Agricultural Machine Peak Weight Detection System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural machines are often operated outside their operational parameters, leading to potential damage that may not be covered under manufacturer warranties, and visual inspections are insufficient to determine if the machine has been operated outside acceptable limits.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for detecting peak weights associated with agricultural machines, which involves determining the weight using load cells and comparing it to a threshold, storing operational parameters when the weight exceeds this threshold, and updating the threshold based on previous peak weights or user input, to track and analyze peak weight events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual inspection is used to determine operational parameters, then the inspection method is simple, but the detection accuracy is insufficient to determine if the machine has been operated outside acceptable limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual inspection with an automated electronic weight detection system using load cells and a control unit. The load cells electronically measure weight, and the control unit automatically compares readings to thresholds, eliminating the need for manual visual assessment and providing precise, objective data on operational parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-monitoring by automatically detecting weight, comparing it to stored thresholds, and generating alerts when parameters are exceeded. The control unit continuously monitors its own operational data without requiring external inspection, enabling the machine to self-verify compliance with operational limits.
2Speed
If weight detection is performed continuously with high frequency, then the detection responsiveness is improved, but the energy consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs weight detection at periodic intervals rather than continuously. The control unit checks weight at defined sampling rates, which provides sufficient responsiveness to detect peak weights while reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring. This periodic sampling balances detection speed with energy efficiency.
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 allows for accurate detection and recording of peak weights, helping to identify when machines are operated outside safe parameters, enabling better warranty claims and preventing damage by providing data on operational conditions and locations where peak weights occur.
Implementation Method 1
determining a weight associated with the agricultural machine
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for determining a peak weight associated with an agricultural machine includes the step of determining a weight associated with the agricultural machine. Operational parameters are stored in response to determining that the weight is above a threshold. The threshold can be based on a maximum weight associated with the agricultural machine and set via user input to a machine control indicator. In one embodiment, a new weight associated with the agricultural machine is determined. The new weight is compared to a previous peak weight associated with the agricultural machine. The new weight is stored as a peak weight in response to determining that the new weight is higher than the previous peak weight. Operational parameters associated with the new weight can also be stored in response to determining that the new weight is higher than the previous peak weight.