Systems and methods for pulse jet filter element cleaning in agricultural equipment

Abstract

Embodiments herein relate to filtration systems for agricultural equipment. In an embodiment, a filtration system for a piece of agricultural equipment is included having control circuitry, a filter housing, and a pulse cleaning mechanism. The pulse cleaning mechanism is controlled by the control circuitry and is configured to clean a filter element disposed within the filter housing. The control circuitry is configured to receive and / or infer data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment and adjust a pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data. Other embodiments are also included herein.

Description

[0001] SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PULSE JET FILTER ELEMENT CLEANING IN AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENT

[0002] This application is being filed as a PCT International Patent application on August 16, 2024, in the name of Donaldson Company, Inc., a U.S. national corporation, applicant for the designation of all countries, and Joel J. Finnicum, a Citizen of the U.S., and Mike J. Van Arsdale, a Citizen of the U.S., and Daniel E. Adamek, a Citizen of the U.S., inventors for the designation all countries, and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 533,389, filed August 18, 2023, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in its / their entirety / entireties.

[0003] Field

[0004] Embodiments herein relate to filtration systems for agricultural equipment.

[0005] Background

[0006] Agricultural equipment is benefited by filtration of various types. For example, engine air filtration is essential for agricultural equipment as it protects the engine from dust, dirt, debris and other contaminants that can reduce engine performance and lifespan. Engine air filters are designed to capture and remove these particles from the air before they enter the engine's combustion chamber.

[0007] Filters can load as they remove contaminants from fluid they filter. Filter loading can increase filter restriction and decrease efficiency of system operation. As such, some types of filters are often cleaned, such as with pulses of air, to reduce filter loading and keep filter restriction within a proper range.

[0008] Summary

[0009] Embodiments herein relate to filtration systems for agricultural equipment. In a first aspect, a filtration system for a piece of agricultural equipment is included having control circuitry, a filter housing, and a pulse cleaning mechanism. The pulse cleaning mechanism can be controlled by the control circuitry and can be configured to clean a filter element disposed within the filter housing. The control circuitry can be configured to receive and / or infer data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment and adjust a pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data.

[0010] In a second aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the pulse cleaning parameter can include at least one selected from the group consisting of a pressure drop trigger threshold change, a pulse cleaning frequency, a pulse cleaning pattern, a peak pressure of a pulse wave, a pulse duration, a pulse energy, a pulse pattern, a number of valves, a valve synchrony parameter, and a non-pulse cleaning parameter.

[0011] In a third aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be configured to receive a wireless signal about the implement, the attachment, or the header used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0012] In a fourth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be configured to receive the data from and / or about the implement or the attachment after connection of the implement, the attachment, or the header to the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0013] In a fifth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the piece of agricultural equipment can be a self-propelled piece of equipment.

[0014] In a sixth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the piece of agricultural equipment can be at least one of an agricultural tractor, a combine harvester, a windrower, a self- propelled sprayer, a harvester, a forage harvester.

[0015] In a seventh aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be an air filtration system.

[0016] In an eighth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be an engine air filtration system.

[0017] In a ninth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the data can include identification data, wherein the identification data identifies a type of the implement or the attachment.

[0018] In a tenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the data at least partially originates from a user input. In an eleventh aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the data at least partially originates from the implement, the attachment, or the header.

[0019] In a twelfth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the data at least partially originates from an equipment associated data network.

[0020] In a thirteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the equipment associated data network can include CANbus.

[0021] In a fourteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be configured to receive a user input, store data regarding the same, and later utilize the same to determine a crop type at a particular location.

[0022] In a fifteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be further configured to receive data regarding ambient conditions and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0023] In a sixteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the ambient conditions can include at least one selected from the group consisting of temperature and humidity.

[0024] In a seventeenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be further configured to receive environmental data and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0025] In an eighteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be further configured to receive weather data and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0026] In a nineteenth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be further configured to receive data from or about other agricultural equipment within a predetermined proximity and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0027] In a twentieth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be further configured to receive data regarding a moisture status of ground upon which the piece of agricultural equipment can be operating and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0028] In a twenty-first aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be further configured to receive data regarding a moisture status of particulates to be filtered out and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0029] In a twenty-second aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be further configured to receive data regarding a type of crop growing on land upon which the piece of agricultural equipment can be operating and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0030] In a twenty-third aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be configured to infer data about the implement, the attachment, or the header using one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns.

[0031] In a twenty-fourth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be configured to infer data about the implement, the attachment, or the header using one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns and selecting from a set of known implements specific for a work site.

[0032] In a twenty-fifth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, can further include an equipment operation state sensor, wherein the control circuitry can be configured to adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on data from the equipment operation state sensor.

[0033] In a twenty-sixth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the equipment operation state sensor can include at least one of a PTO shaft sensor, a head engagement sensor, and an equipment height sensor. In a twenty-seventh aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be configured to receive information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and infer information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

[0034] In a twenty-eighth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be configured to receive information regarding an engine RPM, engine load, and / or a movement speed of the piece of agricultural equipment and infer information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

[0035] In a twenty-ninth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be configured to receive and / or retrieve default pulse cleaning parameter data based on one or more of the data from and / or about the implement, the attachment, or the header.

[0036] In a thirtieth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be configured to receive and / or retrieve default pulse cleaning parameter data based on one or more of data regarding an installed filter element, particulates, type of crop, and agricultural equipment activity.

[0037] In a thirty -first aspect, a method of cleaning a filter element for a piece of agricultural equipment can be included. The method can include receiving and / or inferring data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment, adjusting a pulse cleaning parameter of a pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data, and pulse cleaning the filter element according to the adjusted pulse cleaning parameter.

[0038] In a thirty-second aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving a wireless signal about the implement, the attachment, or the header used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0039] In a thirty -third aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving the data from and / or about the implement or the attachment after connection of the implement, the attachment, or the header to the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0040] In a thirty -fourth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving data regarding ambient conditions and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0041] In a thirty -fifth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving weather data and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0042] In a thirty-sixth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving data from or about other agricultural equipment within a predetermined proximity and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0043] In a thirty-seventh aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving data regarding a moisture status of ground upon which the piece of agricultural equipment can be operating and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0044] In a thirty-eighth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving data regarding a moisture status of particulates to be filtered out and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0045] In a thirty -ninth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving data regarding a type of crop growing on land upon which the piece of agricultural equipment can be operating and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0046] In a fortieth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include inferring data about the implement, the attachment, or the header using one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns. In a forty -first aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include inferring data about the implement, the attachment, or the header using one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns and selecting from a set of known implements specific for a work site.

[0047] In a forty-second aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on data from an equipment operation state sensor.

[0048] In a forty -third aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and inferring information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

[0049] In a forty -fourth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving information regarding an engine RPM, engine load, and / or a movement speed of the piece of agricultural equipment and inferring information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

[0050] In a forty -fifth aspect, a filtration system for a piece of agricultural equipment can be included having control circuitry, a filter housing, and a pulse cleaning mechanism. The pulse cleaning mechanism can be controlled by the control circuitry and can be configured to clean a filter element disposed within the filter housing. The control circuitry can be configured to receive data regarding at least one of environmental data, ambient conditions, a moisture status of ground upon which the agricultural equipment can be operating, a moisture status of particulates to be filtered out, and a type of crop growing on the land upon which the agricultural equipment can be operating, and adjust a pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data.

[0051] In a forty-sixth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the pulse cleaning parameter can include at least one selected from the group consisting of a pressure drop trigger threshold change, a pulse cleaning frequency, a pulse cleaning pattern, a peak pressure of a pulse wave, a pulse duration, a pulse energy, a pulse pattern, a number of valves, a valve synchrony parameter, and a non-pulse cleaning parameter.

[0052] In a forty-seventh aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the ambient conditions can include at least one selected from the group consisting of temperature and humidity.

[0053] In a forty -eighth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the data at least partially originates from a user input.

[0054] In a forty -ninth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the data at least partially originates from an equipment associated data network.

[0055] In a fiftieth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the equipment associated data network can include CANbus.

[0056] In a fifty-first aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the data at least partially originates from an implement, an attachment, or a header.

[0057] In a fifty-second aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be configured to receive data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the received data.

[0058] In a fifty-third aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be configured to receive a wireless signal about the implement, the attachment or the header used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0059] In a fifty-fourth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the data can include identification data.

[0060] In a fifty-fifth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the identification data identifies a type of the implement or the attachment.

[0061] In a fifty-sixth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be configured to receive the data from and / or about an implement, an attachment or a header after connection of the implement or the attachment to the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0062] In a fifty-seventh aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the piece of agricultural equipment can be a self-propelled piece of equipment.

[0063] In a fifty-eighth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the piece of agricultural equipment can be an agricultural tractor, a combine harvester, a windrower, a self- propelled sprayer, a harvester, a forage harvester.

[0064] In a fifty-ninth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be an air filtration system.

[0065] In a sixtieth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be an engine air filtration system.

[0066] In a sixty-first aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be configured to receive information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0067] In a sixty-second aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the filtration system can be configured to receive a user input, store data regarding the same, and later utilize the same to determine a crop type at a particular location.

[0068] In a sixty -third aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be configured to receive and / or retrieve default pulse cleaning parameter settings based on one or more of the ambient conditions, moisture status of ground upon which the agricultural equipment can be operating, and a type of crop growing on the land upon which the agricultural equipment can be operating.

[0069] In a sixty-fourth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the control circuitry can be configured to receive and / or retrieve default pulse cleaning parameter settings based on one or more of data regarding an installed filter element, particulates, type of crop, and agricultural equipment activity.

[0070] In a sixty -fifth aspect, a method of cleaning a filter element for a piece of agricultural equipment can be included. The method can include receiving data regarding at least one of ambient conditions, environmental data, a moisture status of ground upon which the agricultural equipment can be operating, a moisture status of particulates to be filtered out, and a type of crop growing on the land upon which the agricultural equipment can be operating. The method can further include adjusting a pulse cleaning parameter of a pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data, and pulse cleaning the filter element according to the adjusted pulse cleaning parameter.

[0071] In a sixty-sixth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the received data.

[0072] In a sixty-seventh aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving a wireless signal about an implement, an attachment or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0073] In a sixty-eighth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving the data from and / or about an implement, an attachment or a header after connection of the implement or the attachment to the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0074] In a sixty -ninth aspect, in addition to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, or in the alternative to some aspects, the method can further include receiving information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0075] This summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the present application and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of the present subject matter. Further details are found in the detailed description and appended claims. Other aspects will be apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description and viewing the drawings that form a part thereof, each of which is not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope herein is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

[0076] Brief Description of the Figures

[0077] Aspects may be more completely understood in connection with the following figures (FIGS.), in which:

[0078] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a piece of agricultural equipment with a filtration system in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0079] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a filtration system including a pulse cleaning mechanism in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0080] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the filtration system of FIG. 2 as taken along line 3-3’ of FIG. 2.

[0081] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of aspects of a system in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0082] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of agricultural equipment in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0083] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of agricultural equipment in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0084] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of data flow in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0085] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of geospatial locations in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0086] FIG. 9 is a schematic view of agricultural regions in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0087] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of work locations in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0088] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a filtration control system in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0089] While embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example and drawings, and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the scope herein is not limited to the particular aspects described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope herein. Detailed Description

[0090] Different types of agricultural equipment can have different air filtration needs, depending on the environment they operate in, the activities they undertake, and the level of filtration they require. In addition, different types of equipment can have different needs for filter cleaning or other filter maintenance depending on various factors. For example, tractors and harvesters that work in dry and dusty fields may need more frequent filter cleaning or other filter maintenance than equipment that works in less dusty conditions.

[0091] Systems herein can adjust filter cleaning or other filter maintenance parameters to optimize filtration in view of the type of agricultural equipment used, conditions in which it is operating, and activities it is undertaking. In various embodiments, a filtration system for a piece of agricultural equipment herein can include control circuitry, a filter housing, and a pulse cleaning mechanism. The pulse cleaning mechanism can be controlled by the control circuitry and can be configured to clean a filter element (or component thereof) disposed within the filter housing. In some embodiments, the control circuitry can be configured to receive data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment and / or infer such data. The system can then adjust a pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data to optimize filter cleaning. In some embodiments the control circuitry can be configured to receive data regarding at least one of ambient conditions, environmental data, moisture status (such as moisture levels) of ground upon which the agricultural equipment can be operating, moisture status of particulates / contaminants to be filtered out, and a type of crop growing on the land upon which the agricultural equipment is operating and adjust a pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data.

[0092] In various embodiments, cleaning parameters controlled herein can include at least one of a pressure drop trigger threshold change (which can be adjusted to be higher or lower), a pulse cleaning frequency (which can be adjusted to be more frequent or less frequent), a pulse cleaning pattern (which can be adjusted to change the temporal pattern, spatial pattern, etc.), a peak pressure of a pulse wave (with can be adjusted to be higher or lower), a pulse duration (which can be adjusted to be longer or shorter), a pulse energy (which can be adjusted to be larger or smaller), a number of valves opened for pulses (which can be adjusted to include more valves or fewer valves), a valve synchrony parameter, as well as various non -pulse cleaning parameters. Different values for cleaning parameters can be ideal for different types of particulates, different sizes of particulates, different moisture levels, and the like. Systems herein can select an optimal set of cleaning parameters depending on factors applicable for agricultural equipment as described herein.

[0093] Various types of filtration systems used with agricultural equipment can be included herein. However, in some embodiments, the filtration system can specifically be an air filtration system. In various embodiments, the filtration system can specifically be an engine air filtration system. In various embodiments, the filtration system herein can be one that is cleaned with a pulse jet cleaning mechanism.

[0094] Referring now to FIG. 1, a schematic view of a piece of agricultural equipment with a filtration system 130 in accordance with various embodiments herein. In specific, FIG. 1 shows an agricultural tractor 102 with a filtration system 130. FIG. 1 also shows airborne particulates 104. The airborne particulates 104 can include all forms of possible airborne matter found in an agricultural environment including, but not limited to, dust, dirt, organic matter, liquid droplets, smoke, exhaust gases, and the like.

[0095] The filtration system 130 can utilize a cleaning mechanism, such as a pulse jet cleaning mechanism. FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate an embodiment of a filtration system 130 with a pulse cleaning mechanism that may be used in one or more embodiments of an air filtration system as described herein. It will be appreciated, however, that the filtration system 130 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is merely one type of filtration system that can be used with agricultural equipment and various other types of filtration systems are also contemplated herein. A filtration system housing 210 may include an inlet 202 and an outlet tube 204. The outlet tube 204 may be operably connected to an engine intake such that the outlet tube 204 and the engine intake are in fluid communication. Air external to the filtration system housing 210 may enter the inlet 202, passing through filter elements contained within the filtration system housing 210, and exiting through the outlet tube 204 to the engine intake. Therefore, air entering the inlet 202 may be filtered (e.g., through the filter elements) and pass to the engine through the engine intake. As shown in FIG. 3, the outlet tube 204 may be described as an inner tube 240 that extends into the filtration system housing 210. For example, the inner tube 240 may extend along a longitudinal axis 201 between an inner filter outlet end 242 and an inner engine intake end 244. The inner engine intake end 244 may be adapted to be operably coupled to an engine intake. The inner tube 240 may include an interior surface 246 and an exterior surface 248. The interior surface 246 of the inner tube 240 may define an inner tube passageway 252 through the inner tube 240 between the inner filter outlet end 242 and the inner engine intake end 244.

[0096] The pulse cleaning mechanism may include an outer tube 220 extending between an outer filter outlet end 222 and an outer engine intake end 224. The outer tube 220 may include an interior surface 226 and an exterior surface 228. The interior surface 226 of the outer tube 220 may define an outer tube passageway 232 through the outer tube 220 between the outer filter outlet end 222 and the outer engine intake end 224. The outer tube passageway 232 may receive the inner tube 240 (e.g., the inner filter outlet end 242) such that at least a portion of the interior surface 226 of the outer tube 220 faces at least a portion of the exterior surface 248 of the inner tube 240.

[0097] The inner tube 240 and the outer tube 220 may extend into the filtration system housing 210 and may be sealed to the filtration system housing 210 such that air passing through the inner tube passageway 252 must first pass through filter elements (e.g., as will be described further herein) located within the filtration system housing 210. The inner tube 240 and the outer tube 220 may extend into the housing 210 an equal distance (e.g., such that the inner filter outlet end 242 and the outer filter outlet end 222 are flush or even along the longitudinal axis 201). In other embodiments, the outer filter outlet end 222 may extend into the housing 210 farther than the inner filter outlet end 242 or the inner filter outlet end 242 may extend into the housing 210 farther than the outer filter outlet end 222.

[0098] Further, the outer tube 220 may include a pulse port 230 extending between the interior 226 and exterior surfaces 228 of the outer tube 220 (e.g., an opening in the outer tube 220) into the outer tube passageway 232. The pulse port 230 may be in fluid communication with a space between the inner 240 and outer tubes 220 such that gas directed into the pulse port 230 may take the shape of the gap between the inner 240 and outer tubes 220. For example, the area between the inner 240 and outer tubes 220 may form a ring (e.g., an annular shape) such that gas directed through the pulse port 230 forms a ring-shaped flow of gas towards the filter elements within the housing 210.

[0099] The filtration system housing 210 may include a first filter cartridge 280 (e.g., a safety filter element) surrounding the inner 240 and outer tubes 220, and a second filter cartridge 282 (e.g., a primary filter element) surrounding the first filter cartridge 280. As such, air entering the inlet 202 passes through the second filter cartridge 282 and then the first filter cartridge 280, before passing through the inner tube 240 to the engine intake. In some embodiments, the second filter cartridge 282 (e.g., the primary filter element) is designed to capture a large portion of the debris and sediment entering the inlet 202 and the first filter cartridge 280 (e.g., the safety filter element) is designed to capture dust should the primary element fail, or to capture dust while the primary element is removed for servicing. Each of the first and second filter cartridges 280, 282 may include a first and second cap 281, 283, respectively, to seal the filter cartridges such that air only passes through the filter elements of the first and second filter cartridges 280, 282 before entering inner tube 240.

[0100] The pulse port 230 may be in fluid communication within the first filter cartridge 280 such that gas directed through the pulse port 230 (e.g., a pulse of gas) may apply pressure to an interior surface of the first filter cartridge 280 to, e.g., push debris and sediment off the exterior surface of the first filter cartridge 280. Additionally, in one or more embodiments, multiple pulse ports may be incorporated into the pulse cleaning mechanism to clean various filter elements located within the filtration system 130. For example the housing 210 may define an additional pulse port 235 positioned between the first and second filter cartridges 280, 282. As such, gas directed through the additional pulse port 235 may take the shape of the gap between the first and second filter cartridges 280, 282. For example, the area between the first and second filter cartridges 280, 282 may form a ring (e.g., an annular shape) such that gas directed through the additional pulse port 235 forms a ring-shaped flow between the first and second filter cartridges 280, 282.

[0101] The gas directed through the additional pulse port 235 may be used to clean debris and sediment from the second filter cartridge 282. For example, the gas directed through the additional pulse port 235 may apply a force to an interior surface of the second filter cartridge 282 to push sediment and debris off an exterior surface of the second filter cartridge 282. Additionally, the gas directed through each of the pulse port 230 and the additional pulse port 235 may be controlled individually or together. For example, in one or more embodiments, the pulse cleaning mechanism may include a valve (e.g., a diaphragm valve (e.g., with solenoid activation), a poppet valve, etc.) or other flow control elements (e.g., orifices, etc.) to control the velocity, volume, pressure, etc. of the gas directed through each of the pulse port 230 and the additional pulse port 235. Also, the gap between the first and second filter cartridges 280, 282 and the gap between the inner 240 and outer tubes 220 may be sized to precisely control the velocity of gas through each of the additional pulse port 235 and the pulse port 230, respectively.

[0102] Additionally, the filtration system 130 may include a pulse jet apparatus 260 in fluid communication with the pulse port 230 and the additional pulse port 235. The pulse jet apparatus 260 may be configured to direct gas through the pulse port 230 and / or the additional pulse port 235. For example, as described herein, the pulse jet apparatus 260 may direct gas through the pulse port 230 and the additional pulse port 235 independently or together. Either one or both pulse ports can be controlled and thus pulse port 230 can be used alone without additional pulse port 235 and similarly additional pulse port 235 can be used alone without pulse port 230.

[0103] Referring now to FIG. 4, a schematic view of aspects of a system is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. FIG. 4 shows an agricultural tractor 102 along with an implement 402 connected thereto. The type of implement 402 being used can provide valuable information for the system regarding optimal cleaning parameters to use. For example, some types of implements (or attachments, etc.) generate more airborne dust than others. In various embodiments, control circuitry of the system can be configured to receive a signal (wired or wireless) about the implement 402 (or in other examples the attachment or the header) used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0104] In various embodiments, the control circuitry can be configured to receive the data from and / or about the implement 402 after connection of the implement 402 to the piece of agricultural equipment. The data can include identification data, wherein the identification data identifies a type of the implement 402. In some embodiments, the data can include information about a current activity or operational state of the implement 402.

[0105] In some embodiments, the data can at least partially originate from a user input. As such, the system can be configured to accept user input to receive such data. However, in various embodiments, the data at least partially originates from the implement 402 itself. In some embodiments, the data at least partially originates from an equipment associated data network. In various embodiments, the equipment associated data network can include CANbus.

[0106] The system can also utilize other types of data to select cleaning parameters to optimize cleaning of filter elements herein. For example, FIG. 4 shows a satellite 404. Signals from the satellite can be used for geolocation purposes to determine a geospatial location of the agricultural equipment. For example, the system can be equipped with a geolocation transceiver such as one used for GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, or other geolocation systems.

[0107] Using geolocation data, the system can interface with various resources to gather data that may impact filter element cleaning such as environmental data. In this example, FIG. 4 shows environmental data 406 that the system can access. Such data can be received in various ways, such as through an application programming interface (API). It will be appreciated that environmental data APIs are available from a number of service providers including, but not limited to, Yahoo Weather, OpenWeatherMap, AccuWeather, Dark Sky, and the National Weather Service, amongst others. In some embodiments, the API can send information regarding past, present, or future environmental conditions for the area that the agricultural equipment is in. In various embodiments, the API can be connected to a data network to communicate with other portions of the network. In various embodiments, interface with the API can follow a SOAP or REST based architecture and can include communications in a JSON, XML, or YAML format, a derivative format based on one of these, or another data format. Communications with the API can include a request including one or more of a URL, method, headers, and a body. API responses can include one or more of status codes, headers, and a body.

[0108] The environmental data 406 can include, but is not limited to, weather data 408 (fog, precipitation, sunshine, wind, etc.) and airborne pollutant 410 data (smoke, pollen, etc.) amongst other types of data. Thus, in various embodiments, the control circuitry can be configured to receive environmental data 406 and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter(s) of the pulse cleaning mechanism based at least in part on the same. For example, higher levels of airborne pollutants may result in more frequent pulse cleaning.

[0109] The system can also use various sensor data. Many different types of sensor data are contemplated herein. FIG. 4 shows sensor data 412 including ambient condition data from a humidity sensor 414 and a temperature sensor 416. However, sensor data can also include optical sensor data, vibration sensor data, moisture sensor data, and the like. Thus, in various embodiments, the control circuitry can be configured to receive data regarding ambient conditions and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter(s) of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same. In various embodiments, the ambient conditions can include at least one of temperature and humidity. In various embodiments, the control circuitry can be further configured to receive data regarding a moisture status / level of land upon which the piece of agricultural equipment is operating and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter(s) of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0110] In various embodiments, the control circuitry can be further configured to receive data from or about other agricultural equipment within a predetermined proximity and adjust one or more pulse cleaning parameters of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, data can be sent from agricultural equipment, a cleaning system, or component thereof, to the cloud or another type of remote computing resource. Other pieces of agricultural equipment or cleaning system can receive data therefrom based on their geospatial proximity or falling within the same zone or location. Such received data can be used to adjust pulse cleaning parameters. For example, if other agricultural equipment within a predetermined proximity or in the same zone is pulse cleaning at a frequency higher than the piece of agricultural equipment under consideration, then the frequency of pulse cleaning can be adjusted upward, at least temporarily, to see if filtration function is enhanced . As another example, if other agricultural equipment within a predetermined proximity or in the same zone detects a given moisture level, humidity level, or the like, then this data can be received and used by the cleaning system of the of agricultural equipment under consideration.

[0111] Referring now to FIG. 5, a schematic view of agricultural equipment is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. FIG. 5 shows an agricultural tractor 102 and an attachment 502. In some embodiments, the type of attachment 502 can be directly determined based on data received from the attachment 502 (via wired or wireless communications).

[0112] In various embodiments, the filtration system for the piece of agricultural equipment can be configured to infer data about the implement 402, the attachment 502, or the header using one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns. By way of example, certain types of equipment (implements, attachments, etc.) are predominantly used in the spring of the year. By evaluating what the current season is (such as cross-referencing the current day with a seasonal calendar 504), the system can infer that the equipment being used falls within a particular set of equipment consistent with the equipment predominantly used in the spring. Similarly, certain types of equipment are used predominantly in certain locations. As such, geospatial location data can be used to infer that the equipment being used falls within a particular set of equipment used predominantly in certain locations. These different factors (and others) can be used in combination to make inferences even more accurately. For example, by combining knowledge of the season and the geospatial location (two independent factors) the set of possible equipment used becomes even smaller and therefore the inference becomes more accurate. In some embodiments, one, two, three, four, five, or more independent factors are used in inferring data about the agricultural equipment, the implement 402, the attachment 502, or the header

[0113] It will be appreciated that systems herein can be used with different types of agricultural equipment. In some embodiments, the agricultural equipment can specifically be a self-propelled piece of equipment. In various embodiments, the piece of agricultural equipment can be at least one of an agricultural tractor, a combine harvester, a windrower, a self-propelled sprayer, a harvester, a forage harvester, or the like.

[0114] Referring now to FIG. 6, a schematic view of agricultural equipment is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. FIG. 6 shows a combine harvester 602. The combine harvester 602 is fitted with a header 604. Different types of headers can be used to harvest different crops. Different cleaning parameter values / settings can be ideal when particular headers are being used. As such, the system herein can use the type of header to select appropriate cleaning parameter values. Further, the type of header 604 being used can allow the system to infer the type of crop being harvested. As the harvest of different types of crops can result in different cleaning demands for a filtration system, the type of header 604 can be used to infer a type of crop being harvested and / or allow the system to select appropriate cleaning parameter values / settings. For example, in some embodiments, the system can store information 606 relating headers, along with crop types, and sets of cleaning parameters. This information (which can be stored in a memory, in a lookup table, or the like) can then be referenced by the system to select an appropriate set of cleaning parameters based on the header and implement the same. In some embodiments, the system can store cleaning parameter values that are specific for different types of crops, different environmental conditions, different types of equipment, different types of equipment activities or operational states, different sensor values, and the like. In some embodiments, such cleaning parameter information can be stored by the system as a series of templates specific for such different scenarios / conditions.

[0115] Referring now to FIG. 7, a schematic view of data flow is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. FIG. 7 shows an agricultural tractor 102 attached to an implement 402 in a field environment 716. In some embodiments, the filtration system (not shown in this view), agricultural tractor 102, and / or implement 402 can communicate directly with a data network, such as by interfacing directly with a communications tower 720. However, in some embodiments, the field environment 716 can include a communications relay device 710 to facilitate communication with a data network. FIG. 7 also shows a filtration monitoring device 730. The filtration monitoring device 730 can be within the field environment and / or can be located remotely therefrom. In some embodiments, the filtration monitoring device 730 can be with an operator of the agricultural equipment. In some embodiments, the filtration monitoring device 730 can be within a cab of the agricultural tractor 102. The filtration monitoring device 730 can provide information regarding filtration and / or filter system cleaning.

[0116] The filtration monitoring device 730 can also provide a means for user input to the system (using a wired or wireless in input device such as a keyboard, touch screen, external device, etc.) such as input on cleaning parameters to be used, conditions, type of equipment, type of crop, etc. In some embodiments, user input can be stored for later use by the system. As an example, user input regarding a type of crop or equipment can be reused. As an exemplary scenario, user input may indicate that com is planted in a location in the spring and this can be stored by the system. In the fall, the system can reference such stored data records to know that harvesting activities at the same location relate to harvesting com (based on the spring planting records). Similarly, such stored information can be used by the system to increase the accuracy of inferences made. For example, if user input has indicated that a particular crop (such as com) has been planted in various areas near an area of interest, the system knows that com may be a likely crop at the area of interest too and / or that com is the predominant crop in the area of interest.

[0117] In various embodiments, the filtration system, agricultural tractor 102, and / or implement 402 can communicate directly or indirectly with the cloud 722 and / or resources thereof such as a server 732 (real or virtual) and / or a database 734 (real or virtual). Data described herein can be sent to the cloud 722 and / or received from the cloud 722. FIG. 7 also shows a remote location 740. In this example, the remote location 740 includes a computing device 728 that can be used by an individual in order to monitor filtration as well as provide input and / or instructions for the cleaning systems herein.

[0118] The harvesting of one type of crop may generate more and / or different airborne particulates than the harvesting of other types of crops. As such, systems herein can use such crop type information to select appropriate cleaning parameter values and / or utilize parameter templates specific for different crops. As an example, in various embodiments, the control circuitry can be further configured to receive data regarding a type of crop growing on land upon which the piece of agricultural equipment is operating and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same. Such data regarding the type of crop can also be inferred as described in more detail below.

[0119] Information that can be utilized by systems herein can include and / or can be derived from geospatial data. Referring now to FIG. 8, a schematic view of geospatial locations is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. In specific, FIG. 8 shows an agricultural tractor 102 and a satellite 404. FIG. 8 also shows a geospatial grid 1302 along with a first geospatial location 1308 and a second geospatial location 1310 therein. Systems herein can determine which geospatial location the equipment is operating in and use such information in selecting appropriate cleaning parameter values and / or templates of the same.

[0120] In some embodiments, knowledge of what agricultural region the agricultural equipment is in can be used by the system to infer the type of crops that the agricultural equipment is being used with. As described previously, the system can store data relating types of crops and sets of cleaning parameters that are ideal for the same or that otherwise can be used as default values for the same. Referring now to FIG. 9, a schematic view of agricultural regions is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. FIG. 9 shows a satellite 404 and also shows a first agricultural region 902 and a second agricultural region 904. In some embodiments, the first agricultural region 902 can represent an area where the predominant crop is wheat. Similarly, the second agricultural region 904 can represent an area where the predominant crop is com. Using this information, the system can infer that a piece of harvesting equipment in the first agricultural region 902 is likely harvesting wheat and a piece of harvesting equipment in the second agricultural region 904 is likely harvesting com. This is significant as the harvesting of wheat may generate more and / or different airborne particulates than the harvesting of com. As such, systems herein can use such crop type information to select appropriate cleaning parameter values and / or utilize parameter templates specific for different crops.

[0121] Location within an agricultural site can provide important information for systems herein. Referring now to FIG. 10, a schematic view of an agricultural site is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. FIG. 10 shows a satellite 404 along with crop fields 1004 and a road 1006. FIG. 10 also shows a first site 1008 and a second site 1010. In one example the piece of agricultural equipment could be at the first site 1008, which is in the crop field 1004. In another example, the piece of agricultural equipment could be at the second site 1010, which is in the road 1006. Generally, filter cleaning needs can be higher when working in the crop field 1004 versus driving along the road 1006. As such, the system can use information regarding the specific site of the agricultural equipment to infer activity of the agricultural equipment and / or select appropriate cleaning parameters for use and / or parameter templates.

[0122] Various embodiments further can include an equipment operation state sensor, wherein the control circuitry can be configured to adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on data from the equipment operation state sensor. By way of example, if the PTO (power take-off) shaft of a piece of agricultural equipment is in operation, this can imply a greater need for air filtration than if the PTO shaft is not in operation (such as if the piece of agricultural equipment is simply driving along a road). In various embodiments, the equipment operation state sensor can include a PTO shaft sensor (which could include a vibration sensor mounted in a location to detect rotation of the PTO shaft or another type of sensor). Other equipment operation state sensors herein can include, but are not limited to, a header (such as a combine header) or drive engagement sensor and an equipment height sensor. In various embodiments, the filtration system for the piece of agricultural equipment can be configured to receive information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and infer information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

[0123] In various embodiments, the filtration system for the piece of agricultural equipment can be configured to receive information regarding an engine RPM and / or a movement speed of the piece of agricultural equipment and infer information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

[0124] Referring now to FIG. 11, a schematic view of components of a filtration control system 1110 is shown in accordance with various embodiments herein. It will be appreciated, however, that a greater or lesser number of components can be included with various embodiments and that this schematic diagram is merely illustrative.

[0125] In this example, the system 1110 can include a sensor module 1112 and a housing 1114. The sensor module 1112 can include a first sensor 1194, which can be a humidity sensor. In this example, the sensor module 1112 can also include a second sensor 1196, which can be a temperature sensor. It will be appreciated that a greater or lesser number of sensors can be used and / or different types of sensors can be used .

[0126] A control circuit 1190 can be disposed within the housing 1114. The control circuit 1190 can include various electronic components including, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a FPGA (field programmable gate array) chip, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or the like. The processing power of the control circuit 1190 and components thereof can be sufficient to perform various operations including various operations on data from sensors including, but not limited to averaging, time-averaging, statistical analysis, normalizing, aggregating, sorting, deleting, traversing, transforming, condensing (such as eliminating selected data and / or converting the data to a less granular form), compressing (such as using a compression algorithm), merging, inserting, time-stamping, filtering, discarding outliers, calculating trends and trendlines (linear, logarithmic, polynomial, power, exponential, moving average, etc.), and the like.

[0127] In various embodiments the control circuit 1190 can calculate changes to be made to one or more pulse cleaning parameters of a pulse cleaning mechanism. In various embodiments, the control circuit 1190 can calculate optimized values for at least one of a pressure drop trigger threshold change, a pulse cleaning frequency, a pulse cleaning pattern, a peak pressure of a pulse wave, a pulse duration, a pulse energy, a pulse pattern, a number of valves, a valve synchrony parameter, and a nonpulse cleaning parameter.

[0128] In various embodiments, the control circuit 1190 can be in electronic communication with a filter cleaning control output circuit 1152 or channel which can be used to control cleaning system 1154 components including, but not limited to, valves used to deliver pulses of air to clean filter elements herein.

[0129] A power supply circuit 1102 can be disposed within the housing 1114. In some embodiments, the power supply circuit 1102 can include various components including, but not limited to, a rectifier 1104, a capacitor, a power-receiver such as a wireless power receiver, a transformer, a battery, and the like. In some embodiments, the power supply circuit 1102 can be in electrical communication with a source of power 1120. The source of power 1120 can either be an AC or DC power source, with implications for the other components of the power supply circuit 1102 (such as a rectifier 1104 typically not being needed when the source of power 1120 is DC).

[0130] In some embodiments the system 1110 can include an output device 1106 disposed on the housing 1114. The output device 1106 can include various components for visual and / or audio output including, but not limited to, lights (such as LED lights), a display screen, a speaker, and the like. In some embodiments, the output device can be used to provide notifications or alerts to a system user such as current system status, an indication of a problem, a required user intervention, a proper time to perform a maintenance action, or the like. It will be appreciated, however, that in various embodiments notifications and / or alerts can be provided electronically to another device or component, such as a vehicle system, a remote system, a driver device, or the like. In some embodiments, the output device 1106 can also serve as an input device, such as in the case of a touchscreen interface.

[0131] In various embodiments the system 1110 can include memory 1108 and / or a memory controller disposed within the housing 1114. The memory can include various types of memory components including dynamic RAM (D-RAM), read only memory (ROM), static RAM (S-RAM), disk storage, flash memory, EEPROM, battery -backed RAM such as S-RAM or D-RAM and any other type of digital data storage component. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit or electronic component includes volatile memory. In some embodiments, the electronic circuit or electronic component includes non-volatile memory.

[0132] In various embodiments the system 1110 can include a clock circuit 1111 disposed within the housing 1114. In some embodiments, the clock circuit 1111 can be integrated with the control circuit 1190. While not shown in FIG. 11, it will be appreciated that various embodiments herein can include a data / communi cation bus to provide for the transportation of data between components. In some embodiments, an analog signal interface can be included. In some embodiments, a digital signal interface can be included.

[0133] In various embodiments the system 1110 can include a communications circuit 1113. In various embodiments, the communications circuit 1113 can include components such as an antenna 1115, amplifiers, filters, digital to analog and / or analog to digital converters, and the like. In some embodiments, the antenna 1115 can be configured for use with RFID communications. For example, the system can include an RFID tag reader and the antenna 1115 can be part of the RFID tag reader. The RFID tag reader can send and receive radio signals to and from one or more RFID tags 1150 that can be disposed on implement 402 and can store and then transmit data regarding the same such as equipment type, model, serial number, etc. RFID tags herein can be passive, meaning they have no battery and rely on the reader's signal to power up, or active, meaning they have their own power source and can transmit data continuously.

[0134] Filter elements can have differing properties such as being made of different materials, different pore sizes, different pleat parameters, and the like that may make them behave differently in terms of filter loading and other functional properties. Also, different particulates may have different impacts on filter elements. For example, relatively larger debris might result in face plugging more so than smaller debris. Furthermore, the type of crop and / or activity being performed can also impact the type of particulates encountered, the relative amount of particulates, filter loading characteristics, and the like. As such, information about the filter element, particulates, type of crop and activity can all influence the efficacy of different pulsing cleaning parameters. In some embodiments, the system can store one or more lookup tables that include as variables information about one or more of filter elements (including part numbers, model numbers, etc.), particulates, type of crop, activity and the like and link the same with default pulse cleaning parameters that are ideally suited for the same.

[0135] In some embodiments, the system can read information from the filter element for various purposes. In some cases, the system can read information from the filter element using an RFID tag that is associated with the filter element. However, information can also be read from the filter element in other ways. The system can use the information read in various ways. For example, in some embodiments, the system can read information from the filter element to ensure that it is recognized as a type that is suitable for pulse cleaning. If it is a type that is suitable for pulse cleaning, then the system can proceed with pulse cleaning operations herein. However, if it is not a type suitable for pulse cleaning, then pulse cleaning can be stopped / skipped, request operator override, and / or provide a warning or issue an alert that pulse cleaning is not being performed.

[0136] In some embodiments, every filter can have a rating as to how many pulses or how many pulses under a variety of pulse conditions are allowed. The system herein can track the total number of pulses for a given filter element and then indicate end of life (actual or at an estimated future time) to make sure the filter element is not over pulsed and damaged resulting in possible equipment damage.

[0137] In some embodiments, if information about the filter element cannot be read, then the system can default to a set of basic pulse cleaning parameters. In some embodiments, the system can read information from the filter element (such as a digital key or other data) to ensure that it is not a counterfeit product. If it is counterfeit, then then the system can perform one or more steps such as ceasing operation, turning off pulse cleaning, and defaulting to a set of basic pulse cleaning parameters.

[0138] In some embodiments, the communications circuit 1113 can be in wired and / or wireless communication with implement 402 and / or agricultural tractor 102 or other equipment. By way of example, in some embodiments, the communications circuit 1113 or a component thereof can be in communication with a CANbus network on an agricultural tractor 102.

[0139] In various embodiments the system 1110 can also include a geolocation chip or circuit 1122. Geolocation data can include latitude / longitude coordinates, or other location identifying information such as a nearest address, nearest landmark, etc. As used herein, the term “geolocation data” shall include reference to all location identifying data, unless the context dictates otherwise.

[0140] In some cases, geolocation data can be derived from a satellite-based geolocation system. Such systems can include, but are not limited to, GPS L1 / L2, GLONASS G1 / G2, BeiDou B1 / B2, Galileo El / E5b, SB AS, or the like. In various embodiments, the geolocation circuit 1122 can include appropriate signal receivers or transceivers to interface with a satellite and / or the geolocation circuit can interface with and / or receive data from a separate device or system that provides geolocation data or derives geolocation data from a satellite or other device. However, it will be appreciated that geolocation data herein is not limited to just that which can be received from or derived from interface with a satellite. Geolocation data can also be derived from addresses, beacons, landmarks, various referential techniques, IP address evaluation, and the like.

[0141] Methods

[0142] Many different methods are contemplated herein, including, but not limited to, methods of making, methods of using, and the like. Aspects of system / device operation described elsewhere herein can be performed as operations of one or more methods in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0143] In various embodiments, operations described herein and method steps can be performed as part of a computer-implemented method executed by one or more processors of one or more computing devices. In various embodiments, operations described herein and method steps can be implemented instructions stored on a non- transitory, computer-readable medium that, when executed by one or more processors, cause a system to execute the operations and / or steps.

[0144] In an embodiment, a method of cleaning a filter element for a piece of agricultural equipment is included. The method can include receiving data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment and / or inferring such data. The method can also include adjusting a pulse cleaning parameter of a pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data. The method can also include pulse cleaning the filter element according to the adjusted pulse cleaning parameter. In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving a wireless signal about the implement, the attachment, or the header used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0145] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving the data from and / or about the implement or the attachment after connection of the implement, the attachment, or the header to the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0146] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving environmental data and / or data regarding ambient conditions and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0147] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving weather data and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0148] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving data from or about other agricultural equipment within a predetermined proximity and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0149] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving data regarding a moisture status of land upon which the piece of agricultural equipment is operating and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0150] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving data regarding a type of crop growing on land upon which the piece of agricultural equipment is operating and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0151] In an embodiment, the method can further include inferring data about the implement, the attachment, or the header using one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns.

[0152] In an embodiment, the method can further include inferring data about the implement, the attachment, or the header using one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns and selecting from a set of known implements specific for a work site.

[0153] In an embodiment, the method can further include adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on data from an equipment operation state sensor. In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and inferring information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

[0154] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving information regarding an engine RPM and / or a movement speed of the piece of agricultural equipment and inferring information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

[0155] In an embodiment, a method of cleaning a filter element for a piece of agricultural equipment is included. The method can include receiving data regarding at least one of ambient conditions, environmental data, moisture status of land upon which the agricultural equipment is operating, moisture status of particulates to be filtered out, and a type of crop growing on the land upon which the agricultural equipment is operating. The method can include adjusting a pulse cleaning parameter of a pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data. The method can also include pulse cleaning the filter element according to the adjusted pulse cleaning parameter.

[0156] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the received data.

[0157] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving a wireless signal about an implement, an attachment or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0158] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving the data from and / or about an implement, an attachment or a header after connection of the implement or the attachment to the piece of agricultural equipment.

[0159] In an embodiment, the method can further include receiving information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

[0160] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “of’ is generally employed in its sense including “and / or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The phrase "configured" can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases such as arranged and configured, constructed and arranged, constructed, manufactured and arranged, and the like.

[0161] All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference.

[0162] As used herein, the recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints shall include all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g., 2 to 8 includes 2.1, 2.8, 5.3, 7, etc.).

[0163] The headings used herein are provided for consistency with suggestions under 37 CFR 1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational cues. These headings shall not be viewed to limit or characterize the invention(s) set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. As an example, although the headings refer to a “Field,” such claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe the so-called technical field. Further, a description of a technology in the “Background” is not an admission that technology is prior art to any invention(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the “Summary” to be considered as a characterization of the invention(s) set forth in issued claims.

[0164] The embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art can appreciate and understand the principles and practices. As such, aspects have been described with reference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope herein.

Claims

Claims:

1. A filtration system for a piece of agricultural equipment comprising: control circuitry; a filter housing; and a pulse cleaning mechanism, wherein the pulse cleaning mechanism is controlled by the control circuitry and is configured to clean a filter element disposed within the filter housing; wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive and / or infer data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment; and adjust a pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data.

2. The filtration system of any of claims 1 and 3-30, the pulse cleaning parameter comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of a pressure drop trigger threshold change, a pulse cleaning frequency, a pulse cleaning pattern, a peak pressure of a pulse wave, a pulse duration, a pulse energy, a pulse pattern, a number of valves, a valve synchrony parameter, and a non-pulse cleaning parameter.

3. The filtration system of any of claims 1-2 and 4-30, wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive a wireless signal about the implement, the attachment, or the header used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

4. The filtration system of any of claims 1-3 and 5-30, wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive the data from and / or about the implement or the attachment after connection of the implement, the attachment, or the header to the piece of agricultural equipment.

5. The filtration system of any of claims 1-4 and 6-30, wherein the piece of agricultural equipment is a self-propelled piece of equipment.

6. The filtration system of any of claims 1-5 and 7-30, wherein the piece of agricultural equipment is at least one of an agricultural tractor, a combine harvester, a wind rower, a self-propelled sprayer, a harvester, a forage harvester.

7. The filtration system of any of claims 1-6 and 8-30, wherein the filtration system is an air filtration system.

8. The filtration system of any of claims 1-7 and 9-30, wherein the filtration system is an engine air filtration system.

9. The filtration system of any of claims 1-8 and 10-30, the data comprising identification data, wherein the identification data identifies a type of the implement or the attachment.

10. The filtration system of any of claims 1-9 and 11-30, wherein the data at least partially originates from a user input.

11. The filtration system of any of claims 1-10 and 12-30, wherein the data at least partially originates from the implement, the attachment, or the header.

12. The filtration system of any of claims 1-11 and 13-30, wherein the data at least partially originates from an equipment associated data network.

13. The filtration system of any of claims 1-12 and 14-30, the equipment associated data network comprising CANbus.

14. The filtration system of any of claims 1-13 and 15-30, wherein the filtration system is configured to receive a user input, store data regarding the same, and later utilize the same to determine a crop type at a particular location.

15. The filtration system of any of claims 1-14 and 16-30, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to receive data regarding ambient conditions and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

16. The filtration system of any of claims 1-15 and 17-30, the ambient conditions comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of temperature and humidity.

17. The filtration system of any of claims 1-16 and 18-30, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to receive environmental data and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

18. The filtration system of any of claims 1-17 and 19-30, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to receive weather data and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

19. The filtration system of any of claims 1-18 and 20-30, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to receive data from or about other agricultural equipment within a predetermined proximity and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

20. The filtration system of any of claims 1-19 and 21-30, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to receive data regarding a moisture status of ground upon which the piece of agricultural equipment is operating and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

21. The filtration system of any of claims 1-20 and 22-30, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to receive data regarding a moisture status of particulates to be filtered out and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

22. The filtration system of any of claims 1-21 and 23-30, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to receive data regarding a type of crop growing on land upon which the piece of agricultural equipment is operating and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

23. The filtration system of any of claims 1-22 and 24-30, wherein the filtration system is configured to infer data about the implement, the attachment, or the headerusing one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns.

24. The filtration system of any of claims 1-23 and 25-30, wherein the filtration system is configured to infer data about the implement, the attachment, or the header using one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns and selecting from a set of known implements specific for a work site.

25. The filtration system of any of claims 1-24 and 26-30, further comprising an equipment operation state sensor, wherein the control circuitry is configured to adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on data from the equipment operation state sensor.

26. The filtration system of any of claims 1-25 and 27-30, the equipment operation state sensor comprising at least one of a PTO shaft sensor, a head engagement sensor, and an equipment height sensor.

27. The filtration system of any of claims 1-26 and 28-30, wherein the filtration system is configured to receive information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and infer information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

28. The filtration system of any of claims 1-27 and 29-30, wherein the filtration system is configured to receive information regarding an engine RPM, engine load, and / or a movement speed of the piece of agricultural equipment and infer information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

29. The filtration system of any of claims 1-28 and 30, wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive and / or retrieve default pulse cleaning parameter data based on one or more of the data from and / or about the implement, the attachment, or the header.

30. The filtration system of any of claims 1-29, wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive and / or retrieve default pulse cleaning parameter data based on one or more of data regarding an installed filter element, particulates, type of crop, and agricultural equipment activity.

31. A method of cleaning a filter element for a piece of agricultural equipment comprising: receiving and / or inferring data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment; adjusting a pulse cleaning parameter of a pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data; and pulse cleaning the filter element according to the adjusted pulse cleaning parameter.

32. The method of any of claims 31 and 33-44, further comprising receiving a wireless signal about the implement, the attachment, or the header used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

33. The method of any of claims 31-32 and 34-44, further comprising receiving the data from and / or about the implement or the attachment after connection of the implement, the attachment, or the header to the piece of agricultural equipment.

34. The method of any of claims 31-33 and 35-44, further comprising receiving data regarding ambient conditions and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

35. The method of any of claims 31-34 and 36-44, further comprising receiving weather data and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

36. The method of any of claims 31-35 and 37-44, further comprising receiving data from or about other agricultural equipment within a predetermined proximity and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

37. The method of any of claims 31-36 and 38-44, further comprising receiving data regarding a moisture status of ground upon which the piece of agricultural equipment is operating and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

38. The method of any of claims 31-37 and 39-44, further comprising receiving data regarding a moisture status of particulates to be filtered out and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

39. The method of any of claims 31-38 and 40-44, further comprising receiving data regarding a type of crop growing on land upon which the piece of agricultural equipment is operating and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

40. The method of any of claims 31-39 and 41-44, further comprising inferring data about the implement, the attachment, or the header using one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns.

41. The method of any of claims 31-40 and 42-44, further comprising inferring data about the implement, the attachment, or the header using one or more of season data, the current time of year, a current geospatial location, and engine load patterns and selecting from a set of known implements specific for a work site.

42. The method of any of claims 31-41 and 43-44, further comprising adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on data from an equipment operation state sensor.

43. The method of any of claims 31-42 and 44, further comprising receiving information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and inferring information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

44. The method of any of claims 31-43, further comprising receiving information regarding an engine RPM, engine load, and / or a movement speed of the piece of agricultural equipment and inferring information regarding an equipment operation state of the piece of agricultural equipment based on the same.

45. A filtration system for a piece of agricultural equipment comprising: control circuitry; a filter housing; and a pulse cleaning mechanism, wherein the pulse cleaning mechanism is controlled by the control circuitry and is configured to clean a filter element disposed within the filter housing; wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive data regarding at least one of environmental data, ambient conditions, a moisture status of ground upon which the agricultural equipment is operating, a moisture status of particulates to be filtered out, and a type of crop growing on the land upon which the agricultural equipment is operating; and adjust a pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data.

46. The filtration system of any of claims 45 and 47-64, the pulse cleaning parameter comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of a pressure drop trigger threshold change, a pulse cleaning frequency, a pulse cleaning pattern, a peak pressure of a pulse wave, a pulse duration, a pulse energy, a pulse pattern, a number of valves, a valve synchrony parameter, and a non-pulse cleaning parameter.

47. The filtration system of any of claims 45-46 and 48-64, the ambient conditions comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of temperature and humidity.

48. The filtration system of any of claims 45-47 and 49-64, wherein the data at least partially originates from a user input.

49. The filtration system of any of claims 45-48 and 50-64, wherein the data at least partially originates from an equipment associated data network.

50. The filtration system of any of claims 45-49 and 51-64, the equipment associated data network comprising CANbus.

51. The filtration system of any of claims 45-50 and 52-64, wherein the data at least partially originates from an implement, an attachment, or a header.

52. The filtration system of any of claims 45-51 and 53-64, wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the received data.

53. The filtration system of any of claims 45-52 and 54-64, wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive a wireless signal about the implement, the attachment or the header used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

54. The filtration system of any of claims 45-53 and 55-64, the data comprising identification data.

55. The filtration system of any of claims 45-54 and 56-64, wherein the identification data identifies a type of the implement or the attachment.

56. The filtration system of any of claims 45-55 and 57-64, wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive the data from and / or about an implement, an attachment or a header after connection of the implement or the attachment to the piece of agricultural equipment.

57. The filtration system of any of claims 45-56 and 58-64, wherein the piece of agricultural equipment is a self-propelled piece of equipment.

58. The filtration system of any of claims 45-57 and 59-64, wherein the piece of agricultural equipment is an agricultural tractor, a combine harvester, a windrower, a self-propelled sprayer, a harvester, a forage harvester.

59. The filtration system of any of claims 45-58 and 60-64, wherein the filtration system is an air filtration system.

60. The filtration system of any of claims 45-59 and 61-64, wherein the filtration system is an engine air filtration system.

61. The filtration system of any of claims 45-60 and 62-64, wherein the filtration system is configured to receive information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and adjust the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

62. The filtration system of any of claims 45-61 and 63-64, wherein the filtration system is configured to receive a user input, store data regarding the same, and later utilize the same to determine a crop type at a particular location.

63. The filtration system of any of claims 45-62 and 64, wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive and / or retrieve default pulse cleaning parameter settings based on one or more of the ambient conditions, moisture status of ground upon which the agricultural equipment is operating, and a type of crop growing on the land upon which the agricultural equipment is operating.

64. The filtration system of any of claims 45-63, wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive and / or retrieve default pulse cleaning parameter settings based on one or more of data regarding an installed filter element, particulates, type of crop, and agricultural equipment activity.

65. A method of cleaning a filter element for a piece of agricultural equipment comprising: receiving data regarding at least one of ambient conditions, environmental data, a moisture status of ground upon which the agricultural equipment is operating, a moisture status of particulates to be filtered out, and a type of crop growing on the land upon which the agricultural equipment is operating; adjusting a pulse cleaning parameter of a pulse cleaning mechanism based on the data; andpulse cleaning the filter element according to the adjusted pulse cleaning parameter.

66. The method of any of claims 65 and 67-69, further comprising receiving data from and / or about an implement, an attachment, or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the received data.

67. The method of any of claims 65-66 and 68-69, further comprising receiving a wireless signal about an implement, an attachment or a header used with the piece of agricultural equipment.

68. The method of any of claims 65-67 and 69, further comprising receiving the data from and / or about an implement, an attachment or a header after connection of the implement or the attachment to the piece of agricultural equipment.

69. The method of any of claims 65-68, further comprising receiving information regarding geospatial location of the piece of agricultural equipment and adjusting the pulse cleaning parameter of the pulse cleaning mechanism based on the same.

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