Work Machine Zone Control With Real-Time Actuator Setting Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for controlling work machines, such as agricultural harvesters, rely on pre-generated thematic maps that may not adapt effectively to changing conditions during operation, leading to suboptimal performance as predetermined setting values may become less desirable over time.
Innovation Solution
The system identifies control zones on a thematic map and dynamically modifies actuator settings in real-time by dividing the current control zone into harvested and unharvested areas with different setting values, generating records for both and allowing for operator or automated adjustments, thereby optimizing machine performance based on changing conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pre-generated thematic maps with predetermined setting values are used to control work machines, then the control system is simple and easy to implement, but the system cannot adapt effectively to changing conditions during operation, leading to suboptimal performance
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically modifies actuator settings in real-time based on changing operational conditions. The system transitions from static pre-generated maps to dynamic real-time adjustments by detecting modification criteria and updating control parameters during machine operation, allowing the control system to adapt to varying field conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through automated processes
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring operational conditions and comparing them against modification criteria. When changes in field conditions are detected, the system automatically adjusts actuator settings and updates control zones accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions without requiring complete system redesign
2Productivity
If actuator settings are modified in real-time during operation, then operational efficiency and performance are improved, but the system complexity increases due to dynamic modifications and zone divisions
Solution Approach 1:
The control system segments the worksite into distinct control zones with specific actuator settings. When modification criteria are met, the current control zone is divided into a first portion (retaining original settings) and a second portion (with modified settings). This segmentation allows real-time adjustments to be made in specific areas without affecting the entire worksite, maintaining operational efficiency while managing system complexity through localized modifications
Solution Approach 2:
Different actuator settings are applied to different spatial zones within the worksite based on local conditions. The system modifies settings in the second portion of a control zone while maintaining original settings in the first portion, allowing optimal performance in each local area without requiring complete system-wide changes, thus improving productivity without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If the current control zone is divided into harvested and unharvested portions with different settings, then precise control and performance optimization are achieved, but the data management and record generation become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates and manages parameter records that store actuator settings for different control zones. When a control zone is divided, the system generates and stores separate parameter records for the first and second portions, each containing the appropriate settings. This copying approach allows precise control tracking for each zone portion while simplifying data management through standardized record structures that can be automatically generated and maintained
Data Source
AI summary
Control zones are dynamically identified on a thematic map and work machine actuator settings are dynamically identified for each control zone. A position of the work machine is sensed and actuators on the work machine are controlled based on the control zones that the work machine is in, and based upon the settings corresponding to the control zone. When modification criteria are met, an actuator setting in a control zone can be modified, during operation. The control zone is then divided on a near real-time display into a harvested portion of the control zone, and a new control zone that has yet to be harvested, and that has the modified actuator setting value. A record is then generated and stored, for the harvested control zone, and for the new control zone.