Hybrid Feed Mixer Wagon Drive for Low-Emission Indoor Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Feed mixer wagons powered exclusively by electric motors require lengthy downtime for recharging and produce exhaust fumes and noise when used indoors, while those powered by internal combustion engines emit pollutants and are inefficient in energy use.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid feed mixer wagon equipped with both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, allowing for independent or combined operation, with energy storage and a control system that optimizes energy use and minimizes emissions by switching between power sources based on location and operational needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If an internal combustion engine is used as the drive unit, then the energy supply for the operating cycle is ensured, but undesirable exhaust gases are produced
Solution Approach 1:
The drive unit is segmented into two separate drive modules: a first drive module (internal combustion engine) and a second drive module (electric motor). This segmentation allows the harmful exhaust gas production to be separated from the primary propulsion function, enabling the electric motor to handle feed mixing tasks without combustion, thus reducing overall harmful emissions while maintaining energy supply capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the first drive module (internal combustion engine) and the second drive module (electric motor) into a hybrid drive unit that operates together. This combination allows the system to leverage the high energy density of the internal combustion engine for long-distance travel while using the electric motor for localized feed mixing operations, thereby reducing exhaust gas production during critical operations without compromising overall energy supply.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If an electric motor is used as the drive unit, then no exhaust gases are produced, but large energy storage units are required
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage system is segmented into two components: a large-capacity energy storage unit for the electric motor and a fuel tank for the internal combustion engine. This segmentation allows the electric motor to use stored electrical energy for feed mixing operations without requiring the entire energy supply to be stored electrically, while the internal combustion engine provides additional energy reserves for transportation and extended operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid drive unit serves multiple functions: the internal combustion engine provides primary propulsion and long-duration energy supply, while the electric motor handles feed mixing and auxiliary functions. This multi-functionality allows the system to use the most appropriate energy source for each specific task, optimizing overall energy efficiency without requiring oversized energy storage for all possible operations.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a hybrid drive unit with multiple drive modules is used, then both energy supply and reduced harmful emissions are achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of the first drive module and second drive module into a unified control system that automatically manages power distribution between the two modules. This integration simplifies the operational complexity by providing centralized control, even though the physical structure contains multiple modules. The merged control approach allows the system to function as a cohesive unit rather than requiring separate independent control systems for each module.
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
Reduces emissions and noise indoors, optimizes energy consumption, and minimizes installation space requirements, enabling efficient and cost-effective operation by leveraging both power sources dynamically.
Implementation Method 1
the drive unit (12), which is operatively connected to the chassis (15), comprises a first drive module (13) in the form of an internal combustion engine
Implementation Method 2
at least one second drive module (14) in the form of an electric motor
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a feed mixer wagon (10) comprising: - a drive train (11) with a drive unit (12), - a chassis (15) with a wheel suspension (16), - a storage container (18) with a consumer (100) in the form of a mixing device (19) for processing one or more feedstuffs filled into the storage container (18), and - a control system (26) for operating the feed mixer wagon (10) with a first control unit (20). Known feed mixer wagons have either an internal combustion engine or an electric motor as their drive unit (12). The use of an internal combustion engine requires fossil fuels, the combustion of which produces undesirable exhaust gases, particularly in livestock buildings. The use of electric motors requires large energy storage units to cover the energy demand of at least one operating cycle.According to the invention, the drive unit (12), which is operatively connected to the chassis (15), comprises a first drive module (13) in the form of an internal combustion engine and at least one second drive module (14) in the form of an electric motor, wherein the first drive module (13) and the second drive module (14) are operatively connected. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating the feed mixer wagon (10).