Integrated Lift and Frame Lock for Folding Corn Head
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing corn heads for harvesters require manual operation for lifting and locking row separator covers, and separate mechanisms for folding and locking sections, which complicates maintenance and transport, and lacks clear visual indication of locking status.
Innovation Solution
A single hydraulic actuator assembly that automatically raises and locks the row separator covers, allowing folding of the corn head sections while providing a visual indication of the locking status, ensuring secure deployment and easy folding for transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used for lifting and locking row separator covers, then the structure can be simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates and maintenance becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lifting and locking functions into a single integrated mechanism. The hydraulic cylinder simultaneously performs both actions through one actuation, eliminating the need for separate manual operations and reducing overall system complexity despite adding automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses hydraulic power to automatically perform the lifting and locking actions without requiring manual intervention. The mechanism self-regulates and executes the required movements through hydraulic actuation, improving ease of operation while maintaining manageable complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate mechanisms are used for folding and locking sections, then the functionality can be comprehensive, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the folding and locking mechanisms into a single coordinated system. The hydraulic cylinder simultaneously controls both the folding movement of the head sections and the locking action, reducing the number of separate mechanisms while maintaining comprehensive functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic actuator serves multiple functions: it controls the folding of the head sections, locks the sections in position, and provides visual indication of the locking status. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while maintaining adaptability for both transport and harvesting modes.
3Ease of operation
If automatic actuation is implemented, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic system automatically performs the lifting, locking, and visual indication functions without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates through hydraulic pressure and mechanical linkages, improving ease of operation while the integration of functions keeps the added complexity manageable.
4Reliability
If visual indication of locking status is added, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual indication through color changes or visual markers that change state based on the locking status. This provides clear reliability feedback to the operator while the indication mechanism is integrated into the existing locking system, minimizing additional complexity.
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
Simplifies the operation of corn heads by automating the movement and locking of row separator covers, ensuring secure deployment during harvesting and easy folding for transport, reducing the complexity of manual operations and enhancing operational safety.
Implementation Method 1
A hydraulic cylinder (202) having an extendable rod (204) that connects to a pivoting main link (210)
Data Source
AI summary
A harvester or combine includes a folding corn head with a center section and folding wing sections. A folding row separator cover at the hinge location of the folding head sections folds to an angled position so that the folding action between the wings and the center section is not impaired. A single assembly actuates the folding of the row separator as well as locking and unlocking of the wing sections relative to the center frame section. A hydraulic cylinder actuates a main link that connects to the row separator cover and to a lock pin. Actuation of the hydraulic cylinder raises and lowers the cover and disengages and engages the locking pin.