Dual Wheel Detection Using Distance Sensors for Rollover Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rollover risk reduction systems for agricultural machines with dual wheels rely on accurate geometry data, which can lead to dangerous situations if the actual effective width of the machine is less than assumed, particularly when outer wheels are removed, as these systems do not automatically detect the presence of dual wheels.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using distance sensors mounted on the machine to determine the presence of outer wheels on a dual wheel axle, providing accurate width data for safety protocols and adjusting maximum steering angles or speeds accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rollover risk reduction systems use fixed geometry data for stability control, then the system is simple to operate, but the reliability deteriorates when outer wheels are removed
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects the presence or absence of outer wheels using distance sensors and self-adjusts the geometry parameters for stability control without requiring manual intervention. The controller compares measured distances against threshold values and autonomously determines wheel configuration, enabling the system to serve itself in maintaining accurate stability control data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual configuration of geometry data with an automated optical detection system using distance sensors. Instead of mechanically or manually setting width parameters, the system uses optical measurements to detect wheel presence and automatically updates the effective width parameter for stability control algorithms.
2Reliability
If distance sensors are added to detect dual wheels, then the reliability of width data improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distance sensors serve multiple functions: they detect the presence or absence of outer wheels, measure the effective width of the machine, and provide data for both stability control and operator information systems. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive measurements from a single sensor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors distance sensor readings and provides feedback to the controller, which automatically adjusts the effective width parameter based on detected wheel configuration. This closed-loop feedback ensures that stability control data remains accurate and up-to-date without manual intervention.
3Reliability
If the system automatically detects dual wheels, then the safety improves by preventing rollover events, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to automated monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs detection and adjustment without requiring operator intervention. The controller self-manages the entire process of detecting wheel presence, determining effective width, and updating stability control parameters, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The distance sensors act as intermediaries between the physical wheel configuration and the control system. They automatically translate physical presence into digital signals that the controller can process, bridging the gap between mechanical configuration and electronic control without requiring operator involvement.
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
Ensures accurate detection of dual wheels, reducing the risk of rollover events by providing reliable width data and enabling adaptive control strategies based on the presence or absence of outer wheels, thereby enhancing safety and stability.
Implementation Method 1
using a distance sensor mounted to the mobile machine to determine whether an outer wheel of the dual wheel axle is present
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Methods and systems for automatically detecting whether an outer wheel of a dual wheel axel is present using a distance sensor (22) are disclosed. A distance sensor (22) is mounted so as to detect a distance between the sensor and an outer wheel (12a) of a dual wheel axle. A controller (26) compares the distance information with an expected range of distances if the outer wheel is present and determines that the wheel is not present if the measured distance falls outside the expected range. The methods and systems are particularly suitable for mobile machines, such as a combine harvester, having a rollover risk reduction/stability control system reliant on accurate width data for the machine which can be configured to apply different limits for maximum steering angle and/or maximum speed depending on whether the outer wheel (12a) is found to be present or not.