Implement Lighting Alignment via Vehicle Control Unit Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual realignment of implement lighting on agricultural vehicles is time-consuming and error-prone when switching between different implements, as existing systems lack automated adjustment capabilities to optimally illuminate the working device based on its physical dimensions and position.
Innovation Solution
An arrangement that includes a control unit connected to an implement lighting device and a data transmission system, allowing the working vehicle's control unit to adjust the lighting alignment and opening angle based on data about the working device's width, height, and position, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual realignment of implement lighting is performed, then the lighting can be adjusted to illuminate the working device, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone when switching between different implements
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system automatically adjusts itself based on data from the working device control unit. The control unit receives device parameters (width, height, position) and autonomously calculates and executes the optimal lighting alignment without requiring manual intervention from the operator, thereby eliminating time loss and ensuring consistent accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses data feedback from the working device control unit about the device's physical dimensions and position to automatically adjust the lighting alignment. This closed-loop approach ensures the lighting is always optimally positioned according to the actual device parameters, resolving both the time and accuracy issues of manual adjustment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of implement lighting is performed for each implement change, then the lighting can be aligned with the specific implement, but the process becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting control system is designed to work with multiple different implement types through a universal interface. The control unit receives standardized data (width, height, position) from any working device via the data bus and automatically adapts the lighting alignment, providing universal compatibility without requiring operator knowledge of specific implement characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adapts to different implements by receiving their parameters through the data bus and autonomously calculating the appropriate lighting alignment. This eliminates the need for manual adjustment procedures, making the system equally easy to operate regardless of which implement is attached.
3Productivity
If automated lighting adjustment is implemented, then the alignment time is reduced and accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The data bus serves as an intermediary that enables communication between the working device control unit and the lighting control unit. This standardized communication interface allows automated data exchange without requiring complex direct connections or additional hardware, achieving automation while keeping the system architecture relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting control unit integrates multiple functions: receiving device parameters, calculating optimal alignment, and controlling the lighting positioning. By combining these functions into a single control unit that communicates via the existing data bus, the system achieves automated adjustment without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The arrangement has a control unit (34) of a work vehicle (10), which is connected with a tool illumination device (38) and a data communication equipment (32). Another control unit (36) of tools is connected with the equipment to send data regarding work width, work height and position of the tools in comparison with the work vehicle over the equipment. The control unit is connected with an actuator (40) for displacement of an alignment/opening angle of a luminous cone of the illumination device. The control unit actuates the actuator based on the data transmitted over the equipment.