A fuzzy seeding depth monitoring and control system

Depth of seeding is an important factor affecting seedling vigor and crop yield. The authors propose a fuzzy-logic seeding depth controller which combines an accurate measurement and data collection technique with a human decision process to provide optimum depth control, with minimal human operator involvement. The system has been designed to be simple in operation by using automatic sensitivity and gain adjustments, based on the Fourier transform to allow Nyquist sampling and adjustment periods. The depth monitor system utilizes a novel electromechanical depth monitor, with a microcomputer-based controller utilizing a Motorola MC68HC11.