Computer Vision Spray Nozzle Control for Single-Pass Edge Spraying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural sprayers face inefficiencies in applying different chemicals to field edges and planted areas due to the need for separate passes and equipment usage, and operators struggle to accurately control long boom arm nozzles for precise application.
Innovation Solution
A computer vision sprayer control system with a computer vision system at the boom's distal end, coupled with a high-precision, electrically adjustable spray nozzle, autonomously adjusts nozzle positions and spray patterns based on real-time imaging and sensor data, enabling simultaneous application of multiple products with reduced operator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a utility task vehicle with a spray nozzle is used to treat field edges, then selective herbicide application to edges is achieved, but separate passes and additional equipment usage are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the main product spray nozzle system with a secondary nozzle system on the same boom, allowing both chemicals to be applied simultaneously during a single pass. This merges the functionality of separate treatment operations into one integrated system, eliminating the need for separate passes with different equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The boom system is designed to carry multiple nozzle types (main product nozzles and secondary nozzles) that can apply different chemicals to different areas. This multi-functional capability allows the sprayer to handle both planted area treatment and field edge treatment with a single piece of equipment in one operation.
2Device complexity
If operators manually control spray nozzles on long boom arms, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but control accuracy and precision are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control of spray nozzles with an automated control system that uses image processing and computer vision. The system captures images of field edges, processes them to identify precise locations, and automatically adjusts nozzle positioning and spray patterns, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention over long boom arms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image processing system as an intermediary between the operator and the spray nozzles. This intermediary system captures visual information, processes it to determine spray parameters, and translates it into automated nozzle control commands, enabling precise control without direct manual manipulation.
3Measurement precision
If multiple chemicals are applied in separate passes, then application precision is maintained, but time consumption and fuel usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous application of multiple chemicals during a single pass by positioning secondary nozzles to treat field edges simultaneously with main product nozzles treating the planted area. This continuous multi-product application eliminates idle time between separate passes and maintains operational flow throughout the field treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary identification of field edge locations through image processing before spray application begins. This preliminary action allows the control system to pre-calculate optimal spray patterns and nozzle positioning for multiple chemicals, enabling coordinated simultaneous application without compromising precision.
Data Source
AI summary
Computer vision control of spray nozzles and related systems, circuitry, and methods are disclosed. A circuitry of a computer vision sprayer control system receives an image signal captured by a computer vision system disposed at a distal end of a boom arm of a boom carried by a crop sprayer. The circuitry provides a spray nozzle control signal to a spray nozzle controller configured to control operation of a spray nozzle at the distal end of the boom arm. The spray nozzle is electrically controllable with at least one degree of freedom. The circuitry includes a processor to determine adjustments to make to the spray nozzle based, at least in part, on the image signal and generate the spray nozzle control signal responsive to the determined adjustments. A method includes retrieving a spray maneuver and determining adjustments to make to the spray nozzle to execute the spray maneuver.