Agricultural Spreader Task Controller Automatic Parameterization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing agricultural spreading machines require manual configuration of section cut-off modules, leading to tedious data entry, increased risk of programming errors, and inability to adapt to varying working widths or disc configurations, which affects the uniformity and accuracy of particle distribution.

Innovation Solution

An automatic parameterization method for task controller modules in agricultural machines, calculating section coordinates based on the shape of the spreading pattern, using user-input data and predetermined constants, to simplify and optimize the configuration of section cut-off modules, ensuring accurate distribution regardless of working width or disc configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If manual configuration of section cut-off module is used, then device complexity is reduced, but user input errors increase and configuration time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration processVSAvoidprogramming accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically calculates and configures section cut-off parameters based on GPS position and working width, eliminating the need for manual configuration by the user. The control unit performs self-service by computing the coordinates of each section automatically, thereby reducing human error while maintaining simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-calculates the coordinates of all sections based on the working width and number of sections before actual operation. This preliminary configuration ensures that accurate parameters are ready in advance, preventing configuration errors during field operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Device complexity

If manual configuration of section cut-off module is used, then device complexity is reduced, but configuration time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration processVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit automatically performs configuration calculations without requiring user input for each parameter. The system self-configures the section cut-off module by computing coordinates based on stored parameters (working width, number of sections), dramatically reducing configuration time from minutes to seconds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-stores fundamental parameters such as working width and number of sections. During operation, these pre-stored parameters are immediately used to calculate section coordinates, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual configuration during field work.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If fixed configuration parameters are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different working widths decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration systemVSAvoidworking width adaptation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically calculates section coordinates based on the actual working width and number of sections selected by the user. Instead of using fixed parameters, the control unit adapts the configuration in real-time by computing new coordinates whenever working conditions change, enabling versatile adaptation while maintaining simple operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows users to change working width and number of sections parameters, and automatically recalculates all section coordinates based on these changed parameters. This parameter-driven approach enables the system to adapt to different working conditions without increasing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If automated parameter calculation is implemented, then programming accuracy improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter accuracyVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit performs automated calculation of section coordinates using built-in algorithms and stored parameters. This self-service capability ensures high programming accuracy by eliminating manual input errors, while the automation is contained within the control unit without requiring additional external devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit serves multiple functions: it stores working parameters, calculates section coordinates, controls the cut-off module, and adapts to different configurations. This multi-functionality within a single device achieves high accuracy without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 reduces user input errors, allows for adaptive configuration to any working width and disc setup, and ensures precise section positioning, enhancing the uniformity and accuracy of particle distribution across the field.

Implementation Method 1

The discs 15 are most often arranged in a substantially horizontal position and their rotation around a substantially vertical axis 16 favors the projection of the contents 14 of the hopper by centrifugal effect

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCentrifugal effect: Centrifugal Force

Data Source

PatentEP2798929B1Method for automatic parameterisation of a task controller of an agricultural machine, corresponding computer program, control unit and agricultural machine
Publication Date: 2015.08.19 SULKY BUREL
  • EP2798929B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2798929B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3c
  • EP2798929B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for automatically parameterizing a task controller that controls section control means for an agricultural machine equipped with a particle spreading device employing at least two rotating discs carrying projection blades. According to the invention, for at least one set of discs of the spreading device and a section N, the method comprises a step (41) of calculating the coordinates of section N, taking into account the shape of the spreading pattern, and a step (42) of transmitting the coordinates to the task controller.