Manure Spreader Hinge With Movable Cleats For Transport Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current slurry spreading devices face challenges in retracting nozzles to comply with maximum trailer dimensions during transport, leading to productivity constraints and potential accidents due to nozzle detachment and reattachment issues.
Innovation Solution
An articulation device with movable studs and a bracket system allowing the spreader to be raised and locked in different positions, enabling secure attachment and detachment without complete disengagement from the system, ensuring reliable operation and compliance with regulatory dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the spreading nozzle is completely detached from the system for cleaning or filling operations, then accessibility for maintenance is improved, but the risk of loss, theft, or accidents increases and productivity is reduced due to repeated attachment/detachment operations
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into two independent parts: a fixed coupling body attached to the tank and a movable coupling element attached to the nozzle. This segmentation allows the nozzle to be independently positioned (detached for cleaning, retracted for transport) while remaining part of the system, eliminating the risk of complete detachment and loss while maintaining operational accessibility
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the tank and the nozzle. It provides a controlled connection interface that allows the nozzle to be partially detached or retracted while maintaining system integrity, serving as a mediator that enables maintenance operations without complete separation and prevents accidental loss
2Productivity
If the spreading nozzle is extended beyond maximum permitted vehicle dimensions to increase tank capacity, then productivity is improved, but compliance with road regulations is violated
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device enables dynamic positioning of the spreading nozzle, allowing it to be extended beyond the tank for spreading operations (increasing effective capacity) and retracted to within permitted dimensions for transport. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction between productivity and regulatory compliance
3Ease of operation
If a lever hinge mechanism is used to pivot the nozzle vertically, then the nozzle can be raised for cleaning or filling operations, but wear on the cleat device may lead to the nozzle falling to the ground
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element is designed as a robust, easily replaceable component that can withstand wear from repeated positioning operations. While it may experience wear, the design ensures it remains securely connected to the tank through the coupling body, preventing complete detachment and nozzle loss even when wear occurs
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
The present invention relates to an articulation device (6) for a slurry spreading device, comprising a coupling (4) with movable cleats (19, 22) and a spreader (5), characterized in that the coupling (4) is provided with a boom (9) extending upwards and the spreader (5) with a support arm (10), a substantially horizontal pivot axis (11) connecting the boom (9) and the support arm (10) in a pivotal manner, to allow the spreader (5) to be raised freely.