Universal Seed Metering Disc with Multi-Size Pockets

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing seed metering discs are limited in their ability to handle multiple seed types and sizes, requiring multiple sets of discs for different crops, and fail to maintain proper distribution when mixing seeds of varying sizes and shapes.

Innovation Solution

A seed metering system with a disc featuring adaptable pockets and vacuum openings that can accommodate various seed sizes and shapes, allowing for uniform distribution of different seed types and mixtures by adjusting the retention force and release timing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single metering disc design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to handle multiple seed types and sizes is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to handle multiple seed typesVSAvoidnumber of disc sets required

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The metering disc is designed with pockets of varying sizes and configurations that can accommodate multiple seed types and sizes within a single disc design, eliminating the need for multiple specialized disc sets

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The disc is divided into multiple pockets with different dimensions and opening configurations, allowing each pocket to be optimized for specific seed types while maintaining a universal disc structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If pockets are designed for specific seed sizes, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability to varying seed sizes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of varying seed sizesVSAvoidpocket configuration uniformity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Different pockets on the same disc have different sizes, shapes, and opening configurations tailored to specific seed types, while maintaining consistent manufacturing tolerances through standardized pocket features

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Measurement precision

If vacuum retention force is increased, then seed distribution precision is improved, but the ability to release seeds uniformly deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseed distribution uniformityVSAvoidseed release timing control

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The vacuum retention system dynamically adjusts retention force based on pocket position and seed type, allowing strong retention during transport and controlled release at the appropriate timing for uniform distribution

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables the efficient and uniform distribution of multiple seed types and sizes, ensuring proper planting without the need for multiple disc sets, even when mixing seeds, by using a single set of metering discs.

Implementation Method 1

vacuum seed meters

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVacuum: Vacuum

Implementation Method 2

A vacuum pump is used to generate a low pressure region on a portion of a back side of the disc

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVacuum pressure: Vacuum

Data Source

PatentUS10104831B2Universal seed metering disc

Publication Date: 2018.10.23 HOCKEMEYER DAVID JASON

AI summary

An exemplary seed metering system for the distribution of various sizes of seeds comprises a seed meter and a metering disc. The metering disc has one or more pockets, and each pocket has at least two openings. The pockets are configured to receive at least two different seed types.