Seeder Separation Wheel Sealing for Single-Seed Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing seed distribution devices in precision sowing face issues with imperfect sealing of perforations, leading to seeds remaining in the distribution disc due to incomplete pressure difference cut-off, which affects the efficiency and accuracy of single-seed distribution.

Innovation Solution

A separation device with radial projections and sealing elements that fit snugly into the perforations, optimizing the sealing by conjugation of form and/or using a sealing element to ensure a sealed insertion, thereby enhancing the pressure differential isolation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If pins are used in the separation wheel, then the separation structure is simple, but the sealing is imperfect causing seeds to remain in the distribution disc

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation structureVSAvoidsealing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies a sealing element (gasket) that acts as a flexible film to create an effective seal between the pin and the distribution disc. The gasket deforms to fill gaps and ensures complete pressure differential cut-off, preventing seeds from remaining in the distribution disc while maintaining the simple pin-based separation structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The sealing element serves as an intermediary between the pin and the distribution disc, mediating the connection to achieve both mechanical support and effective sealing. This intermediary component resolves the contradiction by providing the necessary seal without requiring a completely different separation mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If the pin fits into the perforation with play, then the separation device is easy to manufacture, but the pressure difference is not interrupted effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation device assemblyVSAvoidpressure difference cut-off
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible gasket compensates for manufacturing tolerances and play between the pin and perforation. It deforms to create a tight seal even when there is dimensional variation, ensuring effective pressure difference cut-off while allowing for easier manufacturing of the pin and distribution disc components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The sealing element changes the physical parameters of the interface between pin and perforation by introducing a compliant material that can adapt to dimensional variations. This allows the system to maintain precise pressure differential control despite variations in manufacturing tolerances of the rigid components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Improves the efficiency of seed distribution by maintaining a consistent seal, ensuring single-seed distribution without excess seeds, suitable for various seed types, and maintaining the device's overall size.

Implementation Method 1

the radial projections are configured to fit through the inlet of the internal channel of one of the perforations in a sealed manner inside the internal channel by conjugation of form and/or by means of a sealing element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSealing by conjugation of form:

Implementation Method 2

the radial projections are configured to fit through the inlet of the internal channel of one of the perforations in a sealed manner inside the internal channel by conjugation of form and/or by means of a sealing element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSealing element sealing:

Implementation Method 3

The distribution disc divides the housing into two chambers with different air pressures, creating a pressure difference, which can be positive or negative, on either side of the perforated disc

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure difference: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentEP4684624A1Separating device for a distribution unit and associated seeder
Publication Date: 2026.01.28 KUHN SA
  • EP4684624A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4684624A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4684624A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a separation device for a granular element distribution element (1) comprising a plurality of perforations (2) each having an internal channel with an inlet and an outlet, comprising a separation wheel (6) having a rotation axis (7) and a peripheral surface (8), the separation wheel (6) having a plurality of radial projections (9) projecting from the peripheral surface (8), which are configured to insert into the internal channel of one of the perforations (2) in an insertion position, characterized in that the radial projections (9) are configured to insert through the inlet of the internal channel of one of the perforations (2) in a sealed manner inside the internal channel by conjugation of form and/or by means of a sealing element (10) in the insertion position so as to achieve sealing inside the internal channel.