RU2807065C2 - System and method for discharging multiple agricultural products at low rate - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: system for distributing fertilizers.

SUBSTANCE: system for dispensing crop-improving agricultural products comprises an agricultural product dosing system operatively connected to sources of crop-improving agricultural products, and tubes for an agricultural product operatively connected to said agricultural product dosing system, a seed sensor configured to detect placement seeds from the seeder, and a pulse system operatively connected to the output ends of the agricultural product tubes and to said seed sensor and configured to synchronize the placement of agricultural products with respect to the placement of seeds, wherein said agricultural product dosing system is configured to dispense at a low rate, defined as less than 3.7 fl oz per 1,000 row feet of liquid crop improvement products. Moreover, each agricultural product application device 14 may comprise a common housing for agricultural product supply units, wherein the first of the agricultural product supply units is an agricultural liquid product supply unit 21 including a liquid agricultural product supply line, and the second of the mentioned agricultural product supply units is a dry bulk agricultural product supply unit 20, including a dry bulk agricultural product supply line. Also, the system for dispensing crop enhancement products with seeds may include product containers 130, 131 containing crop enhancement products, including dry and liquid crop enhancement products. Each of said planters may include a main controller, a power distribution board operatively connected to the main controller and a secondary power source, and secondary controllers for operating the metering device 132, each secondary controller receiving command data from the main controller through said power distribution board and controls dispensing devices in response to said command data.

EFFECT: system for dispensing crop-improving products provides the ability to distribute dry and liquid fertilizers.

22 cl, 18 dwg

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation of US Application No. 16/112,660, filed August 25, 2018, entitled "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISPENSING MULTIPLE LOW RATE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS."

[0002] The entire contents of application No. 16/112,660 are incorporated herein by reference.

PREREQUISITES FOR CREATION OF THE INVENTION

[0003] 1. Field of the invention

[0004] The present invention relates generally to agricultural product dispensing systems, and more particularly to low-flow multiple agricultural product dispensing systems.

[0005] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0006] There are several methods for dispensing seeding liquid and/or granular products into or adjacent to a furrow during planting. For example, commercial devices for dispensing low-flow in-furrow liquid products during planting are not suitable for new planters that operate at speeds in excess of 5 mph when distributing seed into the seed furrow. The physical design and fluid placement of these commercial units are not suitable for dispensing very low rates (one-half gallon or less per linear acre, on crop rows planted 30 inches apart, or less than approximately 3.7 fl oz per 1,000 ft. row) continuously. of agricultural liquid product applied per acre in such a way that the product gives an effective result, and also such devices are not capable of synchronizing the delivery of liquid and seeds so that an ultra-low dose of liquid is delivered very close to the seeds with the remaining 90% of the liquid so applied remaining untreated ( or more) space or area between seeds. As will be discussed below, the present invention provides a combination of continuous flow, low-flow liquid application technology, coupled with pulsed liquid delivery to synchronize liquid and seed delivery, resulting in an untreated space that remains between each seed such that the total volume applied of liquid per acre can be reduced by 90% compared to currently available in-furrow liquid application systems.

[0007] For example, the default synchronized or pulsed dispensing rate for one conventional commercial system is 5 gallons per acre at 5 mph, producing a treated strip of approximately 3 inches in length applied with each pulse of liquid applied. In such a situation, the sown seed is placed in this treated 3-inch strip. This corresponds to the ability to switch on and off (pulse) the liquid application process using a time interval of approximately 30 milliseconds. To reduce the total amount of liquid chemicals applied per acre, it is desirable to be able to synchronize liquid chemical delivery with seed delivery while the planter is operating at speeds greater than 5 mph, while limiting the area or length of soil treated to a strip that may be approximately 1 inch in length, with the tilled strip of soil always in close proximity (i.e., within 1/2 inch) of each seed planted. To achieve such a low flow rate in close proximity to the seed, the fluid must be pulsed at approximately 3 millisecond intervals. As will be described below, the invention described herein can effectively apply low-flow continuous liquids at 1/2 gallon per acre or less while the planter is operating at speeds greater than 5 mph, and therefore the invention can be used with newer high-speed seeders. Reducing the total volume of continuously applied fluid to 1/2 gallon per linear acre corresponds to approximately 17% of some degree of continuous low-flow application systems that are currently available. Current low flow pulse/synchronize technology cannot apply such low flow rates due to the inability of commercially available agricultural pulse valves/devices to operate at the required high speed/short time interval and the inability to synchronize the spray pulse with seed placement so that the seed and liquid are close enough to ensure effective results from the applied liquid.

[0008] While it is desirable to be able to apply ultra-low flow rates to liquid in-furrow product when planting at high speeds, the configuration of existing planting systems that utilize pulsed liquid application systems has significant problems/limitations. As used herein, the term “ultra-low flow” in relation to fluids refers to a flow rate of less than 1.0 fl oz per 1000 ft of row. The term “low flow” when applied to fluids refers to a flow rate of less than 3.7 fl oz per 1000 ft row. To achieve the goal of high speed and low flow, the actual pulse device must be located closer to the planting area than existing designs. Continuous application does not require a pulse device. Consequently, the application device can be located in any position relative to the sowing area. In addition, the area available to install an impulse device closer to the planting point of each seed in the seed trench or furrow is small compared to the available space on a planter where currently available impulse devices are installed. Existing pulse ports or spray tips are installed 6 to 40 inches from the pulse device. When applying very low flow liquid products, i.e. ultra-low flow, high pulsing rates, the amount of liquid between the pulsing device (valve) and the orifice limits the rate of operation because the fluid has inertia and the line must transition from low pressure to delivery pressure very fast. A check valve may also be required to prevent dripping during periods of very low pressure or zero pressure. The check valves used in currently available in-furrow application equipment are not designed to operate at the high speeds required for high speed planting, nor are they designed to handle the frequent on/off cycles required at high speeds. Thus, check valve placement and operating limitations negatively impact the ability to accurately time the application of low and ultra-low flow liquid products very close to the seed when planting at high speeds, even though the presence of check valves in currently available application equipment increases the range of operating limits of systems equipped in this way compared to similar systems without check valves. As with the physical size of currently available pulse devices, the physical size of most check valves does not allow installation close to the seed release area, that is, the area where the seed exits the seed transport mechanism, before being placed in the seed trench.

[0009] Additionally, when farmers attempt to apply both liquid and dry (eg granules) agricultural products during the same planting operation or pass, the liquid product is often inhibited and therefore interferes with the flow of the dry product, resulting in blocking or reducing flow through dry product tubes. Anything that results in less than the desired flow rate of dry or liquid product applied within the desired area in the immediate vicinity of each seed may contribute to reducing the effectiveness of the product(s) applied. As will be disclosed below, the inventive teachings of the present invention solve this problem.

[0010] U.S. Patent No. 6,938,864 uses a brush that collects granules at the end of a seed tube, and as the seed goes down the tube, it pushes the brush to open and releases the seed chemical. The '864 patent system works well at speeds up to approximately 5 mph and at approximately 32,000 seeds per acre. However, if one attempts to use the '864 patent system at speeds greater than 5 mph, the speed of seed exiting the feed tube outlet may be limited by the brush, while the speed of seed entering the same feed tube in the position above the brushes is not limited. . When seed enters the feed tube at a flow rate greater than the ejection flow rate, blockage of the seed tube may occur, resulting in reduced plant density and a corresponding reduction in yield. Additionally, operating the '864 patent's system at speeds greater than 5 mph adversely affects product timing due to inadequate time for the brushes to collect an adequate amount of product granules before the next seed passes through the brush, causing the brush bristles to flex and The product granules are evenly synchronized in the immediate vicinity of each planted seed. The result may be a less than effective dose rate of granules applied in close proximity to the seeds because part of the intended dose rate is distributed in the space between the seeds due to the inability of the brush bristles to flex, capture and hold the chemical granules as quickly as necessary when handling speeds greater than 5 mph. Essentially, timing quality degrades when the '864 patent's system operates at speeds greater than 5 mph because the pellets that pass the brushes leak.

[0011] US Pat. No. 7,270,065 discloses the use of an electromechanical valve for dispensing chemical granules. The '065 patent solves some of the problems inherent in the '864 patent. Many corn planters these days have air compressors installed. The '065 patent introduced the ability to use an air valve to blow out the pellets, rather than having the seeds pass through a brush on which the product pellets are collected during the time interval between the passage of the seeds.

[0012] Over the past decade, seeding and chemical dispensing systems for dispensing seeds and insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, nutrients, plant growth regulators or fertilizers have made handling seeds and chemical liquids or granules less hazardous to farm workers by providing closed container systems, such as those described in US Patent No. 5,301,848 and US Patent No. 4,971,255, incorporated herein by reference, and the SmartBox® Dispensing System (the “SmartBox Dispensing System”) sold by AMVAC Chemical Corporation, a division of American Vanguard Corporation. Briefly, as described in US Pat. No. 5,301,848, access to and from a container in a closed container system is possible through a single opening in the bottom wall of the container, which provides distinct advantages over the fixed open top container design in an open container system.

[0013] Closed container systems provide a removable container that is pre-filled with chemical or toxic materials such as insecticides, fertilizers, herbicides and other pesticides; or other agricultural products, thereby eliminating the need to open and load bags of chemical products into storage bins. Because the closed container system is largely closed to air, farm workers have less opportunity to come into contact with chemical products, thereby reducing dermal and inhalation exposure to hazardous chemicals.

[0014] Currently, in-furrow products for planting include nematicides for nematode control; insecticides for insect repellent treatment; herbicides for weed control; fungicides for disease control; plant health/growth promoting products to improve plant health; nutrients to improve plant health and nutrition, etc. Research is currently being conducted to develop additional in-furrow products that utilize live/biological microorganisms, amino acids, proteins, peptides and gene switches, such as in the development of RNA silencing or interference gene technologies, etc.

[0015] Additionally, a suggested association has been reported between the use of neonicotinoid insecticides applied at cropping and a corresponding decline in the overall honey bee population. It is believed that air vacuum seeders release insecticidal dust from planted seeds that have been treated with a neonicotinoid insecticide before the seed is loaded into the seeder, and that such dust negatively impacts honey bee populations. Honeybees are a key part of the plant pollination process for many crops, so declines in honeybee populations could potentially reduce overall crop yields. Insecticide dust from pre-treated seed can be eliminated if synchronized, with delivery of the same insecticides to the furrow at planting time proving to be an economical and effective alternative.

[0016] Today, most granular in-furrow products are dispensed or applied at rates greater than three ounces per thousand foot row, while most liquid products are applied at rates greater than 3.7 fluid ounces per thousand foot row. In-furrow application rates of less than three dry ounces per thousand row feet or less than 3.7 fluid ounces per thousand row feet require special techniques and specialized equipment to produce effective results. As will be discussed below, the present invention satisfies these needs.

[0017] Traditionally, in-furrow granule placement systems use a plastic hose and a metal bracket to position the granules in the furrow. Wind and field angle may affect product placement. Because they are located behind the planter's support wheels, the positioning brackets can become misaligned due to contact with crop debris, clods, and other field objects such as ditches and furrows. Also, since furrow closure is determined by soil conditions, the furrow may be closed by the time a chemical tube (eg, an agricultural product) deposits the chemical into the furrow. When the product release point is behind the support wheels, wind can blow the product away from the target in the windy conditions that prevail during planting. When using conventional belting equipment, product is often placed on the sloping side of a row in fields with a significant slope that runs somewhat perpendicular to the direction of the rows. Initially installed belt equipment for granular products from planter manufacturers is often too wide and provides little or no wind protection, which can cause the product to blow away from the desired application area.

[0018] In US Patent No. 9,820,431, issued to the present inventor L.M. Conrad, a method and system for precision, low-flow, in-furrow application of dry/granular agricultural products is disclosed. The '431 patent addresses and solves several problems associated with obtaining effective results when applying low-flow in-furrow products at planting time.

[0019] US Application Publication US 2018/0000070, published January 4, 2018, by FMC Corporation, describes foamable formulations of agricultural active ingredients as well as methods for using them. The formulations purportedly “provide improved delivery of active ingredients through the ability to deliver large amounts of active ingredient using a small formulation volume.” The '070 publication discloses the use of products at application rates of less than 1 gallon per acre. In other words, the active ingredient plus the carrier equals less than 1 gallon of application per acre. The FMC foam system increases this active ingredient plus delivery vehicle by 15-50 times. Therefore, the amount of agricultural product delivered to the furrow is actually many gallons (i.e., on the order of 15 to 50 gallons) when the combined volume of liquid and air in the foamed product is taken into account.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0020] In one aspect, the present invention is embodied as a system for dispensing a plurality of agricultural products at a low flow rate, including an agricultural product dispensing system, a series of agricultural product tubes, and an agricultural product dispensing system. The agricultural product dosing system is functionally connected to low-flow agricultural product sources. The agricultural product tubes are functionally connected to the agricultural product dosing system. The agricultural product dispensing system is configured to dispense, at a low rate, defined as less than 3.7 fluid ounces per 1000 ft of row, low-flow liquid agricultural products.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the agricultural product dosing system includes a syringe pump system.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, a system for dispensing a plurality of agricultural products at a low flow rate includes a seed sensor configured to detect the placement of seeds from a planter; pulse system and dosing system for agricultural products. The pulse system is operatively connected to the output ends of the agricultural product tubes and to the seed sensor and is configured to synchronize the placement of low-flow agricultural products with respect to the seed placement. The agricultural product dispensing system may also be configured to dispense liquid agricultural products at an ultra-low flow rate, defined as less than 1.0 fluid ounces per 1000 feet of row.

[0023] In one aspect, the present invention is embodied as a system for dispensing a variety of agricultural products at a low rate with seeds. The system includes a seed sensor; dosing system for agricultural products; agricultural product tubes and pulse system. The seed sensor is configured to determine the placement of seeds from the seeder. The agricultural product dosing system is functionally connected to low-flow agricultural product sources. The tubes for the agricultural product are functionally connected to the dosing system for the agricultural product. The pulse system is operatively connected to the output ends of the agricultural product pipes and to the seed sensor and is configured to synchronize the placement of low-flow and/or ultra-low-flow agricultural products with respect to seed placement.

[0024] In one embodiment, the seed sensor is configured to detect the placement of seeds from a planter configured to operate at high planter speed, where high planter speed is defined as greater than 5 miles per hour. In other embodiments, the seed sensor is configured to detect seed placement from a planter configured to operate at a planter speed in the range of approximately 2 to 7 miles per hour. In some embodiments, the agricultural product dispensing system is configured to dispense low-flow dry bulk agricultural products, defined as less than 3 ounces per 1000 feet of row, of dry bulk agricultural products. In some embodiments, the agricultural product dispensing system is configured to dispense a low-rate liquid agricultural product, defined as less than 3.7 fluid ounces per 1000 row feet, of liquid agricultural products. In some embodiments, the agricultural product dispensing system is configured to dispense liquid agricultural products at an ultra-low flow rate, defined as less than 1.0 fluid ounces per 1000 feet of row. In some embodiments, the pulse system is configured to provide synchronized placement of low-flow and/or ultra-low-flow agricultural products in close proximity to an individually placed seed or groups of seeds, adjacent to an individually placed seed or seeds, or between individually placed seeds or groups of seeds , optional.

[0025] In one aspect, a system for dispensing multiple low-flow agricultural products includes a multi-low-flow agricultural applicator (MLRA) configured to interface with a planting equipment monitoring unit installed to detect seed dispensed from high-speed seeding equipment.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, each MLRA product applicator includes a common housing for a plurality of low-flow agricultural product delivery units. Thus, the present invention reduces the problem discussed above regarding liquid exposure and resulting blockage of the dry bulk product receiving tube.

[0027] In one aspect, the present invention is embodied as a system for dispensing a liquid agricultural product at a low flow rate, including an agricultural product dispensing system and at least one agricultural product tube. The agricultural product dosing system includes a syringe pump system operably coupled to a low flow agricultural product liquid source. The tube for the agricultural product is functionally connected to the dosing system for the agricultural product. The agricultural product dosing system is configured to continuously apply a low-rate liquid agricultural product, defined as less than 3.7 fluid ounces per 1000 feet of row, of the liquid agricultural product.

[0028] In one aspect, the present invention is embodied as an ultra-low-flow agricultural liquid dispensing system, including an agricultural liquid dispensing system and at least one agricultural product tube. The agricultural product dosing system includes a syringe pump system operably coupled to an ultra-low flow agricultural product liquid source. The tube for the agricultural product is functionally connected to the dosing system for the agricultural product. The agricultural product metering system is configured to apply a liquid agricultural product at a low rate, synchronized with seed placement from the planter, at an ultra-low rate, defined as less than 1.0 fluid ounces per 1000 feet of row.

[0029] As noted above, FMC '070 discloses the use of liquid products with less than 1 gallon (128 fl oz) per linear acre. (There are 17,424 linear feet of row per acre when rows are spaced 30 inches apart; 128 fl oz per 17,424 row feet equals 7.346 fl oz per 1,000 row feet.) However, the present patent application, on the other hand, refers to effective fluid flow rates of less than 64 fl oz (3.673 fl oz per 1,000 row feet) per linear acre. As noted earlier, the actual output volume of the FMC '070 system is 15 to 50 times the input volume, in other words, many gallons of output per acre. Additionally, the FMC '070 system discusses continuous flow placement, which means liquid is applied to all spaces between planted seeds. On the other hand, the present invention provides the ability to apply a liquid product in a continuous flow or pulse process that synchronizes the delivery of liquid with the seeds, resulting in significant stripes of untreated soil in the furrow in the space between the seeds. The FMC '070 system mixes products before application. On the other hand, the present invention allows for the simultaneous but individual application of multiple agricultural products, even potentially incompatible products, during a single planting operation, while allowing individual products, dry and/or liquid, to be accurately placed at desired locations, such as on seeds , between seeds, and in or near the seed furrow. Additionally, since the FMC system is dependent on the foaming process, potential ingredients are limited to products that can be formulated to produce effective results in the foamed state.

[0030] As can be understood from the present description, various combinations of products from multiple containers can be applied during a single pass of the planter using this technology. In another aspect, the present invention is embodied in a system for dispensing a variety of agricultural products. The system includes a multiple low-rate agricultural applicator (MLRA) configured to interface with a planting equipment monitoring unit that is installed to detect seed discharged from the high-speed planting equipment.

[0041] The application range of the systems of the present invention provides convenient packaging for handling and transportation. The containers are smaller and lighter than those currently used. Production and transportation costs are reduced, as is the environmental impact. In addition, smaller volumes of product result in lower storage and handling requirements throughout the distribution chain and for the farmer.

[0042] In some embodiments, the product containers are rigid. In some embodiments, the product containers may be disposable. (If disposable product containers are used, the contents of the disposable containers are carried or used in conjunction with one or more configurable rigid product containers).

[0043] The system of the present invention utilizes precision placement equipment, typically including placement tube assemblies. In one embodiment, each placement tube assembly is positioned to position the applied product(s) in a furrow between the support wheels of the planter depth control wheel assembly. In some embodiments, the precision placement equipment includes belt applicators. In some embodiments, the band application device is mounted behind the depth control wheel assembly and in front of the planter finishing wheel assembly. In some embodiments, the belt application device includes a wind deflector located thereon.

[0044] Some products need to be applied adjacent to the seed trench or furrow, rather than directly into the same furrow into which the planter places the seed. The reason for placing some products near or near the furrow is that some products cause phytotoxic or adverse reactions in the seeds or seedlings. In such cases, agronomic performance is improved if the seeds can germinate and begin to grow without being in direct contact with the applied product, noting that overall agronomic performance will be improved compared to not using the product if the roots of the seedlings can quickly grow into the area where the applied product is available as a result of precise application during the sowing process. In some scenarios, it may be preferable to place product in the seed furrow, but in sync with each seed so that seed is placed in an area where product was not applied. Thus, in some situations, treated product stripes occur between each seed, thereby allowing newly sprouted seeds to extend their roots into a product-treated zone that exists or begins in the seed furrow, rather than reaching a product-treated zone that originates from -for precise placement of the product in a position adjacent to the row. Precise placement of multiple products, where products are placed in or adjacent to a furrow, for example, one or more products are placed in a furrow while one or more additional products are placed adjacent to a row on one or both sides of the row, can be accomplished using dry and liquid products in one pass of the seeder.

[0045] In some embodiments, the memory associated with the cartridge is part of the RFID (radio frequency identification) tag. In some embodiments, the current user identity is read from a user identity source associated with the issuing equipment, such as an authorization code, to enable issuance by the issuing equipment. In some embodiments, each entity that owns the cartridge is tracked, and the memory associated with the cartridge is updated with the entity's ownership data. In one embodiment, the method further includes designating the cartridge as a cartridge that will be used by or on behalf of a particular user for a particular product, such as a selected agricultural product.

[0046] In some embodiments, the method includes repeatably detecting, at least during product dispensing, changes in the geographic location of the cartridge, and repeatably entering and updating geographic information for successive geographic locations with information about the product actually dispensed at those geographic locations in memory associated with the cartridge. In some embodiments, an actual application map is created to record the actual quantities of product dispensed at successive geographic locations in the target area. In one embodiment, the actual application map is compared with the prescription map to create a difference map indicating at least differences greater than a selected amount of error, for example, deviations of more than two percent or three percent from the prescribed values, between the prescription and actual application information regarding quantities and the type of product actually issued in successive geographic locations of the target area. In another embodiment, the actual product application data is compared with the prescription application data to generate an error message for differences greater than a selected error amount between the prescription information and the actual application information related to the amounts and type of product actually dispensed at successive geographic locations in the target area.

[0047] This invention also provides a system and method that automatically tracks product usage data, such as the type and amount of product suitable for at least one of agricultural applications or horticultural applications, that is stored in and dispensed from at least one cartridge over time and/or geographical location. Tracked data is stored in memory, such as a tag on a cartridge, and, in some embodiments, transferred to a server and/or input/output device, such as a tablet or other mobile device, for storage, aggregation, and analysis. The cartridge may be authenticated prior to being authorized for use in product dispensing. The cartridge can be refilled automatically using only the correct type and quantity of product required to fill the cartridge. To ensure that only the correct type of product can be loaded into the cartridge during the refill process, in some embodiments, authentication is performed on both the cartridge and the container from which the refilled content will be dispensed. The system for dispensing the contents of the cartridge may be automatically calibrated based on a product parameter such as the weight and/or bulk density (or liquid viscosity) of the product in the cartridge. Data can be automatically aggregated from multiple cartridges.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] The patent or application document contains at least one color drawing.

[0049] In FIG. 1 is a perspective illustration of a planter equipped with a system for dispensing multiple agricultural products at a low flow rate in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0050] In FIG. 2 is another perspective illustration of the planter of FIG. 1, partially divided to show a device for applying multiple agricultural products at a low rate according to the present invention.

[0051] In FIG. 3A is an enlarged side view of a portion of the planter shown in FIG. 2, showing seed falling into a furrow.

[0052] In FIG. 3B shows a dry bulk agricultural product being applied.

[0053] In FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the multi-rate low rate agricultural applicator (MLRA) of the present invention.

[0054] In FIG. 5 is a view taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 4.

[0055] In FIG. 5A is a partial sectional perspective illustration of an example valve.

[0056] In FIG. 6 is an illustration of a system for dispensing multiple low-flow agricultural products, including two multiple low-flow agricultural products (MLRA) devices located at different locations of the planter.

[0057] In FIG. 7A shows a view of the MLRA product application device with the plate removed.

[0058] Figure 7B shows an agricultural liquid supply line configured to dispense at a different angle than shown in Figure 7A.

[0059] In FIG. 8 is a simplified schematic illustration of the low-flow multiple agricultural product dispensing system of the present invention.

[0060] In FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a dry bulk agricultural product feed unit that allows for application in two directions.

[0061] FIG. 10 is a photograph of an example test of a low-flow multiple agricultural product applicator used with a single dry bulk agricultural product application unit, illustrating granules dispensed in a concentrated configuration in close proximity to seeds.

[0062] Figures 11A-11C are sequential photographs of synchronized delivery of semen with liquid.

[0063] In FIG. 12 shows a syringe pump that can be used to apply low-flow liquid products into a furrow.

[0064] In FIG. Figure 13 shows an example screen for a pulse valve controller.

[0065] The same elements or parts in all figures of the drawings are designated by the same reference symbols, while equivalent elements have a primary designation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0066] Turning now to the figures and the designation symbols thereon, in FIG. 1 and 2 show a simplified diagram of a system for dispensing a low-rate multiple agricultural product, typically designated 10, located on a planter 12. The system 10 includes an interoperable multiple low-rate agricultural applicator (MLRA) 14. with a seeding equipment monitoring unit 16 (i.e., a seed sensor) positioned to detect seeds exiting the seeding equipment, i.e., the seeder 12.

[0067] The MLRA product application device 14 (ie, the "target device") includes a common housing 18 for a plurality of low-flow agricultural product delivery units 20, 21. As will be described in more detail below, the low-flow agricultural product delivery units low flow 20, 21 have output ports supported by a common housing 18.

[0068] Referring now to FIG. 3A, 3B, 4 and 5, each MLRA product applicator 14 includes two plates 22, 24 securely held in a spaced apart position. The plates 22, 24 preferably include mounting holes 26 that allow adjustment of the low flow agricultural product feed units 20, 21 for the desired prescribed release.

[0069] The seed sensor 16 is adapted, in particular, to detect the placement of seeds from a planter configured to operate at high planter speed. As defined here, “high planter speed” means a speed greater than 5 mph. However, the seed sensor may not necessarily be used to determine seed placement from a planter configured to operate at lower planter speeds, for example, in the range of approximately 2 mph to 5 mph.

[0070] One type of low-flow agricultural product supply unit is the agricultural liquid product supply unit 21. Typical agricultural liquid products may include, for example, synthetic or biological insecticides, fungicides, nematicides, inoculants, herbicides, fertility products etc. Another type of low-flow agricultural product feeder 20 is a dry bulk agricultural product feeder 20. Typical dry bulk agricultural products may include, for example, synthetic or biological insecticides, nematicides, inoculants, herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers, and other agricultural products. appointments. Both liquid and dry agricultural products can also include growth hormones, growth promoting products and other products to increase crop production.

[0071] The dry bulk agricultural product supply unit 20 includes a dry bulk agricultural product supply line 30; an overhead line/wire component 32 connected to the air source 34; air valve 36; combining section 38; and a dry bulk/air combination outlet section 40. The air valve 36 is operatively coupled to the air line/wire component 32. The combination section 38 is positioned to receive dry bulk agricultural product from the dry bulk agricultural product supply line 30 and air from the air valve. 36. The combining section 38 is configured to receive dry bulk agricultural product and hold the dry bulk agricultural product while air from the air valve 36 releases the dry bulk agricultural product. The dry bulk/air combination outlet section (or outlet port section) 40 is connected to the combination section 38 and is configured to discharge dry bulk product for agricultural purposes. The agricultural liquid supply unit 21 includes an agricultural liquid supply line 42. A liquid/wire line component 44 may be connected to a liquid source 46. A liquid valve 48 is operatively coupled to the liquid/wire line component 44 to control the release of a liquid product. agricultural purposes.

[0072] Thus, air valves 36, liquid valves 48, and associated system elements to air valves 36 and liquid valves 48 together constitute a pulse system operatively coupled to the outlet ends of the dry bulk agricultural product supply line 30 and/or the liquid product supply line agricultural purpose 42 (i.e. tubes for an agricultural product 30, 42). The pulse system is also functionally connected to the seed sensor. The pulse system is configured to synchronize the placement of low-flow agricultural products relative to the placement of seeds. Thus, in some embodiments, the impulse system includes electrical impulse valves physically located at the outlet ends of the agricultural product tubing.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, air valve 36 and/or fluid valve 48 may comprise, for example, a type of modified automotive fuel injection valve. As best seen in FIG. 5, both air valve 36 and liquid valve 48 are the same type of mechanical devices. The active (ie, working) portion of the valves 36, 48, indicated by brackets in this drawing, may have, for example, a length of approximately 1% of an inch and a diameter of approximately !4 inches. This allows multiple agricultural product feed units (including their valves) to be installed in a single MLRA product applicator 14.

[0074] Figure 5A illustrates an example of a valve 36 (or 48) for liquid or air. Valve 36 includes structures known in the automotive fuel injection art, such as valve body assembly 23, armature 25, coil 27, outlet 29, and return spring 31. Additionally, there is an air/fluid line and suitable wiring. The use of such a valve allows the use of multiple valves in one MLRA product application device 14.

[0075] Each valve 36 (or 48) of the low-flow multiple agricultural product applicator 14 may have a length of approximately inches and diameter approx. inches. Adding wiring, hose and mounting housing increases the size slightly, but can be designed to fit the length and width of the required area. A commercially available valve for pulsing liquids on a corn planter is available from Capstan AG Systems Inc., Topeka, Kansas. Unlike the valve 36 (or 48) of the present invention, the Capstan block, on the other hand, is approximately 6 inches long and approximately 2 inches wide. Also, the Capstan unit is usually split into two or more components to fit into the available space. In a Capstan block, the large size results in the impulse portion of the valve being a long distance from the dispensing tip or port, up to three feet on some blocks, reducing performance.

[0076] As will be seen with respect to FIG. 6, in one embodiment of the system 10, a plurality of devices (ie, MLRA product applicators) 14', 14'' may be installed on the planter 12. Each device may contain a plurality of low-flow agricultural product feed units 33, 35, 37, 39. The agricultural product feed units may be different for dry and/or liquid products or combinations thereof. The precision placement device 14'', that is, the precision placement equipment, includes placement tube assemblies, that is, agricultural product supply units, operably coupled to low flow metering devices to place agricultural products at desired locations for effective operation of the agricultural products, in this case, each placement tube assembly (i.e., agricultural product feed assembly) is mounted between the support wheels of the depth control wheel assembly of the planter to place the product in the furrow between the depth control wheels. Figure 6 shows the depth adjustment wheel 41. Another depth adjustment wheel has been removed to reveal a 14" arrangement between the depth adjustment wheels. There is a mounting arm 19 for the depth control wheel 41. Each of the placement tube assemblies 33, 35 includes an elongated placement tube 37, 39 positioned to extend from a portion of the frame 41 behind the depth control wheels 41 to the space between the depth control wheels. The device 14 is located in front of the seed tube 65. It is preferably located between the opening disks. One opening disc 43 is shown. The second disc has been removed to reveal device 14. Thus, both devices 14' and 14'' are protected from wind, debris and other ground obstructions. In other embodiments, instead of using two plates, a single plate (eg, attached to a metal strip) may be used in a common housing.

[0077] Referring again to FIG. 1, in one embodiment, the seeding equipment monitoring assembly (i.e., seed sensor) 16 includes an in-cab monitor 50 having a seed status indicator light 52. The planter unit control module 54 is operably coupled to the in-cab monitor 50 to transmit planter sensor input signals. The 54 Planter Unit Control Module functions as the main controller. Planter sensors can be of various types that provide the operator with information about the functions of the planter, for example, from a seed tube, a seed meter pressure sensor, a seed tank pressure sensor (not shown), a ground speed sensor 56 (see FIG. 1), a pressure sensor seed block 58 on the ground (Fig. 2), etc.; and to control planter functions (such as ground speed, tank pressure, seed meter vacuum, row unit ground pressure, liquid and dry bulk material application control). There are alternative ways to position the monitor 50. It can be positioned on the planter as desired, for example under the seed box.

[0078] Connection means, such as suitable wiring 60, are operatively connected between the control module 54 and the planter sensors through the plant monitoring assembly wiring harness/connector 62. The harness/connector 62 may function as a power distribution panel. In one embodiment, power distribution panel 62 is operably connected to a secondary power source (not shown).

[0079] In one embodiment, the seeding equipment monitoring assembly includes an integral seed tube assembly 64 that includes a seed status indicator light 66. In some embodiments, the seed status indicator light is mounted on a separate module rather than on the integral seed tube assembly 64. a seed tube assembly 64 is mounted on a seed tube 65. A control module 68, such as an LED seed status light interface module, is operatively coupled to the seed tube integral unit 64 (i.e., seed registration electronics) to transmit input signals from planter sensors and to control planter functions ( such as speed relative to the ground, pressure in the tank, vacuum of the seed meter, pressure on the ground of the processing unit, control of the introduction of liquid and dry bulk materials). The control module 68 functions as a secondary controller for actuating the dispensing devices. The control module 68 receives command data from the main controller 54, the seed tube integral unit 64, and the seed status indicator light 66 through the power distribution board.

[0080] Connection means, such as suitable wiring 70, are operably connected between control module 68 and planter sensors (e.g., seed status light 66) via seed monitoring assembly/connector harness 62.

[0081] In one embodiment, the low-rate multiple agricultural product applicator is configured to dispense dry bulk (e.g., granular) agricultural products at a low application rate, wherein "low rate" is defined for dry bulk agricultural products as a flow rate of less than 3 ounces per 1,000 feet of row.

[0082] In one preferred embodiment, the low application rate of dry bulk agricultural products is 1.0-2.0 ounces per 1000 feet of row. In one embodiment, the agricultural products are insecticides.

[0083] In one embodiment, the low application rate of dry bulk agricultural products is 2.0-2.99 ounces per 1000 feet of row. In another embodiment, the low application rate of dry bulk agricultural products is less than 2.0 ounces per 1000 ft row. In another embodiment, the low application rate of dry bulk agricultural products is 0.01-1.9 ounces per 1000 feet of row.

[0084] The low-rate multiple agricultural product applicator is configured to dispense liquid agricultural products at a low rate, wherein "low rate" is defined as a rate of less than 3.7 fluid ounces per 1000 feet of row.

[0085] For agricultural liquid products, low flow rates are limited by the composition and size of the particles suspended in the liquid. If the hole is not large enough for the compound or particles to pass through, it becomes plugged. It is also limited in that if the hole is too small, it can create fog that will make it difficult to hit the target area. When using clean water, application rates can be reduced to four or 5 fluid ounces per linear acre at 30-inch row spacing, or 17,424 row feet.

[0086] Referring again to Figures 4 and 5, it can be seen that the low flow agricultural product delivery assemblies (i.e., outlet rails) 20, 21 can be tilted appropriately using fasteners 45. Fasteners can be of a variety of types. , such as plastic or metal bolts or screws. Fasteners such as cable ties can be used. Thus, referring to FIG. 7A and 7B, the agricultural liquid supply unit 21 is shown configured at different angles. In addition, the dry bulk agricultural product feed assembly 20 is shown with a modified dry bulk agricultural product supply line 30 that is bent to meet the planter frame requirements.

[0087] Referring again to FIG. 4 and 5, the outlet port section (ie, the combined dry bulk/air outlet section 40) includes, in the illustrated embodiment, a trough 47 at the end of the chemical tube 49 where the agricultural product is collected. An air valve 36 is installed at one end of the chute 47. The upper entry point of dry bulk agricultural products (pellets) is located between the air valve 36 and the outlet 49. The air valve 36 is activated and the granules are blown through the chute 47. The outlet end of the chute 47 is U-shaped outlet guide 51.

[0088] The U-shaped outlet guide 51 serves several functions:

[0089] 1. It protects the outlet 49 from foreign materials entering and clogging it.

[0090] 2. In one embodiment, the release guide 51 can be tilted in the range of approximately 90-120 degrees to provide direction for the pellets to hit the aiming point, eliminating the need for complex electronics to ensure accuracy. It may have an insert added to change the angle to hit the aiming point.

[0091] 3. It also prevents discharged liquid from liquid valve 48 (and any other sources of liquid contamination) from entering trough 47, which could result in product clogging or otherwise missing the target area.

[0092] 4. The U-shaped outlet guide 51 is preferable to a pipe or tube outlet because the open side of the guide 51 prevents granules from accumulating in the outlet due to debris, wet soil, crossing wet areas of the field, etc.

[0093] 5. The open front side prevents debris such as plant stems from entering the outlet port.

[0094] Referring again to FIG. 6, in one embodiment, a brush 53 may be used instead of the U-shaped outlet guide 51. The use of such a brush 53 may result in better placement in some planting conditions, such as high residue and wet conditions.

[0095] Another brush (not shown) may be used in the air valve system between the pellet inlet and outlet to operate in the same manner as seed dispensers. This brush can reduce the inadvertent and ineffective application of small amounts of product between air bursts.

[0096] The present invention allows various products to be applied to the furrow in the desired placement relative to the seed. In one embodiment, only one signal is required to signal any group of valves to operate. This means that where the product is applied to the furrow is determined by the position of the valve. Consequently, incompatible products may be used simultaneously in different positions. As noted above, the valve assembly can be installed either behind the seed tube or in front of it. There is enough space to install up to three valve assemblies depending on where the product needs to go into the seed furrow. Additionally, the normal spacing between corn seeds is approximately 6 inches. Normal soybean seed spacing is approximately 1 to 4 inches depending on row width. Regardless of when the seed dispenser signal is activated, the valve can be set to operate in the desired position and time.

[0097] One reason for using pulse for granules and liquid is that granules are easier to shape for release at a given time, but liquids work better for quick control. In one embodiment, for example, when required for immediate response to corn seed pests as well as late season control of corn rootworms, both encapsulated granules and liquid may be used. In addition, if it is desired to apply both liquid and/or granular products that are not completely compatible with each other when in the same solution or in direct contact, they can be pulsed at different locations in a furrow or near a furrow in a row.

[0098] The signal for activating the device of the present invention can be provided in many ways. Several commercial controllers exist, such as Capstan AG Systems, Inc. Seed Squirter controller; Great Plains Ag seeder block; and the 360 Yield Center controller. Since the devices of the present invention can be manually adjusted, they can be controlled/actuated by wiring them directly to the planter monitor, Y-connecting the seed flow sensor connector and/or can use a magnetic/emp/electric field sensor with individual circuitry for each row. Also, if electrical timing is required, "delay line" modules can be used without complex electronics and processors. "Delay lines" are commonly used for signal processing.

[0099] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1-2, the rigid product container 130 can be used for low-flow dry bulk agricultural products. Liquid product container 131 is shown as an example adjacent to rigid product container 130; however, there is great flexibility in the arrangement of such liquid product container 131. Additionally, as one skilled in the art will appreciate, there may be a variety of different rigid product containers and/or liquid product containers. Each liquid product container may include a pump or may be connected to a pump for supplying liquid.

[00100] In some embodiments, rigid containers may be used. Using rigid, low-flow agricultural dry bulk product containers preserves the integrity of agricultural products during transportation and storage. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[00101] Although not preferred, pallets of bagged product may be used. In the past, bagged products were typically used and the product was stacked four or five pallets high in a warehouse for a period of several months. The usual procedure is to throw the bag on the ground or floor to break up any lumps that may have formed in the bag from storage. Standard application equipment has rotors to assist in breaking up lumps. It is moderately effective at flow rates that are higher than the low flow rates described earlier in this document because the control holes at the bottom of many currently available flow meters are large enough to pass the lumps that remain after the bags have been dumped. as described previously. Lumps (or crumpled material) that do not break up, if small enough, can be forced through the opening due to the rotating action of the rotors, which are located in front of the metering device. However, at the low flow rates described herein, the control orifice must be small enough to control the flow, and essentially any clumping will cause blockage and prevent the dispensing device from dispensing the product properly and efficiently. Also, a problem with paper bags is that cutting, tearing, or other opening methods can allow small pieces of paper to get into the application system, which can also cause clogging and/or blocking problems. Finally, filling planter equipment from unsealed systems with open lids may allow foreign materials such as dirt, seed debris, etc. to enter the system, causing clogging. This is especially problematic on windy days.

[00102] The use of rigid product containers eliminates the problems mentioned above.

[00103] Low rate dispensing device (i.e., agricultural product dispensing system) 132 operatively coupled to the rigid product container 130 is configured to dispense agricultural products from the product containers (i.e., multiple sources of agricultural products with low flow rate) 130.

[00104] The material dispensing system of the present invention can be used with other types of agricultural implements, but is primarily used with seed planting equipment. Although the figures show a single row of seeding equipment, typical planters include multiple rows, such as up to 48 or more.

[00105] Referring now to FIG. 8, a simplified schematic illustration of one embodiment of the major components of the system of the present invention is shown, designated generally as 140. The seed tube integral assembly 64 provides a signal to the light interface module 68. Or, the in-cab monitor 50 may provide a signal to the light interface module 68. The interface module with indicator light 68 signals the air valve 36 and/or the liquid valve 48 to apply a liquid agricultural product and/or a dry bulk agricultural product.

[00106] Although only a few designs of liquid and dry bulk agricultural product feed units have been illustrated above, it will be understood that the design of these feed units depends on the product being fed, the type of planter being used, and how the product is to be placed. For example, although the design has been described above as including one liquid supply unit and one dry bulk product supply unit, it is understood that in some circumstances there may be multiple liquid and/or dry bulk product supply units.

[00107] Referring now to FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a dry bulk agricultural product feed unit, generally designated 144, which allows bi-directional application. A dry bulk product supply tube 146 and an air valve 148 interact in a bidirectional housing 150 with a front application port 152 and a rear application port 154 to release dry bulk agricultural product in multiple directions as desired. A unique feature of this embodiment is that it is capable of pulsing a more uniform line of product than a single outlet port feed assembly. It can therefore operate at very low flow rates and pulse a continuous line of agricultural product into the furrow. For example, if the device is pulsing a six-inch line of product, it can fire every six inches to ensure continuous application of product. Therefore, if seed spacing is six inches, pulsing the seed will result in a continuous flow of product into the furrow. Another example of low flow pulsing is that instead of pulsing the seed product in a timed manner, pulsing occurs every 6 inches (based on distance traveled) and produces the same results as seed pulsing.

[00108] Preferably, a sensor device is included that detects when the delivery point of an agricultural product is not where it is expected to be. As a prerequisite for timed application to work, the farmer must be informed if for any reason the product being applied is not positioned properly near the seed. For example, when applying a strip that is very short, a pulse feed may work very well, but if the nozzle is not aimed, that treated strip will not be in the correct position relative to the seed and the desired effect on the crop will not be realized. In this way, the sensor device notifies the farmer if the product delivery point is not where it is supposed to be.

[00109] In some embodiments, and preferably, a sensor device is included that senses when the delivery point for an agricultural product is not where it should be. An example of such a sensor device is disclosed and claimed in US Patent Application No. 15/822,181 entitled "FLOW SENSOR BASED ON ELECTRICAL CAPACITY".

[00110] Referring now to FIG. 10, which depicts a single still image taken from high-speed/slow-motion video that was acquired during an exemplary test of the performance benefits of system 10. In this test setup, a low-flow multiple agricultural product applicator was used with a single dry bulk agricultural product feeder. appointments. A dry bulk agricultural product, in this case a white granular placebo sizing product, was used with corn seeds that were colored. Corn seed was applied using a high-speed Precision Planting unit mounted on a John Deere row processing unit. Paper was used under the row processing unit, moving at the speed of the seeder. The seed spacing in this example was 13 inches. As can easily be seen, the granules were distributed in a concentrated configuration in close proximity to the seeds. This has created a zone between each seed that receives virtually no chemicals. This is an example of synchronizing the supply of seeds with a dry bulk agricultural product.

[00111] Figures 11A, 11B, 11C are sequential still images of synchronized liquid delivery to individual seeds. Figure 11A shows the fluid flow exiting the agricultural liquid product supply unit. The seed is released synchronously from the Precision Planting high-speed seeding section. Figure 11B shows the liquid line dispensed onto the paper. At this time, the seed is still in the air. Figure 11C shows a seed ready to be struck by liquid on paper. High speed video was used.

[00112] As was the case with dry bulk product, another example may be the unsynchronized pulse delivery of low-flow liquids. Instead of pulsing product with seed in a timed manner, pulsing occurs every 6 inches (based on distance traveled) and produces the same results as pulsing with seed. Instead of using an outlet nozzle that sprays a straight stream, a spray-type nozzle is used, such as a flat jet nozzle, which produces a line of product parallel to the direction of the seed at the bottom of the furrow. The advantage of pulsing in this manner allows the use of larger openings in the outlet device, providing less clogging with denser products.

[00113] Inspecting the soil behind the planter is a standard procedure to ensure that crops placed in the furrow are correctly placed during planting. In the system of the present invention, application rates of the agricultural product(s) are typically so low that unaided visual observation is difficult or perhaps even impossible. With the present system, product placement can be established and visually confirmed by simultaneous use of both the agricultural product application system and the seed dispensing mechanism while the planter is stationary and in the planting position, noting the placement of product(s) in relation to individual seeds or groups of seeds when the product(s) and seed strike the ground or any surface below the planter if the testing process is conducted in a building with a floor.

[00114] The system of the present invention is particularly adapted for use with a planter configured to operate at high planter speeds. As used herein, the term “high planter speed” refers to speeds greater than 5 mph. However, it should be emphasized that the system of the present invention in some embodiments can operate at much lower planter speeds, for example in the range between about 2 to 5 miles per hour. Thus, the seed sensor is configured to determine the placement of seed from the seeder in an appropriate manner and to match the speed of the seeder used for a particular purpose.

[00115] An agricultural product dosing system may include various types of systems. For example, an agricultural product dosing system may be a solenoid system or a syringe pump system. A variety of pumps can be used to apply low-flow liquid products into the furrow. For example, in FIG. 12 illustrates a syringe pump assembly generally designated 158.

[00116] The syringe pump assembly 158 includes a stepper motor 160 coupled to a drive gear 162 operably coupled to two screw motors 164. A common lever 166 operably coupled to the two syringe assemblies 168, 170 is contained within a pump assembly housing 172. Each The syringe assembly 168, 170 includes a syringe plunger 172 and a syringe element 174. The fluid output from the pump is synchronized with the seed supply using the same seed sensors described above.

[00117] The use of syringe pump assembly 158 in combination with the timed pulse delivery techniques discussed herein provides a synergistic ability to dispense agricultural liquid products at a low flow rate with the ultra-low flow rate described above and defined as less than 0.9 fl oz per 1000 feet row. The concept of reducing the total amount of liquid product delivered by the syringe pump is consistent with the previously described results of ultra-low-flow liquid application where liquid product application or placement is limited to an area of only one-quarter inch of row spacing and within one-quarter of an inch of individually placed seeds or groups of seeds. The process of using a seed sensor to control the pulse delivery of a liquid product so that the application of a liquid product to a target area is synchronized with individual seeds or groups of seeds is consistent for both syringe pump applications of ultra-low flow liquids and timed liquid application with ultra-low flow, which is achieved using a modified fuel injector assembly described earlier in this document. Although the means of pumping or pushing liquid product through the application port differs significantly between a syringe pump and a modified fuel injector, the goal of providing ultra-low flow of liquid product synchronized with individual seeds or groups of seeds remains the same, and the widely varying embodiments demonstrate that one skilled in the art can come up with alternative ways to accomplish this task.

[00118] Thus, the syringe pump provides the ability to apply one continuously applied liquid product at a low rate of less than 3.7 fl oz per 1000 ft row, when operating at speeds of 5 mph or less or speeds greater than 5 mph. Additionally, the syringe pump provides the ability to apply one synchronized liquid product at an ultra-low flow rate of less than 1.0 fl oz per 1,000 ft row when operating at speeds of 5 mph or less or speeds greater than 5 mph.

[00119] An advantage of some embodiments of the present invention is that they can eliminate the use of many complex electronic drive systems. However, in some embodiments, electronic drive systems may be used. For example, a distributed control system may be used that includes a main microcontroller that communicates with multiple subcontrollers. (As used herein, the term "subcontroller" may alternatively be called a secondary controller, slave controller, or row controller.) Subcontrollers implement commands received from the main control unit by supplying electrical power to the metering system. The agricultural product container may include a memory device for storing information related to the material in the container and the dispensing device of the dosing system. This information is used by the main control unit (that is, the main microcontroller or main controller) and subcontrollers to correctly dispense the product.

[00120] The material dispensing system, in some embodiments, is a distributed control system that utilizes a microcontroller host computer located in the operator's cab or integrated into the tractor's on-board host display and control system. This main or master controller distributes command and control information over a high-speed serial connection through the power distribution panel to the sub-controllers connected to the individual dispensing systems. Each row corresponds to one seeded row in the field. Each individual dosing system is controlled by its own slave or row controller. The dosing system includes an electronic memory circuit and a dosing or dispensing device. The dispensing system may be permanently connected to a connection device that allows product to flow into the dispenser from a product container that is also attached to the connection device. The dosing system may be attached using a known tamper-proof system. The row controller includes a material flow sensor that is built into the row controller. The material flow sensor detects the presence or absence of flow from the product container.

[00121] The main microcontroller unit may include a display and a keypad for an operator interface. In some embodiments, a speed sensor, such as radar, GPS, or wheel speed sensor, is connected to the main control unit to provide ground speed tracking/monitoring. Ground speed is used to vary the material dispensing rate based on planter speed. The main control unit is connected to multiple junction boxes. Distribution boxes are functionally installed between the power distribution panel and secondary controllers using a high-speed serial communication link. The main controller is in constant communication via a communication channel with secondary controllers 60 located on the seeder.

[00122] In some embodiments, secondary controllers (ie, nearby control units) provide a method of multiplexing signals supplied to the primary controller. The advantage is that the main controller can control the planter with just nine wires going to the junction box. One pair of wires is used for serial communication, three pairs of wires are provided to power the nearby control units and dosing devices. Three pairs of wires are used for power supply to more evenly distribute the required current. The power distribution panel eliminates the need to supply power from the main controller to the secondary controllers. The power distribution board is independently connected to the power supply as indicated by the number symbol. The power distribution board is also connected to the lift switch. The power distribution board has three serial ports for connection to distribution boxes. It includes suitable electronic overload protection devices to prevent damage to the system. The lift switch prevents the metering devices from operating when the planter is raised, that is, not in the planting position, thereby preventing product dispensing when the planter is not lowered in the planting position.

[00123] The main controller also includes a suitable non-volatile memory unit such as flash memory, memory card, etc. Information regarding the use and application of agricultural products is stored in this non-volatile storage unit. This information is used to prepare printed reports that comply with EPA reporting requirements. Currently, farmers prepare these written records manually, but some product containers are equipped with RFID tags or alternative means of electronically transmitting information about the product(s) applied, allowing application records to be automatically created without human or operator intervention.

[00124] A preferred distribution box can connect up to eight control units side by side to the power distribution panel. If the planter has more than eight rows, additional distribution boxes can be connected to the power distribution panel. The lift switch is connected to the power distribution board. This switch indicates when the planter is not in the working position. Other interfaces to the main control unit (eg serial or parallel connections) may be provided to transfer information to other computer systems or printers.

[00125] The nearby control unit contains storage devices and logic devices for modifying and implementing commands from the main controller. The nearby control unit can read information from a container memory circuit attached to the container and can manipulate commands from the main controller to ensure proper operation of the dispenser. For example, if the concentration or rate of product in row 1 is different from the concentration or rate of product in row 8, the row control unit can modify the master controller commands to properly dispense product into each row. The nearby control unit also reads dispenser calibration data from the container's memory circuitry and modifies the main controller commands to account for differences in performance between different dispensers.

[00126] The adjacent control unit allows the programmed functions of the main controller to be completely changed. For example, if a liquid herbicide sprayer has a preprogrammed control unit installed nearby, the primary controller will be able to read the dispenser type information and act as the liquid sprayer controller.

[00127] In one embodiment shown in the figures, one control unit is used side by side to control one dispenser and memory unit. The adjacent control unit can control more than one device, for example two metering devices and memory units, or one metering device and memory unit, as well as one seed hopper and seed sowing mechanism.

[00128] The seed sowing mechanism typically includes a plurality of agricultural product tubes operably coupled to the agricultural product dosing system.

[00129] Each container provides a metering or dispensing device that provides controlled flow rates under varying conditions. The dosing device may be an electromechanical solenoid driven device for dry material. For other materials, such as liquids, a different type of dispenser can be used. One type of dispensing device is described in US Pat. No. 7,171,913 called "Self-Calibrating Meter With In-Meter Diffuser". Another type of metering device is described in US Patent No. 5,687,782 entitled "Transfer Valve For a Granular Materials Dispensing Systems". Another type of metering device is described in US Patent No. 5,524,794 entitled "Metering Device for Granular Materials". Another type of metering device for dry granular material is described in US Patent No. 5,156,372 entitled "Metering Device for Granular Materials" Another type of metering device is described in US Publication No. US 20170043961 A1 entitled "Brush Auger Meter", which describes a device for metering a granular or powdery product having a metering body , an auger body located inside the dispenser body, the auger body has an inlet for receiving granular or powdery product, a rotating spiral brush mounted inside the auger body, a first outlet near one end of the auger body for discharging granular or powdery product, and another opening next to the other end of the auger body to discharge granular or powdery product not discharged through the first discharge opening. US Patents No. 7,171,913; 5,687,782; 5,524,794; 5,156,372 and US Publication No. US 20170043961 A1 are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[00130] The main controller and secondary controllers are configured to provide operator-defined multiple groups of rows. Each of the rows in the group has an output flow rate determined by the operator, and an agricultural product determined by the operator. In some embodiments, the operator will be a predetermined electronic prescription rather than a human. The output flow and agricultural product are controlled by the operator during operation according to the needs of the crop or field. This personalized nearby control is usually provided using an electronic prescription card. The main controller 10 and secondary controllers 60 are configured to control multiple groups of rows simultaneously. A group of rows may include one single row. Thus, for example, on a 48-row planter, 48 different products can be applied, each at its own specific rate, and the rate is fully adjustable so that the rate can be increased, decreased or completely disabled depending on the geographic location of the planter or application system. In addition, the main controller 10 may record each of the products and their corresponding consumption for use in record keeping.

[00131] The combination of an electronic memory and a product container with an associated corresponding dispensing device may combine to form a material container capable of electronically storing and storing data relevant to the container, the material dispensing system, the agricultural product, and the geographic location at any time the product is dispensed, and the travel path when the planter is in the planting position. Among the data that may be stored are: serial number unique to that container, product lot number, product type, dosage calibration, fill date, amount of material in the container, amount of material dispensed, including specific application costs at any given location and fields treated. This stored data can be recalled and updated as needed. The stored data can also be used by the dosing controller or pump system by accessing specific calibration numbers unique to the container and making necessary adjustments, by sounding alarms when a certain volume of product in the container is reached, or by monitoring container usage to create a maintenance schedule. Electronically generated records of actual application can also be provided to various stakeholders (e.g. government agencies, food purchasers or processors, or consumers) as evidence of products applied and the costs at which they were applied in the field or in different areas or locations within the field in which the crop was grown.

[00132] In one embodiment, once configured, the operator can set product groups and application rates. In such an embodiment, there are multiple groups of rows defined by the operator. The main controller and secondary controllers are configured to control multiple groups of rows simultaneously. However, within the scope of the invention, in this embodiment, the operator defines one group. The various groupings will be discussed in detail below. The operator can define costs and products for each row.

[00133] Features and capabilities of the material dispensing system in some embodiments include:

[00134] 1) Controlling the rate of material consumption under various operating conditions. The flow rate(s) can be set by the operator from the operator console or can be automatically read from the material container dispenser unit.

[00135] 2) Providing information about the actual ground speed if a ground speed sensor is connected. A typical ground speed sensor includes GPS, wheel speed and radar. Instead of a ground speed sensor, a fixed seeding speed can be entered and used to calculate the application rate of the product material(s).

[00136] 3) The system monitors the flow of material and alerts the operator to no flow, empty container, or blocked flow conditions.

[00137] 4) The system can monitor and monitor the level(s) of material in the container for each row.

[00138] 5) The system provides control information and data into non-volatile memory for future loading.

[00139] 6) The system controls the seeder to ensure that product can only be applied when the seeder is in the planting position.

[00140] Typical uses of this system:

[00141] 1) In some embodiments, for a new product container, the dispensing device and memory unit may be attached to the product container either by the container manufacturer or at the container filling site. In other embodiments, the farmer may attach the dispensing device and memory unit to the product container.

[00142] 2) A computer is connected to the counter and the memory unit. (In some embodiments, this may be at the time of filling.) The following information may be stored electronically in a storage device:

a) Date

b) Chemical ID numbers according to EPA

c) Container serial number

d) Recommended rates, e.g. ounces per linear foot for rootworm or ounces per acre for grubs, etc. These costs are determined by the manufacturer.

e) Calibration information of the dispenser depending on the type of dispenser

f) Container tare weight

g) Full container weight

[00143] 3) The product container is sealed and prepared for transportation.

[00144] 4) The user attaches the product container to a dispensing device such as a seeder, sprayer, feed reservoir, etc. The main controller receives information from the dispenser and memory unit regarding appropriate flow rates and prompts the user to select the desired flow rate(s). The nearby control unit reads the calibration information of the dispenser(s) from the dispenser(s) and memory unit(s). This information is used in conjunction with commands from the main controller to properly control the operation of the dispensing device(s). The user can enter the field ID number and any other required information such as number of rows, width between rows, etc. The user enters the product(s) in the field. The main controller monitors ground speed and varies the quantity(s) delivered to maintain a constant flow(s) per acre. When the user completes a field, additional fields may be processed. Field data, including field ID number, crop treated, and quantity(s) applied, is recorded in the non-volatile memory of the main controller. This information may also be recorded in the dosing device(s) and memory unit for later use by the user, agrochemical distributor or product supplier.

[00145] A group of rows may be used. For example, there may be four groups - Group A, Group B, Group C and Group D - designed for a sixteen-row planter. The grouping feature allows farmers (operators) to apply the correct product at different rates for specific rows in one planting operation. This example shows that Group A includes rows 1-2 with Aztec® pesticide at a rate of 1.5 oz per 1000 ft of row. Group B includes rows 3-8 with Aztec® pesticide at 2.5 ounces per 1,000 ft of row. Group C includes rows 9-14 with Counter® pesticide at 2.9 ounces per 1,000 ft of row. Group D includes rows 15-16 with Counter® pesticide at 2.3 ounces per 1,000 ft of row.

[00146] This feature allows the farmer to use different or the same products at different rates due to different seed characteristics in certain rows. For example, this feature allows the use of lower product rate(s) for triple bagged or quad bagged corn seed (rootworm symptoms) in most rows of the planter, but in certain rows the farmer may plant refuge corn seeds (no rootworm trait). or non-GMO corn). This allows higher product application rates for atypical corn.

[00147] In some embodiments, the release of seed product in a row can be identified by color or other tracking mechanism, such as recording by size difference. This can provide differentiated application of the product. For example, you can switch the flow rates of different colored seeds or products by making the seed sensor color sensitive. Other seed characteristics can provide this differentiation, such as infrared detection (by heating the seeds), magnetic detection, etc.

[00148] The grouping feature described above allows a farmer to use different products at different flow rates so that he/she can make comparative evaluations and see which product and flow rates work best for his/her farming and production methods.

[00149] The grouping feature allows farmers to use different products and costs according to third party requirements. For example, this feature can be used in corn seed production, where male rows typically receive a partial dose of insecticide.

[00150] The grouping feature allows seed corn companies to conduct different product and cost trials in new seed production trials to determine which costs and products are best for their specific seeds. For example, certain seed parents may respond (positively or negatively) to certain crop protection products and the inputs of those products. This grouping feature allows you to conduct research in a timely manner.

[00151] Setting up row groups allows the farmer to turn off certain rows while maintaining flow from the remaining row processing units as needed. This saves product(s) and money where product(s) are not needed.

[00152] In some embodiments, the present agricultural product dispensing system may include multiple sets of agricultural product containers. Each of the sets of agricultural product containers is associated with a corresponding field row. The agricultural product from each agricultural product container is dispensed in accordance with instructions given by the operator to the main controller. Instructions can be provided to the main controller during seeding, allowing control over the dispensing of individual product containers. Command data can be of different types and from different input sources, including, for example, mapping field conditions using satellite telemetry in combination with GPS location; entered yield data for the previous year; soil analysis; soil moisture distribution maps; and topographic maps.

[00153] Referring again to FIG. 1, each product container 130, 131 has an identification device 133, which may be positioned coupled to the product container to provide identification information to the main controller. The identification device 133 is typically attached to the container 130, 131. The identification device is preferably a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip for providing identification information to the host controller. In one embodiment, the main controller 10 assigns the product container 130, 131 and its operably connected dispenser to a specific row. Identification information typically includes product name, flow rate, product net weight, etc. Preferably, if the product identification does not refer to an authorized product, then the operably connected dispensing device will not operate. Each product container 130, 131 typically includes its own RFID tag 133.

[00154] In one embodiment of a planter in accordance with the principles of the present invention, sixteen sets of agricultural product containers may be used on the planter, for example, side by side. For example, one of the containers may contain a pesticide, such as Aztec® Pesticide, to control insects. Another container may include, for example, a growth regulator to enhance plant growth. In other embodiments, one or more containers may contain liquid. Thus, in one embodiment, there may be a plurality of dispensers per row, with each dispenser operatively connected to a product container of a set of product containers.

[00155] Applying the product directly into the seed furrow can eliminate insecticide dust while still protecting the seed. Also, some seed treatments can shorten the life of seeds, making it impractical to save seeds for next year. Also, treatment at planting gives farmers the flexibility to use a variety of seed treatments beyond the seed company's seed treatment. Another use is as a soil inoculant. Soybeans are inoculated and re-bagged, but a large percentage of the inoculating organisms are killed by the time they are planted. Adding inoculants or other biologicals to the soil at the time of planting can significantly reduce the amount of product used since they can be stored under better conditions. Farmers have many other product options to use when planting and may want to apply more than one product with a planter.

[00156] Additionally, simultaneous planter mapping has shown that when two different soil insecticides are applied at planting time, one insecticide can provide a different yield response than the other insecticide. This is because different insecticides work against different types of insects. Insect populations can vary depending on soil types and conditions. Corn nematodes are more common in sandy soils, and soybean nematodes can vary depending on soil pH. Other soil insect pest populations vary depending on the amount and type of organic material and soil moisture in the field. If the planter is equipped with various insecticides, they can be applied using GPS to the area where they are needed. Planters already have the ability to change corn hybrids as soil types and characteristics change.

[00157] Thus, the seeder can be equipped with several different products and used as needed. The products can also be applied in several different ways as needed. Product containers can be installed in multiple locations on the planter as needed. As discussed above, there are several different options for placing a product in or on the soil. For example, the present invention may include, for example, placement in a furrow and/or application in a strip over the furrow. As stated, the system can handle, for example, 48 row processing units with different products or flow rates in each row. The products can be used together or used in different areas. For example, one product can be applied in a furrow and another in a strip. Also, sometimes multiple products such as seed disease treatments and inoculants are applied to the seed at the same time, but planting time is limited because they influence each other and will not be active unless planted within a certain time. Using separately packaged products in one planter pass increases efficiency and gives the farmer more flexibility.

[00158] Although the figures only show two containers in a set of containers, the set may include a plurality of product containers. Higher crop prices also make multiple treatments more economical. The present invention allows multiple products to be placed in the same row during planting. As agricultural science progresses in the future, more products will become available. The present invention allows them to be used for sowing according to soil type, insect load, soil fertility and plant requirements.

[00159] In some embodiments, the effectiveness of soil chemicals can be increased during planting by introducing seeds and chemical granules into the same seed dispensing tube, delivering the chemicals and seeds in close proximity to each other so that chemical products were distributed along with the seeds as the seeds passed through the seed dispensing tube. For example, U.S. Patent 6,938,564 entitled "Method and System for Concentrating Chemical Granules Around a Planted Seed" issued by Conrad et al. discloses a system in which chemical granules are dispensed through a granule tube into a seed dispensing tube where the granule tube is connected with a tube for dispensing seeds in a place above the lower hole of the tube for dispensing seeds and where the lower hole of the tube for dispensing seeds is closed with a brush. The seed is dispensed through the seed dispensing tube. The brush holds the chemical beads inside the seed dispensing tube so that the chemical beads accumulate inside the seed dispensing tube, and the brush allows the seed and accumulated chemical beads to pass through the lower opening as the seed is dispensed through the seed dispensing tube.

[00160] Thus, precise placement of the chemical around the seed can optimize the use of the chemical. In some embodiments, the agricultural product may be dry, while in others it may be liquid.

[00161] As mentioned above, some embodiments utilize rigid product containers 130 containing low-rate agricultural products. These rigid product containers are designed to maintain the integrity of the product during transport and storage. The preferred rigid container is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The density of high density polyethylene can be from about 0.93 to 0.97 g/cm ³ . An example of a suitable rigid container is high density polyethylene formed from Mobil™ HYA-21 HDPE or similar material. It preferably has a wall thickness of about 0.17 to 0.28 inches.

[00162] For low flow products, when the weight of the inert ingredients (ie, the carrier) is reduced and the weight of the active ingredients is kept approximately constant, consistency is maintained within control parameters and pest damage is also maintained within acceptable parameters.

[00163] Granules used as carriers may include, for example, the following:

[00164] amorphous silica - bulk density ranging from about 0.160 to 0.335 g/ml,

[00165] Biodac® carrier - bulk density in the range of approximately 0.64 to 0.79 g/ml,

[00166] clay - bulk density in the range of about 0.40 to 1.12 g/ml,

[00167] sand - bulk density in the range of about 1.6 to 2.1 g/ml.

[00168] Chemical-filled granules typically have a bulk density greater than the above values by approximately 10-30%.

[00169] A typical clay granule weighs from about 0.07 to 0.09 mg. A typical Biodac® granule weighs approximately 0.2 mg. The silica granule weighs from about 0.02 to 0.05 mg. A sand granule can weigh up to approximately 5 mg (large).

[00170] One example of a granule used as a carrier has a bulk density of 0.866 g/ml, an average granule size of 510 μm, and an average granule weight of 0.082 mg.

[00171] Agricultural products may be insecticides or a wide variety of other agricultural crop improvement products such as fungicides, plant growth regulators (PGRs), micronutrients, etc.

[00172] Most currently available dry/granular product dispenser designs have a movable rotor that acts as a shut-off device and continuously rotates the product within the insecticide hopper. As the application rate decreases, the percentage of crushed granules relative to the total amount of product applied changes, and therefore the application rate changes. If a low flow rate is used, the dispenser opening may be smaller than the free flow rate for the granules, resulting in greater grinding and uneven product flow. In addition, when turned off, the metering paddle creates a pool of product around the hole, which flows out when the planter is turned in the outer rows. John Deere & Company and Kinze Manufacturing have made changes to reduce this effect at the flow rates used today, but these modifications will not be effective at the low flow rates shown here.

[00173] In one embodiment, low-rate dispensers 132 have larger openings than previous conventional dispensers so they can provide free flow at lower flow rates. Preferably, the hole diameter is in the range of 0.20 inch to 0.50 inch. An example of such a low-rate dispenser is embodied in the SmartBox dispensing system, which has an orifice diameter ranging from 0.25 inch to 0.50 inch depending on the flow rate of the product being used. The orifice diameter must be large enough to provide a flow greater than the free flow of the intended product. Pulse feed in a dispenser is one of the ways to regulate the rate of product consumption.

[00174] Seed treatment is very common in industry today. Fungicides or insecticides are used to treat the seeds and the amount is limited to what can be applied to the outside of the seed. Traditional dispensing systems are usually limited by this limitation of applying the product to the outside of the seed as a coating. However, if the product can be applied in-furrow, this can have significant benefits. The present invention provides these advantages. In this embodiment, the agricultural products are not applied directly to the seeds themselves as a seed treatment. Instead, they are introduced into the seed zone, that is, into the furrow. The present features that provide the inventive concept provide the possibility of such placement. The seed itself does not require processing. Instead, the soil is tilled. The use of seed coatings results in equipment problems, germination problems/complications, reduced seed viability, seed storage issues, etc. The present invention allows for the minimization of seeds as a carrier. The farmer has many more options to avoid the problems associated with storing seeds from year to year.

[00175] Although the low-flow agricultural product dispensing system of the present invention has been discussed in relation to its placement on a row processing unit of a planter, the system may be located on a planter outside of the row processing unit. It can be placed on another part of the seeder frame due to, for example, limited space, which does not allow it to be placed directly on the seeder row processing unit.

[00176] Referring now to FIG. 13, shows an example display (ie, user interface screen) of a controller for pulsing fluid valve 48 and air valve 36, generally designated 174. Display 174 may be part of an in-cab monitor 50 or a separate controller. The on time is the time the valve applies product each time the valve is activated. Off Time - How long the valve remains off during testing or calibration by pressing the Start/Stop button. The Start/Stop button starts the valve without a seed signal according to the on and off time settings. This is used to set the time and mark the location of the pulse for physical adjustment when the planter is in stationary mode (ie still in the magazine). If the operator marks where the seed hits the bottom of the furrow, he can align the application location of the agricultural product with the seed. Due to the low flow rate, it takes many pulses to get enough volume to see where the agricultural product is being applied. In "Burst Mode" the operator can plot multiple dots rather than a continuous stripe. For example, an operator can pulse multiple emissions on and off at one-millisecond intervals based on the on/off settings on a 2-inch strip. The result remains a continuous processing line, but made at the expense of many emissions. Multiple emissions are triggered by the seed. The cycle setting determines how many times the valves turn on/off when the seed triggers the valve. Otherwise, if the cycle time is set to 2 cycles, the valve turns on, then turns off, turns on, and then turns off.

[00177] The inlet fluid supply can be from any fluid supply system. The feed controller settings allow you to set the number of ounces per acre. The feed controller can then maintain the flow as the speed changes. Typically, with a traditional fixed orifice spray tip, the spray pressure must be increased from approximately 4 to 1 to double the flow. Technologies are now known that increase the flow range without significantly changing the pressure. One of them is the new flexible orifice spray tip. It is made of flexible material so that the tip opening expands as pressure increases. It looks like the rubber nipple on a baby bottle. Another possibility is to modify the regular sprayer check valve. The standard check valve is simply on/off and is designed not to interfere with spray tip flow control. Using a modified design of a standard gas/liquid pressure regulator, we can replace the ball in the check valve with a tapered needle held in place by a spring. As pressure increases, flow increases without significantly increasing pressure. This modification can be either an added free-standing device in the supply line or built into the variable flow tip.

[00178] Using the methods described above:

1. High pulse feed speed in the target area

2. flexible hole

3. Modified check valve spray tip

[00179] Various methods can be used to increase the range of ounces per acre without significantly increasing feed pressure.

[00180] In some embodiments, a common signal may trigger multiple valves simultaneously.

[00181] Information from the RFID tag of a closed delivery container can be combined with information about the spatial location of the application equipment to create and store on a storage device that is separate and distinct from the RFID tag of the container, a geo-referenced record that indicates exactly where and/or when the product from the container has been dispensed and deposited.

[00182] An automatically generated electronic record that pinpoints where product has been dispensed from an RFID-tagged container eliminates the need for a user to manually record application information associated with a product that has been dispensed from an RFID-tagged container, and also eliminates the possibility of human error associated with handwritten or manually entered notes or records.

[00183] An automatically generated electronic record that specifies exactly what product, the quantity of product, and the location at which the product was dispensed from an RFID-tagged container ensures that all product dispensed from such containers is recorded consistently. Since the information that identifies the product deposited will be derived from the encoded information on the container's RFID tag, all product deposited from containers with the same code can be recorded using information recorded in the same format. This data consistency makes it easier, faster, and more accurate to aggregate and analyze input data from multiple containers, users, and locations. Accurate and cost-effective analysis of aggregated data allows for better and more accurate recommendations for future use of the same product.

[00184] The system may update various "actual dispensed" data in the tag in addition to product quantity data as product is dispensed from the cartridge. The actual application data may, for example, include any one or more of the following in any combination:

ID of the product issued by the cartridge;

the flow rate at which the product is dispensed by the cartridge;

current location of the cartridge; And

present time.

[00185] Any of the data disclosed herein, such as actual deposit data, may include one or more timestamps indicating one or more points in time associated with the data, such as the time at which the data was captured, created, or transferred. Likewise, any data disclosed herein, such as actual entry data, may include geographic information, such as geographic coordinates indicating a location associated with the data, such as the location at which the data was captured, created, or transmitted. Any such geographic information may, for example, be obtained automatically, for example, using GPS technology. The system may, for example, include a GPS module (not shown), such as that described by Wintemute et al. in US Patent Application Publication No. 2017/0265374 A1 for example, which generates output data representing the current location of the system. Time can also be provided remotely, for example via a GPS signal, a separate watch or other timing device. The system may use the output of such a GPS module to generate and store any location data disclosed herein. Embodiments of the present invention can correlate various data with each other using any of the timestamps and/or geographic information disclosed herein. For example, any two pieces of data that have the same or similar timestamp can be compared with each other. Similarly, any two data units that have the same or similar geographic location can be compared with each other.

[00186] One reason for transmitting and storing actual application data over time is to enable the server to create a "actual application map" of the product as it was actually applied to the field over time. The system may, for example, apply a product based on preselected data represented by a prescription map that indicates the amount of product to be applied at each of a plurality of locations in the field. The actual application map and the prescriptive map are described below. The system can then vary the rate at which product is applied at different locations in the field, attempting to apply at each location the amount of product that should be applied at that location according to the prescription map. The actual amount of product that the system applies at any particular location in the field may, however, differ from the amount that the prescription card indicates is required for application. The system can use measurements of the actual amounts of product that were applied at various locations in the field to create an actual application map for the product. The system can then compare the prescription map with the actual application map to identify any differences between the amount of product that was ordered to be applied at each of the multiple locations and the amount of product that was actually applied at each of those locations.

[00187] One advantage of the methods described above for tracking changes in the use of the product stored in each cartridge, such as changes in the amount of product over time, is that these methods can be performed in real time, i.e. while quantities of product are added to and/or dispensed from the cartridge. The term "real time" as used herein in connection with tracking changes in product quantities refers to tracking such changes and re-updating the label accordingly at repeating intervals without a significant delay between the change in quantity or other product usage parameter and the resulting update(s) of the corresponding product data. use of the product in the label (for example, product quantity data and/or product type data).

[00188] Another advantage of the methods disclosed above for tracking changes in product quantity over time is that these methods can be performed automatically, i.e. without human intervention. For example, existing systems typically require a human tractor or planter operator to manually record the amount of product applied to the field. This manual process has many disadvantages. For example, manual recording of product applications is prone to error for a number of reasons, such as the difficulty of manually measuring the amount of product dispensed and operator memory limitations. As another example, manual product entry registration is susceptible to intentional fraud. As another example, manual registration can require significant effort, which can lead to delays in the registration process. Embodiments of the present invention solve all of these problems. For example, in embodiments of the present invention, changes in the product in the cartridge (such as changes in product type, increase in product amount, and decrease in product amount) can be monitored automatically, i.e. without manual human input of information. Such automatic tracking can be performed, for example, during the operation of filling the cartridge), the operation of updating the tag as the product is dispensed, and the operation of updating the actual dispensing data. This automatic tracking eliminates the need for a human operator to perform manual tracking and thus avoids all of the manual tracking problems described above. In addition, embodiments of the present invention may even prohibit a human operator from manually registering or changing automatically recorded information (such as product quantity data, product type data, cartridge ID data, and actual application data), thereby eliminating the risk of unintentional human error and risk deliberate fraud.

[00189] In addition, in embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to track and record data related to a product, both automatically and in real time. This combination of features makes it possible to track changes in product type and quantity faster, easier and more reliably than existing systems that rely on manual human input. For example, by automatically tracking the costs at which a product is deposited at various locations over time, by associating such information with the ID of the cartridge that dispensed the product, and by transmitting all such data to a server for storage in measurement data, embodiments of the present invention can create a map of the actual application of the product actually applied to the field, all without operator or farmer involvement. Such capabilities provide real inventory management benefits to product manufacturers and to the supply chain between the manufacturer and the end user of the cartridge. Additionally, these features eliminate the need to store actual application data locally (for example, on a flash drive or other physical media) and then physically transfer it to a computer, allowing actual application data to be transmitted wirelessly, automatically and in real time to the server.

[00190] The ability to automatically generate an actual application map allows tracking of agricultural products that have been applied to specific crops without relying on manual reports from farmers for reliability or accuracy. This ability to track which products have been applied to individual crops, independent of farmer reporting, is particularly useful in meeting consumer requests to know which products have been applied to the food they buy and in meeting the need for regulators and food processors to gain access to the use of an agricultural product in specific fields.

[00191] The retailer bills the farmer for the amount of product the farmer uses from the cartridge. This billing process can be completed in any of a variety of ways. For example, the cartridge interface device may include a product usage detection module. In general, the product usage determination module may determine the amount of product that has been used by the farmer (e.g., the amount of product that has been dispensed from the cartridge and/or the total area or rows of fields treated with the product) since the cartridge has been purchased by the farmer since it was last filled cartridge or since the farmer was last billed for use of the product and/or cartridge. The product usage determining module may provide an output signal representing the amount of product used.

[00192] The product usage determination module may generate a product usage amount signal in any of a variety of ways. For example, the tag reader may create, based on the data read from the tag by the tag reader, a read data signal representing some or all of the data read by the tag reader from the tag. The read data signal may, for example, represent all data read by the tag reader from the tag. If the read data already includes data representing the amount of product used by the farmer, then the product usage determining module can identify this amount from the read data signal and output this amount into the used amount signal. As another example, if the read data signal includes data representing the previous amount of product in the cartridge (for example, the amount of product that was contained in the cartridge when the farmer previously received or filled the cartridge with product) and data representing the current amount of product in the cartridge, then the product usage determining module may calculate the difference between the two quantities and output the resulting difference (eg, the current quantity minus the previous quantity) into a product usage quantity signal.

[00193] The product usage determination module may calculate a bill amount based on the identified amount of product used in any of a variety of ways and output a bill amount signal representing the calculated bill amount. For example, the product usage determination module may identify the unit price of the product (e.g., the unit price of volume, weight, row lengths treated, and/or field areas treated) and multiply the unit price by the quantity (e.g., volume, weight, length, or area) of the product used (represented by the product usage amount signal) to obtain a product representing the bill amount, which the product usage determination module may include in the bill amount signal.

[00194] The product usage determination module may determine the unit price of the product in any of a variety of ways. For example, the product usage determining module may identify the product type, for example, by identifying the product type based on the product type data read by the tag reader from the tag and included in the read data. The product usage determination module may identify a product unit price based on the product type, for example, using the product type to look up the corresponding unit price in a schema (eg, a database table) of product types to unit prices.

[00195] Regardless of how the amount of product actually used is calculated, charging the farmer only for the amount of product the farmer actually used can both reduce the cost of using each cartridge to the farmer and encourage the farmer to use the cartridge due to the knowledge that the price what a farmer will pay for a cartridge will be limited to the amount of product the farmer actually uses.

[00196] In the above detailed description, various embodiments of devices and/or processes have been set forth using block diagrams, diagrams and/or examples. Since such block diagrams, diagrams and/or examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, those skilled in the art will appreciate that each function and/or operation in such block diagrams, diagrams or examples can be implemented, individually and/or together, using a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment, multiple portions of the subject matter described herein may be implemented through application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), general purpose processors (GPPs), microcontrollers ( MCU) or other integrated formats. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein, in whole or in part, may be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more computers (e.g., as one or more than programs running on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors (for example, as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or virtually any combination thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and/or firmware would be within the skill of one skilled in the art in light of this disclosure.

[00197] In addition, those skilled in the art will understand that the mechanisms of some of the objects described herein may be capable of being distributed as software in various forms, and that an exemplary embodiment of the object described herein applies regardless of the particular type of signal-carrying medium , used to actually carry out the distribution. Examples of signal-carrying media include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable type medium such as a floppy disk, hard disk, compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), digital tape, computer memory, etc.; and a transmission medium such as a digital and/or analog communication medium (eg, fiber optic cable, waveguide, wireline, wireless link (eg, transmitter, receiver, transmit logic, receive logic, etc.).

[00198] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the art has advanced to the point that there are few differences between hardware, software and/or firmware implementations of aspects of systems; the use of hardware, software, and/or firmware is usually (but not always in the sense that the choice between hardware and software may matter in certain contexts) is a design choice that represents a trade-off between cost and efficiency. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are various vehicles by which the processes and/or systems and/or other technologies described herein (e.g., hardware, software, and/or firmware) may be implemented, and that the preferred vehicle will vary in the context in which processes and/or systems and/or other technologies are deployed. For example, if the performer determines that speed and accuracy are of paramount importance, the performer may choose a primarily hardware and/or firmware vehicle; alternatively, if flexibility is of paramount importance, the implementer may opt for a primarily software implementation; or, again, alternatively, the implementer may select some combination of hardware, software and/or firmware. Consequently, there are several possible vehicles by which the processes and/or devices and/or other technologies described herein may be implemented, none of which are inherently superior to the other in the sense that any vehicle which will be used is a choice dependent on the conditions in which the vehicle will be deployed and the specific objectives (such as speed, flexibility or predictability) of the operator, any of which may vary. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that optical aspects of implementation typically utilize optically oriented hardware, software, and/or firmware.

[00199] As mentioned above, other embodiments and configurations may be developed without departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (44)

1. A system for issuing crop-improving agricultural products, including: an agricultural product dosing system functionally connected to sources of crop-improving agricultural products; And tubes for an agricultural product operatively connected to said dosing system for an agricultural product, wherein said agricultural product dispensing system is configured to dispense at a low rate, defined as less than 3.7 fluid ounces per 1000 row feet, liquid crop improvement products; a seed sensor configured to detect placement of seeds from the seeder; And a pulse system operatively connected to the output ends of the agricultural product tubes and to said seed sensor and configured to synchronize the placement of the agricultural products with respect to the placement of the seeds. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein said agricultural product dosing system includes a syringe pump system. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein said agricultural product dispensing system is configured to dispense liquid agricultural products at a rate of less than 1.0 fluid ounces per 1000 row feet. 4. The system according to claim 3, in which said agricultural product dosing system includes a syringe pump system. 5. The system of claim 3, wherein said seed sensor is configured to detect seed placement from a planter configured to operate at a planter speed in the range of 2 mph to 5 mph. 6. A system for dispensing crop-improving agricultural products with seeds, including: a seed sensor configured to detect placement of seeds from the seeder; an agricultural product dosing system functionally connected to sources of crop-improving agricultural products; agricultural product tubes operatively connected to said agricultural product dosing system; And a pulse system operatively connected to the output ends of said agricultural product tubes and to said seed sensor and configured to synchronize the placement of crop-improving agricultural products with respect to the placement of seeds. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein said seed sensor is configured to detect seed placement from a planter configured to operate at a high planter speed, said high planter speed being defined as greater than 5 miles per hour. 8. The system of claim 6, wherein said seed sensor is configured to detect seed placement from a planter configured to operate at a planter speed in the range of 2 mph to 5 mph. 9. The system of claim 6, wherein said agricultural product dispensing system is configured to dispense dry bulk agricultural products at a low rate, defined as less than 3 ounces per 1000 ft. of row. 10. The system of claim 6, wherein said impulse system includes electrical impulse valves physically located at said outlet ends of said agricultural product tubes. 11. The system of claim 6, wherein said agricultural product dispensing system is configured to dispense liquid agricultural products at a low rate, defined as less than 3.7 fluid ounces per 1000 row feet. 12. The system of claim 6, wherein said agricultural product dispensing system is configured to dispense liquid agricultural products at a rate defined as less than 0.9 fluid ounces per 1000 feet of row. 13. The system of claim 6, wherein said agricultural product dispensing system is configured to dispense at a low rate, defined as less than 3 ounces per 1000 feet of row, dry bulk agricultural products, and at a low rate, defined as less than 3, 7 fl oz per 1000 row feet, liquid agricultural products. 14. The system according to claim 6, in which said pulse system is configured to provide synchronous placement of agricultural products in close proximity to the seeds or between the seeds. 15. The system according to claim 6, in which said pulse system is configured to ensure synchronous placement of agricultural products relative to the seeds. 16. The system of claim 6, wherein said pulse system is configured to provide substantially simultaneous placement of agricultural products. 17. The system of claim 6, wherein said agricultural product dosing system includes a syringe pump system. 18. The system of claim 6, wherein said agricultural product dosing system comprises a solenoid system. 19. A system for issuing agricultural products, including: an agricultural product application device configured to interact with a seed sensor of a seeding equipment mounted to detect seed discharged from the high-speed seeding equipment, and a seed sensor of the seeding equipment located to detect the seed discharged from the high-speed seeding equipment, wherein each device for introducing agricultural products contains a common housing for the supply units of the agricultural product, wherein the first of the supply units of the agricultural product is a liquid agricultural product supply unit, including a supply line for the liquid agricultural product, and the second of of the mentioned agricultural product supply units is a dry bulk agricultural product supply unit, which includes a dry bulk agricultural product supply line. 20. A system for dispensing crop-improving agricultural products with seeds, including: product containers containing crop improvement products, said crop improvement products include dry bulk crop improvement products and liquid crop improvement products; a seed sensor configured to detect placement of seeds from the seeder; an agricultural product dosing system operatively connected to the product containers, said agricultural product dosing system comprising: low rate metering devices operatively coupled to said product containers, configured to dispense agricultural products from the product containers, said metering devices mounted on planters, said low rate metering devices for dry bulk crop improvement agricultural products being less than 3 ounces per 1000 ft. row, each of the said drills comprising: main controller; a power distribution board functionally connected to the main controller and the secondary power supply; And secondary controllers for driving the dispensing device, each secondary controller receiving command data from the main controller through said power distribution board and controlling the dispensing devices for dispensing in response to said command data; precision placement equipment operatively coupled to low rate dosing devices for placing crop-enhancing agricultural products, said precision placement equipment comprising: agricultural product tubes operatively coupled to said agricultural product dosing system; And a pulse system operatively connected to the output ends of said agricultural product tubes and to said seed sensor and configured to synchronize the placement of crop-improving agricultural products with respect to the placement of seeds. 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the identification device is located in connection with the agricultural product container to provide identification information to the main controller. 22. The system of claim 20, wherein a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip is located in connection with the agricultural product container to provide identification information to the main controller.

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