Dual-arm Bin Sweep with Coordinated Auger Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional grain bin sweeps are inefficient in transferring grain to conveying devices due to limitations in their design, particularly in the movement and distribution mechanisms, which can lead to incomplete removal of grain from the bin.
Innovation Solution
A bin sweep system featuring a pivot assembly with two arms, each equipped with a driving mechanism, a control device to manage the arms' movement, and a track system that allows for coordinated rotation around a central point, ensuring comprehensive grain collection and transfer to the sump area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single auger is used in conventional bin sweeps, then the device complexity is reduced, but the grain transfer efficiency deteriorates due to incomplete grain removal
Solution Approach 1:
The single auger is divided into multiple separate augers (first auger and second auger), each responsible for different sections of the bin floor. This segmentation allows each auger to focus on specific areas, improving overall grain removal efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single linear auger path to a multi-dimensional sweeping pattern where multiple augers operate simultaneously at different radial positions and angular orientations around the bin center, creating comprehensive coverage in both radial and tangential dimensions
2Manufacturing precision
If the auger moves in a simple circular path, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates leading to incomplete grain removal in certain areas
Solution Approach 1:
The sweep mechanism employs dynamic control where augers can independently adjust their radial positions and angular velocities. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to varying grain distribution patterns, ensuring uniform coverage precision without requiring overly complex static mechanical linkages
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple augers serve universal functions of grain collection and transport while simultaneously performing specialized roles in different bin sections. Each auger can operate independently or in coordination, providing manufacturing precision through distributed coverage while maintaining ease of operation through standardized modular components
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with example embodiments, a sweep may include a pivot assembly, a first arm extending from the pivot assembly, a second arm extending from the pivot assembly, a first driving mechanism attached to the first arm, a second driving mechanism attached to the second arm, and a control device configured to control the first driving mechanism and the second driving mechanism. In example embodiments, the control device may be configured to control the first and second driving mechanism based on a detected variable.