Work Machine Control Zones With Real-Time Parameter Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for controlling work machines, such as agricultural harvesters, rely on pre-generated predictive maps that may not adapt effectively to changing conditions during operation, leading to suboptimal performance.
Innovation Solution
The system dynamically modifies control zones based on real-time changes by creating new parameter records for harvested and unharvested areas, allowing for adjustments to machine settings to optimize performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pre-generated predictive maps are used to control work machines, then initial control parameters are established, but the system cannot adapt to changing conditions during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control zones that are continuously updated during machine operation. Control zones are not static but evolve as the machine progresses through the field, with boundaries and parameters being modified in real-time based on current operating conditions, thereby achieving adaptability without requiring complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where machine performance data and sensor information are continuously fed back to the control system. This feedback loop enables automatic adjustment of control zone parameters and boundaries, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through automated decision-making algorithms
2Manufacturing precision
If control zones are modified in real-time based on harvested areas, then control precision is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The field is divided into discrete control zones that can be independently managed and modified. As the machine harvests areas, completed zones are segmented from active zones, allowing precise control over harvested versus unharvested areas while simplifying the overall management structure through clear spatial segmentation
Solution Approach 2:
Control zones are pre-defined with initial parameters before operation begins. This preliminary setup provides a structured framework that guides real-time modifications, ensuring that zone adjustments during operation follow predetermined rules and boundaries, thereby maintaining precision while controlling complexity through advance planning
3Productivity
If machine settings are adjusted dynamically, then operational efficiency is improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically modifies control parameters such as speed, header height, and other machine settings based on real-time conditions and zone characteristics. These parameter changes are automatically applied by the control system, improving operational efficiency while managing complexity through automated parameter adjustment rather than manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed to manage multiple parameters and functions through a unified control architecture. This multi-functional system handles zone management, parameter adjustment, and machine control collectively, reducing overall system complexity by consolidating control functions rather than requiring separate systems for each parameter
Data Source
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AI summary
Control zones are dynamically identified on a thematic map and work machine actuator settings are dynamically identified for each control zone. A position of the work machine is sensed and actuators on the work machine are controlled based on the control zones that the work machine is in and based upon the settings corresponding to the control zone. When modification criteria are met, an actuator setting in a control zone can be modified, during operation. The control zone is then divided on a near real-time display into a harvested portion of the control zone, and a new control zone that has yet to be harvested, and that has the modified actuator setting value. A record is then generated and stored, for the harvested control zone, and for the new control zone.