Software for Operation of Automated Peanut Digging Depth Controller
Inventors: Kendall R. Kirk
Keywords: Agriculture, Automation Software
Market Overview
This precision agriculture automation software is designed for intuitive, simple end-user interface and improved control of peanut digger blade depths. In 2017, the global farm management software and services market was valued at $1.5 billion, and is expected to grow at a constant annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6% between 2017 and 2021. The U.S. peanut production industry was valued at approximately 1,155 million U.S. dollars in 2018. In conventional peanut farming, the best machinery operator at a farm is often responsible for harvesting, as proper digging setting and operation are critical to maximizing yield recovery. However, frequently adjusting depth settings during digging can lead to operator fatigue. Clemson University researchers have developed a novel harvesting software to automatically control and optimize peanut digger blade depth, resulting in reduced digging losses, simplified operation of equipment, and increased profits.
Kendall R. Kirk
2020-045
Applications:
Precision Agriculture, Peanut Farming, Peanut Harvesting, Software, Farm Management
Technical Summary:
This automation software controls the operation of peanut digging depth technology using a Windows system located in the cab of the peanut digging tractor. Two depth gauges are mounted to the frame of the digger to report the blade depth to a USB controller as a sensor response from rotary potentiometers. In automated depth control mode, the operator specifies a target depth and a hydraulic center link is automatically actuated in an effort to maintain this specified target depth. The software performs actuation of the cylinder by communicating with a USB controller, which operates mechanical relays to control a hydraulic solenoid valve. The hydraulic solenoid valve directs fluid to either retract or extend the hydraulic center link, retraction effecting greater blade depth and extension effecting lesser blade depth. The software also provides an autodive feature, which retracts the cylinder slightly whenever the digger is lifted to assist in "taking ground" at the start of the next pass, especially in hard, compacted soil conditions.
Advantages:
• Software controls and optimizes peanut digger blade depth, maximizing yield recovery and increasing profits
• Automated depth control technology, reducing operator fatigue and allowing less experienced/trained operators to successfully dig
• Software has autodive feature, enabling efficient harvesting in less than ideal soil conditions
Technology Overview
State of Development
Prototype
Patent Type
Copyright
Category
CURF Reference No.
2020-045
Inventors
Kendall R. Kirk
For More Info, Contact:
Interested in this technology?
Contact curf@clemson.edu
Please put technology ID in subject line of email.
Contact
Latest News from CURF
Stay up-to-date with the latest trends in the innovation and research industry. Sign up for our newsletter to see how CURF is making a difference and impacting the economy where we live.
