Windrow Center Line Mapping for Merged Swath Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural machines face challenges in accurately mapping and controlling the center line and quantity of windrows, especially when multiple windrows are merged, which complicates subsequent operations like harvesting and baling.
Innovation Solution
A system that detects the windrow configuration, identifies the center line, and quantifies the material in the windrow by using sensors and processors to generate control signals for steering, propulsion, and conveyance systems, enhancing route planning and material control during subsequent operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple windrows are merged using merger components, then the windrow quantity and material consolidation are improved, but the windrow center line detection precision and mapping accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the windrow detection task by identifying individual windrow centers before merging, then calculates the combined center line based on the segmented components. This allows precise detection of each windrow's center line separately, then combines them mathematically to determine the merged windrow's center line, maintaining precision while handling multiple windrows.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary calculation process that takes the individual windrow center lines and material quantities as inputs, then computes a weighted average based on material quantity to determine the merged windrow's center line. This intermediary calculation bridges the gap between individual windrow detection and merged windrow mapping.
2Productivity
If the windrower operates with merger components to create double or triple windrows, then the material consolidation is improved, but the subsequent harvesting and baling operations become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary mapping and center line identification during the windrow creation phase, before subsequent harvesting or baling operations. By pre-calculating and storing the accurate center line locations and material quantities for each windrow (including merged windrows), the system eliminates the need for complex real-time detection during subsequent operations, thereby reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by mapping and storing the precise center line locations and material quantities of created windrows, which then serves as reference data for subsequent harvesting and baling operations. This feedback mechanism allows subsequent operations to use the pre-mapped information for optimized route planning and material handling, reducing the complexity of those operations.
3Ease of operation
If the windrow center line is not accurately mapped, then the route planning for subsequent operations becomes simpler, but the operational effectiveness and material flow consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical or manual route planning methods with automated electronic mapping and navigation systems that use the precisely mapped windrow center lines. This substitution allows for more accurate and efficient route planning that adapts to the actual windrow positions and material quantities, improving operational effectiveness while maintaining ease of use through automation.
Data Source
AI summary
Mowing characteristics of a mowing operation are detected. The mowing characteristics indicate that the mower is engaged and also whether a merger component is engaged. A center line of a windrow is identified based upon a location of the mower and the mowing characteristics. An action signal is generated based upon the center line of the mower.