U.S. patent application number 17/537906 was filed with the patent office on 2022-06-09 for commodity metering system for work vehicle and calibration method for same.
The applicant listed for this patent is Deere & Company. Invention is credited to Robert T. Casper, William Douglas Graham, Andrew W. Harmon.
Application Number | 20220174858 17/537906 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-06-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220174858 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Harmon; Andrew W. ; et
al. |
June 9, 2022 |
COMMODITY METERING SYSTEM FOR WORK VEHICLE AND CALIBRATION METHOD
FOR SAME
Abstract
A metering system includes a plurality of metering elements that
are independently controllable. A calibration method of the present
disclosure includes generating calibration factors for the
individual metering elements. Also, a method of the present
disclosure includes operating the metering elements according to
the respective calibration factor.
Inventors: |
Harmon; Andrew W.;
(Davenport, IA) ; Casper; Robert T.; (Davenport,
IA) ; Graham; William Douglas; (East Moline,
IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Deere & Company |
Moline |
IL |
US |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/537906 |
Filed: |
November 30, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15711840 |
Sep 21, 2017 |
11191207 |
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17537906 |
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International
Class: |
A01C 7/10 20060101
A01C007/10; A01C 7/08 20060101 A01C007/08 |
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. A calibrating system for calibrating a metering system, the
calibration system comprising: a work vehicle comprising: a
commodity container; and a metering system, wherein the metering
system comprises a metering element configured to dispense a
commodity from the commodity container; a receptacle removably
mounted to the work vehicle and positioned with respect to the
metering system to receive the commodity from the commodity
container metered from the metering element; a load cell configured
to detect a weight related to an amount of commodity metered
through the metering element; and a control system comprising at
least one processor, the control system configured to: receive the
detected weight from the load cell related to the amount of
commodity metered through the metering element; determine a
calibration factor for operating the metering element based on the
detected weight; generate a control command for the metering
element according to the calibration factor; and operate the
metering element according to the control command.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein the load cell is disposed at a
first lateral end of the receptacle and wherein the control system
being configured to receive the detected weight from load cell
related to the amount of commodity metered through the metering
element comprises the control system being configured to: use a
beam load calculation to determine the weight of the amount of
commodity metered through the metering element based on a lateral
distance from the load cell to a location below the metering
element and the detected weight.
23. The system of claim 21, wherein the metering element operates
at a first angular speed and wherein the control system operates
the metering element according to the control command by varying
the angular speed of the metering element.
24. The system of claim 23, wherein the metering element comprises
an actuator that rotates the metering element and wherein the
control system controls the actuator according to the control
command to vary the angular speed of the metering element.
25. The system of claim 21, wherein the load cell comprises a
plurality of load cells, wherein each load cell detects a portion
of the total weight of the amount of commodity metered through the
metering element, and wherein the control system being adapted to
receive the detected weight from load cell related to the amount of
commodity metered through the metering element comprises the
control system being configured to sum the detected weight portions
to determine the total weight of the amount of commodity metered
through metering element.
26. The system of claim 21, wherein the receptacle comprises a
flexible bag.
27. The system of claim 21, wherein the load cell forms part of the
receptacle.
28. A work vehicle comprising: a chassis; a commodity container
supported on the chassis; a metering system comprising a metering
element operable to dispense an amount of commodity from the
commodity container; a receptacle, wherein the receptacle is
removably mounted to the chassis and positioned with respect to the
metering system to receive the amount of commodity from the
commodity container metered by the metering element; a load cell
configured to detect a weight of the amount of commodity metered
through the metering element; and a control system comprising at
least one processor, the control system configured to control
operation of the metering element using a calibration factor.
29. The work vehicle of claim 28, wherein the control system
configured to control operation of the metering element using a
calibration factor comprises the control system configured to:
receive the detected weight from the load cell related to the
amount of commodity metered through the metering element; determine
the calibration factor for operating the metering element based on
the detected weight; generate a control command for the metering
element according to the calibration factor; and operate the
metering element according to the control command.
30. The work vehicle of claim 28, further comprising a bracket
located at a first lateral side of the chassis to support a first
lateral end of the receptacle, and wherein the load cell is
disposed at a second lateral end of the receptacle adjacent a
second lateral side of the chassis.
31. The work vehicle of claim 28, wherein the load cell comprises a
first load cell disposed at a first lateral end of the receptacle
and a second load cell disposed at a second lateral end of the
receptacle, wherein the first load cell is removably attachable to
a first lateral side of the chassis, and wherein the second load
cell is removably attachable to a second lateral side of the
chassis.
32. The work vehicle of claim 28, wherein the control system
operates the metering element according to the control command by
varying an angular speed of the metering element.
33. The work vehicle of claim 32, wherein the metering element
comprises an actuator that rotates the metering element, and
wherein the control system controls the actuator according to the
control command to vary the angular speed of the metering
element.
34. The work vehicle of claim 28, wherein the load cell comprises a
plurality of load cells, wherein each load cell detects a portion
of the total weight of the amount of commodity metered through the
metering element, and wherein the control system being configured
to receive the detected weight from load cell related to a first
amount of commodity metered through the metering element comprises
the control system being configured to sum the detected weight
portions to determine the total weight of the amount of commodity
metered through the metering element.
35. The work vehicle of claim 28, wherein the load cell is
incorporated into the receptacle.
36. A removable receptacle for collecting a commodity dispensed
from a metering system of an air seeding cart, the removable
container comprising: a collection body configured to be removably
attachable to a chassis of the work vehicle, the collection body
including an open end configured to receive a quantity of dispensed
commodity; and a load cell attached to the collection body that
detects a weight of the receptacle including a contents
thereof.
37. The removable receptacle of claim 36, wherein the load cell
comprises a plurality of load cells attached the collection
body.
38. The removable receptacle of claim 36, wherein the collection
body comprises a bag.
39. The removable receptacle of claim 38, wherein the bag is
flexible.
40. The removable receptacle of claim 38, wherein the bag comprises
a breathable material.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/711,840, filed Sep. 21, 2017.
STATEMENT OF FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] This disclosure relates to work vehicles and implements, and
more specifically, to a commodity metering system for a work
vehicle and a calibration method for the same.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0004] Work vehicles, such as air seeders and other seeding
devices, are configured for applying seed, fertilizer, and/or other
particulate commodities to a field. The work vehicle may also
include tilling equipment for applying the commodity under the
surface of the soil.
[0005] Work vehicles typically include one or more tanks and a
metering system that meters out a predetermined quantity of the
commodity from the tank as the work vehicle moves across the field.
The metered particles may move into a high velocity airstream
generated by an airflow system of the vehicle. Once in the
airstream, the particles are delivered to the soil. Alternatively,
the metered particles may fall to the soil under the force of
gravity.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0006] This disclosure provides an improved metering system and
methods for calibrating the metering system.
[0007] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a method of
calibrating a metering system for a work vehicle with a commodity
container, wherein the metering system includes a plurality of
metering elements, and the plurality of metering elements includes
a first metering element and a second metering element. The method
includes performing, by a control system having at least one
processor, a calibration routine in which the first metering
element and the second metering element independently meter a
commodity from the commodity container through the metering system.
The method also includes receiving, by the control system, a first
measurement and a second measurement. The first measurement is
related to a first amount of the commodity independently metered
through the metering system by the first metering element during
the calibration routine. The second measurement is related to a
second amount of the commodity independently metered through the
metering system by the second metering element during the
calibration routine. The method further includes determining, by
the control system, a first calibration factor for operating the
first metering element based on the first measurement, and a second
calibration factor for operating the second metering element based
on the second measurement. Also, the method includes generating, by
the control system, a first control command for the first metering
element according to the first calibration factor, and a second
control command for the second metering element according to the
second calibration factor. Moreover, the method includes operating,
by the control system, the first metering element according to the
first control command, and the second metering element according to
the second control command.
[0008] In another aspect, a work vehicle is disclosed that includes
a commodity container and a metering system with a first metering
element and a second metering element. The work vehicle further
includes a sensor system and a control system with at least one
processor. The control system is configured to perform a
calibration routine in which the first metering element and the
second metering element independently meter a commodity from the
commodity container through the metering system. The control system
is further configured to receive a first measurement and a second
measurement from the sensor system. The first measurement is
related to a first amount of the commodity independently metered
through the metering system by the first metering element during
the calibration routine, and the second measurement is related to a
second amount of the commodity independently metered through the
metering system by the second metering element during the
calibration routine. The control system is also configured to
determine a first calibration factor for operating the first
metering element based on the first measurement, and a second
calibration factor for operating the second metering element based
on the second measurement. Moreover, the control system is
configured to generate a first control command for the first
metering element according to the first calibration factor, and a
second control command for the second metering element according to
the second calibration factor. Also, the control system is
configured to operate the first metering element according to the
first control command and the second metering element according to
the second control command.
[0009] In an additional aspect, the disclosure provides a method of
calibrating a metering system for a work vehicle with a commodity
container. The metering system includes a plurality of metering
elements. The plurality of metering elements includes a first
metering element and a second metering element. The method includes
performing, by a control system having at least one processor, at
least one calibration routine including metering commodity from the
commodity container through the metering system independently with
the first metering element and the second metering element. The
method also includes receiving, by the control system from a scale,
a first weight of a first amount of the commodity independently
metered through the metering system by the first metering element
during the at least one calibration routine, and a second weight of
a second amount of the commodity independently metered through the
metering system by the second metering element during the at least
one calibration routine. The method further includes determining,
by the control system, a first calibration factor for operating the
first metering element based on the first weight, and a second
calibration factor for operating the second metering element based
on the second weight. Also, the method includes storing, in a
memory element, the first calibration factor and the second
calibration factor. Moreover, the method includes receiving, by the
control system, a target application rate and a ground speed
signal. The ground speed signal relates to a ground speed condition
of the work vehicle. Moreover, the method includes determining, by
the control system, a first speed control command for the first
metering element according to the target application rate, the
ground speed signal, and the first calibration factor. Furthermore,
the method includes determining, by the control system, a second
speed control command for the second metering element according to
the target application rate, the ground speed signal, and the
second calibration factor. Additionally, the method includes
operating, by the control system, the first metering element
according to the first speed control command, and the second
metering element according to the second speed control command.
[0010] The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the
accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and
advantages will become apparent from the description, the drawings,
and the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a side view of a work vehicle according to example
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a schematic section view of a metering system of
the work vehicle taken along the line 2-2 of FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a schematic section view of the metering system of
FIG. 2 with a receptacle attached;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a control system of the
work vehicle of FIG. 1 according to example embodiments;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a schematic section view of the metering system of
FIG. 2 shown metering a commodity into the receptacle;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of calibrating
the metering system of the work vehicle of FIG. 1; and
[0017] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating the
metering system of the work vehicle of FIG. 1.
[0018] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like
elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] The following describes one or more example embodiments of a
commodity metering system for a work vehicle (e.g., an air cart,
commodity cart, etc.), its control system(s), and the methods for
operating the same, as shown in the accompanying figures of the
drawings described briefly above. Various modifications to the
example embodiments may be contemplated by one of skill in the
art.
[0020] As used herein, unless otherwise limited or modified, lists
with elements that are separated by conjunctive terms (e.g., "and")
and that are also preceded by the phrase "one or more of" or "at
least one of" indicate configurations or arrangements that
potentially include individual elements of the list, or any
combination thereof. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" or
"one or more of A, B, and C" indicates the possibilities of only A,
only B, only C, or any combination of two or more of A, B, and C
(e.g., A and B; B and C; A and C; or A, B, and C).
[0021] Furthermore, in detailing the disclosure, terms of
direction, such as "forward," "rear," "front," "back," "lateral,"
"horizontal," and "vertical" may be used. Such terms are defined,
at least in part, with respect to the direction in which the work
vehicle or implement travels during use. The term "forward" and the
abbreviated term "fore" (and any derivatives and variations) refer
to a direction corresponding to the direction of travel of the work
vehicle, while the term "aft" (and derivatives and variations)
refer to an opposing direction. The term "fore-aft axis" may also
reference an axis extending in fore and aft directions. By
comparison, the term "lateral axis" may refer to an axis that is
perpendicular to the fore-aft axis and extends in a horizontal
plane; that is, a plane containing both the fore-aft and lateral
axes. The term "vertical," as appearing herein, refers to an axis
or a direction orthogonal to the horizontal plane containing the
fore-aft and lateral axes.
[0022] As used herein, the term "module" refers to any hardware,
software, firmware, electronic control component, processing logic,
and/or processor device, individually or in any combination,
including without limitation: application specific integrated
circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared,
dedicated, or group) and memory that executes one or more software
or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and/or other
suitable components that provide the described functionality.
[0023] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be described
herein in terms of functional and/or logical block components and
various processing steps. It should be appreciated that such block
components may be realized by any number of hardware, software,
and/or firmware components configured to perform the specified
functions. For example, an embodiment of the present disclosure may
employ various integrated circuit components, e.g., memory
elements, digital signal processing elements, logic elements,
look-up tables, or the like, which may carry out a variety of
functions under the control of one or more microprocessors or other
control devices. In addition, those skilled in the art will
appreciate that embodiments of the present disclosure may be
practiced in conjunction with any number of systems, and that the
work vehicle described herein is merely one exemplary embodiment of
the present disclosure.
[0024] Conventional techniques related to signal processing, data
transmission, signaling, control, and other functional aspects of
the systems (and the individual operating components of the
systems) may not be described in detail herein for brevity.
Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures
contained herein are intended to represent example functional
relationships and/or physical couplings between the various
elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional
functional relationships or physical connections may be present in
an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, certain
aspects of the disclosed subject matter may be embodied as a
method, system, or computer program product. Accordingly, certain
embodiments may be implemented entirely as hardware, entirely as
software (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.)
or as a combination of software and hardware (and other) aspects.
Furthermore, certain embodiments may take the form of a computer
program product on a computer-usable storage medium having
computer-usable program code embodied in the medium.
[0026] Any suitable computer usable or computer readable medium may
be utilized. The computer usable medium may be a computer readable
signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A
computer-usable, or computer-readable, storage medium (including a
storage device associated with a computing device or client
electronic device) may be, for example, but is not limited to, an
electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or
semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable
combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a
non-exhaustive list) of the computer-readable medium would include
the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a
portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory
(RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only
memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable
compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device.
In the context of this document, a computer-usable, or
computer-readable, storage medium may be any tangible medium that
may contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with
the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.
[0027] A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated
data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein,
for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a
propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including,
but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable
combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be
non-transitory and may be any computer readable medium that is not
a computer readable storage medium and that may communicate,
propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with
an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.
[0028] Aspects of certain embodiments are described herein may be
described with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block
diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program
products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be
understood that each block of any such flowchart illustrations
and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in such flowchart
illustrations and/or block diagrams, may be implemented by computer
program instructions. These computer program instructions may be
provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special
purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus
to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via
the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing
apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts
specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or
blocks.
[0029] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a
computer-readable memory that may direct a computer or other
programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular
manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable
memory produce an article of manufacture including instructions
which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or
block diagram block or blocks.
[0030] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a
computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a
series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or
other programmable apparatus to produce a computer implemented
process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or
other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the
functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram
block or blocks.
[0031] Any flowchart and block diagrams in the figures, or similar
discussion above, may illustrate the architecture, functionality,
and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and
computer program products according to various embodiments of the
present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or
block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code,
which comprises one or more executable instructions for
implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be
noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions
noted in the block (or otherwise described herein) may occur out of
the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in
succession (or two operations described in succession) may, in
fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks (or
operations) may sometimes be executed in the reverse order,
depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted
that each block of any block diagram and/or flowchart illustration,
and combinations of blocks in any block diagrams and/or flowchart
illustrations, may be implemented by special purpose hardware-based
systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or
combinations of special purpose hardware and computer
instructions.
[0032] The following describes one or more example implementations
of the disclosed work vehicle for metering and delivering a
commodity to the soil, as shown in the accompanying figures of the
drawings described briefly above. The work vehicle may include a
metering system with a plurality of metering elements. The metering
elements may comprise metering rollers in some embodiments. The
metering elements may actuate (e.g., rotate) at variable output
speeds. The work vehicle may also include a control system
configured to control the metering elements individually and
independently.
[0033] In some cases, the metering system may be calibrated to
ensure that the metering elements are metering out the intended
amount of commodity during operation. To calibrate the system, in
some embodiments, the control system may independently operate the
different metering elements under predetermined conditions (e.g.,
at a known speed, for a known number of revolutions, for a known
amount of time, etc.). The control system may also obtain
measurements (e.g., weights) of the commodity metered out by the
individual metering elements. This information allows the system to
quantify the performance of the individual metering elements. Data
from this calibration method can be gathered and stored. This
calibration method may be repeated. Then, the control system may
determine calibration factors for each of the metering elements
according to the measurements. Then, once the metering element has
been calibrated, the control system may rely at least partly on the
calibration factors for operating the metering elements
individually. Accordingly, the metering system may operate with a
high degree of accuracy.
[0034] Also, the following describes one or more features that
facilitate calibration of the metering system. For example, a
scale, load cell, or other measuring device may be included. In
some embodiments, the scale may be mounted and supported on the
work vehicle. A receptacle, such as a bag may be supported on the
scale. Then, a user interface may be used to run a calibration
program. During the program, the control system may automatically
run the metering system through the calibration process.
Specifically, the control system may individually operate the
metering elements and automatically measure the resultant metered
amounts of the commodity. Also, data may be gathered and recorded
automatically. The scale may also automatically tare the weight of
the receptacle. Thus, calibrating the metering system may be
accomplished quickly and conveniently.
[0035] FIG. 1 illustrates a work vehicle 100 according to example
embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated
embodiment, the work vehicle 100 may be towed by another vehicle,
such as a tractor. In other embodiments, the work vehicle 100 of
the present disclosure may be a self-propelled vehicle. In some
embodiments, the work vehicle 100 may be an air cart or air drill.
It will be appreciated that the illustrated work vehicle 100 is an
example embodiment. One or more features of the present disclosure
may be included on a different work vehicle, such as a planter, a
commodity cart, or other work vehicle without departing from the
scope of the present disclosure.
[0036] Generally, the work vehicle 100 may include a chassis 110
and a plurality of wheels 112. The chassis 110 may be a rigid or
somewhat flexible frame that supports the components described in
detail below. The wheels 112 may support the chassis 110 on terrain
and enable movement of the vehicle 100 across the terrain. As
shown, the chassis 110 may extend between a front end 114 and a
rear end 116. The front end 114 may include a tow bar 111 for
attaching the work vehicle 100 to a tractor or other towing
vehicle. A tool 137 may be attached to the rear end 116. The tool
137 may include tillers, openers, or other implements for tilling,
opening, or otherwise preparing the soil.
[0037] An axial direction 118 is indicated in FIG. 1 for reference
purposes. It will be appreciated that a fore-aft axis of the work
vehicle 100 (extending between the front end 114 and rear end 116)
is parallel to the axial direction 118. A lateral direction 124 is
also indicated in FIG. 1, and it will be appreciated that a lateral
axis of the work vehicle 100 (extending between opposite sides of
the vehicle 100) is parallel to the lateral direction 124.
Furthermore, a vertical direction 126 is indicated in FIG. 1 for
reference purposes.
[0038] The work vehicle 100 may include one or more commodity
containers 128. The containers 128 may be supported on the chassis
110. The commodity containers 128 may contain seed, fertilizer,
and/or another particulate or granular commodity. There may be any
number of containers 128. In the illustrated embodiment, for
example, there are four commodity containers 128, one of which is
hidden from view.
[0039] Additionally, the work vehicle 100 may include at least one
metering system 130. The metering system 130 may be a volumetric
metering system. The metering system 130 may be disposed generally
underneath the commodity container(s) 128. The work vehicle 100 may
include individual metering systems 130 for different commodity
containers 128 in some embodiments. The metering system(s) 130 may
include at least one metering element (e.g., a roller, auger, etc.)
for each commodity container 128 in some embodiments. As such,
particles of the commodity within the container 128 may fall due to
gravity toward the metering system 130. The metering system 130 may
operate to meter out the commodity from the container 128 at a
controlled rate as the vehicle 100 moves across the field.
[0040] The work vehicle 100 may also include an airflow system 132.
The airflow system 132 may include a plurality of airflow
structures 133 (e.g., lines, tubes, pipes, etc.) through which air
flows. The airflow can be generated by a fan or other source.
Particles of the commodity (metered out by the metering system 130)
may fall into the airflow structures 133, and the air stream
therein may propel the particles to a distribution system 136. At
least part of the distribution system 136 may extend to the tool
137 and may include a plurality of hoses, lines, or other conduits
that distribute the commodity to the soil. The tool 137 may include
a ground system 138 with openers, tillers or other similar
implements that prepare the soil for delivery of the seed,
fertilizer, or other commodity delivered by the distribution system
136.
[0041] Moreover, the work vehicle 100 may include a control system
140. The control system 140 may include and/or communicate with
various components of a computerized device, such as a processor
200, a data storage device, a user interface, etc. The control
system 140 may be in communication with and may be configured for
controlling the metering system 130, the airflow system 132, and/or
other components of the work vehicle 100. The control system 140
may be wholly supported on the work vehicle 100, or the control
system 140 may include components that are remote from the vehicle
100. The control system 140 may be in electronic, hydraulic,
pneumatic, mechanical, or other communication with the metering
system 130, the airflow system 132, etc.
[0042] The control system 140 may also be in communication with one
or more sensors of a sensor system 182. The sensor system 182 may
be configured to detect one or more conditions associated with
operations of the work vehicle 100 and/or the metering system 130.
The sensor system 182 may also provide signals to the processor 200
of the control system 140 that correspond to the detected
condition. In some embodiments, the sensor system 182 may be wired
to the processor 200. In other embodiments, the sensor system 182
may include one or more components that are wirelessly connected to
the processor 200.
[0043] During operation of the work vehicle 100 (e.g., when towed
by a tractor or other towing vehicle across a field), the control
system 140 may control the metering system 130 (e.g., by controlled
actuation of a motor or other actuator), which allows a controlled
quantity of particles to pass into the airflow system 132 at a
predetermined rate. The control system 140 may also control the fan
or other air source for generating a continuous airstream that
blows through the airflow system 132, receives the particles
metered out from the metering system 130, and flows through the
distribution system 136 to the soil.
[0044] Referring now to FIG. 2, the metering system 130, the
airflow system 132, and the control system 140 will be discussed in
greater detail according to example embodiments. It will be
appreciated that certain parts of the work vehicle 100 are hidden
for clarity.
[0045] As shown, the metering system 130 may include a plurality of
metering elements 189. There may be any number of metering elements
189. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2, for example, the
plurality of metering elements 189 may include a first metering
element 190, a second metering element 191, a third metering
element 192, a fourth metering element 193, a fifth metering
element 194, a sixth metering element 195, a seventh metering
element 196, and an eighth metering element 197. The plurality of
metering elements 189 may be supported by a metering support
structure 199, which may be supported by the chassis 110 of the
vehicle 100. The metering elements 189 may also be substantially
aligned along the lateral direction 124 across the work vehicle
100. Also, in some embodiments, two or more of the metering
elements 189 may receive commodity from the same commodity
container 128. In the embodiment shown, the first through eighth
metering elements 190-197 are configured to meter commodity from
the same container 128. This configuration may be common to another
commodity container 128 of the work vehicle 100.
[0046] In some embodiments, the metering elements 189 may be
substantially similar to each other. The first metering element 190
will be discussed in detail according to example embodiments, and
it will be appreciated that the description may apply to the other
metering elements 189.
[0047] The first metering element 190 may comprise a rotatable
metering element (e.g., a metering roller) that provides volumetric
metering as it rotates about an axis of rotation 151. The axis of
rotation 151 may be directed substantially along the axial
direction 118 of the vehicle 100 as shown in FIG. 2, or the axis of
rotation 151 may be directed in other directions. The first
metering element 190 may include one or more wheels 154 that are
supported on a shaft 152. The wheels 154 may include a plurality of
projections that project radially away from the axis of rotation
151. Thus, the first metering element 190 may be a fluted roller in
some embodiments. The metering element 190 could also be configured
as an auger or configured otherwise in some embodiments of the
present disclosure. Although not specifically shown, the first
metering element 190 may be supported for rotation by the metering
support structure 199 by a bearing. During operation, particles of
commodity may fall from the container 128 toward the metering
element 190. The metering element 190 may rotate and meter out a
controlled amount of the commodity toward the airflow system
132.
[0048] The metering system 130 may also include a plurality of
actuators 180, which are schematically illustrated and indicated
with an "A" in FIG. 2. The actuators 180 may be of any suitable
type, such as electric motors in some embodiments. However, it will
be appreciated that the actuators may be a hydraulic actuators or
other types without departing from the scope of the present
disclosure. In some embodiments, the metering elements 189 may
include a respective actuator 180. As such, the metering elements
189 may be individually and independently actuated relative to the
others. More specifically, the metering system 130 may include a
first actuator 160 configured for actuating (i.e., rotating) the
first metering element 190. Likewise, a second actuator 161 may be
configured for actuating the second metering element 191, a third
actuator 162 may be configured for actuating the third metering
element 192, a fourth actuator 163 may be configured for actuating
the fourth metering element 193, a fifth actuator 164 may be
configured for actuating the fifth metering element 194, a sixth
actuator 165 may be configured for actuating the sixth metering
element 195, a seventh actuator 166 may be configured for actuating
the seventh metering element 196, and an eighth actuator 167 may be
configured for actuating the eighth metering element 197. As will
be discussed, in some situations, the metering elements 190-197 may
operate simultaneously, but at different individual speeds. In
other situations, the metering elements 190-197 may operate
one-at-a-time. This capability allows the metering elements 190-197
to be individually calibrated for more accurate application of the
commodity.
[0049] FIG. 2 also illustrates portions of the airflow system 132
of the work vehicle 100. The airflow system 132 may include a
manifold 139. The manifold 139 may be attached to and supported by
the chassis 110 of the vehicle 100. The manifold 139 may be
disposed generally underneath the metering elements 190-197 as
shown in FIG. 2. The manifold 139 may include a plurality of the
airflow structures 133 (e.g., pipes, tubes, lines, conduits, etc.)
mentioned above.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 2, the airflow structures 133 may be
arranged in a plurality of pairs, and may define respective flow
passages, such as a first pair of passages 141, a second pair of
passages 142, a third pair of passages 143, a fourth pair of
passages 144, a fifth pair of passages 145, a sixth pair of
passages 146, a seventh pair of passages 147, and an eighth pair of
passages 148. The first pair of passages 141 may be configured to
receive commodity metered from the first metering element 190. The
second through eighth pairs of passages 142-148 may be configured
to receive commodity metered from the second through eighth
metering elements 191-198, respectively.
[0051] As an example, the first pair of passages 141 may include an
upper passage 149 and a lower passage 153. The upper passage 149
and the lower passage 153 may extend substantially along the axial
direction 118 so as to be substantially parallel to the axis of
rotation 151 of the metering elements 190-197. The upper passage
149 and the lower passage 153 may be fluidly connected to the fan
or other air source to receive airflow therefrom. The upper passage
149 and the lower passage 153 may also include a respective venturi
tube, which accelerates the airflow through the passages 149,
153.
[0052] Furthermore, the manifold 139 may define a path for the
commodity to travel from the metering elements 189 to the upper
passages 149 and the lower passages 153. In some embodiments, the
airflow system 132 may have a plurality of selectable
configurations. In a first configuration, commodity particles
moving from the metering elements 189 enter the upper passages 149
instead of the lower passages 153. In a second configuration,
commodity particles moving from the metering elements 189 enter
both the upper passages 149 and the lower passages 153.
Accordingly, particles of the commodity that have been metered out
by the metering system 130 may enter the airstream flowing through
the upper passages 149 and/or the lower passages 153. The particles
may accelerate through the airflow system 132, through the
distribution system 136, and may be ultimately delivered to the
soil.
[0053] Additionally, the manifold 139 may include a first structure
168 and a second structure 169. The first structure 168 may be
fixed to the chassis 110 and may define and/or support the airflow
structures 133. The second structure 169 may be removably attached
to the first structure 168. For example, the second structure 169
is shown attached in FIG. 2, and the second structure 169 is shown
removed in FIG. 3. When the second structure 169 is attached to the
first structure 168 (FIG. 2), the pathway from the metering system
130 to the airflow structures 133 may be continuous. However, when
the second structure 169 is removed from the first structure 168
(FIG. 3), the pathway may be open, allowing commodity to fall from
the metering system 130 without entering the airflow structures
133. Instead, the commodity may fall from the metering system 130
and bypass the airflow structures 133. As such, the user may
collect and measure the amount of commodity metered from the
metering system 130. This may be useful, for example, when
calibrating the metering system 130.
[0054] The work vehicle 100 may also include a receptacle 250 as
shown schematically in FIG. 3. The receptacle 250 may be used to
collect commodity falling from the metering system 130 when the
second structure 169 of the manifold 139 is removed. The receptacle
250 may include a flexible bag 252 made of a porous or breathable
material and may include an open end 257. The receptacle 250 may
include one or more handles, hooks, liners, or other feature for
removably attaching the bag 252 to the work vehicle 100, below the
metering system 130. When attached, the open end 257 of the bag 252
may be wide enough to collect output from multiple ones (e.g.,
each) of the metering elements 190-197.
[0055] With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the sensor system 182 will
be discussed in greater detail. In some embodiments, the sensor
system 182 may include a plurality of actuator sensors 184, such as
a first actuator sensor 170, a second actuator sensor 171, a third
actuator sensor 172, a fourth actuator sensor 173, a fifth actuator
sensor 174, a sixth actuator sensor 175, a seventh actuator sensor
176, and an eighth actuator sensor 177. The first actuator sensor
170 may be configured to detect the speed (e.g., an angular speed)
of the first actuator 160 and/or the first metering element 190.
Similarly, the second actuator sensor 171 may be configured for
detecting the speed of the second actuator 161 and/or the second
metering element 191; the third actuator sensor 172 may be
configured for detecting the speed of the third actuator 162 and/or
the third metering element 192; the fourth actuator sensor 173 may
be configured for detecting the speed of the fourth actuator 163
and/or the fourth metering element 193; the fifth actuator sensor
174 may be configured for detecting the speed of the fifth actuator
164 and/or the fifth metering element 194; the sixth actuator
sensor 175 may be configured for detecting the speed of the sixth
actuator 165 and/or the sixth metering element 195; the seventh
actuator sensor 176 may be configured for detecting the speed of
the seventh actuator 166 and/or the seventh metering element 196;
and the eighth actuator sensor 177 may be configured for detecting
the speed of the eighth actuator 167 and/or the eighth metering
element 197.
[0056] At least one of the actuator sensors 184 may comprise an
electrical sensor, an optical sensor, or other type without
departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The actuator
sensors 184 may also be in communication with the processor 200 and
may send signals to the processor 200 that correspond to the
detected speeds. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the control
system 140 may individually and independently control the actuators
160-167 and may receive associated feedback from the sensors
170-177 for closed-loop control of the metering elements
190-197.
[0057] The sensor system 182 may additionally include at least one
ground speed sensor 185. The ground speed sensor 185 may detect the
ground speed of the work vehicle 100. Thus, the ground speed sensor
185 may comprise a speedometer in some embodiments. The ground
speed sensor 185 may be in communication with the engine control
system of a vehicle (e.g., a tractor) that is towing the work
vehicle 100 to detect the ground speed of the work vehicle 100.
Also, in some embodiments, the ground speed sensor 185 may be
operatively connected to a wheel axle, a mechanical transmission,
or other component for detecting the ground speed of the work
vehicle 100. During seeding operations, for example, the work
vehicle 100 may be towed across a field at some speed (i.e., a
ground speed), which is detected by the ground speed sensor 185.
The sensor 185 may provide a corresponding signal to the control
system 140, and the control system 140 may, in turn, generate
control signals for operating the actuators 160-167 at controlled
speeds. Accordingly, the speeds of the actuators 160-167 may be
controlled based, at least partly, on the ground speed of the
vehicle 100.
[0058] Additionally, the sensor system 182 may include one or more
sensors configured to detect and measure an amount of commodity
metered out by the metering system 130. For example, the sensor
system 182 may comprise a scale system 183. The scale system 183
may have various configurations without departing from the scope of
the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the scale system 183
may be electronic and may weigh the commodity metered out by the
metering system 130. Also, the scale system 183 may output an
electric signal corresponding to the detected weight to the
processor 200 of the control system 140. The scale system 183 may
be used for calibrating the metering system 130.
[0059] In some embodiments, the scale system 183 may include one or
more electronic load cells 186 that detect a weight load of the
receptacle 250 and any commodity contained therein. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 3, for example, there is a load cell 186
included on one lateral side of the vehicle 100. The receptacle 250
may removably attach to the chassis 110 via the load cell 186. It
will be appreciated that the load cell 186 may be attached to the
chassis 110 and that the receptacle 250 may removeably attach to
the load cell 186. In other embodiments, the load cell 186 may be
attached to the receptacle 250, and the load cell 186 may removably
attach to the chassis 110 of the vehicle 100. The opposite lateral
side of the work vehicle 100 may include one or more brackets 255
that attach the receptacle 250 to the chassis 110. The bracket 255
may support the receptacle 250, but may not be configured for
detecting a weight load. It will be appreciated, however, that
there may be any number of load cells 186. In some embodiments, the
receptacle 250 may be supported on the vehicle 100 exclusively by
load cells 186.
[0060] In some embodiments (e.g., in embodiments in which there are
one or two load cells 186 supporting the receptacle 250) the
processor 200 may process the signal(s) from the load cell(s) 186
for calculating the weight of the receptacle 250 and commodity
therein using programmed logic. For example, the processor 200 may
rely on known mathematical equations for detecting
receptacle/commodity weight. More specifically, a first lateral
distance 251 is indicated from the load cell 186 to an area below
the first metering element 190. A second distance 253 is also
indicated from the load cell 186 to an area below the second
metering element 191. It may be assumed that commodity metered from
the first metering element 190 will apply a load to the load cell
186 with a moment arm approximately equal to the first distance
251. Likewise, it may be assumed that commodity metered from the
second metering element 191 will apply a load to the load cell 186
with a moment arm approximately equal to the second distance 253.
As such, the load detected by the load cell 186 may be calculated
(e.g., similar to beam load calculations) for each metering element
190, 191 with the processor 200 accounting for the different
distances 251, 253 at which the commodity is located. The loads
applied by the remaining metering elements 192-197 may be
substantially similar.
[0061] In additional embodiments, there may be two, three, or more
load cells 186 that each operably attaches the receptacle 250 to
the chassis 110. In these embodiments, the weights detected by the
plural load cells 186 may be summed to obtain the total weight of
the receptacle 250 and any commodity contained therein.
[0062] Thus, the scale system 183 may be configured for weighing
the receptacle 250 and the commodity collected therein in a quick
and convenient manner. In additional embodiments, the scale system
183 may be remote from the metering system 130 of the work vehicle
100 and/or the receptacle 250.
[0063] The control system 140 is shown in more detail in FIG. 4
according to example embodiments. It will be understood that FIG. 4
is a simplified representation of the control system 140 for
purposes of explanation and ease of description, and FIG. 4 is not
intended to limit the application or scope of the subject matter in
any way. Practical embodiments of the control system 140 may vary
from the illustrated embodiment without departing from the scope of
the present disclosure. Also, the control system 140 may include
numerous other devices and components for providing additional
functions and features, as will be appreciated in the art.
[0064] The control system 140 may include the processor 200 as
mentioned above. The processor 200 may comprise hardware, software,
and/or firmware components configured to enable communications
and/or interaction between the sensor system 182, the actuators
160-167, a memory element 206, and a user interface (U/I) 212. The
processor 200 may also perform additional tasks and/or functions
described in greater detail below. Depending on the embodiment, the
processor 200 may be implemented or realized with a general purpose
processor, a content addressable memory, a digital signal
processor, an application specific integrated circuit, a field
programmable gate array, any suitable programmable logic device,
discrete gate or transistor logic, processing core, discrete
hardware components, or any combination thereof, designed to
perform the functions described herein. The processor 200 may also
be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a
plurality of processing cores, a combination of a digital signal
processor and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one
or more microprocessors in conjunction with a digital signal
processor core, or any other such configuration. In practice, the
processor 200 includes processing logic that may be configured to
carry out the functions, techniques, and processing tasks
associated with the operation of the control system 140.
Furthermore, the steps of a method or algorithm described in
connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied
directly in hardware, in firmware, in a software module executed by
the processor 200, or in any practical combination thereof.
[0065] The processor 200 may include a metering module 202. The
metering module 202 may be configured for calibrating the metering
system 130. The metering module 202 may also be configured for
determining operating conditions of the metering system 130. As
shown, the metering module 202 may be in communication with the
sensor system 182, the U/I 212, and the memory element 206.
[0066] The U/I 212 may be of any suitable type. In some
embodiments, the U/I 212 may include one or more input devices with
which the user may enter user commands. For example, in some
embodiments, the U/I 212 may include a keyboard, a mouse, a
touch-sensitive surface, a stylus, and/or another input device. The
U/I 212 may also include one or more output devices for providing
output to the user. In some embodiments, the U/I 212 may include a
display, an audio speaker, a printer, a tactile feedback device, or
the like. Accordingly, with the U/I 212, the user may input the
type of commodity that is loaded within the commodity container
128, a target ground speed of the vehicle 100, and/or the desired
application rate (e.g., measured in pounds of commodity per acre)
for the particular commodity. The U/I 212 may also output a
message, alert, or other information to the user regarding
operation of the metering system 130.
[0067] The memory element 206 may be realized as RAM memory, flash
memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a
removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known
in the art. In this regard, the memory element 206 can be coupled
to the processor 200 such that the processor 200 can read
information from, and write information to, the memory element 206.
In the alternative, the memory element 206 may be integral to the
processor 200. As an example, the processor 200 and the memory
element 206 may reside in an ASIC.
[0068] In some embodiments, the memory element 206 may include one
or more datasets 208 stored thereon. In some embodiments, at least
one dataset 208 may be used for determining target operating speeds
(indicated as "S1" through "S8") for the different actuators
160-167 of the metering system 130.
[0069] There may be any number of datasets 208 stored on the memory
element 206. The datasets 208 may include stored mathematical
functions, calibration curves, look-up tables, mathematical models,
or other tools. The datasets 208 may be created and saved,
generated, compiled, etc., from testing data, from user programming
of the control system 140, or otherwise. As will be discussed, the
metering module 202 of the processor 200 may rely on at least one
of the datasets 208 to ultimately determine how fast to rotate the
individual metering elements 190-197 during planting, seeding, or
related operations. More specifically, the metering module 202 may
determine the angular speed of the metering elements 150 based on:
(a) the desired application rate for the commodity; (b) the ground
speed of the vehicle 100; and/or (c) a predetermined calibration
factor.
[0070] As shown, there may be a first dataset 209 and a second
dataset 210. The first dataset 209 may be associated with first
operating conditions of the vehicle 100 (identified as "Condition
1"), and the second dataset 210 may be associated with second
operating conditions of the vehicle 100 ("Condition 2"). In the
first dataset 209, the target speed for the first metering element
190 ("S1") is shown as a function of a first calibration factor
("Cal A"). Similarly, the target speed for the second metering
element 191 ("S2") is shown as a function of a second calibration
factor ("Cal B"). The datasets 209, 210 may also represent target
speeds for the other metering elements 192-197 as a function of
respective calibration factors as well.
[0071] The calibration factors may be a respective mathematical
expression, model, function, graph, look-up table, function, etc.
that expresses how the speeds of the metering elements 190-197
affect the commodity output by the metering system 130. In some
embodiments, the calibration factor establishes an approximate mass
of commodity that is dispensed per revolution of the metering
elements 190-197. Since each metering element 190-197 may have a
unique calibration factor, each of the metering elements 190-197
may be independently controlled and calibrated.
[0072] The processor 200 of the control system 140 may generate the
calibration factors during a calibration method 300, as represented
in FIGS. 5 and 6 according to example embodiments. The calibration
method 300 may be completed quickly and conveniently and may
accurately calibrate the individual metering elements 190-197.
[0073] Before the method 300 begins, the user may remove the second
structure 169 of (FIG. 2) of the manifold 139 from the first
structure 168. Then, the receptacle 250 may be hung from the work
vehicle 100, for example, as shown in FIG. 3. Next, the user may
initiate the calibration method 300.
[0074] In some embodiments, the method 300 may begin at 302.
Specifically, the user may utilize the U/I 212 and input a user
command to initiate the calibration process. The user may also
input the type of commodity (e.g., seed-type, etc.) that will be
metered through the metering system 130 during the calibration
method 300. Also, the user may input the date, time, weather
conditions, or other information.
[0075] Then, at 304, the processor 200 may tare the scale system
183 such that the weight of the receptacle 250 can be disregarded
when weighing commodity therein. Specifically, the scale system 183
may weigh the empty receptacle 250 to obtain the receptacle weight.
In some embodiments, the scale system 183 may be zeroed with the
receptacle 250 still attached such that the receptacle weight is
disregarded during future weight measurements. In other embodiments
of 304, the weight of the receptacle 250 obtained at 304 may be
saved in the memory element 206 so that the processor may subtract
the detected receptacle weight from future weight measurements.
[0076] Next, at 306, the processor 200 may run a first calibration
routine for one of metering elements 190-197. For example, the
processor 200 may run the first calibration routine for the first
metering element 190. Thus, the processor 200 may send commands to
the first actuator 160 to rotate the first metering element 190
under predetermined operating parameters (e.g., at a predetermined
speed, for a predetermined amount of time, for a predetermined
number of revolutions, etc.). As a result, the first metering
element 190 may meter out a first amount of the commodity into the
receptacle 250. It is noted that the second through eighth metering
elements 191-197 may remain stationary during this operation so
that only the first metering element 190 meters the commodity to
the receptacle 250.
[0077] Subsequently, at 308, the processor 200 may prompt the scale
system 183 to detect the weight of the commodity metered into the
receptacle 250 during this first calibration routine. The scale
system 183 may send a signal corresponding to the detected weight
to the processor 200, and the weight data may be saved in the
memory element 206. The method 300 may continue at 309.
[0078] At 309, the processor 200 may generate calibration data for
the first metering element 190 by correlating the weight of the
commodity (obtained at 308) with the operating parameters (angular
speed, number of revolutions, etc.) of this first calibration
routine. This calibration data may be saved in the memory element
206.
[0079] Next, at 310, the processor 200 may determine whether there
have been enough calibration routines performed for the first
metering element 190 to ensure accuracy. In some embodiments, the
metering module 202 may be preprogrammed to perform at least three
calibration routines. In the present example, there has only been
one operation; therefore, the processor 200 makes a negative
determination at 310, and the method 300 loops back to 306.
[0080] Another calibration routine for the first metering element
190 may be performed with the first metering element 190. Then, at
308, the processor 200 may prompt the scale system 183 to detect
the weight of the commodity metered into the receptacle 250 during
this second routine. In some embodiments, the processor 200 may
subtract the first weight measurement (obtained at the first
occurrence of 308) and save the difference (i.e., the second
measurement) in the memory element 206.
[0081] Again at 309, the processor 200 may update the calibration
data for the first metering element 190. The method 300 may
continue at 310. Here, there have been only two calibration
routines. Therefore, the method 300 may loop back to 306, and
another calibration routine may be performed for the first metering
element 190. Then, at 308, the processor 200 may prompt the scale
system 183 to weigh the amount of commodity metered into the
receptacle 250 during this third calibration routine. In some
embodiments, the processor 200 may subtract the second weight
measurement (obtained at the second occurrence of 308) and save the
difference (i.e., the third measurement) in the memory element
206.
[0082] Next at 309, the metering module 202 may again update the
calibration data for the first metering element 190 in memory. The
method 300 may continue at 310. In this example, there have been
three calibration routines performed for the first metering element
190. As stated, the processor 200 may be preprogrammed to perform
three calibration routines. Therefore, the processor 200 may make
an affirmative determination at 310, and the method 300 may
continue to 312. At this point, the calibration factor for the
first metering element 190 has been generated and saved in the
memory element 206.
[0083] At 312, the processor 200 may determine whether there are
more metering elements to calibrate. In the current example, the
second through eighth metering elements 191-197 need calibrating;
therefore, an affirmative determination is made at 312, and the
method continues at 314. The variable X may be incremented by one,
such that the calibration routine may be performed independently
for the second metering element 191, and the method 300 may loop
back to 306.
[0084] Back at 306, the processor 200 may run a first calibration
routine for the second metering element 191. Thus, the processor
200 may send commands to the second actuator 161 to rotate the
second metering element 191 under predetermined operating
parameters (e.g., at a predetermined speed, for a predetermined
amount of time, for a predetermined number of revolutions, etc.).
In some embodiments, the commodity metered out by the second
metering element 191 may be added to the receptacle 250 along with
the previously collected commodity as illustrated in FIG. 5. The
method 300 may continue at 308 such that the scale system 183
measures the newly-added amount. As above, the processor 200 may
subtract the weight of the commodity previously metered out by the
first metering element 190 to obtain the weight of commodity
metered out by the second metering element 191. Next, at 309, the
calibration data for the second metering element 191 may be saved
in the memory element 206.
[0085] Then, at 310, the processor 200 may determine whether there
are more calibration routines to be performed. Similar to the
calibration routine for the first metering element 190, the
metering module 202 may be preprogrammed to perform at least three
calibration routines for the second metering element 191 to ensure
accuracy of the calibration. Thus, in the current example, the
processor 200 may make a negative determination at 310, and the
method 300 may loop back to 306. A second, third, and more
calibration routines may then be performed, and the calibration
data for the second metering element 191 may be generated and
compiled to generate the calibration factor for the second metering
element 191 as the method 300 cycles from 306 through 310 and
back.
[0086] Once the calibration routines have been completed for the
second metering element 191 (affirmative determination at 310), the
method 300 may continue at 312. In the current example, the control
system 140 may conduct the calibration routines for the third
metering element 192 and generate the third calibration factor as
the method 300 cycles from 306 through 310 and back. Calibration
factors for the fourth metering element 193, the fifth metering
element 194, the sixth metering element 195, the seventh metering
element 196, and the eighth metering element 197 may be generated
in the same fashion as the method 300 cycles from 306 through
314.
[0087] Eventually, at 312, the processor 200 may determine that
calibration factors have been generated for each of the metering
elements 190-197 of the work vehicle 100 (negative determination at
312). Accordingly, the method 300 may terminate.
[0088] In the embodiment of the method 300 discussed above,
multiple calibration routines are performed for the first metering
element 190, then multiple calibration routines are performed for
the second metering element 191, and so on in sequence until
calibration factors are generated for each metering element
190-197. However, this sequence may vary without departing from the
scope of the present disclosure. For example, the control system
140 may perform a calibration routine for the first metering
element 190, then perform a calibration routine for the second
metering element 191, then perform a calibration routine for the
third metering element 192, and so on until a single calibration
routine has been performed for each of the metering elements
190-197. Subsequently, the control system 140 may perform a second
round of individual calibration routines for the metering elements
190-197, and then a third round of calibration routines for the
metering elements 190-197.
[0089] The method 300 may vary in other ways as well. For example,
the method 300 may be repeated for other metering elements 189 of
other commodity containers 128 of the vehicle. For example, the
method 300 may be repeated four times such that each of the
metering elements 189 of the work vehicle 100 may be individually
calibrated. In some embodiments, the commodity from the metering
elements 189 may collect in the same receptacle 250.
[0090] In additional embodiments, the control system 140 may be
configured to pause the method 300. This may be an automatic
operation, or the method 300 may pause in response to a user
command. When the method 300 is paused, the user may be able to
detach the receptacle 250, empty the commodity in the receptacle
250 back into the container 128, reattach the receptacle 250, and
continue the method 300. In some embodiments, the control system
140 may automatically continue the method 300 in response to a user
input. The control system 140 may continue by taring the receptacle
250 and then proceeding with the method. The control system 140 may
automatically continue the method 300 to completion in some
embodiments.
[0091] The calibration method 300 of FIG. 6 may be repeated several
times for different operating conditions (e.g., for different
commodity types, under different weather conditions, etc.).
Accordingly, calibration factors may be collected for different
operating conditions of the work vehicle 100. Also, the calibration
method 300 may be repeated each time the commodity container 128 is
filled with the commodity since the commodity density may vary from
load-to-load.
[0092] It will be appreciated that the calibration method 300
provides significant convenience and time savings for the user.
Accordingly, the metering system 130 may be calibrated, for
example, when the container 128 is first filled with a fresh batch
of commodity. Then, the work vehicle 100 can be used for seeding,
fertilizing, etc. with the metering system 130 operating according
to the newly-generated calibration factors for that particular
batch of commodity. Accordingly, the metering system 130 may
accurately provide the desired application rate for the particular
commodity. When new commodity is loaded into the container 128, the
metering system 130 may be calibrated again using the method 300
such that the metering system 130 may operate according to a fresh
calibration factor.
[0093] Once the calibration method 300 has terminated, the user may
detach the receptacle 250 from the work vehicle 100 and empty the
collected commodity back into the commodity container 128. Also,
the user may reattach the second structure 169 to the first
structure 168 such that the manifold 139 is configured as shown in
FIG. 2.
[0094] The control system 140 may operate the metering system 130
according to the calibration factors established using the method
300 and stored in the memory element 206. For example, the control
system 140 may employ the method 400 of operating the metering
system 130 shown in FIG. 7.
[0095] The method 400 may begin at 404, wherein the user may input
the target (i.e., desired) application rate for the commodity. The
user may decide on the target application rate based on the
commodity type, based on the soil conditions, and other factors.
The U/I 212 may be used to provide the inputs at 404 of the method
400. At this point, the work vehicle 100 may be ready to begin the
seeding or planting operation.
[0096] Next, at 406, the processor 200 may determine target speeds
for the metering elements 190-197. Specifically, the metering
module 202 may receive a signal corresponding to the target
application rate entered at 404. The metering module 202 may also
receive a signal from the ground speed sensor 185 indicating the
current ground speed condition of the vehicle 100. (The ground
speed may be a set ground speed of the vehicle 100 or may be a
variable ground speed.) Moreover, the metering module 202 may
access the memory element 260 to obtain the calibration factors for
the metering elements 190-197. From these inputs, the metering
module 202 may determine the individual target speeds of the
metering elements 190-197.
[0097] Once the target meter speed is established, the method 400
may continue at 408, wherein the metering module 202 may generate
control commands for the actuators 160-167 of the metering system
130. The control commands may be generated and sent to the
actuators 160-167 for simultaneously rotating the metering elements
190-197 at the individual speeds determined at 406. As such, the
angular speeds of the metering elements 190-197 may be individually
and independently controlled according to the calibration factors
stored in the memory element 206.
[0098] Then, at 410, the current speeds of the metering elements
190-197 may be detected. For example, the actuator sensors 170-177
may detect the speeds of the respective metering elements 190-197
and send corresponding signals to the processor 200.
[0099] Next at 412 of the method 400, the processor 200 may
determine whether the current speeds of the metering elements
190-197 (detected at 410) are approximately equal to the target
speeds determined at 406. If any of the metering elements 190-197
are operating at an erroneous speed (as detected by the sensors
170-177), the processor 200 may make a negative determination at
412. Accordingly, the method 300 may loop back to 408, wherein the
processor 200 may generate and send control commands to the
actuators 160-167 for changing the speed of the metering element(s)
190-197 operating at an erroneous speed.
[0100] When, at 412, the processor 200 determines that the current
speeds of the metering elements 190-197 are approximately equal to
the speeds determined at 408, the method 400 may continue at 416.
At 416, the control system 140 may determine whether the
seeding/planting operation is complete. In many cases, the
operation may continue for a significant time, and the speed of the
work vehicle 100 may vary during the process. In this case, the
method 400 may loop back to 406 and the metering module 202 may
determine new target meter speeds for the metering elements
190-197. The metering module 202 may rely on the same calibration
factors used previously; however, assuming that the ground speed of
the vehicle 100 has changed, the target meter speeds for the
metering elements 190-197 may change. The method 400 may continue
as described above, until the metering operation is complete (i.e.,
416 answered affirmatively). Then, the method 400 may
terminate.
[0101] Accordingly, the metering system 130, the calibration method
300, and the operation method 400 may allow the work vehicle 100 to
provide a substantially consistent and accurate application rate
for the commodity. Also, the system 130 and methods 300, 400 may be
substantially automated to provide convenience for the user.
[0102] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of
the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and
"the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the
context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood
that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this
specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude
the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
[0103] The description of the present disclosure has been presented
for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended
to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form
disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope
and spirit of the disclosure. Explicitly referenced embodiments
herein were chosen and described in order to best explain the
principles of the disclosure and their practical application, and
to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the
disclosure and recognize many alternatives, modifications, and
variations on the described example(s). Accordingly, various
embodiments and implementations other than those explicitly
described are within the scope of the following claims.
* * * * *