Adjustable Axial Rotor Deflector for Crop Residue Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural combines face challenges in achieving even crop residue distribution due to uneven flow from axially arranged threshing systems, which can lead to temperature and moisture gradients, nutrient utilization issues, and equipment plugging, as the side-to-side distribution of crop residue into the chopper/spreader is often uneven.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable deflector plate system is positioned at the downstream end of the threshing rotor, with a pivotal mounting and adjusting mechanism to redirect the crop residue flow more evenly into the crop residue distribution system, utilizing a projecting directional vane and tapered leading edge to intercept and deflect the heavier flow side towards the lighter side, and a control system to store and restore the deflector plate's position during rotor reversal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a fixed deflector plate is used to redirect crop residue flow, then the transverse distribution of crop residue can be improved, but the system cannot adapt to different crop types and operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The deflector plate is made adjustable through a positioning mechanism that allows it to be moved between multiple discrete positions. This dynamic configuration enables the system to adapt the deflector plate's transverse location and orientation based on different crop types, residue characteristics, and operating conditions, thereby maintaining optimal transverse distribution uniformity across varying operational scenarios
2Manufacturing precision
If the deflector plate is positioned to intercept heavy flow side, then transverse distribution is improved, but the device complexity increases due to adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into discrete positioning stations rather than continuous adjustment. The deflector plate can be positioned at multiple predetermined locations along the transverse axis, each optimized for specific operating conditions. This segmentation simplifies the mechanism compared to continuous adjustment systems while still providing the capability to correct flow distribution unevenness across different crop types
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and control logic that automatically detect flow distribution patterns and select appropriate deflector plate positions. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex manual adjustment mechanisms and enables automatic optimization of transverse distribution based on real-time operating conditions
3Manufacturing precision
If the deflector plate extends into the rotor path during reverse operation, then normal flow distribution is maintained, but the risk of damage to the deflector plate increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the deflector plate position based on rotor operation mode. During reverse operation, the control system detects the rotor rotation direction and automatically retracts the deflector plate to a safe position away from the rotor path. During normal forward operation, the deflector plate is extended to its operational position to maintain flow distribution. This dynamic positioning ensures both flow distribution consistency during normal operation and protects the deflector plate from damage during reverse operations
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3~14
AI summary
An adjustable deflector apparatus having a deflector plate (52) for transitioning crop residue from the rotor (28) of an axially arranged threshing system (22) of a combine to a crop residue distribution system (24) is disposed with the deflector plate (52) pivotally mounted at approximately the height of the axis of the rotor (28) at its downstream end to be movable into and out of the flow (B) of the crop residue such that at least a portion of such flow will strike or impinge the deflector plate (52) and be deflected thereby downwardly and transversely toward the crop residue distribution system (24). An adjusting mechanism (62, 64, 66) is operable for moving the deflector plate (52) in relation to an internal side (38) of the combine for adjusting a desired parameter or parameters of the deflected flow and for moving the deflector plate (52) to a retracted position when reverse operation of the rotor (28) is desired.