Rotating Flap Mulching Device for Uniform Straw Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automatic mulching installations in animal farms fail to achieve uniform distribution of straw on the ground, as existing solutions either rely on gravity for distribution, which is inefficient, or use regulating sleeves that do not ensure even dispersion throughout the mulching cycle.
Innovation Solution
A mulching device with two rotating flaps forming the bottom and side of a straw accumulation box, connected to a distribution conduit, allows for controlled release of straw, ensuring even distribution by opening and closing to allow fine and thick straw to spread uniformly on the ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If gravity is used for straw distribution through openings in the conduit, then the device structure is simple, but the straw distribution homogeneity on the ground is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces rotating flaps that can change position between closed and open states, transforming the static opening structure into a dynamic one. This allows the system to control straw release timing and distribution pattern, improving homogeneity without significantly increasing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The bottom of the accumulation box is divided into multiple segments with separate flaps, allowing independent control of each section. This segmentation enables differentiated straw distribution patterns and improves overall homogeneity by allowing fine-tuning of each zone
2Ease of operation
If a regulating sleeve is used to control opening closure and mulching flow, then straw distribution control is improved, but the mulch distribution evenness on the ground is still insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single regulating sleeve, the patent divides the control function into multiple independent flaps. Each flap can be positioned independently to control straw release in different zones, providing finer granularity over the mulching process and achieving more even ground distribution
Solution Approach 2:
The flaps are designed to rotate dynamically rather than being fixed or controlled by a single sleeve mechanism. This dynamic positioning allows real-time adjustment of each flap's angle and timing, enabling precise control over straw distribution patterns and improving overall evenness
3Device complexity
If flaps are mounted to rotate around the same axis, then the device structure is simplified, but the straw dispersion control capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rotation control by providing separate rotation axes for each flap. This allows each flap to rotate independently around its own axis, enabling different rotation angles and dispersion patterns for each zone while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
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 device ensures homogeneous distribution of straw by allowing the flaps to open under gravity, improving the dispersion and accumulation of mulch, resulting in a more even and effective mulching process.
Implementation Method 1
unlocking the closed position has the effect of releasing the flaps which fall under the action of gravity and the weight of the straw they support
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a mulching device (1) for an area to be mulched, the device (1) comprising: a straw accumulation box (11, 12, 13) connected to a straw distribution conduit (104), comprising two opening/closing flaps (12, 13) for the box (11, 12, 13), each being mounted for rotation about a support (11), the flaps (12, 13) forming the bottom of the box (11, 12, 13) and at least one lateral portion of the box (11, 12, 13), the flaps (12, 13) being provided to pivot between a closed position in which they close the box (11, 12, 13) allowing the accumulation of straw in the box (11, 12, 13) and an open position in which they open the box (11, 12, 13) allowing the releasing the straw contained in the box (11, 12, 13) and pouring it into the area to be straw-bedded.