Harvester Operating Mode Initialization for Accurate Auto Setup

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Solution Overview

Problem

Harvester implements require manual configuration of various operating parameters for different operating modes, which can lead to errors or omissions due to user forgetfulness or improper execution.

Innovation Solution

A harvester implement with an automated initialization algorithm that automatically sets operating parameters based on predefined settings for different modes, either user-selected or location-based, using a vehicle controller to control power, header, and light systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual configuration of operating parameters is used for different operating modes, then the operator has direct control over settings, but errors or omissions occur due to user forgetfulness or improper execution

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of operating parameter configurationVSAvoidcomplexity of manual configuration process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-configures groups of operating parameters corresponding to different operating modes (e.g., transport mode, harvesting mode, headland turn mode) before operation. When a mode is selected, the pre-configured parameters are automatically applied, eliminating the need for manual configuration of each parameter individually and preventing errors from forgetfulness or improper execution.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The control system automatically manages the configuration of operating parameters without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by detecting the selected operating mode and autonomously adjusting the relevant parameters, thereby improving reliability while reducing the operational burden on the user.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple operating modes are supported with different parameter configurations, then the harvester implement can adapt to various operations, but the complexity of configuring and managing parameters increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to operate in different modesVSAvoidcomplexity of parameter management system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The operating parameters are segmented into distinct groups or sets, each corresponding to a specific operating mode. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by organizing parameters into manageable categories (e.g., power source settings, header settings, light arrangement settings) that can be independently configured and applied as complete sets for each mode.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control system is designed with universal functionality to manage multiple operating modes through a unified interface. The system can handle different types of operations (transport, harvesting, headland turns, servicing) using a single parameter management framework, reducing the perceived complexity for the operator while maintaining high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If automated initialization algorithm is implemented to set operating parameters automatically, then errors are reduced and configuration is simplified, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of initialization processVSAvoidcomplexity of control system

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system performs preliminary configuration of operating parameters for each operating mode in advance. The initialization algorithm pre-processes and stores the appropriate parameter sets, so that during actual operation, the system only needs to retrieve and apply the pre-configured settings, thereby simplifying the user interface while managing system complexity through backend automation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12564132B2Harvester implement with automated operating mode initialization

Publication Date: 2026.03.03 DEERE & CO

AI summary

A harvester implement includes a vehicle controller including an initialization algorithm operable to receive a command input. The command input selects one of a plurality of machine initialization modes. Each of the machine initialization modes has a pre-defined setting for at least one of a power source, a harvester header, and a vehicle light arrangement for implementing one of a plurality of operating modes associated therewith. The vehicle controller may then automatically control one of the power control system, the header control system, and the light control system to establish the pre-defined setting therefor in the power source, the harvester header, and the vehicle light arrangement respectively to prepare the harvester implement for the operating mode associated with the selected machine initialization mode.