Hinged Particle Tube With Side-Mounted Sensor Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural row units face challenges in accurately detecting seeds due to dusty environments and debris interference with optical sensors, particularly because the sensor location is limited to the end of the seed tube, restricting the size and geometry of the tube.
Innovation Solution
A particle delivery assembly with a first and second particle tube, hinged to pivot between open and closed positions, includes a sensor housing positioned along the flow path to house sensors for detecting particles, allowing for accurate detection and delivery of seeds to the trench, with the tubes being easily assembled via injection molding and coupling mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the optical sensor is positioned at the end of the seed tube, then the sensor can detect seeds passing through, but the sensor location is limited which restricts the size and geometry of the seed tube end
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the optical sensor from the traditional end-position to the side of the particle tube, utilizing a different spatial dimension. This side-mounted configuration allows the sensor to detect particles as they pass through the tube without constraining the tube's end geometry, thereby resolving the contradiction between detection accuracy and geometric flexibility.
2Measurement precision
If the optical sensor is used to detect seeds, then seed detection is enabled, but dusty environments and debris passing between seeds and sensor interfere with detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sensor housing as an intermediary structure that encloses the optical sensor. This housing creates a protected environment that filters or blocks dust and debris from directly contacting the sensor, thereby maintaining detection accuracy in harsh agricultural conditions while allowing the sensor to function effectively.
3Strength
If a rigid seed tube structure is used, then structural strength is maintained, but the tube cannot adapt to different seeding requirements or environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a rigid seed tube to a flexible particle tube that can dynamically adjust its configuration. The flexible tube maintains sufficient structural strength to contain and direct particles while adapting its shape and position to accommodate different seeding requirements and environmental conditions, resolving the contradiction between strength and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A particle delivery assembly of an agricultural row unit includes a particle tube configured to receive a particle and to deliver the particle toward a trench in soil. The particle tube includes a first body portion, a second body portion, and a hinge coupled to the first body portion and to the second body portion. The hinge is configured to enable the first body portion and the second body portion to pivot relative to one another between an open position of the particle tube and a closed position of the particle tube.