Universal Load Sensor for Air Seeder Row Units
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air seeder row units face compatibility issues due to manufacturer-specific load sensors, limiting their adaptability to different row unit designs, which hinders efficient seed trench formation and depth control.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a load sensor system comprising a bracket, support arm, and force device, allowing the load sensor to measure the total force on the support arm, enabling compatibility with various row unit designs and ensuring proper gauge wheel position relative to the ground, regardless of the row unit's configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manufacturer-specific load sensors are used for each row unit design, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The load sensor is designed with a universal mounting bracket system that can be attached to various row unit designs from different manufacturers. The bracket incorporates universal mounting features that accommodate different frame configurations, allowing the same load sensor to measure force accurately across multiple row unit types without requiring manufacturer-specific sensors for each design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If universal load sensors are designed to fit multiple row unit designs, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The load sensor system is divided into separate functional components: a universal mounting bracket that provides adaptability across different row unit designs, and a load sensor assembly that maintains precise measurement capabilities. The bracket can be configured in different positions to accommodate various row unit geometries while the load sensor itself remains a standardized, precision measurement device that can be accurately calibrated for force measurement regardless of mounting configuration.
3Measurement precision
If multiple manufacturer-specific sensors are produced and distributed, then measurement precision is maintained, but manufacturing and distribution costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a single universal load sensor model that can be mounted on various row unit designs through the adaptable bracket system, the patent eliminates the need to manufacture and distribute multiple manufacturer-specific sensor variants. This universal design reduces production complexity, lowers manufacturing costs through economies of scale, and simplifies distribution logistics while maintaining accurate load measurement capabilities across all compatible row unit types.
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
This solution allows for universal compatibility and efficient seed trench formation across different row unit designs, reducing manufacturing and distribution costs while ensuring reliable seed planting operations.
Implementation Method 1
a load sensor disposed adjacent the force device and configured to measure a load of the force device on the support arm
Data Source
AI summary
An air seeder row unit includes a bracket configured to be attached to a frame of an air seeder, a support arm pivotally coupled to the bracket, a force device pivotally connected to the bracket and to the support arm, and a load sensor disposed adjacent the force device and configured to measure a load of the force device on the support arm. The support arm carries an opener disc and a gauge wheel, and the opener disc is configured to open a seed trench in a soil surface as the row unit travels in a forward direction of travel. An agricultural seeding implement includes a frame configured to be pulled through an agricultural field with a plurality of such row units coupled to the frame. Related methods are also disclosed.