Automated Particle Size Distribution Measurement in Livestock Feed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring and adjusting the particle size distribution of animal feed are manual and inefficient, leading to suboptimal feeding practices that can result in digestive issues, ulcers, and respiratory problems in livestock.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an inlet, a sorting mechanism with multiple sieves for sorting particles into different size partitions, a weighing system for calculating particle size distribution, and a system for continuous adjustment of particle size during processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual sorting and measuring methods are used to determine particle size distribution, then measurement can be performed, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sorting and measuring with an automated optical measurement system. The device uses a camera to capture images of particles on a conveyor belt and automatically determines particle size distribution through image processing and analysis, eliminating the need for manual intervention and significantly improving measurement efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical system (camera and image processing) between the bulk material and the measurement result. Instead of directly measuring particles manually, the system uses optical images as an intermediary to capture particle characteristics, which are then processed to determine size distribution, enabling rapid automated measurement.
2Manufacturing precision
If particle size is not continuously monitored and adjusted during processing, then the processing flow remains simple, but the feed quality is inconsistent and suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where particle size distribution is continuously measured during processing, and the results are used to adjust processing parameters in real-time. The system monitors particle size on the conveyor belt and provides feedback to control the grinder or classifier, ensuring consistent feed quality while maintaining a relatively simple overall process structure.
3Productivity
If grain is ground into fine particles to improve digestion, then energy uptake increases, but dust generation increases causing respiratory problems and equipment contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the particle size distribution parameters to optimize the balance between digestion efficiency and dust generation. By continuously monitoring and adjusting the particle size distribution during processing, the system maintains particles fine enough for good digestion while preventing excessive fineness that would generate harmful dust, thus optimizing the particle size parameters to achieve both goals.
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 device enables precise measurement and continuous adjustment of particle size distribution in animal feed, optimizing feeding for different animal ages and types, thereby improving animal health and reducing waste and equipment contamination.
Implementation Method 1
a motor or actuator for vibrating said sorting device
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for determining particle size distribution in a bulk material. The device comprises an inlet for receiving at least a portion of the bulk material, a sorting mechanism for sorting the received bulk material. The sorting mechanism comprises at least a first sorting device for sorting the received bulk material into at least two sorted partitions wherein the sorting device is capable of sorting different particle sizes and the at least two sorted partitions have different particle sizes. The invention further comprises a motor or actuator for vibrating the sorting device, a system for weighing the sorted partitions and a data output for generating output data indicative of a weight of the at least two sorted partitions, so as to allow calculation of the particle size distribution in the received material and thus provide information regarding the particle size composition of the bulk material.