Centrifugal Spreader Disc Positioning and Optical Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centrifugal spreaders face challenges in achieving flexible adjustments for various spreading materials due to the need for expensive sensors and a fixed drive train structure, limiting precise control over the spreading pattern and mass flow of grit.
Innovation Solution
A centrifugal spreader design featuring adjustable spreading discs mounted on a frame structure with a sensor device to detect load moments and control devices for variable speed, allowing for precise positioning and speed control of the spreading discs, enabling flexible adaptation to different materials and improved distribution patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If torque sensors are used to measure mass flow rate, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical torque measurement system with an optical measurement system. Instead of using torque sensors to measure mass flow rate, the invention uses a light source and photodetector to measure the position and characteristics of the spreading disc, which indirectly determines the mass flow rate. This substitution eliminates the need for expensive and complex torque sensors while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement approach by measuring the position of the spreading disc rather than directly measuring torque. The light source illuminates the spreading disc, and the photodetector captures optical information about the disc's position, which serves as an intermediary parameter to infer the mass flow rate. This intermediary approach avoids direct torque measurement complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed drive train structure is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different spreading materials deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the spreading disc position adjustable rather than fixed. The spreading disc can be positioned at different radial distances from the center of the spreading mechanism, allowing adaptation to different spreading materials and requirements. This dynamic adjustability is achieved through a positioning mechanism that allows the disc to move between fixed positions, providing versatility without requiring a completely complex variable-speed drive train.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by allowing the radial position of the spreading disc to be varied. By changing the position parameter of the spreading disc relative to the center, the system can adapt to different spreading materials and achieve optimal distribution patterns. This parameter adjustment provides adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple drive train structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If spreading disc position is fixed, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision of spreading pattern deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by providing adjustable positioning for the spreading disc. Rather than a fixed position, the disc can be positioned at different radial distances to optimize the spreading pattern for specific materials and applications. This dynamic positioning capability enhances manufacturing precision while using a manageable positioning mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing specific positioning options for the spreading disc. The positioning mechanism provides predetermined positions that can be selected based on the spreading material and desired pattern. This preliminary preparation of positioning options allows for precise spreading patterns without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms.
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 design allows for precise adjustment of spreading patterns and distribution of grit, enhancing the flexibility and accuracy of spreading operations across various materials, reducing environmental impact and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
This flow is then distributed, i.e., spread, across the entire surface of an agricultural area by the rotation of the spreading disc with its attached spreading vanes, creating a spreading pattern
Implementation Method 2
a sensor device that is signal-connected and/or signal-connectable to the control device and that is configured to detect a respective load moment caused by the mass flow on the respective spreading disc
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 1D
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a centrifugal spreader (10) for spreading spreading material, comprising at least a frame construction (12) with at least one storage container (16) for storing the spreading material to be spread, two spreading discs (20) to which a metering device (22) is assigned, wherein the metering devices (22) are each configured to supply stored spreading material from the storage container (16) through an outlet opening (18) in adjustable quantities to each spreading disc (20) by generating a respective material flow, and two drive devices (28) that can be controlled and/or regulated by means of a control device, each of which is functionally coupled to a spreading disc (20) and is configured to drive the respective spreading disc (20) at a variable speed.The centrifugal spreader comprises spreading discs (20) which are each mounted on the frame structure (12) by means of a mounting device (30) such that the position of the respective spreading disc (20) relative to the outlet opening (18) can be changed by the mounting device (30). Furthermore, a method for operating a centrifugal spreader is disclosed.