Agricultural Pneumatic Distributor Coupling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural pneumatic distribution machines require a large number of actuators to control switching elements for precise distribution characteristics, leading to high investment and maintenance costs, as well as increased failure rates due to the complexity of the system.
Innovation Solution
The coupling of adjacent pivoting shafts of switching elements via a torque-transmitting coupling element allows for synchronous shut-off of outlet openings, reducing the need for individual actuators and enabling a more compact, cost-effective mechanism, where only one actuator can control multiple switching elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large number of individual actuators are used to control each switching element for precise distribution characteristics, then the distribution precision is improved, but the device complexity and investment costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple switching elements are mechanically coupled together through coupling elements that connect their pivot shafts, allowing a single actuator to control the shut-off of multiple outlet openings simultaneously. This merging approach reduces the total number of actuators while maintaining precise distribution control across multiple lines.
Solution Approach 2:
A single actuator is designed to perform the function of controlling multiple switching elements through the coupling mechanism. The coupling element acts as a universal connector that transmits the actuating force from one actuator to multiple pivot shafts, enabling one component to serve multiple functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual actuators are assigned to each switching element for independent control, then the adaptability is improved, but the reliability decreases due to increased failure points
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements mechanically link multiple switching elements into a coordinated system where a single actuator controls multiple outlets. This reduces the number of independent failure points while maintaining the ability to control distribution across multiple lines, thereby improving reliability without sacrificing adaptability.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple individual actuators are used for each outlet opening, then the manufacturing precision of individual components is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to assembly complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements are designed to simplify assembly by providing standardized connection interfaces between pivot shafts. Instead of assembling multiple independent actuator-switching element pairs, the coupling mechanism allows for a more streamlined assembly process where multiple components are linked through standardized coupling interfaces, reducing overall assembly complexity.
4Ease of operation
If a compact mechanism with fewer actuators is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision of the shut-off mechanism may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements are designed to maintain precise shut-off control while enabling compact configuration. By mechanically linking pivot shafts through coupling elements with standardized interfaces, the system achieves both operational simplicity and manufacturing precision, as the coupling mechanism ensures synchronized movement of multiple switching elements.
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 achieves reliable and precise shut-off of granular material flow, reduces the number of actuators needed, lowers maintenance costs, and increases the operational lifespan of the distribution head by minimizing stress concentrations and wear.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling element is designed to connect the adjacent pivot shafts to each other in a torque-transmitting manner
Data Source
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AI summary
Pneumatically operated distribution machine (1) for distributing granular material, in particular seeds and/or fertilizer, on an agricultural area, comprising at least one distribution head (20) that is at least partially circular, to which the material to be distributed can be supplied in adjustable quantities via at least one feed line (13), and which has several radially arranged outlet openings (24) and adjoining application lines (25), wherein at least some outlet openings and/or application lines are each assigned at least one switching element (23) which is pivotable about a substantially horizontal pivot axis between at least one open and one closed position by means of at least one pivot shaft, wherein the pivot axes of the pivot shafts of at least two switching elements (23) of at least two adjacent outlet openings and/or application lines are at an angle to each other,are aligned in an offset manner, and the pivot shafts of the switching elements can be actuated by motorized actuators (21). In order to create a distributor head (20) with precise series shut-off, which is cost-effective to manufacture and/or operate, it is provided that at least two switching elements (23) of at least two of the multiple output openings can be pivoted together via at least one coupling element (22), which allows a torque-transmitting coupling with an angular offset of the pivot shafts, so that at least two switching elements can be actuated via at least one common actuator.