Mobile Wrapper Control for Remote Bale Wrapping Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wrapping machine control systems require an operator to be present at the machine, limiting versatility and reliability, and existing remote control solutions are not adaptable to the specific needs of wrapping machines.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allows control of wrapping operations using a wearable mobile device, such as a tablet or smartphone, which sends command messages via Bluetooth to the control unit of the wrapper, enabling remote operation and feedback-based control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the operator controls the wrapping machine through a fixed user interface on the machine, then the control is reliable and direct, but the operator must be physically present beside the machine, reducing versatility and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile device (smartphone, tablet, or wearable device) as an intermediary between the operator and the wrapping machine control system. This mobile device communicates wirelessly with the machine's control unit, allowing the operator to send control inputs and receive machine status information without being physically present at the machine's fixed interface. The mobile device acts as a portable mediator that bridges the gap between the operator and the machine控制系统.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions the control interface from a fixed two-dimensional space (the machine's physical control panel) to a mobile three-dimensional space that can be accessed from any location near the machine. By enabling wireless communication and mobile device integration, the system adds the dimension of spatial freedom, allowing operators to move freely while maintaining control capability through the mobile interface.
2Productivity
If multiple wrapping machines are used in the same field to speed up operations, then productivity increases, but the operator must be present at each machine, increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the mobile device a universal control interface that can communicate with multiple wrapping machines through wireless communication. Instead of each machine requiring its own dedicated control station, a single mobile device can serve multiple machines, allowing the operator to control several wrapping operations from one location. This multi-functional approach reduces the overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the control interface on the mobile device that mirrors the functionality of the fixed control unit. This copied interface allows the operator to interact with the machine控制系统 remotely through the mobile device's display and input mechanisms, eliminating the need for physical presence at each machine's control panel while maintaining full control capability across multiple machines.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed control interface is used on the wrapping machine, then the control system is simple and reliable, but it lacks remote control capabilities and operator mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device serves as a wireless intermediary that communicates with the wrapping machine's control unit through wireless communication protocols. This intermediary approach allows the system to maintain its original simple and reliable fixed control interface while adding remote control capability through the mobile device. The fixed control unit and mobile interface work in parallel, with the mobile device acting as a remote mediator that does not interfere with the existing reliable control system.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling, through a mobile device, wrapping operations in a wrapper for wrapping a round bale with a film, comprises the following steps, performed by a processor of the mobile device: coupling the mobile device to a control unit of the wrapper, by sending a coupling signal to the control unit; receiving control inputs from a user, through an interaction of the user with the mobile device; elaborating the control inputs and generating, based on the control inputs, a command message; sending the command message to the control unit of the wrapper; receiving, at the processor of the mobile device, operation data from the control unit of the wrapper, the operation data being representative of operations performed by the wrapper.