Multi-Positional Stalk Stomper with Torsion Spring Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stalk stompers are bulky and burdensome to install and manipulate, making them difficult to convert between working and non-working positions, which can lead to damage during transport and hinder efficient movement between fields and storage.
Innovation Solution
A multi-positional stalk stomper with a mounting bracket and torsion spring assembly that allows the shoe assembly to be locked into one of four positions, including a working position and three transport positions, using a pin to secure the male and female connecting members, enabling easy conversion and protection from debris.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional stalk stompers are designed to be robust and functional, then they can effectively deflect corn stalks and protect tires, but they become bulky and heavy making them difficult to install and manipulate
Solution Approach 1:
The stalk stomber is divided into separate modular components including a mounting bracket, shoe assembly, and connecting members with apertures. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall bulk while maintaining functional effectiveness in deflecting corn stalks and protecting tires.
Solution Approach 2:
The stalk stomber incorporates a multi-positional design with the shoe assembly capable of being positioned in four different locations (one working position and three transport positions) through the male and female connecting members with aligned apertures. This dynamic repositioning capability allows the device to be compact during transport while fully functional during operation, resolving the contradiction between robustness and ease of manipulation.
2Productivity
If the stalk stomper remains in working position during transport, then it is ready for immediate use, but it risks damage from contact with objects and increases transport footprint
Solution Approach 1:
The stalk stomber features four distinct positions for the shoe assembly: one working position where the shoe contacts the ground for stalk deflection, and three transport positions where the shoe is elevated and repositioned to minimize contact with external objects. The male and female connecting members with aligned apertures enable easy transitions between these positions, allowing the device to be compact and protected during transport while maintaining readiness for immediate use upon arrival at the field.
Solution Approach 2:
The stalk stomber is designed to be positioned in the working configuration in advance before transport, and then repositioned to protective transport positions before movement. This preliminary positioning ensures the device is ready for immediate use upon arrival while protecting it during transport from damage by objects.
3Reliability
If multiple stalk stompers are installed on the toolbar, then tire protection is enhanced, but the overall weight and complexity of the implement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stalk stomber is designed as a modular assembly with separate mounting brackets, shoe assemblies, and connecting members that can be independently manufactured from lightweight materials. This segmentation allows multiple units to be installed on the toolbar for enhanced tire protection while keeping each individual component lightweight, thereby reducing the overall weight increase compared to traditional bulky designs.
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
The solution allows for easy conversion between working and transport positions, reducing the risk of damage during transport and improving mobility and storage efficiency by minimizing contact with objects and objects during transport.
Implementation Method 1
The torsion spring assembly attaches to the mounting bracket by means of a male connecting member
Implementation Method 2
The inner metal bar disposes within the housing and rests upon four separate lengths of rubber cord disposed along the inner corners of the housing. The inner metal bar thus engages against each length of rubber cord wherein such fitment permits limited pivotal movement of the inner bar relative to the metal housing.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-positional stalk stomper assembly for attaching a stalk stomper to a toolbar of a farm implement comprises a mounting bracket and a pivotal shoe assembly. The mounting bracket is adaptable to be attached to the toolbar of the farm implement and includes a rectangular plate, the plate having first and second major sides, the first side engageable with the toolbar. A first connecting member outwardly extends perpendicular from the second major side of the plate. The shoe assembly includes a torsion spring assembly, a second connecting member outwardly extending from the torsion spring assembly, the second connecting member mateable with the first connecting member, a shoe bracket pivotally connected to the torsion spring assembly, and a downwardly extending shoe attached to the shoe bracket. Upon mating the second connecting member with the first connecting member, the shoe assembly is lockable to the mounting bracket at a selected position.