The Experts below are selected from a list of 633 Experts worldwide ranked by ideXlab platform

Jan Pieters - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Development of a Stereovision-Based Technique to Measure the Spread Patterns of Granular Fertilizer Spreaders
    Sensors, 2017
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, D. Nuyttens, Jan Pieters, Dejan Seatovic, Koen Mertens, Tim Van De Gucht, Jürgen Vangeyte
    Abstract:

    Centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders are by far the most commonly used granular Fertilizer spreader type in Europe. Their spread pattern however is error-prone, potentially leading to an undesired distribution of particles in the field and losses out of the field, which is often caused by poor calibration of the spreader for the specific Fertilizer used. Due to the large environmental impact of Fertilizer use, it is important to optimize the spreading process and minimize these errors. Spreader calibrations can be performed by using collection trays to determine the (field) spread pattern, but this is very time-consuming and expensive for the farmer and hence not common practice. Therefore, we developed an innovative multi-camera system to predict the spread pattern in a fast and accurate way, independent of the spreader configuration. Using high-speed stereovision, ejection parameters of particles leaving the spreader vanes were determined relative to a coordinate system associated with the spreader. The landing positions and subsequent spread patterns were determined using a ballistic model incorporating the effect of tractor motion and wind. Experiments were conducted with a commercial spreader and showed a high repeatability. The results were transformed to one spatial dimension to enable comparison with transverse spread patterns determined in the field and showed similar results.

  • Characterisation of centrifugal Spreaders : from collection trays to high speed stereovision
    2016
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, D. Nuyttens, Bilal Hijazi, Julien Dubois, Frédéric Cointault, Jan Pieters, Koen Mertens, Jürgen Vangeyte
    Abstract:

    Presenting Author Jurgen Vangeyte - ILVO, Agricultural Engineering, Belgium Description Precision fertilization requires accurate techniques for determining the spread pattern of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders. Traditionally, the spread pattern was determined by measuring the Fertilizer distribution on the ground. Because such measurements are time consuming and complex, a high speed stereovision setup and dedicated image processing algorithms were developed for position and motion estimation of Fertilizer grains leaving a centrifugal spreader. The measurements are combined with a ballistic flight model to predict the landing points of the individual grains and the actual spread pattern. This presentation will show the different development steps taken and the problems encountered the last 10 years to come to this setup. In a first approach, a two-dimensional imaging technique was used with a small field of view (0.33 m on 0.25 m) only measuring horizontal outlet angle and speed. In a second approach, this 2D approach was further refined using a larger field of view (1 m on 1 m) and using motion estimation techniques inspired from Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV). Finally, a small field of view 3D stereovision system using a high irradiance LED system was developed, able to measure 3D motion and position, and which can therefore be used for inclined Spreaders or Spreaders with conical disks. Together with the improvement of the measuring system, a 3D ballistic flight model was developed not only including gravitational and drag force, but also Magnus force and drag torque. Simulations using this combined experimental/modelling approach were successfully validated against experimental data. Contributors Simon Cool (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Jan Pieters (Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Belgium), Koen Mertens (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), David Nuyttens (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Bilal Hijazi (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Julien Dubois (AgroSup Dijon, France), Frederic Cointault (AgroSup Dijon, France), Jurgen Vangeyte (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium)

  • Measuring the dynamic mass flow from a centrifugal Fertilizer spreader
    Precision agriculture '15, 2015
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, Jürgen Vangeyte, Jan Pieters, Koen Mertens, Jonas Van Damme, Tim Van De Gucht, Bart Sonck
    Abstract:

    Working widths of commercial centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders are continuously increasing, increasing the sensitivity of the spread pattern to Fertilizer and spreader properties. One very important parameter is the Fertilizer mass flow rate from the hopper to the disks, since this determines the application rate on the field and has also an effect on the shape of the distribution pattern. In this study, the dynamic mass flow rate of a commercially available Fertilizer spreader was evaluated for three types of Fertilizer. Fluctuations of the flow rate were found and illustrate the need to consider the dynamic behavior of the mass flow rate when designing systems or procedures for measuring or simulating spread patterns of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders.

  • Comparison of different spread pattern determination techniques
    Precision Agriculture, 2015
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, Jürgen Vangeyte, Jan Pieters, Tim Van De Gucht, Bart Sonck, Jonas Van Damme, Koen Mertens
    Abstract:

    Traditionally, the performance of Fertilizer Spreaders is assessed using a row of collection trays aligned perpendicular to the driving direction of the tractor. For precise calibration of the spreader this technique, however, does not provide adequate insight into the spreading process since particle distributions are measured in only one spatial dimension. In this paper, two different two dimensional spread pattern determination techniques (SPDT) were tested, each consisting of a sampling method and a matching interpolation algorithm. Tests were executed under similar conditions with three commonly used types of Fertilizer (CAN, NPK, KCl) with different physical properties. Results were compared with the traditional technique. The differences found illustrate the importance of using an adequate SPDT to compare spread patterns.

  • high speed stereovision setup for position and motion estimation of Fertilizer particles leaving a centrifugal spreader
    Sensors, 2014
    Co-Authors: Bilal Hijazi, Simon Cool, Frédéric Cointault, Jürgen Vangeyte, Koen Mertens, Michel Paindavoine, Jan Pieters
    Abstract:

    A 3D imaging technique using a high speed binocular stereovision system was developed in combination with corresponding image processing algorithms for accurate determination of the parameters of particles leaving the spinning disks of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders. Validation of the stereo-matching algorithm using a virtual 3D stereovision simulator indicated an error of less than 2 pixels for 90% of the particles. The setup was validated using the cylindrical spread pattern of an experimental spreader. A 2D correlation coefficient of 90% and a Relative Error of 27% was found between the experimental results and the (simulated) spread pattern obtained with the developed setup. In combination with a ballistic flight model, the developed image acquisition and processing algorithms can enable fast determination and evaluation of the spread pattern which can be used as a tool for spreader design and precise machine calibration.

Jürgen Vangeyte - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Development of a Stereovision-Based Technique to Measure the Spread Patterns of Granular Fertilizer Spreaders
    Sensors, 2017
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, D. Nuyttens, Jan Pieters, Dejan Seatovic, Koen Mertens, Tim Van De Gucht, Jürgen Vangeyte
    Abstract:

    Centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders are by far the most commonly used granular Fertilizer spreader type in Europe. Their spread pattern however is error-prone, potentially leading to an undesired distribution of particles in the field and losses out of the field, which is often caused by poor calibration of the spreader for the specific Fertilizer used. Due to the large environmental impact of Fertilizer use, it is important to optimize the spreading process and minimize these errors. Spreader calibrations can be performed by using collection trays to determine the (field) spread pattern, but this is very time-consuming and expensive for the farmer and hence not common practice. Therefore, we developed an innovative multi-camera system to predict the spread pattern in a fast and accurate way, independent of the spreader configuration. Using high-speed stereovision, ejection parameters of particles leaving the spreader vanes were determined relative to a coordinate system associated with the spreader. The landing positions and subsequent spread patterns were determined using a ballistic model incorporating the effect of tractor motion and wind. Experiments were conducted with a commercial spreader and showed a high repeatability. The results were transformed to one spatial dimension to enable comparison with transverse spread patterns determined in the field and showed similar results.

  • Characterisation of centrifugal Spreaders : from collection trays to high speed stereovision
    2016
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, D. Nuyttens, Bilal Hijazi, Julien Dubois, Frédéric Cointault, Jan Pieters, Koen Mertens, Jürgen Vangeyte
    Abstract:

    Presenting Author Jurgen Vangeyte - ILVO, Agricultural Engineering, Belgium Description Precision fertilization requires accurate techniques for determining the spread pattern of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders. Traditionally, the spread pattern was determined by measuring the Fertilizer distribution on the ground. Because such measurements are time consuming and complex, a high speed stereovision setup and dedicated image processing algorithms were developed for position and motion estimation of Fertilizer grains leaving a centrifugal spreader. The measurements are combined with a ballistic flight model to predict the landing points of the individual grains and the actual spread pattern. This presentation will show the different development steps taken and the problems encountered the last 10 years to come to this setup. In a first approach, a two-dimensional imaging technique was used with a small field of view (0.33 m on 0.25 m) only measuring horizontal outlet angle and speed. In a second approach, this 2D approach was further refined using a larger field of view (1 m on 1 m) and using motion estimation techniques inspired from Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV). Finally, a small field of view 3D stereovision system using a high irradiance LED system was developed, able to measure 3D motion and position, and which can therefore be used for inclined Spreaders or Spreaders with conical disks. Together with the improvement of the measuring system, a 3D ballistic flight model was developed not only including gravitational and drag force, but also Magnus force and drag torque. Simulations using this combined experimental/modelling approach were successfully validated against experimental data. Contributors Simon Cool (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Jan Pieters (Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Belgium), Koen Mertens (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), David Nuyttens (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Bilal Hijazi (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Julien Dubois (AgroSup Dijon, France), Frederic Cointault (AgroSup Dijon, France), Jurgen Vangeyte (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium)

  • Measuring the dynamic mass flow from a centrifugal Fertilizer spreader
    Precision agriculture '15, 2015
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, Jürgen Vangeyte, Jan Pieters, Koen Mertens, Jonas Van Damme, Tim Van De Gucht, Bart Sonck
    Abstract:

    Working widths of commercial centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders are continuously increasing, increasing the sensitivity of the spread pattern to Fertilizer and spreader properties. One very important parameter is the Fertilizer mass flow rate from the hopper to the disks, since this determines the application rate on the field and has also an effect on the shape of the distribution pattern. In this study, the dynamic mass flow rate of a commercially available Fertilizer spreader was evaluated for three types of Fertilizer. Fluctuations of the flow rate were found and illustrate the need to consider the dynamic behavior of the mass flow rate when designing systems or procedures for measuring or simulating spread patterns of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders.

  • Comparison of different spread pattern determination techniques
    Precision Agriculture, 2015
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, Jürgen Vangeyte, Jan Pieters, Tim Van De Gucht, Bart Sonck, Jonas Van Damme, Koen Mertens
    Abstract:

    Traditionally, the performance of Fertilizer Spreaders is assessed using a row of collection trays aligned perpendicular to the driving direction of the tractor. For precise calibration of the spreader this technique, however, does not provide adequate insight into the spreading process since particle distributions are measured in only one spatial dimension. In this paper, two different two dimensional spread pattern determination techniques (SPDT) were tested, each consisting of a sampling method and a matching interpolation algorithm. Tests were executed under similar conditions with three commonly used types of Fertilizer (CAN, NPK, KCl) with different physical properties. Results were compared with the traditional technique. The differences found illustrate the importance of using an adequate SPDT to compare spread patterns.

  • Image based techniques for determining spread patterns of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders
    Agriculture and Agricultural Science Procedia, 2015
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, Jan G. Pieters, Koen C. Mertens, D. Nuyttens, Bilal Hijazi, Julien Dubois, Frédéric Cointault, Jürgen Vangeyte
    Abstract:

    Precision fertilization requires new techniques for determining the spread pattern of Fertilizer Spreaders. Because of the accuracy and non-intrusive nature, techniques based on digital image processing are most promising. Using image processing, dynamics of particles leaving the spreader can be determined. Combined with a ballistic flight model, this allows predicting the landing position of individual Fertilizer particles. In a first approach, a two-dimensional imaging technique was used with small field of view (0.33 m on 0.25 m). In the second approach, a larger field of view (1 m on 1 m) was used. To improve the accuracy of previous technique, binocular stereovision was used to determine three-dimensional information.

Simon Cool - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Development of a Stereovision-Based Technique to Measure the Spread Patterns of Granular Fertilizer Spreaders
    Sensors, 2017
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, D. Nuyttens, Jan Pieters, Dejan Seatovic, Koen Mertens, Tim Van De Gucht, Jürgen Vangeyte
    Abstract:

    Centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders are by far the most commonly used granular Fertilizer spreader type in Europe. Their spread pattern however is error-prone, potentially leading to an undesired distribution of particles in the field and losses out of the field, which is often caused by poor calibration of the spreader for the specific Fertilizer used. Due to the large environmental impact of Fertilizer use, it is important to optimize the spreading process and minimize these errors. Spreader calibrations can be performed by using collection trays to determine the (field) spread pattern, but this is very time-consuming and expensive for the farmer and hence not common practice. Therefore, we developed an innovative multi-camera system to predict the spread pattern in a fast and accurate way, independent of the spreader configuration. Using high-speed stereovision, ejection parameters of particles leaving the spreader vanes were determined relative to a coordinate system associated with the spreader. The landing positions and subsequent spread patterns were determined using a ballistic model incorporating the effect of tractor motion and wind. Experiments were conducted with a commercial spreader and showed a high repeatability. The results were transformed to one spatial dimension to enable comparison with transverse spread patterns determined in the field and showed similar results.

  • Characterisation of centrifugal Spreaders : from collection trays to high speed stereovision
    2016
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, D. Nuyttens, Bilal Hijazi, Julien Dubois, Frédéric Cointault, Jan Pieters, Koen Mertens, Jürgen Vangeyte
    Abstract:

    Presenting Author Jurgen Vangeyte - ILVO, Agricultural Engineering, Belgium Description Precision fertilization requires accurate techniques for determining the spread pattern of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders. Traditionally, the spread pattern was determined by measuring the Fertilizer distribution on the ground. Because such measurements are time consuming and complex, a high speed stereovision setup and dedicated image processing algorithms were developed for position and motion estimation of Fertilizer grains leaving a centrifugal spreader. The measurements are combined with a ballistic flight model to predict the landing points of the individual grains and the actual spread pattern. This presentation will show the different development steps taken and the problems encountered the last 10 years to come to this setup. In a first approach, a two-dimensional imaging technique was used with a small field of view (0.33 m on 0.25 m) only measuring horizontal outlet angle and speed. In a second approach, this 2D approach was further refined using a larger field of view (1 m on 1 m) and using motion estimation techniques inspired from Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV). Finally, a small field of view 3D stereovision system using a high irradiance LED system was developed, able to measure 3D motion and position, and which can therefore be used for inclined Spreaders or Spreaders with conical disks. Together with the improvement of the measuring system, a 3D ballistic flight model was developed not only including gravitational and drag force, but also Magnus force and drag torque. Simulations using this combined experimental/modelling approach were successfully validated against experimental data. Contributors Simon Cool (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Jan Pieters (Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Belgium), Koen Mertens (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), David Nuyttens (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Bilal Hijazi (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Julien Dubois (AgroSup Dijon, France), Frederic Cointault (AgroSup Dijon, France), Jurgen Vangeyte (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium)

  • Measuring the dynamic mass flow from a centrifugal Fertilizer spreader
    Precision agriculture '15, 2015
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, Jürgen Vangeyte, Jan Pieters, Koen Mertens, Jonas Van Damme, Tim Van De Gucht, Bart Sonck
    Abstract:

    Working widths of commercial centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders are continuously increasing, increasing the sensitivity of the spread pattern to Fertilizer and spreader properties. One very important parameter is the Fertilizer mass flow rate from the hopper to the disks, since this determines the application rate on the field and has also an effect on the shape of the distribution pattern. In this study, the dynamic mass flow rate of a commercially available Fertilizer spreader was evaluated for three types of Fertilizer. Fluctuations of the flow rate were found and illustrate the need to consider the dynamic behavior of the mass flow rate when designing systems or procedures for measuring or simulating spread patterns of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders.

  • Comparison of different spread pattern determination techniques
    Precision Agriculture, 2015
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, Jürgen Vangeyte, Jan Pieters, Tim Van De Gucht, Bart Sonck, Jonas Van Damme, Koen Mertens
    Abstract:

    Traditionally, the performance of Fertilizer Spreaders is assessed using a row of collection trays aligned perpendicular to the driving direction of the tractor. For precise calibration of the spreader this technique, however, does not provide adequate insight into the spreading process since particle distributions are measured in only one spatial dimension. In this paper, two different two dimensional spread pattern determination techniques (SPDT) were tested, each consisting of a sampling method and a matching interpolation algorithm. Tests were executed under similar conditions with three commonly used types of Fertilizer (CAN, NPK, KCl) with different physical properties. Results were compared with the traditional technique. The differences found illustrate the importance of using an adequate SPDT to compare spread patterns.

  • Image based techniques for determining spread patterns of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders
    Agriculture and Agricultural Science Procedia, 2015
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, Jan G. Pieters, Koen C. Mertens, D. Nuyttens, Bilal Hijazi, Julien Dubois, Frédéric Cointault, Jürgen Vangeyte
    Abstract:

    Precision fertilization requires new techniques for determining the spread pattern of Fertilizer Spreaders. Because of the accuracy and non-intrusive nature, techniques based on digital image processing are most promising. Using image processing, dynamics of particles leaving the spreader can be determined. Combined with a ballistic flight model, this allows predicting the landing position of individual Fertilizer particles. In a first approach, a two-dimensional imaging technique was used with small field of view (0.33 m on 0.25 m). In the second approach, a larger field of view (1 m on 1 m) was used. To improve the accuracy of previous technique, binocular stereovision was used to determine three-dimensional information.

Koen Mertens - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Development of a Stereovision-Based Technique to Measure the Spread Patterns of Granular Fertilizer Spreaders
    Sensors, 2017
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, D. Nuyttens, Jan Pieters, Dejan Seatovic, Koen Mertens, Tim Van De Gucht, Jürgen Vangeyte
    Abstract:

    Centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders are by far the most commonly used granular Fertilizer spreader type in Europe. Their spread pattern however is error-prone, potentially leading to an undesired distribution of particles in the field and losses out of the field, which is often caused by poor calibration of the spreader for the specific Fertilizer used. Due to the large environmental impact of Fertilizer use, it is important to optimize the spreading process and minimize these errors. Spreader calibrations can be performed by using collection trays to determine the (field) spread pattern, but this is very time-consuming and expensive for the farmer and hence not common practice. Therefore, we developed an innovative multi-camera system to predict the spread pattern in a fast and accurate way, independent of the spreader configuration. Using high-speed stereovision, ejection parameters of particles leaving the spreader vanes were determined relative to a coordinate system associated with the spreader. The landing positions and subsequent spread patterns were determined using a ballistic model incorporating the effect of tractor motion and wind. Experiments were conducted with a commercial spreader and showed a high repeatability. The results were transformed to one spatial dimension to enable comparison with transverse spread patterns determined in the field and showed similar results.

  • Characterisation of centrifugal Spreaders : from collection trays to high speed stereovision
    2016
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, D. Nuyttens, Bilal Hijazi, Julien Dubois, Frédéric Cointault, Jan Pieters, Koen Mertens, Jürgen Vangeyte
    Abstract:

    Presenting Author Jurgen Vangeyte - ILVO, Agricultural Engineering, Belgium Description Precision fertilization requires accurate techniques for determining the spread pattern of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders. Traditionally, the spread pattern was determined by measuring the Fertilizer distribution on the ground. Because such measurements are time consuming and complex, a high speed stereovision setup and dedicated image processing algorithms were developed for position and motion estimation of Fertilizer grains leaving a centrifugal spreader. The measurements are combined with a ballistic flight model to predict the landing points of the individual grains and the actual spread pattern. This presentation will show the different development steps taken and the problems encountered the last 10 years to come to this setup. In a first approach, a two-dimensional imaging technique was used with a small field of view (0.33 m on 0.25 m) only measuring horizontal outlet angle and speed. In a second approach, this 2D approach was further refined using a larger field of view (1 m on 1 m) and using motion estimation techniques inspired from Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV). Finally, a small field of view 3D stereovision system using a high irradiance LED system was developed, able to measure 3D motion and position, and which can therefore be used for inclined Spreaders or Spreaders with conical disks. Together with the improvement of the measuring system, a 3D ballistic flight model was developed not only including gravitational and drag force, but also Magnus force and drag torque. Simulations using this combined experimental/modelling approach were successfully validated against experimental data. Contributors Simon Cool (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Jan Pieters (Department of Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Belgium), Koen Mertens (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), David Nuyttens (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Bilal Hijazi (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium), Julien Dubois (AgroSup Dijon, France), Frederic Cointault (AgroSup Dijon, France), Jurgen Vangeyte (ILVO, Technology and Food Science Unit, Agricultural Engineering, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium)

  • Measuring the dynamic mass flow from a centrifugal Fertilizer spreader
    Precision agriculture '15, 2015
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, Jürgen Vangeyte, Jan Pieters, Koen Mertens, Jonas Van Damme, Tim Van De Gucht, Bart Sonck
    Abstract:

    Working widths of commercial centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders are continuously increasing, increasing the sensitivity of the spread pattern to Fertilizer and spreader properties. One very important parameter is the Fertilizer mass flow rate from the hopper to the disks, since this determines the application rate on the field and has also an effect on the shape of the distribution pattern. In this study, the dynamic mass flow rate of a commercially available Fertilizer spreader was evaluated for three types of Fertilizer. Fluctuations of the flow rate were found and illustrate the need to consider the dynamic behavior of the mass flow rate when designing systems or procedures for measuring or simulating spread patterns of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders.

  • Comparison of different spread pattern determination techniques
    Precision Agriculture, 2015
    Co-Authors: Simon Cool, Jürgen Vangeyte, Jan Pieters, Tim Van De Gucht, Bart Sonck, Jonas Van Damme, Koen Mertens
    Abstract:

    Traditionally, the performance of Fertilizer Spreaders is assessed using a row of collection trays aligned perpendicular to the driving direction of the tractor. For precise calibration of the spreader this technique, however, does not provide adequate insight into the spreading process since particle distributions are measured in only one spatial dimension. In this paper, two different two dimensional spread pattern determination techniques (SPDT) were tested, each consisting of a sampling method and a matching interpolation algorithm. Tests were executed under similar conditions with three commonly used types of Fertilizer (CAN, NPK, KCl) with different physical properties. Results were compared with the traditional technique. The differences found illustrate the importance of using an adequate SPDT to compare spread patterns.

  • high speed stereovision setup for position and motion estimation of Fertilizer particles leaving a centrifugal spreader
    Sensors, 2014
    Co-Authors: Bilal Hijazi, Simon Cool, Frédéric Cointault, Jürgen Vangeyte, Koen Mertens, Michel Paindavoine, Jan Pieters
    Abstract:

    A 3D imaging technique using a high speed binocular stereovision system was developed in combination with corresponding image processing algorithms for accurate determination of the parameters of particles leaving the spinning disks of centrifugal Fertilizer Spreaders. Validation of the stereo-matching algorithm using a virtual 3D stereovision simulator indicated an error of less than 2 pixels for 90% of the particles. The setup was validated using the cylindrical spread pattern of an experimental spreader. A 2D correlation coefficient of 90% and a Relative Error of 27% was found between the experimental results and the (simulated) spread pattern obtained with the developed setup. In combination with a ballistic flight model, the developed image acquisition and processing algorithms can enable fast determination and evaluation of the spread pattern which can be used as a tool for spreader design and precise machine calibration.

Y. Yildirim - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • Technical Note: Effect of Vane Shape on Fertilizer Distribution Uniformity in Single-Disc Rotary Fertilizer Spreaders
    Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 2008
    Co-Authors: Y. Yildirim
    Abstract:

    Vanes used in rotary Fertilizer Spreaders can be straight, curved, or composite-shaped. No information was found in the literature on the effect of different vane shapes on Fertilizer distribution uniformity. In this study, the effect of different vane shapes on the Fertilizer distribution uniformity in single-disc rotary Fertilizer Spreaders was investigated using triple superphosphate and calcium ammonium nitrate. The vane shapes used in the study were straight, composite, forward-curved-5, forward-curved-10, back-curved-5, and back-curved-10. The results of the study showed that the shape of vane had a significant effect on Fertilizer distribution uniformity. The straight vane shape, the most commonly used, did not give the best Fertilizer distribution uniformity. The best Fertilizer distribution uniformity was obtained from the forward-curved-5 vane shape for both triple superphosphate and calcium ammonium nitrate.

  • Effect of Side to Side Spreader Angle on Pattern Uniformity in Single- and Twin-Disc Rotary Fertilizer Spreaders
    Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 2008
    Co-Authors: Y. Yildirim
    Abstract:

    Rotary Fertilizer Spreaders, with single- or twin-disc, should be level during field applications for a proper Fertilizer distribution pattern. Pattern tests are recommended to be conducted with the spreader level. Even if the spreader is initially level, it can become unlevel due to reasons such as connection errors on three-point hitches, different inflation pressures of the tires on the tractor, surface properties of the field, and other factors. In previous studies, the spreader angle, front to rear, was investigated. The effect of side to side out of level, which has not been previously addressed, was investigated in this study on Fertilizer distribution patterns in single- and twin-disc rotary Fertilizer Spreaders using triple superphosphate and calcium ammonium nitrate. Spreader angles of -10°, -5°, +5°, and +10o along with a level position (0°), with respect to a line perpendicular (left-right or side to side) to the direction of travel of spreader, were tested with both Spreaders and both Fertilizers. The experimental results showed that the angle of the spreader had a significant effect (P < 0.001) on the Fertilizer distribution pattern. The more the spreader was angled down (-10°), the greater the Fertilizer distribution pattern skewed to the right. Similarly, the more the spreader was angled up (+10°), the greater the pattern skewed to the left. Even the distribution patterns obtained from an angular change of only 5° were significantly different from the distribution patterns at the optimum level position.

  • technical note effect of vane number on distribution uniformity in single disc rotary Fertilizer Spreaders
    Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 2006
    Co-Authors: Y. Yildirim
    Abstract:

    Rotary Fertilizer Spreaders with single or twin discs are commonly used to distribute granular Fertilizer or materials. These granular Fertilizer and materials are distributed by the vanes on the disc. However, the effect of different vane number on the Fertilizer distribution uniformity with different flow rates is unknown. In this study, therefore, the effect of vane number on the distribution uniformity in single-disc rotary Fertilizer Spreaders with different flow rates was studied using triple superphosphate and calcium ammonium nitrate. The number of vanes tested in the experiments was 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12. The orifices of 30-, 40-, and 50-mm diameters were used at the bottom of the hopper to obtain the different Fertilizer flow rates. The data from this study showed that the best distribution for both Fertilizers was obtained with the combination of two vanes and an orifice diameter of 30 mm and that distribution uniformity became worse as the number of vanes increased.

  • effect of vane height on distribution uniformity in rotary Fertilizer Spreaders with different flow rates
    Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 2003
    Co-Authors: Y. Yildirim, M Kara
    Abstract:

    The effect of vane height on the uniformity of distribution pattern in rotary Fertilizer Spreaders with different flow rates through an orifice onto the disc was studied for triple superphosphate and calcium ammonium nitrate. The most uniform distribution pattern was obtained for a vane with 35–mm height and an orifice with 35–mm diameter for both Fertilizers.

  • The effects of some constructive properties and operational parameters of rotary Fertilizer Spreaders on Fertilizer flow rate.
    2003
    Co-Authors: Y. Yildirim, I. Özsert
    Abstract:

    This study aims at investigating the flow rate of urea and ammonium sulfate through different orifices onto disc in the rotary Fertilizer Spreaders. For this reason, interchangeable orifices with different shapes (triangular, square, trapezous, square-like, and rectangular) in various sizes (150, 300, 450, 600, and 750 mm) at two positions (bottom and wall of hopper) were used in a hopper. Experiments were conducted according to three agitator rates of 300, 540, and 780 min. As a result, all the factors investigated had significant effect on the flow rate.