Folding Device with Differential-Area Pistons for Passive Contour Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural implements with folding devices require complex valve or pressure control systems to adapt to varying widths and comply with road traffic regulations, necessitating a simpler construction.
Innovation Solution
A folding device with at least two pistons having different surfaces, allowing one piston to move relative to the other due to a force acting on a frame part, enabling adaptation to ground contours without active control, and utilizing a pressure accumulator for fluidic exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex valve or pressure control systems are used to adapt implement contours to agricultural areas, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding device enables self-service contour adaptation through a passive mechanism where frame parts automatically fold in response to ground contours without requiring active control signals. The system uses the natural interaction between the agricultural implement and the ground to trigger the folding action, eliminating the need for sensors, control units, or complex valve systems.
Solution Approach 2:
A folding device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the frame parts and the ground interaction. It translates the force from ground contact into controlled folding motion through its mechanical structure, mediating the adaptation process without requiring electronic control systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If folding mechanisms are added to adapt to road traffic requirements, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding function and contour adaptation function are merged into a single passive mechanical system. The same folding device that enables width adaptation for road traffic compliance also automatically adjusts frame contours when encountering uneven ground, eliminating the need for separate control systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding device performs multiple functions: it enables width adaptation for road transport compliance and simultaneously provides automatic contour adaptation during field operation. This multi-functionality is achieved through a simple passive mechanical design rather than multiple specialized systems.
3Device complexity
If passive folding mechanism is used without active control, then device complexity is reduced, but control precision worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The folding device creates a mechanical equilibrium system where frame parts naturally settle into stable positions determined by the balance of forces from ground contact and the folding mechanism's mechanical constraints. This passive equilibrium achieves sufficient positioning precision for agricultural operations without requiring active control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves positioning through changes in mechanical parameters such as folding angles and frame configurations rather than precise electronic control. The passive mechanism allows the system to transition between discrete stable states (folded/unfolded positions) that are sufficient for the application requirements.
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
Enables contour adaptation of agricultural implements to uneven ground without complex control systems, ensuring compliance with road regulations and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure accumulator (13) is provided, which is designed to absorb a volume displaced by the movement of the piston relative to the other piston or to make the volume available
Implementation Method 2
the pressure accumulator (13) is fluidically connected to the folding device (6)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~3B
Figure 4A~4E
AI summary
Folding device (6) designed to fold two frame parts (3, 4, 5) toward each other. The invention is characterized in that the folding device (6) comprises at least two pistons (7, 8) having different surfaces (9, 10), wherein one piston (7, 8) is movable relative to the other piston (7, 8) by means of a force (F) acting on a frame part (3, 4, 5).