Lateral Plough Positioning via Field Data Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an improved method to set the correct lateral position of an agricultural plough implement with respect to the work vehicle, which is challenging due to variations in field conditions such as ground contours and obstacles.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves an agricultural plough arrangement that includes a plough implement connected to an agricultural work vehicle, equipped with an actuator mechanism and a control unit. The control unit receives field data, including ground contour and obstacle information, and automatically determines an actuator control signal to adjust the lateral position of the plough implement based on the received data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the lateral position of the plough implement is manually adjusted, then the operator can control the ploughing width, but the accuracy and adaptability to varying field conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit receives actual position data from sensors monitoring the lateral position of the plough implement and compares it with desired position data. Based on this feedback loop, the control unit automatically generates control signals to adjust the actuator mechanism, maintaining accurate lateral positioning without manual intervention and adapting to varying field conditions in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automatic control where the plough implement self-adjusts its lateral position based on pre-stored desired position data and real-time sensor feedback. The control unit autonomously processes position data and generates actuator control signals without requiring continuous manual input, allowing the system to serve itself in maintaining optimal ploughing alignment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the main frame is rigidly attached to the work vehicle, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different field conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transforms the rigid static connection into a dynamic adjustable connection. The actuator mechanism enables the main frame to laterally adjust its position relative to the work vehicle based on control signals from the control unit. This dynamic capability allows the plough implement to adapt to varying field conditions such as ground contours and obstacles while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical connection structure.
3Productivity
If automated control is implemented, then the lateral position accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated control system that uses sensors, a control unit, and an actuator mechanism. The control unit electronically processes position data and generates control signals to drive the actuator, substituting human operator actions with an automated electromechanical system that improves ploughing efficiency and lateral position accuracy.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an agricultural plough arrangement comprising an agricultural work vehicle and a plough implement connected to the agricultural work vehicle and comprising at least one ground engaging tool. At least one actuator mechanism is configured to move the plough implement laterally with respect to the agricultural work vehicle, wherein a control unit is provided that is to: receive field-data indicative of conditions of a field across which the agricultural plough arrangement is being moved; automatically determine an actuator-control-signal for the actuator mechanism based on the field-data, wherein the actuator-control-signal is for moving the plough implement laterally with respect to the agricultural work vehicle on the basis of the field-data received.