Tool Support Obstacle Avoidance Control via Deformation Feedback
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool supports with obstacle avoidance systems require complex adjustments and have limited clearance ranges, often necessitating multiple deformable parallelograms and requiring constant driver intervention to maintain alignment with non-straight rows.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling a tool support with a system that includes a first support connected to a motorized machine, a second support for tools, a link allowing transverse movement, an actuator with limit switches, and a servo system that automatically adjusts the tool's position relative to the row by measuring deformation and comparing values to maintain a constant adjustment distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional obstacle avoidance system with a single deformable parallelogram is used, then the structure is simple, but the clearance range is limited (around 150 mm or less) and constant driver adjustment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two deformable parallelograms into a single integrated mechanism. The first parallelogram (12, 16, 24, 26) handles obstacle avoidance while the second parallelogram (12, 62, 64, 66) enables longitudinal movement of the tool support relative to the motorized machine. This merging allows the system to achieve both transverse and longitudinal adjustment capabilities within a unified structure, extending the clearance range beyond 150 mm while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic control through servo actuators that continuously adjust the positions of the tool support based on real-time sensor feedback. The deformable parallelograms allow dynamic reconfiguration of the tool support position, enabling the system to adapt to varying row configurations and maintain optimal clearance distances automatically without driver intervention.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple deformable parallelograms are used to extend clearance range, then the operating range increases, but the adjustment complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automatic control where sensors detect the position of the tool support relative to the row, and the servo control system automatically adjusts the deformable parallelograms to maintain the desired clearance distance. This eliminates the need for manual driver adjustment and simplifies operation despite the complex multi-parallelogram structure, as the system self-regulates its configuration based on real-time conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates sensor feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the position and deformation of the parallelograms. This feedback is processed by the servo control system, which automatically adjusts the actuator positions to maintain optimal tool support positioning. The feedback loop enables the complex structure to operate autonomously, reducing operational complexity for the driver.
3Productivity
If manual driver adjustment is required to follow non-straight rows, then the system remains simple, but productivity decreases due to constant intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment by the driver with an automated servo-controlled system. Sensors detect row position and tool support position, and the servo actuators automatically adjust the deformable parallelograms to maintain optimal clearance. This substitution of manual mechanical operation with automated electromechanical control significantly improves productivity by eliminating constant driver intervention while maintaining precise positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-positioning relative to the row through automatic detection and adjustment mechanisms. The sensors and servo control system enable the tool support to automatically follow the row configuration and maintain proper clearance distances without requiring driver attention or manual intervention, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and productivity.
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for controlling a tool support which includes a link (24) connecting a first support (12) to a second support (16) supporting a tool (18) and an obstacle avoidance system, said method comprising a step of measuring the deformation of the link (24) at given times during the passage of obstacles (20), a step of comparing the measured values of the deformation of the link (24) during the passage of two obstacles (20) and a step of carrying out, if necessary, depending on this comparison step, a corrective action so that the adjustment distance (D) is substantially constant.