DEVELOPMENT OF FOOD AND FIBER PRODUCTION MACHINERY AND SENSORS

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
501	7299	2020	50%
402	7410	2020	25%
402	2130	2020	25%

Progress 10/01/01 to 09/30/06

Outputs
This project has resulted in sensor development and evaluation. NMR sensor has been commercialized for fruits and vegetables. Combine sensors have been commercialized by US industry. Results have increased productivity and information transfer on American farms.

Impacts
Six significant patents have been disclosed at Purdue and two US patents applied for including life sensing hose that can find anomalies. Low cost plastic valves used to reduce vehicle weight thus saving fuel have been built and tested. Structural integrity sensor work that can be used on plastic tubes, airplane fuselage and rubber car parts has been disclosed and US patent filed.

Publications

Garcia, J. and Krutz, G.W. 2006. Easy 5 Simulation Validation of Water Hydraulic Lawn Mower. AETC 2/2006
Krutz, G. W. and. Chua. P. (2005). Steered and Propelled Water Powered Vehicle. International Journal of Vehicle Design 38,(2-3): 179-195

Progress 10/01/04 to 09/30/05

Outputs
Successfully designed a high-pressure hydraulic hose assembly with the ability to (1) transfer DC electric power, (2)transmit SAE J1939 CAN signal, and (3) have life-sensing capability. The CAN signal was transmitted and received at a bit rate of 1 Mbaud with no reported errors.

Impacts
The intended applications included mobile machinery, automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and process equipment. The benefits of this approach to power and signal transmission included improved durability, reduction in parts and faster machine assembly times.

Publications

MAHA Fluid Power Research Center (February 13-15, 2005) Krutz, G., J. Lumkes, M. Ivantysynova. AETC 05002, Louisville, KY. ASAE.
Rotary, No-Leak Valve (February 13-15, 2005) Rusch, D., J. Brown, G. Krutz and D. Ess. AETC 05006, Louisville, KY. ASAE.
Design of a High Pressure Relief Valve Comprised of Composite and Plastic Material (February 13-15, 2005) Sederlund, A. and G. Krutz. AETC 05001, Louisville, KY. ASAE.
A Power Steering Valve for a Water Hydraulic Lawn Mower (February 13-15, 2005) Beck, M. and G. Krutz. AETC 05004, Louisville, KY. ASAE.
Programmable Valves Enable Both Precision Motion Control and Energy Saving (February 13-15, 2005) Liu, S., B. Yao and G. Krutz. AETC 05005, Louisville, KY. ASAE.
Steered and Propelled Water Powered Vehicle (2005) Chua, P. and G. Krutz. International Journal of Vehicle Design, Vol. 38, Nos. 2/3, 2005.
Design of Power-Transmitting Hydraulic Hose with Integrated Controller Area Network and Life-Sensing Capabilities (February 13-15, 2005) Deckard, A., G. Krutz and I. Radtke. AETC 05003, Louisville, KY. ASAE.

Progress 11/03/03 to 11/03/04

Outputs
The rotary valve project achieved the four objectives of low internal leakage, no spool, no pilot pressure for actuating, and maintain the ability to meter flow with three valve designs. One design utilized a rotor that encompasses a full 360 degrees, which maximizes the leakage path and was built to fit in the housing creating a tight clearance condition. An alternative design used a prototype inflatable seal that will reduce the clearance to zero and produce no leakage.

Impacts
The rotary valve project achieved the four objectives of low internal leakage, no spool, no pilot pressure for actuating, and maintain the ability to meter flow with three valve designs. One design utilized a rotor that encompasses a full 360 degrees, which maximizes the leakage path and was built to fit in the housing creating a tight clearance condition. An alternative design used a prototype inflatable seal that will reduce the clearance to zero and produce no leakage.

Publications

No publications reported this period

Progress 10/01/03 to 09/30/04

Outputs
Hydraulic hose such as external abrasion, loading fatigue and environment factors bring along economic loss due to equipment down time and safety issues. These downtimes and failures can be minimized or even eliminated if information about a potential hose failure is available. This can be accomplished by modifying the conventional hose design in a cost effective way that involved minimal alteration. Numerous sensing techniques were successfully developed for use to detect one or more physical phenomenon of hose failure. Two hose assembly methods and associated fittings were designed and constructed. These methods could easily be incorporated into existing hydraulic hose manufacturing practices.

Impacts
This will have usage on all vehicles. It will reduce environmental spills and save lives.

Publications

No publications reported this period

Progress 10/01/01 to 09/30/02

Outputs
The two position solenoid operated cartridge valve is widely used in applications such as process control systems, pavers, and agricultural machinery, where response and installed costs are more important than precise control through electronic position feedback. In recent years, the combination of multiple cartridge valves, so called 'smart valve'or 'programmable valve', which is able to break the mechanical linkage between the meter-in and meter-out orifices and enables high precision control as well as optimal usage of energy, is gaining more and more research interests. An EASY5 model for the two position solenoid operated cartridge valve includes the solenoid force, spring force, damping force, flow force and nonlinear mass flow rate. The model can be used to analyze cartridge valve as well as simulate system or controller performance. It is also able to connect with Matlab for more complicated simulation.

Impacts
A lower weight, lower cost, lower energy usage, and environmentally friendly behicle was demonstrated at Purdue in September 2001 and the The Top Crop Workshop, July 2001.

Publications

Liu, and Gary W. Krutz, EASY5 Model of Two Position Solenoid Operated Cartridge Valve," ASME Paper #IMECE 2002-39335, November 2002.
Gary W. Krutz, and Francisco Monroig, "Maha Distance Education Center," Ferrara, Italy, July 2002.
Gary W. Krutz, "Clean Control: Water hydraulic systems more eco-friendly than oil," ASAE Resource, January 2002, Pgs. 7-8.
Jill E. Krutz, David F. Thompson, Gary W. Krutz, and Randall J. Allemang, "Design of a Hydraulic Actuator Test Stand for Non-Linear Analysis of Hydraulic Actuator System,"automation Technology for Off-Road Equipment, June 2002, Pgs. 169-183, ASAE.
Gary W. Krutz, Tim Krutz, and Mark Rutan, "What does It Take To Retire?,"SAE Paper #2002-01-1331, December 2001.
Louis Cassens, Michael Thomas, and Gary W. Krutz, "Modified Water Powered Greens King VI Mower," NCFP I02-8.6/SAE OH 2002-01-1382, January 2002.

Progress 10/01/00 to 09/30/01

Outputs
A water powered vehicle, which is energy efficient and environmentally friendly was built by Purdue Agricultural and Biological Engineering students. It is the first vehicle to power the wheels and steer via water. It also had waterpower for the grass mower and cylinder lift systems. A linear position sensor was developed and evaluated for a water hydraulic cylinder constructed from fiber reinforced plastic. This low cost device performance has better repeatability when an aluminum core rod was used versus a ferrite rod. Linearity was + 3.025% of full scale.

Impacts
Lower weight, lower cost, lower energy usage and environmentally friendly vehicle was demonstrated at Purdue in September 2001 and at TOP Crop Workshop, July 2001.

Publications

E. Bystrom, July 30, 2001. "Design and Analysis of a Non-Contact Hydraulic Cylinder Position Sensor". ASAE Meeting Presentation, Sacramento, CA.
G.W. Krutz, October 19, 2001. "New Energy Initiative". NFPA Meeting Presentation, Cleveland, OH. 2 pages.
P. Chalmers, G.W. Krutz, May 2001. "drip, drip, drip..." Mechanical Engineering. Pages 63-64.
P. Chalmers, G.W. Krutz, May 2001. "drip, drip, drip..." Fluid Power Journal, Vol. 3, 2001. Pages 16-18.
P. Chalmers, G. W. Krutz, Dec. 2001. "Mowing with Water" Mechanical Engineering. Page 10
2000. http://pasture.ecn.purdue.edu/~ehcenter/docs/WaterHyd.doc
2000. http://pasture.ecn.purdue.edu/~abe435/WH.html

Progress 10/01/99 to 09/30/00

Outputs
Several research projects involving water hydraulics are currently underway at Purdue University. Research has been conducted on the aspects of port design in a composite hydraulic cylinder in order to reduce the amount of cavitation during actuation. A cylinder constructed of clear plastic materials has been developed with various port designs. This allows for a visualization of the cavitation that is occurring during operation. Cylinder positioning work has shown a precision of 0.001 inches. Another exciting research project has involved the development of a gearbox with hydrostatic bearings in which the working fluid is water. The concept involves the use of a nonmetallic bearing material. The project has focused on the design of the bearing housings and races as well as the injection ports in order to achieve the complete suspension of the bearing on the thin film of water developed through the shaft rotation. Five (5) patent disclosures have been filed.

Impacts
Our water hydraulics initiative stands out internationally. We've developed low weight water hydraulic cylinders that can be used to accurately position machine components to 0.001 inches. Water hydraulic systems use 30 percent less energy as determined by BOEING'S EASY5 simulation program and our research using this method. In the next decade oil hydraulics might be reduced to levels that the environment of oil leaks will be highly insignificant.

Publications

M.A. Fadel, G.W. Krutz, H. Sumali, H. White. 1999. "Dynamic simulation of a position-controlled electrohydraulic system using EASY5". Transactions of SAE. Vol. 108 pp. 368-377.
G.W. Krutz, E.P. Bystrom. 2000. "An Overview of Water Hydraulics and Current Research at Purdue University". International Workshop on Water Hydraulic Systems and Industrial Applications 2000. September 19, 2000. Hamburg, Germany. Five pages.
G.W. Krutz. Winter 1999-2000. "Automative hydraulics". Purdue Engineering Extrapolations, p. 13
G.W. Krutz, H.G. Gibson, D.L. Cassens, M. Zhang. Spring 2000. "Machine Vision: Colour Vision in Forest and Wood Engineering". IAgrEJournal Landwards. Vol. 55, No. 1, pp. 2-9.
A.L. Hitchcox, G.W. Krutz. May 2000. "Water hydraulics downplays the "L" word". Hydraulics & Pneumatics. Vol. 53, No. 5, pp. 45-46.
G.W. Krutz, J.K. Schueller. 2000. "Advanced Engineering: Future Directions for the Agricultural and Biological Engineering Profession". Journal of Agricultural Engineering Research. Vol. 76, pp. 251-265.
G.W. Krutz. 2000. "Cool, clear water". International 2000 Industrial Vehicle Technology Off-Highway. pp. 145-146.
2000. http://pasture.ecn.purdue.edu/~ehcenter/docs/WaterHyd.doc
2000. http://pasture.ecn.purdue.edu/~abe435/WH.html

Progress 10/01/98 to 09/30/99

Outputs
1. Nks A servovalve-controlled-hydraulic motor-driven positioning system was modeled and its sensitivity to different operating conditions were studied. 2. A prototype machine vision system was developed for industry and will automatically locate plants and information such as size, potential value and type of plant. 3. The strength of sports surface systems constructed from engineered and traditional solid wood flooring strips was examined. The study found that engineered seams could increase system strength by up to 180% and that engineered joints increased system strength up to 62%. This study also found that 25/32" (21 mm) thick engineered flooring strips could produce systems which were up to 145% stronger than 33/32: (26 mm) thick traditional flooring. The study found evidence to support the idea that the tongue-and-groove geometry is a primary key in increased system strength.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

G. W. Krutz, J. Schueller, P. Claar II. 1999. Machine Design for Mobile and Industrial Applications, Second Edition, ISBN 0-7680-0013-0, copyright 1999, SAE, pp. 592.
M. A. Fadel, G. W. Krutz, and H. White. 1999. Dynamic Behavior of Servo Control Systems Utilizing an EASY5 Hydraulic System Model, The Sixth Scandinavian International Conference on Fluid Power, SICFP '99, May 36/28, 1999, Tampere, Finland, pp. 1225-1241.
K. P. Wettschurack, H. G. Gibson, D. C. Cassens, G. W. Krutz. 1999. Prevent Ridge Formation During Widebelt Sanding, Furniture Design & Manufacturing, 7(1): 104-109.
K. P. Wettschurack, H. G. Gibson, D. C. Cassens, G. W. Krutz. 1999. Factors Causing Ridge Formation During Wide-Belt Sanding and Corrective Actions, Forest Products Journal, Vol. 49, No. 2, pp. 82-88.

Progress 10/01/97 to 09/30/98

Outputs
No progress reported this period

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Wettschurack, K., Gibson, H. G., Cassens, D. L., and Krutz, G. W. 1998. Factors Casuing Ridge Formation During Wide-Belt Sanding and Corrective Actions. Purdue University Agricultural Exp. Station No. 15673.
Fadel, M. A., Krutz, G. W., Gibson, H. G., Morgan, M. T. 1998. Technical Specifications of the Connection Between Servolvalve and Hydraulic Motor and It's Effect on the Electrohydraulic Control Systems Performance.
Elliot, P. W., Krutz, G. W. 1998. New Parameters for Evaluations of Sports Surfaces.

Progress 10/01/96 to 09/30/97

Outputs
This research was intended to improve the multi-crop El-Shames stationary thresher for wheat and paddy under Egyptian conditions. The new thresher provides an optimal performance for small farmers. The techniques used included developing a new rotary axial cylinder that can thresh wheat and paddy without major adjustment and also a modified and improved shape of the louver fins. A study of operating ranges determined the thresher capacity and results showed it had been increased for wheat and paddy crops without affecting seed quality (i.e., damage and losses). This research contains results on feedrate, cylinder speed, moisture content, separation efficiency and material flow rate along the rotor cylinder. The Electro-Hydraulics Center was established at Purdue University in 1997 with Professor Gary W. Krutz as the Director. Complete information can be attached on the EH Center homepage: http://pasture.ecn.purdue.edu/ehcenter. Additional efforts during the sabbatical for Spring of 1997 included organizing the Caterpillar/Purdue Electrohydraulic and the Caterpillar/Milwaukee School of Engineering/Purdue Electrohydraulic Vision Research Project. This lead to new research projects on valve, cylinder and system diagnostics.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

EL-BEHERY, A., KRUTZ, G.W., EL-HADDAD, Z. and EL-ANSSARY, M. 1997. Low-cost High Efficiency Portable Egyptian Thresher. Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America 28(1):35-39. Published by Farm Machinery Industrial Resarch Corp., Shin-Norinsha Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan.
KRUTZ, G.W. 1997. Vision of Electro-hydraulic Research in the Next Decade. Report to Caterpillar Corp. Dec. pp 1-60.
DAVIES, P., MACIEJEWSKI, A. and KRUTZ, G.W. 1997. Prognostic and Diagnostic Analysis of Electrohydraulic Equipment. Report to Caterpillar Corp. June 1997.

Progress 10/01/95 to 09/30/96

Outputs
Although mobile hydraulic drives are well suited to a range of applications due to their inherent stiffness and excellent power to size ratios, designing controllers is difficult due to the significant nonlinearities present in hydraulic systems. Valve saturation, valve dead-band and the quadratic pressure-flow relationship are some of the notable nonlinear effects found in servo valves. Furthermore, actuators have nonlinear friction effects plus a pressure and direction dependent gain. Also common is a variable load which further complicates controller design. The design of a controller requires the development of an appropriate system model which is often required to be linear, but non-linear techniques are possible. Systems are called or defined as uncertain when they are subject to unknown parameter variations for disturbances, or when there is incomplete knowledge of the system model, all of which are common in hydraulic servo systems. Unlike conventional control techniques, the use of modern control methods means that system uncertainty can be considered at the controller design stage, and consequently robust controllers can be developed. The effect of ignoring these uncertainties can be demonstrated by simulation experiments of a hydraulic servo, comparing conventional control techniques to the modern approach of optimal control.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

KRUTZ, G.W. 1996. Future development of agricultural machinery for sustainable agriculture. Proceedings of International Conference on Agricultural Machinery Engineering, Seoul, Korea, November 12-15, 1996. pp. 108-125.
KRUTZ, G. W., GIBSON, H., DOSTER, H., Anderson, D., Huseman, K., Richards, W., Rulon, R. 1996. Farmers perspective on machinery until 2000. In New Trends in Farm Machinery Development & Agriculture, SAE Special Publ. SP-1194, SAE.
KASPRZAK, C.A., KRUTZ, G. W., LUC, J.M. 1996. Development of testing and evaluating performance of gerotor hydraulic motors as pumps. Paper No 96A-158. Int'l Conf. on Agricultural Engineering, Madrid, Spain, Sept. 23-26, 1996.

Progress 10/01/94 to 09/30/95

Outputs
Hydraulic systems are being considered as a safety replacement for the power takeoff (PTO) on agricultural tractors and other equipment. Replacement of the PTO spline by a hydraulic pump is the first step. The pumps for this task may be of several types. The gerotor type motor could be used as a pump. The performance characteristics of the White Hydraulics, Inc. Roller Stator HB series motors used as a pump for this situation are being evaluated. The tests for this specific application were developed integrating desired circuit simulation and the ASAE/NFPA standards for pump performance testing. A test stand was subsequently designed. Several different displacement pumps are being evaluated for performance characteristics that include charge pressure and flow rate tests. The limits of the pump flow rates are needed for efficiency calculations along with determination of the feasibility of this pump in producing the desired flow rate of 25 gallons per minute. Pressure and power limits are being evaluated. A procedure for measuring the desired parameters and the equipment needed have been developed for a preliminary evaluation utilizing several pressure sensors, a torque and speed sensor, several temperature sensors to record heat effects, and several flow meters.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 10/01/93 to 09/30/94

Outputs
A versatile system to perform color classification tasks was developed to separate fruits and crops in real-time. Discrimination between different color patterns is a classification problem. Statistical pattern recognition and neural network methods are used to build color classifiers. Color images are acquired with a vision system in RGB format using the software packages SPR, nSPR and Purclas which implement the different classification methods. SPR uses statistical pattern recognition methods, while nSPR and Purclas implement neural network learning algorithms to "teach" color classifiers. Error evaluations, dimensionality analysis and normality analysis are features of these classification software packages. Optimization of the learning processes and classification results are current research topics. New algorithms are also now tested for real-time color classification, the current real-time system processing 6 images per second (2 images per second in 1992). New applications of color classification and image analysis have been developed in a new software package for mesh generation in finite element analysis.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 10/01/92 to 09/30/93

Outputs
An El-Shams thresher was donated from TANTA Motors Co. in Egypt to the Agricultural Engineering Department at Purdue University. Modifications and improvements of the machine began by producing engineering designs of all components proposed to be changed. These included the thresher cylinder, rice head, PTO shaft and concaves. Redesigns and redrawings of other parts were done as needed throughout the process, which included the belt shields, spacer plates, and rasp-bar assemblies. Due to the new axial flow cylinder design, a major change implemented was the change of flow direction of material through the thresher section. The blower had to be modified and moved from the left side of the combine to the right side to accommodate the directional change. A completely concave bottom section replaced the old bottom section and provided improved material flow. Three major factors will change agricultural vehicles and robots. They are reliable artificial intelligence systems, reliable low-cost sensors and agronomic environmental concerns.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 10/01/91 to 09/30/92

Outputs
Most food product quality evaluation is done by statistical sampling and human evaluation. A number of separation techniques are performed in the agricultural industry based on the color of the products or on their color patterns. As an example, color is used to sort fruits into classes of ripe, unripe or damaged. Sorting of crop and foreign objects is also done by discriminating the different components based on color. On a different scale, the proportion of fat in a piece of meat is visually evaluated by the consumer as a ratio of white fat over red lean meat. A versatile system, SPR (Statistical Pattern Recognition), to perform these classification tasks was developed to separate fruits and crops in real-time. A statistical pattern recognition method was one approach. Using a color vision system provided a color image as a composite of "red, green and blue" information. But it can also be UV, IR or filtered light. A software implementing statistical pattern recognition algorithms was written to classify RGB images. Error checking is another feature of this software. A visual estimation of the error contained in the knowledge base is displayed and the user can adjust the knowledge before building classifiers. Potential use by industry could be extensive.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 10/01/90 to 09/30/91

Outputs
Latex encapsulation and microwave sterilization were investigated to determine their ability to render pollen in a corn tassel inviable. Water jet and laser cutting were investigated to determine ability to separate the pollen containing tassel from a seed corn plant. Both were cost ineffective. A FTIR spectrometer was used with an ATR and reflectance chamber to measure pesticides on apple skin surfaces. Some active ingredient wavenumbers were found which could lead to the development of an on-line fruit safety sensor. With high resolution magnetic resonance equipment (200 MHz) using water-sucrose solutions containing 2 to 15% sucrose by weight, the height of the sugar peak was linearly correlated with the percent sugar in the solution. Cherries and grapes were tested in a 10 MHz proton spectrometer. The cherries evaluated in the tests varied widely in firmness which was measured by compression tests conducted immediately following the proton magnetic resonance tests. Firmness was linearly correlated with T(subscript 2) of the CPMG signal.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 10/01/89 to 09/30/90

Outputs
Corn detasseling is a major labor requirement in seed corn production. Alternative methods are being researched to develop a cost effective, non labor intensive method to sterilize or remove a tassel from a corn plant. Several new mechanical prototypes have been developed, as well as improvements on existing tassel-pulling machines. The use of laser and water-jet cutting to remove the tassel have been studied. The application of microwave energy on pollen is being investigated to determine it's effects. More accurate placement of the detasseling device may reduce plant damage which would improve yields. A position control system has been designed utilizing electrohydraulic components. This system is a potential application for machine vision as the input sensor. The feasibility study of using machine vision technology to locate corn plants was investigated for potential field production automation. Two approaches were proposed to locate the center and height of the maize plant using a camera from top view and side view of plants, respectively. An top view approach was developed and evaluated.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 10/01/88 to 09/30/89

Outputs
The possibility of detecting ripeness of raw fruit by measuring sugar content with an A-200 Fourier Transform (FT) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) was investigated. Samples of sugar-water mixtures and real fruit were tested with the NMR and the correlations of sugar contents to NMR spectra were obtained. Sugar content (or ripeness level) was linearly correlated to the intensity of sugar peaks in the NMR spectra. This result makes it possible to grade raw fruit non-destructively. The A-200 FT NMR has been shown to provide a signal depicting sugar in banana and apple samples to +1%. The NMR based sensor has been designed with a finite e element model and expert system shell that will provide low cost grading of fruit and vegetables in processing plants. This was a major accomplishment that started out as a high risk research project. Corner magnet design with the aid of FEM reduced magnet cost by 50%. A need exists to provide the design engineer with a software package that allows him to quickly and economically evaluate all solutions to his problem. This need will lead to the generation of a white paper depicting the framework for future research that will integrate mechanical system design and analysis via a shell type structure. Many engineers are proficient in one technology thus directing their design in that technology which might not be the least cost or best performing system for a desired design task. A new design approach needs to be researched and developed, thus the importance for "ASME Initiative 1990's".

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 10/01/87 to 09/30/88

Outputs
Farmers need help to cut production costs and boost operating profits. Ag sectorsuppliers need more extensive technical information to guide their engineering programs. Both farmers and suppliers view new technology as a means to lower costs, become more competitive, and regain shares of global markets. Significant programs can be achieved through efforts to foster research, development, and application of many potential advances in technology in six areas: tractor modeling, reducing soil compaction, machinery management databases, speciality crop equipment, biotech automation, and grain harvester improvements. The finite element method was used for prediction and evaluation of the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the engine chassis mount brackets. The influence of the C-section edges, ribs, bolt holes and boundary constraints on the modes of an engine bracket were analyzed according to the requirements for an engine mount. Some suggestions for improving the dynamic behavior of the engine bracket included stiffening in the midsection.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/87 to 12/30/87

Outputs
A multi-sensing device with a piezoresistive pressure sensor for hydraulic control system was developed, applied to a hydraulic belt conveyor and tested. The following variables were measured and could be analyzed: speed, torque, absolute displacement, horsepower, pressure, oil flow rate, mass flow rate of conveyed materials and even malfunction diagnosis. The concept may have applications in automated payload measuring on cargo aircraft, although the primary interest was for agricultural applications. Hydraulic motor speeds with high resolution capabilities were measured. Also, relationships between mass flow rates on the conveyor belt and required torque due to loading under various situations were determined. A formula for calculating effective belt tension was developed and could be used to control mass flow by measuring the change in motor torque. This multi-sensing device and control system would be applied to any hydraulic system with hydraulic motors. A rule-based expert system for forecasting combine sales in U.S.A. was developed and coupled with an econometric simulation model. The expert rules were built based on domain human experts' knowledge and experience. The econometric forecasting model was developed based on economic data, statistics and analysis. This combination of simulation and expert system should increase the reliability of a combine sales forecast.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/86 to 09/30/86

Outputs
Forecasting models were developed to estimate the sales of tractors and combinesin the U.S. Today's technologically dependent agricultural society is changing attitudes faster than ever before: hence, the business sector must understand and service these attitudes. This phenomenon is coupled with the instabilities of the economic climate to produce an uncertain future. Interest in forecasting models is growing as managers seek other means to supplement standard marketing projection techniques. In such an uncertain era, econometric models should be veried and evaluated more frequently to make adjustments in the leading indicators thus obtaining better estimates. Both statistical and economic justifications are necessary to make updated econometric forecasts valid. Farmers are using their tractors fewer hours per year. This resulted from tillage practices requiring less plowing. Therefore, farmers need not purchase tractors unless there is a productivity advantage due to technological changes while combines do wear out in about six years. Also, farm set aside acres under government programs is on the increase, thus reducing demand to purchase machinery. Relationships between mass flow rates on belt conveyor and required torques were developed.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/85 to 12/30/85

Outputs
A CAD program was developed to assist the designer in determining tolerances based upon statistical theory plus combining the two prevalent statistical approaches to tolerancing into one package, while utilizing interactive computer graphics. In this program a Monte Carlo simulation simulates the effects of varying component dimensions on an overall dimension. The variation in a component dimension is simulated by assigning a probability distribution, with the appropriate distribution parameters, to each component. The Statistical Tolerancing approach is based upon the statistical theory of linear combinations. When the component dimensions of an assembly can be assumed to be independent and normally distributed, equation 1 is valid: (eqt. 1) Variance of assembly equals sum of variances of parts. The performance model of an axial flow combine was developed. The output consisted of the dependent flow of materials with the crop moisture content being the variable that affects machine performance the most.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/83 to 12/30/83

Outputs
An exponential model was developed to fit corn combine processing loss performance versus flow-rate. Different moisture levels exhibited higher correlations and on given days data provided less variability, inferring crop moisture and maturity does affect threshing efficiency. It was possible to correlate air velocities in a combine chaffer sieve to loading. Generally, velocities decreased as flow-rate increased, except in chaffer extension areas. An overall velocity drop on the shoe signifies grain losses. The ground speed control system utilized a microprocessor to: simplify the operator's routine; make the combine load-adjustable; allow the controller to respond to a plugged feeder-conveyor; maintain optimum travel speed and combine loading. A sufficiently accurate, low cost, speed and torque sensor for a hydraulic motor was developed and has a patent pending. This makes control or monitor of many systems feasible. The sensor is integral and could be used to measure the rate of processing any agricultural material. Torque curves vary with speed and specific models were developed to incorporate pressure and temperature.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/82 to 12/30/82

Outputs
An interactive computer program was written to aid design engineers in analyzinghydraulic oil systems. Twenty-six basic components are modeled in the simulation. The interactive portion provides both pre- and post-processing of simulation input, including an option to store current circuits. It is estimated to increase the engineer's productivity during this phase of a design at least ten fold. The automated combine project concluded with the design to test a feedback control system capable of handling multiple input signals including engine speed, feeder torque, crop moisture content, threshing cylinder speed, and feeder conveyor speed to provide control of the combining process. Different continuous moisture sensors were evaluated with an RF blade type correlating best. Mass flow rates were correlated with total biomass flow, grain flow and grain losses in clean and weedy harvest conditions. The feeder housing drive shaft torque gave the best correlation when compared to mass flow rates. Current work includes sensor development for the combine cleaning system. Thermstors are used to relate air velocity to sieve loading which will indicate sieve chaffer extension grain losses. Another sensor is being developed to provide speed and torque from a hydraulic motor.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/81 to 12/30/81

Outputs
Field compaction plots in 1981 showed that subsoiling compacted plot produced yields equivalent to non-compacted plots. Frost action and adequate rainfall might be contributing factors to yield. A method of numerically determining heat flux during the welding process was demonstrated. Initial energy calculations show efficiencies between 36 and 63% for the Tungsten Inert Gas process. Further work on the affect of flux radius on our energy transfer continues. Variables modeled include thermal conductivity and specific heat as functions of temperature. In addition, radiation and latent heat affects were included in this finite element model. A successful microprocessor speed controller was built and tested on an IHC 1460 axial flow combine in corn. Further work continues on sensor development for measuring mass flow rates and moisture contents of all materials during combining in an effort to improve the machines efficiency and productivity. Two patents pending on controlling combine functions. A model to forecast combine sales was completed. Work continued on woody plant control in pine plantations, tire wear and hovercrafts. Youngs modulus of elasticity for corn kernels at different moisture contents and kernel sub-sections were determined. A computer design program was developed to use interactive graphics for oil hydraulic circuit simulations.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/80 to 12/30/80

Outputs
Parameters that affect internal crack formation in corn were found to be velocity of impact, kernel moisture content and kernel orientation. The greatest percentage of internal cracks occurred at a kernel moisture content of 13.4% and an impact velocity of 18 m/s for the single variety studied, Voris 2542. Side and corner orientations produced more internal damage than the top impact location. For this corn variety, a significant observation was the formation of 60% internal cracks just by natural drying. External damage was the lowest at 10 m/s and at a moisture content of 20.0%. It is recommended, from these tests, that combine impact velocities and handling facilities be designed for low impact velocities such as 10 m/s for 13% corn and 14 m/s for 25% corn. Multiple impacts might require even lower velocity handling methods. Tire wear studies concluded that minimum wear is expected for small camber angles when the tire is powered with no-steering or toe-in. Back pressure in hydraulic drive units will cause accelerated wear on hard road surfaces. Subsoil compaction at 9" depth was found to significantly reduce corn yields. Field studies showed that the compacted soil bulk density doesn't change if the frost line hasn't penetrated to this depth. Laboratory freeze-thaw results showed compacted soil bulk density is reduced to normal levels when subjected to frozen periods.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/79 to 12/30/79

Outputs
A laboratory test using combine components was successfully automatically controlled while varying corn moisture content and feed input rates. A digital computer interfaced with a servo valve controlled motor were the main components in this proportionate type of feedback control system. Power requirements for a hydraulic valve controlled motor system are quite high. Results recommend using a combination of a derivative-proportionate control system as a means to further reduce combine cylinder angular velocity fluctuations. A field evaluation has been done this fall on a rotary type machine. The prospect of displaying, in the cab, crop moisture from a continuous reading transducer looks promising. Research continues on the effect of steering camber angle on powered front wheel tire wear. Field data is being collected using plaster paris lug casts while lab work tries to correlate surface force vector changes to lug wear patterns. Work continues in the area of determining grain crack initiation caused by impact. Parameters being correlated include corn moisture content of 15-30% and impact velocities from 5-15m/sec. Water stress and compaction plots were constructed to determine their affects on corn yields in Indiana. Freeze-thaw evaluations are also being done on various soil densities. A theoretical model of welding arc is being developed to estimate energy efficiencies for different processes.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/78 to 12/30/78

Outputs
An air-cushion vehicle capable of transporting six tons of harvested tomatoes was evaluated and tested. This vehicle reduced drawbar pull 85% in muddy conditions and reduced tire soil compaction to near undisturbed soil levels. Load balance was very important in achieving minimum pull. Work continues on a trash removal fluidized bed system. An econometric model that predicts farm and industrial tractor sales was developed. Leading indicators for industrial tractor sales were gross national product construction dollars, index of prices for construction machinery and new housing starts. Farmers intentions to buy tractors seems to be on a 60 day or less lead time. Research began on front wheel drive tire wear. Linkage geometry that affects steering stability and tire wear is being optimized. Automation of combine is another vehicle being studied. A lab model that utilized electrohydraulic controls in a feedback circuit has been successfully built and demonstrated. Analysis is being done on needed reponse times and other parameters affecting system stability.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications

Progress 01/01/77 to 12/30/77

Outputs
Development of an air cushion vehicle for transporting tomatoes in wet field conditions progressed to where static tests lifted 26,400 Kg total weight. Evaluation and testing continues on this new transport system. An econometric study was done to determine the correlation between increasing tractor size on farm size. Results depict no relationship and a model predicting farm size from leading indicators or on farm trucks, on farm tractors and farm income was developed. A new hay harvesting concept was tested and shows considerable promise. Differential speed rollers macerated alfalfa which was then laid to dry on the ground in a mat form. During favorable weather the hay dried from 80% moisture (w.b.) to 25% moisture (w.b.) in less than 2-1/2 hours. A new theory of simulation and determining heat flux input into a 1-dimensional system was accomplished using the finite element technique. Research studies using the Linear Programming models, Pro Ag and Purdue Crop Budget, showed that a 1200 acre farmer might be losing $6.000 in profits if his 12-row planter breaks down 2 days during the first week of planting. Using L-P models, optimum machinery norms were reported for corn-bean farmers and a survey done to determine the average size of equpment currently used on Midwest farms.

Impacts
(N/A)

Publications