Development and implementation of a load cell yield monitor for peanut

A yield monitoring system, which uses load cells mounted below the basket, was developed for application to existing and new peanut combines. A tank w eighing assembly (free movement in both lateral directions) mount was used with double ended shear beam load cells in a 90 degrees configuration to cr eate the most flexibility, with least opportunity for binding at the mounts . Slopes less than 2 degrees did not appreciably affect the load cell respo nse. Moving average and regression methods were used to translate the conti nuous loading of the basket to incremental loading rates. The system was ca pable of reproducing input loading rates to within a 1.5 to 7.3% error over an assumed ground area of 20 m(2) to 10 m(2) (220 ft(2) to 110 ft(2)), res pectively (under static operating conditions). The larger the area (number of values) included in the average, the smaller the error, but the less sen sitivity to changing yield conditions. Additional integration with position signals, improved filtering, and some method of adjusting for pod moisture and trash are necessary to fully develop the system for commercial applica tion.