A Grain Flow Model to Simulate Grain Yield Sensor Response

The objective of this study was to develop a flow model for grain combines based on the laboratory and field response of an impact based grain flow sensor. The grain flow model developed in this study is of first order with constant coefficients. A computer code was written to solve the model and to simulate the response of a yield sensor whose response had been determined previously for various types of flow rate inputs both in field and laboratory experiments. The computer program for the simulation can also compensate for the time delay. The simulation results of the theoretical model suited well to the experimental data and showed that the model effectively shows the input-output relationship of grain flow through a grain combine. This model could be used for periodic flow signals acquired from grain yield sensors. It was concluded that the model postulated in this study could be further developed to determine the grain yield entering the combine using the outlet flow rate measured by a yield sensor.