Actuator Adjusted Rolling Baskets for Tillage Depth Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural tillage implements require manual and cumbersome adjustments for positioning and controlling the depth of rolling baskets, which complicates the process of preparing a level seedbed and integrating residual crop material into the soil.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a rolling basket assembly with a main frame, tool bar, secondary frame, arm assemblies, biased devices, brackets, and actuators allows for adjustable and pin-able positioning of rolling baskets from the tractor cab, enabling float, up, and down modes for variable depth control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment mechanisms (pins, bolts, mechanical cranks) are used for positioning rolling baskets, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome manual adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms (pins, bolts, cranks) with a hydraulic actuator system controlled from the tractor cab. The hydraulic cylinder (actuator) mechanically adjusts the arm assembly position, eliminating the need for manual pin insertion and mechanical crank operations, thereby improving ease of operation while accepting increased system complexity through hydraulic components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hydraulic control system as an intermediary between the operator and the rolling basket positioning mechanism. The operator controls the hydraulic valve from the cab, which transmits hydraulic pressure through lines to the actuator, indirectly adjusting the basket position without direct manual manipulation of the adjustment mechanism itself
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed position settings with pins and bolts are used, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability deteriorates due to inability to easily adjust between float, up, and down modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, fixed-position system into a dynamic, continuously adjustable system. The hydraulic actuator enables smooth transition between float, up, and down modes, as well as any intermediate positions, allowing the rolling baskets to adapt to varying field conditions. The arm assembly can be positioned anywhere within its range of motion, providing continuous adaptability rather than discrete fixed positions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional positioning system that can operate in multiple modes (float, up, down) and achieve various depth settings within a single integrated mechanism. The hydraulic actuator system serves multiple functions: adjusting depth, controlling basket position, and enabling different operational modes, replacing the need for multiple separate adjustment mechanisms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies the adjustment and operation of rolling baskets, allowing for precise control of depth and position from the tractor cab, enhancing soil preparation by enabling easy conversion between float, up, and down modes, thus improving soil leveling and seedbed consistency.
Implementation Method 1
The biased device is pivotally coupled to the first structural member or the frame
Implementation Method 2
The actuator is pivotally coupled to both the second structural member and the bracket
Data Source
AI summary
A rolling basket assembly for use with an agricultural tillage implement having a frame. The rolling basket assembly includes a rolling basket and at least one arm assembly. The arm assembly has a first and second structural member, a biased device, a bracket and an actuator. The first structural member extends from the frame. The biased device is pivotally coupled to the first structural member or the frame. The bracket is coupled to the first structural member and to the biased device. The second structural member is pivotally coupled to the first structural member. The rolling basket is rotationally coupled to the second structural member. The actuator is pivotally coupled to both the second structural member and the bracket.