Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING AND
VISUALLY DEPICTING SPRAY BAND LENGTH OF AN
AGRICULTURAL FLUID APPLICATION SYSTEM
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/301,833, filed on
March 1, 2016.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The field of this disclosure relates generally to
systems for applying fluid to agricultural fields and, more
particularly, to systems and methods for determining and
visually depicting a spray band length relative to a seed or
plant.
[0003] In the agricultural industry, agricultural fluids
are commonly applied to fields for a variety of reasons. For
example, plants and plant precursors (e.g., seeds) are often
sprayed with an agricultural fluid at the time of planting to
enhance germination and early development. Agricultural fluids
include, without limitation, spray fertilizers, pesticides,
insecticides, fungicides, growth promoter, and/or growth
regulator.
[0004] Typically, systems for applying fluid to fields
include a manifold, e.g., a boom, and a plurality of nozzle
assemblies that receive the fluid from the manifold for applying
to the field. In at least some known systems, the fluid is
delivered to the manifold through an inlet located between
opposed ends of the manifold. The fluid travels longitudinally
through the manifold from the inlet toward the opposed ends. As
- 1 ¨
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
the fluid flows towards the opposed ends, a portion of the fluid
is directed out of the manifold towards the nozzle assemblies
for application to the fields. Typical systems for applying
fluid to fields do not provide a system or method for
determining a spray band length and distance relative to a seed
or plant based on information supplied, at least in part, from
an operator. Typical systems further do not display a spray
band length and distance relative to a seed or plant visually to
the operator.
[0005] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a system
that determines a spray band length for a seed planting and
agricultural spraying system. Moreover, the system should
facilitate conveyance of this information to an operator of the
seed planting and agricultural spraying system.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0006] In one aspect, a spraying system for spraying a
fluid is provided. The spraying system includes a nozzle
assembly configured to spray the fluid in response to receiving
a control signal, a sensor configured to transmit a detection
signal upon detection of a target, and a user interface
configured to receive input from an operator. The spraying
system further includes a control system communicatively coupled
to the sensor to receive the detection signal from the sensor
and configured to transmit the control signal to the nozzle
assembly at least in part in response to reception of the
detection signal. The control system is further configured to
determine a fluid band length and an offset distance of the
fluid band length from the target based at least in part on
information input by the operator to the user interface. The
- 2 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
user interface displays a graphic representation of the fluid
band length and the offset distance relative to the target.
[0007] In
another aspect, a method for determining and
displaying characteristics of a spraying system to a user of the
spraying system is provided. The spraying system is configured to
apply fluid to a target with a nozzle assembly including a nozzle
and a valve. The method includes receiving, at a control system
configured to control the nozzle assembly, information from a user
interface communicatively coupled to the control system.
The
information includes target population information, application
rate information, pressure set point information, and target speed
information corresponding to a target travel speed of the spraying
system. The method also includes determining, based at least in
part on the information received from the user interface, a fluid
band length of fluid dispensed by the nozzle assembly and an offset
distance between the fluid and the target, and displaying, on the
user interface, a graphic representation of the fluid band length
and the offset distance relative to the target.
[0008] In
a further aspect, a planter system for planting
seeds and spraying a fluid is provided.
The planter system
includes a seeder assembly including a seed meter configured to
dispense seeds through a seed tube.
The planter system also
includes a nozzle assembly configured to spray the fluid in
response to receiving a control signal, a sensor configured to
transmit a detection signal upon detection of a seed passing
through the seed tube, and a user interface configured to receive
input from an operator. The planter further includes a control
system communicatively coupled to the sensor to receive the
detection signal from the sensor. The control system is configured
to transmit the control signal to the nozzle assembly at least in
- 3 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
part in response to reception of the detection signal, and to
determine a fluid band length and an offset distance of the fluid
band length from a target seed dispensed from the planter system
based at least in part on information input by the operator to the
user interface. The user interface displays a graphic
representation of the fluid band length and the offset distance
relative to the target seed.
[0009] Various refinements exist of the features noted
in relation to the above-mentioned aspects. Further features may
also be incorporated in the above-mentioned aspects as well.
These refinements and additional features may exist individually
or in any combination. For instance, various features discussed
below in relation to any of the illustrated embodiments may be
incorporated into any of the above-described aspects, alone or
in any combination.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a side schematic view of an embodiment
of a seed planting and agricultural spraying system connected to
a motorized vehicle.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a side view of a portion of the seed
planting and agricultural spraying system shown in FIG. 1.
[0012] FIG. 3 is schematic view of a portion of the seed
planting and agricultural spraying system shown in FIGS. 1 and
2.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a view of a user interface of the seed
planting and agricultural spraying system shown in FIGS. 1 and
2.
- 4 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
[0014] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the seed planting
and agricultural spraying system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a method of determining
and visually depicting spray band length of the seed planting
and agricultural spraying system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0016] FIG. 7 is another view of the user interface of
the seed planting and agricultural spraying system shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] Referring now to FIG. 1, a seed planting and
agricultural spraying system, or planter, 112 (shown
schematically in FIG. 1) is shown connected to a motorized
vehicle 10. The motorized vehicle 10 is coupled, fixedly or
removably, to seed planting and agricultural spraying system 112
and provides locomotion to seed planting and agricultural
spraying system 112 and/or otherwise controls components of seed
planting and agricultural spraying system 112. In the
illustrated embodiment, motorized vehicle 10 is a tractor,
although any other suitable vehicles or machines may be used to
provide locomotion to seed planting and agricultural spraying
system 112 and provide for control of seed planting and
agricultural spraying system 112. In some embodiments, one or
more components of the seed planting and agricultural spraying
system 112 may be incorporated into the motorized vehicle 10
without departing from some aspects of this disclosure.
[0018] As shown in FIG. 1, the motorized vehicle 10
includes a pair of front wheels 16, a pair or rear wheels 18,
and a chassis 20 coupled to and supported by the wheels 16, 18.
A cab 22 is supported by a portion of the chassis 20 and houses
- 5 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
various control devices 24 for permitting an operator to control
operation of the motorized vehicle 10. In some embodiments,
control devices 24 may also permit control of the seed planting
and agricultural spraying system 112. The motorized vehicle 10
also includes an engine 26 and a transmission 28 mounted on the
chassis 20. The transmission 28 is operably coupled to the
engine 26 and provides variably adjusted gear ratios for
transferring engine power to the wheels 18 via an
axle/differential 30. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 1, the
motorized vehicle 10 may be configured to be coupled to the seed
planting and agricultural spraying system 112 via a suitable
coupling 32 such that the vehicle 10 may pull the seed planting
and agricultural spraying system 112 as it moves in a travel
direction (indicated by arrow 34) along a field 102. It should
be understood that any other suitable vehicle or machine may be
used to provide locomotion to seed planting and agricultural
spraying system 112 and provide for control of seed planting and
agricultural spraying system 112. In some embodiments, for
example, vehicle 10 may include tracks instead of or in addition
front wheels 16 and/or wheels 18. Additionally, in some
embodiments, vehicle 10 may be an autonomous vehicle with no cab
22.
[0019] Referring to FIG. 2, seed planting and
agricultural spraying system includes a plurality of row units
114. Row units 114 are configured to at least spray a fluid on
and/or adjacent to seeds and/or plants and, in some embodiments,
are configured to plant seeds and spray the fluid on and/or
adjacent to the seeds. Seed planting and agricultural spraying
system 112 further includes a control system and a user
interface (shown in FIGS. 4 and 5) for controlling row units 114
and displaying related information. The control system and user
- 6 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
interface determine a spray band length and a position of the
spray band relative to a seed or plant, and convey this
information to an operator of the seed planting and agricultural
spraying system. The control system and user interface are
located in a cab or other occupant space (e.g., cab 22) for the
operator of seed planting and agricultural spraying system 112.
In alternative embodiments, the control system and/or user
interface are located remote from row units 114 and an
associated vehicle and allow for remote control of row units
114.
[0020] Row unit 114 is configured to create a furrow 138
using a furrow creation device, to meter and dispense seeds into
the furrow 138 from a seed hopper 148 using a seed tube 152, and
to spray a fluid F using a nozzle assembly 178. Row unit 114
may include any number of components such that row unit 114
performs these functions for a single row or a plurality of rows
simultaneously. For example, in some embodiments, row unit 114
includes a plurality of furrow creation devices, seed tubes 152
fed from seed hoppers 148 (e.g., each seed hopper 148 fed from a
single, shared master seed hopper, not shown), and nozzle
assemblies 178 along the track of row unit 114 and planter 112.
Planter 112 includes a frame 136 extending along the width of
the planter 112 (e.g., in a direction transverse to the travel
of planter 112, in other words parallel to the track length of
planter 112) that supports row units 114.
[0021] The furrow creation device of planter 112 is
configured to create a trench or furrow 138 within the ground
for planting seeds 146. In several embodiments, the furrow
creation device includes a pair of laterally spaced opening
discs 140, a pair of laterally spaced closing discs 142 and a
- 7 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
press wheel 144. The opening discs 140 are configured to open a
furrow 138 within the ground. Seeds 146 are deposited into the
furrow 138 (e.g., by seed tube 152), and closing discs 142 are
configured to close furrow 138 over seeds 146. Press wheel 144
is configured to compact the soil that has been closed over
seeds 146. In alternative embodiments, furrow creation device
may include other suitable components for creating furrow 138.
In further alternative embodiments, planter 112 does not include
a furrow creation device but rather plants and/or sprays in an
existing furrow 138 (e.g., created by another machine).
[0022] Row unit 114 includes a seeder assembly 190
including seed hopper 148, a seed meter 150, and seed tube 152.
Seed hopper 148, seed meter 150, and seed tube 152 are
configured to dispense seeds 146 into furrow 138. For example,
seed hopper 148 is any suitable container or other storage
device configured for storing and dispensing seeds 146 into seed
meter 150. Seed meter 150 is any suitable seed meter configured
to dispense seeds 146 into seed tube 152 at a metered rate. In
one embodiment, seed meter 150 includes a housing and a seed
plate or disc rotatably supported within the housing. The seed
disc includes a plurality of indentions, channels and/or other
suitable recessed features that are spaced apart from one
another around the seed disc (e.g., in a circular array) to
allow seeds 146 to be dispensed at a given frequency.
Specifically, each recessed feature is configured to grab a
single seed 146 (e.g., via a vacuum applied to the recessed
feature) as such recessed feature is rotated past the location
at which seeds 146 are fed into the housing from seed hopper
148. As the seed disc is rotated, seeds 146 are carried by the
recessed features and dispensed into seed tube 152. The metered
rate may be predetermined, set, changed, or otherwise controlled
- 8 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
(e.g., by the control system of planter 112 or mechanically
based on a rate of travel of row unit 114). Seeds 146 are
dispensed from seed tube 152 into furrow 138. For example, at a
given rotational speed for the seed disc, the seed meter 150
dispenses seeds 146 at a constant frequency. When planter 112
travels at a constant speed, seeds 146 are spaced apart equally
from one another within furrow 138. As the travel speed of the
planter 112 increases or decreases, the rotational speed of the
seed disc must also be increased or decreased to maintain equal
spacing or a predetermined spacing of seeds 146 within the
furrow 138. Such variation of the rotational speed of the seed
disc is provided by a drive system 160 and/or controlled by a
control system of planter 112.
[0023]
Drive system 160 is or includes any suitable device
and/or combination of devices configured to rotate the seed disc
of seed meter 150. In the illustrated embodiment, for example,
drive system 160 is a sprocket/chain arrangement including a drive
shaft 162, a first sprocket 164 coupled to drive shaft 162, a
second sprocket 166 coupled to the seed disc (e.g., via a shaft
168) and a chain 170 coupled between the first and second sprockets
164, 166. Drive shaft 162 is configured to rotate first sprocket
164, which, in turn, rotates second sprocket 166 via chain 170.
Rotation of second sprocket 166 results in rotation of shaft 168
and, thus, rotation of the seed disc within the housing of seed
meter 150. Drive system 160 further includes a motor 172 (e.g.,
an electric or hydraulic motor) rotatably coupled to drive shaft
162 that is configured to be controlled by the control system of
planter 112. Specifically, the control system is configured to
receive signals associated with the travel speed of planter 112
from a sensor or other suitable device (e.g., an encoder or shaft
sensor, global positioning system receiver, or other device) and
- 9 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
regulate the rotational speed of motor 172 based on the travel
speed of planter 112 such that a desired seed spacing is achieved
or maintained. In alternative embodiments, drive system 160 is or
includes other components or devices. For example, drive system
160 may be configured to rotate the seed disc through a connection
with one or more wheels or other rotating features of planter 112.
A transmission, clutch, and/or other components may be used to
regulate the rotational speed of the seed disc and therefore
achieve or maintain desired seed spacing.
[0024] In
alternative embodiments, row unit 114 is or
includes other suitable components for dispensing seeds 146. In
further alternative embodiments, planter 112 does not include seed
hopper 148, a seed meter 150, seed tube 152, or other components
for dispensing seeds 146, and instead sprays existing seeds 146 or
existing plants. In
such embodiments, row unit 114 does not
include seeder assembly 190.
[0025]
Row unit 114 further includes at least one nozzle
assembly 178 configured to spray fluid F. Nozzle assembly 178
sprays fluid F, or a combination of fluids, on, adjacent to, or
otherwise in relation to seeds 146 dispensed by seed tube 152 or
existing plants. Nozzle assembly 178 includes a spray nozzle 180
and a valve 182 (e.g., a solenoid valve). Nozzle 180 is any
suitable spray nozzle suitable for an agricultural spraying
system. Valve 182 is configured to be mounted to and/or integrated
within a portion of spray nozzle 180 or nozzle assembly 178 using
any suitable mounting configuration and/or any other suitable
configuration that permits control of the flow of fluid F through
the nozzle 180.
For example, valve 182 is a solenoid valve
positioned relative to spray nozzle 180 and controlled by the
control system of planter 112 such that flow of fluid F through
- 10 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
spray nozzle 180 is modified using pulse width modulation (PWM)
control of valve 182. In other embodiments, valve 182 may be
located remote from nozzle 180. In some embodiments, for example,
valve 182 may be mounted or coupled to the boom pipe or manifold
used to supply fluid to nozzle assemblies 178. In
some
embodiments, nozzle assembly 178 also includes a spray tip 234
(shown in FIG. 3) coupled to spray nozzle 180 and configured to
produce a desired spray pattern.
[0026]
Fluid F is supplied to nozzle assembly 178 from any
suitable fluid source (not shown), such as a fluid tank, via a
pipe such as a boom pipe, manifold, or other suitable flow conduit.
In addition, a pump (not shown), such as a centrifugal pump, may
be positioned upstream of the nozzle assembly 178 for pumping fluid
F from the fluid source to the nozzle assembly 178. Alternatively,
the pump may be positioned between a fluid reservoir and a boom
pipe which is in fluid communication with a plurality of nozzle
assemblies 178. The pump pressurizes the boom pipe with fluid
from the reservoir and nozzle assembly 178 and/or valves 182
controls flow of the pressurized fluid through spray nozzle 180.
In some embodiments, row unit 114 includes a plurality of nozzle
assemblies 178 for spraying fluid in parallel rows. In further
embodiments, a single nozzle assembly 178 is configured to spray
fluid in two or more parallel rows. In still further embodiments,
row unit 114 includes a plurality of nozzle assemblies 178
positioned to spray a single row (e.g., furrow).
For example,
each nozzle assembly 178 may spray a different fluid and may be
controlled, by the control system of planter 112, together or
individually (e.g., allowing for different spray band lengths
and/or offset distances from seeds 146).
- 11 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
[0027]
Referring now to FIG. 3, seed planting and
agricultural spraying system 112 further includes a spraying
assembly 210 that includes a manifold 236 (e.g., a boom pipe) which
supplies fluid F and/or other fluids to nozzle assembly 178.
Manifold 236 is coupled to a pump and/or fluid reservoir and is
pressurized (e.g., by the pump). Manifold 236 is coupled to nozzle
assembly 178 by a suitable fluid conduit 228, such as a pipe or
hose. Valve 182 of nozzle assembly 178 controls the flow of fluid
F from fluid conduit 228 to nozzle 180 and spray tip 234 as
described herein. For example, a controller 222 and/or the control
system of planter 112 sends a pulse width modulated signal to a
solenoid valve 182 to control flow of fluid F to nozzle 180. Spray
tip 234 is configured to produce a specified spray pattern. The
spray pattern may be pressure dependent. Controller 222 and/or
the control system may be configured to control the pressure in
manifold 236 to achieve a desired spray pattern in combination
with spray tip 234. In
some embodiments, spray tip 234 is
interchangeable with other spray tips configured to produce
varying spray patterns.
The type of spray tip 234 and/or
parameters describing the spray pattern produced by spray tip 234
may be entered into controller 222 and/or the control system by an
operator via a user interface, for example, using a tip calibration
screen (shown in FIG. 7).
Other operating parameters, such as
fluid flow rate, fluid pressure, seed population, and speed or
velocity of the planter 112 or row unit 114, may be determined by
and/or input to controller 222 and/or the control system (e.g., by
an operator using a user interface). Controller 222 and/or the
control system may use this information in determining spray band
length of fluid F and/or the offset of the spray band from seeds
146. Spray band length refers to the length of the fluid spray
band, measured in the direction of travel of row unit 114 and
- 12 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
planter 112, discharged or dispensed by nozzle assembly 178 during
a single on-cycle of valve 182.
[0028]
Still referring to FIG. 3, in some embodiments,
spraying assembly 210, including nozzle assembly 178, is
configured to spray fluid F on and/or adjacent to seed 146 using,
in part, one or more sensors. In the illustrated embodiment, for
example, spraying assembly 210 includes a seed sensor 250. Seed
sensor 250 is configured to sense, at least, when seed 146 passes
through and/or exits seed tube 152. For example, sensor 250 may
be an optical sensor (e.g., a camera) or a beam break sensor (e.g.,
infrared beam break sensor) producing a beam which when broken
sends a signal (e.g., a change in voltage). Seed sensor 250 may
be a mechanical sensor which at least partially obstructs seed
tube 152 and that produces a signal (e.g., change in voltage) when
seed 146 contacts or moves the mechanical sensor. In alternative
embodiments, other suitable sensor(s) are used to detect when seed
146 exits seed tube 152. In further embodiments, sensor 250 is
configured to determine a location of seed 146 in furrow 38. For
example, sensor 250 may be or include a camera which images seed
146 in furrow 38. Additionally or alternatively, spraying assembly
210 may include a second sensor, such as a camera 252, configured
to capture one or more images of each seed 146 after it is dispensed
from seed tube 152 and/or as it is being sprayed by the nozzle
assembly(ies) 178. Additional details and operation of seed sensor
250 and camera 252 are described in U.S. Patent Application Serial
No. 13/857,348, filed April 5, 2013.
Using image recognition
techniques, distance calculating techniques, and/or a time when
seed 146 leaves seed tube 152, the location of seed 146 may be
determined. Sensor(s) 250, 252 may send a signal to a controller
222 and/or a control system (shown in FIG. 5) of planter 112 for
- 13 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
use in controlling spraying assembly 210, such as when to actuate
valve 180 on nozzle assembly 178.
[0029]
Controller 222 and/or the control system of planter
112 use information received from sensor(s) 250, 252 to control
spraying assembly 210. Controller 222 and/or the control system
of planter 112 controls nozzle assembly 178 to spray fluid F on or
adjacent to seed 146.
[0030]
Controller 222 and/or the control system of planter
112 may be configured to determine when to open and close valve
182 by analyzing various operating parameters of planter 112, which
may be pre-stored within the controller's memory and/or received
by the controller 222 and/or control system as an input.
For
example, operating parameters may include, but are not limited to,
the vertical distance from the top of seed tube 152 to furrow 138,
the vertical distance each seed 146 falls between the sensor 250
and the furrow 138, the vertical distance between an outlet of
nozzle assembly 178 (e.g., spray tip 234, if connected) and furrow
138, a horizontal distance between an outlet of seed tube 152 and
an outlet of nozzle assembly 178, an angle at which nozzle assembly
178 is oriented relative to field 102, the speed of row unit 114
and/or any other suitable operating parameters. Based on such
analysis, controller 222 and/or the control system may be
configured to calculate a suitable time delay for actuating valve
182 (e.g., the amount of time between when the sensor 250 detects
a seed 146 and when valve 182 is opened to spray fluid F on and/or
adjacent to each seed 146).
[0031]
Controller 222 and/or the control system of planter
112 may also or alternatively be configured to control the
operation of valve 182 such that a specific volume of fluid F is
applied on and/or adjacent to each seed 146. Controller 222 and/or
- 14 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
the control system may be configured to analyze one or more
operating parameters in order to determine the duration of a valve
pulse (e.g., the amount of time valve 182 is opened) to achieve a
desired spray volume for each seed 146. Such operating parameters
may include, but are not limited to, the pressure of the fluid F
supplied to valve 182, the configuration of valve 182 (e.g., the
sizes of the inlet and/or outlet of the valve 182), the
configuration of nozzle assembly 178 (e.g., spray tip 234 orifice
size), the speed V of row unit 114 and/or any other suitable
operating parameters. Controller 222 and/or the control system
may be configured to control the duration of the valve pulse in a
manner that allows the same volume of fluid F to be sprayed on
and/or adjacent to each seed 146.
[0032]
Controller 222 and/or the control system of planter
112 may also or alternatively be configured to control the
operation of valve 182 such that fluid F is applied beginning at
a specific offset distance from seed 146, an existing plant, or
other target. For example, the offset distance may be measured
from seed 146 extending in the direction of travel of row unit 114
and planter 112. An offset distance of 0 results in fluid F being
applied substantially at seed 146 with fluid extending a spray
band length in the direction of travel. An offset distance of
greater than 0 results in an offset between seed 146 and the point
at which fluid F is applied, such that a gap exists between seed
146 and fluid F, with fluid F extending from the end of the gap
and in the direction of travel. An offset distance of less than
0 results in a negative offset such that fluid F is applied on or
under seed 146 and extends in both directions from seed 146 (e.g.,
the direction of travel and the opposite direction). The offset
distance may be provided to controller 222 and/or the control
system from an operator via a user interface (shown in FIGS. 4 and
- 15 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
5). Controller 222 and/or the control system may be configured to
control the timing of the valve pulse sent to valve 182 such that
valve 182 opens and closes at a time relative to seed 146 being
dispensed that generates the offset of fluid F described herein.
[0033]
Alternatively, controller 222 and/or the control
system may be configured to implement a fixed application approach,
wherein valve 182 is operated at a constant pulse duration. In
such an embodiment, the specific volume of fluid F applied on
and/or adjacent to each seed 146 may generally vary depending on
the speed V of row unit 114 and/or the pressure of the fluid F
supplied to valve 182.
[0034]
Controller 222 and/or the control system of planter
112 determines the spray band length of fluid F and the position
of the spray band relative to seed 146, as described in greater
detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. Controller 222 and/or the
control system of planter 112 displays this information to the
operator of planter 112 using a user interface (shown in FIG. 5).
Based on this information, the operator may be able to manually
adjust the settings of the spraying assembly 210 and/or planter
112 to achieve desired spray characteristics, such as a desired
spray band length and/or a desired spacing between the spray band
and a seed, plant, or other target ahead of or behind the spray
band relative to the direction of travel of row unit 114 and
planter 112.
For example, an operator may adjust, using the
control system, the pressure and/or flow rate of the fluid F
supplied to the valve 182, the duration of the valve 182 pulse
(e.g., the amount of time valve 182 is open for each spray), the
volume of fluid F being sprayed and/or any other suitable operating
parameter. The operator may further adjust other settings and/or
parameters such as the speed of planter 112 to adjust the spray
- 16 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
band length of fluid F and/or the offset of the spray band from
seeds 146. In some embodiments, controller 222 and/or the control
system of planter 112 display images, captured by sensors 250
and/or 252, of seeds 146 and the spraying of fluid F to an operator
of planter 112 allowing for further adjustment of spraying assembly
210 and/or other systems.
[0035]
Moreover, in one embodiment, the controller 222
and/or the control system may also be configured to control a flow
rate of the fluid F supplied to valve 182 by controlling the
operation of a suitable flow regulating valve.
For example,
controller 222 and/or the control system may be configured to
determine the flow rate of the fluid F supplied through the fluid
conduit 228 based on inputs received from one or more suitable
meters and/or sensors positioned upstream of valve 182, such as
one or more turbine meters associated with a pump supplying
manifold 236, one or more tank level meters associated with a fluid
source or reservoir supplying manifold 236, one or more flow meters
associated with fluid conduit 228, one or more pressure sensors
and/or other sensors. In
addition, controller 222 and/or the
control system may also be configured to receive user inputs, from
a user interface, corresponding to a desired flow rate for spraying
assembly 210. Accordingly, based on such inputs, the controller
222 and/or the control system may be configured to control the
operation of the flow regulating valve so as to maintain the fluid
F supplied to valve 182 at the desired flow rate. Controller 222
and/or the control system of planter 112 may further use these
inputs to determine the spray band length of fluid F sprayed by
spraying assembly 210.
[0036]
Further, in one embodiment, controller 222 and/or
the control system may also be configured to control the pressure
- 17 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
of the fluid F supplied to valve 182. For example, one or more
pressure sensors may be configured to monitor the pressure of the
fluid F and transmit pressure measurements to controller 222 and/or
the control system. The controller 222 and/or the control system
may, in turn, be configured to pulse valve 182 at a suitable
frequency and/or duty cycle in order to maintain a specific
pressure upstream of valve 182, such as within fluid conduit 228
or manifold 236. Such pressure based control may allow controller
222 and/or the control system to vary the amount of fluid F being
sprayed on and/or adjacent to each seed 146 while operating valve
182 at a constant pulse duration.
[0037]
Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 5, in some
embodiments, controller 222 is implemented as part of control
system 400 of planter 112 and is not a standalone controller. In
alternative embodiments, controller 222 is in communication with
control system 400 of planter 112 (e.g., via a data bus).
Controller 222 and/or control system 400 may generally be or
include any suitable computer and/or other processing unit,
including any suitable combination of computers, processing units
and/or the like that may be operated independently or in connection
within one another. Controller 222 and/or control system 400 may
include one or more processor(s) 402 and associated memory
device(s) 404 configured to perform a variety of computer-
implemented functions (e.g., performing the calculations,
determinations, and functions disclosed herein). As used herein,
the term "processor" refers not only to integrated circuits, but
also refers to a controller, a microcontroller, a microcomputer,
a programmable logic controller (PLC), an application specific
integrated circuit, and other programmable circuits.
Additionally, the memory device(s) 404 of the controller 222 and/or
control system 400 may generally be or include memory element(s)
- 18 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
including, but not limited to, computer readable medium (e.g.,
random access memory (RAM)), computer readable non-volatile medium
(e.g., a flash memory), a floppy disk, a compact disc-read only
memory (CD-ROM), a magneto-optical disk (MOD), a digital versatile
disc (DVD) and/or other suitable memory elements. Such memory
device(s) 404 may generally be configured to store suitable
computer-readable instructions that, when implemented by the
processor(s), configure or cause controller 222 and/or control
system 400 to perform various functions described herein
including, but not limited to, controlling seeder assembly 190
(shown in FIG. 2), controlling the operation of valve 182,
calculating time delays for valve 182, controlling a flow rate of
the fluid F supplied to valve 182, controlling the pressure of the
fluid F supplied to valve 182, determining a spray band length of
fluid F, determining a position of the spray band of fluid F (e.g.,
the coverage on the ground) relative to seed 146, receiving inputs
from user interface 406, providing output to an operator via user
interface 406, receiving data from sensor(s) 250, and/or various
other suitable computer-implemented functions.
[0038] Referring now to FIG. 4, a user interface display
300 displayed by user interface 406 (shown in FIG. 5) is shown
according to one embodiment. User interface display 300
includes a page 301 configured to display and receive
information, a navigation toolbar 334 configured to switch
between display of different pages 301, and a system toolbar 336
for navigating between different systems of planter 112 and/or
row unit 114.
[0039] Pages 301 include placement settings page 301.
Placement settings page 301 includes a plurality of fields 318,
320, 322, 324, 326, 328, 330, and 332. Placement settings page
- 19 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
301 further includes a graphical representation 302
corresponding to the information in the plurality of fields 318,
320, 322, 324, 326, 328, 330, 332 and a fluid or spray band
length (e.g., squirt length) determined by controller 222 and/or
the control system of planter 112 (shown in FIG. 5), as
described herein with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.
[0040] Fields 318, 320, 322, 324, 326, 328, 330, and 332
are configured to allow for the display and/or entering of
information. For example, fields 318, 320, 322, 324, 326, 328,
330, and 332 are selectable by a press on a touch screen of user
interface 406 or a click with a cursor controlled by a mouse of
user interface 406. Once selected, fields 318, 320, 322, 324,
326, 328, 330, and 332 receive information from a touchscreen
keyboard, keyboard, or other device of user interface 406. In
alternative embodiments, one or more fields 318, 320, 322, 324,
326, 328, 330, and 332 are replaced by other graphical user
interface elements such as drop down menus, a series of radio
buttons and corresponding values, sliders, and/or other
graphical user interface elements. In some embodiments, squirt
length field 332 is not editable and does not receive
information, and instead only displays information related to
the spray band length (e.g., squirt length) as determined by
controller 222 and/or the control system of row unit 114 or
planter 112. In other embodiments, squirt length field 332 is
editable, and can receive information regarding a length of
fluid (e.g., in inches or centimeters) to be applied to each
seed.
[0041] Population field 318 is configured to allow an
operator to enter information regarding the number of seeds 146
(shown in FIG. 2) to be planted. For example, population field
- 20 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
318 allows an operator to enter, using user interface 406, a
number of seeds 146 to be planted per acre (or other unit area,
such as square meters). Number of row units field 320 is
configured to allow an operator to enter information regarding
the number of rows of seeds 146 to be planted. For example,
number of row units field 320 allows an operator to enter, using
user interface 406, a number of row units 114 included in system
100. In other embodiments, number of row units field 320 may be
a number of rows field that allows an operator to enter, using
user interface 406, a number of rows as a dimensionless value.
In yet other embodiments, number of row units field 320 is not
editable. Rather, controller 222 and/or the control system of
row unit 114 or planter 112 determines the number of rows based
on other information using techniques described herein and
number of row units field 320 displays this information.
Planter width field 322 is configured to allow an operator to
enter information regarding the planter width. For example,
planter width field 322 allows an operator to enter, using user
interface 406, a planter width in inches (or other unit length,
such as centimeters or meters). Application rate field 324 is
configured to allow an operator to enter information regarding
the application rate of fluid F (shown in FIG. 2). For example,
application rate field 324 allows an operator to enter, using
user interface 406, an application rate of fluid F in gallons
per acre (or any other suitable unit volume per unit area). In
other embodiments, application rate field 324 allows an operator
to enter, using user interface 406, an application rate of fluid
F in units of volume per seed, such as milliliters or ounces per
seed. Pressure set point field 326 is configured to allow an
operator to enter information regarding a desired or target
operating pressure of fluid F. For example, pressure set point
field 326 allows an operator to enter, using user interface 406,
- 21 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
a desired pressure set point of fluid F within manifold 236
(shown in FIG. 3) in pounds per square inch (or other suitable
units of pressure). Target speed field 328 is configured to
allow an operator to enter information regarding the speed of
planter 112 and/or row unit 114. For example, target speed
field 328 allows an operator to enter, using user interface 406,
a speed in miles per hour or kilometers per hour. Distance from
seed field 330 is configured to allow an operator to enter
information regarding the distance from seed 146 at which a band
of applied fluid F begins (e.g., the distance fluid F, as
applied, is offset from seed 146). For example, distance from
seed field 330 allows an operator to enter, using user interface
406, a desired offset distance in inches (or other suitable unit
length, such as centimeters or meters).
[0042] Graphical representation 302 corresponds to the
information in the plurality of fields 318, 320, 322, 324, 326,
328, 330, 332 and a spray band length (e.g., squirt length)
determined by controller 222 and/or the control system of
planter 112 (shown in FIG. 5), and depicts the fluid band length
and offset distance graphically (i.e., with a visual graphic).
Graphical representation 302 includes first seed graphic 304,
second seed graphic 306, third seed graphic 308 (e.g., seed
graphics 304, 306, 308 corresponding to seeds 146), a distance
310 between seeds 146, a fluid band length graphic 312, an
offset distance graphic 314, and a direction of travel graphic
316. In some embodiments, elements of graphical representation
302 are static, while others are dynamically updated to reflect
changes in operating conditions of planter 112, such as the
spray band length and the offset distance between spray band and
seeds 146. In one embodiment, for example, the location and
spacing of seed graphics 304, 306, 308 are static, and the fluid
- 22 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
band length graphic 312 and offset distance graphic 314 are
updated to reflect changes in spray band length and offset
distance. In another embodiment, the distance 310 between seed
graphics 304, 306, 308 is updated to reflect changes in the
spacing between seeds 146 dispensed by planter 112. In
alternative embodiments, graphical representation 302 scrolls or
otherwise is active as row unit 114 and/or planter 112 travels.
[0043] First seed graphic 304 corresponds to a seed 146
which has not been dispensed and indicates the location where
the seed will be dispensed. Alternatively, first seed graphic
304 represents the most recently dispensed seed 146 closest to
row unit 114 and/or planter 112 travelling in the direction
indicated by travel direction graphic 316. In some embodiments,
first seed graphic 304 corresponds to a seed 146 for which a
corresponding amount of fluid F has not yet been sprayed. First
seed graphic 304 is separated from second seed graphic 306 by
distance 310. Second seed graphic 306 corresponds to a seed 146
which has already been dispensed and for which a corresponding
amount of fluid F has already been sprayed or a corresponding
amount of fluid F is being sprayed. Distance 310 reflects the
distance between the two seeds 146. Third seed graphic 308
represents a third seed 146 for which a corresponding amount of
fluid F has already been sprayed. Third seed graphic 308 is
separated from second seed graphic 306 also by distance 310. In
some embodiments distance 310 is to scale and corresponds to the
distance between seeds 146 which have been dispensed. In
alternative embodiments, distance 310 is not to scale.
[0044] Fluid band length graphic 312 corresponds to the
value displayed in squirt length field 332. Offset distance
graphic 314 corresponds to the value displayed in distance from
- 23 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
seed field 330. As the values in their corresponding fields
change, fluid band length graphic 312 and offset distance
graphic 314 change in length and/or position, relative to second
seed graphic 306, within graphical representation 302. Offset
distance graphic 314 and fluid band length graphic 312 are shown
at scale (e.g., the same scale at which distance 310 is shown).
Advantageously, this allows an operator to determine if fluid F
is being applied as desired; to change parameters entered in one
or more of fields 318, 320, 322, 324, 326, 328, 330, and 332;
and to view the effect of the changed parameters on both the
fluid band length (e.g., both in length and position relative to
seeds 146) and the offset distance. In alternative embodiments,
fluid band length graphic 312 and/or offset distance graphic 314
are not shown to scale or are shown at a different scale than
that with which distance 310 is shown.
[0045] Should the calculated fluid band length graphic
312 become large enough to violate the offset distance graphic
314 of the former or later seeds 146 dropping or to be dropped,
associated with seed graphics 308 and 304 respectively, a
positive warning graphic is displayed on the user interface
graphic 301 giving indication of a possible unintended error
condition. This warning allows an operator to change one or
more parameters, if desired, to prevent fluid F from being
dispensed within an offset distance associated with an adjacent
seed 146. For example, controller 222 or the control system of
planter 112 (shown in FIG. 5) determines the fluid band length,
offset distance, and distance between seeds 146 as described
herein. Controller 222 or the control system further determines
if the sum of the fluid band length and the offset distance is
greater than the distance between seeds 146 such that spraying a
first seed (e.g., associated with seed graphic 306) would result
- 24 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
in fluid F contacting an adjacent seed 146 (e.g., associated
with seed graphic 306). In response to determining that fluid F
will come in contact with an adjacent seed 146, controller 222
or the control system causes the user interface to convey a
warning. In some embodiments, controller 222 or the control
system further determines if the sum of the fluid band length
and the offset distance is greater than a threshold value such
that spraying a first seed would result in fluid F falling
within an offset distance associated with an adjacent seed 146.
In response to determining that fluid F will fall within the
offset distance of an adjacent seed 146, controller 222 or the
control system causes the user interface to convey a warning.
In some embodiments, the user interface conveys the warning
graphically (e.g., displaying a warning graphic and/or text),
through an audible sound (e.g., playing a tone, sound, voice
recording, etc.), providing haptic feedback (e.g., a vibration
provided via a vibration motor included in the user interface)
and/or through other visual, aural, or tactile outputs.
[0046] FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of planter 112
according to one embodiment. Control system 400 of planter 112
is coupled to seeder assembly 190, user interface 406, and
nozzle assembly 178. Control system 400 is configured to
control these and/or other components to perform the functions
described herein. Seeder assembly 190 includes motor 72 as
described with reference to FIG. 2. Control system 400 controls
motor 72 to control the rate at which seeds 146 (shown in FIG.
2) are dispensed and/or otherwise controls seeder assembly 190
to perform the functions described herein. Control system 400
further controls nozzle assembly 178 to perform the functions
described herein such as controlling when fluid F (shown in FIG.
2) is sprayed, controlling for what length of time fluid F is
- 25 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
sprayed, and/or other functions of nozzle assembly 178 described
herein. For example, control system 400 controls valve 182
using pulse width modulation as described herein.
[0047] Control system 400 includes processor 402 and
memory 404. As described above, processor 402 and memory 404
are configured to cause control system 400 to perform the
functions described herein. For example, memory 404 may include
programs, instructions, formulas, look up tables, databases,
and/or other information which, when executed or otherwise
utilized by processor 402, cause performance of the functions of
planter 112 and/or row unit 114 described herein.
[0048] User interface 406 is configured to receive
information from an operator and to provide information to the
operator. For example, and without limitation, user interface
406 includes input devices including a keyboard, mouse,
touchscreen, joystick(s), throttle(s), buttons, switches, and/or
other input devices. For example, and without limitation, user
interface includes output devices including a display (e.g., a
liquid crystal display (LCD), or an organic light emitting diode
(OLED) display), speakers, indicator lights, instruments, and/or
other output devices. Control system 400 uses information
stored in memory 404 to generate user interface display 300
(shown in FIG. 4) and to receive information from the operator
and display information to the operator.
[0049] Control system 400 is configured to receive
information from user interface 406 including fluid volume
information, seed volume information, main pressure information,
speed information, and distance from seed information. Fluid
volume information is information that control system 400 uses
to determine the volume of fluid F to be sprayed on or adjacent
- 26 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
to each seed, plant, or other target (e.g., using one or more of
the techniques described herein). For example, fluid volume
information includes a seed population in thousands of seeds per
acre, a number of rows to be sprayed, planter width in inches,
an application rate in gallons per acre, and/or other
information. Seed volume information is information that control
system 400 uses to determine the distance between seeds 146
(e.g., using one or more of the techniques described herein).
For example, seed volume information includes a seed population
in thousands of seeds per acre, a number of rows to be sprayed,
planter width in inches, and/or other information. Main
pressure information is information that describes, or is used
by control system 400 to determine, a pressure at which fluid F
is supplied to nozzle assembly 178 (shown in FIG. 2). For
example, main pressure information includes a pressure in pounds
per square inch of fluid F in manifold 236 (shown in FIG. 3)
that supplies nozzle assembly 178. Speed information is
information that describes the speed of row unit 114 and/or
planter 112. For example, speed information is a speed in miles
per hour. Distance from seed (e.g., offset) information is
information that specifies a distance between fluid F as applied
and seed 146. For example, distance from seed information is in
inches. Distance from seed or offset distance information is
used by control system 400 to determine the distance between
fluid F, as applied, and seed 146. Control system 400 may also
use this information to control valve assembly 178 to spray
fluid F such that fluid F, as applied, is offset from seed 146
by the specified distance (e.g., using one or more of the
techniques described herein).
[0050] Control system 400 is configured to display
information to an operator using user interface 406. The
- 27 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
information displayed includes fluid squirt length and fluid
position relative to at least one seed 146, plant or other
target. The information displayed may also include volume
information, main pressure information, speed information, and
distance from seed information. Control system 400 displays
fluid squirt length (e.g., fluid band length) and fluid offset
distance graphically (e.g., as depicted in user interface
display 300 shown in FIG. 4). Control system 400 calculates a
scale at which at least two seeds 146, the fluid band length,
and the offset distance may be displayed on a display of user
interface 406. Using this scale, control system 400 scales
graphics which represent the spray band length and the offset
length such that the graphics displayed by user interface 406
depicting this information are to scale. In alternative
embodiments, the scale is determined to allow for the display of
three seeds 146. The resulting display shows the distance
between seeds 146, the fluid band length, and the offset
distance at scale. This allows an operator to quickly and
easily determine the relationship between seeds 146 and fluid F
as will be applied given the current parameters of row unit 114
and/or planter 112. The operator may then alter one or more
parameters to achieve a desired application of fluid F relative
to seeds 146. For example, the operator may adjust a speed of
planter 112, a pressure of fluid F delivered to nozzle assembly
178, operation of valve 182 (e.g., timing, opening percentage,
and/or other parameters), change a spray nozzle 234, and/or
otherwise adjust other parameters of row unit 114 and/or planter
112.
[0051] In
one embodiment, control system 400 determines
the spray band length of fluid F, e.g., squirt length, using the
information received from user interface 406. Control system
- 28 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
400 determines a volume of fluid F to be applied per seed 146 by
calculating the quotient of the volume of fluid F per acre and
the number of seeds (e.g., population) per acre. Control system
400 calculates the time valve 182 (shown in FIG. 2) remains open
to dispense the volume of fluid F per seed 146 based on the main
pressure and the known geometry and/or other characteristics of
spray tip 234 of nozzle 180 (e.g., the area of the opening of
spray tip 234, length and friction loss of spray tip 234, and/or
other information). Control system 400 calculates the flow rate
of fluid through nozzle 180 using known relationships between
pressure and fluid flow rate, such as Bernoulli's equation, and
calculates the time that valve 182 remains open by dividing the
volume of fluid F per seed 146 by the flow rate. For example,
control system 400 calculates the velocity of fluid F through
nozzle 180 by taking the square root of the product of 2 and the
quotient of main pressure and the density of fluid F. Control
system 400 determines the flow rate of nozzle 180 by taking the
product of the velocity of fluid F through nozzle 180 and the
area of spray tip 234. Control system 400 determines the
duration of time during which fluid F is sprayed by calculating
the quotient of the volume of fluid F per seed 146 and the flow
rate of fluid F through nozzle 180. Control system 400
determines the spray band length of fluid F by taking the
product of the duration of time during which fluid F is sprayed
and the velocity, e.g., speed, of row unit 114 and/or planter
112. In alternative embodiments, control system 400 calculates
the spray band length using the area of nozzle 180 rather than
the area of spray tip 234.
[0052] In some embodiments, control system 400 further
applies a scaling factor to determine the spray band length.
For example, control system 400 determines an initial spray band
- 29 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
length using the technique described above. Control system 400
determines the spray band length of fluid F by taking the
product of the initial spray band length and the scaling factor.
The scaling factor modifies the initial spray band length to
account for factors such as a check valve included in valve
assembly 178 and/or spraying assembly 210, spray tip 234
included in valve assembly 178, and/or other factors. The
scaling factor may be selected based on specific equipment
parameters (e.g., identification by the operator of the type of
spray tip 234 using user interface 406). For example, and
without limitation, the scaling factor may be less than 1,
greater than 1, within a range from 0.5 to 2, or any other
suitable value. In some embodiments, the scaling factor is 1.3,
1.5, 1.7, or 2Ø
[0053] In some embodiments, control system 400 accounts
for a type of spray tip 234 and/or parameters describing the
spray pattern produced by spray tip 234 in determining the
velocity of fluid F, the spray band length, and/or the scaling
factor. For example, control system 400 uses information about
spray tip 234 received from user interface 406 and entered by an
operator (e.g., using page 601 shown in FIG. 7).
[0054] In alternative embodiments, other suitable
techniques are used to calculate or otherwise determine the
squirt length of fluid F. For example, control system 400 may
use a look up table and the received information to determine
the squirt length of fluid F.
[0055] Control system 400 also determines a distance
between seeds 146 in a single furrow 138 (shown in FIG. 2).
Control system 400 determines the distance between seeds based
on the population of seeds, number of rows, and the planter
- 30 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
width. For example, control system 400 determines the quotient
of the population of seeds and the number of rows (e.g.,
determined based on the planter width). The distance between
seeds 146, e.g., the seed spacing, is a function of seed
population and row spacing.
[0056] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary process 500 for
determining a spray band length of fluid F and determining a
position of the spray of fluid F relative to seed 146 (shown in
FIG. 2), e.g., the offset distance between seed 146 and the
coverage of fluid F on the ground. Control system 400 (shown in
FIG. 5) receives 502 volume information (e.g., fluid volume
information and/or seed volume information) from user interface
406 (shown in FIG. 5). Volume information is information that
control system 400 uses to determine the volume of fluid F to be
sprayed on or adjacent to each seed, plant, or other target
(e.g., using one or more of the techniques described herein).
Volume information is also information that control system 400
uses to determine the distance between seeds 146 (e.g., using
one or more of the techniques described herein). For example,
volume information includes a seed population in thousands of
seeds per acre, a number of rows to be sprayed, planter width in
inches, an application rate in gallons per acre, and/or other
information. Control system 400 receives 504 main pressure
information from user interface 406. Main pressure information
is information that describes, or is used by control system 400
to determine, a pressure at which fluid F is supplied to nozzle
assembly 178 (shown in FIG. 2). For example, main pressure
information includes a pressure in pounds per square inch of
fluid F in manifold 236 (shown in FIG. 3) that supplies nozzle
assembly 178. Control system 400 receives 506 speed information
from user interface 406. Speed information is information that
- 31 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
describes the speed of row unit 114 and/or planter 112. For
example, speed information is a speed in miles per hour.
Control system 400 receives 508 a distance of fluid F from seed
146 (e.g., an offset distance). This offset distance is used by
control system 400 to determine the distance between fluid F, as
applied, and seed 146. Control system 400 may also use this
information to control valve assembly 178 to spray fluid F such
that fluid F, as applied, is offset from seed 146 by the
specified distance (e.g., using one or more of the techniques
described herein).
[0057] Based on at least the volume information, main
pressure information, and speed information, control system 400
calculates 510, or otherwise determines, a fluid squirt length
of fluid F (e.g., the length of fluid F as applied to the
ground). Control system 400 uses one or more of the techniques
described herein to determine the squirt length. For example,
control system 400 determines a volume of fluid F to be applied
per seed 146 by calculating the quotient of the volume of fluid
F per acre and the number of seeds (e.g., population) per acre.
Control system 400 calculates the time valve 182 (shown in FIG.
2) remains open to dispense the volume of fluid F per seed 146
based on the volume of fluid F per seed, the main pressure, and
the known geometry and/or other characteristics of spray tip 234
or nozzle 180 (e.g., the area of the opening of spray tip 234,
length and friction loss of spray tip 234, and/or other
information). Control system 400 then calculates the spray band
length (e.g., squirt length) based on the time valve 182 remains
open and the speed information (e.g., velocity of row unit 114
and/or planter 112).
- 32 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
[0058] Control system 400 displays 512 the fluid squirt
length and fluid position relative to at least one seed 146,
plant or other target using user interface 406. The fluid
position relative to seed 146 (e.g., offset distance) is
determined by control system 400 using the input of distance of
fluid F from seed 146 and the fluid squirt length. In some
embodiments, control system 400 displays the fluid squirt length
and offset distance relative to a plurality of seeds 146. The
distance between seeds 146 is determined, as described herein,
based on the volume information received from user interface
406. In some embodiments, control system 400 displays the fluid
squirt length and offset distance at scale. This allows an
operator to visually determine the relationship between multiple
seeds 146 and fluid F as applied to seeds 146.
[0059] Referring now to FIG. 7, user interface display
300 (shown in FIG. 4) includes page 601 for receiving tip
calibration information and/or performing a tip calibration of
spray tip 234 (shown in FIG. 3). An operator may navigate to
page 601 using system toolbar 336 and/or navigation toolbar 334.
[0060] Page 601 includes a plurality of fields 602, 604,
606, 608, and 610. Page 601 further includes status graphic 612
and start/stop buttons 614. Tip size field 602 receives
information from an operator which identifies the size of spray
tip 234. For example, tip size field 602 receives a tip size in
dimensionless units. The tip size may be an industry standard
describing spray tip 234 and/or otherwise describes the tip size
of spray tip 234. Catch volume field 604 receives information
from an operator which identifies a catch volume associated with
spray tip 234. For example, the catch volume may correspond to
a single spray from spray tip 234 in ounces. Estimated pulses
- 33 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
field 606 is not editable. Estimated pulses field 606 displays
estimated pulses which are a catch volume and/or volume per seed
146. For example, 0 to 1 ounces, .01 to .1 ounces, greater than
one ounce, 0.01 ounces, 0.02 ounces, 0.03 ounces, 0.04 ounces,
0.1 ounces, or any other amount of fluid F may be applied per
seed 146. The estimated pulses field 606 value is determined,
by control system 400 (shown in FIG. 5), based at least on the
tip size and catch volume (e.g., known catch volume or a catch
volume determined by calibration as described below). It may
also be determined using population, application rate, pressure
set point, and/or target speed information (e.g., entered in and
carried over from page 301 shown in FIG. 4).
[0061] Captured volume field 608 allows an operator to
calibrate a specific spray tip 234. For example, captured
volume field allows an operator to enter a captured volume
amount in ounces corresponding to a spray from spray tip 234.
The spray is initiated using start/stop buttons 614 which cause
nozzle assembly 178 (shown in FIG. 2) to spray one spray of
fluid F from spray tip 234. Status field 612 displays whether
or not nozzle assembly 178 is spraying. System pressure field
616 shows the pressure of nozzle assembly 178 in pounds per
square inch. This is the pressure for which spray tip 234 is
calibrated. Based on the captured volume, system pressure,
and/or other information, control system 400 determines a new
calibration percentage shown in product calibration field 610.
Product calibration field 610 may also allow an operator to
manually enter a calibration percentage. Control system 400
uses the calibration percentage in determining other parameters
related to nozzle assembly 178, row unit 114, and/or planter 112
(e.g., as discussed with reference to FIG. 5). In alternative
embodiments, tip calibration as described herein uses more than
- 34 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
one spray or pulse of fluid F from spray tip 234. For example,
start/stop buttons 614 initiate a predetermined number of a
plurality of sprays/pulses from spray tip 234. Using the number
of sprays/pulses and the total captured volume, spray tip 234 is
calibrated using a plurality of sprays/pulses.
[0062] In alternative embodiments, some information is
measured, received from other systems, or determined. For
example, main pressure information may be measured using one or
more pressure sensors. Speed information may be measured,
received from another control system or a subsystem of control
system 400 of planter 112, or determined from other information.
[0063] Although seed planting and agricultural spraying
system 112 is described herein with reference to spraying seeds
146, planter 112 may generally be utilized to spray any suitable
type of plant and/or plant precursor, such as seeds, seedlings,
transplants, encapsulated tissue cultures and/or any other
suitable plant precursors. In some embodiments, planter 112 may
not plant seed 146 and/or may not be configured to plant seeds
146, and instead may be configured to spray fluid F on and/or
adjacent to existing seeds, plants, or other targets.
[0064] Embodiments of the methods and systems described
may more efficiently apply fluids to surfaces compared to prior
methods and systems. For example, the systems and methods
described provide for determination of a spray band length and
offset distance relative to a target. Moreover, the system
facilitates conveyance of this information to an operator
through use of a user interface system.
[0065] Some embodiments involve the use of one or more
electronic or computing devices. Such devices typically include
- 35 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
a processor, processing device, or controller, such as a general
purpose central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing
unit (GPU), a microcontroller, a reduced instruction set
computer (RISC) processor, an application specific integrated
circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic circuit (PLC), a field
programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processing
(DSP) device, and/or any other circuit or processing device
capable of executing the functions described herein. The
methods described herein may be encoded as executable
instructions embodied in a computer readable medium, including,
without limitation, a storage device and/or a memory device.
Such instructions, when executed by a processing device, cause
the processing device to perform at least a portion of the
methods described herein. The above examples are exemplary
only, and thus are not intended to limit in any way the
definition and/or meaning of the term processor and processing
device.
[0066] When introducing elements of the present
invention or the preferred embodiment(s) thereof, the articles
"a", "an", "the" and "the" are intended to mean that there are
one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising",
"including" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean
that there may be additional elements other than the listed
elements. Moreover, the use of "top", "bottom", "above",
"below" and variations of these terms is made for convenience,
and does not require any particular orientation of the
components.
[0067] As various changes could be made in the above
without departing from the scope of the invention, it is
intended that all matter contained in the above description and
- 36 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as
illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
- 37 -
Date recue/Date received 2023-04-28
