Intermediate Frame for Combine Header Force Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current agricultural combine header connections are excessively rigid and heavy, leading to increased weight and cost due to the transmission of forces through dynamic feed roll modules, which complicates maintenance and requires multiple feeder lengths for different configurations.
Innovation Solution
An intermediate frame is introduced that connects to both the upper and lower segments of the front end of the agricultural combine, allowing direct force transmission between the feeder and actuator, reducing stress on the connection and enabling a lighter, cheaper design, with optional crop processing mechanisms like dynamic feed rolls, and facilitating standardized feeder use across different combine designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the dynamic feed roll module is firmly bolted to the upper segment to transmit header forces, then the connection strength is improved, but the weight and cost of the combine increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate frame as a mediator structure between the upper and lower segments. This intermediate frame carries the dynamic feed roll module and transmits forces directly between the segments, eliminating the need for the module to bear all header forces alone. The intermediate frame acts as a force distribution mechanism that reduces the load on individual connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the force transmission path into separate segments: the intermediate frame is connected to both the upper segment (via first connecting means) and lower segment (via second connecting means). This segmentation allows forces to be distributed through multiple connection points rather than concentrated through the module alone, reducing the required strength and weight of individual components.
2Reliability
If the module connection is made extremely rigid to handle header forces, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate frame serves as a mediator that simplifies the force transmission path. Instead of creating complex rigid connections between the module and both segments, the intermediate frame provides a straightforward structural element that naturally distributes forces, reducing connection complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pivotable connections rather than completely rigid fixed connections. The intermediate frame can pivot relative to both segments, providing the necessary stability for force transmission while allowing for dynamic adjustment and reducing the complexity of achieving absolute rigidity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple feeder lengths are used for different configurations, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate frame is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different feeder lengths and configurations. By providing standardized connection points and a modular structure, the same intermediate frame can work with various feeder types and lengths, eliminating the need to manufacture different intermediate frames for different configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular segmented structure of the intermediate frame allows for flexible configuration adaptation. The frame can be assembled and configured in different ways to suit various feeder lengths and crop processing requirements, providing adaptability through modular assembly rather than manufacturing multiple complete units.
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural combine including a front end adapted for carrying a header via a feeder and an actuator. The combine includes a first connecting structure at an upper segment of the front end, and a second connecting structure at a lower segment of the front end. The combine further includes an intermediate frame including a feeder connector adapted for connecting to the feeder. The intermediate frame further includes a first connector connecting to the first connecting structure and a second connector connecting to the second connecting structure. The combine further includes an actuator connector adapted for connecting to the actuator. The actuator connector is provided at a location of the second connecting structure.