Feed Mixer Supplement Weighing Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing feed mixers struggle to accurately weigh and add feed supplements due to their design for high weight measurements, resulting in limited precision and increased time and effort for farmers.
Innovation Solution
A feed mixer with a dedicated feed supplement weighing device and conveying system that allows for precise measurement and automatic addition of supplements to the mixing container, offering higher accuracy and reduced manual handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a feed weighing device designed for high weight measurements is used to weigh feed supplements, then the device can measure the total feed weight, but the measurement precision for small feed supplement quantities deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The weighing system is segmented into two independent weighing devices: a feed weighing device for the mixing container and a feed supplement weighing device for the additional container. Each device is optimized for its specific measurement range, with the feed supplement weighing device providing high precision for small quantities while the feed weighing device handles large quantities.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that receives weight signals from both weighing devices, processes the data, and coordinates the dosing and mixing processes. This intermediary component integrates the two independent weighing systems into a unified control architecture.
2Measurement precision
If feed supplements are weighed using an external scale before addition, then measurement precision can be improved, but the time and effort required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feed supplement weighing device is integrated with the additional container and the feed mixer system. The weighing, dosing, and mixing operations are merged into a single coordinated process controlled by the control unit, eliminating the need for separate external weighing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The feed supplement is weighed in advance in the additional container using the feed supplement weighing device before being automatically dosed into the mixing container. This preliminary weighing action allows the system to prepare the exact required amount ready for immediate transfer and mixing.
3Measurement precision
If a dedicated feed supplement weighing device is added to the feed mixer, then measurement precision for feed supplements improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it receives weight signals from both weighing devices, controls the dosing of feed supplements, monitors the mixing process, and manages the overall operation of the feed mixer. This multi-functional control unit reduces the need for separate control systems for each component.
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
Enables precise and efficient addition of feed supplements, improving animal health, reducing methane emissions, and lowering costs by eliminating the need for external weighing and minimizing measurement inaccuracies.
Implementation Method 1
the feed supplement weighing device comprising measuring elements which measure a deformation or load on the holder dependent on the filling weight of the additional container
Implementation Method 2
the closing device is arranged in the bottom area of the additional container in such a way that the feed supplement can flow out of the additional container by gravity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A feed mixer has a mixing container (2) for mixing feedstuffs, at least one additional container (8) for holding a feed supplement, and a feed weighing device for weighing the feedstuff filled into the mixing container (2). Furthermore, in addition to the feed weighing device of the mixing container (2), the feed mixer has a feed supplement weighing device (10) for weighing the feed supplement filled into the additional container (8).