Threshing Concave With Detachable Insert Holding Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing threshing concaves in agricultural combines are time-consuming to install and remove due to complex attachment mechanisms, and existing solutions are limited to heavy, one-piece inserts that require side access and are not easily adaptable to different crop sizes.
Innovation Solution
A threshing concave with a supporting structure and detachable inserts, where a rotatable holding element moves between a holding and release position, allowing easy removal and exchange of inserts, and can be driven by a spindle or external actuator for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional screw connections and side access methods are used to attach inserts, then the inserts can be securely fixed, but the installation and removal process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The holding element is divided into multiple independent gripping elements, each capable of engaging with the insert individually. This segmentation allows for easier manipulation and faster attachment/detachment while maintaining secure fixation through the combined action of multiple gripping elements
Solution Approach 2:
The holding element is extracted from the traditional screw connection system and replaced with a clamp-like structure that can be quickly opened and closed. This extraction eliminates the need for threaded fasteners and enables rapid attachment and removal of inserts from the front side only
2Strength
If heavy one-piece inserts are used, then structural strength is maintained, but accessibility and ease of replacement are limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of accessing the insert attachment mechanism from the side as in traditional designs, the holding element is positioned to access and manipulate inserts from the front side. This inversion of the access direction improves operator accessibility and makes replacement easier while maintaining the strength of one-piece inserts
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed concave configurations are used, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability to different crop sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The concave is transformed from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic system where inserts can be quickly exchanged. The holding element enables this dynamics by allowing rapid attachment and removal of different insert types, enabling the concave to adapt to different crop sizes while maintaining structural stability through the robust clamp mechanism
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
Facilitates quick and easy replacement of inserts with different sieve coverings, improving adaptability to various crop sizes and reducing installation time, while allowing for simultaneous fixation of multiple inserts, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The retaining element has a surface attached to an eccentric, which brings the insert from its working position to a raised position when the shaft is in the release position.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~7
AI summary
The basket has supporting structure that is fixed to fixable insert having screening surface. The supporting structure is provided to support retaining element (90). The retaining element is extended into opening (114) of insert to fix insert in working position on supporting structure at holding position. The retaining element is released from opening of insert at release position. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) tangential separator; and (2) combine harvester.