Combine Spreader Impeller Dynamics for Residue Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wind interference during crop residue spreading from combines results in uneven distribution across fields, making future field operations challenging and affecting soil consistency for future crops.
Innovation Solution
A system with a spreader connected to the combine, featuring impellers and pivotable residue flow distributors, controlled by a processor that adjusts impeller speed and flow regulator positions to compensate for wind direction and speed, ensuring even distribution of crop residue across the field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If residue is spread using a conventional spreader, then the structure is simple, but wind causes uneven distribution and residue piles up
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the flow distributors pivotable rather than fixed. The flow distributors can rotate about vertical axes and pivot about horizontal axes to dynamically adjust residue flow directions based on wind conditions, combining motion control with flow regulation to achieve uniform distribution despite environmental variations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters of the spreader system by adjusting impeller rotation speeds independently on each side and modifying flow distributor angles. These parameter changes allow the system to compensate for wind effects and maintain consistent residue distribution patterns across different operating conditions
2Length of moving object
If impeller speed is increased to throw residue farther, then distribution width increases, but residue flow becomes less controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the impeller system into left and right impellers that can rotate at independently controlled speeds. This segmentation allows each side to be optimized separately for throw distance while maintaining overall flow control through coordinated operation of the divided components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control where sensors detect actual residue distribution patterns and wind conditions, then the controller adjusts impeller speeds and flow distributor positions accordingly. This closed-loop feedback ensures that increased throw distance does not compromise flow control precision
3Adaptability or versatility
If flow distributors are made fixed for simplicity, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to wind conditions decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes flow distributors dynamic by enabling them to pivot and rotate in response to detected wind conditions. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to varying environmental conditions while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure through straightforward pivot and rotation mechanisms
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 ensures consistent and even distribution of crop residue, improving field operations and soil preparation for future crops by adapting to wind conditions in real-time.
Implementation Method 1
The rotation of the one or more impellers discharge a flow of residue received through the inlet out through the outlet
Implementation Method 2
Each flow distributor is configured to guide the discharged flow of residue sidewardly away from the spreader to the ground surface
Data Source
AI summary
A system for discharging residue from an agricultural combine to a ground surface. The system including a spreader operatively connected to a rear end of the agricultural combine. The spreader having one or more impellers each having an axis of rotation and a housing. The impellers are operatively connected to the housing for rotating therein. The housing has an inlet for receiving a flow of residue, an outlet configured about a lateral side of the housing for discharging the flow of residue, and one or more residue flow distributors each pivotably movable in a direction generally parallel with the axis of rotation. Each flow distributor is configured to guide the discharged flow of residue sidewardly away from the spreader to the ground surface. The rotation of the one or more impellers discharge a flow of residue received through the inlet out through the outlet.