Wireless Flow Sensor for Air Seeder Blockage Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air seeder blockage monitoring systems face challenges with complex wiring and power requirements, leading to delayed detection of blockages near furrow openers due to sensor installation near manifolds, and vulnerability to damage from debris and stress.
Innovation Solution
A wireless mesh network of flow sensor assemblies installed closer to furrow openers, powered by vibration-powered generators, reducing power needs and eliminating the need for direct wiring, allowing earlier detection of blockages and improved reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If sensors are installed near manifolds, then wiring complexity is reduced, but blockage detection is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wired electrical connections with wireless communication technology. Flow sensors installed near furrow openers transmit blockage detection data wirelessly to the control unit, eliminating the need for extensive wiring while enabling timely detection at the point of blockage occurrence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a wireless communication dimension to the monitoring system, allowing sensors to be positioned at optimal locations (near furrow openers) without being constrained by wiring routes. This spatial freedom enables timely blockage detection while maintaining system simplicity.
2Measurement precision
If sensors are installed near furrow openers, then blockage detection is improved, but wiring complexity and vulnerability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes wired connections with wireless communication, allowing sensors to be positioned near furrow openers for accurate blockage detection without the wiring complexity and vulnerability that would result from extensive cable routing in harsh agricultural environments.
3Reliability
If wired sensors are used, then power can be supplied reliably, but system vulnerability to damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical wiring with wireless communication technology, eliminating vulnerable cables that could be damaged by debris, rock trips, or mechanical stress. The wireless system maintains reliable data transmission without exposing sensors to harmful physical factors.
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
Enables timely and reliable monitoring of product flow to each furrow opener, reducing the complexity of wiring and enhancing resistance to damage, with reduced power consumption facilitating the use of vibration-powered generators.
Implementation Method 1
powered by vibration-powered generators
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural product flow sensor and a flow sensor system for delivery tubes in an air seeder is provided. The flow sensor can include a particulate material sensor for sensing agricultural product passing through a delivery tub, a radio node for transmitting and receiving wireless signals and a wireless power source. The sensor system can use the flow sensors by attaching the flow sensors inline with delivery tubes and near a working tool. The flow sensors can monitor the flow of agricultural product through the delivery tube and transmit flow information to a person operating the air seeder.