Modular Feed Delivery System with Mobile Mixing Device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing feed delivery devices are rigid and inflexible, making them impractical for large-scale operations where long distances and complex infrastructure hinder efficient feed distribution, especially for large farms that require thousands of tons of feed per day, leading to high energy costs and logistical challenges.
Innovation Solution
A modular feed delivery system where the mixing and distribution devices are separated, allowing for flexible transport and storage solutions, using a self-propelled mixing device that can act as a buffer and a roadworthy vehicle for transporting mixed feed over long distances, with height adjustments enabled by lifting devices and adaptable pathways.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If feed containers are stored off-site to accommodate large-scale operations, then feed storage capacity is improved, but transport distance and infrastructure complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into independent modular units: stationary feed containers at the storage site, a mobile mixing device that travels to the stable, and a separate distributing device. This segmentation allows feed storage to be located off-site without requiring complex connecting infrastructure, as the mobile mixing device serves as the flexible link between storage and consumption locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing device is designed to be mobile rather than stationary, allowing it to dynamically position itself between the feed storage location and the stable. This dynamic capability eliminates the need for fixed conveyor systems or rail infrastructure, reducing infrastructure complexity while maintaining the ability to supply large quantities of feed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If robots or mixers are used to overcome greater distances, then feed distribution range is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
A roadworthy vehicle serves as an intermediary carrier, transporting the mobile mixing device from the feed storage location to the stable and back. This approach is more energy-efficient than using powered robots or mixers to traverse long distances, as conventional vehicles have lower energy consumption for transport tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile mixing device is self-propelled and can autonomously navigate to and from the stable lane, reducing the need for additional transport equipment. The device serves its own transportation needs, minimizing the energy required for moving the mixing equipment itself.
3Reliability
If stationary conveyors are used for feed transport, then feed delivery reliability is improved, but system flexibility and expandability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile mixing device replaces stationary conveyors with a dynamic, mobile solution that can adapt to different stable locations and configurations. The device travels along the stable lane and can service multiple feeding points, providing reliable feed delivery while allowing easy expansion to accommodate growing operational needs without installing additional fixed infrastructure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a roadworthy vehicle is used for transport, then transport flexibility is improved, but precision in feed dispensing may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the transport function (performed by the roadworthy vehicle) from the precise feed dispensing function (performed by the mobile mixing device with its integrated dispensing mechanism). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function: the vehicle for flexible transport and the mixing device for precise, controlled feed distribution at the stable.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a feed delivery device with at least two feed containers and a device for delivering, mixing and distributing feed. The mixing device and the distributing device are formed separately from each other and are movable relative to each other for assuming a transfer position in a transfer station, where the mixing device has a movement.