Advanced Agricultural Vehicle Control System Innovation
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for a control system for agricultural utility vehicles, while effective, has limitations in terms of material waste, uneven terrain distribution, and maintenance complexity. The new invention addresses these limitations by introducing servo-controlled hydraulic devices, real-time terrain analysis, and self-leveling mechanisms, ensuring optimal material coverage and reducing waste.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new invention introduces a combination of servo-controlled hydraulic devices, real-time terrain analysis, and self-leveling mechanisms that are not present in the original patent, providing a non-obvious and innovative solution to the limitations of the original invention. The predictive analytics and modular design of the system also represent a significant departure from the original patent, offering a new and inventive approach to agricultural utility vehicle control systems.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include the use of alternative sensor technologies, such as lidar or GPS, or the integration of machine learning algorithms to further optimize material application. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use with different types of agricultural utility vehicles or materials, or integrated with other precision agriculture technologies to create a comprehensive farming solution.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced control system has significant commercial potential in the agricultural industry, particularly in the precision agriculture and autonomous farming sectors. The system's ability to reduce material waste, increase efficiency, and improve crop yields could lead to increased adoption and revenue growth in these markets. Additionally, the system's modular design and customization options could appeal to a wide range of agricultural utility vehicle manufacturers and users, providing a competitive advantage in the market.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A01 | A01M7/0057 |
| A | A01 | A01B73/04 |
| A | A01 | A01C7/10 |
| A | A01 | A01C23/047 |
| A | A01 | A01M7/0075 |
| A | A01 | A01M7/0089 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Agricultural vehicle control systems, precision agriculture technologies, material distribution mechanisms, with expertise in sensor integration, hydraulic control systems, and adaptive agricultural machinery
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer with specialized knowledge in agricultural engineering, familiar with sensor technologies, hydraulic control mechanisms, and precision agricultural equipment design, typically holding a bachelor's or master's degree with 3-5 years of industry experience
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable engineering improvements to the source patent's agricultural vehicle control system. The disclosed modifications leverage known sensor technologies, standard hydraulic control techniques, and established precision agriculture principles to enhance the original invention's functionality. These variations demonstrate incremental technological advancements that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to optimize material distribution and vehicle control systems.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,856,943 |
|---|---|
| Title | Control system, agricultural utility vehicle and method for controlling an agricultural utility vehicle |
| Assignee(s) | AMAZONEN-WERKE H. DREYER SE & CO. KG, HYDAC SYSTEMS & SERVICES GMBH |