Feed Agitator Installation Using Boot Mount Brackets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing feed agitator systems require the feed bin to be completely empty for installation, which is impractical on operating farms due to continuous feeding needs, and are limited to straight boot assemblies, leading to installation challenges and blockages from clumped feed.
Innovation Solution
A feed agitator installation system using boot mount brackets with lower ledges to block feed flow, allowing the agitator shaft with radial protrusions to be inserted through holes cut in the boot sidewalls, supported by bearings, and compatible with both straight and angled boot designs, enabling installation without emptying the bin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the feed bin is emptied completely for installation of the feed agitator, then the installation can be performed, but the livestock feeding schedule is disrupted and installation time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing a temporary chock or blockage device that is installed in the boot before the feed agitator is installed. This preliminary measure prevents feed from flowing into the boot during the installation process, eliminating the need to empty the feed bin beforehand. The chock is placed to block the boot opening, creating a controlled environment that allows installation personnel to work on the agitator installation without disrupting the feeding schedule or losing feed.
2Ease of manufacture
If the feed bin is emptied completely for installation of the feed agitator, then the installation can be performed, but personnel safety is compromised due to potential collapse of the bin structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by installing a support structure or chock in the boot before removing feed for installation. This preliminary support prevents the bin structure from collapsing when the feed is removed, maintaining structural integrity while providing safe access for installation personnel. The support structure is placed to bear the load that would otherwise be carried by the feed, allowing safe installation without compromising bin stability.
3Ease of manufacture
If the feed bin is emptied completely for installation of the feed agitator, then the installation can be performed, but feed is lost during the emptying and refilling process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by placing a chock or blockage device in the boot to prevent feed from flowing into the installation area. This allows the feed bin to remain full and operational during the agitator installation process. The preliminary placement of the chock creates a barrier that isolates the installation zone from the feed flow, enabling installation work to proceed without removing any feed from the bin, thus eliminating feed loss entirely.
4Ease of manufacture
If the feed bin is emptied completely for installation of the feed agitator, then the installation can be performed, but unexpected installation problems cannot be addressed due to lack of feed in the bin
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by installing a chock or blockage device that allows the feed bin to remain full during installation. This maintains normal feed conditions in the bin, enabling installation personnel to observe and address any unexpected installation problems that arise from actual feed-agitator interactions. The preliminary chock placement creates a safe working environment where feed can remain present, allowing for real-time problem identification and resolution without the complications of installing in an empty bin.
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
Facilitates faster and more efficient installation of the feed agitator on both straight and angled boot assemblies without emptying the feed bin, preventing feed blockages by breaking up clumps and ensuring continuous operation.
Implementation Method 1
The lower ledge is located below the installation opening and extends from the boot a sufficient length to stop ground feed from free flowing from the installation opening due to the angle of repose of the feed
Implementation Method 2
an agitator shaft with radial protrusions that break up clumps of feed to prevent blockages from occurring
Data Source
AI summary
An animal feed mechanism with feed agitator assembly includes a feed bin, a funnel-shaped boot attached to a bottom of the feed bin, an agitator system installed in the boot, and a conveying device for conveying feed out of the boot. The agitator system is installed using boot mount brackets attached to end walls of the boot, and holes cut in the sidewalls of the boot after the boot mount brackets are attached. The boot mount brackets each include a lower ledge with a sufficient length to block the free flow of feed out of the holes cut in the sidewalls of the boot due to the angle of repose of the feed. The agitator system includes a motor driven agitator shaft with radial projections that can be inserted through the holes cut in the boot and supported at each end by bearings attached to the boot mount brackets.