Automatic Tractor Turning Control System Learning Operator Paths
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tractor guidance systems struggle to maintain direction along curved paths, particularly when transitioning between straight rows in a field, and do not effectively handle unique or atypical turn requirements necessitated by specialized implements or production methods.
Innovation Solution
An automatic vehicle turning system that uses a software-based process and user interface to learn and store custom turn shapes from operator input, allowing the system to automatically select the best learned turn shape for new situations, incorporating a traction device angle sensor, electronic control unit, and vehicle guidance system to direct the tractor along predetermined paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated steering control is used to maintain straight line paths, then straight line path accuracy is improved, but curved path turning capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its control behavior based on the path type. For straight paths, it uses automated steering control with high precision. For curved paths, it transitions to a different control mode that accommodates turning requirements, allowing the system to maintain accuracy in both straight and curved path scenarios without being constrained by a single control approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes control parameters based on the detected path geometry. When transitioning from straight to curved paths, the control parameters are adjusted to enable appropriate turning behavior. This allows the automated steering system to maintain path accuracy while adapting to different path curvatures by modifying its control characteristics.
2Ease of manufacture
If standard automated turning control is used, then standard tractor operations are handled adequately, but specialized or atypical turn requirements cannot be met
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary learning by observing and recording operator steering inputs during manual operation. This creates a library of learned turning patterns that capture specialized and atypical turn requirements. When automated control is engaged, the system selects and applies the most appropriate pre-learned pattern, enabling it to handle specialized operations without requiring explicit programming for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors and learns from operator corrections and adjustments made during manual operation. This feedback mechanism allows the system to refine its understanding of specialized turning requirements over time. The learned patterns are stored and can be automatically applied in future similar situations, improving the system's ability to handle specialized operations while maintaining ease of use.
3Ease of operation
If manual steering mode is used for turns, then operator control flexibility is improved, but continuous operator attention and intervention are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically learning and executing turning maneuvers based on observed operator behavior. During manual operation, the system records steering inputs and path geometry. When automated control is activated, it independently selects and executes the appropriate learned turning pattern without requiring continuous operator intervention. This allows the operator to maintain flexibility while significantly reducing the time and attention required for path management.
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic turning control system for a work vehicle having a ground engaging traction device directed by a manual steering device. The automatic turning control system includes an electronic control unit (ECU), a traction device angle sensor configured to generate an angle signal representative of an angle of the traction device with respect to an axis of the work vehicle, and a vehicle guidance system. The ECU is configured to generate a manual path signal representing an actual path of the work vehicle based on the angle signal. The ECU is operatively connected to a vehicle guidance system and determines a learned path signal based on the manual path signal. The vehicle guidance system automatically directs the work vehicle along the learned path signal when the vehicle moves from a working area, to a non-working area, and back to the working area of a field.