Combine Header Reel Height Control for Lodged Crop Harvesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing combine harvesters face challenges in efficiently harvesting lodged crops without damaging the harvester components due to inadequate control of the reel height, which can result in ineffective reaping or reel penetration into the ground.
Innovation Solution
A header system for a combine harvester equipped with actuators and sensors that adjust the reel position based on force measurements, allowing precise control to maintain optimal reel height relative to the ground and crop, minimizing contact with the ground while effectively lifting lodged crops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the reel is positioned low to harvest lodged crop, then harvesting effectiveness is improved, but the risk of reel contact with ground increases causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs force sensors on the reel axles that provide real-time feedback about contact forces between the reel and ground or crop. The controller continuously monitors these force signals and automatically adjusts reel height to maintain optimal harvesting conditions while preventing ground contact damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The reel height control system operates autonomously using self-service principles. The force sensors and controller work together to automatically adjust reel position without operator intervention, enabling the system to adapt to varying crop conditions and prevent damage independently.
2Ease of operation
If the reel height is adjusted manually, then operational simplicity is maintained, but harvesting accuracy deteriorates due to inability to respond to varying crop conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The automated control system uses force feedback from sensors to continuously monitor and adjust reel height, replacing manual operation with precision-controlled automatic adjustment that responds to real-time crop and ground conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical reel height adjustment with an automated electromechanical control system that uses force sensors and electronic controllers to achieve precise reel positioning based on actual contact forces rather than operator estimation.
3Reliability
If the reel is positioned high to avoid ground contact, then reel protection is improved, but harvesting effectiveness deteriorates due to inability to lift lodged crop
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts reel height based on real-time force measurements rather than maintaining a fixed position. The reel position changes continuously to optimize the balance between ground clearance for protection and crop engagement for effective harvesting.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system modifies the reel height parameter in response to changing force conditions detected by sensors. By continuously adjusting this critical parameter based on actual contact forces, the system adapts to varying crop density, moisture content, and ground conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A header for a combine harvester includes a header frame and a reel rotatably mounted to the header frame. At least one actuator is mounted to the reel and is configured for adjusting a position of the reel relative to the header frame. At least one actuator sensor is coupled to the at least one actuator and is configured to generate an actuator signal representative of a force on the reel. A controller is operably coupled to the at least one actuator sensor and is configured to receive the actuator signal from the at least one actuator sensor and to operate the at least one actuator to adjust the position of the reel relative to the header frame in dependence of the actuator signal.