Convertible Multi-Rank Planter Layout for Flexible Row Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current two-rank agricultural implements require one rank to be rendered inoperative when switching between planting different types of crops, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to unnecessary towing, removal, or elevation of unused ranks.
Innovation Solution
A convertible multiple rank agricultural implement with adjustable drawbars and a separable second rank that can be offset or aligned with the first rank, allowing for easy conversion between two-rank and single-rank configurations, optimizing row spacing and reducing operational costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If one rank is rendered inoperative by leaving it in place, then the implement can be used for single-crop planting, but the unused rank is pulled along unnecessarily consuming fuel and time
Solution Approach 1:
The second rank is divided into two separate sections that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows one section to be aligned with the first rank for planting while the other section can be offset and disconnected, eliminating the waste of towing unused components.
Solution Approach 2:
The implement transitions from a static two-rank configuration to a dynamic reconfigurable system. The second rank sections can be laterally moved between offset and aligned positions, and the coupler allows dynamic connection/disconnection, enabling the system to adapt its structure based on operational needs.
2Loss of energy
If the unused rank is removed completely from the implement, then fuel and towing costs are reduced, but the implement loses versatility for dual-crop operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains versatility through dynamic reconfiguration. The second rank sections can be laterally moved to an offset position and reconnected via the coupler, allowing the implement to switch between single-rank and dual-rank modes depending on whether dual-crop or single-crop planting is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The implement is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a two-rank implement for dual-crop planting, or reconfigure to a single-rank implementation for single-crop planting. The universal design accommodates different operational requirements without requiring permanent modification.
3Productivity
If the unused rank is raised and locked in an elevated position, then the operational rank can work efficiently, but the implement complexity and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of raising the entire second rank, only the necessary portion is laterally moved to an offset position. This segmentation of the movement function reduces the complexity of the positioning mechanism compared to a full elevation system.
Solution Approach 2:
Rather than vertically elevating the unused rank to clear it from operation, the invention uses horizontal lateral movement to offset the second rank sections. This inverted approach (horizontal vs. vertical positioning) simplifies the mechanism by using lateral translation instead of vertical elevation and locking.
4Adaptability or versatility
If both ranks are kept in place for dual-crop planting, then versatility is maintained, but row spacing precision is compromised when single-crop planting is required
Solution Approach 1:
The implement transitions from a fixed dual-rank configuration to a dynamic reconfigurable system. The second rank sections can be laterally moved to align with the first rank, creating a precise single-rank configuration with accurate row spacing for single-crop planting, while maintaining the capability for dual-rank operation when needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A convertible multiple rank agricultural implement (12) for being towed by an agricultural vehicle (14), comprising: a towing assembly (20); a first rank (16) including a first plurality of row units (22) longitudinally spaced along a longitudinally extending support structure (24); a second rank (18) coupled to the first rank, the second rank including a first section (30) connected to a second plurality of row units (26), and a second section (32) connected to a third plurality of row units (26), wherein the first section and second section, in a first configuration, are coupled together with a coupler (34) located at adjacent ends of the first and second sections when the second rank is offset and spaced from the first rank, and wherein the first and second section, in a second configuration, are spaced apart and longitudinally aligned with the longitudinally extending support structure (24) of the first rank.