Row Cleaner Force Adjustment via Actuator-Driven Biasing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional agricultural implements require manual adjustment of row cleaner forces, which is time-consuming and inefficient due to variations in residue coverage and field conditions, necessitating frequent adjustments during operation.

Innovation Solution

A system with pivotably coupled frame members, biasing members, and actuators that automatically adjust the force applied to row cleaners based on operator input or sensed field conditions, allowing for individual control of each row unit to optimize engagement with the soil.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual adjustment of row cleaner forces is used, then individual control of each row unit is achieved, but time consumption increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindividual control of row unitsVSAvoidtime for force adjustment

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service operation where the row cleaners automatically adjust their own force application based on sensed field conditions. Each row unit is equipped with sensors that detect local residue coverage and field characteristics, and actuators that automatically modify the biasing force without requiring manual intervention. This transforms the manual adjustment process into an autonomous self-regulating system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements continuous feedback loops where sensors monitor field conditions (residue coverage, soil type, moisture) and provide real-time data to control systems. This feedback information is used to dynamically adjust the force applied by each row cleaner, enabling adaptive operation that responds to changing field conditions without manual reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If frequent manual adjustments are made to account for field condition variations, then adaptation to field conditions is improved, but operational efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptation to field conditionsVSAvoidoperational efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from static manual adjustment to dynamic automatic adjustment. The force application of each row cleaner is continuously modified in real-time based on sensed field conditions. The actuators respond dynamically to changing residue coverage, soil type, and moisture levels, enabling the system to adapt to field variations without interrupting the planting operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment systems with automated electromechanical systems. Sensors, controllers, and actuators substitute for manual operation, eliminating the need for operators to physically adjust row cleaner forces during field operations. This substitution maintains adaptability while preserving operational continuity and efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If multiple force adjustments are performed throughout operation, then optimal performance is maintained, but time loss is multiplied

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptimal row cleaner performanceVSAvoidcumulative adjustment time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system ensures continuous optimal performance without interruption. The automatic adjustment mechanism operates continuously during field work, maintaining optimal row cleaner engagement with the soil throughout the entire operation. This eliminates the need to stop or slow down the implement for repeated manual adjustments, preserving the continuity of the planting process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS12193356B2System and method for adjusting a force applied to a row cleaner of a row unit of an agricultural implement

Publication Date: 2025.01.14 BLUE LEAF I P INC

AI summary

A system for adjusting a force acting on a row cleaner of a row unit for an agricultural implement may include a first frame member, a second frame member pivotably coupled to the first frame member, at least one cleaning wheel rotatable relative to the second frame member, a biasing member configured to apply a force against the second frame member along a line of action, an actuator configured to actuate the biasing member to adjust an orientation of the line of action of the force, and a controller configured to selectively control an operation of the actuator. The biasing member extends between first and second biasing ends, with the first biasing end being pivotably coupled to the second frame member. The actuator extends between first and second actuator ends, with the second actuator end being pivotably coupled to the second biasing end.