Ground-Engaging Tool Load Sensing for Shear Pin Failure Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current agricultural implement configurations make it difficult for operators to detect when shear pins associated with ground-engaging tools fail, leading to extensive work being performed with ineffective tools.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes sensors to monitor the load applied through pivot members of ground-engaging tools, using a controller to determine the working condition of shear pins by comparing the detected load to a threshold, and alerting the operator of any changes or failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If shear pins are used to protect ground-engaging tools from excessive loading, then tool reliability is improved, but the ability to detect shear pin failure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs load sensors that continuously monitor forces on ground-engaging tools and provide feedback to a control system. When the measured load exceeds a threshold indicating shear pin failure, the system generates an alert to notify the operator. This feedback mechanism transforms the previously undetectable shear pin failure into a measurable and reportable event, resolving the contradiction between using shear pins for protection and being able to detect their failure.
2Productivity
If extensive field work is performed without monitoring, then productivity is maintained, but loss of time increases due to undetected tool failures
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of shear pin failure conditions by continuously monitoring loads before the operator becomes aware of the problem. When a failure condition is detected, the system alerts the operator in advance, allowing them to stop work and replace the shear pin before significant time is lost. This preliminary detection and alerting mechanism enables continuous productivity while minimizing time loss through early failure detection.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A system for monitoring the operational status of ground-engaging tools of an agricultural implement. The system includes a frame and an assembly including an attachment structure configured to be coupled to the frame and a ground-engaging tool pivotably coupled to the attachment structure at a pivot point. The system further includes a shear pin at least partially extending through both the attachment structure and ground-engaging tool to prevent pivoting of the ground-engaging tool about the pivot point. Additionally, the system includes a sensor configured to detect a load applied through a pivot member extending through at least one of the frame or assembly at any pivot point between the frame and the ground engaging tool. The system further includes a controller, communicatively coupled to the sensor, configured to determine a change in the working condition of the shear pin based on the detected load applied through the pivot member.