System comprising an agricultural machine and a crop treatment tool mounted on the machine by means of a male-female connector

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (10) comprising an agricultural machine (30) and an agricultural crop treatment tool (20) mounted on the machine, and comprising a male-female type connector (40) having a first part (50) attached to said tool and a second part (70) attached to said machine, configured to be coupled to each other electrically and mechanically and to form an electrical power connection channel and an electrical data connection channel, between the tool and the machine; and the machine being configured to supply power to the tool via the electrical power connection channel, and to transmit, respectively receive, data to, respectively from, the tool, via the electrical data connection channel.The invention also relates to a tool (20) and a device (30) respectively configured to equip such a system (10), as well as a method for treating crops implemented by means of such a system (10). Figure for the abstract: Figure 1.

Description

Title of the invention: System comprising an agricultural machine and a crop treatment tool mounted on the machine by means of a male-female connector. TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The field of the invention is that of agriculture, and more particularly of the treatment of agricultural crops by an agricultural machine, preferably autonomous.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to an agricultural crop treatment system, comprising an agricultural machine and a crop treatment tool mounted on the machine, and further comprising a male-female type connector through which the machine and the tool are connected to each other.

[0003] The invention also relates to an agricultural crop processing tool configured to equip such a system.

[0004] The invention further relates to an agricultural machine configured to equip such a system.

[0005] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method of treating agricultural crops implemented by such a system.

[0006] The invention finds applications in the agricultural field, in particular for agricultural robots, especially autonomous ones, as well as tools intended to be mounted on such robots. STATE OF THE ART

[0007] It is known from the prior art of agricultural machinery on which crop treatment tools are mounted, which are generally powered to start up and perform crop treatment during a crop treatment operation.

[0008] Crop treatment may, for example, include sowing, hoeing, weeding, spraying, etc.

[0009] The processing tools known in the art are generally configured to be switched on and activated by their power supply from the machine, and switched off and deactivated by the cutting off of their power supply from the machine.

[0010] In known systems, tools are generally connected to the machine via a dedicated connector, allowing an electrical connection to be established between a tool and the machine, which is adapted to the specificities of the tool and the machine and which also meets the specific needs of the crop treatment operation to be carried out by the tool.

[0011] Furthermore, in the field of agriculture and in particular in the field of highly automated agricultural machinery, it is necessary that the system comprising the machine and the tool meet particularly high safety requirements, for example with regard to the control of the tools in the event of an anomaly in the operation of the machine.

[0012] In this context, the implementation of a generic connection between the tool and the machine, not specific to the application in the field of agriculture, is not conceivable. Description of the invention

[0013] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of the disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above, by proposing a male-female type connector with a first connector part connected to a crop treatment tool, and a second connector part connected to an agricultural machine, as well as a system formed of the tool and the machine and a crop treatment method comprising communication between the tool and the machine via the connector.

[0014] The invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a system comprising an agricultural machine and an agricultural crop treatment tool mounted on the machine, and comprising a male-female type connector having a first part attached to said tool and a second part attached to said machine, configured to be coupled to each other electrically and mechanically; the first part of the connector comprising a first power connection element, of the plug-and-socket type, and the second part of the connector comprising a second power connection element, of the plug-and-socket type, the first power connection element and the second power connection element being configured to be connected to each other to form an electrical power connection channel; and the first part of the connector comprising a first data connection element, of the plug-and-socket type, and the second part of the connector comprising a second data connection element, of the plug-and-socket type, the first data connection element and the second data connection element being configured to be connected to each other to form an electrical data connection channel; and the device being configured to supply power to said tool via the power electrical connection channel, and to transmit, respectively receive, at least one data point to the tool, respectively from the tool, via the data electrical connection channel; and the tool being configured to draw power from said machine via the power electrical connection channel, and to transmit, respectively receive, at least one data to the machine, respectively from the machine, via the data electrical connection channel.

[0015] The machine is preferably an autonomous agricultural machine, sometimes also called an agricultural robot.

[0016] By subject, we mean the fact that the parts of the connector are mechanically fixed and electrically connected to the tool for one, and to the machine for the other.

[0017] In the system, the tool is thus able to be connected to the machine by connecting the first part of the connector with the second part of the connector.

[0018] The tool can thus be powered, in particular electrically, from the machine via the connection of the first power connection element and the second power connection element, which together form an electrical power connection channel. This allows power to be supplied to actuators that the tool may include.

[0019] The tool can also receive data from the machine, and transmit data to the machine, through the connection of the first data connection element and the second data connection element, which together form an electrical data connection channel.

[0020] In other words, the connector allows two separate connection channels or paths to be established between the tool and the machine, namely a power electrical connection channel or path and a data electrical connection channel or path. In particular, the data electrical connection channel or path is bidirectional.

[0021] This results in a system in which the tool can both receive energy from the machine and communicate with it bidirectionally, which allows in particular the transmission of instructions to the tool from the machine, for example in the event of an anomaly in an ongoing crop treatment operation, and the transmission of information relating to the operation of the tool from the tool to the machine, allowing for example the identification by the machine of an anomaly in the ongoing crop treatment operation.

[0022] Thanks to the bidirectional communication between the machine and the tool, the machine is able to determine whether the tool is working correctly, and conversely the tool is able to determine whether the machine is working correctly.

[0023] This is particularly advantageous in particular when the machine is an autonomous agricultural machine, as no operator is generally near the machine to check the proper functioning of the machine-tool system.

[0024] This also allows for autonomous operation of the machine-tool system, not only the machine being able to work autonomously, but also the tool attached to it. assembled, and this while meeting all the safety constraints that must be respected by the machine-tool system.

[0025] Furthermore, the first part of the connector thus designed can be presented on the tool regardless of the type of tool, and can be connected to the second part of the connector which is presented on the machine permanently, while allowing the exchange of power and data in accordance with the requirements applicable to highly automated agricultural machines.

[0026] In particular, the system may include a machine and at least one tool connected to the machine, the machine then comprising a number of second connector parts corresponding to the number of tools to be connected to the machine.

[0027] For example, the device has two second parts of the connector, and the system includes at least one tool connected to one of the second parts of the connector presented on the device.

[0028] Other preferential features of the system according to the invention, which are particularly convenient and advantageous, are described below.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment, in the system, at least one data transmitted by the machine and received by the tool is at least one of the following: a tool activation / deactivation command data, a tool power-on / power-off command data, a machine active / inactive status information data, a machine forward speed data, a machine distance data, and a machine location data.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, in the system, at least one data transmitted by the tool and received by the machine is at least one of the following: active / inactive status data of the tool, power supply status data of the tool, error code data in the operation of the tool, request data for interruption of a crop treatment operation, request data for emergency stop of the machine, and request data for modification, preferably reduction, of a forward speed of the machine.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, in the system, said tool includes an electronic safety loop connected to the machine via the second electrical connection channel, said electronic safety loop including at least one safety device, and preferably two safety devices, configured to open or close the safety loop according to a so-called normal or abnormal operating state of the tool, and the machine being configured to emit a safety signal in said electronic safety loop, by means of which the machine can determine whether the tool is in a normal or abnormal operating state based on the return or non-return of said safety signal at the output of said electronic safety loop.

[0032] This allows the transmission of an anomaly information in the operation of the tool to the machine, in particular in an actuator of the tool, especially when the tool does not autonomously detect the anomaly and thus does not transmit error data in its operation.

[0033] The invention also relates, according to a second aspect, to an agricultural crop processing tool configured to equip a system as described above, comprising said first part of the connector, configured to be connected to said second part of the connector presented on the machine.

[0034] It follows that the tool presents the same effects and advantages as those described above in connection with the system according to a first aspect of the invention.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, the tool includes at least one motorized actuator configured to be powered by a permanent electric current from the machine via the power electrical connection channel, and including a main switch configured to electronically connect or disconnect the actuator from the power electrical connection channel, and to be controlled via actuator control data, transmitted by the machine to the tool via the data electrical connection channel, and the tool further includes a diagnostic element for the main switch, configured to transmit status data from the main switch to the machine.

[0036] The main switch diagnostic unit monitors the operation of the main switch to prevent any unwanted activation of the tool. Indeed, if a relay controlling the main switch fails, the relay may remain closed despite a conflicting instruction. This can occur in the event of an overvoltage at an actuator of the tool. The diagnostic unit verifies that the actuator does not remain energized when the machine's power supply is cut off. If this is not the case, the machine can be configured to prevent any crop treatment operation from starting.

[0037] The invention also relates, according to a third aspect, to an agricultural machine configured to equip a system as described above, comprising said second part of the connector, configured to be connected to said first part of the connector presented on the tool.

[0038] It follows that the device presents the same effects and advantages as those described above in connection with the system according to a first aspect of the invention.

[0039] In particular, the device may have at least two second parts of the connector, so as to allow the simultaneous connection of two tools each having the first part of the connector.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, the machine is an autonomous agricultural machine configured for autonomous navigation in a plot of agricultural crops as well as for autonomous processing of agricultural crops in said plot.

[0041] According to a fourth aspect, the invention relates to a method for treating agricultural crops implemented by a system as described above, comprising, during an agricultural crop treatment operation: - the transmission from the tool to the machine via the electrical data connection channel, at predetermined time intervals, of a data packet representative of an operating state of the tool, including at least one error code data in the operation of the tool, and preferably at least active / inactive status data of the tool and electrical power supply status of the tool; the process including the interruption of said agricultural crop treatment operation, when: - said transmission from the tool to the machine is interrupted for a predetermined duration exceeding the duration of at least said predetermined time intervals, preferably exceeding five predetermined time intervals, and / or - The error code data in the tool operation indicates an error in the tool's operation.

[0042] As a result, the system implementing the process meets high safety requirements, the machine being configured to interrupt the crop treatment operation when no information is received from the tool for too long, and / or when the tool indicates the need to interrupt the operation due to a malfunction.

[0043] In particular when the machine is an autonomous agricultural machine, it can be assured that the crop treatment mission is carried out according to the indicated mission profile, and without risk of damage to the crop plot and / or without risk to property and persons.

[0044] Other preferential features of the process according to the invention, which are particularly convenient and advantageous, are described below.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, said transmission from the tool to the machine further includes the transmission of a request data to interrupt a crop treatment operation; and the method includes the interruption of said agricultural crop treatment operation when the interruption request data contains a request to interrupt the ongoing crop treatment operation.

[0046] This also allows the current operation to be interrupted when the tool determines that it cannot currently complete its work and is unavailable.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, said transmission from the tool to the machine further includes the transmission of an emergency stop request data for the machine, and the method includes de-energizing an electrical power circuit of the machine when the emergency stop request data contains an emergency stop request.

[0048] This also makes it possible to interrupt the current operation when the tool determines that there is a security risk or a risk of deterioration of the system.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment, said transmission from the tool to the machine further includes the transmission of a request data for a modification of a speed of travel of the machine, and the method includes the modification, preferably the reduction, of the speed of travel of the machine when the request data for modification, preferably for reduction, contains a request for modification, preferably for reduction, of the speed of travel of the machine.

[0050] This allows the forward speed of the machine to be reduced when the tool determines that there is a safety risk or a risk of damage to the system.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, the method comprises, when switching on an electrical power circuit of the machine, respectively when switching off the electrical power circuit of the machine: - the power supply to the tool by the machine, and respectively the power supply interruption to the tool by the machine, via the power electrical connection channel; as well as - the transmission from the machine to the tool of a tool power-up data, or tool power-down data, via the electrical data connection channel.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, the process comprises, at the start of a crop treatment operation, respectively at the completion of a crop treatment operation: - the transmission from the machine to the tool of a command data for activating the tool, or deactivating the tool, via the electrical data connection channel.

[0053] The process further comprises: - the determination by the machine of the tool's service status, the tool being said to be in a normal, or abnormal, service status when the machine detects a return, or a non-return, of said safety signal at the output of the electronic safety loop, and - the interruption of the agricultural crop processing operation when the machine determines that the tool is in an abnormal operating condition. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0054] Other advantages, purposes and particular features of the present invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the devices and methods of the present invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: - Fig. 1 schematically represents a system comprising an agricultural crop processing tool and an agricultural machine connected to each other by means of a male-female type connector; - [Fig.2] represents, in perspective and exploded view, the connector according to an exemplary embodiment; - [Fig.3] schematically represents the connection of a second part of the connector shown in [Fig.2]; - [Fig.4] and [Fig.5] are similar to [Fig.1] and schematically represent the system with the tool which includes a main switch, respectively according to a first embodiment and a second embodiment; - [Fig.6] is similar to [Fig.1] and schematically represents the system including an electronic safety loop; - [Fig.7] schematically represents a crop treatment process implemented by the system; - Fig.8, Fig.9, Fig.10, Fig.11 and Fig.12 schematically represent the process of treating cultures from Fig.7, including preferential steps of the process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0055] The present description is given by way of a non-limiting example of the invention. Furthermore, each feature of one embodiment can be advantageously combined with any other feature of any other embodiment.

[0056] It should be noted from the outset that the figures are not necessarily to scale.

[0057] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a system 10 comprising a tool 20 for processing agricultural crops and an agricultural machine 30.

[0058] The machine 30 is configured for the treatment of agricultural crops, and allows for the performance of crop treatment operations, which are for example arranged according to a row of crops in a plot of crops.

[0059] Agricultural crops can, for example, be relatively tall crops, such as vines or hedges or shrubs, or relatively low crops, such as vegetable or cereal crops.

[0060] Such crops are generally arranged within a predefined perimeter, hereinafter referred to as a crop plot, within which the machine 30 can operate to treat the crops during a crop treatment mission. For this purpose, the machine 30 includes means of advancement (not shown) enabling it to move in a principal direction of travel.

[0061] The vehicle 30 is in particular of the autonomous type, that is to say that it is designed to follow a trajectory autonomously, and to carry out a crop treatment mission essentially without human intervention.

[0062] The device 30 is thus, in particular, an autonomous device, sometimes also called a robot. Such a device falls in particular into the category of highly automated agricultural machinery.

[0063] However, it may be another type of device such as a remotely operated vehicle or a vehicle manually operated by an individual.

[0064] The tool 20 is mounted on the machine 30, either directly or indirectly, for example via a tool holder (not shown).

[0065] In particular, a larger number of tools 20, for example two or more tools 20, can be mounted on the machine 30.

[0066] Here, the tool 20 includes actuators 21 that can be actuated when supplied with power, in particular electrical energy. The actuators 21 can, for example, be motors, preferably electric motors.

[0067] Without limitation, the treatment tool 20 may be of the type hoe, and / or seeder, and / or inter-row, and / or weeding finger (for example of Kress type, registered trademark), and / or clod-breaking disc, and / or notched disc, and / or brush, and / or rigid tooth, and / or tine harrow, and / or opening share, and / or leaf guard, and / or sprayer.

[0068] The tool 20 further includes a control module 22, which can be formed by an electronic logic circuit and / or a (micro)controller or (micro)processor.

[0069] The control module 22 is configured in particular to control the operation of the tool 20 and in particular of the actuator 21.

[0070] The vehicle 30 includes an energy reservoir 31, which is in particular an electric battery, and a control module 32.

[0071] The control module 32 is configured to pilot the machine 30 during a crop treatment mission, including in particular navigation in a crop plot as well as control of at least one treatment tool 20 according to the profile of the crop treatment mission.

[0072] The vehicle 30 may in particular be equipped with a means of detecting obstacles (not shown) in the vehicle's path, communicating with the control module 32 so that the latter can in particular interrupt the advance of the vehicle 30, i.e. stop it.

[0073] In the system 10, the tool 20 and the engine 30 are connected to each other electrically and mechanically.

[0074] For this purpose, the system 10 includes a male-female type connector 40, comprising a first part 50 and a second part 70, which are configured to be coupled to each other electrically and mechanically.

[0075] By male-female type connector, we mean a connector comprising a first part and a second part which mechanically correspond with each other to establish an electrical connection.

[0076] This may include a plug-type connector with one or more corresponding fingers with one or more openings, or any other equivalent.

[0077] The first part 50 is here connected to the tool 20, while the second part 70 is connected to the gear 30.

[0078] More specifically, the first part 50 and the second part 70 are respectively connected mechanically and electrically to the tool 20 and the machine 30.

[0079] For example, the first part 50 can be fixed to the tool 20 by means of an electrical cable, creating a mechanical and electrical link between the tool 20 and the first part 50.

[0080] For example, the second part 70 can be permanently fixed to a structural element of the machine 30, for example a body, and electrically connected to the machine 30.

[0081] The connector 40 allows two separate paths or channels of electrical connection to be established between the tool 20 and the machine 30.

[0082] For this purpose, the first part 50 includes a first power connection element 51 and a first data connection element 52.

[0083] The second part 70 comprises a second power connection element 71 as well as a second data connection element 72.

[0084] The pairs formed by the first power connection member 51 and the second power connection member 71, as well as by the first data connection member 52 and the second data connection member 72, are of the plug-and-socket type, and the members of each pair are configured to be connected to each other.

[0085] The connection of the first power connection element 51 and the second power connection element 71 makes it possible to establish a power connection channel or path between the tool 20 and the machine 30.

[0086] The connection of the first data connection element 52 and the second data connection element 72 makes it possible to establish a data connection channel or path between the tool 20 and the machine 30.

[0087] The power connection channel or path between the tool 20 and the machine 30 allows in particular to electrically connect the energy reservoir 31 to the actuator 21.

[0088] The data connection channel or channel between the tool 20 and the machine 30 allows, in particular, the electrical connection of the control module 32 to the control module 22.

[0089] These two channels or paths are physically distinct, that is to say that the electrical current of power or data can only pass through the channel or path dedicated to it.

[0090] The machine 30 includes a power electrical circuit, supplied by the energy reservoir 31 and enabling the supply of energy to at least the advancement means, and the actuator 21 of the tool 20 via the power electrical connection channel, as well as a logic electrical circuit, supplied by the energy reservoir 31 or possibly by an auxiliary energy source, and which enables the supply of at least the control module 32, the communication means of the machine 30, and the control module 22 of the tool 20 via the data electrical connection channel.

[0091] The first data connection member 52 and the second data connection member 72 have an electrical dimensioning such that it only allows the transmission of a low intensity current.

[0092] The first power connection element 51 and the second power connection element 71 have in particular an electrical dimensioning such that it allows the transmission of power current up to about 5 kilowatts (kW) and preferably in the order of 3 to 4 kilowatts (kW).

[0093] The tool 20 can in particular be powered with a permanent electric current, or a switched electric current.

[0094] Continuous electric current means a current supplying the tool 20 as soon as the electrical power connection channel is closed between the tool 20 and the machine 30 (for example by means of a main power disconnector on the machine 30) and switched electric current means a current supplying the tool 20 only when, in addition, the power supply to the tool is authorized by the machine 30, for example by means of a power relay.

[0095] Fig. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of connector 40, shown in an exploded view and taken in isolation.

[0096] The first part 50 and the second part 70 of the connector 40 comprise respectively a first support member 54 and a second support member 74, as well as a first housing 55 and a second housing 75.

[0097] The first power connection member 51 includes a ground return terminal 56 and a single power supply terminal 57, which are mounted on the first support member 54, for example by clipping.

[0098] The second power connection member 71 also includes a ground return terminal 76 as well as a first power supply terminal 77 and a second power supply terminal 78, which are mounted on the second support member 74, for example by clipping.

[0099] The ground return terminals 56 and 76 are pluggable into each other to establish a ground connection path between the tool 20 and the machine 30.

[0100] According to its assembly, the single power supply terminal 57 can be plugged into either of the first power supply terminal 77 and the second power supply terminal 78 in order to establish a current connection path between the tool 20 and the machine 30.

[0101] The first support member 54 comprises two separate mounting locations 60 and 61, each located opposite the first power supply terminal 77 and the second power supply terminal 78 respectively.

[0102] In other words, the single power supply terminal 57 can be selectively mounted on either of the mounting locations 60 and 61 depending on whether it is to be connected to the first power supply terminal 77 or the second power supply terminal 78, which are mounted on the second support member 74 at adjacent mounting locations 80 and 81.

[0103] In addition, the first support member 54 has a mounting location 62 for the ground return terminal 56, and the second support member 74 has a mounting location 82 for the ground return terminal 76, which is located opposite the mounting location 62.

[0104] The first power supply terminal 77 is configured, for example, to provide a permanent electric current, and the second power supply terminal 78 is configured, for example, to provide a switched electric current.

[0105] Thus, depending on whether the tool 20 is to be supplied with a permanent electric current or a switched electric current, the single power supply terminal 57 can be mounted at the appropriate mounting location 60 or 61.

[0106] This allows the proper supply of the tool 20 which has the first part 50 with the power supply terminal 57 mounted at the mounting location 60 or 61 which is suitable, by being connected to the second part 70 which allows the supply indifferently according to either permanent electric current or switched electric current.

[0107] This results in a significant rationalization in the manufacture of the connector 40 and compatibility between tools 20, in particular of different types, and the machine 30.

[0108] In addition, the connector 40 here includes a pin connection module comprising a first part of module 64, presented on the first data connection member 52, and a second part of module 84, presented on the second data connection member 72, and which are pluggable into each other.

[0109] In particular, as can be seen in [Fig.2], the first support member 54 has a mounting location 63 for the first part of module 64 and the second support member 74 has a mounting location 83 for the second part of module 84.

[0110] The pin connection module comprises in particular between 10 and 20 pins, and more preferably 17 pins.

[0111] The pins each allow a data transmission channel to be established between the tool 20 and the gear 30 dedicated to the transmission of specific data, as described later in this application.

[0112] In particular, the pin connection module is configured to establish a CAN data bus type data connection between the tool 20 and the gear 30.

[0113] The first housing 55 is configured here so as to encapsulate or enclose the first support member 54 as well as the terminals 56 and 57.

[0114] The first housing 55 may have at least one, and here two, openings 65 allowing the passage of an electrical cable each to connect the terminals 56 and 57 to the tool 20.

[0115] The second housing 75 is here configured to enclose the second support member 74 as well as the terminals 76, 77 and 78.

[0116] The second part 70 here comprises a hood 88 for accessing the housing 75 and a retaining member 85 pivotally mounted on the housing 75, and which is configured to keep the hood 88 closed in a first tilting position of the retaining member 85 and to allow the hood 88 to be opened in a second tilting position of the retaining member 85.

[0117] The retaining member 85 is further configured to hold the first part 50 on the second part 70 when they are coupled, when the retaining member 85 is in its first tilting position, and to allow the uncoupling of the first part 50 and the second part 70, when the retaining member 85 is in its second tilting position.

[0118] The housing 75 may further include a sealing gasket 86 configured to establish a seal between both the housing 75 and the cover 88 when the cover is closed and between the housing 75 and the first part 50 when the second part 70 is coupled to the first part 50.

[0119] Fig. 3 illustrates a schematic view of the connector on the second part 70 side of connector 40.

[0120] As shown, terminals 76, 77 and 78 are substantially identical and each mounted in their respective mounting locations 82, 80 and 81.

[0121] The second part of module 84 of the pin connection module here comprises 17 female openings 87 for pins, numbered 1 to 17 on the [Fig.3].

[0122] By way of example and without limitation, pins NI to N17 may be dedicated to the transmission of the following signals and data: - NI pin: return to ground of a 24V logic control circuit; - pin N2: 24V power supply for a logic control circuit; - pin N3: lower voltage line "low" of a CAN data bus; - pin N4: upper voltage line "high" of a CAN data bus; - pin N5: diagnostic line of actuator 21; - pin N6: active / inactive status line of actuator 21; - pin N7: "free" communication channel between the tool and the machine; - pin N8: "free" communication channel between the tool and the machine; - pin N9: output of a loop of a tool operating mode; - pin N10: input of a loop of a tool operating mode; - pin N11: return to earth; - N12 pin: communication channel between the tool and the machine; - N13 pin: communication channel between the tool and the machine; - pin N14: output of an electronic safety loop for the tool; - pin N15: input to an electronic tool safety loop; - pin N16: line for detecting the presence of a connected tool; - pin N17: free pin for free function.

[0123] As described above, the tool 20 can be powered either with a permanent electric current or with a switched electric current.

[0124] When the tool 20 can tolerate a power supply interruption during its operation, without affecting its integrity and operating capabilities, the tool 20 can be supplied with switched electrical current.

[0125] When the tool 20 cannot admit such a break without it impairing its integrity and its operating capabilities, the tool 20 must be supplied with a permanent electrical current.

[0126] When the tool 20 is configured to be powered with a permanent electric current, the tool 20 includes a main switch 90.

[0127] Figures 4 and 5 schematically illustrate a tool 20 connected to the device 30 and supplied with a permanent electric current, according to a first embodiment and a second embodiment.

[0128] The main switch 90 is configured to electronically connect or disconnect the actuator 21 from the electrical power connection channel established between the tool 20 and the engine 30.

[0129] The main switch 90 is further configured to be controlled via actuator control data, transmitted by the gear 30 to the tool 20 via the electrical data connection channel. For example, the main switch 90 can be connected to pin N6.

[0130] The tool 20 further includes a diagnostic element 91 of the main switch 90, configured to transmit status data from the main switch 90 to the gear 30.

[0131] The diagnostic unit 91 can for example be made by a secondary switch 92 mechanically connected to the main switch 90 and reproducing the open or closed state of the main switch 90. For example, the secondary switch 92 can be connected to pin N5.

[0132] The opening of the main switch 90 thus causes the secondary switch 92 to open, and the transmission to the gear 30 of the information that the main switch 90 is open, and that the power supply to the actuator 21 is cut off.

[0133] According to another example, the diagnostic organ 91 is made by a voltage observation organ 93, connected to a first supply terminal 94 of the actuator 21, between the main switch 90 and the actuator 21.

[0134] The voltage observation device 93 is configured to transmit to the gear 30 the observed actuator 21 supply voltage, enabling the gear 30 to determine whether the actuator 21 power supply is cut off or not.

[0135] The voltage observation element 93 can be of the PNP transistor type. For example, the voltage observation element 93 can be connected to pin N5.

[0136] In addition, the tool 20 may include an electronic safety loop 95, as illustrated in [Fig.6].

[0137] The electronic safety loop 95 includes at least one safety device 96, and here two safety devices 96, configured to open or close the electronic safety loop 95 according to a so-called normal or so-called abnormal service state of the tool.

[0138] For example, the safety devices 96 each include at least one safety sensor, for example for temperature and / or current intensity.

[0139] The safety devices 96 are configured to open the electronic safety loop 95 when the safety sensors detect a measured value exceeding a predetermined safety threshold, representative of an abnormal situation in the operation of system 10.

[0140] The safety devices 96 are connected in series here. Therefore, if only one of the safety devices 96 detects an abnormal situation, the safety loop 95 will be opened.

[0141] The safety loop 95 is connected to the gear 30 via the second electrical connection channel, for example via pins N14 and N15 of the pin connection module.

[0142] The device is configured to emit a safety signal in the electronic safety loop 95.

[0143] When the electronic safety loop 95 is closed, i.e., when the tool is in normal operating condition, the safety signal is returned to the device 30 at the loop output. The device 30 thus determines that the tool is functioning normally.

[0144] Otherwise, when the electronic safety loop 95 is open, i.e. at least one safety device 96 has opened the safety loop 95, the tool being in an abnormal operating state, the safety signal is not returned to the device 30. The device 30 thus determines that the operation of the tool is abnormal.

[0145] It is specified here that the embodiment of [Fig.6] can in particular be combined with that of figures 4 or 5.

[0146] Furthermore, the device 30 can be equipped with more than one second part 70 of connector 40, for example two second parts 70 of connector.

[0147] This allows more than one tool 20 to be connected to the machine 30.

[0148] However, when the device 30 has more than one second part 70 of connector, but a number of tools 20 less than the number of second parts 70 presented on the device 30 are to be connected, the system 10 advantageously includes a dummy tool which can be connected to an unused second part 70.

[0149] The dummy tool may be in the form of a first connector part similar to the first part 50 described in connection with [Fig.2], but not including any ground return terminal or power supply, and including a first module part of a pin connection module.

[0150] The first part of the pin connection module can in particular be configured to short-circuit a pair of pins, for example pins N14 and N15, or on the contrary to connect by a resistor two pins of a pair of pins, for example pins N3 and N4, in order to avoid the detection of false-positive type signals by the device 30 even when no tool 20 is connected to the second part 70 which is unused.

[0151] The system 10, comprising the machine 30 and at least one tool 20 connected to the machine, is configured to implement a process 100 for treating agricultural crops which is described with reference to figures 7 to 12 which represent different exemplary scenarios of operation of system 10, and which are freely combinable with each other.

[0152] Fig. 7 schematically illustrates the exchange of energy and data between the machine 30 and the tool 20, over time which is schematically represented by a time axis going from top to bottom on Fig. 7.

[0153] The process 100 is in particular implemented by the system 10 during a mission comprising an agricultural crop treatment operation.

[0154] An agricultural crop treatment operation means the mechanical or non-mechanical treatment of agricultural crops and / or the soil of a plot of agricultural crops.

[0155] Such a plot may include one or more rows of crops, and an agricultural crop treatment operation may then correspond to the treatment of the crops and / or the soil of all or part of the rows, or even of a single row, of the plot.

[0156] The mission, including the operation of treating agricultural crops, begins with the switching on of the vehicle 30, that is to say by supplying power to the vehicle 30 for example from an electric battery which it includes, allowing to power in particular its means of advancement, and ends with the switching off of the vehicle 30.

[0157] The method 100 includes, when the machine 30 is switched on, a step 105 of supplying power to the tool 20, and in particular to its actuator 21, via the power electrical connection channel, and of transmitting from the machine 30 to the tool 20 a power-up data of the tool via the data electrical connection channel.

[0158] The tool's power-on data is, for example, of binary type.

[0159] Upon receiving the power-up data, the tool 20 powers up the actuator 21, for example by closing the main switch 90.

[0160] The tool 20 can then admit an initialization and then a pre-operational state configuration, in which the tool 20 and in particular its actuator 21 are energized, i.e. supplied with power by the power electrical connection channel, and the tool 20 is ready to send and receive data via the data electrical connection channel.

[0161] This corresponds in particular to a configuration in which the system 10 is located at the entrance of a row of crops, before processing the crops of the row.

[0162] The electrical power supply to the tool 20 by the machine 30 is maintained thereafter in the process 100, unless otherwise indicated.

[0163] The process 100 then includes, when the crop treatment operation begins, a step 110 in which the machine 30 transmits to the tool 20 a control data for activating the tool 20, via the electrical data connection channel.

[0164] The activation control data for tool 20 includes, in particular, the actuation of actuator 21 to perform crop and / or soil treatment. This may, for example, include, but is not limited to, the actuation of a motor to drive mechanical tools in motion, or the actuation of a motor to pump a liquid for spraying.

[0165] The activation command data for tool 20 is, for example, of boolean type.

[0166] The tool 20 is configured to transmit to the device 30 at regular intervals a data packet representing an operating state of tool 20, via the electrical data connection channel.

[0167] The data package includes at least one error code data in the operation of the tool, and preferably also includes an active / inactive status data of the tool and / or a power supply status data of the tool, and preferably a request data for interrupting a crop treatment operation and / or a request data for an emergency stop of the machine and / or a request data for modifying, preferably reducing, the forward speed of the machine.

[0168] The data in the data packet can each be of binary, boolean or integer type.

[0169] The method 100 thus includes a step 115 of transmitting such a data packet from the tool 20 to the machine 30 via the electrical data connection channel.

[0170] Step 115 of transmitting a data packet is repeated at regular intervals, for example about every 100 milliseconds (ms).

[0171] This allows the machine 30 to be informed of the state of the tool 20 at a regular frequency.

[0172] The system 10 is configured to interrupt the agricultural crop processing operation on the one hand when the transmission from the tool 20 to the machine 30 of the data packet is interrupted for a predetermined predetermined duration, which is greater than the duration of the regular interval.

[0173] For example, the predetermined duration corresponds to approximately 500 milliseconds (ms).

[0174] This corresponds in particular to a situation in which the tool 20 is damaged, and / or has a malfunction preventing its communication with the device 30, and / or the electrical data connection channel is damaged.

[0175] The process 100 thus includes a step 120 of interrupting the agricultural crop treatment operation, which is executed when a step 115 has not been executed, or not fully executed (i.e., the engine 30 has not received the data packet), for at least the predetermined duration.

[0176] The interruption of the agricultural crop treatment operation may include, in particular, stopping the advancement of the machine 30, as well as possibly deactivating the tool 20 when communication between the tool 20 and the machine 30 is possible via the electrical data connection channel, including transmission of a tool deactivation data from the machine 30 to the tool 20.

[0177] The system 10 is configured to resume the crop processing operation when the machine 30 receives a data packet again from the tool 20, following a step 115.

[0178] This corresponds for example to a situation in which the malfunction of the tool 20 and / or of the communication with the machine 30 is lifted, for example spontaneously or following the intervention of an operator.

[0179] The process 100 thus includes a step 125 of resuming the agricultural crop treatment operation, which may in particular include resuming the advancement of the machine 30, as well as possibly activating the tool 20, including the transmission of tool activation data from the machine 30 to the tool 20.

[0180] In addition, the system 10 is configured to interrupt the agricultural crop processing operation when the error code data in the operation of the tool, transmitted with the data packet, includes an indication that there is an error in the operation of the tool.

[0181] This corresponds in particular to a situation in which the tool indicates an unavailability for treating agricultural crops. This could, for example, be due to a blockage or clogging of the tool, or a situation in which a seed drill or sprayer tank is empty. The error code data can be of integer type, with a different integer associated with a different type of error or unavailability. In particular, communication with the machine 30 is possible in this situation.

[0182] The tool 20 may be able to determine an error in its operation, for example by recording measurement data from a sensor that the tool 20 includes, as well as by analyzing this data, for example by comparing it to normal operating thresholds of the tool 20.

[0183] The process 100 thus includes step 120 of interrupting the agricultural crop treatment operation which is executed when, following a step 115, the machine 30 receives information that the tool 20 has an error in its operation, as illustrated in [Fig.8].

[0184] The system 10 is configured to resume the crop processing operation when the machine 30 receives a data packet from the tool 20, following a step 115, in which the error code data in the operation of the tool does not includes further indication that there is an error in the operation of the tool.

[0185] This corresponds for example to a situation in which the malfunction of tool 20 is lifted, for example spontaneously, or following the intervention of an operator.

[0186] The process 100 thus includes step 125 of resuming the agricultural crop treatment operation, which may in particular include resuming the advancement of the machine 30, as well as possibly activating the tool 20, including then transmitting a tool activation data from the machine 30 to the tool 20, following a step 115 in which the error code data in the operation of the tool no longer includes an indication that there is an error in the operation of the tool.

[0187] In addition, the system 10 can be configured to interrupt the crop processing operation when the request data to interrupt a crop processing operation, preferably transmitted with the data packet, includes a request to interrupt the ongoing crop processing operation.

[0188] This corresponds in particular to a situation in which an automatic maintenance operation is performed by the vehicle 30, for example, clearing a blockage in the tool 20. It may also be a situation of insufficient GPS data reception, resulting in an interruption of the ongoing mission. It may also be an interruption for adjustments, initiated by a user. The tool 20 is not necessarily malfunctioning in this case.

[0189] The process 100 thus includes step 120 of interrupting the agricultural crop treatment operation which is executed when, following a step 115, the machine 30 receives information that the tool 20 requests an interruption of the crop treatment operation, as illustrated in [Fig.9].

[0190] Here too, the system 10 is configured to resume the crop processing operation when the machine 30 receives a data packet from the tool 20, following a step 115, in which the interrupt request data for a crop processing operation no longer includes a request to interrupt the ongoing crop processing operation.

[0191] This corresponds for example to a situation in which the automatic maintenance operation is completed, and / or GPS data is received again, and / or the interruption for settings initiated by a user is completed.

[0192] The process 100 thus includes step 125 of resuming the agricultural crop treatment operation, which may in particular include resuming the advancement of the machine 30, as well as possibly activating the tool 20, thus comprising transmission of tool activation data from machine 30 to tool 20, following a step 115 in which the request data to interrupt a crop treatment operation no longer includes a request to interrupt the ongoing crop treatment operation.

[0193] The system 10 is further configured to perform an emergency stop of the crop processing operation, when the emergency stop request data, preferably transmitted with the data packet, contains an emergency stop request.

[0194] This corresponds for example to a situation in which the tool 20 detects, for example by means of a sensor it includes, that an obstacle, for example an individual or a large object, is located in the immediate environment of the device 30.

[0195] The method 100 thus includes an emergency shutdown step 130 of the machine 30, including in particular switching off the electrical power circuit of the machine 30, as illustrated in [Fig. 10].

[0196] As a result, the tool 20 is no longer supplied with power by the machine 30 via the electrical power connection channel.

[0197] It is specified that the logic electrical circuit of the device 30 can remain energized, in particular to allow the operation of its control module 32 and communication systems.

[0198] The electrical power circuit of the vehicle 30 can then be restarted by means of a reset procedure, for example carried out manually by an operator, and the vehicle 30 thus reset can resume its mission.

[0199] The method 100 may thus include a reset step 135, during which the electrical power circuit of the machine 30 is restarted and the power supply to the tool 20 is restored via the electrical power connection channel. This step may also include the transmission of tool activation data, and optionally prior to that, initialization and pre-operational status data, from the machine 30 to the tool 20 via the electrical data connection channel.

[0200] The system 10 can also be configured to change the forward speed of the vehicle 30 during its mission, at the request of the tool 20.

[0201] This corresponds for example to a situation in which the instantaneous power of the means of advancement must be limited, for example in order to avoid an overpowering of the means of advancement on terrain for example on a slope or presenting difficult surface conditions.

[0202] As illustrated in [Fig. 11], the method 100 thus includes a step 140 of modifying the forward speed of the machine 30 when the request data for modifying the forward speed of the machine, transmitted with the The data packet during step 115 contains a request to modify the speed of the vehicle.

[0203] In particular, the request to change the speed of the vehicle preferably includes a request to reduce the speed of the vehicle, in response to which the vehicle 30 reduces its speed.

[0204] The request to reduce the forward speed of the machine may include a maximum forward speed value that the machine 30 must adopt. This may, for example, be a hexadecimal value.

[0205] For example, the control module 32 of the machine 30 processes the request to change the forward speed, and commands a reduction in the engine speed of the forward means.

[0206] In particular, the vehicle 30 can be configured to resume a default or predetermined forward speed in a mission profile, during a step 145 of the process, provided that the request data for changing the forward speed transmitted during a step 115 no longer includes a request for changing the forward speed.

[0207] Furthermore, as illustrated in [Fig.12], when the tool 20 has an electronic safety loop as described above, the process 100 can include a step 150 of determination by the device 30 of the service state of the tool 20 between a so-called normal service state and a so-called abnormal service state.

[0208] The tool is said to be in a normal service state when the machine detects a return, at the output of the electronic safety loop, of the safety signal sent into the safety loop 95, and is said to be in an abnormal service state when the machine does not detect any return of the safety signal at the output of the electronic safety loop 95.

[0209] The absence of a return of the safety signal at the output of the electronic safety loop means that at least one of the safety devices has opened the electronic safety loop 95, in response to the measurement by a safety sensor of a value exceeding a normal operating threshold.

[0210] For example, this could be a temperature sensor measuring the temperature of the actuator 21, and the safety device determines that the temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature threshold, indicating overheating of the actuator. Alternatively, it could be a current intensity detector measuring the current supplying the actuator 21, and the safety device determines that the current exceeds a predetermined intensity threshold, indicating an overcurrent in the actuator's supply current, which could indicate blockage or overspeeding.

[0211] The process 100 includes a step 155 of interrupting the agricultural crop processing operation, when during step 150 the machine determines that the tool 20 is in an abnormal operating condition.

[0212] The interruption of the agricultural crop treatment operation may include, in particular, stopping the advancement of the machine 30, as well as possibly the inactivation of the tool 20, including the transmission of a deactivation data for the tool from the machine 30 to the tool 20.

[0213] As soon as the device 30 detects again a return of the safety signal at the output of the electronic safety loop 95, this means that the tool 20 is in a normal operating state, and the device 30 can resume the crop treatment operation.

[0214] When the crop treatment operation is completed, whether it is the treatment of all or part of a crop plot or even a single row of crops, the system 10 is configured to deactivate the tool 20.

[0215] The method 100 includes a tool deactivation step 160, comprising the transmission from the machine 30 to the tool 20 of a tool deactivation command data, via the electrical data connection channel.

[0216] The tool 20 then remains energized, via the power electrical connection channel, but is not operational. The tool 20 may, for example, be in a pre-operational state, in which it is ready to process a subsequent row of agricultural crops.

[0217] When the crop treatment mission is completed, for example when an entire crop plot has been treated, the electrical power circuit of the machine 30 is switched off.

[0218] The method 100 then includes a step 170 comprising cutting off the power supply to the tool 20, and in particular to its actuator 21, which is no longer being powered by the machine 30, and comprising the transmission of a power-off data for the tool from the machine 30 to the tool 20, leading for example the main switch 90 to open and cut off the power supply to the actuator 21.

[0219] The logic electrical circuit of the machine 30, and of the tool 20, may however remain energized, in particular to allow the start of a subsequent crop treatment mission.

[0220] In addition, during a crop treatment mission, the machine 30 is configured to transmit working data to the tool 20, via the electrical data connection channel.

[0221] The work data include in particular a data on the speed of the machine, and / or a data on the distance travelled by the machine, and / or a data on the location of the machine.

[0222] For example, in response to receiving the forward speed data from the machine, the tool 20 adapts its working behavior. For example, when the tool 20 is a sprayer or a seed drill, the tool 20 adapts the flow rate of liquid or seed to be distributed according to the forward speed of the machine 30.

[0223] For example, in response to receiving the data on the distance traveled by the machine, the tool 20 can estimate its remaining autonomy, in particular an autonomy in liquid or in seeding when the tool 20 is a sprayer or a seeder.

[0224] For example, in response to receiving the machine's location data, the tool 20 can perform a crop treatment specific to the machine's location. For example, when the tool 20 is a sprayer or a weeding tool, the tool 20 can perform localized precision spraying or precision weeding.

[0225] In accordance with the preceding description, the connector 40 allows the establishment of a communication protocol between the tool 20 and the machine 30 in the system 10.

[0226] In particular, the periodic transmission of the data packet, comprising a minimum number of required data as well as optional data, allows the system to monitor the proper execution of the crop treatment operation, and where appropriate to take measures aimed at at least interrupting the operation, or even stopping it completely.

[0227] In general, it is recalled that the invention relates to a system comprising an agricultural machine and an agricultural crop treatment tool mounted on the machine, and comprising a male-female type connector having a first part attached to said tool and a second part attached to said machine, configured to be coupled to each other electrically and mechanically.

[0228] The invention relates respectively to an agricultural crop processing tool and an agricultural machine which are configured to equip such a system.

[0229] In other words, the invention relates to a crop treatment tool configured to be connected to an agricultural machine via a male-female connector having a first part and a second part configured to be electrically and mechanically coupled to each other, the tool comprising said first part of the connector and said second part of the connector being presented on the machine, and said first part of the connector comprising: - a first power connection device, of the plug-and-socket type, configured to be connected to a second power connection device, of the plug-and-socket type, presented on the second part of the connector, to form a power electrical connection channel, and - a first data connection element, of the plug-and-socket type, configured to be connected to a second data connection element, of the plug-and-socket type, presented on the second part of the connector, to form an electrical data connection channel.

[0230] The tool is configured to draw power from said machine via the power electrical connection channel, and to transmit, respectively receive, at least one data to the machine, respectively from the machine, via the data electrical connection channel.

[0231] The invention also relates to an agricultural machine configured to be connected to a crop treatment tool via a male-female connector having a first part and a second part configured to be electrically and mechanically coupled to each other, the machine comprising said second part of the connector and said first part of the connector being presented on the tool, said second part of the connector comprising: - a second power connection element, of the plug-and-socket type, configured to be connected to a first power connection element, of the plug-and-socket type, presented on the first part of the connector, to form a power electrical connection channel, and - a second data connection element, of the plug-and-socket type, configured to be connected to a first data connection element, of the plug-and-socket type, presented on the first part of the connector, to form an electrical data connection channel.

[0232] The device is configured to supply power to said tool via the power electrical connection channel, and to transmit, respectively receive, at least one data to the tool, respectively from the tool, via the data electrical connection channel.

[0233] The invention also relates to a method for treating agricultural crops as described above, implemented by a system comprising an agricultural machine and an agricultural crop treatment tool mounted on the machine, and comprising a male-female type connector having a first part attached to said tool and a second part attached to said machine, configured to be coupled to each other electrically and mechanically, to establish an electrical power connection channel and an electrical data connection channel.

[0234] The invention also relates to such a generic system, comprising an agricultural machine and a crop treatment tool mounted on the machine, and comprising a male-female type connector having a first part attached to said tool and a second part subjected to said machine, configured to be coupled to each other electrically and mechanically, to establish an electrical power connection channel and an electrical data connection channel, configured to implement the agricultural crop processing method as described above.

[0235] It is more generally recalled that the invention is not limited to the examples described and represented.

Claims

Demands

1. System (10) comprising an agricultural machine (30) and an agricultural crop treatment tool (20) mounted on the machine (30), and comprising a male-female type connector (40) having a first part (50) attached to said tool (20) and a second part (70) attached to said machine (30), configured to be coupled to each other electrically and mechanically; the first part (50) of the connector (40) comprising a first power connection member (51), of the plug-socket type, and the second part (70) of the connector (40) comprising a second power connection member (71), of the plug-socket type, the first power connection member (51) and the second power connection member (71) being configured to be connected to each other to form an electrical power connection channel;and the first part (50) of the connector (40) comprising a first data connection element (52), of the plug-and-socket type, and the second part (70) of the connector (40) comprising a second data connection element (72), of the plug-and-socket type, the first data connection element (52) and the second data connection element (72) being configured to be connected to each other to form an electrical data connection channel; and the machine (30) being configured to supply power to said tool (20) via the electrical power connection channel, and to transmit, respectively receive, at least one data to the tool, respectively from the tool, via the electrical data connection channel;and the tool (20) being configured to draw power from said device (30) via the power electrical connection channel, and to transmit, respectively receive, at least one data point to the device, respectively from the device, via the data electrical connection channel.

2. System (10) according to claim 1, wherein at least one data transmitted by the device (30) and received by the tool (20) is at least one of the following: a tool activation / deactivation command data, a command data for putting into operation tool voltage / off, machine active / inactive status information, machine forward speed data, machine distance data, and machine location data.

3. System (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one data transmitted by the tool (20) and received by the machine (30) is at least one of the following: active / inactive status data of the tool, power supply status data of the tool, error code data in the operation of the tool, request data for interruption of a crop treatment operation, request data for emergency stop of the machine, and request data for modification, preferably reduction, of a forward speed of the machine.

4. System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said tool (20) comprises an electronic safety loop (95) connected to the machine (30) via the second electrical connection channel, said electronic safety loop (95) comprising at least one safety device (96), and preferably two safety devices, configured to open or close the safety loop according to a so-called normal or abnormal operating state of the tool, and the machine (30) being configured to emit a safety signal in said electronic safety loop (95), by means of which the machine can determine whether the tool is in a normal or abnormal operating state based on the return or non-return of said safety signal at the output of said electronic safety loop (95).

5. Agricultural crop processing tool (20) configured to equip a system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises said first part (50) of the connector (40), configured to be connected to said second part (70) of the connector (40) presented on the machine (30).

6. Tool (20) according to claim 5, comprising at least one motorized actuator (21) configured to be powered by a continuous electric current from the engine (30) via the power electrical connection channel, and comprising a master switch (90) configured to electronically connect or disconnect the actuator (21) from the power electrical connection channel, and to be controlled via a actuator control data, transmitted by the machine (30) to the tool (20) via the electrical data connection channel, and the tool (20) further includes a diagnostic element (91) of the main switch, configured to transmit a status data of the main switch to the machine (30).

7. Agricultural machine (30) configured to equip a system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises said second part (70) of the connector (40), configured to be connected to said first part (50) of the connector (40) presented on the tool (20).

8. Machine (30) according to claim 7, the machine being an autonomous agricultural machine configured for autonomous navigation in a plot of agricultural crops as well as for autonomous processing of agricultural crops in said plot.

9. Method (100) of processing agricultural crops implemented by a system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising, during an operation of processing agricultural crops: - the transmission from the tool (20) to the machine (30) via the electrical data connection channel, at predetermined time intervals, of a data packet representative of an operating state of the tool, including at least one error code data in the operation of the tool, and preferably at least active / inactive status data of the tool and electrical power supply status of the tool;the process (100) comprising the interruption of said agricultural crop processing operation, when: - said transmission from the tool (20) to the machine (30) is interrupted for a predetermined duration greater than the duration of at least said predetermined time intervals, preferably greater than five predetermined time intervals, and / or - the error code data in the operation of the tool indicates an error in the operation of the tool.

10. A method (100) according to claim 9, wherein said transmission from the tool (20) to the machine (30) further comprises the transmission of a request data to interrupt a crop treatment operation; and the method (100) comprises the interruption of said agricultural crop processing operation when the interruption request data contains a request to interrupt the ongoing crop processing operation.

11. A method (100) according to any one of claims 9 or 10, wherein said transmission from the tool (20) to the machine (30) further comprises the transmission of an emergency stop request data for the machine, and the method (100) comprises the de-energizing of an electrical power circuit of the machine (30) when the emergency stop request data contains an emergency stop request.

12. A method (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein said transmission from the tool (20) to the machine (30) further comprises the transmission of a request data for a change in the speed of the machine, and the method (100) comprises the change, preferably the reduction, of the speed of the machine when the change request data, preferably for a reduction, contains a request for a change, preferably a reduction, of the speed of the machine.

13. A method (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 12, comprising, when energizing an electrical power circuit of the machine (30), respectively when de-energizing the electrical power circuit of the machine (30): - supplying power to the tool (20) by the machine (30), respectively cutting off the power supply to the tool (20) by the machine (30), via the electrical power connection channel; and - transmitting from the machine (30) to the tool (20) a tool energization data, respectively a tool de-energization data, via the electrical data connection channel.

14. A method (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 13, comprising, at the start of a crop treatment operation, or at the completion of a crop treatment operation: - the transmission from the machine (30) to the tool (20) of a command to activate the tool, or to deactivate it. of the tool, via the electrical data connection channel.

15. A method (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 14, implemented by a system (10) according to claim 4, further comprising: - the determination by the machine (30) of the service state of the tool (20), the tool being said to be in a normal, or abnormal, service state when the machine (30) detects a return, or a non-return, of said safety signal at the output of the electronic safety loop (95), and - the interruption of the agricultural crop treatment operation when the machine (30) determines that the tool (20) is in an abnormal service state.

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