AI-Driven Concave Harvester System: Crop Yield Optimization

Publication ID: 24-11856893_0005_PTD
Published: October 26, 2025
Category:Future Evolutions & Paradigm Shifts

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “AI-Driven Concave Harvester System: Crop Yield Optimization,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11856893_0005_PTD, Published October 26, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11856893_0005_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,856,893.

Background and Problem Solved

Combine harvesters equipped with traditional rotary threshing systems often struggle to optimize threshing parameters for varying crop types and conditions, resulting in reduced crop yields and quality. The original patent addressed this issue by introducing a concave changing system, but it had limitations in terms of flexibility and real-time adaptability. The present invention solves this problem by integrating machine learning, sensor data, and advanced materials to create a modular, interchangeable concave system that can adapt to changing crop conditions in real-time.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in combine harvester technology by integrating AI, machine learning, and advanced materials to create a real-time adaptive concave system. This is a significant departure from the original patent, which focused on a mechanical concave changing system. The inventive step lies in the use of AI-driven predictive analytics, sensor data, and advanced materials to create a modular, interchangeable concave system that can adapt to changing crop conditions in real-time.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the invention could include using different types of sensors, such as hyperspectral or multispectral cameras, to gather crop data. Additionally, the invention could be implemented using different machine learning algorithms or integrating with other agricultural systems, such as precision farming or autonomous tractors.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The Intelligent Concave Adjustment System has significant commercial potential in the agricultural industry, particularly in the combine harvester market. The invention could be marketed as a retrofit solution for existing combine harvesters or as an integrated system for new machines. The target market includes major agricultural companies, farming cooperatives, and individual farmers seeking to optimize crop yields and reduce waste.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A01 A01F12/28
A A01 A01F12/26

Field of Art

Agricultural machinery, specifically combine harvester threshing systems, with expertise in mechanical design, sensor integration, and agricultural engineering

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A mechanical engineer with 5-7 years of experience in agricultural equipment design, familiar with sensor technologies, mechanical adjustment systems, and basic machine learning applications in agricultural contexts

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating AI and sensor technologies into the existing mechanical concave adjustment system represents a predictable evolution of combine harvester technology. The source patent's fundamental concave adjustment mechanism provides a clear technical foundation for implementing more advanced sensing and adaptive control strategies. The proposed AI-driven system is a logical extension of existing mechanical design principles, utilizing well-known sensor and machine learning technologies to enhance the core mechanical functionality.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Mechanical frame with movable concaves that can be repositioned for different threshing conditions
PTD Variation
AI-powered dynamic concave positioning system using real-time sensor data to automatically adjust concave configuration
Obviousness Reasoning
Predictable application of known sensor and control technologies to existing mechanical adjustment mechanism, representing an obvious design improvement
Source Patent Element
Multiple concave configurations for different crop processing requirements
PTD Variation
Modular, interchangeable concave modules with integrated sensors and AI-driven configuration recommendations
Obviousness Reasoning
Logical extension of existing modular design concept, applying standard engineering practices of adding sensing and intelligence to mechanical systems
Source Patent Element
Mechanical driving mechanism for concave repositioning
PTD Variation
Advanced materials and additive manufacturing techniques enabling more complex, dynamically adjustable concave geometries
Obviousness Reasoning
Application of known advanced manufacturing techniques to improve existing mechanical design, representing a standard approach to system optimization
Source Patent Element
Frame-based concave adjustment system
PTD Variation
Integration of machine learning algorithms to predict and recommend optimal concave configurations based on crop type and conditions
Obviousness Reasoning
Predictable implementation of data-driven optimization techniques to enhance existing mechanical adjustment capabilities
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on the teachings of US Patent 11856893 and the disclosed technical variations, a person having ordinary skill in the art would find the proposed AI-integrated, sensor-driven concave adjustment system to be an obvious modification of existing combine harvester threshing technologies. The combination of mechanical concave adjustment principles with contemporary sensing and machine learning approaches represents a straightforward and predictable technological progression within the field of agricultural machinery design.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,856,893
TitleConcave support and adjusment system for combine harvester
Assignee(s)AGCO Corporation