Nicholas W Vanlaningham

Title: Innovations by Nicholas W Vanlaningham

Introduction

Nicholas W Vanlaningham is an accomplished inventor based in Bondurant, IA (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of agricultural technology, particularly in cotton harvesting. With a total of 2 patents, his work focuses on improving the efficiency and accuracy of crop yield determination.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is a "Crop yield determining apparatus." This invention allows a cotton harvester to estimate the mass of cotton as it is harvested using sensor devices. The system compares the mass of each module against the estimated mass determined by the sensors, enabling the calibration factor to be updated for more accurate crop yield determination. The mass flow for a specific module is processed during harvesting using a base calibration factor, which is then compared against the expected mass to develop a candidate updated calibration factor. This updated factor can be selectively replaced for processing subsequent modules based on machine feedback, ultimately generating highly accurate yield maps.

Another notable patent is the "Cotton harvesting machine with automatically variable drum and spindle speed." This invention detects sensor input on a cotton harvester and identifies a performance characteristic value based on that input. A speed control system then automatically adjusts the drum and spindle speed of the cotton harvester, separately from its ground speed, to enhance performance in a closed-loop fashion.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Nicholas has worked with reputable organizations such as Deere & Company and Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc. His experience in these institutions has allowed him to develop innovative solutions that address real-world agricultural challenges.

Collaborations

Nicholas has collaborated with talented individuals in his field, including Brandon C Carlson and Jeffrey Scott Wigdahl. These partnerships have contributed to the advancement of his inventions and the overall improvement of agricultural technology.

Conclusion

Nicholas W Vanlaningham's contributions to cotton harvesting technology demonstrate his commitment to innovation and efficiency in agriculture. His patents reflect a deep understanding of the challenges faced in the industry and provide practical solutions that enhance crop yield determination.