Optimization of steering control parameters based on a combine harvester's kinematic model

The objective of this study was to optimize the control parameters of a robot combine harvester so that it can run along a straight line with minimal oscillation and minimal lateral error. A kinematic model was established by analyzing the relations among steering, control lever angle and performance of the vehicle. Based on the kinematic model, optimizations of a steering controller were conducted so as to obtain optimized control parameters. The optimized control parameters were verified by field experiments. In a stable state, the RMS value of lateral error was 0.025 m with a maximum of 0.066 m. Thus, the effectiveness of the method for optimization of control parameters of the robot combine harvester was verified.