Fluid application systems including pressure dampeners

A fluid application system includes a manifold defining an internal passageway, a plurality of nozzles connected in fluid communication with the internal passageway, a plurality of electrically actuated valves for controlling fluid flow through the plurality of nozzles, where each valve of the plurality of electrically actuated valves is connected in fluid communication between the internal passageway and a corresponding one of the plurality of nozzles, and a pressure dampener connected to the manifold and configured to dampen fluctuations in fluid pressure within the internal passageway.

BACKGROUND

The field of the disclosure relates generally to fluid application systems, and more particularly, to fluid application systems including a boom pipe or manifold connected to nozzle assemblies and methods of applying fluid using such fluid application systems.

In the agricultural industry, agricultural fluids or agrochemicals are commonly applied to plants and/or plant precursors (e.g., seeds) for a variety of reasons. For example, plants and plant precursors are often sprayed with an agricultural fluid at the time of planting to enhance germination and early development. In other applications, liquid fertilizers, pesticides, and other agrochemicals may be applied to plants or crops after planting for crop management. Agricultural fluids include, without limitation, growth promotors, growth regulators, spray fertilizers, pesticides, insecticides, and/or fungicides.

Typically, systems for applying agricultural fluids to fields include a manifold, e.g., a boom pipe, and a plurality of nozzle assemblies that receive fluid from the manifold for applying the fluid to a field. In at least some known systems, the fluid is supplied to the manifold through an inlet located between opposed ends of the manifold. The fluid travels longitudinally through the manifold from the inlet toward the opposed ends. As the fluid flows towards the opposed ends, a portion of the fluid is directed out of the manifold towards the nozzle assemblies for application to the fields.

For some applications, it is desirable to regulate or control the fluid application rate (i.e., amount of fluid applied per unit area, such as an acre) and/or the fluid flow rate (i.e., volume per unit time) through the nozzle assemblies at a preset rate and/or based on user specified parameters. In some seed planting systems, for example, it may be desirable to dispense a consistent amount of fluid on or adjacent to each seed dispensed from the seed planting system. Variations in system operating conditions may, however, make it difficult to precisely control the fluid application rate or the fluid flow rate through the nozzle assemblies. For example, fluctuations in fluid pressure upstream from the nozzle assemblies (e.g., within the manifold) can affect the fluid flow rate through the nozzle assemblies. As a result, fluctuations in the pressure of fluid supplied to the nozzles may make it difficult to precisely control the fluid application rate and/or the fluid flow rate through individual nozzle assemblies.

Accordingly, a need exists for fluid application systems that reduce or decrease fluctuations in fluid pressure within the fluid application systems.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In one aspect, a seed planting system for dispensing fluid on or adjacent to seeds dispensed from the system is provided. The seed planting system includes a seed dispenser configured to dispense seeds through at least one of a plurality of seed dispensing outlets and into a furrow, a manifold defining an internal passageway for fluid flow therethrough, and a plurality of nozzles connected in fluid communication with the internal passageway. Each nozzle of the plurality of nozzles is located proximate to a respective one of the plurality of seed dispensing outlets. The system further includes a plurality of electrically actuated valves configured to control fluid flow through the plurality of nozzles. Each valve of the plurality of electrically actuated valves is connected in fluid communication between the internal passageway and a corresponding one of the plurality of nozzles. The system further includes a pressure dampener connected to the manifold and configured to dampen fluctuations in fluid pressure within the internal passageway.

In another aspect, a fluid application system is provided. The fluid application system includes a manifold defining an internal passageway and an inlet for fluid flow into the internal passageway. The internal passageway extends from a first end of the manifold to a second end of the manifold. The system also includes a plurality of nozzles connected in fluid communication with the internal passageway and a plurality of electrically actuated valves for controlling fluid flow through the plurality of nozzles. Each valve of the plurality of electrically actuated valves is connected in fluid communication between the internal passageway and one of the plurality of nozzles. The system further includes a first pressure dampener connected to the first end of the manifold and a second pressure dampener connected to the second end of the manifold. The first pressure dampener and the second pressure dampener are configured to dampen fluctuations in fluid pressure within the internal passageway.

In yet another aspect, a method of assembling a fluid application system is provided. The fluid application system includes a manifold that defines an internal passageway. The method includes connecting a plurality of nozzles in fluid communication with the internal passageway, connecting a plurality of electrically actuated valves in fluid communication between the internal passageway and the plurality of nozzles such that each valve of the plurality of electrically actuated valves is connected in fluid communication between the internal passageway and a corresponding one of the plurality of nozzles, and connecting a pressure dampener to the manifold such that the pressure dampener dampens fluctuations in fluid pressure within the internal passageway.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to the drawings and in particular toFIGS. 1-7, one embodiment of a seed planting system is designated in its entirety by the reference number100.FIG. 1includes an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis for reference throughout the description. Unless otherwise noted, directions, such as horizontal and vertical, refer to the orientation of the seed planting system100shown inFIG. 1.

The seed planting system100includes a motorized vehicle10and a planter12(shown schematically as a box inFIG. 1) for use in planting and spraying seeds. The motorized vehicle10may be any machine that enables the seed planting system100to function as described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, the motorized vehicle10is a tractor. In some embodiments, one or more components of the seed planting system100may be incorporated into the motorized vehicle10without departing from some aspects of this disclosure.

As shown, the motorized vehicle10includes a pair of front wheels16, a pair or rear wheels18, and a chassis20coupled to and supported by the wheels16,18. A cab22is supported by a portion of the chassis20and houses various control devices24for permitting an operator to control operation of the motorized vehicle10. Additionally, the motorized vehicle10includes an engine26and a transmission28mounted on the chassis20. The transmission28is operably coupled to the engine26and provides variably adjusted gear ratios for transferring engine power to the wheels18via an axle/differential30. Additionally, as shown inFIG. 1, the motorized vehicle10may be configured to be coupled to the planter12via a suitable coupling32such that the vehicle10may pull the planter12as it moves in a travel direction (indicated by arrow34) along a field102.

The planter12may be any suitable apparatus for dispensing seeds to the field102. Examples of suitable planters are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 9,226,442, issued Jan. 5, 2016, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/857,348, filed Apr. 5, 2013, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

As shown inFIG. 2, the planter12includes a plurality of row units14supported by a frame36extending along the width of the planter12(e.g., in a direction transverse to the travel direction34). Row units14are configured to at least spray seeds and/or plants and, in some embodiments, are configured to plant and spray seeds. Each row unit14may include a furrow creation device. In general, the furrow creation device may be configured to create a trench or furrow38within the ground for planting the seeds46. In several embodiments, the furrow creation device may include a pair of laterally spaced opening discs40, a pair of laterally spaced closing discs42and a press wheel44. As is generally understood, the opening discs40may be configured to open a furrow38within the ground. Once the seeds46have been deposited into the furrow38, the closing discs42may be configured to close the furrow38over the seeds46. The press wheel44may then compact the soil that has been closed over the seeds46.

Additionally, each row unit14also includes a seed hopper48, a seed meter50, and a seed tube52, collectively referred to herein as a seed dispenser. The seed tube52includes an outlet end54spaced from the seed meter50for dispensing the seeds46therethrough. In general, the seed dispenser (i.e., the seed hopper48, seed meter50, and seed tube52) is configured to dispense the seeds46into the furrow38. For example, the seed hopper48may be any suitable container or other storage device that is configured for storing and dispensing the seeds46into the seed meter50. Also, the seed meter50may be any suitable seed meter that is configured to dispense the seeds46into the seed tube52at a metered rate. The seeds46are dispensed from the outlet end54of the seed tube52into the furrow38. Although the system100is described herein with reference to dispensing and/or spraying the seeds46, the system100may generally be utilized to dispense and/or spray any suitable type of plant and/or plant precursor, such as seeds, seedlings, transplants, encapsulated tissue cultures and/or any other suitable plant precursors.

In one embodiment, the seed meter50includes a housing and a seed plate or disc rotatably supported within the housing. The seed disc includes a plurality of indentions, channels and/or other suitable recessed features that are spaced apart from one another around the seed disc (e.g., in a circular array) to allow the seeds46to be dispensed at a given frequency. Specifically, each recessed feature is configured to grab a single seed46(e.g., via a vacuum applied to the recessed feature) as such recessed feature is rotated past the location at which the seeds46are fed into the housing from the seed hopper48. As the seed disc is rotated, the seeds46are carried by the recessed features and dispensed into the seed tube52. The metered rate may be predetermined, set, changed, or otherwise controlled (e.g., by the control system of the planter12or mechanically based on a rate of travel of the row unit14). The seeds46are dispensed from the seed tube52into furrow38. For example, at a given rotational speed for the seed disc, the seed meter50dispenses the seeds46at a constant frequency. When the planter12travels at a constant speed, the seeds46are spaced apart equally from one another within the furrow38. As the travel speed of the planter12increases or decreases, the rotational speed of the seed disc may also be increased or decreased to maintain equal spacing or a predetermined spacing of the seeds46within the furrow38. Such variation of the rotational speed of the seed disc is provided by a drive system60and/or controlled by a control system of the planter12.

The drive system60is or includes any suitable device and/or combination of devices configured to rotate the seed disc of the seed meter50. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the drive system60is a sprocket/chain arrangement including a drive shaft62, a first sprocket64coupled to the drive shaft62, a second sprocket66coupled to the seed disc (e.g., via a shaft68) and a chain70coupled between the first and second sprockets64,66. The drive shaft62is configured to rotate the first sprocket64, which, in turn, rotates the second sprocket66via the chain70. Rotation of the second sprocket66results in rotation of the shaft68and, thus, rotation of the seed disc within the housing of the seed meter50. The drive system60further includes a motor72(e.g., an electric or hydraulic motor) rotatably coupled to the drive shaft62that is configured to be controlled by the control system of the planter12. Specifically, the control system is configured to receive signals associated with the travel speed of the planter12from a sensor or other suitable device (e.g., an encoder or shaft sensor, global positioning system receiver, or other device) and regulate the rotational speed of the motor72based on the travel speed of the planter12such that a desired seed spacing is achieved or maintained. In alternative embodiments, the drive system60is or includes other components or devices. For example, the drive system60may be configured to rotate the seed disc through a connection with one or more wheels or other rotating features of the planter12. A transmission, clutch, and/or other components may be used to regulate the rotational speed of the seed disc and therefore achieve or maintain desired seed spacing.

In alternative embodiments, the row unit14is or includes other suitable components for dispensing the seeds46. In further alternative embodiments, the planter12does not include the seed hopper48, seed meter50, seed tube52, and/or other components for dispensing the seeds46, and instead sprays existing seeds46or existing plants. In such embodiments, the row unit14may not include the seed dispenser.

Referring still toFIG. 2, each row unit14also includes at least one nozzle assembly78for spraying a fluid F on and/or adjacent to the seeds46dispensed from the seed tube52. The nozzle assembly78may be mounted to the row unit14in any manner that enables the seed planting system100to operate as described herein. In this embodiment, the nozzle assembly78is mounted on the frame (or other rigid component) of the seed planting system100and remains substantially stationary relative to the seed tube52. The nozzle assembly78includes a nozzle80configured to dispense fluid F on and/or adjacent to the seeds46. In some embodiments, the nozzle80is configured to dispense the fluid F in a direction away from the seeds46. For example, in some embodiments, a fertilizer having a high salinity is dispensed to the field102in a direction away from the seeds46and outside of the furrow38as the seeds46are dispensed. The nozzle80may generally comprise any suitable nozzle known in the art, such as any nozzle typically utilized in an agricultural spraying system. In some embodiments, the nozzle80may include a spray tip configured to produce a desired spray pattern. Additionally or alternatively, the nozzle80may include a check valve. In some embodiments, the nozzle assembly78may also include an electrically actuated valve82(FIG. 3), such as a solenoid valve, mounted to or integrated within a portion of the nozzle80. In other embodiments, such as the embodiment shown inFIGS. 4-7, an electrically actuated valve82may be located upstream from the nozzle assembly78. In some embodiments, the flow of the fluid F through the nozzles80may be modified or controlled using pulse width modulation (PWM) technology.

FIG. 3is an enlarged schematic view of a portion of the seed planting system100illustrating additional details of the seed dispenser and the nozzle assembly78. As shown inFIG. 3, the nozzle assembly78is connected to a suitable fluid conduit84, such as a pipe or hose, that provides fluid F to the nozzle assembly78. The valve82of the nozzle assembly78controls the flow of the fluid F from the fluid conduit84to the nozzle80and a spray tip86configured to produce a specified spray pattern.

In some embodiments, the seed planting system100is configured to spray the fluid F on and/or adjacent to the seed46using, in part, one or more sensors. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the seed planting system100includes a seed sensor88. The seed sensor88is configured to sense, at least, when the seed46passes through and/or exits the seed tube52. For example, the seed sensor88may be an optical sensor (e.g., a camera) or a beam break sensor (e.g., infrared beam break sensor) producing a beam which when broken sends a signal (e.g., a change in voltage). Additionally or alternatively, the seed sensor88may be a mechanical sensor which at least partially obstructs the seed tube52and that produces a signal (e.g., change in voltage) when the seed46contacts or moves the mechanical sensor. In alternative embodiments, other suitable sensor(s) are used to detect when the seed46exits the seed tube52. In further embodiments, the sensor88is configured to determine a location of the seed46in the furrow38. For example, the sensor88may be or include a camera which images the seed46in the furrow38. Additionally or alternatively, the seed planting system100may include a second sensor, such as a camera90, configured to capture one or more images of each seed46after it is dispensed from the seed tube52and/or as it is being sprayed by the nozzle assembly(ies)78. Additional details and operation of the seed sensor88and the camera90are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/857,348, filed Apr. 5, 2013, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Using image recognition techniques, distance calculating techniques, and/or a time when the seed46leaves the seed tube52, the location of the seed46may be determined. The sensor(s)88,90may send a signal to a controller126of the seed planting system100and/or a control system of the planter12for use in controlling the nozzle assembly78, such as when to actuate the valve82.

In reference toFIGS. 4-7, an embodiment of a fluid application system101of seed planting system100includes a boom pipe or manifold104connected in fluid communication with the nozzle assemblies78and a suitable fluid source (not shown), such as a fluid tank. The fluid F is supplied to each nozzle assembly78through the manifold104. A pump (not shown), such as a centrifugal pump, may be positioned upstream of the nozzle assembly78and/or the manifold104for pumping the fluid F from the fluid source to the nozzle assembly78. A pressure sensor105may be fluidly connected upstream of the manifold104to measure the pressure of fluid supplied to the manifold104. The manifold104defines an internal passageway106(shown inFIG. 7) for the fluid F to flow therethrough. In reference to the orientation of the seed planting system100shown inFIG. 4, the manifold104extends horizontally and is spaced vertically from the field102(shown inFIG. 1). The manifold104includes a first end110, a second end112, and a sidewall114extending from the first end110to the second end112. In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall114forms a substantially cylindrical shape, although the manifold104may have any suitable shape that enables the seed planting system100to function as described herein. In some embodiments, the seed planting system100includes a plurality of the manifolds104.

In the embodiment shown inFIG. 4, the seed planting system100also includes a vacuum manifold115connected to a vacuum source (not shown), and a plurality of vacuum conduits extending from the vacuum manifold115to a corresponding seed dispenser. Vacuum generated by the vacuum source is transmitted to the seed dispensers and selectively applied to a seed disc to grab and dispense seeds from a seed hopper.

As shown inFIG. 5, the manifold104extends a length116along a longitudinal axis128measured from the first end110of the manifold104to the second end112of the manifold104, and has a diameter118. The manifold may have any suitable length116and diameter118that enables the seed planting system100to function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the diameter118is between 1 centimeter and 5 centimeters, between 1.5 centimeters and 4 centimeters, or between 2 centimeters and 3 centimeters. In some embodiments, the diameter118is approximately 2.5 centimeters (1 inch). Moreover, in some embodiments, the length116of the manifold104is between 0.75 meters and 10 meters. In alternative embodiments, the manifold104is any size that enables the manifold104to function as described herein.

The manifold104also defines an inlet120to allow fluid F to flow into the internal passageway106of the manifold104. A fluid supply conduit122is connected to the fluid inlet120for supplying fluid from a suitable fluid source (not shown), such as a fluid tank. In the illustrated embodiment, the inlet120is positioned on the manifold104approximately midway between the first end110and the second end112. In other embodiments, the inlet120may be positioned anywhere along the manifold104. In further embodiments, the seed planting system100may include a plurality of inlets. For example, a plurality of inlets may be evenly spaced along the manifold104between the first end110and the second end112.

The manifold104also defines a plurality of outlets through which the fluid F flows out of the internal passageway106. Specifically, the manifold104defines a plurality of first outlets130located between the inlet120and the first end110, and a plurality of second outlets132located between the inlet120and the second end112. Each of the first outlets130and the second outlets132is connected in fluid communication with one of the nozzles80to deliver fluid F thereto.

As shown inFIGS. 5 and 7, the seed planting system100further includes a plurality of valves82configured to control fluid flow through corresponding nozzles80. Each of the valves82is connected in fluid communication with one of the nozzles80by a fluid line124such that the valve82controls fluid flow through the nozzle80. More specifically, each of the valves82is connected in fluid communication between the internal passageway106of the manifold104and a corresponding nozzle80. Moreover, each of the valves82is associated with one of the first outlets130and the second outlets132such that the valve82controls fluid flow out of the associated first outlet130or second outlet132. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the valves82is mounted on the manifold104adjacent one of the first outlets130and the second outlets132, and each of the nozzles80is positioned below the manifold104proximate to the outlet end54of the seed tube52for spraying the fluid F on and/or adjacent to the seeds46dispensed from the seed tube52. In alternative embodiments, the seed planting system100may include any nozzle assembly78that enables the seed planting system100to function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the valve82may be mounted to the body of the nozzle80, such as by being secured to the nozzle80through a check valve port. Alternatively, the valve82may be integrated into a portion of the body of the nozzle80as shown, for example, inFIG. 3.

The valves82may have any suitable configuration that enables the seed planting system100to function as described herein. In some embodiments, each of the valves82is an electrically actuated valve, such as a solenoid valve, that can be controlled and/or regulated using a pulse-width modulated signal.

In the exemplary embodiment, the seed planting system100further includes a controller126(shown inFIG. 7) communicatively connected to each of the valves82, and configured to control operation of the valves82. Specifically, the controller126is configured to modulate the valves82between a closed position and an opened position to regulate fluid flow through the valves82and the nozzles80. In particular, the fluid F is allowed to flow through the nozzles80when the valves82are in the opened position. When the valves82are in the closed position, the fluid F is inhibited from flowing through the nozzles80. In some embodiments, each of the valves82controls fluid flow through a single nozzle80, and the controller126is configured to individually modulate or control each of the valves82. That is, the controller126may be configured to control the valves82independently of one another in some embodiments.

The controller126may generally comprise any suitable computer and/or other processing unit, including any suitable combination of computers, processing units and/or the like that may be operated independently or in connection within one another. Thus, in several embodiments, the controller126may include one or more processor(s) and associated memory device(s) configured to perform a variety of computer-implemented functions. As used herein, the term “processor” refers not only to integrated circuits, but also refers to a controller, a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a programmable logic controller (PLC), an application specific integrated circuit, and other programmable circuits. Additionally, the memory device(s) of the controller126may generally comprise memory element(s) including, but not limited to, computer readable medium (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), computer readable non-volatile medium (e.g., a flash memory), a floppy disk, a compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM), a magneto-optical disk (MOD), a digital versatile disc (DVD) and/or other suitable memory elements. Such memory device(s) may generally be configured to store suitable computer-readable instructions that, when implemented by the processor(s), configure the controller126to perform various functions including, but not limited to, controlling the operation of the valves82, determining the seed frequency of the seed meter50, and/or various other suitable computer-implemented functions described herein.

In some embodiments, the seed planting system100may include a detector, such as sensor90, that detects the location of each spray relative to the location of each seed46(shown inFIG. 2). In general, the detector may include any suitable sensor, camera, scanner and/or the like that is capable of automatically detecting the location of each spray/seed. Additionally, the detector may be communicatively coupled to the controller126such that the measurement/detection signals generated by the detector may be transmitted to the controller126for subsequent processing/analysis. For instance, in several embodiments, the controller126may be configured to analyze the signals received from the detector in order to determine the relative locations of each spray/seed, such as by comparing each seed location to its corresponding spray location in order to determine the spacing between each seed/spray.

As shown inFIGS. 4-7, the seed planting system100further includes a pair of pressure dampeners108coupled to the manifold104. The pressure dampeners108are configured to dampen or attenuate pressure fluctuations within the fluid flow lines of the seed planting system100, particularly within the internal passage106defined by the manifold104, to facilitate precise control of fluid flow out of the nozzles80. One of the pressure dampeners108is coupled to the first end110of the manifold104, and the other pressure dampener108is coupled to the second end112of the manifold104. In reference toFIGS. 6 and 7, each pressure dampener108includes a sidewall134defining a cavity136. The pressure dampeners108are configured to contain gas in the cavity136. The pressure dampeners108may contain any suitable gas that enables the pressure dampeners108to function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the gas includes oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the pressure dampeners108contain atmospheric air. Moreover, the pressure dampeners108are coupled to the manifold104in a manner that allows the fluid F within the internal passageway106to flow at least partially into the pressure dampeners108and/or to compress the gas within the cavity136. Without being bound by any particular theory, it is believed that, by allowing fluid F within the internal passageway106to flow into the cavity136and/or compress gas within the cavity136, pressure fluctuations of the fluid F, such as pressure waves, can be transferred to the gas within the cavity136, thereby causing the gas to experience changes in pressure and inhibiting the fluid F from experiencing substantial changes in pressure in response to system changes, such as the modulation of valves82. For example, the pressure dampeners108inhibit pressure waves from reflecting or “rebounding” off of solid or capped ends of the manifold104, and propagating back through the fluid F within the internal passageway. As a result, the pressure dampeners108inhibit fluctuations in the fluid pressure of the fluid F.

The pressure dampeners108may have any suitable shape that enables the pressure dampeners108to function as described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, each pressure dampener108has a cylindrical shape. Also, each pressure dampener108is connected to the manifold104such that the pressure dampener108extends vertically upwards from the manifold104, and such that a central longitudinal axis138of the pressure dampener108is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis128of the manifold104. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, each pressure dampener108is configured as a standpipe.

A cap140covers an upper end142of each pressure dampener108, and seals off the cavity136to inhibit gases from escaping the cavity136. The cap140may be sealingly joined to the sidewall134of the pressure dampener108in any suitable manner that enables the pressure dampener108to function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, an adhesive is used to sealingly join the cap140to the sidewall134. In further embodiments, the cap140is welded to the sidewall134.

In the exemplary embodiment, a drain144is connected to a lower end146of the pressure dampener108. The drain144is positionable in opened and closed positions to facilitate draining the fluid F from the manifold104. In alternative embodiments, the pressure dampeners may have any configuration that enables the seed planting system100to function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the drain144is omitted from at least one of the pressure dampeners108.

Each pressure dampener108has a length148extending in the vertical direction and measured from the upper end142of the pressure dampener to the lower end146of the pressure dampener108. The pressure dampeners108may have any suitable length148that enables the pressure dampeners108to function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the length148of each pressure dampener108is between 1 centimeter and 100 centimeters, between 2 centimeters and 50 centimeters, or between 5 centimeters and 30 centimeters. In other embodiments, the length148of each pressure dampener108is between 20 centimeters and 40 centimeters. In other embodiments, the length148of each pressure dampener108is between 10 centimeters and 30 centimeters. In some embodiments, the length148of each pressure dampener108is approximately 23 centimeters (9 inches). Each pressure dampener108also has a width or diameter150defined by the sidewall134. The pressure dampeners108may have any suitable width150that enables the pressure dampeners108to function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the width150of each pressure dampener108is between 0.5 inches and 10 inches, between 1 inch and 8 inches, or between 1.5 inches and 5 inches. In other embodiments, the width150of each pressure dampener108is between 2 inches and 4 inches. In other embodiments, the width150of each pressure dampener108is between 1 inch and 3 inches. In some embodiments, the width150of each pressure dampener108is approximately 2.5 centimeters (1 inch).

The cavity136of each pressure dampener108also has a volume. In some embodiments, the volume of each cavity136is sized based on the volume of the manifold104on which the pressure dampeners108are used. That is, in some embodiments, the volume of each cavity136is proportional to a volume of the internal passageway106. Suitably, the pressure dampeners108are sized such that the volume of the cavities136accommodates an amount of gas and/or fluid F sufficient to inhibit significant pressure fluctuations within internal passageway106. In some embodiments, the ratio of the combined volume of the cavities136of each pressure dampener108to the volume of the internal passageway106is between 1:40 and 3:10, between 1:20 and 1:4, or between 1:10 and 1:5. In other embodiments, the ratio of the combined volume of the cavities136of each pressure dampener108to the volume of the internal passageway106is between 1:10 and 3:10. In other embodiments, the ratio of the combined volume of the cavities136of each pressure dampener108to the volume of the internal passageway106is between 1:40 and 1:5. In some embodiments, the ratio of the combined volume of the cavities136of each pressure dampener108to the volume of the internal passageway106is approximately 3:20. In other embodiments, the cavities136may have any suitable volume that enables the seed planting system100to function as described herein.

Also, the pressure dampeners108may be made of any suitable materials such as metals, plastics, and/or combinations thereof. In the exemplary embodiment, each pressure dampener108is made of plastic. In particular, each pressure dampener108is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In alternative embodiments, the pressure dampener108is made of stainless steel and/or polypropylene.

Likewise, the manifold104may be made of any suitable materials such as metals, plastics, and/or combinations thereof. In the exemplary embodiment, the manifold104is made of metal. In particular, the manifold104is made of stainless steel. In alternative embodiments, the manifold104is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and/or polypropylene. Moreover, the manifold104may have a rigid construction such that the manifold maintains its shape (i.e., does not bend or sag under its own weight). In other embodiments, the manifold104may have a relatively flexible construction and/or include or more flexible conduits, such as hoses.

FIG. 8is a schematic view of another embodiment of a pressure dampener200suitable for use in the seed planting system100. As shown inFIG. 8, the pressure dampener200includes a sidewall202defining a cavity204, and a membrane206that separates the cavity204into a first compartment208and a second compartment210. In some embodiments, the first compartment208contains a pressurized gas. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas may be maintained at a desired pressure by an external compressor (not shown) or other suitable device. In other embodiments, the pressure within the first compartment208may be set at an initial or nominal pressure, and fluctuate during use based on pressure fluctuations within the second compartment210resulting from fluid flow through the internal passageway106of the manifold104.

The pressure dampener200is coupleable to first end110and/or second end112of manifold104such that the second compartment210is in fluid communication with the internal passageway106defined by the manifold104. The membrane206is flexible and separates the gas in gas compartment208from fluid212that flows through the internal passageway106and/or into the second compartment210of the pressure dampener200. In further embodiments, the membrane206encloses the gas compartment208, e.g. forms a bladder, to facilitate maintaining the pressurized gas at the desired pressure. In other embodiments, the pressure dampener200may have any configuration that enables the pressure dampener200to function as described herein.

Pressure dampener200reduces pressure fluctuations of fluid212flowing through the manifold104(shown inFIG. 1) when the pressure dampener200is connected to the manifold104(shown inFIG. 1). During operation, the fluid212flows into the pressure dampener200through an inlet214. The fluid212contacts and displaces the membrane206, which is flexible, such that the pressurized gas is compressed. Accordingly, the fluid pressure of the fluid212remains substantially constant and the pressurized gas absorbs variations in pressure.

In reference toFIGS. 1-4 and 7, during operation of the seed planting system100, the vehicle10moves the planter12along rows of the field102and the row unit14creates a furrow38within the field102. The seed meter50transfers the seeds46from the seed hopper48to the seed tube52. The seeds46then travel through the seed tube52and are dispensed from the outlet end54of the seed tube52into the furrow38. The valves82of the nozzle assemblies78are modulated to dispense fluid on and/or adjacent to each seed46as it is dispensed from seed tube52. In some embodiments, each valve82of each nozzle assembly78is controlled or modulated independently of other valves82to dispense fluid through the associated nozzle assembly78. Further, in some embodiments, the valves82are modulated by controller126in response to controller126detecting a seed being dispensed through the seed tube52. As the valves82are modulated between the closed and opened positions, fluid F flows out of the internal passageway106defined by the manifold104and through nozzle assemblies78associated with the valves82being modulated.

Fluid is supplied to the internal passageway106of manifold104through the inlet120via the fluid supply conduit122. The fluid F flows into the internal passageway106through the inlet120, and then flows parallel to the longitudinal axis128of the manifold104toward the first end110and the second end112. At least a portion of the fluid F flows through the first outlets130and the second outlets132and towards the nozzle assemblies78as the valves82of the nozzle assemblies78modulate. Further, as the valves82modulate, pressure waves are imparted to the fluid F within the internal passageway106due to the rapid opening and closing of the valves82. The pressure waves imparted to the fluid F propagate primarily along the longitudinal axis128of the manifold104, toward the first end110and the second end112of the manifold104. When the pressure waves reach the pressure dampeners108at the first end110and the second end112of the manifold104, gas within the cavities136of the pressure dampeners108expands or contracts to absorb the pressure wave from the fluid F. As a result, fluctuations in fluid pressure of the fluid F within the internal passageway106are reduced, which facilitates controlling the flow of the fluid F through the nozzle assemblies78.

It should be understood that features and aspects of the seed planter system are not limited to use with seed planters, and may be used in other fluid application systems. For example, the pressure dampeners108may be implemented in other agricultural fluid application systems, such as liquid fertilizer application systems and agricultural sprayer systems.

FIG. 9is a perspective view of an exemplary fluid application system300, shown in the form of a sprayer system. The sprayer system shown inFIG. 9is a tractor mounted sprayer system, though features and aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented on any type of sprayer system including, for example and without limitation, self-propelled sprayer systems. Fluid application system300includes a plurality of nozzle assemblies302, a motorized vehicle304having a cab306, a plurality of wheels308, a tank or reservoir312, and a boom pipe or manifold314with the plurality of nozzle assemblies302installed thereon. The tank312may hold a fluid316including a liquid, a mixture of liquid and powder, and/or any other suitable product. For example, the fluid316can include a quantity of water or an agrochemical such as a fertilizer or a pesticide. The fluid316may be sprayed from the nozzle assemblies302onto a crop, a product, and/or the ground318. The manifold314may have substantially the same configuration as the manifold104described above with reference toFIGS. 1-7.

In some embodiments, each of the nozzle assemblies302includes an electrically actuated valve, such as the valve82described above with reference toFIGS. 3-7. The valves may be controlled or regulated by a suitable controller, such as the controller126, to modulate the valves between open and closed positioned and provide selective fluid flow through desired nozzle assemblies302. In some embodiments, the valves are modulated using pulse-width modulated signals.

In the exemplary embodiment, the fluid storage tank312is connected to the manifold314such that the fluid316from the tank312is directed into the manifold314. The manifold314is connected to the nozzle assemblies302such that the fluid316flows out of the manifold314into the nozzle assemblies302for spraying on the ground. In suitable embodiments, the fluid application system300may include any number of nozzle assemblies302. In some embodiments, the vehicle304moves the fluid application system300along a desired path for fluid application, such as rows310of a field320, as the fluid316is emitted from the nozzle assemblies302.

Fluid application system300further includes a plurality of pressure dampeners322connected to opposite ends of the manifold314. The pressure dampeners322may have the same configuration and operate in the same manner as the pressure dampeners108described above with reference toFIGS. 1-7, or the pressure dampeners200described above with reference toFIG. 8. For example, in some embodiments, each pressure dampener322includes a wall324defining a cavity that holds a compressible fluid such as a gas. The pressure dampeners322are in flow communication with the manifold314such that a portion of the fluid316may enter the cavities and/or compress gas within the cavities. As described above, the configuration and arrangement of the pressure dampeners322facilitate reducing pressure fluctuations of the fluid316flowing through the manifold314. Moreover, the pressure dampeners322facilitate the fluid316being discharged from the nozzle assemblies302in a controlled and consistent manner.

FIG. 10is a graph showing fluctuations of fluid pressure within a fluid passageway of a manifold connected to a plurality of nozzles and a plurality of electrically actuated valves. Fluid is supplied to the manifold from a fluid supply tank with a pump set to achieve a target pressure within the manifold of 30 pounds per square inch. The graph shown inFIG. 10illustrates pressure fluctuations within a manifold without pressure dampeners. The graph includes an X-axis defining time in milliseconds and a Y-axis defining pressure in pounds per square inch (psi). The graph further includes a valve actuation curve400, a supply pressure curve402, and a manifold pressure curve404. The valve actuation curve400illustrates modulation of a plurality of valves that control fluid flow from the manifold towards nozzles fluidly coupled to the manifold. The valves modulate between an opened position, indicated by region406on the valve actuation curve400, and a closed position, indicated by region408on the valve actuation curve400. While the valves are in the opened position, the fluid is discharged from the manifold. The graph shown inFIG. 10illustrates pressure fluctuations within the manifold when all of the valves are opened and closed simultaneously.

The supply pressure curve402illustrates the fluid pressure of the fluid that is supplied to the manifold. The supply pressure curve402is generated from pressures measured by a sensor located upstream of the manifold. The manifold pressure curve404illustrates the fluid pressure of the fluid flowing through the manifold. The manifold pressure curve404is generated from pressures measured by a sensor connected to or positioned within the manifold. As shown inFIG. 10, the supply pressure curve402and the manifold pressure curve404differ greatly as the electrically actuated valves are actuated between opened and closed position. In particular, the manifold pressure curve404has a greater range or variance between high pressures (i.e., pressure peaks410) and low pressures (i.e., pressure valleys412) than the supply pressure curve402. As shown inFIG. 10, the pressure within the manifold varies from about 11 psi up to about 61 psi, whereas the pressure upstream of the manifold varies from about 27 psi up to about 34 psi. The pressure fluctuations within the manifold between the peaks410and the valleys412reduce the precision with which the fluid can be discharged from the manifold through the nozzles.

FIG. 11is a graph showing fluctuations of fluid pressure within the fluid passageway106defined by the manifold104during operation. Fluid is supplied to the manifold104from a fluid supply tank with a pump set to achieve a target pressure within the manifold of 30 pounds per square inch. The graph shown inFIG. 11illustrates pressure fluctuations within the manifold104including the pressure dampeners108. The graph includes an X-axis defining time in milliseconds and a Y-axis defining pressure in psi. The graph further includes a valve actuation curve500, a supply pressure curve502, and a manifold pressure curve504. The valve actuation curve500illustrates modulation of the valves82that control fluid discharge from the manifold104. The valves82modulate between an opened position, indicated by region506on the valve actuation curve500, and a closed position, indicated by region508on the valve actuation curve500. While the valves82are in the opened position, the fluid F is discharged from the manifold104and flows through the nozzles80. The graph shown inFIG. 11illustrates pressure fluctuations within the manifold104when all of the valves82are opened and closed simultaneously, and while the system is stationary.

The supply pressure curve502illustrates the fluid pressure of the fluid F that is supplied to the manifold104. The supply pressure curve502is generated from pressures measured by a sensor (not shown) located upstream of the manifold104. The manifold pressure curve504illustrates the fluid pressure of the fluid F flowing through the manifold104. The manifold pressure curve504is generated from pressures measured by a sensor (not shown) connected to or positioned within the manifold104. As shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, the fluctuations of fluid pressure within the manifold104including the pressure dampeners108, represented by the manifold pressure curve504, are significantly reduced as compared to the pressure fluctuations within the manifold without pressure dampeners, represented by the manifold pressure curve404(shown inFIG. 10). In particular, the ranges between peak pressures and low pressures are reduced. Specifically, the pressure within the manifold104only varies from about 28 psi up to about 32 psi, or within ±2 psi from the target operating pressure of 30 psi. Moreover, the manifold pressure curve504substantially conforms to the supply pressure curve502. Thus, the pressure dampeners108facilitate reducing pressure fluctuations within the manifold104resulting from changes in system operating conditions, such as the modulation of valves82, and thereby facilitate more precise control over fluid application rates and fluid flow rates through nozzles.

FIG. 12is a graph showing fluctuations of fluid pressure within the fluid passageway106defined by the manifold104while the seed planting system100is moved across a field during operation. Fluid is supplied to the manifold104from a fluid supply tank with a pump set to achieve a target pressure within the manifold104of 30 pounds per square inch. The graph shown inFIG. 12illustrates pressure fluctuations within the manifold104including the pressure dampeners108. The graph includes an X-axis defining time in milliseconds and a Y-axis defining pressure in psi. The graph further includes a valve actuation curve600, a supply pressure curve602, and a manifold pressure curve604. The valve actuation curve600illustrates modulation of the valves82that control fluid discharge from the manifold104. The valves82modulate between an opened position, indicated by region606on the valve actuation curve600, and a closed position, indicated by region608, on the valve actuation curve600. While the valves82are in the opened position, the fluid F is discharged from the manifold104and flows through the nozzles80. The graph shown inFIG. 12illustrates pressure fluctuations within the manifold104when all of the valves82are opened and closed simultaneously, and while the system is moving.

The supply pressure curve602illustrates the fluid pressure of the fluid F that is supplied to the manifold104. The supply pressure curve602is generated from pressures measured by a sensor (not shown) located upstream of the manifold104. The manifold pressure curve604illustrates the fluid pressure of the fluid F flowing through the manifold104. The manifold pressure curve604is generated from pressures measured by a sensor (not shown) connected to or positioned within the manifold104. As shown inFIGS. 10 and 12, the fluctuations of fluid pressure within the manifold104including the pressure dampeners108, represented by the manifold pressure curve604are significantly reduced as compared to the pressure fluctuations within the manifold without pressure dampeners, represented by the manifold pressure curve404(shown inFIG. 10). In particular, the ranges between peak pressures and low pressures are reduced. Specifically, the pressure within the manifold104only varies from about 28 psi up to about 32 psi, or within ±2 psi from the target operating pressure of 30 psi. Moreover, the manifold pressure curve604substantially conforms to the supply pressure curve602. Thus, the pressure dampeners108facilitate reducing pressure fluctuations within the manifold104resulting from changes in system operating conditions, such as the modulation of valves82, and thereby facilitate more precise control over fluid application rates and fluid flow rates through the nozzles80.

While, in some embodiments, the described methods and systems are used to apply a fluid, such as pesticides and liquid fertilizers, to agricultural fields, the described methods and systems may be used for applying any type of fluids to surfaces, and are not limited to application of agricultural fluids.

Embodiments of the methods and systems described herein may more efficiently apply fluids to surfaces compared to prior methods and systems. For example, the systems and methods described provide improved fluid application systems that increase the precision and operating efficiency of application systems. More specifically, the embodiments described reduce pressure fluctuations of fluids within a manifold to reduce incidents of misapplication. In some embodiments, the embodiments described provide systems that include individual control of electronically actuated valves connected to the manifold.

When introducing elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiment(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “the” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Moreover, the use of “top”, “bottom”, “above”, “below” and variations of these terms is made for convenience, and does not require any particular orientation of the components.