Agricultural Row Unit Torsional Suspension for Closing Wheel Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural seeding machines require significant structural support for closing wheels, which complicates their positioning and tensioning, leading to inefficiencies in seed trench depth control and soil closure.
Innovation Solution
A torsional biasing device is used to pivotally connect the closing wheels to the frame, allowing for independent suspension and adjustment, reducing the need for additional structural support and enabling precise control over the closing wheels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If significant structural support is used for closing wheels, then the positioning and tensioning system is supported, but the device complexity and structural bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible suspension structures with torsional biasing devices (springs) to replace rigid structural support for closing wheels. The suspension structure includes a linkage system with torsional springs that provide the necessary positioning and tensioning support through elastic deformation rather than rigid structural bulk, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If significant structural support is used for closing wheels, then the positioning system is supported, but the seed trench depth control efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static rigid support system to a dynamic suspension system where the closing wheels can independently adjust their position through the torsional biasing devices. This dynamic capability allows the closing wheels to automatically adapt to terrain variations, improving seed trench depth control efficiency while maintaining reliable positioning support.
3Reliability
If significant structural support is used for closing wheels, then the closing wheel system is supported, but the overall machine bulk and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible suspension linkages with torsional springs instead of bulky rigid structural components to support the closing wheels. The torsional biasing devices provide the necessary mechanical support through coiled spring structures that occupy minimal space while delivering reliable closing wheel support, thereby reducing the overall machine bulk.
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
This solution simplifies the structure required for closing wheels, providing independent suspension and precise tensioning, thereby improving the control over seed trench depth and soil closure, reducing the complexity and bulk of the seeding machine.
Implementation Method 1
at least one torsional biasing device coupled to said second end of said first suspension structure
Implementation Method 2
torsional biasing device being carried by said frame
Data Source
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AI summary
A row unit (18) for an agricultural seeding machine (14). The row unit (18) including a frame (60), a plurality of ground engaging wheels (26, 28) including a first ground engaging wheel (28), at least one suspension structure and a torsional biasing device (38). The at least one suspension structure including at least one first suspension structure (36) having a first end and a second end. The first end rotatably coupled to the first ground engaging wheel (28). The torsional biasing device (38) coupled to the second end of the first suspension structure (36). The biasing device (38) being carried by the frame (60).