Plough Implement Depth Adjustment Parallelogram Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plough implements face challenges in adjusting working depth without altering the ground clearance of the main frame, leading to reduced maneuverability and soil compaction, especially when dealing with varying soil densities and obstacles.
Innovation Solution
A plough implement with a depth adjustment apparatus that moves ground engaging tools relative to the main frame, allowing for independent adjustment of working depth without changing the ground clearance, using mechanisms like parallelogram linkages and actuators to maintain tool orientation and synchronize movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the ground clearance of the main frame is reduced to increase working depth, then the plough bodies penetrate deeper into the soil, but the maneuverability of the plough is reduced and soil compaction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plough body is divided into a first part connected to the main frame and a second part that can move independently relative to the first part. This segmentation allows the second part to adjust working depth without requiring the entire main frame to change ground clearance, thereby maintaining maneuverability while achieving variable working depths.
Solution Approach 2:
The second part of the plough body is made movable relative to the first part through a depth adjustment apparatus. This dynamic configuration enables the working depth to be adjusted during operation without permanently altering the main frame's ground clearance position, resolving the contradiction between depth control and maneuverability.
2Ease of operation
If the ground clearance of the main frame is increased to improve maneuverability, then the plough bodies are pulled out of the soil, but the working depth is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the plough body into movable parts, the system allows the main frame to maintain a fixed ground clearance for optimal maneuverability while the second part independently adjusts to achieve the required working depth.
Solution Approach 2:
The depth adjustment apparatus enables the second part to dynamically adjust its position relative to the first part, allowing working depth to be varied without changing the main frame's ground clearance, thus maintaining both maneuverability and working depth.
3Device complexity
If the plough bodies are rigidly attached to the main frame, then the structure is simple, but the working depth cannot be adjusted independently for each plough body
Solution Approach 1:
The plough body is segmented into a first part rigidly connected to the main frame and a second part that can move independently. This segmentation provides individual depth adjustment capability for each plough body while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The depth adjustment apparatus introduces controlled mobility to the second part, enabling independent depth adjustment of each plough body. This dynamic element is added only where needed, minimizing overall structural complexity while maximizing adaptability.
4Manufacturing precision
If depth wheels are used to control ground clearance, then working depth can be adjusted, but the main frame's ground clearance must change, affecting maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the depth control function from the main frame's ground clearance. The first part of the plough body remains fixed to the main frame, while the second part uses a depth adjustment apparatus to control working depth independently, eliminating the need to change main frame clearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The depth adjustment apparatus provides dynamic depth control at the plough body level rather than requiring static adjustment of the entire main frame's ground clearance. This allows working depth variation without compromising the main frame's position and maneuverability.
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
This solution enables precise and repeatable depth adjustment, reducing soil compaction and improving maneuverability by allowing individual adjustment of ground engaging tools, enhancing tillage efficiency and avoiding obstacles.
Implementation Method 1
the depth adjustment apparatus may comprise a parallelogram linkage, particularly a four-link parallelogram linkage, connecting the main frame to the first ground engaging tool
Implementation Method 2
The actuator may be a hydraulic actuator, such as a hydraulic cylinder
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
The present invention relates to a plough implement comprising a main frame (112) supporting a plurality of first ground engaging tools, wherein the plough implement comprises a depth adjustment apparatus for moving a first ground engaging tool (122a) of the plurality of first ground engaging tools with respect to the main frame (112) to enable adjustment of a working depth of the first ground engaging tool (122a).