Baler Compression Linkage for Dense Parallelepiped Bale Forming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing baler implements struggle to efficiently form bales with a parallelepiped shape, as they often require complex and costly compression systems that increase the density of the bale by pressing compression panels inward, leading to increased resistance against the plunger.
Innovation Solution
A baler implement with a compression system using pivot links and actuators, such as hydraulic cylinders, that move compression panels in specific angles to simultaneously move panels vertically and horizontally, reducing friction and minimizing the number of actuators required, thereby forming bales with a parallelepiped shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If compression panels are pressed inward using a traditional hydraulic cylinder system, then the density of the bale is increased, but the complexity and cost of the compression system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression system is segmented into multiple independent pivot links (upper pivot links and side pivot links) that can move compression panels in different directions simultaneously. This segmentation allows the system to achieve complex compression motions without requiring a complex centralized hydraulic system, as each pivot link can be controlled independently to move panels both vertically and horizontally toward the center of the compression chamber.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a vertical dimension to the compression panel movement by incorporating upper pivot links that rotate about horizontal axes. This allows compression panels to move not only horizontally inward (traditional compression) but also vertically downward, creating a multi-dimensional compression approach that increases bale density while using simpler individual actuator components.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple actuators are used to press compression panels inward in different directions, then the bale density is improved, but the number of components and associated costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each pivot link assembly serves multiple functions: it provides both vertical and horizontal compression components, acts as a structural support, and functions as a motion transmission mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate actuators for each compression direction, as the pivot links themselves transmit motion in multiple directions through their rotational degrees of freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic pivot links that can rotate about their respective axes to adaptively change the direction and magnitude of compression forces applied to the crop material. This dynamic capability allows a single actuator to achieve variable compression vectors, replacing what would traditionally require multiple fixed-direction actuators working in coordination.
3Device complexity
If compression panels are moved using traditional mechanical means, then the structure is simple, but the friction and resistance against the plunger increase
Solution Approach 1:
By adding vertical movement capability through upper pivot links, the system creates a more efficient compression geometry where panels can move downward as well as inward. This multi-dimensional motion reduces the horizontal sliding distance and friction between panels and crop material, while still achieving the same or greater compression density through the combined vertical and horizontal compression components.
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 effectively compresses crop material into a parallelepiped shape with a robust and cost-effective compression mechanism, enhancing bale density while minimizing the number of actuators and associated costs.
Implementation Method 1
A first actuator interconnects the first upper pivot link and the first side pivot link. The first actuator is operable to extend and retract along a first actuator axis
Implementation Method 2
A first upper pivot link contacts the upper compression panel and is rotatably coupled to the compression frame for rotation about a first upper link axis
Data Source
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AI summary
A baler implement includes an upper compression panel and a first side compression panel both partially form a compression chamber. A compression frame is attached to a main frame. The compression frame is disposed adjacent to the upper compression panel. A first upper pivot link contacts the upper compression panel and is rotatably coupled to the compression frame for rotation about a first upper link axis. A first side pivot link contacts the first side compression panel and is rotatably coupled to the main frame for rotation about a first side link axis. A first actuator interconnects the first upper pivot link and the first side pivot link. Retraction of the first actuator simultaneously moves the upper compression panel in a first vertical direction along a first compression axis and the first side compression panel in a first horizontal direction along a second compression axis.