Corn Header Shelled Ear Detection for Header Height Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Corn kernels are often lost during agricultural harvest due to threshing or shelling off the ears by the stalk rolls, which is difficult to detect and correct from the harvester's cab, leading to unwanted header loss.
Innovation Solution
A system with sensing members on the corn header to detect shelled ear events, emitting alarms when threshold conditions are met, and adjusting the header height to prevent yield loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensing members are added to detect shelled ear events, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is divided into multiple sensing members distributed across different row units, with each sensing member independently detecting shelled ear events at its location. This segmentation allows comprehensive coverage while keeping individual sensor units simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing members are designed to perform multiple functions: detecting shelled ear events, determining stalk size, and triggering alarms. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection systems and integrates monitoring capabilities into existing header components.
2Productivity
If real-time detection and alarm systems are implemented, then productivity is improved through yield loss prevention, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors shelled ear events and provides immediate feedback through alarms when threshold conditions are met. This real-time feedback loop enables operators to adjust header height promptly, preventing further yield loss and improving overall productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system detects shelled ear events before significant yield loss occurs and triggers alarms in advance, allowing operators to take corrective action by adjusting header height. This preliminary detection and warning system prevents the problem from escalating into major productivity losses.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensing members are deployed across row units, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing approach divides the header into modular row unit sections, each equipped with its own sensing member. This segmentation allows for standardized production of individual row units that can be assembled in a systematic manner, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the increased number of components.
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
Minimizes yield loss by detecting and correcting improper header height in real-time, ensuring optimal harvesting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a sensing member disposed on the row unit below the pair of stripper plates, the at least one sensing member configured to measure one or more harvest metrics
Implementation Method 2
comparing the header height to a determined optimal header height
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling header height comprising generating a signal as an object passes through a row unit; establishing a signal threshold, wherein when the signal threshold is exceeded a shelled ear event is detected; comparing the signal to the signal threshold; and emitting an alarm with the signal exceeds the signal threshold.