3D Cross Member Mapping for Accurate Vehicle Unloading Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of agricultural and construction vehicles face challenges in maintaining efficient harvesting and unloading operations due to varying soil and crop conditions, and in accurately positioning receiving vehicles during unloading, especially when cross members or fixtures are present, leading to material spillage and damage.
Innovation Solution
A system that generates a three-dimensional grid map to locate cross members on receiving vehicles, tracks their position during unloading, and uses this information to control the unloading operation, avoiding cross members and ensuring an even fill without relying on real-time image processing in dusty or obstructed environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator controls the position of the unloading spout and flap manually, then the unloading operation can be performed, but the operator's attention is diverted from harvesting control and material may be spilled due to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic control of the unloading spout and flap based on detected cross member positions and fill levels. The harvester automatically adjusts the spout angle and flap position without operator intervention, allowing the operator to focus entirely on harvesting control while maintaining proper unloading alignment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated system using sensors, processors, and actuators. The system detects cross member positions using optical or radar sensors, processes this information through a controller, and automatically adjusts the spout and flap positions, substituting the operator's manual mechanical control with an automated control system
2Measurement precision
If real-time image processing is used to detect cross members, then location accuracy may be improved, but the system fails in dusty or obstructed environments
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the detection parameter from optical image processing to alternative sensing methods such as radar, lidar, or ultrasonic sensors that are not affected by dust or visual obstructions. This allows continuous reliable detection of cross member positions and fill levels even in challenging agricultural environments where dust and debris are present
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection system that does not rely on direct visual imaging. Instead of using cameras that require clear line of sight, the system uses radar or other non-optical sensors that can penetrate dust and obstructions to detect cross member positions and material fill levels, serving as an intermediary between the unloading system and the environment
3Manufacturing precision
If the operator monitors fill level continuously, then fill accuracy can be maintained, but the operator workload increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically monitors fill level using sensors positioned in the receiving vehicle and communicates this information to the harvester's control system. The system self-regulates the unloading process by automatically adjusting spout position and flap angle based on detected fill levels, eliminating the need for continuous operator monitoring while maintaining accurate fill control
Data Source
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AI summary
A three dimensional grid map is generated to locate a cross member on a receiving vehicle which is coupled to a following vehicle. The location of the cross member is tracked during an unloading operation so the leading vehicle avoids the cross member when unloading material into the receiving vehicle, and so the fill level is more accurately identified.