Remote Actuator for Bulk Seed Box Discharge Gate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for opening and closing bulk seed box discharge gates are either inconvenient and dangerous or overly complicated, requiring manual operation and involving significant effort and weight, especially when trying to remotely control the discharge process.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, portable, and easily manufacturable T-shaped device with a mounting plate and support arm that can be removably engaged with the bulk seed box, using an electrically powered actuator to open and close the discharge gate from a remote location, featuring a pivot connector and latch mechanism that ensures secure engagement and operation without fasteners or tools, and includes a gate lock diverting tab to prevent operation when the gate is locked.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a manual operation method is used to open the discharge gate, then the device structure is simple, but the operator safety deteriorates and operation convenience worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote control actuator as an intermediary device between the operator and the discharge gate. The actuator is positioned remotely from the gate and transmits mechanical force through a control mechanism to open/close the gate without requiring the operator to physically interact with the gate area, thereby improving safety while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional manual mechanical operation with an automated actuation system. The remote control actuator uses electrical or pneumatic actuation mechanisms to substitute for direct manual mechanical interaction, allowing the gate to be operated from a safe distance while maintaining mechanical reliability
2Device complexity
If a manual operation method is used to open the discharge gate, then the device structure is simple, but the operation convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control actuator serves as an intermediary that extends the operator's control capability to a remote location. This allows the operator to remain seated in the forklift or tractor and control the gate operation through a remote switch, dramatically improving ease of operation without requiring complex mechanical structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes direct manual mechanical operation with an automated control system. The remote control switch and actuator mechanism replace the need for the operator to manually handle the gate, providing convenient remote operation while keeping the overall device structure relatively simple
3Reliability
If an existing remote control solution is used, then operator safety improves, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the remote control system into distinct functional components: a remote control switch, an actuator mechanism, and a gate engagement system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled into a compact unit that provides remote operation capability without excessive overall complexity or weight
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic actuator mechanism that can extend and retract to engage and disengage the gate. The actuator's adjustable arm with pivot connector allows dynamic positioning and movement, enabling reliable gate operation while maintaining a compact form factor that reduces device complexity and weight
4Reliability
If an existing remote control solution is used, then operator safety improves, but the device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the remote control system into separate functional modules (switch, actuator, engagement mechanism), the patent can select lightweight materials and designs for each component. The modular structure allows the device to be assembled with minimal necessary weight while maintaining safety functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic actuator mechanism with pivot connector and adjustable arm provides the necessary safety functionality through mechanical advantage rather than raw weight. The pivot connector allows the arm to rotate and position itself, reducing the need for heavy counterweights or complex braking systems while maintaining reliable gate control
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 convenient and safe remote operation of the bulk seed box opener and closer, reducing operator risk and effort, allowing for rapid engagement and disengagement, efficient seed discharge, and easy storage and transportation, while preventing accidental opening of locked gates.
Implementation Method 1
An electric actuator with an adjustable arm is attached to the mounting plate and support arm. The pivot connector allows the opener arm to rotate primarily horizontally.
Implementation Method 2
The pivot connector allows the opener arm to rotate primarily horizontally. The pivot connector allows sufficient vertical movement to allow engagement of the U-shaped latch bar with the discharge gate.
Implementation Method 3
At the end opposite the pivot connection, the opener arm has a simple latch for engaging the discharge gate. The latch is a U-shaped bar that receives a tab handle on the discharge gate.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable device for remotely opening and closing the discharge gate of a bulk seed box. The device is lightweight and easily engages the bulk seed box. The device is cantilevered in place by sliding the mounting base into the receiving portion of the bulk seed box. The mounting base is configured to engage a series of holes in the bulk seed box. A remotely electric actuator operates a pivotally swinging opener arm. The opener arm engages the discharge gate handle, opening the discharge gate when the electric actuator arm is extended.