Planter Actuator Calibration for Seed Depth Control
Solution Overview
Problem
Current agricultural planting systems require cumbersome and time-consuming manual adjustments to set the seed depth, leading to sub-optimal planting conditions due to fixed downforce mechanisms and lack of adaptability to changing environmental or soil characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A system with a planting depth actuator assembly that allows automatic control of seed depth from the operator compartment, using a linkage and actuator mechanism to adjust the position of gauge wheels relative to disc openers, enabling on-the-go adjustments based on sensor inputs and operator inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of gauge arm stop is used to set seed depth, then the plant can be adjusted to different depths, but the adjustment process is cumbersome and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated actuator system. The actuator assembly includes a motor-driven mechanism that automatically adjusts the gauge wheel position, eliminating the need for manual spindle drive and handle operations. This substitution of mechanical manual operation with automated actuation directly addresses the time-consuming nature of traditional adjustments while maintaining depth adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service depth adjustment through automated control. The actuator can be controlled from the operator compartment without requiring the operator to exit and manually adjust the gauge arm stop. The automated system performs the adjustment function that previously required manual intervention, making the system self-sufficient for depth adjustment operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed downforce assembly is used, then the structure is simple, but the system cannot adapt to changing environmental or soil characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustability to the downforce assembly through the actuator system. Instead of a fixed downforce mechanism, the system allows dynamic adjustment of the gauge wheel position relative to the disc opener. This dynamic capability enables adaptation to changing soil characteristics and environmental conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator assembly serves multiple functions: it adjusts seed depth, adapts to varying soil conditions, and can be controlled from the operator compartment. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated mechanism that replaces multiple separate adjustment systems, thereby achieving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Productivity
If manual adjustment mechanism is used, then the device is simple, but frequent changes are not feasible due to cumbersome operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the cumbersome manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated actuator that can be controlled from the operator compartment. This substitution enables frequent depth changes without the physical effort and time required for manual adjustment, significantly improving both the frequency of changes and the ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves as an intermediary between the operator and the gauge wheel adjustment mechanism. Instead of the operator directly manipulating the gauge arm stop, the actuator mediates the adjustment process, translating operator commands into precise gauge wheel position changes. This intermediary mechanism makes frequent adjustments feasible by eliminating direct manual intervention requirements.
4Productivity
If operator exits compartment to adjust depth manually, then direct adjustment is possible, but operational efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the operator to perform depth adjustments without leaving the operator compartment. The actuator assembly is designed to be controllable from the compartment, allowing the operator to maintain control over the adjustment process while remaining inside the vehicle. This self-service capability eliminates the need to exit the compartment for adjustments, significantly improving operational efficiency and convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves as an intermediary mechanism that allows the operator to control gauge wheel adjustment from within the operator compartment. Instead of requiring direct physical access to the gauge arm stop, the actuator mediates the adjustment process through controlled actuation, enabling the operator to maintain efficiency and convenience by remaining inside the compartment.
Data Source
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AI summary
A planter (100) row unit (106) is positioned so a gauge wheel (116A, 116B, 116) and an opener (114) are in a known position relative to one another. A planting depth actuator (126, 190) that travels along an extent of travel to change a relationship between the gauge wheel (116A, 116B, 116) and opener (114) is positioned at one end of its extent of travel, out of engagement with a gauge wheel arm (138, 148A, 148B, 148) and is then moved to an engagement position where it engages the gauge wheel arm (138, 148A, 148B, 148). The location of the engagement position is identified as a calibration point (156, 173).