Variable Steering Control for Agricultural Implements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing active steering systems for implements do not adequately consider the physical interaction with the soil, leading to potential damage and tracking errors when the implement is in a lowered mode.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes a steering detector and an implement mode detector to adjust the steering command by limiting the target steering angle to a maximum when the implement is in a lowered mode, preventing damage and improving tracking accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the target steering angle is increased to improve tracking speed, then the implement can faster return to the desired path, but the ground-engaging components may be damaged due to excessive steering forces when lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the maximum steering angle based on implement mode (lowered or raised). When the implement is lowered, the maximum steering angle is limited to protect ground-engaging components. When raised, the full steering angle range is available, optimizing tracking performance without damage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller changes the steering angle parameter according to the implement's operational state. The system monitors whether the implement is lowered or raised and adjusts the target steering angle accordingly, transforming a fixed parameter into a variable one that adapts to operational conditions.
2Reliability
If the steering angle is limited to a maximum value to prevent damage, then component damage is avoided, but tracking accuracy deteriorates when the implement needs to correct large deviations
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic steering angle adjustment based on real-time implement mode detection. The maximum steering angle is not fixed but varies according to whether the implement is lowered or raised, allowing optimal performance in each state while preventing damage in the vulnerable lowered state.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the implement mode detector to continuously adjust steering commands. The controller receives information about the implement's operational state and modifies the target steering angle accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions.
3Device complexity
If the steering system operates without considering implement mode, then the system complexity is reduced, but tracking errors occur due to unaccounted physical interaction with the soil
Solution Approach 1:
The existing active steering system is enhanced with multi-functionality by adding mode-based adjustment capabilities. The same steering controller serves both raised and lowered implement modes, automatically adapting its behavior without requiring separate control systems for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The implement mode detector acts as an intermediary between the physical state of the implement and the steering controller. It provides crucial information about the implement's operational state, enabling the controller to adjust steering commands appropriately without direct mechanical modifications to the steering mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for steering an implement comprises a steering detector for detecting a target steering angle associated with an implement steering system. An implement mode detector is capable of determining whether or not the implement is acting in a lowered mode of operation in which a ground-engaging component other than one or more wheels engage the ground. An implement steering controller is arranged to adjust the target steering angle by reducing or by limiting the target steering angle to a maximum steering angle if the implement is in the lowered mode.