Dynamic Concave Threshing Bar Control for Variable Crop Conditions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional combine harvester concaves have fixed threshing bars that do not adapt to varying crop characteristics, leading to inefficient threshing and increased unthreshed grain, which is not usable and results in lost revenue and sustainability issues.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically operated concave threshing bar system where the threshing bars can move in real-time based on crop conditions and combine performance data, using sensors and AI to optimize spacing and position for efficient threshing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed threshing bars are used in conventional combine harvesters, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to varying crop characteristics deteriorates, leading to inefficient threshing and increased unthreshed grain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the threshing bars movable rather than fixed. Each threshing bar is equipped with an actuator that allows it to independently adjust its position along the concave frame, enabling the system to adapt to varying crop characteristics dynamically during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the spacing and position parameters of the threshing bars to be dynamically adjusted based on crop type, size, and moisture content. This enables optimization of threshing parameters for different crop conditions without changing the overall device structure.
2Productivity
If fixed spacing between threshing bars is used, then the manufacturing precision is simplified, but the productivity deteriorates due to inefficient threshing of varying crop sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The spacing between threshing bars is made dynamic through actuators that enable real-time adjustment of bar positions. This allows the system to optimize spacing for different crop sizes and types, significantly improving threshing efficiency while maintaining simple manufacturing through standardized actuator components.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable spacing mechanism serves multiple functions: it adapts to different crop types, optimizes threshing efficiency for varying crop sizes, and reduces unthreshed grain. This universal adjustment capability improves productivity across diverse harvesting conditions without requiring multiple specialized concave designs.
3Loss of substance
If conventional fixed concaves are used, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the loss of substance increases due to higher unthreshed grain and grain damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that detect crop characteristics and provide feedback to the control system, which then automatically adjusts threshing bar positions and spacing. This feedback mechanism reduces unthreshed grain loss by optimizing threshing parameters in real-time based on actual crop conditions, while the automated control minimizes the impact on ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The threshing bar system performs self-adjustment through automated actuators controlled by crop detection sensors, reducing the need for manual intervention. This self-service capability minimizes operator workload while significantly reducing grain loss through optimized threshing parameters adapted to current crop conditions.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If fixed threshing bars are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the grain damage increases due to inability to adapt to crop moisture and size variations
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the position and spacing parameters of threshing bars based on detected crop moisture content and size. This parameter adjustment reduces grain damage by optimizing the threshing action for current crop conditions, while the modular actuator design keeps the added complexity manageable through standardized components.
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamically operated concave threshing bar system, method, and apparatus wherein one or more threshing bars within a concave can dynamically move to various positions in real-time based on one or more conditions such as the type crop being harvested and on a determination by a combine harvester's computerized system, artificial intelligence (AI) system, or upon the operators' input, among others. The concave can include a concave frame having a pair of arcuate side members, a threshing bar, and an actuator coupled to the threshing bar, wherein the actuator can be configured to move the threshing bar along the arcuate side members of the concave frame.