Oscillating Circuit Crop Feeler for Obstacle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for navigating vehicles, such as tractors or combines, lack accurate and robust detection of obstacles like crops, leading to potential collisions or damage.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing oscillating circuits with inductive elements, where a flexible member with inductor cores contacts obstacles, altering the oscillating frequency, which is measured by a navigation sensor to determine proximity and execute navigational tasks, such as steering the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If spring-loaded feeler elements are used for obstacle detection, then the system can detect obstacles through mechanical contact, but the detection accuracy and robustness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical spring-loaded feeler element system with an oscillating circuit system that uses electromagnetic principles. The flexible member with inductive elements interacts magnetically with the oscillating circuit, allowing obstacle detection through frequency changes rather than direct mechanical force transmission, thereby improving both accuracy and robustness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from mechanical displacement to oscillating frequency. When the flexible member contacts an obstacle, the inductive elements move relative to the oscillating circuit, changing the circuit's inductance and thus its oscillating frequency. This frequency change provides a more sensitive and reliable detection signal
2Measurement precision
If inductive elements are placed on a flexible member that contacts obstacles, then obstacle proximity can be detected through frequency alteration, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible member serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical flexibility for contact with obstacles, holds the inductive elements for magnetic interaction, and transmits the mechanical displacement to the inductive elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system
Solution Approach 2:
The inductive elements act as intermediaries between the mechanical flexible member and the electrical oscillating circuit. They convert mechanical displacement into changes in electromagnetic inductance, enabling the oscillating frequency to reflect obstacle proximity without requiring direct mechanical or electrical connection between the flexible member and circuit
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
This solution provides accurate and robust detection of obstacles, enabling precise navigation and avoidance of crops, improving safety and efficiency in agricultural operations.
Implementation Method 1
an oscillating frequency of an oscillating circuit is altered commensurate with the proximity of the oscillating circuit to an inductive element
Implementation Method 2
This increases the overall inductance of the oscillating circuit and thereby changes the oscillating frequency of that oscillating circuit
Data Source
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AI summary
In some embodiments, a crop feeler system automatically executes a navigational task based on a proximity of a vehicle to an obstacle. The crop feeler system includes a hub attached to the vehicle. Inside the hub are two oscillating circuits each having an oscillating frequency. A member is coupled to the hub. Two inductive elements are positioned within the member so that, when the obstacle comes into contact with the member, at least one of the inductive elements moves closer to at least one of the oscillating circuits and alters the oscillating frequency of that oscillating circuit. A navigation sensor measures the oscillating frequency of the oscillating circuit, identifies a navigational task using the oscillating frequency of the oscillating circuit, and executes the navigational task.