Combine Harvester Axial Separator Vane Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current combine harvesters inadequately distribute residual material flow, leading to uneven soil consolidation due to concentrated grain distribution, making subsequent soil cultivation difficult.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a movable vane element in the axial separator, monitored by sensors and controlled by a unit to adjust the distribution of residual material flow between ejection devices, aiming for a uniform distribution on the field by detecting deviations from a predetermined reference distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a movable vane element is used to distribute residual material flow, then the distribution can be adjusted, but the distribution uniformity remains inadequate leading to soil consolidation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where sensors detect the actual distribution of residual material flow and feed this information to a control unit. The control unit compares the actual distribution with a desired distribution and automatically adjusts the vane element position to minimize deviations, thereby achieving uniform distribution across the field.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment of the vane element with an automated control system comprising sensors, a control unit, and actuators. This substitution of mechanical manual operation with an automated sensing-and-control system enables precise and consistent distribution uniformity that cannot be achieved through manual adjustment alone.
2Area of stationary object
If residual material is ejected by multiple ejection devices, then coverage area increases, but uneven distribution still occurs causing striped areas on the field
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback control system monitors the distribution pattern across the entire field coverage area and adjusts the vane element to ensure uniform material placement from all ejection devices, eliminating striped patterns that result from uneven distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves different distribution characteristics at different locations across the field by dynamically adjusting the vane element position based on real-time feedback from sensors positioned at various measuring locations, ensuring each area receives appropriate material distribution.
3Device complexity
If the vane element position is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the distribution cannot be adapted to varying conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static vane element into a dynamic component that can automatically adjust its position in response to varying operating conditions and field requirements. The movable vane element, controlled by the automated system, provides adaptability while maintaining relatively simple structural implementation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit with integrated sensors and actuators serves multiple functions: detecting distribution patterns, comparing with desired patterns, calculating deviations, and executing adjustments. This multi-functional system provides both structural simplicity through integration and high adaptability through automated control.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for the operation of a combine harvester includes processing a harvested material flow by at least one axial separator and ejecting a residual material flow formed in this way from the combine harvester by at least two ejection devices. The axial separator is formed by a movable vane element by means of which the residual material flow exiting from the axial separator is distributed on a work member downstream of the axial separator. In order to further improve the distribution of the residual material flow on the field, an actual distribution of the residual material flow on the two ejection devices is detected, wherein, when a deviation of the actual distribution from a predetermined reference distribution is detected, the vane element is readjusted so that the actual distribution is at least approximated to the reference distribution.