Pneumatic Distributor Modular Actuator Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing pneumatic distribution machines have complex and costly designs due to the need for an integrated actuating mechanism at each outlet nozzle, which limits flexibility and increases construction and maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
Each outlet nozzle features a mounting base for an actuating mechanism on its upper side, allowing for the use of either manual or remote-controlled actuation mechanisms, which can be easily transferred between nozzles, and a modular design that enables easy assembly and disassembly, along with adjustable shut-off devices for optimized material distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an integrated actuating mechanism is provided at each outlet nozzle, then each shut-off device can be actuated independently, but the construction becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating mechanism is segmented into a reusable actuator component and a mounting base component. The mounting base remains integrated with the outlet nozzle, while the actuator can be removed and transferred to another outlet nozzle, reducing the need for multiple complete actuating mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is designed as a universal component that can be mounted on any outlet nozzle with a compatible mounting base. This allows a single actuator to serve multiple outlet nozzles sequentially, reducing the total number of actuators needed while maintaining independent actuation capability at each nozzle
2Reliability
If an integrated actuating mechanism is provided at each outlet nozzle, then shut-off control is reliable, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the actuator from the mounting base, the system allows for selective replacement and maintenance of only the actuator component rather than the entire actuating mechanism, reducing maintenance costs while maintaining shut-off reliability
Solution Approach 2:
A single actuator can be transferred between multiple outlet nozzles, reducing the total number of actuators needed in the system while maintaining reliable shut-off control at each nozzle through the standardized mounting base interface
3Stability of the object's composition
If outlet nozzles are fixed in position, then structural stability is maintained, but flexibility for maintenance and reconfiguration is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet nozzle assembly is segmented into modular components (outlet nozzle, mounting base, actuator) that can be independently removed and reinstalled. This allows maintenance personnel to access and replace individual components without disrupting the entire distributor head structure
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting base provides a dynamic interface that allows the actuator to be easily mounted and dismounted from different outlet nozzles, enabling flexible reconfiguration and maintenance while maintaining stable operation during use
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 reduces the number of actuating mechanisms required, simplifies construction and maintenance, and allows for flexible adjustment of material distribution patterns and row spacing, enhancing operational efficiency and adaptability to different field conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a spring guided over a dead center in order to prevent the shut-off element from being opened or closed unintentionally
Implementation Method 2
The spring lock has a harp-like, inherently resilient base body, which has outwardly projecting pins with inclined surfaces that interact with the pivot arms
Implementation Method 3
The seed enters the conveying air flow via a transfer device and is conveyed by this in a riser upwards into a distributor head
Implementation Method 4
A fan is arranged on the support frame and below the container
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The pneumatic distributing machine has an outlet that is formed by outlet pipes (16). The outlet pipe has a pivoted shut-off device (17) for stopping or releasing the crop supply to the hose lines. The shut-off device is mounted for minimizing a storage space near the entrance of the outlet pipe in pivoted manner.