Development of Combine Harvester with Yield Monitoring Function (Part 1)

Basic Design of the Yield Monitoring System and Continuous Measurement of Yield and Moisture

Abstract

We developed a combine harvester capable of measuring, displaying and recording yield and moisture while harvesting. These measurements can then be used to prepare a yield map after harvesting. The prototype combine harvester is a head-feeding type and consists of components for measuring the mass, moisture, and location of the grain being harvested, as well as a control and display device. The mass-measurement device measures grain mass in the tank using a load cell and an inclination sensor. The moisture-measurement device is an electrical-resistance moisture meter that can measure the moisture content of two or more grains simultaneously.