Planter monitor system and method

(54) Title: MONITOR SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR (57) Summary: Sowing machine (30) Unionist priority: 08/01/2007 us 60 / 883,965 (73) Holder (s): Precision Planting, Inc.

(72) Inventor (s): Gregg A. Sauder, Justin L. Koch (74) Attorney (s): Dannemann, Siemsen, Bigler & Ipanema Moreira (86) International order: pct US2008050445 from 07/01/2008 (87) International Publication: wo 2008 / 0863i8de 17/07/2008

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Descriptive Report of the Invention Patent for SYSTEM AND MONITOR METHOD FOR SEEDING.

Annually in the United States, around 70 million acres of corn are planted by approximately 40,000 farmers, resulting in around 12 billion bushels of corn harvested annually, which in turn translate into annual incomes in excess of $ 20 billion. Many farmers know that one of the most influential and controllable factors that affect the productivity of each acre planted is the quality of the seed's disposition. If a farmer can be provided with more information, earlier, on the quality of the seed layout while he is planting, the farmer will be able to make corrections or adjustments earlier to the sower or his operation that could increase production by three to nine bushels per acre, which in today's prices translate into an additional $ 9.00 to $ 27.00 additional salary per acre at no cost. The net gain for farmers and the US economy from such increases in production would add up to hundreds of millions of dollars annually.

While existing monitors can warn the seeder operator of certain production theft events, many operators simply ignore the warnings or the delay in making any corrections or adjustments until it is convenient for the operator to do so (such as at the end of the field or when reloading feeders, etc.). The lack of motivation to take immediate corrective action may be due to the operator not knowing or fully appreciating the extent of economic loss caused by the production theft event. Another possibility may be that because most existing seeder monitors provide only broad averages throughout the seeder in terms of seeds per acre or percentage of singulation, the operator may not be aware that a particular row is suffering from a theft event of production if the total average population or population seems to be aligned with the desired objective or values.

Production theft events are generally caused by one of two types of errors, that is, measurement errors and disposition errors.

Measurement errors occur when, instead of seeds being unloaded one at a time, either multiple seeds are unloaded from the meter simultaneously (typically referred to as multiple or double), or when no seed is unloaded from the meter when one should have been (typically referred to as an exhaust). It should be appreciated that multiples of seeds and seed leaks will result in a loss in the production network compared to seeds planted with appropriate spacing because the closely spaced plants will produce smaller ears due to competition for water and nutrients. Similarly, seed leaks will result in a loss in the production network even though the adjacent plants produce larger ears as a result of less competition for water and nutrients due to the missing plant.

Arrangement errors occur when the path time between sequentially released seeds is irregular or inconsistent compared to the time interval when the seeds were discharged from the seed meter, thus resulting in irregular spacing between adjacent seeds in the furrow. Arrangement errors typically result from seed ricochet within the seed tube caused by seeds that do not enter the seed tube at the appropriate location, or from irregularities or obstructions along the seed path within the seed tube, or due to accelerations excessive vertical values ​​of the row unit as the seeder crosses the field.

In addition to measurement errors and disposal errors, another event of production theft is attributable to the improper compaction of the soil adjacent to the seed, both due to the inadequate downward pressure exerted by the wheel caliber on the surrounding soil and by the excessive downward pressure by the caliber of wheels. As further discussed in the copending application belonging to the same holder PCT / US08 / 50427, which is incorporated here, in its entirety, as a reference, if a very small downward force is exerted by the wheel caliber or another depth adjustment member , the disc blades may not penetrate the soil to a complete desired depth and / or the soil may collapse in the furrow as the seeds are being deposited resulting in uneven seed depth. However, if excessive downward force is applied, poor root penetration can result in weaker supports and can put crops under unnecessary stress during drought conditions. Excessive downward force can also result in the furrow reopening, affecting germination or causing seedling death.

While some experienced operators may be able to identify certain types of corrective actions needed to minimize or reduce particular types of production theft events once they are properly warned of their occurrence and economic impact, other operators may not be able to readily identify the type of corrective actions required, particularly those with less planting experience generally, or when the operator switched to a new make or model of the seeder.

Thus, there is a need for a system and a method of monitoring that are capable of, in close real time, providing the operator with data regarding production theft events and the economic cost associated with such production theft events in a timely manner. motivate the operator to take quick corrective action.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a preferred embodiment of a seeder monitor system of the present invention for monitoring the operation and performance of a seeder.

Figure 2 is a perspective view of a row seeder for conventional tillage.

Figure 3 is a side elevation view of a row unit of the conventional crop row seeder in Figure 2.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of the wheel gauge height adjustment mechanism of the conventional tillage seeder in Figure 2.

Figure 5 is an example of the preferred Level 1 Screen display for a monitor system in accordance with the present invention showing a preferred format for reporting all details of the seeder's performance.

Figure 6 is an example of the preferred modality of a Level 2 Population Details screen display for the monitor system in Figure 5 showing a preferred format for reporting population performance by row.

Figure 7 is an example of the preferred modality of a Level 2 Population Details screen display for the monitor system in Figure 5 showing a preferred format for reporting singulation performance by row.

Figure 8 is an example of the preferred embodiment of a Level 2 Layout Details screen display for the monitor system of Figure 5 showing a preferred format for reporting singlet performance by row.

Figure 9 is an example of the preferred modality of a Level 3 Row Detail screen display for the monitor system of Figure 5 showing a preferred format for reporting details of performance in a specific row.

Figure 10 is an example of a Row Selection screen display for the monitor system of Figure 5, showing a preferred format for selecting a row from the seeder to view additional details of that row as identified in Figure 6.

Figure 11 is an example of a screen display for the monitor system in Figure 5 showing a preferred format for adjustment and configuration.

Figure 12 is an example of a screen display for selecting or admitting the crop type during adjustment.

Figure 13 is an example of a screen display for admitting population adjustments during adjustment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings, where similar reference numbers designate identical or corresponding parts across all the different views, Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a preferred embodiment of a seeder monitor system 1000, of the present invention, for monitoring the operation and performance of a seeder 10. As is conventional, the preferred seeder monitor system 1000 includes a visual display 1002 and user interface 1004, preferably a touch screen graph (GUI) user interface. The preferred GUI 1004 touch screen is preferably supported within a housing 1006 which also houses a microprocessor, memory and other applicable hardware and software to receive, store, process, communicate, display and execute the various preferred features and functions as described here by onwards (hereinafter, collectively, the processing circuit) as readily understood by those skilled in the art.

As illustrated in Figure 1, the preferred seeder monitor system 1000 preferably cooperates and / or interfaces with various external devices and sensors as described hereinafter, including, for example, a GPS unit 100, a plurality of seed sensors 200, one or more load sensors 300, one or more inclinometers 400, vertical accelerometers 500, horizontal accelerometers 600, sensors 700 (for seeders with pneumatic measuring systems), or any other sensor to monitor the seeder or the environment that can affect planting operations.

Figure 2 illustrates a conventional tillage row seeder 10 such as a John Deere MaxEmerge or MaxEmerge Plus seeder in connection with which the seeder monitor system and method of the present invention can be used. It should be appreciated that while reference is made throughout this specification for tillage sowing machines and, in particular, certain John Deere sowing models, such references are simply examples to provide context and a reference structure for the subject matter discussed. As such, the seeder monitor system and method present should not be construed as being limited for use with any particular seeder make or model. Likewise, the present sowing monitor system should not be constructed as being limited to tillage row seeders, since the features and functionality of the monitor system may have application for grain drillers or other types of seeder as well.

Seeder 10 includes a plurality of spaced row units 12 supported along a toolbar 14 of the main seeder structure 13. The main structure of seeder 13 is attached to a tractor 15 in a conventional manner, such as through a drawbar 17 or a three-point knot arrangement as is well known in the art. The ground wheel assemblies (not shown) support the main structure 13 above the earth's surface and are movable with respect to the main structure 13 through the action of the seeder hydraulic system (not shown) coupled to the tractor hydraulics to raise and lower the main structure of the seeder 13 between a transport position and a planting position, respectively.

As best illustrated in Figure 3, each row unit 12 is supported from the toolbar by a parallel connection 16 that allows each row unit 12 to move vertically and independently of the toolbar 14 and other evenly spaced row units to accommodate changes in the terrain or at the meeting of a stone row unit or other obstruction as the seeder is pulled across the field. Propensity devices 18, such as springs, air bags, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders or the like, act on the parallel connection 16 to exert a downward force on the row unit, for purposes discussed in detail later. Each row unit 12 additionally includes a front mounting bracket 20 to which a feeder support beam 22 and a substructure 24 are mounted. The feeder support beam 22 supports a seed feeder 26 and a fertilizer feeder 28 as well as operably supports a seed meter 30 and a seed tube 32. Substructure 24 operably supports a groove opening assembly 34 and a groove closure assembly 36.

In operation, the groove opening assembly cuts a groove 38 (Figures 3 and 4) on the surface of the soil 40 as the seeder is pulled through the field. The seed feeder 26, which holds the seeds to be planted, communicates a constant supply of seeds 42 to the seed meter 30. The seed meter 30 of each row unit 12 is coupled to the ground wheels through the use of axles, chains, turnstiles, transfer boxes, etc. as is well known in the art, so that individual seeds 42 are measured and discharged into the seed tube 32 at regularly spaced intervals based on the desired seed population and the speed at which the seeder is pulled through the field. The seed 42 falls from the end of the seed tube 32 into the groove 38 and the seeds 42 are covered with soil through the groove closure assembly 36.

The groove opening assembly 34 typically includes a pair of blades from the flat groove opening disc 44, 46 and a depth adjustment assembly 47. In the embodiment of Figures 2 and 3, the depth adjustment assembly 47 comprises a pair of caliber wheels 48, 50 selectively and vertically adjusted with respect to the disc blades 44, 46 through a height adjustment mechanism 49. It should be appreciated, however, that instead of double opening discs and double gauge wheels as shown in the embodiment of Figures 2 and 3, seeder 10 can use any suitable furrow and depth adjustment assembly to cut a furrow in the soil and regulate or control the depth of that groove.

In the seeder modality of Figures 2 and 3, the blades of the disc 44, 46 are rotatorily supported on an axis 52 mounted to a stem 54 depending on the substructure 24. The blades of the disc 44, 46 are inclined so that the outer peripheries of the discs come into close contact at the point of entry 56 on the ground and diverge out and away from the direction of travel of the seeder as indicated by arrow 58. Therefore, as the seeder 10 is pulled across the field, the groove opening discs 44, 46 cut a V shaped groove 38 across the surface of the soil 40 as previously described.

As best illustrated in Figures 3 and 5, the 60, 62 caliber wheel arms pivotally support the 48, 50 caliber wheels of the substructure 24 around a first axle 61. The caliber wheels 48, 50 are rotatably mounted to the arms of caliber 60, 62 that extend forward on a second axle 63. The caliber wheels 48, 50 are slightly wider in diameter than the blades of the disc 44, 46 so that the outer peripheries of the disc blades rotate at a slightly higher speed than the peripheries of the caliber wheel. Each of the caliber wheels 48, 50 includes a flexible rim 64 (Figure 4) on its inner face that contacts the outer face of the disc blade 44, 46, respectively, in area 66 (Figure 3) where the disc blades come out from soil. It should be appreciated that as the opening discs 44, 46 leave the soil after slicing the V-shaped groove 38, the soil, particularly in wet conditions, will tend to adhere to the disc, which, if not prevented, may cause the furrow walls are pulled out as the disc rotates out of the soil causing poor furrow formation and / or the collapse of the furrow walls, resulting in an irregular seed planting depth. Therefore, as best illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, to prevent the groove walls from being pulled out as the disc blades leave the ground, the caliber wheels 48, 50 are positioned to compact the strip of soil adjacent to the groove while at the same time they serve to crush against the outer face of the disks, 44, 46 to cut any structure of the soil as the disks leave the soil. In this way, the opening discs 44, 46 and the caliber wheels 48, 50 cooperate to secure and form uniform groove walls at the desired depth.

In the seeder modality of Figures 2 and 3, the depth adjustment mechanism 67 which is used to vary the depth of the furrow 38 for seed is achieved through the vertical adjustment of the caliper wheels 48, 50 with respect to the disc blades 44 , 46 for opening the groove through selective positioning of a height adjustment arm 68. In this embodiment, a height adjustment arm 68 is pivotally supported from the substructure 24 by a pin 70 (Figures 3 and 5). An upper end 72 of the height adjustment arm 68 is selectively positionable along the substructure 24. As best illustrated in Figure 5, an oscillator 76 is loosely pinned to the lower end 74 of the height adjustment arm 68 via a pin or screw 78. The oscillator 76 rests on the upper surfaces of the pivotable 60, 62 gauge wheel arms, thereby serving as a stop to prevent the 60, 62 caliber wheel arms from pivoting counterclockwise around the first axis of pivot 61 as indicated by arrow 82. Therefore, it should be appreciated that as the upper end 72 of the height adjustment arm 68 is selectively positioned, the position of the oscillator / stop 76 will move in this manner with respect to the 60, 62 gauge wheel arms. For example, with reference to Figure 5, as the upper end 72 of the height adjustment arm 68 is moved in the direction indicated by arrow 84, the position of the oscillator / stop 76 will move upward away from the gauge wheel arms. 60, 62, allowing the caliber wheels 48, 50 to move vertically upwards with respect to the disc blades 44, 46 for grooving, so that more of the disc blade will extend below the bottom of the caliber wheels 48, 50 thereby allowing the blades of the disc 44, 46 for opening the groove to further penetrate the ground. Likewise, if the upper end 72 of the height adjustment arm 68 is moved in the direction indicated by arrow 86, the oscillator / stop 76 will move downward towards the 60, 62 caliber wheel arms, causing the caliber wheels 48, 50 move vertically downwards with respect to the disc blades 44, 46 for groove opening, thereby shortening the depth of penetration of the disc blades in the ground. When planting row crops such as corn and soybeans, the position of the oscillator / stop 76 is usually adjusted, so that the blades of the disc 44, 46 for furrow opening extend below the bottom of the gauge wheels

48, 50 to create a groove depth between 2.54 to 7.62 cm (one to three inches).

In addition to serving as a stop as previously described, oscillator 76, loosely attached with pins, serves the dual function of equalizing or distributing the load carried by the two wheels of caliber 48, 50, thus resulting in a more uniform groove depth . It should be appreciated that during planting operations, substantially the entire life and death load of the row unit 12 together with the additional downward force exerted by the biasing devices 18 will be carried by the caliber wheels 48, 50 after the opening discs 44, 46 penetrate the ground to a depth where the 60, 62 gauge wheel arms meet the pre-selected stop position of oscillator 76. This load is transferred by pin 78 through oscillator 76 to the 60, 62 gauge wheel arms. Because the oscillator 76 is loosely attached to pins to the height adjustment arm 68, the load of the row unit is distributed substantially and equally between the two arms of caliber 60, 62 so that one half of the load is carried by each arm 60, 62. Therefore, for example, if the 48-gauge wheel encounters an obstruction so that the oscillator or hard soil clod, the 60-gauge wheel arm will be forced upward as the 48-gauge wheel moves up and over the obstruction. Since oscillator 76 is connected to height adjustment arm 68 by pin 78, oscillator 76 will pivot around pin 78 causing an equal but opposite downward force on the other arm 62. As such, oscillator 76 equalizes or distributes the load between the two gauge wheels. If there was no oscillator, so that the lower end 74 of the height adjustment arm 68 was simply a supporting surface, on one of the gauge wheels encountering an obstruction or rough terrain, the entire load of row unit 12 would be carried by that single gauge wheel as it walks up and over the obstruction or until the terrain is level again. Again, as previously established, the specific reference for the components already mentioned that describe the type of groove opening, depth, regulating member, seed meter, etc. may vary depending on the type of seeder.

There are several types of seed meters 30 that can generally be divided into two categories on the basis of the seed selection mechanism employed, that is, mechanical or pneumatic. The most common commercially available mechanical gauges include finger pick gauges as described in US patent 3,552,601 to Hansen (Hansen '601), cavity disk gauges as described in US patent 5,720,233 to Lodico et al. (Lodico '233), and belt gauges as described in US patent 5,992,338 to Romans (Romans' 338), each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. The most common commercially available pneumatic gauges include vacuum-disk gauges as described in US patent 3,990,606 to Gugenhan (Gugenhan '606) and in US patent 5,170,909 to Lundie et al. (Lundie '909) and air-positive meters as described in US patent 4,450,979 to Deckler (Deckler' 979), each of which is also incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. The seeder monitor system and method of the present invention should not be construed as being limited to use in connection with any particular type of seed meter.

The GPS unit 100, such as a Deluo PMB-288 available from Deluo, LLC, 10084 NW 53rd Street, Sunrise, FL 33351, or other suitable device, is used to monitor the speed and distances traveled by the seeder 10. As will be discussed in more detail later, preferably the production of the GPS 100 unit, including the seeder speed and the distances traveled by the seeder, is communicated to monitor 1000 to show the seeder operator and / or for use in various algorithms for relevant derivation data used in connection with the preferred system and method of the present invention.

As best illustrated in Figures 1 and 3, the preferred seeder monitor system 1000 preferably utilizes the existing seed sensors 200 and associated electrical wiring 202 typically found in virtually all conventional seeders 10. The most common or prevalent type of seed sensors are photoelectric sensors, such as manufactured by Dickey-John Corporation, 5200 Dickey-John Road, Auburn, IL 62615. A typical photoelectric sensor usually includes a light source element and a light receiving element, arranged over openings in the seed tube's forward and backward walls. In operation, whenever a seed passes between the light source and light receiver, the passing seed interrupts the light beam causing the sensor 200 to generate an electrical signal indicating the detection of the passing seed. The generated electrical signals are communicated to the monitor 1000 via electrical wiring 202 or via a suitable wireless communication device. It should be appreciated that any other type of seed sensors capable of producing an electrical signal to designate the passage of a seed may be equally or better suited for use in connection with the system and method of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be construed as being limited to any particular type of seed sensor.

As previously identified, the preferred seeder monitor system 1000 also uses a load sensor 300 arranged to generate load signals corresponding to the load experienced by or exerted on the depth regulation member 47. The load sensor 300 and associated processing circuits can comprise any components suitable for detecting such load conditions, including, for example, sensors and circuits, as described in PCT / US08 / 50427, previously incorporated here in their entirety as a of reference. As discussed in more detail later, the load experienced by or exerted on the 48, 50 gauge wheels or any other depth adjustment member being used, is preferably one of the valves shown to the operator on the visual display screen 1002 and can also be used in connection with the preferred system and method for reporting the occurrence of production theft events (ie, loss of depth of the furrow or excessive soil compaction) and / or for automated adjustment of the supplementary downward force, if supported by the seeder.

An inclinometer 400 is preferably mounted to the front mounting bracket 20 of at least one row unit 12 of the seeder 10 so as to detect the angle of the row unit 12 relative to the vertical. Because the row unit 12 is connected by a parallel connection 16 to the toolbar 14 comprising a part of the seeder structure 13, the angle of the front clamp 20 relative to the vertical will substantially correspond to the angle of the structure and toolbar 13, 14. It should be appreciated that if the drawbar is substantially horizontal, the front clamp 20 will be substantially vertical. Therefore, if the drawbar is not level, the front clamp will not be substantially vertical, thereby causing the row units to be tilted. If the row unit is tilted, the groove opening assembly 36 will cut both a deeper and shallower groove as established by the depth adjustment mechanism 67, thereby resulting in poor seedling growth and germination. As such, data from inclinometer 400 can be used in connection with the preferred system and method to detect and / or report potential production theft events and / or to automatically adjust the seeder, if so equipped, to produce the necessary correction for level the row unit. For example, if inclinometer 400 detects that the front clamp is not substantially vertical, it can initiate an alarm condition to warn the operator that the tongue is not level, the potential affects the seed layout, and will preferably show on the operator's screen. monitor 1002 the appropriate corrective action to take.

As previously identified, the preferred seeder monitor system 1000 also preferably includes a vertical accelerometer 500 and a horizontal accelerometer 600. Preferably, the vertical accelerometer 500 and the horizontal accelerometer 600 are part of a single device together with inclinometer 400.

The vertical accelerometer 500 measures the vertical speed of the row unit 12 as the seeder traverses the field, thereby providing data such as how smoothly the row unit is passing over the ground, which is important because the smoothness of the unit's driving row can affect seed spacing. For example, if a seed is discharged from the seed meter just when the row unit encounters an obstruction, such as a stone, the row unit will be forced upwards, causing the seed to have a slightly upward vertical speed. As the row unit passes over the obstruction, and is forced back down by propensity devices 18, or if the row unit enters a depression, a subsequent seed being discharged by the seed meter 30 will have a vertical speed slightly down. Consequently, with all other factors being equal, the second seed with the initial velocity checked downwards will reach the earth's surface in less time than the first seed that has the initial velocity checked upward, thereby affecting a seed spacing. As such, data from the vertical accelerometer 500 can also be used in connection with the preferred system and method to identify and / or report the events of production theft in the seed layout resulting from rough field conditions, excessive sowing speed and / or inadequate downward force exerted by the propensity device 18. This information can be used to diagnose the seeder's performance for automatic adjustment and / or provide recommendations to the operator corresponding to the preferred system and method for using corrective action, including, for example, increased downforce to reduce vertical speeds or reduce tractor speed. / seeder.

The horizontal accelerometer 600, like the inclinometer 400 provides data that can be used in connection with the preferred method to diagnose the seeder's performance and / or to provide recommendations to the corresponding operator for the preferred system and method of the present invention to use corrective action . For example, horizontal accelerations are known to increase as the bushings of the parallel connection 16 wear out. Therefore, if the ratio of the standard deviation of the horizontal acceleration to the standard deviation of the vertical acceleration increases, it is likely that the bushings or other load transfer members of the parallel connection are worn out and need to be replaced.

Turning now to Figures 5-13, Figure 5 is an example of the preferred Level 1 Screen for the seeder monitor system 1000; Figures 6-8 are examples of preferred Level 2 Screens; Figures 9-10 are examples of preferred Level 3 Screens; Figure 11 is an example of a Preferred Fit screen; and Figures 12-13 are examples of preferred Level 4 screens. Each of the screens is discussed below.

Level 1 screen (Figure 5)

The Level 1 Screen 1010 is then named because it is preferably the standard screen that will be shown on the display of monitor 1012 unless the operator selects a different level of screen to view as discussed later. The Level 1 Screen 1010 includes a plurality of windows corresponding to the different performance details of the seeder, including a Seed Population Window 1012, a Singulation Window 1014, an Escapes / Multiples Window 1016, a Good Spacing Window 1018 , a Smooth Driving Window 1020, a Speed ​​Window 1022, a Vacuum Window 1024 (where applicable), a Downforce Window 1026 and an Economic Loss Window 1028. Each of these windows and the method of deriving the values ​​shown there are discussed below. In addition, the Level 1 Screen 1010 preferably includes several operating buttons, including a 1030 Adjustment button, a 1032 Row Detail button, a 1034 Snapshot button and a 1036 Return button, each of which is discussed later.

Population Window 1012: Population Window 1012 preferably includes a numerical value of seed population 1100, preferably updated every second (ie, 1 Hz cycles), representing the operating average of the number of seeds (in thousands) being planted per acre in addition to a predefined sampling frequency, preferably 1 Hz. This seed population value 1100 is based on the following formula:

Seed population 1030 =

Seed Count

0.001 xx 13258 m²/acre

Rows x Spacing (cm) x Dist. (Cm) where: Seed Count = Total number of seeds detected by Sensors 200 in all rows during the sample frequency.

Rows = Number of seeder rows assigned during Adjustment (discussed later)

Spacing = Row spacing in the seeder designated during Adjustment

Dist. = Distance (cm) traveled by the seeder based on the input of the GPS unit 100 during the sample frequency

Therefore, for example, assuming the seed sensors 200 detect a total of 240 seeds over the preferred 1 Hz cycle, and assuming the seeder is a sixteen-row seeder with a 76.20 cm (ie, thirty inch) oscillator and the average seeder speed is 9.65 km (six miles, that is, 8.8 ft / second) per hour during the 1 Hz cycle, the seed population would be:

240 x 13258 m²/acre

Seed Population = 0.001 x (16 x 2.5 cm x 8.8 cm)

In the preferred embodiment, however, while the seed population value 1100 is updated or re-published every second, the actual seed population is not based on a single seed count of one second. Instead, in the preferred mode, seeds detected beyond the previous one second are added to a larger reservoir of seed beads accumulated in one second out of the preceding ten seconds. Each time a new one-second seed count is added, the oldest one-second seed count is dropped from the reservoir and the average seed population is recalculated based on the newest data, that recalculated average is then published every second in the Seed Population Window 1012.

In addition to identifying the seed population value 1100 as exactly identified, Population Window 1012 also preferably shows a graph 1102 for graphical representation of the calculated average seed population 1100 with respect to target population 1338 (Figure 11) (specified during Adjustment as discussed later) designated by a 1104 unidirectional mark. Corresponding to the unidirectional marks 1106, 1108 represent the population deviation limits 1342 (Figure 11) (also specified during the Adjustment as discussed later). An 1110 indicator, such as a large diamond, for example, is used to represent the calculated average population. Other distinguishable indicators 1112, such as smaller diamonds, represent the corresponding population rate of the individual rows with respect to the target unidirectional mark 1104. In addition, the Seed Population Window 1012 also preferably identifies, by row number, the lowest population row 1114 (that is, the row of the seeder that is planting at the lowest population rate, which, in the example in Figure 5 is row 23) and the highest population row 1116 (that is, the row of the seeder that is planting at the highest population rate, which, in the example in Figure 5 is row 19) along with their respective population rates 1118, 1120.

In the preferred system and method, the monitor preferably provides some kind of visual or audible alarm to alert the operator to the occurrence of any production theft events in relation to the population. Preferably, if the production theft event concerns the population, only Population Window 1012 will indicate an alarm condition. A population-related alarm condition may include, for example, the occurrence of the calculated average seed population value 1100 that falls outside the population 1342 deviation limits specified during the adjustment. Another alarm condition can occur when the population in any row is less than 80% of the target population 1338. Another population-related alarm condition may include the occurrence of one or more rows that fall outside the population deviation limits for a predefined period of time or sampling frequency, for example, five consecutive 1 Hz cycles, even if an average population in these ranks is in excess of 80% of the target population 1338. Yet another alarm condition can occur when there is a row failure that can be imagined to occur if sensor 200 fails to detect the passage of any seeds for a specified period of time, such as four hours T_presuwet (discussed below).

As previously identified, through the occurrence of an alarm already mentioned, or any other alarm condition as can be defined and programmed in the monitor system 1000, Population Window 1012 preferably provides a visual or audible alarm to alert the operator of the occurrence of the condition the alarm. For example, in the preferred embodiment, if the calculated average seed population value 1100 is within the specified population deviation 1342 (eg 1000 seeds) from target population 1338 (eg 31200 seeds), the formation of the Population 1012 is preferably green. If, however, the calculated average seed population value 1100 falls below the target population 1338 by more than the specified population deviation, Population Window 1012 preferably turns yellow. Alternatively, Population Window 1012 may shine or provide some other visual or audible alarm under other alarm conditions. Obviously, any different alarm conditions can be defined and many different visual and / or audible indications of an alarm condition can be programmed in the monitor system 1000 as recognized by those skilled in the art.

In addition, in the preferred mode, the GUI 1004 touch screen of the monitor system 1000 allows the operator to select different areas of the Population Window 1012 that will cause the monitor to show additional relevant details related to the selected feature. For example, if the operator touches the calculated average seed population value 1100, the screen changes to show the Level 2 Population Details screen (Figure 6). If the operator touches the area of ​​the screen in Population Window 1012 where the low population row 1114 is shown, the screen changes to the Row Details screen (Figure 9) which shows the details of that specific row. Similarly, if the operator touches the screen area in Population Window 1012 in which the high population row 1116 is shown, the screen changes to the Row Details screen (Figure 9) which shows the details of that specific row.

Singulation Window 1014: Singulation Window 1014 preferably includes a numerical value of percentage singulation 1122, preferably published in 1 Hz cycles, representing the average operation of the percentage singulation over the preset sampling frequency, preferably 2kHz (0.5 m / sec). In order to determine the percentage singulation value 1122 it is first necessary to identify the leaks and multiples that occur during the sampling period. Once the number of escapes and multiples within the sampling period is known in relation to the number of good seeds (that is, properly seeded seeds), then the 1100 percentage singulation value can be calculated as identified later.

The preferred system and method includes a criterion for distinguishing when an escape or a multiple occurs. In the preferred system and method, each signal generated by sensor 200 is classified into one of six classifications, that is, good, escape, multiple, lost2, lost4, and non-seed. A good seed is recorded when a signal is generated within a predefined time window when the signal was expected to have occurred based on the speed of the seeder and the adjusted target population that together define the assumed time interval (T_preSan escape is recorded when the time between the preceding signal and the next signal is greater than or equal to 1.65 T_premissing · A multiple is recorded when the time between the preceding signal and the next signal is less than or equal to 0.35 Presumed · In order to safely distinguish between measurement errors resulting in true escapes and true multiples as opposed to seeds simply being misplaced, due to the disposition errors that result after unloading through the seed meter (ie ricochet, differences in vertical acceleration, etc.), the initial ratings are preferably validated before being recorded as escapes or multiples. To validate the initial ratings, the monitor is programmed to compare changes in the mean value for the last five time intervals against the mean for the last twenty time intervals (T20_Avg). In the preferred system, if the average seed interval-5 (T5_Avg) is more than 1.15Q20_Avg for more than three consecutive calculations, then the original classification of an escape is validated and recorded as a true escape. If T5_Avg is less than 0.85 T20_Avg for more than three consecutive calculations, then the original classification of a multiple is validated and recorded as a true multiple. If the aforementioned limits are not exceeded, then the originally classified exhaust is reclassified as good, and the originally classified multiple is reclassified as a lost seed. Therefore, by validating the original classifications, measurement errors are distinguished from layout errors, thereby providing the operator with more accurate information such as for the operation of the seeder and the occurrence of production theft events.

The classification of misplaced2 refers to a seed that is within 5.08 centimeters (two inches) of an adjacent seed. Before a seed is registered as a stray2 the average spacing is calculated based on population and row spacing. A time limit (T2 |_imit_and) is calculated to classify stray seeds2 by the equation:

T2 | j_mi_you = Assumed x (2 -e- medium spacing (centimeters)).

The misplaced classification4 refers to a seed that is within 10.16 centimeters (four inches) of an adjacent seed. A time limit (T4 | jmite) is calculated to classify the lost seeds4 by the equation:

T4 |_imjt_and = Assumed x (4 average spacing (centimeters)).

Therefore, a seed is classified as a lost seed4 when the time interval between the preceding signal and the next signal is greater than T2 |_imite, but less than T4 |_imite ·

In order to explain occasional cases when a cluster of dust or other debris cascades through the seed tube resulting in a rapid generation of signal pulses, the monitor system preferably classifies the entire series of rapid signal pulses as non-seed occurrences (even though the seeds are still passing through the tube along with the set of dust or debris) preferably then recording the rapid signal pulses as a row of multiple or lost seeds. However, in order to maintain a relatively accurate seed count and a relatively accurate percentage of singulation, the monitor system is preferably programmed to fill with the number of seeds that have passed through (or must have passed through) the seed tube together with the set of dust and debris. Therefore, in a preferred mode, when there are more than two pulses in series with an interval of less than 0.85T_prempty> all signal pulses detected after this occurrence are classified as non-seed until there is a detected interval that is greater than 0.85T_Psummarized · Any signal pulse classifying as a non-seed is not taken into account in any calculations to determine the percentage of 1122 singulation valves. In the preferred mode, in order to maintain the correct population values ​​1100 when the interval is less than that 0.85T_Psummary θ interval is measured from the last occurrence of good seed before the rapid signal event that produced the non-seed classification until the first good seed classification. The accumulated seed value is corrected or adjusted by adding to the count of good seeds, the number of occurrences corresponding to the number of times Presumed can be divided into the time period of classification of non-seed leaving the rest not greater than Presumed.It must be appreciated, that because the Tpresumido will vary with the speed of the seeder, which continuously changes during the planting operation as the seeder becomes slower or moves faster based on field conditions (ie mountainous terrain, when turning or approaching the end of the field, etc.), the T_Pr_eShumid is a number of dynamic or continuous change. A method of deriving the T_premissing is as follows:

a) Determine the average across all rows of 1 T1 seed_Avg preview as follows:

1) For each row, store the time interval of the last seed. Sort from minimum to maximum

2) Calculate the average time interval for all rows

3) If the ratio of the least interval divided by the average interval in step 2 is &lt;0.75, then remove the smaller number and repeat step 2.

4) If the ratio of the maximum interval divided by the average interval is> 1.25, then remove the maximum interval and repeat step 2.

5) T1_Avg is the average time interval across all rows where the ratio of the shortest time interval divided by the average time interval is> 0.75 and the ratio of the maximum interval divided by the average time interval is <1.25.

b) Determine the average time across all rows of 5 seeds (T5_Avg) previews as follows:

1) For each row, store the time intervals of the last five seeds in circular storage, exclude intervals where the time interval for the next seed is less than 0.5T1_Avg or greater than 1.5T1_Avg.

2) Calculate the row average (ie the average time interval for each row) by dividing the sum of the stored time intervals from step 1 by the seed count from step 1.

3) Determine the row ratio.

- if the time interval since the last seed is &lt;1.5 x row average, then the row ratio = 1

- if the time interval since the last seed is> 1.5 x row average, then the row ratio = (1 - (last time interval - + (row average x 5)))

4) For each row, multiply the row ratio by the row average and the sum of the products.

5) Calculate T5_Avg by dividing the value of step 4 by the sum of the row ratios.

c) Determine the average time span across all rows of 20 seeds (T20_Avg) previous.

1) For each row, store the time intervals of the last 20 seeds in circular storage; exclude intervals where the time interval for the next seed is less than 0.5T1_Avgor greater than 1.5T1_Avg.

2) Calculate the row average (ie the average time interval for each row) by dividing the sum of the stored time intervals from step 1 by the seed count from step 1.

3) Determine the row ratio.

- if the time interval since the last seed is &lt;1.5 x row average, then the row ratio = 1

- if the time interval since the last seed is> 1.5 x row average, then the row ratio = (1 - (last time interval + (row average x 20)))

4) Calculate T20_Avg by dividing the value of step 4 by the sum of the row ratios.

d) Determine assumed:

1) If all values ​​have been filtered out, then assumed =

T1 _THEvg2) More, if T20_Avg > 1.1 x T5_Avg and T20_Avg á T1_Avg, then assumed = T5_Avg.

3) More, if T20_Avg &lt;0.9 x T5_Avg and T20_THEv_g - IT_Avg, then assumed T5_Avg

4) MaiS, assumed “T20_Avg.

Obviously, other Tpresumido PO derivation methods may also be suitable and therefore the present invention should not be construed as being limited to the aforementioned method for Tpresumido derivation.

The percentage of escapes (% of Escapes) 1124 can be terminated by adding the total number of escapes detected by all rows through a predefined seed count (preferably the Average Seed value 1302 specified during Adjustment (default is 300 seeds)) and then dividing the total number of escapes through this seed count. Similarly, the percentage of multiples (% of Multiples) 1126 can be determined by adding the total number of multiples detected by all rows over the same predefined seed count and then dividing the total number of multiples by the predefined seed count. The percentage singulation value 1122 can then be calculated by adding the% of Escapes 1124 and the% of Multiples 1126 and subtracting that sum from 100%.

In addition to showing the percentage singulation value 1122, Singulation Window 1014 also preferably shows a graph 1128 to graph the numerical percentage of singulation 1122 against the 100% singulation target. Graph 1128 also preferably shows unidirectional marks 1130 incrementally spaced across graph 1128 corresponding to the Singulation Deviation 1350 limits (Figure 11) specified during the adjustment. An indicator 1132, such as a large diamond, preferably identifies the percentage singulation value 1122 with respect to the 100% singulation target. Other distinguishable indicators 1134, such as the smaller diamonds, preferably indicated the corresponding singulation percentages of the individual rows with respect to the 100% singulation target. In addition, Singulation Window 1014 also preferably numerically identifies the row of the seeder that is planting in the lowest singulation percentage 1136 (which in the example in Figure 5 is row 23) along with the 1138 percentage singulation value for this row.

Similar to the Population Window 1012 previously discussed, the Singulation Window 1014 preferably provides some kind of visual or audible alarm to alert the operator to the occurrence of any production theft events related to the singulation. An alarm condition related to the singulation may include, for example, the occurrence of the percentage singulation value 1122 falling outside the singulation deviation limits 1350 specified during the adjustment. Another alarm condition may include, for example, when an average percentage singulation of two or more rows exceeds the 1350 singulation deviation limits for five consecutive 1 Hz calculations, for example. Another alarm condition may include, when a row exceeds the 1350 singulation deviation limits more than twice for five consecutive 1 Hz calculations, for example. As before, many different alarm conditions can be defined and many different visual and / or audible indications of an alarm condition can be programmed into monitor system 1000 to make Singulation Window 1014 provide the operator with visual or audible alarms to indicate the occurrence of a production theft event related to the singulation. All such variations in alarm conditions and alarm indications are thought to be within the scope of the present invention.

In addition, in the preferred mode, the preferred GUI 1004 touch screen of the monitor system 1000 allows the operator to select different areas of the Singulation Window 1014 that will cause the monitor to show additional relevant details related to the selected feature. For example, if the operator touches the calculated percentage singulation value 1122, the screen changes to show the Level 2 Singulation Details screen (Figure 7). If the operator touches the screen area in Singulation Window 1014 where low singulation row 1136 is shown, the screen changes to the Row Details screen (Figure 9) which shows the details of that specific row.

Escapes / Multiples Window 1016: The Escapes / Multiples Window 1016 preferably shows the value of the calculated% of Escapes 1124 and% of Multiples 1126 as previously identified. As with other previously described Windows, the 1016 Escapes / Multiples Window can provide some kind of visual or audible alarm to alert the operator if the Escapes% or Multiples% exceeds predefined limits.

Good Spacing Window 1018: The Good Spacing Window2618 preferably includes a numerical value of good spacing percentage 1140 representing the average percentage of good spacing versus lost seed spacing, that is, the number of seeds categorized as lost2 or stray4 (as previously defined) on the preset sampling frequency (preferably 0.1 Hz). Once the number of lost2 and lost4 seeds is known, in relation to the number of seeds during the sample period, then the percentage of lost seeds2 (% MP2) and the percentage of lost seeds4 (% MP4) in relation to good seeds spaced is readily certified. Likewise, the good spacing percentage value 1140 is readily certified by subtracting the sum of% MP2 and% MP4 from 100%.

In addition to showing the calculated good spacing percentage value 1140, the Good Spacing Window 1018 also preferably includes a graph 1142 to graphically represent the good spacing percentage value 1140 with respect to the 100% good spacing target. One-way marks 1144 are preferably provided to identify a scale from 80% to 100% in 5% increments. An indicator 1146, such as a large diamond, preferably identifies the good spacing percentage value 1140 calculated with respect to the 100% good spacing target. Other distinguishable indicators 1148, such as smaller diamonds, preferably indicate the corresponding well-spaced percentages of the individual rows with respect to the 100% well-spaced target. In addition, the Good Spacing Window 1018 also preferably identifies numerically the row of the seeder that is planting in the lowest good spacing percentage 1150 (which in the example of Figure 5 is row 9) along with the numerical value of good spacing percentage 1152 for this row.

Similar to other Windows 1012, 1014 the Good Spacing Window 1018 preferably provides some kind of visual or audible alarm to alert the operator to the occurrence of any production theft events related to spacing. An alarm condition related to the spacing can be included, for example, if the total good spacing percentage value 1140 or the row specific spacing value falls below a predetermined deviation limit, such as 90%. Many different alarm conditions can be defined and many different visual and / or audible indications of an alarm condition can be programmed in monitor system 1000 to cause the 1018 Good Spacing Window to provide the operator with visual or audible alarms similar to those described with the other Windows 1012, 1014 to indicate the occurrence of a production theft event related to spacing. All such variations in alarm conditions and alarm indications are thought to be within the scope of the present invention.

In the preferred mode, the GUI 1004 touch screen of the monitor system 1000 allows the operator to select different areas of the 1018 Good Spacing Window that will cause the monitor to show additional relevant details related to the selected feature. For example, if the operator touches the calculated good spacing percentage value 1140, the screen changes to show the Level 2 Layout Details screen (Figure 8). If the operator touches the screen area in the Good Spacing Window 1018 where the low row 1150 is shown, the screen changes to the Row Details screen (Figure 9) which shows the details of the specific row.

Smooth Driving Window 1020: The Smooth Driving Window 1020 preferably shows the smooth driving percentage value 1154. Smooth driving is estimated based on the percentage of time that the vertical speed of the row unit is less than a threshold predefined vertical speed (VVL). In the preferred embodiment, the WL is 10.16 centimeters per second (four inches per second (4 in / s). This WL was selected based on empirical data that established that the seed spacing was measurably affected when the row unit was subjected to vertical speeds above 10.16 cm (4 in / s).

The number of times that the vertical speed of the row unit 12 on which the sensor 500 is mounted exceeds the WL is counted over a predefined period of time (preferably 30 seconds). The percentage of time during the predefined time period in which the WL was exceeded is then calculated for each sensor 500 and then an average is calculated (Ave% T> WL). The percentage value of smooth conduction 1154 is then calculated by subtracting the value of Ave% T> WL from 100%.

In addition to showing the calculated soft lead percentage value 1154, the Soft Lead Window 1020 also preferably shows a graph 1156 to graph the soft lead percentage value 1154 with respect to the 100% soft lead target. The unidirectional incremental marks 1158 preferably indicate a scale, such as at 85%, 90% and 95%, across a predefined range, preferably from a smooth 80% drive to a smooth 100%, low drive. An indicator 1160, such as a large diamond, preferably identifies the calculated smooth lead percentage value 1154 with respect to 100% smooth lead. Other distinguishable indicators 1162, such as smaller diamonds, preferably identify the corresponding smooth lead percentages of the individual rows with respect to 100% smooth lead. In addition, the Smooth Driving Window 1020 also preferably numerically identifies the seeder row in the lowest smooth driving percentage 1164 (which, in the example in Figure 5 is row 4) along with the smooth driving percentage value 1166 for this row .

As with other Windows 1012, 1014, 1018 the Smooth Driving Window 1020 preferably provides some kind of visual or audible alarm to alert the operator of any production theft events related to smooth driving. An alarm condition related to smooth driving can include, for example, whether the total smooth driving percentage 1154 or any specific smooth driving percentage falls below a predetermined deviation limit, such as 90%. Also as with the other Windows, many different alarm conditions can be defined and many different visual and / or audible indications of an alarm condition can be programmed in the monitor system 1000 to make the Soft Driving Window 1020 provide the operator with visual or audible alarms to indicate the occurrence of a production theft event related to smooth driving. All such variations in alarm conditions are thought to be within the scope of the present invention.

1022 Speed ​​Window: The 1022 Speed ​​Window preferably shows the 1168 sowing speed in miles per hour (mph). In the preferred mode, speed 1168 is preferably averaged over the last five seconds of data collected by the GPS 100 unit unless the sowing acceleration (AV / At) is greater than 1 mph / sec, in whose event , speed 1168 is preferably shown as the actual speed collected by the GPS unit 100.

As with the other Windows previously described, the Speed ​​Window 1022 can provide some kind of visual or audible alarm to alert the operator if the speed falls below or exceeds the predefined limits. In addition, if the processing circuit is programmed to diagnose the seeder's performance and to logically identify whether speed is a contributing factor for a low percentage of smooth driving 1154 or low percentage of good spacing percentage 1140, for example, a condition alarm can be triggered producing a visual or audible indication as previously described in connection with the other Windows.

Vacuum Window 1024: The Vacuum Window 1024 preferably shows the vacuum value 1170 in inches of water (in H₂THE). If the measurement type selected during adjustment was different from vacuum, the Vacuum Window 1024 is preferably empty or not shown. If vacuum was selected during adjustment, but no vacuum sensor 700 is connected to monitor 1000 or data from vacuum sensor 700 is otherwise, not being communicated to monitor 1000, Vacuum Window 1024 may show a value of zero vacuum, or the window may be empty or not shown.

As with the other Windows previously described, the Vacuum Window 1024 can provide some kind of visual or audible alarm to alert the operator if the speed drops below or exceeds the predefined limits. Additionally, if the processing circuit is programmed to diagnose the seeder's performance and to logically identify whether the vacuum is a contributing factor for a low percentage of singulation 1122 or poor percentage of spacing 1140, or excessive% of Escapes 1126 or% of Multiples 1124, for example, an alarm condition can be triggered producing an indication to alert the operator if the speed drops below or exceeds the predefined limits. Additionally, if the processing circuit is programmed to diagnose the seeder's performance and to logically identify whether speed is a contributing factor for a low visual or audible percentage as previously described in connection with other Windows.

Downforce Window 1026: Downforce Window 1026 preferably shows a ground contact parameter 1172 (preferably as a percentage of ground contact for a predefined sampling period). The Downforce Window 1026 may also include an area to show the average downforce value 1174 and / or alternatively, or in addition, the Downforce Window 1026 may show the load margin 1175 (not shown). The percentage of the earth contact parameter 1172 is preferably derived as more fully explained in PCT / US08 / 50427, previously incorporated here for reference. The average downward force value 1174 can be derived by calculating the load values ​​detected for a predefined period of time using all load sensors 300 on the seeder. The loading margin 1175 is preferably calculated and / or derived using any of the methods described in PCT / US08 / 50427. The downward force 1174 and / or load margin 1175 value can also be shown graphically as described in PCT / US08 / 50427.

As with the other previously described Windows, the

Downforce 1026 can provide some kind of visual or audible alarm to alert the operator if the speed drops below or exceeds the preset limits. In addition, if the processing circuit is programmed to diagnose the seeder's performance and to logically identify whether a low ground contact parameter and / or low or excessive downward force or load margin is a contributing factor to a low percentage of smooth driving 1154, for example, an alarm condition can be triggered producing a visual or audible indication as previously described in connection with the other windows.

1028 Economic Loss Window: The 1028 Economic Loss Window preferably shows the economic loss amount 1176 in dollars lost per acre ($ Loss / acre) attributable to the various production theft events. The calculated value of economic loss 1176 can be shown continuously or the value can be shown only under an alarm condition, such as when the value exceeds a predefined value, such as, for example, $ 3.00 / acre. If an alarm condition is not present, the 1028 Economic Loss Window can simply display the word Good or some other desired designation.

In the preferred mode, each occurrence of a production theft event is associated with an economic loss factor. In the preferred mode, the economic loss factor is a Ear Loss factor (EL) 1310. For example, empirical data has shown that when compared to plant maturation from a properly spaced seed from adjacent seeds (typically 15.24 to 17.78 centimeters (six to seven inches) for rows of 76.20 centimeters ( thirty inches) in plant populations around 32000 seeds / acre), if a seed is lost, so that it is only 5.08 centimeters (two inches) from an adjacent seed (ie, lost2), the loss in the network will be about 0.2 ear (that is, EL = 0.2). A stray seed that is only 10.16 centimeters (four inches) from an adjacent seed (ie, stray4) will have a net loss of about 0.1 ear (ie, EL = 0.1). An exhaust has been found to result in a 0.8 ear net loss (EL = 0.8). A double has been verified for a result in a 0.4 spike net loss (EL = 0.4).

The EL factors mentioned above assume that the farmer is planting flexible hybrids as opposed to determined hybrids ”. Simply described, the flexible hybrid is one where a plant will produce larger ears depending on seed spacing due to less competition for sunlight and nutrients. Therefore, for example, if there is a space greater than 10.16 centimeters (four inches) between an adjacent plant in a row, a flexible hybrid plant will presumably receive additional sunlight and more nutrients than seeds spaced by 10, 16 centimeters (four inches) or less, allowing it to produce a larger ear with more cores. In contrast, a given hybrid will have the same ear size regardless of increased seed spacing.

With the aforementioned understanding, based on empirical data, the EL escape factor was derived taking into account that although an ear was lost due to the escape, each of the two adjacent plants on each side of the escape, increase their respective size of ten per cent. Therefore, the loss of ear in the network by an exhaust is only 0.8 ear, instead of an entire ear (ie, -1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = -0.8). For an additional example, if future hybrids have the ability to increase the spike size by 50% on each side of an exhaust, then the spike loss in the network would approach zero since each adjacent plant added 50%, compensating , thus, the entire lost ear (ie, -1 + 0.5 + 0.5 = 0.0). Therefore, it must be understood that these EL factors may change over time as the characteristics of corn hybrids continue to evolve and improve. As such, in the preferred embodiment, the standard EL factors can be varied by the operator. By associating an EL factor for each occurrence of an escape seed, multiple, lost2 and lost4, an economic loss attributable to each of these production theft events for a sampling period can be determined.

In addition to the multiple and lost exhaust seeds, loss of ground contact and excessive downward force are events of production theft. Thus, in the preferred monitor system, EL factors are also associated with each of these production theft events.

The economic loss attributed to the excessive downforce is preferably based on the load margin 1175 as previously discussed in connection with the Downforce Window 1026 and as described in PCT / US08 / 50427. In the preferred system, the following EL factors are applied based on the magnitude of the load margin:

1) If the load range &lt;22.67 kg (50 Ibs), EL = 0

2) If 22.67 kg (50 Ibs) &lt;loading margin &lt;45.35 kg (100 Ibs),

EL = 0.05

3) If 45.35 kg (100 Ibs) &lt;loading margin &lt;90.71 kg (200 Ibs), EL = 0.1

4) If loading margin> 90.71 kg (200 Ibs) = 0.15

As described in PCT / US08 / 50427, the sampling period or frequency of detection of the load margin may vary. However, in the preferred monitor system of the present invention, the sampling period is preferably the same as the planting rate so that a load margin is calculated for each seed. In this way, an EL factor based on the load margin can be applied to each seed planted. With an EL factor assigned to the load margin for each seed planted, an average EL factor (ie ELAvg-Overload) for a given sampling period can then be calculated. The EL ^ g-Overload factor multiplied by the number of seeds in the sampling period can be used to determine the percentage of production loss attributable to the load margin during the sampling period as discussed below.

As for the economic loss attributable to the loss of contact with the earth, it must be appreciated that the longer the duration that the row unit depth regulating member is not in contact with the ground, the greater the depth loss of the furrow . In the preferred system, an EL factor of 0.5 is multiplied by the percentage of time during a sampling period that was lost from contact with the earth (% of Contact Loss) to determine the percentage of production loss attributable to the loss of contact with land during the sampling period. The sampling period can be any desired period of time, but in the preferred embodiment, the sampling period for the EL factor is preferably the time required to plant 300 seeds in the feed population specified during Adjustment.

In order to provide economic loss information in a useful format to the operator, the preferred modality shows the economic loss in dollars lost per acre ($ Loss / Acre). However, it must be appreciated that the economic loss can be presented in any desired units. Using the preferred $ Loss / Acre units, the economic loss can be calculated by multiplying the percentage of production loss due to the event of production theft by the projected production and multiplying this product by the price of the grain. Thus, in the preferred modality, $ Perda / Acre can be calculated using the following formula:

$ Loss / Acre =% Lost Production x Population x (Bushesl / Ear) x (Price / Bushel) where:% Lost Production = Sum of all calculated production losses attributable to all occurrences during the sampling period (for example, 300 seeds) of escapes, multiple, lost2, lost4, loss of contact with the ground and load margin; that is, 0.8 (% Escapes) + 0.4 (% Multiples) + 0.2 (% MP2) + 0.1 (% MP4) + 0.5 (% Loss of Contact) + EL_Avg-Overload (300 seeds). Note, the EL factors already mentioned may vary as adjusted by the operator during Adjustment as previously described.

Population = The target seed population specified during the adjustment

Bushels / Ear = The estimated number of ears required to produce a bushel of husked corn (default = 1bu / 140 ears); preferably configurable through Adjustment

Price / Bushel = Estimated price of corn per bushel (default = $ 2.50 / bu); preferably configurable through Adjustment

As with the other previously described Windows, the 1028 Economic Loss Window can provide some kind of visual or audible alarm to alert the operator if the economic loss exceeds the predefined limits. In addition, the Economic Loss Window 1028 can be associated or attached to other Windows, 1012, 1014, 1016, 1018, 1020, 1022, 1024, 1026 so that if an alarm condition is found in any of these other Windows, and such alarm condition is found to be the contributing factor to the alarm condition in the Economic Loss Window 1028, then both Windows produce a visual or audible indication of the alarm condition as previously described in connection with the other Windows.

Adjustment button 1030: Upon pressing the Adjustment button 1030, monitor 1000 is preferably programmed to show the Adjustment screen 1300 (Figure 11) through which the operator can make selections and / or enter data via the GUI 1004 touch screen. preferred.

Row Details Button 1032: By pressing the Row Details Button 1032, the monitor is preferably programmed to show the Row Selection Screen 1220 (Figure 10) through which the operator can select a Level 3 Screen (discussed later) ) for this particular row.

Snapshot Button 1034: Upon pressing the Snapshot Button 1034, monitor 1000 is preferably programmed to store all data input from the various sensors on a readable / recordable storage medium for a predefined period of time, preferably ninety seconds, through all the row units. The readable / writable storage medium may be a magnetic data storage tape or disk, or a solid state semiconductor memory storage device such as a flash memory or a memory card, or the readable / writable storage medium may be any type of computer or remote storage device to which data can be communicated via a wired or wireless connection. The purpose of the 1034 Snapshot button will be described in detail later.

Return button 1036: The Return button 1036 changes the screen shown previously.

Level 2 screens (Figures 6-8)

Population Details Screen (Figure 6): Figure 6 is an example of a preferred mode for showing population details in a bar graph format for all rows of a seeder. In the example in Figure 6, a bar graph 1200 of the population details for a row seeder 32 is shown. The number of rows shown for bar graph 1200 can be dynamic based on the number of rows introduced during Adjustment. Alternatively, the number of rows can remain fixed on the screen with data only being shown for the number of rows entered during Adjustment.

The horizontal line 1202 on the bar graph 1200 corresponds to the target population 1338 (Figure 11) introduced during Adjustment and the vertical scale of the bar graph 1200, preferably corresponds to the deviation limit 1342 (for example, ± 1000 seeds) specified during the Adjustment. The numerical value of the population 1112 for each row is graphically shown as a data bar 1204 above or below the horizontal line 1202 depending on whether the numerical value of the population is greater than or less than the value of the target population 1338, respectively. In the preferred embodiment, if a particular row approaches or exceeds the 1342 deviation limit, an alarm condition is triggered and data bar 1204 for that row preferably includes a visual indication that it is an alarm condition. For example, in the preferred embodiment, data bar 1204 for a row in an alarm condition is colored yellow (solid bars) while data bars 1204 for rows that are not in an alarm condition are green (light bars ). Alternatively, data bars 1204 can glow under an alarm condition or change to a different color, such as red, under specific alarm conditions, or depending on the severity of the production theft event. As with the different Level 1 Screens, there are several ways to represent an alarm condition, by different colors, audible alarms, etc. Accordingly, any or all devices that visually or audibly indicate an alarm condition must be considered within the scope of this invention.

In the preferred embodiment, the GUI 1004 touch screen preferably allows the operator to touch a bar 1204 for a particular row to change the screen to the Level 3 Screen display for that selected row. The up arrow button 1206 and the down arrow button 1208 preferably allow the operator to scroll between the various Level 2 Screens (Figures 6-8) as described hereinafter. The Return button 1036 changes to the screen previously shown. The Main button 1209 returns to the Level 1 Screen (Figure 5). The Row Details Button 1032 preferably shows the Row Selection screen (Figure 10).

Singulation Details Screen (Figure 7): Figure 7 is an example of a preferred modality for showing singulation details in a bar chart format for all rows of a seeder. In the example in Figure 7, a bar graph 1200 of the singulation details for a row seeder 32 is shown. The number of rows shown for bar graph 1200 can be dynamic based on the number of rows introduced during Adjustment. Alternatively, the number of rows can remain fixed on the screen with the data being shown only for the number of rows entered during Adjustment.

The horizontal line 1202 on the bar graph 1200 corresponds to the 100% singulation (ie, zero multiples and zero escapes) and the vertical scale of the bar graph 1200 preferably corresponds to the 1350 singulation deviation limit (for example, 1% on the Figure 11) specified during Adjustment. The Multiples% 1126 for a particular row is shown as a data bar 1184 above the horizontal reference line 1212. The% of Escapes 1124 for a particular row is shown as a data bar 1214 below the horizontal reference line 1212. In the preferred embodiment, if a particular row approaches or exceeds the singulation deviation limit 1350, an alarm condition is triggered and the data bar 1214 for that row preferably includes a visual indication that it is in an alarm condition. For example, in the preferred embodiment, data bar 1214 for a row in an alarm condition is colored yellow (solid bars) while data bars 1214 for rows that are not in an alarm condition are green (light bars ). Alternatively, data bars 1214 can glow under an alarm condition or change to a different color, such as red, under specific alarm conditions or depending on the severity of the production theft event. As with the different Level 1 Screens, there are several ways to represent an alarm condition, using different colors, audible alarms, etc. Accordingly, any or all devices that visually or audibly indicate an alarm condition must be considered within the scope of this invention.

In the preferred mode, the GUI 1004 touch screen preferably allows the operator to touch a bar 1214 for a particular row to change the screen to the Level 3 Screen display for that selected row. All other buttons identified in Figure 7 perform the same functions as described in Figure 6.

Layout Details Screen (Figure 8): Figure 8 is an example of a preferred mode for showing layout details in a bar graph format for all rows of a seeder. In the example in Figure 8, a bar graph 1216 of the singulation details for a row seeder 32 is shown. The number of rows shown for bar graph 1216 can be dynamic based on the number of rows introduced during Adjustment. Alternatively, the number of rows can remain fixed on the screen with the data being shown only for the number of rows entered during Adjustment.

The horizontal line 1220 on bar graph 1216 corresponds to 100% good spacing (that is, zero stray seeds) and the vertical scale on bar graph 1216 preferably corresponds to a deviation limit (for example, 10%) that can be specified during Adjustment. The numerical value of percentage of good spacing 1144 for each row is graphically shown as a data bar 1218 above a horizontal line 1220. In the preferred embodiment, if a particular row approaches or exceeds the disposition deviation limit, an alarm condition is triggered and data bar 1218 for that row preferably includes a visual indication that it is in an alarm condition. For example, in the preferred embodiment, data bar 1218 for a row in an alarm condition is colored yellow (solid bars) while data bars 1218 for rows that are not in an alarm condition are green (light bars ). Alternatively, data bars 1218 can glow under an alarm condition or change to a different color, such as red, under specific alarm conditions or depending on the severity of the production theft event. As with Level 1 Screens, there are several ways to represent an alarm condition, using different colors, audible alarms, etc. Accordingly, any and all devices that visually or audibly indicate an alarm condition must be considered within the scope of this invention.

In the preferred embodiment, the GUI 1004 touch screen preferably allows the operator to touch a bar 1218 for a particular row to change the screen to the Level 3 Screen display for that selected row. All other buttons identified in Figure 8 perform the same functions as described in Figure 6.

Level 3 screens (Figures 9-12):

Row Details (Figure 9): Figure 9 is a preferred mode for showing Row Details. In the example of Figure 9, row details for row 16 of the seeder are illustrated. Preferably, the information shown on this Level 3 Screen is similar to that shown on the Level 1 Screen, except that on the Level 3 Screen, the information is of a specific row as opposed to the average calculated across all the rows on the Level Screens 1. Therefore, the Level 3 Row Detail Screen preferably includes a Row Population window 1220, a Row Singulation window 1222, an Escapes / Multiples window of Row 1224, a Downforce Window of Row 1226, a 1228 Row Vacuum Window (when applicable) and 1230 Row Economic Loss Window. The Level 3 Row Detail Screen also preferably includes a 1232 Row Spacing Window and, preferably, a graphical Row Seed Layout window 1234. The Main button 1209, the Row Details Button 1032, the button Up Arrow 1206, Down Arrow button 1208, and Return button 1036 perform the same functions as described in Figure 6.

Population Window 1220: Population Window 1220 preferably shows the population value of row 1240 calculated as identified using the Level 1 Screen except that the population value of row 1240 is specific to the selected row and the average is not calculated as on the Level 1 Screen.

Singulation Window 1302: Singulation Window 1302 preferably shows the percentage singulation value for row 1242 calculated as identified using the Level 1 Screen except the percentage singulation value for row 1242 is specific to the selected row and is not calculated the average as in the Level 1 Screen.

Escapes / Row Multiples Window 1224: The Escapes / Row Multiples Window 1224 preferably shows the Escapes% 1244 value and the 1246 Multiples% value calculated as identified using the Level 1 Screen except these values ​​are specified for selected row and averages are not calculated as in the Level 1 Screen.

Row Downforce Window 1226: The Row Downforce Window 1226 is preferably shown only in rows equipped with the load sensor 300. When the row of interest is not equipped with a load sensor, the Row Downforce Window 1226 Row is preferably empty. When the row of interest is equipped with a load sensor 300, the Row Downforce Window 1226 preferably circulates between the downforce value display

1248 (Ibs), and / or the load margin, and / or the 1250 ground contact parameter. As described in PCT / US08 / 50427 the downward force can be the load value (ie, total load) detected during a predefined sampling period (for example, 1 second time periods). The loading margin is preferably the calculated and / or derived value as described in PCT / US08 / 50427. Likewise, the ground contact parameter 1250 is preferably determined by the methods described in PCT / US08 / 50427.

1228 Row Vacuum Window: The 1228 Row Vacuum Window is preferably shown only on rows equipped with a 700 vacuum sensor. When the row of interest is not equipped with a vacuum sensor, the Row Vacuum Window is preferably empty. When the row of interest is equipped with a vacuum sensor, the 1228 Row Vacuum Window preferably shows vacuum 1252 (in inches of H₂O) for this row.

Economic Row Loss Window 1230: The Economic Row Loss Window 1230 preferably shows the economic row loss value 1232 calculated as identified using the Level 1 Screen except the percentage row singulation value 1254 is specific to the selected row and it is not entirely across the board as in the Level 1 Screen.

Good Row Spacing Window 1230:

The Good Row Spacing Window 1230 preferably shows the percentage value of the good row spacing 1256 calculated as identified using the Level 1 Screen, except the percentage value of the good row spacing 1256 is specific to the selected row and is not calculated the average as in the Level 1 Screen.

Row Seed Arrangement Window 1234: The Row Seed Arrangement window 1234 preferably graphically shows a representation of each classified seed detected in that row (ie, good, escape, multiple, lost2, lost4) for a distance behind the seeder bearing from the right side of the window to the left side of the window. In the preferred embodiment, good seeds are represented as green plants 1258, escapes are represented by a red circle X 1260, double seeds and stray seeds2 are represented as red plants 1262 and lost seeds4 are represented as yellow plants 1264. Naturally, it should be appreciated that any other graphic representation of the seeds can be equally suitable and, therefore, any and all graphic representation of the seed arrangement must be considered within the scope of the present invention. The Row Layout window 1234 preferably includes a distance scale 1266 representative of the distance behind the seeder on which the seeds / plants are arranged. Preferably, the Row Layout window 1234 includes a reverse or rewind button 1268, a fast forward button 1270, and a play / pause button 1272. The reverse button 1268 preferably causes the distance scale 1266 to incrementally increase in distance behind from the sowing machine (such as 7.62 m (25 feet)) and rolls the plants to the right (as opposed to the left) to allow the operator to review the seed layout further behind the sowing machine. Alternatively, instead of scrolling the graphic representation of the seeds / plants, the reverse button can cause the scale to zoom out, for example, the scale can increase in increments of 1.52 m (five feet) to a scale of 0 at 7.62 m (0 to 25 feet) instead of 0 to 3.04 m (0 to 10 feet). Similarly, the 1270 fast-forward button allows the user to either scroll right up to zero meters behind the seeder or to zoom in on the distance scale. The 1272 run / pause button preferably allows the operator to pause or freeze the screen to stop the plants / seeds from rolling and, by pressing the 1272 button again, resume the seed roll.

Row Selection (Figure 10): A preferred embodiment of the Row Selection Screen 1274 is illustrated in Figure 10 in which a plurality of buttons 1276 are shown corresponding to the row number of the seeder. By tapping a 1276 button corresponding to the row of interest, the preferred GUI 1004 touch screen shows the Row Details Screen of the

Level 3 (Figure 9) for the selected seeder row. The number of buttons 1276 shown may vary depending on the size of the seeder introduced during Adjustment. Alternatively, the Row Selection Screen 1274 may have a fixed number of buttons 1276 corresponding to the largest seeder available, but if the operator specifies a smaller number of rows during Adjustment, only the rows that match the size of the introduced seeder would provide the functionality already mentioned. All other buttons identified in Figure 10 perform the same functions as described for Figure 6. The Row Details button 1032 is preferably not shown on this screen.

Adjustment Screen (Figure 11): The preferred mode of a 1300 Adjustment Screen is illustrated in Figure 11. The 1300 Adjustment Screen preferably includes a plurality of predefined windows, each of which preferably shows relevant configuration information and opens a Screen Level 4 to enter that configuration information. Preferred windows include a Field 1302 window, a Plowing window 1304, a Population window 1306, a Population Limits window 1308, a Measurement window 1310, a Seeder Window 1312, a Singulation Limits window 1314, a Calculated Average Seed window 1316, a Ear Loss window 1318 and a File &amp; Data Transfer window 1320. The other buttons identified in Figure 11 perform the same functions as described for Figure 6. The Row Details Button 1032 is preferably not shown on this screen.

Field Window 1302: The Field Window 1302 preferably opens a Level 4 Alphanumeric Keyboard Screen similar to the side alphanumeric keyboard 1322 shown in Figure 12 through which the operator can enter alphanumeric characters to enter a field identifier 1324. Preferably, by By pressing the Enter 1326 button, the operator is returned to the 1300 Adjustment Screen and the field identifier 1324 is shown in the Field 1302 window.

Crop Window 1304: Crop Window 1304 preferably opens a Level 4 Crop Selection Screen 1328, the preferred modality of which is illustrated in Figure 12. Crop Selection Screen 1328 preferably includes a plurality of predefined crop type buttons 1330 , each having a designation of type 1332 crop corresponding to the name of the most typical crops planted by row crop seeders, that is, corn, beans and cotton. Upon selecting one of these buttons, the operator is preferably returned to the 1300 Adjustment Screen and the corresponding 1332 crop type designator is shown in the 1304 Crop Window. The 1328 Crop Selection Screen also preferably includes a button labeled Other 1334, which upon selection allows the operator to manually type in the name of the 1332 crop type designator (eg sorghum or some other type of crop) in the 1336 window through from the side alphanumeric keypad 1322. Upon pressing the Enter 1326 button, the operator is returned to the 1300 Adjustment Screen and the manually entered crop designator 1322 is shown in the Crop Window 1304. The other buttons identified in Figure 11 perform the same functions as described for Figure 6.

Population Window 1306: Population Window 1306 preferably shows the target seed population 1338. The target seed population 1338 can be a uniform target population, a variable population, or an exception population, and is preferably adjusted through a Level 4 1340 Population Adjustments, whose preferred modality is illustrated in Figure 13 (discussed later). The Population Settings Screen 1340 preferably opens by selecting Population Window 1306 via the GUI 1004 touch screen.

Population Limits Window 1308: The Population Limits window 1308 preferably opens the Level 4 Alphanumeric Keyboard Screen (Figure 12) as previously discussed by what the operator can enter at the population diversion limit 1342, if the operator does not wish to use the standard limit of 1000 seeds. Preferably, by pressing the Enter 1326 button, the operator is returned to the Adjustment Screen 1300 and the population deviation limit 1342 is made to be shown in the Population Limits window 1308. The population deviation limit 1342 is the number of seeds by which the actual seed count can vary prior to setting an alarm condition, and is the value used on the scale of the 1200 bar graph on the Level 2 Population Details screen Figure 6.

Measurement Window 1310: The Measurement Window 1310 preferably opens a Level 4 Measurement Selection Screen (not shown) through which the operator can select from a plurality of predefined keys that correspond to measurement type 1344 of the measuring device 30 used by the seeder. Measurement types preferably include finger measurements and vacuum measurements. By selecting the 1344 measurement type, the operator is preferably shown in the 1310 Measurement Window.

Seeder Window 1312: Seeder Window 1312 preferably opens the Level 4 Alphanumeric Keypad Screen (Figure 12) as previously discussed through which the operator can enter the number of rows 1346 in the seeder and the row spacing 1348 of the seeder. Preferably, by pressing the Enter button 1326, the operator is returned to the Adjustment Screen 1300 and the rows of the seeder 1346 and the row spacing 1348 are shown in the window of the Seeder 1312.

1314 Slicing Limits Window: The 1314 Singulation Limits window preferably opens the Level 4 Alphanumeric Keyboard Screen (Figure 12) as previously discussed through what the operator can enter at the desired 1350 singulation deviation limit if the operator does not. want to use the default 1% singulation deviation limit. Preferably, by pressing the Enter 1326 button, the operator is returned to the Adjustment Screen 1300 and the singulation deviation limits 1350 cause them to be shown in the Singulation Limits 1314 window. The singulation deviation limit 1342 is the percentage through which the singulation can vary before setting an alarm condition, and is the percentage used on the scale of bar graph 1210 on the Deta46 Screen of Level 2 Synchronization in Figure 7.

1316 Calculated Average Seed Window: The 1316 Calculated Average Seed window preferably opens the Level 4 Alphanumeric Keyboard Screen (Figure 12) as previously discussed through which the operator can enter the desired calculated average seed value 1352 if the operator does not want to use the seed value standard of the calculated average of 300. Preferably, by pressing the Enter button 1326, the operator is returned to the Adjustment Screen 1300 and the calculated average seed value 1352 is shown in the Singulation Limits window 1314.

Ear Loss Window 1318: The Ear Loss Window 1318 preferably opens the Level 4 Screen (Figure 12) as previously discussed through which the operator can enter the desired loss values ​​1354 if the operator does not wish to use the default values previously discussed. Preferably, by pressing the Enter 1326 button, the operator is returned to the 1300 Adjustment Screen and the ear loss values ​​1354 entered by the operator are shown in the Ear Loss 1318 window. As previously discussed, ear loss values ​​1354 are used in the calculation of the economic loss value of row 1254 shown in the Economic Loss Window of Row 1230 (Figure 9) and in the total economic loss value 1176 shown in the Loss of Window Economic 1028 (Figure 5).

Level 4 screen (Figure 13):

Population Adjustments Screen (Figure 13): The Population Adjustments Screen 1340 preferably includes a single population window 1370, preferably at least two variable population windows 1372, 1374 and an Exception Population window 1376. Each of the various population windows preferably includes a data window 1378 where the population value 1338 can be entered for the selected particular population type . For example, if the operator intends to plant a field with a uniform population, the operator must select the simple population window 1370 and type in the desired population using the numeric keys 1380 in the side keyboard window 1382. Alternatively, if the operator wants to vary the population beyond the field based on field mapping data, for example, the operator can select the first variable population window 1372 and enter the first variable population 1338 using keys 1380 as before. The operator can then select the second variable population window 1374 and enter the second variable population value 1338 using keys 1380. If the operator wants to plant different rows in different populations, for example, when planting corn seed, the operator can select the exception population window 1376 and enter the seed population value 1338 for the exception rows using keys 1380 . In the preferred mode, the operator can then preferably select the exception rows by tapping the row indicator of the corresponding seeder 1384 in the exception row window 1386 to which the exception population will apply. In the example in Figure 13, the operator selected the entire row of fifteen of the sower to plant the exception population of 21000 seeds, while the unemphasized rows will plant in the designated simple population of 31200 seeds.

In the preferred mode, if the first variable population window 1372 is selected, the simple population window 1370 and the exception population window 1376 preferably change to variable population windows, therefore allowing the operator to adjust four variable populations.

The aforementioned description is presented to enable someone skilled in the art to make and use the invention and is provided 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 skilled in the art. Accordingly, the present invention is not to be limited to the modalities of the apparatus, system and methods described above and illustrated in the drawing figures, but it is to be agreed upon the broadest scope consistent with the spirit and scope of the appended claims.