Residue Spreader Deflector Control for Even Crop Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current straw spreaders in combine harvesters struggle to achieve an even distribution of crop residue across the field due to variables such as field terrain, cutting height, and wind direction, despite adjustments in spread width and pattern.
Innovation Solution
A residue spreader with pivotally mounted deflector groups and a distribution actuator that allows for simultaneous or independent adjustment of deflector plates to compensate for side winds and ensure even distribution, using actuators to control the spread width and lateral offset.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If passive spreaders with fixed deflectors are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different field conditions and wind directions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the deflector plates movable rather than fixed. Each deflector plate can be independently adjusted to different angles and positions, allowing the spreader to adapt to varying field conditions, terrain, and wind directions. This transforms a static structure into a dynamic system that can respond to changing environmental factors while maintaining reasonable structural complexity through modular design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple individual deflector plates are adjusted manually, then the adaptability to wind direction is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual deflector adjustments into a coordinated system where deflector plates are linked together. The linkage mechanism allows adjacent deflectors to be adjusted simultaneously or in a coordinated manner, reducing the operational complexity compared to adjusting each deflector independently. This merging of adjustment operations maintains wind direction compensation capability while improving ease of operation.
3Productivity
If the spread width is increased to cover more area, then the productivity is improved, but the manufacturing precision of distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spreader into multiple independent deflector plate units, each capable of individual adjustment. This segmentation allows the system to cover a wide area while maintaining uniform distribution by enabling fine-tuned control over each segment. The modular deflector plates can be adjusted to compensate for variations across the spread width, ensuring even nutrient distribution despite the increased coverage area.
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
The system provides improved control over the spreading width and pattern, ensuring a more even distribution of crop residue, enhancing nutrient distribution and promoting uniform crop establishment.
Implementation Method 1
relies upon the momentum of the chopped residue propelled from the straw chopper to spread the material over a spread width
Data Source
AI summary
A residue spreader for receiving crop residue from a residue chopper of a combine harvester and for spreading crop residue onto the ground. The spreader includes a spreader body having an inlet and an outlet side, and left and right groups of deflectors, each deflector pivotally mounted on the spreader body in juxtaposed position and configured to laterally deflect the crop residue between the inlet side and the outlet side. The deflectors within each group are coupled together for pivoting movement in unison. A distribution actuator has an actuator body and an actuator element and the actuator body is mounted to the spreader body. The actuator element is coupled to both the left and right groups of deflectors by respective pivoting links. The actuator body is adjustably mounted to the spreader body. An adjustment actuator is connected to the actuator body to control movement of the actuator body with respect to the spreader body to adjust a spread width.