Volume weight detection system and method and harvester

Abstract

The invention provides a volume weight detection system and method and a harvester. A volume weight detection system comprises an elevator and a volume weight sensor, and the volume weight sensor is installed on the elevator. The method abandons a tedious offline volume weight calibration process, realizes real-time online detection of crop volume weight, adapts to different plots, crop varieties and humidity change scenes, and improves the real-time accuracy of yield detection. The harvester yield measurement system structure and control logic are optimized, manual intervention is reduced, the automation level is improved, and the user operation complexity is reduced. The normal harvesting operation of the harvester is not interfered in the volume weight detection process, and the fluency and the operation continuity of the sampling process are guaranteed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of crop bulk density detection, and in particular to a bulk density detection system, method and harvester. Background Art

[0002] In the field of agricultural harvesting machinery, with the development of intelligent technology, yield measurement indirectly generates yield maps, thereby evaluating the production status of various areas of large farmland, providing data support for precision agriculture. This data can be used to optimize resource inputs such as land use, irrigation water allocation, and fertilizer and pesticide use. Harvester yield measurement relies on measuring crop mass and volume, with bulk density being a key parameter, calculated based on the mass-to-volume ratio (bulk density = mass / volume). Traditional grain yield measurement technology uses an elevator scraper to carry the crop, combined with a self-transmitting infrared sensor to calculate the scraper's grain volume, and then uses offline calibration of bulk density to calculate the total mass.

[0003] The existing grain flow yield measurement system adopts the combination of "offline calibration bulk density + volume measurement". The specific steps are: Offline bulk density calibration: Before operation, users must manually weigh the crop per unit volume (1L) using a grain weighing instrument. The obtained bulk density is then entered into the controller via the harvester's display screen as calibration data. This process requires machine downtime, sampling, and manual operation, and calibration must be repeated for different plots (due to variations in crop moisture content) and crop varieties.

[0004] This technical solution has obvious defects, mainly concentrated in offline bulk density calibration: offline bulk density calibration relies on manual operation, the process is cumbersome, and it cannot adapt to scenarios such as crop moisture changes and variety changes in real time, resulting in deviations between bulk density parameters and actual operations, affecting the accuracy of yield detection; frequent manual calibration increases the user's operating burden and reduces the efficiency of intelligent operation of the harvester. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a bulk density detection system, method and harvester in response to the deficiencies in the prior art.

[0006] The technical solution of the present invention to solve the above technical problems is as follows: A bulk density detection system includes: an elevator and a bulk density sensor, and the bulk density sensor is installed on the elevator.

[0007] The beneficial effects of the technical solution of this invention include: eliminating the cumbersome offline bulk density calibration process, enabling real-time online measurement of crop bulk density, adapting to different plots, crop varieties, and humidity fluctuations, and improving the real-time accuracy of yield measurement. It also optimizes the structure and control logic of the harvester's yield measurement system, reduces manual intervention, improves the level of automation, and reduces user operation complexity. It also ensures that the bulk density measurement process does not interfere with the harvester's normal harvesting operations, ensuring the smoothness and continuity of the sampling process.

[0008] Furthermore, a bulk density cavity and a reflux device are installed on the outer wall of the elevator, the bulk density sensor is installed in the bulk density cavity, a notch is provided at one end of the bulk density cavity, one end of the reflux device is connected to the other end of the bulk density cavity, a reflux discharge port is provided at the other end of the reflux device, a first through hole and a second through hole are provided on the elevator, the notch is connected to the first through hole, and the reflux discharge port is connected to the second through hole.

[0009] The beneficial effect of this further technical solution is that a bulk density chamber is installed on the outer wall of the elevator, corresponding to the upward end of the elevator scraper, allowing crops to fall from the upward end of the elevator scraper through a gap into the bulk density chamber. The bulk density chamber corresponds to the gap in the upward end of the elevator scraper, accommodating crops and providing a standard volume of bulk density space. The return channel connects the upper portion of the bulk density chamber to the lower portion of the elevator scraper, and the lower portion is connected to the downward end of the elevator scraper, forming a crop circulation path.

[0010] Furthermore, the reflux device includes: a reflux channel and a conveying mechanism, one end of the reflux channel is connected to the other end of the bulk density cavity, the other end of the reflux channel is provided with a reflux discharge port, and the conveying mechanism is installed in the reflux channel.

[0011] The beneficial effect of this further technical solution is that the upper portion of the return channel connects to the lower portion of the bulk density chamber, and the lower portion is connected to the lower end of the elevator scraper, forming a crop circulation path. The speed at which crops fall into the bulk density chamber is greater than the speed at which the conveyor mechanism lifts them. While the bulk density of the crops is calculated in real time, the crops in the bulk density chamber are pushed to the lower end of the elevator scraper, allowing them to re-enter the main conveying process of the elevator, ensuring continuous harvesting operations.

[0012] Furthermore, the conveying mechanism includes: an augers and a worm gear motor, the reflux channel is a tubular structure, the augers are rotatably installed in the reflux channel, a worm is installed at the output end of the worm gear motor, a worm wheel adapted to the worm is installed on the rotating shaft of the augers, and the worm wheel is engaged with the worm.

[0013] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are as follows: The return channel is a tubular structure, with its upper portion connected to the lower portion of the bulk density chamber and its lower portion connected to the lower end of the elevator scraper, forming a crop circulation path. An auger is installed within the return channel and driven by a worm gear motor to transport the crop from the bulk density chamber to the lower end of the elevator. The speed at which the crop falls into the bulk density chamber is greater than the speed at which the worm gear motor drives the auger. While calculating the crop's bulk density in real time, the crop in the bulk density chamber is pushed to the lower end of the elevator scraper, allowing the crop to re-enter the main conveying process of the elevator and ensure the continuity of the harvesting operation. This enables real-time, cyclical yield monitoring. The return channel is a tubular structure, connecting the lower portion of the bulk density chamber to the lower end of the elevator scraper. An auger is installed within the return channel to facilitate crop recirculation. The worm gear motor is installed above the return channel and drives the auger through a worm gear transmission mechanism, providing power for crop recirculation. The crop is then transported through the return discharge port to the lower end of the elevator scraper and re-enters the main conveying process.

[0014] Furthermore, the bulk density cavity is a metal bulk density cavity; the bulk density sensor is located on the inner wall of the bulk density cavity, the internal volume of the bulk density cavity is 1L, the bulk density cavity is a rectangular structure, the bulk density sensor is connected to a controller, and the controller is connected to a display screen.

[0015] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are as follows: the bulk density cavity is a metal bulk density cavity, which ensures structural stability and bulk density accuracy. The internal volume of the bulk density cavity is precisely designed to be 1 liter as a standard volume unit. The controller is used to collect the signal output by the bulk density sensor and calculate the crop bulk density based on the signal, realizing automatic collection and analysis, and improving automation. The display screen is used for data display and user interaction. By using the standard volume of the bulk density cavity and the real-time mass collection of the bulk density sensor, the current crop bulk density is automatically calculated through the bulk density formula, replacing the traditional method of manually inputting calibration values, with adaptability and real-time performance.

[0016] Furthermore, the bulk density sensor includes: a strain gauge, a strain beam and a plate body, the strain beam is an E-shaped structure, the plate body is a U-shaped structure, the strain beam is installed in the bulk density cavity, the strain gauge and the plate body are both installed on the strain beam, and the strain gauge is located between the plate body and the strain beam; or, the bulk density sensor includes: a radioactive source, a detector and a photoelectric volume measurement device, and the radioactive source, the detector and the photoelectric volume measurement device are all installed in the elevator.

[0017] The beneficial effect of this further technical solution is that when crop weight or lateral pressure is applied from the outside, the two middle arms of the strain beam generate shear forces in opposite directions from the sides, causing the strain beam to bend. The bulk density sensor is mounted on the side of the bulk density cavity, using an E-shaped half-bridge strain gauge structure. The strain beam serves as the core for force-to-electricity conversion, outputting a voltage signal when subjected to bending deformation. A radioactive source and detector are mounted on the side of the elevator. The attenuation of the radiation as it passes through the crop is combined with a radiation attenuation formula to calculate the crop bulk density. This maintains the logic for photoelectric volume measurement and yield calculation, enabling yield monitoring.

[0018] Furthermore, a plurality of elevator scrapers are rotatably installed in the elevator, the first through hole is connected to the upward ends of the plurality of elevator scrapers, and the second through hole is connected to the downward ends of the plurality of elevator scrapers.

[0019] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is as follows: the bulk density chamber is installed on the outer wall of the elevator, corresponding to the upward end of the elevator scraper, so that the crops can fall from the upward end of the elevator scraper into the bulk density chamber through the gap. The upper part of the reflux channel is connected to the lower part of the bulk density chamber, and the lower part is connected to the downward end of the elevator scraper, forming a crop circulation path. The speed at which the crops fall into the bulk density chamber is greater than the speed at which the worm gear motor drives the augers to lift. While calculating the bulk density of the crops in real time, the crops in the bulk density chamber are pushed to the downward end of the elevator scraper, so that the crops re-enter the main conveying process of the elevator, ensuring the continuity of the harvesting operation. The bulk density chamber corresponds to the gap at the upward end of the elevator scraper, is used to receive crops, and provides a bulk density space of standard volume.

[0020] In addition, the present invention also provides a harvester, comprising the above-mentioned bulk density detection system.

[0021] The beneficial effects of the technical solution of this invention include: eliminating the cumbersome offline bulk density calibration process, enabling real-time online measurement of crop bulk density, adapting to different plots, crop varieties, and humidity fluctuations, and improving the real-time accuracy of yield measurement. It also optimizes the structure and control logic of the harvester's yield measurement system, reduces manual intervention, improves the level of automation, and reduces user operation complexity. It also ensures that the bulk density measurement process does not interfere with the harvester's normal harvesting operations, ensuring the smoothness and continuity of the sampling process.

[0022] In addition, the present invention also provides a bulk density detection method, which is based on a bulk density detection system described in any one of the above items. The bulk density detection method includes: transporting crops through an elevator; and detecting the bulk density of the crops through a bulk density sensor.

[0023] The beneficial effects of the technical solution of this invention include: eliminating the cumbersome offline bulk density calibration process, enabling real-time online measurement of crop bulk density, adapting to different plots, crop varieties, and humidity fluctuations, and improving the real-time accuracy of yield measurement. It also optimizes the structure and control logic of the harvester's yield measurement system, reduces manual intervention, improves the level of automation, and reduces user operation complexity. It also ensures that the bulk density measurement process does not interfere with the harvester's normal harvesting operations, ensuring the smoothness and continuity of the sampling process.

[0024] Furthermore, the step of detecting the bulk density of crops by means of a bulk density sensor includes: introducing part of the crops into the bulk density cavity through the first through hole and the gap; when the bulk density cavity is full of crops, detecting the weight of the crops in the bulk density cavity by means of a strain gauge; calculating the bulk density of the crops based on the weight of the crops in the bulk density cavity and the internal volume of the bulk density cavity; returning the crops in the bulk density cavity to the elevator through a reflux device; or detecting the weight of the crops on the elevator scraper by means of a radioactive source and a detector, and measuring the volume of the crops on the elevator scraper by means of a photoelectric volume measuring device; and calculating the bulk density of the crops based on the weight of the crops on the elevator scraper and the volume of the crops on the elevator scraper.

[0025] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is as follows: the elevator scraper carries the crops upward to the position corresponding to the gap in the bulk density chamber, and the crops fall into the bulk density chamber from the gap until it is full. The crops in the bulk density chamber exert pressure on the strain beam of the bulk density sensor on the side, the strain beam bends and deforms, the resistance of the strain gauge changes, and is converted into a voltage signal and transmitted to the controller. The controller can obtain the corresponding collected material bulk density based on the calibration curve. By using the standard volume of the bulk density chamber and the real-time mass collection of the bulk density sensor, the current crop bulk density is automatically calculated through the bulk density formula, replacing the traditional method of manually inputting the calibration value, with adaptability and real-time performance. A radioactive source and detector are installed on the side of the elevator, and the crop bulk density is calculated by using the attenuation degree of the rays when passing through the crops and the ray attenuation formula. The photoelectric volume measurement and yield calculation logic are retained to achieve yield detection.

[0026] Advantages of additional aspects of the present invention will be given in part in the following description and in part will be obvious from the following description, or will be learned through practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments. It should be understood that the following drawings only illustrate certain embodiments of the present invention and therefore should not be regarded as limiting the scope. For ordinary technicians in this field, other relevant drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0028] Figure 1A schematic structural diagram of a bulk density detection system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the volumetric density sensor provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 3 This is the second structural diagram of the volumetric density sensor provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 4 The third structural diagram of the volumetric density sensor provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 5 A schematic flow chart of the bulk density detection method provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Explanation of the accompanying figures: 1. Bulk density chamber; 2. Elevator; 3. Elevator scraper; 4. Notch; 5. Bulk density sensor; 6. Return channel; 7. Agitator; 8. Worm gear motor; 9. Return discharge port; 10. Strain gauge; 11. Strain beam; 12. Plate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The principles and features of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments given are only used to explain the present invention and are not used to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0035] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention more clear, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Generally, the components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the drawings herein can be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0036] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the invention as claimed, but rather merely represents selected embodiments of the present invention. All other embodiments derived by persons of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0037] It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters denote similar items in the following drawings, and therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it does not need to be further defined or explained in subsequent drawings.

[0038] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that if the terms "upper", "lower", "horizontal", "inner", etc. appear, the orientation or position relationship indicated is based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or is the orientation or position relationship in which the product of the invention is usually placed when in use. It is only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and does not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it cannot be understood as a limitation on the present invention.

[0039] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "disposed," "installed," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on specific circumstances.

[0040] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a bulk density detection system, including: an elevator 2 and a bulk density sensor 5, wherein the bulk density sensor 5 is installed on the elevator 2.

[0041] The beneficial effects of the technical solution of this invention include: eliminating the cumbersome offline bulk density calibration process, enabling real-time online measurement of crop bulk density, adapting to different plots, crop varieties, and humidity fluctuations, and improving the real-time accuracy of yield measurement. It also optimizes the structure and control logic of the harvester's yield measurement system, reduces manual intervention, improves the level of automation, and reduces user operation complexity. It also ensures that the bulk density measurement process does not interfere with the harvester's normal harvesting operations, ensuring the smoothness and continuity of the sampling process.

[0042] The elevator 2 can be arranged at an angle.

[0043] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, further, a bulk density cavity 1 and a reflux device are installed on the outer wall of the elevator 2, the bulk density sensor 5 is installed in the bulk density cavity 1, a notch 4 is provided at one end of the bulk density cavity 1, one end of the reflux device is connected to the other end of the bulk density cavity 1, a reflux discharge port 9 is provided at the other end of the reflux device, a first through hole and a second through hole are provided on the elevator 2, the notch 4 is connected to the first through hole, and the reflux discharge port 9 is connected to the second through hole.

[0044] The beneficial effect of this further technical solution is that a bulk density chamber is installed on the outer wall of the elevator, corresponding to the upward end of the elevator scraper, allowing crops to fall from the upward end of the elevator scraper through a gap into the bulk density chamber. The bulk density chamber corresponds to the gap in the upward end of the elevator scraper, accommodating crops and providing a standard volume of bulk density space. The return channel connects the upper portion of the bulk density chamber to the lower portion of the elevator scraper, and the lower portion is connected to the downward end of the elevator scraper, forming a crop circulation path.

[0045] The bulk density cavity 1 can be arranged at an angle.

[0046] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, further, the reflux device includes: a reflux channel 6 and a conveying mechanism, one end of the reflux channel 6 is connected to the other end of the bulk density cavity 1, the other end of the reflux channel 6 is provided with a reflux discharge port 9, and the conveying mechanism is installed in the reflux channel 6.

[0047] The beneficial effect of this further technical solution is that the upper portion of the return channel connects to the lower portion of the bulk density chamber, and the lower portion is connected to the lower end of the elevator scraper, forming a crop circulation path. The speed at which crops fall into the bulk density chamber is greater than the speed at which the conveyor mechanism lifts them. While the bulk density of the crops is calculated in real time, the crops in the bulk density chamber are pushed to the lower end of the elevator scraper, allowing them to re-enter the main conveying process of the elevator, ensuring continuous harvesting operations.

[0048] Among them, an electric push plate can be provided at the connection position of the reflux channel 6 and the bulk density chamber 1 to facilitate opening and closing the connection between the reflux channel 6 and the bulk density chamber 1 according to actual needs. The electric push plate can include a baffle and an electric push rod, which is connected to the baffle and slidably installed at the connection position of the reflux channel 6 and the bulk density chamber 1. The electric push rod can be connected to the controller. The reflux channel 6 can be arranged at an angle.

[0049] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, further, the conveying mechanism includes: an augers 7 and a worm gear motor 8, the reflux channel 6 is a tubular structure, the augers 7 is rotatably installed in the reflux channel 6, a worm is installed at the output end of the worm gear motor 8, a worm wheel adapted to the worm is installed on the rotating shaft of the augers 7, and the worm wheel is engaged with the worm.

[0050] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are as follows: The return channel is a tubular structure, with its upper portion connected to the lower portion of the bulk density chamber and its lower portion connected to the lower end of the elevator scraper, forming a crop circulation path. An auger is installed within the return channel and driven by a worm gear motor to transport the crop from the bulk density chamber to the lower end of the elevator. The speed at which the crop falls into the bulk density chamber is greater than the speed at which the worm gear motor drives the auger. While calculating the crop's bulk density in real time, the crop in the bulk density chamber is pushed to the lower end of the elevator scraper, allowing the crop to re-enter the main conveying process of the elevator and ensure the continuity of the harvesting operation. This enables real-time, cyclical yield monitoring. The return channel is a tubular structure, connecting the lower portion of the bulk density chamber to the lower end of the elevator scraper. An auger is installed within the return channel to facilitate crop recirculation. The worm gear motor is installed above the return channel and drives the auger through a worm gear transmission mechanism, providing power for crop recirculation. The crop is then transported through the return discharge port to the lower end of the elevator scraper and re-enters the main conveying process.

[0051] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, further, the bulk density cavity 1 is a metal bulk density cavity; the bulk density sensor 5 is located on the inner wall of the bulk density cavity 1, the internal volume of the bulk density cavity 1 is 1L, the bulk density cavity 1 is a rectangular structure, the bulk density sensor 5 is connected to a controller, and the controller is connected to a display screen.

[0052] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution are as follows: the bulk density cavity is a metal bulk density cavity, which ensures structural stability and bulk density accuracy. The internal volume of the bulk density cavity is precisely designed to be 1 liter as a standard volume unit. The controller is used to collect the signal output by the bulk density sensor and calculate the crop bulk density based on the signal, realizing automatic collection and analysis, and improving automation. The display screen is used for data display and user interaction. By using the standard volume of the bulk density cavity and the real-time mass collection of the bulk density sensor, the current crop bulk density is automatically calculated through the bulk density formula, replacing the traditional method of manually inputting calibration values, with adaptability and real-time performance.

[0053] The bulk density sensor 5 may be arranged adjacent to the reflux channel 6 , so that the crops can exert pressure on the bulk density sensor 5 under the action of their own gravity.

[0054] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, further, the bulk density sensor 5 includes: a strain gauge 10, a strain beam 11 and a plate 12, the strain beam 11 is an E-shaped structure, the plate 12 is a U-shaped structure, the strain beam 11 is installed in the bulk density cavity 1, the strain gauge 10 and the plate 12 are both installed on the strain beam 11, and the strain gauge 10 is located between the plate 12 and the strain beam 11; or, the bulk density sensor 5 includes: a radioactive source, a detector and a photoelectric volume measurement device, and the radioactive source, the detector and the photoelectric volume measurement device are all installed in the elevator 2.

[0055] The beneficial effect of this further technical solution is that when crop weight or lateral pressure is applied from the outside, the two middle arms of the strain beam generate shear forces in opposite directions from the sides, causing the strain beam to bend. The bulk density sensor is mounted on the side of the bulk density cavity, using an E-shaped half-bridge strain gauge structure. The strain beam serves as the core for force-to-electricity conversion, outputting a voltage signal when subjected to bending deformation. A radioactive source and detector are mounted on the side of the elevator. The attenuation of the radiation as it passes through the crop is combined with a radiation attenuation formula to calculate the crop bulk density. This maintains the logic for photoelectric volume measurement and yield calculation, enabling yield monitoring.

[0056] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, further, a plurality of elevator scrapers 3 are rotatably installed in the elevator 2, the first through hole is connected to the upward ends of the plurality of elevator scrapers 3, and the second through hole is connected to the downward ends of the plurality of elevator scrapers 3.

[0057] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is as follows: the bulk density chamber is installed on the outer wall of the elevator, corresponding to the upward end of the elevator scraper, so that the crops can fall from the upward end of the elevator scraper into the bulk density chamber through the gap. The upper part of the reflux channel is connected to the lower part of the bulk density chamber, and the lower part is connected to the downward end of the elevator scraper, forming a crop circulation path. The speed at which the crops fall into the bulk density chamber is greater than the speed at which the worm gear motor drives the augers to lift. While calculating the bulk density of the crops in real time, the crops in the bulk density chamber are pushed to the downward end of the elevator scraper, so that the crops re-enter the main conveying process of the elevator, ensuring the continuity of the harvesting operation. The bulk density chamber corresponds to the gap at the upward end of the elevator scraper, is used to receive crops, and provides a bulk density space of standard volume.

[0058] Among them, multiple elevator scrapers 3 can be installed on the transmission belt, and the two ends of the conveyor belt are respectively mounted on rollers, and the rollers are rotatably installed in the elevator.

[0059] System (bulk density detection system) overall architecture The present invention provides a bulk density detection system for real-time crop yield monitoring on agricultural harvesters. This system integrates a bulk density measurement subsystem, a crop return subsystem, and a control subsystem, all working together to achieve real-time yield (bulk density) detection. The system is installed in the harvester's elevator area. The specific structure and process are as follows: 1. Bulk density measurement subsystem Hardware: Consists of a fixed-volume metal bulk density chamber (bulk density chamber 1) and a load cell (bulk density cell 5) using a half-bridge strain gauge. Bulk density chamber 1 has a regular geometric shape (e.g., a rectangular parallelepiped, with an internal volume precisely designed to be 1 liter, serving as a standard volume unit) and is constructed from a high-strength, low-deformation metal (e.g., aluminum alloy, to ensure structural stability and bulk density accuracy). It is installed in a specific notch (notch 4) on the outer wall of elevator 2, corresponding to the upward end of elevator scraper 3. This allows crops to fall from the upward end of elevator scraper 3 through notch 4 into the chamber (bulk density chamber 1).

[0060] Sensor (Capacitive Gravity Sensor 5) Principle and Installation: The load cell (capacitive gravity sensor 5) utilizes a half-bridge strain gauge structure (with internal 1000 ohm half-bridge strain gauges) and is mounted on the side of the bulk density chamber 1. The sensor's strain beam (an E-shaped structure with strain gauges and a white adhesive layer) must meet force-deformation conditions: When an external force (crop weight / lateral pressure) is applied, the two central arms of the strain beam generate shear forces in opposite directions from the sides, causing the beam to bend. The strain beam must be free of obstructions on the force-bearing side to ensure unimpeded deformation and accurate force-to-electricity conversion. The crop weight / lateral pressure and output voltage must be calibrated in advance.

[0061] 2. Crop return subsystem Hardware components include a sample return channel (return channel 6), an auger 7, and a worm gear motor 8. The return channel 6 is a tubular structure, connected at its upper portion to the lower portion of the bulk density chamber 1 and at its lower portion to the lower end of the elevator scraper 3, forming a crop circulation path. The auger 7 is installed within the return channel 6 and driven by the worm gear motor 8, transporting the crop from the chamber (bulk density chamber 1) to the lower end of the elevator 2.

[0062] Working logic: The speed at which crops fall into the bulk density chamber 1 is greater than the speed at which the worm gear motor 8 drives the auger 7 to lift them. While calculating the bulk density of the crops in real time, the crops in the chamber (bulk density chamber 1) are pushed to the lower end of the elevator scraper 3, allowing the crops to re-enter the main conveying process of the elevator 2, ensuring the continuity of the harvesting operation.

[0063] 3. Control subsystem Hardware composition: With the controller as the core, it connects the signal acquisition circuit of the bulk density sensor 5, the drive circuit of the worm gear motor 8, and the harvester display screen (display screen, used for data display and user interaction).

[0064] Software logic and algorithm: Bulk density calculation: The voltage signal output by the weighing sensor (bulk density sensor 5) is collected in real time. Based on the force-to-electricity conversion relationship of the half-bridge strain gauge (strain gauge) (calibration curve, the corresponding function of voltage and mass obtained through experiments), the crop mass m in the bulk density cavity 1 is calculated. Combined with the cavity volume V (1 liter), the current crop bulk density is calculated using the formula bulk density = m / V.

[0065] Bulk density cavity 1: a regular rectangular parallelepiped structure, fixed to the outer wall of the elevator 2, corresponding to the notch 4 at the upper end of the elevator scraper 3, used to receive crops and provide a standard volume (1 liter) of bulk density space.

[0066] Bulk density sensor 5: Installed on the side of bulk density cavity 1, it has an E-shaped half-bridge strain gauge structure. The strain beam part (the area covered with white glue in the middle) is the force-to-electricity conversion core, and outputs a voltage signal when bending deformation occurs under force.

[0067] Return channel 6: a tubular structure connecting the lower part of the bulk density chamber 1 with the lower end of the elevator scraper 3, with an augers 7 installed inside to achieve crop return.

[0068] Worm gear motor 8: Installed above the return channel 6, it drives the auger 7 to rotate through the worm gear transmission mechanism, providing power for crop return. The crops are transported to the lower end of the elevator scraper 3 through the return discharge port 9 and re-enter the main conveying process.

[0069] Real-time bulk density detection structure (bulk density detection system): includes the installation layout of the bulk density chamber 1 (the design of the notch 4 that cooperates with the upstream end of the elevator scraper 3), the installation method of the half-bridge strain gauge weighing sensor (bulk density sensor 5) (to ensure the deformation conditions of the strain beam), and the crop return subsystem (the coordination of the return channel 6, the auger 7 and the worm gear motor 8), forming a complete real-time detection structure that does not interfere with the harvesting operation.

[0070] 1. Improved accuracy: Traditional offline calibration cannot adapt to crop moisture and variety changes in real time. This invention uses online and cyclic detection of crop bulk density to ensure that the bulk density parameters used in yield calculations match the actual operating status in real time, effectively reducing yield calculation errors caused by bulk density deviations and significantly improving the scientificity and accuracy of yield measurement.

[0071] 2. Automation and convenience optimization: No need for frequent manual shutdowns, sampling, or bulk density calibration. The system automatically completes the "bulk density detection - yield calculation - crop return" process, reducing user operation complexity, improving the harvester's intelligence level, and adapting to the needs of large-scale, continuous agricultural harvesting operations.

[0072] 3. Ensuring operational continuity: The crop return subsystem design allows the sampling process to proceed in parallel with the harvesting operation. The crops in the cavity (bulk density cavity 1) can re-enter the main process of the elevator 2 through the return channel 6, without additional material loss or operational interruption, ensuring the efficient operation of the harvester.

[0073] The mechanical weighing real-time detection solution of the present invention has the advantages of direct principle, reliable accuracy, simple hardware, adaptability to harsh agricultural environments, and no safety hazards. It is more in line with the actual operating requirements and industrial application conditions of agricultural harvesters.

[0074] In summary, the present invention solves the key pain points of the existing harvester yield measurement system through an innovative real-time bulk density detection structure and method (bulk density detection system, method and harvester), has significant technological progress and application value, and provides an effective solution for the intelligent upgrade of agricultural harvesters.

[0075] An alternative to the above-mentioned density sensor 5 is as follows: Radioactive bulk density detection system Structure and Principle: A radioactive source (such as a low-dose gamma ray source) and detector are installed on the side of elevator 2. The attenuation of the radiation as it passes through the crop is used in conjunction with a formula to calculate the crop bulk density (radiation attenuation is related to the bulk density of the material). This system retains the logic of photoelectric volume measurement and yield calculation to achieve yield monitoring.

[0076] In addition, the present invention also provides a harvester, comprising the above-mentioned bulk density detection system.

[0077] The beneficial effects of the technical solution of this invention include: eliminating the cumbersome offline bulk density calibration process, enabling real-time online measurement of crop bulk density, adapting to different plots, crop varieties, and humidity fluctuations, and improving the real-time accuracy of yield measurement. It also optimizes the structure and control logic of the harvester's yield measurement system, reduces manual intervention, improves the level of automation, and reduces user operation complexity. It also ensures that the bulk density measurement process does not interfere with the harvester's normal harvesting operations, ensuring the smoothness and continuity of the sampling process.

[0078] like Figure 5 As shown, in addition, the present invention also provides a bulk density detection method, which is a bulk density detection system based on any of the above items. The bulk density detection method includes: transporting crops through an elevator; and detecting the bulk density of crops through a bulk density sensor.

[0079] The beneficial effects of the technical solution of this invention include: eliminating the cumbersome offline bulk density calibration process, enabling real-time online measurement of crop bulk density, adapting to different plots, crop varieties, and humidity fluctuations, and improving the real-time accuracy of yield measurement. It also optimizes the structure and control logic of the harvester's yield measurement system, reduces manual intervention, improves the level of automation, and reduces user operation complexity. It also ensures that the bulk density measurement process does not interfere with the harvester's normal harvesting operations, ensuring the smoothness and continuity of the sampling process.

[0080] Furthermore, the step of detecting the bulk density of crops by means of a bulk density sensor includes: introducing part of the crops into the bulk density cavity through the first through hole and the gap; when the bulk density cavity is full of crops, detecting the weight of the crops in the bulk density cavity by means of a strain gauge; calculating the bulk density of the crops based on the weight of the crops in the bulk density cavity and the internal volume of the bulk density cavity; returning the crops in the bulk density cavity to the elevator through a reflux device; or detecting the weight of the crops on the elevator scraper by means of a radioactive source and a detector, and measuring the volume of the crops on the elevator scraper by means of a photoelectric volume measuring device; and calculating the bulk density of the crops based on the weight of the crops on the elevator scraper and the volume of the crops on the elevator scraper.

[0081] The beneficial effect of adopting the above-mentioned further technical solution is as follows: the elevator scraper carries the crops upward to the position corresponding to the gap in the bulk density chamber, and the crops fall into the bulk density chamber from the gap until it is full. The crops in the bulk density chamber exert pressure on the strain beam of the bulk density sensor on the side, the strain beam bends and deforms, the resistance of the strain gauge changes, and is converted into a voltage signal and transmitted to the controller. The controller can obtain the corresponding collected material bulk density based on the calibration curve. By using the standard volume of the bulk density chamber and the real-time mass collection of the bulk density sensor, the current crop bulk density is automatically calculated through the bulk density formula, replacing the traditional method of manually inputting the calibration value, with adaptability and real-time performance. A radioactive source and detector are installed on the side of the elevator, and the crop bulk density is calculated by using the attenuation degree of the rays when passing through the crops and the ray attenuation formula. The photoelectric volume measurement and yield calculation logic are retained to achieve yield detection.

[0082] Workflow (method flow) The workflow of the present invention is described in detail below: 1. Initialization phase: After the harvester is turned on, the control subsystem (controller) completes hardware self-test (sensors, motors, communication modules, etc.), initializes parameters (such as the initial value of the elevator 2 speed, the cavity volume calibration value, etc.), and prepares to enter the operating state.

[0083] 2. Crop filling and bulk density testing: When the harvester is operating, the elevator scraper 3 carries the crops upward and reaches a set position (corresponding to the gap 4 of the bulk density chamber 1), and the crops fall into the bulk density chamber 1 from the gap 4 until it is full.

[0084] The crops in the cavity (bulk density cavity 1) exert pressure on the strain beam 11 of the bulk density sensor 5. This causes strain beam 11 to bend, causing the resistance of the half-bridge strain gauge (strain gauge 10) to change. This change is converted into a voltage signal and transmitted to the control subsystem (controller). The control subsystem (controller) then calculates the bulk density of the collected material based on a calibration curve.

[0085] The calibration curve relationship is fitted according to the data in the following table: Sampling can be done within the crop moisture range of 10% to 40%, which increases sample diversity and improves detection accuracy.

[0086] 3. Crop return and circulation detection: The control subsystem (controller) triggers the worm gear motor 8 to start, driving the auger 7 to rotate at a low speed to ensure that the material in the collection container (bulk density cavity 1) fills the cavity (bulk density cavity 1) during the harvesting process and slowly flows back; the crops in the bulk density cavity 1 are transported to the lower end of the elevator scraper 3 through the reflux channel 6 and re-enter the main conveying process (bottom auger).

[0087] The "initialization - bulk density detection and volume measurement - crop return" process enables real-time and cyclic yield monitoring.

[0088] Real-time bulk density detection method (bulk density detection method): By integrating a fixed-volume bulk density cavity 1 and a half-bridge strain gauge weighing sensor (bulk density sensor 5) on the outer wall of the harvester elevator (elevator 2), online and real-time detection of crop bulk density is achieved without the need for manual offline calibration, adapting to different operating scenarios (fields, crop varieties, and humidity changes).

[0089] Adaptive bulk density calibration method: Utilizing the standard volume of bulk density chamber 1 and the real-time mass collection of the weighing sensor (bulk density sensor 5), the current crop bulk density is automatically calculated using the bulk density formula, replacing the traditional method of manually inputting calibration values. This method is both adaptive and real-time.

[0090] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, rather than to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the above embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the above embodiments, or replace some or all of the technical features therein with equivalents. However, these modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A bulk density detection system, characterized in that: include: An elevator (2) and a bulk density sensor (5), wherein the bulk density sensor (5) is mounted on the elevator (2).

2. A bulk density detection system according to claim 1, characterized in that: A bulk density cavity (1) and a reflux device are installed on the outer wall of the elevator (2), the bulk density sensor (5) is installed in the bulk density cavity (1), a notch (4) is provided at one end of the bulk density cavity, one end of the reflux device is connected to the other end of the bulk density cavity (1), and a reflux discharge port (9) is provided at the other end of the reflux device. A first through hole and a second through hole are provided on the elevator (2), the notch (4) is connected to the first through hole, and the reflux discharge port (9) is connected to the second through hole.

3. A bulk density detection system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The reflux device comprises: a reflux channel (6) and a conveying mechanism, one end of the reflux channel (6) is communicated with the other end of the bulk density cavity (1), the other end of the reflux channel (6) is provided with a reflux discharge port (9), and the conveying mechanism is installed in the reflux channel (6).

4. A bulk density detection system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The conveying mechanism comprises: an agitator (7) and a worm gear motor (8); the reflux channel (6) is a tubular structure; the agitator (7) is rotatably mounted in the reflux channel (6); a worm is mounted on the output end of the worm gear motor (8); a worm wheel adapted to the worm is mounted on the rotating shaft of the agitator (7); and the worm wheel is engaged with the worm.

5. A bulk density detection system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The bulk density cavity (1) is a metal bulk density cavity; the bulk density sensor (5) is located on the inner wall of the bulk density cavity (1); the internal volume of the bulk density cavity (1) is 1L; the bulk density cavity (1) is a rectangular parallelepiped structure; the bulk density sensor (5) is connected to a controller; and the controller is connected to a display screen.

6. A bulk density detection system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The bulk density sensor (5) comprises: a strain gauge, a strain beam, and a plate body, wherein the strain beam is an E-shaped structure, the plate body is a U-shaped structure, the strain beam is installed in the bulk density cavity (1), the strain gauge and the plate body are both installed on the strain beam, and the strain gauge is located between the plate body and the strain beam; Alternatively, the bulk density sensor (5) comprises: a radioactive source, a detector, and a photoelectric volume measurement device, and the radioactive source, the detector, and the photoelectric volume measurement device are all installed in the elevator (2).

7. A bulk density detection system according to claim 2, characterized in that: A plurality of elevator scrapers (3) are rotatably mounted in the elevator (2), the first through hole is communicated with the upward ends of the plurality of elevator scrapers (3), and the second through hole is communicated with the downward ends of the plurality of elevator scrapers (3).

8. A harvester, characterized in that: A bulk density detection system comprising any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. A bulk density detection method, characterized in that: Based on a bulk density detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 above, a bulk density detection method includes: Transporting crops via elevators; The bulk density of crops is detected by bulk density sensors.

10. A bulk density detection method according to claim 9, characterized in that: The step of detecting the bulk density of crops by using a bulk density sensor comprises: introducing a portion of the crop into the bulk density cavity through the first through hole and the notch; When the bulk density cavity is filled with crops, the weight of the crops in the bulk density cavity is detected by the strain gauge; Calculate the bulk density of the crop based on the weight of the crop in the bulk density cavity and the internal volume of the bulk density cavity; The crops in the bulk density chamber are returned to the elevator through the return device; or, detecting the weight of the crop on the elevator's scraper by a radioactive source and a detector, and measuring the volume of the crop on the elevator's scraper by a photoelectric volume measuring device; The bulk density of the crop is calculated based on the weight of the crop on the elevator blades and the volume of the crop on the elevator blades.

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