Crop Feeler Pivot Sensing for Precise Machine Row Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural work vehicles lack precise crop row guidance, relying on manual steering or non-linear crop feeler devices that do not provide accurate steering signals for maintaining alignment with crop rows.
Innovation Solution
A crop feeler device with a pivot mechanism, torsion devices, and a rotary sensor that returns the rod to a central position, coupled with a controller to process signals for precise steering, enabling accurate alignment with crop rows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual steering is used, then the operator can control the vehicle, but precise alignment with crop rows cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical steering with an automated electronic control system. A rotary sensor detects the rod's angular position through torsion devices, converts it to an electrical signal, and the controller automatically processes this signal to generate steering commands, eliminating the need for manual steering while achieving precise alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The crop feeler device autonomously performs the steering function by sensing crop row position through rod deflection and automatically converting this mechanical displacement into steering signals without requiring operator intervention, enabling the system to steer itself along the crop rows.
2Measurement precision
If non-linear crop feeler devices are used, then steering assistance is provided, but accurate steering signals are not generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces non-linear mechanical signal transmission with a linear electrical sensing system. The rotary sensor directly converts the rod's angular position into a proportional electrical signal, eliminating the need for complex non-linear signal interpretation algorithms and providing accurate steering signals directly from the mechanical displacement.
3Measurement precision
If automated steering is implemented, then precise crop row alignment is achieved, but crop damage may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where the rotary sensor continuously monitors the rod's angular position as it contacts the crop rows, providing real-time feedback to the controller. This feedback enables the system to make continuous adjustments to maintain precise alignment while following the natural curvature of the crop rows, preventing excessive force application that could cause crop damage.
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
Enables precise and automated steering of agricultural vehicles to minimize crop damage by providing linear and accurate steering signals based on crop proximity, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A pair of torsion devices are positioned colinearly on the pivot device. The torsion devices are configured to return the rod to a central position after a pivot of the pivot device.
Implementation Method 2
The torsion devices are configured to return the rod to a central position after a pivot of the pivot device
Data Source
AI summary
A crop feeler device comprising a rod. A pivot device is coupled to the rod. The pivot device is configured to pivot in two opposing directions. A housing is rotatably coupled to the pivot device. A pair of torsion devices is positioned colinearly on the pivot device. The torsion devices are configured to return the rod to a central position after a pivot of the pivot device. A rotary sensor is positioned to measure a rotation of the pivot device or the rod as the rod moves from the central position.