Autonomous Power Unit With Shiftable Supply 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 universal mobile power unit is used to operate multiple implements, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for interchangeable 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 through a single standardized interface. The power distribution system automatically recognizes and configures power delivery to different implements, allowing one power unit to perform multiple agricultural operations without requiring separate dedicated machines for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the power unit from the implements, allowing them to be independently designed and optimized. The coupling mechanism acts as a modular interface that connects these segments, enabling the power unit to work with various implements while maintaining a relatively simple core design. Each implement can be independently attached or detached as needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the power supply position is made shiftable in multiple dimensions, then adaptability for different implement configurations is improved, but device complexity and mechanical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply is mounted on a shiftable platform that can dynamically adjust its position in multiple dimensions (longitudinally, laterally, and vertically) based on the specific implement configuration and operational requirements. This dynamic positioning capability allows the power distribution system to optimize power delivery angles and distances for different implement types while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
3Productivity
If autonomous operation is implemented without an operator, then productivity and efficiency are improved, but measurement precision and control accuracy become more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous system incorporates multiple sensors (GPS, load cells, soil sensors) that continuously monitor system state and environmental conditions. This feedback is processed by a control system that automatically adjusts operational parameters to maintain precision, enabling autonomous operation with high measurement accuracy through continuous monitoring and real-time correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with electronic and optical sensing systems. Load measurement is performed using load cells that convert mechanical force to electrical signals, and positioning is achieved through GPS and inertial sensors rather than manual operation, enabling precise autonomous control without human intervention.
4Productivity
If load monitoring is implemented on drive mechanisms, then productivity and operational optimization are improved, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and monitoring systems
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system uses load cells integrated into the coupling mechanism and drive mechanism components that automatically measure and report load conditions. The system self-monitors its own operational parameters without requiring external intervention, providing real-time data on traction requirements, implement load, and power consumption to optimize performance automatically.
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.