Maize Header Support Layout for Slimmer Frame Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing combine harvester attachments face design challenges due to the need for a frame profile with a large cross-section to absorb bearing forces and moments, limiting installation space and complicating maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A front attachment device that distributes bearing forces and moments by using a support point separate from the attachment point, allowing a slimmer frame profile design with two frame profiles and a connecting profile to absorb forces effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the frame profile cross-section is increased to absorb bearing forces and moments, then the strength and stability of the attachment device is improved, but the installation space at the rear end of the harvesting unit is reduced and design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment device is divided into multiple frame profiles (first frame profile, second frame profile, and connecting profile) that work together to distribute and absorb bearing forces and moments. This segmentation allows each profile to be optimized for specific force transmission paths, reducing the need for a single large cross-section while maintaining overall structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a spatial arrangement with frame profiles positioned at different locations and orientations. The first and second frame profiles are arranged to create a three-dimensional force distribution system, allowing moments to be absorbed through the spatial configuration rather than requiring a larger cross-section in a single plane.
2Reliability
If the frame profile cross-section is increased to absorb bearing forces and moments, then the reliability of force transmission is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the force transmission path into multiple frame profiles connected at specific points, the system achieves reliable force transmission through distributed load paths. Each connection point is optimized for specific force components, improving overall reliability while keeping individual connection elements simpler and more maintainable.
3Device complexity
If a single attachment point is used for the harvesting unit, then the device complexity is reduced, but the bearing moment absorption capability is insufficient requiring larger frame profiles
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment structure is segmented into multiple connection points (attachment point and support point) distributed across different frame profiles. This segmentation enables the system to absorb bearing moments through the spatial arrangement of these points without requiring a single complex attachment mechanism or oversized frame profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the spatial dimension by positioning frame profiles and connection points in three-dimensional space. The distance and orientation between the first and second frame profiles create a moment arm that enables effective moment absorption through the spatial configuration rather than through increased local cross-section at a single point.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application relates to a header (1) for a self-propelled combine harvester (2), wherein the header (1) is designed for harvesting maize plants (3), the header (1) comprising a frame (4), at least one harvesting unit (5) for harvesting maize cobs from the maize plants (3), a cross conveyor (6) equipped with a harvesting unit, wherein the harvesting unit (5) comprises a intake unit (7) and a picking unit (8) with two picking rollers, wherein the harvesting unit (5) is connected to the frame (4) at a connection point (9). In order to provide a header in which the space problems existing in the prior art in the area of the rear end of the at least one harvesting unit are at least improved, according to the invention the at least one harvesting unit (5) is supported indirectly or directly on the frame (4) in addition to its connection to the frame (4).