Baler Tailgate Weighing System with Slope Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural balers lack an integrated system for accurately weighing round bales without the need for separate scales, and existing methods are not precise enough for operators and customers.
Innovation Solution
A weighing system integrated into the baler, featuring load sensors on the tailgate, inclinometers for slope measurement, size sensors, moisture sensors, and shape sensors, which calculate the bale weight by determining reference and load weights and adjusting for slope, size, moisture, and shape to provide accurate bale weight measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate scale is used to weigh round bales, then weight measurement is possible, but the system complexity increases and measurement precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The weighing system is integrated directly into the baler structure by incorporating load sensors into the tailgate pivot connection points. This merging of the weighing function with the existing baler structure eliminates the need for separate external scales while providing accurate weight measurements through direct force sensing at the pivot points where the tailgate connects to the baler frame.
Solution Approach 2:
Load sensors serve as intermediary devices that convert the mechanical force of the bale weight into electrical signals for processing. These sensors are positioned at the tailgate pivot points to indirectly measure bale weight through the force exerted on the pivot connection, providing precise measurements without requiring direct contact with the bale itself.
2Measurement precision
If load sensors are positioned on the tailgate to measure bale weight, then weight measurement is achieved, but measurement precision is affected by slope and bale characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates inclinometers to measure ground slope and uses this feedback information to calculate correction factors applied to the weight measurement. The processing unit receives both the load sensor data and slope data, then adjusts the final weight calculation to compensate for the effects of uneven ground, ensuring accurate measurements across varying operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts measurement parameters based on detected conditions. When slope is detected by the inclinometer, the system changes the calculation parameters to account for the angular deviation. Similarly, the system adapts to different bale characteristics by modifying the measurement and calculation approach based on the specific operating scenario.
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 system eliminates the need for external scales and provides precise bale weight measurements directly to the operator, enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction by accurately determining bale weight, considering various factors like slope and bale characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
The at least first load sensor is positioned on or within the at least the first load pin for measuring a weight force exerted thereon by the tailgate or by the tailgate and the bale supported by the tailgate
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~3D
Figure 3E~4
AI summary
The disclosure relates to weighing a bale formed by a harvester such as a round baler. One or more load sensors located in the tailgate section of the harvester are used to obtain weights when the harvester contains a bale and when the harvester is empty. Other factors, including the slope of the surface on which the harvester is location, the size of the bale, the bale moisture, and the shape of the bale are used to adjust the calculated bale weight.