Adaptive Silo Material Distribution System for Agriculture
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a method for assisting a compaction-appropriate distribution of harvested material in a flat silo. However, this method had limitations in addressing specific challenges in various operational environments. This new invention addresses these limitations by providing adaptive silo material distribution systems that can operate effectively in specialized environments.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel adaptations of the original method to address specific challenges in high-security, disaster relief, extreme weather, high-altitude, and limited access scenarios. The inventive step lies in the integration of environmental and operational parameters into the control unit's decision-making process, enabling the silo material distribution system to operate effectively in these specialized environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include using different types of sensors to monitor environmental conditions, incorporating machine learning algorithms to optimize distribution parameters, or integrating the silo material distribution system with other agricultural machinery. Variations of the invention could include adapting the system for use in other specialized environments, such as areas with high winds or seismic activity.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The invention has significant commercial potential in the agricultural industry, particularly in regions prone to natural disasters, extreme weather conditions, or with limited access to agricultural land. The system could be marketed to farmers, agricultural cooperatives, and disaster relief organizations, offering a competitive advantage in terms of efficiency, productivity, and adaptability.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A01 | A01F25/183 |
| A | A01 | A01D43/0633 |
| A | A01 | A01F25/166 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Agricultural machinery and material handling systems, specifically focused on harvested material distribution and compaction in flat silos, requiring expertise in mechanical engineering, agricultural engineering, and control systems design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with a bachelor's or master's degree in agricultural or mechanical engineering, familiar with material handling equipment, control system design, and agricultural storage techniques, with 3-5 years of practical experience in agricultural machinery development
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable adaptations of the source patent's core method by applying standard engineering problem-solving techniques to specialized environmental contexts. The fundamental control unit and distribution mechanism remain substantially unchanged, with modifications primarily involving input parameter adjustments and sensor integration. These variations represent routine engineering modifications that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to extend the original method's applicability.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,856,896 |
|---|---|
| Title | Method for assisting a compaction-appropriate distribution of harvested material in a flat silo |
| Assignee(s) | Deer & Company |