Bale recognition system for an agricultural harvester

Abstract

The present invention relates to a bale identification system for an agricultural harvester, the bale identification system comprising a controller configured to receive a bale wrap assembly code from a bale wrap assembly scanner. The bale wrap assembly code comprises a bale wrap assembly identification code and a bale wrap segment end index. The controller is further configured to determine a respective bale wrap segment index for each bale wrap segment of the bale wrap assembly based on the bale wrap segment end index and a bale wrap segment usage order. Furthermore, the controller is configured to establish a database having a plurality of entries. Each entry corresponds to a respective bale wrap segment, and each entry comprises the bale wrap assembly identification code, the respective bale wrap segment index, and bale wrap segment information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a bundle identification system for agricultural harvesters. Background Technology

[0002] Agricultural harvesters are used to harvest crops (e.g., cotton or other natural materials). For example, an agricultural harvester may include a harvesting platform with row units configured to harvest crops from the field. The harvester may also include an air-assisted conveying system configured to move crops from the row units to a collector. The crops can then be fed via the conveying system to a baler. As a further example, the harvester may include a pick-up mechanism configured to feed crops from the ground to the baler. The baler can compress crops into bales to facilitate storage, transport, and handling. For example, a round bale baler can compress crops into round bales within a baling chamber, resulting in bales of desired size and density. After bale formation, the bale can be wrapped with bale wrapping material to secure the crops within the bale and substantially maintain its shape. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In some embodiments, the bale identification system for an agricultural harvester includes a controller having a processor and memory. The controller is configured to receive bale assembly codes from a bale assembly scanner. The bale assembly scanner is configured to scan a bale assembly identifier for the bale assembly, the bale assembly identifier including data indicating the bale assembly code, and the bale assembly code including a bale assembly identification code and a bale segment end index. The controller is also configured to determine a corresponding bale segment index for each bale segment of the bale assembly based on the bale segment end index and the bale segment usage order. Furthermore, the controller is configured to build a database with multiple entries. Each entry corresponds to a specific bale segment, and each entry includes a bale assembly identification code, a corresponding bale segment index, and bale segment information. The database is configured to enable a remote system to retrieve bundle segment information based on a bundle segment code received from the bundle scanner of the remote system, wherein the bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index. Attached Figure Description

[0004] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals always denote the same parts, wherein:

[0005] Figure 1 This is a side view of an embodiment of an agricultural harvester with a crop transport assembly and a baler;

[0006] Figure 2 It is possible Figure 1 Schematic diagrams of embodiments of crop transport assemblies and baling machines used in agricultural harvesters;

[0007] Figure 3 It is possible Figure 2 A block diagram of an embodiment of the strapping machine's strapping identification system;

[0008] Figure 4 It can be made by Figure 3 A table representing an example of a database established by a bundle identification system;

[0009] Figure 5 It can be made by Figure 3 Another example of a table in the database established by the bundle identification system;

[0010] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for recognizing convenience bundles; and

[0011] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of another embodiment of a method for recognizing convenience bundles. Detailed Implementation

[0012] One or more specific embodiments of this disclosure will now be described. To provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation may be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer’s specific goals, such as conforming to system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that such development work can be complex and time-consuming, but it remains a routine task of design, manufacture, and production for those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure.

[0013] When describing elements of the various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of one or more of that element. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive, meaning that there may be other elements besides those listed. Any examples of operating parameters and / or environmental conditions do not exclude other parameters / conditions of the disclosed embodiments.

[0014] Figure 1This is a side view of an embodiment of an agricultural harvester 10 (e.g., a harvester, agricultural harvester) having a crop transport assembly 11 and a baler. The agricultural harvester 10 is configured to harvest crops 12 (e.g., cotton) from a field 14 and form the crops 12 into bales (e.g., agricultural bales). In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural harvester 10 includes a harvesting table 16 having row units configured to harvest crops 12 from the field 14. Additionally, the crop transport assembly 11 of the agricultural harvester 10 includes an air-assisted conveying system 18 configured to move the crops 12 from the row units of the harvesting table 16 to a collector assembly of the crop transport assembly 11. The crop transport assembly 11 also includes a conveying system configured to transport the crops 12 from the collector assembly to a baler 20 (e.g., an agricultural baler). The baler 20 is supported by and / or mounted within or on the chassis of the harvester 10. The baler 20 can form the crop 12 into round bales. However, in other embodiments, the baler 20 of the harvester 10 can form the crop into square bales, polygonal bales, or other suitable shaped bales. After the crop 12 is formed into a bale, the baling system of the harvester 10 wraps the bale with a baling material to secure the crop 12 inside the bale and substantially maintain the shape of the bale.

[0015] In some embodiments, the agricultural harvester includes a bale identification system with a controller having a processor and a memory. The controller is configured to receive bale assembly codes from a bale assembly scanner. The bale assembly scanner is configured to scan a bale assembly identifier for the bale assembly, the bale assembly identifier including data indicating the bale assembly code, and the bale assembly code including a bale assembly identification code (e.g., a code that uniquely identifies the bale assembly) and a bale segment end index (e.g., a bale segment index corresponding to the first or last bale segment of the bale assembly). Furthermore, the controller is configured to determine a corresponding bale segment index for each bale segment of the bale assembly based on the bale segment end index and the order in which the bale segments are used. Additionally, the controller is configured to build a database with multiple entries, each entry corresponding to a specific bale segment, and each entry including the bale assembly identification code, the corresponding bale segment index, and bale segment information. The database is configured to enable remote systems to retrieve bale segment information based on bale segment codes received by the bale scanner of the remote system, whereby the bale segment code includes a bale assembly identification code and a corresponding bale segment index. Therefore, the bale identification system associates bale segment information with the corresponding bale segment without scanning the bale identifier on the corresponding bale segment, where the bale identifier includes data indicating the bale segment code. As a result, the bale scanner within the agricultural harvester is eliminated.

[0016] Figure 2 It is possible Figure 1This diagram illustrates embodiments of the crop transport assembly 11 and the baler 20 used within an agricultural harvester 10. As previously described, the harvesting table 16 of the agricultural harvester 10 includes row units configured to harvest crops 12 (e.g., cotton, hay, straw, forage) from a field. Furthermore, an air-assisted conveying system 18 is configured to move the crops 12 from the row units of the harvesting table 16 to the collector assembly 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the air-assisted conveying system 18 includes a conveying air source 28 configured to output a conveying airflow through one or more pipes 30. Each pipe 30 receives the crops 12 (e.g., cotton) from the harvesting table 16, and the conveying airflow output by the conveying air source 28 drives the crops through one or more pipes 30 from the harvesting table 16 to the collector assembly 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the crop transport assembly 11 includes a screw conveyor 32 configured to distribute crops 12 (e.g., cotton) laterally across the collector assembly 26 (e.g., intersecting with the downward movement of the crops through the collector assembly). In the illustrated embodiment, the crop transport assembly 11 includes two screw conveyors 32. However, in other embodiments, the crop transport assembly may include more or fewer screw conveyors (e.g., 0, 1, 3, 4, or more).

[0017] In the illustrated embodiment, the conveying system 34 of the crop transport assembly 11 includes a first conveyor belt (e.g., a conveyor belt) 36 configured to move crops 20 from the collector assembly 26 to the baler 20. The first conveyor belt 36 is configured to rotate in a first rotational direction such that the crop contact surface of the first conveyor belt 36 moves toward the baler 20. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the conveying system 34 includes a second conveyor belt 38 located on the side of the crop 12 opposite to the first conveyor belt 36, and the second conveyor belt 38 is configured to cooperate with the first conveyor belt 36 to move the crop 12 from the collector assembly 26 to the baler 20. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the conveying system 34 includes an agitator roller 40 located upstream of the second conveyor belt 38. The agitator roller 40 is configured to agitate the crops 12 entering the pair of opposing conveyor belts, thereby enhancing the uniformity of crop distribution through the pair of opposing conveyor belts.

[0018] In the illustrated embodiment, the baling machine 20 includes a plurality of rollers 42 that support and / or drive the rotation of one or more conveyor belts 44. For example, one or more rollers 42 engage one or more conveyor belts 44, enabling the one or more conveyor belts 44 to move along a path defined by the rollers 42 and the bundles 46. The one or more rollers 42 are driven to rotate via a conveyor belt drive system (e.g., including one or more electric motors, one or more hydraulic motors, one or more pneumatic motors, etc.). The one or more conveyor belts 44 circulate around the path defined by the rollers 42 and the bundles 46. The movement of the one or more conveyor belts 44 captures crop 12 from the conveyor system 34 and pulls the crop 12 into a cavity 48, in which the crop 12 gradually accumulates to form a bundle 46.

[0019] In the illustrated embodiment, the baling machine 20 includes a tension arm 50 configured to establish tension within one or more conveyor belts 44. As the crop 12 accumulates within the cavity 48, the crop 12 exerts a force on the one or more conveyor belts 44, causing a first portion 52 of the bundle 46 encircling the one or more conveyor belts 44 to expand. Simultaneously, the dimensions of a second portion 54 (e.g., a serpentine portion) of the one or more conveyor belts 44 decreases. Thus, the second portion 54 of the one or more conveyor belts 44 provides an increased conveyor belt length for the expanding first portion 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 54 of the one or more conveyor belts 44 is established by a fixed roller 42 (e.g., a roller fixed to the housing / frame of the baling machine 20) and a roller 42 coupled to the tension arm 50, which is pivotable relative to the fixed roller 42 (e.g., relative to the housing / frame of the baling machine 20). Thus, as the crop 12 accumulates within the cavity 48, the tension arm 50 is driven to rotate, thereby reducing the dimensions of the second portion 54 and allowing the first portion 52 to expand.

[0020] Once the bundle 46 reaches the desired size, the bundling system 56 wraps the bundle 46 with the bundle 58 of the existing bundling assembly 59 to secure the crop within the bundle 46 and generally maintain the shape of the bundle 46, such as the circle in the illustrated embodiment. In other embodiments, the bundle shape may be rectangular, polygonal, or other suitable shapes. The bundle 58 may be in the form of plastic film, organic film, mesh, a series of stranded rope segments, or any other suitable structure. The bundle 58 can be fed into contact with the bundle 46 using one or more rollers and / or one or more conveyor belts of the bundle feeding assembly. One or more rollers and / or one or more conveyor belts drive the bundle 58 toward the starting roller 60 (e.g., a bundle feeder). The starting roller 60 is configured to rotate to feed the bundle 58 into the cavity 48 of the baler 20 at feed position 62, thereby driving the bundle 58 into contact with the bundle 46. The bundle 58 is captured between the bundle 46 and one or more conveyor belts 44. Therefore, the rotation of the bundle 46 pulls the bundled package 58 around the bundle 46, thereby wrapping the bundle 46. After the bundle 46 is wrapped, the bundle 46 is discharged from the baler 20, and the process of forming subsequent bundles can be initiated. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the starting roller 60 is configured to feed the bundled package 58 into the cavity 48, in other embodiments, the agricultural harvester may include another suitable bundled package feeder configured to feed the bundled package into the cavity. For example, in some embodiments, the agricultural harvester may include a movable package guide (e.g., a duckbill) configured to engage the bundled package when it is in a first position and move to a second position to feed the bundled package into the cavity in a feeding position.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural harvester 10 includes a bundle assembly storage compartment 64 configured to hold a plurality of bundle assemblies 66. In some embodiments, each bundle assembly 66 includes an axle and bundles arranged around the axle to form a roll of bundles. However, in other embodiments, the axle may be omitted, and the bundles of the bundle assembly may be arranged in a roll (e.g., having a hollow area at the center). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the agricultural harvester includes a bundle assembly transport system configured to move the bundle assemblies 66 from the bundle assembly storage compartment 64 (e.g., at the bottom of the bundle assembly storage compartment 64) to a use position 67. The bundle assemblies in the use position 67 become in-use bundle assemblies 59, and as described above, the bundles 58 of the in-use bundle assembly 59 are fed to contact the bundle 46 to wrap the bundle 46.

[0022] Bundle assemblies 66 can be loaded into bundle assembly storage compartment 64 via an opening at the top of the bundle assembly storage compartment 64. For example, a crane can move the bundle assemblies 66 from the ground to the bundle assembly storage compartment 64 by lifting them upwards, moving them above the opening at the top of the bundle assembly storage compartment, and lowering them into the bundle assembly storage compartment. Alternatively, in some embodiments, bundle assemblies can be manually loaded into the bundle assembly storage compartment. While in the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural harvester 10 includes a bundle assembly storage compartment 64 configured to hold multiple bundle assemblies 66, in other embodiments, the bundle assembly storage compartment may be configured to hold a single bundle assembly. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundle assembly storage compartment may be omitted. In such embodiments, bundle assemblies (e.g., existing bundle assemblies) can be directly loaded into the use position (e.g., manually, by a crane, etc.).

[0023] Each bundle 46 is wrapped with a section of bundle wrapping material 58 from an existing bundle wrapping assembly 59. In some embodiments, the bundle wrapping material 58 of each bundle wrapping assembly is segmented. In some embodiments, the segmented bundle wrapping material includes multiple bundle wrapping material segments and weakened sections, each bundle wrapping material segment being configured to wrap the corresponding bundle, and each weakened section being located between adjacent bundle wrapping material segments to facilitate separation of the bundle wrapping material segments. In such embodiments, in response to determining that a weakened section of the bundle wrapping material 58 is located between the axial / central hollow region of the existing bundle wrapping assembly 59 and the bundle 46, the bundling system 56 controls a braking system to establish tension in the weakened section of the bundle wrapping material 58 sufficient to separate a first segment of the bundle wrapping material arranged around the bundle 46 from a second segment of the bundle wrapping material 58 arranged around the axial / central hollow region of the existing bundle wrapping assembly 59, thereby facilitating the completion of the bundling process and the discharge of the wrapped bundle. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundles 58 of each bundle assembly are continuous. In such embodiments, in response to determining that the interface between the end of the first segment and the beginning of the second segment is located at the cutting system (e.g., by identifying a cutting position indicator on the bundle), the bundling system 56 controls the cutting system to separate the first segment arranged around the bundle 46 from the second segment arranged around the axial / central hollow region of the existing bundle assembly 59, thereby facilitating the completion of the bundling process and the discharge of the bundled bundle.

[0024] Each bundled package assembly 66 includes a bundled package assembly identifier configured to facilitate identification of the bundled package assembly. In some embodiments, the bundled package assembly identifier includes an image arranged on the axis of the bundled package assembly. For example, the image may be printed directly on the axis, engraved on the axis, or printed on a sticker affixed to the axis. The image may include any suitable image (e.g., barcode, QR code, data matrix, etc.) that can be scanned by a suitable scanner (e.g., barcode scanner, quick response (QR) code scanner, data matrix scanner, etc.). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundled package assembly identifier may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag arranged on or within the axis of the bundled package assembly. Each bundled package assembly identifier includes data indicating a bundled package code. The bundled package code includes a bundled package identification code that can uniquely identify a corresponding bundled package assembly, or uniquely identify a corresponding bundled package assembly within a set of bundled package assemblies. In some embodiments, each bundled package assembly 66 may include a plurality of bundled package assembly identifiers, each identifier having data indicating the same bundled package assembly code.

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, the agricultural harvester 10 includes a bale identification system 68 having a bale assembly scanner 70 configured to scan the bale assembly identifier on each bale assembly 66. In the illustrated embodiment, the bale assembly scanner 70 is located within the agricultural harvester 10 to scan the bale assembly identifier as the bale assembly 66 is loaded into the bale assembly storage compartment 64 (e.g., near an opening at the top of the bale assembly storage compartment 64). In embodiments where the bale assembly storage compartment is omitted, the bale assembly scanner 70 may be positioned near the use position 67, thereby enabling the bale assembly scanner 70 to scan the bale assembly identifier when an existing bale assembly 59 is loaded into the use position 67. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bale assembly scanner may be located at any other suitable location within the agricultural harvester to scan each bale assembly identifier. Additionally, in some embodiments, the bale identification system may include multiple bale assembly scanners located at multiple locations within an agricultural harvester. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bale assembly scanner 70 may not be coupled to the agricultural harvester. For example, the bale assembly scanner 70 may be part of a handheld device (e.g., a mobile phone, tablet, etc.) that an operator can use to scan bale assembly identifiers.

[0026] The bundle assembly scanner 70 may include any suitable device adapted to scan bundle assembly identifiers. For example, in embodiments where each bundle assembly identifier includes an image (e.g., a barcode, QR code, data matrix), the bundle assembly scanner 70 may include an optical scanner. Furthermore, in embodiments where each bundle assembly identifier includes an RFID tag, the bundle assembly scanner 70 may include an RFID reader. As previously described, each bundle assembly identifier includes data indicating a corresponding bundle assembly code. In response to scanning each bundle assembly identifier, the bundle assembly scanner 70 outputs the corresponding bundle assembly code (e.g., a signal indicating the corresponding bundle assembly code).

[0027] Furthermore, as detailed below, the bundle identification system 68 includes a controller communicatively coupled to the bundle assembly scanner 70. The controller includes a processor and a memory, and is configured to receive bundle assembly codes from the bundle assembly scanner 70. As previously described, the bundle assembly code includes a bundle assembly identification code that uniquely identifies a corresponding bundle assembly, or uniquely identifies a corresponding bundle assembly within a set of bundle assemblies. Additionally, the bundle assembly code also includes bundle segment end indices. The bundle segment indices are associated with each bundle segment of the bundle assembly. The bundle segment end indices may correspond to the bundle segment index of the first bundle segment (e.g., the outermost bundle segment) or the last bundle segment (e.g., the innermost bundle segment).

[0028] The controller is configured to determine the corresponding bundle segment index for each bundle segment of the bundled package assembly based on the bundle segment end index and the order in which the bundle segments are used. For example, if the bundle segment end index corresponds to the bundle segment index of the first bundle segment, the controller can determine that the bundle segment index of the first bundle segment is equal to the bundle segment end index, the bundle segment index of the second bundle segment is equal to the bundle segment end index plus 1, the bundle segment index of the third bundle segment is equal to the bundle segment end index plus 2, and so on. Furthermore, if the end index of a bundle segment corresponds to the end index of the last bundle segment, the controller can determine that the end index of the first bundle segment is equal to the end index of the bundle segment minus (the number of bundle segments in the bundle - 1), the end index of the second bundle segment is equal to the end index of the bundle segment minus (the number of bundle segments in the bundle - 2), and so on.

[0029] Additionally, the controller is configured to establish a database with multiple entries. Each entry in the database corresponds to a specific bundle segment, and each entry includes a bundle assembly identification code for the corresponding bundle assembly (e.g., a bundle assembly with the corresponding bundle segment), a corresponding bundle segment index, and bundle segment information. The bundle segment information may include the type of bundle (e.g., segmented or continuous), the form of the bundle (e.g., plastic film, organic film, mesh, a series of stranded rope segments), the length of the bundle segment, the width of the bundle segment, the thickness of the bundle material, one or more other suitable characteristics of the bundle segment, or a combination thereof. The database is configured to enable a remote system to retrieve bundle segment information based on bundle segment codes received from a bundle scanner of the remote system. The bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index. Therefore, the bundle identification system 68 associates bundle segment information with the corresponding bundle segments without scanning the bundle identifier on the corresponding bundle segment, where the bundle identifier includes data indicating the bundle segment code. As a result, the bundle scanner in the agricultural harvester is eliminated.

[0030] In some embodiments, the bundle assembly code does not include a bundle segment end index. In such embodiments, the controller is configured to receive a bundle assembly code from the bundle assembly scanner 70, and the bundle assembly code includes a bundle assembly identification code. Additionally, the controller is configured to establish a database with multiple entries. Each entry corresponds to a corresponding bundle segment, and each entry includes a bundle assembly identification code for the corresponding bundle assembly (e.g., a bundle assembly with the corresponding bundle segment), bundle segment information, and at least one of the discharge time or discharge position of the bundle wrapped with the corresponding bundle segment. The database is sorted by discharge time or discharge position. The database is configured to enable a remote system to retrieve bundle segment information based on bundle segment codes received from the bundle scanner of the remote system. The bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index, and the bundle segment index corresponds to the order of the database entries. Therefore, the bundle identification system 68 associates the bundle segment information with the corresponding bundle segment without scanning the bundle identifier on the corresponding bundle segment, wherein the bundle identifier includes data indicating the bundle segment code. As a result, the bundle scanner in the agricultural harvester is eliminated.

[0031] For example, in some embodiments, each entry in the database includes the discharge time of the bundle wrapped in the corresponding bundle segment, and the database is sorted by discharge time. In such embodiments, the first entry in the database corresponds to the first bundle segment because the bundle wrapped in the first bundle segment is discharged first, the second entry in the database corresponds to the second bundle segment because the bundle wrapped in the second bundle segment is discharged second, and so on. Furthermore, in some embodiments, each entry in the database includes the discharge position of the bundle wrapped in the corresponding bundle segment, and the database is sorted by discharge position. In such embodiments, the database may be sorted by discharge position based on the path taken by the harvester through the field. Thus, the first entry in the database corresponds to the first bundle segment because the bundle wrapped in the first bundle segment is the first bundle along that path, the second entry in the database corresponds to the second bundle segment because the bundle wrapped in the second bundle segment is the second bundle along that path, and so on.

[0032] While a baling identification system is disclosed herein with respect to agricultural harvesters having a harvesting platform, air-assisted conveying system, collector, and conveying system, in some embodiments, the baling identification system may be used with another suitable type of agricultural harvester. For example, in some embodiments, the agricultural harvester may include a pickup mechanism configured to feed crop from the ground to the baler. In such embodiments, the harvesting platform, air-assisted conveying system, collector, and conveying system may be omitted.

[0033] Figure 3 It is possible Figure 2 A block diagram of an embodiment of a bundle identification system 68 used within a bundling machine. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle identification system 68 includes a controller 72 communicatively coupled to a bundle assembly scanner 70. In some embodiments, the controller 72 is an electronic controller with circuitry configured to receive bundle assembly codes (e.g., signals indicating bundle assembly codes) from the bundle assembly scanner 70. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 72 includes a processor 74, such as a microprocessor, and a memory device 76. The controller 72 may also include one or more storage devices and / or other suitable components. The processor 74 can be used to execute software, such as software for receiving bundle assembly codes from the bundle assembly scanner 70. Furthermore, the processor 74 may include multiple microprocessors, one or more "general purpose" microprocessors, one or more application-specific microprocessors, and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or some combination thereof. For example, the processor 74 may include one or more Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) processors.

[0034] Memory device 76 may include volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM). Memory device 76 may store various types of information and may be used for various purposes. For example, memory device 76 may store processor-executable instructions (e.g., firmware or software) for processor 74 to execute, such as instructions for receiving bundle assembly codes from bundle assembly scanner 70. One or more storage devices (e.g., non-volatile storage devices) may include ROM, flash memory, hard disk drive, or any other suitable optical, magnetic, or solid-state storage medium, or combinations thereof. One or more storage devices may store data, instructions (e.g., software or firmware for receiving bundle assembly codes from bundle assembly scanner 70), and any other suitable data.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle recognition system 68 includes a user interface 78 communicatively coupled to the controller 72. The user interface 78 is configured to receive input from an operator and provide information to the operator. The user interface 78 may include any one or more suitable input devices for receiving input, such as a keyboard, mouse, one or more buttons, one or more switches, one or more knobs, one or more other suitable input devices, or combinations thereof. Additionally, the user interface 78 may include any one or more suitable output devices for presenting information to the operator, such as one or more speakers, one or more indicator lights, one or more other suitable output devices, or combinations thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the user interface 78 includes a display 80 configured to present visual information to the operator. In some embodiments, the display 80 may include a touchscreen interface configured to receive input from the operator.

[0036] In some embodiments, the controller 72 is configured to receive a bundle assembly code (e.g., a signal indicating a bundle assembly code) from the bundle assembly scanner 70. As previously described, the bundle assembly scanner 70 is configured to scan a bundle assembly identifier 82 for each bundle assembly 66. In the illustrated embodiment, the bundle assembly identifier 82 is disposed on the axis 84 of the bundle assembly 66 (e.g., an image disposed on the axis, an RFID tag disposed on the axis). For example, the bundle assembly scanner 70 may be located within an agricultural harvester to scan the bundle assembly identifier 82 on the axis 84 of the bundle assembly 66 as it is loaded into the bundle assembly storage compartment. Furthermore, as previously described, the bundle assembly identifier 82 may include an image (e.g., a barcode, QR code, data matrix) or an RFID tag. The bundle assembly identifier 82 includes data indicating a bundle assembly code, and the bundle assembly code includes a bundle assembly identification code, and in some embodiments also includes a bundle segment end index. While in the illustrated embodiment, the bundle assembly identifier 82 is disposed on the shaft 84 of the bundle assembly 66, in other embodiments, the bundle assembly identifier of the bundle assembly may be disposed on the bundle, or the bundle assembly identifier may be separate from the shaft and the bundle. For example, in some embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where the bundle assembly scanner is part of a handheld device), the bundle assembly identifier may be carried by an operator and scanned with a bundle assembly scanner (e.g., from the cab of an agricultural harvester). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundle assembly identifier may be coupled to the shaft or the bundle via a detachable connector that allows the operator to detach and carry the bundle assembly identifier for subsequent scanning.

[0037] In some embodiments, the bundle assembly code may also include additional information. For example, the bundle assembly code may include data indicating the type of bundle, such as segmented or continuous. Additionally, the bundle assembly code may include data indicating the form of the bundle, such as plastic film, organic film, mesh, or a series of stranded rope segments. Furthermore, the bundle assembly code may include data indicating the number of bundle segments, the width of the bundle, the thickness of the bundle material, other appropriate information, or combinations thereof.

[0038] Furthermore, for each bundled package assembly 66, the controller 72 is configured to determine the corresponding bundled package segment index for each bundled package segment of the bundled package 58 of the bundled package assembly 66 based on the bundled package segment end index and the order in which the bundled package segments are used. The controller 72 is also configured to establish a database with multiple entries. Each entry in the database corresponds to a corresponding bundled package segment, and each entry includes a bundled package assembly identification code for the corresponding bundled package assembly, a corresponding bundled package segment index, and bundled package segment information (e.g., the type of bundled package, the length of the bundled package segment, the width of the bundled package segment, the thickness of the bundled package material, one or more other suitable characteristics of the bundled package segment, or a combination thereof). In some embodiments, the controller 72 is configured to store the database (e.g., within the controller's storage device).

[0039] The database is configured to enable the remote system 86 to retrieve bundle segment information based on bundle segment codes received from the bundle scanner 88 of the remote system 86. As previously described, the bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index. In the illustrated embodiment, each bundle segment 90 of the bundle 58 includes a bundle segment identifier 92 configured to facilitate identification of the bundled bundle. In some embodiments, the bundle segment identifier 92 includes an image disposed on the bundle segment 90. For example, the image may be printed directly on the bundle segment 90, printed on a sticker affixed to the bundle segment 90, or etched or engraved into the bundle segment 90. The image may include any suitable image (e.g., barcode, QR code, data matrix, etc.) that can be scanned by the appropriate bundle scanner 88 of the remote system 86. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the bundle segment identifier 92 may include an RFID tag disposed on the bundle segment 90. Each bundle segment identifier 92 includes data indicating the corresponding bundle segment code. The bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index, which, together, uniquely identify the corresponding bundle segment, or uniquely identify a corresponding bundle segment within a set of bundle segments. In some embodiments, each bundle segment 90 may include multiple bundle segment identifiers 92 (e.g., spaced apart from each other such that the bundle segment identifiers are arranged around the perimeter of the bundle), each identifier having data indicating the same bundle segment code.

[0040] The remote system 86 is separate from the agricultural harvester. Alternatively, the remote system 86 can be a handheld device configured for use in a field, a stationary device configured for use within a crop processing facility, or other suitable equipment. The bale scanner 88 can include any one or more suitable devices suitable for scanning bale segment identifiers 92. For example, in embodiments where the bale segment identifiers 92 include images (e.g., barcodes, QR codes, data matrices), the bale scanner 88 can include an optical scanner. Furthermore, in embodiments where the bale segment identifiers 92 include RFID tags, the bale scanner 88 can include an RFID reader. As previously described, each bale segment identifier 92 includes data indicating a corresponding bale segment code. In response to scanning a bale segment identifier 92, the bale scanner 88 outputs the corresponding bale segment code (e.g., a signal indicating the corresponding bale segment code).

[0041] The controller of the remote system 86 (e.g., including a processor and memory) is configured to receive bundle segment codes from the bundle scanner 88. As previously described, the bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index. Thus, the bundle segment code enables the remote system to identify (e.g., uniquely identify) bundle segments, thereby identifying the bundled bundle. Additionally, the controller of the remote system 86 is configured to receive a database established by the controller 72 of the bundle identification system 68. Therefore, the controller of the remote system 86 can use the bundle assembly identification code and the bundle segment index to locate the entry corresponding to the corresponding bundle segment 90. As previously described, each entry in the database includes bundle segment information. Therefore, the controller of the remote system 86 can use the database and the bundle segment code to retrieve the bundle segment information for the corresponding bundle segment 90.

[0042] In some embodiments, the controller of the remote system 86 is configured to receive a database from the controller 72 of the bundle identification system 68 via a wireless connection. For example, the bundle identification system may include a transceiver communicatively coupled to the bundle identification system controller and configured to output a signal indicating the database. Additionally, the remote system may include a transceiver communicatively coupled to the remote system controller and configured to receive a signal indicating the database. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller of the bundle identification system may output a signal indicating the database to the controller of the remote system via a wired connection (e.g., the remote system may be temporarily connected to the bundle identification system via a wired connector). Additionally, in some embodiments, the bundle identification system may include a removable media writer communicatively coupled to the bundle identification system controller and configured to write the database to a removable medium. In such embodiments, the remote system may include a removable media reader communicatively coupled to the remote system controller and configured to read the removable medium to provide the database to the remote system controller. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller 72 of the bundle identification system 68 is configured (e.g., via a corresponding transceiver) to output a signal indicating a database to a remote server (e.g., a cloud-based server, etc.), which the remote server can receive (e.g., via a corresponding transceiver) and store the database. In such embodiments, the controller of the remote system can receive the signal indicating the database from the remote system (e.g., via a corresponding transceiver).

[0043] In some embodiments, the bundle assembly code does not include a bundle segment end index. In such embodiments, the controller 72 of the bundle identification system 68 is configured to receive a bundle assembly code from the bundle assembly scanner 70, and the bundle assembly code includes a bundle assembly identification code. Additionally, the controller 72 is configured to build a database with multiple entries. Each entry in the database corresponds to a corresponding bundle segment, and each entry includes the bundle assembly identification code for the corresponding bundle assembly, bundle segment information, and at least one of the discharge time or discharge position of the bundle wrapped with the corresponding bundle segment. The database is sorted by discharge time or discharge position. In some embodiments, the controller 72 is configured to store the database (e.g., within the controller's storage device). The database is configured to enable the remote system 86 to retrieve bundle segment information based on the bundle segment code received from the bundle scanner 88 of the remote system 86. The bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code for the corresponding bundle assembly and a corresponding bundle segment index, and the bundle segment index corresponds to the order of database entries. As previously stated, the controller of the remote system 86 is configured to receive the database from the controller 72 of the bundle identification system 68 via a wireless connection, a wired connection, or a removable medium.

[0044] In some embodiments, the controller 72 of the bale identification system 68 is configured to determine the discharge location of the bale based on feedback from the spatial positioning device 93. The spatial positioning device 93 is communicatively coupled to the controller 72 and may include any one or more suitable devices configured to output signals indicating the location of a harvester in the field, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), one or more other suitable devices, or a combination thereof. In response to determining that the bale has been discharged from the harvester (e.g., based on feedback from one or more sensors), the controller 72 may determine the location of the harvester based on the feedback from the spatial positioning device 93, and the controller 72 may store the discharge location of the bale in a corresponding entry in a database. In embodiments where the discharge location of the bale is not stored in a database, the spatial positioning device may be omitted.

[0045] The controller of remote system 86 is configured to receive bundle segment codes from bundle scanner 88. As previously described, the bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a bundle segment index. Therefore, the bundle segment code enables the remote system to identify (e.g., uniquely identify) bundle segments and thus identify bundles that have been bundled. Additionally, the controller of remote system 86 is configured to receive a database established by controller 72 of bundle identification system 68. Therefore, the controller of remote system 86 can use the bundle assembly identification code and the bundle segment index to locate the entry corresponding to the respective bundle segment 90. For example, the controller of remote system 86 can use a bundle assembly identification code to identify a set of potential entries corresponding to a specific bundle assembly. Since the database is sorted by discharge time or discharge location, the controller of remote system 86 can match the bundle segment index with the corresponding entry in that set of potential entries based on the order of the entries (e.g., the first entry may correspond to the first bundle segment index, the second entry may correspond to the second bundle segment index, and so on). As mentioned earlier, each entry in the database includes bundle segment information. Therefore, the controller of remote system 86 can use the database and the bundle segment code to retrieve bundle segment information.

[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, the bale identification system 68 includes a bale sensor assembly 94 communicatively coupled to a controller 72. The bale sensor assembly 94 is configured to monitor one or more characteristics of the bale 46 before it is discharged from the agricultural harvester. For example, the bale sensor assembly 94 may include a weight sensor configured to monitor the weight of the bale 46, a humidity sensor configured to monitor the moisture content of the crop within the bale 46, a size sensor configured to monitor the diameter of the bale 46, one or more other suitable sensors, or a combination thereof. The bale sensor assembly 94 is configured to output a signal indicating one or more characteristics of the bale, and the controller is configured to determine bale information for the bale 46, wherein the bale information includes one or more characteristics of the bale 46. When the controller 72 builds a database, the controller 72 may include the bale information in entries for the corresponding bale wrapping segment 90. Thus, bale information can be associated with each bale. While the inclusion of bale information in each entry of the database is disclosed above, in some embodiments, the database may not include bale information. In such embodiments, the bale sensor assembly may be omitted.

[0047] As previously described, in some embodiments, the bundle identifier 92 includes an image disposed on the bundle segment 90, the image including data indicating the code of the corresponding bundle segment. In such embodiments, the bundle segment code may include information indicating one or more RFID tags and / or one or more near-field communication (NFC) tags coupled to the corresponding bundle segment 90. For example, the bundle segment code may include an identification code for each RFID / NFC tag coupled to the corresponding bundle segment 90. Thus, after scanning the bundle identifier 92, the remote system can identify the bundle by scanning any of the RFID / NFC tags coupled to the corresponding bundle segment 90. Additionally, the remote system 86 may add the identification codes of the RFID / NFC tags to the corresponding entries in a database, and / or establish an additional database linking the RFID identification codes to the corresponding bundle segments. While RFID tags and NFC tags have been disclosed above, in some embodiments, the bundle segment code may include information indicating one or more identifiers of one or more other suitable types, such as one or more additional images (e.g., one or more barcodes, one or more QR codes, one or more data matrices), human-readable text, etc.

[0048] In some embodiments, controller 72 may instruct user interface 78 to present information from a database on display 80. For example, controller 72 (e.g., in response to user input) may instruct display 80 of user interface 78 to present the database in tabular form. The table may have rows corresponding to entries in the database, and the table may have columns corresponding to information within the entries. For example, in some embodiments, columns may include a bundle assembly identification code, a bundle segment index, bundle segment information, and bundle information. Furthermore, in some embodiments, columns may include at least one of bundle assembly identification code, bundle segment information, bundle information, and bundle discharge time or bundle discharge location.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the bale identification system 68 does not include a bale scanner (e.g., a scanner) configured to scan bale segment identifiers 92. Therefore, the bale scanner may not be present on the agricultural harvester. Because the bale identification system 68 does not include a bale scanner (e.g., a scanner), the controller 72 of the bale identification system 68 is not configured to receive bale segment codes from the bale scanner. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the controller 72 of the bale identification system 68 is not configured to receive bale segment codes from any source.

[0050] Figure 4 It can be made by Figure 3 The database 96 established by the bundle identification system is a table in an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the database 96 includes multiple entries 98 (e.g., rows), where each entry 98 corresponds to a corresponding bundle segment. In the illustrated embodiment, each entry 98 includes a bundle assembly identification code 100, a bundle segment index 102, bundle segment information 104, and bundle information 106. The bundle assembly identification code 100 can uniquely identify a corresponding bundle assembly, or the bundle assembly identification code 100 can uniquely identify a corresponding bundle assembly within a set of bundle assemblies. Additionally, the bundle segment index 102 indicates the position of the bundle segment within the bundle of the corresponding bundle assembly (e.g., the first bundle segment, the second bundle segment, and the third bundle segment, etc.). As previously described, the bundle segment information 104 may include the type of bundle, the length of the bundle segment, the width of the bundle segment, the thickness of the bundle material, one or more other suitable characteristics of the bundle segment, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, as previously described, the bundle information 106 may include the weight of the bundle, the moisture content of the crop within the bundle, the diameter of the bundle, one or more other suitable bundle characteristics, or a combination thereof. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the database 96 includes bundle information 106, in other embodiments, bundle information may be omitted.

[0051] Database 96 includes multiple sets of entries, each set corresponding to a specific bundled package assembly. Furthermore, each entry in a specific set corresponds to a specific bundled package segment of the corresponding bundled package assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, database 96 includes data for two bundled package assemblies (e.g., two sets of entries), where each bundled package assembly includes a bundled package with three bundled package segments. Therefore, the database includes data for bundled package segments 001, 002, 003, 001, 002, and 003 of bundled package assembly 002. However, in other embodiments, the database may include data for more or fewer bundled package assemblies, wherein each bundled package assembly may include a corresponding bundled package with more or fewer bundled package segments. Furthermore, while in the illustrated embodiment, database 96 is arranged as a table, in other embodiments, the database may have any other suitable configuration (e.g., blockchain, hierarchical, etc.).

[0052] As mentioned earlier, database 96 can be referenced from the above. Figure 3A controller for a publicly available bundle identification system is established. For example, when each bundle assembly is loaded into the bundle assembly storage compartment, the controller can receive the corresponding bundle assembly code from a bundle assembly scanner. The bundle assembly scanner is configured to scan the corresponding bundle assembly identifier on the respective bundle assembly. The bundle assembly identifier includes data indicating the bundle assembly code, and the bundle assembly code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a bundle segment end index (e.g., a bundle segment index corresponding to the first or last bundle segment of the bundle assembly). Furthermore, the controller is configured to determine the corresponding bundle segment index for each bundle segment of the bundle assembly based on the bundle segment end index and the order in which the bundle segments are used. Additionally, the controller is configured to establish a database 96, wherein each entry 98 in a corresponding set of entries corresponds to a corresponding bundle segment of a corresponding bundle assembly, and each entry includes a corresponding bundle assembly identification code, a corresponding bundle segment index, corresponding bundle segment information, and in some embodiments, corresponding bundle information. The database is configured to enable a remote system to retrieve corresponding bundle segment information based on the corresponding bundle segment code received by the remote system's bundle scanner, and in some embodiments, also retrieve corresponding bundle information, wherein the bundle segment code includes a corresponding bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index.

[0053] Figure 5 It can be made by Figure 3Another embodiment of the bundle identification system establishes a table in database 108. In the illustrated embodiment, database 108 includes multiple entries 110 (e.g., rows), where each entry 110 corresponds to a corresponding bundle segment. In the illustrated embodiment, each entry 110 includes a bundle assembly identification code 112, bundle segment information 114, bundle information 116, discharge time 118 of the bundle wrapped with the corresponding bundle segment, and discharge position 120 of the bundle wrapped with the corresponding bundle segment. The bundle assembly identification code 112 can uniquely identify a corresponding bundle assembly, or the bundle assembly identification code 112 can uniquely identify a corresponding bundle assembly within a set of bundle assemblies. As previously described, the bundle segment information 114 may include the type of bundle, the length of the bundle segment, the width of the bundle segment, the thickness of the bundle material, one or more other suitable characteristics of the bundle segment, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, as previously described, the bundle information 116 may include the bundle weight, the moisture content of the crop within the bundle, the bundle diameter, one or more other suitable bundle characteristics, or a combination thereof. While in the illustrated embodiment, the database 108 includes bundle information 116, in other embodiments, bundle information may be omitted. Furthermore, while in the illustrated embodiment, the database 108 includes both bundle discharge time 118 and bundle discharge location 120, in other embodiments, the database may include only one of bundle discharge time 118 or bundle discharge location 120.

[0054] Database 108 includes multiple sets of entries, each set corresponding to a specific bundled package assembly. Additionally, each entry in a given set corresponds to a specific bundled package segment of that assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, database 108 includes data for two bundled package assemblies (e.g., two sets of entries), where each bundled package assembly includes a bundled package with three bundled package segments. Therefore, the database includes data for bundled package assemblies 001 wound around bundles discharged at time 1 and position 1, bundled package assemblies 001 wound around bundles discharged at time 2 and position 2, bundled package assemblies 001 wound around bundles discharged at time 3 and position 3, bundled package assemblies 002 wound around bundles discharged at time 4 and position 4, bundled package assemblies 002 wound around bundles discharged at time 5 and position 5, and bundled package assembly 002 wound around bundles discharged at time 6 and position 6. However, in other embodiments, the database may include data for more or fewer bundled package assemblies, wherein each bundled package assembly may include a corresponding bundled package having more or fewer bundled package segments. Furthermore, although in the embodiment illustrated, database 108 is arranged as a table, in other embodiments, the database may have any other suitable configuration (e.g., blockchain, hierarchical, etc.).

[0055] As mentioned earlier, database 108 can be referenced from the above. Figure 3A controller for a publicly disclosed bundle identification system is established. For example, when each bundle assembly is loaded into the bundle assembly storage compartment, the controller can receive a corresponding bundle assembly code from a bundle assembly scanner. The bundle assembly scanner is configured to scan a corresponding bundle assembly identifier on the corresponding bundle assembly. The bundle assembly identifier includes data indicating the bundle assembly code, and the bundle assembly code includes a bundle assembly identification code. The controller is configured to establish a database 108, where each entry 110 corresponds to a corresponding bundle segment of the bundle of the corresponding bundle assembly, and each entry includes a bundle assembly identification code, bundle segment information, and at least one of the discharge time or discharge position of the bundle wrapped with the corresponding bundle segment. The database is sorted by discharge time 118 or discharge position 120. The database is configured to enable a remote system to retrieve bundle segment information based on bundle segment codes received from a bundle scanner on the remote system, and in some embodiments, to also retrieve corresponding bundle information. The bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index, and the bundle segment index corresponds to the order of entries for the corresponding bundle assembly in database 108.

[0056] In some embodiments, a bundle assembly scanner scans a bundle assembly identifier when the corresponding bundle assembly is moved to a use position (e.g., when the bundle assembly is directly loaded into the use position, when the bundle assembly is moved from a bundle assembly storage compartment to the use position), or when the bundle assembly is in the use position. In such embodiments, when the bundle assembly is in the use position, the controller uses the bundle assembly identification code of the bundle assembly in the use position to enter a database (e.g., see above reference). Figure 4 Public databases or the above references Figure 5 Entries are created in a publicly available database. Furthermore, in some embodiments, when a corresponding bundle assembly is loaded into the bundle assembly storage compartment, a bundle assembly scanner scans the bundle assembly identifier. In such embodiments, the controller may store the order of the bundle assemblies within the bundle assembly storage compartment (e.g., the order of bundle assembly codes). Thus, when a bundle assembly is moved from the bundle assembly storage compartment to a usage position, the controller can identify the bundle assembly based on this order, and when the bundle assembly is in the usage position, the controller can use the bundle assembly identification code of the bundle assembly in the usage position to enter into a database (e.g., as referenced above). Figure 4 Public databases or the above references Figure 5 Create entries in a public database.

[0057] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of an embodiment of method 122 for recognizing convenience bundles. Method 122 can be seen from the above reference. Figure 3 The method may be performed by the disclosed controller, by one or more other suitable controllers, or by a combination thereof. Furthermore, the steps of method 122 may be performed in the order disclosed below or any other suitable order. Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more steps of method 122 may be omitted, and / or the method may include one or more additional steps.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, method 122 includes receiving a bundle assembly code from a bundle assembly scanner, as shown in box 124. As previously described, the bundle assembly scanner is configured to scan a bundle assembly identifier for a bundle assembly. Additionally, the bundle assembly identifier includes data indicating the bundle assembly code, and the bundle assembly code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a bundle segment end index.

[0059] Furthermore, method 122 includes determining a corresponding bundle segment index for each bundle segment used in the bundle assembly, based on the bundle segment end index and the order in which the bundle segments are used, as shown in box 126. Method 122 also includes establishing a database with multiple entries, as shown in box 128. As previously described, each entry in the database corresponds to a specific bundle segment, and each entry includes a bundle assembly identification code, a corresponding bundle segment index, and bundle segment information. The database is configured to enable a remote system to retrieve bundle segment information based on bundle segment codes received from a bundle scanner of the remote system, and the bundle segment codes include a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index. In some embodiments, the method does not include receiving bundle segment codes.

[0060] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of another embodiment of method 130 for recognizing convenience bundles. Method 130 can be seen from the above reference. Figure 3 The method may be performed by a publicly disclosed controller, by one or more other suitable controllers, or by a combination thereof. Furthermore, the steps of method 130 may be performed in the order disclosed below or any other suitable order. Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more steps of method 130 may be omitted, and / or the method may include one or more additional steps.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, method 130 includes receiving a bundle assembly code from a bundle assembly scanner, as shown in box 132. As previously described, the bundle assembly scanner is configured to scan a bundle assembly identifier for a bundle assembly. The bundle assembly identifier includes data indicating a bundle assembly code, and the bundle assembly code includes a bundle assembly identification code.

[0062] Furthermore, method 130 includes establishing a database with multiple entries, as shown in box 134. Each entry in the database corresponds to a corresponding bundle segment, and each entry includes at least one of a bundle assembly identification code, bundle segment information, and the discharge time or discharge location of the bundle wrapped with the corresponding bundle segment. Additionally, the database is sorted by discharge time or discharge location. The database is configured to enable a remote system to retrieve bundle segment information based on a bundle segment code received from a bundle scanner of the remote system, and the bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index. Furthermore, the bundle segment index corresponds to the order of the entries in the database. In some embodiments, the method does not include receiving bundle segment codes.

[0063] Although only certain features have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and alterations will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and alterations falling within the true spirit of this disclosure.

[0064] The technologies proposed and claimed herein relate to and are applied to physical objects and concrete examples of practical nature that significantly improve upon current technical fields, and are therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any claim appended to this specification contains one or more elements designated as “means for [performing] [a certain function]…” or “steps for [performing] [a certain function]…”, such elements shall be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, those elements shall not be interpreted in accordance with 35 USC 112(f).

Claims

1. A bale identification system for agricultural harvesters, comprising: The controller, comprising a processor and memory, is configured to: Receive a bundle assembly code from a bundle assembly scanner, wherein the bundle assembly scanner is configured to scan a bundle assembly identifier of a bundle assembly, the bundle assembly identifier including data indicating the bundle assembly code, and the bundle assembly code including a bundle assembly identification code and a bundle segment end index; Based on the end index of the bundled package segment and the order in which the bundled package segments are used, determine the corresponding bundled package segment index for each of the multiple bundled package segments used in the bundled package assembly; and A database is established comprising multiple entries, each of which corresponds to a specific bundle segment among the multiple bundle segments. Each entry includes a bundle assembly identification code, a corresponding bundle segment index, and bundle segment information. The database is configured to enable a remote system to retrieve the bundle segment information based on a bundle segment code received from the remote system's bundle scanner, wherein the bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index.

2. The bundle identification system according to claim 1, wherein the bundle assembly scanner is configured to be located within the agricultural harvester to scan the bundle assembly identifier when the bundle assembly is loaded into the bundle assembly storage compartment of the agricultural harvester.

3. The bundle identification system according to claim 1, wherein the bundle package assembly identifier comprises an image or radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.

4. The bundle identification system according to claim 3, wherein the image includes a barcode, a quick response (QR) code, or a data matrix.

5. The bundle identification system according to claim 1, wherein the bundle identification system does not include a scanner configured to scan a bundle segment identifier, the bundle segment identifier including data indicating the bundle segment code, and the controller is not configured to receive the bundle segment code.

6. The bundle identification system according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of entries includes bundle information corresponding to a bundle segmented and wrapped with a corresponding bundle wrapping material.

7. The bundle identification system according to claim 1, wherein the bundle segment code includes information associated with a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag coupled to the corresponding bundle segment.

8. A method for identifying convenience bundles, comprising: A bundle assembly code is received from a bundle assembly scanner via a controller including a processor and a memory, wherein the bundle assembly scanner is configured to scan a bundle assembly identifier of a bundle assembly, the bundle assembly identifier including data indicating the bundle assembly code, and the bundle assembly code including a bundle assembly identification code and a bundle segment end index. Based on the end index of the bundled package segment and the usage order of the bundled package segments, the controller determines the corresponding bundled package segment index for each of the multiple bundled package segments in the bundled package assembly; and The controller establishes a database comprising multiple entries, each of which corresponds to a specific bundle segment among the multiple bundle segments. Each entry includes a bundle assembly identification code, a corresponding bundle segment index, and bundle segment information. The database is configured to enable a remote system to retrieve the bundle segment information based on a bundle segment code received from the remote system's bundle scanner, wherein the bundle segment code includes a bundle assembly identification code and a corresponding bundle segment index.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein receiving the bundle assembly code includes receiving the bundle assembly code when the bundle assembly is loaded into the bundle assembly storage compartment of the agricultural harvester.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the bundled package assembly identifier comprises an image or radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the image comprises a barcode, a quick response (QR) code, or a data matrix.

12. The method according to claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of entries includes bundle information corresponding to a bundle segmented and wrapped with a corresponding bundle wrapping material.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein the method does not include receiving the segment code of the bundled package.

14. A bundle identification system for an agricultural harvester, comprising: The controller, comprising a processor and memory, is configured to: Receive a bundle assembly code from a bundle assembly scanner, wherein the bundle assembly scanner is configured to scan a bundle assembly identifier of a bundle assembly, the bundle assembly identifier including data indicating the bundle assembly code, and the bundle assembly code including a bundle assembly identification code; and A database comprising multiple entries is established, wherein each of the multiple entries corresponds to a corresponding bundle segment among multiple bundle segments of the bundled package assembly. Each of the multiple entries includes an identification code of the bundled package assembly, bundle segment information, and at least one of the discharge time or discharge position of the bundle wrapped with the corresponding bundle segment. The database is sorted by discharge time or discharge position. The database is configured to enable a remote system to retrieve the bundle segment information based on a bundle segment code received from the bundle scanner of the remote system. The bundle segment code includes the identification code of the bundled package assembly and a corresponding bundle segment index, and the bundle segment index corresponds to the order of the multiple entries.

15. The bundle identification system of claim 14, wherein the bundle assembly scanner is configured to be located within the agricultural harvester to scan the bundle assembly identifier when the bundle assembly is loaded into the bundle assembly storage compartment of the agricultural harvester.

16. The bundle identification system according to claim 14, wherein the bundle package assembly identifier comprises an image or radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.

17. The bundle identification system according to claim 16, wherein the image comprises a barcode, a quick response (QR) code, or a data matrix.

18. The bundle identification system according to claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of entries includes bundle information corresponding to a bundle segmented and wrapped with a corresponding bundle wrapping material.

19. The bundle identification system of claim 14, wherein the controller is not configured to receive the bundle package segment code.

20. The bundle identification system according to claim 14, wherein the bundle segment code includes information associated with a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag coupled to the corresponding bundle segment.

Images