Autonomous Power Unit With Shiftable Battery for Multi-Implement Farming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard agricultural operations require an operator to control tractors and implements, limiting efficiency and the ability to perform multiple operations autonomously with a universal machine that can couple with various implements and communicate power effectively.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous agricultural system comprising a mobile power unit with a shiftable power supply and drive mechanisms, capable of transporting and powering interchangeable implements, including a monitoring system for load measurement and communication with sensors for autonomous operation and efficient traction and soil management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single mobile power unit is designed to couple with multiple different implements, then the adaptability and versatility of the system is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for universal coupling mechanisms and power distribution systems
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile power unit is designed with a universal coupling system that can interface with multiple different implement types. This includes standardized mechanical coupling mechanisms, electrical power distribution systems, and control interfaces that work across various implement configurations, allowing one power unit to perform multiple agricultural operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is divided into modular components including separate mechanical attachment mechanisms, electrical power connections, and control signal interfaces. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system versatility and simplifying the integration of different implement types.
2Productivity
If the power supply position is made shiftable in multiple dimensions, then the ability to optimize traction and minimize soil compaction is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply position is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The system includes positioning mechanisms that allow the power supply to be shifted in multiple dimensions to optimize weight distribution, traction, and minimize soil compaction during different operational conditions. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to adapt to varying field conditions and implement configurations.
3Productivity
If autonomous operation is implemented without an operator, then the productivity and efficiency of agricultural operations is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for monitoring systems and automated control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous agricultural system incorporates monitoring systems that continuously collect data from sensors and provide feedback to the control mechanisms. This feedback loop enables automated adjustment of operational parameters, navigation, and implement control without operator intervention. The system processes sensor data to make real-time decisions about positioning, power distribution, and operational settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to autonomously perform agricultural operations without requiring external operator control. The mobile power unit independently navigates the field, manages power distribution to implements, monitors operational parameters, and adjusts settings based on sensor feedback, effectively serving itself throughout the agricultural operation.
4Productivity
If power is distributed from the mobile power unit to the implement, then the operating efficiency and coordination between power unit and implement is improved, but the device complexity increases due to power transmission systems
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system integrates multiple functions into a unified system that combines mechanical power transmission, electrical power delivery, and control signal routing through the coupling mechanism. This merging of power transmission pathways reduces the number of separate systems needed while maintaining efficient power and control coordination between the mobile power unit and the implement.
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous agricultural system comprising a mobile power unit including a frame and a power supply. A position of the power supply is shiftable with respect to the frame of the mobile power unit. The autonomous agricultural system additionally includes an implement releasably secured to the mobile power unit. The mobile power unit is configured to transport the implement. The mobile power unit is further configured to provide power from the power supply to the implement.