VRI Ray Casting for Sprinkler Location Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current irrigation systems face challenges in accurately determining the location of sprinklers and adjusting sprinkler output settings due to limitations in angle-based algorithms, which result in inefficient water application and difficulty in determining sprinkler positions within target impact areas.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing VRI ray casting algorithms to collect and calculate sprinkler data, adjust sprinkler output settings, and optimize water distribution by determining the precise location of each sprinkler relative to a prescribed watering plan, incorporating a position sensor, memory system, and variable rate mapping program.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If angle-based algorithms are used to determine sprinkler locations, then the system can obtain location information, but the accuracy is limited and calculation times are extensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces angle-based algorithms with ray casting algorithms that use geometric intersection calculations. Instead of computing angles and trigonometric functions to determine sprinkler positions, the system casts rays from known reference points and calculates intersections with sprinkler trajectories, providing both higher accuracy and faster computation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the computational parameters from angle-based measurements to coordinate-based geometric calculations. By using ray casting with defined start points, direction vectors, and intersection mathematics, the system transforms the problem into a more efficient computational framework that reduces calculation time while improving location precision.
2Measurement precision
If angle-based algorithms are used to determine sprinkler locations, then location information can be obtained, but difficulty arises in determining whether a sprinkler location falls within a given polygon boundary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex angle-based point-in-polygon tests with ray casting algorithms that naturally solve the containment problem. By casting rays from the sprinkler location and counting intersections with polygon boundaries, the system determines whether a point lies within a polygon through efficient geometric calculations rather than cumbersome angular computations.
3Manufacturing precision
If variable rate irrigation systems are used to adjust sprinkler applicant rates, then precise delivery of applicants can be improved, but the system requires extensive calculation and location tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex angle-based tracking systems with ray casting algorithms that simplify the computational burden of variable rate irrigation. By using geometric ray intersections to determine sprinkler positions and polygon containment, the system maintains precise applicant delivery while reducing the computational complexity and processing requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a system and method for irrigation management using VRI ray casting algorithms within irrigation machine workflows. According to an exemplary preferred embodiment, the present invention may preferably include: a position sensor which determines a position of the irrigation system; a memory system storing a prescribed watering plan for a field; and a variable rate mapping program using VRI ray casting algorithms.