Three-Outlet Flow Splitter for Agricultural Row Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural implements with multiple row units face inefficiencies in material distribution due to the need for numerous flow lines and splitters, increasing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A flow splitter with a cylindrical body and three split passages, each connected to an outlet, allowing for equal distribution of material to three row units, reducing the number of flow lines and splitters required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional flow lines and splitters are used to distribute material to multiple row units, then material distribution is achieved, but the number of parts and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple flow distribution functions into a single integrated flow splitter body with multiple outlets. Instead of using separate flow lines and individual splitters for each row unit, one flow splitter distributes material to multiple row units simultaneously, reducing the total number of parts while maintaining reliable material distribution to all outlets
Solution Approach 2:
The flow splitter body serves multiple functions: it acts as a distribution hub for material flow, provides mounting locations for multiple row units, and enables equal material distribution to three or more outlets simultaneously. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components that would otherwise be required for each distribution path
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple flow lines and splitters are used, then material can reach all row units, but assembly costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple distribution functions into a single flow splitter assembly, reducing the total quantity of parts from multiple separate flow lines and splitters to one integrated body with multiple outlets. This consolidation directly reduces assembly costs by eliminating the need to manufacture, source, and assemble multiple separate components
3Device complexity
If a single flow splitter with three outlets is used, then the number of parts is reduced, but achieving equal material distribution becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The flow splitter is designed with three equally sized outlets positioned at specific angular intervals (120 degrees apart) around the central flow path. This symmetric geometric configuration ensures that material flow is naturally divided into three equal portions, with each outlet receiving identical flow characteristics. The local geometry of each outlet passage is optimized to maintain equal flow distribution
Solution Approach 2:
While the overall configuration uses symmetry for equal distribution, the outlets are oriented at specific asymmetric angles relative to the inlet axis, allowing the flow splitter to be mounted at various orientations on the toolbar while maintaining equal distribution to all three row units regardless of mounting angle
Data Source
AI summary
A flow splitter includes a body having a generally cylindrical main passage therethrough oriented along a longitudinal axis of the body. The main passage connects an inlet at the upstream end to exactly three split passages adjacent the downstream end, each split passage connected to a corresponding outlet. A first and second of the three split passages are oriented along axes that intersect one another at a first acute angle in a common plane with the longitudinal axis. A third of the three split passages intersects the common plane at a second acute angle. An agricultural implement includes a frame, a toolbar carried by the frame and supporting a plurality of row units, a hopper carried by the frame, a primary flow line connecting the hopper to a flow splitter, and three secondary flow lines connecting the flow splitter to three of the row units.