Tillage Implement Disk Plugging Detection via Draft Load Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems struggle to accurately detect when the majority of disks on a tillage implement become simultaneously plugged during agricultural operations, making it difficult for operators to take corrective actions.
Innovation Solution
A tillage implement equipped with load sensors and a computing system that determines draft loads applied to the frame by each disk, calculates a total draft load, and identifies when more than half of the disks are plugged based on a minimum load threshold adjusted by field conditions and soil penetration depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional detection methods are used to identify disk plugging, then the system structure remains simple, but the detection accuracy is insufficient making it difficult for operators to determine when the majority of disks are plugged
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection task into individual disk-level measurements using multiple load sensors, each monitoring specific disks. The computing system then segments the analysis by identifying which specific disks are plugged versus operational, enabling precise detection of when a majority threshold is reached.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback by monitoring draft loads in real-time, comparing measured values against threshold criteria, and providing immediate detection when plugging conditions are met. This feedback loop enables dynamic adjustment and accurate identification of plugging events as they occur during field operations.
2Measurement precision
If multiple load sensors are installed to monitor each disk, then the detection accuracy improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The load sensors serve multiple functions: they measure draft load magnitude, detect plugging conditions, and provide data for determining overall implement performance. The computing system performs multiple analytical tasks including individual disk assessment, majority threshold determination, and real-time monitoring, maximizing the utility of each sensor installed.
3Loss of time
If real-time monitoring of draft load is implemented, then timely detection of disk plugging is achieved, but the energy consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic sampling of draft load data at appropriate intervals during field operations, rather than continuous monitoring. This approach maintains timely detection capability while reducing computational burden and energy consumption compared to truly continuous real-time analysis.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for detecting simultaneous disk plugging on a tillage implement includes a plurality of disks supported by the frame of the implement. Additionally, the system includes a plurality of load sensors each being configured to generate data indicative of the draft load being applied to the frame by one or more of the disks. Moreover, the system includes a computing system communicatively coupled to the load sensors. The computing system is configured to determine the plurality of draft loads based on the load sensor data. Furthermore, the computing system is configured to determine the total draft load being applied to the frame based on the determined plurality of draft loads. Moreover, the computing system is configured to determine when the majority of the disks are simultaneously plugged based on the determined total draft load.