Combine Performance Evaluation Tool Using Sensor Data Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of combine harvesters face challenges in accurately quantifying the effects of operational changes due to the subjective and time-consuming nature of monitoring performance, as existing systems provide only real-time data that requires manual interpretation and lacks historical context.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize sensors connected to a processing device to collect and analyze data on combine performance, allowing for the comparison of loss-curves over time, enabling operators to make informed decisions about adjustments to operational parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If real-time monitoring indicators are used to track combine performance, then operators can see current performance data, but the data requires manual interpretation and mental averaging which is subjective and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual interpretation of real-time indicators with an automated computer-based system that collects, stores, and analyzes performance data. The system automatically generates graphical representations of performance changes, eliminating the need for operators to mentally average and interpret fluctuating real-time readings, thereby improving measurement precision while reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates graphical copies and representations of performance data over time, allowing operators to view historical performance trends rather than interpreting raw real-time indicators. This copying approach transforms complex real-time data into simplified visual formats that are easier to interpret and compare
2Productivity
If operators manually monitor and interpret real-time performance data, then they can make immediate adjustments, but the process is time-consuming and lacks historical context
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary data collection, storage, and analysis automatically in the background, preparing performance evaluations before operators need to review them. By pre-processing the data and generating graphical representations in advance, the system eliminates the time operators would spend manually collecting and interpreting data, thereby improving productivity without increasing evaluation time
Solution Approach 2:
The automated computer-based system replaces manual data monitoring and interpretation processes, significantly reducing the time required for performance evaluation. The system automatically compares current performance with historical data and generates actionable insights, freeing operators from time-consuming manual analysis while maintaining or improving optimization efficiency
3Loss of information
If multiple performance parameters are monitored simultaneously, then comprehensive performance data is available, but the operator must mentally track and average many different readings which increases error risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple performance parameters into a single integrated computer-based system that collects, stores, and analyzes all data together. Instead of requiring operators to separately track and mentally average multiple readings, the system consolidates all performance data into unified graphical representations, maintaining complete information while improving evaluation accuracy through automated processing
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates graphical copies of multiple performance parameters that can be viewed simultaneously in a standardized format. This allows operators to review comprehensive performance data without the cognitive burden of tracking and averaging numerous separate readings, as the system presents all information in an integrated visual format that reduces interpretation errors
Data Source
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AI summary
An evaluation tool related to operation of a combine (100) is provided to aid an operator of the combine. A processing device (505) implements the evaluation tool by receiving an input related to an evaluation to be performed from the operator of the combine. The processing device initializes (302) the evaluation to be performed. A plurality of sensors (115, 125) are operably connected to the processing device and collect (303, 306) data related to the operation of the combine during the evaluation. The processing device analyzes the collected data and presents (307) the analyzed data to the operator of the combine. As such, the operator may review the analyzed data and make an informed choice in proceeding with the combine operation, such as changing settings or operating components to affect the combine performance.