Grain Processor Roller Gap Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grain processor assemblies require a significant amount of space for adjusting the gap between rollers, which is inefficient for compact designs in forage harvesters.
Innovation Solution
A grain processor assembly with two rollers mounted on frame elements, featuring a pivot bearing with an eccentric shaft and a bracing device that allows manual or external adjustment of the gap distance, combining the functions of gap adjustment and overload protection in a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional gap adjustment mechanisms (wedge, swivel arm, hydraulic cylinder) are used, then the gap between rollers can be adjusted, but the device occupies a relatively large amount of space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the gap adjustment function and overload protection function into a single pivot bearing assembly. The pivot bearing serves dual purposes: it allows manual adjustment of the gap between rollers while also acting as the overload protection mechanism that permits frame elements to move apart under excessive load. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate adjustment mechanisms, thereby reducing the space occupied by the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot bearing is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides gap adjustment capability and overload protection. By making this single component universal, the patent eliminates the need for multiple separate mechanisms (such as wedges, swivel arms, or hydraulic cylinders), thus achieving compact dimensions while maintaining full adjustment functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate mechanisms are used for gap adjustment and overload protection, then both functions are achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the gap adjustment mechanism and overload protection mechanism into a single integrated pivot bearing assembly. This eliminates the need for multiple separate components and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining both adjustment and protection functionalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot bearing is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: it enables manual gap adjustment, provides overload protection by allowing frame separation under excessive load, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed in the system.
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 a compact and adaptable grain processor assembly that adjusts the gap size based on crop throughput and moisture content, ensuring efficient processing while preventing jamming from excessive crop flow or foreign objects.
Implementation Method 1
A pivot bearing is mounted on a first side of the gap and comprises the first frame element and the second frame element which are pivotally supported to each other... The pivot bearing mentioned includes a shaft that has an eccentric, d. H. carries a circular-cylindrical element whose central axis is offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
Implementation Method 2
A clamping device is provided on the other, second side of the gap, which prestresses the first frame element and the second frame element against one another. A spring can be used as the bracing device, which spring can be designed in particular as a spiral spring.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The assembly (10) has rollers (14, 24) supported at frame elements (12, 22), where the roller (24) forms a gap with the roller (14). A tensioning unit (42) e.g. spring, is arranged on a side of the gap and tensions the frame elements against each other. A rotary bearing comprises a shaft (48) at which a tappet (50) is fixed, where the frame element (12) is supported at the tappet. The shaft is rotatably supported against the frame element (22) so that the distance between the rollers is changeable by rotation of the shaft around a longitudinal axis.