Wing Wheel Weight Transfer Control for Soil Compaction Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional weight transfer systems for agricultural implements often result in uneven force distribution, leading to soil compaction and wheel scrubbing, especially at wing sections, as they aim to evenly distribute weight across the entire implement width, failing to adjust dynamically to varying soil conditions and turning dynamics.
Innovation Solution
A proportional and electrically-controlled hydraulic system with feedback mechanisms adjusts the force applied to wing wheel assemblies in real-time, using load sensors and a controller to maintain optimal engagement of row units while minimizing compaction and scrubbing through closed-loop control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If weight is evenly distributed across the entire implement width, then each tire or track handles weight uniformly, but this causes soil compaction and wheel scrubbing at wing sections
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different weight distribution strategies to different sections of the implement. The main frame section receives standard weight distribution, while the wing sections have independently controlled weight application through separate actuators. This allows the wings to apply only the minimum necessary weight for tool engagement, preventing soil compaction and wheel scrubbing while maintaining uniform operation across the entire implement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional weight transfer systems are used, then weight is distributed to all tires or tracks, but the system fails to adjust dynamically to varying soil conditions and turning dynamics
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces static weight distribution with dynamic adjustment capabilities. Sensors continuously monitor soil conditions, implement orientation, and tool engagement forces. The control system processes this data in real-time and adjusts actuator output accordingly, allowing the wing sections to adapt their weight application during operation. This enables the system to respond to varying soil conditions and turning dynamics while reliably maintaining tool engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements closed-loop feedback control where sensors measure actual tool engagement forces and soil resistance, and this information is fed back to the control system. The controller compares measured values with target values and adjusts actuator output to maintain optimal engagement. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable tool engagement across varying conditions while enabling dynamic adaptation that conventional open-loop systems cannot achieve.
3Force
If more force is applied to keep ground-engaging tools engaged in the ground, then tool engagement is improved, but soil compaction and wheel scrubbing increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies the minimum necessary force (partial action) rather than excessive force to achieve tool engagement. By using sensors to detect when tools are properly engaged with the ground, the system reduces weight application to only what is needed, avoiding the harmful effects of excessive force such as soil compaction and wheel scrubbing, while still maintaining reliable tool engagement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively maintains row units on the ground, reduces soil compaction, and minimizes wheel scrubbing by dynamically adjusting force based on soil conditions and implement dynamics, ensuring efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
A proportional and electrically-controlled hydraulic system with feedback mechanisms adjusts the force applied to wing wheel assemblies in real-time
Implementation Method 2
using load sensors and a controller to maintain optimal engagement of row units while minimizing compaction and scrubbing through closed-loop control
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An implement for traversing a field includes a main frame section and a frame wing section pivotally coupled to the main frame section. The frame wing section includes a wing wheel assembly for supporting the frame wing section. A hydraulic control system includes a pressure source, a control valve fluidly coupled with the pressure source, and an actuator assembly fluidly coupled to the control valve. The implement further includes a controller electrically coupled with the control valve. A wheel force sensor is configured to detect an amount of force on the wing wheel assembly and communicate the amount of force to the controller. The actuator assembly is coupled between the main frame section and the frame wing section. The controller operably controls movement of the control valve to actuate the actuator assembly and adjust the amount of force on the wing wheel assembly.