Method for estimating hydraulic pressure and agricultural machine using same

Abstract

Systems, methods, and machines are provided for determining an idle pressure of a machine. The method may include receiving a measurement of a temperature of hydraulic fluid within a hydraulic circuit of the machine, the hydraulic circuit including a hydraulic motor configured to pump the hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic circuit; receiving a measurement of a first pressure of the hydraulic fluid at a first point within the hydraulic circuit; and determining an idle pressure of the hydraulic motor based on the temperature of the hydraulic fluid.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 479,240, filed October 2, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to estimating the hydraulic power of a machine, such as the idling hydraulic power, by measuring the temperature of the hydraulic fluid at the machine's location.

[0003] Hydraulic equipment—including agricultural equipment such as sugarcane harvesters, and operational vehicles such as bulldozers and wheel loaders—includes a hydraulic circuit that supplies hydraulic fluid to a power transmission device. For example, a sugarcane harvester uses a hydraulic circuit to process the harvested material via a hydraulically driven shredder system and a hydraulically driven impurity extraction system, both of which are within the hydraulic circuit.

[0004] Power measurements of various systems within the hydraulic circuit of a hydraulic device are crucial for understanding the performance of hydraulic equipment and for data collection, such as agricultural data collection (e.g., generating yield plots to show spatial crop yield variations during agricultural equipment use).

[0005] The hydraulic circuit of a hydraulic device includes a pump that pumps hydraulic fluid through the circuit to a hydraulic motor. The power consumption of the hydraulic motor is limited by the hydraulic fluid flow rate multiplied by the hydraulic fluid pressure (and then multiplied by the motor efficiency coefficient, which is a constant). The hydraulic fluid flow rate can be monitored by the motor speed, and the pressure drop across the motor can be measured using a hydraulic pressure sensor.

[0006] When hydraulic equipment is not in operation, such as when a sugarcane harvester is not processing any material, a certain amount of idling power (e.g., "zero throughput power" or "idle load") is used to circulate hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic circuit. To quantify the power required to process material (the amount of pressure above the idling pressure level), it is advantageous to estimate the idling pressure and / or power as hydraulic power conditions change and / or as environmental conditions change.

[0007] Figure 1A An example of idling power variation is shown. In this example, the pressure difference over time at the chopper of the sugarcane harvester is displayed as green data. Figure 1A In the left-hand zone (approximately <100°), i.e., zone A, the chopper is off; in the right-hand raised zone (approximately >350°), i.e., zone B, the chopper is actively processing material; and in Figure 1AIn the central region (approximately 100 to 350), i.e., Zone C, the chopper runs idle but does not process material. The motor pre-pressure δ (pressure delta) (green data point) is initially approximately zero in Zone A, increases to approximately 2,500 psi during initiation of processing in Zone B, and then decreases to approximately 2,000 psi in Zone C while the chopper is running but not processing material. The chopper is supplied with hydraulic fluid by a separate pump. In this example, the chopper's revolutions per minute (RPM) is considered constant, therefore the pressure differential is directly related to the power supplied to the chopper.

[0008] The operating temperature of a machine varies throughout the day as its various components warm up and / or cool down over time due to use and environmental factors such as ambient temperature, humidity, and wind. The temperature of the hydraulic fluid affects its viscosity, which alters the resistance to flow. Colder hydraulic fluid has a higher viscosity, which subsequently results in increased idling power required by various components. Figure 1B An example of hydraulic fluid temperature rise is shown; this is a graph illustrating the change in hydraulic fluid temperature over time of the hydraulic motor that supplies hydraulic power to the shredder of a sugarcane harvester. Figure 1B As can be seen, during the operation of the sugarcane harvester's shredder, the temperature of the hydraulic fluid rises, which affects the idling pressure, such as... Figure 1A It can be seen in the "B" area.

[0009] Hotter hydraulic fluid has lower viscosity, which subsequently results in lower idling pressure and power required by various components relative to colder hydraulic fluid. This variability in idling pressure and power can introduce errors if the processing power of a component—such as that of a shredder—is used in subsequent calculations, such as for production plotting.

[0010] One solution to this problem is to periodically allow the machine to run in idling mode for a period of time, and then monitor the pressure during this period. However, this solution is not exemplary because it is not continuous, requires user intervention to keep the machine idling, and requires the machine to stop operating, resulting in inefficiency. Take, for example, a sugarcane harvester shredder at the end of a field being harvested by an agricultural machine with a shredder. When the machine turns around or stops in the field, the shredder will operate without throughput, which may typically only occur every 10 to 20 minutes. Summary of the Invention

[0011] According to one or more embodiments, a method is provided for determining the idling pressure of a machine. The machine can be any machine including a hydraulic circuit, such as agricultural machinery. The method includes receiving a measurement of the temperature of hydraulic fluid within the machine's hydraulic circuit. The machine's hydraulic circuit includes a hydraulic pump configured to pump hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic circuit. The method also includes determining the idling pressure of a hydraulic motor based on the temperature of the hydraulic fluid.

[0012] An agricultural machine is also provided, which is an example of a machine including a hydraulic circuit. The agricultural machine includes a hydraulic circuit and a processor. The hydraulic circuit includes a hydraulic pump configured to pump hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic circuit. The processor, operably connected to the hydraulic circuit, is configured to receive a measurement of the temperature of the hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic circuit of the agricultural machine. The processor of the machine also determines the idling pressure of the hydraulic motor based on the temperature of the hydraulic fluid.

[0013] Another agricultural machine is also provided, which is another example of a machine including a hydraulic circuit. This agricultural machine includes: a chopper; a hydraulic circuit; an engine configured to generate power to drive the agricultural machine; a device for measuring the temperature of the hydraulic fluid; and a processor. The hydraulic circuit includes a hydraulic pump configured to pump hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic circuit. The processor, operatively connected to the hydraulic circuit, is configured to receive measurements of the temperature of the hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic circuit of the agricultural machine. The processor of the machine also determines the idling pressure of the hydraulic motor based on the temperature of the hydraulic fluid.

[0014] These and other advantages of this disclosure will become apparent by reference to the disclosure herein and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0015] This patent application or application document includes at least one drawing presented in color. Upon request and payment of the necessary fees, the Patent Office will provide a copy of this patent or patent application publication with one or more color drawings.

[0016] Figure 1A This is a diagram showing the pressure difference measured on the hydraulic motor that provides hydraulic power to the shredder of a sugarcane harvester.

[0017] Figure 1B This is a graph showing the temperature of the hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic motor that provides hydraulic power to the shredder of a sugarcane harvester as a function of time.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a diagram of a machine that includes a hydraulic circuit—in this example, an agricultural machine.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of the method disclosed herein.

[0020] Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is a graph showing the temperature of the hydraulic fluid (vertical axis) measured at a point relative to the pressure difference (horizontal axis).

[0021] Figures 5A to 5C This is a graph showing the difference in data plotted by the yield monitor with and without temperature adjustment (post-processing).

[0022] Figure 6 It is a numerical table that includes data on the percentage error of yield monitor weight estimation ((actual weight - estimated weight) / actual weight) processed according to the disclosed method (top dashed box) and not processed according to the disclosed method (bottom solid box).

[0023] Figure 7 A high-level block diagram of a computer for implementing the components of this disclosure according to an embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The embodiments described herein provide methods for determining the idling pressure of a machine and machines in conjunction with these methods. As used herein, the term "idling pressure" and its variations refer to the operating condition of a machine's motor when the motor is idling, which occurs when the motor is not under load, for example, neither handling material nor moving or operating the machine, but the motor is receiving power and rotating. "Idle pressure" may be referred to, for example, as "zero throughput pressure" or "idling load". Converting "idling pressure" to an "idling power" value, or converting "idling power" to an "idling pressure" value, can be done using Equation 1 mentioned below.

[0025] One embodiment of this disclosure relates to a method for determining the idling pressure of a machine. The machine can be any machine including a hydraulic circuit comprising a hydraulic pump configured to pump hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic circuit.

[0026] As used herein, the term "hydraulic fluid" refers to any fluid suitable for use in a hydraulic circuit. Non-limiting examples of hydraulic fluids include water, oil, air, and combinations thereof. In one non-limiting embodiment, the hydraulic fluid may include ethers, butanol, siloxanes, aromatics, esters, olefins, glycols, glycerol, brine, and combinations thereof.

[0027] According to this disclosure, determining the idling pressure offers the following advantages: real-time / runtime updates, and therefore improves the accuracy of other measurements and determinations occurring on the machine. This determination method is illustrated in... Figure 3 In, among which Figure 2The agricultural machinery illustrated herein illustrates this method. The method for determining idling pressure includes step 302: receiving a measurement of the temperature of hydraulic fluid 2 within a hydraulic circuit 4 of the machine 100, the hydraulic circuit 4 including a hydraulic pump 6 configured to pump the hydraulic fluid 2 through the hydraulic circuit 4 to a hydraulic motor 9. The received temperature can be characterized as a signal, which can be received by any suitable processor, such as... Figure 7 The processors illustrated in the document and discussed herein.

[0028] The temperature received in step 302 can be measured by any suitable temperature detector—such as a thermocouple, thermometer, infrared sensor, bimetallic device, resistance temperature measuring device, state change sensor, and / or silicon diode. Furthermore, the temperature of the hydraulic fluid 2 can be measured at any suitable location within or near the hydraulic circuit 4—including within or near any component of the hydraulic motor 9.

[0029] As used herein, the terms "hydraulic circuit" and "hydraulic conduit" mean any pipe and / or hose element configured to contain hydraulic fluid. Hydraulic conduits can be made of any suitable material, such as metals, plastics, rubber, carbon-based materials, and combinations thereof.

[0030] Subsequently, the method for determining the idling pressure includes an optional step 304: receiving a measurement of the first pressure of the hydraulic fluid 2 at a first point 8 within the hydraulic circuit 4. Alternatively, the method can be performed directly from step 304 to step 308, as discussed below. In embodiments where the variables m and b for the specific agricultural machine discussed below are known, the method may include two steps: step 302 and step 308. In embodiments where the variables m and b for the specific machine are not known to be within a predetermined accuracy threshold, the method may include four steps: step 302, then step 304, then step 306, and then step 308.

[0031] In the embodiment including step 304, the first point 8 can be any point upstream of the hydraulic motor 9 within the hydraulic circuit 4. The arrow is included. Figure 2 The flow direction is indicated in hydraulic circuit 4, but these arrows are exemplary and the flow direction can also be the opposite.

[0032] Next, in this embodiment, the method for determining the idling pressure includes step 306: receiving a measurement of the second pressure of the hydraulic fluid 2 at a second point 10 within the hydraulic circuit 4. This can be any point within the hydraulic circuit 4 downstream of the hydraulic motor 9. The first and second pressures can be measured by any suitable pressure detector, such as a pressure sensor, pressure gauge, pressure transducer, pressure gauge, anemometer, etc., or combinations thereof. The positions of the first point 8 and the second point 10 are exemplary; in other embodiments, the positions of the first point 8 and the second point 10 may be reversed or completely different. The received first pressure and the received second pressure can each be characterized as a signal, which can be received by any suitable processor, such as a processor in... Figure 7 The processors illustrated in the document and discussed herein.

[0033] In an embodiment that executes steps 302 through 308, in step 308, the idling pressure of the hydraulic motor 9 can be determined based on the temperature of the hydraulic fluid 2 within the hydraulic circuit 4. In an embodiment that includes four steps—step 302, then step 304, then step 306, and then step 308—in step 308, the idling pressure of the hydraulic motor 9 can be determined based on the temperature of the hydraulic fluid 2 within the hydraulic circuit 4, the first pressure of the hydraulic fluid 2 at the first point 8, and the second pressure of the hydraulic fluid 2 at the second point 10.

[0034] In one embodiment, the determined idling pressure is shown using Equation 1 as follows: Idle pressure = (((m * filteredPressureTemp) + b)) In Equation 1 above, the idling pressure is determined by linearly fitting the variable "filteredPressureTemp". The variable "filteredPressureTemp" refers to the temperature of the hydraulic fluid 2 within the hydraulic circuit 4.

[0035] The values ​​of m and b in Equation 1 can be determined for a specific hydraulic circuit 4. For example, for a specific hydraulic circuit 4, m can be assigned a value of -2.7, and b can be assigned a value of 317. These can be exemplary linear fitting coefficients that can be adjusted to more closely align with the measured data (the relationship between pressure and temperature may be linear, such as...). Figure 4BAs shown in the diagram (described below) and as described in Equation 1; or the relationship between pressure and temperature may be nonlinear (polynomial, etc.). For hydraulic circuit 4 and hydraulic motor 9, other linear fitting coefficients can be predetermined and adjusted by measuring the difference between the first pressure of hydraulic fluid 2 at a first point 8 and the second pressure of hydraulic fluid 2 at a second point 10 within a certain temperature range of hydraulic fluid 2. Based on these measurements, linear fitting coefficients for a specific hydraulic circuit 4 and hydraulic motor 9 can be determined.

[0036] The difference between the first pressure of hydraulic fluid 2 at the first point 8 and the second pressure of hydraulic fluid 2 at the second point 10 can be referred to as the "total pressure" in this paper.

[0037] The idling pressure in Equation 1 above can be converted into an "idling power" value by multiplying the idling pressure by "motor RPM". "Motor RPM" is a measurable value of the number of revolutions per minute of the hydraulic motor 9 at any point in time. In some cases, "motor RPM" can be replaced by a measurement of the flow of hydraulic fluid 2 through hydraulic circuit 4.

[0038] When machine 100 is agricultural machine 100', such as Figure 2 As shown, the pressures used for various hydraulically driven components can be calculated. For example, the "cutting pressure" of the shredder component of agricultural machine 100', i.e., the pressure used to operate the shredder component during the shredding or harvesting process, can be determined by subtracting the idling pressure determined by Equation 1 from the "total pressure". The determined "cutting pressure" can be converted into "cutting power" by multiplying the "cutting pressure" by the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the shredder component—that is, a measurable value of the revolutions per minute of the shredder component at any point in time. In some cases, the "RPM" of the shredder component can be replaced by a measurement of the flow of hydraulic fluid 2 through the shredder component.

[0039] The “cutting power” is the amount of power used by the shredder component (or any other driven component) during operation—such as during the shredding or harvesting process—that can be attributed to the shredding or harvesting process itself, rather than the amount of power used by the shredder component itself during operation.

[0040] When machine 100 is agricultural machine 100', such as Figure 2 As shown, it can be determined in the region, for example Figure 5A Idle pressure during harvesting operations in area 200 (as described below).

[0041] During harvesting operations, the speeds of various components—such as the number of revolutions per minute of the shredder component—can be used in conjunction with a determined idling pressure to determine the power requirements of one or more components of the agricultural machinery, such as the power requirements of the shredder for processing materials.

[0042] The method disclosed herein may also include receiving geotagged harvest yield data generated during harvesting operations within the area 200 from agricultural machinery 100'. This geotagged harvest yield data can be calculated according to the following equation 2: Harvesting yield = Mass throughput / (Ground speed * Cutting width) The mass throughput of the harvestable crop 106 processed can be estimated by scaling a cutting power measurement of the chopper 102, which is acquired over time, using calibration factors that can be predetermined and / or improved for a specific type of agricultural machine 100' and / or a specific type of chopper 102. Ground speed is the speed at which the agricultural machine 100' moves during harvesting operations in area 200. Cutting width is the width of the mechanism of the agricultural machine 100' performing the harvesting operation, such as the width of the reel of a combine harvester, and remains geographically and temporally constant. Each of the mass throughput measurement and the ground speed measurement can be temporally correlated using a time-stamping process and geographically correlated using a geo-stamping process.

[0043] Geographically tagged harvest yield data includes data describing the mass throughput of harvested material at various locations within region 200, estimated using power requirements of components of agricultural machine 100' such as shredder 102. Harvest yield data is associated with location data from the agricultural machine 100''s Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Harvesting operations involve actively collecting any harvestable crop 104 through one or more actions of the agricultural machine 100'.

[0044] Then, the geotagged harvest yield data can be temporally correlated with the “cutting power” determined during that harvesting operation in region 200 to generate a yield map of region 200, as shown in the example below. Figures 5A to 5C As shown, this will be discussed further below. Yield plots can be generated in any suitable manner and are a visual representation of the yield values ​​obtained for multiple portions of Region 200 during the harvesting operation. Yield values ​​are quantifications of yield for a portion of Region 200, such as bushels harvested per acre (or other land area, such as hectares or square feet) and / or dollars per acre (or other land area, such as hectares or square feet).

[0045] like Figure 5A As shown, the temperature variation of the hydraulic fluid 2 in different parts of the field is usually caused by the preheating of the agricultural machine 100', the operation of the agricultural machine 100', etc., visualized by different colors. Figure 5B These are typical production data for the region, and the published method was not applied. Figure 5C yes Figure 5B The same production data was used, but the temperature based on hydraulic fluid 2 was applied. Figure 5A The disclosed method for estimating idling pressure will be further described in Example 2 below. Figures 5A to 5C .

[0046] The method of this disclosure may further include: after receiving geotagged harvest yield data within region 200 as described above, estimating the mass throughput of processed harvestable crop 106. In this embodiment, the geotagged harvest yield data can then be temporally correlated with the cutting power in region 200 during the harvesting operation to estimate the mass throughput of processed harvestable crop 106 in any part or the entire region 200.

[0047] The method of this disclosure may further include: measuring the actual idling pressure of the hydraulic motor 9 using any suitable method, and then comparing the actual measured idling pressure with a determined idling pressure. If the difference is above a first threshold—including 0% of the first threshold—the determined idling pressure can be calibrated so that the determined idling pressure is within a second predetermined threshold of the actually measured idling pressure. The second predetermined threshold can be preset or modified as needed and can be any suitable value. One option for calibrating the determined idling pressure is to automatically modify one or both values ​​of Equation 1. For example, the "-2.7" value and / or "+317" value can be modified once or multiple times until the determined idling pressure is within the second predetermined threshold of the actually measured idling pressure.

[0048] The foregoing discussion relates to methods for determining machine idling pressure. This disclosure also relates to methods for operating machines, including agricultural machinery. Agricultural machinery can include any machine with a hydraulic circuit used in conjunction with agricultural activities, and non-limiting examples include tractors, cultivators, tillers, harvesters, etc. Furthermore, the term agricultural machinery can refer not only to implements configured to tow or otherwise traction across a field, but also to agricultural vehicles (e.g., tractors) and / or combinations of vehicles / implements configured to tow or pull (one or more) such implements across a field. Thus, for example, agricultural machinery can correspond individually to agricultural vehicles or implements, or collectively to combinations of agricultural vehicles / implements.

[0049] Agricultural machinery—for example Figure 2The agricultural machine 100' can be operated according to the idling pressure determined as discussed in steps 302 to 304 to 306 to 308 above, and / or directly after step 302 above, at the idling pressure determined in step 308.

[0050] Based on the determined idling pressure, as described above, the mass throughput can be estimated, and based on this mass throughput, the ground speed of the agricultural machine 100' can be automatically changed. For example, if the mass throughput is above a threshold, the ground speed of the agricultural machine 100'—e.g., the harvesting speed—can be automatically reduced to a predetermined value and / or gradually reduced to a predetermined value. If the subsequent idling pressure is determined, this subsequent idling pressure can also be used to further automatically change the ground speed of the agricultural machine 100'.

[0051] Based on the estimated mass throughput as described above, the energy consumption of agricultural machine 100' can be automatically adjusted. For example, if the estimated mass throughput is above a threshold, the energy consumption of agricultural machine 100' (e.g., fuel consumption, electricity consumption, and combinations thereof) can be automatically reduced to a predetermined value and / or gradually reduced to a predetermined value. This automatic reduction in energy consumption can reduce the energy consumption of agricultural machine 100', which can help improve the overall energy efficiency of agricultural machine 100' and reduce the energy costs of operating agricultural machine 100'. If an idling pressure is subsequently determined, this subsequent idling pressure can also be used to further automatically adjust the energy consumption of agricultural machine 100'.

[0052] Agricultural machinery 100' may include other components, such as a chopper 102. The chopper 102 can be any suitable device that can break relatively large pieces of harvestable crop 106 into relatively small pieces. The chopper 102 may be located within a hydraulic circuit 4, wherein the chopper 102 receives power from hydraulic fluid 2 that is pumped through the hydraulic circuit 4 via a hydraulic pump 6 to a hydraulic motor 9.

[0053] The agricultural machine 100' may also include, for example, an engine 108. Engine 108 can be: any suitable fuel-powered engine, such as a gasoline or diesel engine; any suitable electric engine, such as an electromagnetic motor; and combinations thereof. Engine 108 is configured to generate power and drive the agricultural machine 100' forward and / or backward, enabling the agricultural machine 100' to perform harvesting operations.

[0054] The agricultural machine 100 may also include a processor 110. The processor 110 includes the following references: Figure 7The processor 110 may include one or more of the aforementioned components, and may include a transceiver for transmitting and / or receiving data from any remote processor. The processor 110 may be configured to interact with the agricultural machine 100' and perform the methods disclosed herein, either individually or in conjunction with one or more remote processors. For example, the processor 110 may automatically change the ground speed of the agricultural machine 100' by controlling the power of the engine 108.

[0055] Example This disclosure is further described by way of examples, which are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

[0056] Example 1 Figure 4A and Figure 4B These are graphs showing the hydraulic fluid temperature (vertical axis) measured at a single point relative to the pressure difference (horizontal axis). These graphs illustrate the relationship between oil temperature and the no-load pressure requirement of the shredder motor. In these graphs, the motor's revolutions per minute (RPM) is assumed to be constant, therefore the pressure is related to the pressure difference upstream and downstream of the hydraulic motor 9— Figure 2 The difference between the first pressure of hydraulic fluid 2 at point 8 and the second pressure of hydraulic fluid 2 at point 10 is directly related.

[0057] exist Figure 4A In this example, the graph is plotted over a relatively wide pressure range—from approximately 400 psi to approximately 1200 psi—to measure the pressure of the motor at different points of operation; in this case, the motor is used to operate the shredder. Figure 4A Within the time frame, data collection can be seen in three different areas: a) Area 402, shredder off (blue); b) Area 404, shredder idling (red); c) Area 406, shredded material / processed material (green).

[0058] Because it is necessary to determine the idling pressure, the focus is on Figure 4A The red box (area 404) in the image represents the pressure difference when the shredder receives power but does not process any harvestable crop 104. Figure 4B Focusing on these data, they are plotted over a relatively narrow range (approximately 500 psi to approximately 800 psi).

[0059] As temperature (vertical axis) increased, a decreasing pressure trend was measured. Figure 4B In the meantime, these points (obtained at different temperatures when the harvester's shredder is idling for a short time) can be approximately fitted to an equation as shown by red line 408.

[0060] according to Figure 4A and Figure 4B Data measured in the middle - including Figure 4B The red curve 408 in the diagram—an equation for determining idling pressure, such as Equation 1 above—can be established. While this equation can be used to determine the idling pressure of any machine with a hydraulic circuit, these measurements can be taken for any individual machine (including at different time points) to create a modified version of Equation 1 that may differ from Equation 1. Modifications to Equation 1 can include values ​​different from those shown, calibrated for that individual machine at that time point. Furthermore, modifications to Equation 1 can include nonlinear correlations between the temperatures of the hydraulic fluid 2, such as polynomial correlations. As an alternative or supplement to the above modifications to Equation 1, idling pressure can be determined using a lookup table that correlates the measured temperature (one or more) with the associated idling pressure.

[0061] Therefore, the relationship between oil temperature and idling pressure can be learned through the calibration process with reference to Equation 1, and the relationship between oil temperature and idling pressure can also be updated if idling pressure is available / when idling pressure is available.

[0062] Example 2 Figures 5A to 5C This is an aerial view of 200 acres of harvested land. Figure 5A The aerial view is overlaid with the hydraulic fluid temperature. Figure 5B and Figure 5C Each aerial view is overlaid with a production monitoring plot. Figures 5A to 5C The illustration shows the hydraulic oil temperature variation of a sugarcane harvester (an example of agricultural machinery 100') and its impact on yield estimation, where the shredder power is used to estimate the mass throughput of the sugarcane harvester.

[0063] Figure 5A This is a graph showing the temperature of the hydraulic fluid when the sugarcane harvester is performing harvesting activities in zone 200. Figure 5B The yield plot is based on the estimated harvested sugarcane mass throughput from the shredder power, and is not affected by the determined idling pressure, which is the current situation in the industry. Figure 5C This is a yield plot based on the estimated sugarcane throughput according to the content of this disclosure, using the shredder power and the determined idling pressure of the hydraulic motor 9. (See also...) Figure 5C As shown, with Figure 5B In contrast, by compensating for a given idling pressure, a more accurate continuous gradient is generated, thus the production results are affected by the given idling pressure.

[0064] Figure 6The table illustrates the hydraulic oil temperature variation in terms of the percentage error in mass estimation (estimated mass compared to actual harvested mass) for sugarcane harvesters with and without the application of a defined idling pressure compensation. The upper dashed box 602 represents data including compensation with a defined idling pressure, while the lower solid box 604 represents data not compensated with a defined idling pressure.

[0065] from Figure 6 As can be seen from the table, the compensation results in dashed box 602 are more consistent with the uncompensated results in solid box 604. From... Figure 6 The table also shows that when temperature changes are relatively large during harvesting operations, the compensated result in dashed box 602 (-4.26%) is more accurate than the uncompensated result in solid box 604 (+16.9%). Furthermore, the compensated results in dashed box 602 are more consistent and largely avoid the fluctuations in the data in solid box 604, as these data are affected by the change in hydraulic fluid temperature over time.

[0066] The systems, apparatus, and methods described herein can be implemented using digital circuits or one or more computers that utilize well-known computer processors, memory units, storage devices, computer software, and other components, such as... Figure 7 As shown and discussed below. Typically, a computer includes a processor for executing instructions and one or more memories for storing instructions and data. A computer may also include or be coupled to one or more mass storage devices, such as one or more disks, internal hard disks and removable disks, magneto-optical disks, optical disks, etc.

[0067] The systems, apparatus, and methods described herein can be implemented using computers operating in a client-server relationship. Typically, in such a system, the client computer is located remotely to the server computer and interacts via a network. The client-server relationship can be defined and controlled by computer programs running respectively on the respective client and server computers.

[0068] The systems, apparatus, and methods described herein can be implemented in a network-based cloud computing system. In such a system, a server or other processor connected to the network communicates with one or more client computers via the network. For example, a client computer can communicate with the server through a web browser application residing on and operating on the client computer. The client computer can store data on the server and access the data over the network. The client computer can send data requests or online service requests to the server over the network. The server can perform the requested service and provide data to (one or more) client computers. The server can also transmit data suitable for causing the client computer to perform a specified function, such as performing a calculation, displaying specified data on a screen, etc. For example, the server can transmit a request suitable for causing the client computer to perform one or more steps of the methods and workflows described herein. Some steps of the methods and workflows described herein can be performed by the server in the network-based cloud computing system or by another processor. Some steps of the methods and workflows described herein can be performed by the client computer in the network-based cloud computing system. The steps of the methods and workflows described herein can be performed by the server and / or client computer in the network-based cloud computing system in any combination.

[0069] The systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein can be implemented using a computer program product tangibly embodied in an information carrier—for example, in a non-transitory machine-readable storage device—for execution by a programmable processor; and the methods and workflow steps described herein can be implemented using one or more computer programs executable by such a processor. A computer program is a set of computer program instructions that can be used directly or indirectly in a computer to perform a particular activity or produce a particular result. Computer programs can be written in any form of programming language—including compiled or interpreted languages—and can be deployed in any form—including as a standalone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment.

[0070] This computer's high-level block diagram is in Figure 7 shown in the example. Figure 7The computer 702 may be wholly included on machine 100, located remotely from machine 100, or partially remotely included and partially located on machine 100. Computer 702 includes a processor 704 that controls the overall operation of computer 702 by executing computer program instructions that define such operations. The computer program instructions may be stored in storage device 712 or other computer-readable media (e.g., disk, CD-ROM, etc.) and loaded into memory 710 when execution is required. Therefore, the methods disclosed herein can be defined by computer program instructions stored in memory 710 and / or storage device 712 and controlled by processor 704 that executes the computer program instructions.

[0071] Therefore, by executing computer program instructions, processor 704 executes the algorithms disclosed herein. Processor 704 can be configured to execute computer program instructions for: executing appropriate algorithms for controlling the operation of machine 100, and certain other data processing operations of the machine. Processor 704 can also be configured to execute computer program instructions for: executing appropriate algorithms for controlling the operation of any or all components of machine 100.

[0072] Computer 702 also includes one or more network interfaces 706 for communicating with other devices over a network. Computer 702 also includes input / output devices 708 (e.g., monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers, buttons, etc.) that allow users to interact with computer 702. Those skilled in the art will recognize that actual computer implementations may also include other components, and Figure 7 This is a high-level representation of some components of such a computer for illustrative purposes.

[0073] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described above are illustrative and exemplary in all respects, and not restrictive, and the scope of the invention disclosed herein should not be determined by the specific embodiments, but rather by the claims as interpreted in the full breadth permitted by patent law. It should be understood that the embodiments shown and described herein merely illustrate the principles of the invention, and various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Various other combinations of features can be implemented by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A method for determining the idling pressure of a machine, the method comprising: Receives a measurement of the temperature of hydraulic fluid within a hydraulic circuit of the machine, the hydraulic circuit including a hydraulic motor configured to pump the hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic circuit; as well as The idling pressure of the hydraulic motor is determined based on the temperature of the hydraulic fluid.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the following steps: Receive the measurement result of the first pressure of the hydraulic fluid at the first point in the hydraulic circuit; The measurement result of the second pressure of the hydraulic fluid at a second point in the hydraulic circuit is received, wherein the idling pressure of the hydraulic motor is also determined based on the first pressure and the second pressure.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The first point is upstream of the hydraulic motor, and the second point is downstream of the hydraulic motor.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The machine is an agricultural machine, and the idling pressure is determined during harvesting operations within the area, and the mass throughput of the agricultural machine is based on the determined idling pressure.

5. The method according to claim 4, further comprising: The agricultural machine receives geotagged harvest yield data generated during the harvesting operation within the region, wherein the geotagged harvest yield data is determined based on the quality throughput within the region and the speed of the agricultural machine within the region; and The geotagged harvest yield data is processed to generate a yield map of the region.

6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Measure the actual no-load pressure of the hydraulic motor; Compare the determined idling pressure with the actual idling pressure. as well as The determined idling pressure is calibrated so that it is within a predetermined threshold of the actual idling pressure.

7. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The machine is an agricultural machine, and the ground speed of the agricultural machine is automatically changed based on the quality throughput.

8. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The machine is an agricultural machine, and the energy consumption of the agricultural machine is automatically adjusted based on the quality throughput.

9. An agricultural machine, said agricultural machine comprising: A hydraulic circuit, the hydraulic circuit including a hydraulic motor configured to pump hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic circuit; A processor, operably connected to the agricultural machine, is configured to: Receive the measurement result of the temperature of the hydraulic fluid; and The idling pressure of the hydraulic motor is determined based on the temperature of the hydraulic fluid.

10. The machine according to claim 9, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Receive the measurement result of the first pressure of the hydraulic fluid at a first point within the hydraulic circuit; and The measurement result of the second pressure of the hydraulic fluid at a second point in the hydraulic circuit is received, wherein the determination of the idling pressure of the hydraulic motor is also based on the first pressure and the second pressure.

11. The machine according to claim 9, wherein, The idling pressure is determined during harvesting operations within the area, the mass throughput of the agricultural machine is based on the determined idling pressure, and the ground speed of the agricultural machine is automatically changed based on the determined mass throughput.

12. The machine according to claim 9, wherein, The idling pressure is determined during harvesting operations within the area, the mass throughput of the agricultural machinery is based on the determined idling pressure, and the energy consumption of the agricultural machinery changes automatically based on the determined mass throughput.

13. The machine according to claim 9, wherein, The processor is also configured to receive geotagged harvest yield data generated during harvesting operations within the area from the agricultural machine, wherein the geotagged harvest yield data is determined based on: the mass throughput within the area, the mass throughput based on a determined idling pressure, and the speed of the agricultural machine within the area.

14. The machine according to claim 13, wherein, The processor is also configured to: The agricultural machinery receives geotagged harvest yield data generated during harvesting operations within the area, wherein the geotagged harvest yield data is determined based on: the mass throughput within the area, the mass throughput based on a determined idling pressure, and the speed of the agricultural machinery within the area; and The idling pressure determined during the harvesting operation and the geotagged harvest yield data are processed to generate a yield map of the region.

15. An agricultural machine, said agricultural machine comprising: Chopper; A hydraulic circuit, the hydraulic circuit including a hydraulic motor configured to pump hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic circuit between the hydraulic motor and the chopper; An engine configured to generate power to drive the agricultural machinery; Temperature detector, the temperature detector being used to measure the temperature of the hydraulic fluid; as well as A processor, operably connected to the agricultural machine, is configured to: Receive the measurement result of the temperature of the hydraulic fluid; and The idling pressure of the hydraulic motor is determined based on the temperature of the hydraulic fluid.

16. The agricultural machinery according to claim 15, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Receive the measurement result of the first pressure of the hydraulic fluid at a first point within the hydraulic circuit; and The measurement result of the second pressure of the hydraulic fluid at a second point in the hydraulic circuit is received, wherein the determination of the idling pressure of the hydraulic motor is also based on the first pressure and the second pressure.

17. The agricultural machinery according to claim 15, wherein, The idling pressure is determined during harvesting operations within the area, the mass throughput of the agricultural machine is based on the determined idling pressure, and the ground speed of the agricultural machine is automatically changed based on the determined mass throughput.

18. The agricultural machinery according to claim 15, wherein, The idling pressure is determined during harvesting operations within the area, the mass throughput of the agricultural machine is based on the determined idling pressure, and the energy consumption of the agricultural machine is automatically changed based on the determined mass throughput.

19. The agricultural machinery according to claim 15, wherein, The processor is also configured to receive geotagged harvest yield data generated during harvesting operations within the area from the agricultural machine, wherein the geotagged harvest yield data is determined based on: the mass throughput within the area, the mass throughput based on a determined idling pressure, and the speed of the agricultural machine within the area; and the processor is further configured to process the idling pressure determined during the harvesting operations and the geotagged harvest yield data to generate a yield map of the area.

20. The agricultural machinery according to claim 15, further comprising: Measure the actual no-load pressure of the hydraulic motor; Compare the determined idling pressure with the actual idling pressure. as well as The determined idling pressure is calibrated so that it is within a predetermined threshold of the actual idling pressure.

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