Variable Steering Row Unit for Non-Linear Trench Following
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work vehicles with row units face challenges in efficiently planting and seeding across varying terrain, particularly in following non-linear trenches and avoiding obstacles, due to limited steering capabilities and jamming issues with ground engaging implements.
Innovation Solution
The work vehicle is equipped with a row unit that includes a closer frame supported for rotational movement about a vertical steering axis, allowing for variable turning angles, and a walking beam construction that couples closer implements to rotate as a unit, enabling them to follow curved trenches and overcome obstacles by adjusting their position and downforce.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the row unit uses a fixed steering angle configuration, then the structure is simple and stable, but it cannot follow non-linear trenches and curved paths effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The row unit employs a dynamically adjustable steering angle mechanism that allows the closer frame to rotate about a vertical steering axis. This enables the row unit to adapt its turning angle in real-time to follow non-linear trenches and curved paths, transforming a static configuration into a dynamic one that responds to terrain variations
Solution Approach 2:
The row unit is divided into separable components including the forward frame, closer frame, and closer implement assembly that can rotate independently about the steering axis. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while enabling overall adaptability to curved paths
2Reliability
If the ground engaging implements are kept fixed relative to the ground, then they provide stable trench closure, but they jam when encountering obstacles or uneven terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The closer implement assembly is mounted on the closer frame which can rotate about the vertical steering axis, allowing the implements to dynamically adjust their position and orientation in response to terrain variations and obstacles, preventing jamming while maintaining trench closure functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The walking beam construction merges the first and second closer implements into a single rotationally connected assembly. This allows both implements to move together as one unit about the steering axis, maintaining their relative positions while enabling collective adaptation to terrain changes
3Adaptability or versatility
If the row unit allows free rotational movement for following curves, then it adapts well to non-linear paths, but it cannot be easily restrained for transport and stowing
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer mechanism provides preliminary restraint by engaging with the closer frame to prevent rotational movement about the steering axis during transport. This preliminary anti-action counteracts the free rotational capability, allowing the same mechanism to serve both adaptive operation and secure stowing functions
Data Source
AI summary
A row unit for a work vehicle includes a row unit frame with a closer frame. The closer frame defines a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis. The closer frame is supported for rotational movement about a substantially vertical steering axis to vary a turning angle between the longitudinal axis the vehicle longitudinal axis. The row unit includes a closer implement assembly with first and second closer implements and a walking beam construction. The first and second closer implements are attached to opposite areas of the walking beam construction. The walking beam construction is rotationally attached to the closer frame to support rotation of the closer implement assembly about the transverse axis. The first and second closer implements are configured to move ground material into a ground opening from opposites sides as the work vehicle moves across the field.