Agricultural Spreader Controller with Pre-Limit Warnings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural distribution machines, such as field sprayers, face limitations in operating parameters that prevent damage but compromise distribution accuracy and speed, making it difficult to maintain the specified application rate without overloading the machine.
Innovation Solution
A method and controller that intervene in the operation of the distribution machine by triggering actions when predefined distances from operating parameter limits are reached, allowing for direct control of the spraying device and influencing other parameters to maintain the desired application rate while preventing overloading, through messages and adjustments to the tractor or self-propelled mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If operating parameter limits are enforced to prevent machine damage, then machine reliability is improved, but distribution accuracy and working speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by triggering warnings and pre-limits before the actual parameter limits are reached. This allows operators to take corrective measures in advance, preventing machine damage while maintaining optimal distribution accuracy and working speed throughout the operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously monitors operating parameters and provides feedback through warnings and pre-limits. This feedback mechanism enables real-time adjustments to maintain both machine reliability and distribution accuracy by alerting operators to approaching parameter limits before damage occurs.
2Reliability
If pump speed is limited to prevent overloading, then machine reliability is improved, but application rate accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system triggers pre-limits for pump speed before the maximum operational limit is reached, allowing operators to adjust pump speed proactively. This prevents overloading and maintains machine reliability while ensuring the pump operates at optimal speeds for accurate application rate delivery.
3Productivity
If operating speed is increased to improve productivity, then working speed is improved, but distribution accuracy deteriorates due to parameter limits
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides advance warnings when operating parameters approach limits that would compromise distribution accuracy at high speeds. This allows operators to maintain higher working speeds while making timely adjustments to preserve distribution accuracy before parameter limits are breached.
Solution Approach 2:
Continuous monitoring and feedback of operating parameters enable the system to alert operators when speed-related parameter limits are approached, allowing real-time adjustments that maintain both high productivity and distribution accuracy.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for distributing agricultural material, comprising at least one distribution machine for area-based distribution of the agricultural material, preferably a sprayer, fertilizer spreader, seed drill, or similar device. Permissible limits are specified for at least one operating parameter of the distribution machine, wherein the distribution machine is preferably moved to distribute the agricultural material, in particular by means of a tractor and/or a self-propelled vehicle. The distribution is typically controlled and/or monitored by an operator. The method is characterized in that at least one action is triggered when a predefined distance to a predetermined limit of at least one operating parameter is reached by that at least one operating parameter.Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding control system for a distribution machine for agricultural material, which is suitable for carrying out the method, and to a corresponding distribution machine.