Portable Feed Apparatus with Segmented Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing livestock feeding systems cannot deliver different feed formulations to multiple feeding locations, limiting flexibility and accuracy in feed distribution.
Innovation Solution
A portable feed preparation apparatus comprising a feed container, a mixing assembly, at least one feed additive assembly, and a controller that allows for the preparation of specific feed compositions at designated sites, with measurement devices and communication links to regulate and monitor the addition of feed additives, enabling multiple formulations to be delivered to various locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single feed formulation is delivered to multiple locations using gravity feed and augers, then the system is simple and reliable, but different formulations cannot be delivered to different locations
Solution Approach 1:
The feed container is divided into multiple separate containers, each holding a different feed formulation. This segmentation allows the system to deliver multiple feed types without requiring complex mixing mechanisms, as each formulation can be independently selected and delivered to different locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery assembly is designed to handle multiple feed formulations through a universal delivery mechanism that can be configured for different feed types. The same auger and delivery chute infrastructure serves multiple purposes by receiving feed from different containers, reducing overall system complexity while enabling formulation variety.
2Measurement precision
If feed is delivered without tracking and verification, then the system is simple to operate, but delivery accuracy and formulation verification are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A controller tracks and records which feed formulation is delivered to each location, providing feedback verification of the delivery process. This systematic recording ensures delivery accuracy by confirming that the correct formulation reaches the intended location, while the automated tracking minimizes manual verification efforts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically tracks and verifies feed deliveries through integrated sensors and controllers that record delivery data without requiring manual intervention. This self-verification mechanism ensures delivery accuracy while maintaining operational simplicity, as the system performs its own monitoring and reporting functions.
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
Enables the delivery of multiple feed formulations to multiple feeding locations while logging actual amounts and formulations, and generating alerts for quantity and formulation discrepancies, ensuring precise and flexible feed distribution.
Implementation Method 1
a mixing assembly that receives a feed from the feed container
Implementation Method 2
delivery assembly 120 comprises a first auger 130 and a second auger 140
Implementation Method 3
feed 150 is gravity feed into delivery assembly 120
Data Source
AI summary
A portable feed apparatus comprising a feed container, a mixing assembly that receives a feed from said feed container, at least one feed additive assembly in flowable connection with said mixing assembly, and a controller in communication with said mixing assembly.