Automated seed package identification apparatus, system, and method

摘要

An automated seed package identification apparatus is presented that may include a sensor device configured to read a machine-readable package identifier on a seed package which identifies the seed package and/or the seeds therein. A sensor positioning mechanism adjusts the position of the sensor device with respect to a seed tray assembly which is configured to retain seed packages. The sensor positioning mechanism may include a moveable track member which translates on a stationary track member, and the sensor device may translate along the moveable track member. A control unit may instruct the sensor positioning mechanism to move with respect to the seed tray assembly to thereby read the machine-readable package identifiers with the sensor device and record the positional layout of the seed packages. One or more cameras may be configured to capture one or more images of the plurality of seed packages retained in the seed tray assembly.

主权项

1. An automated package identification system, the system comprising:
a plurality of seed packages, wherein each seed package of the plurality of seed packages comprises one or more machine-readable package identifiers and is configured to receive one or more seeds; a seed tray assembly configured to retain the plurality of seed packages, wherein the seed tray assembly is configured for operative coupling to a seed planter, and wherein the seed planter is configured to selectively release the seeds from the plurality of seed packages; a tray assembly stand configured to position the seed tray assembly in an identification configuration; and an automated package identification apparatus comprising:
a sensor device configured to read the machine-readable package identifiers of the seed packages;a sensor positioning mechanism configured to effect selective translation of the sensor device relative to the seed tray assembly to thereby adjust a position of the sensor device with respect to the seed tray assembly; anda control unit configured to instruct the sensor positioning mechanism to adjust the position of the sensor device with respect to the seed tray assembly and configured to instruct the sensor device to read the machine-readable package identifiers of the seed packages to thereby record a positional layout of the seed packages.