Feed Mixer CVT Control for Variable Torque and Mixing Conditions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional livestock feed mixers face inefficiencies in mixing feed materials due to varying physical characteristics and conditions, leading to abrupt changes in mixing conditions and reduced efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A control system for livestock feed mixers that utilizes a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with sensors and an electronic control unit to monitor mixing conditions and adjust the speed ratio based on parameters such as pressure, temperature, and torque, optimizing the mixing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional livestock feed mixers use fixed torque and power from external sources, then the structure is simple, but mixing efficiency decreases when feed material conditions change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system that allows the mixer to dynamically adjust its operating parameters. The CVT enables continuous variation of torque and power delivery to match changing feed material conditions, transforming a static system into an adaptive one that maintains optimal mixing efficiency throughout the mixing process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through sensors that continuously monitor mixing conditions (such as power consumption, torque, and mixing uniformity) and feed this information back to the control system. This feedback loop enables the system to detect changes in feed material characteristics and automatically adjust transmission parameters to maintain optimal mixing performance
2Manufacturing precision
If the mixer operates at constant speed and torque, then the power transmission system is simple, but mixing homogeneity deteriorates when material characteristics vary
Solution Approach 1:
The continuously variable transmission system enables dynamic adjustment of speed and torque ratios in real-time based on detected mixing conditions. This allows the mixer to adapt its operational characteristics to maintain consistent mixing homogeneity regardless of variations in feed material properties such as moisture content, particle size, or density
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters (speed ratio, torque) continuously through the CVT system rather than maintaining fixed values. By varying these parameters in response to detected mixing conditions, the system maintains optimal mixing homogeneity across different feed material types and states
3Productivity
If the mixer uses fixed power transmission, then the energy consumption is predictable, but mixing time increases when abrupt changes in material conditions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback mechanism monitors power consumption and mixing progress in real-time, allowing the control system to optimize power transmission efficiency. When mixing conditions change abruptly, the system detects these changes and adjusts transmission parameters to maintain efficient energy utilization while adapting to new mixing requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic power transmission capability allows the system to optimize energy delivery during different phases of mixing. By continuously adjusting torque and speed ratios based on actual mixing conditions, the system maintains high mixing speed while minimizing energy waste during transitions and steady-state operation
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
The system enhances mixing efficiency by dynamically adjusting the speed and torque to match changing conditions, ensuring consistent and efficient mixing of feed materials.
Implementation Method 1
a continuously variable transmission that connects the driveline and the power source and having a hydrostatic loop to provide a speed ratio between the input speed and the output speed
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for mixing materials for livestock feed including a container that receives the materials, agitators that mix the materials in the container, a driveline that drives the agitators at an output speed with an output torque, a power source that provides an input speed at an input torque, a continuously variable transmission that connects the driveline and the power source and having a hydrostatic loop to provide a speed ratio between the input speed and the output speed, a plurality of sensors positioned between the power source and the agitators that provides mixing signals commensurate to mixing parameters, and an electronic control unit configured to receive the mixing signals, extract mixing parameter values from the mixing signals, and actuate the continuously variable transmission and adjust the speed ratio based on the mixing parameter values to enhance efficiency of the mixing of the materials.