Dispensation Control Using Engine Speed Anticipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Material application systems, such as sprayers, experience lag between the observed velocity of the vehicle and the actual dispensation of agricultural inputs, leading to less accurate distribution on the field.
Innovation Solution
An engine speed sensor and ground speed sensor provide data to a data processor, which controls the dispensation system to anticipate changes in ground speed, reducing lag by adjusting the dispensation rate of agricultural inputs in real-time based on engine speed and ground speed data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If controlled rate dispensing is used to compensate for vehicle velocity, then dispensing accuracy is improved, but time lag between observed velocity and actual dispensation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by using engine speed data to anticipate future ground speed changes before they are actually observed. The controller adjusts the dispensation rate in advance based on predicted velocity changes, eliminating the time lag between observing velocity and adjusting dispensing. This proactive approach maintains dispensing accuracy while removing the delayed response inherent in reactive systems.
2Loss of time
If engine speed data is used to anticipate ground speed changes, then time lag is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses engine speed data as an intermediary parameter to predict ground speed changes. Instead of directly measuring and reacting to ground speed, the controller uses engine speed as a leading indicator that correlates with future vehicle velocity. This intermediary approach reduces time lag while adding minimal complexity, as engine speed sensors are already present in most vehicles and the computational burden is straightforward.
Data Source
AI summary
An engine speed sensor determines engine speed data of an internal combustion engine for moving a material distribution vehicle. A ground speed sensor measures a ground speed of the material distribution vehicle. A data processor for controlling a dispensation system to distribute an agricultural input or material at a rate based on the measured ground speed and the engine speed data (e.g., sensed engine speed or change in engine speed) to anticipate a change in the ground speed of the material dispensation vehicle such that a lag in the rate of agricultural input delivered is reduced.