Patent Description:
It is well known that, to attain the best agricultural performance from a field, a farmer must cultivate the soil, typically through a tillage operation. Modern farmers perform tillage operations by pulling a tillage implement behind an agricultural work vehicle, such as a tractor. Tillage implements typically include one or more ground engaging tools configured to engage the soil as the implement is moved across the field. For example, in certain configurations, the implement may include one or more harrow discs, leveling discs, rolling baskets, shanks, tines, and/or the like. Such ground engaging tool(s) loosen, agitate, and/or otherwise work the soil to prepare the field for subsequent planting operations.

During tillage operations, field materials, such as residue, soil, rocks, mud, and/or the like, may become trapped or otherwise accumulate on and/or within ground engaging tools or between adjacent ground engaging tools. For instance, material accumulation will often occur around the exterior of a basket assembly (e.g., on the blades or bars of the basket assembly) and/or within the interior of the basket assembly. Such accumulation of field materials may prevent the basket assembly from performing in a desired manner during the performance of a tillage operation. In such instances, it is often necessary for the operator to take certain corrective actions to remove the material accumulation. However, it is typically difficult for the operator to detect or determine a plugged condition of a basket assembly when viewing the tools from the operator's cab. The European patent application published as <CIT>, discloses an agricultural implement with a plurality of ground-engaging tools and a sensor configured to provide a signal indicative of a rotational speed of at least one of the ground-engaging tools. A controller is configured to determine a ground speed of the agricultural implement and to calculate a ratio of the rotational speed to the ground speed. The ratio is compared to a threshold ratio and an alert signal is sent if the ratio is below the threshold ratio. While this sensor is capable of detecting a difference between the rotational speeds of the ground-engaging tool and the wheels of implement, it does give little to no information about the reason for this difference.

Accordingly, an improved system and method for monitoring plugging of basket assemblies of an agricultural implement would be welcomed in the technology.

In one aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a system for monitoring basket plugging for agricultural implements according to claim <NUM>.

In another aspect, the present subject matter is directed to an agricultural implement according to claim <NUM>.

In a further aspect, the present subject matter is directed to a method for monitoring plugging of basket assemblies of agricultural implements according to claim <NUM>.

In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the claims. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a further embodiment.

In general, the present subject matter is directed to systems and methods for monitoring plugging of one or more basket assemblies of an agricultural implement. Specifically, in several embodiments, the disclosed system may include one or more range sensors supported relative to a given basket assembly such that each range sensor is configured to transmit detection signals towards an interior of the basket assembly. In addition, each range sensor may be configured to detect return signals corresponding to the detection signals as reflected off a detected surface(s). By analyzing the return signals received by each range sensor (or the lack thereof) and/or any data associated with the signals, a controller or computing device of the system may infer or determine that the corresponding basket assembly is currently plugged or experiencing a plugged condition. For instance, in one embodiment, the controller may be configured to assess the data trace or profile of the sensor data received from each range sensor to identify the existence of material accumulation on and/or within the basket assembly. Once it is determined that the basket assembly is experiencing a plugged condition, an appropriate control action may then be executed, such as by notifying the operator of the plugged condition or by performing an automated control action.

Referring now to the drawings, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate differing perspective views of one embodiment of an agricultural implement <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, <FIG> illustrates a perspective view of the agricultural implement <NUM> coupled to a work vehicle <NUM>. Additionally, <FIG> illustrates a perspective view of the implement <NUM>, particularly illustrating various components of the implement <NUM>.

In general, the implement <NUM> may be configured to be towed across a field in a direction of travel (e.g., as indicated by arrow <NUM> in <FIG>) by the work vehicle <NUM>. As shown, the implement <NUM> may be configured as a tillage implement, and the work vehicle <NUM> may be configured as an agricultural tractor. However, in other embodiments, the implement <NUM> may be configured as any other suitable type of implement, such as a seed-planting implement, a fertilizer-dispensing implement, and/or the like. Similarly, the work vehicle <NUM> may be configured as any other suitable type of vehicle, such as an agricultural harvester, a self-propelled sprayer, and/or the like.

As shown in <FIG>, the work vehicle <NUM> may include a pair of front track assemblies <NUM>, a pair or rear track assemblies <NUM>, and a frame or chassis <NUM> coupled to and supported by the track assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>. An operator's cab <NUM> may be supported by a portion of the chassis <NUM> and may house various input devices for permitting an operator to control the operation of one or more components of the work vehicle <NUM> and/or one or more components of the implement <NUM>. Additionally, as is generally understood, the work vehicle <NUM> may include an engine <NUM> and a transmission <NUM> mounted on the chassis <NUM>. The transmission <NUM> may be operably coupled to the engine <NUM> and may provide variably adjusted gear ratios for transferring engine power to the track assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> via a drive axle assembly (not shown) (or via axles if multiple drive axles are employed).

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the implement <NUM> may include a frame <NUM>. More specifically, as shown in <FIG>, the frame <NUM> may extend longitudinally between a forward end <NUM> and an aft end <NUM>. The frame <NUM> may also extend laterally between a first side <NUM> and a second side <NUM>. In this respect, the frame <NUM> generally includes a plurality of structural frame members <NUM>, such as beams, bars, and/or the like, configured to support or couple to a plurality of components. Furthermore, a hitch assembly <NUM> may be connected to the frame <NUM> and configured to couple the implement <NUM> to the work vehicle <NUM>. Additionally, a plurality of wheels <NUM> (one is shown) may be coupled to the frame <NUM> to facilitate towing the implement <NUM> in the direction of travel <NUM>.

In several embodiments, the frame <NUM> may be configured to support various ground engaging tools. For instance, the frame <NUM> may support one or more gangs or sets <NUM> of disc blades <NUM>. Each disc blade <NUM> may be configured to penetrate into or otherwise engage the soil as the implement <NUM> is being pulled through the field. In this regard, the various disc gangs <NUM> may be oriented at an angle relative to the direction of travel <NUM> to promote more effective tilling of the soil. In the embodiment shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the implement <NUM> includes four disc gangs <NUM> supported on the frame <NUM> adjacent to its forward end <NUM>. However, it should be appreciated that, in alternative embodiments, the implement <NUM> may include any other suitable number of disc gangs <NUM>, such as more or fewer than four disc gangs <NUM>. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the disc gangs <NUM> may be mounted to the frame <NUM> at any other suitable location, such as adjacent to its aft end <NUM>.

Additionally, as shown, in one embodiment, the implement frame <NUM> may be configured to support other ground engaging tools. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, the frame <NUM> is configured to support a plurality of shanks <NUM> configured to rip or otherwise till the soil as the implement <NUM> is towed across the field. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the frame <NUM> is also configured to support one or more finishing tools, such as a plurality of leveling blades <NUM> and/or rolling (or crumbler) basket assemblies <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, any other suitable ground-engaging tools may be coupled to and supported by the implement frame <NUM>, such as a plurality of closing discs.

Referring now to <FIG>, a partial, perspective view of the aft end of the implement <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, particularly illustrating a portion of the finishing tools <NUM>, <NUM> of the implement <NUM>. As shown, the various finishing tools <NUM>, <NUM> may be coupled to or supported by the implement frame <NUM>, such as by coupling each tool to a toolbar or laterally extending frame member <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. For instance, as shown in <FIG>, a blade support arm <NUM> may be coupled between a given frame member <NUM> and each leveling blade <NUM> or set of leveling blades <NUM> to support the blades <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>. Similarly, one or more basket support arms <NUM> may be coupled between a given frame member <NUM> and an associated mounting yoke or basket hanger <NUM> for supporting each basket assembly <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>. Additionally, as shown in <FIG>, in one embodiment, a basket actuator <NUM> (e.g., a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder) may be coupled to each basket support arm <NUM> to allow the down force or down pressure applied to each basket assembly <NUM> to be adjusted. The basket actuators <NUM> may also allow the basket assemblies <NUM> to be raised off the ground, such as when the implement <NUM> is making a headland turn and/or when the implement <NUM> is being operated within its transport mode.

In several embodiments, each basket assembly <NUM> includes a plurality of support plates <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> configured to support a plurality of blades or bars <NUM> spaced circumferentially about the outer perimeter of the basket. For instance, as shown in <FIG>, each basket assembly <NUM> includes first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM> positioned at the opposed lateral ends of the basket assembly <NUM> and a plurality of inner support plates <NUM> spaced apart laterally from one another between the end plates <NUM>, <NUM>. Lateral basket sections <NUM> are generally defined between each pair of adjacent support plates <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, with each basket section <NUM> being generally characterized by a hollow or substantially hollow interior area surrounded by the lateral portions of the bars <NUM> extending between the respective pair of adjacent support plates <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. As is generally understood, the end plates <NUM>, <NUM> may be rotatably coupled to the corresponding basket hanger <NUM> (which, in turn, is coupled to the associated bracket support arm(s) <NUM>) via bearings to allow the basket assembly <NUM> to rotate relative to the hanger/arm <NUM>, <NUM> as implement <NUM> is being moved across the field. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the bars <NUM> of each basket assembly <NUM> are configured as formed bars. However, in other embodiments, the bars <NUM> may have any other suitable configuration, such as flat bars, round bars, and/or the like.

Moreover, in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter, <FIG> also illustrates components of one embodiment of a system <NUM> for monitoring plugging of one or more basket assemblies of an agricultural implement. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the system <NUM> is shown as being configured for use in identifying and monitoring a plugged condition(s) of the depicted basket assemblies <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the system <NUM> may be utilized to monitor plugging of basket assemblies having any other suitable configuration.

As shown in <FIG>, the system <NUM> includes one or more range sensors <NUM> installed on the implement <NUM> at a location relative to each basket assembly <NUM> such that each range sensor(s) <NUM> is configured to provide data indicative of a plugged condition of the basket assembly <NUM>. Specifically, in several embodiments, each range sensor <NUM> may be installed relative to an adjacent basket assembly <NUM> such that the range sensor <NUM> is configured to transmit detection signals towards the interior of the basket assembly <NUM> along a line of sight or line of detection <NUM> (<FIG>) of the range sensor <NUM> and subsequently receive return signals corresponding to the detection signals as reflected off a given surface aligned with the line of detection <NUM> at such point in time, such as an outer surface of the bars <NUM> or the surface(s) of field materials that have accumulated on and/or within the basket assembly. By analyzing the return signals via an associated controller <NUM> (<FIG>) communicatively coupled to each range sensor <NUM>, the controller <NUM> may be configured to identify the presence of material accumulation on or within the basket assembly.

For instance, the return signals received by each range sensor <NUM> may be indicative of the distance defined between the sensor <NUM> and the corresponding reflection surface. In this regard, as the basket assembly <NUM> is rotated relative to each range sensor <NUM>, the deflection signals transmitted from such range sensor <NUM> at any given point in time will either be directed towards one of the bars <NUM> surrounding the interior of the basket assembly <NUM> or the open space defined between adjacent bars <NUM>, depending on the rotational orientation of the basket assembly <NUM> relative to the range sensor <NUM> at such point in time. As a result, when the adjacent basket assembly <NUM> is in a normal, un-plugged state (e.g., the interior of the basket assembly <NUM> is not occupied by field materials), the profile of the distance-related data associated with the return signals received by each range sensor <NUM> will generally correspond to a periodic or wave-like profile characterized by the deflection signals alternating between being reflected off of the spaced apart bars <NUM> and being transmitted between adjacent bars <NUM> through the open interior of the basket assembly <NUM>. However, as field materials accumulate within the interior of the basket assembly <NUM>, the detection signals directed from each range sensor <NUM> towards the open areas defined between adjacent bars <NUM> will bounce or reflect off the accumulated materials, thereby altering the data trace or profile of the distance-related data associated with the return signals received by the range sensor <NUM>. Similarly, as field materials accumulate around the outer perimeter of the basket assembly <NUM> (e.g. on the bars <NUM>), the detection signals directed from each range sensor <NUM> will bounce or reflect off the accumulated materials as opposed to reflecting off the bars <NUM> or being transmitted into the interior of the basket assembly <NUM>, thereby altering the data profile of the distance-related data associated with the return signals received by the range sensor <NUM>. Accordingly, by recognizing variations in the data profile (particularly variations indicative of a reduction in the distance detected between the sensor <NUM> and an associated reflection surface), the controller <NUM> may infer or estimate that the basket assembly <NUM> is experiencing a plugged condition. Once a plugged condition is detected, an appropriate control action may then be executed, such as by notifying the operator of the plugged condition or by performing an automated control action.

In general, the range sensors <NUM> may correspond to any suitable distance sensors, proximity sensors, and/or the like that are configured to collect data indicative of a distance or range defined between such sensors <NUM> and a given object/surface. For instance, in one embodiment, each range sensor 102may correspond to an optical distance sensor, such as a laser-based distance sensor. In another embodiment, each range sensor <NUM> may correspond to ultrasound-based distance sensor. Laser-based distance sensors and ultrasound-based distance sensors suitable for use within the disclosed system <NUM> are commercially available from various sources, including, for example, from Banner Engineering Corp. of Minneapolis, MN. In other embodiments, each range sensor <NUM> may correspond to any other suitable distance or proximity sensor or sensing device, such as a radar-based distance sensor, an inductance-based distance sensor, a sonar-based distance sensor, magnetic-based distance sensor, a LIDAR sensor, and/or the like.

As shown in <FIG>, the range sensors <NUM> are mounted to the basket hanger <NUM> supporting each basket assembly <NUM> relative to the implement frame <NUM> (e.g., via the associated basket support arm <NUM>) in a manner such that each range sensor <NUM> has a downwardly oriented line of sight or line of detection <NUM> (<FIG>) directed towards the interior of the adjacent basket assembly <NUM>. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the range sensors <NUM> are spaced apart laterally across each basket hanger <NUM> such that at least one range sensor <NUM> has a downwardly oriented line of detection directed towards the interior of each lateral basket section <NUM> of the adjacent basket assembly <NUM>. As a result, the range sensors <NUM> may allow the plugging state of each respective basket section <NUM> to be individually monitored. However, in other embodiments, the range sensors <NUM> may be mounted at any other suitable location relative to the basket assembly <NUM> that allows each range sensor <NUM> to have a line of detection directed towards the interior of an associated basket assembly <NUM>. Additionally, although the illustrated embodiment shows a specific number of range sensors <NUM> installed relative to each basket assembly <NUM> (e.g., one per each lateral basket section <NUM>), the system <NUM> may generally include any suitable number of range sensors <NUM>, including a single range sensor <NUM> for each basket assembly <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, schematic, simplified cross-sectional views of one of the basket assemblies <NUM> shown in <FIG> are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, <FIG> illustrate the basket assembly <NUM> in a non-plugged state such that the basket interior and exterior is completely devoid of material accumulation. Additionally, <FIG> illustrates the basket assembly <NUM> when it is experiencing an internal plugged condition such that the basket interior includes field materials (indicated by mass <NUM>) accumulated therein. For purposes of illustration, the basket assembly <NUM> of <FIG> is shown in an almost fully plugged state. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that basket assemblies <NUM> can experience varying degrees of plugged conditions, such as ranging from a partially plugged condition to a fully plugged condition.

As shown in <FIG>, the range sensor <NUM> is coupled to the adjacent basket hanger <NUM> (e.g., via a mounting bracket <NUM>) such that the sensor <NUM> has a line of detection <NUM> oriented towards the interior of the basket assembly <NUM>. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the line of detection <NUM> of the sensor <NUM> is directed towards a center <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM>, which may also correspond to the location of the rotational axis of the basket assembly <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the line of detection <NUM> of the range sensor <NUM> may be directed towards any other location(s) within the interior of the basket assembly <NUM>, such as any off-center location.

As particularly shown in <FIG>, as the non-plugged basket assembly <NUM> rotates in a given rotational direction (e.g., as indicated by arrow <NUM>) across the ground (and relative to the sensor <NUM>) during the performance of an agricultural operation (e.g., a tillage operation), the line of detection <NUM> of the range sensors <NUM> alternates from being aligned with one of the bars <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM> to being aligned with the open area or gap defined adjacent bars <NUM>. For example, in the snapshot shown in <FIG>, the line of detection <NUM> is aligned with one of the bars <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM>. As a result, the detection signals (indicated by arrow <NUM>) transmitted from the range sensor <NUM> may reflect off the outer surface of the aligned bar <NUM> and be directed back to the range sensor <NUM> as return signals (indicated by arrow <NUM>). Such return signals <NUM> may then be analyzed, for example, to identify the distance between the sensor <NUM> and the aligned bar <NUM> (or, as will be described below, to identify distance between the aligned bar <NUM> and the basket center <NUM> via a linear transformation). In contrast, in the subsequent snapshot shown in <FIG> in which the basket assembly <NUM> has rotated slightly in the rotational direction <NUM> from the position shown in <FIG>, the line of detection <NUM> is aligned with the open space defined between adjacent bars <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM>. As a result, the detection signals <NUM> transmitted from the range sensor <NUM> may pass between the adjacent bars <NUM> and through the open interior of the basket assembly <NUM> to the basket center <NUM> or beyond. As the basket assembly <NUM> is further rotated in the rotational direction <NUM> from the position shown in <FIG>, the next adjacent bar <NUM> will pass through the line of detection <NUM> of the range sensor <NUM>, thereby allowing the sensor <NUM> to detect the bar. Such alternating pattern will be repeated as the basket assembly <NUM> rotates relative to the range sensor <NUM> during operation of the agricultural implement.

It should be appreciated that, in the illustrated embodiment, the detection range of the range sensor <NUM> has generally been selected to generally correspond to the distance defined between the sensor <NUM> and the basket center <NUM>. As a result, when the basket assembly <NUM> is in a non-plugged state, the range sensor <NUM> will not receive return signals when the line of detection <NUM> for the range sensor <NUM> is aligned with the open space between adjacent bars <NUM> (e.g., as shown in <FIG>), thereby indicating that the detection signals <NUM> reached the center <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM>. In other embodiments, the range sensor <NUM> may have any other suitable detection range. For instance, in another embodiment, the detection range may be selected to correspond to the distance defined between the sensor <NUM> and the ground (or the opposed side of the basket assembly <NUM> contacting the ground). In such an embodiment, when the line of detection <NUM> for the range sensor <NUM> is aligned with the open space between adjacent bars <NUM> (e.g., as shown in <FIG>), the detection signals <NUM> may be transmitted through the interior of the basket assembly <NUM> and reflect off the opposed side of the basket assembly <NUM> (e.g., a bar positioned at such opposed side) or the ground and be returned back to the sensor <NUM> as suitable return signals.

When the basket assembly <NUM> is experiencing a plugged condition, the same alternating pattern will be repeated as the basket assembly <NUM> rotates relative to the range sensor <NUM> during operation of the agricultural implement, with the line of detection <NUM> alternating between being aligned with one of the bars <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM> and being aligned with the open space defined between adjacent bars <NUM>. For instance, the line of detection <NUM> of the range sensor <NUM> is aligned with one of the bars <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM> in the snapshot shown in <FIG>, while the line of detection <NUM> is aligned with the open space defined between adjacent bars <NUM> in the snapshot shown in <FIG>. However, unlike the non-plugged state described above with reference to <FIG>, the detection signals <NUM> transmitted from the range sensor <NUM> will not pass through the interior of the basket assembly <NUM> to its center <NUM> when the line of detection <NUM> is aligned with the open space defined between adjacent bars <NUM> due to the presence of material accumulation within the interior of the basket assembly <NUM>. Specifically, as shown in <FIG>, the detection signals <NUM> transmitted from the range sensor <NUM> reflect off the outer surface(s) of the accumulated material <NUM> and are directed back to the range sensor <NUM> as return signals <NUM>. Such return signals <NUM> may then be analyzed, for example, to identify the distance between the sensor <NUM> and the accumulated materials <NUM> (or, as will be described below, to identify distance between the accumulated materials <NUM> and the basket center <NUM> via a linear transformation). When such material accumulation is detected, it may be inferred or determined that the basket assembly <NUM> is experiencing a plugged condition.

It should be appreciated that, although not shown, the basket assembly <NUM> may also experience an external plugging condition in which field materials accumulate along the outer perimeter of the basket assembly <NUM>, such as on or between the bars <NUM>. In such instance, the range sensor <NUM> may detect the material accumulation in a manner similar to that described. For instance, material accumulation on the bars <NUM> will result in a reduction in the distance detected between the sensor and the expected location of the bars <NUM>. Similarly, material accumulation directly between the bars <NUM> will prevent the detection signals <NUM> from being transmitted through the interior of the basket assembly <NUM>, which may be detected by the range sensor <NUM> via the associated return signals <NUM> reflecting off the accumulated materials.

Referring now to <FIG>, exemplary charts are provided that illustrate example data traces or profiles associated with the sensor data provided by the range sensor <NUM> in the non-plugged/plugged scenarios described above with reference to <FIG>. Specifically, <FIG> illustrates an exemplary data profile associated with the return signals <NUM> received by the range sensor <NUM> (or lack thereof) while the basket assembly <NUM> is in the non-plugged state shown in <FIG>. Similarly, <FIG> illustrates an exemplary data profile associated with the return signals <NUM> received by the range sensor <NUM> while the basket assembly <NUM> is in the plugged state shown in <FIG>. It should be appreciated that the data collected from the range sensor <NUM> is generally indicative of the distance defined between the sensor <NUM> and the detected surface(s). However, for purposes of illustration, the sensor data has been plotted as a function of the distance of the detected surface from the center <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM>. Such center-referenced data may be obtained via a linear transformation. In doing so, any sensor measurements that extend beyond the center <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM> (e.g., when the detection range of the range sensor <NUM> extends past the basket center <NUM>) may be saturated prior to performing the linear transformation.

As particularly shown in <FIG>, when the basket assembly <NUM> is a non-plugged state, the sensor data may exhibit a periodic or alternating profile as the line of detection <NUM> of the range sensor <NUM> alternates between being aligned with one of the bars <NUM> and being aligned with the open spaces defined between adjacent bars <NUM>. Specifically, the data trace is characterized by a repeating pattern of peaks <NUM> and valleys <NUM>, with each peak <NUM> corresponding to the time period across which one of the bars <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM> is being rotated across the line of detection <NUM> of the sensor <NUM> and each valley <NUM> corresponding to the time period across which the detection signals <NUM> from the range sensor <NUM> are being transmitted between adjacent bars <NUM> through the interior of the basket assembly <NUM> to at least the basket center <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, each peak <NUM> corresponds to a distance from the basket center <NUM> equal to an outer radius R (see <FIG>) of the basket assembly <NUM> (i.e., the distance from the basket center <NUM> to the outer surfaces of the bars <NUM>), while each valley <NUM> corresponds to a distance from the basket center <NUM> equal to zero. As such, the non-plugged data trace or profile for the basket assembly <NUM> generally exhibits a periodic profile with a very high variation or differential in the detected distances between the peaks <NUM> and valleys <NUM>.

In contrast, as shown in <FIG>, the data trace or profile associated with the sensor data received from the range sensor <NUM> differs significantly when the basket assembly <NUM> is experiencing a plugged condition. Specifically, due to the detection of material accumulation, the variability in the detected distances is reduced significantly. For instance, in the illustrated example, the data trace is characterized a similar repeating pattern of peaks <NUM> and valleys <NUM> as that described above with reference to <FIG>, with each peak <NUM> corresponding to the time period across which one of the bars <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM> is being rotated across the line of detection <NUM> of the sensor <NUM>. However, in the exemplary plot of <FIG>, each valley <NUM> corresponds to the time period across which the detection signals from the range sensor <NUM> are being transmitted between adjacent bars <NUM> and being reflected off the accumulated field materials. As shown in <FIG>, given the plugged state of the basket assembly <NUM>, the variation between the detected distance from the basket center <NUM> to the outer surfaces of the bars <NUM> and the detected distances from the basket center <NUM> to the outer surface(s) of the accumulated materials is significantly smaller than the distance variations described above with reference to <FIG>. Such a reduced differential between the maximum and minimum distance values detected during rotation of the basket assembly <NUM> provides a significant indicator of material accumulation relative to the basket assembly.

Referring now to <FIG>, a schematic view of one embodiment of a system <NUM> for monitoring plugging of one or more basket assemblies of an agricultural implement is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. In general, the system <NUM> will be described with reference to the implement <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> and the basket assembly <NUM> and associated system components shown in <FIG>. However, in other embodiments, the disclosed system <NUM> may be utilized to identifying tool plugging in association with any other suitable agricultural implement having any other suitable implement configuration, any other suitable basket assembly having any other suitable basket configuration, and/or using system components having any other suitable component configuration(s).

As indicated above, in several embodiments, the system <NUM> may include one or more range sensors <NUM> installed relative to a basket assembly <NUM> such that each range sensor(s) <NUM> is configured to provide data indicative of a plugged condition of the basket assembly <NUM>. Additionally, as indicated above, the system <NUM> may also include a controller <NUM> communicatively coupled to the range sensor(s) <NUM>. As will be described in greater detail below, the controller <NUM> may be configured to analyze the return signals received by the range sensor(s) <NUM> (or the lack thereof) and/or related data associated with such signals to infer or estimate the existence of material accumulation on and/or within the associated basket assembly <NUM>. Additionally, the controller <NUM> may also be configured to execute one or more control actions in response to the determination that the basket assembly <NUM> is likely plugged or in the process of becoming plugged. For instance, in one embodiment, the controller <NUM> may notify the operator that the basket assembly <NUM> is plugged or is likely to become plugged in the near future. In addition to notifying the operator (or as an alternative thereto), the controller <NUM> may be configured to execute one or more automated control actions adapted to de-plug the basket assembly <NUM> or otherwise reduce the amount of material accumulation on and/or within the basket assembly <NUM>, such as by automatically adjusting the speed of the implement <NUM> and/or the down force applied to the basket assembly <NUM> and/or by automatically raising and lowering the basket assembly <NUM> relative to the ground.

In general, the controller <NUM> may correspond to any suitable processor-based device(s), such as a computing device or any combination of computing devices. Thus, as shown in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> may generally include one or more processor(s) <NUM> and associated memory devices <NUM> configured to perform a variety of computer-implemented functions (e.g., performing the methods, steps, algorithms, calculations and the like disclosed herein). As used herein, the term "processor" refers not only to integrated circuits referred to in the art as being included in a computer, but also refers to a controller, a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a programmable logic controller (PLC), an application specific integrated circuit, and other programmable circuits. Additionally, the memory <NUM> may generally comprise memory element(s) including, but not limited to, computer readable medium (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), computer readable nonvolatile medium (e.g., a flash memory), a floppy disk, a compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM), a magneto-optical disk (MOD), a digital versatile disc (DVD) and/or other suitable memory elements. Such memory <NUM> may generally be configured to store information accessible to the processor(s) <NUM>, including data <NUM> that can be retrieved, manipulated, created and/or stored by the processor(s) <NUM> and instructions <NUM> that can be executed by the processor(s) <NUM>.

In several embodiments, the data <NUM> may be stored in one or more databases. For example, the memory <NUM> may include a signal database <NUM> for storing the return signals received by the range sensor(s) <NUM> and/or data associated with the received signals. For instance, in addition to the return signals received by the range sensor(s) <NUM>, data may be stored within the signal database <NUM> associated with the distance defined between the sensor(s) <NUM> and the detected surface. Moreover, when desired, the signal database <NUM> may also be used to store any modified or transformed sensor data, such as when it is desired to transform the distance data from being referenced relative to the sensor location to being referenced relative to the center <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM> or any other suitable reference location.

Additionally, as shown in <FIG>, the memory <NUM> may include a field parameter database <NUM> for storing information related to one or more parameters of the field being processed during the performance of the associated agricultural operation (e.g., a tillage operation). In one embodiment, moisture data associated with the moisture content or level of the soil within the field may be stored within the field parameter database <NUM>. Depending on the sensor technology being utilized, the wetness or moisture content of the soil may impact the ability of the range sensor(s) <NUM> of detecting plugged conditions. For instance, material accumulation including significantly high soil moisture may alter the manner in which the detection signals reflect off the accumulated field materials, which may negatively impact the resulting return signals received by the range sensor(s) <NUM>. Accordingly, by knowing the soil moisture within the field, the controller <NUM> may be configured to more accurately assess the return signals received by the range sensor(s) <NUM>.

It should be appreciated that the moisture data may be correspond to pre-existing or predetermined moisture data stored within the field parameter database <NUM> or the moisture data may correspond to sensor data that is being actively collected or generated during the performance of the associated agricultural operation. For instance, in one embodiment, the controller <NUM> may be provided with soil moisture data (e.g., in the form of a soil moisture map) that was collected during a previous agricultural operation or that was generated based on previously known data associated with the field conditions. Alternatively, a soil moisture sensor may be provided in operative association with the implement <NUM> or the towing vehicle <NUM> to allow the soil moisture to be actively monitored during the performance of the associated agricultural operation.

Referring still to <FIG>, in several embodiments, the instructions <NUM> stored within the memory <NUM> of the controller <NUM> may be executed by the processor(s) <NUM> to implement an analysis module <NUM>. In general, the analysis module <NUM> may be configured to analyze the return signals received by each range sensor(s) <NUM> (or a lack thereof) and/or the related data (e.g., distance data) to estimate or infer when the associated basket assembly <NUM> is experiencing a plugged condition. Specifically, in several embodiments, the analysis module <NUM> may be configured to determine when the basket assembly <NUM> is experiencing a plugged condition by analyzing the data trace or profile of the data associated with the return signals received by each range sensor(s) <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the analysis module <NUM> may be configured to compare or analyze the current data trace or profile associated with the sensor data in view of a predetermined, non-plugged data trace or profile, such as the non-plugged data profile described above with reference to <FIG>. In such an embodiment, the analysis module <NUM> may, for example, compare the variability or differential in the distance data detected within the current data profile to the variability or differential of the distance data associated with the non-plugged data profile. If a significant variation exists between the current data profile and the non-plugged data profile (e.g., a variation indicating that the distance variability or differential in the current data profile is significantly reduced relative to the distance variability or differential in the non-plugged data profile), the analysis module <NUM> may estimate or infer that the associated basket assembly is experiencing a plugged condition.

In another embodiment, the analysis module <NUM> may be configured to analyze the distance data associated with the return signals received by each range sensor(s) <NUM> (or a lack thereof) by calculating a detection range metric for the associated range sensor <NUM>. In general, the detection range metric may be indicative of a percentage of the detection signals transmitted from a given range sensor <NUM> that reach a given location within the interior of the basket assembly <NUM> (or that reach to within a given range of locations defined relative to such location within the interior of the basket assembly <NUM>). The analysis module <NUM> may then be configured to determine when the basket assembly <NUM> is experiencing a plugged condition based at least in part on the detection range metric. For instance, the analysis module <NUM> may be configured to compare the calculated detection range metric to a predetermined threshold. In such an embodiment, it may be inferred or estimated that the basket assembly <NUM> is experiencing a plugged condition when the detection range metric crosses such predetermined threshold (e.g., by falling below the threshold).

In a particular embodiment of the present subject matter, the detection range metric may be indicative of a percentage of the detection signals transmitted from a given range sensor <NUM> that reach the center <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM> (or at least within a given radius of the center <NUM> of the basket assembly <NUM>). For instance, the analysis module <NUM> may be configured to calculate a proximity center crossing (PCC) metric indicative of the percentage of detection signals that reach within a given radius defined from the basket center <NUM> (e.g., a radius of less than <NUM> centimeters (cm), such as a radius of less than <NUM> or less than <NUM> or less than <NUM>) across a given time period (e.g., a time period of <NUM> second, <NUM> seconds, <NUM> seconds, and/or the like). In one embodiment, the PCC metric may be calculated using the following formula (Equation <NUM>): <MAT> wherein, PCC corresponds to the percentage of the detection signals transmitted from the range sensor <NUM> that reach within a given radius defined from the basket center <NUM> over a given sampling period, n corresponds to the number of samples collected by the range sensor <NUM> over the sampling period given the sensor's sampling rate, and P corresponds to an intermediate variable that is assigned a value of one (<NUM>) if the detection signal transmitted at such instance reaches to within the predetermined radius defined from the basket center <NUM> and is assigned a value of zero (<NUM>) if the detection signal transmitted at such instance does not reach a location within such predetermined radius (e.g., due to the signal being reflected off the basket bars <NUM> or accumulated material).

By utilizing the above-described metric, a higher PCC percentage value indicates that a significant amount of the detection signals transmitted by the range sensor <NUM> are able to reach down to a location at or adjacent to the basket center <NUM>, thereby indicating that the basket assembly <NUM> is likely in an non-plugged state. In contrast, a lower PCC percentage value indicates that a smaller amount of the detection signals transmitted by the range sensor <NUM> were able to reach down to a location at or adjacent to the basket center, thereby indicating that the basket assembly <NUM> is likely experiencing a plugged condition. In one embodiment, to assess the current PCC percentage value calculated for a given range sensor <NUM>, such value may be compared to a predetermined PCC threshold. For instance, the PCC threshold may be set to a given percentage value, such as a percentage ranging from about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, or from about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, or from about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, or from about <NUM>% to about <NUM>%, and/or any other subranges therebetween. In such an embodiment, when the current PCC percentage value calculated for a given range sensor <NUM> crosses or drops below the predetermined PPC threshold, it may be inferred or estimated that the basket assembly <NUM> is experiencing a plugged condition at the location along the basket assembly <NUM> at which the range sensor <NUM> is directed. For instance, if the PCC threshold is set as <NUM>%, any PCC percentage value below such threshold indicates that less than <NUM>% of the detection signals transmitted from the associated range sensor <NUM> are currently reaching a location within the predetermined radius defined from the basket center <NUM>.

As indicated above, in one embodiment, the system <NUM> may include a plurality of range sensors <NUM>, with at least one range sensor <NUM> being aligned with each lateral basket section <NUM> of a given basket assembly <NUM> to allow material accumulation to be detected on a section-level basis for the basket assembly <NUM>. In such an embodiment, the analysis module <NUM> may be configured to individually analyze the return signals and/or associated signal data received by each range sensor <NUM> to determine whether a plugged condition exists within the localized area being detected by each range sensor <NUM>.

Referring still to <FIG>, the instructions <NUM> stored within the memory <NUM> of the controller <NUM> may also be executed by the processor(s) <NUM> to implement a control module <NUM>. In general, the control module <NUM> may be configured to initiate a control action when it is determined that a basket assembly of an agricultural implement is experiencing a plugged condition. As indicated above, in one embodiment, the control module <NUM> may be configured to provide a notification to the operator of the vehicle/implement <NUM>/<NUM> indicating that material accumulation is present on or within one or more of the basket assemblies <NUM> of the implement <NUM>. For instance, in one embodiment, the control module <NUM> may cause a visual or audible notification or indicator to be presented to the operator via an associated user interface <NUM> provided within the cab <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM>.

In other embodiments, the control module <NUM> may be configured to execute an automated control action designed to adjust the operation of the implement <NUM>. For instance, in one embodiment, the controller <NUM> may be configured to increase or decrease the operational or ground speed of the implement <NUM> in an attempt to reduce the amount of material accumulation and/or to limit further material accumulation. For instance, as shown in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> may be communicatively coupled to both the engine <NUM> and the transmission <NUM> of the work vehicle <NUM>. In such an embodiment, the controller <NUM> may be configured to adjust the operation of the engine <NUM> and/or the transmission <NUM> in a manner that increases or decreases the ground speed of the work vehicle <NUM> and, thus, the ground speed of the implement <NUM>, such as by transmitting suitable control signals for controlling an engine or speed governor (not shown) associated with the engine <NUM> and/or transmitting suitable control signals for controlling the engagement/disengagement of one or more clutches (not shown) provided in operative association with the transmission <NUM>. It should be appreciated that controller <NUM> may also be configured to decrease the ground speed in a manner that brings vehicle/implement <NUM>/<NUM> to a complete stop.

In addition to the adjusting the ground speed of the vehicle/implement <NUM>, <NUM> (or as an alternative thereto), the controller <NUM> may also be configured to adjust an operating parameter associated with the ground-engaging tools of the implement <NUM>. For instance, as shown in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> may be communicatively coupled to one or more valves <NUM> configured to regulate the supply of fluid (e.g., hydraulic fluid or air) to one or more corresponding actuators of the implement <NUM>, such as the basket actuators <NUM>. In such an embodiment, by regulating the supply of fluid to the actuator(s) <NUM>, the controller <NUM> may automatically adjust the down force or down pressure applied to the associated basket assembly <NUM>. Additionally, the controller <NUM> may control the operation of the basket actuator <NUM> to raise and lower the associated basket assembly <NUM> relative to the ground.

Moreover, as shown in <FIG>, the controller <NUM> may also include a communications interface <NUM> to provide a means for the controller <NUM> to communicate with any of the various other system components described herein. For instance, one or more communicative links or interfaces <NUM> (e.g., one or more data buses) may be provided between the communications interface <NUM> and the range sensor(s) <NUM> to allow the signals received by the range sensor(s) <NUM> (and/or related signal data) to be transmitted to the controller <NUM>. Similarly, one or more communicative links or interfaces <NUM> (e.g., one or more data buses) may be provided between the communications interface <NUM> and the engine <NUM>, the transmission <NUM>, the user interface <NUM>, the control valves <NUM>, and/or the like to allow the controller <NUM> to control the operation of and/or otherwise communicate with such system components.

Referring now to <FIG>, a flow diagram of one embodiment of a method <NUM> for monitoring plugging of basket assemblies of an agricultural implement is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. In general, the method <NUM> will be described herein with reference to the agricultural implement <NUM>, the basket assembly <NUM>, and the system <NUM> described above with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. However, it should be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the disclosed method <NUM> may generally be implemented with any agricultural implement having any suitable implement configuration, any basket assembly having any suitable basket configuration, and/or any system having any suitable system configuration. In addition, although <FIG> depicts steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion, the methods discussed herein are not limited to any particular order or arrangement. One skilled in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will appreciate that various steps of the methods disclosed herein can be omitted, rearranged, combined, and/or adapted in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown in <FIG>, at (<NUM>), the method <NUM> may include transmitting, with a range sensor, detection signals towards an interior of a basket assembly of an agricultural implement as the basket assembly is rotating. For example, as indicated above, one or more range sensors <NUM> may be installed relative to a basket assembly <NUM> of an agricultural implement <NUM>, with each range sensor <NUM> being configured to transmit detection signals along a line of detection <NUM> towards the interior of the basket assembly <NUM>.

Additionally, at (<NUM>), the method <NUM> may include receiving return signals based on reflection of the detection signals off at least one surface. Specifically, as indicated above, the detection signals transmitted from each range sensor <NUM> may reflect off a given surface (e.g., the outer surface of the bars <NUM> of the associated basket assembly <NUM> and/or the surface(s) of the accumulated field materials) and be subsequently detected as return signals by the range sensor.

Moreover, as shown in <FIG>, at (<NUM>), the method <NUM> may include analyzing data associated at least in part with the return signals to determine when the basket assembly is experiencing a plugged condition. For instance, as indicated above, the controller <NUM> may be configured to infer or estimate that a basket assembly <NUM> is experiencing a plugged condition by identifying variations in a data profile or trace associated with the data received from each range sensor and/or by comparing a calculated metric (e.g., a detection range metric, such as the PCC metric described above) to a predetermined threshold.

Claim 1:
A system (<NUM>) for monitoring basket plugging for agricultural implements (<NUM>), the system comprising:
a basket assembly (<NUM>) configured to be supported by an agricultural implement (<NUM>);
a range sensor (<NUM>) positioned relative to the basket assembly (<NUM>) such that the range sensor (<NUM>) is configured to transmit detection signals towards an interior of the basket assembly (<NUM>) and receive return signals based on reflection of the detection signals off a reflection surface; and
a controller (<NUM>) communicatively coupled to the range sensor (<NUM>),
the system (<NUM>) being characterized in that the controller (<NUM>) is configured to analyze variations in a data profile of distance-related data associated with the return signals received from the range sensor (<NUM>) as the basket assembly (<NUM>) rotates relative to the range sensor (<NUM>) to determine that the basket assembly (<NUM>) is experiencing a plugged condition when the variations in the data profile indicate a reduction in a distance detected between the sensor (<NUM>) and the reflection surface.