Shearing Comb With Segmented Channels To Reduce Lanolin Buildup

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Solution Overview

Problem

The buildup of lanolin on the bottom surface of shearing combs during sheep shearing operations hinders the ease of entry and flow of the comb through wool fibers, requiring frequent cleaning and reducing productivity.

Innovation Solution

The shearing comb features a pair of first channels extending from the forward surface to the rear surface, and a second pair of channels located inwardly from the first pair, both designed to minimize lanolin buildup on the bottom surface, facilitating movement and optimizing the entry and flow of teeth through wool fibers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional shearing comb is used, then the comb can perform the cutting action effectively, but lanolin builds up on the bottom surface hindering movement through wool fibers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of entry and flow of comb through wool fibersVSAvoidlanolin buildup on comb bottom surface

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The bottom surface of the comb is segmented into multiple channels that divide the continuous surface into separate flow paths. This segmentation allows lanolin to be channeled away from the skin contact area through defined pathways, preventing accumulation and maintaining ease of movement through wool fibers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces a new dimensional feature by adding channels to the bottom surface of the comb. These channels create a three-dimensional pathway system that actively manages lanolin flow, transforming the flat two-dimensional surface into a multi-level structure that facilitates substance removal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If the comb is used continuously for shearing, then productivity is maintained, but periodic cleaning is required to remove built-up lanolin

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoverall productivity of sheep shearing operationsVSAvoidtime-consuming periodic cleaning

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The channels on the comb's bottom surface enable self-cleaning functionality by allowing lanolin to be automatically washed away during normal operation. The design utilizes the natural movement of the comb and water flow to remove buildup without requiring separate cleaning actions, thereby maintaining productivity without time loss to manual cleaning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The channel structure ensures continuous removal of lanolin throughout the shearing process rather than allowing accumulation followed by periodic cleaning. This continuous action maintains optimal comb performance throughout extended use, eliminating interruptions and maintaining steady productivity levels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentEP2845476B1A shearing comb

Publication Date: 2017.03.08 HEINIGER

AI summary

A shearing comb (10) comprising a comb body (12) having forward (34) and rear (36) surfaces, and a plurality of spaced apart teeth (14) formed integrally therewith and projecting forwardly from the forward surface (34), the comb body (12), further comprising at least one channel (46a, 46b) that extends from the forward surface (34) toward the rear surface (36) of the comb body (12).