Adaptive Scraper Cleaning Schedules for Variable Manure Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manure removal systems in livestock areas face inefficiencies due to fixed cleaning schedules that do not account for varying manure accumulation, leading to excessive power consumption, equipment wear, and animal stress, while also requiring significant user intervention.
Innovation Solution
A method and control arrangement that adjust the cleaning schedule of a scraper arrangement based on monitored load quantities, optimizing cleaning sessions by increasing frequency during high manure periods and reducing frequency during low manure periods, using machine learning to predict manure accumulation patterns and set cleaning times accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed time schedule is used for cleaning sessions, then the cleaning operation is simple to manage, but the power consumption increases and equipment wear out earlier due to cleaning too frequently when manure accumulation is low
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning schedule transitions from a fixed static timetable to a dynamic schedule that automatically adjusts cleaning frequency based on real-time manure accumulation measurements. The system adapts the timing and frequency of cleaning sessions according to actual conditions, performing cleanings more frequently when manure buildup is high and reducing frequency when accumulation is low, thereby optimizing power consumption while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where sensors continuously monitor manure accumulation levels in the alley, and this information is fed back to the control system to automatically adjust the cleaning schedule. The feedback loop enables the system to respond to changing conditions and optimize cleaning operations based on actual manure levels rather than following a predetermined fixed schedule.
2Reliability
If cleaning sessions are performed too frequently, then the livestock area remains clean, but the equipment wear out earlier and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically determines cleaning intervals based on actual manure accumulation rates rather than using fixed periodic schedules. By adapting the cleaning frequency to match the actual need, the system maintains livestock area cleanliness while avoiding unnecessary cleaning operations that would accelerate equipment wear and increase operational costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the cleaning system by adjusting cleaning frequency and timing based on monitored manure accumulation levels. When accumulation is below a threshold, cleaning is deferred; when it exceeds the threshold, cleaning is triggered. This parameter adaptation optimizes the balance between maintaining cleanliness and preserving equipment life.
3Use of energy by moving object
If cleaning sessions are performed too rarely, then power consumption is reduced, but the livestock environment deteriorates causing hoof problems and veterinary costs
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback mechanism continuously monitors manure accumulation levels and compares them against thresholds that indicate when cleaning is necessary to maintain animal health. When manure accumulation reaches levels that could cause hoof problems or contamination, the system automatically triggers a cleaning session, ensuring animal welfare is maintained while avoiding unnecessary cleanings that would waste energy.
4Device complexity
If a fixed cleaning schedule is used, then the operation is simple to control, but user intervention is required to optimize the schedule and adjust to changes in livestock area conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically monitoring manure accumulation, analyzing the data, and adjusting the cleaning schedule without requiring user intervention. The control system autonomously adapts to changes in livestock area conditions, such as variations in animal numbers or manure production rates, by using sensor feedback to optimize cleaning operations automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The feedback loop enables automatic optimization of the cleaning schedule by continuously monitoring manure accumulation and adjusting cleaning timing and frequency accordingly. This eliminates the need for users to manually optimize schedules or respond to changes in livestock area conditions, as the system automatically adapts based on real-time sensor data.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for adjusting a cleaning schedule for cleaning sessions of a scraper arrangement (1) arranged for removing manure in a livestock area. One cleaning session comprises one cleaning along a predefined path in the livestock area. The method comprises monitoring (S2), while performing cleaning sessions in accordance with the cleaning schedule, a load quantity representing an amount of material moved by the scraper arrangement (1). The method also comprises adjusting (S5) the cleaning schedule, based on a variation in the monitored load quantity among the monitored cleaning sessions. The disclosure also relates to a control arrangement (10).