What is the primary function of a flow sensor in yield monitoring?

The primary function of a flow sensor in yield monitoring is to measure the rate of grain flow. This component is crucial because it provides real-time data on how much crop is passing through the combine harvester at any given time. By accurately measuring the flow rate, the system can calculate the yield in conjunction with other parameters such as GPS data and the area harvested. This information helps in creating yield maps, which are essential for analyzing the productivity of different areas of a field and making informed decisions about future planting and resource allocation. This measurement is fundamental for farmers to assess crop performance and for optimizing their agricultural practices.