Sensor-Integrated Threshing Element for Force Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current threshing systems in agricultural combines lack understanding of internal reactions due to limited access, making it difficult to optimize operation and identify trouble areas, with existing solutions relying on empirical methods and visual observations.
Innovation Solution
Integration of sensor-equipped threshing elements on rotatable threshing rotors that measure threshing forces, allowing for the collection of data on tangential and radial forces, which is transmitted to a controller for optimizing operational parameters and identifying trouble spots within the threshing system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensor-equipped threshing elements are integrated on rotatable threshing rotors to measure threshing forces, then measurement precision and operational optimization are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is nested within the threshing element structure, with the body secured to the inside surface of the structure. This nesting approach allows the sensor to be integrated into the existing threshing element without adding significant external complexity, while still enabling precise measurement of threshing forces through the body's connection to the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The body acts as an intermediary component between the sensor and the structure. It is secured to both the inside surface of the structure and operatively connected to the sensor, facilitating force transmission from the structure to the sensor while maintaining measurement capability. This intermediary approach resolves the contradiction by providing a clear force transmission path without requiring direct sensor attachment to the rotating structure.
2Ease of operation
If empirical methods and visual observations are used for threshing system optimization, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision and system optimization capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The threshing system performs self-measurement through the integrated sensor that automatically detects and reports threshing forces during normal operation. This eliminates the need for external observation methods while maintaining ease of operation, as the system self-monitors and provides data for optimization without requiring additional manual intervention or complex external measurement equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor provides continuous feedback on threshing forces during operation, enabling real-time monitoring and optimization of the threshing system. This feedback mechanism allows operators to make informed adjustments based on actual measured data rather than empirical observations, significantly improving measurement precision while maintaining operational simplicity through automated data collection and reporting.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise measurement and optimization of threshing forces, improving operational efficiency and grain quality by identifying and maintaining forces within a desired threshold range, reducing grain damage and power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor outputs a signal corresponding to forces generated by contact between the outside surface of the structure and the crop material
Data Source
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AI summary
A threshing element (24) includes a structure (35) having an outside surface (36) for threshing a crop material (66), and an inside surface (38). A body (40) is operatively connected to a sensor (42). The body (40) is secured to the inside surface (38) of the structure (35), the body (40) having a connecting feature (68) for securing at least the body (40) and the structure (35) to each other. The structure (35) is securable to a rotatable threshing rotor (14) of a harvester threshing system (12). In response to operation of the threshing rotor (14) of the harvester threshing system (12), the sensor (40) outputs a signal corresponding to forces generated by contact between the outside surface (36) of the structure (35) and the crop material (66).