Top Surface Mover for Sod Gap Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for positioning top surface materials like sod lack efficiency in closing gaps between adjacent pieces and ensuring proper alignment and affixation to the ground surface, leading to incomplete coverage and aesthetic issues.
Innovation Solution
A top surface mover apparatus comprising a vertical and horizontal portion with an engagement pad and actuators powered by pressurized fluid, allowing for precise movement and alignment of sod pieces relative to a tractor, enabling the closure of gaps and adjustment of sod positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual positioning methods are used for sod pieces, then operation simplicity is maintained, but positioning precision and gap closure are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
An engagement pad with protrusions acts as an intermediary between the sod piece and the positioning system. The protrusions engage with corresponding features on the sod to provide precise positioning and alignment, eliminating gaps without requiring complex direct positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
A pressurized fluid system with actuators provides automated movement and positioning of the engagement pad and sod pieces. This hydraulic/pneumatic system replaces manual positioning methods, achieving high positioning precision while automating the complex adjustments needed for gap closure and alignment
2Productivity
If traditional sod laying methods are used, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but productivity and coverage completeness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: the engagement pad simultaneously provides positioning, alignment, and movement of sod pieces. The pressurized fluid system integrates automated control, positioning, and actuation functions, improving productivity without requiring multiple separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus employs movable and adjustable components including the engagement pad that can move relative to the sod pieces, and actuators that dynamically adjust positions. This dynamic system adapts to different sod configurations and gap sizes, maintaining high productivity across varying conditions
3Manufacturing precision
If precise positioning systems are implemented, then gap closure and alignment are improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement pad with protrusions provides self-aligning positioning that works passively once engaged with the sod piece. The geometry of the protrusions and corresponding features automatically guides proper alignment without requiring continuous active control or high energy input, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining precision
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 apparatus effectively positions sod pieces to eliminate gaps, improve ground surface coverage, and enhance aesthetics by allowing for precise alignment and sliding of sod across the ground surface.
Implementation Method 1
actuators powered by pressurized fluid
Data Source
AI summary
An illustrative embodiment of a top surface mover generally comprises a vertical portion engaged with a horizontal portion and an engagement pad. The horizontal portion may include a mounting member to engage the top surface mover with a prime mover. The vertical portion and horizontal portion may be of variable length so that the position of the engagement pad with respect to the prime mover may be variable in at least two dimensions. The illustrative embodiment of a top surface mover is complimentary to an illustrative embodiment of a method of use wherein the top surface mover is configured to position top surface pieces accurately.