Sectional Grader System with Segmented Cutting Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surface engaging machines, such as road graders, face premature wear and high maintenance costs due to harsh operating conditions, with existing solutions like elongated blade members and cutting tools being heavy, difficult to replace, and requiring multiple personnel for maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A sectional grader system comprising abutting grader segments with recessed sections and a bridge segment for easy installation, along with removable cutting tools that can be securely fastened and easily replaced, allowing for single-person operation and reduced wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an elongated blade member is used to protect the mold board from wear, then the mold board is protected, but the blade member becomes very heavy and difficult to replace
Solution Approach 1:
The blade member is divided into multiple individual segments that can be independently attached to the mold board. Each segment is a separate component that can be easily replaced without replacing the entire blade assembly, reducing the effective weight that must be handled during maintenance while maintaining continuous protection along the mold board edge.
2Productivity
If cutting tools are attached to the blade member, then the ground can be effectively graded, but the cutting tools wear out quickly and require frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The cutting tools are extracted as separate, removable components from the blade segment assembly. Each cutting tool can be independently removed and replaced without disturbing the blade segment or other cutting tools, enabling rapid maintenance and reducing downtime while maintaining effective ground grading capability.
3Strength
If the blade member and cutting tools are made as a single heavy structure, then structural integrity is maintained, but replacement requires multiple personnel and is dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The blade member is segmented into multiple independent sections that can be individually attached to and removed from the mold board. Each segment maintains sufficient structural integrity through its connection to the mold board and its design, while the modular nature allows a single operator to safely handle and replace segments without requiring multiple personnel or heavy lifting equipment.
4Strength
If traditional attachment methods are used for cutting tools, then secure attachment is achieved, but replacement is time-consuming due to frozen or bent bolts
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system incorporates dynamic features such as threaded sockets with internal threading that allow cutting tools to be screwed in and out without requiring external bolts. This design eliminates the problem of frozen or bent bolts by using a self-contained threaded connection system that maintains secure attachment during operation but allows rapid tool replacement when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A sectional grader system for a mold board that includes a plurality of abutting grader segments for detachable connection to the mold board. Each grader segment includes a front face, a back face, a first bolt hole aperture, a right edge having a first recessed section, a left edge having a second recessed section, and a lower edge having a plurality of spaced sockets. A bridge segment is adapted to engage the first recessed section and the second recessed section of the adjacent grader segment in flush mount.