Over-Center Concave Latch for Adjustable MOG Limiter Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The separation of grain from plant material other than grain (MOG) in the threshing operation of combines is inefficient, leading to grain damage, yield loss, and increased sieve loss due to varying moisture content and crop conditions, with existing concaves and separation grates being difficult to adjust and install.
Innovation Solution
The use of MOG limiting devices, such as Quarter Wrap MOG limiters and cover plates, which can be easily installed and adjusted to control gap sizes and distribution, ensuring efficient grain separation and retention of MOG within the rotor chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If large openings are provided in the concaves to allow expedited removal of kernels, then grain loss is reduced, but large volumes of MOG enter the cleaning system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the concave structure into multiple sections with different opening sizes. Large openings are provided in certain areas to facilitate rapid grain removal, while smaller openings or MOG limiting devices are positioned in other areas to restrict MOG flow into the cleaning system. This segmentation allows simultaneous optimization of grain egress and MOG control.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the concave are given different properties: some areas have large openings for grain removal, while other areas have restricted openings or MOG limiters. The MOG limiting devices are specifically positioned at locations where MOG would otherwise enter the cleaning system, creating local quality variations that address different functional requirements in different zones.
2Quantity of substance
If MOG limiting devices are installed to control MOG flow, then MOG retention in rotor chamber is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The MOG limiting devices are designed to perform multiple functions: they restrict MOG flow into the cleaning system, guide material flow through the rotor chamber, and can be adjusted or removed based on crop conditions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The MOG limiting devices are designed to be adjustable or removable, allowing the concave configuration to be dynamically changed based on crop type and moisture content. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to different harvesting conditions without requiring completely different concave structures, thus managing complexity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If concaves are difficult to adjust and install, then structural stability is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The MOG limiting devices are designed as separate, modular components that can be independently installed and adjusted on the concave structure. This segmentation allows operators to make adjustments without disassembling the entire concave, maintaining structural stability while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The MOG limiting devices are pre-configured with mounting features and adjustment mechanisms that simplify installation. The devices are designed to be attached to the concave in a predetermined manner, reducing the complexity of the adjustment and installation process while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
An over-center latch for a concave combine comprises a mount directly attached to a concave combine or an accessory for a concave combine, a base plate, a lever with a loop at one end that is configured to attach to a catch, and a center pin that allows the lever to rotate with respect to a handle. Either the handle or the lever can be pulled into a vertical position.