Harvester Motor Unit Operating Point Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-propelled harvesting machines face inefficiencies due to constant speed operation, leading to varying crop throughput and frequent changes in engine load, which result in operator discomfort and increased wear, as they struggle to adapt to changing crop densities without stalling or becoming inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The system allows operators to set a target engine speed and yield value, enabling the selection of an operating point on the engine map that is not necessarily at maximum efficiency, providing a torque reserve and adjusting speed to maintain consistent throughput while minimizing changes in partial load values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the harvesting machine operates at constant speed, then the engine operates at maximum efficiency, but the crop throughput varies with crop density causing frequent engine load changes and potential stalling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the harvesting machine to switch between constant speed operation (for efficiency) and variable speed operation (for throughput consistency). The control system dynamically adjusts engine speed and torque based on crop density detection, allowing the machine to maintain optimal performance across varying field conditions without stalling or excessive wear
2Productivity
If the machine adjusts speed frequently to maintain constant throughput, then crop processing remains consistent, but operator comfort decreases and engine wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing operators to select from multiple operating modes (constant speed, constant throughput, or customized torque reserve settings). This enables the system to adjust engine parameters smoothly based on crop density variations, maintaining consistent throughput while reducing the frequency and magnitude of adjustments, thereby improving operator comfort and reducing engine wear
3Power
If the engine operates at full load to handle dense crops, then maximum power is available, but fuel efficiency decreases and engine wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting crop density variations in advance and proactively adjusting engine load before the machine encounters dense crop sections. This allows the engine to operate at optimal load levels, maintaining maximum power availability when needed while minimizing fuel consumption and wear during lighter loading conditions through predictive control
4Use of energy by moving object
If the machine maintains constant engine speed, then efficiency is maximized, but the machine cannot adapt to sudden increases in crop density without stalling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring crop density and engine operating parameters, then adjusting engine speed and torque in real-time. This closed-loop control system detects changes in crop resistance and responds by modifying engine output, maintaining both efficiency and reliability by preventing stalling while minimizing deviations from optimal operating points
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a self-propelled harvesting machine comprising a power assembly (2) with working elements (3) and a propulsion system (4), a motor unit (18) for driving the power assembly (2), and a control unit (22) for controlling the motor unit (18) and the power assembly (2), wherein the motor unit (18) operates at an operating point (23) definable by a partial load value and a motor speed. The invention is characterized in that the control unit (22) controls the motor unit (18) and the power assembly (2) in order to regulate the motor unit (18) to the operating point (23) with a target motor speed (31) and a yield of the harvesting machine to a target yield value.