Leaf Tying Machine for Automatic, Precise Twine Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leaf staplers for securing plant shoots to trellises face challenges in accurately and efficiently connecting string elements without damaging the plants, due to driver intervention impairing reaction time and potential for undesired connection locations.
Innovation Solution
A leaf stapler with an automatic connecting device that uses sensors to detect gaps in the canopy and trigger connections at suitable locations, allowing for precise and safe attachment of cord elements to plant shoots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the connecting process is triggered manually by the driver, then the driver can control when connections are made, but the driver's reaction time is impaired due to concentration on driving and height adjustment, leading to connections at undesired locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs the connecting process automatically without requiring driver intervention. The control device monitors the position of the leaf stapler relative to the plants and autonomously triggers the connecting process at the appropriate moment, eliminating the reaction time delay caused by manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect the position of the leaf stapler and the state of the plants, providing continuous feedback to the control device. This feedback mechanism enables the system to determine the optimal timing for the connecting process and execute it automatically at the correct location.
2Extent of automation
If the connecting process is triggered automatically based on tractor speed, then the process is automated, but the connection may still occur at incorrect locations due to variations in speed and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the actual position of the leaf stapler and the state of the plants using sensors, providing real-time feedback to the control device. This allows the system to adjust the connecting process timing based on actual position rather than relying solely on pre-programmed speed-based triggers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the connecting process based on real-time conditions. Rather than using fixed speed-based triggers, the control device continuously evaluates sensor data about plant position and stapler location to determine the optimal moment for connection, adapting to variations in speed and positioning.
3Manufacturing precision
If connections are made frequently to ensure proper positioning of shoots, then the positioning accuracy improves, but the risk of damaging plants increases due to potential connections at undesired locations
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system continuously monitors plant position and stapler location, providing feedback that enables the control device to identify safe connection points. This feedback mechanism ensures that connections are only made when the system detects appropriate conditions, preventing damage to plants.
Solution Approach 2:
The system autonomously evaluates plant conditions and determines the appropriate timing and location for connections without driver intervention. This self-service capability allows the system to optimize connection frequency and location to achieve proper shoot positioning while minimizing the risk of plant damage.
Data Source
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AI summary
Tying machine (1) for straightening and tying shoots of plants arranged in a linear row (51), at least comprising: - a holding device which can be attached to a working vehicle (19) and which extends over the row (51); - a straightening system (3) for straightening plant shoots protruding from the row (51), wherein at least part of the straightening system (3) is arranged on either side of the row (51); - a twine guiding device from which at least one respective twine element (2) can be unwound on each side of the row (51) for holding back the shoots of the plants in a wall of leaves; - a connecting device which is provided and designed to carry out a connecting process for connecting the twine elements (2) guided on either side of the row (51), characterized in that the tying machine (1) comprises a control unit which is provided and designed - to identify suitable connecting positions (61, ..., 64) in the row (51), the connecting positions being located in front of the working vehicle (20) in the direction of travel (F), and to operate the connecting device (4) at the identified connecting positions (61, ..., 64) in such a way that an automatic connecting process for the twine elements (2) is executed and/or - to store a program with a sequence of connecting positions (61, ..., 64) for the respective row (51), to start the program on the basis of at least one reference mark identifiable in the row (51) and to operate the connecting device when the respective connecting position (61, ..., 64) is reached.