Remote Steering Control with Row Finder for Tractors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tractors require multiple skilled workers for operation, increasing labor costs and reducing efficiency in agricultural and construction tasks, as they need manual steering and obstacle avoidance.
Innovation Solution
A remote steering control system with a row finder, which includes a guide arm and pivot switch mechanism that automatically steers the tractor to maintain alignment with a crop row, allowing single-operator control and reducing labor requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional manual steering control is used, then the tractor can be operated with simple control mechanisms, but multiple skilled workers are required increasing labor costs and reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The row finder system enables the tractor to steer itself automatically by detecting crop rows and maintaining center alignment, eliminating the need for manual steering input and reducing dependency on skilled operators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical steering control with an automated optical detection system that uses light sensors to detect crop rows and electronically controls the steering mechanism
2Reliability
If manual steering by skilled workers is required, then precise obstacle avoidance and row alignment can be achieved, but labor costs increase and worker availability becomes a constraint
Solution Approach 1:
The row finder system continuously monitors the tractor's position relative to the crop row using light sensors and automatically adjusts steering to maintain center alignment, providing continuous feedback control without human intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The automated row finding and steering system performs the alignment task that previously required skilled workers, making the operation easier while maintaining or improving alignment accuracy
3Productivity
If a crew of two or more persons is used to operate the tractor, then manual steering and monitoring tasks can be performed, but labor costs rise and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The row finder system automates the steering and row monitoring functions that previously required a crew of two or more operators, consolidating control to a single operator or eliminating the need for dedicated steering personnel
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions (row detection, position monitoring, and steering control) into a single integrated automated system, eliminating the need for separate operators for each function
Data Source
AI summary
A remote steering control and row finder, used with a tractor towing a vehicle or trailer. The remote steering control that can be retrofit to a conventional tractor and towed vehicle, and includes self-guiding features for finding a row of crops to maintain a center steer. The remote tractor includes a guide arm with an arm extension having a pivot tab proximate to a pivot block on the arm extension. The pivot block hinges about the arm extension at a block hinge. A pivot switch mounts to the arm extension, activated by the rotation of the pivot tab on the pivoting of the pivot block about the guide hinge. With the opening and closing of the pivot switch, either a hard-wired or a wireless remote console on the towed vehicle controls the steering mechanism of the remote tractor, guiding the direction of travel of the remote tractor.