Centrifugal Spreader Discharge Angle Control via Radar Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centrifugal spreaders face challenges in maintaining consistent fertilizer distribution due to changing surface properties and batch variations, requiring on-site measurements and operator intervention to adjust spread patterns, which can lead to unsatisfactory results.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling the throwing angle in centrifugal spreaders using radar sensors to continuously measure and adjust the position and speed of the delivery system, allowing for real-time adaptation of the spreading pattern to the working width and fertilizer type without relying on pre-set charts, by calculating controlled variables for ejection angle and throw distance control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spread charts and shell tests are used to determine scattering parameters under standardized conditions, then the spreading pattern can be characterized with reproducible results, but the actual application may yield unsatisfactory results due to changing surface properties and batch variations of fertilizer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where radar sensors continuously measure the actual throwing angle and throwing distance of fertilizer granules during application. These measurements are fed back to the control unit, which automatically adjusts the delivery system position and spreading disc speed to maintain the desired spreading pattern, thereby adapting to changing fertilizer properties in real-time
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting actual spreading parameters and modifying its own operation without external intervention. The control unit processes sensor data and autonomously adjusts delivery system position angles and disc speeds to compensate for variations in fertilizer surface properties and batch characteristics
2Measurement precision
If on-site measurements and operator intervention are performed to adjust spread patterns, then the actual throwing angle and distance information can be obtained, but the productivity is reduced due to time consumption and operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual on-site measurements and operator interventions with an automated radar-based measurement and control system. Radar sensors continuously monitor throwing parameters, and the control unit automatically processes this data to adjust the spreading system, eliminating the need for manual measurement and operator intervention while maintaining high measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous monitoring and adjustment throughout the entire fertilizer application process. Radar sensors continuously measure throwing angle and distance, and the control unit continuously adjusts delivery system position and disc speed, ensuring optimal spreading performance is maintained throughout operation without interruptions for manual measurement or adjustment
3Adaptability or versatility
If the delivery system position is adjusted to control the throwing angle, then the spreading pattern can be adapted to the working width, but the device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it processes radar sensor data, calculates required position adjustments, determines optimal disc speeds, and controls both the delivery system position and spreading disc operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated control mechanisms for each function, thereby managing complexity while maintaining adaptability
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 method enables continuous adaptation of the spreading pattern to achieve stable and even fertilizer distribution, reducing the need for on-site measurements and operator intervention, and maintaining the desired throwing angle and distance within specified ranges, thus preventing deformed patterns and ensuring efficient fertilizer application.
Implementation Method 1
a first, in particular radar-based, monitoring device (6, 7) for measuring a throwing angle and a throwing distance of the fertilizer discharged by the spreading disc (1)
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for controlling the discharge angle of a centrifugal spreader (100) and a corresponding centrifugal spreader are described. Accordingly, a target discharge angle (AWWs1) is calculated from a predetermined working width (AB) and a measured actual discharge distance (WW1) of the fertilizer. Furthermore, an actual discharge angle (AWW1) is measured during fertilizer discharge, and a control variable (RGa) for the discharge angle control is calculated from the target discharge angle and the actual discharge angle. By further acting on the position (PE) of an inlet system (1a) for the fertilizer, a manipulated variable (SGa) of the discharge angle control is applied to the position (PE) of an inlet system (1a) formed on the spreading disc (1), the discharge angle can be maintained within a range suitable for fertilizer discharge without requiring an operator to change individual fertilizer discharge parameters based on spreading tables.