Gravity Grain Spreader with Adjustable Chutes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grain spreaders, particularly static and gravity types, struggle to achieve uniform distribution of high moisture grains like corn, as they do not effectively handle grains with moisture content above 25%, leading to uneven drying and airflow resistance issues.
Innovation Solution
A gravity-powered grain spreader with adjustable chutes and deflectors that rotate about a vertical axis, allowing for variable angle of repose and enhanced dispersal through terminal and intermediate deflectors, ensuring uniform distribution without the need for motorization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If static spreaders with fixed chutes are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the uniformity of grain distribution deteriorates, especially for high moisture grains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the chutes rotatable about a vertical axis instead of being fixed. The chutes can be rotated to different angular positions to accommodate varying grain moisture contents and achieve uniform distribution. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the spreader to adapt to different operating conditions without increasing overall device complexity significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing adjustment of the chute angle of repose. By changing the angular parameter of the chutes, the system can optimize grain flow characteristics for different moisture contents. This parameter adjustment enables the same physical structure to perform effectively under varying operational conditions.
2Use of energy by moving object
If gravity-powered rotation is used instead of motorization, then the use of energy is reduced, but the ability to control distribution characteristics deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by designing the chutes to rotate automatically under the influence of grain flow itself. The weight and movement of the grain provide the rotational force, eliminating the need for external motors or power sources. The system uses its own operating material (grain) to drive the distribution mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic rotation capability is maintained through gravity-powered movement, allowing the chutes to adapt their position based on grain flow characteristics. This dynamic adjustment preserves adaptability while eliminating active power consumption.
3Ease of operation
If high moisture grains are spread without adjusting chute angles, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the grain distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable chute design allows operators to adjust the chute angle dynamically based on grain moisture content observations. This simple angular adjustment optimizes distribution for different grain conditions without requiring complex control systems or multiple specialized devices.
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 solution ensures uniform grain distribution across the grain storage bin, accommodating high moisture grains by adjusting chute angles and deflectors, promoting even drying and airflow, thus improving the efficiency of grain storage and drying processes.
Implementation Method 1
A gravity-powered grain spreader with adjustable chutes and deflectors that rotate about a vertical axis
Data Source
AI summary
A grain spreader apparatus is powered in rotation by the flow of grain through the grain spreader apparatus. The gravity grain spreader includes a distribution hopper mounted at the top of a grain storage bin to receive a supply of grain to be distributed within the grain storage bin in a uniform manner. The distribution hopper delivers the grain into a pair of opposingly oriented chutes meeting at an apex underneath the distribution hopper. Each chute is provided with a terminal deflector at the end of the chute, and with intermediate deflectors built into the sides of the chutes to provide a more uniform dispersal of the grain into the grain storage bin. The angle of repose of the chutes is variable through an adjustment mechanism so that higher moisture grains can be fed through the grains spreader apparatus and effectively distributed.