Residue Spread Monitoring With Imaging Feedback Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural combine systems struggle to efficiently and automatically distribute residue material evenly across a field, leading to uneven soil distribution, erosion, and inconsistent plant emergence due to manual adjustment challenges under varying operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an imaging sensor mounted on the unloading auger of a combine harvester, coupled with an inertial measurement unit (IMU), analyzes residue distribution and adjusts the spreader tool's operation using controllers to ensure even distribution, including controlling steering mechanisms and rotor speeds based on real-time imaging data and orientation adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual observation and adjustment of the spreader tool is used, then the operator can control residue distribution, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming under varying operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation through automated monitoring and control. The sensor automatically detects residue distribution patterns, the processor analyzes the data, and the control system adjusts spreader tool operation without requiring continuous manual observation and adjustment by the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback control by monitoring residue distribution with sensors, processing the data to determine distribution characteristics, and using this information to automatically adjust spreader tool operation. This closed-loop feedback eliminates the need for manual observation and trial-and-error adjustment.
2Extent of automation
If sensors are used to monitor residue distribution in real time, then automated control can be implemented, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting residue distribution patterns, determining material density, measuring velocity distribution, and providing data for both monitoring and automated control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized sensors for each measurement type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines the sensor, processor, and control system into an integrated automated control unit. By merging these components into a unified system with centralized processing, the patent reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate independent systems for each function.
3Manufacturing precision
If residue is spread manually without automated monitoring, then the system remains simple, but uneven distribution occurs leading to erosion and inconsistent plant emergence
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment of the spreader tool with an automated electronic control system. The sensor-based monitoring and processor-driven control substitute for manual observation and mechanical adjustment, achieving precise residue distribution without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adjusts operational parameters of the spreader tool based on real-time sensor data. By changing parameters such as spreader angle, rotor speed, or material flow rate in response to measured distribution characteristics, the system achieves precise and consistent residue distribution across varying field conditions.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present invention is related to a system for monitoring the distribution of residue material from a spreader tool (22) of an agricultural machine (10). An imaging sensor (30) mounted or otherwise coupled to an unloading auger (20) of the agricultural machine is used to image a region rearwards of the agricultural machine. Image data (105) from the sensor is analysed to determine a distribution of residue material associated with the spreader tool (22). One or more operational parameters of the agricultural machine or one or more components thereof are then controlled by means of a corresponding output control signal (109) in dependence on the determined distribution.