Multi-Configuration Rake Implement for Windrow Merging and Fluffing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current equipment for moving plant material in fields requires multiple machines for different operations like merging, turning, and fluffing, leading to higher costs and inconvenience for hay producers.
Innovation Solution
A versatile implement with multiple configurations, including a merge, turn, and fluff configuration, equipped with rake wheels and support wheels, capable of being towed across a field to perform these operations efficiently, featuring a frame with adjustable elements and a support wheel suspension structure to reduce shock forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate machines are used for different operations (merging, turning, fluffing), then each operation can be performed with specialized equipment, but equipment costs increase and operational convenience decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The implement is designed with multiple configurations (merge, turn, fluff) that can be achieved by adjusting the orientation and positioning of the rake wheels relative to the frame. A single implement can perform merging, turning, and fluffing operations by reconfiguring the rake wheel assembly, eliminating the need for multiple separate machines and reducing overall equipment complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The implement incorporates adjustable rake wheel assemblies that can be repositioned and reoriented during operation. The rake wheels can be adjusted to different angles and positions to transform the implement between merge, turn, and fluff configurations, allowing dynamic adaptation to different operational requirements without requiring multiple fixed-purpose machines.
2Ease of manufacture
If the frame is supported directly on the field surface, then the structure is simpler, but shock forces from the field surface are transmitted directly to the frame
Solution Approach 1:
The support wheels are equipped with suspension structures that include shock-absorbing elements positioned between the support wheels and the frame. These suspension systems are designed beforehand to cushion and attenuate shock forces generated when the support wheels contact the field surface, preventing direct transmission of harmful vibrations and impacts to the frame and rake wheel assembly.
3Productivity
If rake wheels are used to engage plant material, then the implement can effectively move and process windrows, but the structure becomes more complex compared to simple dragging
Solution Approach 1:
The implement combines multiple rake wheel assemblies with radially extending tines into a single integrated unit mounted on the frame. The rake wheels are positioned to work in conjunction with each other, allowing the implement to effectively merge, turn, and fluff plant material through coordinated action of the combined rake wheel structure, achieving high productivity while consolidating complexity into one unified assembly rather than multiple separate devices.
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 single-machine performance of multiple operations, reducing equipment costs and enhancing operational convenience by facilitating efficient drying and processing of plant material through adjustable configurations and shock reduction.
Implementation Method 1
a damping element to reduce the magnitude of shock forces transmitted from the at least one support wheel to the frame
Data Source
AI summary
An implement for moving plant material lying in a field including a frame, a plurality of rake wheels rotatably mounted on the frame, and a plurality of support wheels to support the frame in an elevated condition. The implement may have a plurality of configurations, and may include a merge configuration configured to merge windrows of plant material on the field surface by lateral displacement of the plant material on the field surface. The plurality of configurations may include a turn configuration configured to turn the plant material on the field surface with a degree of lateral movement of the plant material on the field surface. The plurality of configurations may include a fluff configuration configured to lift plant material off of the field surface without lateral displacement of the plant material on the field surface.