicants to discrete field locations. According to a first preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a control device having software modules to allow for the execution of irrigation and chemical spray patterns according to specific prescriptions for each crop being sprayed. According to further preferred embodiments, the control device may use data from a variety of image sensors to create a selective, variable rate application of applicants. Using the imaging data, the system of the present invention may use a primary applicant system to broadly deliver a first selected application (e.g. water or the like) and use a separate system to deliver targeted applicants for specific plants or areas of a given field.