Grain Spreader Cone with Convergent Divergent Flow Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grain storage bins face issues with uneven distribution and weight distribution due to off-center grain feeding, leading to inefficient storage and potential structural instability.
Innovation Solution
A grain spreader system with a hopper and radially extending spreader arms, utilizing a convergent and divergent cone design with multiple flow zones and adjustable support springs to ensure even grain distribution and automatic adjustment to varying flow rates, redirecting grain to maintain even flow and prevent uneven bin filling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If grain is fed through an unregulated bin opening using an auger or conveyor, then grain can be introduced into the storage bin, but the grain is introduced off-center resulting in uneven distribution within the bottom of the bin
Solution Approach 1:
The grain flow is segmented into multiple streams by dividing it into inner and outer flow zones. The inner flow zone directs grain through the center opening to the bottom center of the bin, while the outer flow zone distributes grain along the periphery, achieving uniform distribution across the bin bottom
Solution Approach 2:
A flow director is introduced as an intermediary device between the bin opening and the bin interior. This flow director includes a constricted outlet and divergent cone that actively redirect grain flow patterns, transforming the off-center auger discharge into centered and uniform distribution
2Productivity
If grain is fed off-center into the storage bin, then the bin can be filled with grain, but uneven weight distribution occurs which could affect the structural stability of the bin
Solution Approach 1:
The flow director creates equipotential grain distribution by ensuring grain is deposited uniformly across the entire bin bottom surface. This equalizes the weight distribution and stress points on the bin structure, maintaining structural stability during filling operations
3Manufacturing precision
If a constricted outlet and flow director are added to regulate grain flow, then even grain distribution can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow director utilizes geometric parameter changes - specifically the constricted outlet transitioning to a divergent cone - to control grain flow patterns. This passive geometric design achieves flow regulation without complex mechanical components, actuators, or control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The flow director is designed to self-regulate grain flow automatically based on the incoming grain rate. The constricted outlet and divergent cone geometry naturally redirect grain into the appropriate flow zones without requiring external control inputs, sensors, or manual adjustment
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 grain spreader system ensures even grain distribution across the storage bin, maintaining structural stability by redirecting grain flow and automatically adjusting to different input rates without manual intervention, enhancing the storage efficiency and stability of the bin.
Implementation Method 1
Grain being fed into the hopper falls into the convergent cone and an interior of the convergent cone forms a first flow zone
Data Source
AI summary
A grain spreader includes a hopper and spreader arms that distribute grain in a bin with a spreader cone having convergent divergent cones. The convergent cone forms a first flow zone. A center opening between the convergent cone and divergent cone allows a first portion of grain collecting in the convergent cone to pass through the spreader cone. An intermediate funnel is inside the hopper body between the convergent cone and the hopper body. A second portion of the grain spills over the rim of the convergent cone and onto the divergent cone into a second flow zone outside the convergent cone but inside the intermediate funnel. When the second zone fills with grain, a further portion of grain will spill over a rim of the intermediate funnel into a third flow zone radially outward of the intermediate funnel but inside the hopper body.