Residue Distribution Monitoring via LIDAR Buffering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for monitoring and controlling the distribution of residue material from agricultural harvesting machines are inefficient and complex, requiring manual adjustments by operators and lacking a comprehensive solution for ensuring even distribution and avoiding spread into standing crops.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a sensor with a data buffer to monitor residue distribution over a predetermined time period, providing control signals for a user interface to indicate and adjust the spreader tool's operation, including the use of a three-dimensional LIDAR sensor and VoxelGrid filtering to optimize distribution visualization and automation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual observation and adjustment of the spreader tool is used, then the operator can control residue distribution, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming especially when operating conditions vary across the field
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic monitoring and control of residue distribution through sensors and controllers that self-adjust the spreader tool based on real-time conditions, eliminating the need for continuous manual observation and adjustment by the operator
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors continuously monitor residue distribution patterns and provide feedback to the control system, which automatically adjusts spreader tool settings to maintain optimal distribution across varying field conditions
2Reliability
If sensors are used to monitor residue distribution in real time, then distribution can be controlled more effectively, but the system complexity increases and no complete solution has been realised
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to perform multiple functions including monitoring residue distribution, detecting operating conditions variations, and providing data for automatic control, reducing the need for separate specialized devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electronic sensors and controllers that automatically regulate residue distribution through digital signal processing and actuation
3Loss of information
If instantaneous sensor data is used to monitor residue distribution, then real-time information is available, but the visualization is less clear compared to buffered data over a time period
Solution Approach 1:
Sensor data is pre-buffered over a predetermined time period before analysis and visualization, allowing the system to process and present clearer distribution patterns while maintaining real-time monitoring capabilities
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
The system efficiently monitors and controls residue distribution, providing a clearer visualization of the spread pattern and enabling real-time adjustments to ensure uniformity and prevent residue from being spread into adjacent crops, thereby improving operational efficiency and yield consistency.
Implementation Method 1
a three-dimensional LIDAR sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for monitoring and controlling the distribution of residue material from a spreader tool of an agricultural machine. A sensor is mounted to the machine and has a sensing region rearwards of the agricultural machine. Using data from the sensor a distribution of residue material associated with the spreader tool is determined. Based on this distribution, a user interface associated with the agricultural machine is used to provide an indicator indicative of the determined distribution.