Oblique-Angle Sensor Support Assembly for Agricultural Implements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor support systems for agricultural implements are prone to movement relative to the frame due to field impediments like bumps and divots, leading to reduced quality of data generated by sensors such as LiDAR and RADAR.
Innovation Solution
A sensor support assembly with first and second support arms extending along longitudinal axes and coupled between the frame and the sensor, defining an oblique angle between their axes, which enhances torsional strength and minimizes sensor rotation when encountering field impediments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a sensor is mounted directly on the frame of the agricultural implement, then the device complexity is reduced, but the sensor movement and rotation caused by field impediments increases, degrading data quality
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor support structure is divided into multiple rigid arms (first support arm and second support arm) connected through joints, creating a segmented framework that isolates the sensor from frame movements. This segmentation allows the sensor to be positioned away from direct contact with the frame while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary support structure consisting of multiple rigid arms and joints between the frame and the sensor. This intermediary framework acts as a mediator that filters out the effects of field impediments (bumps, divots) from reaching the sensor, thereby maintaining measurement precision without requiring direct sensor-to-frame mounting.
2Device complexity
If the sensor is positioned close to the frame for compactness, then the device complexity is reduced, but the sensor rotation relative to the frame increases when encountering field impediments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the sensor support structure into multiple spatial dimensions by using multiple rigid arms arranged in a specific geometric configuration. This multi-dimensional arrangement creates a stable triangular or polygonal framework that resists rotation and maintains sensor orientation even when the implement encounters field impediments.
Solution Approach 2:
The support arms are configured with specific asymmetric dimensions and orientations to create a stable geometric structure. The non-uniform arrangement of support arms (with different lengths and angles) provides inherent stability against rotation, allowing the sensor to maintain a consistent orientation relative to the frame despite frame movements.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple sensor mounting is used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the torsional strength to resist field impediment movements is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor support assembly is segmented into multiple discrete rigid arms that can be manufactured separately and then assembled through joints. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for manufacturing simplicity while the assembled structure achieves the required torsional strength through the collective action of multiple arms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple rigid arms and joints to create a unified support structure that achieves superior torsional strength. By merging the structural elements into a coordinated framework, the system attains the necessary strength to resist field impediment movements while maintaining ease of manufacture through modular assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural implement includes a frame, a ground-engaging tool supported on the frame, and a sensor. Additionally, the implement includes a sensor support assembly configured to support the sensor relative to the frame. The sensor support assembly includes a first support arm extending along a longitudinal axis of the from a first end to a second end, with the first end coupled to the frame and the second end coupled to the sensor. Moreover, the sensor support assembly includes a second support arm extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end, with the first end coupled to the frame and the second end arm coupled to the sensor. In addition, an oblique angle is defined between the longitudinal axis of the first support arm and the longitudinal axis of the second support arm.