1. Abstract Combines are used in fields to perform the complex operations necessary to effectively harvest crops. The swath width detection system would assist in providing maximum combine- head fill by capturing images of the field and using image processing techniques to extract valuable swath width measurements. As a result, farmers will be able to analyze their crop yields more precisely and potentially harvest at a faster rate. Introduction General Background Detection system will aid yield monitor in data accuracy. Digital camera used to capture images of current swath width. Combine head capacity varies due to irregular field conditions (Figures 1 & 2). Technical Problem Swath width must be determined and formatted as output for operator. Irregular field conditions (Figure 1). System must be flexible to accommodate all situations. Operating Environment Climate conditions including heat, wind, dust, rain and frost. Physical conditions including uneven terrain and operation wear. Intended User and Uses Combine operator harvesting crops. Improvement of yield monitor data accuracy.Assumptions Combine cutter bar length will remain constant. Hardware can be modified to function in harsh environmental conditions. Combine will never exceed 10 miles per hour while in operation.Limitations Software calibration may be necessary for different combine models. Hardware placement and mounting may vary for different combine models. Digital camera may not function properly with all crop types. Client:Advisors:Team Code:Team Members: Client:Advisors:Team Code: Team Members: Dr. Graeme QuickProfessor Ralph PattersonDEC 02-05Bolstad, AndrewJesse, Neil Director, Equipment LaboratoryProfessor Julie DickersonKruse, JoshTen, Sally Straight crop line Angled crop line Double-angled crop line Figure 1. Design Requirements Testing Approach Financial and Personal Effort Budgets Utilized Swath Width Combine Head Width Figure 2. Design Objectives Digital camera will be used to detect width of crop entering combine head. Processing unit will implement image processing to determine swath width. User interface will display swath width to operator. Functional Requirements Provide accurate measurement of swath width. Operate in real-time at harvesting speed. Operate in combine environment. Accuracy of swath width calculation from sample images. Accuracy of swath width calculation in field-testing. Speed of calculation of swath width during harvesting. Usability of interface. Quality of images from digital camera. Durability of all parts in operating environment. Technical Approach Research image processing algorithms to determine best method. Code in Matlab for algorithm testing. Code in C for efficient processing. Testing of software on sample images. Field-testing of swath width detection system. End Product Description Determines the width of the crop entering the combine head (Figure 2). Displays information to the operator. Consists of digital camera, processing unit, and display unit. Design Constraints Sensors must operate in harvesting conditions while mounted on combine. Processing unit must fit within combine cab. User interface must be visible to the operator. Measurable Milestones Select algorithm for image processing. Implement algorithm in software. Complete laboratory testing. Assemble system for field testing. Complete field testing. Implement necessary final changes. Hardware Cost$3490 Software Cost$0 Material Cost$120 Total Cost$3610 Financial Budget: Personal Effort Budget: Bolstad, Andrew190 Jesse, Neil184 Kruse, Josh164 Ten, Sally160 Total Hours698 hrs