GNSS-Guided Bale Wrapper for Precise Bale Column Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current in-line bale wrapping machines lack precision in forming straight columns of wrapped bales, often resulting in wavy or bent configurations due to manual control, which can lead to inefficient use of space and non-uniform bale placement.
Innovation Solution
A guided wrapping machine equipped with a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and a steering system controlled by a controller, allowing the machine to follow a selected route and deposit wrapped bales in a desired configuration, such as straight or curved lines, by comparing its position to geospatial positioning information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual control is used to operate the bale wrapping machine, then the machine can be operated with simple control mechanisms, but the precision of bale placement and straightness of the column deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated guidance system that uses GPS receivers, controllers, and steering mechanisms. The controller receives positioning information from GPS satellites and automatically adjusts the steering system to maintain the machine on the desired path, eliminating the need for manual operation and achieving precise bale placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously receives positioning information from GPS satellites, compares the actual machine position with the desired path, and automatically adjusts the steering system based on this feedback. This closed-loop control ensures the machine stays on the predetermined route and deposits bales in the correct configuration.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated GPS guidance is implemented, then the precision of bale placement improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves multiple functions: it receives positioning data from GPS satellites, processes the information to determine desired path, controls the steering system, and coordinates with the wrapping assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The GPS receiver acts as an intermediary that provides positioning information to the controller, which then translates this information into steering commands. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system architecture by separating the positioning function from the control function.
3Shape
If the machine follows a predetermined route automatically, then the column shape and space utilization improve, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The desired route is predetermined and stored in the controller before the machine begins operation. The system automatically retrieves and follows this pre-programmed path, eliminating the need for the operator to manually navigate or make continuous adjustments during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for controlling a path of a bale wrapping machine are disclosed. The systems and methods encompass automatically controlling a path traveled by a bale wrapping machine along a selected route as wrapped bales are deposited on the ground. The bale wrapping machine may use geospatial positioning information to control a steering system of the bale wrapping machine in order to track the selected route.