Universal Pivot Lever for Interchangeable Gauge Wheel Depth Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing systems for front pivot and rear pivot gauge wheel assemblies in agricultural implements are not interchangeable, making the process of changing between them complex and time-consuming, which delays planting operations.

Innovation Solution

A depth control system utilizing a single pivot lever and linkage system that can control the height of a gauge wheel relative to the frame, allowing for interchangeable operation between front and rear pivot gauge wheel assemblies, simplifying the adjustment process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate depth control systems are used for front pivot and rear pivot gauge wheel assemblies, then each assembly can be optimized for its specific configuration, but the device complexity increases and parts are not interchangeable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different gauge wheel assembliesVSAvoidcomplexity of depth control system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The depth control system is designed with a universal pivot lever that can control both front pivot and rear pivot gauge wheel assemblies through a common mounting bracket. The system uses interchangeable adapters that attach to different gauge wheel assemblies, allowing a single depth control mechanism to serve multiple functions and configurations without requiring separate control systems for each assembly type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If separate depth control systems are used for front pivot and rear pivot gauge wheel assemblies, then each assembly has dedicated control mechanisms, but the time required to change between assemblies increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of gauge wheel assembly replacementVSAvoidtime to switch between assemblies
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The universal depth control system with interchangeable adapters enables rapid replacement of gauge wheel assemblies. The common mounting bracket and pivot lever design allow operators to quickly swap between front pivot and rear pivot assemblies without reconfiguring the entire depth control mechanism, significantly reducing assembly changeover time and improving planting operation efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If non-interchangeable parts are used in front pivot and rear pivot gauge wheel assemblies, then each assembly can be optimized for its specific function, but the ease of operation decreases when changing assemblies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of changing gauge wheel assembliesVSAvoidinterchangeability of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs a universal pivot lever and common mounting bracket that work with both front pivot and rear pivot gauge wheel assemblies. Interchangeable adapters are designed to fit different assembly types, allowing operators to easily switch between configurations without dealing with non-interchangeable parts, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9918427B2Depth control system for front pivot and rear pivot gauge wheel assemblies
Publication Date: 2018.03.20 BLUE LEAF I P INC
  • US9918427B2 patent drawing
  • US9918427B2 patent drawing
  • US9918427B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A depth control system for an agricultural implement includes a single pivot lever. Additionally, the depth control system is mounted to the single pivot lever. Further, the depth control system includes a gauge wheel pivotally coupled to a frame of the agricultural implement. The control system controls a height of the gauge wheel relative to the frame via movement of the single pivot lever while the gauge wheel is coupled to a front pivot gauge wheel assembly. Furthermore, the depth control system is configured to control the height of the gauge wheel relative to the frame via movement of the single pivot lever while the gauge wheel is coupled to a rear pivot gauge wheel assembly.