Automatic Funnel Control for Soil Sample Preparation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current manual funnel methods for preparing soil samples in soil mechanics and dynamics testing are prone to human error, misalignment, and inconsistent sample quality due to uncontrollable lifting speed and height, leading to unreliable test results.
Innovation Solution
An automatic funnel control device that aligns and moves the funnel along a vertical axis at a controlled speed and distance, eliminating manual intervention and ensuring consistent sample preparation by integrating a driving member, holder, and adjustable connection system for precise alignment and controlled soil pouring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual funnel alignment and lifting is used, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to misalignment and inconsistent sample quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical alignment and lifting system with an automated guidance system comprising laser alignment devices, automated lifting mechanisms, and computer-controlled positioning systems. This substitution eliminates human error in alignment while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The funnel system incorporates self-alignment features where the funnel automatically returns to its initial position after each use through elastic recovery mechanisms or spring-loaded reset systems. The system also includes self-correction capabilities through real-time monitoring and automated adjustment during the pouring process.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated funnel control is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated funnel system is divided into independent modular components: a separate guidance system, an automated lifting mechanism, a pouring control system, and a reset mechanism. Each module can be independently adjusted, maintained, and replaced, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The funnel device incorporates multiple functions into a single integrated system that performs alignment, lifting, pouring control, and automatic resetting. The guidance system serves both alignment and positioning functions, while the control system manages multiple operational parameters simultaneously, reducing the need for separate devices.
3Device complexity
If manual funnel lifting is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to human error and shaking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual lifting operations with automated motorized lifting mechanisms controlled by computer algorithms that eliminate shaking and ensure consistent lifting speeds. The system includes vibration damping mechanisms and precision control systems that maintain stability throughout the pouring process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms including sensors that monitor funnel position, lifting speed, and alignment accuracy. The control system continuously adjusts operations based on feedback data to maintain optimal performance and eliminate human error, ensuring reproducible test results.
Data Source
AI summary
A funnel control device is fixed on a shear box or respective cells in various soil mechanics/dynamics testing devices, and the funnel control device enables to produce soil samples to be tested by discharging a soil through a funnel into a sample preparation mold at a given axis and rate. The funnel control device includes at least one supporting body for being placed on the soil mechanics/dynamics testing device, at least one holder, wherein the at least one holder is provided on the at least one supporting body to be movable in vertical axis and the funnel is placed on the at least one holder, at least one driving member, wherein the at least one driving member is located in or on the at least one supporting body and is used for moving the at least one holder in the vertical axis.