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    • 专利摘要:
    abstract: stalk sensor apparatus, systems, and methods referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the various views, fig. 1 illustrates a prior art agricultural combine 10 which is supported and propelled by ground engaging wheels 14. although the combine 10 is illustrated as being supported and propelled by ground engaging wheels 14 it can also be supported and propelled by full tracks or half tracks. a harvesting assembly 16 is used to gather crop and to conduct it to a feederhouse 18. the crop is conducted by the feederhouse 18 to a beater 20. the beater 20 guides the crop upwardly through an intake transition region 22 to a rotary threshing and separating assembly 24. in addition to rotary type combines such as illustrated in fig. 1, the prior art includes conventional combines having a transverse threshing cylinder and straw walkers or combines having a transverse threshing cylinder and rotary separator rotors. ************************************ Translation of the abstract patent summary: "apparatus, systems and methods for stem sensor ". systems, methods and apparatus for detecting stalks processed by a combine harvester, for measuring stalk diameters and for displaying metric harvesting systems and production data for a user based on stalk locations and stalk diameters. 21330320v1 1/1 21330320v1
    公开号:BR112014012224B1
    申请号:R112014012224-5
    申请日:2012-11-21
    公开日:2019-04-09
    发明作者:Timothy A. Sauder；Derek A. Sauder；Troy L. Plattner；David Huber
    申请人:Precision Planting Llc；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    [001] The invention relates to systems, methods and apparatus for detecting stalks processed by a combine harvester, for measuring stem diameters and for displaying metric harvesting systems and production data to a user based on stalk locations and diameters stalk.
    [002] Normally, the entire collector (for example, all line units of a corn collector) engages the crop during harvest. However, as the total width of the crop being harvested can vary during harvest (for example, when harvesting a remaining crop strip that is less than the width of the harvester), systems have been proposed to determine this total width. US document No. 2002 / 173,893 discloses a bandwidth detection set to inform a processor when the harvested harvest range is narrower than the active collector width. Similarly, US document No. 6,185,990 discloses a system for estimating the current crop width of the crop being harvested by a harvester collector.
    [003] Further improvements in productivity monitoring have been proposed to determine the amount of harvest being harvested. For example, US document No. 6,525,276 discloses the use of load cells to produce analog data signals representative of a peanut harvester's collection basket as the crop is harvested.
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 6/51
    2/34 [004] Other proposed harvesting systems used crop measurements to avoid harvesting immature crops. GB No. 2,432,096 discloses a cutting means for the cutting position when a crop of a suitable size is detected, and retracts the cutting means when a reduced size crop is detected, thus allowing the crop to remain in the place for growth.
    BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [005] The present invention discloses a method for measuring a stem diameter as an agricultural harvester traverses a field, comprising: moving a first stem sensor associated with a harvester serial unit in addition to a first stem on the field, said first stem sensor generating a first signal related to a position of said first stem sensor with respect to said first stem; storing said first signal in memory; determining a diameter of said first stem based on said first signal; registering a geographical reference position of a global positioning receiver, said global positioning receiver arranged in a first offset of said first stem sensor; determining a geographical reference position for said first stem based on said first compensation; and storing in memory a first association between said first stem diameter and said geographical reference position of said first stem.
    [006] The invention further provides a stem sensor system for use with an agricultural combine harvester while the harvester traverses a field, comprising: a first stem sensor associated with a first series harvester unit; a second stem sensor associated with a second combine harvester unit; a production sensor configured to generate a signal related to a quantity of grain harvested by the combine harvester; a harvester-mounted global positioning receiver
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 7/51
    3/34 a threshing machine and configured to generate a position signal, said position signal related to a combine harvester position; and electrical communication processing circuits with said first stem sensor, said second stem sensor, said production sensor and said global positioning receiver, said processing circuits configured to determine stem diameter measurements and locations measuring stem based on signals generated by said first and second stem sensors, wherein said stem measuring locations of said first stem sensor are based on a first offset between said global positioning receiver for said first stem sensor and said stem locations of said second stem sensor are based on a second compensation between said global positioning receiver for said second stem sensor, said processing circuits additionally configured to generate a map, said map associating said stem measurement locations with said diameter measurements of t Hello.
    DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [007] Figure 1 is a side elevation view of a combine harvester.
    [008] Figure 2 is a front perspective view of a combine harvester.
    [009] Figure 3A is a front perspective view of a corn head.
    [0010] Figure 3B is a front perspective view of a corn head row unit.
    [0011] Figure 4 is a front perspective view of a corn head row unit.
    [0012] Figure 5 is a top view of a corn head row unit.
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 8/51
    4/34 [0013] Figure 6 is a top view of a corn head row unit.
    [0014] Figure 7A is a front elevation view of a corn head row unit.
    [0015] Figure 7B is a front elevation view of a corn head row unit.
    [0016] Figure 8 is a partial bottom view of a corn head row unit.
    [0017] Figure 9A is a bottom perspective view of a stem sensor modality.
    [0018] Figure 9B is a bottom perspective view of the stem sensor of figure 9A.
    [0019] Figure 10 is a perspective view from behind the stem sensor of Figure 9A.
    [0020] Figure 11 is a bottom view of the stem sensor of figure 9A.
    [0021] Figure 12 is a front elevation view of a modality of a unit in a row of corn heads with the stem sensor of figure 9A mounted on it.
    [0022] Figure 13 is a bottom view of the corn head row unit and the stem sensor of figure 9A.
    [0023] Figure 14A is a front perspective view of the stem sensor of figure 9A interacting with a stem.
    [0024] Figure 14B is a top view of the stem sensor of figure 12 interacting with a stem.
    [0025] Figure 15A is a front perspective view of the stem sensor of figure 12 interacting with a stem.
    [0026] Figure 15B is a top view of the stem sensor of figure 12 interacting with a stem.
    [0027] Figure 16A is a front perspective view of the sensor
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    5/34 of the stem of figure 12 interacting with a stem.
    [0028] Figure 16B is a top view of the stem sensor of figure 12 interacting with a stem.
    [0029] Figure 17 is a schematic illustration of a modality of a stem sensor system.
    [0030] Figure 18 is a schematic illustration of the stem sensor system of figure 17 on a combine.
    [0031] Figure 19 is a process flow diagram illustrating a modality of a process for measuring the diameter of the stem.
    [0032] Figure 20A is a modality of a monitor screen display to enter reaper monitor adjustment parameters.
    [0033] Figure 20B is a modality of a monitor screen display for entering GPS settings of the stem measurement system.
    [0034] Figure 21 is a production plot measured over time.
    [0035] Figure 22 illustrates another modality of a monitor screen showing a production map.
    [0036] Figure 23 shows a screen of the monitor in figure 22 showing a production map at a different level of approximation.
    [0037] Figure 24 illustrates another modality of a monitor screen showing a production map.
    [0038] Figure 25 illustrates another modality of a monitor screen showing a production map.
    [0039] Figure 26 is a schematic top view of a set of corn stalks divided into stalk blocks.
    [0040] Figure 27 is a process flow diagram illustrating a modality of a process to estimate production.
    [0041] Figure 28A is a histogram of the stem diameter.
    [0042] Figure 28B is a plot of diameter of the stem in contrast to the production.
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 10/51
    6/34 [0043] Figure 29 is a modality of a monitor screen display for reporting specific row harvester data.
    [0044] Figure 30 is a histogram of the diameter of the stem.
    [0045] Figure 31 is a production plot in contrast to a cultivation variable.
    [0046] Figure 32 is a production plot and a planting variable over time.
    [0047] Figure 33 is a flow diagram of the process illustrating a modality of a process to determine loss of production and economic loss of cultivation variables.
    [0048] Figure 34 is a modality of a monitor screen display to show a production loss map.
    [0049] Figure 35 is a modality of a monitor screen display to show a crop variable map.
    [0050] Figure 36 is a modality of a monitor screen display to show a production loss map overlaid with a production variable map.
    [0051] Figure 37 is a modality of a monitor screen display for reporting harvest data.
    [0052] Figure 38 is a modality of a monitor screen display to show a comparison of harvest data between multiple rows.
    [0053] Figure 39 is a modality of a monitor screen display to show a visualization of harvest data for a row.
    [0054] Figure 40 is a schematic top view of a set of stems divided into blocks of rows.
    [0055] Figure 41 illustrates a modality of a harvest map screen showing data from the plantation indicating rows affected by tire compaction.
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 11/51
    7/34 [0056] Figure 42 is a front view of a reaper row unit with an optical stem sensor modality mounted on it.
    [0057] Figure 43 illustrates an optical stem sensor signal.
    [0058] Figure 44 illustrates a modality of a process for using a non-contact sensor to measure the diameter of the stem.
    DESCRIPTION [0059] Referring now to the drawings, in which similar reference numbers designate identical or corresponding parts from all different views, figure 1 illustrates a prior art agricultural harvester 10 which is supported and driven by wheels fitted into the ground 14. Although the harvester 10 is illustrated as being supported and driven on wheels fitted to the ground 14 it can also be supported and driven by entire tracks or half of tracks. A combine harvester 16 is used to gather the crop and lead it to a feeder 18. The crop is driven by feeder 18 to a sovador 20. The sovador 20 guides the crop upwards through a transition region inlet 22 for a rotary threshing and separating assembly 24. In addition to rotary-type harvesters such as that illustrated in figure 1, the prior art includes conventional harvesters having a transverse knuckle cylinder and rotary separator rotors.
    [0060] The swivel threshing and separating assembly 24 comprises a rotor 26 housing and a rotor 28 in the rotor 26 housing. The harvested crop introduces the rotor 26 housing through the inlet transition region 22. The threshing and separate rotating 24 pits and separates the harvested crop. The grain and chaff fall through the grids at the bottom of the rotor housing onto a cleaning assembly 34. The cleaning assembly 34 removes the chaff and leads the cleaned grain to a grain elevator 36 that conducts the grain
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    8/34 above for a helical distribution conveyor 38. The helical distribution conveyor 38 deposits the cleaned grain in a 40 grain tank. The cleaned grain in the 40 grain tank can be discharged via a discharge auger 42 to a grain cart or auger wagon. The separated straw from the grain is guided out of the threshing and separating assembly 24 through an outlet to a discharge grinder 46. The discharge beater 46 ejects the straw from a rear end of the harvester
    10.
    [0061] The operation of the harvester 10 is controlled from an operator's cabin 48. A geographic position sensor in the form of a GPS 50 receiver for receiving signals from the GPS (global positioning system) is attached above the operator's cabin 48. Preferably mounted on one side of the clean grain elevator 36 is a capacitive humidity sensor 52 for measuring the moisture content of the clean grain. A production sensor 54 is preferably located near the outlet of the clean grain elevator 36. In some embodiments, the production sensor 54 comprises a sensor plate mounted for flexing; the flexion of the production sensor depends on the mass flow rate of the clean grain. The bending of the impeller plate is measured and, therefore, data are provided on the mass flow rate of the harvested grain.
    [0062] A processor 56 located in the operator's cabin 48 (or elsewhere on the harvester 10) is preferably in electrical communication with the GPS receiver 50, humidity sensor 52 and production sensor 54. Processor 56 is provided with an internal clock or receives external time signals, for example, from receiver 50. Processor 56 records the amount of grain harvested (measured using the production sensor 54) and its moisture content (measured using the humidity sensor 52) depends on geographical position
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 13/51
    9/34 is located on reaper 10 (measured using the GPS 50 receiver). Processor 56 reports the data and produces a summary of the field. Therefore, it is possible to create a production map with the data provided.
    [0063] Figures 2, 3A and 3B illustrate a prior art harvester 10 in which the crop assembly 16 comprises a head of corn. The illustrated corn head includes four 90 series units arranged between five 88 series dividers. Corn cobs are disaggregated from each of the four series via a 90 series unit and then loaded by an auger 87 into a conduit 82 of the head corn 16 and feeder house 18.
    [0064] Figures 4 and 5 are perspective views and top, respectively, of a corn head unit 90. The serial number unit 90 is similar to that described in U.S. Patent No. 5,878,561, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Each series 90 unit includes left and right frame portions 92 on which left and right and pulley assemblies 94a and 94b are supported. Guide and pulley assemblies 94 support left and right link chains 96a and 96b for driven rotation. Link chains 96 include a series of link fingers 95. Breaker plates 93a and 93b are mounted on left and right frame portions 92.
    [0065] Figure 6 is a top view of the 90 series unit with the separator plates 93a and 93b removed, revealing left and right stem rolls 98a and 98b. Each stem roll 98 preferably includes a threaded stem grab 99. Stem rollers 98 are mounted on the 90 series unit for rotation driven by a driving machine (not shown). In operation, after the stems are joined between the disaggregation plates 93, the stems are gripped by threaded stem grabbers 99. The stems are attached
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    10/34 so pulled down by the stem rollers 98; ears of corn attached to the stems are detached from the stems and retained above the disintegrating plates 93 while the stems are pulled below the disintegrating plates and discarded. Joining fingers 95 pull the spikes back towards the gimlet 87.
    [0066] Figures 7A and 8 are front and bottom views, respectively, of the 90 series unit. The 90 series unit includes left and right floor portions 86a and 86b. The floor portions 86 are attached to the structure portions 92 by screws 85. The floor portions 86 are not shown in figure 7B in order to provide an unobstructed view of the stem rollers 98 and the stem grabbers 99.
    Mechanical Sensor Apparatus [0067] A stem sensor 300b is illustrated in figure 9A. The stem sensor 300b includes a housing 310 and a cover 312. Turning to figures 9B and 10, where the cover 312 is removed, a pin 346 is pivotally mounted in housing 310. A spring 320 is mounted on a platform 314, whose The platform is preferably formed as a part of housing 310. Spring 320 preferably contacts a flat portion 342 of pin 346. A tube of sensor 330 is preferably housed within housing 315. An antenna 315 is preferably mounted to pin 346 via a stem 344.
    [0068] Figure 11 shows a bottom view of the stem sensor 300b with the cover 312 removed. A circuit board 332 is preferably mounted inside the tube of sensor 330. A sensor 335 is mounted on circuit board 332. Sensor 335 is in electrical communication with the circuit board. The sensor 335 is preferably a sensor adapted to generate a signal proportional to the resistance of a magnetic field close to the sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor. A magnet 322 is mounted on spring 320. Depending on the antenna
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    11/34
    315 rotates with pin 346, the flat portion 342 (not shown in figure 10) of pin 346 bends spring 320. An Ap axis preferably defines the position of antenna 315 to which spring 320 is in its least bent state (i.e. is, more relaxed). As antenna 315 rotates through an increasing angle w of the Ap axis, the spring 320 flexes so that a distance Dh between magnet 322 and sensor 335 decreases. Therefore, the distance Dh is inversely related to the angle w.
    [0069] Comparing figure 7A with figure 12, two stem sensors 300a and 300b (together referred to here as a single stem sensor 300) are preferably installed in the harvester 90 series unit. Sensors 300a and 300b are mounted at clamps 330a and 330b, respectively. The clamps 330a and 330b are mounted on the frame portions of the series unit 92a and 92b, respectively. The assembly of each clamp 330 is preferably achieved by removing the screw 85 and the floor portion 86, placing the clamp against the structure portion 92, and screwing the floor portion 86 into the structure portion through a hole (not shown) ) on the clamp.
    [0070] As illustrated in figure 12, the clamps 330 are configured so that the sensors 300a and 300b are arranged with their respective antennas 315 overlapping in the transverse direction. Returning to figure 13, the sensors 300a and 300b are mounted to the clamps 330 so that the antennas 315a and 315b also overlap in the direction of travel in their undisturbed state. Continuing with reference to figure 13, the antennas 315 are indicated in their displaced state in dashed lines. The illustrated displacement would correspond to the maximum displacement imposed by a stem having a diameter equal to the transverse distance between the separating plates 93a and 93b.
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 16/51
    12/34 [0071] Continuing with reference to figure 13, a plane Pf corresponds to a position along the path of the stem in which the stem is at least partially transversally restricted by the disaggregating plates 93. A plane Pr corresponds to a position along the path of the stem path before the stem grippers 99a, 99b. As illustrated, sensors 300a and 300b are preferably arranged so that the range of motion (for example, between the positions of the full line and dashed line in figure 13) of antennas 315 is in a detection region Rs between the planes Pf and Pr.
    [0072] Turning to figures 14A through 16B, the action by which the antennas 315 are displaced is illustrated. Figures 14A, 15A and 16A illustrate front perspective views of a stem sensor 300 comprising left and right sensors 300a and 300b as stem 25 moves through series unit 90. Figures 14B, 15B and 16B illustrate top views of a stem sensor 300 comprising left and right sensors 300a and 300b as stem 25 moves through the series unit 90. In figures 14A and 14B, a stem 25 is about to contact antennas 315a and 315b. In figures 15A and 15B, stem 25 moved further through the 90 series unit and thus flexed antennas 315. In figures 16A and 16B, stem 25 flexed both antennas 315 to maximum extent before allowing that the antennas return to their undisturbed state by the springs 320 (figure 11). The maximum flexion of the antenna arms 315a, 315b by the stem 25 is represented by the angles Wa, Wb, respectively.
    Stem Measurement Systems [0073] A stalk measurement system 100 incorporating a series of stalk sensors 300 is illustrated in figure 17. Stem sensors 300 are preferably in electrical communication with a monitor plate 250. As discussed elsewhere part here, each sensor
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 17/51
    13/34 of stem 300 preferably comprises a pair of stem sensors 300a, stem sensor 300b. Monitor board 250 preferably includes a CPU and memory. The monitor board 250 is preferably in electrical communication with a reaper monitor 200. The reaper monitor 200 preferably includes a processor 202, a memory 204, and a graphical user interface (GUI) 206. The reaper monitor 200 also preferably includes a wireless communication device, removable memory port (for example, USB port), or other device for transmitting data to and from the reaper monitor 200. It should be appreciated based on the present description that monitor board 250 and the reaper monitor 200 can be combined into a single piece of hardware in some modes. The monitor board 250 is preferably in electrical communication with the production sensor 54 and the humidity sensor 52. The production sensor 54 can be an impact production sensor configured to generate a signal proportional to the mass flow rate of grain through the clean grain elevator as known in the art (such as that described in U.S. patent No. 5,561,250), or can comprise another sensor configured to measure the rate at which the grain is harvested. Monitor board 250 is preferably in electrical communication with the speed sensor as is known in the art. Monitor board 250 is preferably in electrical communication with receiver 50, which may comprise a device configured to receive and interpret signals from GPS or other satellite-based positioning systems (for example, GLONASS or Galileo).
    [0074] The stem measurement system 100 is shown installed on a reaper 10 having four 90 series units in figure 18. Each stem sensor 300 is preferably mounted to a 90 series unit. Although a four series harvester is illustrated on here,
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    14/34 modalities with higher numbers of serial units and corresponding stem sensors are possible using the same principles described here. Monitor plate 250 is preferably mounted inside the harvester cab 48. The harvester monitor 200 is preferably mounted inside the cab 48 within the view of the operator. The positioning system is preferably mounted on the roof of the harvester cab 48. The speed sensor is preferably mounted inside the harvester 10. The production sensor 54 is mounted inside the harvester, preferably intercepting or interacting with the grain flow as shown in figure 1.
    Stem Measurement Methods [0075] Turning to Figure 19, a 2100 process is illustrated to measure the stalk width using a system such as the stalk measurement system 100. In step 2103, the monitor plate records the position of the reaper 10 at discrete times using the signal from the GPS 50 receiver. In step 2105, the monitor board 250 monitors the positions of each antenna 315 of the stem sensors 300a, b of each 90 series unit, preferably monitoring the signals generated by each sensor 335. As described elsewhere here, the signal generated by each sensor 335 is proportional to the travel angle w (figure 11) of the associated antenna 315. In step 2110, the monitor board preferably determines whether each antenna 315 has passed a limit shift, for example, 2 degrees from the undisturbed position (along the Ap axis, figure 11) by comparing the signal from each sensor 335 to a baseline . Since the limit for each antenna 315a and 315b of any stem sensor 300 has exceeded the limit, in step 2115 the monitor board 250 preferably records the displacement of both antennas 315a and 315b from the stem sensor 300. In step 2120, the monitor plate 250 preferably determines whether both antennas 315a and 315b have returned within a boundary angle (for example, 2 degrees) of
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    15/34 undisturbed position. Since both antennas 315 are below the limit offset, in step 2125 the monitor board 250 stores the maximum offset Wa, Wb (figure 16B) of each antenna 315a and 315b and in step 2130 stores the maximum offset time of the antennas 315. In step 2135, monitor plate 250 preferably calculates stem diameter 25.
    [0076] In completion step 2135, the diameter Ds of stem 25 can be measured using the maximum deflection angles Wa, Wb (figure 16B) of the antenna arms 315a and 315b caused by the stem as it moves through the serial unit 90 using the interface:
    Ds = Df- L (sin (l / l / y) + sin (l / l / o))
    Where (as illustrated in figure 16B):
    [0077] L represents the length of the antennas 315;
    [0078] Dt represents the total distance between the rotation axes of the antenna [0079] (that is, between the rotation axes of pins 346).
    [0080] The values of Dt and L are preferably preloaded in memory 204.
    [0081] In step 2140, the monitor plate preferably associates the measured stem diameter with a position in the field corresponding to the maximum travel time of one of the antennas 315 to a position registered by the position sensor 105.
    Adjustment and Configuration System [0082] As illustrated in figures 20A and 20B, the reaper monitor 200 preferably shows a series of adjustment screens allowing the user to provide adjustment and configuration inputs to the reaper monitor. As illustrated in figure 20A, a 1910 adjustment screen allows the user to select the applicable reaper, reaper model, collector, collector model and production sensor model using 1918 full drop menu bars.
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    16/34 the operator presses or otherwise selects one of the menu bars 1918, a full drop menu 1916 is preferably shown so that the operator can select from a set of relevant choices. Once the combine harvester configuration is entered by the user, system 100 preferably identifies a variable system (for example, the distance Dt) based on user input. The 1912 plantation file selection bar preferably allows the user to enter a name for a plantation file containing plantation-related data such as seed placement, location of measurement errors, population, seed type and the location of tire tracks of the planter. The field boundary selection bar 1914 allows the user to select a field boundary file corresponding to a field to be harvested. It should be appreciated that the plantation file can be provided using a removable memory port or other device provided on the reaper monitor 200. Turning to figure 20B, a 1920 adjustment screen allows the user to introduce GPS compensations for use by the reaper monitor 200 in determining the location of each stem sensor 300. For example, using input fields 1922, the operator can enter the forward distance D1 between the GPS receiver 50 and stem sensors 300, the transverse distance D2 between the GPS receiver and the leftmost stem sensor 300, and the transverse distances D3, D4, D5 between the stem sensors 300. Stem Field Estimation Methods [0083] As harvester 10 crosses the field, the reaper 200 preferably records production over time using the production sensor signal 54 as is known in the art. Returning to figure 21, the recorded production data correspond to a production curve 3110. As indicated on the x-axis of the plot, the production curve 3110 is preferably transferred by
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    17/34 a machine compensation (for example, 7 seconds) corresponding to a delay in grain processing between the time when the stalks 25 enter the 90 series units and the time when the grain from the stalks reaches the production sensor 54. For each Tb recording period (for example, 1 second) the harvester monitor preferably records an average production (block production Yb) corresponding to the average value of the production curve 110 during the recording period (in figure 21, between times t1 and t2 making the beginning and end of the recording period Tb).
    [0084] Turning to figure 22, the harvester monitor 200 preferably shows a screen with an 1810 production map including an 1815 production map. The 1815 production map corresponds to an area harvested from a field and includes 1818 production blocks. mapped spatial area of 1818 production blocks preferably corresponds to the harvested area of the harvester 10 during periods of discrete records Tb (figure 21). The Yb block production associated with each 1818 production block corresponds to the average production during the associated record period Tb; for example, the average production recorded in the block production indicated by reference number 1812 was 140 bushels per acre. It should be appreciated that in preferred mapping techniques, each block production is colored according to a production by color legend in order to indicate more clearly the spatial variation in the production.
    [0085] In figure 23, the screen with a production map is approximated (using a magnification feature preferably provided by the reaper monitor 200) for the previously identified 1812 production block. Returning to figure 24, a screen 1820 preferably shows production block 1812 broken into stem blocks 1822, each having a spatial area associated with an individual stem 25. The reaper monitor 200 preferably associates a value
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    18/34 specific stalk production (referred to herein as Ys stalk production) for each block of stalk 1822, preferably denominated in bushels per acre. Returning to figure 25, a screen 1830 is illustrated in which the harvester monitor 200 uses the specific stalk production values to graphically describe production block 1812 as having multiple production zones with different production ranges (for example, zone 1832 and zone 1836, separated by limit 1834) instead of a single production zone. In this way, the 1810 production map is provided with increased resolution both along and across the direction of the harvest path.
    [0086] In order to break a production block 1812 into stalk blocks 1822 with associated stalk production estimates, the reaper monitor 200 preferably estimates the production associated with each stalk 25 based on the diameter of the stalk. With reference to figure 26, each stem 25 (for example, 25-1 and 25-2) within production block 1812 has a measured diameter D (for example, D1 and D2). Each stem block 1822 has an area determined by the product of (a) the spacing S (for example, S1 and S2) between the midpoints between stem 25 in stem block 1822 and subsequent stems and before stem e (b ) the spacing of the R series between the series of stems.
    [0087] A 2200 process for estimating the production of each stem is illustrated in figure 27. In step 2100, monitor plate 250 begins to record the position of a diameter of each stem 25 as described here with respect to figure 19. In step 2010, the monitor board starts recording the signal from the production sensor 54 to generate a production curve 3110 (figure 21). In step 2300, the reaper monitor 200 places a production block 1812 on the production map 1815 (figure 22) mapping the area harvested by the corn head 16 during registration period 21, and associates an average production YB with the stalk stage 1812. In step 2020, the 200 harvester monitor associates
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    19/34 stems 25 with production blocks 1812, preferably determining whether the time ts of each stalk event (for example, times t-s1 to tsn corresponding to stems 25-1 to 25-n) falls between the t1 and t2 extensions registration period of block Tb (see figure 21). In step 2025, the harvester monitor 200 determines the R and S dimensions of each stem block, preferably using the distance between the recorded position of subsequent plants as well as the width of the transverse series.
    [0088] Continuing with reference to figure 27 and process 2200, in step 2030 the reaper monitor 2030 preferably splits the production Yb of the production block 1812 based on a relationship between the diameter of the stem and the production. Such a relationship is illustrated in figure 28B, in which a feature 4110 reports the diameter of the stem for the production of the stem. An initial feature 4110 is preferably determined empirically and preloaded into the memory of the reaper monitor 200; in some embodiments, the reaper monitor can select from multiple pre-loaded characteristics appropriate for various hybrid, population and other variables.
    [0089] Continuing with reference to step 2030, once the harvester monitor 200 searched for an estimated production value for each stem 25 using feature 4110, the harvester monitor 200 preferably scales all stem production on stem block 1812 so that the estimated average production of stems is equal to the block production Yb measured by the production sensor 54. Therefore, the individual stalk production scaled Ys-n from a block of stems 1822-n corresponding to a stalk 25- n in a block of stems 1812 having N 25 stalks of unscaled production Ys can be represented by a relationship such as
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    20/34 „ NYi > γ ~ Y —-Where:
    V - ^ Ds > s ' and / (Ds) is an empirical relationship such as the production-stem diameter ratio 4110 (figure 28B). In step 2035, the reaper monitor 200 preferably shows a map of the initial production based on those estimates determined in step 2030.
    [0090] In order to optimize the production ratio 4110 for the current field, the reaper monitor 200 preferably performs optional steps 2040 through 2055 of process 2200. In step 2040, the reaper monitor 200 gathers additional data points 4105 (figure 28B) in the production-diameter ratio registering the Yb block production and an average Da stem diameter for each production block. In step 2045, the reaper monitor 200 preferably filters data points 4105 using a statistical criterion. 28A depicts a histogram 4210 in which each data point 4205 represents the number of stems 25 in a given stalk block 1812 having a diameter within the banding. Using a statistical function as is known in the art, the reaper monitor determines the standard deviation σ of stem diameters for production block 1812 about the middle μ of the histogram. If the standard deviation σ of stem diameters in a given production block exceeds a certain limit (for example, 0.25μ or 0.5 cm) then data point 4105 corresponding to the stem block is preferably filtered, that is, not used to update the diameter-production ratio 4110. After an adjustment of filtered data points has been acquired, in step 2050 the reaper monitor 200 preferably updates the diameter-production ratio 4110 and repeats the step in step 2030 in order to update Ys stalk productions based on the diameter-production ratio. In step 2055 the mo
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 25/51
    21/34 harvester monitor preferably shows an updated production map on the updated Ys stalk productions.
    Reaper Information Screens [0091] In addition to the 1810 production map screen, the reaper monitor 200 preferably displays multiple reaper information screens including the 1200 series details screen such as the one illustrated in figure 29, which illustrates the details of a specific series unit (the active harvester series) 90-1 of a four series harvester 10 (figure 18).
    [0092] The 1200 series details screen preferably includes a 1210 planter series window that identifies the planter series (for example, 12) that planted the series being harvested by the 90-1 active harvester series. The harvester monitor preferably compares the position and direction of the active harvester series to the planter's position and direction during each planter pass using the planting file to determine that the planter pass corresponds to the active series pass. Once a planter pass has been identified, the reaper monitor 200 preferably compares the position of the active series to the position range of each planter series unit during the identified pass in order to determine which planter series unit planted the series being harvested by the active reaper's serial unit.
    [0093] The 1200 series details screen preferably includes a population window 1205 which shows the actual population determined by the stalk measurement system 100 and the population as planted recorded during planting. The reaper monitor 200 preferably consults the plantation file to determine the population as planted for the population (both as commanded and as detected) corresponding to the location of the reaper series
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 26/51
    22/34 active. The reaper monitor 200 preferably determines the actual population by counting the stems 25 detected by the stalk sensor 300 of the active series over a predetermined path distance (for example, 9.14 meters (30 feet)) and multiplying by the series spacing R ( figure 26). The stem counting step 25 is preferably achieved by adding a value (for example, 1) to a stem count stored in memory 204 when the presence of a stem is verified (for example, by recording a stem diameter above a minimum limit) such as 7.62 mm (0.3 inch)). The stem count is preferably associated with the predetermined travel distance before the current harvester location. The stem count is also preferably associated with a region in the field being harvested. It should be appreciated that where the stem count is used to determine the actual population, the actual population comprises a metric system of harvest based on the stem count.
    [0094] The 1200 series details screen preferably includes a 1215 emergency window that shows the percentage of planted seeds that have emerged in the harvestable stems. The reaper monitor preferably determines the percentage of emergency by dividing the actual population by the population as planted (both of which can be determined as described above with respect to the population window 1205).
    [0095] The 1200 series details screen preferably includes a 1245 spacing window that shows an actual spacing criterion representing the spacing consistency between the plants in the active series as measured by the stalk 100 measurement system, a good spacing criterion as planted, as well as the number of doubles (seeds planted together) and skipped (cracks without seed placement) detected by the stalk measurement system 100. The actual spacing criterion can be measured using the methods
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 27/51
    23/34 of registering and counting seeds placed in the wrong place in applicant's copending US patent application No. 12 / 522,252 (publication No. 2010/10667) (application '252), the description of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, but measuring times between stalk locations detected by stalk sensor 300 instead of times between seed placement locations determined by a planter seed sensor. The criterion of good spacing as planted, the percentage of doubles and the percentage of skipped to the current position in the field can be obtained from the plantation file for the relevant planter series determined as described with respect to the planter series window 1210.
    [0096] The 1200 series details screen preferably includes a 1240 stem width window that shows the average current stem width of most of the recent group of detected stems and the average stem width for the field. The stem 100 measurement system records the stem diameters as described here with respect to figure 19. To determine the average width of the current stem, the stem 100 measuring system averages the most recent calculated diameters (for example, the diameters of the previous 50 stems). The size of the group is preferably adjustable by the user in an adjustment phase. To determine the average stem width in the field, the stem measurement system associates stems with the current field (for example, comparing the stems to a field boundary provided to the user in an adjustment phase) and calculates the average stem diameter in the field. The indications illustrated in the stem width window 1240 related to the stem width of the complete ear are further discussed here.
    [0097] The 1200 series details screen preferably includes a current spike window 1225 which shows the number of spikes and spikes in the last group of stems harvested
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 28/51
    24/34 (for example, the previous 30 stems). Turning to Figure 30, a histogram 4610 of the most recently measured stems is illustrated in which each data point 4625 represents the number of stems having a stalk production within a particular range. Stalk production is determined as described here with respect to figure 27. The reaper monitor 200 preferably includes empirically determined limits Xu and Xo in memory that define three regions Rne, Rhe and Rfe. The reaper monitor preferably categorizes stems having Ys stalk yields within the Rne, Rhe and Rfe regions as having no spike, having a half spike and having a full spike, respectively. The percentages shown in the current spike window 1225 preferably correspond to the spike percentages in the last group of spikes categorized as spikes without spikes, with half spikes and with full spikes. The limits Xu and Xo can comprise any of the following: multiples or fractions of the standard deviation o added to or subtracted from the μ medium, or minimum constant numerical production corresponding to complete ears and minimum ears, respectively.
    [0098] Returning briefly to the 1240 stalk width window, the stalk width corresponding to the complete ear stalk production discussed above is preferably shown here. The harvester monitor 200 preferably determines the diameter of the complete ear stem by referring to a production-diameter ratio such as characteristic 4110 described with reference to figure 28B. The width of the stem of the medium μ is preferably divided by the stem of the full stem and the result is preferably shown as the percentage of diameter of the stem of the complete stem (e.g. 94%) in the stem width window 1240.
    [0099] The 1200 series details screen preferably shows a 1200 series details screen preferably a control window
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 29/51
    25/34 ta of ear 1212 in which the total number of ears per acre Et is shown, for example,
    ΣΚη Et
    Where:
    Cross spacing of transverse series;
    Lg is the length along the direction of travel of the group of stems (for example, 50) on which the number of ears of half ears is counted;
    Yfe is the production of complete ear stalks.
    [00100] The series details screen preferably shows a 1235 stem variation window that shows the stem width variation. The stem variation (for example, 1.77 mm (0.07 inches, in figure 29) is preferably related to a statistical indication of the variation in stem width for the previous stem group (for example, 50 stems) in the series of the active harvester In the example shown, the harvester monitor 200 calculates the standard deviation o (figure 28A) of stem diameters and shows the value of o as the stem variation in mm (inches). The harvester monitor 200 also preferably calculates the width of the medium stem μ and shows the percentage of variation of the medium, that is, 100 (σ / μ) (for example, 9% in figure 29).
    [00101] The 1200 series details screen preferably includes a 1230 production contribution window that shows the active harvester series contribution to the total production currently reported by the production sensor 54. To calculate a percentage contribution from series production Yen for a series unit given 90-n on a harvester having N series, the harvester monitor 200 preferably first verifies the production of Ys stems from the last group of stems (eg 50) for each 90-n series unit on the harvester head for medium Yn series production for
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 30/51
    26/34 each series and then uses the relationship:
    yc - 10 "ã ^ [00102] It should be appreciated that the percentage of production contribution Yen comprises data from the harvester (or a metric harvesting system) based on the diameters measured by the stalk measurement system 100.
    [00103] The 1200 series details screen preferably includes an economic loss window 1255 that preferably shows an economic loss related to total planting and a correlation of economic loss for a variable representing a characteristic of the specific planting process or error. Such variables preferably include margin (downward force on the gauge wheels of the serial unit in excess of that required to ensure proper planting depth), percentage of contact with land (the percentage of time the appropriate planting depth is ensured ), or compacting the planter's tires adjacent to the active series; other variables are discussed in detail in order '252.
    [00104] Turning to figure 32, data related to the specific series planting (for example, adjustment of margin data 3120) obtained from the plantation file can be compared for the entire range of positions in which an adjustment of production data of specific series 3115 is obtained by the measurement system of stem 100. The adjustment of production data for specific series 3115 can be generated by associating series production (determined as discussed elsewhere here) with the location of each specific stem.
    [00105] Turning to figure 31, each adjustment of data related to the plantation (for example, adjustment of margin data 3120) can be used with the adjustment of production data 3115 to generate an adjustment
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 31/51
    27/34 of 4700 correlation data consisting of 4720 data points. It should be appreciated that production data from multiple series can be used to develop such a correlation. Returning to figure 33, a 4800 process for determining the economic loss of such an adjustment of correlation data is illustrated. In step 4810, the reaper monitor 200 preferably determines the closest ratio (for example, ratio 4710 in figure 31) using least square regression or other curve fitting methods known in the art. It should be appreciated that the 4710 ratio can be of any capacity including first-, second- or third-order, and the reaper monitor 200 may also include a memory limitation of the maximum-order ratio to be used to correlate a particular variable for production . In step 4820, the reaper monitor 200 preferably determines the fit quality (e.g., the square value r) between the 4710 ratio and the 4700 correlation data setting for each variable. In step 4830, the reaper monitor 200 preferably compares the fit quality for each variable to a minimum limit (for example, a square value r of 0.8) so that relationships whose fit quality is less than the applicable minimum limit.
    [00106] In step 4835, the harvester monitor 200 preferably calculates a positional production loss Yd associated with each variable having a relationship that passed from the filter step of step 4830. Briefly returning to figure 31, this step can be achieved by determining a theoretical maximum production Ym associated with an ideal value Vi of the variable (for example, 0.453 kg (one pound of margin), determining a real production Ya associated with the current position in the field and determining a loss of production Yd represented by the difference between production maximum Ym and the actual production Ya. In step 4840, the combine monitor 200 preferably
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 32/51
    28/34 calculates an economic loss associated with each variable by multiplying the production loss Yd by a price of pre-loaded merchandise. In step 4845, the harvester monitor preferably shows the contribution of variables to the total production or economic loss attributable to the planting process. For example, the loss correlation bar 1250 in the population window 1255 (figure 29) provides a visual indication of the variables correlated to loss of production and their contribution to loss of production; in figure 29, the loss correlation bar illustrates that the contact of tire tracks, margin and land are respectively the largest, the second largest and the third largest cause of loss of production, respectively. The 1250 loss correlation bar preferably does not show variables whose correlation to production was filtered out in step 4830. In step 4850, the harvester monitor preferably shows the sum of economic or production loss attributable to the planting process; in figure 29, the total economic loss is $ 2.51 per acre.
    [00107] In some modalities, the correlation between variables in the planting process and loss of production is shown spatially to the user. Referring to figure 34, the monitor screen 1600 shows a field map 1620 including production loss polygons 1625. Production loss polygons 1625 are preferably generated including each area of the field where the total production loss exceeds one limit value (for example, 10 bushels per acre). With reference to figure 35, a screen of map 1500 shows a map of field 1520 including polygons of loss of contact with earth 1525. Polygons of loss of contact with earth 1625 can be generated including each area of the field in which contact of land in the planter's serial unit was less than a threshold value (for example, 80%). Turning to Figure 36 the map screen 1700 shows both field maps 1520 and 1620. A 1710 overlapping region
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 33/51
    29/34 space between polygons 1625 and 1525 shows an area of correlation between contact with land and loss of production to the operator. It should be appreciated that different tracing, coloring or shading of polygons can be used to indicate areas of overlap to the user. In addition, polygons 1625, 1525 can be shaded to represent levels of increased production loss and loss of contact with the earth, so that the shading of the overlapping region 1710 represents the correlation resistance between contact with earth and loss of production.
    [00108] Taking figure 37, an 1100 overview screen is illustrated. The overview screen includes a population window 1115, a stem width window 1105, an emergency window 1110, an economic loss window 1120, and a spike window in field 1135, which apply the algorithms used in the corresponding series details (described here with respect to figure 29) for data from all series instead of a single series. The overview windows preferably also show which series in which the highest and / or lowest value of the relevant criterion is measured; for example, the emergency window 1110 shows the percentage of total emergency for all series, the serial number (2) of the series showing the lowest percentage of emergency, and the percentage of emergency (88%) for that series . In addition, production window 1125 preferably shows current production through production sensor 54 as well as high and low series production contributions.
    [00109] In addition to showing the high and low series values as described above with respect to figure 36, the reaper monitor 200 preferably shows a series-by-series comparison for various reaper criteria. Taking figure 38, a 1300 series comparison screen preferably includes production series comparison
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 34/51
    30/34
    1310 and an emergency series comparison 1320. Bars 1312, 1322 visually illustrate the variation of the criterion for the serial unit from the mean value for all serial units. The tracing of the bars labeled 1312, 1322 visually indicates that the associated series exhibits the most negative variation of the mean criterion.
    [00110] Turning to figure 39, the reaper monitor 200 preferably shows a 1400 series viewing screen visually illustrating stem spacing and ear quality for individual series. The display screen 1400 includes a series illustration 1420 in which full tang pictograms 1422, half tang pictograms 1426 and stemless pictograms 1428 illustrate the location along a scale 1410 where a stem with yields corresponds to the stem with complete ears, half ears and without ears, respectively. The position of each pictogram along the 1410 scale preferably corresponds to the current distance by which the stem sensor 300 passed from the stem 25 associated with the pictogram. The skip pictogram 1412 indicates locations where a skip occurred during planting. The emergency fault pictogram 1416 indicates a location where a seed was planted according to the planting file, but failed to emerge according to stem sensor 300. Empty hop pictogram 1414 comprises an alarm indicating a stalk without spike.
    Alternative Stem Measurement Apparatus and Methods [00111] In other embodiments of the stalk measurement system, alternative stalk measurement devices are used to report data to the user as described here. For example, an optical stem measuring device 300 'is illustrated in figure 42 installed on the combine unit's 90-meter unit. The optical stem measuring device 300' includes a transmitter 300a 'mounted to a clamp 330a' and a receiver 300b 'mounted to a clamp 330b'. In other modalities the
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 35/51
    31/34 stem measuring device 300 'can be mounted on the undersides of the breaker plates 93. The transmitter 300a' and receiver 300b 'can comprise a Mini-Beam transmitter Model No. SM31EL and a Mini-Beam receiver Model No. SM31RL available from Banner Engineering in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The clamps 330 are mounted between the frame portions 92 and the floor portions 86 of the 90 series unit. The emitter and receiver 300a ', 300b' are arranged so that the light emitted along an Ab axis of the emitter is received by an infrared sensor on the receiver. The receiver 300b 'is preferably configured to generate a signal proportional to the light intensity provided by the emitter 300a'. The receiver 300b 'is preferably in electrical communication with the monitor board 250.
    [00112] Turning to figure 43, a signal 2500 from the receiver 300b 'during the time is illustrated during a period in which a stem has passed through the optical stem sensor 300'. A baseline Vb of signal 2500 is obtained when unobstructed light travels between emitter 300a 'and receiver 300b'. Returning to Figure 44, a process 2550 for measuring a stem diameter is illustrated. In step 2552, monitor plate 250 preferably determines the value of the baseline signal 2552. Baseline Vb can be a measured value while the harvester speed is likely to overtake mowing or can be preloaded to the memory of the monitor board 250. In step 2555, the monitor board 250 preferably records the time t1 of a first signal crossing of a trigger value Vt. The trigger value Vt can be a multiple of the baseline signal, for example, 6Vb. In step 2560, monitor plate 250 preferably records time t2 for a second signal crossing of the trigger value Vt. In step 2565, monitor plate 250 preferably determines the period Ts of the obstruction and preferably determines the distance traveled during the obstruction, either by integration
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 36/51
    32/34 of the reaper speed signal from t1 to t2 and by determining the difference in position reported by receiver 52 from t1 to t2. In step 2570, monitor plate 250 preferably determines whether the measured distance is within a diameter range potentially corresponding to a stem, for example, 0.75 cm to 3.0 cm. If the measurement is outside the predefined range, then in step 2575 the measurement is discarded. If the measurement is within the predefined range, then in step 2577 the monitor plate preferably stores the stem location (preferably corresponding to the midpoint between the stem sensor positions 300 'at times t1 and t2) and increases a stem count stored in memory 204 by one. It should be appreciated that the monitor board 250 can use the stem count regardless of the diameter measurement in order to determine such values according to the emergency values and actual population described here. In step 2580 the stem diameter is preferably stored and associated with the location of the stem.
    [00113] It should be appreciated that the methods described with respect to figure 44 can be used with other stem sensors replacing the optical stem measuring device 300 '. For example, a capacitive sensor such as that described in US Patent No. 6,073,427 can be used to obtain a signal proportional to the capacitance of a detection region, therefore, indicating the presence of stems adjacent to the sensor.
    [00114] As discussed above with respect to figure 26, the stem measurement system 100 can record stem diameter data for individual stem blocks 1822. With reference to 5, in other embodiments the stem measurement system can record data stem diameter in 1860 series blocks including multiple stems. The stem measurement system 300 preferably associates a stem diameter value for each 1860 series block corresponding to the average diameter
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 37/51
    33/34 of the stems 25 contained within the series block. The serial blocks are preferably created at regular time intervals (for example, 1 Hertz) so that the length Lr of the 1860 series blocks varies with the speed of the harvester 10. The calculations described here using stalk blocks may instead in addition, be executed using serial blocks.
    [00115] As discussed above with respect to figure 31, a correlation between production and different variables of the planting process can be determined by plotting production against each variable. In some modalities this can be achieved by plotting a variable for a planter series against production for that series, or by plotting a variable for all planter series against the production of all planter series. In alternative modalities, particularly where a variable affects specific known series, the correlation between production and the variable can be achieved by comparing the productions for series affected by the variable to productions for series not affected by the variable. As illustrated in figure 41, the harvester monitor can show a 1950 harvest map screen in which the corn head 16 is illustrated by running through a plantation map consisting of 1954 planted series. The cross-hatched series designated 1954-1 and 1954 -2 represent tightening series planted between two planter tires. Tire compaction on both sides of a planted series has been empirically shown to affect production in the series. The identity of the tightening series is preferably recorded in the planting file provided by the operator in the fitting phase described here. Whenever a harvester series unit (for example, the third series unit in figure 41) reaps a tightening series, the average production Ypr of the tightening series is recorded. When the harvester harvested all or a portion of a resulting field
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 38/51
    34/34 At a total production Yt, the reaper monitor 200 preferably calculates the production loss Yd associated with the tire tracks by subtracting Ypr from Yt.
    [00116] It should be appreciated, based on the present description, that although the correlation of production with the variables of the planting process recorded in plantation files is discussed here, similar methods could be used to correlate the production with variables related to farming activities. post or pre-planting cultivation. For example, the series affected by tire compaction from post-plantation field activity could be identified in a cultivation activity file so that the entire production could be compared to the production of series affected by post-plantation tire compaction.
    [00117] The description already mentioned is presented to enable someone of ordinary versatility in the technique to make and use the invention and to be supplied in the context of a patent application and its requirements. Various modifications to the preferred mode of the apparatus and the general principles and characteristics of the system and methods described here will be readily apparent to those of versatility in the technique. Accordingly, the present invention is not to be limited to the modalities of the apparatus, system and methods described above and illustrated in the figures of the drawings, but it is to be agreed upon the broadest scope consistent with the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
    权利要求:
    Claims (16)
    [1]
    1. Method for measuring a stem diameter (D) as an agricultural harvester (10) crosses a field, characterized by the fact that it comprises:
    moving a first stem sensor (300a) associated with a harvester serial unit (10) in addition to a first stem in the field, said first stem sensor (300a) generating a first signal related to a position of said first seed sensor stem (300a) with respect to said first stem;
    storing said first signal in memory;
    determining a diameter (D) of said first stem based on said first signal;
    registering a geographic reference position of a global positioning receiver, said global positioning receiver (50) arranged in a first offset of said first stem sensor (300a);
    determining a geographical reference position for said first stem based on said first compensation; and storing in memory a first association between said first stem diameter (D) and said geographical reference position of said first stem.
    [2]
    2. Method according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it additionally comprises:
    moving a second stem sensor (300b) associated with a second harvester serial unit in addition to a second stem in the field, said second stem sensor (300b) generating a second signal related to a position of said second stem sensor ( 300b) with respect to said second stem;
    storing said second signal in memory;
    determine a diameter (D) of said second stem based on
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 40/51
    2/7 on said second signal;
    determining a geographical reference position of said second stem based on a second compensation of said second stem sensor (300b) for said global positioning receiver (50), storing in memory a second association between said second stem diameter ( D) and said geographical reference position of said second stem;
    measure a quantity of grain harvested by the harvester (10) with a production sensor;
    determining a production value based on said quantity of grain;
    associate said production value with a region of the field;
    storing in memory a partial distribution of said production value for a subset of said region of the field based on said first stem diameter (D), said subset of said region including said geographical reference position of said first stem; and showing a map of production (1815) associating a graphic representation (1812) of said subset of said region of the field with said partial distribution of said production value.
    [3]
    3. Method according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it additionally comprises:
    contacting the stem (25) on the first side with a first antenna (315a), said first antenna (315a) rotatably mounted to said first stem sensor (300a);
    contacting said first stem (25) on a second side with a second antenna (315b), said second antenna (315b) rotatably mounted on said first stem sensor (300a);
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 41/51
    3/7 measuring a first displacement of said first antenna (315a);
    measuring a second displacement of said second antenna (315b); and determining said first stem diameter (D) based on said first displacement and said second displacement.
    [4]
    4. Method according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it additionally comprises:
    generate an electromagnetic field;
    detecting said electromagnetic field;
    intercepting said electromagnetic field with said first stem for a period of time; and determining said first stem diameter (D) based on the speed of the harvester (10) during said time interval or a position of the harvester during said time interval.
    [5]
    5. Method according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it additionally comprises:
    measure a quantity of grain harvested by the harvester (10) with a production sensor;
    determining a production value based on said quantity of grain;
    associate said production value with a region of the field;
    moving said first stem sensor (300a) in addition to the subsequent stem of said serial unit, said first stem sensor (300a);
    generating a subsequent signal, said subsequent signal related to a position of said first stem sensor (300a) with respect to said subsequent stem;
    storing said subsequent signal in memory;
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 42/51
    4/7 determining a diameter (D) of said subsequent stem based on said subsequent signal;
    associating a subset of said production value with a subset of said field region based on said first stem diameter and said subsequent stem diameter; and showing a production map (1815) associating a graphical representation (1812) of said subset of said region of the field with said subset of said production value.
    [6]
    6. Method according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it additionally comprises:
    showing harvest data to a user on a display screen (1810) located on the harvester (10), said harvest data based on said first stem diameter (D).
    [7]
    Method according to claim 6, characterized in that said harvest data includes said first stem diameter (D).
    [8]
    Method according to claim 6, characterized in that said harvest data includes a production portion attributable to the serial unit associated with said first stem sensor (300a).
    [9]
    9. Method according to claim 6, characterized by the fact that said harvest data includes an economic loss amount.
    [10]
    10. Method according to claim 6, characterized by the fact that said harvest data include a statistical variation in said determined stem diameters.
    [11]
    11. Stalk sensor system for use with an agricultural combine harvester while the harvester (10) traverses a field, characterized by the fact that it comprises:
    a first stem sensor (300a) associated with a priPetition 870190010244, from 01/31/2019, p. 43/51
    5/7 m reaper series unit;
    a second stem sensor (300b) associated with a second combine harvester unit;
    a production sensor configured to generate a signal related to a quantity of grain harvested by the combine harvester (10);
    a global positioning receiver (50) mounted to the combine and configured to generate a position signal, said position signal related to a position of the combine harvester (10); and electrical communication processing circuits with said first stem sensor (300a), said second stem sensor (300b), said production sensor and said global positioning receiver (50), said configured processing circuits to determine stem diameter measurements and stem measurement locations based on signals generated by said first and second stem sensors (300a, 300b), wherein said stem measurement locations of said first stem sensor (300a) are based on a first compensation between said global positioning receiver (50) for said first stem sensor (300a) and said stem locations of said second stem sensor (300b) are based on a second compensation between said global positioning receiver (50) for said second stem sensor (300b), said processing circuits additionally configured to generate a map, said map associating said location stem measurement actions with said stem diameter measurements.
    [12]
    Stalk sensor system according to claim 11, characterized in that said processing circuits are additionally configured to calculate a metric harvesting system based on said stalk diameter measurements, and
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 44/51
    6/7 additionally comprising:
    a monitor (200) in electrical communication with said processing circuits, said monitor (200) having a graphical user interface, said monitor configured to show said harvesting metric system to a user on the harvester (10).
    [13]
    13. Stalk sensor system according to claim 11, characterized in that said first stalk sensor (300a) includes an antenna (315a) arranged to contact stems passing through the first series unit of the harvester, and in that said first stem sensor (300a) is configured to generate a displacement signal related to a displacement of said antenna (315a).
    [14]
    Stalk sensor system according to claim 11, characterized in that said first stalk sensor (300a) includes an electromagnetic field transmitter and an electromagnetic field detector, said transmitter arranged to generate an electromagnetic field intercepting a path covered by stems, introducing the first unit in series of the harvester.
    [15]
    15. Stalk sensor system according to claim 11, characterized by the fact that said processing circuits are configured to associate a production value with a region of the field, in which said production value is based on said measurements of stem diameter, said measurements of stem diameter associated with said region of the field, and in which said production value is based on a correlation between measurements of stem diameters and production.
    [16]
    16. Stalk sensor system according to claim 15, characterized in that it additionally comprises:
    a monitor (200) in electrical communication with said processing circuits, said monitor (200) having a graphical user interface, in which said monitor (200) is configured to
    Petition 870190010244, of 01/31/2019, p. 45/51
    7/7 show a production map based on the said production value.
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    法律状态:
    2018-03-27| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2018-11-06| B06A| Notification to applicant to reply to the report for non-patentability or inadequacy of the application [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|
    2019-02-19| B09A| Decision: intention to grant|
    2019-04-09| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 21/11/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. (CO) 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 21/11/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS |
    2021-04-20| B25A| Requested transfer of rights approved|Owner name: THE CLIMATE CORPORATION (US) |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US201161562932P| true| 2011-11-22|2011-11-22|
    US61/562,932|2011-11-22|
    PCT/US2012/066279|WO2013078328A2|2011-11-22|2012-11-21|Stalk sensor apparatus, systems, and methods|
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