Slotted Trunnion Actuator Mounting Without Pillow Block Bearings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trunnion-mounted actuator cylinders for agricultural vehicle headers are cumbersome and costly due to the need for complex mounting arrangements using pillow block bearings, which add weight and complexity to the assembly.
Innovation Solution
A trunnion connection design that uses collinear trunnions with bearings and slots in the frame, allowing for easier assembly and reduced weight by eliminating the need for pillow block bearings, and providing a more compact and robust connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pillow block bearings are used for trunnion mounting, then the actuator can be mounted to the frame, but the assembly becomes heavier and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the pillow block bearings from the mounting system, extracting the problematic intermediate component. The trunnions are mounted directly to the frame using simple pin connections, eliminating the complexity and weight of pillow block bearings while maintaining the necessary rotational support functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using bearings to support the trunnion rotation (traditional approach), the patent inverts the approach by using direct pin connections that allow rotation without intermediate bearing components. This reversal simplifies the mounting system while achieving the same functional outcome.
2Reliability
If pillow block bearings are used for trunnion mounting, then the actuator can be mounted to the frame, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the pillow block bearings from the mounting system, extracting the problematic intermediate component. The trunnions are mounted directly to the frame using simple pin connections, eliminating the complexity and weight of pillow block bearings while maintaining the necessary rotational support functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, heavy pillow block bearings with simpler, lighter pin connections. While pins may require replacement over time, they provide sufficient functionality at reduced weight and cost, aligning with the principle of using simpler components when appropriate.
3Reliability
If complex mounting arrangements are used, then the actuator can be securely mounted, but manufacturing and assembly become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the mounting system into separate, modular components: the frame with integrated trunnion mounts, the actuator with its own trunnions, and simple pin connectors. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using simpler processes and assembled through straightforward pin insertion, reducing overall manufacturing and assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using bearings to support the trunnion rotation (traditional approach), the patent inverts the approach by using direct pin connections that allow rotation without intermediate bearing components. This reversal simplifies the mounting system while achieving the same functional outcome.
Data Source
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AI summary
A trunnion-mounted cylinder actuator assembly having an actuator body, a frame, and trunnions connecting the body to the frame. The frame has openings that are sized to receive the trunnions, and at least one opening has a slot that extends from the opening to outside the frame. The slot is larger than the associated trunnion, to allow the trunnion to be slid along the slot into the opening. Each opening has a bearing interposed between the trunnion and the opening, with the bearing being larger than the slot. An agricultural vehicle having a header, reel and reel actuator having the foregoing trunnion connection is also provided.