WO2014115069A1

WO2014115069A1 - Systems and methods for monitoring silo bags and their contents

Info

Publication number: WO2014115069A1
Application number: PCT/IB2014/058393
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yaron Kaufmann; Chaim BELFER; Horacio NAMIR; Shlomo Berkovitch
Original assignee: Cartasense Ltd.
Priority date: 2013-01-22
Filing date: 2014-01-20
Publication date: 2014-07-31

Abstract

Various embodiments of measurement and communication systems and methods to monitor physical conditions of a silo bag and a crop stored in the silo bag. A system may have various sensors that measure physical characteristics, and then communicate the measurements, either directly from each sensor or by a mesh network of sensors, to a wireless unit. A central processing center, "CPC", uses the measurements to determine the current or future integrity of the bag, and the current or future integrity of the stored crop. The CPC may also access databases of information to determine the integrity of the bag or the silo, to determine current or future monetary value of the crop based on its current or expected physical condition, and to reorder transfers from the silo such that parts of the crop at relatively high risk are transferred out before parts of the crop at relatively low risk.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING SILO BAGS AND THEIR

CONTENTS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO AND INCORPORATION OF RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Provisional Patent Application No. 61/754,986, entitled "Wireless Sensors in Field Storage", filed with the United States Patent & Trademark Office on January 22, 2013, and to Provisional Patent Application No. 61/864,669, entitled "Wireless Sensors in Field Storage", filed with the United States Patent & Trademark Office on August 12, 2013. The entire disclosures of these prior applications are considered part of this application, and are hereby incorporated by reference

BACKGROUND Various crops, particularly grains, are stored in silo bags. The quantities stored tend to be in the tens to hundreds of tons. The quantities may be stored for days, weeks, or even months. It is well known that stored grains are subject to damage by humidity, light, bugs, rodents, temperature, and other factors. The risks of damage increase as the period of storage increases. In order to protect against damage to stored grains, silo bags may be monitored visually by manual inspection. Although effective in some cases, manual inspection is unable to see possible damage or damaging conditions that are not visible to the naked eye. A second approach to protect against damage to stored grains is the automated sensing and monitoring of temperature and humidity conditions, as well as changes in such conditions, within the silo bag. Such conditions may be indicators of possible damage to a crop, but spoilage to crops tends to be localized, such that sensing will be relatively ineffective beyond the immediate scope of each sensor. A third approach is to monitor the composition of gases within the silo bag, since changes in gas composition may be in indication of spoilage. Gas has the advantage of not being limited to the localized area of a sensor, but it has also the disadvantage of being subject to in-leakage and out-leakage due to leaks and punctures in the silo bag. Further, to the extent that damage occurs in the lower layers of the crop, especially toward the bottom of a silo bag, gas diffusion may not be immediate, so monitoring of damage may be delayed. To deal with these various problems, many systems place a sensor within the stored crop, generally not at the bottom of a silo but rather approximately one-third of the distance from the bottom of the silo to the top of the stored crop. This placement has the advantage of not generating measurements skewed by conditions at the bottom of the bag, but it also misses conditions at the bottom of the bag, as well as conditions not within the immediate vicinity of this centrally placed sensor. Such placement is generally intended as a measure of average damage, not damage at specific points, and most particularly not damage at the points in a silo bag must vulnerable to various types of damage.

SUMMARY

Described herein are wireless communication systems and methods that monitor the conditions of a silo bag and/or its environment, within the bag itself, or outside the bag, or both inside and outside the bag. These systems and methods may monitor only the bag, only the environment, only the crop, or a combination of two or all of these monitoring targets, i.e. the bag, the environment and the crop. The monitoring of the crop may be direct, or may be by monitoring the state of a bag and/or its environment as indications of the likely condition of the crop. Monitoring may indicate any or all of the present condition of the bag, the expected future condition of the bag, the present condition of the crop, or the expected future condition of the crop. Monitoring may be used to determine likely present damage to the bag and crop, or the future damage to the bag and crop. Measuring is executed by one or more sensors, each of which measures one or more physical characteristics. In some embodiments, measurements taken by a multiplicity of sensors are transmitted from the sensors to wireless units, which may additionally route the measurements to a computer processing center where the measurements may be processed to produce information regarding the current or future state of the crop or the bag. In some embodiments, information derived from the measurements is compared with information stored in one or more databases in order to estimate the current value or the expected future value of the crop. In some embodiments, information derived from the measurements is used to modify the order in which different parts of a silo bag are emptied of grain, in order to remove first the crops that are most in danger of spoilage.

Various embodiments provide early detection of current or potential future damage to a crop. Some embodiments provide measuring and estimating the state of the silo bag rather than of the crop itself. Possible damage to the bag is an indicator of current or potential future damage to the crop. Some embodiments provide measuring and estimating the collection of high humidity in proximity to the bottom of the bag. The presence of high humidity in proximity to the bottom of the bag is an indicator of current or potential future damage to the crop. Some embodiments provide measuring and estimating physical characteristics at multiple points in the bag. Comparison of physical characteristics at multiple points can provide indications of current or potential future damage to the crop. Some embodiments provide combinations of measuring and estimating the state of the silo bag, the presence of high humidity in proximity to the bottom of the bag, and physical characteristics at multiple points in the bag. Such embodiments provide early detection of current or potential damage to the crop. The ability to estimate current or potential future damage to the crop also enables the system to determine corrective actions to reduce, avoid, or mitigate damage to the crop, and some embodiments provide for such corrective actions.

One embodiment is a system for monitoring the integrity of a silo bag. In one particular form of such embodiment, there is a silo bag, crops or other content stored within the bag, and a multiplicity of sensors placed in proximity to the silo bag. In some embodiments, the sensors monitor one or more physical characteristics of the bag, the crop and of the environment in proximity to the silo bag, and communicate measurements to a wireless unit. In some embodiments, measurements are communicated from the sensors to a wireless unit, which may be either directly from each sensor to the wireless unit, or through a mesh network in which one or more sensors communicate to the wireless unit the measurements of a multiplicity of sensors. In some embodiments, the measurements are communicated from the wireless unit to a central processing center, where the measurements may be processed to produce information regarding the current state of the bag, the current state of the crop, the expected future state of the bag, and/or the expected future state of the crop. One embodiment is a method for measuring one or more physical characteristics inside or outside of a bag. In some embodiments, physical characteristics in a bag are monitored by one or more sensors located in proximity to the bottom inside of the silo bag. In some embodiments, physical characteristics outside the bag are monitored by one or more sensors located in proximity to but outside of the bag. In some embodiments, one or more of the sensors measure physical characteristics outside a bag and above a rodent zone. In some embodiments, one or more of the aforementioned sensors transmits measurements of one or more physical characteristics to a wireless unit. In some embodiments, the wireless unit is located outside the bag. In some embodiments, the wireless unit is located within the cavity created by the silo bag. Such transmission may be direct from each sensor, or may be through a mesh network of the sensors. In some embodiments, measurements are taken at pre-determined times. In some embodiments, transmissions of measurements occur at pre-determined times. . In some embodiments, transmissions of measurements occur according to a random or pseudo-random schedule. In some embodiments, a sensor transmits a measurement only after the sensor has evaluated the measurement taken, and the measurement is transmitted only if the measured value has reached or exceeded a certain threshold. In some embodiments, transmissions of measurements occur upon a sensed event - it is the sensed event that causes measurements to be taken and/or measurements to be transmitted from the sensors to the wireless unit. One example of a "sensed event" is a single sensor measuring a physical characteristic that equals or exceeds some threshold, in which case the sensor changes the frequency with which the physical characteristic is measured. A second example of a "sensed event" is where the single sensor measures such a physical characteristic that equals or exceeds a threshold, and the sensor then informs the other sensors on the mesh network of this measurement, and multiple sensors then change the frequency with which they measure the physical characteristic. A third example of a "sensed event" is where the sensor detects that its battery power is low, in which case the sensor will take and transmit one or more measurements before battery power is exhausted. In some embodiments, measurements are taken by one or more sensors according to commands received by the sensors from the wireless unit. In some embodiments, the measurements are communicated from the wireless unit to a central processing center, where the measurements may be processed to produce information regarding the current state of the bag, the current state of the crop, the expected future state of the bag, and/or the expected future state of the crop.

One embodiment is a system for measuring one or more physical characteristics of a silo bag. In one particular form of such embodiment, there is a silo bag, crops or other content stored within the bag, a multiplicity of sensors located in proximity to the silo bag, and one or more patterns of continuity traces. In some embodiments, the continuity traces are embedded within the silo bag. In some embodiments, the continuity places are placed in physical contact with the bag, and are attached to the bag in some manner such that the continuity traces maintain their position on the bag. For example, the continuity traced may be glued, sewed, or fastened to the bag, or they may be placed in a pocket of material that has been attached to the bag. In some embodiments, the continuity traces are placed in proximity to the silo bag, but not in actual physical contact. In such embodiments, the continuity traces may be located inside the cavity formed by the bag, or may be located entirely outside the bag. In some embodiments, changes in the embedded continuity traces are used to determine the likelihood of damage to either the silo bag or the stored crop. All of the alternative embodiments involving measurement and communication for a silo bag without embedded continuity traces, as described above, also exist for the silo bag including the embedded continuity traces, except that in the latter case additional data is available to the system as derived from the embedded continuity traces.

One embodiment is a method one or more physical characteristics of a silo bag. In some embodiments, a sensor located inside the bag and in proximity to the bottom of the bag measures the level of a physical characteristic inside the bag. In some embodiments, a sensor located outside the bag measures the level of a physical characteristic outside the bag. In some embodiments, a sensor measures a physical characteristic at multiple times. In some embodiments, each sensor, acting in accordance with its own schedule or by command received, transmits its measurements to a wireless unit.

One embodiment is a method for estimating value of the crop, or financial loss caused by damage to the crop, or by both financial loss and the value of the crop. The financial loss or value may either be current, or expected in the future, so that in various embodiments, there is estimated any or all of (1) the current value of the crop, (2) the current financial loss to the crop due to physical damage, (3) the expected future value of the crop based on expected changes in the state of the crop, or expected changes in the market price of this kind of crop, or both the expected changes in the crop and expected change in the market price for this kind of crop, and (4) the expected financial loss of the crop based on expected changes in the state of the crop, or expected changes in the market price of this kind of crop, or both expected changes in the state of the crop and expected changes in the market price for this kind of crop. In some embodiments, a plurality of sensors measure one or more physical characteristics at a point inside the bag and also at a point outside the bag, In some embodiments, the sensors measure the physical characteristics at a plurality of points within the bag and/or at a single or plurality of points outside the bag. Measurements so taken by the sensors are transmitted to a wireless unit, which then transmits such measurements to a central processing center, or "CPC" for short. The CPC has access to one or more databases. In some embodiments, the CPC accesses one or more databases of physical condition, compares measurements of the sensors to historical measurements in the databases, and estimates the current state of the crop stored in the silo bag. In some embodiments, the CPC accesses one or more "money bases" which may be "databases of crop value" and/or "database of financial exchange", compares the current state of the crop with the information in the money databases for the type, quality, and quantity of the stored crop, and estimates the current financial value of the stored crop in at least one monetary currency.

One embodiment is a method for ordering the transfer of crops outside the silo bag, in order to transfer out the specific crops most at risk of damage, and thereby to increase the overall financial value of the crop. In some embodiments, a plurality of sensors measure at least one physical characteristic at a plurality of points inside the silo bag. In some embodiments, measurements taken by the sensors are used to estimate the quality of the stored crop at different points within the silo bag. In some embodiments, the different qualities of the crop stored at different points are used to reorder the transfer of stored crop outside the bag, such that parts of the stored crop that are more at risk of damage are taken out of the bag first, and parts of the stored crop that are less at risk of damage are taken out later. In some embodiments, a plurality of sensors measure at least one physical characteristic at a single point outside the bag. In some embodiments, a plurality of sensors measure at least one physical characteristic at a plurality of points outside the bag. In some embodiments, the system estimates the different qualities of the crop at different points, only according to current condition. In some embodiments, the system estimates the different qualities of the crop at different points both currently and in the future. In some embodiments, the reordering of the transfer of stored crop outside of the silo is implemented such that FDFO is substantially achieved.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. No attempt is made to show structural details of the embodiments in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the embodiments. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors.

FIG. 2 illustrates a flow diagram describing one method for measuring the integrity of a silo bag.

FIG. 3 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors and with examples of embedded continuity traces.

FIG. 4 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors, a wireless connection to a wireless unit, and a communication connection to a CPC. FIG. 5 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors, with embedded continuity traces, wireless connection to a wireless unit, and communication connection to a CPC.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram describing one method for measuring a physical characteristic at a plurality of points inside a silo bag. FIG. 7 illustrates a flow diagram describing one method for measuring a physical characteristic at a plurality of points inside a silo bag and a plurality of points outside a silo bag. FIG. 8 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors, including a depression at the bottom of the bag with a sensor in proximity to the bag above the depression and a sensor in proximity to the bag below the depression.

FIG. 9 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors, with connection to an RF wireless unit, connection to a CPC, and connection between a CPC and one or more databases.

FIG. 10 illustrates a flow diagram describing one method for measuring a physical characteristic, and then processing measurements to derive information about the value of the stored crop. FIG. 11 illustrates a flow diagram describing one method for measuring the state of the stored crop at different locations within a silo bag, and then reordering the transfer of crops from the bag such that FDFO is substantially achieved.

FIG. 12 is a graphic depiction of multiple silo bags, in which each silo bag has partitions, and the silo bags are served by a single external sensor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein, "silo bag" is flexible material that may receive and store liquid, gas, or a granular-like solid such as grains or other crops. "Silo bag" may also be referenced as "bag". In some embodiments, the silo bag includes only one layer of flexible material. In some embodiments, the silo bag includes two or more layers of flexible material. In some embodiments, at least two layers of the silo bag are composed of different material. In some embodiments, a silo bag creates a continuous cavity without partitions for sub-crops. In some embodiments, a silo bag includes one or more partitions of the cavity, such that each partitioned area may be its own cavity and may include its own sub-crop. In some embodiments, the partition is used for reducing or eliminating the flow of fluid from one partitioned area to another partitioned area, thereby avoiding or reducing possible damage from fluid. In such embodiments, the partition may continue to the top of the silo bag, or may be of just sufficient height and strength as to achieve the purpose of reducing or eliminating the flow of fluid. In some embodiments, the partition is used to reduce possible transfer of fungus, other crop diseases, rodents, or insects, from one partitioned area to another. In some embodiments, the presence and location of a partition in the bag is visually evident from outside the bag.

As used herein, "grain" includes wheat, corn, barley, rye, or other staple product which may be used in a processed or unprocessed form for human consumption.

As used herein, "crop" includes grains, foodstuffs fit for animals but not people, and compost. "Crop" may also be referenced as "stored crop".

As used herein, "integrity" is the condition of a silo bag, in which tears, leaks, stretching, and other damage reduce the integrity of the bag. Measurement of the integrity provides quantitative value to the condition of the bag, so that a degradation in the integrity measure may be an indicator of possible damage to the silo bag.

As used herein, "in physical proximity" refers to a sensor that is either in physical contact with the wall of a bag, or not in physical contact but sufficiently close such that the sensor can measure one or more physical characteristics at the wall of the bag. A sensor in "physical proximity" to the silo bag may be located either inside the cavity formed by the bag, or outside the bag. "Physical proximity" may also be referenced as "proximity".

As used herein, "humidity" is a measure of the relative level of moisture at a particular location. The lowest possible humidity level is 0%, and the highest possible humidity level is 100%. Humidity may increase to the point of actual fluid, in which case the humidity level would be close or equal to 100%. Whether a particular humidity level is "high" or not depends upon the purpose for which the measurement is taken. For example, at locations in proximity to the bottom of the bag, some humidity might be expected. By contrast, humidity would typically, in most cases, be lower at locations at the wall of the silo bag and above the rodent zone, as opposed to the humidity locations in proximity to the bottom of the bag. Therefore, a humidity reading in proximity to the bottom of the bag could have a different meaning than the same humidity reading in proximity to the bag but not in proximity to the bottom of the bag.

As used herein, when sensors are "connected" to a bag, they may be attached to bag by adhesive tape, dual sided tape, Velcro, stitching, or any other material, that provides a permanent or semi-permanent connection between the wall of the silo bag and the sensor. In some embodiments, a kind of pocket is "connected" to a bag in any of the manners described herein, and the sensor is then placed within or attached to the pocket rather than the wall itself.

As used herein, a "physical characteristic" is some phenomenon that may be relevant to either the state of a silo bag, or the state of the environment in proximity to the silo bag, or the state of the crop stored in a silo bag. A "physical characteristic" is also capable of being measured by a sensor. Non-limiting examples of physical characteristics are the presence of water or other liquids, humidity levels, the presence and levels of gases such as C02 or 02 or Nitrogen or ethylene, fungus, bacteria, insets, rodents, light levels, electrical conductivity of the stored crop or of the surface of the silo bag, RF signal strength within the crop or within other area of the silo bag, acoustical or electromagnetic properties of either the bag or the stored crop, motion within the silo bag, motion within the stored crop, motion outside the silo bag, and motion in the earth beneath the silo bag.

As used herein, a "sensor" is a device that measures one or more physical characteristics, that is connected to an antenna or other transmitting medium, and that transmits a measurement of a physical characteristic to a wireless unit. In some embodiments, the wireless unit is located outside the silo bag. In some embodiments, the wireless unit is located within the cavity created by the silo bag. In some embodiments, a sensor is a one-way transmitter. In some embodiments, a sensor is a two-way transceiver, both transmitting to a wireless unit and receiving transmissions from a wireless unit. In some embodiments in which two or more sensors are transceivers, the sensors will transmit and receive between each other. In some embodiments, a sensor is communicatively connected to a continuity trace, in which the continuity trace conveys an electromagnetic signal or other message, and the signal or message is sensed by the sensor. In some such embodiments, the sensor may transmit to a wireless unit the signal or message it receives via the continuity trace.

As used herein, a "sensing element" is that part of a sensor that measures one or more physical characteristics. A sensing element does not include a transmitting medium or a power source, although it may be connected to either a transmitting medium, or a power source, or both. As used herein, "transmitting medium" is an antenna, which may be of any length, size, and shape, or some other material that radiates in such a way as to produce and transmit an electromagnetic signal. In some embodiments, there is only one transmitting medium communicatively connected with a sensor. In some embodiments, there is a plurality of transmitting media communicatively connected with a sensor. In some embodiments a transmitting medium may be communicatively connected to two or more sensors.

As used herein, "communicatively connected" is the connection between a sensor and its transmitting medium, which may be any connection that transmits an electromagnetic signal, such as a conducting metal, a fiberoptic link, short-range radio, or other.

As used herein, "communication connection" is the type of communication path between a wireless unit and a CPC. In some embodiments, the communication connection between the wireless unit and the CPC is wireless. In some embodiments, although the wireless unit communicates wirelessly with the sensors, the communication connection between the wireless unit and the CPC may be wireline, fiberoptic, coaxial cable, or any other kind of physical medium that guides and electromagnetic transmission from a transmitting unit to a receiving unit.

As used herein, a "wireless unit" is a wireless unit that receives transmission from sensors. In some embodiments, the wireless unit may also transmit to a central processing unit, receive transmissions from a central processing unit, transmit to sensors, perform processing of measurements received, or create commands for sensors. One example of a wireless unit is a radio frequency, "RF", wireless router. Other examples of wireless units include a wireless repeater, a wireless extender, and a wireless access point.

As used herein, a "mesh" is a communication network between two or more sensors. A "wireless mesh network" is a mesh network in which part or all of the communications between sensors are performed wirelessly. In a wireless mesh network, some of the communications may be performed via wireless line or other medium other than wireless, but at least some of the communications are wireless.

As used herein, a central processing center, or "CPC", is a location that has one or more servers or other computer- like machines. The CPC may read the data it receives, and may store all, part, or none of such data. In some embodiments, the CPC processes the transmissions received from the wireless unit to produce information. In some embodiments, the CPC accesses various databases which may have information relevant to the condition or value of the silo bag or of the stored crop. In some embodiments, such databases are stored internally, either at the CPC or in direct communicative contact with the CPC. In some embodiments, such databases are stored externally, and are accessed by the CPC over the Internet or other public access network. In some embodiments, the CPC transmits to the wireless unit.

As used herein, a sensor is "embedded in the bag", or simply "embedded", when it is placed between two or more of the layers of the bag. In some embodiments the embedded sensor is placed within a layer of the bag. In some embodiments, the sensor and its corresponding sensing element and transmitting medium are entirely embedded in the bag, such that no part of the senor or transmitting medium extends into the space outside the bag or into the interior of the bag. In some embodiments, the sensing element is entirely embedded in the bag, but the transmitting medium extends outside the bag into either the outside space or into the internal cavity of the bag. In some embodiments, the sensing element is in contact with a power source that is entirely embedded in the bag. In some embodiments, the sensing element is in contact with a power source at least part of which extends outside the bag either into the outside space or into the internal cavity of the bag.

As used herein, "rodent zone" is an area within physical proximity to a silo bag, and between approximately 50 cm below the ground and 50 cm above the ground.

As used herein, a "continuity trace" is a physical element that is placed on, attached to, or embedded in, a silo bag, and which conveys electromagnetic signals or other messages. The receipt of the signal or other message by a sensor is an indication that the continuity trace is operative. An operative continuity trace is indicative that the places on the silo bag where the continuity trace is located are likely to be of high integrity. Conversely, if a sensor does not receive a signal or other message from a continuity trace, that is an indicator of damage to the places on the silo bag where the continuity trace is located. In this way, the condition of the continuity trace is a proxy for the physical condition of the bag at the site of the continuity trace. One non-limiting example of a continuity trace is an electrical wire that has some kind of shielding, and that is attached to a sensor. The wire begins at one point on the outer surface of the silo bag, and ends at a different point on the outer surface of the silo bag. A source of electric signal traverses this exemplary continuity trace from one end to the other. If there is a physical break in the electric signal, then a source of the signal at one end of the trace will not be recognized at the potential destination of the signal at the other end of the trace. In such an instance, the break in the signal would indicate with high probability that there is a break in the trace, which would also suggest with high probability a break, tear, or other kind of damage to the silo bag at the place where the trace is broken or damaged. There are many different kinds of continuity traces which may be included in the system in alternative embodiments. In some embodiments, the continuity traces operate by electromagnetic signal, and the sensor takes a measure of the current sent on the continuity trace. In some such embodiments, the measure of current is taken according to a random or pseudo-random schedule. In some embodiments, a continuity trace may be mechanical.

As used herein, a "database accessed by a central processing center", or a

"database to which a central processing center has access", is a database of one of several kinds. One database is a collection of historical measurements that allow comparison of measurements from a silo bag in order to determine the current state of a crop or the expected future state of a crop. This database is specified as a "database of physical condition". A second kind of database is collection of financial information that allows an estimate of the financial value of a particular kind, quality, and quantity, of crop. The information is typically, but not necessarily, presented as a financial value per unit of a certain kind of crop at a specified grade of quality. This database is specified as a "database of crop value". Data in the database of crop value may include not only the current financial value for a crop, but also expected future financial value of a crop based on what are called "future commodity prices". A third kind of database is a collection of financial information that compares the value of one kind of currency to the value of one or more other kinds of currencies. This database is specified as a "database of financial exchange". Data in the database of financial exchange may include not only the current financial exchanges, but also expected future exchanges based on what are called "future monetary prices". As used herein, the term "database access by a CPC", or simply "a database" with not future explanation, refers to all three kinds of databases. The term "money databases" refers to both the "database of crop value" and the "database of financial exchange". In some embodiments, one or more of the databases are stored at the site of or in proximity to the CPC, such that access by the CPC of the database does not require communication on a public network. In some embodiments, one or more of the databases are not stored at or in proximity to the CPC, such that access of the database by the CPC requires communication over the Internet or another public network. A fourth kind of database is a database of measurements from two or more silos. In some embodiments, some of the data in this fourth kind of database is collected, used to create information, and then stored or discarded.

As used herein, "sub-crop" is a part of the total crop stored in a silo bag that has been measured by one or more sensors, but not by all the sensors taking measurements. A sub-crop is only a portion of the entire stored crop, and if there is one sub-crop in a silo bag, then there must be a plurality of sub-crops. All of the sub-crops may be the same kind of crop, or each sub-crop may have its own type of crop that is either different from the other sub-crops or the same as some of the sub-crops but different from other sub-crops. All of the sub-crops may be the same quality grade, or the sub-crops may have different quality grades. The financial value, either current or future, of each sub- crop is based on factors including the sub-crop's type of crop, the quality grade now and expected in the future for the sub-crop, the financial price for this kind of crop and this kind of quality grade both now and in the future, and the exchange rates of various currencies both now and in the future.

As used herein, "FDFO" is an acronym for "First to Damage, First Out". Where measurements of one or more physical characteristics determine that the risk of damage to a stored crop is greater at one point in a silo bag than at another point in a silo bag, the order by which parts of the crop are transferred from the bag for further processing, such that parts of the crop most likely to be damaged may be transferred out first, in order to reduce the overall damage to the entire stored crop. In some embodiments, there are multiple silo bags. In such embodiments, the stored crop in each silo bag may be the "sub-crop" for that silo bag. In such embodiments, alternatively, there can be two or more sub-crops within a single silo bag.

FIG. 1 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors. In FIG. 1, silo bag 100 sits on the ground 105. Multiple sensors are shown within the silo bag. 110 is located in proximity to the bottom of the bag, approximate to the lowest point in the bottom of the bag, which is the point most likely to collect potentially damaging fluid. In some embodiments, the lowest point of the bottom of the bag is located at the approximate center of the bag, but this is not essential, and the lowest point of the bag, hence the location of 110, may be at a point other than the approximate center of the bag. 120 is located at one corner of the bag, in proximity to the bottom of the bag and within the rodent zone. 130 is located on the internal arch of the bag, in proximity to the wall of the bag but not within the rodent zone. Although three sensors, 110, 120, and 130, are shown within the bag, it is understood that may be only two sensors, or four sensors, or any number of sensors greater than four, where each of the sensors will be located at a different part of the silo bag. In some embodiments, there is also a sensor embedded within the silo bag 140, which may be at apex of the silo bag as shown in FIG. 1, at the bottom of the bag or may be at some other location within the bag.

In some embodiments, there are sensors located outside the bag, in physical proximity to the bag, and located between the bag 100 and the earth 105. One example is 150, which is located at such a location and approximately at the center of the bottom of the bag, or approximately opposite 110. A second example is 160, which is located at such a location, but in proximity to a corner of the bag, here opposite 120, although 160 could be located at a different corner than the corner of 120. In some embodiments, there is also a sensor located outside the bag, shown here as 170, which may be in physical proximity to the bag and within the rodent zone as shown by 170, or which may in physical proximity to the bag but not within the rodent zone (not shown in FIG. 1), or may not be in physical proximity to the bag (not shown in FIG. 1). It is understood that there may be no external sensors, or one external sensor as shown by 170 in FIG. 1, or any number of external sensors greater than one.

In some embodiments, there is a sensor 180 that is outside the bag, in proximity to the bag, but outside the rodent zone. This sensor may take measurements of the external wall of the bag, outside the rodent zone.

In some embodiments, there is at least one sensor 190 that is outside the bag, and not in proximity to the bag. This sensor may take measurements of the environment, such as temperature in the geographic area, level of luminosity, level of humidity or other. In some embodiments, sensor 190 measures conditions in the environment of two or more silo bags.

The various sensors, however many there are and whatever their location, will measure one or more physical characteristics, where each sensor measures the physical characteristics in the area or proximity to the sensor. Each sensor is communicatively connected to or more transmitting media. Each sensor uses its transmitting media to transmit messages to a wireless unit (not shown in FIG. 1).

One embodiment is a system for measuring a physical characteristic of a silo bag 100. In one specific embodiment, the system includes a silo bag 100, and a plurality of sensors, each of which is in physical proximity with the silo bag. Also in this embodiment, each sensor is communicatively connected to a transmitting medium.

In an alternative to the embodiment just described, a sensor is configured to measure the integrity of the silo bag.

In a second alternative to the embodiment just described for measuring a physical characteristic of a silo bag, the silo bag is a container for a stored crop.

In a variation to the alternative embodiment just described, the silo bag comprises at least two layers of materials.

In one configuration to the variation just described, the system includes a sensor located inside the bag and in physical proximity to the bottom of the bag 110 or 120. In a second configuration to the variation described above, the system includes a sensor that is located within the silo bag, in physical proximity to the wall of the silo, and not within physical proximity to the bottom of the bag 130.

In a fifth configuration to the variation described above, the system includes a sensor is located outside the bag, above the earth, in physical proximity to the bag, and within the rodent zone of the bag 170.

In a sixth configuration of the variation described above, the system includes a sensor located outside the bag, above the earth, in proximity to the bag, and not within the rodent zone of the bag 180. In a seventh configuration of the variation described above, the system includes a sensor located outside the bag, above the earth, and not in proximity to the bag 190.

In an eighth configuration to the variation described above, the system includes (1) a sensor located inside the bag and in physical proximity to the bottom of the bag 110 or 120, (2) a sensor is located inside the bag and not within physical proximity to the bottom of the bag 130, (3) a sensor is located outside the bag, above the earth, in physical proximity to the bag, and within the rodent zone of the bag 170, (4) a sensor located outside the bag, above the earth, in proximity to the bag, and not within the rodent zone of the bag 180, and (5) a sensor located outside the bag, above the earth, and not in proximity to the bag 190.

In a permutation of the sixth configuration just described, the system includes an embedded within the silo bag 140.

In a second permutation of the sixth configuration just described, the system includes a sensor located outside the bag, and between the bottom of the bag and the earth 150 or 160.

FIG. 2 illustrates a flow diagram describing one method for measuring one or more physical characteristics of a silo bag. In this specific embodiment, 210 at a particular time XI, a sensor, located inside the bag and in physical proximity to the bottom of the bag, measures a physical characteristic in the area proximate to the sensor. It is understood that there may be two or more such sensors, in which case each one will measure a physical characteristic in the area proximate to it. It is understood that a sensor may measure two or more physical characteristics. Also in this specific embodiment, 220 at a particular time X2, a sensor located outside the bag and between the bag and the earth, measures a physical characteristic of the area proximate to the sensor. It is understood that there may be two or more such sensors, in which case each one will measure a physical characteristic in the area proximate to it. It is understood that a sensor may measure two or more physical characteristics. It is understood that XI and X2 may be the same moment of time, or alternatively may be different time periods according to the different schedules of the various sensors. Also in this specific embodiment, 230 at a particular time X3, a sensor located outside the bag, in physical proximity with the bag, and above the rodent zone, measures a physical characteristic of the area proximate to the sensor. In some embodiments, in addition to 230, there is additional measuring by a sensor located outside the bag, in physical proximity with the bag, and located within the rodent zone. It is understood that there may be two or more such sensors, in which case each one will measure a physical characteristic in the area proximate to it. It is understood that a sensor may measure two or more physical characteristics. For example, a sensor might measure both temperature and level of humidity. Or as another example, a sensor might measure the signal of a continuity trace, and level of humidity. It is understood that X3 may be the same point in time as XI and/or X2, or alternatively X3 may be different than XI and/or X2. Also in this specific embodiment, at some time after it takes its measurement, 240 each sensor communicates its measurement to a wireless unit located outside the bag. It is understood that all of the sensors may communicate at substantially the same time, or each sensor may communicate at its own unique time. It is understood that there may be any number of sensors in addition to the ones specified here, and each such additional sensor will measure one or more physical characteristics and communicate such measurement to the wireless unit. In some embodiments, all of the sensors or some sub-set of all the sensors measures one or more physical characteristics at multiple points of time, and the sensors or sub- set thereof transmit these multiple measurements to the wireless unit, each sensor transmitting according to either its own schedule or a command receive as to times to transmit. In a first alternative embodiment to the method just described, at least one sensor measures a physical characteristic that provides an indication of the integrity of the silo bag.

In a second alternative embodiment to the method just described, at least one sensor is located outside the bag and also in proximity to the bag. In a first variation to the second alternative embodiment just described, one sensor is located outside the bag, in proximity to the bag, and also between the bag and the earth.

In a second variation to the second alternative embodiment just described, at least one of the physical characteristics measured by at least one sensor is the level of humidity in the area proximate to the sensor. For example, any of sensors 110, 120, 140, 150, 160, and 170, may measure the level of humidity in proximity to the bottom of bag. For example, 130 and 140 may measure the level of humidity in proximity to the wall of the bag, but not in proximity to the bottom of the bag. High humidity measured by units such as 130 or 140 indicates possible condensation on the silo at the point of high humidity, which is an indicator of possible damage to the bag. In some embodiments, each sensor measures each physical characteristic at two or more substantially different times. Also in this variation, each sensor communicates its measurements to the wireless unit. It is understood that all of the sensors may communicate at substantially the same time, or the sensors may communicate at different times according to their various schedules. It is understood that each sensor may communicate directly to the wireless unit, or through a mesh network made up of two or more sensors. It is understood that each sensor communicates by the transmitting medium to which it is communicatively connected.

FIG. 3 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors and with examples of continuity traces. Elements 105, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180 and 190, are as described in the description to FIG. 1, above. In addition, FIG. 3 shows also two examples of continuity traces, 310 and 320. Element 310 is a series of three separate continuity traces, each of which is either attached to the bag at the top surface, or attached to the bag at the bottom surface, or embedded within the bag. In the example shown, the traces of 310 proceed along at least part of the length of the silo. By using multiple lines of traces, which are not however in communication with one another, it may be possible to identify with greater particularly the specific site of silo damage, as opposed to what could be identified with a single line of trace. 320 presents another example, in which a relatively large part of the bottom of the silo can be monitored by a trace that extends through much of the area in some kind of structured pattern. The same or similar effect might have been achieved if 320 had been a series of connected half circles rather than a sawtooth pattern as shown in 320. Many different continuity traces are used in alternative embodiments. For example, there may be a continuity trace that runs along the walls of the silo on the bottom, so that a problem with the trace would suggest a tear or damage to some part of the bottom of the silo. For example, there could be cross-hatch pattern of multiple traces on the outside of the bag, where some traces run along the length of the silo, whereas other traces run from one corner of the silo, up the curve to the apex, down to the other corner of the silo. For example, there may be a continuity trace that runs along all or part of the circumference of the silo, from one point on one side of the silo, following the curve of the silo to the apex, and the other side. Generally, the higher the number of traces, and the greater amount of area covered by the traces, the more likely it will be that a break in a trace is discovered, suggesting a possible tear or damage to the silo. In some embodiments, a continuity trace that is on or embedded in the silo bag, also extends beyond the bag into the outside space or the internal cavity of the bag.

One embodiment is a system for monitoring the integrity of a silo bag. In one specific embodiment, the system includes a silo bag 100, and a plurality of sensors in physical proximity with the silo bag. Also in this specific embodiment, each sensor is communicatively connected to an antenna. Also in this specific embodiment, there are one or more continuity traces embedded in the bag, as shown here with 310 attached to the wall of the silo, and 320 attached to the bottom of the silo. FIG. 4 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors, a wireless connection to a wireless unit 410, and a communication connection to a CPC 420. The ground, silo, and sensors, are as described in FIG. 1, above. 410 which may be external or internal to the silo bag, is a wireless unit which receives transmissions of measurements from the sensors and which transmits the measurements to a central processing center 420. In some embodiments, there is a two-way communication link between the wireless unit 410 and the sensors, in which the sensors transmit measurements and may transmit queries, and the wireless unit 410 may transmit to the sensors commands or queries. In some embodiments, there is a two-way link between the wireless unit 410 and the CPC 420, in which the wireless unit transmits sensor measurements and may transmit queries, while the CPC may transmit commands and queries. In some embodiments, the system does not execute the functions of a CPC, and hence there is no CPC, despite the presence of 420 in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, some of the functions of the CPC are executed by the wireless unit, there is no CPC, and hence the CPC would not be part of the system despites the presence of 420 in FIG. 4. FIG. 5 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors, with embedded continuity traces, wireless connection to a wireless unit, and communication connection to a CPC. The ground, silo, and sensors, are as described in FIG. 1, above. Elements 310 and 320 are as described in FIG. 3, above. 510 which may be external or internal to the silo bag, is a wireless unit which receives transmissions of measurements from the sensors and which transmits the measurements to a central processing center 520. In some embodiments, there is a two-way communication link between the wireless unit 510 and the sensors, in which the sensors transmit measurements and may transmit queries, and the wireless unit 510 may transmit to the sensors commands or queries. In some embodiments, there is a two-way link between the wireless unit 510 and the CPC 520, in which the wireless unit transmits sensor measurements and may transmit queries, while the CPC may transmit commands and queries. The data transmitted to the wireless unit 510, and thence to CPC 520, is more extensive than the data transmitted to elements 410 and 420 in FIG. 4, since the system in FIG. 5 includes also readings from the various continuity traces. In some embodiments, the system does not execute the functions of a CPC, and hence there is no CPC, despite the presence of 520 in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, some of the functions of the CPC are executed by the wireless unit, there is no CPC, and hence the CPC would not be part of the system despites the presence of 520 in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram describing one method for measuring a physical characteristic at a plurality of points inside a silo bag. In one specific embodiment, 610 a plurality of sensors within a silo bag measure at least one physical characteristic at substantially the same time X for all the sensors. These measurements are communicated from the sensors to a wireless unit, and from the wireless unit to a CPC. Also in this specific embodiment, 620 the CPC estimates the current state of the bag at time X from the measurements received. Also in this specific embodiment, on the basis of these measurements and the estimated current state of the bag, 630 the CPC estimates the future state of the bag. Also in this specific embodiment, 640 the sensors at the various locations within the bag measure the same physical characteristic at multiple times, where each sensor measures the physical characteristic at essentially the same times as the other sensors. These multiple measurements of one physical characteristic are transmitted from the sensors to a wireless unit, and from the wireless unit to the CPC. Also in this specific embodiment, 650 the CPC estimates the future state of the bag from the multiple measurements over time received from the wireless unit. In some embodiments, at 620 the CPC accesses a database of physical condition in order to estimate the current state of the bag from one set of measurements all taken at substantially the same time. In some embodiments, at 630 the CPC accesses a database of physical condition in order to estimate the future state of the bag from one set of measurements all taken at substantially the same time. In some embodiments, after 630, the CPC sends a command through the wireless unit to the sensors, telling the sensors which physical characteristics to measure and at what times the measurements should be made. In these embodiments, the measurements received at multiple points of time are those which have been commanded by the CPC to the sensors. In some embodiments, at 650, the CPC estimates, in addition to the future state of the bag, also the current state of the bag, as estimated based on the measurements received from multiple times. In some embodiments, at 650, the CPC accesses a database of physical condition in order to estimate either the current state of the bag, or the future state of the bag, or both the current and future states of the bag, all as estimated from the multiple measures of physical characteristics at multiple times and the historical data in the database of physical condition. In some embodiments, there are a plurality of sensors within a silo bag and a single sensor outside the bag. In some embodiments, there is a single sensor within a silo bag and a single sensor outside the bag. In some embodiments, there is a single sensor within a silo bag and a plurality of sensors outside the bag. In some embodiments, communication from the sensors to a wireless unit is done through a wireless mesh network.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flow diagram describing one method for measuring a physical characteristic at a plurality of points inside a silo bag and a plurality of points outside a silo bag. In one specific embodiment, 710 a plurality of sensors within a silo bag measure at least one physical characteristic at substantially the same time X for all the sensors. Also in this specific embodiment, 720 a plurality of sensors outside a silo bag, but in physical proximity to the bag, measure at least one physical characteristic at substantially the same time X for all the sensors. All of these measurements, both the internal measurements and the external measurements, are communicated from the sensors to a wireless unit, and from the wireless unit to a CPC. Also in this specific embodiment, 730 the CPC estimates the current state of the bag at time X from the measurements received. Also in this specific embodiment, on the basis of these measurements and the estimated current state of the bag, 740 the CPC estimates the future state of the bag. Also in this specific embodiment, 750 the sensors at the various locations both within the bag and outside the bag measure the same physical characteristic at multiple times, where each sensor measures the physical characteristic at essentially the same times as the other sensors. These multiple measurements of one physical characteristic are transmitted from the sensors to a wireless unit, and from the wireless unit to the CPC. Also in this specific embodiment, 760 the CPC estimates the future state of the bag from the multiple measurements over time received from the wireless unit. In some embodiments, at 730 the CPC accesses a database of physical condition in order to estimate the current state of the bag from one set of measurements all taken at substantially the same time, or multiple sets of data taken over a period of time. In some embodiments, at 740 the CPC accesses a database of physical condition in order to estimate the future state of the bag from one set of measurements all taken at substantially the same time. In some embodiments, after 740, the CPC sends a command through the wireless unit to the sensors, telling the sensors which physical characteristics to measure and at what times the measurements should be made. In these embodiments, the measurements received at multiple points of time are those which have been commanded by the CPC to the sensors. In some embodiments, at 760, the CPC estimates, in addition to the future state of the bag, also the current state of the bag, as estimated based on the measurements received from multiple times. In some embodiments, at 760, the CPC accesses a database of physical condition in order to estimate either the current state of the bag, or the future state of the bag, or both the current and future states of the bag, all as estimated from the multiple measures of physical characteristics at multiple times and the historical data in the database of physical condition. In some embodiments, there are a plurality of sensors within a silo bag and a single sensor outside the bag. In some embodiments, there is a single sensor within a silo bag and a single sensor outside the bag. In some embodiments, there is a single sensor within a silo bag and a plurality of sensors outside the bag. In some embodiments, the sensors at the various locations within the bag and outside the bag measure different physical characteristic at multiple times, where each sensor measures the physical characteristic at essentially the same times as the other sensors. In some embodiments, the different physical characteristic measured within the bag and outside the bag are related, for example, the luminosity levels external to the bag and the temperature internal to the bag.

FIG. 8 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors, including a depression at the bottom of the bag with a sensor in proximity to the bag above the depression and a sensor in proximity to the bag below the depression. The ground, silo, and sensors, are as described in FIG. 1, above. . A depression has a tendency to collect fluid. Above the depression containing fluid, the humidity percentage will be higher. In some embodiments, the depression is unintentionally formed by ground conditions below the silo bag. In some embodiments, the depression is intentionally formed in the ground or foundations below the silo bag, so that fluid will collect in it. A depression or change in the smooth shape of the ground may cause stretching of the silo bag bottom and may lead to a tear. Sensors have been added to the silo bag at the site of the depression, including one sensor 810 above the depression but still in physical proximity to the bottom, and one sensor 820 below the depression in the silo bag and between the bag bottom and the earth. In some embodiments, element 810 is placed in the silo bag, but element 820 is not placed at all. In some embodiments, element 820 is placed between the silo bag and the earth, but element 810 is not placed at all. In some embodiments, the sensors placed at the site of the depression, whether 810 or 820 or both, measure different characteristics than the physical characteristics measured by the other sensors, or take measurements at different times than the times at which the other sensors take measurements.

FIG. 9 is a graphic depiction of a silo bag with sensors, with connection to a wireless unit, connection to a CPC, and connection between a CPC and one or more databases. The ground, silo, and sensors, are as described in FIG. 1, above. Elements 410 and 420 are as described in FIG. 4, above. FIG. 9 shows a connection between the CPC 420 and two databases 910 and 920. It is understood that the CPC can access more than one or two databases. In the particular arrangement shown, 910 is a database of physical condition, and is therefore accessed by the CPC so that the CPC may obtain historical measurements for estimating current condition of a bag, future condition of a bag, current condition of a crop stored in a bag with such measurements, or future condition of a crop stored in a bag with such measurements. The database of physical condition may have historical data for a point in time, or historical data for changing conditions as measured by measurements over multiple times, or both. In the particular arrangement shown in FIG. 9, 920 may be either a database of crop value, or a database of financial exchange, or both kinds of database. If 920 includes both kinds of database, then it is termed a "money database", as defined previously. Either of the databases 910 or 920 may be entirely internal, meaning accessed by the CPC without accessing the Internet or other public network, or may be external, meaning that that they are accessed by the CPC over the Internet or other public network. FIG. 9 shows the database 910 and 920 co-located at substantially the same place, whether the databases are internal or external. In some embodiments, 910 may be an internal database and 920 an external database, or 910 an external database and 920 and internal database. In some embodiments, 920 is split into two separate databases, one database of crop value and the other a database of financial exchange. If 920 is split into two databases, either of the databases may be internal or external, and the two databases may be co-located in close contact, or they may be located in different locations.

FIG. 10 illustrates a flow diagram describing one method for measuring a physical characteristic, and then processing measurements to derive information about the value of the stored crop. In one specific embodiment, 1010 sensors at a plurality of points within a silo bag and sensors at a plurality of points outside the bag but in proximity to the bag, measure a physical characteristic, and transmit the measurements to a CPC via a wireless unit, in which all the sensors measure the physical characteristic at essentially the same time X. Also in this specific embodiment, 1020 the CPC compares the measurements received to data from a database of physical condition. In some embodiments, the CPC compares the raw data of the measurements with corresponding data from the database. In some embodiments, the CPC first processes the raw data to create information, and then compares this information with corresponding information from the database. In such embodiments, the information may include statistical analysis, trend analysis, data reduction, data manipulation, graphical presentation, and/or adherence to different technical standards of data reporting. Also in this specific embodiment, 1030 the CPC, on the basis of the comparison, estimates the current state of the crop, including quantity of crop available at every quality grade according to the quality grades in the database of physical condition. Also in this specific embodiment, 1040 the CPC compares the current state of the crop, including each kind of crop, each quality of crop by grade of quality, and the quantity of each kind of crop at each grade of quality, to data from a database of crop value. Also in this specific embodiment, 1050 the CPC estimates the current value of the crop based on the comparison of data with data in the database of crop value. In some embodiments, measurements taken may be only from sensors located inside the bag, not from sensors located outside the bag. In some embodiments, the measurements of physical characteristic occur at a single point in time. In some embodiments, sensors measure physical characteristic at multiple times. In such embodiments, the CPC estimates physical condition of the crop, and financial of the crop, at multiple times. In some of such embodiments, the CPC estimates financial change over time, including the possible loss due to deterioration in the quality of the stored crop, and the overall gain or loss due to both change in physical condition of the crop and changing prices for different quality grades of crop. In some embodiments, the sensors or at least some part of the sensors measure a plurality of physical characteristics, and transmit all measurements to the CPC via the wireless unit. In some embodiments, the CPC accesses a database of financial exchange, and estimates the financial value of the crop, based on different grades of quality, in two or more currencies. In some embodiments, the CPC uses the measurements data, and access to all three databases - database of physical condition, database of crop value, and database of financial exchange - in order to estimate the financial value of the crop (1) in two or more currencies, (2) at two or more periods of time, and (3) with allocation of gains or losses to either changes in the physical condition of the crop, changes in the expected future prices of different quality grades of crop, or changes in expected future foreign exchange rates. In alternative embodiments, the CPC estimates physical conditions and current financial of multiple sub-groups, and in this way estimates the total value of the entire stored crop based on the component sub-crops of the stored crop. All of the embodiments discussed above in reference to FIG. 10 also apply to a crop whose condition and financial value is estimated based upon the conditions and financial values of its component sub-crops, except that in such embodiments, measurements 1010, comparison of measurements to a database of physical condition 1020, estimating the current state of the sub-crop 1030, and comparing the current state of the sub-crop with a database of crop value 1040, are performed for each sub-crop. The CPC then aggregates the results of the methods for each sub-crop, and estimates 1050 the financial value of the crop based upon the financial value of its component sub-parts. In embodiments in which the stored crop includes two or more different kinds of crops, the silo bag may be partitioned in a manner that allows a separation of different kinds of crops. In some embodiments, there is not a single a single silo bag, but rather multiple silo bags, where each silo bag has its own stored crop and its own sensors. In such embodiments, one alternative is that each the crop stored in each silo bag serves as its own "sub-crop", and all of the embodiments discussed above in regard to FIG. 10 apply, where "sub-crop" means a silo's entire stored crop, and "reordering" means that the order by which silos are emptied out will change to transfer out a silo whose crop is most at risk of damage. In such embodiments, a second alternative is that at least one of the multiple silo bags, and optionally more than one, has two or more sub-crops. As a result, each "sub-crop" is either a sub-crop that is part of an entire stored crop in one silo, or the sub-crop is all of a stored crop in a silo that has only one sub-crop. In all of these alternative embodiments, also, all of the embodiments discussed above in regard to FIG. 10 apply, where "sub-crop" means the sub-crop in a silo with multiple sub-crops or the entire crop in a silo with only one crop.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flow diagram describing one method for measuring the state of the stored crop at different locations within a silo bag, and then reordering the transfer of crops from the bag such that FDFO is substantially achieved. In one specific embodiment, 1110 sensors at a plurality of points within a silo bag and sensors at a plurality of points outside the bag but in proximity to the bag, measure a physical characteristic, and transmit the measurements to a CPC via a wireless unit, in which all the sensors measure the physical characteristic at essentially the same time X. Also in this specific embodiment, 1120 the CPC estimates the state of the crop at different locations within the bag, thereby estimating the state of a plurality of sub-crops. In some embodiments, 1120 the CPC estimates the state of the crop within different bags, thereby estimating the state of a plurality of crops within multiple bags. Also in this specific embodiment, 1130 the CPC or another processing unit creates an order for transferring sub-crops outside of the bag for further processing, such that sub-crops which are at relatively higher risk of future damage are transferred out of the bag before sub-crops that are at relatively lower risk of future damage. In some embodiments, sensors measure only points within the silo bag, but not points outside of the silo bag. In some embodiments, between 1110 and 1120 the CPC accesses a database of physical condition in order to estimate the current state of sub-crops as explained in 1120. In other embodiments, the CPC does not access a database of physical conditions. In some embodiments, the CPC estimates the physical condition of sub-groups based on measurements all taken at substantially the same time X. In other embodiments, the sensors take measurements of a physical characteristic at multiple times, and the CPC uses the multiple measurements from multiple sensors at multiple times to estimate the physical state of sub-crops. In some embodiments, at least some of the sensors measure a plurality of physical characteristics, and transmit such measurements to the CPC via the wireless unit. In some embodiments, the CPC reorders the transfer out of sub-crops in order to substantially achieve FDFO. In some embodiments, the CPC accesses a database of crop value, to estimate the financial value of the sub-crops based on the type of crop, the quantity in the sub-crop, and the quality grade of each sub-crop. In some such embodiments, the CPC may reorder the transfer of sub-crops either based solely on physical condition of the sub-crops, or based solely on the financial values of the sub- crops, or on a combination of physical condition and financial value of the sub-crops. In embodiments in which the stored crop includes two or more different kinds of crops, the silo bag may be partitioned in a manner that allows a separation of different kinds of crops.

In some embodiments, the reordering is not performed by the CPC, but is rather performed by the wireless unit. In some embodiments, there are not just one, but multiple silo bags, and the reordering is therefore done not in respect to only one bag, but rather in respect to sub-crops in two or more silo bags. In such embodiments, the reordering may be done by the CPC, or it may be done by the wireless unit.

FIG. 12 is a graphic depiction of multiple silo bags, in which each silo bag has partitions, and the silo bags are served by a single external sensor. The ground, silo, and sensors, are as described in FIG. 1, above. 1210 is a silo bag with multiple partitions 1210a, 1210b, and 1210c, in which all the partitions are partial partitions intended to prevent the transfer of fluid, or insects, or rodents, or fungus, or other crop disease, from one partitioned area to another. 1220 is a silo bag with multiple partitions 1220a and 1220b, in which the partitions are full partitions that divide the silo bag into partitioned compartments such that each compartment may have an entirely different stored crop. Is it understood that in some embodiments, the partitions divide the silo bag into partitioned compartments such that gas cannot flow from one compartment to another. Is it understood that in some embodiments, partial partitions may also be used to divide a silo bag into partial partitioned compartments. It is understood that in some embodiments, partial partitions may be used to prevent the transfer of fluid, from one compartment to another. It is understood that in some embodiments, full partitions may be used to prevent the transfer of fluid, insects, rodents, fungus or disease, from one compartment to another. In such embodiments, this may be the sole purpose of the full partitions, where each compartment stores the same kind of crop. In such embodiments, this may be only one purpose of the full partitions, where each compartment both prevents such transfers and permits the storage of its own sub-crop which may be different from other sub-crops in the silo. In some embodiments, a silo bag has a partial partition and a full partition. In some embodiments, the sensors in silos 1210 and 1220 will communicate with sensor 190. In such embodiments, 190 and one or more other sensors are part of a mesh network, and sensor 190 will communicate with a wireless unit or with a CPC. In this description, numerous specific details are set forth. However, the embodiments/cases of the invention may be practiced without some of these specific details. In other instances, well-known hardware, materials, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure the understanding of this description. In this description, references to "one embodiment" and "one case" mean that the feature being referred to may be included in at least one embodiment/case of the invention. Moreover, separate references to "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "one case", or "some cases" in this description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment/case. Illustrated embodiments/cases are not mutually exclusive, unless so stated and except as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, the invention may include any variety of combinations and/or integrations of the features of the embodiments/cases described herein. Also herein, flow diagrams illustrate non- limiting embodiment/case examples of the methods, and block diagrams illustrate non- limiting embodiment/case examples of the devices. Some operations in the flow diagrams may be described with reference to the embodiments/cases illustrated by the block diagrams. However, the methods of the flow diagrams could be performed by embodiments/cases of the invention other than those discussed with reference to the block diagrams, and embodiments/cases discussed with reference to the block diagrams could perform operations different from those discussed with reference to the flow diagrams. Moreover, although the flow diagrams may depict serial operations, certain embodiments/cases could perform certain operations in parallel and/or in different orders from those depicted. Moreover, the use of repeated reference numerals and/or letters in the text and/or drawings is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments/cases and/or configurations discussed. Furthermore, methods and mechanisms of the embodiments/ cases will sometimes be described in singular form for clarity. However, some embodiments/cases may include multiple iterations of a method or multiple instantiations of a mechanism unless noted otherwise. For example, when a controller or an interface are disclosed in an embodiment/case, the scope of the embodiment/case is intended to also cover the use of multiple controllers or interfaces.

Certain features of the embodiments/cases, which may have been, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments/cases, may also be provided in various combinations in a single embodiment/case. Conversely, various features of the embodiments/cases, which may have been, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment/case, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. The embodiments/cases are not limited in their applications to the details of the order or sequence of steps of operation of methods, or to details of implementation of devices, set in the description, drawings, or examples. In addition, individual blocks illustrated in the figures may be functional in nature and do not necessarily correspond to discrete hardware elements. While the methods disclosed herein have been described and shown with reference to particular steps performed in a particular order, it is understood that these steps may be combined, sub-divided, or reordered to form an equivalent method without departing from the teachings of the embodiments/cases. Accordingly, unless specifically indicated herein, the order and grouping of the steps is not a limitation of the embodiments/cases. Embodiments/cases described in conjunction with specific examples are presented by way of example, and not limitation. Moreover, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system for measuring a physical characteristic of a silo bag, comprising: a silo bag; and a plurality of sensors in proximity to the silo bag; wherein a sensor is communicatively connected to a transmitting medium; and wherein a sensor is configured to measure a physical characteristic of the silo bag.

2. The system of claim 1, in which a sensor is configured to measure the integrity of the silo bag.

3. The system of claim 1, in which the silo bag contains a crop.

4. The system of claim 3, in which the silo bag comprises at least two layers of materials.

5. The system of claim 4, further comprising a sensor located inside the bag and in proximity to the bottom of the bag.

6. The system of claim 4, further comprising a sensor located inside the bag, within proximity to the bag, and not within proximity to the bottom of the bag.

7. The system of claim 4, further comprising a sensor located outside the bag, above the earth, in proximity to the bag, and within the rodent zone of the bag.

8. The system of claim 4, further comprising a sensor located outside the bag, above the earth, in proximity to the bag, and not within the rodent zone of the bag.

9. The system of claim 4, further comprising a sensor located outside the bag, above the earth, and not in proximity to the bag.

10. The system of claim 4, further comprising a sensor located inside the bag and in proximity to the bottom of the bag; a sensor located inside the bag, in proximity to the bag, not within proximity to the bottom of the bag; a sensor located outside the bag, above the earth, in proximity to the bag, and within the rodent zone of the bag; a sensor located outside the bag, above the earth, in proximity to the bag, and not within the rodent zone of the bag; and a sensor located outside the bag, above the earth, and not in proximity to the bag.

11. The system of claim 10, further comprising a sensor embedded within the bag.

12. The system of claim 10, further comprising a sensor located outside the bag and between the bottom of the bag and the earth.

13. A method for measuring a physical characteristic of a silo bag, comprising:

measuring the level of a physical characteristic inside the silo bag by a sensor located inside the bag and in proximity with the bottom of the bag; and measuring the level of a physical characteristic outside the bag by a sensor located outside the bag;

wherein each sensor measures the physical characteristics at a plurality of times; and

wherein each sensor, in accordance with its own schedule or a command received by the sensor, communicates its measurements to a wireless unit.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising a sensor measuring a physical characteristic indicative of the integrity of the silo bag.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the sensor located outside the bag is also located in proximity to the bag.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the sensor located outside the bag and in proximity to the bag, is also located between the bag and the earth.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein a physical characteristic measured is humidity.