Windrower Merger Controller Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of windrower implements face challenges in timely and proper engagement/disengagement of the merger attachment during double and triple pass windrow configurations, leading to inefficiencies in forming windrows.
Innovation Solution
A windrower implement equipped with a merger controller that automatically controls the merger attachment's position based on pre-selected configurations, using a processor and memory to execute algorithms for determining locations and directions, thereby automating the deployment and stowing of the merger attachment during different pass configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator manually controls the merger attachment engagement and disengagement during double and triple pass windrow configurations, then the operator can adjust to different field conditions, but the operator workload increases and timing accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The merger attachment system performs self-service by automatically detecting its own position relative to the windrow and autonomously controlling engagement and disengagement timing. The system uses sensors to detect windrow presence and automatically actuates the merger attachment without requiring operator intervention, thereby reducing operator workload while maintaining precise timing control
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the merger attachment position, windrow location, and implement speed. This feedback information is processed by the control system to automatically determine the optimal timing for engagement and disengagement, ensuring accurate windrow formation while eliminating manual control requirements
2Manufacturing precision
If the merger attachment is manually engaged and disengaged during passes, then the operator can respond to varying field conditions, but timing precision and consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated control system that uses sensors, processors, and automated actuators. The system substitutes human operator actions with electronic control mechanisms that precisely time the engagement and disengagement of the merger attachment based on detected windrow position and implement speed, thereby improving windrow formation accuracy while reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-positioning the merger attachment in the deployed state before approaching the windrow and automatically timing the engagement moment. The control system prepares the merger attachment in advance and executes engagement at the precise moment when optimal windrow formation occurs, eliminating the need for complex real-time operator decisions
3Productivity
If the operator continuously monitors and adjusts merger attachment position during belly passes and merger passes, then adaptability to field conditions is maintained, but time consumption and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The merger attachment system performs self-service by automatically detecting its own position relative to the windrow and autonomously controlling engagement and disengagement timing. The system uses sensors to detect windrow presence and automatically actuates the merger attachment without requiring operator intervention, thereby reducing operator workload while maintaining precise timing control
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous useful action by automatically managing the merger attachment throughout the entire harvesting process without interruption. The automated control ensures continuous monitoring and adjustment of the merger attachment position and timing, eliminating gaps in windrow formation control and maximizing operational efficiency without requiring periodic operator intervention
Data Source
AI summary
A windrower implement includes a merger controller operatively coupled to a merger attachment for controlling the merger attachment between a deployed position and a stowed position. The merger controller receives a user command selecting one of a single pass windrow configuration in which the windrow is formed from a belly pass, or a double pass windrow configuration in which the windrow is formed from the belly pass and a first merger pass. When the double pass windrow configuration is selected, the merger controller automatically controls the merger attachment into the stowed position when executing the belly pass for the double pass windrow configuration and then automatically controls the merger attachment into the deployed position when executing the first merger pass for the double pass windrow configuration.