Ground-following device for tool depth control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for controlling the operating depth of ground-engaging tools on mobile agricultural machines are inaccurate due to varying site conditions and obstacles, leading to inconsistent depth maintenance across uneven terrain.
Innovation Solution
A mobile machine equipped with a ground-following device and sensors that accurately sense the ground surface, allowing for real-time adjustment of tool depth engagement by using a ground-following device that maintains contact with the true ground level, even in soft or obstructed areas, and a sensor system that provides precise feedback to maintain consistent depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor system is used to sense ground surface position, then measurement precision of ground level is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A ground-following device is introduced as an intermediary mechanical element between the mobile machine and the ground surface. This device physically tracks the true ground level and converts complex ground surface variations into simple vertical position signals that the sensor can easily measure, thereby achieving high measurement precision without requiring a complex sensor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electronic sensor systems with a simpler mechanical ground-following device that uses basic mechanical principles (levers, springs, or linkages) to track ground level. This mechanical approach is inherently simpler than electronic sensing systems while providing equally accurate ground level information.
2Reliability
If ground-following device is used to maintain contact with ground surface, then reliability of depth control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ground-following device is segmented into multiple independent components (e.g., separate levers, springs, or linkages for different ground points). Each segment independently tracks the ground surface at its location, and their combined information provides reliable depth control. This segmentation allows the system to handle complex terrain variations without requiring a single complex device.
Solution Approach 2:
The ground-following device uses dynamic elements such as springs or movable linkages that automatically adapt to changing ground conditions. These dynamic components continuously adjust their position to maintain contact with the ground surface, providing reliable depth control information without requiring complex active control systems.
3Ease of operation
If operator manually adjusts tool depth, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the ground-following device continuously monitors ground level and automatically adjusts the ground-engaging tools to maintain the desired operating depth. This automatic feedback control eliminates the need for manual operator intervention, thereby maintaining ease of operation while significantly improving productivity by eliminating downtime for adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The ground-following device performs self-adjustment by automatically responding to ground surface variations. The system serves itself by using the ground level information to autonomously maintain proper tool depth, eliminating the need for operator intervention and thereby improving productivity without sacrificing operational simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile machine includes a frame, and a set of wheels supporting the frame. The mobile machine also includes a set of ground-engaging tools mounted to the frame that are movable relative to the wheels to change a depth of engagement of the ground engaging-tools with ground over which the mobile machine travels. A sensor senses the ground surface over which the mobile machine is traveling. The sensor can do this by sensing the position of a ground-following device having a proximal end coupled to the frame and a distal end configured to engage a surface of the ground and follow the surface of the ground as the mobile machine moves in a direction of travel, or by sensing the surface of the ground behind a surface cleaning device that exposes the surface of the ground to the sensor.