Planter Bracket Pivot Cross Shafts Withstand Draft Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional row planter units fail to withstand increased draft loads resulting from higher planting speeds and no-till operations, leading to bolt failure and maintenance issues.
Innovation Solution
A bracket assembly with heavy-duty pivot connections using 1-inch diameter cross shafts and stub spindles with tapered composite bearings, replacing conventional bolts to distribute draft loads effectively and prevent rotation, thereby enhancing durability and reducing maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional bolts are used to mount link arms to mounting plates, then the bracket assembly is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the bolts fail under increased draft loads from high-speed and no-till planting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the dimensional parameter of the pivot shafts from conventional 5/8-inch bolts to 1-inch diameter cross shafts and stub spindles. This parameter change increases the strength and load-bearing capacity of the pivot connections to withstand higher draft loads from high-speed and no-till planting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs tapered composite bearings that combine different materials to create a bearing structure capable of withstanding high radial and axial loads. The composite construction provides both strength and wear resistance, allowing the pivot connections to endure the increased stresses from high-speed planting while maintaining smooth rotation.
2Reliability
If 1-inch diameter cross shafts and stub spindles with tapered composite bearings are used, then the bracket assembly can withstand heavy draft loads, but the manufacturing and installation become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pivot connection system into separate components: cross shafts, stub spindles, tapered composite bearings, castle nuts, and cotter pins. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standardized processes, facilitating easier production and assembly despite the increased overall complexity of the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross shafts and stub spindles serve multiple functions: they act as pivot axes for rotation, provide structural support for draft loads, and incorporate external threading for secure fastening with castle nuts. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying the overall assembly process.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional 5/8-inch bolts are used, then the bracket assembly is easier to assemble, but the bolts fail under increased draft loads leading to maintenance issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates castle nuts with cotter pins that provide pre-locking capability before the planter enters service. This beforehand securing mechanism prevents loosening under vibration and load, ensuring the pivot connections remain secure throughout the service life of the bracket assembly, even under increased draft loads from high-speed and no-till planting.
Solution Approach 2:
The cotter pin acts as an intermediary element that secures the castle nut to the cross shaft or stub spindle. This simple intermediary component prevents the nut from loosening or rotating during operation, maintaining the integrity of the pivot connection throughout the service life of the bracket assembly.
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 effectively withstands heavy draft loads during high-speed and no-till planting, minimizing maintenance and repair needs by providing robust and durable pivot connections that prevent breakage.
Implementation Method 1
The cross shaft and stub spindles have ends with external threads to receive a castle nut. The cross shaft and stub spindles extend through bushings welded to the front and rear mounting plates, and are pinned to the bushings to prevent rotation of the cross shaft and stub spindles.
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket assembly for row unit planters to withstand draft forces created by high speed and no tillage planting. The upper and lower link arms of the bracket assembly are pivotally connected to the front and rear mounting plates using full-length crossed shafts or shortened stub spindles. Tapered bearing races and tapered bushings are utilized at each end of the link arms to minimize wear and maintenance.