Silo Guard Filter for Agricultural Material Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural silos face issues with agglomeration of stored materials due to condensation and moisture, leading to blocked outlets and dangerous manual cleaning processes, which can result in accidents and injuries.
Innovation Solution
A filter system for silos comprising a rigid perimeter frame with a grate of line wires and cross-wires, supported by legs that transmit vibrations to aid in breaking up agglomerated material, and is designed to cover the outlet to facilitate smooth material flow and prevent blockages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If workers use hand held tools and poles to induce clumped material through the silo mouth, then material flow is improved, but worker safety deteriorates due to risk of limb loss and death
Solution Approach 1:
A rigid perimeter frame with grate is installed as an intermediary structure at the silo outlet. This frame acts as a physical barrier and platform that allows workers to safely access and clean agglomerated material without directly exposing themselves to dangerous moving parts and compacted material. The frame mediates between the worker and the hazardous environment inside the silo.
2Productivity
If workers enter the silo through the manhole to dislodge clumped material, then material flow is improved, but worker safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid perimeter frame serves as an intermediary platform that eliminates the need for workers to enter the silo through the manhole. Workers can access the frame from the outside and perform cleaning operations safely, with the frame providing structural support and protection from collapsing material.
3Productivity
If silo outlet is left uncovered, then material discharge is maintained, but agglomeration increases leading to blockages
Solution Approach 1:
The grate structure of the rigid perimeter frame is designed to transmit vibrations from the silo walls to the material at the outlet. This mechanical vibration prevents agglomeration by continuously agitating the material, keeping it loose and facilitating smooth discharge without blockages.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid perimeter frame with grate acts as an intermediary structure between the stored material and the outlet. It provides a controlled interface that prevents direct contact between compacted material and the outlet, while still allowing material to pass through the grate openings.
4Ease of manufacture
If manual cleaning is performed without a protective structure, then material buildup is removed, but the process becomes dangerous and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid perimeter frame provides a protective intermediary structure that workers can stand on and use as a platform for cleaning operations. This eliminates the need for workers to enter the silo and makes cleaning accessible from the outside, significantly improving safety while maintaining ease of maintenance.
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
The filter system effectively prevents agglomeration by forcing material through a sieve-like effect, ensuring safe and efficient discharge while providing a platform for safe internal cleaning, reducing the risk of accidents and extending the lifespan of the silo by minimizing material buildup.
Implementation Method 1
the plurality of legs in direct contact with the bin so as to transmit vibrations from the bin to the filter
Implementation Method 2
The agricultural material within the bin traversing the grate as it exits the bin
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed broadly to a filter for a bin storing agricultural material, the filter comprising; a rigid perimeter frame supporting a grate within the frame; and a plurality of legs spaced about the perimeter frame, wherein the filter, in use, is located within the bin and positioned to substantially cover an outlet of the bin, the plurality of legs in direct contact with the bin so as to transmit vibrations from the bin to the filter, the agricultural material within the bin traversing the grate as it exits the bin.