Automated Feed Bin Gate Design
Fabricated Sheet Metal Frame:
The sheet metal frame braces and guides the actuated movement of the slide mechanism. Galvanized steel 11 gauge sheet metal is cut, bent, and punched minimally in order to reduce manufacturing costs. A more detailed flat pattern, ready to send to the manufacturer, may be found attached in Appendix x. These sliding tracks will also keep any lateral forces off the slide gate thereby keeping it from binding with the plastic transition piece as it slides in and out. The outer frame, which mounts the linear actuator is braced by bends on the lip of the piece. This bracing for the actuator can resist a linear force of xx lbs and a horizontal force of xx lbs.
Actuator:
An electromechanical linear actuator was chosen to induce the linear motion needed throughout the design process. Our recommendation for a linear actuator is the Progressive Automotive PA-16 electromechanical linear actuator. This low profile, durable actuator has a load capacity of 330 lbs, a force well above the 145 lbs we need for our design. The PA-16 actuator, the pivot bar, and the sheet metal housing piece all have tracks cut in them during the manufacturing process to keep the slide, hinge, and actuator in line to ensure full opening and closure each time the slide needs to be opened and closed. Initially, design considerations were given to a track actuator, which reduced the overall length by 6 inches; however, concerns of buildup of feed particles, specifically when moisture is incorporated, in the track moved us to consider a telescoping actuator. The standard actuator recommended essentially behaves as a self-cleaning device; as the arm retracts into the cylinder, any buildup on the arm will be removed from the shaft. The actuator will be controlled by a proximity sensor connected to the plastic boot of the feed bin and logic statements written for Cumberland Inc.’s control systems.
Spacer:
The spacer piece is a simple component of the design. As it exists, the black transition piece and gate cover has a lip that hangs over the auger housing. The sapcer ensures a quality seal will still exist after the sheet metal piece is inserted below transition and above the housing.
Slotted Pivot Arm Geometry:
The slide design geometry allows the actuator to be offset from the linear path of motion away from the feed bin. See Appendix H for precise calculations of slotted pivot arm geometry which resulted in a force of x lbs needed at the point of actuation. Slide gate and actuator motion will be inverted, allowing the pivot point to be in a centrally located, and easily accessible position. Easily cut galvanized steel sheet metal comprises the slotted pivot arm, for ease of manufacturability and corrosion resistance. By locating the pivot point at a set position, the slide can travel 2.3 times the length of the actuator stroke; this allows the actuator load requirements to be minimal. Simple bolts with spacers draped over them ease the slide of the mechanism and easily travel through the guides both on the sheet metal piece as well as the actuator.
