Graphical User Interface for Independent Shaker Head Frequency Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tree harvesting technologies face challenges in optimizing shaker head frequencies and geometries to accommodate the unique vibratory characteristics of individual trees and changing conditions, leading to inefficient energy transfer and potential tree damage.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a graphical user interface for independent frequency control of the shaker head, allowing for real-time adjustment of eccentric frequencies and ratios, enabling dynamic tuning and optimal energy deposition during harvesting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If fixed ratio gearing is used to control eccentric speeds, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different tree vibratory characteristics deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegearing system complexityVSAvoidadaptability to tree vibratory characteristics

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by replacing fixed ratio gearing with a dynamic control system that can adjust the speed ratio between first and second eccentrics in real-time. The controller modifies the rotational speeds of the eccentrics based on detected tree vibratory characteristics, allowing the system to adapt to different trees and conditions while maintaining manageable device complexity through electronic control rather than mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If trial and error tuning is performed in lab or workshop, then manufacturing precision of frequency settings is improved, but loss of time for field adjustment increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefrequency setting precisionVSAvoidfield adjustment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the shaker head system to automatically detect and adjust to the optimal frequency settings for each tree in the field. The sensor detects vibratory characteristics of individual trees, and the controller automatically adjusts eccentric speeds to match optimal frequencies, eliminating the need for manual trial-and-error tuning in the field and reducing adjustment time to near zero.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If fixed frequency ratios are maintained, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity through optimal energy transfer deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol system complexityVSAvoidharvesting efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically modifying the operational parameters (rotational speeds) of the eccentrics based on detected tree characteristics. The controller adjusts the speed parameters of the first and second eccentrics to optimize energy transfer to each tree, significantly improving harvesting productivity while maintaining relatively simple device complexity through straightforward speed control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Device complexity

If single spinning eccentric is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to optimize output geometry deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveeccentric configuration complexityVSAvoidoutput geometry optimization

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the shaking function into two separate eccentrics (first and second eccentrics) that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows each eccentric to contribute differently to the overall shaking pattern, enabling optimization of output geometry and vibratory characteristics for different tree types while keeping the device complexity manageable through independent but coordinated control of the two eccentrics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

This solution enhances the efficiency of tree harvesting by improving frequency and geometry control, reducing tree damage, and increasing yield, while allowing for adaptable use across various tree types and conditions.

Implementation Method 1

eccentric weights are made to spin and generate inertial forces that transfer vibration into the tree

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInertial forces: Inertia

Implementation Method 2

The vibration travels up the tree and through the branches, ultimately causing the product to detach and fall

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Implementation Method 3

graphical user interfaces for controlling speeds of the eccentric masses that drive a shaker head's shaking frequencies

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFrequency control:

Data Source

PatentUS10729071B2Value-time graphical user interface for independent frequency control of the shaker head of a harvester

Publication Date: 2020.08.04 NEXGEN AG LLC

AI summary

A graphical user interface is disclosed for controlling a harvesting system, the harvesting system driving each of two shaking actuator frequencies individually, the user interface setting or displaying the frequencies of the two actuators as a Value-Time User Interface (VTUI). The VTUI shows shaking parameters in the vertical axis against time in the horizontal axis, the VTUI able to be used to control the shaker in real time, to create and edit a shake pattern, and to display values of shake parameters as the shake is occurring.