Abstract: In one example embodiment, a seed sensor is disclosed adapted to fit a conventional mounting location in existing seed tubes that provides improved performance by providing a wide light source (more LEDS), a wide photodetector and a current profiling scheme for the LEDs that provides more light at the opposite ends of the LED array. A result of such an arrangement is to improve seed resolution and to reduce seed spatial variability within the seed tube.

Abstract: In one example embodiment, a seed sensor is disclosed adapted to fit a conventional mounting location in existing seed tubes that provides improved performance by providing a wide light source (more LEDS), a wide photodetector and a current profiling scheme for the LEDs that provides more light at the opposite ends of the LED array. A result of such an arrangement is to improve seed resolution and to reduce seed spatial variability within the seed tube.

Abstract: In one example embodiment, a seed sensor is disclosed adapted to fit a conventional mounting location in existing seed tubes that provides improved performance by providing a wide light source (more LEDS), a wide photodetector and a current profiling scheme for the LEDs that provides more light at the opposite ends of the LED array. A result of such an arrangement is to improve seed resolution and to reduce seed spatial variability within the seed tube.

Abstract: In one example embodiment, a seed sensor is disclosed adapted to fit a conventional mounting location in existing seed tubes that provides improved performance by providing a wide light source (more LEDS), a wide photodetector and a current profiling scheme for the LEDs that provides more light at the opposite ends of the LED array. A result of such an arrangement is to improve seed resolution and to reduce seed spatial variability within the seed tube.

Abstract: There is disclosed a single and twin and multiple row planting system configured to be adapted to a planter including a motor drive seed dispenser that is controlled by a planting controller that deposits seeds with a predetermined seed spacing that accommodates differing individual planter row speeds and terrain. In particular, a distance-based seed tagging system and method are used to achieve the desired seed spacing and seed stagger configurations.

Abstract: There is disclosed a single and twin and multiple row planting system configured to be adapted to a planter including a motor drive seed dispenser that is controlled by a planting controller that deposits seeds with a predetermined seed spacing that accommodates differing individual planter row speeds and terrain. In particular, a distance-based seed tagging system and method are used to achieve the desired seed spacing and seed stagger configurations.

Abstract: A device that easily fits on a refuse container and will sound an audible alarm when silverware that has been magnetized and likely hidden within other refuse falls through a sensing cavity on its way to the refuse container. This device will not trigger on any other metallic or non-metallic material due to its sensing of only passing magnetic fields. Silverware material conducive to magnetization can be easily magnetized and will retain such characteristics for a long period of time making it a practical way to differentiate silverware from other metallic refuse. The device also uses a sensing switch that activates the same audible alarm when an attempt is made to bypass the unit by removing it from the refuse container. A key switch provides security that enables alarm reset only by authorized personnel. A low battery indicator is provided by the pulsing of the audible alarm. The unit is portable, low maintenance, and requires no adjustments.

Abstract: A universal modular control system for controlling a mobile material distribution apparatus is disclosed. The universal modular control system is adaptable for use with any of a plurality of distribution apparatus. It includes a control module for controlling the distribution apparatus and a user console for communicating with a user. The control module and user console are coupled via a data link.

Abstract: A control system for monitoring and controlling the operation of a mobile material distribution apparatus including at least one boom having a plurality of distribution nozzles or distribution ports located along its length for distributing material is disclosed. The control system monitors various sections of the booms and provides the user with a graphical representation of the operating states of the nozzles/distribution ports in each monitored boom section. By taking into account the actual operating states of each of the sections of the monitored booms, the disclosed control system provides more accurate mapping of the materials distributed by the controlled apparatus. In addition, the disclosed control system considers the operating states of any fence row nozzles disposed on the monitored booms in determining the amount of material to be supplied to the monitored booms to achieve a desired distribution rate.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for sensing a full level condition for a large basket. A signal generator produces an oscillating signal which is applied to energy emitters that are capable of transmitting electrical energy along defined paths and across the width of the large basket. The transmitted electrical energy is received by a plurality of receivers which output an electrical signal which is representative of the signal applied to the energy emitters when material which is being loaded into said basket does not interfere with the energy being transmitted along the defined paths. A logic circuit analyzes the signals output from the receivers and produces a status signal indicating whether material which is being loaded into the large basket has interfered with the energy being transmitted along the defined paths.

Abstract: A solenoid circuit for particular use in a transmission controller measures the instantaneous current through the solenoid coil with the use of a current switch operating in an on mode to cause the current in the coil to increase and an off mode to cause the current in the coil to decrease so that an average current through the coil is established.

Abstract: A transmission controller is provided for use with a vehicle having a transmission including a plurality of gears, a hydraulic pressure controlled clutch, and a solenoid-actuated proportional valve for operating the clutch. The controller comprises a signal generating circuit for generating a controlled current signal for operating the solenoid-actuated proportional valve and a current monitoring circuit for producing a current signal corresponding to the current flow to each of the solenoid-actuated proportional valves. A vehicle monitor produces a threshold signal corresponding to a predetermined point at which the clutch begins to carry torque and a memory retains predetermined information corresponding to the current signals.

Abstract: A transmission controller is provided for use with a vehicle having a transmission including a plurality of gears. The transmission controller comprises an automatic gear selection control for developing control signals for controlling automatic selection of one of the plurality of gears. A throttle position sensor produces a throttle position signal corresponding to the position of a manually operated throttle of the vehicle, and an engine sensor produces rpm signals corresponding to the engine speed of an engine of the vehicle. The automatic gear selection control includes a control signal producing circuit responsive to the throttle position signals and to the rpm signals for producing signals for controlling the selection of a lower gear in the event the sensed engine speed comprises less than a preselected percentage of a predetermined no-load engine speed at the sensed throttle position.

Abstract: A transmission controller is provided for use with a vehicle having a transmission including a plurality of gears, a hydraulic pressure controlled clutch, and a solenoid-actuated proportional valve for operating the clutch. The controller comprises a signal generating circuit for generating a controlled current signal for operating the solenoid-actuated proportional valve and a current monitoring circuit for producing a current signal corresponding to the current flow to each of the solenoid-actuated proportional valves. A vehicle monitor produces a threshold signal corresponding to a predetermined point at which the clutch begins to carry torque and a memory retains predetermined information corresponding to the current signals.

Abstract: A wheel interference monitor used with articulated vehicles and vehicles pulling connected trailers or the like, such as a tractor pulling a connected farm implement. The apparatus includes a sensor for monitoring the clearance between the drive vehicle and the pulled trailer or implement, and a circuit for providing a warning alarm to the operator if the clearance reaches a point where the operator must exercise caution, and an additional alarm for warning the operator as the clearance becomes even more critical, approaching a danger area. Also included is a control for setting in the degree of clearance at which the warning and alarm circuit will begin to go into operation.

Abstract: The embodiment of the invention disclosed herein is directed to a monitoring system for detecting variations in the flow of a fluid through a passage such as an air duct associated with a cotton picker or other harvesting machine. Air flow sensing means is provided for mounting in the air duct to provide a first signal condition in response to the flow of air above a predetermined minimum level and a second signal condition in response to the flow of air below the predetermined minimum level. The air flow sensing means is coupled to an indicator means which attracts the attention of the harvesting machine operator and indicates which one, of a plurality of air ducts, is malfunctioning.

Abstract: An automatic control system for use with a vehicular liquid sprayer of the type which pumps the liquid to be sprayed at a desired pressure to a plurality of nozzles which dispense the liquid at a predetermined desired density relative to the area being sprayed, with the density being a function of a plurality of liquid spraying parameters which may vary from one spraying application to another or from time to time during a given spraying application. A pressure transducer senses the pressure of the liquid supplied to the nozzles and develops a corresponding electrical liquid pressure signal. A ground speed sensor measures the speed of the vehicular sprayer and develops a corresponding electrical ground speed signal. Programming means are coupled to the ground speed sensor for selectively modifying the ground speed signal to obtain a modified ground speed signal having a characteristic which corresponds to the values of at least two of the liquid spraying parameters required to obtain the desired density.