Combine Header Lateral Control Using Support Element Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling the cutting height of a header on a self-propelled combine harvester are limited by the measuring range of ground-contacting distance sensors, leading to inefficiencies when cutting crops above this range, such as rapeseed, and require additional non-contact sensors or operator intervention.
Innovation Solution
A method and self-propelled combine harvester design that uses pressure-controlled support elements with sensor units to determine lateral control of the header independently of ground-contacting distance sensors, allowing operation beyond their measuring range through indirect control based on support element deflections and tilt angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ground-contacting distance sensors are used to control lateral position of the header, then lateral control precision is improved within the sensor measuring range, but the working range is limited and cannot accommodate high-cut operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces support elements with deflection sensors as intermediary components between the header and ground. These support elements deflect in response to ground contact forces, and their deflection is measured by sensors to indirectly determine lateral position. This intermediary mechanism enables lateral control at heights beyond the direct measuring range of ground-contacting distance sensors, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and working range adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If non-contact distance sensors are added to extend measuring range for high-cut operations, then working range is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support elements serve dual functions: they provide structural support for the header while simultaneously acting as measurement elements through their deflection. The deflection of these existing structural components is measured to determine lateral position, eliminating the need for additional dedicated non-contact distance sensors. This self-service approach extends working range without increasing device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If operator manually controls lateral position for high-cut operations, then adaptability is maintained, but productivity and operator workload are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated feedback control system where sensors on the support elements continuously measure deflection, which correlates with lateral position. This measurement feedback is processed by a control device that automatically adjusts the header's lateral position to maintain optimal cutting alignment. This closed-loop feedback system provides both adaptability for varying conditions and automated control to maintain high productivity without operator burden.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces the need for additional sensors and enables efficient lateral control of the header across a wider range, including high-cut modes, by using support element deflections and tilt angles to maintain parallel positioning with the ground.
Implementation Method 1
a positionally adjustable support element (32L, 32R) subjected to a pressure-controlled support force is arranged on each of the side segments (22L, 22R)
Implementation Method 2
The receiving device serves to mount the front attachment on the combine harvester and to convey the harvested crop. For this purpose, a conveying device, for example an inclined conveyor, is arranged in the receiving device.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for operating a front attachment (2, 20) arranged on a height-adjustable receiving device (3) of a self-propelled combine harvester (1) by means of actuators (5), the front attachment comprising a central segment (21) and at least two side segments (22R, 22L), each with at least one positionally adjustable support element (33R, 33L) arranged on the side segments (22R, 22L) and subjected to a pressure-controlled support force, wherein in a first operating mode a distance (12) between the ground (10) and the front attachment (2, 20) is measured by means of distance sensors (13) arranged on the underside of the front attachment (2, 20) and contacting the ground (10), the signals of which are supplied to a control device (17) for evaluation in order to control the lateral movement of the front attachment (2, 20) and/or the respective to control side segments (22R, 22L), whereby a transverse tilt angle (γ) of the attachment device (2,20) is adjusted by pivoting about a virtual pendulum axis (8) of the receiving device (3), wherein in a second operating mode, in which only the support elements (32R, 32L) are in contact with the ground (10), a lateral control of the attachment (2, 20) and/or the respective side segments (21) is carried out depending on signals provided by the sensor units (34) assigned to the support elements (32R, 32L) for determining the distance (12) of the attachment (2, 20) and/or the respective side segments (22R, 22L) to the ground (10).