US20170112054A1 - Harvester reversing engine fan - Google Patents
Harvester reversing engine fan Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170112054A1 US20170112054A1 US14/922,288 US201514922288A US2017112054A1 US 20170112054 A1 US20170112054 A1 US 20170112054A1 US 201514922288 A US201514922288 A US 201514922288A US 2017112054 A1 US2017112054 A1 US 2017112054A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- pitch
- harvester
- temperature
- fan
- signal
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 claims description 25
- 238000003306 harvesting Methods 0.000 claims description 14
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 13
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000002826 coolant Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 241001124569 Lycaenidae Species 0.000 description 3
- 240000008042 Zea mays Species 0.000 description 3
- 235000005824 Zea mays ssp. parviglumis Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 235000002017 Zea mays subsp mays Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 235000005822 corn Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 240000004658 Medicago sativa Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000017587 Medicago sativa ssp. sativa Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002828 fuel tank Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000314 lubricant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010813 municipal solid waste Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010907 stover Substances 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01D—HARVESTING; MOWING
- A01D41/00—Combines, i.e. harvesters or mowers combined with threshing devices
- A01D41/12—Details of combines
- A01D41/127—Control or measuring arrangements specially adapted for combines
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01D—HARVESTING; MOWING
- A01D69/00—Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers
- A01D69/06—Gearings
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01D—HARVESTING; MOWING
- A01D46/00—Picking of fruits, vegetables, hops, or the like; Devices for shaking trees or shrubs
- A01D46/08—Picking of fruits, vegetables, hops, or the like; Devices for shaking trees or shrubs of cotton
- A01D46/085—Control or measuring arrangements specially adapted for cotton harvesters
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01D—HARVESTING; MOWING
- A01D61/00—Elevators or conveyors for binders or combines
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
- F04D27/00—Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations or pumping systems specially adapted for elastic fluids
- F04D27/004—Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations or pumping systems specially adapted for elastic fluids by varying driving speed
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
- F04D29/00—Details, component parts, or accessories
- F04D29/26—Rotors specially for elastic fluids
- F04D29/32—Rotors specially for elastic fluids for axial flow pumps
- F04D29/325—Rotors specially for elastic fluids for axial flow pumps for axial flow fans
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
- F04D29/00—Details, component parts, or accessories
- F04D29/26—Rotors specially for elastic fluids
- F04D29/32—Rotors specially for elastic fluids for axial flow pumps
- F04D29/34—Blade mountings
- F04D29/36—Blade mountings adjustable
- F04D29/362—Blade mountings adjustable during rotation
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B30/00—Energy efficient heating, ventilation or air conditioning [HVAC]
- Y02B30/70—Efficient control or regulation technologies, e.g. for control of refrigerant flow, motor or heating
Definitions
- the present disclosure generally relates to harvesters, and more particularly to a system and method for controlling harvester fan speed based on yield.
- a control system for controlling a pitch of a plurality of fan blades of a variable pitch fan.
- the variable pitch fan is driven by an engine of a harvester.
- the variable pitch fan is configured to create an airflow in a first direction.
- the control system comprises a first feedback device providing a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature.
- a second feedback device is provided that provides a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature.
- a third feedback device is provided that provides a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load.
- a controller operable to receive the first feedback signal, the second feedback signal, and the third feedback signal. Lookup an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature.
- an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the plurality of fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting. Compare the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generate a fan reversal signal if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit.
- the fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction, opposite the first direction, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction. Record a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals.
- a method for controlling a pitch of fan blades of a variable pitch fan driven by an engine of a harvester using a control system having a controller comprises receiving a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature from a first feedback device. Receiving a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature from a second feedback device. Receiving a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load from a third feedback device. Looking up an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature. Generating an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting.
- the fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction, opposite the first direction, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction. Recording a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals.
- a harvester comprising a harvesting structure for harvesting crop.
- a crop receptacle for receiving harvested crop and a power module for providing power are provided.
- the harvester also comprises a control system for controlling a pitch of a plurality of fan blades of a variable pitch fan.
- the variable pitch fan is driven by an engine of a harvester.
- the variable pitch fan is configured to create an airflow in a first direction.
- the control system comprises a first feedback device providing a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature.
- a second feedback device is provided that provides a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature.
- a third feedback device is provided that provides a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load.
- a controller operable to receive the first feedback signal, the second feedback signal, and the third feedback signal. Lookup an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature. Generate an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the plurality of fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting. Compare the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generate a fan reversal signal if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit.
- the fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction, opposite the first direction, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction. Record a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a harvester according to one embodiment.
- FIG. 2 is a side view of a harvester according to another embodiment.
- FIG. 3 is a schematic of a control system of a harvester according to another embodiment.
- FIG. 4 is a partial view of a variable pitch fan according to one embodiment.
- FIG. 5 is a schematic of an illustrative method for harvesting crop.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a harvester 10 .
- the illustrated harvester 10 is a cotton harvester 15 (e.g., cotton picker, cotton stripper).
- Other types of harvesters 10 are contemplated by this disclosure (e.g., combine).
- the harvester 10 includes a chassis 20 .
- the illustrated chassis 20 is supported by front wheels 25 and rear wheels 30 although other support is contemplated (e.g., tracks).
- the harvester 10 is adapted for movement through a field 35 to harvest crops (e.g., cotton, corn, stover, hay, and alfalfa).
- An operator station 40 is supported by the chassis 20 .
- An operator interface 45 is positioned in the operator station 40 .
- a power module 50 may be supported below the chassis 20 .
- the power module may be an engine 55 that drives a hydraulic motor 60 or a mechanical drive 65 to power a variable pitch fan 70 .
- An operator may set a minimum power for the power module 50 from the operator interface 45 .
- the operator may also set a minimum engine speed from the operator interface 45 .
- Water, lubricant, and fuel tanks, indicated generally at 75 may be supported on the chassis 20 .
- a harvesting structure 80 is coupleable to the chassis 20 .
- the illustrated harvesting structure 80 is configured to remove cotton from the field 35 .
- the harvesting structure 80 may be a cotton stripper header 85 ( FIG. 1 ), one or more cotton picking units 90 ( FIG. 2 ), or another harvesting structure 80 (e.g., corn head).
- the harvesting structure 80 may be configured to remove corn, or other crop.
- an air duct system 95 is coupleable to the harvesting structure 80 .
- a crop receptacle 100 is coupleable to the air duct system 95 .
- the illustrated crop receptacle 100 is a round module builder 105 .
- the crop receptacle 100 may be a basket (not shown).
- the illustrated round module builder 105 includes a cleaner 108 that cleans the cotton harvested from the cotton stripper header 85 by removing trash and debris.
- the round module builder 105 includes an accumulator 110 that is configured to receive cotton, or other crop, harvested by the cotton picking units 90 .
- a feeder 115 is coupleable to the chassis 20 .
- the feeder 115 is configured to receive cotton, or other crop, from the accumulator 110 .
- the feeder 115 includes a plurality of rollers 120 configured to compress the cotton, or other crop, and transfer the cotton, or other crop, to a baler 125 of the round module builder 105 .
- the harvester 10 has a control system 130 for controlling a pitch 135 of a plurality of fan blades 140 of the variable pitch fan 70 is disclosed.
- the variable pitch fan 70 is driven by the engine 55 of the harvester 10 .
- the variable pitch fan 70 is configured to create an airflow in a first direction 145 .
- the control system 130 comprises a first feedback device 150 providing a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature.
- the harvester temperature is at least one of a hydraulic reservoir temperature, a pump drive gearbox reservoir temperature, a transmission sump temperature, an engine charge air temperature, and an engine coolant temperature.
- a second feedback device 155 is provided that provides a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature.
- a third feedback device 160 is provided that provides a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load. The third feedback signal may be indicative of a percent engine load.
- a controller 165 is provided to receive the first, second, and third feedback signals. The controller 165 is operable to lookup an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature. The controller 165 generates an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the plurality of fan blades 140 equal to the initial pitch setting. The controller 165 compares the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generates a fan reversal signal if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit.
- the fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch 135 of the plurality of fan blades 140 to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction 170 , opposite the first direction 145 , before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction 145 .
- the fan reversal signal may cause the pitch 135 to change to a maximum pitch.
- the controller 165 is operable to record a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals and determine whether the timer interval has increased and if so, generate a later pitch setting signal to change the pitch 135 of the plurality of fan blades 140 to a later pitch setting that is incrementally different than a prior pitch setting but in the same direction of change, and if not, generate the later pitch setting signal to set the pitch 135 of the plurality of fan blades 140 in the opposite direction of change at the later pitch setting.
- the fan reversal signal may be generated when a module eject cycle is initiated by the cotton harvester 15 .
- the operator interface 45 may be used to generate a manual mode signal that is received by the controller 165 and causes the controller 165 to generate the fan reversal signal.
- the operator interface 45 may be used to set a reversal timeframe that is received by the controller 165 and sets the amount of time that the pitch 135 is changed due to the fan reversal signal.
- a method for controlling the pitch 135 of the plurality of fan blades 140 of the variable pitch fan 70 is illustrated in FIG. 5 .
- step 175 the first feedback signal is received.
- step 180 the second feedback signal is received.
- step 185 the third feedback signal is received.
- step 190 an initial pitch setting is looked up from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature.
- step 195 an initial pitch setting signal is generated to set the pitch of the plurality of fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting.
- the harvester temperature is compared to a harvester temperature limit and a fan reversal signal is generated if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit.
- the fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction, opposite the first direction, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction.
- the fan reversal signal may be configured to cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change to a maximum pitch causing the airflow to flow in the second direction.
- the fan reversal signal may be generated when a module eject cycle is initiated.
- the harvester may have an operator interface for generating a manual mode signal that is received by the controller and causes the controller to generate the fan reversal signal.
- the operator interface may enable setting a reversal timeframe that is received by the controller and sets the amount of time that the pitch of the plurality of fan blades are changed due to the fan reversal signal.
- step 205 a timer interval is recorded between successive fan reversal signals.
- step 210 it is determined whether the timer interval has increased and if so, a later pitch setting signal is generated to change the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to a later pitch setting that is incrementally different than a prior pitch setting but in the same direction of change, and if not, the later pitch setting signal is generated to set the pitch of the fan blades in the opposite direction of change at the later pitch setting.
Abstract
A control system for controlling a pitch of a plurality of fan blades of a variable pitch fan driven by an engine of a harvester. The control system comprises first, second, and third feedback devices that provide first, second, and third feedback signals indicative of at least one harvester temperature, an ambient temperature, and an engine load. A controller is operable to receive the first, second, and third feedback signals, lookup an initial pitch setting, generate an initial pitch setting signal, and compare the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generate a fan reversal signal if certain conditions are met.
Description
- The present disclosure generally relates to harvesters, and more particularly to a system and method for controlling harvester fan speed based on yield.
- In order to harvest crops, engine and fan speeds of harvesters are commonly set at constant speeds regardless of yield.
- In one embodiment, a control system for controlling a pitch of a plurality of fan blades of a variable pitch fan is disclosed. The variable pitch fan is driven by an engine of a harvester. The variable pitch fan is configured to create an airflow in a first direction. The control system comprises a first feedback device providing a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature. A second feedback device is provided that provides a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature. A third feedback device is provided that provides a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load. A controller operable to receive the first feedback signal, the second feedback signal, and the third feedback signal. Lookup an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature. Generate an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the plurality of fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting. Compare the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generate a fan reversal signal if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit. The fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction, opposite the first direction, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction. Record a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals. Determine whether the timer interval has increased and if so, generate a later pitch setting signal to change the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to a later pitch setting that is incrementally different than a prior pitch setting but in the same direction of change, and if not, generate the later pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades in the opposite direction of change at the later pitch setting.
- In another embodiment, a method for controlling a pitch of fan blades of a variable pitch fan driven by an engine of a harvester using a control system having a controller is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature from a first feedback device. Receiving a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature from a second feedback device. Receiving a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load from a third feedback device. Looking up an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature. Generating an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting. Comparing the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generate a fan reversal signal if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit. The fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction, opposite the first direction, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction. Recording a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals. Determining whether the timer interval has increased and if so, generating a later pitch setting signal to change the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to a later pitch setting that is incrementally different than a prior pitch setting but in the same direction of change, and if not, generating the later pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades in the opposite direction of change at the later pitch setting.
- In yet another embodiment, a harvester is disclosed. The harvester comprises a harvesting structure for harvesting crop. A crop receptacle for receiving harvested crop and a power module for providing power are provided. The harvester also comprises a control system for controlling a pitch of a plurality of fan blades of a variable pitch fan. The variable pitch fan is driven by an engine of a harvester. The variable pitch fan is configured to create an airflow in a first direction. The control system comprises a first feedback device providing a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature. A second feedback device is provided that provides a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature. A third feedback device is provided that provides a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load. A controller operable to receive the first feedback signal, the second feedback signal, and the third feedback signal. Lookup an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature. Generate an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the plurality of fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting. Compare the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generate a fan reversal signal if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit. The fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction, opposite the first direction, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction. Record a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals. Determine whether the timer interval has increased and if so, generate a later pitch setting signal to change the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to a later pitch setting that is incrementally different than a prior pitch setting but in the same direction of change, and if not, generate the later pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades in the opposite direction of change at the later pitch setting.
- Other features and aspects will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a harvester according to one embodiment. -
FIG. 2 is a side view of a harvester according to another embodiment. -
FIG. 3 is a schematic of a control system of a harvester according to another embodiment. -
FIG. 4 is a partial view of a variable pitch fan according to one embodiment. -
FIG. 5 is a schematic of an illustrative method for harvesting crop. - Before any embodiments are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Further embodiments of the invention may include any combination of features from one or more dependent claims, and such features may be incorporated, collectively or separately, into any independent claim.
-
FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate aharvester 10. The illustratedharvester 10 is a cotton harvester 15 (e.g., cotton picker, cotton stripper). Other types ofharvesters 10 are contemplated by this disclosure (e.g., combine). - The
harvester 10 includes achassis 20. The illustratedchassis 20 is supported byfront wheels 25 andrear wheels 30 although other support is contemplated (e.g., tracks). Theharvester 10 is adapted for movement through afield 35 to harvest crops (e.g., cotton, corn, stover, hay, and alfalfa). Anoperator station 40 is supported by thechassis 20. Anoperator interface 45 is positioned in theoperator station 40. - Referring to
FIG. 2 , apower module 50 may be supported below thechassis 20. The power module may be anengine 55 that drives ahydraulic motor 60 or amechanical drive 65 to power avariable pitch fan 70. An operator may set a minimum power for thepower module 50 from theoperator interface 45. The operator may also set a minimum engine speed from theoperator interface 45. Water, lubricant, and fuel tanks, indicated generally at 75, may be supported on thechassis 20. - A
harvesting structure 80 is coupleable to thechassis 20. The illustratedharvesting structure 80 is configured to remove cotton from thefield 35. Theharvesting structure 80 may be a cotton stripper header 85 (FIG. 1 ), one or more cotton picking units 90 (FIG. 2 ), or another harvesting structure 80 (e.g., corn head). Alternatively, theharvesting structure 80 may be configured to remove corn, or other crop. - With reference to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , anair duct system 95 is coupleable to theharvesting structure 80. Acrop receptacle 100 is coupleable to theair duct system 95. Referring toFIG. 1 , the illustratedcrop receptacle 100 is around module builder 105. Alternatively, thecrop receptacle 100 may be a basket (not shown). The illustratedround module builder 105 includes a cleaner 108 that cleans the cotton harvested from thecotton stripper header 85 by removing trash and debris. With reference toFIG. 2 , theround module builder 105 includes anaccumulator 110 that is configured to receive cotton, or other crop, harvested by thecotton picking units 90. - With continued reference to
FIG. 2 , afeeder 115 is coupleable to thechassis 20. Thefeeder 115 is configured to receive cotton, or other crop, from theaccumulator 110. Thefeeder 115 includes a plurality ofrollers 120 configured to compress the cotton, or other crop, and transfer the cotton, or other crop, to abaler 125 of theround module builder 105. - Referring to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , theharvester 10 has acontrol system 130 for controlling apitch 135 of a plurality offan blades 140 of thevariable pitch fan 70 is disclosed. Thevariable pitch fan 70 is driven by theengine 55 of theharvester 10. Thevariable pitch fan 70 is configured to create an airflow in afirst direction 145. - With reference to
FIG. 3 , thecontrol system 130 comprises afirst feedback device 150 providing a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature. The harvester temperature is at least one of a hydraulic reservoir temperature, a pump drive gearbox reservoir temperature, a transmission sump temperature, an engine charge air temperature, and an engine coolant temperature. - A
second feedback device 155 is provided that provides a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature. Athird feedback device 160 is provided that provides a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load. The third feedback signal may be indicative of a percent engine load. Acontroller 165 is provided to receive the first, second, and third feedback signals. Thecontroller 165 is operable to lookup an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature. Thecontroller 165 generates an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the plurality offan blades 140 equal to the initial pitch setting. Thecontroller 165 compares the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generates a fan reversal signal if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit. The fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause thepitch 135 of the plurality offan blades 140 to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in asecond direction 170, opposite thefirst direction 145, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in thefirst direction 145. The fan reversal signal may cause thepitch 135 to change to a maximum pitch. Thecontroller 165 is operable to record a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals and determine whether the timer interval has increased and if so, generate a later pitch setting signal to change thepitch 135 of the plurality offan blades 140 to a later pitch setting that is incrementally different than a prior pitch setting but in the same direction of change, and if not, generate the later pitch setting signal to set thepitch 135 of the plurality offan blades 140 in the opposite direction of change at the later pitch setting. - Alternatively, the fan reversal signal may be generated when a module eject cycle is initiated by the
cotton harvester 15. Theoperator interface 45 may be used to generate a manual mode signal that is received by thecontroller 165 and causes thecontroller 165 to generate the fan reversal signal. Alternatively, theoperator interface 45 may be used to set a reversal timeframe that is received by thecontroller 165 and sets the amount of time that thepitch 135 is changed due to the fan reversal signal. - A method for controlling the
pitch 135 of the plurality offan blades 140 of thevariable pitch fan 70 is illustrated inFIG. 5 . Instep 175 the first feedback signal is received. Instep 180, the second feedback signal is received. Instep 185, the third feedback signal is received. Instep 190, an initial pitch setting is looked up from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature. Instep 195, an initial pitch setting signal is generated to set the pitch of the plurality of fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting. Instep 200, the harvester temperature is compared to a harvester temperature limit and a fan reversal signal is generated if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit. The fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction, opposite the first direction, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction. The fan reversal signal may be configured to cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change to a maximum pitch causing the airflow to flow in the second direction. In an embodiment where the harvester is a cotton harvester, the fan reversal signal may be generated when a module eject cycle is initiated. The harvester may have an operator interface for generating a manual mode signal that is received by the controller and causes the controller to generate the fan reversal signal. Alternatively, the operator interface may enable setting a reversal timeframe that is received by the controller and sets the amount of time that the pitch of the plurality of fan blades are changed due to the fan reversal signal. - In
step 205, a timer interval is recorded between successive fan reversal signals. Instep 210, it is determined whether the timer interval has increased and if so, a later pitch setting signal is generated to change the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to a later pitch setting that is incrementally different than a prior pitch setting but in the same direction of change, and if not, the later pitch setting signal is generated to set the pitch of the fan blades in the opposite direction of change at the later pitch setting. - Various features are set forth in the following claims.
Claims (20)
1. A control system for controlling a pitch of a plurality of fan blades of a variable pitch fan driven by an engine of a harvester, the variable pitch fan configured to create an airflow in a first direction, the control system comprising:
a first feedback device providing a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature;
a second feedback device providing a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature;
a third feedback device providing a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load; and
a controller operable to:
receive the first feedback signal, the second feedback signal, and the third feedback signal;
lookup an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature;
generate an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the plurality of fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting;
compare the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generate a fan reversal signal if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit, the fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction, opposite the first direction, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction;
record a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals;
determine whether the timer interval has increased and if so, generate a later pitch setting signal to change the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to a later pitch setting that is incrementally different than a prior pitch setting but in the same direction of change, and if not, generate the later pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades in the opposite direction of change at the later pitch setting.
2. The control system of claim 1 , wherein the harvester temperature is at least one of a hydraulic reservoir temperature, a pump drive gearbox reservoir temperature, a transmission sump temperature, an engine charge air temperature, and an engine coolant temperature.
3. The control system of claim 1 , wherein the third feedback signal is indicative of a percent engine load.
4. The control system of claim 1 , wherein the fan reversal signal is configured to cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change to a maximum pitch causing the airflow to flow in the second direction.
5. The control system of claim 1 , wherein the control system is included in a cotton harvester and the fan reversal signal is generated when a module eject cycle is initiated.
6. The control system of claim 1 , wherein the control system is included in a cotton harvester having an operator interface for generating a manual mode signal that is received by the controller and causes the controller to generate the fan reversal signal.
7. The control system of claim 1 , wherein the control system is included in a cotton harvester having an operator interface for setting a reversal timeframe that is received by the controller and sets the amount of time that the pitch of the plurality of fan blades are changed due to the fan reversal signal.
8. A method for controlling a pitch of fan blades of a variable pitch fan driven by an engine of a harvester using a control system having a controller, the method comprising:
receiving a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature from a first feedback device;
receiving a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature from a second feedback device;
receiving a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load from a third feedback device; and
looking up an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature;
generating an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting;
comparing the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generating a fan reversal signal if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit, the fan reversal signal is configured to temporarily cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change in order to cause the airflow to flow in a second direction, opposite the first direction, before causing the airflow to revert back to flowing in the first direction;
recording a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals; and
determining whether the timer interval has increased and if so, generating a later pitch setting signal to change the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to a later pitch setting that is incrementally different than a prior pitch setting but in the same direction of change, and if not, generating the later pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades in the opposite direction of change at the later pitch setting.
9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the harvester temperature is at least one of a hydraulic reservoir temperature, a pump drive gearbox reservoir temperature, a transmission sump temperature, an engine charge air temperature, and an engine coolant temperature.
10. The method of claim 8 , wherein the third feedback signal is indicative of a percent engine load.
11. The method of claim 8 , wherein the fan reversal signal is configured to cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change to a maximum pitch causing the airflow to flow in the second direction.
12. The method of claim 8 , wherein the control system is included in a cotton harvester and the fan reversal signal is generated when a module eject cycle is initiated.
13. The method of claim 8 , wherein the control system is included in a cotton harvester having an operator interface for generating a manual mode signal that is received by the controller and causes the controller to generate the fan reversal signal.
14. The method of claim 8 , wherein the control system is included in a cotton harvester having an operator interface for setting a reversal timeframe that is received by the controller and sets the amount of time that the pitch of the plurality of fan blades are changed due to the fan reversal signal.
15. A harvester comprising:
a harvesting structure for harvesting crop;
a crop receptacle for receiving harvested crop;
a power module for providing power;
a control system comprising:
a first feedback device providing a first feedback signal indicative of at least one harvester temperature;
a second feedback device providing a second feedback signal indicative of an ambient temperature;
a third feedback device providing a third feedback signal indicative of an engine load; and
a controller operable to:
receive the first feedback signal, the second feedback signal, and the third feedback signal;
lookup an initial pitch setting from a lookup table using the engine load and the ambient temperature;
generate an initial pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades equal to the initial pitch setting;
compare the harvester temperature to a harvester temperature limit and generate a fan reversal signal if the harvester temperature is at least one of equal to and greater than the harvester temperature limit, the fan reversal signal is configured to cause the fan to reverse an airflow direction for a period of time before reverting back to the airflow direction;
record a timer interval between successive fan reversal signals;
determine whether the timer interval has increased and if so, generate a later pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades in the same direction at a later pitch setting that is incrementally different, and if not, generate the later pitch setting signal to set the pitch of the fan blades in the opposite direction at the incrementally different pitch.
16. The harvester of claim 15 , wherein the harvester is a cotton harvester and the harvesting structure is at least one of a cotton picking unit and a cotton stripper header.
17. The harvester of claim 15 , wherein the harvester temperature is at least one of a hydraulic reservoir temperature, a pump drive gearbox reservoir temperature, a transmission sump temperature, an engine charge air temperature, and an engine coolant temperature.
18. The harvester of claim 15 , wherein the third feedback signal is indicative of a percent engine load.
19. The harvester of claim 15 , wherein the fan reversal signal is configured to cause the pitch of the plurality of fan blades to change to a maximum pitch causing the airflow to flow in the second direction.
20. The harvester of claim 15 , further comprising an operator interface for generating a manual mode signal that is received by the controller and causes the controller to generate the fan reversal signal.
Priority Applications (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US14/922,288 US9622408B1 (en) | 2015-10-26 | 2015-10-26 | Harvester reversing engine fan |
CN201610832418.8A CN106879305B (en) | 2015-10-26 | 2016-09-19 | Control system, method and harvester for controlling pitch of variable pitch fan blades |
AU2016234898A AU2016234898B2 (en) | 2015-10-26 | 2016-09-27 | Harvester reversing engine fan |
BR102016024751-9A BR102016024751B1 (en) | 2015-10-26 | 2016-10-24 | CONTROL SYSTEM, METHOD FOR CONTROLING A FAN BLADE STEP, AND, HARVEST |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
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US14/922,288 US9622408B1 (en) | 2015-10-26 | 2015-10-26 | Harvester reversing engine fan |
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US9622408B1 US9622408B1 (en) | 2017-04-18 |
US20170112054A1 true US20170112054A1 (en) | 2017-04-27 |
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US14/922,288 Active US9622408B1 (en) | 2015-10-26 | 2015-10-26 | Harvester reversing engine fan |
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US (1) | US9622408B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN106879305B (en) |
AU (1) | AU2016234898B2 (en) |
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FR3077339A1 (en) * | 2018-01-31 | 2019-08-02 | Valeo Systemes Thermiques | FAN FOR MOTOR VEHICLE |
US11162507B2 (en) | 2019-01-18 | 2021-11-02 | Deere & Company | Variable pitch fan pitch limit |
US11382275B2 (en) | 2016-08-31 | 2022-07-12 | Tube-Line Manufacturing Limited | Continuous round baler accumulation chamber |
US11668228B2 (en) | 2020-05-28 | 2023-06-06 | Deere & Company | Variable pitch fan control system |
EP4257809A1 (en) * | 2022-03-23 | 2023-10-11 | Deere & Company | Method for operating a vehicle cooling system |
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US11744179B2 (en) * | 2020-03-11 | 2023-09-05 | Deere & Company | Accumulator contents detection system for harvester |
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US2734493A (en) | 1956-02-14 | Variable and reversible pitch fan for | ||
US4223846A (en) * | 1979-04-03 | 1980-09-23 | Sperry Corporation | Forage harvester |
US6729844B2 (en) | 2002-08-14 | 2004-05-04 | Harold Ray Bettencourt | Controller for variable pitch fan system |
US7008184B2 (en) | 2002-08-14 | 2006-03-07 | Bettencourt Jr Harold Ray | Control for cooling fan |
JP4651467B2 (en) * | 2005-07-06 | 2011-03-16 | 株式会社小松製作所 | Control device and control method for hydraulic drive fan for cooling |
TWI408892B (en) * | 2010-10-06 | 2013-09-11 | Sunonwealth Electr Mach Ind Co | Dual rotation control method for cooling fan and control circuit thereof |
JP5637442B2 (en) * | 2010-11-29 | 2014-12-10 | 井関農機株式会社 | Working part structure of work vehicle |
US20120240878A1 (en) | 2011-03-21 | 2012-09-27 | Haegele Karl | Internal combustion engine with fan system |
US8960349B2 (en) * | 2013-04-16 | 2015-02-24 | Deere & Company | Hydraulic fluid warm-up using hydraulic fan reversal |
CN204498778U (en) * | 2014-12-19 | 2015-07-29 | 株式会社久保田 | Corn picker |
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2015
- 2015-10-26 US US14/922,288 patent/US9622408B1/en active Active
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2016
- 2016-09-19 CN CN201610832418.8A patent/CN106879305B/en active Active
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Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US11382275B2 (en) | 2016-08-31 | 2022-07-12 | Tube-Line Manufacturing Limited | Continuous round baler accumulation chamber |
FR3077339A1 (en) * | 2018-01-31 | 2019-08-02 | Valeo Systemes Thermiques | FAN FOR MOTOR VEHICLE |
US11162507B2 (en) | 2019-01-18 | 2021-11-02 | Deere & Company | Variable pitch fan pitch limit |
US11668228B2 (en) | 2020-05-28 | 2023-06-06 | Deere & Company | Variable pitch fan control system |
EP4257809A1 (en) * | 2022-03-23 | 2023-10-11 | Deere & Company | Method for operating a vehicle cooling system |
Also Published As
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BR102016024751A2 (en) | 2017-05-02 |
AU2016234898A1 (en) | 2017-05-11 |
CN106879305B (en) | 2021-03-26 |
CN106879305A (en) | 2017-06-23 |
US9622408B1 (en) | 2017-04-18 |
AU2016234898B2 (en) | 2021-07-15 |
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