Baler Pickup Control Using Windrow Detection and Auto Raising
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing baler systems rely on manual operation to raise or lower the pickup, which can lead to inefficiencies and potential damage from debris or missed baling opportunities due to operator distraction.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a sensor, processing element, and pickup pivot mechanism that automatically adjusts the baler pickup position based on windrow detection, using sensors like lidar, radar, or cameras, and a processing element that controls the pickup mechanism with timed adjustments based on ground speed and sensor distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation is used to raise or lower the pickup, then the operator can control the pickup position, but the operator may be distracted and fail to respond timely to windrows or debris
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the pickup to automatically adjust its own position based on sensor detection of windrows and debris. The processor receives sensor signals and automatically generates pickup control signals, eliminating the need for continuous manual operation and reducing operator workload while maintaining reliable control.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical control system is replaced with an automated electro-optical system. Sensors detect windrows and debris, the processor analyzes the sensor data and determines pickup position adjustments, and actuators execute the positioning commands, substituting human judgment and manual mechanical control with automated sensing and actuation.
2Productivity
If the pickup is lowered continuously to ensure windrow capture, then no windrows are missed, but the pickup contacts debris and obstacles more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor detects windrows and debris at a distance before the pickup reaches them. The system processes this advance information and pre-positions the pickup appropriately - lowering it before reaching windrows to ensure capture and raising it before reaching debris to avoid contact. This preliminary detection and action prevents both missed baling opportunities and debris damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor continuously monitors the area in front of the baler and provides real-time feedback to the processor. Based on this feedback about windrow and debris locations, the processor dynamically adjusts pickup position commands, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to actual field conditions rather than using fixed positioning.
3Extent of automation
If automated windrow detection is implemented, then pickup positioning is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and processing
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system and processor are designed to perform multiple functions: detecting windrows, identifying debris, determining their locations and distances, and generating appropriate pickup control commands. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be multiple separate systems into a single integrated automated control system, managing complexity while achieving high automation.
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
Automated control of the baler pickup ensures timely and efficient baling operations, reducing damage and improving bale formation by accurately detecting windrows and adjusting the pickup position.
Implementation Method 1
Determining the presence or absence of the windrow may be performed by a lidar transceiver
Implementation Method 2
Determining the presence or absence of the windrow may be performed by a radar transceiver
Implementation Method 3
Determining the presence or absence of the windrow may be performed by an ultrasonic transceiver
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
AI summary
A system for controlling a position of a pickup (14) on a baler comprises a sensor (22), a processing element, and a pickup pivot mechanism (26). The sensor (22) monitors a ground area, senses a presence or absence of a windrow (18), and outputs a sensor signal with a first level and/or data value indicating the presence of the windrow (18) and a second level and/or data value indicating the absence of the windrow (18). The processing element receives the sensor signal, and outputs a pickup signal with a first level and/or data value when the sensor signal has the first level and/or data value and a second level and/or data value when the sensor signal has the second level and/or data value. The pickup pivot mechanism (26) receives the pickup signal, lowers the pickup (14) when the pickup signal has the first value, and raises the pickup (14) when the pickup signal has the second value.