Centrifugal Spreader Sensor Overlap Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the distribution characteristics of centrifugal spreaders, particularly the mean throwing angle, are inaccurate in the overlapping area between spreading discs, leading to deviations in measurement results due to the overlapping of material particles from both discs.
Innovation Solution
A method that accounts for the overlapping area between the spreading fans of two centrifugal discs by using multiple sensors to detect the spreading behavior of each disc, assuming symmetrical distribution, and incorporating correction variables for terrain and wind influences to adjust the setting parameters for precise distribution characteristics, including the mean throwing angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If sensors are used to detect the mass distribution of spreading material across the entire spreading area, then measurement coverage is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates in the overlapping area between spreading discs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection task into separate segments by assigning different sensor devices to detect spreading material from different centrifugal discs. The first sensor device detects material from the first disc, the second sensor device detects material from the second disc, and a third sensor device detects material in the overlapping area. This segmentation allows precise identification of which disc's material is being detected where, resolving the measurement precision problem in overlapping areas while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
2Area of stationary object
If many sensors are arranged to ensure coverage of the entire scattering area, then area coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the sensor devices multi-functional by enabling them to serve different purposes depending on their detection results. The first and second sensor devices not only detect their respective disc's material but also provide data for determining the distribution characteristics in the overlapping area when combined with the third sensor device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated sensors in the overlapping region, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
3Device complexity
If the distribution characteristics are measured using sensors for one disc only assuming symmetrical distribution, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to overlapping material from the other disc
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry in the sensor configuration by adding a third sensor device specifically positioned to detect spreading material in the overlapping area between the two discs. This asymmetric addition to the otherwise symmetric two-disc system allows the measurement system to account for the asymmetric interference caused by overlapping material, thereby improving measurement precision without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
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
This approach allows for improved precision in determining the distribution characteristics, particularly the mean throwing angle, by directly measuring the effects of each disc's spreading behavior and adjusting parameters to minimize errors and oscillations in the spread pattern.
Implementation Method 1
at least one velocity component parallel to the line of sight is inferred from the Doppler signal of the measuring signal determined by at least one sensor
Implementation Method 2
The spreading material is accelerated in the radial direction by the centrifugal forces that occur by means of the throwing blades arranged on the rotating centrifugal disc
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for determining and/or adjusting the mean discharge angle and/or the spatial mass distribution of the particles of a spreading material, discharged from a distribution machine (1), by means of electromagnetic or acoustic sensors (9) wherein the determination and/or adjustment of the mean discharge angle (AWWr) of the spreading material of at least one of the centrifugal discs (2, 3) is carried out taking into account the overlap area of the spreading fan with the spreading fan of the other centrifugal disc.