Vine Pruning Machine with Dual-Module Cutting and Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual pruning in vineyards is time-consuming and costly due to the need for precise adjustment of vine lengths and removal of unwanted shoots, which current mechanical pre-pruning methods cannot accurately achieve, leading to inefficiencies and increased labor costs.
Innovation Solution
A machine with two modules, a pre-pruning module and a clear-cutting module, equipped with artificial vision systems and adjustable cutters, allows for precise cutting and localization of cordons, enabling automatic pruning that minimizes manual reworking by controlling cutter positioning based on travel speed and predetermined distances from the cordon.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mechanical pre-pruning is used to cut stocks above the cordon, then the maximum number of stocks can be removed efficiently, but the precision of cutting is insufficient and manual reworking is required
Solution Approach 1:
The pruning operation is divided into two distinct modules: a pre-pruning module for removing stocks above the cordon and a clear-cutting module for precise cutting near the cordon. This segmentation allows each module to specialize in its function, with the pre-pruning module handling bulk removal efficiently and the clear-cutting module providing precision where needed, thereby resolving the contradiction between productivity and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The pre-pruning module performs preliminary cutting of stocks above the cordon before the clear-cutting module operates. This preliminary action removes the majority of unwanted stocks efficiently, reducing the workload for the subsequent precision cutting phase and minimizing the time required for manual reworking.
2Manufacturing precision
If cutters are positioned close to the cordon for precise cutting, then pruning precision is improved, but the risk of damaging the cordon or removing fruit-bearing eyes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clear-cutting module uses an intermediary positioning system with adjustable cutters that can be precisely controlled at a predetermined distance from the cordon. This intermediary mechanism allows the cutters to operate close enough for precision while maintaining a safe distance to prevent damage to the cordon or removal of fruit-bearing eyes, resolving the contradiction between precision and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The clear-cutting module employs dynamically adjustable cutters that can be positioned and repositioned based on real-time detection of cordon location and characteristics. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt to varying cordon positions and maintain optimal cutting distance, ensuring precision without causing damage.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual pruning is performed to achieve precise cutting and remove unwanted shoots, then pruning precision is improved, but the time required and labor costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The machine performs self-service by automatically executing both pre-pruning and clear-cutting operations without requiring manual intervention for each cutting action. The system detects cordon positions, adjusts cutter positions automatically, and performs cutting operations autonomously, thereby achieving manual-level precision while eliminating the time and labor costs associated with manual pruning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates detection means that provide real-time feedback on cordon position and characteristics. This feedback is used by the control system to automatically adjust cutter positions and cutting parameters, enabling the machine to achieve precise pruning results without manual intervention and significantly reducing the time compared to manual methods.
4Measurement precision
If the height of machine cutters is adjusted at the start of a row, then initial positioning is improved, but the cutters cannot adapt to ground unevenness during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The cutter positioning system transitions from static initial adjustment to dynamic real-time adjustment. The detection means continuously monitor cordon position during machine movement, and the control system automatically adjusts cutter positions in response to ground unevenness and cordon location variations, thereby maintaining positioning accuracy while adapting to changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time feedback from detection means that continuously track cordon position during machine movement. This feedback enables the control system to make continuous adjustments to cutter positioning, allowing the system to adapt to ground unevenness and maintain accurate cutting positions throughout the row, resolving the contradiction between initial positioning accuracy and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for automatically pruning vines grown in a row in a cordon-leading manner has a chassis, a pre-pruning module, a clear-cutting module and a position sensor. The clear-cutting module is positioned behind the pre-pruning module and has cutters thereon. The position sensor is forward of the clear-cutting module so as to locate the cordon and to position the cutter so as to achieve a clear cut from a periphery of the cordon. The clear-cutting module has upper cutters, lower cutters and lateral cutters.