Windrow Scheduling for Precise Swath Size and Recovery Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating swaths from mown crops are inefficient and lack precision, particularly in terms of optimizing swath size and recovery efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize planning data based on various parameters to optimize swath size and recovery efficiency by integrating a control unit into an agricultural vehicle, which considers field data, crop type, rake and recovery machine types, and cutting length to determine precise swath dimensions and working strategies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If swath size is increased to improve recovery efficiency, then productivity increases, but manufacturing precision (swath dimension control) becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations and planning before swath creation. Planning data is determined in advance based on field data, crop type, rake type, recovery machine type, and cutting length to optimize swath dimensions. This allows the system to pre-determine optimal swath parameters that balance recovery efficiency with dimensional control, rather than adjusting dimensions during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where planning data is adjusted based on actual field conditions and machine performance. The control unit receives input from sensors and adjusts swath parameters in real-time to maintain precision while optimizing recovery efficiency. This feedback loop allows the system to adapt to varying conditions and maintain both productivity and manufacturing precision.
2Productivity
If automation of swath creation is increased to improve efficiency, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it processes planning data, controls the swather, coordinates with recovery machines, and adjusts parameters based on field conditions. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional control system, the patent reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate control mechanisms for each function, while still achieving high automation levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment and self-optimization based on input data and field conditions. The control unit automatically determines optimal swath parameters and adjusts operations without requiring constant human intervention. This self-service capability increases productivity while keeping the control logic encapsulated within the system itself, rather than requiring complex external control mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If planning data processing is performed with high precision to optimize swath dimensions, then manufacturing precision improves, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs all necessary planning data processing and optimization calculations in advance before actual swath creation begins. By pre-determining optimal parameters based on field data, crop type, and machine characteristics, the system eliminates time-consuming calculations during operation. This preliminary action approach maintains high manufacturing precision while minimizing real-time processing delays.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for planning a swath (12) which is created by a swather (14) by raking together a crop (18) mown on an agricultural field (16). Planning data (d_plan) of the swath (12) are determined as a function of at least one of the following planning parameters: - field data (d_f) which represent at least one feature of the mown agricultural field (16), - a type (typ_er) of the crop (18), - a type (typ_schw) of a planned swather (14), - a type (typ_ma) of a planned recovery machine (24) for recovering the created swath (12), - a cutting length (l_schn) of the swath material (12) processed during recovery.