Disc Spreader Control Unit for Scattering Ring Sector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Disc spreaders face inaccuracies in controlling the scattering ring sector due to limitations in sensor detection and failure to account for the type of distributor disc and throwing vanes, leading to non-optimal lateral distribution of spreading material.

Innovation Solution

The method involves storing functional dependencies of setting parameters on ejection parameters in a database, considering the type of distributor disc and throwing vanes, and using sensors to determine actual values, which are then adjusted to match target values, ensuring precise control of the scattering ring sector.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If sensor detection is used to control the scattering ring sector, then automation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to failure to account for disc and vane characteristics

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic control of scattering ring sectorVSAvoiddetection accuracy of ejection parameters
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit stores functional dependencies between setting parameters and ejection parameters in advance, specific to each distributor disc and throwing vane combination. This preliminary preparation enables the system to automatically select and apply the correct functional relationship when controlling the scattering ring sector, eliminating the need for manual calibration while maintaining high measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter representation by storing functional dependencies rather than raw sensor data. By maintaining multiple sets of functional relationships corresponding to different disc and vane configurations, the system can adaptively adjust the control parameters based on the specific hardware setup, thereby improving both automation and precision simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If generic control methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to non-optimal lateral distribution

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system structureVSAvoidlateral distribution accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit is designed with multi-functionality to handle both generic control operations and specific disc/vane configurations. By integrating a database of functional dependencies for multiple disc and vane types within a single control system, the invention achieves universal applicability without requiring separate control systems for each configuration, thus maintaining simplicity while improving precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The functional dependencies stored in the control unit act as an intermediary layer between the sensor detection system and the scattering ring sector control. This intermediary contains pre-calibrated relationships that translate generic sensor inputs into precise control actions specific to each disc and vane combination, thereby achieving high manufacturing precision without increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If the scattering ring sector is adjusted to compensate for non-uniform mass distribution, then lateral distribution is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional adjustment mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelateral distribution uniformityVSAvoidadjustment mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses sensor detection to monitor the actual ejection parameters and compares them with target values stored in the control unit. Based on this feedback loop, the control unit automatically adjusts the scattering ring sector position to achieve uniform lateral distribution. This closed-loop feedback mechanism eliminates the need for complex manual adjustment mechanisms while maintaining high precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The control system performs self-adjustment of the scattering ring sector based on pre-stored functional dependencies and real-time sensor feedback. By enabling the system to automatically compensate for non-uniform mass distribution without requiring external intervention or complex mechanical adjustment devices, the invention improves lateral distribution uniformity while keeping device complexity low.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

This approach allows for accurate adjustment of setting parameters to achieve the desired lateral distribution of spreading material, eliminating inaccuracies and the 'quantity effect' by accounting for the specific disc and vane characteristics, resulting in a more precise and automatic correction of the scattering pattern.

Implementation Method 1

the position of the maximum of the scattering ring sector, which is able to represent the circumferential distribution of the spreading material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScattering: Scattering

Data Source

PatentEP2777376B1Method for controlling a device for the modification of the spreader ring sector of a disc spreader and disc spreader for carrying out such a method
Publication Date: 2018.05.16 RAUCH LANDMASCHINENFABRIK GMBH
  • EP2777376B1 patent drawing
  • EP2777376B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The method involves determining an actual value of a throwing parameter using a sensor. The actual value of the throwing parameter is compared with a set point value in a control unit. The setting parameter of a device for changing a spreading ring sector is readjusted when the actual value of the throwing parameter deviates from the set point value by more than a preset maximum value. Functional dependencies are stored in a database of a setting parameter on a throwing parameter that takes into account a type of a distributor disk and/or thrower blades. An independent claim is also included for a disk spreader.