Sowing Machine Seed Spacing Adjustment via Rotating Disc
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sowing machines are inefficient in seed distribution, using excessive seeds and not suitable for mulched terrain, and require changes in the number of spouts or disc diameter to adjust seed spacing, which is time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A sowing machine with a distribution disc and rotor system that allows adjustable seed spacing without changing the machine, featuring a logic control unit to synchronize spouts and cells, enabling easy variation of seed pitch and operation on mulched terrain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a blade is used to form a rectilinear groove in the ground, then seeds can be distributed continuously, but excessive seeds are wasted and the machine cannot operate on mulched terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by using a distribution disc with multiple spouts that rotate to deposit seeds at regular intervals along the travel path. Instead of continuous seed flow, seeds are released periodically as each spout passes over the ground, ensuring precise spacing and eliminating excess seed usage. The disc rotation creates a rhythmic deposit pattern that matches the desired seed spacing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical blade-groove system with a rotation-based distribution disc system. Instead of using a blade to cut a groove and continuously deposit seeds, the invention uses a rotating disc with spouts that deliver seeds directly to the ground at predetermined intervals. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for groove formation and enables operation on mulched terrain while maintaining precise seed placement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of spouts or disc diameter is changed to adjust seed spacing, then seed pitch can be varied, but the machine requires time-consuming reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing adjustment of the distribution disc's rotational speed to vary seed spacing. Instead of physically changing the number of spouts or disc diameter, the system modifies the operational parameter of rotation speed. By controlling the disc's angular velocity, the machine can adapt to different seed pitch requirements without mechanical reconfiguration, thereby saving time while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by designing a single distribution disc system that can handle multiple seed spacing requirements through variable speed control. The same disc structure serves multiple functions by adjusting its rotational parameters, eliminating the need for multiple discs or spout configurations. This multi-functional approach allows the machine to adapt to different cultivation patterns without time-consuming changes.
3Ease of operation
If a blade forms a groove on mulched terrain, then seeds can be planted, but the protective capacity of the mulching layer is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the groove-forming function from the seed distribution system. Instead of using a blade to cut a groove in the mulch layer, the invention directly deposits seeds onto the mulched surface through the distribution disc spouts. This extraction of the groove-forming element preserves the integrity of the mulching layer while still enabling effective seed placement on the protected terrain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the distribution disc with spouts as an intermediary between the seed source and the ground. Rather than having seeds fall directly into a blade-cut groove that would breach the mulch, the rotating disc system mediates the seed delivery process by placing seeds gently onto the mulched surface at controlled intervals, maintaining both the protective layer and sowing effectiveness.
Data Source
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AI summary
Sowing machine for distributing seeds on the ground which comprises a support frame, at least one containment hopper (4), at least one sowing unit (5) provided with at least one distribution disc (7), distribution means (9) for receiving the seeds from such hopper, and cyclically in communication with the distribution spouts (8) in order to release a dose of seeds at their interior, first motorization means (10) connected to the distribution disc (7) in order to rotate it around a rotation axis (X) substantially orthogonal to the advancement direction of the sowing machine (1), the distribution means (9) comprise a rotor (11) peripherally provided with a plurality of equidistant cells (12), each adapted to contain a dose of seeds to be distributed, second motorization means (17) connected to the rotor (11) in order to rotate it so to cyclically face said cells (12) at a first opening (14), a logic control unit (18) electrically connected to the first motorization means (10) and to the second motorization means (17), which controls the first motorization means (10) and the second motorization means (17), synchronizing the position of the distribution spouts (8) and of the cells (12) at the second opening (15).