Collapsible Frame for Liquid Fertiliser Applicator
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible frames for liquid fertiliser applicators are limited in working width due to instability and weight distribution issues, which restrict their reach and efficiency, especially when applying pressure to the soil.
Innovation Solution
The frame features separate support members for the outer third frame sections, allowing them to pivot independently and reducing the weight carried by the second frame sections, enabling a wider working width and improved stability by distributing the weight more evenly across the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the frame width is increased to cover a wider area when working the soil, then the working width is improved, but the frame becomes unstable and cannot withstand the moments of force acting on the construction
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into five articulated sections that can pivot relative to each other. The first section is central and horizontal, the second sections are adjacent and can pivot between horizontal and upright positions, and the third sections are extreme and can pivot to assume horizontal working positions. This segmentation allows the frame to achieve a wide working area when needed while maintaining stability through controlled articulation and pivoting of individual sections.
2Area of stationary object
If the frame is extended to increase reach to the sides of permanent tracks, then the working width is improved, but the construction becomes heavier and harder to control
Solution Approach 1:
The frame sections are designed to be dynamic rather than static, with each section capable of pivoting between working and transport positions. The third frame sections can pivot relative to the second sections, allowing the extreme sections to be positioned horizontally for maximum reach during operation. This dynamic configuration enables the frame to extend its reach without permanently increasing its weight, as the sections can be folded up when not in use.
3Productivity
If the applicator is mounted with pressure on the soil, then the working effectiveness is improved, but the weight transfer to the driving rear wheels is reduced, causing lighter engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The frame configuration allows the third frame sections to pivot to horizontal positions that extend laterally from the central first section. This dimensional arrangement enables the applicator to cover a wider area and apply pressure to the soil more effectively. The articulated structure distributes the load across multiple sections, allowing the extreme sections to reach further without concentrating all the weight on the rear wheels, thus maintaining better engagement with the ground.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The invention comprises a collapsible frame for an agricultural implement, in particular a liquid fertiliser applicator (7), including several articulated frame sections (1, 3, 5) suspended on the applicator (7). A central first frame section (1) carrying nozzles or other tools (11) is mounted horizontally, flanked by two adjacent second frame sections (3). Second frame sections (3) may be pivoted between a horizontal working position and an upright transport position. Additional third frame sections (5) are mounted on separate support members (13) which are pivotably connected to the implement independently of the first and second frame sections (1, 3). Each third frame section (5) may pivot relative to the adjoining support member (13) in order to assume lowered working position and a lifted transport position along the top of the implement, respectively. Thereby the reach of the frame and the implement is increased with less weight of the frame structure as by prior art designs.