Automated Grain Inspection System

A demonstration cable of an automated grain instrumentation system (AGIS) will be fabricated, installed, and tested in a concrete silo at USDA-ARS-GMPRC. AGIS comprises cable-borne insect and moisture temperature sensor modules, signal processing and control electronics, and a wireless data link. Insect, moisture, and temperature data will be sent to a Stored Grain Advisor (SGA) computer at GMPRC. SGA helps storage managers, processing personnel, and farmers limit the loss of stored grain to insect pests, molds, and fungus and projects insect population growth to recommend the best times to aerate or fumigate. Kansas State University will assist with data analysis and communications. Stainless-steel cables support small, low-cost, insect and moisture/temperature sensors packaged in streamlined cylindrical modules. Flexible circuits with miniature, surface-mount components allow the cable to pass through the sensor modules. Cables are fabricated in standard lengths to allow segments to be linked to accommodate silos and storage bins of different heights. AGIS will be evaluated in terms of performance, total cost, cost of ownership, and reliability. Individual insect and moisture/temperature sensors and electronics will also be provided to GMPRC, KSU, and NCPA to support related research.