Vineyard Processing Device Opening Control Using Camera Obstacle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work apparatuses in viticulture struggle with automatic obstacle recognition and precise opening control, leading to potential damage to obstacles and inefficient processing due to driver-dependent operations.
Innovation Solution
Employing a camera and electronic image processing to identify linear structures like stickels, allowing automatic adjustment of processing device spacing to avoid collisions, with optional AI-driven tracking and actuator control for precise opening and closing movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual operation of the pre-pruner is used, then the driver can control the opening based on experience, but the island size varies greatly and requires extensive practice to minimize
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical control system with an automated optical-mechanical system. A camera captures images of the row, an evaluation device processes the images to detect stickels and calculate optimal opening timing, and an actuator automatically adjusts the basket opening based on these calculations, eliminating the need for driver skill and experience.
2Reliability
If the driver permanently concentrates on recognizing stickels, then opening control can be improved, but the driver becomes tired and strain increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the automated control system performs the stickel recognition and opening control functions that would otherwise require continuous driver attention. The camera and evaluation device independently monitor the row and automatically trigger opening actions, freeing the driver from permanent concentration requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the driver's visual recognition and manual control with an automated system comprising a camera for detection, an evaluation device for processing, and an actuator for execution. This mechanical-optical system performs the monitoring and control functions reliably without causing driver fatigue.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If leaves are present in the trellis system or sun angle is low, then stickel recognition becomes difficult, but automated systems can overcome these limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual recognition with an automated camera-based detection system that can consistently identify stickels regardless of lighting conditions or leaf presence. The camera captures images that are processed by an evaluation device using image analysis algorithms, providing reliable detection independent of human visual limitations.
4Reliability
If the pre-pruner hits a stickel, then the pressure relief valve triggers emergency opening, but the stickel is often damaged anyway
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of stickels using a camera and evaluation device before the pre-pruner reaches them. Based on the detected stickel position and travel speed, the system calculates the optimal opening timing in advance and triggers the actuator to open the basket before collision occurs, preventing both the collision and subsequent emergency opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses continuous feedback from the camera and image evaluation to monitor stickel positions and adjust opening timing accordingly. The evaluation device processes real-time images, determines stickel locations, and provides feedback to the control system to optimize the opening moment, ensuring reliable obstacle avoidance.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for controlling the opening of a work apparatus having pairwise arranged processing devices for viticulture. The work apparatus is attached to a work vehicle and comprises at least one piece of holding equipment which reaches over a row of plants and on which at least one of the processing devices is held. At least one processing device (is arranged on each side of the row. A clear opening is able to be established between the processing devices and/or is able to be changed in terms of an opening width and/or an opening length by at least one actuator. At least one image recording is generated by at least one electronic camera at least for at least one field of view.