Asymmetric Forage Compactor Wheels and Integrated Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing forage compactors lift forage during compaction due to wheel profiles with lips, and require separate stands for storage, which affects compaction efficiency and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A forage compactor with asymmetric wheels featuring radiused sides and an integrated storage assembly, allowing for uniform compaction without lifting the forage and eliminating the need for a separate stand, using a hitch framework compatible with multiple categories of three-point hitches and a spring-loaded lubricator for improved longevity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wheel profiles with lips are used for compaction, then the wheels can lift forage during rotation, but this lifting action aerates the forage and reduces compaction effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel profile is changed from a symmetric design with lips to an asymmetric design where the outer band is flush with the sidewalls on the compaction side while the other side may have different geometry. This asymmetric configuration eliminates the lifting action that aerates forage while maintaining the wheel's structural integrity and compaction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel design applies different geometric properties to different regions: the outer band is made flush with the sidewalls in the compaction zone to prevent forage lifting, while other portions of the wheel can have different profiles optimized for structural support and rotation. This localized optimization resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and compaction effectiveness.
2Reliability
If a separate stand is used for storage when the compactor is not in use, then the compactor can be stored safely, but this increases device complexity and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The storage stand function is merged with the compactor frame structure itself. The frame is designed to provide both operational support during compaction and storage support when idle, eliminating the need for a separate stand component. This integration reduces device complexity while maintaining storage reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The compactor frame is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support during compaction operations and simultaneously serves as a storage stand when the compactor is not in use. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate storage components, reducing overall device complexity.
3Ease of repair
If asymmetric wheels with recessed areas are used, then journals can be protected and access improved, but wheel manufacturing becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel is designed with asymmetric geometry including recessed areas that provide protected access to journals. These recesses allow journals to be positioned in locations that are both protected from damage and accessible for maintenance, while the asymmetric design is integrated into the overall wheel profile to minimize additional manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A forage compactor is provided having a frame that has cross bars supporting risers that in turn support a shaft. At least one asymmetric wheel is supported by the shaft. The wheels can be paired whereby journals are used to connect to the shaft between recesses of respective wheels. Each wheel has a first side and a second side, each with radiused portions that turn forage away from the wheel. The wheels have a band that is flush with the outer portion of the wheel sides to prevent lifting of the forage. A storage assembly is provided and is integrated into the framework. The storage assembly can be stored within the frame when the compactor is in use, and can be deployed to a locked position in order to store the compactor. A hitch framework is provided that can attach to multiple categories of three point hitches.