Harvester Transfer Device Control via GPS and Image Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for controlling the position of a transfer device in forage harvesters struggle to accurately unload material into a container positioned at the rear of the harvester, especially when the distance between the harvester and the container is large or when direct observation is obstructed, leading to inefficiencies and potential material spillage.
Innovation Solution
An image capture device mounted on the harvesting machine provides an image signal to a target detection and tracking module, which calculates the position of the transfer device relative to the container and adjusts its position using actuators to ensure accurate unloading, even in situations where direct observation is not possible, by utilizing a combination of image processing and position-determining devices like GPS.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an image-based system is used to control the transfer device position, then automatic control capability is improved, but the system fails to correctly identify the container when the field is opened and distance is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces GPS receivers as intermediary devices that provide position information about both the harvesting machine and the transport vehicle. This mediator system allows the control unit to calculate relative positions and control the transfer device without relying solely on visual identification, thereby maintaining automation while improving reliability in conditions where the container cannot be visually identified
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely optical/image-based detection system with a hybrid system that incorporates electronic GPS-based position determination. This substitution allows the system to function reliably when visual identification fails, as the GPS coordinates provide accurate position data regardless of distance or field conditions
2Productivity
If the transport vehicle follows the harvesting machine from behind at a large distance, then loading efficiency is reduced, but the image capture device cannot reliably identify the container
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two different measurement systems: image capture devices for visual identification and GPS receivers for position determination. By combining these systems, the control unit can accurately determine container position even when the transport vehicle is at a large distance, thereby maintaining both loading efficiency and detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital representation of the container's position through GPS coordinates, which serves as a reliable reference for controlling the transfer device. This positional copy allows the system to accurately track and respond to container position changes without requiring continuous visual confirmation
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable transfer device for unloading processed crop onto a container of a transport vehicle including a control arrangement with an electronic control unit, among other integrated components. Electronic control unit calculates position of expected point of incidence of crop flow on the container. Further provided is a system that identifies and tracks a target object in image data, which is then used to determine the trajectory of the target. With the trajectory known, the control arrangement can accurately direct the crop flow into the container.