A computer implemented method includes collecting as-applied data of a first agricultural implement and associated first machine that is traversing a first region of an agricultural field and performing an agricultural operation on the agricultural field, displaying on a display device data including one or more of the as-applied data and data metrics based on user input, receiving data from a second agricultural implement and associated second machine that is traversing a second region of the agricultural field and performing the agricultural operation, and displaying on the display device a graphical representation of the second agricultural implement and associated second machine along with the data including one or more of as-applied data, data metrics, and an event of the second agricultural implement and associated second machine in order to monitor an operating mode of the second agricultural implement and associated second machine.
G06Q 90/00 - Systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial or supervisory purposes, not involving significant data processing
3.
METHOD AND SPRAYER SYSTEM FOR CALIBRATING DOSING VALVES FOR FLUID INJECTION
A method of calibrating dosing valves of a sprayer system of an agricultural implement comprises initiating calibration by filling a calibrating tube with fluid having a fluid from an auxiliary tank of the sprayer system, measuring a volume of the fluid filled into the calibration tube, pumping the fluid in the calibration tube to the dosing valves to calibrate the dosing valves with respect to flow characteristics of the fluid with the dosing valves being capable of a high fluid flow rate to a low fluid flow rate ratio of at least 100:1 for the fluid. The method also includes pumping, during a pump from concentration tank mode, the fluid in the concentration tank to the dosing valves and then to a mixing apparatus with the fluid to be mixed with a carrier fluid from a primary tank of the sprayer system.
A01M 7/00 - Special adaptations or arrangements of liquid-spraying apparatus for purposes covered by this subclass
A01C 23/00 - Distributing devices specially adapted for liquid manure or other fertilising liquid, including ammonia, e.g. transport tanks or sprinkling wagons
A01C 23/04 - Distributing under pressureDistributing mudAdaptation of watering systems for fertilising-liquids
B05B 12/08 - Arrangements for controlling deliveryArrangements for controlling the spray area responsive to condition of liquid or other fluent material discharged, of ambient medium or of target
A soil analysis apparatus may comprise a vehicle, at least one control-logic processor, a sensor housing, and a Laser-induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) sensor. The LIBS sensor may be contained, at least in part, in the sensor housing. The vehicle may be configured to traverse an agricultural field. The LIBS sensor may be in connection to the vehicle and in communication with the control-logic processor. The LIBS sensor may comprise a laser source, a spectrometer, and at least one light collecting element. The laser source and/or the spectrometer may be in non-contacting proximity with the soil. The LIBS sensor may be configured to traverse a surface of the agricultural field via the connection to the vehicle. The LIBS sensor may be configured to conduct in situ soil analysis of the agricultural field during the traverse of the surface of the agricultural field.
G01N 21/62 - Systems in which the material investigated is excited whereby it emits light or causes a change in wavelength of the incident light
G01N 21/71 - Systems in which the material investigated is excited whereby it emits light or causes a change in wavelength of the incident light thermally excited
An automated computer-controlled sampling system and related methods for collecting, processing, and analyzing agricultural samples for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The sampling system allows multiple samples to be processed and analyzed for different analytes or chemical properties in a simultaneous concurrent or semi-concurrent manner. Advantageously, the system can process soil samples in the “as collected” condition without drying or grinding. The system generally includes a sample preparation sub-system which receives soil samples collected by a probe collection sub-system and produces a slurry (e.g., mixture of soil, vegetation, and/or manure and water), and a chemical analysis sub-system which processes the prepared slurry samples for quantifying multiple analytes and/or chemical properties of the sample. The preparation sub-system may comprise a slurry recirculation flow loop configured with devices to stir, measure, and adjust a water to solids ratio of the slurry.
B01F 25/53 - Circulation mixers, e.g. wherein at least part of the mixture is discharged from and reintroduced into a receptacle in which the mixture is discharged from and reintroduced into a receptacle through a recirculation tube, into which an additional component is introduced
B01F 25/52 - Circulation mixers, e.g. wherein at least part of the mixture is discharged from and reintroduced into a receptacle with a rotary stirrer in the recirculation tube
B01F 25/54 - Circulation mixers, e.g. wherein at least part of the mixture is discharged from and reintroduced into a receptacle provided with a pump inside the receptacle to recirculate the material within the receptacle
G05D 11/13 - Controlling ratio of two or more flows of fluid or fluent material characterised by the use of electric means
Systems and methods are provided for monitoring crop loss associated with a header arrangement operably couplable to an agricultural harvesting machine. One or more transceiver sensors are coupleable, in use, to the header arrangement and configured, in use, for transmitting measurement signals and receiving reflections thereof from an object within a sensing region of the sensor which at least partly includes a region below the header arrangement. Sensor data therefrom is processed to identify crop constituents present within the sensing region and a loss metric for an agricultural operation performed by the header arrangement is determined in dependence thereon. Operation of operable components of or otherwise associated with the header arrangement and/or the agricultural harvesting machine can be controlled in dependence on the determined loss metric.
In one embodiment, a method includes in response to an input to initiate a continuous process for scouting, obtaining image data from one or more sensors of a device, analyzing one or more input images from the image data, generating a grid of two dimensional (2D) reference points that are projected onto a ground plane to create a matching set of three dimensional (3D) anchor points, and their positions in a 3D space of the agricultural field using augmented reality (AR), providing the one or more input images, tracking grid, and the positions in the 3D space of the agricultural field to a machine learning (ML) model having a convolutional neural network (CNN), and generating inference results with the ML model including an array of detected objects and selecting most likely inferred plant locations and classifications for the array of detected objects.
G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
G06V 10/764 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using classification, e.g. of video objects
G06V 10/82 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using neural networks
G06V 20/20 - ScenesScene-specific elements in augmented reality scenes
Systems and methods are provided for monitoring crop loss associated with a header arrangement operably couplable to an agricultural harvesting machine. A sensor response is received from a sensing element of a sensor arrangement provided as part of or otherwise associated with a sample unit, the sensor response being dependent on material constituents present within the sample unit, and where the sample unit is operably coupled to one or more functional components of the header arrangement. A measure of crop constituents provided by the sample unit is determined based on the sensor response and used to determine a loss metric for an agricultural operation performed by the header arrangement. Operation of one or more operable components of or otherwise associated with the header arrangement and/or the agricultural harvesting machine is then controlled in dependence on the determined loss metric.
An agricultural slurry analysis system includes a grinder configured to combine agricultural sample solid with a diluent to form a sample slurry and stirring device configured to stir the slurry. The grinder is fluidly coupled to the stirring device via a flow conduit which is sloped at an angle to a horizontal reference plane which is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to 90 degrees. A velocity and associated flow rate of the slurry is maintained through the flow conduit to prevent solid particles s in the slurry from dropping out of suspension. The flowrate/velocity is selected with a corresponding slope of the flow conduit to maintain the solid particles in suspension. An appropriate relationship between slope and flow velocity/flow rate may be applied to flow conduits routed between other fluidic devices in the system which convey sample slurry.
A device for processing an agricultural sample slurry includes a housing defining an internal cavity configured to receive an agricultural sample slurry and a level sensor supported by the housing. The sensor may be a non-contact type level sensor having an exposed face and a line of sight into the internal cavity for obtaining slurry level measurements. A sensor cleaning apparatus comprises a selectively movable cleaning head including one or more cleaning elements configured to slideably engage and wipe across the face of the level sensor to remove fouling and debris from the slurry, thereby ensuring accurate slurry level measurements. An actuator of the apparatus translates the cleaning head between projected and retracted positions during the sensor cleaning operation. In one embodiment, the sensor is an ultrasonic level sensor. The device may be a slurry stirring/mixing apparatus with rotary agitator.
A sample unloading system for unloading a core of sample material from a tubular sample container includes an enclosure with inner chamber, a sample loading port to insert the container into the chamber, and a sample unloading port configured to discharge the sample from the chamber when unloaded from the container. A carriage rotatably disposed in the inner chamber receives and releasably retains the sample container. The carriage is rotatable between a first position to receive the container from the loading port, and a second position in which the sample container is held by the carriage in an inverted upright position aligned with the unloading port. A fluidic knife includes a fluid jet nozzle which emits a timed burst of high pressurized fluid into the chamber to sever and separate the sample core from the container which falls through the unloading port. A programmable controller automatically controls the process.
(1) Parts and accessories for agricultural machines, namely, a liquid and granular fertilizer control system comprised of an electronic control module connected to a valve, pump or motor for controlling the amount of liquid or granular fertilizer applied to a field.
Parts and accessories for agricultural machines, namely, a liquid and granular fertilizer control system comprised of an electronic control module connected to a valve, pump or motor for controlling the amount of liquid or granular fertilizer applied to a field.
A microfluidic manifold for processing an agricultural sample fluid having: a micropump codefined between a liquid layer and an air layer of the manifold, the micropump having a pump chamber collectively formed by an air-side recess in the air layer and a liquid-side recess in the liquid layer, and a resiliently deformable diaphragm separating the air-side and liquid-side recesses; wherein the liquid-side recess comprises a plurality of anti-stall grooves recessed into the liquid layer.
An agricultural sample packaging apparatus includes a grinder configured to receive and grind an agricultural sample material, a compactor comprising a feed tube configured to receive ground sample material from the grinder and a plunger linearly movable into and out of the feed tube, a rotatable carousel configured to removably hold a sample container, a sample container magazine configured to hold a plurality of sample containers, and an actuator connected to the sample container magazine. The carousel is operable to rotate the sample container beneath the feed tube. The magazine includes a container feed mechanism configured to rotate horizontally positioned sample containers to a vertical position for insertion into the carousel. The actuator has a ram that can be removably inserted and removed from a passageway in the magazine. An RFID reader/writer positioned under the feed tube to read/write data associated with an RFID tag on the sample container.
B65B 43/50 - Feeding or positioning bags, boxes, or cartons in the distended, opened, or set-up stateFeeding preformed rigid containers, e.g. tins, capsules, glass tubes, glasses, to the packaging positionLocating containers or receptacles at the filling positionSupporting containers or receptacles during the filling operation using rotary tables or turrets
B65B 1/04 - Methods of, or means for, filling the material into the containers or receptacles
B65B 1/24 - Reducing volume of filled material by mechanical compression
B65B 29/00 - Packaging of materials presenting special problems
B65B 43/44 - Feeding or positioning bags, boxes, or cartons in the distended, opened, or set-up stateFeeding preformed rigid containers, e.g. tins, capsules, glass tubes, glasses, to the packaging positionLocating containers or receptacles at the filling positionSupporting containers or receptacles during the filling operation from supply magazines
B65B 61/26 - Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for marking or coding completed packages
B65D 8/00 - Containers having a curved cross-section formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of metal, plastics, wood or substitutes therefor
B65B 7/28 - Closing semi-rigid or rigid containers or receptacles not deformed by, or not taking-up shape of, contents, e.g. boxes or cartons by applying separate preformed closures, e.g. lids, covers
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Downloadable software for featuring software for managing a mixed fleet of farming vehicles to provide interconnectivity and data sharing among the vehicles; Downloadable software in the nature of a mobile application for featuring software for managing a mixed fleet of farming vehicles to provide interconnectivity and data sharing among the vehicles Software as a service (SAAS) services featuring software for reviewing and analyzing agricultural data collected from a mixed fleet of farming vehicles
A seed orientation system for an agricultural planter includes a row unit having an opener configured to open a seed furrow in a soil surface as the agricultural planter advances in a forward direction of travel through a field; a seed meter configured to discharge singulated seeds; and a curved pathway configured to receive the singulated seeds from the seed meter, the curved pathway including: a seed riding surface configured to engage a face of the seed; and a seed guide wall that adjoins to said seed riding surface and is configured to engage a side of the seed when the seed is traversing said curved pathway along said seed riding surface.
A seed-delivery device (126) includes a seed meter (128) having a metering disc (202) configured to receive seeds, a seed tube (130) coupled to the seed meter and having a helical channel (304) formed in a wall thereof, an insert (302) within the seed tube, and a drive mechanism (132) configured to rotate the insert. A row unit (100) and method of planting with such seed-delivery device are also disclosed.
A computer-implemented method includes receiving (204), with a graphical user interface, a user input for selecting a parameter for an agricultural data layer having as-applied data being collected from an implement (140, 1240) or agricultural vehicle during one or more application passes in a field (302), determining (206) data values of as-applied data of the agricultural data layer for the selected parameter for a first region of the field having a first application pass (320, 420) for a field view, and determining (206) data values of combined as-applied data of the agricultural data layer for the selected parameter for a second region (350, 450) of the field having two or more application passes for the field view with data values for the first application pass (320, 420) and data values for a second application pass (330, 430) being summed for the second region of the field.
A planter row unit (100) comprising: a frame (110); an opening system (160) for opening a trench disposed on the frame (110); a gauge wheel system (170) for adjusting the depth of the opening system (160), wherein the gauge wheel system (170) comprises a first gauge wheel arm (172-1), a first gauge wheel (171-1) connected to the first gauge wheel arm (172-1), a second gauge wheel arm (172-2), and a second gauge wheel (171-2) connected to the second gauge wheel arm (172-2); a closing system (250) connected to the frame (110) through a connection bracket (1540), wherein the connection bracket (1540) comprises a first bolt (1541) disposed closer to the opening system (160) than a second bolt (1542), and a nut (1543) with an eccentric (1544) disposed about the second bolt (1542) for adjusting a relative position of the closing system (250) with the opening system (160).
An automated computer-controlled sampling system and related methods for collecting, processing, and analyzing agricultural samples for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The sampling system allows multiple samples to be processed and analyzed for different analytes or chemical properties in a simultaneous concurrent or semi-concurrent manner. Advantageously, the system can process soil samples in the “as collected” condition without drying or grinding. The system generally includes a sample preparation sub-system which receives soil samples collected by a probe collection sub-system and produces a slurry (i.e. mixture of soil, vegetation, and/or manure and water), and a chemical analysis sub-system which processes the prepared slurry samples for quantifying multiple analytes and/or chemical properties of the sample. The sample preparation and chemical analysis sub-systems can be used to analyze soil, vegetation, and/or manure samples.
A seed metering and delivery apparatus (705, 751, 773, 775, 777, 803, 903, 1003, 1103, 1203), comprising: a seed meter (128, 707) comprising a seed meter disc (709, 714) rotatable about a seed meter disc axis (711), the seed meter disc (709, 714) comprising at least a front face (713) configured to move one or more seeds (1387) at a first seed meter disc (709, 714) speed along a seed supply path (715) to a removal location (717); and a delivery system (723), comprising: a seed belt (735, 935, 1439) configured to traverse a seed delivery path (737) around a first seed belt wheel (725, 727) and a second seed belt wheel (731), the seed belt (735, 935, 1439) having at least an active surface (1309) which supports the one or more seeds (1387) and a wheel surface (292, 210, 212, 1305, 1307, 1309, 1313, 1315, 1317), the first seed belt wheel (725, 727) positioned adjacent the front face (713) of the seed meter disc (709, 714) such that at least some of the active surface (1309) at least partially crosses the seed supply path (715) at the removal location (717); and a seed belt housing (739) positioned to at least partially cover at least a portion of the seed delivery path (737) opposite the active surface (1309) of the seed belt (735, 935, 1439), the seed belt housing (739) comprising at least an exterior surface (1305) and an interior surface (1307), the interior surface (1307) arranged opposite the active surface (1309) of the seed belt (735, 935, 1439) forming a pocket space (1311) between the active surface (1309) of the seed belt (735, 935, 1439) and the interior surface (1307).
A seed metering and delivery apparatus including: a seed meter (128) comprising a seed meter disc (129) rotatable about a seed meter disc axis (RA1), the seed meter disc (129) comprising at least a front face (129-3), the seed meter disc (129) configured to move one or more seeds at a first seed meter disc speed along a seed path configured on at least the front face (129-3) to a removal location; and a preparation system having at least one housing, the at least one housing having: at least one of: a delivery wheel (401) rotatable about a delivery wheel axis (RA2), or an air source. The seed metering and delivery apparatus can orient seeds for placement in a seed trench.
A method of extracting calcium ions from soil including: mixing soil with a solvent to produce a soil slurry; mixing the soil slurry with ammonium acetate to produce an extracted sample; filtering the extracted sample to produce a first filtrate; mixing the first filtrate with a precipitation reagent to produce precipitated calcium oxalate and a liquid solution; and separating the calcium oxalate from the liquid solution; wherein the precipitation reagent comprises from about 0.15 to about 0.35 M of an oxalate salt dissolved in a buffer having a pH from about 7.1 or more. Also, a system and a kit using the method.
G01N 31/02 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroupsApparatus specially adapted for such methods using precipitation
G01N 31/22 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroupsApparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
A method for quantifying the magnesium ion amount in a soil sample, the method including: extracting calcium ions from a soil sample to produce a soil sample substantially free of calcium: mixing the substantially free calcium soil sample with ethylene glycol-bis(β-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid tetrasodium salt (EGTA) to produce a first sample; mixing the first sample with an indicator reagent to produce a second sample; and determining the magnesium ion amount of the second sample; wherein the indicator reagent comprises o-cresolphthalein complexone (OCPC) and tetrabutyl ammonium hydroxide (TBAH). Also, a system and a kit using the method.
G01N 21/31 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry
G01N 31/02 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroupsApparatus specially adapted for such methods using precipitation
G01N 31/22 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroupsApparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
30.
LIQUID DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS, CROP SPRAYERS, AND RELATED METHODS
A liquid distribution system of a crop sprayer includes a product tank configured to contain a liquid, a pump in fluid communication with the product tank, at least one nozzle carried by a boom and configured to receive the liquid from the pump through a supply line, a recirculation line connecting the at least one nozzle to the product tank, and a manifold between the supply line and the recirculation line, the manifold comprising a flow control valve comprising one of a three-way valve or a four-way valve, the flow control valve in fluid communication with the supply line and a fluid line configured to receive the liquid from the flow control valve during a spraying operation or from the at least one nozzle during a recirculation operation. Related crop sprayers and methods are also disclosed.
Aspects generally relate to systems, apparatuses, and methods for calibrating an infrared light reflectance system. Additional aspects relate to liquid compositions adapted for the calibration of an infrared light reflectance sensing system. In accordance with one aspect, a method is provided for calibrating an infrared reflectance device using a liquid composition. The method typically includes providing a composition comprising a plurality of particles and a liquid carrier; emitting an infrared light at the composition using a light source to produce a reflected light; and sensing the reflected light from the composition using a sensor.
G01N 21/27 - ColourSpectral properties, i.e. comparison of effect of material on the light at two or more different wavelengths or wavelength bands using photo-electric detection
G01N 21/3577 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing liquids, e.g. polluted water
32.
System for Agricultural Sample Slurry Analysis and Related Methods
A system for analyzing an agricultural sample in one embodiment includes a stir chamber and a controller. The stir chamber has a housing which defines an internal cavity configured to receive an agricultural sample. A longitudinal axis extends along the internal cavity from a bottom end to a top end. First and second sensors are fluidly coupled to the internal cavity and located at first and second locations with respect to the longitudinal axis. The controller receives a plurality of signals from the first and second sensors and uses at least one of the plurality of signals to compute a density of the sample within a first region of the internal cavity located between the first and second sensors.
G01N 9/26 - Investigating density or specific gravity of materialsAnalysing materials by determining density or specific gravity by measuring pressure differences
G01N 9/36 - Analysing materials by measuring the density or specific gravity, e.g. determining quantity of moisture
33.
Agricultural Sample Slurry Preparation System and Related Methods
A grinder-filter apparatus for preparing an agricultural sample slurry in one embodiment includes a housing defining a grinding chamber, a rotatable paddle disposed in the chamber, a peripheral grinding ring fixedly mounted in the chamber, and a perforated baseplate inside the grinding ring. The grinding ring includes vertically elongated slots each having portions extending above and below the baseplate. The paddle may be formed of a resiliently deformable material. The rotating paddle mixes water and the sample material which may be soil in one embodiment to form the slurry, and forces the slurry into the slots which is deposited in a collection chamber beneath the baseplate. The slots filter out soil particles exceeding a predetermined maximum size as the slurry flows through the slots to the collection chamber. The grinding chamber includes an openable waste door to flush debris out of the chamber between preparing batches of slurry.
Method for uncapping and emptying a sample tube, preferably containing a soil sample, using a machine to uncap and rotate the sample tube into an inverted position and thereafter eject the contents of the sample tube, the sample tube preferably having a top cap and a bottom cap. The ejection step may involve the use of a piston-plunger that pushes out the bottom push cap from the tube.
A sample unloading system comprising: a sample staging rack comprising at least one inclined feed ramp configured for receiving an elongated sample tube configured for holding the sample, the sample tube including a first end cap and a second end cap; an unloading apparatus coupled to the staging rack, the unloading apparatus configured to receive the sample tube from the staging rack; and a transfer mechanism operable to transfer the sample tube from the staging rack to the unloading apparatus.
An agricultural row unit (10) having a frame (16); an opening unit (18) connected to the frame (16) for opening a trench as the row unit (10) moves in a direction of travel; a positive pressure seed meter (13) disposed on the row unit (10); a conduit (14) connected to an outlet of the positive pressure seed meter (13); and a seed orientation device (30) in fluid communication with the conduit (14).
A method of maintaining seed spacing including: forming a trench (899); depositing a foam (889) into the trench; and depositing seed (879) from a seed tube (28) or seed conveyor (200) into the foam in the trench, wherein the foam prevents movement of the seed in the trench so that the seed maintains spacing between seeds.
A seed boot (700) having a leading edge (701): a channel (702) for transporting seed opposite the leading edge (701), wherein the channel (702) has a first end (703) and a second end (704), and further comprising a channel exit (705) at the second end (704): a wedge (707) for forming a trench disposed at a bottom of the seed boot (700)), wherein the wedge (707) extends from the leading edge (701) and terminates before the channel exit (705).
A sample unloading system comprising: a sample staging rack comprising at least one inclined feed ramp configured for receiving an elongated sample tube configured for holding the sample, the sample tube including a first end cap and a second end cap; an unloading apparatus coupled to the staging rack, the unloading apparatus configured to receive the sample tube from the staging rack; and a transfer mechanism operable to transfer the sample tube from the staging rack to the unloading apparatus. Method for unloading a sample container.
A seeding system having a seed meter: a conduit for receiving seeds released from the seed meter at a first end of the conduit; a gas source connected to the conduit proximate the first end for accelerating seed in the gas; and a seed orientation coil assembly connected to the second end to receive the accelerated seed.
A cable splice assembly with an electrical cable that runs along a width of a toolbar that services row units. The cable has an insulative jacket that surrounds and electrically isolates a plurality of conductors. The cable splice assembly has a row unit wiring tail having a plurality of wires and a splice clamp at one end row unit wiring tail that connects the row unit wiring tail to the cable. The splice clamp has a clamp housing that forms a channel shaped to receive the cable and has a plurality of conductive blade-shaped conductors configured to cut through the jacket and into the conductors. A keying mechanism ensures that there is only one way that the cable can be received in the splice clamp when the splice clamp housing is in the closed condition.
Systems, methods and apparatus for imaging and characterizing a soil surface and a trench in the soil surface formed by an agricultural implement. The sensors are disposed on the agricultural implement in data communication with a processor to generate the soil surface and trench images which may be displayed to the operator. In one embodiment, the sensors include one or more time of flight cameras for determining a depth of the trench and other characteristics of the surrounding soil surface and the trench, including detection of seeds, soil or other debris in the trench and moisture lines within the trench. The system may control operating parameters of the implement based on the generated images.
A01B 63/16 - Lifting or adjusting devices or arrangements for agricultural machines or implements for implements drawn by animals or tractors with wheels adjustable relatively to the frame
A01B 35/16 - Other machines for working soil with rotating or circulating non-propelled tools
A01C 5/06 - Machines for making or covering drills or furrows for sowing or planting
Systems, apparatuses, and methods for calibrating an agricultural analysis system are disclosed herein. In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, provided is a method for utilizing an instrument adapted for analyzing an agricultural sample, the method comprising continuously providing (e.g., delivering) a calibration stream to the instrument adapted for analyzing an agricultural sample, the calibration stream having a composition that changes over a period of time.
G01N 1/38 - Diluting, dispersing or mixing samples
G01N 21/73 - Systems in which the material investigated is excited whereby it emits light or causes a change in wavelength of the incident light thermally excited using plasma burners or torches
An agricultural sample processing-analysis system includes an analysis apparatus comprising at least one hybrid pump (M1-M4), a plasma torch device (200), and spectrometer (300). The hybrid pump (M1-M4) includes a deformable diaphragm (144) coupled to a pumping cavity (112) formed in the pump body (110). A syringe pump (115) operates the diaphragm (144) and is integrated directly into the pump body (110) within an internal pump bore (116). The syringe pump (115) when actuated displaces pilot fluid which deforms the diaphragm (144) to pump a process fluid such as a sample fluid to the plasma torch (201) where it is ignited to form a plasma. The spectrometer (300) captures spectra data from the plasma and quantifies the concentration of an analyte of agricultural interest in the sample fluid, such as plant nutrients. Additional hybrid pumps used to process the sample fluid and calibrate the spectrometer (300) may be physically and fluidly coupled together in a flow network to collectively form a self-supported housing (501).
G01N 21/73 - Systems in which the material investigated is excited whereby it emits light or causes a change in wavelength of the incident light thermally excited using plasma burners or torches
F04B 13/00 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities
F04B 13/02 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities of two or more fluids at the same time
F04B 15/02 - Pumps adapted to handle specific fluids, e.g. by selection of specific materials for pumps or pump parts the fluids being viscous or non-homogeneous
F04B 43/067 - Pumps having fluid drive the fluid being actuated directly by a piston
F04B 53/02 - Packing the free space between cylinders and pistons
G01N 21/15 - Preventing contamination of the components of the optical system or obstruction of the light path
46.
SAMPLE ANALYSIS APPARATUSES COMPRISING A PLASMA TORCH DEVICE
A sample analysis apparatus comprises a plasma torch device (200), which includes a plasma chamber (202) and a plasma torch (201) disposed at least partially in the plasma chamber (202), wherein the plasma torch (201) is configured to connect to an electric power source. The sample analysis apparatus further includes a spectrometer (300) having a line of sight into the plasma chamber (202), which is operable to detect an analyte of interest in the sample fluid when the sample fluid discharged by the plasma torch (201) is vaporized to form a plasma via energizing the plasma torch (201). The spectrometer (300) may capture spectra data from the plasma and quantify the concentration of an analyte of agricultural interest in the sample fluid, such as plant nutrients.
G01N 21/73 - Systems in which the material investigated is excited whereby it emits light or causes a change in wavelength of the incident light thermally excited using plasma burners or torches
F04B 13/00 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities
F04B 13/02 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities of two or more fluids at the same time
F04B 15/02 - Pumps adapted to handle specific fluids, e.g. by selection of specific materials for pumps or pump parts the fluids being viscous or non-homogeneous
F04B 43/067 - Pumps having fluid drive the fluid being actuated directly by a piston
F04B 53/02 - Packing the free space between cylinders and pistons
G01N 21/15 - Preventing contamination of the components of the optical system or obstruction of the light path
47.
AGRICULTURAL SAMPLE PROCESSING AND ANALYSIS SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS
An agricultural sample processing-analysis system includes an analysis apparatus comprising at least one hybrid pump, a plasma torch device, and spectrometer. The hybrid pump includes a deformable diaphragm coupled to a pumping cavity formed in the pump body. A syringe pump operates the diaphragm and is integrated directly into the pump body within an internal pump bore. The syringe pump when actuated displaces pilot fluid which deforms the diaphragm to pump a process fluid such as a sample fluid to the plasma torch where it is ignited to form a plasma. The spectrometer captures spectra data from the plasma and quantifies the concentration of an analyte of agricultural interest in the sample fluid, such as plant nutrients. Additional hybrid pumps used to process the sample fluid and calibrate the spectrometer may be physically and fluidly coupled together in a flow network to collectively form a self-supported housing.
F04B 43/067 - Pumps having fluid drive the fluid being actuated directly by a piston
F04B 53/02 - Packing the free space between cylinders and pistons
F04B 13/00 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities
F04B 13/02 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities of two or more fluids at the same time
F04B 15/02 - Pumps adapted to handle specific fluids, e.g. by selection of specific materials for pumps or pump parts the fluids being viscous or non-homogeneous
F25B 43/04 - Arrangements for separating or purifying gases or liquidsArrangements for vaporising the residuum of liquid refrigerant, e.g. by heat for withdrawing non-condensible gases
The invention relates to a sample analysis system with lens defogging apparatus. The system comprises a plasma torch device (200) comprising a body defining a plasma chamber (202) and a plasma torch (201) supported by the body in the plasma chamber (202). The plasma torch (201) is electrically coupled to a power source and operable to form a plasma in the plasma chamber (202) from a sample fluid when energized. The system further comprises a spectrometer (300) configured to analyze the plasma to measure an analyte of interest in the sample fluid via light emitted by the plasma. The spectrometer (300) includes a light collection tube (301) in visual communication with the plasma chamber (202), the light collection tube (301) including a proximal end and a distal end equipped with a lens (302) configured to collect light emitted by the plasma. The light collection tube (301) is at least partially inserted into the central passageway (616) of a gas shroud (610), such that the distal end of the light collection tube (301) with the lens (302) is at least partially enclosed by the gas shroud (610). The distal end (612) of the gas shroud (610) includes a gas inlet port (618) fluidly coupled to a pressurized gas source and a gas outlet port (619) and is configured to discharge a stream of gas across an exposed surface of the lens (302) to at least minimize fogging of the lens (302).
G01N 21/73 - Systems in which the material investigated is excited whereby it emits light or causes a change in wavelength of the incident light thermally excited using plasma burners or torches
G01N 21/15 - Preventing contamination of the components of the optical system or obstruction of the light path
F04B 13/00 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities
F04B 13/02 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities of two or more fluids at the same time
F04B 15/02 - Pumps adapted to handle specific fluids, e.g. by selection of specific materials for pumps or pump parts the fluids being viscous or non-homogeneous
F04B 43/067 - Pumps having fluid drive the fluid being actuated directly by a piston
F04B 53/02 - Packing the free space between cylinders and pistons
Extractant compositions and, e.g., extractant compositions adapted for soil analysis, are disclosed herein. In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, provided is an extractant composition including one or more acid comprising hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, citric acid, or a combination of two or more thereof; a chelating agent comprising hydroxyethylethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA), ethylene glycol-bis(β-aminoethyl ether)- N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid, diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, a salt thereof, or a combination of two or more thereof; a metal; optionally, an exchangeable salt extractant; and optionally, a fluoride source, wherein the extractant composition has a pH of about 6 or less.
A waste handling system for an agricultural slurry includes a sump, a check valve assembly, and a settling volume. The sump receives an agricultural slurry which is pumped to a settling volume through a check valve assembly. The check valve assembly may incorporate a pinch valve. Optionally, a storage volume vented to atmosphere may be used to further prevent flow from the settling volume to the sump. The settling volume has a drain which allows excess water from the slurry to drain to the environment.
B01D 21/24 - Feed or discharge mechanisms for settling tanks
B01D 21/34 - Controlling the feed distributionControlling the liquid level
B65G 51/00 - Conveying articles through pipes or tubes by fluid flow or pressureConveying articles over a flat surface, e.g. the base of a trough, by jets located in the surface
51.
ULTRASONIC CLEANING OF STIR CHAMBER FOR AGRICULTURAL SAMPLE SLURRY
A system for processing an agricultural slurry is disclosed. The system includes a stirring device (500) having a stir chamber (502) and one or more outlet ports (520) to release slurry from an internal cavity. The stirring device (500) further includes a filter (522) fluidly coupled to the one or more outlet ports (520) and positioned inside the internal cavity of the stir chamber (502) to filter the slurry. An ultrasonic transducer (560) is positioned proximate to or in physical contact with the filter (522) to clean the filter.
B08B 7/02 - Cleaning by methods not provided for in a single other subclass or a single group in this subclass by distortion, beating, or vibration of the surface to be cleaned
G01N 1/38 - Diluting, dispersing or mixing samples
B01J 19/10 - Processes employing the direct application of electric or wave energy, or particle radiationApparatus therefor employing sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
B06B 1/06 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
B06B 3/00 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for transmitting mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency
B01D 29/11 - Filters with filtering elements stationary during filtration, e.g. pressure or suction filters, not covered by groups Filtering elements therefor with bag, cage, hose, tube, sleeve or like filtering elements
B01D 29/72 - Regenerating the filter material in the filter by forces created by movement of the filter element involving vibrations
B01D 41/04 - Regeneration of the filtering material or filter elements outside the filter for liquid or gaseous fluids of rigid self-supporting filtering material
B08B 3/12 - Cleaning involving contact with liquid with additional treatment of the liquid or of the object being cleaned, e.g. by heat, by electricity or by vibration by sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
An agricultural sample processing-analysis system includes an analysis apparatus comprising at least one hybrid pump, a plasma torch device, and spectrometer. The hybrid pump includes a deformable diaphragm coupled to a pumping cavity formed in the pump body. A syringe pump operates the diaphragm and is integrated directly into the pump body within an internal pump bore. The syringe pump when actuated displaces pilot fluid which deforms the diaphragm to pump a process fluid such as a sample fluid to the plasma torch where it is ignited to form a plasma. The spectrometer captures spectra data from the plasma and quantifies the concentration of an analyte of agricultural interest in the sample fluid, such as plant nutrients. Additional hybrid pumps used to process the sample fluid and calibrate the spectrometer may be physically and fluidly coupled together in a flow network to collectively form a self-supported housing.
G01N 21/73 - Systems in which the material investigated is excited whereby it emits light or causes a change in wavelength of the incident light thermally excited using plasma burners or torches
F04B 13/00 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities
F04B 13/02 - Pumps specially modified to deliver fixed or variable measured quantities of two or more fluids at the same time
F04B 15/02 - Pumps adapted to handle specific fluids, e.g. by selection of specific materials for pumps or pump parts the fluids being viscous or non-homogeneous
A mobile agricultural machine includes a row unit having a furrow opener mounted to the row unit and configured to engage a surface of ground over which the mobile agricultural machine travels to open a furrow in the ground. A furrow closer is mounted to the row unit behind the furrow opener and configured to engage the surface of the ground to close the furrow. A furrow sensor system is mounted to the row unit and configured to sense characteristics relative to the furrow opened by the furrow opener and generate a sensor signal indicative of the characteristics. The mobile agricultural machine can further include a control system configured to determine a furrow quality metric corresponding to the furrow sensed by the furrow sensor system based on the sensor signal and generate an action signal to control an action of the mobile agricultural machine based on the furrow quality metric.
An automated programmable processor-controlled system and related methods for packaging an agricultural sample such as soil which may be tested for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The packaging system includes a sample packaging apparatus which allows raw bulk sample material collected in the agricultural field to be expediently and conveniently containerized for processing and analysis. The apparatus may include a die block disposed between bulk material and sample collection chambers. A sample blade mechanism inserts a sample blade array through the bulk material chamber and die block. The sample blades extrude the sample material from the bulk material chamber through die slots in the die block, thereby forming plugs or blanks of the material collected in the sample collection chamber coupled to the sample container. A cleaning blade mechanism inserts a cleaning blade array through the die slots after the extrusion for removing residual soil or debris.
An automated computer-controlled sampling system and related methods for collecting, processing, and analyzing agricultural samples for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The sampling system allows multiple samples to be processed and analyzed for different analytes or chemical properties in a simultaneous concurrent or semi-concurrent manner. Advantageously, the system can process soil samples in the “as collected” condition without drying or grinding. The system generally includes a sample preparation sub-system which receives soil samples collected by a probe collection sub-system and produces a slurry (i.e. mixture of soil, vegetation, and/or manure and water), and a chemical analysis sub-system which processes the prepared slurry samples for quantifying multiple analytes and/or chemical properties of the sample. The sample preparation and chemical analysis sub-systems can be used to analyze soil, vegetation, and/or other samples. A soil collection system is disclosed which captures and directs.
A method of depositing oriented seeds into a trench including forming a trench (299); depositing a foam (289) into the trench (299); and depositing seed (279) from a seed orientation device (270) into the foam (289) in the trench (299). Also, an agricultural row unit (200) having: a frame (204); an opening unit (260) connected to the frame (204) for opening a trench (299) as the row unit (200) moves in a direction of travel: a foam delivery tube (281) for delivering foam (289) into the trench (299) opened by the opening unit (260); and a seed orientation device (270) disposed rearward from the foam delivery tube (281) for delivering oriented seeds (279) in the foam (289) delivered by the foam delivery tube (281).
An automated computer-controlled sampling system and related methods for collecting, processing, and analyzing agricultural samples for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The sampling system allows multiple samples to be processed and analyzed for different analytes or chemical properties in a simultaneous concurrent or semi-concurrent manner. Advantageously, the system can process soil samples in the “as collected” condition without drying or grinding. The system generally includes a sample preparation sub-system which receives soil samples collected by a probe collection sub-system and produces a slurry (i.e. mixture of soil, vegetation, and/or manure and water), and a chemical analysis sub-system which processes the prepared slurry samples for quantifying multiple analytes and/or chemical properties of the sample. The sample preparation and chemical analysis sub-systems can be used to analyze soil, vegetation, and/or manure samples.
G01N 1/08 - Devices for withdrawing samples in the solid state, e.g. by cutting involving an extracting tool, e.g. core bit
A01C 23/00 - Distributing devices specially adapted for liquid manure or other fertilising liquid, including ammonia, e.g. transport tanks or sprinkling wagons
B01D 21/26 - Separation of sediment aided by centrifugal force
B01D 29/11 - Filters with filtering elements stationary during filtration, e.g. pressure or suction filters, not covered by groups Filtering elements therefor with bag, cage, hose, tube, sleeve or like filtering elements
B01F 25/54 - Circulation mixers, e.g. wherein at least part of the mixture is discharged from and reintroduced into a receptacle provided with a pump inside the receptacle to recirculate the material within the receptacle
B01F 27/1125 - Stirrers characterised by the configuration of the stirrers with arms, paddles, vanes or blades with vanes or blades extending parallel or oblique to the stirrer axis
B01F 27/808 - Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptaclesKneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis with stirrers driven from the bottom of the receptacle
B01F 27/906 - Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptaclesKneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis with paddles or arms with fixed axis
B01F 35/00 - Accessories for mixersAuxiliary operations or auxiliary devicesParts or details of general application
G01N 21/25 - ColourSpectral properties, i.e. comparison of effect of material on the light at two or more different wavelengths or wavelength bands
G01N 21/78 - Systems in which material is subjected to a chemical reaction, the progress or the result of the reaction being investigated by observing the effect on a chemical indicator producing a change of colour
A valve assembly having a valve body having in inlet, an outlet, a first opening, and a second opening; a connection bracket connected to the valve body adjacent to the inlet and configured for connection to a fluid line; a cap; and a valve; wherein the cap and the valve are interchangeably connectable to the first opening and the second opening.
B05B 15/658 - Mounting arrangements for fluid connection of the spraying apparatus or its outlets to flow conduits the spraying apparatus or its outlet axis being perpendicular to the flow conduit
60.
BELOW GROUND SENSING SYSTEM FOR SENSING DIFFERENT SOIL PARAMETERS
Below ground sensor systems including at least one sensor and optionally a base station for communicating sensed soil parameters in agricultural fields are described. In an aspect of the disclosure there is provided a sensor system comprising a base station positioned on a ground surface of soil of an agricultural field, partially in the soil, or below ground surface of the soil. The base station includes a first transceiver that is configured to transmit electromagnetic (EM) signals to an above ground entity and a second transceiver that is configured to transmit EM signals downwards through the soil and a below ground sensor device is positioned at a depth in the soil below a tillage depth. The sensor device is configured to generate an electromagnetic field through soil to transmit EM signals to the base station and to receive the EM signals from the base station for bi-directional communications between the sensor device and the base station.
A sensor system comprises an antenna positioned above a ground surface of soil of an agricultural field, wherein the antenna includes a transceiver that is configured to transmit electromagnetic (EM) signals to an above ground entity, a connector coupled to the antenna, and a below ground sensor device coupled to the connector and positioned at a depth in the soil below a tillage depth, wherein the sensor device is configured to generate sensed data for a region of soil, to send the sensed data to the antenna using a communication channel of the connector and to receive signals from the antenna for bi-directional communications between the sensor device and the antenna.
Below ground sensor systems including at least one sensor and optionally a base station for communicating sensed soil parameters in agricultural fields are described. In an aspect of the disclosure there is provided a sensor system comprising a base station positioned on a ground surface of soil of an agricultural field, partially in the soil, or below ground surface of the soil. The base station includes a first transceiver that is configured to transmit electromagnetic (EM) signals to an above ground entity and a second transceiver that is configured to transmit EM signals downwards through the soil and a below ground sensor device is positioned at a depth in the soil below a tillage depth. The sensor device is configured to generate an electromagnetic field through soil to transmit EM signals to the base station and to receive the EM signals from the base station for bi-directional communications between the sensor device and the base station.
A sensor system comprising: a below ground sensor device positioned within a tillage depth during tillage in soil of an agricultural field, the sensor device including RF circuitry to transmit RF signals to an above ground entity; and an anchoring device to anchor the sensor device below ground and to prevent the sensor device from being moved out of the soil. There is further provided a base station positioned on a ground surface of soil of an agricultural field, partially in the soil, or below ground surface of the soil, wherein the base station includes RF circuitry that is configured to transmit RF signals to the sensor device and to receive RF signals from the sensor device.
Described herein are methods and harvesters for adjusting settings of a harvester. In one embodiment, a computer implemented method includes capturing, with at least one image capture device that is located on the harvester, images of a field view of an unharvested region to be harvested, analyzing the captured images to determine crop information for a crop of a harvested region that is adjacent to the unharvested region, and adjusting settings or operating parameters of the harvester for the unharvested region based on the crop information for the crop of the harvested region.
Below ground sensor systems including at least one sensor and optionally a base station for communicating sensed soil parameters in agricultural fields are described. In an aspect of the disclosure there is provided a sensor system comprising a base station positioned on a ground surface of soil of an agricultural field, partially in the soil, or below ground surface of the soil. The base station includes a first transceiver that is configured to transmit electromagnetic (EM) signals to an above ground entity and a second transceiver that is configured to transmit EM signals downwards through the soil and a below ground sensor device is positioned at a depth in the soil below a tillage depth. The sensor device is configured to generate an electromagnetic field through soil to transmit EM signals to the base station and to receive the EM signals from the base station for bi-directional communications between the sensor device and the base station.
A seed meter (100) includes a housing (110) and a cover (112). A seed disc (130) is rotatably disposed between the housing (110) and the cover (112). The housing (110) includes a seed pool area (114) and a seed exit chute (104) separated by a generally vertical brush (212) on a seed-side of the seed disc (130). A seed retaining structure (200) disposed on the seed-side of the seed disc (130) within the housing (110) prevents the seed within the seed pool area (114) from passing over the generally vertical brush (212) from the seed pool area (114) into the seed exit chute (104) when the seed meter (100) is tilted or rotated.
An agricultural machine includes a furrow opener and a furrow closing system and a controller that performs closed loop control of the furrow closing system.
A01C 5/06 - Machines for making or covering drills or furrows for sowing or planting
A01C 7/04 - Single-grain seeders with or without suction devices
A01C 7/20 - Parts of seeders for conducting and depositing seed
G01B 7/26 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for measuring depth
G01B 15/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electromagnetic waves or particle radiation, e.g. by the use of microwaves, X-rays, gamma rays or electrons
68.
DISPLAY WIDGETS FOR USE IN A MULTI-DISPLAY ENVIRONMENT
An apparatus for controlling a secondary monitor with widgets displayed on a primary monitor. A display device displays a graphical user interface having at least one region to display at least one widget. The widget receives input via the graphical user interface. A hardware processor coupled with the display device interprets the input received via the widget of the graphical user interface and generates one or more control signals to be sent to the secondary monitor to modify operation of the secondary monitor based on the input received via the widget.
An automated computer-controlled sampling system and related methods for collecting, processing, and analyzing agricultural samples for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The sampling system allows multiple samples to be processed and analyzed for different analytes or chemical properties in a simultaneous concurrent or semi-concurrent manner. Advantageously, the system can process soil samples in the “as collected” condition without drying or grinding. The system generally includes a sample preparation sub-system which receives soil samples collected by a probe collection sub-system and produces a slurry (i.e. mixture of soil, vegetation, and/or manure and water), and a chemical analysis sub-system which processes the prepared slurry samples for quantifying multiple analytes and/or chemical properties of the sample. The sample preparation and chemical analysis sub-systems can be used to analyze soil, vegetation, and/or manure samples.
G01N 1/08 - Devices for withdrawing samples in the solid state, e.g. by cutting involving an extracting tool, e.g. core bit
A01C 23/00 - Distributing devices specially adapted for liquid manure or other fertilising liquid, including ammonia, e.g. transport tanks or sprinkling wagons
B01D 21/26 - Separation of sediment aided by centrifugal force
B01D 29/11 - Filters with filtering elements stationary during filtration, e.g. pressure or suction filters, not covered by groups Filtering elements therefor with bag, cage, hose, tube, sleeve or like filtering elements
B01F 25/54 - Circulation mixers, e.g. wherein at least part of the mixture is discharged from and reintroduced into a receptacle provided with a pump inside the receptacle to recirculate the material within the receptacle
B01F 27/1125 - Stirrers characterised by the configuration of the stirrers with arms, paddles, vanes or blades with vanes or blades extending parallel or oblique to the stirrer axis
B01F 27/808 - Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptaclesKneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis with stirrers driven from the bottom of the receptacle
B01F 27/906 - Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptaclesKneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis with paddles or arms with fixed axis
B01F 35/00 - Accessories for mixersAuxiliary operations or auxiliary devicesParts or details of general application
G01N 21/25 - ColourSpectral properties, i.e. comparison of effect of material on the light at two or more different wavelengths or wavelength bands
G01N 21/78 - Systems in which material is subjected to a chemical reaction, the progress or the result of the reaction being investigated by observing the effect on a chemical indicator producing a change of colour
A meter (100) configured to meter agricultural material comprising: a housing (110), wherein the housing has a gear section (111), a hopper section (112), and a discharge section (113); an auger (140) disposed in the housing; a motor (120) at least partially disposed in the housing and operably connected to the auger to drive the auger; and a controller interface (130) connected to the motor and configured to operate the motor, wherein the meter has a top (101), a bottom (102), a front side (103), and a rear side (104).
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Camera systems consisting primarily of a camera configured to send images to a computer system for scouting agricultural fields and parts for the aforesaid camera systems; Camera systems consistint primarily of a camera configured to send images to a computer system for controlling actuation of agricultural sprayer systems and parts for the aforesaid camera systems
A seeding system having a seed meter (13) having a seed disc (120); a pair of acceleration wheels (910, 920) disposed proximate to the seed disc (120) and positioned to receive seed released from the seed disc (120) and configured to accelerate the seed; a conduit (610) for receiving seeds accelerated from the pair of acceleration wheels (910, 920) at a first end of the conduit (610), and the conduit (610) having a second end opposite the first end; a seed orientation coil assembly (40) connected to the second end to receive the accelerated seed.
An automated computer-controlled sampling system and related methods for collecting, processing, and analyzing agricultural samples for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The sampling system allows multiple samples to be processed and analyzed for different analytes or chemical properties in a simultaneous concurrent or semi-concurrent manner. Advantageously, the system can process soil samples in the “as collected” condition without drying or grinding. The system generally includes a sample preparation sub-system which receives soil samples collected by a probe collection sub-system and produces a slurry (i.e. mixture of soil, vegetation, and/or manure and water), and a chemical analysis sub-system which processes the prepared slurry samples for quantifying multiple analytes and/or chemical properties of the sample. The sample preparation and chemical analysis sub-systems can be used to analyze soil, vegetation, and/or manure samples.
G01N 1/08 - Devices for withdrawing samples in the solid state, e.g. by cutting involving an extracting tool, e.g. core bit
A01C 23/00 - Distributing devices specially adapted for liquid manure or other fertilising liquid, including ammonia, e.g. transport tanks or sprinkling wagons
B01D 21/26 - Separation of sediment aided by centrifugal force
B01D 29/11 - Filters with filtering elements stationary during filtration, e.g. pressure or suction filters, not covered by groups Filtering elements therefor with bag, cage, hose, tube, sleeve or like filtering elements
B01F 25/54 - Circulation mixers, e.g. wherein at least part of the mixture is discharged from and reintroduced into a receptacle provided with a pump inside the receptacle to recirculate the material within the receptacle
B01F 27/1125 - Stirrers characterised by the configuration of the stirrers with arms, paddles, vanes or blades with vanes or blades extending parallel or oblique to the stirrer axis
B01F 27/808 - Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptaclesKneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis with stirrers driven from the bottom of the receptacle
B01F 27/906 - Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptaclesKneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis with paddles or arms with fixed axis
B01F 35/00 - Accessories for mixersAuxiliary operations or auxiliary devicesParts or details of general application
G01N 21/25 - ColourSpectral properties, i.e. comparison of effect of material on the light at two or more different wavelengths or wavelength bands
G01N 21/78 - Systems in which material is subjected to a chemical reaction, the progress or the result of the reaction being investigated by observing the effect on a chemical indicator producing a change of colour
G01N 35/00 - Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups Handling materials therefor
G01N 35/10 - Devices for transferring samples to, in, or from, the analysis apparatus, e.g. suction devices, injection devices
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
75.
Implements and Application Units to Actuate at Least One Applicator Arm for Placement of Applications with Respect to Agricultural Plants of Agricultural Fields
Described herein are implements and applicators for placement of fluid applications with respect to agricultural plants of agricultural fields. In one embodiment, a fluid applicator for applying fluid to plants in rows in a field includes at least one applicator arm that is actuated by an actuator to move the applicator arm from a position in the row between plants to a position adjacent to the plant.
A01C 23/00 - Distributing devices specially adapted for liquid manure or other fertilising liquid, including ammonia, e.g. transport tanks or sprinkling wagons
A01C 23/02 - Special arrangements for delivering the liquid directly into the soil
A01M 7/00 - Special adaptations or arrangements of liquid-spraying apparatus for purposes covered by this subclass
A01M 21/04 - Apparatus for destruction by steam, chemicals, burning, or electricity
B05B 1/16 - Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means with multiple outlet openingsNozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means with strainers in or outside the outlet opening having selectively-effective outlets
B05B 1/20 - Perforated pipes or troughs, e.g. spray boomsOutlet elements therefor
A fluid control system for supplying fluid to multiple actuators associated with different implements disposed on an agricultural planter row unit. A first one of the multiple actuators is associated with a first implement disposed on the agricultural planter row unit. A second one of the multiple actuators is associated with a second implement disposed on the agricultural planter row unit. The fluid control system controls fluid flow from a fluid source to each of the first and second actuators. In one embodiment, the fluid control system includes an inlet valve, an outlet valve and a pressure sensor, wherein the inlet valve is in fluid communication with the fluid source and the pressure sensor is disposed to measure fluid pressure in a fluid line in fluid communication with the inlet valve and each of the first and second actuators.
A reversible seed trench appurtenance for a row unit of an agricultural planter. The seed trench appurtenance includes an upper portion and a trailing portion. The upper portion is received within a mounting bracket attached to the row unit of the planter. The seed trench appurtenance is movable between a normal operating position in which the trailing portion extends into the seed trench. When the row unit is reversed in a direction opposite the forward direction of travel, the seed trench appurtenance moves from the normal operating position to a reversing position in which the trailing portion is vertically above the normal operating position thereby avoiding damage to the seed trench appurtenance and the mounting bracket.
A reversible seed trench appurtenance for a row unit of an agricultural planter. The seed trench appurtenance includes an upper portion and a trailing portion. The upper portion is received within a mounting bracket attached to the row unit of the planter. The seed trench appurtenance is movable between a normal operating position in which the trailing portion extends into the seed trench. When the row unit is reversed in a direction opposite the forward direction of travel, the seed trench appurtenance moves from the normal operating position to a reversing position in which the trailing portion is vertically above the normal operating position thereby avoiding damage to the seed trench appurtenance and the mounting bracket.
A grinder-filter apparatus for preparing an agricultural sample slurry in one embodiment includes a housing defining a grinding chamber, a rotatable paddle disposed in the chamber, a grinding ring mounted inside a peripheral wall of the chamber, and perforated baseplate inside the grinding ring. The grinding ring includes vertically elongated flow slots each having portions extending above and below the baseplate. Each slot has a depth which extends partially through a thickness of the grinding ring to form an integral blind backing wall within each slot. The rotating paddle mixes water and the sample material which may be soil in one embodiment to form the slurry, and forces the slurry into the slots which flows into a collection chamber beneath the baseplate. The slots filter out soil particles exceeding a predetermined maximum size as the slurry flows through the slots to the collection chamber.
An agricultural slurry analysis system includes a stirring device comprising an upper housing section and mechanically isolated lower housing section defining a stir chamber which receives agricultural sample slurry, a strain gauge coupled to the chamber which measures weight of the stir chamber with and without slurry, and a level sensor which measures a level of the slurry in the chamber. The strain gauge and level sensor are operably coupled to a programmable controller configured to: receive actual weight measurements of the stir chamber via the strain gauge; determine a weight of the slurry in the stir chamber based on the actual weight measurements; receive an actual sluny level measurement from the level sensor; and determine a density of the slurry based on the actual weight and slurry level measurements. The controller also determines water/solids ratio of the slurry and adjusts the same until a target ratio is met.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
(1) Optical sensing equipment for monitoring agricultural and commercial spraying equipment, namely, individual sprayer nozzle flow rate and pressure of self-propelled and pull behind implements and sprayers for application of liquid chemicals; Optical sensing equipment for monitoring agricultural and commercial spraying equipment, namely, droplet size of liquid from self-propelled and pull behind implements and sprayers for application of liquid chemicals
83.
Row Unit Comprising a Covering Device and Methods of Planting Seeds
A method of planting with a row unit (100, 200) includes forming a seed trench (128) in soil with the row unit (200), dispensing a seed from an outlet of a seed-delivery mechanism (202) carried by the row unit (100, 200), penetrating a wall of the seed trench (128) with a covering device (206, 302) to cover the seed with soil, and closing the seed trench (128) with a seed-trench closing assembly (118). A row unit (100, 200) for planting seeds includes a frame (102) configured to be coupled to a toolbar (104), a seed-trench opening assembly (116) carried by the frame (102) and configured to form a seed trench (128), a seed-delivery mechanism (112, 202) carried by the frame (102) and configured to deliver seeds to the seed trench (128), a covering device (206, 302) carried by the frame (102) and configured to penetrate a wall of the seed trench (128) and cover the seeds with soil, and a seed-trench closing assembly (118) carried by the frame and configured to close the seed trench.
A rotary analysis apparatus and related methods are disclosed. The apparatus generally includes a rotary machine operable to rotate or spin a removable disk-type analytical cartridge. The cartridge includes a plurality of fluidly isolated processing trains for processing multiple samples simultaneously. Each process train includes an extractant mixing chamber, slurry filtration chamber, supernatant collection chamber, and reagent mixing chamber in fluid communication. In one use, soil sample slurry is prepared and added to the extractant mixing chamber. The slurry is mixed with an extractant by rotating the cartridge to separate out an analyte from the mixture. A sediment filter in the filtration chamber deliquifies and traps soil particles to produce clear supernatant. A color changing reagent or fluorescent agent may be mixed with the collected supernatant for subsequent colorimetric, fluorescent, turbidimetric, or other type of analysis.
A trench opener having a row unit comprising a frame and a shank; a disc rotatingly attached to the frame, wherein the disc has an angle α from vertical greater than zero degrees to 10 degrees; a wedge attached to the shank, the wedge having a disc facing side that is parallel with the disc, a second side opposite the disc facing side, wherein the second side is perpendicular to a ground surface, and a leading edge.
A meter module (200A, 200B, 200) for metering a product in communication with the meter module (200A, 200B, 200). The meter module (200A, 200B, 200) includes a meter housing portion (203) and a lower chamber portion (205), the meter housing portion (203) having a top opening (204) through which the product enters the meter housing portion (203). A metering mechanism is disposed in the meter housing portion (203) and is driven by an electric motor (216). As the metering mechanism is driven, the metering mechanism meters the product into the lower chamber portion (205), the metered product exits the lower chamber portion (205) through a bottom opening (158, 208) in the lower chamber portion (205). The lower chamber portion (205) may include a flow sensor and/or internal structure (260) to capture and weigh the metered product before exiting through the bottom opening (158, 208).
In one embodiment a first light plane is generated across the passageway by a first LED emitter array. A corresponding photodiode receiver array detects particles passing through a first number of light channels comprising the first light plane. In a second embodiment a second light plane is generated across the passageway at 90 degrees from the first light plane and longitudinally offset from the first light plane by a second LED emitter array. A corresponding photodiode receiver array detects particles passing through a second number of light channels comprising the second light plane. The second light plane is capable of identifying particles in a third dimension that may go undetected when passing through the first light plane. The raw output signals generated by respective photodiodes is normalized, analyzed and characterized to differentiate between particles passing through light planes as individual particles or groups of overlapping particles to be separately counted.
An implement comprises a fluid tank to store a volume, quantity, or amount of fluid, fluid dispensers\ disposed along the implement to apply a fluid application as the implement travels through an agricultural field, and a processing system including a processor that is configured to receive a field area of a field for a fluid application or to calculate the field area based on driving the implement around a perimeter of the agricultural field, to receive an input for a minimum fluid application rate and a maximum fluid application rate, and to determine a first application rate for applying the volume, quantity, or amount of fluid currently in the fluid tank to a fluid application area of the field in order to empty the volume, quantity, or amount of fluid from the fluid tank when completing the fluid application to the fluid application area.
A system may analyze agricultural materials. The system may include one or more inlets receiving the agricultural materials. The agricultural materials may be a slurry (e.g., soil slurry) including at least one solid and at least one liquid. The system may include a chamber configured to house the agricultural materials. The chamber may include a mixing device configured to mix the agricultural materials. The system may include a flow control device configured to stop the flow of the agricultural materials in a first state, or move the flow of the agricultural materials in a second state. The system may include an agricultural materials density device configured to determine the density of the agricultural materials when the flow of the agricultural materials is stopped in the first state and when the flow of the agricultural materials is moving in the second state.
An automated computer-controlled sampling system and related methods for collecting, processing, and analyzing agricultural samples for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The sampling system allows multiple samples to be processed and analyzed for different analytes or chemical properties in a simultaneous concurrent or semi-concurrent manner. Advantageously, the system can process soil samples in the “as collected” condition without drying or grinding to produce a sample slurry. The system includes a chemical analysis sub-system which processes and analyzes the prepared slurry for quantifying multiple analytes and/or chemical properties of the sample. The chemical analysis sub-system may be embodied in a multi-layered microfluidic manifold processing substrate comprising microfluidic devices which extract and quantify the concentration of analytes or other chemical parameters associated with the sample. The system can be used to analyze various type of agricultural-related samples including
A seed orientation system. The seed orientation system (30) has a curved seed path upon which singulated seeds traverse that orients the singulated seeds in a selected orientation, an air flow directed along the curved path to entrain and accelerate the singulated seeds, and a seed exit path (50) to deposit the oriented singulated seeds into the ground in a selected planting orientation. The seed-delivery device also has a seed receiver and path constrainer (20) configured to receive the singulated seeds and constrain the singulated seeds to the seed path.
An automated computer-controlled sampling system and related methods for collecting, processing, and analyzing agricultural samples for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The sampling system allows multiple samples to be processed and analyzed for different analytes or chemical properties in a simultaneous concurrent or semi-concurrent manner. Advantageously, the system can process soil samples in the “as collected” condition without drying or grinding. The system generally includes a sample preparation sub-system which receives soil samples collected by a probe collection sub-system and produces a slurry (i.e. mixture of soil, vegetation, and/or manure and water), and a chemical analysis sub-system which processes the prepared slurry samples for quantifying multiple analytes and/or chemical properties of the sample. The sample preparation and chemical analysis sub-systems can be used to analyze soil, vegetation, and/or other samples. A soil collection system is disclosed which captures and directs
An air seeder row unit includes a bracket configured to be attached to a frame of an air seeder, a support arm pivotally coupled to the bracket, a force device pivotally connected to the bracket and to the support arm, and a load sensor disposed adjacent the force device and configured to measure a load of the force device on the support arm. The support arm carries an opener disc and a gauge wheel, and the opener disc is configured to open a seed trench in a soil surface as the row unit travels in a forward direction of travel. An agricultural seeding implement includes a frame configured to be pulled through an agricultural field with a plurality of such row units coupled to the frame. Related methods are also disclosed.
An automated computer-controlled sampling system and related methods for collecting, processing, and analyzing agricultural samples for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The sampling system allows multiple samples to be processed and analyzed for different analytes or chemical properties in a simultaneous concurrent or semi-concurrent manner. Advantageously, the system can process soil samples in the “as collected” condition without drying or grinding to produce a sample slurry. The system includes a chemical analysis sub-system which processes and analyzes the prepared slurry for quantifying multiple analytes and/or chemical properties of the sample. The chemical analysis sub-system may be embodied in a multi-layered microfluidic manifold processing substrate comprising microfluidic devices which extract and quantify the concentration of analytes or other chemical parameters associated with the sample. The system can be used to analyze various type of agricultural-related samples including soil, vegetation, manure, milk or other.
A liquid distribution system for a crop sprayer includes a product tank (110) configured to contain a liquid, a pump (402) in fluid communication with the product tank (110), at least one nozzle (206) carried by a boom and configured to receive the liquid from the pump, a recirculation line (406) connecting the at least one nozzle to the product tank, and an adjustable restriction (414) configured to pass the liquid from the pump to the at least one nozzle. The restriction (414) is configured to vary a pressure of the liquid at the at least one nozzle. Related crop sprayers and methods are also disclosed.
A sample container for an agricultural sample such as soil comprises: an elongated tubular body defining a longitudinal axis, a top end, a bottom end, and an internal cavity extending between the ends configured for holding the sample; a first cap detachably coupled to the top end; and a second cap slideably disposed in the cavity, the second cap being movable in opposing directions between the top and bottom ends.
A sample unloading system comprising: a wash-down enclosure defining an inner chamber; a rotatable carriage disposed in the inner chamber, the carriage configured to receive a sample tube containing an agricultural material and rotate the sample tube between a plurality of rotational positions; a tube gripper mechanism disposed on the carriage, the tube gripper mechanism configured to selectively engage the sample tube when positioned in the carriage; wherein the tube gripper mechanism retains the sample tube in the carriage when the sample tube is in an inverted position.
Compositions for testing soil to measure one or more of the following properties of soil: pH, buffer pH, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and/or magnesium. Test methods for testing soil to measure one or more of the following properties of soil: pH, buffer pH, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and/or magnesium. A multichamber cartridge containing two or more of the compositions in separate chambers.
G01N 31/22 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroupsApparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
Compositions for testing soil to measure one or more of the following properties of soil: pH, buffer pH, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and/or magnesium. Test methods for testing soil to measure one or more of the following properties of soil: pH, buffer pH, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and/or magnesium. A multichamber cartridge containing two or more of the compositions in separate chambers.
G01N 31/22 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroupsApparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
Compositions for testing soil to measure one or more of the following properties of soil: pH, buffer pH, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and/or magnesium. Test methods for testing soil to measure one or more of the following properties of soil: pH, buffer pH, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and/or magnesium. A multichamber cartridge containing two or more of the compositions in separate chambers.
G01N 31/22 - Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroupsApparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
