Modular Frame Assembly for Interchangeable Storage Tanks and Axles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fertilizer application implements are limited by fixed storage tank sizes and wheel axle configurations, which restrict flexibility in accommodating varying field configurations and increase the need for multiple implements, thereby increasing fertilization costs.

Innovation Solution

A modular frame assembly with interchangeable storage tanks and axles of different sizes, allowing for quick and easy attachment and detachment, enabling the implement to adapt to various field configurations without requiring multiple machines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed-size storage tanks and fixed-length axles are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different field configurations is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different field configurationsVSAvoidframe assembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame assembly is segmented into modular components including removable storage tanks and interchangeable axles. The storage tank is divided into a tank body and a separate bottom portion, while the axle assembly includes removable wheel assemblies. This segmentation enables individual components to be replaced based on field configuration requirements without replacing the entire implement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame assembly transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable system. Storage tanks can be removed and replaced with tanks of different sizes, and axles can be exchanged to change wheel spacing. This dynamic capability allows the implement to adapt to various field widths and fertilizer application requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple implements with different storage tank sizes are used, then adaptability to varying field configurations is improved, but the number of required implements and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage tank size adaptabilityVSAvoidnumber of implements required

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The frame assembly is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple storage tank sizes and configurations. The mounting structure includes standardized interfaces that accept different tank capacities, allowing a single implement to perform multiple fertilizer application tasks across various field sizes and requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables easy removal (discarding) of existing storage tanks and recovery of the frame assembly for attachment of different tanks. This facilitates rapid reconfiguration between different storage capacities based on field requirements, eliminating the need to discard or store multiple complete implements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Adaptability or versatility

If fixed wheel spacing is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but flexibility in accommodating different row spacings is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewheel spacing flexibilityVSAvoidwheel replacement complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The axle assembly is segmented into the axle shaft and removable wheel assemblies. The wheels can be independently removed and replaced, allowing adjustment of wheel spacing by exchanging axle components. This segmentation simplifies the adjustment process while maintaining operational ease.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If interchangeable components are used, then adaptability is improved, but assembly and disassembly time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomponent interchangeabilityVSAvoidattachment and detachment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The frame assembly includes pre-configured mounting structures, standardized interfaces, and alignment features that are prepared in advance. These preliminary design elements guide the quick and accurate attachment of storage tanks and axles, minimizing the time and complexity of component interchange operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8820427B2Storage tank frame assembly for an agricultural implement

Publication Date: 2014.09.02 BLUE LEAF I P INC

AI summary

A storage tank frame assembly for an agricultural implement. One agricultural implement includes a tool bar assembly having a tool bar and row units coupled to the tool bar and configured to deliver flowable agricultural product to a field. The agricultural implement also includes a storage tank configured to hold the flowable agricultural product and to provide the flowable agricultural product to the row units. The agricultural implement includes a frame assembly having a first and a second mounting assembly. The frame assembly is coupled to the tool bar assembly. The agricultural implement also includes an axle removably coupled to the frame assembly and configured to be coupled to wheels for transportation of the agricultural implement. The frame assembly is configured to be coupled to multiple sizes of storage tanks via the first mounting assembly and to multiple sizes of axles via the second mounting assembly.