Windrower Auger Slip Control via Speed Adjustment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional agricultural machines lack closed-loop control systems to prevent plugging during the harvesting process, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to manual removal of plugged material.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a controller with a processor and memory that generates adjustment data to mitigate auger slip conditions by independently controlling the cutter bar speed and auger speed through actuators, thereby preventing plugging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional agricultural machines operate without closed-loop control systems, then the device complexity is reduced, but plugging occurs leading to loss of time and productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop control system that continuously monitors the ratio between cutter bar speed and auger speed using sensors, compares it against a predetermined optimal ratio, and automatically adjusts the auger speed via an actuator to maintain optimal material flow and prevent plugging
Solution Approach 2:
The control system automatically detects auger slip conditions and adjusts operational parameters without requiring manual intervention, enabling the machine to self-correct plugging conditions and maintain optimal performance throughout the harvesting process
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cutter bar speed and auger speed are mechanically coupled, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to adapt to varying crop conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fixed mechanical coupling with a dynamic control system where the auger speed can be independently adjusted in real-time based on actual operating conditions, allowing the speed ratio to adapt dynamically to varying crop types, moisture levels, and field conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the control of cutter bar speed and auger speed into independent controllable units with separate actuators, allowing each component to be optimized independently rather than being constrained by a fixed mechanical gear ratio
3Ease of operation
If manual removal of plugged material is performed, then the device complexity is reduced, but the loss of time and productivity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically detects auger slip conditions indicating plugging and immediately adjusts the auger speed to restore optimal material flow, eliminating the need for manual intervention and continuous operator attention
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors operational parameters and provides real-time feedback control to prevent plugging conditions from developing, rather than requiring periodic manual checks and interventions
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An auger slip can be monitored to determine when an auger slip condition indicative of possible plugging of a harvesting work vehicle is present. In response to the auger slip condition, various implements of the harvesting work vehicle can be adjusted to resolve the auger slip condition or mitigate plugging. The implements may include a cutter bar, an auger, a roll gap, a swath flap, and/or a shield former. Further, an engine speed or vehicle speed of the harvesting work vehicle can be adjusted to mitigate plugging.