Sequenced-Wing Folding in Multi-Rank Agricultural Implements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional agricultural implements with multi-rank row units for seed and fertilizer placement face challenges in folding and unfolding efficiently between operational and transport/storage configurations, particularly when implementing the mid-row band technique for narrowly spaced seed rows.
Innovation Solution
A foldable multi-rank agricultural implement with sequenced and direct wings, pivotably connected to a main frame via draft links, allows for smooth transitions between unfolded and folded positions through controlled movement of a draw member relative to the main frame, enabling efficient storage and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If row units are split into multiple ranks separated in the fore-aft direction to achieve narrow seed row spacing with mid-row band fertilizer placement, then planting precision is improved, but the complexity of folding and unfolding the implement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The implement uses dynamic folding mechanisms where wing portions can pivot between extended and retracted positions relative to the toolbar. This allows the multi-rank configuration with precise spacing to be achieved during operation while enabling compact folding for transport by dynamically changing the spatial arrangement of row units.
Solution Approach 2:
The implement is divided into multiple wing portions (first wing, second wing, etc.) that can be independently folded and reconfigured. Each wing contains specific row units that can be separated and repositioned, allowing the complex multi-rank arrangement to be broken down into manageable segments for easier folding and unfolding operations.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple ranks of row units are arranged with fertilizer and seed openers laterally offset to effect mid-row band technique, then fertilizer placement precision is improved, but the ease of operation during folding and unfolding deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral offset arrangement of fertilizer and seed openers is maintained during operation through dynamic positioning of wing portions. During folding, the system dynamically transitions the openers from their precise lateral offset positions to a compact configuration, allowing both precision and ease of operation to be achieved at different operational phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The wing portions are pre-configured with the lateral offset arrangement of openers ready for precise mid-row band placement. Before folding operations begin, the system prepares the configuration by positioning wing portions in advance, making the subsequent folding and unfolding operations smoother and easier to execute.
3Adaptability or versatility
If draw member is slidably coupled with main frame for movement between extended and retracted positions to enable folding, then adaptability between operational and transport configurations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The draw member serves multiple functions: it provides the sliding connection for movement between extended and retracted positions, acts as a structural support element, and enables the folding mechanism for both wing portions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural implement includes a main carrier including a main frame and a draw member slidably coupled with the main frame, a bumper member, a trip member, an attachment member, sequenced wings, and sequenced draft links. Moving the draw member from a folding intermediate position towards an extended position pivots the sequenced wings towards folded positions by the mutual contact between the trip member and the attachment member. Moving the draw member from an opening intermediate position to a retracted position pivots the sequenced wings towards unfolded positions by the mutual contact between the bumper member and the attachment member. Movement between the draw member and the main frame for any other positions of the draw member causes no motion in the sequenced wings.