Software for Operation of Automated Peanut Digging Depth Controller

Technical Summary:

This automation software controls the operation of peanut digging depth technology using a Windows system located in the cab of the peanut digging tractor. Two depth gauges are mounted to the frame of the digger to report the blade depth to a USB controller as a sensor response from rotary potentiometers. In automated depth control mode, the operator specifies a target depth and a hydraulic center link is automatically actuated in an effort to maintain this specified target depth. The software performs actuation of the cylinder by communicating with a USB controller, which operates mechanical relays to control a hydraulic solenoid valve. The hydraulic solenoid valve directs fluid to either retract or extend the hydraulic center link, retraction effecting greater blade depth and extension effecting lesser blade depth. The software also provides an autodive feature, which retracts the cylinder slightly whenever the digger is lifted to assist in "taking ground" at the start of the next pass, especially in hard, compacted soil conditions.