Automated Ground Leveling with Neural Network Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional ground leveling using scraper implements attached to a tractor via a three-point hitch system requires constant manual adjustment of the implement's height and simultaneous monitoring of the ground surface, leading to operator fatigue due to the need for continuous visual feedback.
Innovation Solution
A surface grading system that includes a traction unit with a three-point hitch system and a scraper implement, equipped with an angle sensor to measure the pitch angle of the traction unit, a controller that calculates leveling variations and generates hitch control signals, and an actuator to adjust the vertical position of the scraper implement's cutting edge relative to the traction unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual adjustment of scraper implement height is used, then the system complexity is reduced, but operator fatigue increases due to continuous monitoring and adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to detect ground surface conditions and automatically adjusts the scraper implement height without operator intervention. The control system processes sensor data and actuates the hydraulic system to maintain optimal cutting depth, allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring continuous manual monitoring and adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical manual control system with an automated control system that uses electronic sensors, microprocessors, and electronic control signals to actuate the hydraulic system. This substitution of mechanical manual operation with electronic automation reduces operator fatigue while maintaining control functionality
2Manufacturing precision
If constant manual adjustment and monitoring is performed, then grading quality can be maintained, but productivity decreases due to time spent on continuous adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system enables continuous operation by eliminating the need for the operator to stop or slow down for manual adjustments. The control system continuously monitors ground conditions and automatically adjusts the scraper implement, maintaining uninterrupted grading operations and improving productivity while preserving grading quality
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously detect ground surface conditions and provide feedback to the control system. The control system processes this feedback and automatically adjusts the scraper implement height to maintain optimal grading quality, eliminating the need for manual visual inspection and adjustment while preserving grading precision
3Ease of operation
If automated control system with sensors and actuators is implemented, then operator fatigue is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting ground surface conditions, calculating optimal cutting depth, controlling hydraulic actuation, and adapting to varying terrain conditions. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated control system, the patent manages complexity while achieving automated operation that reduces operator fatigue
Data Source
AI summary
A surface grading system includes a traction unit and a scraper implement attached thereto via a three-point hitch system. A controller automatically controls an actuator of the three-point hitch system to automatically adjust a position of the scraper implement relative to the traction unit to automatically profile the ground surface to achieve a desired profile. The controller includes an Artificial Neural Network that receives a pitch angle of the traction unit and a leveling variation as input values, and outputs a hitch control signal. The Artificial Neural Network includes a first layer using a logarithmic sigmoid function as an activation function, and an output layer using a linear function as an activation function. The hitch control signal raises or lowers the three-point hitch system as the traction unit moves across the ground surface.