Agricultural Machine Display for Efficiency Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural machines, such as tractors, lack a straightforward and understandable connection between drive train operating parameters and efficiency, making it difficult for operators to optimize settings for improved performance and efficiency, especially in partial load conditions.
Innovation Solution
A control unit determines and displays relative values of efficiency and power compared to maximum values, using graphical representations and pictorial analogies to help operators understand the relationship between power and efficiency, enabling easier optimization of machine settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If detailed operating parameters are displayed to show the relationship between power and efficiency, then the information completeness is improved, but the ease of understanding deteriorates due to complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The display device divides the information presentation into two distinct segments: a first display region showing detailed operating parameters (power, efficiency, torque, speed) and a second display region showing simplified visual indicators (color-coded efficiency levels, graphical representations). This segmentation allows operators to access comprehensive data while simultaneously providing an at-a-glance overview that is easy to understand.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms one-dimensional numerical data into two-dimensional graphical representations. Operating parameters are not only displayed as numbers but also visualized through graphical elements such as bars, color gradients, and icons that represent efficiency levels. This dimensional transformation makes complex data more intuitive and easier to comprehend at a glance.
2Measurement precision
If multiple operating parameters are monitored and displayed, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display device is designed as a multi-functional system that simultaneously performs multiple functions: it monitors various operating parameters (power, efficiency, torque, speed), processes this data, generates visual representations, and presents information in both detailed and simplified formats. This universal design consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into a single integrated display unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the display of detailed numerical parameters with visual graphical representations in a single unified interface. The first display region merges multiple parameter readings together, while the second display region merges visual indicators with the numerical data. This merging approach presents comprehensive information without requiring separate display systems for each type of data.
3Productivity
If the display shows detailed operating parameters, then the productivity is improved through better optimization, but the loss of time increases due to longer analysis required
Solution Approach 1:
The display system performs preliminary processing of operating parameters by automatically calculating efficiency values, comparing current operation against optimal ranges, and pre-organizing data into visual categories. This preliminary action reduces the cognitive processing time required by operators, as the data is already analyzed and presented in an optimized format rather than requiring manual analysis of raw parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
By transforming numerical data into visual dimensions (color codes, graphical bars, icons), the system enables operators to grasp key performance information instantaneously without requiring time to analyze numerical values. The visual representation allows for immediate comprehension of efficiency levels and operational status, significantly reducing analysis time while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capabilities.
Data Source
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Figure 4a~5b
AI summary
The present invention relates to an agricultural machine (1), in particular a tractor, comprising a drive train comprising at least one drive motor (2) and a transmission (2a) for operating the machine (1) and for driving at least one working unit (10) for carrying out or supporting agricultural work operations or processes, as well as a control unit (4) for determining operating parameters of at least the drive motor (2) and a display device (8) for visualizing the determined operating parameters, wherein the control unit (4) is configured to determine values for efficiency (Eff) and power transmitted through the drive train (PWR) for a current operating state of the machine (1).by comparing the determined values with stored and/or generated maximum values of efficiency (Eff_max) and power (PWR_max) to generate a current relative value of efficiency (Eff_rel) and power (PWR_rel), and to display these relative values (Eff_rel, PWR_rel) in a comparative representation by the display device (8).