Cubicle Preparation Device with Pivoting Leveler and Spreader
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for maintaining cattle cubicles are labor-intensive and time-consuming due to the need for separate leveling and bedding operations, with existing solutions either lacking bedding capabilities or requiring complex drive mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A device with a pivoting rake for leveling and a spreading unit for bedding, both hydraulically connected, allowing alternating activation to efficiently level and spread materials like straw during a single pass, eliminating the need for separate operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a device levels the floor covering by moving along cubicles with an extendable/retractable leveling element, then the flooring can be maintained, but the operation becomes very labor-intensive and time-consuming due to requiring separate visits to each cubicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the leveling element and spreading element into a single integrated device that can operate simultaneously on multiple cubicles. The leveling element extends into cubicles while the spreading element distributes bedding material across the same area, merging two separate operations (leveling and bedding) into one simultaneous process, eliminating the need for separate visits to each cubicle
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it levels the floor covering in some cubicles while spreading bedding material in the same or adjacent cubicles. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require separate specialized devices and operations, significantly reducing the time and labor required
2Productivity
If a hydraulically driven auger shaft is used to level floor covering continuously, then individual cubicles no longer need separate leveling, but the device cannot spread bedding material
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with dual functionality: the hydraulically driven auger shaft provides continuous leveling capability while a separate spreading element mounted on the same base body provides bedding material distribution. This multi-functional design allows the single device to perform both leveling and bedding operations simultaneously or alternately, maintaining high productivity while adding versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The device segments its functions into distinct operational components: the auger shaft system for leveling and the spreading element for bedding. These segmented functions can operate independently or in coordination, allowing the device to maintain continuous movement and productivity while adapting to different operational requirements (leveling only, bedding only, or both simultaneously)
3Extent of automation
If a device includes both leveling element and feeding device for simultaneous operation, then flooring preparation is automated, but the device complexity increases due to extension and retraction mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control systems for the leveling element and spreading element into a unified automated control mechanism. Both elements are mounted on a common base body and can be controlled simultaneously through integrated hydraulic or electronic systems, reducing the overall control complexity compared to managing separate devices while maintaining high automation
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for preparing cubicles for animals, in particular cattle, comprising a base body (2) and a preparation unit (5) which is designed to level a floor covering of the cubicles, wherein the preparation unit (5) is connected to the base body (2) and the preparation unit (5) can be pivoted from a rest position into an approximately horizontal working position in order to level the floor covering, in particular with continuous movement of the device (1) along the cubicles. In order to enable efficient preparation and care of the cubicles, the invention provides that a spreading unit (6) for spreading bedding material such as straw and/or aggregates into the cubicles is arranged on the base body (2), and the preparation unit (5) can be activated alternately with the spreading unit (6). Furthermore, the invention relates to a method using this device (1).