Tool-Free Seed Line Connector for Precision Seed Drills
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seed lines for seed drills often require the use of tools to loosen rotatable locking elements due to rubbing or stiffness, especially after prolonged use, making separation and maintenance cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A seed line design that utilizes cone-like male and female parts held in a closed position by a spring element, eliminating the need for rotatable locking elements, allowing for simple separation and secure hold without tools, and enabling easy disassembly and removal of intermediate lines for cleaning or blockage removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rotatable locking elements (nut-like clamping connection or bayonet-like connection) are used to connect the seed line with the dosing device, then a secure and form-fitting connection is achieved, but the connection becomes stiff or rubs after prolonged use, requiring tools to loosen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the rotatable locking elements (nut-like clamping connection or bayonet-like connection) from the seed line assembly. Instead, it uses a simple push-connect system where the seed line is held in place by friction and geometry, allowing tool-free separation by simply pushing the seed line out of the dosing device.
Solution Approach 2:
The seed line is divided into modular segments that can be easily connected and disconnected. The dosing device and seed line are designed as separate, interchangeable components with simple geometric interfaces rather than complex locking mechanisms, enabling easy replacement and maintenance.
2Ease of operation
If cone-like male and female parts with spring element are used to hold the intermediate line, then secure hold and centering are ensured, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element automatically engages with the cone-like male and female parts to secure the intermediate line in place. The conical geometry provides self-centering functionality, and the spring provides continuous holding force without requiring additional adjustment or complex fastening mechanisms. The system serves itself by using the inherent mechanical properties of the conical surfaces and spring force.
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
Enables tool-free opening and closing of the seed line at separation points, ensuring secure hold and centering, while allowing for easy disassembly and effective sealing, thus simplifying maintenance and reducing the risk of blockages.
Implementation Method 1
cone-like male and female parts held in a closed position by a spring element
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
Seed line (6, 106) for a seed drill, in particular a precision seed drill (1, 101), which is arranged between a metering device, such as a singulation device (4, 104), and a dispensing and/or depositing device (3, 103). In order to enable simplified and easy disconnection of the seed line in the area of the metering device without the use of rotatable locking elements, it is provided that the seed line has at least one disconnection point (7, 107, 108) with a connecting element (8, 110, 111) that can be opened and closed without tools.