Fertilizer Spreader Hydraulic Block Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing two-disc fertilizer spreaders face challenges with complex hydraulic drive systems that are difficult to assemble, maintain, and service, with issues related to sensor alignment and hydraulic line routing, and lack modularity for drive type changes.
Innovation Solution
Mechanically connecting the hydraulic block to the support bracket, routing hydraulic lines under the container roof, and using a central hydraulic console to create a compact and accessible design, with sensors integrated in the bevel gear for precise speed measurement and pressure sensors within the hydraulic block for protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the hydraulic block is laterally offset on the container frame, then the hydraulic motors can be positioned away from the center, but the hydraulic components become difficult to access and require complex routing of hydraulic lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the hydraulic block with the support bracket into an integrated assembly. The hydraulic block is mounted directly on the support bracket, which itself is positioned on the container frame. This merging of components consolidates the hydraulic system into a single accessible location, eliminating the need for complex hydraulic line routing across the entire spreader while maintaining operational accessibility.
2Measurement precision
If sensors are arranged on the underside of the distributor disks with separate transmitters on the support bracket, then speed measurement is possible, but alignment becomes problematic after disk change and requires precise restoration of distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the speed sensors directly into the support bracket assembly rather than placing them separately on the distributor disks. The sensors are mounted on the support bracket in fixed positions that correspond to the magnetic markers on the distributor disks. This integration ensures consistent alignment regardless of disk changes, as the support bracket maintains a fixed relationship with the disk mounting interface.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the hydraulic block is fixed on the container frame, then the hydraulic system is stable, but the complete drive train does not form a structural unit and assembly is more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a modular assembly by mounting the hydraulic block directly on the support bracket, which also supports the distributor disks. This forms a complete drive train structural unit where the support bracket serves as the common mounting interface for both the hydraulic components and the mechanical drive elements, simplifying assembly while maintaining system stability.
4Measurement precision
If pressure sensors are located in the C-profile of the support console, then speed measurement is enabled, but the sensors are exposed to dirt and fertilizer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the pressure sensors inside the hydraulic block, which is housed within the support bracket structure. The support bracket and hydraulic block enclosure serve as an intermediary protective barrier, shielding the sensors from direct exposure to dirt and fertilizer while still allowing them to measure hydraulic pressure for speed determination.
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 design simplifies assembly, service, and testing, reduces complexity, and allows for easy conversion between hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical drives, ensuring accurate speed measurement and protecting hydraulic components from dirt and damage.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor, which interacts with an incremental encoder (38) on the axis of the distributor disk (5, 6), is inserted and adjusted in the housing (41) of the bevel gear (36)
Data Source
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AI summary
The fertilizer distributor comprises a fertilizer container, which has two funnels, and a hydraulic block (19), which is mechanically connected with a support bracket (11). The hydraulic block is arranged in the travel direction approximately in the center. The hydraulic block is arranged partly below a roof of the fertilizer container.