Windrow Forming Device With Pivotal Pick-Up Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windrow forming devices face challenges in achieving efficient and flexible product pickup, especially on uneven ground, due to limited working width and inflexible pick-up mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The windrow forming device incorporates a rigid frame with two pick-up mechanisms, one connected rigidly and the other pivotably mounted, allowing for a larger working width and improved ground following capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If a single pick-up mechanism is used, then the device structure is simple, but the working width is limited and ground following capability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The pick-up mechanism is divided into two separate units: a first pick-up mechanism rigidly connected to the frame and a second pick-up mechanism pivotally connected to the first. This segmentation allows each unit to contribute to the working width while the pivotal connection manages structural complexity, enabling the device to handle wider areas effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The second pick-up mechanism is connected to the first via a pivotal connection that allows relative movement. This dynamic connection enables the pick-up mechanisms to adapt to uneven ground surfaces, improving ground following capability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through controlled mobility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pick-up mechanisms are rigidly connected, then the structure is simple and strong, but the ground following capability on uneven terrain is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotal connection between the first and second pick-up mechanisms introduces controlled dynamics to the system. This allows the mechanisms to pivot relative to each other when encountering obstacles or uneven terrain, improving adaptability while reducing the risk of damage to tines and other components through flexible movement rather than rigid impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotal connection changes the operational parameters of the pick-up mechanisms by allowing angular displacement between the first and second units. This parameter change enables the system to adapt to varying ground conditions while maintaining structural reliability through the controlled nature of the pivotal movement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the second pick-up mechanism is pivotally mounted to the first, then the ground following capability is improved, but the mechanical strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotal connection provides the necessary flexibility for ground following while maintaining adequate mechanical strength through the design of the pivotal joint itself. The joint allows controlled movement for adaptability while its structural design ensures it can withstand the mechanical loads encountered during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A windrow forming device is movable over ground in a direction of travel. The windrow forming device is provided with a rigid frame, at least one pick-up mechanism for picking up a product from the ground, and at least one conveyor belt arranged to convey the picked up material in at least one direction extending sidewards with respect to the direction of travel, and to deposit the material on the ground for forming a windrow. The windrow forming device may be a self-propelled agricultural machine, for example a self-propelled merger, or a pulled agricultural machine having at least one windrow forming device.