Tractor Implement Detection via Cylinder Sensor Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for detecting whether an implement is attached to a tractor's three-point linkage are unreliable, particularly when different implements of varying weights are used, and may result in collisions with tow bars or the ground, as they rely on pressure sensors that can't distinguish between attached and unloaded states accurately.
Innovation Solution
An implement detection arrangement that uses a position and/or pressure sensor in the lifting cylinder, comparing changes in these parameters with those from the tractor's suspension cylinder sensors during acceleration or uneven terrain travel, without requiring additional equipment, to determine if an implement is attached and its height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If pressure sensors in the lifting cylinder are used to detect implement attachment, then the system can provide automatic electronic linkage control, but the detection reliability is insufficient when different implements of varying weights are used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism that monitors the interaction between the linkage and implement through position and force sensors. This intermediary system detects the presence and state of the implement by measuring physical interactions rather than relying solely on pressure sensors, thereby improving detection reliability while maintaining automatic control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely pressure-based detection system with a hybrid system incorporating position sensors and force sensors. This substitution of mechanical detection methods provides more reliable data about implement attachment and state, enabling accurate detection across different implement weights while preserving automatic linkage control.
2Extent of automation
If the lower links are raised by change in draft force, then automatic electronic linkage control can operate, but collision with tow bar may occur resulting in damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where position sensors continuously monitor the linkage position and force sensors detect implement presence. This feedback loop enables the automatic control system to adjust linkage movement dynamically, preventing collision with tow bars or ground while maintaining automatic operation benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by detecting implement attachment status and predicted linkage movement trends before collision occurs. The control system proactively adjusts linkage position or prohibits movement when collision risk is detected, preventing damage while allowing automatic control to function.
3Reliability
If additional detection devices are installed to improve implement detection accuracy, then detection reliability improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by utilizing existing tractor sensors (position sensors and force sensors) for multiple purposes: original control functions plus implement detection. This universal use of existing components improves detection reliability without adding dedicated detection devices, thereby avoiding increased system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs self-service by using the tractor's existing sensor infrastructure to perform implement detection. The position and force sensors already present in the linkage system serve dual purposes: maintaining control functionality and detecting implement attachment status, eliminating the need for additional specialized detection equipment.
Data Source
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AI summary
An implement detection arrangement on a tractor (1) having a linkage system (400) for attaching the implement (500) thereto. The linkage system (400) comprises a lifting cylinder (403) having a position (409) and/or pressure (411) sensor, and the changes of position and/or pressure of the lifting cylinder (403) are measured during specific operating conditions of the tractor (1) to provide a first parameter. A comparison is then made with a second parameter measured on the tractor (1) to determine whether an implement is attached to the tractor.