soil and seed monitoring systems, methods and apparatus

专利摘要:
Systems, methods and apparatus are provided to monitor soil properties, including soil moisture, soil electrical conductivity and soil temperature during an agricultural input application. embodime nts include a soil reflectivity sensor and / or a soil temperature sensor mounted to a firmer seed to measure moisture and temperature in a planting trench. A thermopile for measuring temperature through infrared radiation is described herein. In one example, the thermopile is disposed of in a body and detects infrared radiation through a transparent infrared window. Aspects of any of the disclosed embodiments may be implemented or communicated with an agricultural intelligence computer system as described herein.
公开号:BR112019012697A2
申请号:R112019012697
申请日:2017-12-15
公开日:2019-12-10
发明作者:McMAHON BRIAN；Koch Dale；Morgan Matthew；Strnad Michael
申请人:Climate Corp；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR SOIL AND SEED MONITORING
COPYRIGHT NOTICE [001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to anyone's facsimile reproduction of the patent document or patent disclosure, as it appears in the patent files or registrations of the Patent and Trademark Office, but reserves all copyright or other rights. © 2016 The Climate Corporation.
FIELD OF DISSEMINATION [002] Present disclosure refers to systems, methods and devices for monitoring and controlling soil and agricultural seeds. The present disclosure relates in addition to a temperature sensor.
CONTEXT [003] The approaches described in this section are approaches that could be pursued, but not necessarily approaches that were previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, it should not be assumed that any of the approaches described in this section qualify as prior art merely by virtue of their inclusion in this section.
[004] In recent years, the availability of advanced site-specific agricultural application and measurement systems (used in so-called precision farming practices) has increased producer interest in determining spatial variations in soil properties and in different
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 8/202
2/137 input application variables (for example, planting depth) in light of such variations. However, the mechanisms available for measuring properties, such as temperature, are not actually done locally across the field or are not done at the same time as an entry operation (for example, planting).
[005] Temperature sensors for measuring soil temperature while crossing a field are known from PCT Patent Application No. PCT / US2015 / 029710 (Publication No. WO2015171908), filed on July 5, 2015 and US Application No. 62 / 482,116, filed on April 5, 2017, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
SUMMARY [006] The attached claims may serve as a summary of this disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [007] In the drawings:
[008] Figure 1 is a top view of a modality of an agricultural planter.
[009] Figure 2 is a side elevation view of a planter row unit modality.
[0010] Figure 3 schematically illustrates a modality of a soil monitoring system.
[0011] Figure 4A is a side elevation view of a modality of a seed fixer having a plurality of sensors mounted on the fixer.
[0012] Figure 4B is a plan view of the seed fixer in Figure 4A.
[0013] Figure 4C is a rear elevation view of the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 9/202
3/137 seed fixative in Figure 4A.
[0014] Figure 5 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of a seed fixer having a plurality of sensors mounted on the fixer.
[0015] The Figure 6 is an View sectional to long gives . section D-D of Figure 5. [0016] The Figure 7 is an View sectional to long gives section AND IS of Figure 5. [0017] The Figure 8 is an View sectional to long gives section F-F of Figure 5. [0018] The Figure 9 is an View sectional to long gives section G-G of Figure 5.
[0019] Figure 10 is a partial side view
partially[0020] A cut from fastener seeds givesgives Figure 5. direction A gives Figure 11 is an View to long Figure 10. [0021] THE Figure 12 is an View to long gives section B-B gives Figure 10. [0022] THE Figure 13 is an View to long gives CC section gives Figure 10. [0023] THE Figure 14 is an View partial in enlarged section
of the seed fixer in Figure 5.
[0024] Figure 15 is a view back of another modality of a fastener in seeds. [0025] Figure 16 is a rear view of still another modality of a fastener in seeds. [0026] Figure 17 is one graph of a sensor signal from
reflectivity.
[0027] Figure 18 is a side elevation view of a reference sensor modality.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 10/202
4/137 [0028] Figure 19A is a side elevation view of a modality of an instrumented seed fixer that incorporates fiber optic cable transmitting light to a reflectivity sensor.
[0029] Figure 19B is a side elevation view of a modality of an instrumented seed fixer incorporating fiber optic cable transmitting light to a spectrometer.
[0030] The Figure 20 illustrates an modality in an screen in display of soil data. [0031] The Figure 21 illustrates an modality in an screen in spatial map. [0032] The Figure 22 illustrates an modality in an screen in
display of seed planting data.
[0033] The Figure 23 is an View in elevation side in another modality of one sensor reference having a rod instrumentalized. [0034] The Figure 24 is an View in elevation front of
reference sensor in Figure 23.
[0035] Figure 25 is a side elevation view of another modality of a seed fixer.
[0036] Figure 26 is a side cross-sectional view of the seed fixer in Figure 25.
[0037] Figure 27A is a perspective view of a seed fixer according to an embodiment.
[0038] Figure 27B is a side view of the seed fixer in Figure 27A.
[0039] Figure 28A is a side view of a lens according to an embodiment.
[0040] Figure 28B is a front view of the Figure lens
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 11/202
5/137
28A.
[0041] Figure 2 9A is a perspective view of a seed fixer according to an embodiment.
[0042] Figure 29B is a side perspective view of the seed fixer in Figure 29A.
[0043] Figure 29C is a bottom view of the seed fixer in Figure 29A.
[0044] Figure 30A is a perspective view of a sensor housing according to an embodiment.
[0045] Figure 30B is a perspective view of a roof according to a modality. [0046] Figure 31A is a perspective view of a
lens body according to a modality.
[0047] Figure 31B is a side view of the lens body of the Figure 31A. [0048] Figure 32 is a side view of a sensor with
a transmitter and a detector according to a modality.
[0049] Figure 33 is a side view of a sensor with an emitter and a detector that are angled towards each other
according with a modality. [0050] Figure 34 is a side view of a combination of sensor and prism according to a modality. [0051] Figure 35 is a side view of a sensor with
two emitters and a detector according to a modality.
[0052] Figure 36 is a side view of a sensor with two emitters angled towards a detector according to a modality.
[0053] Figure 37 is a side view of a sensor with two emitters and a detector and a prism according to a modality.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 12/202
6/137 [0054] Figure 38 is a side view of a sensor with an emitter and a detector together with a prism that uses the critical angle of the prism material according to one modality.
[0055] Figure 39 is a side view of a sensor with an emitter and two detectors according to a modality.
[0056] A Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view
side of an orifice plate used as shown in Figure 37.
[0057] Figure 41 is a side sectional view of a sensor with an emitter and a detector together with a prism that uses the critical angle of the prism material according to one modality.
[0058] Figure 42A is an isometric view of a prism according to a modality.
[0059] A Figure 42B is a plan view of the prism of the
Figure 42A.
[0060] A Figure 42C is a bottom elevation view of the
prism of Figure 42A.
[0061] A Figure 42D is a front view of the prism of the
Figure 42A.
[0062] A Figure 42E is a rear elevation view of the
prism of Figure 42A.
[0063] Figure 42F is a right elevation view of the prism of Figure 42A.
[0064] Figure 42G is a left elevation view of the prism of Figure 42A.
[0065] Figure 43 is a sectional view of the seed fixer in Figure 27A in section A-A.
[0066] Figure 44A is a schematic front view of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 13/202
7/137 a sensor with two emitters and an in-line detector and a displacement detector according to one modality.
[0067] Figure 44B is a schematic side view of the sensor in Figure 44A.
[0068] Figure 45 illustrates a modality of a seed germination moisture screen.
[0069] Figure 46 is a side view of a seed fixer and sensor according to a modality.
[0070] Figure 47 illustrates a representative reflectance measurement and the target height.
[0071] Figure 48 illustrates an empty screen modality.
[0072] Figure 49 illustrates a flowchart of a modality for a 4900 method of obtaining soil measurements and then generating a signal to trigger any implement on any agricultural implement.
[0073] Figure 50 illustrates a modality of a uniformity of moisture screen.
[0074] Figure 51 illustrates a modality of a humidity variability screen.
[0075] Figure 52 illustrates a modality of an emergency environment score.
[007 6] Figure 53 is a perspective view of a temperature sensor arranged on an interior wall according to an embodiment.
[0077] Figure 54 is a side view of a temperature sensor arranged through a seed fixer to measure the soil temperature directly according to a modality.
[0078] Figure 55 is a perspective view of a
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 14/202
8/137 seed fixer according to one modality.
[0079] Figure 56 is a side view of the seed fixer in Figure 55.
[0080] Figure 57 is a perspective view of the seed fixer according to an embodiment.
[0081] Figure 58 is a perspective view of the seed fixer according to an embodiment.
[0082] Figure 59 illustrates an arrangement of a thermopile and window for a field of view selected according to a modality.
[0083] Figure 60A illustrates a protection arranged over the thermopile to restrict the field of view according to a modality.
[0084] Figure 60B is a perspective view of the protection of Figure 60A.
[0085] THE Figure 61 illustrates an thermopile and window willing in a body in wake up with a modality.[0086] THE Figure 62 illustrates an thermopile and window willing in a body in wake up with a modality.[0087] THE Figure 63 illustrates an thermopile and window willing in a body in wake up with a modality.[0088] THE Figure 64 illustrates an thermopile and window willing in a body in wake up with a modality.[0089] THE Figure ( 55 illustrates an thermopile can and
window arranged in a body according to a modality.
[0090] Figure 66 illustrates an example of a computer system that is configured to perform the functions described here, shown in a field environment with other devices with which the system can interoperate.
[0091] Figure 67 (a) and Figure 67 (b) illustrate two
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 15/202
9/137 views of an example logical arrangement of instruction sets in main memory when an example mobile application is loaded for execution.
[0092] Figure 68 illustrates a programmed process by which the agricultural intelligence computer system generates one or more preconfigured agronomic models using agronomic data provided by one or more data sources.
[0093] Figure 69 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system in which a modality of the invention can be implemented.
[0094] Figure 70 represents an example modality of a timeline view for data entry.
[0095] Figure 71 represents an example modality of a spreadsheet view for data entry.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0096] In the description that follows, for the sake of explanation, numerous specific details are presented in order to provide a complete understanding of the present disclosure. It will be evident, however, that the modalities can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices are shown in the form of a block diagram, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure.
[0097] A soil sensing device is described here. In certain embodiments, the soil sensing device is arranged in a seed fixer.
[0098] A thermopile for measuring the temperature via infrared radiation is described here. In one example, the thermopile is arranged in a body and detects infrared radiation through a transparent window.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 16/202
10/137 infrared.
[0099] Depth Control and Soil Monitoring Systems [00100] Referring now to the drawings, where similar reference numbers designate identical or corresponding parts across the various views, Figure 1 illustrates a tractor 5 pulling an agricultural implement, for example, a planter 10, comprising a toolbar 14 that operably supports multiple row units 200. An implement monitor 50, preferably including a central processing unit (CPU), memory and graphical user interface (GUI) ( for example, a touch screen interface) is preferably located in the cab of the tractor 5. A global positioning system (GPS) receiver 52 is preferably mounted for the tractor 5.
[00101] According to Figure 2, an embodiment is illustrated in which row unit 200 is a planter row unit. The row unit 200 is preferably pivotally connected to the toolbar 14 by a parallel connection 216. An actuator 218 is preferably arranged to apply lift and / or downward force to the row unit 200. A solenoid valve 390 it is preferably in fluid communication with the actuator 218 to modify elevation and / or downward force applied by the actuator. An opening system 234 preferably includes two opening discs 244 rotatably mounted on a downwardly extending rod 254 and arranged to open a v-shaped trench 38 on the ground 40. A pair of caliber 248 wheels is pivotally supported by
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 17/202
11/137 a pair of corresponding 260 gauge wheel arms; the height of the 248 caliber wheels in relation to the opening discs 244 defines the depth of the ditch 38. A depth adjustment rocker 268 limits the upward travel of the 260 caliber wheel arms and thus the upward displacement of the 248 caliber wheels. A depth adjustment actuator 380 is preferably configured to modify a position of the depth adjustment rocker 268 and thus the height of the caliber wheels 248. The actuator 380 is preferably a linear actuator mounted on the row unit 200 and hingedly coupled to an upper end of rocker arm 268. In some embodiments, the depth adjustment actuator 380 comprises a device such as that described in International Patent Application No. PCT / US2012 / 035585 (application 585 '), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. An encoder 382 is preferably configured to generate a signal related to the linear extension of actuator 380; it should be appreciated that the linear extension of the actuator 380 is related to the depth of the ditch 38 when the caliper wheel arms 2 60 are in contact with the rocker 268. A downward force sensor 392 is preferably configured to generate a related signal with the amount of force imposed by the 248 caliber wheels on the ground 40; in some embodiments, the downward force sensor 392 comprises an instrumented pin around which the rocker arm 268 is pivotally connected to the row unit 200, such as the instrumented pins disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 522,253 of the Applicant ( US Pub. No. 2010/0180695), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 18/202
12/137 [00102] Continuing to refer to Figure 2, a seed meter 230 such as that disclosed in Applicant's International Patent Application No. PCT / US2012 / 030192, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, is preferably arranged to deposit seeds 42 from a hopper 226 into ditch 38, for example, through a seed tube 232 arranged to guide the seeds towards the ditch. In some embodiments, instead of a 232 seed tube, a seed conveyor is implemented to transport seeds from the seed meter to the ditch at a controlled seed speed, as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 347,902 and / or U.S. Patent No. 8,789,482, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. In such embodiments, a support such as that shown in Figure 30 is preferably configured to mount the seed holder on the stem through side walls extending laterally around the seed carrier, such that the seed holder is arranged behind the carrier of seeds to set seeds in the soil after they are deposited by the seed carrier. In some embodiments, the meter is powered by an electric drive 315 configured to drive a seed disk inside the seed meter. In other embodiments, drive 315 may comprise a hydraulic drive configured to drive the seed disk. A 305 seed sensor (for example, an optical or electromagnetic seed sensor configured to generate a signal indicating the passage of a seed) is preferably mounted on the seed tube 232 and arranged to send light or electromagnetic waves
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 19/202
13/137 through the seed path 42. A closing system 236 including one or more closing wheels is pivotally coupled to the row unit 200 and configured to close the ditch 38.
[00103] Returning to Figure 3, a depth control and soil monitoring system 300 is schematically illustrated. Monitor 50 is preferably in data communication with components associated with each row unit 200 including drives 315, seed sensors 305, GPS receiver 52, downforce 392, valves 390, the actuator of depth adjustment 380 and depth actuator encoders 382. In some embodiments, particularly those in which each seed meter 230 is not driven by an individual drive 315, monitor 50 is also preferably in data communication with clutches 310 configured for selectively couple the seed meter 230 to drive 315.
[00104] Continuing to refer to Figure 3, monitor 50 is preferably in data communication with a cellular modem 330 or another component configured to place monitor 50 in data communication with the Internet, indicated by reference number 335 The Internet connection can comprise a wireless connection or a cellular connection. Monitor 50 preferably receives data from a weather data server 340 and a ground data server 345 via the Internet connection. Monitor 50 preferably transmits measurement data (eg measurements) described here) to a recommendation server (which can be the same server as
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 20/202
14/137 the weather data server 340 and / or the soil data server 345) for storage and receives agronomic recommendations (for example, planting recommendations such as planting depth, if planting, which fields to plant, which seeds to plant, or which crop to plant) from a recommendation system stored on the server; In some modalities, the recommendation system updates the planting recommendations based on the measurement data provided by the monitor 50.
[00105] Continuing to refer to Figure 3, monitor 50 is also preferably in data communication with one or more 360 temperature sensors mounted on planter 10 and configured to generate a signal related to the soil temperature being worked by the units planter row 200. Monitor 50 is preferably in data communication with one or more reflectivity sensors 350 mounted on planter 10 and configured to generate a signal related to the reflectivity of the soil being worked by planter row units 200.
[00106] With reference to Figure 3, monitor 50 is preferably in data communication with one or more electrical conductivity sensors 365 mounted on planter 10 and configured to generate a signal related to the temperature of the soil being worked by the row units of planter 200.
[00107] In some modalities, a first set of reflectivity sensors 350, temperature sensors 360 and electrical conductivity sensors are mounted on a seed fixer 400 and arranged to measure reflectivity, temperature and electrical conductivity, respectively, of the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 21/202
15/137 soil in ditch 38. In some modalities, a second set of reflectivity sensors 350, temperature sensors 360 and electrical conductivity sensors 370 are mounted on a set of reference sensors 1800 and arranged to measure reflectivity, temperature and conductivity electrical, respectively, from the soil, preferably at a different depth than sensors in the seed fixer 400.
[00108] In some modalities, a subset of the sensors is in data communication with the monitor 50 through a bus 60 (for example, a CAN bus). In some embodiments, the sensors mounted on the seed fixator 400 and the reference sensor set 1800 are also in data communication with the monitor 50 via bus 60. However, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, the sensors mounted on the fixer Seed sensors mounted on the seed fixator 400 and the reference sensor set 1800 are in data communication with the monitor 50 via a first wireless transmitter 62-1 and a second wireless transmitter 62-2, respectively. The wireless transmitters 62 in each row unit are preferably in data communication with a single wireless receiver 64 which in turn is in data communication with the monitor 50. The wireless receiver can be mounted on the toolbar 14 or in the tractor cab 5.
[00109] Soil Monitoring, Seed Monitoring and Seed Fixation Apparatus [00110] Returning to Figures 4A-4C, a modality of a seed fixer 400 is illustrated having a plurality of sensors to detect the characteristics of the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 22/202
16/137 solo. The seed fixator 400 preferably includes a flexible portion 410 mounted on stem 254 and / or the seed tube 232 by a support 415. In some embodiments, support 415 is similar to one of the support modalities described in the US Patent. USA No. 6,918,342, incorporated by reference here. The seed fixer preferably includes a fixture body 490 arranged and configured to be received, at least partially, into the v-shaped ditch 38 and to fix seeds 42 at the bottom of the ditch. When the seed fixator 400 is lowered into the ditch 38, the flexible portion 410 preferably pushes the fixer body 490 into a resilient engagement with the ditch. In some embodiments, the flexible portion 410 preferably includes an external or internal reinforcement, as disclosed in PCT / US2013 / 066652, incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the fastener body 490 includes a removable portion 492; the removable portion 492 preferably slides into locking engagement with the rest of the fastener body. The fastener body 490 (preferably including the fastening body portion that engages the ground, which in some embodiments comprises the removable portion 492) is preferably made of a material (or has an outer surface or coating) having hydrophobic properties and / or non-stick, for example, having a Teflon graphite coating and / or comprising a polymer having a hydrophobic material (for example, silicone oil or polyetheretherketone) impregnated therein. Alternatively, the sensors can be arranged on the side of the seed clamp 400 (not shown).
[00111] Returning to Figures 4A to 4C, the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 23/202
17/137 seeds 400 preferably include a plurality of reflectivity sensors 350a, 350b. Each 350 reflectivity sensor is preferably arranged and configured to measure the reflectivity of the soil; In a preferred embodiment, the reflectivity sensor 350 is arranged to measure the soil in the ditch 38 and, preferably, at the bottom of the ditch. The reflectivity sensor 350 preferably includes a lens placed at the bottom of the fastener body 490 and arranged to engage the ground at the bottom of the ditch 38. In some embodiments, the reflectivity sensor 350 comprises one of the modalities disclosed in 8,204,689 and / or US Provisional Patent Application 61/824975 (application 975 '), both of which are incorporated herein by reference. In several modalities, the reflectivity sensor 350 is configured to measure reflectivity in the visible range (for example, 400 and / or 600 nanometers), in the near-infrared range (for example, 940 nanometers) and / or anywhere else on the infrared range.
[00112] The seed fixator 400 may also include a capacitive humidity sensor 351 arranged and configured to measure the capacitance humidity of the soil in the seed ditch 38 and, preferably, at the bottom of the ditch 38.
[00113] The seed fixator 400 may also include an electronic tensiometer sensor 352 arranged and configured to measure the soil moisture tension of the soil in the seed ditch 38 and, preferably, at the bottom of the ditch 38.
[00114] Alternatively, the soil moisture stress can be extrapolated from capacitive moisture measurements or reflectivity measurements (as in 1450 nm). This can be done using a characteristic curve of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 24/202
18/137 soil water based on soil type.
[00115] The seed fixator 400 may also include a 360 temperature sensor. The 360 temperature sensor is preferably arranged and configured to measure the soil temperature; in a preferred embodiment, the temperature sensor is arranged to measure the soil in trench 38, preferably at or adjacent to the bottom of trench 38. The temperature sensor 360 preferably includes soil hitch ears 364, 366 arranged for engage slidingly on each side of ditch 38 as the planter crosses the field. The ears 364, 366 preferably engage the ditch 38 at or adjacent to the bottom of the ditch. The ears 364, 366 are preferably made of a thermally conductive material such as copper. The ears 364 are preferably attached to and in thermal communication with a central portion 362 housed within the fastener body 490. The central portion 362 preferably comprises a thermally conductive material such as copper; in some embodiments, the central portion 362 comprises a hollow copper rod. The central portion 362 is preferably in thermal communication with a thermocouple attached to the central portion. In other embodiments, the 360 temperature sensor may comprise a non-contact temperature sensor, such as an infrared thermometer. In some modalities, other measurements made by the 300 system (for example, reflectivity measurements, electrical conductivity measurements and / or measurements derived from these measurements) are temperature compensated using the temperature measurement made by the 360 temperature sensor. temperature compensated based on temperature is preferably performed by consulting a table of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 25/202
19/137 empirical consultation relating the compensated temperature measurement to the soil temperature. For example, the measurement of reflectivity at a wavelength close to infrared can be increased (or, in some instances, reduced) by 1% for every 1 degree Celsius in the soil temperature above 10 degrees Celsius.
[00116] The seed fixer preferably includes a plurality of 370r, 370f electrical conductivity sensors. Each 370 electrical conductivity sensor is preferably arranged and configured to measure the electrical conductivity of the soil; In a preferred embodiment, the electrical conductivity sensor is arranged to measure the electrical conductivity of the soil in the ditch 38, preferably on or adjacent to the bottom of the ditch 38. The electrical conductivity sensor 370 preferably includes soil hook ears 374, 37 6 arranged to slide each side of the ditch 38 while the planter crosses the field. The ears 374, 376 preferably engage the ditch 38 at or adjacent to the bottom of the ditch. The ears 374, 376 are preferably made of an electrically conductive material such as copper. The ears 374 are preferably attached to a central communication with a central portion 372 housed within the fastener body 490. The central portion 372 preferably comprises an electrically conductive material such as copper; in some embodiments, the central portion 372 comprises a copper rod. The central portion 372 is preferably in electrical communication with an electrical conductor fixed to the central portion. The electrical conductivity sensor can measure electrical conductivity within a ditch by measuring the electrical current between the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 26/202
20/137 ground hitch ears 374 and 376.
[00117] With reference to Figure 4B, in some modalities, the system 300 measures the electrical conductivity of the soil adjacent to the ditch 38 by measuring an electrical potential between the front electrical conductivity sensor 370f and the rear electrical conductivity sensor 370f. In other modalities, the electrical conductivity sensors 370f, 370r can be arranged in a longitudinally spaced relationship at the bottom of the seed fixer, in order to measure the electrical conductivity at the bottom of the seed ditch.
[00118] In other embodiments, the 370 electrical conductivity sensors comprise one or more devices for contacting the ground or working with the ground (for example, discs or rods) that contact the ground and are preferably electrically isolated from each other or from another voltage reference. The voltage potential between sensors 370 or another voltage reference is preferably measured by the 300 system. The voltage potential or other electrical conductivity value derived from the voltage potential is preferably reported to the operator. The electrical conductivity value can also be associated with the position reported by the GPS and used to generate a map of the spatial variation of electrical conductivity across the field. In some of these embodiments, electrical conductivity sensors may comprise one or more opening discs from a planter row unit, row cleaner wheels from a planter row unit, contact rods from a planter's floor, shoes contact with the soil hanging from a planter stem,
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 27/202
21/137 stems of a tillage tool, or disks of a tillage tool. In some embodiments, a first electrical conductivity sensor may comprise a component (eg, disc or rod) of a first agricultural row unit, while a second electrical conductivity sensor comprises a component (eg, disc or rod) of a second agricultural row unit such that electrical conductivity of the soil extending transversely between the first and second row is measured. It should be appreciated that at least one of the electrical conductivity sensors described here is preferably electrically isolated from the other sensor or voltage reference. In one example, the electrical conductivity sensor is mounted on an implement (for example, for the planter row unit or tillage tool) because it is first mounted on an electrically insulating component (for example, a component made of electrically insulating material , such as polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, or a rubber-like polymer) which in turn is mounted on the implement.
[00119] With reference to Figure 4C, in some modalities, the system 300 measures the electrical conductivity of the soil between two units of row 200 having a first seed fixator 400-1 and a second seed fixator 400-2, respectively, by measure an electrical potential between an electrical conductivity sensor on the first 400-1 seed fixer and an electrical conductivity sensor on the second 400-2 seed fixer. In some of these embodiments, the 370 electrical conductivity sensor may comprise a larger ground engagement electrode (for example,
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 28/202
22/137 a seed fixer housing) comprised of metal or other conductive material. It should be appreciated that any of the electrical conductivity sensors described here can measure conductivity by any of the following combinations: (1) between a first probe on a ground hitch unit component (for example, on a seeds, a row cleaner wheel, an opening disc, a shoe, a stem, a cross, a coulter or a closing wheel) and a second probe on the same hitch row unit component of the same ground unit row; (2) between a first probe on a first hitch row unit component on the ground (for example, on a seed fixer, a row cleaning wheel, an opening disc, a shoe, a stem, a cross, a coulter or a closing wheel) and a second probe in a second component of the soil hitch row unit (for example, in a seed fixer, a row cleaning wheel, an opening disc, a shoe, a rod, cross, coulter or closing wheel) from the same row unit; or (3) between a first probe on a first hitch row unit component on the ground (for example, on a seed fixer, a row cleaning wheel, an opening disc, a shoe, a stem, a crossover , a coulter or a closing wheel) in a first row unit and a second probe in a second row unit component (for example, in a seed fixer, a row cleaning wheel, an opening disc, a shoe, a rod, a cross, a closing wheel) in a second row unit. Either or both units of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 29/202
The row described in combinations 1 to 3 above may comprise a row planting unit or other row unit (for example, a tillage row unit or a dedicated measuring row unit) that can be mounted forward or behind the toolbar.
[00120] The reflectivity sensors 350, the temperature sensors 360, 360 ', 360, and the electrical conductivity sensors 370 (collectively, the sensors mounted on the fastener)) are preferably in data communication with the monitor 50. In in some embodiments, the sensors mounted on the fixer are in data communication with the monitor 50 via a transceiver (for example, a CAN transceiver) and the bus 60. In other embodiments, mounted sensors are in data communication with the monitor 50 via the wireless transmitter 62-1 (preferably mounted on the seed fixer) and wireless receiver 64. In some embodiments, the sensors mounted on the fixer are in electrical communication with the wireless transmitter 62-1 (or the transceiver) via of a multi-pin connector comprising a male coupler 472 and a female coupler 474. In embodiments of the fastener body having a removable portion 492, the male coupler 472 is preferably assembled in the removable portion and the female coupler 474 is preferably mounted to the rest of the fastener body 190; the couplers 472,474 are preferably arranged so that the couplers are electrically engaged as the removable part is slidably mounted on the fastener body.
[00121] Returning to Figure 19A, another is illustrated
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 30/202
24/137 seed fixer 400 'mode incorporating a 1900 fiber optic cable. The 1900 fiber optic cable preferably ends in a 1902 lens at the bottom of the 400' fixer. The 1900 fiber optic cable preferably extends to a reflectivity sensor 350a, which is preferably mounted separately from the seed fixer, for example, elsewhere in row unit 200. In operation, light reflected from the ground (preferably the bottom of the ditch 28) travels to the reflectivity sensor 350a through the fiber optic cable 1900, in such a way that the reflectivity sensor 350a is capable of measuring the reflectivity of the soil in a remote location from the fixer of 400 'seeds. In other modalities, such as the seed fixator 400 illustrated in Figure 19B, the fiber optic cable extends to a spectrometer 373 configured to analyze the light transmitted from the ground. The 373 spectrometer is preferably configured to analyze reflectivity in a spectrum of wavelengths. The spectrometer 373 is preferably in data communication with the monitor 50. The spectrometer 373 preferably comprises a fiber optic spectrometer, such as model no. USB4000 available from Ocean Optics, Inc. in Dunedin, Florida. In the 400 'and 400 modes, a modified firmer support 415' is preferably configured to fix the 1900 fiber optic cable.
[00122] Returning to Figures 25-26, another type of 2500 fastener is illustrated. The fastener 2500 includes an upper portion 2510 having a mounting portion 2520. The mounting portion 2520 is preferably stiffened by the inclusion of a stiffening insert made of more rigid material
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 31/202
25/137 than the mounting portion (for example, the mounting portion may be made of plastic and the stiffening insert may be made of metal) in an internal cavity 2540 of the mounting portion 2520. The mounting portion 2520 includes preferably mounting tabs 2526, 2528 for removably securing fastener 2500 to a bracket on the row unit. The mounting portion 2520 preferably includes mounting hooks 2522, 2524 for attaching a liquid delivery duct (e.g., flexible tube) (not shown) to the fastener 2500. The upper portion 2510 preferably includes an inner cavity 2512 dimensioned to receive the liquid application duct. The internal cavity 2512 preferably includes a rear opening, through which the liquid application duct extends to distribute liquid behind the fastener 2500. It should be appreciated that a plurality of liquid ducts can be inserted into the internal cavity 2512 ; in addition, a nozzle can be included at one end of the duct or ducts to redirect and / or divide the flow of liquid applied in the ditch behind the 2500 fastener.
[00123] The fastener 2500 also preferably includes a hitch portion on the ground 2530 mounted on the top portion 2510. The hitch portion on the floor 2530 can be removably mounted on the top portion 2510; as illustrated, the engagement portion on the floor is mounted on the upper portion by threaded screws 2560, but in other embodiments the engagement portion on the floor can be installed and removed without the use of tools, for example, by a slot and groove arrangement . The engagement portion on the ground 2530 can also be permanently mounted on the upper portion 2510, for
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 32/202
26/137 example, using rivets instead of screws 2560, or molding the upper portion into the engagement portion on the ground. The engagement portion on the ground 2530 is preferably made of a material with greater wear resistance than plastic, such as metal (for example, stainless steel or hardened white iron), may include a wear resistant coating ( or a non-stick coating as described herein) and may include a wear resistant portion, such as a tungsten carbide insert.
[00124] The hitch portion on soil 2530 preferably includes a sensor to detect ditch characteristics (eg soil moisture, soil organic matter, soil temperature, presence of seeds, seed spacing, percentage of fixed seeds, presence of soil residues) as a reflectivity sensor 2590, preferably housed in a cavity 2532 of the engagement portion in the soil. The reflectivity sensor preferably includes a 2596 sensor circuit board having a sensor arranged to receive reflected light from the ditch through a transparent window 2592. The transparent window 2592 is preferably mounted flush with a bottom surface of the engage the soil in such a way that the soil flows under the window without accumulating on the window or along an edge of it. A 2594 electrical connection preferably connects the 2596 sensor circuit board to a wire or bus (not shown) placing the sensor circuit board in data communication with the monitor 50.
[00125] Returning to Figures 5-14, another modality of seed fixator 500 is illustrated. A flexible portion 504 is configured, preferably, to press
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 33/202
27/137 resiliently a fastener body 520 in the seed ditch 38. Mounting tabs 514, 515 removably couple flexible portion 504 to fastener support 415, preferably as described in order '585.
[00126] A flexible liquid duct 506 preferably conducts liquid (e.g. liquid fertilizer) from a container to an outlet 507 to deposit in or adjacent to ditch 38. Duct 506 preferably extends through the fastener body 520 between outlet 507 and a socket 529 which preferably restricts duct 506 from sliding relative to the fastener body 520. The duct portion can extend through an opening formed in the fastener body 520 or (as illustrated) through a channel covered by a removable cover 530. Cover 530 preferably engages side walls 522, 524 of the fastener body 520 by hook flaps 532. Hook flaps 532 preferably retain side walls 522, 524 from deformation outwardly in addition to retaining cover 530 on fastener body 520. A screw 533 also preferably retains cover 530 on fastener body 520.
[00127] The duct 506 is preferably retained to the flexible portion 504 of the seed clamp 500 by the mounting hooks 508, 509 and the mounting flaps 514, 515. The pipe 506 is preferably resiliently gripped by the arms 512, 513 of the flower hooks. assembly 508, 509 respectively. The duct 506 is preferably received in the slits 516, 517 of the mounting flaps 514, 515, respectively.
[00128] A whip 505 preferably comprises a wire or plurality of wires in electrical communication with the sensors mounted on the fastener described below. The whip is
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 34/202
28/137 preferably received in the slots 510, 511 of the mounting hooks 508, 509 and additionally held in place by the duct 506. The harness 505 is preferably gripped by the slits 518, 519 of the mounting flaps 514, 515, respectively; the harness 505 is preferably pressed through a resilient opening of each slot 518, 519 and the resilient opening returns in place so that the slots retain the harness 505 unless the harness is forcibly removed.
[00129] In some embodiments, the lower ditch engagement portion of the seed fixer 500 comprises a plate 540. The plate 540 may comprise a different material and / or a material having different properties than the rest of the fixture body 520; for example, plate 540 may have a greater hardness than the rest of the fastener body 520 and may comprise powdered metal. In some embodiments, the entire fastener body 520 is made of a relatively hard material, such as powdered metal. In an installation phase, the plate 540 is mounted on the rest of the fastener body 520, for example, by the rods 592 attached to the plate 540 and attached to the rest of the fastener body by the pressure rings 594; It should be appreciated that the plate can be removably mounted or permanently mounted on the rest of the fastener body.
[00130] The seed fixator 500 is preferably configured to removably receive a reflectivity sensor 350 within a cavity 527 within the fixture body 520. In a preferred embodiment, the reflectivity sensor 350 is removably installed in the seed fixture 500 per slide the reflectivity sensor 350 into the cavity 527 until the flexible tabs 525, 523 click into place, securing the reflectivity sensor 350 in place
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 35/202
29/137 until the flexible tabs are folded to remove the reflectivity sensor. The reflectivity sensor 350 can be configured to carry out any of the measurements described above in relation to the reflectivity sensor of the seed fixator 400. The reflectivity sensor 350 preferably comprises a circuit board 580 (in some embodiments a printed molded circuit board ). The reflectivity sensor 350 preferably detects light transmitted through a lens 550 having a lower surface coextensive with the surrounding lower surface of the fixator body 520, such that the soil and seeds are not dragged by the lens. In embodiments with a plate 540, the bottom surface of lens 550 is preferably coextensive with a bottom surface of plate 540. Lens 550 is preferably a transparent material, such as sapphire. The interface between circuit board 580 and lens 550 is preferably protected against dust and debris; in the illustrated embodiment, the interface is protected by a sealing ring 552, while in other embodiments the interface is protected by an encapsulating compound. In a preferred embodiment, lens 550 is mounted on circuit board 580 and the lens slides into place within the lower surface of the fixator body 520 (and / or plate 540) when the reflectivity sensor 350 is installed. In such embodiments, the flexible tabs 523, 525 preferably block the reflectivity sensor in a position where the lens 550 is coextensive with the lower surface of the fastener body 520.
[00131] The seed fixer 500 preferably includes a 360 temperature sensor.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 36/202
The temperature 360 preferably comprises a probe 560. The probe 560 preferably comprises a thermally conductive rod (for example, a copper rod) which extends across the width of the fastener body 500 and having opposite ends extending from the fastener body 500 to contact either side of the ditch 38. The temperature sensor 360 preferably also comprises a resistance temperature detector (RTD) 564 attached to (for example, screwed into a threaded hole) probe 560; the RTD is preferably in electrical communication with the circuit board 580 through an electrical terminal 585; circuit board 580 is preferably configured to process both reflectivity and temperature measurements and is preferably in electrical communication with harness 505. In embodiments in which plate 540 and / or the rest of the fastener body 520 comprises a thermally material conductive, an insulating material 562 preferably supports probe 560, such that temperature changes in the probe are minimally affected by contact with the fastener body; In such embodiments, the probe 560 is preferably mainly surrounded by air inside the fastener body 520 and the insulating material 562 (or fastener body) preferably contacts a minimal surface area of the probe. In some embodiments, the insulating material comprises a low conductivity plastic, such as polystyrene or polypropylene.
[00132] Returning to Figure 15, another modality 400 'of the seed fixer is illustrated having a plurality of reflectivity sensors 350. The reflectivity sensors 350c, 350d and 350e are arranged to measure the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 37/202
31/137 reflectivity of the regions 352c, 352d and 352e, respectively, and adjacent to the bottom of the ditch 38. The regions 352c, 352d and 352e are preferably a substantially contiguous region including, preferably, all or substantially the entire portion of the ditch in the which the seed rests after falling into the ditch by gravity. In other embodiments, a plurality of temperature and / or electrical conductivity sensors are arranged to measure a larger region, preferably substantially contiguous.
[00133] Returning to Figure 16, another embodiment of a seed fixator 400 is illustrated with a plurality of reflectivity sensors 350 arranged to measure on any side of the ditch 38 at various depths within the ditch. The reflectivity sensors 350f, 350k are arranged to measure the reflectivity at or adjacent to the top of the ditch 38. The reflectivity sensors 350h, 350i are arranged to measure the reflectivity at or adjacent to the bottom of the ditch 38. The reflectivity sensors 350g , 350j are arranged to measure reflectivity at an intermediate depth of the ditch 38, for example, half the depth of the ditch. It should be appreciated that, in order to effectively make soil measurements at an intermediate depth of the ditch, it is desirable to modify the shape of the seed fixer, such that the side walls of the seed fixer engage on the sides of the ditch at an intermediate depth of the ditch. ditch. Likewise, it must be appreciated that, in order to effectively make soil measurements at a depth close to the top of the ditch (ie, at or near the surface of the soil 40), it is desirable to modify the shape of the seed fixer in such a way. way the walls
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 38/202
32/137 sides of the seed fixer engage the sides of the ditch at or near the top of the ditch. In other embodiments, a plurality of temperature and / or electrical conductivity sensors are arranged to measure the temperature and / or electrical conductivity, respectively, of the soil at a plurality of depths within the ditch 38.
[00134] As described above in relation to system 300, in some embodiments a second set of reflectivity sensors 350, temperature sensors 360 and electrical conductivity sensors 370 are mounted on a set of reference sensors 1800. Such a modality is illustrated in Figure 18, in which the set of reference sensors opens a ditch 39 in which a seed fixer 400 having sensors mounted on the fixer is resiliently engaged to detect the soil characteristics of the bottom of the ditch 39. The ditch 39 is preferably a shallow depth (for example, between 1/8 and 1/2 inch (0.3175 and 1.27 cm)) or a deep depth (for example, between 3 and 5 inches (7.62 and 12.7 cm)). The trench is preferably opened by a pair of opening discs 1830-1, 1830-2 arranged to open a v-shaped trench in the soil 40 and rotate around the lower cubes 1834. The depth of the trench is preferably defined by one or more 1820 caliber wheels rotating on the upper hubs 1822. The upper and lower hubs are preferably fixedly attached to an 1840 stem. The seed holder is preferably mounted on the 1840 stem by an 1845 holder. The 1840 stem is preferably mounted on the toolbar 14. In some embodiments, the stem 1840 is mounted on the toolbar 14 by a parallel arm arrangement 1810 for
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 39/202
33/137 vertical movement in relation to the toolbar; in some of these modalities, the rod is resiliently tensioned towards the ground by an adjustable spring 1812 (or another downward force applicator). In the illustrated embodiment, the rod 1840 is mounted in front of the tool bar 14; in other embodiments, the rod may be mounted behind the tool bar 14. In other embodiments, the clamp 400 may be mounted on the row unit rod 254, on a closing wheel assembly or on a row cleaner assembly.
[00135] A modality of the reference sensor 1800 'including an instrumented stem 1840' is illustrated in Figures 23 and 24. The reference sensors 350u, 350m, 3501, are preferably arranged at a lower end of the stem 1840 and arranged to contact the soil on a side wall of ditch 39 at or adjacent to the top of the ditch, at an intermediate ditch depth, and at or adjacent to the ditch bottom, respectively. The rod 1840 extends into the ditch and preferably includes an angled surface 1842 to which the reference sensors 350 are mounted; the angle of the surface 1842 is preferably parallel to the side wall of the ditch 39.
[00136] It should be appreciated that the sensor modality of Figures 4A-4C can be assembled and used in conjunction with implements other than seed planters, such as tillage tools. For example, seed fixers could be placed in contact with the soil in an open trench (or soil surface, otherwise passed over) by a tillage implement, such as a disc harrow or a soil ripper. In such equipment,
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 40/202
34/137 sensors can be mounted on a part of the equipment that comes into contact with the ground or any extension that is connected to a part of the equipment and contacts the ground. It should be appreciated that in some of these modalities, the seed fixer would not contact the planted seed, but would still measure and report the characteristics of the soil, as described here.
[00137] In another mode, any of the sensors (reflectivity sensor 350, temperature sensor 360, electrical conductivity sensor 370, capacitive humidity sensor 351, and electronic tensiometer sensor 352) can be arranged in 400 'seed holders with an exposure through a 400 'seed fixer side. As illustrated in Figure 27A in one embodiment, the seed fixator 400 'has a protrusion 401' from one side of the seed fixer 400 'through which the sensors detect. Arranged in the 401 'protrusion is a 402' lens. The protrusion 401 'minimizes any build-up that blocks lens 402' and lens 402 'may come into contact with the ground.
[00138] The 402 'lens can be made of any material that is durable to abrasion caused by contact with the ground and transparent to the wavelengths of the light used. In certain embodiments, the material has a Mohs hardness of at least 8. In certain embodiments, the material is sapphire, ruby, diamond, moissanite (SiC) or tempered glass (such as Gorilla ™ glass). In one embodiment, the material is sapphire. In one embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 28A and 28B, lens 402 'has a trapezoidal shape with sloping sides from the rear 402'-b to the front 402'-f of the lens 402'. In this modality, the lens 402 'can be seated inside the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 41/202
35/137 protrusion 401 'without retainers against the back 402'-b of lens 402'. The sensors that are arranged behind the lens 402 'are then not blocked by any of these retainers. Alternatively, lens 402 'can be arranged in opposition to the previous embodiment with the sides tilted from the front 402-f to the rear 402-b.
[00139] To facilitate assembly and to place sensors on 400 'seed fixers, the 400' seed fixer can be manufactured from component parts. In this embodiment, seed fixator 400 'has a resilient portion 410', which mounts stem 254 and may urge seed fixer body portion 490 'for resilient engagement with ditch 38. The fixture body portion 490' includes a fixer base 55495 ', sensor housing 496' and lens body 498 '. Base 55495 'is shown in Figures 29A to 29C. The sensor housing 496 'is illustrated in Figure 30A, and a cover 497' for mating with the sensor housing 496 'is illustrated in Figure 30B. The lens body 498 'is shown in Figures 31A and 31B, and the lens body 498' is arranged in aperture 499 'on the fixture base 55495'. The lens 402 'is arranged in the lens aperture 494' in the lens body 498 '. The sensors are arranged (such as on a circuit board, such as 580 or 2596) in the sensor housing 496 '. As illustrated in Figure 27B, there is a duct 4 93 disposed through one side of the resilient portion 410 'and entering the sensor housing 496' for connection (not shown) to connect to the sensors.
[00140] The protrusion 401 'will be mainly in the lens body 498', but a portion of the protrusion 401 'can also be arranged in the fixator body 55495' for one or both
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 42/202
36/137 sides of the lens body 498 'to create a taper out and back of the 401' protrusion. The 401 'protrusion is expected to wear out on contact with the ground. Having a larger portion of the protrusion 401 'in the lens body 498' allows replacement of the lens body 498 'after the protrusion 401' and / or the lens 402 'is worn or broken.
[00141] In another embodiment illustrated in Figure 53, a 360 'temperature sensor is arranged on a seed fixator 400 (the reference to seed fixator 400 in this paragraph is for any seed fixer such as 400, 400', 400'or 400 ') to measure the temperature in an interior wall 40 9 that is in thermal conductivity with an exterior of seed fixer 400. The temperature sensor 360' measures the temperature of the interior wall 409. In one embodiment, the area of the interior wall 409 that 360 'temperature sensor measures is not more than 50% of the area of the interior wall 409. In other modalities, the area is not more than 40%, not more than 30%, not more than 20%, not more than 10%, or not more than 5%. The smaller the area, the faster the 360 'temperature sensor can react to changes in temperature. In one embodiment, the 360 'temperature sensor is a thermistor. The 360 'temperature sensor may be in electrical communication with a circuit board (such as 580 or 2596 circuit board).
[00142] In another embodiment illustrated in Figure 54, a 360 temperature sensor is disposed through a seed fixator 400 (the reference to seed fixator 400 in this paragraph is to any seed fixer such as 400, 400 ', 400 or 400 ') to measure the soil temperature directly. The 360 temperature sensor has a material
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 43/202
37/137 thermally conductive internal 1361 covered by a thermally insulating material 1362 with a portion of the thermally conductive material 1361 exposed to contact with the ground. The thermally conductive material in one embodiment can be copper. The temperature sensor 360 may be in electrical communication with a circuit board (such as circuit board 580 or 2596).
[00143] In any of the modalities in Figures 53 and 54, the 360 ', 360 temperature sensor is modular. It can be a separate part that can be in communication with the monitor 50 and can be replaced separately from other parts.
[00144] In a modality with a seed fixer 400 ', the sensor is the reflectivity sensor 350. The reflectivity sensor 350 can be made up of two components with a 350-e emitter and a 350-d detector. This modality is illustrated in Figure 32.
[00145] In certain modalities, the wavelength used in the 350 reflectivity sensor is in a range of 400 to 1600 nm. In another embodiment, the wavelength is 550 to 1450 nm. In one embodiment, there is a combination of wavelengths. In one embodiment, sensor 350 has
an combination in 574 nm, 850 nm, 940 nm and 1450 nm. In another modality, the sensor 350 has a combination of 589 nm, 850 nm, 940 nm and 1450 nm. In another mode, the sensor 350 has an combination in 640 nm, 850 nm, 940 nm and 1450 nm. In another
mode, the wavelength of 850 nm in any of the previous modes is replaced by 1200 nm. In another embodiment, the 574 nm wavelength of any of the previous modalities is replaced by 590 nm. For each of the wavelengths described here, you must
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 44/202
38/137 be understood that the number is in fact +/- 10 nm of the listed value.
[00146] In one embodiment, the field of view from the 402-f front of the 402 'lens to the ground surface is 0 to 7.5 mm (0 to 0.3 inches). In another mode, the field of view is 0 to 6.25 mm (0 to 0.25 inches). In another mode, the field of view is 0 to 5 mm (0 to 0.2 inches). In another embodiment, the field is 0 to 2.5 mm (0 to 0.1 inches).
[00147] As the seed fixer 400 'passes through ditch 38, there may be cases where there is a gap between ditch 38 and seed fixer 400' such that ambient light will be detected by the reflectivity sensor 350 This will give a falsely high result. In a mode to remove signal increase from ambient light, the 350-e emitter can be turned on and off by pulses. The background signal is measured when there is no signal from the 350-e transmitter. The measured reflectivity is then determined by subtracting the background signal from the raw signal when the 350-e emitter is emitting to provide the actual amount of reflectivity.
[00148] As shown in Figure 32, when the reflectivity sensor 350 has only one emitter 350e and a detector 350-d, the overlap area between the area illuminated by the emitter 350e and the area seen by the detector 350-d can be limited . In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 33, the emitter 350-e and detector 350-d can be angled to each other to increase the overlap. Although this is effective, this modality increases the manufacturing cost to tilt the 350-e emitter and the 350-d detector. Besides that,
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 45/202
39/137 when the surface of the ditch 38 is not smooth, there may be some light beam 999 that will impact the ditch 38 and not be reflected to the detector 350-d.
[00149] In another embodiment illustrated in Figure 34, the configuration of Figure 32 can be used, and a prism 450 'with an inclined side 451' arranged under the emitter 350-e can refract the light from the emitter 350e towards the area seen by detector 350-d. Again, with a single 350-e emitter, light beam 999 can impact ditch 38 and not be reflected back to detector 350-d.
[00150] In another embodiment illustrated in Figure 35, the sensor 350 can have two emitters 350-e-l and 350-e-2 and a detector 350-d. This increases the overlap between the area seen by the 350-d detector and the area illuminated by the 350-e-1 and 350-e-2 emitters. In another embodiment, to further increase the overlap, emitters 350-e-1 and 350-e-2 can be angled towards detector 350-d, as shown in Figure 36.
[00151] In another embodiment illustrated in Figure 37, two emitters 350-e-l and 350-e-2 are arranged close to the detector 350-d. A prism 450 has two sloping surfaces 459-1 and 459-2 to refract light from emitters 350-e-l and 350-e-2 towards the area seen by detector 350-d.
[00152] In another embodiment illustrated in Figure 38, a single emitter 350-e can be used in conjunction with a prism 400 to approximate a double emitter. Prism 450 'is designed with angled sides to use the critical angle of the material used to make the prism 450 (to keep the light inside the material). Angles vary depending on the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 46/202
40/137 material. In one embodiment, the material for the 450 'prism is polycarbonate. Part of the light from the 350-e emitter will impact on side 451 and will be reflected to side 452 to side 453 to side 454 before leaving bottom 455. Optionally, spacers 456-1 and 456-2 can be arranged on the bottom 455 to provide a gap between the 450 'prism and the 550 lens.
[00153] In another modality, illustrated in Figure 39, the reflectivity sensor has a 350-e emitter and two detectors 350-d-l and 350-d-2. As shown, emitter 350e and detector 350-d-l are aligned as seen in the Figure. Detector 350-d-2 is angled towards emitter 3501 and detector 350-d-2.
[00154] In another embodiment that can be used with any of the previous or following embodiments, an opening plate 450 can be arranged adjacent to sensor 350 with openings 461 adjacent to each emitter 350-e and detector 350-d. This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 40 with the embodiment in Figure 37. Opening plate 460 can help control half angles.
[00155] In another embodiment illustrated in Figure 41, a reflectivity sensor 350 has an emitter 350-e and a detector 350-d. Placed adjacent to the detector is an orifice plate 460 that is only controlling the light entering the detector 350-d. Prism 450 is then placed adjacent to emitter 350-e and detector 350-d.
[00156] In another embodiment of a prism, multiple views of the prism 450 can be seen in Figures 42A-42G.
[00157] Figure 43 is a cross-sectional view of the seed fixer 400 'of Figure 27A taken in section A-A.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 47/202
41/137
Two emitters 350-e-l and 350-e-2 and a detector 350-d are arranged in the sensor housing 496 '. The prism 450 of Figures 42A-42G is disposed between the emitters 350-e-1 and 350-e-2 and the detector 350-d and the lens 402 '.
[00158] In another embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 44A and 44B, there is a reflectivity sensor 350 having two emitters 350-e-l and 350-e-2, in line with a detector 350d-l. When viewed, emitters 350-e-l and 350-e-2 are detached from the paper and the view of the detector 350-d-l is detached from the paper. There is a second detector that bypasses the 350-e-l and 350-e-2 emitters and the 350-d-l detector. In another mode (not shown), the 350-e-2 emitter is omitted. As seen in Figure 44B, detector 350-d-2 is tilted vertically by angle α and is looking at emitters 350-e-l and 350e-2 and detector 350-d-l, which are aligned on the paper. In one embodiment, the angle α is 30 to 60 °. In another embodiment, the angle α is 45 °. In one embodiment, the wavelength of the light used in this array is 940 nm. This arrangement allows the measurement of empty spaces on the ground. The detection of empty spaces in the soil will inform the effectiveness of the crop. Less empty or smaller spaces indicate more compaction and less effective tillage. More empty or larger spaces indicate better tillage. Having this measure of tillage effectiveness allows adjustment of the downward force on row unit 200 as described herein.
[00159] The depth away from the seed fixer 400, 400'and the length of the empty spaces can be measured by this arrangement. For short distances (usually up to 2.5 cm (1 inch) or up to about 1.27 cm (0.5 inches)), the signal output from the 350-d-2 detector increases as
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 48/202
42/137 that the distance to the target surface increases. While the signal from the primary reflectance detector, 350-d-l, remains mostly constant for slightly decreasing. An illustrative reflectance measurement is shown in Figure 47 along with a corresponding calculated height outside the target. The reflectance measurement from 350-d-l 9001 and the reflectance measurement from 350-d-2 9002 are shown. When the reflectance measurement from 350d-l 9001 and the reflectance measurement from 350d-2 9002 are approximately the same, the 9003 region is when the target ground is level with the 402 'lens. When the void is detected in the 9004 region, the reflectance measurement from 350 d 1 9001 remains approximately equal or decreases, and the reflectance measurement from 350-d-2 9002 increases. The distance from the target surface is a function of the ratio between the signals produced by 350-d-1 and 350-d-2. In one mode, the distance is calculated as (signal 350-d-2 signal 350-d-l) / (signal 350-d-2 + signal 350-d-l) * scaling constant. The scaling constant is a number that converts the reflectance measurement into distance. For the illustrated configuration, the scaling factor is 0.44. The scaling factor is measured and depends on the position of the emitter and detector, dimensions of the opening plate and the prism geometry. In one embodiment, a scaling factor can be determined by placing a target at a known distance. A graph of the calculated target distance produces a 9005 elevation profile across the scanned surface. Knowing the travel speed, the 9006 length, the 9007 depth and the 9008 spacing of these voids can be calculated. An
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 49/202
43/137 average execution of these void characteristics (length 9006, depth 9007 and spacing 9008) can be calculated and then reported as another metric to characterize the texture of the soil being scanned. For example, once a second, a summary of the average void length, average void depth and number of voids during that period could be recorded / transmitted to monitor 50. The time interval can be any selected amount of time greater than 0 Having a smaller amount of time, a smaller space is analyzed. An example of monitor 50 showing on screen 2310, void length 2311, void depth 2312 and number of voids 2313 is illustrated in Figure 48.
[00160] In another embodiment, any scratches or films that form on lens 402 'will affect the reflectivity detected by the reflectivity sensor 350. There will be an increase in the internal reflectivity inside the seed fixator 400, 400'. Increasing reflectivity will increase the reflectance measurement. This increase can be explained when the seed fixator 400, 400 'is removed from ditch 38. Reading the
fastener in seeds 400, 400 ' this moment will be the new reading in basis, for example, reset. next time what O fastener in seeds 400, 400 ' runs in the ditch 38, The
reflectivity above the new base or zero reading will be the actual measured reading.
[00161] In another embodiment, the reflectivity measurement of the reflectivity sensor 350 allows a seed germination moisture value to be obtained from a data table and displayed to an operator on monitor 50. The seed germination humidity is a related dimensionless measure
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 50/202
44/137 to the amount of water available to a seed for each type of soil determined. For different types of soil, water is retained differently. For example, sandy soil does not retain water as much as clayey soil. Although there may be more water in the clay than sand, there may be the same amount of water that is released from the soil to the seed. Seed germination moisture is a measure of the weight gain of a seed that has been placed in the soil. The seed is placed in the soil for a period of time sufficient to allow moisture to enter the seed. In one mode, three days is the period. The weight of the seed before and after is measured. In addition, the reflectivity of soils in different water contents is stored in a data table. A scale of 1 to 10 can be used. The numbers in the middle of the scale, such as 4-7, can be associated with the water content in each soil type which is an acceptable water level for the seeds. Low numbers, such as 1-3, can be used to indicate that the soil is too dry for the seed. High numbers, like 8-10, can be used to indicate that the soil is too moist for the seed. Knowing the type of soil as input by the operator and the measured reflectivity, the seed germination humidity can be obtained from the data table. The result can be displayed on monitor 50 with the actual number. In addition, the result can be accompanied by a color. For example, the source color of the reported result or the color of the screen on the monitor 50 may use green for values within the acceptable level and another color, such as yellow or red, for high or low values. An example of monitor 50 displaying seed germination humidity 2301 on screen 2300 is illustrated in Figure 45.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 51/202
45/137
Alternatively, seed generation humidity 2301 can be displayed on monitor 50 in Figure 20. In addition, uniform moisture can be displayed on monitor 50 (not shown). Uniform moisture is the standard deviation of seed germination moisture.
[00162] Depending on the seed germination moisture reading, the planting depth can be adjusted as described here. If seed germination humidity is indicating very dry conditions, the depth can be increased to go deeper until a specific moisture level is reached. If the seed germination humidity indicates that it is too humid, the depth can be decreased to a lower level of humidity.
[00163] In another modality, the uniformity of humidity or humidity variability can be measured and displayed on monitor 50. An example of monitor 50 showing 2320 humidity uniformity on screen 2320 and / or 2331 humidity variability on screen 2330 is illustrated in Figures 50 and 51. One or both can be displayed or both can be displayed on the same screen. The uniformity of humidity is variability of humidity-1. Any of the moisture readings can be used, such as capacitance humidity, seed germination humidity, or even volumetric water content or matrix potential or days until germination, to calculate the uniformity of moisture and humidity variability. The humidity variability is a deviation from the average measurement. In one embodiment, the humidity variability is calculated by dividing the standard deviation by the average using any of the moisture measurements. This provides a percentage. Any other mathematical method for expressing
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 52/202
46/137 variation in measurement can also be used. In one embodiment, the mean square root can be used in place of the standard deviation. In addition to displaying the result on monitor 50, the result can be accompanied by a color. For example, the source color of the reported result or the color of the screen on the monitor 50 may use green for values within the acceptable level and another color, such as yellow or red, for unacceptable values. For the days for germination above, this is determined by creating a database, placing seeds at different levels of humidity and measuring the days until germination. The uniformity of humidity and variability of humidity are then the variability in the days until germination.
[00164] Depending on the uniformity of humidity reading or reading of humidity variability, the planting depth can be modified as described here. In one embodiment, the depth can be adjusted to maximize moisture uniformity and to minimize moisture variability.
[00165] In another embodiment, an emergency room score can be calculated and displayed on monitor 50. An example of monitor 50 displaying an emergency room score on screen 2340 is illustrated in Figure 52. The emergency room score it is a combination of temperature and humidity correlated with the time it takes a seed to germinate under these conditions. A database can be created by placing seeds in different combinations of temperature and humidity and measuring the days until germination. The emergency environment score displayed on monitor 50 can be the days until the database germinates. In another modality, the environment score of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 53/202
47/137 emergence can be the percentage of seeds planted that will germinate within a selected number of days. The selected number of days can be entered in monitor 50. In another embodiment, a scaled score can be used that is based on a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 representing the smallest number of days that a seed takes to germinate and 10 representing the greater number of days that a seed takes to germinate. For example, if a seed can germinate within 2 days, a value of 1 will be assigned, and if the longest seed takes to germinate is 17 days, this will be assigned a value of 10. In addition to displaying the result on the monitor 50, the result can be accompanied by a color. For example, the font color of the reported result or the color of the screen on the monitor 50 may use green for values within the selected number of days and another color, such as yellow or red, for values greater than the selected number of days.
[00166] Depending on the emergency environment score, the planting depth can be adjusted as described here. In one embodiment, the depth can be adjusted to minimize the number of days until germination.
[00167] In another mode, any of the previous modes can be in a device separate from the seed fixer 400, 400 '. As shown in Figure 46, any of the sensors described here (sensor 350 is shown in Figure) is arranged on sensor arm 5000. Sensor arm 5000 has a flexible portion 5001 which is attached to the seed fixator 400 'at the end the flexible portion 410 'of seed fixator 400' in the vicinity of the support insertion portion 411 '. At the opposite end of the portion
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 54/202
48/137 flexible 5001 is the base 5002. The sensor 350 is placed on the base 5002 behind the lens 5003. Although it is desirable that any of the sensors be on seed holders 400 ', there may be times when the difference in applied force is needed. In one embodiment, the 400 'seed fixer may need a lesser amount of force to firm a seed, but more force is needed to keep the sensor in contact with the soil. A different amount of stiffness can be projected on flexible portion 5001 compared to flexible portion 410 '. When having the seed fixed by the seed fixator 400, 400 'first, then the pressure of the sensor arm 5000 does not touch the seed that is already established in the ditch 38 or does not move the seed if contact is made.
[00168] In other modalities, any of the sensors does not need to be arranged in a fastener, and in particular any of the modalities illustrated in Figures 27A to 54. The sensors can be in any implement that is arranged in an agricultural implement in contact with the soil. For example, the fastener body 4 90 can be mounted on any support and arranged anywhere on an agricultural implement and in contact with the ground. Examples of an agricultural implement include, but are not limited to, planters, harvesters, sprayers, side booms, tillage machines, fertilizer spreaders and a tractor.
[00169] Figure 49 illustrates a flowchart of a modality for a 4900 method of obtaining soil measurements and then generating a signal to trigger any implement on any agricultural implement. The 4900 method is performed by
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 55/202
49/137 hardware (circuits, dedicated logic, etc.), software (how it runs on a general-purpose computer system or a dedicated machine or device), or a combination of both. In one embodiment, the 4900 method is executed by at least one system or device (for example, monitor 50, soil monitoring system, seed fixers, sensors, implement, row unit, etc.). The system executes instructions from an application or software program with processing logic. The application or software program can be started by a system or can notify an operator or user of a machine (for example, tractor, planter, harvester), depending on whether soil measurements signal a trigger to implement.
[00170] In any modality here, in operation 4902, a system or device (for example, soil monitoring system, monitor 50, seed fixer, sensors) can obtain soil measurements (for example, moisture measurements, organic matter , porosity, soil texture / type, furrow residue, etc.). In operation 4904, the system or device (for example, soil monitoring system, monitor 50) can generate a signal to trigger any implement on any agricultural implement (for example, changing a population of seeds planted by controlling a seed meter, change the variety of seeds (for example, hybrid), change the depth of furrow, change the application rate of fertilizer, fungicide and / or insecticide, change the downward or upward applied force of an agricultural implement, such as a planter or machine tillage, control the force applied by a row cleaner) in response to obtaining soil measurements.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 56/202
50/137
This can be done in real time anywhere. Examples of soil measurements that can be measured and implement control include, but are not limited to:
[00171] A) humidity, organic matter, porosity, or texture / soil type to alter a population of seeds planted by controlling a seed meter;
[00172] B) moisture, organic matter, porosity, or texture / soil type to change the variety of seeds (for example, hybrid);
[00173] C) humidity, organic matter, porosity or texture / soil type to change the depth of the furrow:
[00174] D) humidity, organic matter, porosity, or texture / type of soil to change the application rate of fertilizers, fungicides and / or insecticides:
[00175] E) humidity, organic matter, porosity or texture / type of soil to change the downward or upward force applied of an agricultural implement, such as a planter or tillage machine:
[00176] F) groove residue to control the force applied by a row cleaner.
[00177] Data processing and display [00178] Referring to Figure 20, implement monitor 50 can display a summary of soil 2000 data by displaying a representation (for example, numeric or legend-based representation) of collected soil data using the 400 seed fixer and associated sensors. Soil data can be displayed in windows such as the soil moisture window 2020 and the soil temperature window 2025. A depth definition window 2030 can additionally show the current depth definition of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 57/202
51/137 implement row units, for example, the depth at which seed fixers 400 are making their respective measurements. A 2035 reflectivity variation window can show a statistical reflectivity variation during a threshold period (for example, the previous 30 seconds) or over a threshold distance traveled by the implement (for example, the previous 30 feet (9,144 meters)) . The statistical reflectivity variation can comprise any function of the reflectivity signal (for example, generated by each reflectivity sensor 350) such as the variance or standard deviation of the reflectivity signal. Monitor 50 can additionally display a representation of a predicted agronomic result (for example, percentage of plants successfully spawned) based on the reflectivity variation value. For example, emergency reflectivity values can be used to search for a predicted plant emergency value in an empirically generated database (for example, stored in the implement 50's monitor memory or stored and updated on a remote server in communication from data with the implement monitor) associating reflectivity values with the expected plant emergency.
[00179] Each window in the 2000 soil data summary preferably shows an average value for all the row units (row) on which the measurement is taken and, optionally, the row unit for which the value is most high and / or lower along with the value associated with such a row unit or row units. Selecting (for example, clicking or tapping) each window preferably shows the individual values (line by line) of the data
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 58/202
52/137 associated with the window for each of the row units on which the measurement is made.
[00180] A carbon content window 2005 preferably displays an estimate of the carbon content of the soil. The carbon content is preferably estimated based on the electrical conductivity measured by the 370 electrical conductivity sensors, for example, using an empirical relationship or empirical research table relating the electrical conductivity to an estimated percentage of carbon content. The 2005 window preferably also displays the electrical conductivity measured by the 370 electrical conductivity sensors.
[00181] An organic matter window 2010 preferably displays an estimate of the organic matter content of the soil. The content of organic matter is preferably estimated based on the reflectivity at one or a plurality of wavelengths measured by the reflectivity sensors 350, for example, using an empirical relationship or empirical research table relating the reflectivity in one or a plurality of lengths waveform for an estimated percentage of organic matter.
[00182] A soil component window 2015 preferably displays an estimate of the fractional presence of one or a plurality of soil components, for example, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and carbon. Each soil component estimate is preferably based on reflectivity at one or a plurality of wavelengths measured by the reflectivity sensors 350, for example, using an empirical relationship or empirical research table relating the reflectivity to one or one
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 59/202
53/137 plurality of wavelengths for an estimated fractional presence of a soil component. In some modalities, the soil component estimate is preferably determined based on a signal or signals generated by the 373 spectrometer. In some modalities, the 2015 window additionally displays a ratio between the carbon and nitrogen components of the soil.
[00183] A 2020 humidity window preferably displays an estimate of the soil moisture. The moisture estimate is preferably based on reflectivity at one or a plurality of wavelengths (for example, 930 or 940 nanometers) measured by the reflectivity sensors 350, for example, using an empirical relationship or empirical research table relating reflectivity in a or plurality of wavelengths for an estimated humidity. In some embodiments, the moisture measurement is determined as disclosed in the '975 order.
[00184] A 2025 temperature window preferably displays an estimate of the soil temperature. The temperature estimate is preferably based on the signal generated by one or more temperature sensors 350.
[00185] A 2030 depth window preferably displays the current depth definition. Monitor 50 also preferably allows the user to remotely operate row unit 200 to a desired trench depth, as disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT / US2014 / 029352, incorporated herein by reference.
[00186] Returning to Figure 21, monitor 50 is preferably configured to display one or more
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 60/202
54/137 2100 map windows in which a plurality of data, measurement and / or estimated soil values (such as reflectivity variation) are represented by blocks 2122, 2124, 2126, each block has a color or pattern that associates with measurement in the block position at intervals 2112, 2114, 2116, respectively (from legend 2110) in which the measurements fall. A 2100 map window is preferably generated and displayed for each soil data, measurement and / or estimate displayed on the 2000 soil data screen, preferably including carbon content, electrical conductivity, organic matter, soil components (including nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium), moisture and soil temperature. The subsets can correspond to numerical ranges of reflectivity variation. The subsets can be named according to an agronomic indication empirically associated with the reflectivity variation. For example, a variation in reflectivity below a first threshold at which no emergency failure is expected can be labeled as Good; a reflectivity variation between the first threshold and a second threshold at which the predicted emergency failure is agronomically unacceptable (for example, it is likely to affect yield by more than one yield threshold) can be labeled as Acceptable, a reflectivity variation above the second threshold can be labeled Poor emergency expected.
[00187] Moving on to Figure 22, monitor 50 is preferably configured to display one or more windows of planting data including planting data measured by the seed sensors 305 and / or the reflectivity sensors 350. Window 2205 preferably displays a good
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 61/202
55/137 spacing value calculated based on seed pulses from optical (or electromagnetic) seed sensors 305. Window 2210 preferably displays a good spacing value based on seed pulses from the 350 reflectivity sensors. In Figure 17, the seed pulses 1502 at a reflectivity signal 1500 can be identified by a reflectance level exceeding a threshold T associated with the passage of a seed under the seed fixative. A time for each 1502 seed pulse can be established as the midpoint of each period P between the first and the second crossing of the T threshold. Once the seed pulses have been identified (either from the 305 seed sensor or the reflectivity sensor) 350), seed pulse times are preferably used to calculate a good spacing value as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 752,031 (application 031 '), incorporated herein by reference. In some modalities, in addition to good spacing, other seed planting information (including, for example, population, singulation, jumps and multiples) is also calculated and displayed on screen 2200 according to the methods disclosed in the '031 order. In some modalities, the same wavelength (and / or the same reflectivity sensor 350) is used for the detection of seeds such as moisture and other measurements of soil data; in some embodiments, the wavelength is about 940 nanometers. Where the reflectivity signal 1500 is used for seed detection and soil measurement (for example, moisture), the portion of the signal identified as a seed pulse (for example, P periods) is not preferably used in the measurement calculation from soil; per
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 62/202
56/137 example, the signal during each period P can be assumed to be a line between the times immediately before and immediately after the period P, or in other modalities it can be assumed to be the average value of the signal during the previous 30 seconds of signal not falling within any seed pulse period P. In some embodiments, screen 2200 also displays a percentage or absolute difference between well-spaced data values or other seed planting information determined based on the sensor pulse. seeds and the same information determined based on the reflectivity sensor pulses.
[00188] In some modalities, seed detection is improved by selectively measuring reflectivity at a wavelength or wavelengths associated with a characteristic or characteristics of the seed being planted. In some of these modalities, the system 300 asks the operator to select a crop, type of seed, seed hybrid, seed treatment and / or other characteristic of the seed to be planted. The wavelength or wavelengths at which reflectivity is measured to identify seed pulses are preferably selected based on the seed characteristic or characteristics selected by the operator.
[00189] In some modalities, the values of good spacing are calculated based on both the seed pulse signals generated by the optical or electromagnetic seed sensors 305 and the reflectivity sensors 350.
[00190] In some of these modalities, the good value
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 63/202
57/137 spacing for a row unit is based on the seed pulses generated by the reflectivity sensor 350 associated with the row unit, which are filtered based on the signal generated by the optical seed sensor 305 on the same row unit. For example, a confidence value can be associated with each seed pulse generated by the optical seed sensor, for example, directly related to the pulse pulse width of the optical seed sensor; this confidence value can then be modified based on the optical seed sensor signal, for example, increased if a seed pulse was observed on the optical seed sensor within a threshold period prior to the reflectivity sensor seed pulse, and decreased if the seed pulse was not observed in the optical seed sensor within a threshold period before the reflectivity sensor seed pulse. A seed pulse is then recognized and stored as a seed placement if the modified confidence value exceeds a threshold.
[00191] In other of these modalities, the good spacing value for a row unit is based on the seed pulses generated by the optical seed sensor 305 associated with the row unit, which are modified based on the signal generated by the 350 reflectivity sensor in the same row unit. For example, the seed pulses generated by the optical seed sensor 305 can be associated with the time of the next seed pulse generated by the reflectivity sensor 350. If no seed pulse is generated by the reflectivity sensor 350 within a threshold time after the seed pulse generated by the 305 seed sensor, then the seed pulse generated by the sensor
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 64/202
58/137 of seeds 305 can be either ignored (for example, if a confidence value associated with the seed sensor seed pulse is below a threshold) or adjusted by an average time delay between seed sensor pulses reflectivity and seed sensor seed pulses (for example, the average delay time for the last 10, 100, or 300 seeds).
[00192] In addition to displaying seed planting information such as good spacing data values, in some embodiments the measured seed pulses can be used for liquid deposition time in the ditch and other crop inputs in order for application time in such a way that the applied culture input lands on the seed, adjacent to the seed, or between the seeds, as desired. In some of these embodiments, a liquid applicator valve selectively allows the liquid to flow from the outlet 507 of the liquid duct 506 a threshold time is briefly opened (for example, 0 seconds, 1 ms, 10 ms, 100 ms or 1 second) after a seed pulse 1502 is identified at signal 1500 from the reflectivity sensor 350 associated with the same row unit 200 as the liquid applicator valve.
[00193] A signal generated by the reflectivity sensor can also be used to identify the presence of crop residues (for example, corn stalks) in the seed ditch. When the reflectivity in a range of wavelengths associated with the culture residue (for example, between 560 and 580 nm) exceeds a threshold, system 300 preferably determines that the culture residue is present in the ditch at the current GPS-reported location . THE
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 65/202
59/137 spatial variation in the residue can then be mapped and displayed to a user. In addition, the downward pressure supplied to a row cleaner set (for example, a pressure controlled row cleaner, as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,550,020, incorporated herein by reference) can be automatically adjusted by system 300 in response to residue identification or adjusted by the user. In one example, the system can command a valve associated with a row cleaner downward pressure actuator to increase by 5 psi in response to an indication that the crop residue is present in the seed ditch. Likewise, a closing wheel down force actuator can also be adjusted by the system 300 or by the operator in response to an indication that the crop residue is present in the seed ditch.
[00194] In some modalities, an orientation of each seed is determined based on the width of the seed pulse periods based on reflectivity P. In some of these modalities, pulses with a period greater than a threshold (an absolute threshold or a percentage of threshold in excess of the average pulse period) are categorized in a first category, while pulses having a shorter period than the limit are categorized in a second category. The first and second categories correspond, preferably, to the first and second seed orientations. The percentages of seeds in the previous 30 seconds that fall in the first and / or second categories can be displayed on screen 2200. The orientation of each seed is preferably mapped spatially using the GPS coordinates of the seed, so that individual plant performance can
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 66/202
60/137 be compared to seed orientation during observation operations.
[00195] In some modalities, a determination of the seed-to-soil contact is made based on the existence or absence of a recognized seed pulse generated by the reflectivity sensor 350. For example, when a seed pulse is generated by the sensor optical seed 305 and no seed pulse is generated by the reflectivity sensor 350 within a threshold time after the optical seed sensor pulse, a poor seed-to-soil contact value is preferably stored and associated the location where the reflectivity sensor seed pulse was expected. A seed-to-soil contact index can be generated by one or more rows by comparing the number of seeds that have poor seed-to-soil contact over a threshold number of planted seeds, distance traveled, or elapsed time . The operator can then be alerted via monitor 50 to the row or rows that exhibit seed-parasol contact below a threshold threshold value. In addition, the spatial variation in the seed-to-soil contact can be mapped and displayed to the user. In addition, a criterion that represents the percentage of seeds fixed (for example, not having poor seed-to-soil contact) over a previous period of time or the number of seeds can be displayed to the operator.
[00196] In one mode, the planting depth can be adjusted based on the soil properties measured by sensors and / or camera so that the seeds are planted where the desired temperature, humidity and / or conductance are
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 67/202
61/137 found in ditch 38. A signal can be sent to the depth adjustment actuator 380 to modify the position of the depth adjustment rocker 268 and thus the height of the 248 caliber wheels to place the seed at the desired depth . In one embodiment, a global objective is to make the seeds germinate at about the same time. This leads to greater consistency and yield of the crop. When certain seeds germinate before other seeds, the resulting plants can shade the resulting plants to deprive them of the necessary sunlight and can disproportionately absorb more nutrients from the surrounding soil, which reduces the yield of seeds that germinate later. The days until germination are based on a combination of moisture availability (soil moisture stress) and temperature.
[00197] In another mode, the depth can be adjusted based on a combination of the current temperature and humidity conditions in the field and the temperature and humidity supply predicted from an atmospheric forecast. This process is described in US patent publication 2016/0037709, which is incorporated herein by reference.
[00198] In any of the previous modalities for the depth control of the humidity, the control can be additionally limited by a minimum threshold temperature. A minimum threshold temperature (for example, 10 ° C (50 ° F)) can be set so that the planter cannot plant below a depth where the minimum threshold temperature is. This can be based on the actual measured temperature or on accounting for the measured temperature in
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 68/202
62/137 a specific time of day. Throughout the day, the soil is heated by sunlight or cooled at night. The minimum threshold temperature can be based on an average soil temperature over a 24 hour period. The difference between the actual temperature at a specific time of day and the average temperature can be calculated and used to determine the depth of the planting so that the temperature is above a minimum threshold temperature.
[00199] The conditions of conductivity, humidity, temperature and / or reflectance of the soil can be used to directly vary the planted population (seeds / acre), application of nutrients (gallons / acre) and / or application of pesticides (Ib./ acre) based on zones created by organic matter, soil moisture and / or electrical conductivity.
[00200] In another mode, any of the sensors or camera can be adapted to collect energy to feed the sensor and / or wireless communication. As the sensors are dragged across the ground, the heat generated by contact with the ground or the movement of the sensors can be used as a power source for the sensors.
[00201] Temperature sensor [00202] In some embodiments, a 59110 thermopile is arranged on an implement, such as a 55400 'seed fixer. Seed fixer 55400 ', which is described in US Order No. 62/482116, is illustrated in Figures 55 and 56. Seed fixer 55400' has a flexible portion 55410 ', a fixer body 55490' and a fixer base 55495 '. Figures 57 and 58 illustrate alternative modalities for a window 57112 arranged on a fastener base 55495 '. The 57112 window is a transparent infrared material that allows
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 69/202
63/137 that infrared radiation is detected by thermopile 59110, as shown in Figure 59. In Figure 57, window 57112 can be arranged on the same side as the other sensors (not shown). In Figure 58, window 57112 can be arranged on a side opposite to other sensors (not shown).
[00203] By transparent to infrared, it is understood that the material is of a type and thickness that allows at least 50% of the infrared radiation that enters the material to pass through the material. In other embodiments, the amount is at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90%.
[00204] In other modalities, the window 57112 is not transparent to visual light. In other embodiments, the window 57112 is translucent for visual light or is opaque for visual light.
[00205] In one embodiment, the window 57112 is UHMW polyethylene. UHMW polyethylene is generally defined as a polyethylene having an average molecular weight of at least 3 million, or in other embodiments, 3 to 7 million. In one embodiment, UHMW polyethylene is thick to allow about 80% of infrared radiation to pass through. In one embodiment, the thickness is 0.5 mm (0.02 inches). UHMW polyethylene has scratch resistance to operate in contact with the ground.
[00206] Thermopile 59110 measures the amount of infrared radiation received. In one embodiment, the 59110 thermopile is a TMP006 infrared thermopile sensor in a Texas Instruments chip scale package.
[00207] Figure 59 illustrates a mode with thermopile 59110 arranged on a circuit board 59111 and
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 70/202
64/137 arranged at a distance from window 57112 to have a selected field of view. In certain embodiments, the field of view is selected to be at least 70 ° to 180 °. In other embodiments, the field of view is 90 ° to 150 °, 110 ° to 130 °, or about 120 °. In other embodiments, the field of view can be restricted by the inclusion of a coating 60113 disposed on thermopile 59111, as
illustrated in Figures 60 A and 60 B. 0 coating 60113 has an opening 60114 what restrains the field of eyesight gives thermopile 59110.[00208] A Figure 61 illustrates a modality for The
thermopile 59110 on a 55495 'fastener base. In this embodiment, the window 57112 is a box-shaped cover that is arranged over the thermopile 59110 and the circuit board 59111 and arranged in an opening in a fixing base 55495 '. A 61115 seal ring can be arranged around window 57112 to provide a seal.
[00209] Figures 62-64 illustrate other mounting arrangements. The fixer base 55495 'is removed for clarity.
[00210] Figure 62 illustrates a method for placing thermopile 59110 closer to the opening in the fixing base 55495 'when arranged in a 62116 mounting frame. The 62116 mounting frame is used to assemble and maintain parts within the mounting base. fixer 55495 '. Circuit board 59111 is arranged in mounting frame 62116. An extender 62120 connects circuit board 59111 to circuit board 62121. Thermopile 110 is arranged on circuit board 62121. Window 57112 is arranged over thermopile 59110 and the circuit board 62121 similar to the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 71/202
65/137 modality in Figure 61.
[00211] Figure 63 illustrates two different modalities. Figure 63 illustrates thermopile 59110 being disposed opposite other sensors. Figure 63 also illustrates the window 57112 being placed in the opening in the holder base 55495 '. To space mounting frame 62116 from window 57112, an edge 63117 is disposed between window 57112 for mounting frame 62116. In one embodiment, edge 63117 can be an elastomeric material, such as silicone rubber.
[00212] Figure 64 is an alternative to Figure 63, in which the edge 63117 is unitary with the assembly structure 62116.
[00213] In another embodiment, thermopile 59110 is a tin thermopile 65110 '. Figure 65 illustrates an arrangement for a tin thermopile 65110 ', arranged on a circuit board 57111 and a window 57112.
[00214] In other embodiments, the 59110 thermopile does not need to be placed on a 55400 'fastener. The 59110 thermopile can be on any implement that is arranged on an agricultural implement in contact with the soil. For example, the 55490 'fastener body can be mounted on any support and arranged anywhere on an agricultural implement and in contact with the ground. Examples of an agricultural implement include, but are not limited to, planters, harvesters, sprayers, side booms, tillage machines, fertilizer spreaders and a tractor.
[00215] The arrangement of the thermopile and the selection of materials are suitable for measuring the temperature of the soil when crossing a field.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 72/202
66/137 [00216] Additional modalities are disclosed in sections according to the following scheme:
1. OVERVIEW
EXAMPLE OF AGRICULTURAL INTELLIGENCE COMPUTER SYSTEM
2.1. STRUCTURAL OVERVIEW
2.2. OVERVIEW OF APPLICATION PROGRAM
2.3. COMPUTER SYSTEM DATA INGESTION
2.4. OVERVIEW OF THE PROCESS - TRAINING OF AGRONOMIC MODELS
2.5. IMPLEMENTATION EXAMPLE - HARDWARE OVERVIEW *
[00217] 1. OVERVIEW [00218] 2. EXAMPLE OF AGRICULTURAL INTELLIGENCE COMPUTER SYSTEM [00219] 2.1 STRUCTURAL OVERVIEW [00220] Figure 66 illustrates an example of a computer system that is configured to perform the functions described here, shown in a field environment with other devices with which the system can interoperate. In one embodiment, a 66102 user owns, operates, or owns a 66104 field manager computing device at a field location or associated with a field location such as a field for agricultural activities or a management location for one or more agricultural fields. The 66104 field manager computer device is programmed or configured to provide 66106 field data to a 66130 agricultural intelligence computer system over one or more 66109 networks.
[00221] Examples of field data 66106 include (a)
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 73/202
67/137 identification data (for example, area, field name, field identifiers, geographic identifiers, border identifiers, crop identifiers and any other suitable data that can be used to identify farm land, such as a land unit common (CLU), lot and block number, a part number of the property, geographic coordinates and borders, Farm Serial Number (FSN), farm number, area number, field number, section, municipality and / or range), (b) harvest data (eg crop type, crop variety, crop rotation, whether the crop is organically grown, date of harvest, Actual Production History (ΑΡΗ), expected yield, yield, price culture, crop recipe, grain moisture, tillage practice and previous growing season information), (c) soil data (eg, type, composition, pH, organic matter (OM), capacity of tr hollow cations (CEC)), (d) planting data (eg planting date, type of seed (s), relative maturity (RM) of the planted seed (s), seed population), ( e) fertilizer data (for example, type of nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), type of application, date of application, quantity, source, method), f) chemical application data (for example, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides , other substances or mixtures of substances intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant or desiccant, application date, quantity, source, method), (g) irrigation data (eg application date, quantity, source, method ), (h) meteorological data (for example, precipitation, rainfall rate, forecasted rainfall, region
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 74/202
68/137 runoff rate, temperature, wind, forecast, pressure, visibility, clouds, heat index, dew point, humidity, snow depth, air quality, sunrise, sunset), ( i) image data (for example, image and light spectrum information from an agricultural device sensor, camera, computer, smart phone, tablet, unmanned aerial vehicle, planes or satellite), (j) reconnaissance observations (photos , videos, free-form notes, voice recordings, voice transcriptions, climatic conditions (temperature, precipitation (current and over time), soil moisture, crop growth stage, wind speed, relative humidity, dew, black layer)), and k) soil, seed, crop phenology, pest and disease reports, and forecast sources and databases.
[00222] A 66108 data server computer is communicatively coupled to the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 and is programmed or configured to send external data 66110 to the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 over the network (s) 66109. The 66108 external data server computer may be owned or operated by the same legal person or entity as the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130, or by a different person or entity, such as a government agency, non-governmental organization (NGO) and / or a private data service provider. Examples of external data include meteorological data, image data, soil data or statistical data related to crop yield, among others. External data 66110 can consist of the same type of information as
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 75/202
69/137 field 66106. In some embodiments, external data 66110 is provided by an external data server 66108 belonging to the same entity that owns and / or operates the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130. For example, the computer system of agricultural intelligence 66130 may include a data server focused exclusively on a type of data that could otherwise be obtained from third-party sources, such as weather data. In some embodiments, an external 66108 data server can actually be incorporated into the 66130 system.
[00223] A 66111 agricultural appliance can have one or more 66112 remote sensors attached to it, which sensors are communicatively coupled, directly or indirectly via the 66111 agricultural appliance to the 66130 agricultural intelligence computer system and are programmed or configured to send sensor data to the 66130 agricultural intelligence computer system. Examples of 66111 agricultural devices include tractors, harvesters, harvesters, planters, trucks, fertilizer equipment, aerial vehicles including unmanned aerial vehicles, and any other item of physical machinery or hardware, typically mobile machinery, and that can be used in tasks associated with agriculture. In some embodiments, a single unit of the 66111 apparatus may comprise a plurality of sensors 66112 that are coupled locally to a network in the apparatus; controller area network (CAN) is an example of such a network that can be installed on harvesters, harvesters, sprayers and cultivators. The 66114 application controller is communicatively coupled to the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 via
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 76/202
70/137 of the 66109 network (s) and is programmed or configured to receive one or more scripts that are used to control an operational parameter of a vehicle or agricultural implement from the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130. For example , a controller area network (CAN) bus interface can be used to enable communications from the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 to the 66111 agricultural appliance, such as the CLIMATE FIELDVIEW DRIVE mode, available from The Climate Corporation, San Francisco, California, is used. The sensor data can consist of the same type of information as the field data 66106. In some embodiments, the 66112 remote sensors may not be attached to a 66111 farm appliance, but can be located remotely in the field and can communicate with the 109 network. .
[00224] The 66111 apparatus may comprise a cabin computer 115 that is programmed with a cabin application, which may comprise a version or variant of the mobile application for the 66104 device which is further described in other sections here. In one embodiment, the 66115 cab computer comprises a compact computer, often a tablet-sized computer or smart phone, with a graphical display, such as a color display, that is mounted inside a 66111 operator's cab. 66115 cabin computer can implement some or all of the operations and functions that are described hereinafter for the 66104 mobile computer device.
[00225] The network (s) 66109 represents, in general terms, any combination of one or more communication networks of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 77/202
71/137 data, including local area networks, wide area networks, internet networks or internets, using any of the wired or wireless links, including terrestrial or satellite links. The network (s) can be implemented by any means or mechanism that provides the exchange of data between the various elements of Figure 66. The various elements of Figure 66 can also have direct communication links (wired or wireless). The 66112 sensors, the 66114 controller, the 66108 external data server computer and other system elements each comprise an interface compatible with the 66109 network (s) and are programmed or configured to use standardized communication protocols via networks, such as TCP / IP, Bluetooth, CAN Protocol and upper layer protocols such as HTTP, TLS, and the like.
[00226] Agricultural intelligence computing system 66130 is programmed or configured to receive field data 66106 from the field manager computing device 66104, external data 66110 from the external data server computer 66108, and sensor data from the remote sensor 66112. 66130 agricultural intelligence computer system can be further configured to host, use or run one or more computer programs, other software elements, digitally programmed logic, such as FPGAs or ASICs, or any combination of them to perform the conversion and storage of data values, building digital models of one or more cultures in one or more fields, generating recommendations and notifications, and generating and sending scripts to the 66114 application controller, as described later in other sections of this disclosure.
[00227] In one embodiment, the computer system of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 78/202
72/137 farm intelligence 66130 is programmed with or comprises a communication layer 66132, presentation layer 66134, data management layer 66140, hardware / virtualization layer 66150, and model and field data repository 66160. Layer, in this context , refers to any combination of electronic digital interface circuits, microcontrollers, firmware, such as controllers and / or computer programs or other software elements.
[00228] Communication layer 66132 can be programmed or configured to perform input / output interface functions, including requests to send to the 66104 field manager computing device, 66108 external data server computer and 66112 remote sensor for data from field, external data and sensor data respectively. The communication layer 66132 can be programmed or configured to send the received data to the 66160 model and field data repository to be stored as 66106 field data.
[00229] The presentation layer 66134 can be programmed or configured to generate a graphical user interface (GUI) to be displayed on the 66104 field manager computing device, 66115 cabin computer or other computers that are coupled to the 66130 system through of network 109. The GUI can comprise controls for data entry to be sent to the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130, generate requests for models and / or recommendations, and / or display recommendations, notifications, models and other field data.
[00230] The data management layer 66140 can be programmed or configured to manage operations of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 79/202
73/137 reading and writing operations involving the 66160 repository and other functional elements of the system, including queries and result sets communicated between the functional elements of the system and the repository. Examples of the 66140 data management layer include JDBC, SQL server interface code and / or HADOOP interface code, among others. The repository 160 can comprise a database. As used here, the term database can refer to a body of data, to a relational database management system (RDBMS), or to both. As used here, a database can comprise any collection of data including hierarchical databases, relational databases, flat file databases, object-relational databases, object-oriented databases, databases distributed, and any other structured collection of records or data that are stored on a computer system. Examples of RDBMSs include, but are not limited to, ORACLE, MYSQL, IBM® DB2®, MICROSOFT® SQL SERVER, SYBASE® and POSTGRESQL databases. However, any database can be used to enable the systems and methods described here.
[00231] When field data 66106 is not provided directly to the agricultural intelligence computer system through one or more agricultural machines or agricultural machinery devices that interact with the agricultural intelligence computer system, the user may be requested via one or more user interfaces on the user device (served by the agricultural intelligence computer system) to input this information. In an exemplary mode, the user can
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 80/202
74/137 specify identification data, accessing a map on the user's device (served by the agricultural intelligence computer system) and selecting specific CLUs that were shown graphically on the map. In an alternative mode, user 66102 can specify identification data by accessing a map on the user's device (served by the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130) and drawing field boundaries on the map. Such a selection of CLU or map drawings represent geographical identifiers. In alternative modalities, the user can specify identification data by accessing field identification data (provided as shape files or in a similar format) from the US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Service Agency or another source via the user's device and providing this field identification data to the agricultural intelligence computer system.
[00232] In an exemplary modality, the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 is programmed to generate and cause the display of a graphical user interface comprising a data manager for data entry. After one or more fields have been identified using the methods described above, the data manager can provide one or more graphical user interface widgets that, when selected, can identify changes in field practices, soil, crops, crops, or nutrients. The data manager can include a timeline view, a spreadsheet view and / or one or more editable programs.
[00233] Figure 70 represents an exemplary modality
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 81/202
75/137 of a timeline view for data entry. Using the display shown in Figure 5, a user's computer can enter a selection of a specific field and a specific date for adding an event. Events described at the top of the timeline can include Nitrogen, Planting, Practices and Soil. To add a nitrogen application event, a user computer can provide input to select the nitrogen tab. The user computer can then select a location on the timeline for a given field to indicate an application of nitrogen in the selected field. In response to receiving a selection of a location on the timeline of a given field, the data manager may display a data entry overlay, allowing the user's computer to enter data regarding nitrogen applications, planting procedures, application soil, tillage procedures, irrigation practices, or other information related to the specific field. For example, if a user's computer selects a portion of the timeline and indicates a nitrogen application, then the data entry overlay may include fields for entering an applied nitrogen amount, an application date, a type of fertilizer used , and any other information related to nitrogen application.
[00234] In one embodiment, the data manager provides an interface for creating one or more programs. Program, in this context, refers to a set of data referring to nitrogen applications, planting procedures, soil application, tillage procedures, irrigation practices or other information that may be related
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 82/202
76/137 to one or more fields and that can be stored in digital data storage for reuse as a set in other operations. After creating a program, it can be applied conceptually to one or more fields and references to the program can be stored in digital storage in association with the data that identifies the fields. So, instead of manually entering identical data related to the same nitrogen applications for several different fields, a user computer can create a program that indicates a particular nitrogen application and then apply the program to several different fields. For example, in the timeline view in Figure 70, the top two timelines have the Spring applied program selected, which includes a 150 pound N / ac application in early April. The data manager can provide an interface for editing a program. In one mode, when a particular program is edited, each field that selected the particular program is edited. For example, in Figure 70, if the applied Spring program is edited to reduce the nitrogen application to 130 pounds N / ac, the top two fields can be updated with a reduced nitrogen application based on the edited program.
[00235] In one mode, in response to receiving edits in a field that has a program selected, the data manager removes the field's correspondence for the selected program. For example, if a nitrogen application is added to the upper field in Figure 70, the interface can be updated to indicate that the applied Primavera program is no longer being applied to the upper field.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 83/202
77/137
Although the application of nitrogen in early April may remain, updates to the applied Spring program would not change the application of nitrogen in April.
[00236] Figure 71 represents an exemplary modality of a spreadsheet view for data entry. Using the display shown in Figure 71, a user can create and edit information for one or more fields. The data manager can include spreadsheets to enter information regarding Nitrogen, Planting, Practices and Soil, as shown in Figure 71. To edit a specific entry, a user computer can select the specific entry in the spreadsheet and update the values. For example, Figure 71 shows an ongoing update to a target yield value for the second field. In addition, a user computer can select one or more fields to apply one or more programs. In response to receiving a program selection for a specific field, the data manager can automatically fill in the entries for the specific field based on the selected program. As with the timeline view, the data manager can update entries for each field associated with a specific program in response to receiving an update for the program. In addition, the data manager can de-match the selected program for the field in response to receiving an issue in one of the field's entries.
[00237] In one embodiment, the model and field data are stored in the model and field data repository 66160. The model data comprises data models created for one or more fields. For example, a model of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 84/202
78/137 culture can include a digitally constructed model of developing a culture in one or more fields. Model, in this context, refers to a digitally stored electronic set of executable instructions and data values, associated with each other, that are capable of receiving and responding to a programmatic or other digital call, invocation or request for resolution based on at specified input values, to produce one or more stored or calculated output values that can serve as the basis for computer-implemented recommendations, output data displays, or machine control, among other things. Skilled people in the field find it convenient to express models using mathematical equations, but this form of expression does not limit the models disclosed here to abstract concepts; instead, each model here has a practical application on a computer in the form of stored executable instructions and data that implement the model using the computer. The model may include a model of events passed in one or more fields, a model of the current state of one or more fields, and / or a model of events predicted in one or more fields. Model and field data can be stored in data structures in memory, rows in a database table, in flat files or spreadsheets, or other forms of stored digital data.
[00238] In one embodiment, instructions executable by computer to implement various aspects of the 66130 system including, but not limited to, the instructions described in Figure 67 (a) and Figure 67 (b) and instructions for implementing aspects of the monitoring system and control 300
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 85/202
79/137 comprise a set of one or more pages of main memory, such as RAM, in the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 on which executable instructions have been loaded and which, when executed, cause the agricultural information computer system to execute the functions or operations described here with reference to those modules. For example, instructions implementing features of the monitoring and control system 300 may comprise a set of pages in RAM that contain instructions that, when executed, cause the realization of the target identification functions described here. The instructions may be in machine executable code in a CPU instruction set and may have been compiled based on source code written in JAVA, C, C ++, OBJECTIVE-C or any other programming language or environment readable by human, alone or in combination with JAVASCRIPT scripts, other scripting languages and other programming source texts. The term pages is intended to refer broadly to any region within main memory and the specific terminology used in a system may vary depending on the architecture of the memory or the architecture of the processor. In another embodiment, each of the computer-implemented instructions shown in the drawings or described here can also represent one or more source code files or projects that are stored digitally on a mass storage device, such as non-volatile RAM or disk storage. , in the agricultural information computer system 66130 or in a separate repository system, which when compiled or interpreted cause the generation of executable instructions that when executed
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 86/202
80/137 cause the agricultural information computer system to perform the functions or operations described here with reference to those modules. In other words, the Figure in the drawing can represent the way in which programmers or software developers organize and arrange the source code for later compilation into an executable, or interpretation in byte code or equivalent, for execution by the agricultural intelligence computer system. 66130.
[00239] The hardware / virtualization layer 66150 comprises one or more central processing units (CPUs), memory controllers and other devices, components or elements of a computer system, such as volatile or non-volatile memory, non-volatile storage, such as disk, and I / O devices or interfaces as illustrated and described, for example, in connection with Figure 69. Layer 66150 can also comprise programmed instructions that are configured to support virtualization, containerization or other technologies.
[00240] For the purpose of illustrating a clear example, Figure 66 shows a limited number of instances of certain functional elements. However, in other modalities, there can be any number of these elements. For example, the modalities can use thousands or millions of different mobile computing devices 104 associated with different users. In addition, the 66130 system and / or the 66108 external data server computer can be implemented using two or more processors, cores, clusters or instances of physical machines or virtual machines, configured in a discrete location or colocalized with other elements in a center of data,
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 87/202
81/137 shared computing facility or cloud computing facility.
[00241] 2.2. OVERVIEW OF THE APPLICATION PROGRAM [00242] In one embodiment, the implementation of the functions described here using one or more computer programs or other software elements that are loaded and executed using one or more general purpose computers will cause the general purpose are configured as a specific machine or as a computer that is specially adapted to perform the functions described here. In addition, each of the flowcharts that are described here can serve, alone or in combination with the descriptions of processes and functions in prose here, as algorithms, plans or directions that can be used to program a computer or logic to implement the functions that are described. In other words, all of the prose text here, and all of the figures, together are intended to provide the disclosure of algorithms, plans or directions that are sufficient to allow a qualified person to program a computer to perform the functions described here, in combination with the skill and knowledge of such a person, given the level of skill that is appropriate for such inventions and disclosures.
[00243] In one embodiment, user 66102 interacts with the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 using the 66104 field manager computing device configured with an operating system and one or more application programs or applications; the 66104 field manager computing device can also interoperate with the agricultural intelligence computer system independently and automatically under control
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 88/202
82/137 of the program or logic control and direct user interaction is not always necessary. The 66104 field manager computing device generally represents one or more of a smart phone, PDA, tablet computing device, laptop, desktop computer, workstation, or any other computing device capable of transmitting and receiving information and perform the functions described here. The 66104 field manager computer device can communicate over a network using a mobile application stored on the 66104 field manager computer device, and in some embodiments, the device can be coupled using a 66113 cable or 66112 connector and / or 66114 controller. A private 66102 user can own, operate or own and use, in connection with the 66130 system, more than one 66104 field manager computing device at a time.
[00244] The mobile application can provide client-side functionality, over the network for one or more mobile computing devices. In an exemplary embodiment, the 66104 field manager computing device can access the mobile application via a web browser or a local client application or app. The 66104 field manager computing device can transmit data to, and receive data from, one or more front end servers, use web-based protocols or formats such as HTTP, XML and / or JSON, or app-specific protocols. In an exemplary mode, the data can take the form of requests and input of user information, such as field data, on the mobile computing device. In some modalities, the application
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 89/202
83/137 mobile interacts with the location tracking hardware and software on the 66104 field manager computing device that determines the location of the 66104 field manager computing device using standard tracking techniques, such as radio signal multilateration,
The system of global positioning (GPS), systems in positioning per Wi-Fi, or others methods in positioning mobile. In some cases, the data in
location or other data associated with the 66104 device, 66102 user and / or user account (s) can be obtained by querying an operating system on the device or by requesting an app on the device to obtain data from the operating system.
[00245] In one embodiment, field manager computing device 66104 sends field data 66106 to agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 comprising or including, but not limited to, data values representing one or more of: a geographic location of the one or more fields, crop information for one or more fields, crops planted in one or more fields, and soil data extracted from one or more fields. The field manager information device 66104 can send field data 66106 in response to user input from user 66102 by specifying the data values for the one or more fields. In addition, the 66104 field manager computing device can automatically send 66106 field data when one or more of the data values become available to the 66104 field manager computing device. For example, the field manager computing device 66104 can be communicatively
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 90/202
84/137 coupled to remote sensor 66112 and / or application controller 66114 which includes an irrigation sensor and / or irrigation controller and / or farm implement controller. In response to receiving data indicating that the 66114 application controller has released water to one or more fields or, more generally, that the 66114 application controller has made a machine (such as a farm implement) operate in a certain way based on a control signal from the 66114 application controller, the 66104 field manager computing device can send 66106 field data or other data to the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 indicating that water has been released in one or more fields, or, more generally, data indicating that the computer controlled machine operation has ended. 66106 field data identified in this disclosure can be entered and communicated using digital electronic data that is communicated between computing devices using URLs parameterized over HTTP, or another appropriate communications or message protocol.
[00246] A commercial example of a mobile application in which aspects of disclosure can be implemented is CLIMATE FIELD VIEW, commercially available from The Climate Corporation, San Francisco, California. The CLIMATE FIELD VIEW application, or other applications, can be modified, extended or adapted to include features, functions and programming that were not disclosed before the date of presentation of this disclosure. In one embodiment, the mobile application comprises an integrated software platform that allows a producer to make fact-based decisions for his operation because it combines historical data
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 91/202
85/137 on the producer's fields with any other data that the producer wants to compare. Combinations and comparisons can be performed in real time and are based on scientific models that provide potential scenarios to allow the producer to make better and more informed decisions.
[00247] Figure 67 (a) and Figure 67 (b) illustrate two views of an example logical arrangement of instruction sets in main memory when an example mobile application is loaded for execution. In Figure 67 (a) and Figure 67 (b), each named element represents a region of one or more pages of RAM or other main memory, or one or more blocks of disk storage or other non-volatile storage, and the programmed instructions within those regions. In one embodiment, in view (a), a 67200 mobile computer application comprises 67202 account field data ingestion instructions, 67204 overview and alert instructions, 67206 digital map book instructions, seed instructions and planting 67208, nitrogen instructions 67210, weather conditions instructions 67212, field health instructions 67214 and performance instructions 67216.
[00248] In one embodiment, a 67200 mobile computer application comprises instructions for sharing data input from account fields 67202 that are programmed to receive, translate and ingest field data from third-party systems via manual loading or APIs. Types of data can include field boundaries, yield maps, maps as planted, soil test results, maps as applied and / or management zones, among others. Data formats can
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 92/202
86/137 include shape files, third party native data formats, and / or farm management information system (FMIS) exports, among others. The reception of data can occur through manual loading, email with attachment, external APIs that send data to the mobile application or instructions that call APIs from external systems to extract data for the mobile application. In one embodiment, the 67200 mobile computer application comprises a data entry box. In response to receiving a selection from the data entry box, the 67200 mobile computer application can display a graphical user interface for manually uploading data files and importing files uploaded to a data manager.
[00249] In one embodiment, digital map book instructions 67206 comprise layers of field map data stored in device memory and are programmed with data visualization tools and geospatial field notes. This provides producers with convenient information at hand for reference, records and visual suggestions for field performance. In one embodiment, overview and warning instructions 67204 are programmed to provide an overview of the entire operation of what is important to the producer, and timely recommendations for action or to focus on specific issues. This allows the producer to focus time on what needs attention, to save time and preserve yield throughout the season. In one embodiment, seed and planting instructions 67208 are programmed to provide tools for seed selection, hybrid placement, and script creation, including variable rate (VR) script creation, based on
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 93/202
87/137 in scientific models and empirical data. This allows producers to maximize yield or return on investment through the purchase, placement and optimized seed population.
[00250] In one embodiment, the 67205 script generation instructions are programmed to provide an interface for generating scripts, including variable rate (VR) fertility scripts. The interface allows producers to create scripts for field implements, such as nutrient, planting and irrigation applications. For example, a planting script interface can include tools to identify a type of seed for planting. Upon receiving a seed type selection, the 67200 mobile computer application can display one or more fields divided into management zones, such as the field map data layers created as part of the 67206 digital map book instructions. In this modality, the management zones comprise soil zones together with a panel identifying each soil zone and a soil name, texture, drainage for each zone, or other field data. The 67200 mobile computer application can also display tools for editing or creating such, such as graphical tools for drawing management zones, such as soil zones, on a map of one or more fields. Planting procedures can be applied to all management zones or different planting procedures can be applied to different subsets of management zones. When a script is created, the 67200 mobile computer application can make the script available for download in a format readable by an application controller, such as a
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 94/202
88/137 filed or compressed. Additionally and / or alternatively, a script can be sent directly to the 66115 cabin computer from the 67200 mobile computer application and / or uploaded to one or more data servers and stored for further use.
[00251] In one embodiment, the nitrogen instructions 67210 are programmed to provide tools to inform nitrogen decisions by viewing nitrogen availability in crops. This allows producers to maximize yield or return on investment through the application of optimized nitrogen during the season. Examples of programmed functions include the display of images as SSURGO images to allow the design of fertilizer application zones and / or images generated from subfield soil data, such as data obtained from sensors, in high spatial resolution (as fine as millimeters or smaller depending on sensor proximity and resolution); loading of existing producer-defined zones; provide a graph of plant nutrient availability and / or a map to allow nitrogen tuning application (s) across multiple zones; exit scripts to drive machines; tools for mass data entry and adjustment; and / or maps for data visualization, among others. Bulk data entry, in this context, can mean entering data once and then applying the same data to various fields and / or zones that have been defined in the system; data examples may include nitrogen application data that is the same for many fields and / or zones from the same producer, but such mass data entry applies to
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 95/202
89/137 input of any type of field data into the 67200 mobile computer application. For example, nitrogen instructions 67210 can be programmed to accept application program definitions and nitrogen practices and accept user input specifying to apply these programs to various fields. Nitrogen application programs, in this context, refer to stored and named sets of data that associate: a name, color code or other identifier, one or more application dates, types of material or product for each of the dates and quantities, method of application or incorporation, as injected or disseminated in, and / or quantities or rates of application for each of the dates, culture or hybrid that is the object of the order, among others. Nitrogen practice programs, in this context, refer to stored and named sets of data that associate: a practice name; a previous culture; a tillage system; a mainly crop date; one or more previous tillage systems that have been used; one or more application type indicators, such as manure, that have been used. The nitrogen instructions 67210 can also be programmed to generate and cause the display of a nitrogen graph, which indicates projections of plant utilization of the specified nitrogen and whether a surplus or deficit is expected; in some modalities, different color indicators may signal a magnitude of the surplus or magnitude of the deficit. In one embodiment, a nitrogen graph comprises a graphical display on a computer display device comprising a plurality of lines, each associated line and identifying a field; Dice
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 96/202
90/137 specifying which crop is planted in the field, the size of the field, the location of the field, and a graphical representation of the field's perimeter; on each line, a timeline per month with graphical indicators specifying each application of nitrogen and quantity in points correlated to the names of the months; and numerical and / or colored indicators of surpluses or deficits, in which the color indicates magnitude.
[00252] In one embodiment, the nitrogen graph can include one or more user input features, such as dialers or sliders, to dynamically change planting programs and nitrogen practices so that a user can optimize their nitrogen graph . The user can then use their optimized nitrogen graph and related nitrogen planting programs and practices to implement one or more scripts, including variable rate (VR) fertility scripts. The nitrogen instructions 67210 can also be programmed to generate and cause the display of a nitrogen map, which indicates projections of the plant use of the specified nitrogen and whether a surplus or deficit is predicted; in some modalities, different color indicators may signal a magnitude of the surplus or magnitude of the deficit. The nitrogen map can display plant use projections of the specified nitrogen and whether a surplus or deficit is forecast for different times in the past and in the future (such as daily, weekly, monthly or yearly) using numerical and / or colored indicators of surplus or deficit, in which color indicates magnitude. In one embodiment, the nitrogen map can include one or more user input features, such as dialers or sliders, to dynamically change
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 97/202
91/137 nitrogen planting programs and practices so that a user can optimize their nitrogen map, as to obtain a preferred amount of surplus for deficit. The user can then use their optimized nitrogen map and related nitrogen planting programs and practices to implement one or more scripts, including variable rate (VR) fertility scripts. In other modalities, instructions similar to nitrogen instructions 67210 can be used for the application of other nutrients (such as phosphorus and potassium), application of pesticides, and irrigation programs.
[00253] In one embodiment, weather instructions 67212 are programmed to provide recent field specific weather data and forecast weather information. This allows producers to save time and have an efficient integrated view of daily operational decisions.
[00254] In one embodiment, field health instructions 67214 are programmed to provide timely remote sensing images highlighting crop variation at the station and potential concerns. Examples of programmed functions include cloud scanning, to identify possible clouds or cloud shadows; determination of nitrogen indices based on field images; graphical visualization of recognition layers, including, for example, those related to field health, and visualization and / or sharing of recognition notes; and / or download satellite images from multiple sources and prioritize the images for the producer, among others.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 98/202
92/137 [00255] In one embodiment, performance instructions 67216 are programmed to provide reports, analysis and suggestion tools using data on the farm for evaluation, suggestions and decisions. This allows the producer to seek better results for the next year, through conclusions based on facts about why the return on investment occurred at previous levels, and a suggestion for income limiting factors. Performance instructions 67216 can be programmed to communicate over the 66109 network (s) to later terminal analytical programs run on the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 and / or external data server computer 66108 and configured to analyze metrics such as yield, yield differential, hybrid, population, SSURGO zone, soil test properties, or elevation, among others. Scheduled reports and analyzes may include analysis of yield variability, treatment effect estimation, comparative yield assessment and other metrics against other producers based on anonymous data collected from many producers, or data for seeds and planting, among others.
[00256] Applications having instructions configured in this way can be implemented for different computing device platforms while maintaining the same general user interface appearance. For example, the mobile application can be programmed to run on tablets, smart phones or server computers that are accessed using browsers on client computers. In addition, the mobile application, as configured for tablet computers or smart phones, can provide
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 99/202
93/137 a full app experience or a cabin app experience that is suitable for the display and processing capabilities of the 66115 cabin computer. For example, now see view (b) of Figure 67 (a) and Figure 67 (b), in one embodiment, a 67220 cabin computer application may comprise 67222 map cabin instructions, 67224 remote display instructions, 67226 data collection and transfer instructions, 67228 machine alert instructions, transfer instructions script 67230, and reconnaissance cabin instructions 67232. The code base for the view instructions (b) can be the same as for view (a) and executables implementing the code can be programmed to detect the type of platform on which they are executing and exposing, through a graphical user interface, only those functions that are appropriate for a cabin platform or complete platform. This approach allows the system to recognize the distinctly different user experience that is appropriate for an in-cabin environment and a different technology environment in the cabin. The 67222 map booth instructions can be programmed to provide map views of fields, farms or regions that are useful in directing machine operation. The 67224 remote display instructions can be programmed to connect, manage and provide real-time or near real-time views of machine activity to other computing devices connected to the 66130 system via wireless networks, wired connectors or adapters, and the like. The 67226 data collection and transfer instructions can be programmed to call, manage and provide the transfer
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 100/202
94/137 of data collected on the machine's sensors and controllers for the 66130 system via wireless networks, wired connectors or adapters and the like. Machine alert instructions 67228 can be programmed to detect problems with the machine or tool operations that are associated with the cab and generate operator alerts. The 67230 script transfer instructions can be configured to transfer instruction scripts inside that are configured to direct machine operations or data collection. The reconnaissance cabin instructions 67232 can be programmed to display alerts based on location and information received from the 66130 system based on the location of the 66104 field manager computing device, 66111 agricultural appliance or 66112 sensors in the field and ingest, manage and provide transfer of location-based reconnaissance observations to the 66130 system based on the location of the 66111 agricultural appliance or 66112 sensors in the field.
[00257] 2.3. COMPUTER SYSTEM DATA INGESTION [00258] In one embodiment, the external data server computer 66108 stores external data 66110, including soil data representing the soil composition for one or more fields and meteorological data representing temperature and precipitation in the one or more fields. Weather data can include past and present weather data, as well as forecasts of future weather data. In one embodiment, the external data server computer 66108 comprises a plurality of servers hosted by different entities. For example, a first server can
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 101/202
95/137 contain soil composition data, while a second server can include meteorological data. In addition, soil composition data can be stored on multiple servers. For example, one server can store data representing the percentage of sand, silt and clay in the soil, while a second server can store data representing the percentage of organic matter (OM) in the soil.
[00259] In one embodiment, the remote sensor 66112 comprises one or more sensors that are programmed or configured to produce one or more observations. The 66112 remote sensor can be aerial sensors, such as satellites, vehicle sensors, planting equipment sensors, crop sensors, fertilizer or insecticide application sensors, harvester sensors and any other implement capable of receiving data from one or more fields . In one embodiment, the 66114 application controller is programmed or configured to receive instructions from the 66130 agricultural intelligence computer system. The 66114 application controller can also be programmed or configured to control an operational parameter of a vehicle or agricultural implement. For example, an application controller can be programmed or configured to control a vehicle's operating parameter, such as a tractor, planting equipment, tillage equipment, fertilizer or insecticide equipment, harvester equipment, or other agricultural implements, such as a valve of water. Other modalities can use any combination of sensors and controllers, of which the following are merely selected examples.
[00260] The 66130 system can obtain or ingest data under
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 102/202
96/137 user control 66102, on a mass basis of a large number of producers who contributed data to a shared database system. This way of obtaining data can be called manual data ingestion, since one or more computer operations controlled by the user are requested or triggered to obtain data for use by the 66130 system. As an example, the CLEVIATE FIELDVIEW application, commercially available from The Climate Corporation, San Francisco, California, can be operated to export data to the 66130 system for storage in the 66160 repository.
[00261] For example, seed monitoring systems can both control planting device components and obtain planting data, including signals from seed sensors via signal cabling comprising a CAN backbone and point-to-point connections for registration and / or diagnostics. Seed monitor systems can be programmed or configured to display seed spacing, population and other information to the user via the 66115 cabin computer or other devices within the 66130 system. Examples are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,738,243 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 20150094916, and the present disclosure assumes knowledge of those other patent disclosures.
[00262] Likewise, yield monitor systems can contain yield sensors for combine devices that send yield measurement data to the 66115 cabin computer or other devices within the 66130 system. Yield monitor systems can
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 103/202
97/137 use one or more 66112 remote sensors to obtain grain moisture measurements on a combine or other combine and transmit these measurements to the user via a 66115 cabin computer or other devices within the 66130 system.
[00263] In one embodiment, examples of 66112 sensors that can be used with any moving vehicle or device of the type described elsewhere include kinematic sensors and position sensors. Kinematic sensors can include any of the speed sensors, such as wheel or radar speed sensors, accelerometers or gyroscopes. Position sensors can include GPS receivers or transceivers, or Wi-Fi-based mapping or position apps that are programmed to determine location based on nearby Wi-Fi hotspots, among others.
[00264] In one embodiment, examples of 66112 sensors that can be used with tractors or other moving vehicles include engine speed sensors, fuel consumption sensors, area meters or distance meters that interact with GPS or radar signals. , PTO (PTO) speed sensors, tractor hydraulic sensors configured to detect hydraulic parameters, such as pressure or flow, and / or hydraulic pump speed, wheel speed sensors or wheel slip sensors. In one embodiment, examples of 66114 controllers that can be used with tractors include hydraulic directional controllers, pressure controllers, and / or flow controllers; hydraulic pump speed controllers; speed controllers or governors;
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 104/202
98/137 coupling position controllers; or wheel position controllers provide automatic steering.
[00265] In one embodiment, examples of 66112 sensors that can be used with seed planting equipment such as planters, drills or air seeders include seed sensors, which can be optical, electromagnetic or impact sensors; downward force sensors, such as load pins, load cells, pressure sensors; soil property sensors, such as reflectivity sensors, humidity sensors, electrical conductivity sensors, optical residue sensors or temperature sensors; component operating criteria sensors, such as planting depth sensors, downforce cylinder pressure sensors, seed disk speed sensors, seed drive motor encoders, seed conveyor system speed sensors or vacuum level sensors; or pesticide application sensors, such as optical sensors or other electromagnetic sensors, or impact sensors. In one embodiment, examples of 66114 controllers that can be used with such seed planting equipment include: toolbar fold controllers, such as controllers for valves associated with hydraulic cylinders; downforce controllers, such as controllers for valves associated with pneumatic cylinders, airbags or hydraulic cylinders, and programmed to apply downforce to individual line units or an entire planter structure; planting depth controllers, such as actuators
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 105/202
99/137 linear; metering controllers, such as electric seed meter drive motors, hydraulic seed meter drive motors, or range control clutches; hybrid selection controllers, such as seed meter drive motors, or other actuators programmed to selectively allow or prevent the seed or a mixture of arsenic from distributing seeds to or from seed meters or central bulk hoppers; metering controllers, such as electric seed meter drive motors or hydraulic seed meter drive motors; seed conveyor system controllers, such as controllers for a belt seed delivery conveyor engine; marker controllers, such as a controller for a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator; or pesticide application rate controllers, such as metering drive controllers, orifice size or position controllers.
[00266] In one embodiment, examples of 66112 sensors that can be used with tillage equipment include position sensors for tools such as rods or discs; tool position sensors for such tools that are configured to detect depth, gang angle or side spacing; downward force sensors; or tensile strength sensors. In one embodiment, examples of 66114 controllers that can be used with tillage equipment include downforce controllers or tool position controllers, such as controllers configured to control the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 106/202
100/137 tool depth, gang angle or side spacing.
[00267] In one embodiment, examples of 66112 sensors that can be used in relation to devices for applying fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides and the like, such as initiator fertilizer systems on the planter, subsoil fertilizer applicators, or fertilizer sprayers , include: fluid system criteria sensors, such as flow sensors or pressure sensors; sensors that indicate which spray head valves or fluid line valves are open; sensors associated with tanks, such as fill level sensors; sectional or system-wide supply line sensors, or line-specific supply line sensors; or kinematic sensors, such as accelerometers arranged on spray bars. In one embodiment, examples of 66114 controllers that can be used with that device include pump speed controllers; valve controllers that are programmed to control pressure, flow, direction, PWM and the like; or position actuators, such as boom height, subsoiler depth, or boom position.
[00268] In one embodiment, examples of 66112 sensors that can be used with harvesters include performance monitors, such as impact plate tension gauges or position sensors, capacitive flow sensors, load sensors, weight sensors, or torque sensors associated with elevators or augers, or height sensors for optical grains or other electromagnetic ones; grain moisture sensors, such as capacitive sensors; loss sensors
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 107/202
101/137 grains, including impact sensors, optical or capacitive; beam operating criteria sensors, such as beam height, beam type, deck board distance, feeder speed and coil speed sensors; separator operating criteria sensors, such as concave clearance, rotor speed, shoe clearance, or damper clearance sensors; auger sensors for position, operation, or speed; or engine speed sensors. In one embodiment, examples of 66114 controllers that can be used with harvesters include controllers of operational beam criteria for elements such as beam height, beam type, platform plate gap, feeder speed or coil speed; separator operating criteria controllers for features such as concave clearance, rotor speed, shoe clearance or damper clearance; or controllers for auger position, operation or speed.
[00269] In one embodiment, examples of 66112 sensors that can be used with grain carts include weight sensors, or sensors for position, operation or auger speed. In one embodiment, examples of 66114 controllers that can be used with grain carts include controllers for position, operation or auger speed.
[00270] In one embodiment, examples of 66112 sensors and 66114 controllers can be installed in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) devices or drones. Such sensors may include cameras with effective detectors for any range of the electromagnetic spectrum including visible, infrared, ultraviolet, near infrared (NIR) light and the like; accelerometers; altimeters; sensors
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 108/202
102/137 temperature; humidity sensors; pitot tube sensors or other speed or air speed sensors; battery life sensors; or radar emitters and devices for detecting reflected radar energy; other emitters of electromagnetic radiation and apparatus for detecting reflected electromagnetic radiation. Such controllers may include motor control or guidance devices, surface control controllers, camera controllers, or controllers programmed to connect, operate, obtain data, manage and configure any of the previous sensors. Examples are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 831,165 and the present disclosure assumes knowledge of that other patent disclosure.
[00271] In one embodiment, the 66112 sensors and 66114 controllers can be attached to the soil sampling and measurement device that is configured or programmed to sample the soil and perform chemical soil tests, soil moisture tests, and other relative tests to the ground. For example, the apparatus disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,767,194 and US Patent No. 8,712,148 can be used, and the present disclosure assumes knowledge of those patent disclosures.
[00272] In one embodiment, sensors 66112 and controllers 66114 can comprise meteorological devices to monitor the meteorological conditions of the fields. For example, the apparatus disclosed in US Provisional Application No. 62 / 154,207, filed on April 29, 2015, US Provisional Application No. 62 / 175,160, filed on June 12, 2015, US Provisional Application No. 62 / 198,060, filed on July 28, 2015, and the Request
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 109/202
103/137
US Provisional 62 / 220,852, filed on September 18, 2015, can be used, and the present disclosure assumes knowledge of those patent disclosures.
[00273] 2.4 PROCESS OVERVIEW - AGRONOMIC MODEL TRAINING [00274] In one embodiment, the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 is programmed or configured to create an agronomic model. In this context, an agronomic model is a data structure in memory of the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 comprising field data 66106, such as identification data and harvest data for one or more fields. The agronomic model can also comprise calculated agronomic properties that describe or conditions that can affect the growth of one or more crops in a field, or properties of one or more crops, or both. In addition, an agronomic model may include recommendations based on agronomic factors, such as crop recommendations, irrigation recommendations, planting recommendations, fertilizer recommendations, fungicide recommendations, pesticide recommendations, harvest recommendations, and other crop management recommendations . Agronomic factors can also be used to estimate one or more crop-related results such as agronomic yield. A crop's agronomic yield is an estimate of the amount of the crop that is produced or, in some examples, the revenue or profit obtained from the crop produced.
[00275] In one embodiment, the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 can use a pre-configured agronomic model to calculate agronomic properties
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 110/202
104/137 related to the location currently received and culture information for one or more fields. The preconfigured agronomic model is based on previously processed field data, including, but not limited to, identification data, harvest data, fertilizer data, and meteorological data. The pre-configured agronomic model may have been validated to guarantee the accuracy of the model. Cross-validation can include comparison with soil reality data that compares predicted results with actual results in a field, such as a comparison of the precipitation estimate with a rain gauge or sensor providing meteorological data at the same or nearby location or an estimate of the content nitrogen with a soil sample measurement.
[00276] Figure 68 illustrates a programmed process through which the agricultural intelligence computer system generates one or more preconfigured agronomic models using field data provided by one or more data sources. Figure 68 can serve as an algorithm or instructions for programming the functional elements of the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 to perform the operations that are now described.
[00277] In block 68305, the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 is configured or programmed to implement pre-processing of agronomic data from field data received from one or more data sources. Field data received from one or more data sources can be pre-processed for the purpose of removing noise, distortion effects, and confounding factors within agronomic data including measured discrepancies that could
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 111/202
105/137 adversely affect the received field data values. Preprocessing modalities for agronomic data may include, but are not limited to removing data values commonly associated with discrepancy data values, specific measured data points that are known to unnecessarily distort other data values, smoothing techniques, aggregation , or sampling of data used to remove or reduce additive or multiplicative effects from noise, and other filtering or data derivation techniques used to provide clear distinctions between positive and negative data inputs.
[00278] In block 68310, the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 is configured or programmed to carry out the selection of a subset of data using the pre-processed field data in order to identify data sets useful for the generation of the initial agronomic model . The 66130 agricultural intelligence computer system can implement subset data selection techniques including, but not limited to, a genetic algorithm method, a model method for all subsets, a sequential search method, a scaled regression method , a particle swarm optimization method and an ant colony optimization method. For example, a genetic algorithm selection technique uses an adaptive heuristic search algorithm, based on evolutionary principles of natural and genetic selection, to determine and evaluate data sets within pre-processed agronomic data.
[00279] In block 68315, the computer system of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 112/202
106/137 agricultural intelligence 66130 is configured or programmed to implement field data set evaluation. In one modality, a specific field data set is evaluated by creating an agronomic model and using specific quality thresholds for the created agronomic model. Agronomic models can be compared and / or validated using one or more comparison techniques, such as, but not limited to, mean square error with cross-leave-out (RMSECV), mean absolute error, and mean percentage error . For example, RMSECV can perform cross-validation of agronomic models by comparing predicted agronomic property values created by the agronomic model with the historical agronomic property values collected and analyzed. In one embodiment, the agronomic data set evaluation logic is used as a feedback loop in which agronomic data sets that do not meet configured quality thresholds are used during steps for selecting a subset of future data (block 68310).
[00280] In block 68320, the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 is configured or programmed to implement the creation of agronomic models based on agronomical data sets with cross-validation. In one embodiment, the creation of agronomic models can implement multivariate regression techniques to create pre-configured agronomic data models.
[00281] In block 68325, the agricultural intelligence computer system 66130 is configured or programmed to store pre-configured agronomic data models for future evaluation of field data.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 113/202
107/137 [00282] 2.5 IMPLEMENTATION EXAMPLE - HARDWARE OVERVIEW [00283] According to one modality, the techniques described here are implemented by one or more special purpose computing devices. Special-purpose computing devices can be physically connected to perform the techniques or can include digital electronic devices, such as one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or programmable field gate arrays (FPGAs) that are persistently programmed to execute techniques, or may include one or more general-purpose hardware processors programmed to execute the techniques according to the program instructions in firmware, memory, other storage, or a combination. These special purpose computing devices can also combine custom physical logic, ASICs or FPGAs with customized programming to perform the techniques. Special purpose computing devices can be desktop computer systems, portable computer systems, portable devices, network devices or any other device that incorporates hardware and / or program logic to implement the techniques.
[00284] For example, Figure 69 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system 69400, in which a modality of the invention can be implemented. The 69400 computer system includes a 69402 bus or other communication mechanism for communicating information, and a 69404 hardware processor coupled with the 69402 bus for information processing. The hardware processor
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 114/202
108/137
69404 can be, for example, a general purpose microprocessor.
[00285] The 69400 computer system also includes a 69406 main memory, such as a random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage device, coupled to the 69402 bus to store information and instructions to be executed by the 69404 processor. The memory principal 69406 can also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information while executing instructions to be executed by the 69404 processor. Such instructions, when stored in 69404 processor accessible non-transitory storage medium, render the 69400 computer system in a special purpose machine that is customized to perform the operations specified in the instructions.
[00286] The 69400 computer system also includes a read-only memory (ROM) 408 or other static storage device coupled to the 69402 bus to store static information and instructions for the 69404 processor. A 69410 storage device, such as a disk magnetic, optical disk or solid state drive, is provided and coupled to the 69402 bus to store information and instructions.
[00287] Computer system 69400 can be coupled via 69402 bus for a 69412 display, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), to display information to a computer user. A 69414 input device, including alphanumeric keys and others, is coupled to the 69402 bus to communicate information and
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 115/202
109/137 commands for the 69404 processor. Another type of user input device is the 69416 cursor control, such as a mouse, trackball, or cursor arrow keys to communicate direction information and select commands for the 69404 processor and for control the movement of the cursor in the 69412 display. This input device typically has two degrees of freedom on two axes, a first axis (for example, x) and a second axis (for example, y) allows the device to specify positions on a plan.
[00288] The 69400 computer system can implement the techniques described here using custom wired logic, one or more ASICs or FPGAs, firmware and / or program logic that in combination with the computer system makes or programs the 69400 computer system to be a special purpose machine. According to one embodiment, the techniques are performed by the 69400 computer system in response to the 69404 processor executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in main memory 69406. Such instructions can be read in main memory 69406 from another medium storage device as a 69410 storage device. Executing the instruction sequences contained in main memory 69406 causes the 69404 processor to perform the process steps described here. In alternative embodiments, wired circuits may be used instead of or in combination with software instructions.
[00289] The term storage medium, as used here, refers to any non-transitory medium that stores data and / or instructions that cause a machine to operate in a
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 116/202
110/137 specific way. Such storage media may comprise non-volatile media and / or volatile media. The non-volatile medium includes, for example, optical discs, magnetic disks or solid state drives, such as the 69410 storage device. Volatile medium includes dynamic memory, such as main memory 69406. Common forms of storage medium include, for example, a floppy disk, floppy disk, hard disk, solid state drive, magnetic tape or any other magnetic data storage medium, a CD-ROM, any other optical data storage medium, any physical medium with hole patterns, a RAM , a PROM and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, NVRAM, any other chip or memory cartridge.
[00290] The storage medium is different, but can be used in conjunction with the transmission medium. The transmission medium participates in the transfer of information between the storage medium. For example, the transmission medium includes coaxial cables, copper wires and optical fibers, including the wires that make up the 69402 bus. The transmission medium can also take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during data communications. by radio waves and infrared.
[00291] Various forms of medium may be involved in the transport of one or more sequences of one or more instructions to the 69404 processor for execution. For example, instructions can initially be carried on a magnetic disk or a solid state drive on a remote computer. The remote computer can load the instructions into its dynamic memory and send the instructions over a phone line using a modem. A local modem
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 117/202
111/137 for the 69400 computer system can receive data on the phone line and use an infrared transmitter to convert the data into an infrared signal. An infrared detector can receive the data carried in the infrared signal and appropriate circuits can place the data on the 69402 bus. The 69402 bus carries the data to the main memory 6940 6, from which the 69404 processor retrieves and executes the instructions. The instructions received by main memory 69406 can optionally be stored in the storage device 69410 before or after execution by the processor 69404.
[00292] The 69400 computer system also includes a 69418 communication interface coupled to the 69402 bus. The 69418 communication interface provides a bidirectional data communication coupling to a 69420 network link that is connected to a 69422 LAN. For example , the 69418 communication interface can be an integrated services digital network card (ISDN), cable modem, satellite modem, or a modem to provide a data communication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. As another example, the 69418 communication interface can be a local area network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN. Wireless links can also be implemented. In any implementation of this type, the communication interface 69418 sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing various types of information.
[00293] The 69420 network link typically provides
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 118/202
112/137 data communication through one or more networks to other data devices. For example, the 69420 network link can provide a connection over the local 69422 network to a 69424 host computer or to data equipment operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) 69426. ISP 69426, in turn, provides data communication services via the worldwide packet data communication network, now commonly called the Internet 69428. The local network 69422 and the Internet 69428 use electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streams. The signals through the various networks and the signals on the network link 69420 and through the communication interface 69418, which carry the digital data to and from the 69400 computer system, are examples of means of transmission.
[00294] The computer system 69400 can send messages and receive data, including program code, through the network (s), network link 69420 and communication interface 69418. In the example of the Internet, a server 430 can transmit a code requested for an application program via the Internet 69428, ISP 69426, local network 69422 and communication interface 69418.
[00295] The received code can be executed by the 69404 processor as it is received, and / or stored in the 69410 storage device, or other non-volatile storage for later execution.
[00296] ADDITIONAL EXAMPLES [00297] Illustrative examples of the technologies disclosed herein are provided below. One type of technology can include at least one and any combination
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 119/202
113/137 of the examples described below.
[00298] In an example 1, a computer system includes one or more processors in data communication with one or more sensors that are coupled to an agricultural machine configured to interact with the soil; one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media storing sequences of program instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the one or more processors, by electronic communication with the one or more sensors, determine measurement data related to one or more of a soil temperature characteristic or a soil moisture characteristic or a soil conductivity characteristic or a soil reflectivity characteristic, based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine control a position of an implement attached to the agricultural machine to adjust the depth of a ditch formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[00299] An example 2 includes the material of example 1, and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make the system determine measurement data comprising one or more data of soil moisture or data of organic matter of the soil or data soil porosity or soil texture data or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the
machine control a water meter seeds for change a population of seeds planted at the ground.[00300] An example 3 includes the article of example 1 and includes instructions that when executed by the one or more
processors, make the system determine measurement data
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 120/202
114/137 comprising one or more soil moisture data or soil organic matter data or soil porosity data or soil texture data or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine change a variety of seed seeds planted in the soil.
[00301] An example 4 includes the material of example 1 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system determine measurement data comprising one or more data of soil moisture or data of soil organic matter or data of soil porosity or soil texture data or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine adjust the application rate of one or more of a fertilizer or a fungicide or an insecticide by the agricultural machine.
[00302] An example 5 includes the material of example 1 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system determine measurement data comprising one or more data of soil moisture or data of organic matter of soil or data of soil porosity or soil texture data or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal for the agricultural machine to adjust the force applied to the soil by the implement.
[00303] An example 6 includes the material of example 1 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system: determine measurement data comprising groove residue data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal for the agricultural machine to adjust the applied force in relation to the soil by a
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 121/202
115/137 implement row.
[00304] An example 7 includes the material of any one of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system display, in one or more windows of a monitor coupled to the implement, a representation of the data measurement, where the one or more windows include: a soil moisture window to display the estimated soil moisture data; or a soil temperature window to display estimated soil temperature data; or a depth definition window to display a depth at which one or more sensors are detecting the measurement data; or a reflectivity variation window for displaying reflectivity data comprising a variation of statistical reflectivity in a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors; or a carbon content window to display estimated soil carbon content data; or an organic matter window to display estimated soil organic matter content data; or a soil component window to display estimated fractional presence data related to one or more soil components.
[00305] An example 8 includes the material of any of examples 1-6, and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system display, on a monitor coupled to the implement, an agronomic result predicted based on data of reflectivity comprising variation of statistical reflectivity in a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors.
[00306] An example 9 includes the material of any of examples 1-6, and includes instructions that when executed by the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 122/202
116/137 one or more processors, cause the system to display, on a monitor coupled to a plurality of row units of the implement, one or more of: an average value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units; a higher value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units; a lower value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units; individual values of the measurement data for each of the row units in the plurality of row units.
[00307] An example 10 includes the material of any one of examples 1-6, and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make the system: display, in one or more windows of a monitor coupled to the implement, a representation data, where the data includes one or more soil data, measurement data or estimated data, data related to one or more of the soil's carbon content or electrical conductivity of the soil or soil organic matter or soil components or soil moisture or soil temperature, and one or more windows include: a map window to display a subset of the data, where the subset of the data corresponds to a numerical range of reflectivity variation associated with a failure threshold level emergency call.
[00308] An example 11 includes the material of any one of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system: display, in one or more windows of a monitor coupled to the implement, a representation of planting data, where planting data is measured by one or more sensors, the one or more sensors include one or more of an optical seed sensor or a
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 123/202
117/137 electromagnetic seed sensor or a reflectivity sensor, and the one or more windows include: one or more planting data windows to display one or more well-spaced data values, where the one or more data values good spacing are calculated by one or more processors based on seed pulses obtained from one or more sensors.
[00309] An example 12 includes the material of any of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make a monitor receive meteorological data and soil data from one or more servers over a network , transmit measurement data to one or more servers using the network, and receive agronomic recommendation data from a recommendation system on one or more servers.
[00310] An example 13 includes the material of any of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make an agricultural machine depth adjustment actuator cooperate with an agricultural machine trench opening system to adjust the depth of the ditch.
[00311] An example 14 includes the matter of example 13 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the depth adjustment actuator to modify the height of a ditch opening gauge wheel in relation to a disk ditch opening system to adjust the ditch depth.
[00312] An example 15 includes the material of any of examples 1-6, and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make a seed meter
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 124/202
118/137 coupled to an agricultural machine hopper to control a seed deposit rate from the hopper into the soil.
[00313] An example 16 includes the material of example 15 and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make a monitor in data communication with one or more sensors and one or more clutches of the agricultural machine to make one or more clutches selectively couple the seed meter to an electric drive.
[00314] An example 17 includes the material of any one of examples 1-6, and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make a monitor receive, from one or more temperature sensors mounted on the agricultural implement, a signal relative to a soil temperature and determine the measurement data based on the temperature signal.
[00315] An example 18 includes the material of any one of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make a monitor receive, from one or more reflectivity sensors mounted on the agricultural machine, a signal reflectivity related to a soil reflectivity and determine the measurement data based on the reflectivity signal.
[00316] An example 19 includes the material of example 18 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system identify a first portion of the reflectivity signal as a seed pulse; identify a second portion of the signal as a measurement of a soil characteristic.
[00317] An example 20 includes the material of example 18, and includes instructions that when executed by one or more
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 125/202
119/137 processors, make the system identify a wavelength of the reflectivity signal that is associated with a characteristic of a seed; obtain measurement data of reflectivity at wavelength.
[00318] An example 21 includes the material of example 18 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system, using the reflectivity signal, determine a seed pulse; based on the seed pulse, cause an adjustment of a time of a deposit of an entrance in the ditch by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[00319] An example 22 includes the material of example 18, and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make the system: use the reflectivity signal, identify a presence of culture residues in the ditch; based on the identified presence of crop residues, cause adjustment of one or more of a valve or an actuator of the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[00320] An example 23 includes the material of example 22 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system display, on the basis of the identified presence of crop residues, a map of spatial variation in the residues of culture.
[00321] An example 24 includes the material of example 18 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system, using the reflectivity signal, determine a seed pulse; based on the seed pulse, determine a geospatially mapped orientation of a seed.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 126/202
120/137 [00322] An example 25 includes the material of example 18, and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system, using the reflectivity signal, determine the seed contact data for soil; display a map of spatial variation in the seed-to-soil contact data on the monitor.
[00323] An example 26 includes the material of example 18 and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make a monitor receive, from one or more electrical conductivity sensors, a signal related to an electrical conductivity of the soil.
[00324] An example 27 includes the material of any of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system obtain seed pulse data from an optical seed sensor of one or more sensors; modify the seed pulse data based on a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors.
[00325] An example 28 includes the material of any of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make the system, based on one or more signals relative to a measured reflectivity of the ground, the one or more signals received from a plurality of reflectivity sensors mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, determine the measurement data.
[00326] An example 29 includes the material of any of examples 1-6, and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make the system, based on one or more signals related to a soil capacitance humidity, one or more signals received from a sensor
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 127/202
121/137 capacitive humidity mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, determine the measurement data.
[00327] An example 30 includes the material of any of examples 1-6, and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make the system, based on one or more signals related to the soil moisture tension of the soil, the one or more signals received from an electronic tensiometer sensor mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, determine the measurement data.
[00328] An example 31 includes the material of any one of examples 1-6, and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the measurement data obtained from the one or more sensors to be used to calculate the moisture tension of soil in the soil.
[00329] An example 32 includes the material of any of examples 1-6, and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make the system, based on one or more signals relative to a soil temperature, the one or more signals received from a temperature sensor mounted on an agricultural machine's seed fixer, determine the measurement data.
[00330] An example 33 includes the material of any of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make the system: obtain the measurement data by interacting with a plurality of soil hitch ears comprising a conductive material coupled to the implement.
[00331] An example includes the material from any of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system adjust, based on
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 128/202
122/137 at a measured soil temperature, one or more data for measuring soil reflectivity or data for measuring electrical conductivity of the soil.
[00332] An example 35 includes the subject matter of any of examples 1-6, and includes a monitor in data communication with the one or more sensors to obtain the measurement data, the one or more sensors being mounted on a fixture of fixative seeds of the agricultural machine, the one or more sensors comprising a plurality of reflectivity sensors and a plurality of temperature sensors and a plurality of electrical conductivity sensors.
[00333] An example 36 includes the material of any of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system: based on reflectivity measurement data obtained from a reflectivity sensor of the one or more sensors, calculate a seed germination moisture value, cause adjustment of the depth of the ditch formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the seed germination moisture value.
[00334] An example 37 includes the material of any of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system: calculate a uniformity of the humidity value based on the measurement data obtained from the one or more sensors, cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the uniformity of the moisture value.
[00335] An example 38 includes the material of any of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that when executed by the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 129/202
123/137 one or more processors make the system: calculate an emergency environment score based on the measurement data obtained from one or more sensors, cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the machine based on the emergency environment score.
[00336] An example 39 includes the material of any one of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system: calculate a humidity variability value based on the measurement data obtained from the one or more sensors, cause adjustment of the depth of the ditch formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the humidity variability.
[00337] An example 40 includes the material of any one of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system remove the measurement of ambient light from a measurement of total light measured from a reflectivity sensor of one or more sensors, for: emitting light from a reflectivity sensor emitter; measure the measurement of total light; turn the transmitter off; measure ambient light; calculate reflected light by subtracting the measurement of ambient light from the measurement of total light.
[00338] An example 41 includes the material of any one of examples 1-6 and includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system analyze voids in the ground by: causing movement of a reflectivity sensor through the ground; measure the reflectivity received in the first and second detectors of the reflectivity sensor; obtain speed of the reflectivity sensor through the ground;
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 130/202
124/137 calculate at least one void length, void depth and number of voids per linear distance from a first detector reflectivity measurement and a second detector reflectivity measurement.
[00339] In an example 42, a method implemented by computer includes the use of one or more processors in data communication with the one or more sensors that are coupled to an agricultural machine configured to interact with the soil, by electronic communication with the one or more sensors, determine measurement data relating to one or more soil temperature characteristics or a soil moisture characteristic or a soil conductivity characteristic or a soil reflectivity characteristic; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine control an implement position attached to the agricultural machine to adjust the depth of a ditch formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[00340] An example 43 includes the material of example 42 and includes the determination of measurement data comprising one or more soil moisture data or soil organic matter data or soil porosity data or soil texture data or data soil type; based on the measurement data, generate a signal for the agricultural machine to control a seed meter to change a population of seeds planted in the soil.
[00341] An example 44 An example 43 includes the matter of example 42, and includes the determination of measurement data comprising one or more data of soil moisture or data of soil organic matter or data of soil porosity
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 131/202
125/137 or soil texture data or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal for the agricultural machine to change a variety of seeds planted in the soil.
[00342]] An example 45 includes the matter of example 42 and includes the determination of measurement data comprising one or more data of soil moisture or data of soil organic matter or data of soil porosity or data of soil texture or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine adjust an application rate of one or more of a fertilizer or a fungicide or an insecticide by the agricultural machine.
[00343] An example 46 includes the matter of example 42 and includes the determination of measurement data comprising one or more soil moisture data or soil organic matter data or soil porosity data or soil texture data or data soil type; based on the measurement data, generate a signal for the agricultural machine to adjust the force applied to the soil by the implement.
[00344] An example 47 includes the matter of example 42 and includes the determination of measurement data comprising groove residue data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal for the agricultural machine to adjust an applied force in relation to the soil by an implement row cleaner.
[00345] An example 48 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes displaying, in one or more windows of a monitor coupled to the implement, a representation of the measurement data, to one or more windows including: a window soil moisture to display estimated soil moisture data; or a soil temperature window to display estimated soil temperature data; or a window
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 132/202
126/137 depth definition to display a depth at which one or more sensors are detecting the measurement data; or a reflectivity variation window for displaying reflectivity data comprising a variation of statistical reflectivity in a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors; or a carbon content window to display estimated soil carbon content data; or an organic matter window to display estimated soil organic matter content data; or a soil component window to display estimated fractional presence data related to one or more soil components.
[00346] An example 49 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47 and includes displaying, on a monitor attached to the implement, an agronomic result predicted based on reflectivity data comprising a variation of statistical reflectivity in a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors.
[00347] An example 50 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes displaying, on a monitor coupled to a plurality of row units of the implement, one or more of: an average value of the measurement data for all the plurality of row units; a higher value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units; a lower value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units; individual values of the measurement data for each of the row units in the plurality of row units.
[00348] An example 51 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes displaying, in one or more windows of
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 133/202
127/137 a monitor attached to the implement, a data representation, in which the data includes one or more soil data, measurement data, or estimated data, data related to one or more of the soil carbon content or conductivity soil electrical or soil organic matter or soil components or soil moisture or soil temperature, and one or more windows include: a map window to display a subset of the data, where the subset of the data corresponds to a range numerical variation of reflectivity associated with a predicted emergency failure threshold level.
[00349] An example 52 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes displaying, in one or more windows of a monitor attached to the implement, a representation of planting data, in which planting data is measured by one or more sensors, the one or more sensors include one or more of an optical seed sensor or an electromagnetic seed sensor or a reflectivity sensor, and the one or more windows include: one or more planting data windows to display one or more well-spaced data values, wherein the one or more well-spaced data values are calculated by one or more processors based on seed pulses obtained from the one or more sensors.
[00350] An example 53 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes making a monitor receive meteorological data and soil data from one or more servers over a network, transmitting the measurement data to one or more more servers using the network, and receive agronomic recommendation data from a recommendation system on one or more servers.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 134/202
128/137 [00351] Example 54 includes the material of any of examples 42-47, and includes making an agricultural machine depth adjustment actuator cooperate with an agricultural machine trenching system to adjust the depth of the trench .
[00352] An example 55 includes the subject matter of example 54, and includes making the depth adjustment actuator modify a height of a trenching system gauge wheel in relation to a trenching system opener disc for adjust the depth of the ditch.
[00353] An example 56 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes making a seed meter coupled to an agricultural machine hopper to control a seed deposit rate from the hopper in the soil.
[00354] An example 57 includes the subject matter of example 56, and includes making a monitor in data communication with one or more sensors and one or more clutches of the agricultural machine to make one or more clutches selectively connect the seed meter to one electric drive.
[00355] An example 58 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes making a monitor receive, from one or more temperature sensors mounted on the implement, a signal relative to a soil temperature; obtain measurement data from the signal.
[00356] An example 59 includes the material of any one of examples 42-47, and includes making a monitor receive, from one or more reflectivity sensors mounted on the agricultural machine, a reflectivity signal related to a soil reflectivity; obtain measurement data from the signal.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 135/202
129/137 [00357] An example 60 includes the material of example 59, and includes identifying a first portion of the reflectivity signal as a seed pulse; identify a second portion of the signal as a measure of a soil characteristic.
[00358] An example 61 includes the material of example 59, and includes identifying a wavelength of the reflectivity signal that is associated with a characteristic of a seed; obtain measurement data of reflectivity at wavelength.
[00359] An example 62 includes the material of example 59 and includes using the reflectivity signal, determining a seed pulse; based on the seed pulse, cause an adjustment of a time delay for a deposit of an entrance in the ditch by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[00360] An example 63 includes the material of example 59, and includes using the reflectivity signal, identifying a presence of residues of culture in the ditch; based on the identified presence of crop residues, cause adjustment of one or more of a valve or an actuator of the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[00361] An example 64 includes the material of example 63 and includes displaying on a monitor, based on the identified presence of residues of culture, a map of spatial variation in residues of culture.
[00362] An example 65 includes the material of example 59 and includes, using the reflectivity signal, determining a seed pulse; based on the seed pulse, determine a geospatially mapped orientation of a seed.
[00363] An example 66 includes the material of example 59 and
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 136/202
130/137 includes, using the reflectivity signal, determining the seed-to-soil contact data; display a map of spatial variation in the seed-to-soil contact data on the monitor.
[00364] An example 67 includes the material of any one of examples 42-47, and includes receiving, from one or more electrical conductivity sensors, a signal related to an electrical conductivity of the soil; obtain measurement data from the signal.
[00365] An example 68 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes obtaining seed pulse data from an optical seed sensor of one or more sensors; modify the seed pulse data based on a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors.
[00366] An example 69 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes, based on one or more signals from a plurality of reflectivity sensors mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, measuring a reflectivity of the soil .
[00367] An example 70 includes the material of any of examples 42-47, and includes, based on one or more signs of
a sensor of moisture capacitive mounted in a fastener in seeds of machine agricultural, measure a humidity in capacitance from soil.[00368] An example 71 includes the matter in anyone From
examples 42-47, and includes, based on one or more signals from an electronic tensiometer sensor mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, measuring the soil moisture tension of the soil.
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 137/202
131/137 [00369] An example 72 includes the material from any of the examples 42-47 and includes using the measurement data obtained from the one or more sensors to determine the soil moisture tension in the soil.
[00370] An example 73 includes the material of any of examples 42-47, and includes, based on one or more signals from a temperature sensor mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, measuring the soil temperature.
[00371] An example 74 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47 and includes obtaining the measurement data by interacting with a plurality of soil hitch ears comprising a conductive material coupled to the implement.
[00372] An example 75 includes the matter of any of examples 42-47, and includes, based on the measured soil temperature, adjusting one or more data for measuring soil reflectivity or measuring data for electrical conductivity of the soil.
[00373] An example 76 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes obtaining the measurement data of one or more sensors mounted on a seed fixer of the agricultural machine, the one or more sensors comprising a plurality of sensors reflectivity and a plurality of temperature sensors and a plurality of electrical conductivity sensors.
[00374] An example 77 includes the object of any of examples 42-47 and includes, based on reflectivity measurement data obtained from a reflectivity sensor of one or more sensors, calculating a germination moisture value of seed; cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the machine operation
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 138/202
132/137 agricultural based on the moisture value of seed germination.
[00375] An example 78 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47 and includes calculating a uniformity of the humidity value based on the measurement data obtained from the one or more sensors; cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the uniformity of the moisture value.
[00376] An example includes the subject of any of examples 42-47, and includes calculating an emergency environment score based on measurement data obtained from one or more sensors; cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the emergency environment score.
[00377] An example 80 includes the material of any of the examples 42-47, and includes calculating a value of humidity variability based on the measurement data obtained from the one or more sensors; cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the humidity variability.
[00378] An example 81 includes the matter of any of examples 42-47, and includes removing the measurement of ambient light from a measurement of total light measured from a reflectivity sensor of one or more sensors, by: emit light from a reflectivity sensor emitter; measure the measurement of total light; turn the transmitter off; measure ambient light; calculate reflected light by subtracting the measurement of ambient light from the measurement of total light.
[00379] An example 82 includes the subject of any of the
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 139/202
133/137 examples 42-47, and includes analyzing voids in the ground for: causing movement of a reflectivity sensor through the ground; measure the reflectivity received in the first and second detectors of the reflectivity sensor; obtain speed of the reflectivity sensor through the ground; calculate at least one void length, void depth and number of voids per linear distance from a first detector reflectivity measurement and a second detector reflectivity measurement.
[00380] In an example 83, a soil test implement includes a base; a resilient portion connected to the base and adapted for connection to an agricultural implement; a protrusion at the base; and a sensor arranged on the base and arranged to detect the soil through the protrusion.
[00381] In an example 84, a soil test implement includes a base; a resilient portion connected to the base and adapted for connection to an agricultural implement; a reflectivity sensor arranged on the base and arranged to detect the ground through an opening in the base; and a prism arranged between the reflectivity sensor and the opening in the base.
[00382] An example 85 includes the soil test implement of example 84, in which the prism has sides that are angled to match a critical angle of the prism material.
[00383] In an example 86, a soil test implement includes a base; a resilient portion connected to the base and adapted for connection to an agricultural implement; and a reflectivity sensor arranged on the base and willing to detect the soil through an opening in the base, where the reflectivity sensor includes at least one emitter and a first
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 140/202
134/137 detector and a second detector, in which at least one emitter and the first detector are aligned and directed in the same direction, the second detector is deflected from at least one emitter and the first detector, the second detector is directed to the hair at least one emitter and the first detector and arranged at an angle from a perpendicular to the direction of the at least one emitter and the first detector.
[00384] In an example 87, a method for removing the measurement of ambient light from a measurement of total light measured from a reflectivity sensor, wherein the reflectivity sensor includes an emitter and a detector, in which the method includes emitting light from the emitter; measure the measurement of total light; turn the transmitter off; measure ambient light; calculate reflected light by subtracting the measurement of ambient light from the measurement of total light.
[00385] In an example 88, a method of analyzing voids in the ground includes moving a reflectivity sensor across the ground, where the reflectivity sensor includes at least one emitter and a first detector and a second detector, in which at least one emitter and the first detector are in line and directed in the same direction, the second detector is deflected from at least one emitter and the first detector, the second detector is directed towards at least one emitter and the first detector and arranged at an angle a from a perpendicular to the direction of at least one emitter and the first detector; measure the reflectivity received at the first detector and the second detector; obtain speed of the reflectivity sensor through the ground; calculate at least one void length, void depth and number of voids by linear distance from the first measurement
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 141/202
135/137 detector reflectivity and the second detector reflectivity measurement.
[00386] In an example 89, a temperature sensor includes a body; a window arranged through the body that allows at least 50% of the infrared radiation to pass through the window; a thermopile arranged on the body to have a field of view through the window. An example 90 includes the temperature sensor of example 89, where the field of view is 70 ° to 180 °.
[00387] GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS [00388] In the previous specification, modalities of the invention have been described with reference to numerous specific details that may vary from implementation to implementation. The specification and the drawings must therefore be considered in a more illustrative than restrictive sense. The unique and exclusive indicator of the scope of the invention, and what is sought by the claimants as being the scope of the invention, is the literal and equivalent scope of the set of claims that result from this application, in the specific form in which such claims issue, including any subsequent correction.
[00389] Any definitions set forth herein for the terms contained in the claims may govern the meaning of such terms used in the claims. No limitation, element, property, resource, advantage or attribute that is not expressly stated in a claim should limit the scope of the claim in any way. The specification and drawings must be considered in an illustrative and not restrictive sense.
[00390] As used here, terms include and
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 142/202
136/137 understand (and variations of these terms, as including, includes comprising comprises, understood and the like) must be inclusive and are not intended to exclude other resources, components, integers or steps.
[00391] References in this document to a modality, etc., indicate that the modality described or illustrated may include a particular feature, structure or feature, but each modality may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure or feature. Such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same modality. In addition, when a particular feature, structure or feature is described or illustrated in connection with a modality, it is believed to be within the knowledge of a person skilled in the art to effect such a feature, structure, or feature in connection with other modalities, if or not explicitly stated.
[00392] Various disclosure features were described using steps in the process. The functionality / processing of a given step in the process could be accomplished in different ways and by different systems or system modules. In addition, a particular step in the process can be divided into several steps and / or several steps can be combined into a single step. In addition, the order of steps can be changed without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
[00393] It will be understood that the modalities disclosed and defined in this specification extend to alternative combinations of the individual resources and components mentioned or evident from the text or drawings. These different combinations constitute several aspects
Petition 870190117418, of 11/13/2019, p. 143/202
137/137 alternative modalities.

权利要求:
Claims (81)
[1]
1. Computer system characterized by the fact that it comprises:
one or more processors in data communication with the one or more sensors that are coupled to an agricultural machine configured to interact with the soil;
one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media storing sequences of program instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make one or more processors:
by electronic communication with one or more sensors, determine measurement data related to one or more characteristics of soil temperature or a characteristic of soil moisture or a characteristic of soil conductivity or a characteristic of soil reflectivity;
based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine control an implement position attached to the agricultural machine to adjust the depth of a ditch formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[2]
2. System according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system determine measurement data comprising one or more soil moisture data or data soil organic matter or soil porosity data or soil texture data or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine control a seed meter for
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 8/32
2/24 change a population of seeds planted in the soil.
[3]
3. System, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system determine measurement data comprising one or more soil moisture data or data soil organic matter or soil porosity data or soil texture data or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine change a variety of seed seeds planted in the soil.
[4]
4. System according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system determine measurement data comprising one or more soil moisture data or data soil organic matter or soil porosity data or soil texture data or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine adjust the application rate of one or more of a fertilizer or a fungicide or an insecticide by the agricultural machine.
[5]
5. System according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system determine measurement data comprising one or more soil moisture data or data soil organic matter or soil porosity data or soil texture data or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to the machine
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 9/32
3/24 agricultural adjust the force applied to the soil by the implement.
[6]
6. System, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system: determine measurement data including groove residue data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal for the agricultural machine to adjust the applied force in relation to the soil by an implement row cleaner.
[7]
7. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, make the system display, in one or more windows of a coupled monitor to the implement, a
representation of measurement data, in that to a or more windows comprise: an moisture window soil for display the Dice in moisture estimated soil values; or an temperature window solo to display Dice in
estimated soil temperature; or a depth definition window to display a depth at which one or more sensors are detecting the measurement data; or a reflectivity variation window for displaying reflectivity data comprising a variation of statistical reflectivity in a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors; or a carbon content window to display estimated soil carbon content data; or an organic matter window to display data from
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 10/32
4/24 estimated soil organic matter content; or a soil component window to display estimated fractional presence data related to one or more soil components.
[8]
8. System according to any of the claims
1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system display, on a monitor coupled to the implement, an agronomic result predicted based on reflectivity data comprising a variation of statistical reflectivity in a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors.
[9]
9. System according to any of the claims
1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the system to display, on a monitor coupled to a plurality of row units of the implement, one or more of:
an average value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units;
a higher value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units;
a lower value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units;
individual values of the measurement data for each of the row units in the plurality of row units.
[10]
10. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, make the system:
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 11/32
5/24 display, in one or more windows of a monitor attached to the implement, a data representation, in which the data comprise one or more soil data, measurement data or estimated data, data related to one or more of the content soil carbon or electrical conductivity of the soil or soil organic matter or soil components or soil moisture or soil temperature, and one or more windows comprise:
a map window to display a subset of the data, where the subset of the data corresponds to a numerical range of reflectivity variation associated with a predicted emergency failure threshold level.
[11]
11. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, make the system:
display, in one or more windows of a monitor attached to the implement, a representation of planting data, in which planting data is measured by one or more sensors, one or more sensors comprise one or more of an optical seed sensor or an electromagnetic seed sensor or a reflectivity sensor, and one or more windows comprise:
one or more planting data windows to display one or more well-spaced data values, where the one or more well-spaced data values are calculated by one or more seed pulse based processors obtained from the one or more more sensors.
[12]
12. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that when
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 12/32
6/24 run by one or more processors, make a monitor receive time data and ground data from one or more servers over a network, transmit measurement data to one or more servers using the network, and receive data agronomic recommendation from a recommendation system on one or more servers.
[13]
13. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make a depth adjustment actuator of the agricultural machine cooperate with a system trenching machine to adjust the depth of the trench.
[14]
14. System, according to claim 13, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the depth adjustment actuator modify a height of a gauge wheel of the trenching relative to a trenching system opener disc to adjust the trench depth.
[15]
15. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make a seed meter, coupled to a hopper of the agricultural machine, control a seed deposit rate from the hopper to the soil.
[16]
16. System according to claim 15, characterized by the fact that the storage medium
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 13/32
7/24 further comprises instructions that when executed by one or more processors, they make a monitor in data communication with one or more sensors and one or more clutches of the agricultural machine cause one or more clutches to selectively couple the seed meter to one electric drive.
[17]
17. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause a monitor to receive, from one or more temperature sensors mounted on the implement, a signal relative to a soil temperature and determine the measurement data based on the temperature signal.
[18]
18. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause a monitor to receive, from one or more reflectivity sensors mounted for the agricultural machine, a reflectivity signal relative to a soil reflectivity and determine the measurement data based on the reflectivity signal.
[19]
19. System, according to claim 18, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system identify a first portion of the reflectivity signal as a seed pulse; identify a second portion of the signal as a measurement of a soil characteristic.
[20]
20. System according to claim 18,
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 14/32
8/24 characterized by the fact that the storage medium also comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system identify a wavelength of the reflectivity signal that is associated with a characteristic of a seed; obtain measurement data of reflectivity at wavelength.
[21]
21. System, according to claim 18, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system, using the reflectivity signal, determine a seed pulse; based on the seed pulse, cause an adjustment of a time of a deposit of an entrance in the ditch by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[22]
22. System, according to claim 18, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system: using the reflectivity signal, to identify the presence of culture residues in the ditch; based on the identified presence of crop residues, cause adjustment of one or more of a valve or an actuator of the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[23]
23. System, according to claim 22, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system display on a monitor, based on the identified presence of culture residues, a map of spatial variation in residues of culture.
[24]
24. System according to claim 18,
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 15/32
9/24 characterized by the fact that the storage medium also includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system, using the reflectivity signal, determine a seed pulse; based on the seed pulse, determine a geospatially mapped orientation of a seed.
[25]
25. System, according to claim 18, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system, using the reflectivity signal, determine seed-parasol contact data ; display a map of spatial variation in the seed-to-soil contact data on the monitor.
[26]
26. System, according to claim 18, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause a monitor to receive, from one or more electrical conductivity sensors, a signal relative to an electrical conductivity of the soil.
[27]
27. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the system to obtain seed pulse data from a sensor optical seed of one or more sensors; modify the seed pulse data based on a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors.
[28]
28. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 16/32
10/24 executed by one or more processors, make the system, based on one or more signals relative to a measured reflectivity of the ground, the one or more signals received from a plurality of reflectivity sensors mounted to a seed fixer of the agricultural machine, determine the measurement data.
[29]
29. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system, based on one or more signals related to a soil capacitance humidity, the one or more signals received from a capacitive humidity sensor mounted to an agricultural machine seed fixer, determine the measurement data.
[30]
30. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, make the system, based on one or more voltage-related signals of soil moisture in the soil, the one or more signals received from an electronic tensiometer sensor mounted to an agricultural machine seed fixer, determine the measurement data.
[31]
31. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause use of the measurement data obtained from the one or more sensors to calculate the soil moisture tension in the soil.
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 17/32
11/24
[32]
32. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system, based on one or more signals related to a soil temperature, one or more signals received from a temperature sensor mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, determine the measurement data.
[33]
33. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, make the system:
obtaining the measurement data by interacting with a plurality of soil hitch ears comprising a conductive material coupled to the implement.
[34]
34. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system adjust, based on a measured soil temperature, one or more data for measuring soil reflectivity or data for measuring electrical conductivity of the soil.
[35]
35. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that it also comprises a monitor in data communication with the one or more sensors to obtain the measurement data, the one or more sensors being mounted in one seed fixer of the agricultural machine, the one or more sensors comprising a plurality of reflectivity sensors and a plurality of temperature sensors and a plurality of sensors of
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 18/32
12/24 electrical conductivity.
[36]
36. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, make the system:
based on reflectivity measurement data obtained from a reflectivity sensor of one or more sensors, calculate a seed germination moisture value; cause adjustment of the depth of the ditch formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the moisture value of seed germination.
[37]
37. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, make the system:
calculate a uniformity of the humidity value based on the measurement data obtained from one or more sensors; cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the uniformity of the moisture value.
[38]
38. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, make the system:
calculate an emergency environment score based on measurement data obtained from one or more sensors; cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the emergency environment score.
[39]
39. System, according to any of the
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 19/32
13/24 claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium also includes instructions that when executed by one or more processors, make the system:
calculate a humidity variability value based on measurement data obtained from one or more sensors; cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the humidity variability.
[40]
40. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the storage medium further comprises instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the system to remove the measurement of ambient light from a measurement of total light measured from a reflectivity sensor of one or more sensors, by:
emit light from a reflectivity sensor emitter;
measure the measurement of total light;
turn the transmitter off;
measure ambient light;
calculate reflected light by subtracting the measurement of ambient light from the measurement of total light.
[41]
41. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact that the storage medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, make the system analyze voids in the ground by:
causing reflectivity sensor movement through the ground;
measure reflectivity received in the first and second
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 20/32
14/24 reflectivity sensor detectors;
obtain speed of the reflectivity sensor through the ground;
calculate at least one void length, void depth and number of voids per linear distance from a first detector reflectivity measurement and a second detector reflectivity measurement.
[42]
42. Computer-implemented method characterized by the fact that it comprises:
use one or more processors in data communication with one or more sensors coupled to an agricultural machine configured to interact with the soil, by electronic communication with one or more sensors, determine measurement data related to one or more temperature characteristics of the soil or a soil moisture characteristic or a soil conductivity characteristic or a soil reflectivity characteristic;
based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine control an implement position attached to the agricultural machine to adjust the depth of a ditch formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[43]
43. Method according to claim 42, characterized in that it further comprises determining the measurement data comprising one or more of soil moisture data or soil organic matter data or soil porosity data or texture data soil or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal for the agricultural machine to control a seed meter to change a population of seeds planted in the
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 21/32
15/24 solo.
[44]
44. Method according to claim 42, characterized in that it further comprises determining measurement data comprising one or more of soil moisture data or soil organic matter data or soil porosity data or texture data soil or data
of type of soil; with based on data from measurement, generate one signal to the machine agricultural change a variety in seeds planted in ground. 45. Method, of wake up with the claim 42,
characterized by the fact that it further comprises determining measurement data comprising one or more of soil moisture data or soil organic matter data or soil porosity data or soil texture data or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to make the agricultural machine adjust an application rate of one or more of a fertilizer or a fungicide or an insecticide by the agricultural machine.
[45]
46. Method according to claim 42, characterized in that it further comprises determining the measurement data comprising one or more of soil moisture data or soil organic matter data or soil porosity data or texture data soil or soil type data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal for the agricultural machine to adjust the force applied to the soil by the implement.
[46]
47. Method according to claim 42, characterized in that it further comprises determining the measurement data comprising groove residue data; based on the measurement data, generate a signal to the machine
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 22/32
16/24 agricultural adjust a force applied in relation to the soil by an implement row cleaner.
[47]
48. Method according to any of the claims
42 to 47, characterized by the fact that it also comprises: display, in one or more windows of a monitor coupled to the
implement, a representation From measurement data, to a or more windows comprising: a moisture window of solo to display the Dice in estimated soil moisture; or a temperature window in solo to display Dice in
estimated soil temperature; or a depth definition window to display a depth at which one or more sensors are detecting the measurement data; or a reflectivity variation window for displaying reflectivity data comprising a variation of statistical reflectivity in a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors; or a carbon content window to display estimated soil carbon content data; or an organic matter window to display estimated soil organic matter content data; or a soil component window to display estimated fractional presence data related to one or more soil components.
[48]
49. Method, according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized by the fact that it also comprises displaying, on a monitor coupled to the implement, an agronomic result predicted based on reflectivity data comprising a variation of statistical reflectivity in
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 23/32
17/24 a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor of one or more sensors.
[49]
50. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized by the fact that it further comprises:
display, on a monitor coupled to a plurality of row units of the implement, one or more of the following:
an average value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units;
a higher value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units;
a lower value of the measurement data for the entire plurality of row units;
individual values of the measurement data for each of the row units in the plurality of row units.
[50]
51. Method according to any of claims 42 to 47, characterized by the fact that it further comprises:
display, in one or more windows of a monitor attached to the implement, a data representation, in which the data comprise one or more of the soil data, the measurement data, or estimated data, the data refer to one or more soil carbon content or soil electrical conductivity or soil organic matter or soil components or soil moisture or soil temperature, and one or more windows comprise:
a map window to display a subset of the data, where the subset of the data corresponds to a numerical range of reflectivity variation associated with a predicted emergency failure threshold level.
[51]
52. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized by the fact that it further comprises:
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 24/32
18/24 display, in one or more windows of a monitor attached to the implement, a representation of planting data, in which planting data is measured by one or more sensors, the one or more sensors comprising one or more of a sensor optical seed or an electromagnetic seed sensor or a reflectivity sensor, and the one or more windows comprise:
one or more planting data windows to display one or more well-spaced data values, where the one or more well-spaced data values are calculated by one or more seed pulse based processors obtained from the one or more more sensors.
[52]
53. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises making a monitor receive meteorological data and soil data from one or more servers over a network, transmitting the measurement data to o one or more servers using the network, and receive agronomic recommendation data from a recommendation system on one or more servers.
[53]
54. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises an agricultural machine depth adjustment actuator to cooperate with an agricultural machine trench opening system to adjust the depth of the trench.
[54]
55. Method according to claim 54, characterized by the fact that it further comprises making the depth adjustment actuator modify the height of a trench opening gauge wheel in relation to an opening disk of the opening system ditch to
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 25/32
19/24 adjust the trench depth.
[55]
56. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises making a seed meter coupled to an agricultural machine hopper to control a seed deposit rate from the hopper into the soil.
[56]
57. Method, according to claim 56, characterized by the fact that it also comprises a monitor causing data communication with one or more sensors and one or more clutches of the agricultural machine to make one or more clutches selectively couple the seed meter for an electric drive.
[57]
58. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises making a monitor receive, from one or more temperature sensors mounted on the agricultural implement, a signal related to the soil temperature; obtain measurement data from the signal.
[58]
59. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized by the fact that it further comprises making a monitor receive, from the one or more reflectivity sensors mounted on the agricultural machine, a reflectivity signal related to the reflectivity of the ground; obtain measurement data from the signal.
[59]
60. Method, according to claim 59, characterized by the fact that it further comprises identifying a first portion of the reflectivity signal as a seed pulse; identify a second portion of the signal as a measurement of a soil characteristic.
[60]
61. The method of claim 59,
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 26/32
20/24 characterized by the fact that it further comprises identifying a wavelength of the reflectivity signal that is associated with a characteristic of a seed; obtain the wavelength reflectivity measurement data.
[61]
62. Method, according to claim 59, characterized by the fact that it also comprises the use of the reflectivity signal, determining a seed pulse; based on the pulse of seeds, cause an adjustment of a timing of a deposit of an entrance in the ditch by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[62]
63. Method, according to claim 59, characterized by the fact that it also comprises using the reflectivity signal, identifying a presence of culture residues inside the ditch; based on the presence of identified crop residues, cause adjustment of one or more of a valve or an actuator of the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine.
[63]
64. Method, according to claim 63, characterized by the fact that it also comprises displaying on a monitor, based on the presence of identified culture residues, a map of spatial variation in the culture residues.
[64]
65. Method according to claim 59, characterized by the fact that it further comprises, using the reflectivity signal, determining a seed pulse; based on the seed pulse, determine a geospatially mapped orientation of a seed.
[65]
66. Method, according to claim 59, characterized by the fact that it also comprises, using the reflectivity signal, determining contact data of
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 27/32
21/24 seed-to-soil; display a map of spatial variation in the seed-to-soil contact data on the monitor.
[66]
67. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized by the fact that it further comprises receiving, from one or more electrical conductivity sensors, a signal related to an electrical conductivity of the soil; obtain measurement data from the signal.
[67]
68. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises obtaining seed pulse data from an optical seed sensor of one or more sensors; modify the seed pulse data based on a signal generated by a reflectivity sensor for the one or more sensors.
[68]
69. Method according to any of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises, based on one or more signals from a plurality of reflectivity sensors mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, measuring a reflectivity from soil.
[69]
70. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises, based on one or more signals from a capacitive humidity sensor mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, measuring a humidity of soil capacitance.
[70]
71. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises, based on one or more signals from an electronic tensiometer sensor mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, measuring the voltage of soil soil moisture.
[71]
72. Method according to any of the claims
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 28/32
22/24
42 to 47, characterized by the fact that it also comprises the use of measurement data obtained from one or more sensors to determine a soil moisture tension in the soil.
[72]
73. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises, based on one or more signals from a temperature sensor mounted on an agricultural machine seed fixer, measuring the soil temperature.
[73]
74. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises obtaining measurement data by interacting with a plurality of soil hitch ears comprising a conductive material coupled to the implement.
[74]
75. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises, based on a measured soil temperature, adjusting one or more data of measurement of reflectivity of the ground or data of measurement of electrical conductivity from soil.
[75]
76. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises obtaining measurement data from one or more sensors mounted on a seed fixer on the agricultural machine, the one or more sensors comprising a plurality of reflectivity sensors and a plurality of temperature sensors and a plurality of electrical conductivity sensors.
[76]
77. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises, based on reflectivity measurement data obtained from a reflectivity sensor of one or more sensors,
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 29/32
23/24 calculate a seed germination moisture value; cause adjustment of the depth of the ditch formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the moisture value of seed germination.
[77]
78. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises calculating a uniformity of the moisture value based on the measurement data obtained from the one or more sensors; cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the uniformity of the moisture value.
[78]
79. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises calculating an emergency environment score based on the measurement data obtained from the one or more sensors; cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the emergency environment score.
[79]
80. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises calculating a moisture variability value based on the measurement data obtained from the one or more sensors; cause adjustment of the depth of the trench formed in the soil by the implement during the operation of the agricultural machine based on the humidity variability.
[80]
81. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized in that it further comprises removing the measurement of ambient light from a measurement of total light measured from a reflectivity sensor of one or more sensors, per:
Petition 870190117419, of 11/13/2019, p. 30/32
24/24 emit light from a reflectivity sensor emitter;
measure the measurement of total light;
turn the transmitter off;
measure ambient light;
calculate reflected light by subtracting the measurement of ambient light from the measurement of total light.
[81]
82. Method according to any one of claims 42 to 47, characterized by the fact that it also comprises analyzing voids in the soil by:
cause reflectivity sensor movement through the ground;
measure reflectivity received on the first and second detectors of the reflectivity sensor;
obtain speed of the reflectivity sensor through the ground;
calculate at least one void length, void depth and number of voids per linear distance from a first detector reflectivity measurement and a second detector reflectivity measurement.

类似技术:

---

公开号 | 公开日 | 专利标题

---

BR112019012697A2|2019-12-10|soil and seed monitoring systems, methods and apparatus

---

US20210406745A1|2021-12-30|Forecasting field level crop yield during a growing season

---

US10827669B2|2020-11-10|Method for recommending seeding rate for corn seed using seed type and sowing row width

---

US20210097632A1|2021-04-01|Forecasting national crop yield during the growing season using weather indices

---

US10768331B2|2020-09-08|Work layer imaging and analysis for implement monitoring, control and operator feedback

---

BR112017026437B1|2022-01-18|COMPUTER SYSTEM AND COMPUTER DEPLOYED METHOD FOR MONITORING ONE OR MORE FIELDS OPERATIONS

---

US20200279179A1|2020-09-03|Computer-implemented calculation of corn harvest recommendations

---

US10859732B2|2020-12-08|Long-range temperature forecasting

---

BR112017028605A2|2019-11-12|systems and methods for agricultural field image capture and analysis

---

BR112019015401A2|2020-03-31|PLANTATION YIELD ESTIMATE USING AGRONOMIC NEURAL NETWORK

---

BR112019010837A2|2019-10-01|determination of intra-field yield variation data based on soil characteristic data and satellite imagery

---

BR112021006110A2|2021-07-20|systems and methods for identifying and using test sites in agricultural fields

---

BR112021007121A2|2021-07-20|use of machine learning-based seed crop moisture predictions to improve a computer-assisted farm farming operation

---

US20200042890A1|2020-02-06|Automatic prediction of yields and recommendation of seeding rates based on weather data

---

BR112020023684A2|2021-02-17|cross-cultivation study and field targeting

---

BR112019018015B1|2021-12-14|COMPUTER IMPLEMENTED METHOD TO SELECT SAMPLING LOCATIONS IN A FIELD AND IMPROVE GROWTH IN THE FIELD

---

BR112019018057B1|2021-10-26|COMPUTER IMPLEMENTED METHOD TO SELECT LOCATIONS IN A FIELD FOR TREATMENT SAMPLING

---

US20200045898A1|2020-02-13|Digital nutrient models using spatially distributed values unique to an agronomic field

同族专利:

---

公开号 | 公开日

---

WO2018118716A1|2018-06-28|

---

EP3554212A4|2020-07-08|

---

US20200113129A1|2020-04-16|

---

CA3047779A1|2018-06-28|

---

US20180168094A1|2018-06-21|

---

EP3554212A1|2019-10-23|

---

US10512212B2|2019-12-24|

---

AU2017382800A1|2019-07-25|

引用文献:

---

公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题

---

---

US2366389A|1943-08-24|1945-01-02|Leonard L Ledbetter|Two-depth seed planter|

---

US3749035A|1970-12-28|1973-07-31|Deere & Co|Precision depth seed planter|

---

US4103177A|1975-12-01|1978-07-25|Phillips Petroleum Company|Surface quality analysis|

---

US4116140A|1976-12-09|1978-09-26|Haybuster Manufacturing, Inc.|Press wheel depth control for grain drill furrow openers|

---

US4413685A|1979-12-11|1983-11-08|Gremelspacher Philip E|Planter implement with adjusting position-display apparatus and system thereof|

---

US4374500A|1981-05-20|1983-02-22|International Harvester Co.|Seed planter depth control|

---

DE3226659C2|1982-07-16|1985-10-24|Amazonen-Werke H. Dreyer Gmbh & Co Kg, 4507 Hasbergen|Seed drill|

---

US6484652B1|1991-07-22|2002-11-26|Crop Technology, Inc.|Soil constituent sensor and precision agrichemical delivery system and method|

---

US5044756A|1989-03-13|1991-09-03|Purdue Research Foundation|Real-time soil organic matter sensor|

---

US5038040A|1989-09-22|1991-08-06|Agmed Inc.|Soil test apparatus|

---

DE4121218A1|1990-09-21|1992-03-26|Rabewerk Clausing Heinrich|Ground cultivator with roller and drilling shares -has automatic height adjustment of shares according to penetration depth of roller|

---

US5673637A|1991-07-22|1997-10-07|Crop Technology, Inc.|Soil constituent sensor and precision agrichemical delivery system and method|

---

US5387977A|1991-09-04|1995-02-07|X-Rite, Incorporated|Multiangular color measuring apparatus|

---

US5296702A|1992-07-28|1994-03-22|Patchen California|Structure and method for differentiating one object from another object|

---

US5398771A|1993-02-23|1995-03-21|Crustbuster/Speed King, Inc.|Grain Drill|

---

US5355815A|1993-03-19|1994-10-18|Ag-Chem Equipment Co., Inc.|Closed-loop variable rate applicator|

---

US5931882A|1993-07-29|1999-08-03|Raven Industries|Combination grid recipe and depth control system|

---

US5461229A|1994-06-06|1995-10-24|Unisys Corporation|On-the-go optical spectroscopy soil analyzer|

---

US5563340A|1995-03-28|1996-10-08|Ford Motor Company|Mass air flow sensor housing|

---

US5621666A|1995-04-20|1997-04-15|Dynavisions, Inc.|Planter monitor|

---

US5650609A|1995-05-15|1997-07-22|Phoenix International Corporation|Seed monitoring system for counting seeds as they are dispensed through a seed planting tube|

---

US7121216B2|1995-10-30|2006-10-17|Schaffert Paul E|Liquid distribution apparatus for distributing liquid into a seed furrow|

---

US6453832B1|1997-06-23|2002-09-24|Paul E. Schaffert|Liquid distribution apparatus for distributing liquid into a seed furrow|

---

US5852982A|1996-06-07|1998-12-29|Farmer Fabrications, Inc.|Liquid dispenser for seed planter|

---

US6510367B1|1996-12-12|2003-01-21|Ag-Chem Equipment Co., Inc.|Delay coordinating system for a system of operatively coupled agricultural machines|

---

US5841282A|1997-02-10|1998-11-24|Christy; Colin|Device for measuring soil conductivity|

---

US5887491A|1997-05-14|1999-03-30|Ag-Chem Equipment, Co., Inc.|Soil analysis assembly and system|

---

US6016714A|1997-09-08|2000-01-25|Lockheed Martin Idaho Technologies Company|Sensor system for buried waste containment sites|

---

US6148747A|1998-01-20|2000-11-21|Kinze Manufacturing Inc.|Equalizing gauge wheel mechanism for row crop planter unit|

---

AU1177500A|1999-03-15|2000-10-04|Kumamoto Technopolis Foundation|Soil survey device and system for precision agriculture|

---

US6216794B1|1999-07-01|2001-04-17|Andrew F. Buchl|Joystick control for an automatic depth control system and method|

---

US20020131046A1|2001-03-13|2002-09-19|Kejr, Inc.|Optical soil sensor for mobilized measurement of in-situ soil characteristics|

---

US6839088B2|2001-03-31|2005-01-04|The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University|System and method for estimating physical properties of objects and illuminants in a scene using modulated light emission|

---

US6888633B2|2001-05-16|2005-05-03|X-Rite, Incorporated|Color measurement instrument with modulated illumination|

---

US6596996B1|2001-07-24|2003-07-22|The Board Of Regents For Oklahoma State University|Optical spectral reflectance sensor and controller|

---

US6389999B1|2001-11-02|2002-05-21|Dennis Duello|Dynamic controller of excess downpressure for surface engaging implement|

---

AU2002953346A0|2002-12-16|2003-01-09|Sentek Pty Ltd|Soil matric potential and salinity measurement apparatus and method of use|

---

US7047133B1|2003-01-31|2006-05-16|Deere & Company|Method and system of evaluating performance of a crop|

---

US9075008B2|2003-11-07|2015-07-07|Kyle H. Holland|Plant treatment based on a water invariant chlorophyll index|

---

US20080291455A1|2003-11-07|2008-11-27|Kyle Harold Holland|Active Light Sensor|

---

US7408145B2|2003-09-23|2008-08-05|Kyle Holland|Light sensing instrument with modulated polychromatic source|

---

US6827029B1|2003-11-04|2004-12-07|Cnh America Llc|Method and apparatus for automatically maintaining seed trench depth during seed planting operations|

---

US7216555B2|2004-02-11|2007-05-15|Veris Technologies, Inc.|System and method for mobile soil sampling|

---

US20060158652A1|2004-06-24|2006-07-20|Rooney Daniel J|Measuring soil light response|

---

US20070272134A1|2006-05-23|2007-11-29|Christopher John Baker|Ground opening device|

---

EP2104413B2|2007-01-08|2020-03-25|The Climate Corporation|Planter monitor system and method|

---

WO2008086283A2|2007-01-08|2008-07-17|Precision Planting Inc.|Load sensing pin|

---

US8319165B2|2007-07-03|2012-11-27|Holland Kyle H|Variable rate chemical management for agricultural landscapes|

---

US7723660B2|2007-07-03|2010-05-25|Kyle Holland|Sensor-based chemical management for agricultural landscapes|

---

US9585307B2|2007-07-03|2017-03-07|Kyle H. Holland|Optical real-time soil sensor and auto-calibration methods|

---

US8816262B2|2007-07-03|2014-08-26|Kyle H. Holland|Auto-calibration method for real-time agricultural sensors|

---

US8204689B2|2007-10-24|2012-06-19|Veris Technologies, Inc.|Mobile soil mapping system for collecting soil reflectance measurements|

---

US9743574B1|2007-10-24|2017-08-29|Veris Technologies, Inc.|Mobile soil optical mapping system|

---

MX2008014783A|2008-02-05|2009-08-27|Krueger Int Inc|Chair shell with integral hollow contoured support.|

---

US20100023430A1|2008-07-24|2010-01-28|Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.|System and method for coordinating the production and processing of seed supplies, and the preparation and utilization of seed samples|

---

US8814626B2|2008-10-30|2014-08-26|Michael O. Smith|Expanding and contracting yo-yo|

---

US9285501B2|2008-11-04|2016-03-15|Veris Technologies, Inc.|Multiple sensor system and method for mapping soil in three dimensions|

---

US7726251B1|2009-03-11|2010-06-01|Deere & Company|Agricultural seeding apparatus and method for seed placement synchronization between multiple rows|

---

US8451449B2|2009-10-30|2013-05-28|Kyle H. Holland|Optical real-time soil sensor|

---

US8418636B2|2010-08-20|2013-04-16|Deere & Company|In-ground seed spacing monitoring system for use in an agricultural seeder|

---

US8365679B2|2010-08-20|2013-02-05|Deere & Company|Seed spacing monitoring system for use in an agricultural seeder|

---

US9351440B2|2011-03-22|2016-05-31|Precision Planting Llc|Seed meter disc having agitation cavities|

---

WO2012149415A1|2011-04-27|2012-11-01|Kinze Manufacturing, Inc.|Remote adjustment of a row unit of an agricultural device|

---

WO2012149398A1|2011-04-27|2012-11-01|Kinze Manufacturing, Inc.|Agricultural devices, systems, and methods for determining soil and seed characteristics and analyzing the same|

---

WO2012149367A1|2011-04-27|2012-11-01|Kinze Manufacturing, Inc.|Down and/or up force adjustment system|

---

US9743578B2|2011-04-27|2017-08-29|Kinze Manufacturing, Inc.|Agricultural devices, systems, and methods for determining soil and seed characteristics and analyzing the same|

---

GB201112568D0|2011-07-22|2011-08-31|Agco Int Gmbh|Tractor control system|

---

US8827001B2|2012-01-17|2014-09-09|Cnh Industrial America Llc|Soil monitoring system|

---

US9026316B2|2012-10-02|2015-05-05|Kyle H. Holland|Variable rate chemical management for agricultural landscapes with nutrition boost|

---

US9282693B2|2013-02-20|2016-03-15|Deere & Company|Data encoding with planting attributes|

---

US9943027B2|2013-03-14|2018-04-17|Precision Planting Llc|Systems, methods, and apparatus for agricultural implement trench depth control and soil monitoring|

---

US9629304B2|2013-04-08|2017-04-25|Ag Leader Technology|On-the go soil sensors and control methods for agricultural machines|

---

US9585301B1|2013-04-15|2017-03-07|Veris Technologies, Inc.|Agricultural planter with automatic depth and seeding rate control|

---

US8849523B1|2013-05-20|2014-09-30|Elwha Llc|Systems and methods for detecting soil characteristics|

---

US10362733B2|2013-10-15|2019-07-30|Deere & Company|Agricultural harvester configured to control a biomass harvesting rate based upon soil effects|

---

US9167742B2|2013-10-21|2015-10-27|Billy R. Masten|Method and apparatus for planting seed crops|

---

AU2015255935B2|2014-05-08|2019-02-28|The Climate Corporation|Systems, methods, and apparatus for soil and seed monitoring|

---

US10785905B2|2014-05-08|2020-09-29|Precision Planting Llc|Liquid application apparatus comprising a seed firmer|

---

US9579700B2|2014-05-30|2017-02-28|Iteris, Inc.|Measurement and modeling of salinity contamination of soil and soil-water systems from oil and gas production activities|

---

US10564316B2|2014-09-12|2020-02-18|The Climate Corporation|Forecasting national crop yield during the growing season|

---

BR112018000627A2|2015-07-15|2018-09-18|Climate Corp|generation of digital nutrient models available for a crop through the course of crop development based on weather and soil data|

---

US9652840B1|2014-10-30|2017-05-16|AgriSight, Inc.|System and method for remote nitrogen monitoring and prescription|

---

CA3131575A1|2014-11-12|2016-05-19|Precision Planting Llc|Seed planting apparatus, systems and methods|

---

CA3062675C|2015-03-13|2021-03-23|Honey Bee Manufacturing Ltd.|Controlling a positioning system for an agricultural implement|

---

US10028426B2|2015-04-17|2018-07-24|360 Yield Center, Llc|Agronomic systems, methods and apparatuses|

---

AU2016278130B2|2015-06-15|2020-08-27|Precision Planting Llc|Systems, methods, and apparatus for agricultural liquid application|

---

CA2989309A1|2015-06-15|2016-12-22|Precision Planting Llc|Systems, methods, and apparatus for agricultural liquid application|

---

US10451600B2|2015-08-10|2019-10-22|360 Yield Center, Llc|Soil sampling apparatus, system and method|

---

US11067560B2|2015-09-09|2021-07-20|Veris Technologies, Inc.|System for measuring multiple soil properties using narrow profile sensor configuration|

---

US9801332B2|2015-09-30|2017-10-31|Deere & Company|System and method for consistent depth seeding to moisture|

---

US9675004B2|2015-09-30|2017-06-13|Deere & Company|Soil moisture-based planter downforce control|

---

BR112019012697A2|2016-12-19|2019-12-10|Climate Corp|soil and seed monitoring systems, methods and apparatus|US10785905B2|2014-05-08|2020-09-29|Precision Planting Llc|Liquid application apparatus comprising a seed firmer|

---

WO2018049289A1|2016-09-09|2018-03-15|Cibo Technologies, Inc.|Systems for adjusting agronomic inputs using remote sensing, and related apparatus and methods|

---

US10801927B2|2016-12-01|2020-10-13|AgNext LLC|Autonomous soil sampler|

---

BR112019012697A2|2016-12-19|2019-12-10|Climate Corp|soil and seed monitoring systems, methods and apparatus|

---

CA2998163C|2017-04-10|2021-03-30|Phantom Ag Ltd.|Automated soil sensor system adaptable to agricultural equipment, trucks, or all terrain vehicles|

---

US10820475B2|2017-04-27|2020-11-03|Cnh Industrial America Llc|Agricultural implement and procedure for on-the-go soil nitrate testing|

---

US10531603B2|2017-05-09|2020-01-14|Cnh Industrial America Llc|Agricultural system|

---

CA3075884A1|2017-10-02|2019-04-11|Precision Planting Llc|Systems and apparatuses for soil and seed monitoring|

---

US11140812B2|2017-12-15|2021-10-12|Kinze Manufacturing, Inc.|Systems, methods, and apparatus for controlling downforce of an agricultural implement|

---

US10477756B1|2018-01-17|2019-11-19|Cibo Technologies, Inc.|Correcting agronomic data from multiple passes through a farmable region|

---

WO2020018993A1|2018-07-20|2020-01-23|Maui Greens, Inc.|System amd method for growing and handling plants|

---

US10773665B2|2018-10-16|2020-09-15|Cnh Industrial America Llc|System and method for detecting a damage condition associated with an agricultural machine|

---

US11215601B2|2018-10-25|2022-01-04|Cnh Industrial Canada, Ltd.|System for monitoring soil conditions based on acoustic data and associated methods for adjusting operating parameters of a seed-planting implement based on monitored soil conditions|

---

US10980166B2|2018-11-20|2021-04-20|Cnh Industrial America Llc|System and method for pre-emptively adjusting machine parameters based on predicted field conditions|

---

AU2019394366A1|2018-12-07|2021-05-20|Sensortine Pty Ltd|Methods and apparatus for agriculture|

---

US11083125B2|2018-12-14|2021-08-10|Cnh Industrial Canada, Ltd.|System and method for determining field characteristics based on ground engaging tool loads|

---

US11166406B2|2018-12-19|2021-11-09|Cnh Industrial America Llc|Soil resistivity detection system for an agricultural implement|

---

CN109557949A|2019-01-09|2019-04-02|贵州大学|A kind of electronic stratified soil temperature and humidity measurement control device|

---

US11191204B2|2019-02-18|2021-12-07|Cnh Industrial Canada, Ltd.|System and method for monitoring soil conditions within a field|

---

CN109668946B|2019-02-27|2021-10-08|西安邮电大学|Non-contact layering soil moisture content monitoring devices|

---

CN110261572A|2019-04-30|2019-09-20|江苏思威博生物科技有限公司|A kind of molecular film covering compost fermentation intelligent detection device and its application method|

---

WO2020250043A1|2019-06-10|2020-12-17|Agco Corporation|Methods of operating tillage implements|

---

US11212955B2|2019-06-14|2022-01-04|Cnh Industrial America Llc|System and method for monitoring soil conditions based on data received from a sensor mounted within a ground-engaging tool tooth|

---

US11224159B2|2019-06-28|2022-01-18|Cnh Industrial Canada, Ltd.|Downforce monitoring system for an agricultural row unit|

---

WO2021048848A2|2019-09-11|2021-03-18|Merhav Agro Ltd.|System and method for crop monitoring and management|

---

WO2021234503A1|2020-05-19|2021-11-25|Precision Planting Llc|Reversible seed trench appurtenance assembly|

---

KR102345260B1|2020-06-01|2021-12-31|주식회사 하다|Self-propelled garlic planter|

---

GB202108293D0|2021-06-10|2021-07-28|Prec Planting Llc|Agricultural sampling system and related methods|

---

GB202108314D0|2021-06-10|2021-07-28|Prec Planting Llc|Agricultural sampling system and related methods|

---

GB202108289D0|2021-06-10|2021-07-28|Prec Planting Llc|Methods of analyzing one or more agricultural materials, and systems thereof|

---

GB202108294D0|2021-06-10|2021-07-28|Prec Planting Llc|Agricultural sampling system and related methods|

---

GB202108290D0|2021-06-10|2021-07-28|Prec Planting Llc|Methods of analyzing one or more agricultural materials, and systems thereof|

---

CN113661822A|2021-09-16|2021-11-19|上海联适导航技术股份有限公司|Variable rate fertilization method and system based on temperature compensation|

法律状态:
2021-09-08| B06W| Patent application suspended after preliminary examination (for patents with searches from other patent authorities) chapter 6.23 patent gazette]|

---

2021-10-13| B350| Update of information on the portal [chapter 15.35 patent gazette]|

优先权:

---

申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

---

US201662436342P| true| 2016-12-19|2016-12-19|

---

US201762446254P| true| 2017-01-13|2017-01-13|

---

US201762482116P| true| 2017-04-05|2017-04-05|

---

US201762516553P| true| 2017-06-07|2017-06-07|

---

PCT/US2017/066861|WO2018118716A1|2016-12-19|2017-12-15|Systems, methods and apparatus for soil and seed monitoring|

---