Implement Controller for Hydraulic Valve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seed planting systems require operators to frequently switch between seed planting and hopper filling modes, leading to time-consuming trips between the cab and air cart due to the need to adjust hydraulic fluid flow controls, which is inefficient and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes a vehicle-based controller and an implement-based controller, allowing the agricultural implement to control fluid flow to various conduits through a user interface, enabling seamless switching between operational modes without the need for manual adjustments at the cab, using ISOBUS Class 3 communications protocols for efficient fluid distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator manually adjusts hydraulic fluid flow controls at the cab to switch between seed planting and hopper filling modes, then the hydraulic fluid flow can be adjusted, but the operator must make time-consuming trips between the cab and air cart
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an implement controller as an intermediary device that receives operator input from the implement and automatically adjusts the hydraulic valve. This mediator eliminates the need for the operator to physically travel between the cab and air cart, as the controller autonomously performs the fluid flow adjustment based on operational mode selections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the implement controller automatically manages hydraulic fluid distribution without requiring operator intervention at the cab. The controller monitors operational mode and autonomously redirects hydraulic flow to the appropriate component (fan or auger), making the system self-regulating.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the operator frequently switches between seed planting and hopper filling modes, then operational flexibility is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases due to repeated manual adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to operational requirements by automatically adjusting hydraulic fluid flow based on the selected mode. The implement controller continuously monitors operational state and dynamically redirects hydraulic power to the appropriate component, enabling rapid mode transitions without manual intervention and maintaining high operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration by pre-programming the implement controller with the appropriate hydraulic valve positions for each operational mode. When the operator selects a mode, the controller has already been prepared to execute the correct fluid flow distribution, eliminating the need for manual adjustment during mode transitions.
3Device complexity
If manual hydraulic valve adjustment is used for controlling fluid flow between fan and auger, then system complexity is reduced, but the need for operator presence at multiple locations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical control system with an electronically controlled hydraulic system. The implement controller uses electronic signals to actuate the hydraulic valve, substituting mechanical operator manipulation with automated electronic control. This maintains relatively simple system architecture while dramatically improving ease of operation by allowing control from the implement location.
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
This solution streamlines the operation by allowing operators to control fluid flow directly from the implement, reducing the need for manual adjustments and minimizing time spent on switching between modes, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reducing the time spent on trips between the cab and air cart.
Implementation Method 1
the air cart may include a fan that creates a flow of pressurized air for conveying the seeds through various conduits
Implementation Method 2
the air cart may also include an auger that facilitates filling of the hopper with seeds
Implementation Method 3
the fan and the auger may be driven by a flow of hydraulic fluid received from the work vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect a system for controlling the operation of an agricultural implement may include a vehicle-based controller configured to control an operation of a valve provided in operative association with a work vehicle, with the valve being configured to control a fluid flow to a plurality of fluid conduits. The system may also include an agricultural implement configured to be towed by the work vehicle. The implement may include a user interface having a first input device configured to receive an input associated with a selected fluid conduit of the plurality of fluid conduits. Furthermore, implement may include an implement-based controller supported on the implement and communicatively coupled to the user interface. The implement-based controller may be configured to initiate control of the operation of the valve based on the input received from the user interface in a manner that provides the fluid flow to the selected fluid conduit.