Load-Sensor Shank Assembly Detection for Bent Tillage Shanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
It is difficult for operators to detect bent ground-engaging shanks on agricultural implements during tillage operations due to obstructed visibility from the frame and wheels, which can negatively impact tillage quality.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using load sensors on fasteners coupling shank assemblies to the frame, with a computing system analyzing load data to determine bending, and initiating notifications or control actions when bent shanks are detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the operator manually inspects shanks during tillage operations, then detection accuracy may be improved, but the complexity of operation increases and productivity decreases due to obstructed visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The shank assembly performs self-diagnosis by automatically detecting its own bent condition through load sensors that monitor forces on fasteners. The system generates its own diagnostic data without requiring external manual inspection, thereby maintaining high detection accuracy while preserving tillage operation productivity.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If load sensors are installed on fasteners to detect bent shanks, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load sensors serve as intermediary devices that indirectly detect shank bending by measuring load forces on fasteners rather than directly measuring shank geometry. This intermediary approach enables detection capability while keeping the system relatively simple by using readily available sensor technology integrated into existing fastener locations.
3Reliability
If the shank is allowed to pivot upward to avoid obstacles, then the shank is protected from damage, but the shank may become bent when contact force is sufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring load forces on fasteners and comparing them against threshold values that indicate bent shank conditions. When abnormal loads are detected, the system provides feedback to operators through notifications, enabling timely corrective action to prevent further damage while maintaining the beneficial pivot-up protection mechanism.
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
Automatically detects bent shanks without operator intervention, improving tillage operation quality by preventing further damage and allowing for immediate corrective actions.
Implementation Method 1
a first load sensor in operative association with the first fastener, with the first load sensor configured to generate data indicative of a first load being applied to the first fastener by the shank assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural implement includes a shank assembly having an attachment section and a ground-engaging shank. Furthermore, the agricultural implement includes first and second fasteners coupling the attachment section to a frame member of the agricultural implement. Additionally, the agricultural implement includes a first load sensor configured to generate data indicative of a first load being applied to the first fastener by the shank assembly. Moreover, the agricultural implement includes a second load sensor configured to generate data indicative of a second load being applied to the second fastener by the shank assembly. In addition, the agricultural implement includes a computing system configured to determine when the ground-engaging shank is bent based on the data generated by the first and second load sensors.