Agricultural Implement Stabilizer Gas Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural implements face challenges in managing varying loads and shock forces, particularly when stabilizers like gauge wheels encounter terrain changes, leading to inefficient operation and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a stabilizer gas actuator device and a pneumatic system with gas suspension bags that communicate pressurized gas to lift or tilt the main frame relative to the sub-frame, providing support against downward forces and absorbing shock loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If stabilizers such as gauge wheels are provided to support the weight of the implement, then the stability and weight support capability are improved, but the shock loads and forces transferred to the suspension system and propulsion unit increase significantly when the stabilizer encounters terrain changes
Solution Approach 1:
A shock absorbing mechanism is introduced as an intermediary element between the stabilizer and the main frame. This mechanism includes a shock absorbing device with a piston rod connected to the stabilizer and a piston body connected to the main frame, with a shock absorbing chamber containing a piston and shock absorbing fluid. This intermediary component absorbs and dampens the shock forces generated when the stabilizer encounters terrain changes, preventing direct transmission of these forces to the suspension system and propulsion unit.
2Force
If mechanical springs are used to absorb shock loads, then the shock absorption capability is improved, but the system complexity and potential for mechanical failure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a hydraulic shock absorbing mechanism instead of mechanical springs. The shock absorbing device contains a piston and shock absorbing fluid in a shock absorbing chamber. When shock forces are applied, the piston moves within the chamber, and the shock absorbing fluid provides damping through viscous resistance. This hydraulic approach replaces complex mechanical spring systems with a simpler, more reliable fluid-based damping mechanism that effectively absorbs shock loads while reducing system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cutter bar is allowed to move vertically to float over the ground surface, then the adaptability to terrain variations is improved, but the control precision and stability of the implement height are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a header position control system that uses feedback to maintain precise control of the implement height. The system includes sensors that detect the position of the main frame relative to the propulsion unit and provide feedback signals to a controller. The controller then adjusts the header position by controlling actuators that move the main frame vertically. This closed-loop feedback system allows the cutter bar to float over terrain variations while maintaining precise height control and stability, as the system continuously monitors and corrects position deviations.
4Device complexity
If a large proportion of the weight is carried by the propulsion unit through the sub-frame, then the structural simplicity is improved, but the stability and shock absorption capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the weight support function between the propulsion unit and independent stabilizers. Instead of having the propulsion unit carry all the weight through the sub-frame, the system divides the support function: the stabilizers (gauge wheels) positioned at the ends of the main frame carry a portion of the implement weight directly from the ground, while the propulsion unit carries the remaining weight. This segmentation improves stability by providing additional support points and better weight distribution without significantly increasing structural complexity.
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
This solution enhances the stability and efficiency of agricultural implements by effectively managing load distribution and shock absorption, maintaining optimal operating height and reducing mechanical stress on components.
Implementation Method 1
the stabilizer apparatus comprises a stabilizer gas actuator device... the stabilizer apparatus operable to support a second portion of the weight of the main frame
Implementation Method 2
a pneumatic system with gas suspension bags that communicate pressurized gas to lift or tilt the main frame relative to the sub-frame, providing support against downward forces and absorbing shock loads
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural apparatus may comprise a transversely extending main frame. The main frame may be configured to move upwards on a side when subjected to a lifting force on that side. A stabilizer apparatus may be inter-connected to the main frame and be transversely spaced outwards. and may be operable to provide support against downward acting forces. A pneumatic system may comprise at least one frame gas suspension bag and at least one stabilizer gas bag may be located proximate the stabilizer apparatus and may be in pneumatic communication with the at least one frame gas suspension bag. When the at least one gas suspension bag is filled with a pressurized gas, and the stabilizer apparatus is subjected to an upwardly directed force, the at least one stabilizer gas bag may be compressed increasing a pressure of the pressurized gas within the at least one stabilizer gas bag. Pressurized gas in the at least one stabilizer gas bag may be communicated towards the least one frame gas suspension bag, to increase the gas pressure within the at least one frame gas suspension bag, which creates a lifting force on a first side of the main frame, to cause the main frame to lift upwards.