Performance Evaluation of a Three-dimensional Optical Volume Flow Meter

Abstract

Optical sensors in combine grain elevator housings have been used for volume flow measurements. Several parameters affecting the accuracy of optical volume flow detection are described. Parameters considered were the slope, the kernel type, the moisture content, and the clean grain elevator capacity. A positive linear relationship was found between the optical sensor output and the volume flow. Using the output of only one horizontal sensor to explain the volume flow of all the runs showed maximum deviations from the sample regression that ranged up to 13%. Using four optical sensors, two mounted transverse to the elevator chain and two mounted perpendicular to the chain and symmetrically on both sides of the chain, the maximum deviation from the sample regression was reduced to 9%. These results were obtained after reduction of the gap between the paddles and the housing.