Hybrid Tractor Control System for Implement Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The control of tractor implement combinations in agriculture requires significant driver concentration and psychological effort, leading to potential operational errors and safety risks, especially in high-performance scenarios with large working widths and complex control sequences.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode control system that integrates manual hydraulic control with microprocessor-controlled job computer functionality, allowing for self-locking assignments of control modes to reduce the need for constant visual and manual input, prioritizing microprocessor commands for enhanced ergonomic safety and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual hydraulic control is used for tractor implement combinations, then the driver maintains direct control over actuators, but the driver requires significant concentration and psychological effort leading to operational errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely manual hydraulic control system with an integrated control system that combines manual hydraulic control elements with a microprocessor-controlled job computer. The job computer automatically executes control sequences for repetitive tasks such as headland management, reducing the driver's psychological burden and concentration requirements while maintaining operational safety through the hybrid architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system enables self-service by allowing the job computer to autonomously manage repetitive control sequences without continuous driver intervention. The system can automatically perform headland management tasks, positioning implements and executing control sequences independently, thereby reducing driver workload and minimizing human error while maintaining reliability.
2Ease of operation
If microprocessor-controlled job computer is used for automated control sequences, then driver workload is reduced, but loss of direct manual control may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the manual hydraulic control system with the microprocessor-controlled job computer into a unified hybrid control system. Both control modes operate in parallel with integrated communication interfaces, allowing the driver to switch between manual and automated modes as needed. This integration reduces driver workload through automation while maintaining the simplicity of direct manual control when required, balancing complexity with operational ease.
3Productivity
If complex control sequences are implemented for headland management, then operational efficiency increases, but driver error risk increases due to psychological strain
Solution Approach 1:
The job computer stores pre-programmed control sequences for headland management and other repetitive tasks. These sequences are prepared in advance and automatically executed when triggered, eliminating the need for the driver to manually manage complex control sequences during operation. This preliminary programming increases operational efficiency while reducing driver error risk by removing complex decision-making from the driver's psychological burden.
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves outputting a control command for controlling exchangeable equipment (2) by an operating unit (7) or a control block (4), which operates on actuators and/or drive units and/or actuating drive of the equipment. Control systems such as working hydraulics system formed as the control block with two valve discs, and a job calculator controller with job calculators are operated parallel to one another. The control systems are cross linked with each other in a technically controlled manner and connected parallel to one another in an active manner. An independent claim is also included for a steering tractor coupled with exchangeable equipment.