Autonomous Windrow Collection Mechanism for Flax Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for processing flax windrows face challenges in accurately gripping and placing windrows during the retting process, leading to disruptions in alignment and potential jams, requiring manual intervention and affecting the quality of fiber extraction.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled or towed machine equipped with controlled collection and spreading means, utilizing sensors and artificial intelligence to automatically adjust the position and orientation of collection and spreading mechanisms, ensuring precise control and operation independent of operator input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual control of collection means is used, then the machine structure is simpler, but the alignment quality and operational reliability deteriorate due to operator control issues
Solution Approach 1:
The collection means is equipped with autonomous control capabilities including sensors to detect windrow position, processing units to analyze detected information, and actuators to automatically adjust the collection means position and orientation. This self-service mechanism eliminates dependency on manual operator control while maintaining high alignment quality through automated real-time adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated control system that uses sensors to detect windrow position, processes this information electronically, and actuates mechanical adjustments automatically. This substitution of manual operation with sensor-processing-actuator systems resolves the contradiction by providing precise control without requiring complex manual intervention.
2Reliability
If automated control with sensors is implemented, then the alignment quality and operational reliability improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collection means incorporates autonomous control capabilities with sensors detecting windrow position, processing units analyzing the detected information, and actuators automatically adjusting the collection means. This self-service system ensures consistent operational reliability by eliminating human error while managing complexity through integrated automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously detects the position and orientation of the windrow using sensors, processes this feedback information, and automatically adjusts the collection means to maintain optimal alignment. This closed-loop feedback mechanism improves operational reliability by ensuring real-time corrections while managing system complexity through automated control algorithms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the collection means is rigidly fixed on the chassis, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to varying windrow positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The collection means is mounted on the chassis with movable connections that allow dynamic adjustment of position and orientation. actuators enable the collection means to adapt its configuration in real-time according to the detected windrow position, transforming a static rigid structure into a dynamic adaptable system that responds to varying field conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting mechanism is designed to provide multiple functions: rigid support for structural stability, movable connections for position adjustment, and actuator integration for automated adaptation. This multi-functional mounting system achieves universality by accommodating various windrow positions and orientations while managing complexity through integrated design.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a self-propelled or towed machine (1) for processing at least one windrow, comprising at least one collection means (3) capable of collecting said at least one windrow from the ground in the form of a continuous sheet. The machine comprises at least one chassis (91) for supporting the collection means, the collection means (3) being movably mounted on the chassis. The collection means is a controlled collection means, and the machine includes an actuation means (2) configured to move, in particular orient, the controlled collection means relative to the chassis. The machine includes, in particular, at least one first sensor configured to determine the position of said at least one windrow before, during, and/or after its collection by said machine (1).The machine also includes control means configured to receive data from said at least one first sensor, and to control said actuation means (2) of said pickup means (3) controlled according to said position of said at least one swath provided by said at least one first sensor, so as to adjust the relative position of the pickup means controlled with respect to said swath.