Universal Sensor Programming for Agricultural Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural machines require multiple specific sensors for different functions, leading to the need for spare sensors for each type, which can result in errors if the wrong sensor is ordered or mounted incorrectly.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a universal sensor device that can be programmed for specific functions using unique sets of sensor programming instructions, allowing the same device to be used across different sensor positions and enabling easy reconfiguration if a sensor fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple specific sensors are used for different functions, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single sensor device that can perform multiple sensing functions through programmable instructions. Instead of having separate physical sensors for different measurements, one sensor device is configured with specific programming to perform various sensing tasks, thereby reducing inventory complexity while maintaining the ability to perform multiple measurement functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying the operational parameters and programming of a single sensor device to adapt it for different measurement functions. By changing the configuration, calibration, and software instructions of the sensor device, it can reliably perform different sensing tasks without requiring multiple dedicated sensors.
2Reliability
If spare sensors are kept for each sensor type, then reliability is improved, but loss of substance and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces inventory overhead by implementing a universal spare sensor device that can replace multiple different sensor types. Instead of maintaining separate spare inventories for each sensor type, a single universal sensor device with reconfigurable programming can serve as a spare for any sensor position, thereby eliminating the need to store multiple different sensor spares while maintaining operational reliability.
3Ease of operation
If wrong sensors are ordered or mounted, then ease of operation is reduced, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automatic sensor identification and configuration systems. When a sensor device is installed, the system automatically identifies the sensor position requirements and configures the appropriate programming instructions, eliminating manual configuration errors. This self-identifying capability ensures that the correct sensing function is automatically assigned, preventing wrong sensor installation while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms where the sensor device communicates its identity, status, and configuration requirements to the control system. The control system receives feedback about the installed sensor and automatically adjusts the programming and configuration accordingly, providing real-time verification that the correct sensor function is active and preventing productivity losses from incorrect installations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces the need for multiple spare sensors, minimizes the risk of incorrect sensor installation, and allows for efficient reconfiguration of sensor positions, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the sensor programming devices comprises a passive RFID tag comprising sensor programming instructions, and the corresponding sensor device comprises an RFID reader. The automatic transferring of the unique set of sensor programming instructions may then comprise activating the RFID tag and reading the unique set of sensor programming instructions using the RFID reader.
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the sensor programming devices comprises a visual code comprising sensor programming instructions, such as e.g. a bar code or a QR tag, and the corresponding sensor device comprises an optical reader. The automatic transferring of the unique set of sensor programming instructions may then comprise reading the unique set of sensor programming instructions using the optical reader.
Implementation Method 3
at least one of the sensor programming devices comprises a number of magnets, where the position pattern of the magnets comprises the sensor programming instructions, and the corresponding sensor device comprises a reader that detects the position pattern of the magnets. The automatic transferring of the unique set of sensor programming instructions may then comprise reading the unique set of sensor programming instructions by detecting the position pattern of the magnets.
Data Source
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AI summary
In accordance with one or more embodiments herein, an agricultural machine (100) comprising sensors is provided. The agricultural machine (100) comprises a number of sensor programming devices (110), each comprising a unique set of sensor programming instructions, and is arranged to comprise one single corresponding sensor device (120) for each of the sensor programming devices (110). Each sensor programming device (110) is mounted in a programming position (115) adjacent a sensor position (125) for the corresponding sensor device (120), and each sensor device (120) is arranged to be mounted in the sensor position (125) and automatically receive the sensor programming instructions from the corresponding sensor programming device (110). This ensures that if a sensor device (120) is moved from one sensor position (125) to another sensor position (125), it automatically receives a different set of programming instructions.