Ultra-shallow inclined disk blades for low-disturbance tillage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural implements for seedbed preparation often result in soil compaction and require multiple operations, as they either compact the soil excessively or fail to effectively mix crop residue with topsoil, leading to suboptimal seedbed conditions.
Innovation Solution
An agricultural implement featuring ultra-shallow inclined disk blades and a spiral chopping reel, which work together to minimize horizontal tillage, allowing for efficient cutting and mixing of crop residue with the topsoil while controlling soil compaction, using a frame with adjustable components for optimal residue management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional plows, shanks, or cupped disks are used for horizontal tillage, then crop residue is broken apart and soil is loosened, but soil compaction increases and seedbed quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the disk blades by using a high diameter-to-depth ratio (16:1 to 32:1), which fundamentally alters how the blades interact with soil and residue. This parameter change enables the blades to cut and mix residue with minimal soil displacement, resolving the contradiction between effective residue breakdown and soil compaction avoidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional horizontal tillage to ultra-shallow inclined tillage by positioning the disk blades at a very shallow angle (5-13 degrees from parallel to direction of travel). This dimensional change in blade orientation allows the implement to work the top layer of soil without the compaction effects of deeper horizontal tillage tools.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple tilling operations are performed by different agricultural devices, then residue is thoroughly processed and soil is well-prepared, but time and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate operations (residue cutting, mixing with topsoil, and shallow tillage) into a single integrated implement. The ultra-shallow inclined disk blades perform all these functions simultaneously in one field crossing, eliminating the need for multiple sequential operations and reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The ultra-shallow inclined disk blade is designed to perform multiple functions: cutting crop residue, mixing it with the top layer of soil, and preparing the seedbed surface. This multi-functional design replaces several specialized tools, allowing one implement to accomplish what previously required multiple separate operations.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If straight coulters are used to minimize horizontal tillage, then soil compaction is reduced, but effective minimal horizontal tillage is not achieved in firmer soil conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses curved, circular disk blades instead of straight coulters. The circular shape allows the blades to roll through the soil, providing consistent cutting action that can effectively penetrate and till firmer soil conditions while maintaining minimal horizontal displacement. The curvature enables the blades to self-adjust to varying soil firmness.
Solution Approach 2:
The disk blades are designed to rotate and roll through the soil rather than plow statically. This dynamic rolling action allows the blades to adapt to varying soil conditions, providing effective tillage in both soft and firm soil while minimizing compaction. The rotational motion enables the blades to cut through residue and soil more effectively than static straight coulters.
Data Source
AI summary
A low till agricultural implement has a frame with a hitch for attachment to a tractor. An shallow-angled blade gang composed of an array of parallel ultra-shallow inclined disk blades is mounted to the front of the frame, and is followed by at least one wheel, spiral reel, and spike tooth harrow. The ultra-shallow inclined disk blades are mounted perpendicular to rotating shafts, and slice through field residue and soil with minimal lateral movement of material. The blades of the following reel then make cuts nearly perpendicular to those made by the circular blades. A trailing rolling basket or other finishing implement follows the spiral reel. The implement aids in drying the soil surface layer. Also, by cutting up residue and evenly spreading debris and topsoil, the implement helps to warm up the soil.