DE69334104T2 - Self-propelled agricultural harvester - Google Patents

Description

The The present invention relates to an agricultural Harvesting machine and in particular a harvester, on the one hand an engine and a fuel tank equipped with a fuel sensor and on the other hand, a programmable microprocessor device having.

The high costs of modern harvesting machines, such as harvesters or self-propelled forage harvester force the owners to use their machines for a wider range of crop types, geographic locations and weather conditions. Manufacturer On the other hand, they make their machines more versatile by offering new ones Add crop processing features and areas of adjustment expand known machines. Another trend is the increased machine capacity that the required harvest time per hectare of crop reduced.

When The result is both the extent and the frequency the machine settings considerably increased. to Facilitation of the operation will be almost any adjustment by the Driver controlled from his driver position on the control platform. The original Completely mechanical control has been replaced by electrical control systems, the one electronic device for automatic change which may include machine settings, thereby reducing the tasks of the Drivers are simplified.

Farther The number of sensors used on the machine has been considerable increased. The Information from these sensors can be made available to the driver via a display become. For example, FR-A-2 677 214 describes a display system for a Mowing machine, the data about the operator provides a wide range of points, such as ambient air temperature, time and operating time, fuel supply and fuel consumption rate, level the grass container, the battery, area the mowed Surface etc. The system does not distinguish between critical and less critical Data, allowing a little experienced operator viewing dangerous conditions overlooked between the other less important information can. For example, could he an imminent grass container overcrowding or overlooked a low fuel level.

The US-A-4,344,136 describes an electronic system for a motor vehicle, which includes even more sensors. The display shows a selection of the Data in dependence from the status of the vehicle (e.g. parked or driving). The data includes an indication of fuel consumption generated by one exclusively therefor certain fuel flow sensor is measured separately from the fuel level sensor. The system monitors the fuel level and press one Alarm when the fuel level is a minimum allowable value reached. However, there will be no warning about reaching this Minimums generated. Because the consumption rate in a motor vehicle change significantly can, the driver also has no information about the time, by the time the alarm remains until the time when he no fuel has more.

today Electric control systems on harvesters require a large number of lines and connections, because a separate line for each Signal from and to the position of the driver is needed. The reliability Such systems is difficult to maintain because the possibilities for mistakes while production, such as loose or swapped connections, are large, and the physical connections at the end of the lines mechanical Vibrations and an atmospheric Are exposed to corrosion. Furthermore, long lines are electromagnetic disorders by radio emissions and feed unwanted signals to the driver platform.

If one would like to add a new controller to the harvester, so one is forced to connect new wires and wires to the driver platform relocate. Therefore, you can Today's electrical systems do not simply conform to modified features be adjusted, which means that their flexibility is limited is.

The Using a single electronic device, such as a centralized microprocessor unit makes the machine a complete failure susceptible, which is caused by a failure of this device, and this still requires a large number of wire connections in the place of the microprocessor unit.

One Part of these problems can be solved by using a variety of Overcome microprocessor units which allow decentralization of the machine controls. In such a configuration, each microprocessor processes Sensor signals from a limited part of the machine and generated Actuator signals for this part of the machine. This will increase the number of wire connections reduced to the driver platform, but availability is limited by machine data: a signal from a sensor becomes just a microprocessor supplied unless additional Lines supply the same signal to other units.

The WO-A-82/01354 shows an embodiment, when a variety of microprocessor units by a single Master microprocessor is controlled. Data between the others, tracked or slave units pass through the master microprocessor to the first Slave unit must send a data request signal to what the master microprocessor receives the data from a second slave unit directly or not can request and the data obtained can deliver to the first slave unit. Such a process is unwieldy and disturbances at the master unit affect the entire machine.

When As a result, it is an object of the present invention to solve the problems to overcome, with the driver's warning in a straightforward, transparent and flexible way.

According to the present Invention, this goal is achieved by the agricultural harvester, in the independent Claim is defined. embodiments of the invention are in the dependent claims disclosed.

In general, the invention provides an agricultural harvester comprising:
an engine and a fuel tank equipped with a fuel sensor that generates a signal corresponding to the fuel level in the fuel tank;
programmable microprocessor devices operable to receive input signals from machine status sensors and / or a communications network and / or machine command devices and to provide output signals to display devices and / or the communications network and / or machine actuator devices produce,
wherein the microprocessor means is operable to receive the input signal from the fuel sensor and to calculate the amount of fuel from the fuel sensor signal,
characterized in that the microprocessor device further comprises:
calculates the average fuel consumption rate from the fuel sensor signal; and
generates an output signal when the calculated amount of fuel would drop to zero within a predetermined period of time.

In Advantageously, the network may be a single channel network for serial communication of digital data messages that are an initial part for identification of the message type and to determine their relative priority the network with the microprocessor device by transmitter / receiver units connected is.

Preferably The network includes an optical transmission network that transmits signals over a network active star point conducts. Such a network eliminates the Influence of electromagnetic interference on electrical lines. Reduces the use of plastic optical fibers continue the material and installation costs.

Because all of the data signals on the network are available to all microprocessor devices, they can all be used to automatically change machine settings, thereby simplifying driver tasks and avoiding unwanted or dangerous combinations of settings. This process can thus be used to control:
Transport settings, such as engine and vehicle speed, differential lock, four-wheel drive, brakes;
Crop settings such as drum and fan speed, header and header reel settings, drum and straw chopper power on state; and
Display of machine status variables and warning messages.

A agricultural harvester embodying the present invention is realized now with more details in the form of a Example described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

1 Fig. 10 is a schematic plan view of the longitudinal side of a combine harvester showing the means for processing the crop;

2 Figure 3 is a schematic view of the same combine with parts of the drive trains thereof shown;

3 shows a partial view of the engine section in a direction indicated by the arrow III in 2 is shown;

4 on a larger scale the attachment of the combine harvester after 1 and 2 shows;

5 on a larger scale the cab of the combine according to the 1 and 2 shows;

6 shows the configuration of a communication network; and

7 to 13 in more detail, the interconnection of command facilities, display devices, sensor devices, and actuator devices in the network to 6 demonstrate.

Out establish Simplicity is the illustrated agricultural harvester a combine harvester with usual Construction, using straw walkers However, it is readily apparent that the invention in the same way to the so-called rotor combine harvesters applicable, such as, for example, combine of the axial flow type. The invention is also applicable to other self-propelled harvesters applicable, such as forage harvesters, potato harvesters and the like. Their use on a combine harvester should not be considered restrictive be understood.

The Expressions "forward", "left", "right", "back", in combination with the agricultural harvester and / or parts thereof are used with reference to the direction of forward working movement but should not be construed as limiting. The Terms "grains", "straw" and "tailings" are mainly used in the entire description for reasons used for convenience, and it should be understandable that these expressions not restricting in the same way should be. Thus, "grains" refers to the part of the crop that threshed and separated from the discardable part of the crop which is called "straw". Incomplete be threshed ears referred to as "tailings".

For a simplification of the reference, a general description of the in the 1 and 2 shown combine. This harvester, commonly with 1 includes a main chassis or a frame 2 on two front drive wheels 3 and two rear steerable wheels 4 is supported. On the main chassis 2 are a driver platform 5 , a driver's cabin 6 , a grain tank 7 , a first crop processing device that includes a threshing and separating mechanism 8th and a grain cleaning mechanism 9 includes, and a drive unit or a motor 10 supported. A common attachment 11 and a straw-inclined conveyor 12 extend from the main chassis 2 out to the front and are pivotable on the chassis 2 fixed for a generally vertical movement by extendable single acting hydraulic cylinders 13 is controlled.

When the combine harvester 1 is propelled forward over a field of standing crop, the latter is from the stubble through a cutter bar 120 on the front of the attachment 11 separated, whereupon the attachment 11 and the straw-inclined conveyor 12 the mown crop to the threshing and separating mechanism 8th deliver. The crop material received therein is threshed and separated, that is, the crop is grated and whipped, thereby loosening the kernels, seeds or the like and separating them from the straw, ears and other harvestable parts of the crop.

The in the 1 and 2 The combine harvester shown comprises a conventional threshing and separating mechanism 8th , the threshing cylinder 14 , a beater 16 and a separator rotor 18 that includes a set of concaves 19 interact. Usual straw shakers 20 are operationally operable to feed a mat of the remaining crop material (i.e., mainly straw, because the grains have been separated therefrom) through a straw hood 21 discard. A straw baffle 32 directs the mat to a second crop processor that takes the form of a straw chopper 30 having. Grains passing through the threshing and separating mechanism 8th were separated, fall on a first grain pan 24 of the cleaning mechanism 9 which also continues to be a pre-cleaning sieve 26 that is above a second grain pan 27 is arranged a pair of sieves 28 . 29 , which are arranged one above the other, and a cleaning fan 25 includes.

The grain pans 24 . 27 and the sieves 26 . 28 . 29 are vibrated generally in the forward and reverse directions to produce threshed and separated grains from the first grain pan 24 to the Vorreinigungssieb 26 and the second grain pan 27 and from this to the seven 28 . 29 to transport. The same vibrational motion distributes the grains across the sieves 26 . 28 . 29 While passing the purified grains through gravity through these sieves 26 . 28 . 29 allows. The grains on the sieves 26 . 28 . 29 Be a cleaning action by the blower 25 subjected to an air flow through the sieves 26 . 28 . 29 to remove chaff and other contaminants, such as dust, from the grains by inflating this material to exit the machine via an outlet 22 the straw hood 21 to be delivered.

Cleaned grains fall onto a screw conveyor 35 for pure grains in a screw conveyor pan 36 for pure grains, and they are subsequently added to the grain tank 7 transferred. The tailings fall on a tailings auger (not shown) in a tailings auger trough 38 , The tailings from the tailings auger laterally to a separate Nachdrescheinrichtung 39 transported and to the cleaning mechanism 9 attributed to a repeated cleaning action.

A grain tank screw conveyor 42 at the Bo the grain tank 7 is used to make the pure grains sideways to a discharge tube 43 To press in it by a discharge auger 44 for delivery from the harvester 1 is raised.

After this general description of the flow of crop material through the machine, the machine settings and controls will now be explained in further detail. Most switches are in the 1 to 5 but not shown in the 7 and 8th being found; Hydraulic valves are in the 10 . 12 and 13 shown.

The motor 10 removes fuel from a fuel tank 50 in which a usual fuel level sensor 51 is attached. The electrical resistance measured across this sensor is a function of the fuel level in the tank 50 ,

Like this in 3 is shown, the engine speed is by a throttle 55 a fuel injection system 53 controlled. The setting of the throttle lever 55 is through the spindle of an electric motor speed actuator 56 determined, which comprises a bidirectional electric motor which is operable to change the position of the spindle. The driver provides commands for reducing or increasing the engine speed via a switch 57 in a dashboard 100 in the cabin 6 , The actual engine speed is determined using an engine speed sensor 58 measured, which is formed by a proximity sensor operable to measure changes in the magnetic field caused by a rotating part of the motor itself or a part driven directly by the motor, such as the rotor of an electric generator 54 ,

Like this in 2 is shown, the power from the engine is used to the wheels by means of a main drive belt 60 driving a first variator pulley 62 set in rotation. This pulley 62 drives a second variator pulley 63 about a vehicle speed belt 61 at. The pulley 63 puts the drive wheels 3 via a gearbox 67 and (not shown) final drives in rotation. The variator pulleys 62 . 63 seen from axially movable inner and outer halves, whose relative position can be changed to the course of the belt 61 and thus to change the gear ratio of this drive. Such a transmission system is well known in the art and has been described in further detail in EP-B-0097987. The relative position of the halves of the pulley 62 is controlled by an electrically controlled hydraulic valve 65 controlled. The reduction ratio and thus the driving speed of the harvester 1 can therefore be changed electrically.

The actual driving speed of the combine harvester 1 may be the number of revolutions of one of the gears in the transmission 67 be calculated. The speed of such a gear can also by a proximity sensor 70 measuring changes in the magnetic field caused by the passage of teeth of the gear.

The driver provides commands for setting the variator pulleys 62 . 63 with the help of a multi-function handle 75 standing close to the driver's seat 76 is arranged. The pivoting movement of the handle 75 is mechanically applied to a potentiometer device 80 across which a resistance is measured representing the desired vehicle speed.

Alternatively, the gearbox 67 driven by a conventional hydrostatic system having a variable hydrostatic pump (not shown) attached to the engine 10 attached, and includes a hydrostatic motor attached to the transmission 67 is attached. The flow of hydrostatic oil in the system is controlled by an electrically controlled servo valve 78 regulated, which is contained in the pump. The driver likewise provides commands for the driving speed via the handle 75 and the potentiometric device 80 ,

The drive wheels 3 can be slowed down and stopped by a hydraulic braking system, the two brakes 90 includes, on both sides of the transmission 67 are attached. Usually, one of the brakes 90 separated by the fluid pressure from a master cylinder under the action of one of the foot pedals 85 on the driver platform 5 be operated. This system allows one of the wheels to lock 3 while the other is still the combine harvester 1 drives to turn it with a small radius of curvature. For driving on the road, the foot pedals 85 through a linkage 87 coupled with each other, whose position with a linkage sensor 88 is tested in the form of a proximity sensor. The operation of the brakes 90 is via a brake sensor 86 detected, which includes a switch which is closed by the brake fluid pressure.

A common differential mechanism in the transmission 67 allows movement of the drive wheels 3 relative to each other. This mechanism is powered by a hydraulic differential lock mechanism 95 upon actuation of an electrically controlled hydraulic valve 93 blocked to prevent the relative movement and the wheels 3 to bring a unified movement. Commands for the switching on and off of this blocking mechanism are provided via a switch which is controlled by a differential lock pedal 96 on the driver platform 5 is pressed.

To achieve a four-wheel drive (4WD) configuration, the steerable wheels become 4 by hydrostatic motors 96 powered by the conventional hydrostatic system for front wheel drive via an electrically controlled valve 97 are connected. Switching on and off of this 4WD system is done by an ON / OFF switch 98 on the dashboard 100 controlled.

The combine 1 is equipped with a variety of lamps and lights, such as front and rear street lights 110 (only in 10 shown), brake lights 111 at the back and a rotating light 112 equipped on the top of the harvester. These lights 110 to 112 be through a semiconductor power module 107 powered. The street lights 110 be via a switch (not shown) on a steering column 83 in the driver's cabin 6 controlled, the rotary light 112 via a switch 115 in the dashboard 100 is controlled while the brake lights 111 via the brake pressure sensor 86 to be controlled. The same power module 107 is used to control a horn 113 below the driver platform 5 when pressing a switch on the steering column 83 in the cabin 6 used.

The height of the attachment 11 Above the ground surface is by the single-acting hydraulic cylinder 13 controlled by an electrically controlled hydraulic valve 122 are connected. The lifting and lowering of the attachment is by push-button switch 123 in the multi-function handle 75 controlled. The actual height of the attachment may vary from the angle between the driver platform 5 and the straw feederhouse 12 be derived. This angle is controlled by a variable resistor 125 measured, whose body is on the platform 5 is fixed while the movable core in contact with a cam lever 126 is held, who with the feederhouse 12 connected is.

Like this in 4 shown is a header reel 128 comprising six tines (not shown) pivotally mounted on two pivotable arms 129 above the header frame 121 attached. The position of the reel 128 must be adjusted to accommodate different crop conditions. For this purpose, a first pair of single acting hydraulic cylinders raises or lowers 130 the poor 129 , and a second pair of double-acting hydraulic cylinders 131 moves the rotary shaft of the reel 128 along the arms 129 forward or backward. The cylinders 130 . 131 be through two electrically controlled valves 132 respectively 133 controlled. Both valves are in a valve block 200 on the side of the harvester 1 contain. Commands for the vertical reel adjustment are via the push button switches 135 in the multi-function handle 75 Supplied, and horizontal adjustment commands are via the foot switch 136 on the driver platform 5 delivered.

The reel 128 is by a reel belt 138 powered by a sprocket and belt assembly 139 is driven. The assembly is linked by a chain 140 rotated about a conventional variator assembly, which is a drive pulley 143 , a driven pulley 142 and a reel variator belt 144 includes. The axially movable half of the pulley 142 is through a set of arms 146 held in position, inwardly and outwardly by the spindle of an electric motor 145 Can be moved to the run of the belt 144 and thus to change the speed ratio through this variator assembly, thereby increasing the reel speed, that is, the relative speed of the reel tines to the header frame 121 , enlarged or reduced. One control of this speed setting is via push-button switch 148 in the multi-function handle 75 possible.

The sprocket of the assembly 139 is perforated along an inner diameter, and a proximity sensor 148 is arranged at this diameter. The frequency of the pulses in the sensor 148 when passing the perforations during a rotation of the reel 128 are proportional to the reel speed and thus suitable for the calculation of said speed.

Referring again to 2 It can be seen that the first crop processing device that the threshing and separating mechanism 8th and the grain cleaning mechanism 9 includes, and the attachment 11 through pulleys on an intermediate shaft 150 are driven. The drive power at this shaft 150 is from the engine 10 with the help of the main drive belt 60 and a threshing-up belt 152 delivered. A tension pulley 154 Can be pivoted forward to the tension of the belt 152 which is then separated from its pulleys and ends its movement. During a backward movement of the tension pulley 154 becomes the belt 152 pressed back into engagement. The position of the tension pulley 154 is controlled by a double-acting (not shown) hydraulic cylinder by an electrically controlled hydraulic valve 156 controlled that gets into the valve block 200 is inserted. Commands for turning on the first crop processor are provided by the driver using a threshing ON / OFF switch 158 in the dashboard 100 delivered.

The threshing cylinder 14 is driven by a second conventional variator arrangement, which is a drive pulley 160 , a driven pulley 161 and a threshing variator belt 162 includes. The axially movable half of the pulley 161 is through a set of arms 163 held in position by the spindle of an electric motor 164 can be moved inwards and outwards to the course of the belt 162 and thus to change the speed ratio through this variator arrangement, whereby the rotational speed of the threshing cylinder 14 will be changed. The driver provides commands for speed adjustment using a monostable switch 166 on the dashboard 100 ,

The actual drum speed is determined by a proximity sensor 168 measured near the shaft of the threshing cylinder 14 attached and directed to this.

The straw-inclined conveyor 12 and the attachment 11 are driven by a belt drive, which is a front attachment harness 169 and a header drive belt 170 includes. A tension pulley 172 Can be pivoted upwards to tension on the belt 169 which is then released from its pulleys and ends its movement. When swiveling the tension pulley 172 down is the belt 169 pressed back into engagement. The position of the tension pulley 172 is powered by a double-acting hydraulic cylinder 173 controlled by an electrically controlled hydraulic valve 174 is controlled in the valve block 200 is included. Commands for switching on the straw feeder 12 and the attachment 11 are provided by the driver using a header power ON / OFF switch 176 in the dashboard 100 delivered.

The grain cleaning mechanism 9 is from the intermediate shaft 150 over a belt 180 driven. The same belt 180 puts the first pulley 181 a fan-variator assembly in rotation, which further includes a driven pulley 182 and a fan variator belt 183 includes. The axially movable half of the pulley 182 is held in place by a set of arms that pass through the spindle of an electric motor 185 can be moved inwards and outwards to the course of the belt 183 and thus to change the speed ratio through this variator arrangement, reducing the speed of rotation of the fan 25 will be changed. The driver provides commands to the blower speed setting using a monostable switch 187 on the dashboard 100 ,

The actual fan speed is controlled by a proximity sensor 189 measured near the rotating shaft of the blower 25 attached and directed to this.

Under the concaves 19 and under the back end of the straw shakers 20 and the sieve 28 are impact detector plates 192 . 193 . 194 which produce an electrical signal that is a function of the frequency of grain impact events thereon. The plates 193 and 194 measure the flow of lost grains at the outlet of the harvester 1 and are used as grain loss sensors. The plate 192 Among the concaves, grains receives from the immediate beginning of the threshing operation and is used as a threshing status sensor; its signal is proportional to the crop flow in the threshing and separating mechanisms 9 and is significantly reduced when this mechanism is idling. Such detector plates have been described in detail in EP-B-0339140 and will not be further explained here.

When the grains in the grain tank 7 reach a predetermined level, a switch becomes by the pressure of the grains on the surface of a grain level sensor 196 closed. The signal from this sensor 196 is used to connect one of the light emitting diodes (LED) 198 a warning lamp module 101 in the dashboard 100 to light up.

The position of the discharge tube 43 , which swivels to the side of the grain tank 7 fixed, can with the help of a double-acting hydraulic cylinder 45 be changed between the driver platform 5 and the lower end of the tube 43 is attached. The cylinder is controlled by an electrically controlled valve 46 controlled in the valve block 200 is included. Commands for pipe position changes are made via a monostable switch 48 in the dashboard 100 delivered.

The rotor of the straw chopper 30 is by the engine 10 powered by a belt drive that has a front chopper belt 205 , a shredder clutch assembly 206 and a rear shredder belt 207 includes. The belts 205 . 207 run over two pulleys of the clutch assembly 206 , which further comprises an electromagnet which, when switched on, couples both pulleys together to the straw chopper 30 to turn. Commands for the Switching on the coupling module 206 be through an ON / OFF switch 210 on the dashboard 100 delivered. The speed of the rotor is determined by a proximity sensor 209 measured, which is arranged in the vicinity of the rotating shaft of the rotor and directed to this.

The various settings of the machine are made using a communication network 300 controlled, generally in 6 is shown. The network 300 is a bidirectional single-channel network for the serial transmission of digital data between microprocessor devices 215 . 218 , These data are encoded according to an advanced serial communication protocol with a high level of security, such as the Controller Network Protocol (CAN) described in the publication "CAN specification, Version 1.0", published in 1987 by the company According to this protocol, communication disruptions are prevented by giving each message an initial identification part indicating the type of message and determining its relative priority, while sending a message to the network 300 receive the microprocessor facilities 215 . 218 continue to receive signals from the network 300 and if a higher priority message is detected, the lower priority message is terminated. This message is repeated automatically when the higher priority message is finished. The messages are coded for a determination of transmission errors. Because the identification has a length of 11 bits, a wide range of message types can be sent to the network. The CAN enables effective communication between microprocessor units in a multi-master configuration, meaning that no single microprocessor covers the entire network 300 controls. For further details about the CAN protocol, reference is made to the aforementioned Bosch publication.

The signals from and to the other electrical components, including command devices, sensor devices, machine actuators, and display devices, are provided by electrical modules 101 to 109 . 201 to 202 collected or generated, the printed circuit boards and programmable microprocessor devices 215 . 218 for automatic control of machine settings. These microprocessor devices 215 . 218 send and receive messages to or from the network 300 that are coded according to the CAN protocol. Both the control and communication functions can be integrated into a single chip. A microprocessor device 218 of this type is the Motorola chip 68HC705X4, which in most of the modules 101 to 109 . 201 to 202 is installed.

However, the data storage and processing capacity of such chips is limited. If the number and / or complexity of the controllers requires more data processing capacity, then a more conventional, more powerful microprocessor becomes available 215 installed and with a separate CAN chip 216 for the communication of CAN-coded messages from and to the network 300 connected. Such a conventional microprocessor 215 is the Motorola chip 68HC11, which is in the display module 103 is installed. Network messages are encoded and decoded by the separate Philips CAN chip PCA 82C200.

Transceiver units 217 , such as the Philips PCA 82C250 make the connection with a wired part 228 of the network 300 ago.

Because every module 101 to 109 . 201 to 202 with the network 300 about his own microprocessor device 215 . 218 and because the network communication according to the CAN protocol is not controlled by a single (master) microprocessor, there is no impediment to data exchange between the other modules when a microprocessor device 215 . 218 any module partially or completely fails.

The network 300 includes three wired sections 228 , each comprising two electrical conductors. Every section 228 connects modules that are physically close to each other: a first section 228 is with the modules 101 to 105 and 202 connected in the cabin 6 are attached; a second section is with the modules 106 and 107 in a central control box 240 below the grain tank 7 connected, and a third section 228 is with the modules 108 . 109 and 201 in a second control box 241 near the engine 10 connected.

Considering the rather long distances between the control boxes 240 . 241 and the cabin modules it is not recommended these three sections 228 to connect with electrical lines. In fact, in the case where electrical wires are used for long-distance transmission, electromagnetic interference can cause unwanted signals in the network 300 generate and thus disrupt the transmission of messages. Therefore, these interconnections are realized by an optical transmission network in which the messages are formed by light pulses that can not be disturbed by radio emissions.

The modules 105 . 106 and 108 each contain a second CAN transceiver unit 217 that with an optical transmitter 232 , such as the SFH452V, and with an optical receiver 233 , such as the SFH551V, both from Siemens. The optical signals pass through plastic optical fibers 231 which allow good data transmission over long distances, such as the distances between the car 6 and the control boxes 240 and 241 and they do not require the very strict precautions needed to mount the more expensive and delicate glass optical fibers.

Every module 105 . 106 . 108 is with an optical star module 230 over two optical fibers 231 one of which is connected to the optical transmitter 232 and the other with the optical receiver 233 the modules is connected.

At the star module 230 becomes an active star point by connecting an electrical circuit 234 with optical transmitters 232 and receivers 233 educated. The incoming optical message from a module 105 . 106 . 108 gets to one of the star receivers 233 received and converted into an electrical signal that matches the signals from the other modules through the circuit 234 is subjected to an OR operation. The resulting logical OR signal is sent to all optical star transmitters 232 transmitted and to the optical receiver 233 the modules 105 . 106 and 108 delivered. Such an optical star network enables CAN transmission between a plurality of optical nodes and guarantees a sufficient power balance at all optical nodes. Passive star points, which divide only the energy of the incoming light impulses on a multiplicity of outgoing optical fibers, require more powerful transmitters 232 at the modules 105 . 106 . 108 to achieve the same transmission quality.

As an example, a possible division of the command devices, sensor devices, machine actuator devices and display devices onto a plurality of modules 101 to 109 . 201 now described in more detail.

7 shows a set of modules in the dashboard 100 and are fastened near it. The warning lamp module 101 contains a variety of light emitting diodes (LED) 198 that by the microprocessor device 218 this module 101 illuminated by the network upon receipt of hazard status messages. Such conditions close the high level of the grains in the grain tank 7 as he passes through the sensor 96 detected, or the anomalies of the engine temperature and the oil pressure.

The dashboard switch module 102 Collects the input signals from the command switches in the dashboard 100 , These switches close the header power on switch 176 , the threshing switch 178 , the discharge tube switch 48 , the engine speed switch 57 , the drum speed switch 166 , the fan speed switch 187 , the Straw Chopper Power On Switch 115 and the four-wheel-drive-on switch 98 one. Additional switches are installed for selecting a manual or automatic control mode of variables, such as a monostable blower memory selector switch 188 and a bistable reel speed mode switch 147 , The dashboard module 102 Also controls a low volume audible alarm in the form of a buzzer 223 ,

The RPM (speed) status module 104 Contains a variety of LEDs through the microprocessor device 218 of the module 104 be driven when the actual speed of a shaft, as it is over the network 300 is transmitted below a predetermined value that has been set for this wave. The driver is therefore warned against excessive slippage or failure of one of the drive trains.

The dashboard 100 also contains a connector device 222 in the form of a conventional RS232 connector for serial communication with the network 300 and the other microprocessor devices 215 . 218 , This connection to the network 300 It is used to send and receive individual data messages, but also to reprogram the microprocessor devices 215 . 218 the other modules.

In the driver's cabin 6 is still the central display module 103 installed, which is a liquid crystal display 220 , which is operable to communicate messages and graphics to the driver, a keyboard and associated microprocessor devices 215 comprising a microprocessor unit and read only memory devices (not shown) formed by a conventional EPROM or FLASH memory chip.

8th shows the armrest module 202 Holding the multi-function handle 75 with the pushbuttons for commanding the header height (pressure switch 123 ), Header reel height (pressure switch 135 ) and header reel speed (pressure switch 149 ). This module 202 further comprises the potentiometric device 80 for the vehicle speed command.

The driver platform module 105 closes the sensor and command facilities on the platform 5 one. These include: the brake pressure sensor 86 , the brake linkage sensor 88 , the differential lock command pedal 94 and the switches 136 for horizontal reel adjustment.

9 shows the sensor module 106 of the central control box 240 , It receives and processes signals from sensors such as the grain tank level sensor 196 , the reel speed sensor 148 , the drum speed sensor 168 , the driving speed sensor 70 , the fan speed sensor 189 , the sieve impact sensor 194 and the header height sensor 125 ,

The power module 107 to 10 is also in the central control box 240 attached. It includes a semiconductor power module for supplying voltage and power to electrical consumers, such as the motor 145 the reel speed variator arrangement, the horn 113 , the engine 164 the threshing speed variator assembly, the engine 185 Blower Speed Variator Arrangement, the solenoid of the attachment height adjustment valve 122 , the brake lights 111 , the translucent 112 and the front and rear lamps 110 ,

11 shows the sensor module 108 of the engine control box 241 , It receives and processes signals from a second group of sensors, such as the engine speed sensor 58 , the straw chopper speed sensor 209 , the fuel level sensor 51 , the concave impact sensor 192 and the straw shaker impact sensor 193 ,

12 shows the power module 109 of the engine control box 241 , It supplies voltage and power to other actuators, such as the engine speed actuator 56 , the Straw Chopper Clutch 206 , the solenoid of the four-wheel drive valve 97 and the solenoids of the vehicle speed variator valve 65 or alternatively the servo valve 78 of the hydrostatic drive.

In 13 is the valve module 201 shown that the solenoid coils in the valve block 200 controls, this module in the same way in the control box 241 is installed. It supplies power to the solenoid of the attachment on-off valve 174 , the threshing-on valve 156 , the discharge tube valve 46 , the horizontal reel adjustment valve 132 , the vertical reel adjustment valve 133 and the differential lock valve 93 ,

Because every message on the single-channel network 300 from every microprocessor device 215 . 218 No additional wiring is required for the implementation of additional automatic control routines so that driver comfort and safety is improved significantly at no additional cost.

Conventionally wired self-propelled harvesters become the brake lights 111 activated when the brake pedals 85 be depressed.

This process is done by the brake pressure sensor 86 measured, then an electric circuit to the brake lights 111 closes. According to the present invention, the brake lights 111 through the semiconductor power module 107 of the central control box 240 driven. The microprocessor device 218 this module 107 delivers power to the lights 111 in determining another range of machine conditions, all of which means a slowdown of the harvester 1 correspond. The lights 111 are thus activated when the actual driving speed as determined by the sensor 70 is decreased at a rate exceeding a predetermined amount. The rate of speed reduction becomes from the vehicle speed messages from the microprocessor device 218 of the module 107 calculated. The lights 111 can also be activated when setting the cruise control command potentiometer 80 is changed to the machine 1 to slow down. The reduction of the desired vehicle speed can be achieved in the same way by the microprocessor device 218 detected when it checks the value of the target speed at regular intervals. These processes can all be combined together to make the brake light 111 under any of these conditions, that is brake pressure, vehicle speed reduction and vehicle speed reduction command. Other road users driving behind a harvester are under all circumstances warned in advance of slowing down the harvester, even in the case where no brake pedal is used 85 but other means, such as when the hydrostatic drive is used to stop the vehicle.

The maximum permitted speed during road transport for harvesters is limited by law in many countries. In some cases, the manufacturer is forced to limit the maximum speed of its products. Conventionally, non-adjustable stops that prevent the vehicle speed from increasing above a predetermined value and that can not be adjusted by the driver are installed in the vehicle speed driveline or command lever. Such system When a finished harvester is eventually sold with drive wheels having a different diameter than the originally installed wheels, and when the destination country has been changed, because the speed limits for different countries change, a tedious adjustment by the manufacturer is required by the manufacturer. The module and the network configuration allow this restriction in a non-mechanical way: via the RS232 connector 225 Data on the tire size, the destination country and the maximum speed for storage in the microprocessor device 218 of the motor power module 109 which controls the speed actuator means, such as the servo valve 78 hydrostatic drive or hydrostatic valve 65 the variator drive; the actual driving speed as determined by the driving speed sensor 70 is measured, is sent to the microprocessor device 218 transferred for comparison; when this speed reaches the maximum speed, the microprocessor device suppresses 218 every other speed-up command and stops the speed-actuator device at maximum speed. Alternatively, the comparison in the armrest module 202 take place, and its microprocessor device 218 that comes with the driving speed command 80 may be transmitting a speed-up command to the network 300 stop when the maximum speed is reached. If a harvester 1 equipped with other wheels or transferred to a country with different speed limits, it is sufficient to provide new data via the connector 225 into the network to set the speed limits to other values.

Another requirement in some countries is the operation of a rotating light 112 during road transport. The command for this operation is provided by the driver via the switch 115 in the dashboard 100 delivered. The lamp 112 will continue automatically through the power module 107 operated when a vehicle speed is transmitted above the value corresponding to harvest conditions. Thus, the rotating light works during the faster road transport.

The rotating light 112 Can continue as a warning device for people near the harvester 1 be used during reverse driving. Upon detection of a reverse speed by the vehicle speed sensor 70 activates the microprocessor device 218 of the power module 107 the lamp 112 , Alternatively, the light 112 through the same module 107 be activated when a command for reversing the vehicle speed command 80 is ordered. As an additional warning, a short operation of the horn 113 delivered at the beginning of the reverse drive. The driver can do this by pressing the switch on the steering column 83 reach, but will the horn 113 also automatically by the microprocessor device 218 of the power module 107 is operated when a message for an actual reverse speed or a reverse drive command is received.

If the grain tank 7 is full, a signal must be given to another driver so that this trailer or truck alongside the harvester 1 drive to collect the grains from this. This signal may light up the rotating light 112 be. Upon receipt of a full grain tank message from the grain tank sensor 196 activates the microprocessor device 218 of the power module 107 the lamp 112 for a given time interval. The driver thus does not have to focus his attention on the grain tank level and can concentrate on the other harvesting operations.

The use of the four-wheel drive system is only recommended for low-speed harvesting operations off-road. If the four-wheel drive switch 98 is ON, controls the microprocessor device 218 of the power module 109 only then the valve 97 To drive power to the steerable wheels 4 to deliver when the driving speed as measured by the driving speed sensor 70 is measured, falls below a low predetermined speed, and shuts off this power when the measured vehicle speed increases above a high predetermined speed. The use of the four-wheel drive is thus automatically limited to optimal conditions.

The differential lock in the transmission 67 can be damaged if turned on or off at high speed. Therefore, the microprocessor device ignores 218 of the valve module 201 any turn-on or turn-off commands from the differential lock pedal 94 as long as the driving speed remains above a predetermined high speed.

When the vehicle speed drops below this high speed, the valve module resets 201 the differential lock 133 back to the commanded state. This process protects the differential lock system from dangerous setting changes.

The signal from fuel level sensor 61 is used to display a wide range of data to the driver. The microprocessor device 215 of the display module 103 can the drive substance level on the display 230 bring. It also combines this data with the elapsed time or distance traveled by messages from the vehicle speed sensor 70 can be derived to calculate the instantaneous and average fuel consumption rate per hour or per kilometer. When the amount of fuel falls below the level for one hour of operation at an average fuel consumption rate, the microprocessor device generates 215 a warning message on the display 220 , The driver therefore learns that he has to refuel within a short time.

The operation of a single brake is useful during harvesting operations but dangerous when driving on the road. Therefore, the brake pedals 85 be connected with each other when the harvester 1 used the road, but this linkage is not visible at first glance. The microprocessor device 218 of the dashboard module 102 is programmed to have a buzzer 223 operated, if on the one hand the Brempedal linkage sensor 88 no coupling of the pedals 85 determines and on the other hand the vehicle speed rises above a predetermined value. At the same time, an LED 198 from the microprocessor device 218 of the warning lamp module 101 and a warning message is issued by the microprocessor device 215 of the display module 103 displayed. The attention of the driver is therefore directed directly to the dangerous condition.

The reel speed mode switch 147 is used to select a "manual" or "automatic" mode for the reel speed adjustment. When the "manual" mode is selected, the microprocessor device operates 218 of the power module 107 the reel-variator engine 145 to change the reel speed depending on the commands made by means of the pressure switch 149 of multi-function handle 75 are given. When the "automatic" mode is selected, the microprocessor device operates 218 the engine 145 to adjust the reel speed to the actual value of the vehicle speed as measured by the sensor: the reel speed is adjusted until the difference between the reel speed and the vehicle speed reaches a substantially constant value. Standing crop is therefore on the header 11 bent in a constant manner regardless of the driving speed of the harvester. The reel actual speed is from the sensor 148 and the microprocessor device 218 of the sensor module 106 detected, and the value is sent to the network 300 So he sent for a return from the microprocessor facility 218 the modules 107 can be used in the reel setting process.

When the fan memory selection switch 188 not pressed, the engine becomes 185 the fan speed variator through the power module 107 operated to change the fan speed as indicated by the fan speed switch 187 is ordered. The actual fan speed is provided by the sensor 189 measured and their value is sent to the network 300 via the sensor module 106 transmitted and is the driver about the module 103 displayed. When the selector switch 188 is pushed up for a long time, for example, over more than three seconds, the fan actual speed is in a first memory of the microprocessor device 218 of the power module 107 saved, and if the switch 188 is pressed down for a long time, so it will be in a second memory of the same microprocessor device 218 saved. When the switch 188 is pushed up for a shorter time compares the microprocessor device 218 the actual fan speed value with the value in the first memory and controls the power module 107 so that the fan speed is set to this value. Similarly, the fan speed is set to the value in the second memory when the switch 188 is pressed down for a shorter time. The driver is thus able to change the fan speed by a simple pulse command.

One such a system proves to be extremely useful every time when the driver reaches the end of a field and the harvester must turn. The driver must set the fan speed of a position switch over to the other to change the conditions of the relative Wind direction and the field inclination to take into account.

Alternatively, a tilt sensor (not shown) on the harvester 1 be installed for measuring the field inclination in the direction of the harvester movement. The signal from this sensor may then be from the microprocessor device 218 of the module 107 for selecting one of the fan speed memories and setting the fan speed to the value stored therein. In such a system, it suffices that the driver manually sets the fan speed to a first value during the downhill drive, stores it in the first memory, sets the speed to the second value during the uphill drive and places it in the first second memory stores, whereupon the fan speed is automatically switched between these values each time the tilt sensor detects a transition from an uphill to a downhill drive and vice versa.

When the threshing switch on 158 on ON is set (and thus it can be assumed that the harvester is outdoors) and the driver gives a pulse command to the switch 48 for changing the position of the discharge tube 43 gives, activates the microprocessor device 218 of the valve module 201 corresponding to one of the solenoid coils of the valve 46 to the cylinder 45 extend or retract until the driver sends an opposite pulse command to the switch 48 gives, causing the valve 46 is deactivated and the cylinder 45 is stopped. If, on the other hand, the switch 158 is set to OFF, the microprocessor device stops 218 of the module 201 the entire activation of the valve 46 as soon as the switch 48 is released. This second command mode is useful during maintenance in buildings where the pipe 43 otherwise it could hit walls or brackets when fully swung.

When switching the threshing switch-on switch 158 OFF to ON causes the microprocessor device 218 of the motor power module 109 first, that the actuator 56 the engine speed decreases before the valve module 101 an electrical voltage via the switch-on valve 156 invests. After switching on the threshing mechanism 8th causes the power module 109 that the engine 10 resumes its original speed. Switching the Straw Chipper Turn-On Switch 210 from off to on has the same effect on controlling engine speed. This process reduces the stress on the drive belts 60 . 205 during the turn-on of the crop processing facilities.

Because the threshing and cleaning capacity of the harvester is limited, an unacceptable amount of grain goes to the back of the straw walkers 20 and the sieve 28 lost whenever the amount of crop fed to the harvester is too high. If over a predetermined time too high a level of grain loss by the impact sensors 193 . 194 is measured, actuates the microprocessor device 218 of the motor power module 109 the servo valve 78 of the hydrostatic drive or the valve 65 of the variator drive to reduce the travel speed and thus the flow of crop material to the harvester until the screen losses have reached a predetermined acceptable level. The driving speed is automatically adjusted to the crop conditions.

If the self-propelled harvester 1 Reached the edge of a field, the driver turns it on a part of the field that is free of crop, the so-called turning area. The turning area is controlled by the impact sensor 192 under the concaves 19 determined because when entering the turnaround the threshing and separating mechanisms no longer crop is supplied. Upon detection of a significant reduction in crop flow for a predetermined time period characteristic of the turnaround range, a wide range of machine settings are automatically set to default default conditions. These conditions can be changed and stored in the memories of various microprocessor devices 215 . 218 via the RS232 connector 225 or loaded via the command device, such as the keyboard or the display module 103 , The machine settings mentioned include the height of the attachment 11 , the speed of the fan 25 and the speed of the reel 128 passing through the microprocessor facilities 218 of the power module 107 to be controlled. The reel speed is set to a predetermined speed, or alternatively, the automatic adjustment of the reel speed is switched to the vehicle speed. The settings also include the horizontal and vertical positions of the reel 128 passing through the microprocessor facility 218 of the valve module 201 to be controlled. When determining the turning range, the automatic control of the driving speed becomes dependent on the grain losses by the microprocessor device 218 of the power module 109 off.

When the harvester is modified by adding features, such as the four-wheel drive or the straw chopper 30 So there is no need for extensive rewiring. It is sufficient to carry the electrical connections to the nearby modules and a customized program via the RS232 connector 225 to the microprocessor facilities 215 . 218 forward the modules. Alternatively, the microprocessor device may be programmed to check for a feature and to select a control routine accordingly. Thus, great flexibility is offered for modification of the harvester features.

The microprocessor facilities 215 . 218 have the possibility to detect abnormal conditions, such as a short circuit, a broken connection or a faulty actuator. When such conditions are detected, the microprocessor sends an error message to the network 300 , The display module 103 Warns the driver with the help of a warning text on the display 220 , and the other microprocessor devices 215 . 218 switch to alternate routines or use defaults to bypass the faulty component if possible. Thus, the overall reliability of the entire harvester 1 improved.

Of the described process for the control of an agricultural harvester can continue by the addition other sensor, command and actuator devices or through Loading more control programs into which modules are refined, without from the original one To deviate idea of the invention. She is still very easy on others self-propelled harvesters applicable, such as forage harvester and Potato harvesters.

Claims (14)

Agricultural harvester ( 1 ) with: a motor ( 10 ) and a fuel tank ( 50 ) equipped with a fuel sensor ( 51 equipped with a fuel level in the fuel tank ( 50 ) generates corresponding signal; programmable microprocessor devices ( 215 . 218 ) operable to receive input signals from machine status sensors and / or a communications network and / or machine command devices, and output signals to display devices ( 220 ) and / or the communication network and / or machine actuator devices, the microprocessor device ( 215 . 218 ) is operable to control the input signal from the fuel sensor ( 51 ) and to calculate the amount of fuel from the sensor signal, characterized in that the microprocessor devices ( 215 . 218 ): calculate the average fuel consumption rate from the fuel sensor signal; and generate an output signal when the calculated amount of fuel will drop to zero within a predetermined time. Agricultural harvester according to claim 1, characterized in that the output signal causes the display device ( 220 ) indicates a warning message. Agricultural harvester according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the predetermined time period is essentially equal to one hour. Agricultural harvester according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the microprocessor devices ( 215 . 218 ) calculate the average fuel consumption rate per hour or per kilometer. Agricultural harvester according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the microprocessor devices ( 215 ) the fuel level on the display devices ( 220 ) bring. Agricultural harvester according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: the microprocessor means comprise a number of microprocessors ( 215 . 218 ) interconnected by a single-channel network for serial transmission of digital data messages having an initial part for identifying the message type and determining its relative priority; and the network ( 300 ) with the microprocessors ( 215 . 218 ) via transmitter / receiver units ( 217 ) connected is. Agricultural harvester according to claim 6, characterized in that the network ( 300 ) an optical transmission network ( 230 . 231 ). Agricultural harvester according to claim 7, characterized in that the optical transmission network is a star network ( 230 . 231 ), which has a passive or an active star point ( 230 ) having. An agricultural harvesting machine according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the optical transmission network comprises plastic optical fibers ( 231 ). Agricultural harvester according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the microprocessor devices ( 215 . 218 ) Input signals from an engine throttle command device ( 57 ) and outputs to an engine throttle actuator ( 56 ), which is operable to adjust the throttle. Agricultural harvester according to claim 10, characterized in that the throttle actuator ( 56 ) comprises an electrically actuated spindle connected to a throttle control lever. Agricultural harvester according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the status sensors comprise a motor speed sensor ( 58 ) whose signal is the actual rotational speed of the motor ( 10 ) corresponds. Agricultural harvester according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the microprocessor devices ( 215 . 218 ) over the network ( 300 ) are programmable. Agricultural harvester according to claim 13, characterized in that the microprocessor devices ( 215 . 218 ) via Steckver binding facilities ( 225 ) are programmable with the network ( 300 ) are connected.