Soil Sample Extrusion Packaging With Die Block and Cleaning Blades
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing soil sampling processes lack efficient methods for packaging and tracking agricultural samples, such as soil, to maintain sample integrity and associate analysis results with specific field locations, particularly for chemical analysis.
Innovation Solution
An automated programmable processor-controlled agricultural sample packaging system that includes a bulk material chamber, sample collection chamber, die block, sample and cleaning blade mechanisms, and a rotatable carousel, which automates the extraction and containerization of samples into cylindrical tubes while assigning unique tracking IDs for location correlation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual packaging methods are used for soil samples, then operational simplicity is maintained, but productivity and sample processing efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system is divided into distinct functional modules: bulk material chamber for sample storage, die block with multiple through die slots for simultaneous sample extrusion, sample collection chambers for receiving extruded samples, and automated blade mechanisms for sample cutting. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while enabling parallel processing of multiple samples, thereby increasing productivity without overwhelming operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The die block serves multiple functions: it acts as a structural support element, a cutting mechanism guide, and a multi-channel extrusion system that can process multiple sample types simultaneously. The blade mechanisms are designed to work with different sample materials (soil, vegetation, forage, manure, feed, milk) making the system universally applicable to various agricultural sampling needs, thus improving productivity across different applications
2Manufacturing precision
If automated sample extraction mechanisms are implemented, then productivity and precision are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated blade mechanisms are designed to automatically advance through the bulk material chamber and die block, extruding samples through the die slots and into collection chambers without manual intervention. The system self-regulates the extraction process, maintaining consistent sample size and shape through the mechanical action of the blades and die geometry, thereby achieving high manufacturing precision while the automation handles the complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations of sample extraction, cutting, and placement are replaced with an automated mechanical system controlled by programmable logic. The controller coordinates the movement of blades, positioning of collection chambers, and timing of extrusion based on sensor feedback, substituting complex manual coordination with automated control that achieves higher precision while managing device complexity through systematic control
3Productivity
If multiple through die slots are used in the die block, then productivity is increased through parallel processing, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The die block is designed with multiple discrete through die slots that are evenly spaced and geometrically identical. Each slot functions as an independent extrusion channel, allowing the die block to be manufactured using standardized machining processes. The segmented slot design enables parallel processing of multiple samples simultaneously, increasing productivity while the modular geometry simplifies manufacturing compared to a single complex extrusion chamber
Solution Approach 2:
The die block parameters (slot dimensions, spacing, angle of insertion) are optimized to balance productivity and manufacturability. The through die slots are designed with specific geometric parameters that allow efficient sample extrusion while being achievable through standard manufacturing processes. By carefully selecting these parameters, the system achieves high parallel processing capacity without excessive manufacturing difficulty
4Productivity
If automated blade mechanisms are implemented for sample extrusion, then sample extraction precision and productivity are improved, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Manual blade operation is replaced with an automated blade mechanism controlled by a programmable controller. The controller receives input from sensors that monitor sample material presence, collection chamber positioning, and extrusion progress. Based on this feedback, the controller automatically actuates the blade mechanisms to advance, extrude samples through the die slots, and retract, achieving high extrusion speed while eliminating the need for manual coordination of multiple operational steps
Solution Approach 2:
The automated blade mechanism incorporates sensor feedback to monitor the extrusion process. Sensors detect the presence of sample material in the bulk chamber, the position of collection chambers, and the completion of extrusion cycles. This feedback is transmitted to the programmable controller, which adjusts blade actuation timing and positioning to maintain optimal extrusion speed while ensuring proper sample formation, thereby improving productivity without sacrificing ease of operation
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 system ensures efficient packaging and tracking of agricultural samples, maintaining sample integrity and facilitating accurate association of analysis results with collection locations, applicable to various agricultural materials beyond soil.
Implementation Method 1
The sample blades are operable to extrude the sample from the bulk material chamber through the die slots and into the sample collection chamber
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An automated programmable processor-controlled system and related methods for packaging an agricultural sample such as soil which may be tested for various chemical properties such as plant available nutrients. The packaging system includes a sample packaging apparatus which allows raw bulk sample material collected in the agricultural field to be expediently and conveniently containerized for processing and analysis. The apparatus may include a die block disposed between bulk material and sample collection chambers. A sample blade mechanism inserts a sample blade array through the bulk material chamber and die block. The sample blades extrude the sample material from the bulk material chamber through die slots in the die block, thereby forming plugs or blanks of the material collected in the sample collection chamber coupled to the sample container. A cleaning blade mechanism inserts a cleaning blade array through the die slots after the extrusion for removing residual soil or debris.