Endless Belt Depth Control for Reversible Ploughs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional depth wheel arrangements for reversible ploughs can hinder ploughing at field edges due to width and are prone to puncturing, especially in stubble after maize growth, and do not effectively adapt to varying soil conditions without increasing width or reducing load-carrying capacity.
Innovation Solution
A depth controlling arrangement using an endless belt with a flexible material, such as reinforced rubber, that forms a contact face against the ground, adjustable in length to match working conditions without increasing width, and supported by rotatable rollers with a friction element to maintain tension and prevent sliding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional depth wheels are used for depth control, then depth control function is achieved, but the width of the plough increases and load-carrying capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid depth wheels with a flexible endless belt that forms a contact face against the ground. The belt is supported by rollers and can be made from flexible materials such as reinforced rubber, allowing it to conform to the ground surface while maintaining depth control functionality without increasing plough width
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from point contact (depth wheels) to line contact (endless belt along the plough edge). The belt's length dimension along the plough edge provides the depth control function, eliminating the need for wide depth wheel arrangements
2Ease of operation
If traditional depth wheels are used for depth control, then depth control function is achieved, but susceptibility to puncturing increases in stubble conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible endless belt made from materials such as reinforced rubber can deform and absorb impacts from stubble and debris, preventing punctures that would occur with rigid depth wheels. The belt's flexibility allows it to conform to uneven terrain and obstacles without structural failure
Solution Approach 2:
The belt may be constructed from composite materials such as reinforced rubber, combining the flexibility of rubber with the strength of reinforcing elements, providing both puncture resistance and depth control functionality
3Ease of operation
If depth wheel arrangement is used, then depth control is provided, but conflict with fences or hedges at field edges occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible belt can conform to the ground surface and adapt to field edge conditions, allowing the plough to work close to fences or hedges without the belt interfering with these obstacles, unlike rigid depth wheels that protrude outward
Solution Approach 2:
The belt arrangement is supported by rollers that can rotate and adjust, allowing the belt to dynamically adapt to varying ground conditions and field edge obstacles, providing versatility in different working environments
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 solution allows for consistent working depth and improved robustness against puncturing, enabling efficient ploughing at field edges and in challenging soil conditions without increasing the plough's width or reducing load-carrying capacity.
Implementation Method 1
a friction element to maintain tension and prevent sliding
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
Depth controlling arrangement (2) for a soil working implement (1), arranged to be able to be mounted to a frame (12) and comprising a depth controller (232), and wherein the depth controlling arrangement (2) comprises an, in operating conditions, endless belt (22) forming a contact face (222) against a ground (3). Use of a belt (22) arranged on a belt frame (21) as depth controlling arrangement (2) for a soil working implement (1).