Baler Compression Panel Linkage for Dense Rectangular Bales
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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 resistance against the plunger, leading to higher operational costs and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A baler implement with a compression system using a combination of pivot links and actuators, such as hydraulic cylinders, that move compression panels in specific angles to minimize the number of actuators required, allowing for efficient formation of parallelepiped-shaped bales.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a traditional compression system with multiple actuators is used to press compression panels inward, then the bale density increases, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple compression functions into a single actuator system. The first actuator controls both the upper compression panel and first side compression panel through a linkage mechanism, reducing the number of actuators from four (traditional) to one or two, thereby simplifying the compression system while maintaining bale density
Solution Approach 2:
The first actuator performs multiple functions by controlling both vertical compression (upper panel) and horizontal compression (side panel) through the linkage mechanism. This multi-functional actuator replaces what would traditionally require separate actuators for each compression direction
2Manufacturing precision
If compression panels are pressed inward to increase resistance against the plunger, then the bale density increases, but the operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple compression actions into a single actuator system, the patent reduces the total energy consumption required for compression. The unified system optimizes the compression sequence and reduces redundant energy expenditure associated with multiple independent actuators operating separately
3Force
If a complex compression system with multiple actuators is used, then the compression force increases, but the number of components and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a linkage mechanism as an intermediary between the single actuator and the compression panels. This linkage system transmits and multiplies the force from one actuator to multiple panels, achieving high compression force without requiring multiple high-force actuators
Solution Approach 2:
The compression force application is segmented into sequential phases: first the upper panel is compressed vertically, then the side panel is compressed horizontally. This segmentation allows a single actuator to deliver high force in a controlled sequence rather than requiring simultaneous high force from multiple actuators
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 described compression system effectively forms bales with a parallelepiped shape while reducing the number of actuators, thereby minimizing costs and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The first actuator is operable to extend and retract along a first actuator axis. retraction of the first actuator along the first actuator axis is operable to simultaneously move 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
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
Implementation Method 3
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
Data Source
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.