Wireless Detection Device for Agricultural Sprayer Wetting Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural sprayer systems face challenges in efficiently adjusting setting parameters for optimal wetting of plant surfaces due to complex and costly data transmission between detection devices and control systems, limited detection accuracy, and high retrofitting efforts, especially when dealing with movable sprayers.
Innovation Solution
A method allowing the detection device to be positioned flexibly on or near the agricultural area, using wireless communication to adjust setting parameters such as flow rate, application direction, and droplet spectrum based on real-time wetting quality feedback, with optional additives like fluorescent substances for improved detection, and mobile detection devices for ease of use and adaptation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If detection devices are arranged on the movable sprayer boom to detect wetted surfaces, then direct wetting detection is enabled, but detection accuracy is severely limited due to relative movement between the sprayer and crop
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection device (such as a camera or sensor) that captures images or data of the wetted surfaces, which is then transmitted to a separate evaluation system (smartphone, tablet, or computer). This intermediary approach decouples the detection function from the moving sprayer boom, allowing accurate detection without being affected by the relative movement between the sprayer and crop.
2Productivity
If detection devices are arranged on the movable sprayer boom, then real-time detection is possible, but the expenditure for retrofitting existing sprayers is disproportionately high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal detection devices (such as standard cameras or smartphones) that can be used across different sprayer models without requiring model-specific customization. The detection device captures wetting data that can be evaluated by various evaluation systems, making the solution broadly applicable and reducing retrofitting costs for existing sprayers.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of modifying the sprayer boom with complex detection systems, the patent uses detection devices that create copies (images or data representations) of the wetted surfaces. These copies are then transmitted and evaluated separately, avoiding the need for expensive physical modifications to the sprayer structure while maintaining real-time detection capability.
3Reliability
If wired signal lines are used to connect detection devices on the movable boom, then data transmission is reliable, but the arrangement is only possible to a limited extent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with wireless data transmission technology. Detection devices can now communicate their data without physical signal lines, enabling flexible placement on the movable sprayer boom or even on stationary structures nearby, while maintaining reliable data transmission through wireless protocols.
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 detection quality and accuracy, reduces equipment costs, and simplifies integration with existing sprayers by enabling flexible positioning and wireless data transmission, allowing for precise adjustment of setting parameters for improved wetting efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one wetted surface is detected by at least one detection device assigned to the sprayer
Implementation Method 2
Optional additives like fluorescent substances for improved detection
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
Method for applying a spray agent (30) in which the spray agent (30) is applied by means of an agricultural sprayer (10) on an agricultural area (N) and/or its crop stand (P) with at least one set parameter, wherein at least one surface (P1) is wetted with the spray agent (30), the at least one wetted surface (P1) is detected by means of at least one detection device (40) associated with the sprayer (10), an actual wetting quality is determined on the basis of the at least one detected surface (P1), and at least one deviation of the actual wetting quality from a retrievable and/or predefinable target wetting quality is determined.In order to detect at least one wetted surface (P1, P2) with reduced equipment effort during the application of spraying agent (30) and to adjust at least one setting parameter of a sprayer (10) based on the wetted surface (P1, P2), it is provided that the at least one setting parameter is adjusted on the basis of the at least one deviation, wherein, for the adjustment of the at least one setting parameter, data are transmitted at least partially wirelessly, in particular via radio, between the at least one detection device (40) and the sprayer (10), in particular a control and/or regulation system (200).