Importance

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Abstract

An optical soil sensor for mobilized measurements of in-situ soil characteristics has a shank assembly, which creates a furrow in which a soil sample is exposed, and a window plate assembly including a window through which emitted and reflected light pass. The sensor window, formed of a hard and durable material, is positioned in intimate contact with the soil sample as the sensor moves across the ground or field and is continually scoured by the soil to greatly reduce or eliminate window buildup and contamination. The intimate contact between the window and soil also eliminates the sample distance or air gap through which light must pass, thereby reducing measurement distortion and error. The soil sensor provides a structural platform compatible with a wide variety of light sources, light detectors, signal conditioners, and other devices.

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First Claim