Planter Row Unit Fluid Control for Multiple Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current agricultural planter row units require separate fluid control systems for each actuator, which is inefficient and lacks a unified solution for supplying fluid to multiple actuators associated with different implements.
Innovation Solution
A fluid control system that uses a common fluid supply to control multiple actuators on an agricultural planter row unit, incorporating inlet and outlet valves, control valves, and pressure sensors to manage fluid flow and pressure across multiple actuators, allowing for efficient distribution and adjustment of fluid pressure to various implements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate fluid control systems are used for each actuator, then individual actuator control is achieved, but system complexity and inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate fluid control systems into a single unified fluid control system that serves multiple actuators. The controller receives signals from multiple sensors (position sensors, depth sensors, force sensors) and controls multiple actuators through one integrated system, reducing overall complexity while maintaining individual control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified fluid control system is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - it controls different actuators for seed metering, trench opening, trench closing, and packing operations all through a single system architecture, making the system versatile and multi-functional.
2Productivity
If a unified fluid control system is used for multiple actuators, then system efficiency improves, but control precision for individual actuators may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The unified fluid control system is segmented into multiple independent control loops, each dedicated to a specific actuator. Each control loop receives inputs from its own sensors and controls its designated actuator independently, ensuring precise control for each function while operating within the unified system framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where position sensors, depth sensors, and force sensors continuously monitor actuator positions and conditions, sending signals back to the controller. The controller adjusts fluid flow to each actuator based on this feedback, maintaining precise control despite the unified system architecture.
Data Source
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AI summary
An agricultural row unit (200) has a first actuator (8110) connected to a first implement (250) on the row unit and a second actuator (8120) connected to a second, different implement (260) on the row unit (200). A fluid control system (8100) controls fluid flow from a fluid source to each of the second actuators (8110, 8120). The fluid control system includes an inlet valve (8101) in a first fluid path (8105) in fluid communication with the fluid source and each of the first and second actuators (8110, 8120) and an outlet valve (8102) connected to the first fluid path (8105). A pressure sensor (8201) is disposed to measure fluid pressure in a first fluid line (8105) forming part of the first fluid path (8105).