Towed Implement Sensor Detection and Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
It is challenging for operators of towing vehicles to detect issues with towed agricultural implements, such as damage or malfunction, especially when the implement is engaged with the soil, leading to potential degradation and additional damage during operation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of sensors that use non-visual electromagnetic radiation, auditory detection, or temperature detection to identify characteristics of the implement, comparing them to reference values to detect problems, and generating control signals to address identified issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the implement is engaged with the soil for operation, then productivity is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring problems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual inspection (mechanical observation) with sensor-based detection systems. Sensors mounted on the implement continuously monitor operational parameters such as vibration, temperature, and acoustic signals, enabling automatic problem detection without requiring operator visual inspection, thus resolving the contradiction between continuous operation and problem detectability
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback through sensors that monitor implement conditions during operation and transmit data to the control system. This real-time feedback enables the operator to detect problems while the implement remains engaged with the soil, maintaining productivity while improving detection capability through automated monitoring systems
2Measurement precision
If visual inspection is used to detect problems, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system enables continuous monitoring of implement conditions during operation, eliminating the need to stop work for periodic visual inspections. The sensors continuously collect data on vibration, temperature, and acoustic signals, providing ongoing problem detection without interrupting productivity, thus resolving the time loss associated with manual inspection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with automated sensor-based detection that operates continuously during implementation. The sensors and control system automatically analyze operational parameters to detect problems, eliminating the time required for manual inspection while maintaining or improving detection accuracy through electronic monitoring
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 enables timely detection and control of issues with towed agricultural implements, preventing further damage and maintaining optimal performance by allowing for proactive adjustments and repairs.
Implementation Method 1
One or more sensors identify a characteristic of a towed implement using non-visual electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
One or more sensors identify a characteristic of a towed implement using non-visual electromagnetic radiation, auditory detection or temperature detection
Implementation Method 3
One or more sensors identify a characteristic of a towed implement using non-visual electromagnetic radiation, auditory detection or temperature detection
Data Source
AI summary
One or more sensors identify a characteristic of a towed implement using non-visual electromagnetic radiation, auditory detection or temperature detection. The characteristic of the implement is compared to a reference characteristic to determine whether the implement has a problem. If so, control signals are generated to control a controllable subsystem based upon the identified problem.