Automatic Steering System for Agricultural Implement Maneuverability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large agricultural planters face challenges in transportation and maneuverability due to their size, and existing automated tractors do not provide adequate control over the planting path, leading to inefficient planting operations and potential coverage issues.
Innovation Solution
An assembly that includes a positioning system and hydraulic steering and lift cylinders to automatically adjust the height and steer the agricultural implement, allowing for precise control and alignment with the planting path, reducing the need for manual operation and improving maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the hitch is extended and wing assemblies are folded into the transport position, then the planter width is suitable for transport, but the planter length is increased appreciably, which exacerbates the process of maneuvering the planter through turns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the wheel support member movable relative to the frame through a lift mechanism. The wheel support member can be positioned in different locations along the frame, allowing the planter to dynamically adjust its configuration. This enables the planter to achieve a compact length for transport while maintaining the ability to maneuver through turns, resolving the contradiction between transport suitability and maneuverability.
2Ease of operation
If manually controlled tractors are used for long periods, then operators can control the planting path, but operator fatigue increases and proper planting coverage cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using a positioning system (such as GPS) to continuously monitor the planter's location and automatically adjust the wheel support member position and steering. This closed-loop control ensures proper planting coverage without requiring constant manual intervention, thereby maintaining productivity while eliminating operator fatigue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical steering system with an automated positioning and control system. The mechanical steering is supplemented by electronic positioning signals and automated wheel support member adjustment mechanisms, reducing the need for continuous manual operation while maintaining precise planting path control.
3Device complexity
If the wheel support member is fixed on the frame, then the structure is simple, but the planter cannot be positioned at different locations for optimal planting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the fixed wheel support member into a movable component that can be dynamically positioned along the frame. This dynamic positioning capability allows the planter to adapt to different field conditions and optimize planting positions without requiring a completely complex reconfigurable structure, thus balancing simplicity with versatility.
4Ease of operation
If the planter is manually steered for extended periods, then the operator can adjust to field conditions, but the turning radius becomes difficult to manage in tight spots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual steering with an automated positioning system that can precisely control the planter's orientation and movement. This electronic control system can manage tight turns and navigate tight spots more effectively than manual steering, while still allowing the operator to adapt to field conditions through the automated system's programmable capabilities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables efficient and precise planting operations, reducing operator fatigue and ensuring complete field coverage while minimizing the turning radius and handling of large planters, even in tight spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a steering cylinder connected to the first ground-engaging wheel to steer the first ground-engaging wheel
Implementation Method 2
a positioning system for receiving a positioning signal from a positioning source and for determining a current position of the agricultural implement from the positioning signal
Implementation Method 3
a first lift cylinder connected between the frame and the wheel support member and controllable to adjust the height of the frame above the ground
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for facilitating steering of an agricultural implement linkable to a work vehicle is disclosed. The assembly comprises at least a first ground-engaging wheel to engage a ground surface below a frame of the agricultural implement to support the frame above the ground surface. The assembly further comprises a positioning system for receiving a positioning signal from a positioning source. The positioning system determines a current position of the agricultural implement from at least the positioning signal, and the positioning system generates a control signal derived from the current position of the agricultural implement. The assembly further comprises a steering cylinder connected to the first ground-engaging wheel. The steering cylinder operatively connects to the positioning system to steer the first ground-engaging wheel based on the control signal.