Trailer Feeder with Size-Separating Ramp for Feed Waste Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Transporting feed to livestock is labor-intensive and results in significant waste due to the brittleness of cubed feed, which is often ignored by livestock and left to decompose, and existing automated feeders are limited in functionality and waste reduction.
Innovation Solution
A trailer system equipped with a dispensing mechanism that separates feed sizes using a transport ramp with adjustable openings, allowing larger pieces to be dispensed directly and smaller fines to be collected, along with a hay bale transport mechanism, enabling efficient feed distribution and additional uses for the trailer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated feeders are used to disperse loose cubed feed, then feed distribution efficiency is improved, but feed waste increases due to brittleness and livestock ignoring broken pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The feeder system segments feed distribution into two separate containers: one for larger feed pieces and one for smaller fines. This segmentation allows selective dispensing of appropriate feed sizes to livestock, preventing waste of broken pieces while maintaining efficient distribution of intact feed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of feed size distribution by separating feed into different size categories (larger pieces vs. smaller fines) and dispensing them from different containers. This parameter change allows optimization of feed presentation to livestock, reducing waste of brittle broken pieces.
2Loss of substance
If traditional manual labor is used to disperse feed, then feed waste is reduced through direct placement, but labor intensity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The automated feeder system performs self-service by automatically dispensing feed from two containers based on predetermined settings. This eliminates the need for manual labor to disperse feed while maintaining efficient distribution that minimizes waste, resolving the contradiction between labor intensity and waste reduction.
3Device complexity
If a single-function trailer is used for feed transport, then trailer simplicity is maintained, but versatility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating a dual-container feeder system that can handle both feed distribution and potentially other agricultural functions. The modular container design allows the trailer to serve multiple purposes while maintaining relatively simple construction through standardized components.
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
Reduces feed waste by collecting smaller pieces for later use and allows the trailer to be used for animal transport and hay bale handling, enhancing efficiency and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
The transport ramp may convey feed from the opening to the first container via gravity
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, a trailer feeder system may include a trailer. The trailer may transport animals during use. The trailer may include a first container which contains, during use, animal feed. The first container may include a dispensing mechanism for dispensing feed in the first container to a surface adjacent the trailer. The trailer may include a transport ramp. The transport ramp may connect the first container to an opening in a cover. The transport ramp may include a plurality of openings. The trailer may include a second container which functions to contain animal feed. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings may be sized to allow feed of a predetermined size and smaller to be conveyed from the opening to the second container. In some embodiments, the trailer may include a transport mechanism which functions to elevate a bale of hay off of a surface.