A grain unloading control system for a harvester grain pan

CN224791215UActive Publication Date: 2026-09-25JIANGSU WORLD AGRI MACHINERY
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202521765657.7
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-08-19
Publication Date
2026-09-25
Estimated Expiration
2035-08-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

然而,角度传感器在长期运行后容易发生磨损或卡滞,造成角度检测误差,从而使卸粮筒无法精准回位,进一步影响设备的可靠性与卸粮作业的连续性

Benefits of technology

[0024]首先,在结构配置方面,通过集成电机编码器与倾角传感器,实现了对卸粮筒水平与垂直角度的实时、高精度监测,并结合一键回位控制器,实现了全自动和手动的卸粮筒回位过程,有效提高了操作效率和定位准确性。其自动控制逻辑确保卸粮筒在回位过程中遵循“先上升、再旋转、后下降”的安全操作顺序,避免与车体或其他障碍发生干涉,显著提升了系统的安全性。

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Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of unloading control system for grain unloading cylinder of harvester, including grain unloading cylinder rotating motor, motor encoder, inclination sensor, one-key return controller (with calibration button), grain unloading operation panel, motor encoder is connected inside with grain unloading cylinder rotating motor, inclination sensor is used to gather the vertical angle information of grain unloading cylinder and is sent to one-key return controller by CAN bus;One-key return calibration button is used to calibrate current horizontal and vertical angle data when grain unloading cylinder is located in support position, and the calibration data is stored as the support position reference value of grain unloading cylinder;After receiving instruction, one-key return controller is compared based on the real-time data of current inclination sensor and motor encoder with calibration support position data, and controls grain unloading cylinder to complete relevant action in turn.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model is a grain unloading control system for a harvester's unloading hopper. Background Technology

[0002] In the current field of agricultural machinery, the unloading device equipped on harvesters is mainly used to transport harvested grain from the grain bin to the transport vehicle. However, most harvesters currently use unloading hoppers that are usually located at a high position. During operation, users need to align the grain outlet of the unloading hopper with the truck bed. Due to the height difference, especially when using transport vehicles with low-profile truck beds, such as agricultural tricycles, it is difficult for operators to accurately position the unloading outlet. A slight mistake can lead to a large amount of grain spilling outside the truck bed, resulting in resource waste.

[0003] In addition, due to the limited field of vision and complex structure of harvesters, it is difficult for operators to directly observe the precise position of the unloading hopper from the cab. During the adjustment process, misjudgment can easily lead to interference or collision between the unloading hopper and other parts of the harvester, which may even damage the structural integrity of the unloading system in severe cases.

[0004] In actual use, existing grain unloading hoppers typically require being raised to a certain angle before rotating to the working position. Improper execution of this operation can easily cause mechanical damage to the grain unloading hopper assembly. Furthermore, after unloading, the operator needs to manually control the unloading hopper to reset for an extended period, a cumbersome and inefficient process that increases the workload.

[0005] Currently, most grain unloading devices rely on angle sensors to sense the vertical angle and output the angle information to the controller for action control. However, after long-term operation, angle sensors are prone to wear or jamming, causing angle detection errors. This prevents the unloading hopper from accurately returning to its original position, further affecting the reliability of the equipment and the continuity of grain unloading operations.

[0006] In summary, existing grain unloading devices have many shortcomings in terms of positioning accuracy, ease of operation, and safety and reliability. There is an urgent need for a harvester grain unloading device that can adjust the height and angle of the unloading cylinder, improve unloading accuracy, shorten operation time, and has anti-collision function, so as to improve overall operating efficiency and user experience. Utility model content:

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a grain unloading control system for the unloading hopper of a harvester.

[0008] A grain unloading control system for a harvester unloading hopper includes a grain unloading hopper rotary motor, a motor encoder, an inclination sensor, a one-key return controller (with a calibration button), and a grain unloading operation panel. The motor encoder is connected to the grain unloading hopper rotary motor and is used to collect the horizontal angle information of the grain unloading hopper and connect it to the one-key return controller.

[0009] The tilt sensor is used to collect the vertical angle information of the unloading hopper and send it to the one-key return controller via CAN bus;

[0010] The one-key return calibration button on the one-key return controller is used to calibrate the current horizontal and vertical angle data when the unloading hopper is in the support position, and store the calibration data as the support position reference value of the unloading hopper.

[0011] The one-key return controller, upon receiving a command, compares the real-time data from the current tilt sensor and motor encoder with the calibration support position data, and controls the grain unloading hopper to complete the unloading process sequentially.

[0012] When the current vertical angle of the unloading hopper is lower than the preset safe height, control the unloading hopper to rise to the safe height;

[0013] Control the grain unloading hopper to rotate horizontally to the calibrated support position;

[0014] Control the grain unloading hopper to descend to the support position.

[0015] Furthermore, the unloading operation panel includes control function buttons for raising, lowering, left rotation, right rotation, one-key return, one-key turn to the right, one-key turn to the rear, and calibration. Among them, the one-key return, one-key turn to the right, and one-key turn to the rear control function buttons are used to transmit instructions to the one-key return controller to control the automatic execution of the actions of each unloading cylinder.

[0016] Furthermore, the unloading drum rotary motor is a brushless DC motor or a brushed DC motor, which has a position holding function to improve the stability of the unloading drum during rotation.

[0017] Furthermore, the motor encoder is a multi-turn absolute encoder, used to provide high-precision rotational position of the unloading hopper.

[0018] Furthermore, the tilt sensor has a temperature compensation function to maintain the accuracy of angle measurement in high-temperature operating environments.

[0019] Furthermore, a delay hold logic is provided to ensure that the unloading hopper rises to the highest position or descends to the support position.

[0020] 10. Furthermore, during the operation of the unloading hopper, the one-key return controller outputs a status signal to the unloading operation panel to display in real time whether the current operation of the unloading hopper has ended.

[0021] Furthermore, when the tilt sensor or encoder feedback signal is abnormal, an alarm signal can be issued and the action command can be terminated.

[0022] Furthermore, the one-click return calibration button needs to be pressed continuously for 3 seconds to trigger the controller to enter calibration mode during calibration, in order to avoid accidental triggering.

[0023] Beneficial effects: Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0024] Firstly, in terms of structural configuration, by integrating a motor encoder and tilt sensor, real-time, high-precision monitoring of the horizontal and vertical angles of the unloading hopper is achieved. Combined with a one-button return controller, the fully automatic and manual return process of the unloading hopper is realized, effectively improving operational efficiency and positioning accuracy. Its automatic control logic ensures that the unloading hopper follows the safe operating sequence of "first rise, then rotate, then descend" during the return process, avoiding interference with the vehicle body or other obstacles, and significantly improving the system's safety.

[0025] Secondly, in terms of ease of operation, the grain unloading control panel offers a wealth of control functions, including buttons for one-button return, one-button right turn, and one-button rear turn, which can quickly trigger preset actions and simplify user operation steps. Meanwhile, the one-button return calibration button has a false trigger protection mechanism; it only enters calibration mode after being pressed continuously for 3 seconds, effectively preventing accidental triggering that could lead to incorrect system settings and improving control reliability.

[0026] Furthermore, regarding stability and adaptability, the system employs a brushless or brushed DC motor with position holding function and an angle sensor with temperature compensation to ensure that the unloading hopper maintains stable movement and angular accuracy under various operating environments. The use of a multi-turn absolute encoder further enhances the integrity of position information and the robustness of system operation. In addition, by setting delay-hold logic, the system ensures that the unloading hopper can rise to its highest point or descend to the support position, effectively avoiding interference risks.

[0027] Finally, in terms of safety and interactivity, the system is equipped with a fault monitoring and alarm mechanism, which can automatically interrupt the operation and issue an alarm when the sensor signal is abnormal, ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment; at the same time, the one-button return controller feeds back the status signal to the operation panel during the task, so that the operator can keep abreast of the current status of the unloading hopper in real time, improving the system's visualization level and operation feedback capability. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a logic framework diagram of a grain unloading control system for a harvester's unloading hopper. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To enhance understanding of this utility model, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to explain the present utility model and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0030] A grain unloading control system for a harvester's unloading hopper includes a hopper rotary motor, a motor encoder, an inclination sensor, a one-key return controller (with a calibration button), and a grain unloading operation panel. The motor encoder is connected to the hopper rotary motor and is used to collect the horizontal angle information of the hopper and transmit the signal to the one-key return controller. The inclination sensor is used to collect the vertical angle information of the hopper and transmit it to the one-key return controller via a CAN bus. The one-key return calibration switch is used to calibrate the current horizontal and vertical angle data when the hopper is in the support position and store the calibration data as the support position reference value of the hopper. Upon receiving a command, the one-key return controller compares the real-time data from the inclination sensor and motor encoder with the calibrated support position data and controls the hopper to perform the following sequential actions: when the current vertical angle of the hopper is lower than a preset safe height, control the hopper to rise to the safe height; control the hopper to rotate horizontally to the calibrated support position; and control the hopper to descend to the support position.

[0031] This implementation uses a motor encoder and an angle sensor to monitor the horizontal and vertical angles of the unloading hopper in real time, transmitting the data to a one-button return controller. When the unloading hopper needs to return to its support position, the controller compares the current angle with the support position angle data previously calibrated and stored by the one-button return calibration button. It then controls the unloading hopper to execute three steps sequentially according to a predetermined logic: First, it checks if the unloading hopper is below the set safe height; if so, it controls it to rise to ensure safe rotation. Next, it controls the unloading hopper to rotate horizontally to the direction angle corresponding to the calibration value. Finally, it controls it to descend vertically to the original support position. This process is implemented with closed-loop feedback control by the controller's internal program, ensuring accurate and consistent angles and a timely and stable system response.

[0032] This control system enables automatic, safe, and precise return operation of the unloading hopper, effectively improving operational efficiency and ease of use. The one-button return function avoids positional deviations caused by multiple manual operations or misoperations, enhancing equipment reliability. Furthermore, the inclusion of safety height judgment logic prevents interference between the unloading hopper and the harvester or other obstacles during rotation, strengthening system safety. In addition, the simple and repeatable calibration process contributes to the long-term stable operation of the system.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the unloading operation panel includes control function buttons for raising, lowering, left rotation, right rotation, one-key return, one-key turn to the right, one-key turn to the rear, and calibration. The one-key return, one-key turn to the right, and one-key turn to the rear control function buttons are used to transmit instructions to the one-key return controller to control the automatic execution of the actions of each unloading cylinder.

[0034] The control panel provides a rich set of manual and automatic control button interfaces. Users can manually adjust the position of the unloading hopper using the raise, lower, left, and right rotation buttons, or automatically control it along a preset path using the one-button return, one-button right turn, and one-button rear turn buttons. When the user triggers the automatic control button, the corresponding command is sent to the one-button return controller via the bus. The controller then executes the unloading hopper position adjustment action according to preset parameters, achieving fast and standardized operation.

[0035] The control panel features a logical layout and integrates multiple control methods, giving the system greater operational flexibility and ease of use. Automatic control buttons significantly improve work efficiency, reduce manual intervention, and effectively lower the error rate.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the unloading drum rotary motor is a brushless DC motor or a brushed DC motor with a position holding function to improve the stability of the unloading drum during rotation.

[0037] The use of position-holding brushless or brushed motors improves the positioning accuracy and motion stability during the rotation of the unloading drum, which helps to improve the overall reliability of the control system, especially in stopping and switching operations.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the motor encoder is a multi-turn absolute encoder used to provide a high-precision rotational position of the unloading hopper.

[0039] Multi-turn absolute encoders record multiple rotation positions through mechanical gears or electronic counting, ensuring that the current position value is retained even after power is restored following a power outage, for the controller to reference.

[0040] High-precision, multi-ring position information supports full-cycle control of the unloading hopper, enhancing the system's closed-loop adjustment accuracy and reset consistency, and improving long-term operational stability.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the tilt sensor has a temperature compensation function to maintain the accuracy of angle measurement in high-temperature operating environments.

[0042] The tilt sensor has a built-in temperature compensation algorithm or thermistor element to correct the angle shift caused by ambient temperature fluctuations in real time, ensuring stable data acquisition.

[0043] Maintaining measurement accuracy in high-temperature environments, such as summer farmland operations, enhances equipment environmental adaptability and reduces error accumulation.

[0044] In one possible implementation, a delay-holding logic is also provided to ensure that the unloading hopper rises to its highest point or descends to the support position.

[0045] The control program has a fixed time or status feedback delay judgment mechanism. After the unloading drum completes the rising action, the timer is started. The horizontal rotation command is only allowed to be activated after it is confirmed that the drum is outside the range of obstacles, so as to ensure safety.

[0046] This avoids the risk of equipment collision caused by the low-position rotation of the unloading hopper, thus improving equipment lifespan and operational safety.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the one-key return controller outputs a status signal to the unloading operation panel when the unloading hopper is in operation, so as to display in real time whether the current operation of the unloading hopper has ended.

[0048] After the controller completes each stage of the unloading hopper's operation, it transmits status bit information to the operation panel via the CAN bus protocol, and the panel updates the display interface to prompt the user with the current status.

[0049] This enables real-time monitoring of system operation status, enhances the interactive experience, and improves the controllability and visibility of the operation process.

[0050] In one possible implementation, an alarm signal can be issued and a termination command can be given when the tilt sensor or encoder feedback signal is abnormal.

[0051] The controller continuously monitors the integrity and range of sensor signals. When abnormalities such as disconnection, exceeding limits, or no response are detected, the controller automatically interrupts the control output and issues an alarm to prevent dangerous operations from continuing.

[0052] Enhance the system's self-diagnostic capabilities to prevent control failures from causing malfunctions or mechanical damage, and ensure the safety of operators and equipment.

[0053] In one possible implementation, the one-key return calibration button needs to be pressed continuously for 3 seconds to trigger the controller to enter calibration mode during calibration, in order to avoid accidental triggering.

[0054] The control program is set with timed judgment logic, which triggers the calibration process only after continuous pressing for more than 3 seconds. During the calibration process, the system records the current position angle and saves it as a reference value.

[0055] It effectively reduces the probability of false triggering, improves the rigor and safety of the calibration process, and prevents control deviations caused by incorrect settings.

[0056] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A grain unloading control system for a harvester's unloading hopper, characterized in that, The system includes a grain unloading drum rotary motor, a motor encoder, a tilt sensor, a one-key return controller with a calibration button, and a grain unloading operation panel. The motor encoder is connected to the grain unloading drum rotary motor and is used to collect the horizontal position information of the grain unloading drum and connect it to the one-key return controller. The tilt sensor is used to collect the vertical angle information of the unloading hopper and send it to the one-key return controller via CAN bus; The calibration button of the one-key return controller is used to calibrate the current horizontal and vertical angle data when the unloading hopper is in the support position, and store the calibration data as the support position reference value of the unloading hopper. The one-key return controller, upon receiving a command, compares the real-time data from the current tilt sensor and motor encoder with the calibration support position data, and controls the unloading hopper to sequentially complete the corresponding actions: When the current vertical angle of the unloading hopper is lower than the preset safe height, control the unloading hopper to rise to the safe height; Control the grain unloading hopper to rotate horizontally to the calibrated support position; Control the grain unloading hopper to descend to the support position.

2. The grain unloading control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The unloading operation panel includes control function buttons for raising, lowering, left rotation, right rotation, one-key return, one-key turn to the right, one-key turn to the rear, and calibration. Among them, the one-key return, one-key turn to the right, and one-key turn to the rear control function buttons are used to send commands to the one-key return controller to control the automatic execution of each unloading cylinder's actions.

3. The grain unloading control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The unloading drum rotary motor is a brushless DC motor or a brushed DC motor, with a position holding function to improve the stability of the unloading drum during rotation.

4. The grain unloading control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The motor encoder is a multi-turn absolute encoder used to provide high-precision rotational position of the unloading hopper.

5. The grain unloading control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tilt sensor has a temperature compensation function to maintain the accuracy of angle measurement in high-temperature operating environments.

6. The grain unloading control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also features a delay-hold logic to ensure that the unloading hopper rises to its highest point or descends to its support position.

7. The grain unloading control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the unloading hopper's operation, the one-key return controller outputs a status signal to the unloading operation panel to display in real time whether the unloading hopper's current operation has ended.

8. The grain unloading control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the tilt sensor or encoder feedback signal is abnormal, it can issue an alarm signal and terminate the one-button operation command.

9. The grain unloading control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The one-button return calibration switch needs to be pressed continuously for 3 seconds during calibration to trigger the controller to enter calibration mode, in order to avoid accidental triggering.