Method of controlling an agricultural machine and such an agricultural machine

Abstract

Method for controlling an agricultural machine and such an agricultural machine The present invention relates to a method for controlling an agricultural machine, the agricultural machine comprising two unfoldable / foldable side sections (1a, 1b), at least two main wheels (2a, 2b), namely at least one first wheel (2a) located on the side of one of the side sections (1a) and at least one second wheel (2b) located on the side of the other side section (1b) and a control unit for controlling the unfolding / folding and a device for controlling the unfolding / folding comprising, a control block for controlling the control unit and a measuring system connected to the control block and making it possible to measure the load (P1, P2) on the first and second transport wheels (2a, 2b).It consists, before or during an unfolding / folding command, in measuring the load (P1) on the first wheel (2a) to obtain at least a first measurement and the load (P2) on the second wheel (2b) to obtain at least a second measurement, in comparing the first measurement with the second measurement, then, depending on the result of the comparison, in controlling the control unit so as to allow the unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the lateral working units (1a, 1b) and / or in blocking the, or limiting the speed of, unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the lateral working units (1a, 1b) to avoid a risk of tipping of the agricultural machine. It also relates to such an agricultural machine. Figure to be published with the abstract: Fig. 3.

Description

Title of the invention: Method for controlling an agricultural machine and such an agricultural machine

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of machines used in agricultural work, more particularly agricultural machines intended for working the soil, sowing or haymaking. Its subject is a method for controlling an agricultural machine and such an agricultural machine.

[0002] The present invention relates more specifically to agricultural machines having a large working width and which are foldable to meet road transport standards.

[0003] The grouping of farms associated with the increase in the technical characteristics of tractors allows the use of increasingly wider agricultural machines. These large agricultural machines intended for example for working the soil or treating the soil, have a chassis in several sections. Such agricultural machines have a central section, part of which forms a generally trailed chassis and equipped with an axle consisting of two main wheels which support the agricultural machine in the folded position during transport. Such a large agricultural machine generally has several sections connected to each other by joints which ensure ground following when the agricultural machine works in fields which are not perfectly flat. The joints are also used to fold the agricultural machine in transport mode.Such an agricultural machine is, for example, a cultivator, for example a cultivator marketed by the Kuhn company under the name "OPTIMER". In a particular version, notably in a version six or nine meters wide, the cultivator has three sections: a central section and two side sections. In another version more than nine meters wide, notably a version twelve meters wide, the cultivator also has a central section and two side sections but, to comply with road clearances, each side section is made up of several sections, generally two sections, namely a middle section and an end section. In this last twelve meter version, the cultivator therefore has five sections.

[0004] During work, the agricultural machine is deployed in order to treat a large width of land. When the machine is deployed, the central section and the side sections are arranged next to each other in the direction of the working width. To comply with the road clearance and to travel on roads, the side sections are folded and arranged substantially vertically so as to reduce the dimension transverse of the machine during transport. During transport, the side sections are brought back above the central section. Each side section may comprise several sections, namely in particular a middle section and at least one end section hinged to the middle section. The end section folds or unfolds at the same time or offset from the middle section.

[0005] Each side section is equipped with one or more types of working tools, for example: shares, discs, rollers, mounted side by side or one behind the other. Each side section generally also comprises at least one secondary wheel used to adjust the working depth of the tools and to clear them completely from the ground for headland maneuvers. The central section can be equipped with tools (fixed to its chassis part) or be devoid of such tools. Depending on the type of tools and the width of the machine, the weight of each side section can then be more or less significant and can impact the stability of the machine during the unfolding and folding phases of the sections. To maintain the stability of the machine, one solution is to ensure symmetrical unfolding / folding of the side sections when it is resting on relatively flat ground.However, in this case, stability may be affected due to an accumulation of soil or vegetation on one of the side sections, creating a load difference between the side sections and, consequently, a risk of the machine tipping over.

[0006] On sloping ground (transverse slope), symmetrical unfolding is not recommended because of the risk of tipping caused by the wheel located lower down which then supports more weight than the one located at a higher level due to the inclination of the transverse slope.

[0007] The present invention aims to overcome these drawbacks by proposing a method for controlling an agricultural machine, and such an agricultural machine allowing its implementation, making it possible to prevent tipping of the agricultural machine during folding / unfolding, depending on the variations in load supported by the main wheels resting on the ground.

[0008] The method of controlling, according to the present invention, an agricultural machine comprising, on the one hand, two side sections foldable in a transport position and unfoldable in a working position, at least two main wheels, namely at least one first main wheel located on the side of one of the side sections and at least one second main wheel located on the side of the other side section and a control unit for controlling the unfolding / folding of each side section and, on the other hand, a device for controlling the unfolding / folding comprising a control block for controlling the control unit and a measuring system connected to the control block and making it possible to measure the load on the at least two main wheels, is characterized in that it consists:

[0009] -before or during an unfolding / folding command, to measure, by means of the measuring system, the load on the first main wheel to obtain at least a first measurement and the load on the second main wheel to obtain at least a second measurement,

[0010] -to compare, by means of the control block, the first measurement with the second measurement, then, depending on the result of the comparison, to control the control unit so as to allow the unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections and / or to block the, or limit the speed of, unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections to avoid a risk of tipping of the agricultural machine.

[0011] The agricultural machine, according to the present invention, which comprises two side sections foldable in a transport position and unfoldable in a working position, at least two main wheels, namely a first main wheel located on the side of one of the side sections and a second main wheel located on the side of the other side section and a control unit for controlling the unfolding / folding of each side section, is characterized in that it further comprises an unfolding / folding control device comprising a control block for controlling the control unit and a measuring system connected to the control block and making it possible to measure the load on the at least two main wheels,namely on the first main wheel to obtain at least a first measurement and on the second main wheel to obtain at least a second measurement and in that the control block is configured to be able to compare the first measurement with the second measurement and, depending on the result of the comparison, to be able to control the control unit so as to allow the unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections and / or to block the, or limit the speed of, unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections to avoid a risk of tipping of the agricultural machine.

[0012] The invention will be better understood from the following description, which relates to a preferred embodiment, given as a non-limiting example, and explained with reference to the appended schematic drawings, in which:

[0013] [Fig-1] is a top view of an agricultural machine according to the present invention in a deployed configuration of the side sections,

[0014] [Fig.2]] is a front view of the agricultural machine shown in [Fig.l], in a configuration where the agricultural machine rests on sloping ground and the side sections are folded into the transport position,

[0015] [Fig.3] shows the machine shown in [Fig.2] being unfolded / opened from one of the side sections,

[0016] [Fig.4] is a front view of another agricultural machine which rests on a ground ho rizontal according to the present invention in a configuration where one of the sections side is being unfolded / folded,

[0017] [Fig.5] is a front view of a different agricultural machine according to the present invention in a configuration during unfolding / folding of one of the side sections whose end section unfolds simultaneously with the middle section,

[0018] [Fig.6] represents a functional diagram of an agricultural machine according to the present invention connected to a tractor,

[0019] [Fig.7] represents in particular the control and command circuit of a machine agricultural according to the present invention.

[0020] The figures show an agricultural machine according to the present invention comprising at least two lateral sections 1a, 1b articulated together. The lateral sections 1a, 1b can occupy two main positions, a working position and a transport position, in particular for road transport. In the working position, the lateral sections 1a, 1b are substantially aligned and in the transport position, the lateral sections 1a, 1b extend vertically. The relative movements between the sections are obtained by means of jacks. Each section is intended to receive tools which may indifferently consist of teeth, discs, ploughshares, sowing elements or others. Such an agricultural machine may, depending on the tools it carries, be intended for working the soil, sowing or haymaking.The chassis of such a multi-section machine is generally trailed and is provided with an axle consisting of two main wheels which support the machine in the folded position during transport. The two main wheels are located so as to advantageously extend within the limit of the road gauge to be respected for transport. The structure of the agricultural machine according to the invention is advantageously symmetrical so that the tractive force is distributed evenly.

[0021] Preferably, the agricultural machine may comprise at least one axle comprising a transverse axis 20 and at least two main wheels 2a, 2b, namely the first main wheel 2a and the second main wheel 2b, each comprising a hub 21.

[0022] Figures 1 to 3 and 5 show an agricultural machine, according to the present invention, for working the soil S or treating the soil S, with a large working width. It can be seen in these figures that the agricultural machine can comprise five sections, namely a central section 1c and two side sections 1a, 1b. Each side section 1a, 1b can comprise several sections, in particular a middle section 10a, 10b and an end section 11a, 11b. [Fig.l] shows the agricultural machine in a top view in the unfolded working position. The middle sections 10a, 10b are articulated on either side of the central section 1c and on a chassis-forming part of the latter respectively by articulations R. The end sections 11a, 11b are articulated on the middle sections 10a, 10b, on their outer edges, respectively by RI joints. The central section 1c of the agricultural machine is the section which is directly connected, by its chassis part, to the tractor-type vehicle (not shown). The chassis part of the central section 1c carries the main wheels 2a, 2b. The term "main wheels 2a, 2b" means wheels which are used for rolling the agricultural machine both during road transport and during work of the machine. They advantageously extend between the rows of discs and the roller. At least one first main wheel 2a extends on one side of the longitudinal axis X or the longitudinal median plane of the agricultural machine and at least one second main wheel 2b extends on the other side. The longitudinal median plane of the agricultural machine advantageously passes through the longitudinal axis X. In the example shown in [Fig.l], the agricultural machine is equipped, along the direction of travel A and across its entire width, with two rows of discs and a roller. The two rows of independent discs provide stubble cultivation and the double roller provides leveling of the soil. Each side section 1a, 1b may be equipped with one or more secondary wheels 2c used to adjust the working depth of the tools and to clear them completely from the ground S for maneuvering at the headland. These secondary wheels 2c are not used, unlike the main wheels 2a, 2b, during transport, i.e. they do not remain in contact with the ground during transport. During transport, these secondary wheels 2c are either folded with the side sections 1a, 1b, or retracted. In the example of the agricultural machine shown in [Fig.l], the secondary wheels 2c equipping the side sections 1a, 1b extend to the front of the rows of discs.Alternatively, the secondary wheels 2c may extend between the tools or to the rear. Preferably, each side section 1a, 1b carries a secondary wheel 2c. Preferably, each secondary wheel 2c is height-adjustable, for example by means of a jack-type actuator. The joints R, and where appropriate RI, allow the agricultural machine to be folded in transport mode and the agricultural machine to be unfolded (or deployed) in work mode and also allow terrain tracking when the agricultural machine is working in fields that are not perfectly level. Depending on the tools fitted to the agricultural machine, it is possible for the main wheels 2a, 2b to be raised during work.

[0023] According to the invention, the agricultural machine comprises at least two side sections 1a, 1b foldable in a transport position and unfoldable in a working position, at least two main wheels 2a, 2b, namely a first main wheel 2a located on the side of one of the side sections 1a and a second main wheel 2b located on the side of the other side section 1b and a control unit (or block) 3 for controlling the unfolding / folding of each side section 1a, 1b. In a specific embodiment, the central section 1c of the agricultural machine may be devoid of tools.

[0024] [Fig.2] shows a front view of the agricultural machine in a more small footprint corresponding to the road transport position. During transport, the side sections 1a, 1b are brought back above the central section 1c. The end sections 11a, 11b pivot by approximately 180° relative to the middle sections 10a, 10b and then the middle sections 10a, 10b pivot by approximately 90° relative to the central section 1c. Thus, the tools of the end side sections 11a, 11b are positioned in the space between the middle sections 10a, 10b. The two main wheels 2a, 2b belonging to the central section 1c are supported on the ground S in this transport position and extend over the central section 1c in such a way that at least one of the main wheels 2a, 2b is positioned at least partially below the respective middle section 10a, 10b. In transport position, the side sections 1a, 1b are folded approximately vertically.At least one main wheel 2a, 2b is placed on each side of the median vertical plane of the agricultural machine. It can be seen that the agricultural machine shown in [Fig.2] rests on sloping ground S. [Fig.3] shows the agricultural machine in a position intermediate to that of figures 1 and 2, one of the side sections 1a, 1b is being folded or unfolded. [Fig.2] shows the agricultural machine resting on sloping ground S.

[0025] The agricultural machine shown in [Fig. 4] corresponds to a folding agricultural machine with three sections: a central section 1a and two side sections 1a, 1b. Each side section 1a, 1b forms a single section. The central section 1c may be without tools as can be seen in [Fig. 4] or, in a form not illustrated, equipped with tools. Such an agricultural machine has a working width of four to nine meters, for example about five meters. It meets the road clearance regulations. Figures 1 to 3 and 5 illustrate a version of the folding agricultural machine with five sections: a central section 1c, two middle sections 10a, 10b and two end sections 11a, 11b.Each middle section 10a, 10b and each end section 11a, 11b together form a side section 1a, 1b and are foldable relative to each other to enable the agricultural machine to comply with road clearance regulations (in transport mode). Such an agricultural machine with five sections allows for a working width of more than nine meters, in particular approximately twelve meters. This is a very wide agricultural machine. If we compare these two versions of the folding agricultural machine, the side sections 1a, 1b of the version with three sections ([Fig. 4]) are therefore in some way devoid of the end sections of the version with five sections (Figures 1 to 3, 5).

[0026] Whether in the version with three sections or in the version with five sections, when the central section 1c is devoid of tools ([Fig.4]) the articulations R allowing the pivoting of the lateral extensions 1a, 1b can be closer to the longitudinal axis X of the agricultural machine than in the case where the central section 1c is provided / equipped with tools (figures 1 to 3 and 5). Furthermore, when the central section le is provided / equipped with tools (figures 1 to 3 and 5), the joints R can each be closer to a / located on an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis X and passing through the main wheel 2a, 2b (located on the same side) than in the case where the central section le is without tools ([Fig.4]).

[0027] The multi-section agricultural machine shown in Figures 1 to 3 is an agricultural machine configured to be towed by a tractor-type vehicle (not shown). For this purpose, it comprises a coupling element AT. The coupling element AT is connected to the central section 1e of the agricultural machine. The central section 1e extends transversely on either side of the longitudinal axis X, it is centered relative to the median vertical plane of the agricultural machine. The coupling element AT shown in [Fig.l] is designed in the form of a drawbar equipped at the front with a traction ring adapted for a coupling ball. According to the figures, the chassis is provided with a transverse axis axle 20 comprising two main wheels 2a, 2b which serve as ground support S during transport of the machine and which are used to adjust the working depth of the tools during work.The first main wheel 2a and the second main wheel 2b correspond respectively to the right wheel and the left wheel, seen in the direction of advance A of the agricultural machine shown in [Fig.l]. If we take into consideration the front view of the agricultural machine as shown in Figures 2 to 4, the right wheel, seen in the direction of advance A, is the first main wheel 2a and the left wheel corresponds to the second main wheel 2b.

[0028] In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 4], the agricultural machine rests on horizontal ground S and comprises two side sections 1a, 1b articulated on a central section 1c without tools. The front part of the coupling element AT is adapted to be coupled to the two lower arms of the towing vehicle. One of the side sections 1b is being folded while the other side section 1a is folded, substantially vertically. For convenience, the hub 21, the tire and the rim of the left wheel are not shown in [Fig. 4], only the perimeter of the left wheel is shown. It can be seen that the side section 1a extends substantially above the left wheel in its folded position. In the transport position, the side sections 1a, 1b with the tools extend into the width of the main wheels 2a, 2b. As seen in [Fig.4], the side sections 1a, 1b do not support secondary wheels 2c.

[0029] It is understood that each lateral section 1a, 1b can be made up of a single section ([Fig.4]) or of several section(s), for example two sections (figures 1 to 3) and that, in the case where the lateral section 1a, 1b is made up of several sections, it comprises a middle section 10a, 10b and at least one end section 11a, 11b. The end section 11a, 11b can be moved relative to the middle section 10a, 10b between a folded position and an unfolded position, for example by being pivotally mounted on the middle section 10a, 10b or, if necessary (more than two end sections 11a, 11b) on another end section 11a, 11b. In the folded position, the end section 11a, 11b folds against the middle section 10a, 10b (Figures 2, 3, 5), the end section 11a, 11b can preferably pivot by 180°. In the unfolded position ([Fig.l]), the end section 11a, 11b is positioned in the extension of the middle section 10a, 10b. The center section 1c and the side sections 1a, 1b are then aligned and in a working configuration.In the case of a side section 1a, 1b in several sections, the folding / unfolding of the side section 1a, 1b comprises the operation of folding / unfolding the middle section 10a, 10b and, if applicable, the operation of folding / unfolding the or each end section 1a, 11b. The unfolding or folding of the middle section 10a, 10b and the end section 11a, 11b can be organized randomly or in a coordinated manner. Preferably, the end section 11a, 11b is unfolded or folded at the same time as the middle section 10a, 10b (Figures 5, 7) so as to allow faster unfolding / folding of the side section 1a, 1b.

[0030] As can be seen in Figures 1 to 3, each section of the agricultural machine constitutes a supporting structure for the variety of tools that will perform a job. In [Fig.5] only the side sections 1a, 1b constitute such a tool-supporting structure, the central section 1c being devoid of tools. It is understood that depending on the type of agricultural machine according to the present invention, the central section 1c may comprise tools (Figures 1 to 3, 5) or be devoid of tools ([Fig.4]). The central section 1c rests on the ground S by means of the main wheels 2a, 2b. Each side section 1a, 1b can then be moved relative to the central section 1c, in particular by being pivotally mounted, at least between the transport position and the working position.Each side section 1a, 1b is then folded (or folded or closed or raised) when it is moved in the direction from the working position to the transport position and unfolded (or deployed or opened) when it is moved in the direction from the transport position to the working position. Each side section 1a, 1b pivots relative to the central section 1c. The transverse axis 20 of the axle (or of each axle) is supported by the central section 1c, i.e. by the frame part of the central part 1c. Each side section 1a, 1b can be pivotally mounted by being articulated about a pivot of the joint R parallel (the pivot) to the longitudinal axis X of the agricultural machine or to the direction of travel A of the agricultural machine. The pivoting, preferably by approximately 90°, of each side section 1a, 1b is thus carried out about the pivot of the respective joint R.

[0031] The agricultural machine can rest by its main wheels 2a, 2b on a ground S ho rizontal (figures 1 and 4) or sloping (figures 2, 3, 5), that is to say inclined transversely. In the folded position for transport or waiting to be unfolded, the lateral section 1a, 1b, where appropriate its median section 10a, 10b, extends substantially vertically (ground S horizontal), or substantially perpendicularly (ground S horizontal or sloping), relative to the ground S. In the unfolded position for work, the lateral section 1a, 1b extends substantially horizontally (ground S horizontal) or substantially parallel (ground S horizontal or sloping) relative to the ground S.

[0032] Referring again to Figures 1 to 4, it can be seen that the agricultural machine comprises at least one main actuator 7a, 7b for driving / actuating the movement of each lateral section 1a, 1b (Figures 1 to 7). At least one first main actuator 7a can then drive the pivoting of the first lateral section 1a and at least one second main actuator 7b can then drive the movement of the second lateral section 1b. In the case of a lateral section 1a, 1b with several sections 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, the agricultural machine further comprises at least one secondary actuator 8a, 8b for driving the pivoting of the end section 11a, 11a relative to the middle section 10a, 10b. Preferably, each actuator 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b (main or secondary) is a double-acting cylinder. Such a double-acting cylinder typically comprises a rod with a piston at one end that moves in the cylinder body.The piston delimits two chambers of variable volume, namely a small chamber and a large chamber (see in particular [Fig.7]). In a particularly advantageous manner, two actuators 7a, 7b can be used to control the folding or folding of the side sections when these support several types of tools one behind the other. Thus, depending on the weight of the side section 1a, 1b, one will choose to use one or two actuators 7a, 7b for the folding / refolding operation. The hydraulic diagram in [Fig.7] shows, for example, the use of two actuators 7a, 7b per side allowing the folding of the respective side sections 1a, 1b.

[0033] In a preferred form, each main actuator 7a, 7b of the double-acting cylinder type can be articulated on the one hand on the lateral section 1a, 1b and on the other hand on the central section 1c of the agricultural machine. Each secondary actuator 8a, 8b of the double-acting cylinder type can be articulated on the one hand on the end section 11a, 11b and on the other hand on the middle section of the lateral section 1a, 1b. The arrangement and operation of the main actuators 7a, 7b can be defined so that the retraction of the rod of the main cylinder 7a, 7b can actuate the folding of the lateral section 1a, 1b and that the extension of the rod of the main cylinder 7a, 7b can actuate the unfolding of the lateral section 1a, 1b. If necessary, the arrangement and operation of the secondary actuators 8a, 8b can be defined so that the retraction of the rod of the secondary cylinder 8a, 8b can actuate the folding of the end section 11a, 11b and that the output of the rod of the secondary cylinder 8a, 8b can actuate the unfolding of the end section 11a, 11b.

[0034] Furthermore, it is understood that a load PI, P2 is exerted on each main wheel 2a, 2b of the agricultural machine and that this load PI, P2 can vary depending on different factors and / or different situations. The load PI, P2 is the weight supported by the main wheel 2a, 2b (or, in other words, the force on the main wheel 2a, 2b). Thus, the load PI which is exerted on the first main wheel 2a can be identical (or substantially identical) ([Fig.l]) or different (figures 2 to 5) from the load P2 which is exerted on the second main wheel 2b. The load PI, P2 is represented in the relevant appended figures in vector form by an arrow pointing downwards, the length of the vector depending on the value of the load (the weight) PI, P2. This difference or this equivalence can be due to different factors and / or situations:

[0035] -case 1 (not shown in the figures): the agricultural machine is on horizontal ground S with an equivalent load PI, P2 on the first and second main wheels 2a, 2b,

[0036] -case 2 (figures 2, 3 and 5): the agricultural machine is on sloping ground, i.e. with a transverse slope (transversely to its longitudinal axis X), with a non-equivalent load PI, P2 on the first and second main wheels 2a, 2b, the load PI acting on the first main wheel 2a (below) being greater than the load P2 acting on the second main wheel 2b (wheel located at a higher level),

[0037] -case 3 ([Fig.4]): the agricultural machine is on horizontal ground S, with a non-equivalent load PI, P2 on the first and second main wheels 2a, 2b, for example due to the fact, as can be seen in [Fig.4], that one of the lateral sections 1, for example the first lateral section 1a, comprises or is clogged with earth T. In this case the load PI exerted on the first main wheel 2a is greater than the load P2 exerted on the second main wheel 2b,

[0038] -case 4: the agricultural machine is on sloping ground S, with a load PI, P2 on the first and second main wheels 2a, 2b inverse to the slope of the ground S (situation of the loads PI, P2 inverse to case 2), that is to say that the load PI exerted on the first main wheel 2a (lower down) is less than the load P2 exerted on the second main wheel 2b (wheel located at a higher level). This situation may be due for example to a significant quantity of earth significantly weighing down the second lateral section 1b.

[0039] These differences in load on the main wheels 2a, 2b can lead to a risk of the agricultural machine tipping over during a phase of unfolding or folding the side sections 1a, 1b.

[0040] To remedy this problem in particular, in accordance with the present invention, the agricultural machine further comprises an unfolding / folding control device comprising a control block 4 for controlling the control unit 3 and a measuring system connected to the control block 4 and making it possible to measure the load PI, P2 on the at least two main wheels 2a, 2b, namely the load PI on the first main wheel 2a (or where appropriate on at least one of the first main wheels 2a) to obtain at least a first measurement and the load P2 at least on the second main wheel 2b (or where appropriate on at least one of the second main wheels 2a) to obtain at least a second measurement.Furthermore, the control block 4 is configured to be able to compare the first measurement with the second measurement and, depending on the result of the comparison, to be able to control the control unit 3 so as to allow the unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections 1a, 1b and / or to block the, or limit the speed of, unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections 1a, 1b to avoid a risk of tipping of the agricultural machine.

[0041] The control unit 3 therefore receives instructions from the control block 4 which is configured to be able to compare the load PI, P2 measured on the first and second main wheel(s) 2a, 2b and to be able to control at least one and / or the other of the main actuators 7a, 7b, and where appropriate secondary actuators 8a, 8b, depending on the result of the comparison.

[0042] Preferably, the control block 4 performs the comparison at least before the unfolding / folding operation, possibly during the folding / unfolding operation. For maximum safety, it is important to perform a load measurement on the main wheels 2a and 2b and to perform a comparison beforehand during the unfolding / folding phase of the multi-section agricultural machine. Preferably, the measurements via the sensors 5a, 5b are taken when the agricultural machine is not moving, i.e. when it is not moving. The reliability of the measurements is higher when the agricultural machine is static. However, the unfolding / folding control device is also functional when the agricultural machine is moving or not completely stopped.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the measuring system comprises at least two measuring sensors 5a, 5b, namely at least one first sensor 5a suitable and intended to measure the load P1 on the first main wheel 2a and at least one second sensor 5b suitable and intended to measure the load P2 on the second main wheel 2b. Preferably, each sensor 5a, 5b may be a force sensor, more preferably a force sensor comprising at least one strain gauge. Preferably, each sensor 5a is located on the transverse axis 20 near the hub 21 of the corresponding first or second main wheel 2a, 2b or at a point located on the hub 21 of the corresponding first or second main wheel 2a, 2b. Figures 2, 4 and 5 schematically show the locations of the sensors 5a, 5b. In a particularly advantageous manner and to perfect the comparison of the two measurements, the sensors 5a and 5b are arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis X of the agricultural machine. It is understood that the first sensor 5a is located on the transverse axis 20 near the hub 21 of the first main wheel 2a or at a point located on the hub 21 of the first main wheel 2a and that the second sensor 5a is located on the transverse axis 20 near the hub 21 of the second main wheel 2a or at a point located on the hub 21 of the second main wheel 2a. In a particularly advantageous manner and to perfect the comparison of the two measurements, the sensors 5a and 5b can be arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis X of the agricultural machine.The measuring system therefore comprises at least one sensor 5a, 5b configured to directly or indirectly detect the load applied to one of the main wheels 2a, 2b and at least one sensor 5b, 5a configured to directly or indirectly detect the load applied to the other of the main wheels 2b, 2a. The sensors 5a, 5b thus providing an indication of the weight of the associated lateral section 1a, 1b on which the main wheel 2a, 2b is supported. In view of the above, the secondary wheels 2c which are not in contact with the ground S during the folding / unfolding phases of the agricultural machine are not equipped with such sensors.

[0044] In a non-illustrated embodiment, the agricultural machine may comprise at least one bogie comprising at least two axles connected to each other by connecting elements. In this form, each sensor 5a, 5b may be arranged on one of the connecting elements connecting the axles.

[0045] The tractor vehicle to which the agricultural machine according to the present invention can be coupled and hydraulically connected may comprise a distributor 6, as is generally the case in this type of vehicle (Figures 6 and 7). The function of this distributor 6 is to direct the pressurized fluid into the various circuits of the tractor and of the agricultural machine coupled to the latter. The control unit 3 can then be further connected to the distributor 6 so as to be able to supply the main actuators 7a, 7b, and where appropriate the secondary actuators 8a, 8b, with pressurized hydraulic fluid via the control unit 3 (Figures 6 and 7). The distributor 6 can be controlled by the user or automatically by control electronics.

[0046] The measurement operations by the measurement system and / or the measurement acquisition operations by the control block 4 and / or the processing operations, in particular comparison, by the control block 4 can be carried out according to a predetermined frequency or at each instant as soon as an unfolding / folding command is carried out by the user or automatically by control electronics. For example, a comparison can be carried out every second (1 Hz) or every half-second s. In practice, since the unfolding speed of the lateral sections of the agricultural machine is fast enough, a suitable comparison frequency could be 10Hz or more. The control electronics may include a program for controlling the folding / unfolding depending on the progress and position of the agricultural machine on the ground S. The comparison frequency is adapted to the technology.

[0047] If we refer to [Fig.7], we can see that the agricultural machine can comprise two supply circuits Cr, Cs for supplying pressurized fluid to double-acting cylinders each forming one of the main actuators 7a, 7b, namely a circuit Cr for supplying the small chamber of the cylinders 7a, 7b and a circuit Cs for supplying the large chamber of the cylinders 7a, 7b. These two supply circuits Cr and Cs preferentially supply two cylinders 7a for actuating the first lateral section 1a and two cylinders 7b for actuating the second lateral section 1b. These two supply circuits Cr and Cs are selected by the distributor 6 (and therefore by the user or the control electronics which controls the distributor 6), that is to say that depending on the state of the distributor 6 the pressurized fluid is directed towards the circuit Cr or towards the circuit Cs.We understand that it is therefore the distributor 6 (and therefore the user) who selects whether to control the unfolding (for example here by the rod exit) or the folding (for example here by the rod retraction) of the lateral sections 1a, 1b.

[0048] Still in [Fig.7], it can be seen that the control unit 3 connected to the distributor 6 is configured to be able to direct the fluid towards one and / or the other of the lateral sections 1a, 1b, that is to say towards the two cylinders 7a of the first lateral section 1a and / or towards the two cylinders 7b of the second lateral section 1b. It can be seen in this [Fig.7] that the circuit is arranged so that the two cylinders 7a, 7b actuating each lateral section 1a, 1b are supplied at the same time and with the same flow rate. It can also be seen that the control unit 3 comprises two distributors 30, 31, namely a first distributor 30 to allow the supply of pressurized fluid to the two cylinders 7a actuating the first lateral section 1a and a second distributor 31 to allow the supply of pressurized fluid to the two cylinders 7b actuating the second lateral section 1b.Each distributor 30, 31 comprises a coil 300, 310 electrically connected to the control block 4. Each distributor 30, 31 is therefore controlled (electrically) by the control block 4. As can be seen in [Fig.7], each distributor 30, 31 can be a 4 / 2 slide valve distributor, i.e. with four ports and two positions, namely a rest position (position illustrated in [Fig.7]) in which the coil 300, 310 of the distributor 30, 31 and the fluid passage is closed / blocked and a working position in which the coil 300, 310 is supplied and the fluid passage is open.

[0049] The present invention may provide other types of dispenser 30, 31, for example proportional distributors (proportional control and progressive spool) which allow the passage to the fluid to be opened gradually unlike the distributors 30, 31 with 4 / 2 spools which operate in all or nothing. In the latter case (proportional distributor) the movement of the spool is proportional to the command (electrical signal emitted by the control block 4). The control block 4 connected to such a proportional distributor must therefore be adapted accordingly. Such a proportional distributor therefore makes it possible to obtain in the supply circuit Cr or Cs a low or high flow rate depending on the electrical control signal and therefore to adjust the unfolding / folding speed (rod extension / retraction speed).

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the control unit 4 is configured to determine the difference (in absolute value) between the first measurement and the second measurement and:

[0051] -in the case where the difference is identical or less than a threshold value, for example a threshold value corresponding to a difference of the order of 5% to 15%, preferably of the order of 10%, between the first and the second measurement, to control the control unit 3 so as to allow the unfolding / folding (or in other words: the unfolding / folding command) of the two lateral sections 1a, 1b,

[0052] -in the case where the difference is greater than the threshold value, to control the control unit 3 so as to allow the unfolding / folding (or in other words: the unfolding / folding command) of the lateral section 1a, 1b located on the side of the main wheel 2a, 2b on which the measured load PI, P2 is the lowest and to block the, or to limit the speed of, unfolding / folding of the lateral section 1a, 1b located on the side of the main wheel 2a, 2b on which the measured PI, P2 load is the largest.

[0053] According to the present invention, it is therefore always the lateral section 1a, 1b located on the side of the main wheel 2a, 2b where the load PI, P2 acting on the latter is less (compared to the load PI, P2 acting on the main wheel 2a, 2b located on the other side) which must be unfolded / folded as a priority. In contrast, it is always the lateral section 1a, 1b where the load PI, P2 acting on the main wheel 2a, 2b is greater (compared to the load PI, P2 acting on the main wheel 2a, 2b located on the other side) which will be blocked or whose unfolding / folding speed will be limited.

[0054] The control block 4 may consist of an electronic card capable of managing the functions of the agricultural machine according to the present invention. It may comprise a processor and at least one memory storing a computer program comprising instructions for comparing the first and second load measurements PI, P2 carried out by the measurement and control system, depending on the result of the comparison, of the control unit 3. Where appropriate, the or one of the memories may comprise the threshold value or several selectable threshold values.

[0055] Thus, for example, in cases 1 to 4 above, when an order is placed by the distributor 6 to unfold or fold the side sections 1:

[0056] -in case 1 (horizontal ground): the control block 4 receives, in the form of electrical signals, the measurements from the sensors 5a, 5b representative of an equivalent load PI, P2 on the first and second main wheels 2a, 2b and sends a supply order (electrical control signal) to the control unit 3 (to the distributors 30, 31) so that the latter (or these) controls with an identical flow rate the supply of pressurized fluid to the main cylinders 7a, 7b, and where appropriate to the secondary cylinders 8a, 8b, of the two lateral sections 1a, 1b so as to allow the unfolding or folding of the latter (simultaneously).

[0057] -in case 2 (sloping ground): the control block 4 receives, in the form of electrical signals, the measurements from the sensors 5a, 5b representative of a non-equivalent load PI, P2 on the first and second main wheels 2a, 2b, and in particular representative of a load PI on the first main wheel 2a (below) greater than the load P2 on the second main wheel 2b (wheel located at a higher level), and sends a supply order (electrical control signal) to the control unit 3 (to the distributors 30, 31) so that the latter (these) controls the supply of pressurized fluid to the main cylinders 7a, 7b, and where appropriate to the secondary cylinders 8a, 8b, of the two lateral sections 1a, 1b so as to block or limit the unfolding / folding speed of the first lateral section 1a and to allow the unfolding / folding of the second side section 1b,

[0058] -in case 3 (horizontal ground): the control block 4 receives, in the form of electrical signals, the measurements from the sensors 5a, 5b representative of a non-equivalent load PI, P2 on the first and second main wheels 2a, 2b, in particular representative of a load PI on the first main wheel 2a lower than the load P2 on the second main wheel 2b, and sends a supply order (electrical control signal) to the control unit 3 (to the distributors 30, 31) so that the latter (these) controls the supply of pressurized fluid to the main cylinders 7a, 7b, and where appropriate to the secondary cylinders 8a, 8b, of the two lateral sections 1a, 1b so as to block or limit the unfolding / folding speed of the second lateral section 1b and to allow the unfolding / folding of the first lateral section 1a,

[0059] -in case 4 (sloping ground): the control block 4 receives, in the form of electrical signals, the measurements from the sensors 5a, 5b representative of a non-equivalent load PI, P2 on the first and second main wheels 2a, 2b, in particular of a load PI on the first main wheel 2a (below) lower than the load P2 on the second main wheel 2b (wheel located at a higher level), and sends a supply order (electrical control signal) to the control unit 3 (to the distributors 30, 31) so that the latter (these) controls the supply of pressurized fluid to the main cylinders 7a, 7b, and where appropriate to the secondary cylinders 8a, 8b, of the two side sections 1a, 1b so as to block or limit the unfolding / folding speed of the second side section 1b and to allow the unfolding / folding of the first side section 1a.

[0060] Thanks to the present invention, the comparison by means of the control block 4 of the information given by the sensors 5a, 5b present at the level of the first main wheel 2a and at the level of the second main wheel 2b makes it possible to overcome the reference frame, therefore the ground S, on which the agricultural machine rests. As soon as a load variation is detected on one of the main wheels 2a, 2b, the control unit 3 is able to limit or block the unfolding / folding of a lateral section 1a, 1b to prevent any risk of tipping of the agricultural machine. The control block 4 is configured to control the control unit 3 so as to unfold the lateral section 1a, 1b on the side of the main wheel 2a, 2b where the detected load is less and to block the lateral section 1a, 1b on the side of the main wheel 2a, 2b where the detected load is greater.In this way, the risk of the agricultural machine tipping over is eliminated when folding and / or unfolding the side sections 1a, 1b.

[0061] It also relates to a method for controlling such an agricultural machine according to the present invention. It is understood that the agricultural machine according to the present invention allows the implementation of the method according to the present invention.

[0062] According to the present invention the method consists of:

[0063] -before or during an unfolding / folding command, to measure, by means of the measuring system, the load on the first main wheel 2a (or where appropriate on at least one of the first main wheels 2a) to obtain at least a first measurement and the load on the second main wheel 2b (or where appropriate on at least one of the first main wheels 2a) to obtain at least a second measurement,

[0064] -to compare, by means of the control block 4, the first measurement with the second measurement, then, depending on the result of the comparison, to control the control unit 3 so as to allow the unfolding / folding command of one and / or the other of the side sections 1a, 1b and / or to block the command of, or to limit the speed of, unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections 1a, 1b.

[0065] A method consists, by means of the control block 4, in determining the difference between the first measurement and the second measurement and:

[0066] -in the case where the difference is identical or less than a threshold value, to control the control unit 3 so as to allow the unfolding / folding (or in other words: the unfolding / folding command) of the two lateral sections 1a, 1b,

[0067] -in the case where the difference is greater than the threshold value, to control the control unit 3 so as to allow the unfolding / folding (or in other words: the unfolding / folding command) of the lateral section 1a, 1b located on the side of the wheel 2a, 2b main on which the measured PI, P2 load is the lowest and to block the, or to limit the speed of, unfolding / folding of the lateral section 1a, 1b located on the side of the main wheel 2a, 2b on which the measured PI, P2 load is the highest.

[0068] It is understood that in the case where the difference is greater than a threshold value and only one of the two side sections 1a, 1b is unfolded / folded, the control unit 4 continues to receive the measurements and when the measured difference is identical to or less than the threshold value, i.e. when the side section 1a, 1b being unfolded / folded reaches a certain pivot angle, the control unit 4 will command the control unit 3 so as to initiate the unfolding / folding of the other side section 1a, 1b. Thus the two side sections 1a, 1b can be folded / unfolded without the risk of the agricultural machine tipping over. Advantageously, if the difference between the first and second measurements is greater than 10%, the control unit 3 will make it possible to control the unfolding / folding sequence of the side sections 1a, 1b in order to avoid the risk of the agricultural machine tipping over.

[0069] Preferably, the method may consist of each measurement being carried out at a point located on the transverse axis 20 near the hub 21 of the corresponding first or second main wheel 2a, 2b or at a point located on the hub 21 of the corresponding first or second main wheel 2a, 2b.

[0070] In the case where each side section 1a, 1b comprises a middle section 10a, 10b and an end section 11a, 11b, the method may consist, by means of the control block 4, depending on the result of the comparison, in controlling the unfolding / folding of the end sections 11a, 11b offset relative to the respective middle sections 10a, 10b or at the same time as the latter.

[0071] Thus, the present invention, that is to say the method or the agricultural machine allowing its implementation, allows, depending on the result of a comparison of load measurement PI, P2 on the main wheels 2a, 2b of the agricultural machine to send an adequate command for the folding / unfolding of each lateral section 1a, 1b to avoid any risk of tipping of the agricultural machine and therefore to propose an agricultural machine with great stability during unfolding / folding maneuvers regardless of the reference frame on which the main wheels 2a, 2b are supported.

[0072] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described and shown in the attached drawings. Modifications remain possible, in particular from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

Claims

1. Method for controlling an agricultural machine, the agricultural machine comprising, on the one hand, at least two side sections (1a, 1b) foldable in a transport position and unfoldable in a working position, at least two main wheels (2a, 2b), namely at least one first main wheel (2a) located on the side of one of the side sections (1a) and at least one second main wheel (2b) located on the side of the other side section (1b) and a control unit (3) for controlling the unfolding / folding of each side section (1a, 1b) and, on the other hand, a device for controlling the unfolding / folding comprising, a control block (4) for controlling the control unit (3) and a measuring system connected to the control block (4) and making it possible to measure the load (PI, P2) on the at least two main wheels (2a, 2b), characterized in that it consists of: - before or during a control of unfolding / folding, to be measured, using the measuring system,the load (PI) on the first main wheel (2a) to obtain at least a first measurement and the load (P2) on the second main wheel (2b) to obtain at least a second measurement, - to compare, by means of the control block (4), the first measurement with the second measurement, then, depending on the result of the comparison, to control the control unit (3) so as to allow the unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections (la, 1b) and / or to block the, or limit the speed of, unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections (la, 1b) to avoid a risk of tipping of the agricultural machine.,

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it consists, by means of the control block (4), in determining the difference between the first measurement and the second measurement and: - in the case where the difference is identical or less than a threshold value, in controlling the control unit (3) so as to allow the unfolding / folding of the two lateral sections (la, 1b), - in the case where the difference is greater than a threshold value, in controlling the control unit (3) so as to allow the unfolding / folding of the side section (1a, 1b) located on the side of the main wheel (2a, 2b) on which the measured load (PI, P2) is the lowest and to block the, or limit the speed of, unfolding / folding of the side section (1a, 1b) located on the side of the main wheel (2a, 2b) on which the measured load (PI, P2) is the highest.

3. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the agricultural machine comprises at least one axle (20) having a transverse axis (20) and at least two main wheels (2a, 2b), namely the first main wheel (2a) and the second main wheel (2b), each having a hub (21) and in that each measurement is carried out at a point located on the transverse axis (20) near the hub (21) of the corresponding first or second main wheel (2a, 2b) or at a point located on the hub (21) of the corresponding first or second main wheel (2a, 2b).

4. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that each lateral section (1a, 1b) comprises a middle section (10a, 10b) and an end section (11a, 11b) and in that it consists, by means of the control block (4), depending on the result of the comparison, in controlling the unfolding / folding of the end sections (11a, 11b) offset from the respective lateral sections (10a, 10b) or at the same time as the middle sections (10a, 10b).

5. Agricultural machine comprising at least two side sections (1a, 1b) foldable in a transport position and unfoldable in a working position, at least two main wheels (2a, 2b), namely at least one first main wheel (2a) located on the side of one of the side sections (1a) and at least one second main wheel (2b) located on the side of the other side section (1b) and a control unit (3) for controlling the unfolding / folding of each side section (1a, 1b), characterized in that it further comprises an unfolding / folding control device comprising a control block (4) for controlling the control unit (3) and a measuring system connected to the control block (4) and making it possible to measure the load (PI, P2) on the at least two main wheels (2a, 2b), namely on the first main wheel (2a) to obtain a first measurement and on the second main wheel (2b) to obtain a first measurement. (2b) main to obtain at least a second measurement and in that the control block (4) is configured to be able to compare the first measurement with the second measurement and, depending on the result of the comparison, to be able to control the control unit (3) so as to allow the unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections (1a, 1b) and / or to block the, or limit the speed of, unfolding / folding of one and / or the other of the side sections (1a, 1b) to avoid a risk of tipping of the agricultural machine.

6. Machine according to claim 5, characterized in that the control block (4) is configured to determine the difference between the first measurement and the second measurement and: - in the case where the difference is identical or less than a threshold value, to control the control unit (3) so as to allow the unfolding / folding of the two side sections (1a, 1b), - in the case where the difference is greater than a threshold value, to control the control unit (3) so as to allow the unfolding / folding of the side section (1a, 1b) located on the side of the main wheel (2a, 2b) on which the measured load (PI, P2) is the lowest and to block the, or limit the speed of, unfolding / folding of the side section (1a, 1b) located on the side of the main wheel (2a, 2b) on which the measured load (PI, P2) is the highest.

7. Agricultural machine according to any one of claims 5 to 6, characterized in that the measuring system comprises at least two measuring sensors (5a, 5b), namely a first sensor (5a) capable and intended to measure the load (PI) on the first main wheel (2a) and at least one second sensor (5b) capable and intended to measure the load (P2) on the second main wheel (2b), preferably each sensor (5a, 5b) is a force sensor, more preferably a force sensor comprising at least one strain gauge.

8. Agricultural machine according to claim 7, characterized in that it comprises at least one axle comprising a transverse axis (20) and the at least two main wheels (2a, 2b), namely the first main wheel (2a) and the second main wheel (2b), each comprising a hub (21) and in that each measuring sensor (5a) is located on the transverse axis (20) near the hub (21) of the corresponding first or second main wheel (2a, 2b) or at a point located on the hub (21) of the corresponding first or second main wheel (2a, 2b).

9. Agricultural machine according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises at least one bogie comprising at least two axles connected to each other by connecting elements and in that each measuring sensor (5a, 5b) is arranged on one of the connecting elements.

10. Agricultural machine according to any one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that each side (la, 1b) comprises a middle section (10a, 10b) and an end section (11a, 11b) and in that it consists, by means of the control block (4), depending on the result of the comparison, in controlling the unfolding / folding of the end sections (11) offset from the middle sections (10a, 10b) or at the same time as the middle sections (10a, 10b).

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