Articulated Combine Header Suspension for Terrain Compliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wider headers on combine harvesters, while increasing throughput, lead to decreased crop yield efficiency due to their rigid configuration's inability to conform to uneven terrain, and result in increased structural loads on the combine, necessitating costly reinforcements.
Innovation Solution
A harvesting system with an articulated header and a variable spring suspension system that allows the header to pivot relative to the combine, adjusting its range of motion based on whether it is supported by the ground or the combine, thereby reducing structural loads and maintaining efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the header width is increased to improve throughput, then productivity increases, but the rigid configuration cannot conform to uneven terrain resulting in decreased crop yield efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The header is divided into multiple independently supported sections (left wing, center section, right wing) that can move relative to each other. This segmentation allows each section to adapt to terrain variations independently while maintaining overall header functionality and harvesting efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The header transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic articulated structure with variable geometry. The ability of wing sections to pivot and adjust their position relative to the center section enables the header to dynamically adapt to uneven terrain while maintaining increased width for high productivity.
2Productivity
If the header width is increased to improve throughput, then productivity increases, but structural loads on the combine increase necessitating reinforced structures
Solution Approach 1:
The header structure is segmented into multiple sections supported by individual suspension systems, distributing the structural loads across multiple support points rather than concentrating them on the combine. This reduces the peak loads transmitted to the combine structure, eliminating the need for costly reinforcements while maintaining increased header width for high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
A suspension system acts as an intermediary between the header and the combine, absorbing and dampening dynamic loads. This intermediary mechanism protects the combine structure from the full impact of header weight and terrain-induced forces, enabling use of wider headers without reinforcing the combine.
3Force
If the header is supported entirely by the combine then structural loads are reduced, but the ability to adapt to terrain decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system provides dynamic support that adapts to terrain conditions. When the header is elevated and fully supported by the combine, the suspension allows controlled movement of wing sections to maintain adaptability. This dynamic behavior enables the system to reduce structural loads while preserving terrain-conforming capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system changes its support parameters based on header position and terrain conditions. By adjusting the degree of constraint and support stiffness, the system can optimize between load reduction and terrain adaptability, allowing the header to be fully supported by the combine when appropriate while maintaining the ability to conform to terrain when needed.
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
The system allows for increased header width without requiring reinforced combines, enhancing crop yield efficiency by adapting to terrain and minimizing structural loads during harvesting and transport.
Implementation Method 1
variable spring suspension system
Data Source
AI summary
A harvesting system includes a header pivotally attached to a combine. The header includes a center section to which a left wing and right wing are pivotally attached. A suspension system of the harvesting system includes first and second engageable states that enable dynamic wing behavior and reduce structural load. The first state corresponds to a harvesting configuration of the header in which the wings are allowed to pivot to allow the header to follow changes in terrain. The second state corresponds to a configuration in which the header is elevated relative to the ground. In the second state, the ability of the wings to pivot is minimized as compared to the first state, which allows the header to be maintained in a substantially flat configuration while minimizing the amount of dynamic load imparted by the header on the combine during non-harvesting transport of the header.