Gauge Wheel System for Uniform Tillage Depth Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural tillage implements face challenges in achieving uniform depth control across their width due to rigid wheel systems that cannot independently adjust for the differences between tilled and untilled soil, leading to uneven tillage.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a gauge wheel system with an untilled wheel assembly, a tilled wheel assembly, and an adjustment device that allows for independent fore/aft orientation adjustment of the tillage sections, using actuators and linkages to compensate for soil characteristics and maintain level tilling elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a rigid wheel system is used for depth control, then the implement structure is simple, but uniform depth control across the implement width cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel system is segmented into multiple independent gauge wheel assemblies distributed across the implement width, each capable of independent fore/aft adjustment. This segmentation allows each section to be adjusted individually to compensate for variations in soil characteristics, achieving uniform depth control across the entire implement width while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The gauge wheel assemblies are designed with dynamic adjustment capability through fore/aft movement along the implement frame. This dynamic feature allows the wheels to be repositioned based on local soil conditions and tillage requirements, enabling the system to adapt to varying terrain and maintain consistent tillage depth across different sections of the implement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate untilled and tilled wheel assemblies are used, then soil characteristic differences are compensated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different types of gauge wheel assemblies (untilled and tilled) are strategically placed at different locations across the implement width based on local soil conditions. Untilled wheel assemblies are positioned in sections working on virgin soil, while tilled wheel assemblies are placed in sections working on previously tilled ground. This local differentiation allows each wheel assembly to be optimized for its specific operating conditions, improving overall soil adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the entire wheel system.
3Productivity
If the implement profile is reduced for transportation, then transport efficiency improves, but adjustment range for field operation may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The gauge wheel assemblies are designed to nest or retract into a compact configuration during transportation. The adjustment mechanisms and movable components are positioned to minimize the overall profile height and width when the implement is being transported, allowing it to pass under obstacles and fit within standard transport dimensions while still providing full adjustment range when deployed in the field.
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural tillage implement including a main section having a hitch extending in a travel direction, a plurality of foldable wing sections coupled with the main section, and a plurality of ground engaging tilling elements. The tilling elements are coupled to the main section and wing sections. At least one of the sections have a gauge wheel system. The gauge wheel system includes an untilled wheel assembly, a tilled wheel assembly, and an adjustment device. The adjustment device is configured to adjust the untilled wheel assembly relative to the tilled wheel assembly thereby compensating for a characteristic difference between tilled and untilled soil.