WO2018193464A1 - An enclosed raking machine - Google Patents

An enclosed raking machine Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018193464A1
WO2018193464A1 PCT/IN2018/050182 IN2018050182W WO2018193464A1 WO 2018193464 A1 WO2018193464 A1 WO 2018193464A1 IN 2018050182 W IN2018050182 W IN 2018050182W WO 2018193464 A1 WO2018193464 A1 WO 2018193464A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
assembly
raking
enclosed
raking machine
litter
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IN2018/050182
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Shankar Babaji JAGDALE
Original Assignee
Jagdale Shankar Babaji
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Jagdale Shankar Babaji filed Critical Jagdale Shankar Babaji
Publication of WO2018193464A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018193464A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
    • A01K1/00—Housing animals; Equipment therefor
    • A01K1/015—Floor coverings, e.g. bedding-down sheets ; Stable floors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
    • A01K31/00—Housing birds
    • A01K31/04—Dropping-boards; Devices for removing excrement

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to an enclosed raking machine and more particularly to a raking machine for raking and conditioning the litter spread in a broiler poultry house.
  • Raising poultry is a major industry.
  • Present poultry raising techniques involve growing chicks to a broiler size in a chicken house/ broiler poultry house in approximately six to seven weeks.
  • a typical broiler poultry house can be hundreds of feet long and thirty feet wider.
  • the floors of the broiler poultry house can be formed of concrete or other materials, including compacted and leveled earth.
  • the floor of the house is covered with bedding material consisting of wood chips, rice hulls or peanut shell. After two weeks of broiler growth, the floor of the poultry house gets covered with poultry litter, which is defined as a material that becomes caked and compacted with droppings and other moisture.
  • the floor of the chicken raising area must be prepared for a new batch of chicks, by eliminating or cleaning the poultry litter, also known as litter reconditioning wherein the first step is de-caking or removing wet material primarily below drinkers.
  • the cleaning of the poultry litter and litter conditioning is done by using a tractor as they use big broiler poultry houses with a thick layer of litter material.
  • the tractor is not feasible and affordable.
  • manual method is used for raking and litter reconditioning.
  • Manual raking operation does not result in complete removal of moisture and ammonia from the reconditioned litter. Further, the manual raking causes splashing of litter waste into food vessels. Hence, with the use of manual raking method, the health of birds is greatly compromised. Also, the manual raking method is laborious, time consuming and hazardous to health of farmer. Besides above-mentioned drawbacks, the existing machines also have issues related to size, sound safety and handling.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide a raking machine for litter conditioning and de-caking in less time and in lesser noise with reduced moisture content in bedding thereby resulting in lower bacterial growth and ammonia generation there from while avoiding splashing thereof in feed vessels thereby maintaining good health of birds.
  • the present invention provides an enclosed raking machine.
  • the enclosed raking machine is used for raking, conditioning and mixing litter spread in a broiler poultry house.
  • the enclosed raking machine comprises a base frame assembly, a roller assembly, a motor mounting assembly, a drive mechanism assembly, a tiller head assembly, a wheel assembly, a cowl assembly, an enclosure assembly, and a handle and control unit assembly.
  • the base frame assembly is formed of L-angles on sides thereof, cowl mounting plates on rear sides thereof, and wiper plates on front sides thereof.
  • the L-angles includes a mounting pipe attached at each rear end thereof.
  • the roller assembly is mounted on the base frame assembly for movement of the racking machine.
  • the roller assembly includes a roller shaft, at least one roller mounted on the roller shaft for rotating therewith upon being driven.
  • the motor mounting assembly is welded to the base frame assembly to drive tiller head and the at least one roller.
  • the motor mounting assembly includes a mounting plate, an electrical motor mounted on the mounting plate, a vertical plate extending vertically from the mounting plate.
  • the electrical motor includes an extended motor shaft, and a power supply cable with a male connector assembled on the mounting plate.
  • the vertical plate includes a center hole, four holes and two tapped holes configured thereon.
  • the drive mechanism assembly is mounted on the vertical plate of the motor mounting assembly.
  • the drive mechanism includes a composite power transmission shaft passing through the center hole of the vertical plate to receive rotational power from the electrical motor, a driver pulley mounted on the extended motor shaft, a belt connecting the driver pulley to a drive pulley integrated in the composite power transmission shaft, a bearing plate fitted on the vertical plate holds a bearing and locates the composite power transmission shaft on the vertical plate of the motor mounting assembly, and a circlip positioned adjacent to the bearing to restrict sudden/accidental ejection or disassembly of the composite power transmission shaft.
  • the tiller head assembly is mounted on the vertical plate of the motor mounting assembly.
  • the tiller head assembly includes a tiller head gear box and a plurality of blades configured thereon.
  • the tiller head gear box includes the composite power transmission shaft inserted therein to receive rotary motion of the electrical motor there through to cause rotation of the plurality of blades to slice and break compacted cake of litter / manure on floor of the broiler poultry house into small particles.
  • the wheel assembly is mounted on each cowl mounting plate on the rear side of the base frame assembly for movement of the racking machine while maintaining a defined gap between the floor and the plurality of blades of the tiller head assembly and also providing stability to the raking machine while maneuvering raking unit in poultry farm.
  • the wheel assembly includes a threaded sleeve welded on the cowl mounting plate, a U clamp fitted to the threaded stud and a wheel attached to the U clamp. The height of the wheel assembly is adjusted by moving the threaded stud of the U clamp into the threaded sleeve.
  • the cowl assembly is mounted on the cowl mounting plates on the rear side of the base frame assembly using screws to enclose the tiller head assembly thereby preventing splashing of loose litter.
  • the cowl assembly includes a cowl being formed of thin sheet in circular shape concentric to the plurality of blades.
  • the cowl includes a center cutout configured thereon for mounting the tiller head gear box on the vertical plate.
  • the enclosure assembly is mounted on the base frame assembly by means of screws to enclose entire raking unit assembly thereby avoiding any direct contact of raking unit with live stock or human operator as well as reducing vibration and noise generation during an operation.
  • the enclosure assembly is formed of a thin sheet material selected from any of metal, plastic or any other material.
  • the handle and control unit assembly is attached to the rear side of the mounting pipe of the base frame assembly to push the racking machine.
  • the handle and control unit assembly include a handle assembly, a power control assembly and a trolley wheel assembly.
  • the handle assembly is assembled from a u -shaped base handle inserted into the mounting pipes of the base frame assembly, a main handle slidably fitted into the base handle, and a knob configured thereon for fitting the main handle into the base handle.
  • the power control assembly is mounted on the main handle by means of bolting to control the power supply to the electrical motor.
  • the power control assembly includes a power control unit with a control lever for power on-off, a power input cable along with a restraint clip, and an output cable having a female plug connected to the male pin connector during operation.
  • the restraint clip is attached to the main handle to avoid abnormal / accidental disengagement of external power supply.
  • the trolley wheel assembly is attached to the base handle.
  • the trolley wheel assembly includes an indexing plate with three position arrangement, two wheels connected using a shaft, two indexing arms attached to the shaft and joined on the base handle, and a spring loaded locking pin attached on one of indexing arms for easy movement of the raking machine during idle condition.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a racking machine, in accordance with the present invention
  • Figure 2 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a raking unit assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 3 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a base frame assembly of raking machine of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 4 illustrates three-dimensional and cut-sectional views of roller assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 5 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a motor mounting assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 6 illustrates three-dimensional and cut sectional views of a drive mechanism assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1
  • Figure 7 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a tiller head assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 8 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a 'rear wheels' assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 9 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a cowl assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 10 illustrates a three-dimensional view of an enclosure assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1
  • Figure 11 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a handle and control unit assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 12 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a main handle assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 13 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a power control unit of the raking machine of Figure 1 ; and Figure 14 illustrates a three-dimensional view of trolley wheel assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1.
  • the present invention provides an enclosed raking machine.
  • the raking machine of the present invention reconditions the litter in less time with low noise generation with lowered moisture content in bedding thereby resulting in lower bacterial growth and ammonia generation there from and avoiding splashing thereof in feed vessels thereby maintaining good health of birds.
  • the raking machine is easy to use, requires low maintenance and is capable of being mass produced in an easy, cost effective, environment friendly and productive way.
  • the raking machine is light in weight, easy to move, handle and transport even manually thereby preventing use of extra manual efforts to push the machine.
  • the term 'plurality' refers to the presence of more than one of the referenced item and the terms 'a', and 'an' do not donate a limitation of quantity, but rather donate the presence of at least one of the referenced item.
  • an enclosed raking machine (100) in accordance with the present invention is shown.
  • the raking machine (100) is an implement for raking, conditioning and mixing caked and compacted poultry litter from the floor of a broiler poultry house / farm.
  • the raking machine (100) can be used for any suitable purposes as per various alternate embodiments thereof.
  • the raking machine (100) comprises a raking unit assembly (200), and a handle and control unit assembly (300) as shown in Figure 1.
  • the raking unit assembly (200) (refer Figure 2) comprises of a base frame assembly (210), a roller assembly (220), a motor mounting assembly (230), a drive mechanism assembly (240), a tiller head assembly (250), a wheel assembly (260), a cowl assembly (270) and an enclosure assembly (280).
  • the handle and control unit assembly (300) (refer Figure 11) comprises of main handle assembly (310), a power control unit (320) and a trolley wheel assembly (330).
  • the base frame assembly (210) (refer Figure 3) is adapted to provide maximum rigidity and minimum deflection.
  • the base frame assembly (210) is a welded frame formed of L-angles (211) on sides thereof, with cross members of cowl mounting plates (212) on rear sides thereof and wiper plates (213) on front sides thereof.
  • the L-angles (211) includes series of holes (215), holes (216) and holes (218) configured thereon.
  • the holes (215) are configured on a vertical side of the L-angle (211) for mounting the enclosure assembly (280) thereon, the holes (216) are configured on front side of the L-angle (211) for mounting of the roller assembly (220) and the holes (218) are configured on a mounting pipe (214) attached at each rear end of the L-angle (211) for assembling handle and control unit assembly (300) for example using bolting.
  • the roller assembly (220) (refer Figure 4) is mounted for example using bolts on the front side of the base frame assembly (210) (refer Figure 3) for movement of the raking machine (100).
  • the roller assembly (220) includes a roller shaft (221) and at least one roller (222) (herein after 'the roller (222)') mounted on the roller shaft (221) for rotating therewith upon being driven by a power source or by a manual means.
  • the roller (222) has a large diameter and length which is decided based on application. This helps to move the racking machine (100) in an easy way even on hard caked, rough and soft and wet floor.
  • the roller (222) is enclosed by side plates (223) on either side.
  • the side plates (223) have step to enclose bearing (224) therein and a hole at center to pass the roller shaft (221) there through.
  • the roller assembly (220) encloses the bearings (224) using the side plates (223) to avoid direct contamination of poultry litter and dust.
  • the roller shaft (221) includes holes (228) on both ends which get aligned with the holes (216) on the base frame assembly (210) and fitted therein using bolts (226) and nuts (227).
  • the roller shaft (221) includes locating circlips (225) mounted thereon to restrict the lateral movement of bearing (224) mounted at front side of the base frame assembly (210) and thus the movement of the roller (222) and the side plates (223).
  • the roller (222) and the side plates (223) are made as a layer using a corrosion resistant material like high density polyethylene (HDPE) material or nylon material or Poly urethane (PU) material or plastic material or any other material o help complete raking unit to float and roll over poultry litter. Any manure/litter sticking to the at least one roller (222) is removed by the wiper plates (213) made from a suitable material.
  • the roller shaft (221) of solid or hollow section is made by means of any other suitable material known in the art.
  • the motor mounting assembly (230) (refer Figure 5) is welded on the base frame assembly (210) to drive the at least one roller (222) and also to ensure proper alignment with the drive mechanism assembly (240) and the tiller head assembly (250) as well as to provide rotational movement to the drive mechanism assembly (240) by converting electrical power.
  • the motor mounting assembly (230) includes a mounting plate (231), an electrical motor (232) and a vertical plate (235) configured thereon.
  • the mounting plate (231) is designed to have a specific shape that creates certain angle with respect to the base frame assembly (210).
  • the electrical motor (232) is selected from any one of AC motor, DC motor or special motor (232) running on any one of electrical, battery and petrol / diesel generator.
  • the electrical motor (232) includes an extended motor shaft (239) and a power supply cable with a male connector (233) assembled for example by bolting on the mounting plate (231).
  • One end of the mounting plate (211) is bent in right angle vertically upward to form the vertical plate (235). In other words, the vertical plate (235) extends vertically from the mounting plate (231).
  • the vertical plate (235) includes a center hole (236), four holes (237) and two tapped holes (238) configured thereon.
  • the center hole (236) is for the passage of a composite power transmission shaft (241) of the drive mechanism assembly (240) which transmits power from the electrical motor (232) to the tiller head assembly (250).
  • 4 nos. of holes (237) are configured on the vertical plate (235) matching with the flange bolting (253) for mounting of the tiller head assembly (250)
  • two tapped holes (238) are provided on the vertical plate (235) for mounting of the bearing plate (244) of the drive mechanism assembly (240).
  • the vertical plate (235) is used for mounting of the bearing plate (244) on one side thereof and the tiller head assembly (250) on other side thereof.
  • the drive mechanism assembly (240) alternatively rotor assembly (refer Figure 6) is mounted on the vertical plate (235) of the motor mounting assembly (230).
  • the drive mechanism assembly (240) includes the composite power transmission shaft (241), a driver pulley (242), and a belt (243).
  • the composite power transmission shaft (241) has a splined arrangement on one end thereof.
  • the composite power transmission shaft (241) is adapted to pass through the center hole (236) of the vertical plate (235) to receive rotational power from the electrical motor (232) for transmission to the tiller head assembly (250).
  • the drive mechanism assembly (240) is driven by means of belt and pulley drive (242, 243). However, it is understood that the drive mechanism assembly (240) can be rotated using a timing or V-type belt and pulley drive, chain and sprocket drive, or gear drive or any other suitable means known in the art.
  • the driver pulley (242) is mounted on extended motor shaft (239) using any suitable arrangement like key way.
  • the extended motor shaft (239) has suitable arrangement to mount the drive pulley (242) of the drive mechanism assembly (240).
  • the driver pulley (242) is connected with driven pulley (249) which integral part of composite power transmission shaft (241) using the belt (243).
  • the drive pulley (249) is selected from any of timer pulley, v-groove pulley, chain sprocket or gear of any type on other end of shaft.
  • a bearing (246) is positioned adjacent to the driven pulley (249).
  • the inner race of the bearing (246) is press fitted over the composite power transmission shaft (241) and outer race of the bearing (246) is press fitted in a bearing plate (244).
  • the bearing plate (244) holds the bearing (246) and locates the composite power transmission shaft (241) on the vertical plate (235) of the motor mounting assembly (230).
  • Circlip (247) is positioned adjacent to the bearing (246) to restrict sudden/accidental transmission of power from the composite power transmission shaft (241) to a tiller head gear box (251) of the tiller head assembly (250).
  • the side plates provided on one end of the driver pulley (242) and the driven pulley (249) avoid slipping of the belt (243) during their operation.
  • the tiller head assembly (250) (refer Figure 7) is mounted for example by bolts (253) on the vertical plate (235) of the mounting plate (231) of the motor mounting assembly (230).
  • the bolting connection (253) helps to dissemble the tiller head assembly (250) easily for cleaning and repair purpose.
  • the tiller head assembly (250) includes a tiller head gear box (251) and a plurality of blades (252) configured thereon.
  • the tiller head gear box (251) includes the composite power transmission shaft (241) inserted therein to receive rotary motion of the electrical motor (232) there through. Center hole (254) is provided on tiller head mounting flange (255) inserts the composite power transmission shaft (241) into the tiller head gear box (251).
  • the head gear box (251) upon receiving power, causes rotation of the plurality of blades (252) to slice and break compacted cake of litter / manure on floor of the broiler poultry house into small particles.
  • the sharp-edged blades (252) rotate and slice/break up and crush the cake of litter (caked and compacted poultry litter) into small particles.
  • the wheel assembly (260) (Refer Figure 8) is mounted on each cowl mounting plate (212) on the rear side of the base frame assembly (210) for movement of the racking machine (100) while maintaining a defined gap between the floor and the plurality of blades (252) of the tiller head assembly (250).
  • the wheel assembly (260) includes a threaded sleeve (264), a U clamp (262) and a wheel (261). The threaded sleeve (264) is welded on the cowl mounting plate (212) of the base frame assembly (210) as shown in Figure 2.
  • the U clamp (262) is fitted to the threaded sleeve (264) and includes a threaded rod (266) welded thereto.
  • the height of the wheels assembly (260) is adjusted by moving the threaded stud (266) of the U clamp (262) into the threaded sleeve (264).
  • Additional nut (263) is provided between the threaded sleeve (264) and the threaded stud (266) helps to avoid unintentional loosening of thread engagement.
  • the wheel (261) is attached to the U clamp (262) by a fixing means (265) for example nut and bolt.
  • the design and arrangement of the wheel assembly (260) helps to maintain a suitable gap between the ground level and the plurality of blades (252).
  • the cowl assembly (270) (refer Figure 9) is mounted on the cowl mounting plates (212) on the rear side of the base frame assembly (210) to enclose the tiller head assembly (250).
  • the cowl assembly (270) (refer Figure 9) is mounted on the cowl mounting plates (212) by means of screws (272) at multiple locations.
  • the cowl assembly (270) is made from any one of a sheet metal, a plastic material and a fiber material to ensure efficient raking operation while preventing splashing of poultry litter and easy removal for cleaning.
  • the cowl assembly (270) includes a cowl (271) which encloses the tiller head assembly (250).
  • the cowl (271) is formed of thin sheet in u-shape wherein the top region is concentric with the plurality of blades (252) with radial clearance while the bottom ends are flat to mount onto the cowl mounting plates (212). Due to enclosed tiller head and uniform radial clearance, litter breaks efficiently and prevents splashing of loose litter.
  • Center cutout (273) is provided on the cowl (271) for mounting the tiller head gear box (250) on the vertical plate (235).
  • the enclosure assembly (280) (refer Figure 10) is mounted on the base frame assembly (210) to cover the entire raking unit assembly (200) thereby restricting direct contact of internal assemblies with livestock or human operator.
  • the enclosure assembly (280) is designed to prevent vibration and noise when the electrical motor (232) is running.
  • the enclosure assembly (280) is made as a thin sheet material selected from any one of a metal, a plastic and a fiber material.
  • the enclosure assembly (280) includes an enclosure (281) and a plurality of air vents (283) configured thereon.
  • the enclosure (281) is mounted on the base frame assembly (210) using screws (282) at multiple locations.
  • the plurality of air vents (283) are configured on side panels of the enclosure (281) for air circulation over the electrical motor (232).
  • the handle and control unit assembly (300) (refer Figure 11) is attached to the rear side of the mounting pipe (214) of the base frame assembly (210) to push the racking machine (100).
  • the handle and control unit assembly (300) (refer figure 11) comprises a handle assembly (310), a power control assembly (320) and a trolley wheel assembly (330).
  • the handle assembly (310) (refer Figure 12) is an assembled unit of a base handle (311), a main handle (312), and a knob (313).
  • the base handle (311) is a U-shaped handle.
  • the handles (311, 312) are assembled by means of bolting or through holes (314).
  • the main handle (312) is suitably fitted into the base handle (311) using the knob (313).
  • the knob (313) is used for locking and unlocking functions.
  • bolting arrangement (315) is provided at bottom end for assembly with the raking unit (200).
  • the base handle (311) includes holes (317) configured thereon to attach a power control switch (321).
  • the power control assembly (320) is mounted on the main handle (312) by means of bolting to control the power supply to the electrical motor (232).
  • the power control assembly (320) includes a power control unit (321) with a control lever (322) for power on-off, a power input cable (323) along with a restraint clip (325) and an output cable (324) having female plug (326) which is connected to the male pin connector (233) during operation.
  • the restraint clip (325) is connected to the main handle (312) to avoid abnormal / accidental disengagement of external power supply.
  • the trolley wheel assembly (330) is attached to the base handle (311) along with an indexing plate (331).
  • the trolley wheel assembly (330) includes indexing plate (331), two wheels (332) connected using a shaft (333), two indexing arms (334) pin-joined on the base handle (311), and a spring loaded locking pin (335) attached on one of indexing arms (334) for easy movement of the raking machine (100) during idle condition.
  • the trolley wheels (332) are locked in top position using the indexing plate (331) so that they will not encounter with litter.
  • the trolley wheel (332) in center position of indexing plate ensures that the wheel assembly (260) will touch litter bed surface and the plurality of blades inside the litter bed to perform taking and thus useful when no proper flooring is available in the poultry farm.
  • the trolley wheel (332) in lower position ensures that the wheel assembly (260) will touch ground while moving /shifting the raking machine (100) during idle condition.
  • the male (233)-female (324) electrical connectors help to detach the handle assembly (300) and the power control assembly (320) from a raking machine unit (200) during idle condition of the enclosed raking machine (100).
  • the raking machine (100) processes litter in less time and with lesser noise.
  • the raking machine (100) lowers the ammonia generation from the litter by breaking and crushing which is otherwise harmful to the birds.
  • the raking machine (100) avoids splashing of the litter in feed vessels thereby avoiding contamination, which results maintaining good health of birds.
  • the raking machine (100) being light in weight is easy to move, handle and transport even manually thereby preventing/eliminating the need of extra manual efforts to push the racking machine (100) during operation.
  • the raking machine (100) is easy to use, requires low maintenance and is capable of being mass produced in an easy, cost effective, environment friendly and productive way. 6.
  • the raking machine (100) being an enclosed unit is safe for livestock and human operator.
  • the power control switch (321) is easy to operate and quick rotor stop on release of lever avoids any fatal accident to human operator.
  • the front roller having large diameter and length. This helps to move the raking machine (100) in an easy way even on hard caked, rough and soft and wet floor.
  • the three-position indexing plate (331) helps movement of the raking machine (100) and raking operation even when no proper flooring is available.

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  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Zoology (AREA)
  • Animal Husbandry (AREA)
  • Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
  • Birds (AREA)
  • Soil Working Implements (AREA)

Abstract

An enclosed raking machine (100) is disclosed. The enclosed raking machine (100) is used for raking, conditioning and mixing litter spread in a broiler poultry house. The enclosed raking machine (100) comprises a base frame assembly (210), a roller assembly (220), a motor mounting assembly (230), a drive mechanism assembly (240), a tiller head assembly (250), a wheel assembly (260), a cowl assembly (270), an enclosure assembly (280), and a handle and control unit assembly (300). The easy to use, maintain and light weight enclosed raking machine (100) reconditions the litter in less time with low noise generation with lowered moisture content in bedding thereby resulting in lower bacterial growth and ammonia generation there from and avoiding splashing thereof in feed vessels thereby maintaining good health of birds.

Description

AN ENCLOSED RAKING MACHINE
TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates generally to an enclosed raking machine and more particularly to a raking machine for raking and conditioning the litter spread in a broiler poultry house.
BACKGROUND ART
Raising poultry, particularly broiler chickens, is a major industry. Present poultry raising techniques involve growing chicks to a broiler size in a chicken house/ broiler poultry house in approximately six to seven weeks. A typical broiler poultry house can be hundreds of feet long and thirty feet wider. The floors of the broiler poultry house can be formed of concrete or other materials, including compacted and leveled earth. The floor of the house is covered with bedding material consisting of wood chips, rice hulls or peanut shell. After two weeks of broiler growth, the floor of the poultry house gets covered with poultry litter, which is defined as a material that becomes caked and compacted with droppings and other moisture. After each batch of chickens is removed from the poultry house, the floor of the chicken raising area must be prepared for a new batch of chicks, by eliminating or cleaning the poultry litter, also known as litter reconditioning wherein the first step is de-caking or removing wet material primarily below drinkers. In most developed countries, the cleaning of the poultry litter and litter conditioning is done by using a tractor as they use big broiler poultry houses with a thick layer of litter material. However, in developing countries such as in India, wherein comparatively smaller sizes of poultry houses with a thin layer of litter material are used, the tractor is not feasible and affordable. Hence, manual method is used for raking and litter reconditioning.
Manual raking operation does not result in complete removal of moisture and ammonia from the reconditioned litter. Further, the manual raking causes splashing of litter waste into food vessels. Hence, with the use of manual raking method, the health of birds is greatly compromised. Also, the manual raking method is laborious, time consuming and hazardous to health of farmer. Besides above-mentioned drawbacks, the existing machines also have issues related to size, sound safety and handling.
Accordingly, there exists a need for a raking machine that overcomes the above- mentioned drawbacks of the prior art. OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a raking machine for litter conditioning and de-caking in less time and in lesser noise with reduced moisture content in bedding thereby resulting in lower bacterial growth and ammonia generation there from while avoiding splashing thereof in feed vessels thereby maintaining good health of birds.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a completely enclosed unit of raking machine to avoid dust formation during raking operation thereby ensuring safety of birds as well as humans. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a light weight raking machine that is easy to move, handle and transport even manually thereby preventing use of manual efforts to push the machine. Still another object of the present invention is to provide easy to use raking machine requiring low maintenance and capable of being mass produced in an easy, cost effective, environment friendly and productive way.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Accordingly, the present invention provides an enclosed raking machine. The enclosed raking machine is used for raking, conditioning and mixing litter spread in a broiler poultry house. The enclosed raking machine comprises a base frame assembly, a roller assembly, a motor mounting assembly, a drive mechanism assembly, a tiller head assembly, a wheel assembly, a cowl assembly, an enclosure assembly, and a handle and control unit assembly.
The base frame assembly is formed of L-angles on sides thereof, cowl mounting plates on rear sides thereof, and wiper plates on front sides thereof. The L-angles includes a mounting pipe attached at each rear end thereof.
The roller assembly is mounted on the base frame assembly for movement of the racking machine. The roller assembly includes a roller shaft, at least one roller mounted on the roller shaft for rotating therewith upon being driven.
The motor mounting assembly is welded to the base frame assembly to drive tiller head and the at least one roller. The motor mounting assembly includes a mounting plate, an electrical motor mounted on the mounting plate, a vertical plate extending vertically from the mounting plate. The electrical motor includes an extended motor shaft, and a power supply cable with a male connector assembled on the mounting plate. The vertical plate includes a center hole, four holes and two tapped holes configured thereon.
The drive mechanism assembly is mounted on the vertical plate of the motor mounting assembly. The drive mechanism includes a composite power transmission shaft passing through the center hole of the vertical plate to receive rotational power from the electrical motor, a driver pulley mounted on the extended motor shaft, a belt connecting the driver pulley to a drive pulley integrated in the composite power transmission shaft, a bearing plate fitted on the vertical plate holds a bearing and locates the composite power transmission shaft on the vertical plate of the motor mounting assembly, and a circlip positioned adjacent to the bearing to restrict sudden/accidental ejection or disassembly of the composite power transmission shaft.
The tiller head assembly is mounted on the vertical plate of the motor mounting assembly. The tiller head assembly includes a tiller head gear box and a plurality of blades configured thereon. The tiller head gear box includes the composite power transmission shaft inserted therein to receive rotary motion of the electrical motor there through to cause rotation of the plurality of blades to slice and break compacted cake of litter / manure on floor of the broiler poultry house into small particles.
The wheel assembly is mounted on each cowl mounting plate on the rear side of the base frame assembly for movement of the racking machine while maintaining a defined gap between the floor and the plurality of blades of the tiller head assembly and also providing stability to the raking machine while maneuvering raking unit in poultry farm. The wheel assembly includes a threaded sleeve welded on the cowl mounting plate, a U clamp fitted to the threaded stud and a wheel attached to the U clamp. The height of the wheel assembly is adjusted by moving the threaded stud of the U clamp into the threaded sleeve.
The cowl assembly is mounted on the cowl mounting plates on the rear side of the base frame assembly using screws to enclose the tiller head assembly thereby preventing splashing of loose litter. The cowl assembly includes a cowl being formed of thin sheet in circular shape concentric to the plurality of blades. The cowl includes a center cutout configured thereon for mounting the tiller head gear box on the vertical plate.
The enclosure assembly is mounted on the base frame assembly by means of screws to enclose entire raking unit assembly thereby avoiding any direct contact of raking unit with live stock or human operator as well as reducing vibration and noise generation during an operation. The enclosure assembly is formed of a thin sheet material selected from any of metal, plastic or any other material.
The handle and control unit assembly is attached to the rear side of the mounting pipe of the base frame assembly to push the racking machine. The handle and control unit assembly include a handle assembly, a power control assembly and a trolley wheel assembly.
The handle assembly is assembled from a u -shaped base handle inserted into the mounting pipes of the base frame assembly, a main handle slidably fitted into the base handle, and a knob configured thereon for fitting the main handle into the base handle.
The power control assembly is mounted on the main handle by means of bolting to control the power supply to the electrical motor. The power control assembly includes a power control unit with a control lever for power on-off, a power input cable along with a restraint clip, and an output cable having a female plug connected to the male pin connector during operation. The restraint clip is attached to the main handle to avoid abnormal / accidental disengagement of external power supply.
The trolley wheel assembly is attached to the base handle. The trolley wheel assembly includes an indexing plate with three position arrangement, two wheels connected using a shaft, two indexing arms attached to the shaft and joined on the base handle, and a spring loaded locking pin attached on one of indexing arms for easy movement of the raking machine during idle condition.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The advantages of this invention will be apparent upon consideration of the following detailed disclosure of the invention especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein;
Figure 1 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a racking machine, in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 2 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a raking unit assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
Figure 3 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a base frame assembly of raking machine of Figure 1 ;
Figure 4 illustrates three-dimensional and cut-sectional views of roller assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ; Figure 5 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a motor mounting assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ; Figure 6 illustrates three-dimensional and cut sectional views of a drive mechanism assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1
Figure 7 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a tiller head assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
Figure 8 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a 'rear wheels' assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
Figure 9 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a cowl assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
Figure 10 illustrates a three-dimensional view of an enclosure assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ; Figure 11 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a handle and control unit assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
Figure 12 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a main handle assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1 ;
Figure 13 illustrates a three-dimensional view of a power control unit of the raking machine of Figure 1 ; and Figure 14 illustrates a three-dimensional view of trolley wheel assembly of the raking machine of Figure 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
The foregoing objects of the invention are accomplished, and the problems and shortcomings associated with the prior art techniques and approaches are overcome by the present invention as described below in the preferred embodiment. The present invention provides an enclosed raking machine. The raking machine of the present invention reconditions the litter in less time with low noise generation with lowered moisture content in bedding thereby resulting in lower bacterial growth and ammonia generation there from and avoiding splashing thereof in feed vessels thereby maintaining good health of birds. The raking machine is easy to use, requires low maintenance and is capable of being mass produced in an easy, cost effective, environment friendly and productive way. The raking machine is light in weight, easy to move, handle and transport even manually thereby preventing use of extra manual efforts to push the machine. As used herein, the term 'plurality' refers to the presence of more than one of the referenced item and the terms 'a', and 'an' do not donate a limitation of quantity, but rather donate the presence of at least one of the referenced item.
The terms 'raking machine' or 'litter conditioning machine', 'litter' or 'manure' may be used herein interchangeably and refer to convey the same meaning.
It is to be understood that the improvements of the present invention are applicable to any of a number of raking machine, other than those which are specifically described below. Such raking machine will be readily understood by the person of ordinary skill in the art, and are achievable by causing various changing that are themselves known in state of the art. Reference herein to "one embodiment" or "another embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Further, the order of steps in process flowcharts or diagrams representing one or more embodiments of the invention do not inherently indicate any particular order nor imply any limitations in the invention. The present invention is illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, throughout which reference numbers indicate corresponding parts in the various figures.
Referring to Figures 1 to 14, an enclosed raking machine (100) in accordance with the present invention is shown. Specifically, the raking machine (100) is an implement for raking, conditioning and mixing caked and compacted poultry litter from the floor of a broiler poultry house / farm. However, it is understood that the raking machine (100) can be used for any suitable purposes as per various alternate embodiments thereof. The raking machine (100) comprises a raking unit assembly (200), and a handle and control unit assembly (300) as shown in Figure 1.
The raking unit assembly (200) (refer Figure 2) comprises of a base frame assembly (210), a roller assembly (220), a motor mounting assembly (230), a drive mechanism assembly (240), a tiller head assembly (250), a wheel assembly (260), a cowl assembly (270) and an enclosure assembly (280).
The handle and control unit assembly (300) (refer Figure 11) comprises of main handle assembly (310), a power control unit (320) and a trolley wheel assembly (330).
The base frame assembly (210) (refer Figure 3) is adapted to provide maximum rigidity and minimum deflection. In an embodiment, the base frame assembly (210) is a welded frame formed of L-angles (211) on sides thereof, with cross members of cowl mounting plates (212) on rear sides thereof and wiper plates (213) on front sides thereof. The L-angles (211) includes series of holes (215), holes (216) and holes (218) configured thereon. Specifically, the holes (215) are configured on a vertical side of the L-angle (211) for mounting the enclosure assembly (280) thereon, the holes (216) are configured on front side of the L-angle (211) for mounting of the roller assembly (220) and the holes (218) are configured on a mounting pipe (214) attached at each rear end of the L-angle (211) for assembling handle and control unit assembly (300) for example using bolting. The roller assembly (220) (refer Figure 4) is mounted for example using bolts on the front side of the base frame assembly (210) (refer Figure 3) for movement of the raking machine (100). The roller assembly (220) includes a roller shaft (221) and at least one roller (222) (herein after 'the roller (222)') mounted on the roller shaft (221) for rotating therewith upon being driven by a power source or by a manual means.
In an embodiment, the roller (222) has a large diameter and length which is decided based on application. This helps to move the racking machine (100) in an easy way even on hard caked, rough and soft and wet floor. The roller (222) is enclosed by side plates (223) on either side. The side plates (223) have step to enclose bearing (224) therein and a hole at center to pass the roller shaft (221) there through. The roller assembly (220) encloses the bearings (224) using the side plates (223) to avoid direct contamination of poultry litter and dust.
The roller shaft (221) includes holes (228) on both ends which get aligned with the holes (216) on the base frame assembly (210) and fitted therein using bolts (226) and nuts (227). The roller shaft (221) includes locating circlips (225) mounted thereon to restrict the lateral movement of bearing (224) mounted at front side of the base frame assembly (210) and thus the movement of the roller (222) and the side plates (223). In an embodiment, the roller (222) and the side plates (223) are made as a layer using a corrosion resistant material like high density polyethylene (HDPE) material or nylon material or Poly urethane (PU) material or plastic material or any other material o help complete raking unit to float and roll over poultry litter. Any manure/litter sticking to the at least one roller (222) is removed by the wiper plates (213) made from a suitable material. The roller shaft (221) of solid or hollow section is made by means of any other suitable material known in the art.
The motor mounting assembly (230) (refer Figure 5) is welded on the base frame assembly (210) to drive the at least one roller (222) and also to ensure proper alignment with the drive mechanism assembly (240) and the tiller head assembly (250) as well as to provide rotational movement to the drive mechanism assembly (240) by converting electrical power. The motor mounting assembly (230) includes a mounting plate (231), an electrical motor (232) and a vertical plate (235) configured thereon.
The mounting plate (231) is designed to have a specific shape that creates certain angle with respect to the base frame assembly (210). The electrical motor (232) is selected from any one of AC motor, DC motor or special motor (232) running on any one of electrical, battery and petrol / diesel generator. The electrical motor (232) includes an extended motor shaft (239) and a power supply cable with a male connector (233) assembled for example by bolting on the mounting plate (231). One end of the mounting plate (211) is bent in right angle vertically upward to form the vertical plate (235). In other words, the vertical plate (235) extends vertically from the mounting plate (231). The vertical plate (235) includes a center hole (236), four holes (237) and two tapped holes (238) configured thereon. The center hole (236) is for the passage of a composite power transmission shaft (241) of the drive mechanism assembly (240) which transmits power from the electrical motor (232) to the tiller head assembly (250). With reference to the center hole (236), 4 nos. of holes (237) are configured on the vertical plate (235) matching with the flange bolting (253) for mounting of the tiller head assembly (250), two tapped holes (238) are provided on the vertical plate (235) for mounting of the bearing plate (244) of the drive mechanism assembly (240). Thus, the vertical plate (235) is used for mounting of the bearing plate (244) on one side thereof and the tiller head assembly (250) on other side thereof.
The drive mechanism assembly (240) alternatively rotor assembly (refer Figure 6) is mounted on the vertical plate (235) of the motor mounting assembly (230). The drive mechanism assembly (240) includes the composite power transmission shaft (241), a driver pulley (242), and a belt (243).
The composite power transmission shaft (241) has a splined arrangement on one end thereof. The composite power transmission shaft (241) is adapted to pass through the center hole (236) of the vertical plate (235) to receive rotational power from the electrical motor (232) for transmission to the tiller head assembly (250). The drive mechanism assembly (240) is driven by means of belt and pulley drive (242, 243). However, it is understood that the drive mechanism assembly (240) can be rotated using a timing or V-type belt and pulley drive, chain and sprocket drive, or gear drive or any other suitable means known in the art. The driver pulley (242) is mounted on extended motor shaft (239) using any suitable arrangement like key way. The extended motor shaft (239) has suitable arrangement to mount the drive pulley (242) of the drive mechanism assembly (240). The driver pulley (242) is connected with driven pulley (249) which integral part of composite power transmission shaft (241) using the belt (243). The drive pulley (249) is selected from any of timer pulley, v-groove pulley, chain sprocket or gear of any type on other end of shaft. To minimize the composite power transmission shaft (241), a bearing (246) is positioned adjacent to the driven pulley (249). The inner race of the bearing (246) is press fitted over the composite power transmission shaft (241) and outer race of the bearing (246) is press fitted in a bearing plate (244). To avoid movement of the bearing plate (244), it is bolted on the vertical plate (235) using a set of screws (245). The bearing plate (244) holds the bearing (246) and locates the composite power transmission shaft (241) on the vertical plate (235) of the motor mounting assembly (230). Circlip (247) is positioned adjacent to the bearing (246) to restrict sudden/accidental transmission of power from the composite power transmission shaft (241) to a tiller head gear box (251) of the tiller head assembly (250). The side plates provided on one end of the driver pulley (242) and the driven pulley (249) avoid slipping of the belt (243) during their operation.
The tiller head assembly (250) (refer Figure 7) is mounted for example by bolts (253) on the vertical plate (235) of the mounting plate (231) of the motor mounting assembly (230). The bolting connection (253) helps to dissemble the tiller head assembly (250) easily for cleaning and repair purpose. The tiller head assembly (250) includes a tiller head gear box (251) and a plurality of blades (252) configured thereon.
The tiller head gear box (251) includes the composite power transmission shaft (241) inserted therein to receive rotary motion of the electrical motor (232) there through. Center hole (254) is provided on tiller head mounting flange (255) inserts the composite power transmission shaft (241) into the tiller head gear box (251). The head gear box (251) upon receiving power, causes rotation of the plurality of blades (252) to slice and break compacted cake of litter / manure on floor of the broiler poultry house into small particles. The sharp-edged blades (252) rotate and slice/break up and crush the cake of litter (caked and compacted poultry litter) into small particles. Due to high speed, the blades (252) break the cake and make the litter dry which results in control of bacterial growth and ammonia. The wheel assembly (260) (Refer Figure 8) is mounted on each cowl mounting plate (212) on the rear side of the base frame assembly (210) for movement of the racking machine (100) while maintaining a defined gap between the floor and the plurality of blades (252) of the tiller head assembly (250). The wheel assembly (260) includes a threaded sleeve (264), a U clamp (262) and a wheel (261). The threaded sleeve (264) is welded on the cowl mounting plate (212) of the base frame assembly (210) as shown in Figure 2. The U clamp (262) is fitted to the threaded sleeve (264) and includes a threaded rod (266) welded thereto. The height of the wheels assembly (260) is adjusted by moving the threaded stud (266) of the U clamp (262) into the threaded sleeve (264). Additional nut (263) is provided between the threaded sleeve (264) and the threaded stud (266) helps to avoid unintentional loosening of thread engagement. The wheel (261) is attached to the U clamp (262) by a fixing means (265) for example nut and bolt. The design and arrangement of the wheel assembly (260) helps to maintain a suitable gap between the ground level and the plurality of blades (252). Location of the wheels assembly (260) is such that it is in a blade region to help to move in easy way on the floor because wheels (261) will pass on slicing material. The cowl assembly (270) (refer Figure 9) is mounted on the cowl mounting plates (212) on the rear side of the base frame assembly (210) to enclose the tiller head assembly (250). In an embodiment, the cowl assembly (270) (refer Figure 9) is mounted on the cowl mounting plates (212) by means of screws (272) at multiple locations. The cowl assembly (270) is made from any one of a sheet metal, a plastic material and a fiber material to ensure efficient raking operation while preventing splashing of poultry litter and easy removal for cleaning. The cowl assembly (270) includes a cowl (271) which encloses the tiller head assembly (250). The cowl (271) is formed of thin sheet in u-shape wherein the top region is concentric with the plurality of blades (252) with radial clearance while the bottom ends are flat to mount onto the cowl mounting plates (212). Due to enclosed tiller head and uniform radial clearance, litter breaks efficiently and prevents splashing of loose litter. Center cutout (273) is provided on the cowl (271) for mounting the tiller head gear box (250) on the vertical plate (235). The enclosure assembly (280) (refer Figure 10) is mounted on the base frame assembly (210) to cover the entire raking unit assembly (200) thereby restricting direct contact of internal assemblies with livestock or human operator. The enclosure assembly (280) is designed to prevent vibration and noise when the electrical motor (232) is running. The enclosure assembly (280) is made as a thin sheet material selected from any one of a metal, a plastic and a fiber material. The enclosure assembly (280) includes an enclosure (281) and a plurality of air vents (283) configured thereon. The enclosure (281) is mounted on the base frame assembly (210) using screws (282) at multiple locations. The plurality of air vents (283) are configured on side panels of the enclosure (281) for air circulation over the electrical motor (232).
The handle and control unit assembly (300) (refer Figure 11) is attached to the rear side of the mounting pipe (214) of the base frame assembly (210) to push the racking machine (100). The handle and control unit assembly (300) (refer figure 11) comprises a handle assembly (310), a power control assembly (320) and a trolley wheel assembly (330). The handle assembly (310) (refer Figure 12) is an assembled unit of a base handle (311), a main handle (312), and a knob (313). The base handle (311) is a U-shaped handle. The handles (311, 312) are assembled by means of bolting or through holes (314). The main handle (312) is suitably fitted into the base handle (311) using the knob (313). The knob (313) is used for locking and unlocking functions. In the base handle (311), bolting arrangement (315) is provided at bottom end for assembly with the raking unit (200). The base handle (311) includes holes (317) configured thereon to attach a power control switch (321).
The power control assembly (320) is mounted on the main handle (312) by means of bolting to control the power supply to the electrical motor (232). The power control assembly (320) includes a power control unit (321) with a control lever (322) for power on-off, a power input cable (323) along with a restraint clip (325) and an output cable (324) having female plug (326) which is connected to the male pin connector (233) during operation. The restraint clip (325) is connected to the main handle (312) to avoid abnormal / accidental disengagement of external power supply.
The trolley wheel assembly (330) is attached to the base handle (311) along with an indexing plate (331). The trolley wheel assembly (330) includes indexing plate (331), two wheels (332) connected using a shaft (333), two indexing arms (334) pin-joined on the base handle (311), and a spring loaded locking pin (335) attached on one of indexing arms (334) for easy movement of the raking machine (100) during idle condition. During operation, the trolley wheels (332) are locked in top position using the indexing plate (331) so that they will not encounter with litter. The trolley wheel (332) in center position of indexing plate ensures that the wheel assembly (260) will touch litter bed surface and the plurality of blades inside the litter bed to perform taking and thus useful when no proper flooring is available in the poultry farm. The trolley wheel (332) in lower position ensures that the wheel assembly (260) will touch ground while moving /shifting the raking machine (100) during idle condition. The male (233)-female (324) electrical connectors help to detach the handle assembly (300) and the power control assembly (320) from a raking machine unit (200) during idle condition of the enclosed raking machine (100). ADVANTAGES OF INVENTION
1. The raking machine (100) processes litter in less time and with lesser noise.
2. The raking machine (100) lowers the ammonia generation from the litter by breaking and crushing which is otherwise harmful to the birds.
3. The raking machine (100) avoids splashing of the litter in feed vessels thereby avoiding contamination, which results maintaining good health of birds.
4. The raking machine (100) being light in weight is easy to move, handle and transport even manually thereby preventing/eliminating the need of extra manual efforts to push the racking machine (100) during operation.
5. The raking machine (100) is easy to use, requires low maintenance and is capable of being mass produced in an easy, cost effective, environment friendly and productive way. 6. The raking machine (100) being an enclosed unit is safe for livestock and human operator.
7. The power control switch (321) is easy to operate and quick rotor stop on release of lever avoids any fatal accident to human operator.
8. The front roller having large diameter and length. This helps to move the raking machine (100) in an easy way even on hard caked, rough and soft and wet floor. 9. The three-position indexing plate (331) helps movement of the raking machine (100) and raking operation even when no proper flooring is available. The foregoing objects of the invention are accomplished, and the problems and shortcomings associated with prior art techniques and approaches are overcome by the present invention described in the present embodiment. Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiment are provided herein; however, it is to be understood that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure, or matter. The embodiments of the invention as described above, and the methods disclosed herein will suggest further modification and alterations to those skilled in the art. Such further modifications and alterations may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

I CLAIM:
1. An enclosed raking machine (100), the enclosed raking machine (100) being used for raking, conditioning and mixing litter spread in a broiler poultry house, the enclosed raking machine (100) comprising:
•S a base frame assembly (210) being formed of L-angles (211) on sides thereof, cowl mounting plates (212) on rear sides thereof, and wiper plates (213) on front sides thereof, the L-angles (21 1) having a mounting pipe (214) attached at each rear end thereof;
V a roller assembly (220) mounted on the base frame assembly (210) for movement of the racking machine (100), the roller assembly (220) having a roller shaft (221), at least one roller (222) mounted on the roller shaft (221) for rotating therewith upon being driven;
a motor mounting assembly (230) welded to the base frame assembly (210) to drive the at least one roller (222), the motor mounting assembly (230) having a mounting plate (231), an electrical motor (232) mounted on the mounting plate (231), a vertical plate (235) extending vertically from the mounting plate (231), the electrical motor (232) having an extended motor shaft (239), and a power supply cable with a male connector (233) assembled on the mounting plate (231), the vertical plate (235) having a center hole (236), four holes (237) and two tapped holes (238) configured thereon;
•f a drive mechanism assembly (240) mounted on the vertical plate (235) of the motor mounting assembly (230), the drive mechanism (240) having a composite power transmission shaft (241) passing through the center hole (236) of the vertical plate (235) to receive rotational power from the electrical motor (232), a driver pulley (242) mounted on the extended motor shaft (239), a belt (243) connecting the driver pulley (242) to a drive pulley (249) integrated in the composite power transmission shaft (241), a bearing plate (244) fitted on the vertical plate (235) holds a bearing (246) and locates the composite power transmission shaft (241) on the vertical plate (235) of the motor mounting assembly (230), and a circlip (247) positioned adjacent to the bearing (246) to restrict sudden/accidental ejection/disassembly of the composite power transmission shaft (241);
V a tiller head assembly (250) mounted on the vertical plate (235) of the motor mounting assembly (230), the tiller head assembly (250) having a tiller head gear box (251) and a plurality of blades (252) configured thereon, the tiller head gear box (251) having the composite power transmission shaft (241) inserted therein to receive rotary motion of the electrical motor (232) there through to cause rotation of the plurality of blades (252) to slice and break compacted cake of litter / manure on floor of the broiler poultry house into small particles;
a wheel assembly (260) mounted on each cowl mounting plate (212) on the rear side of the base frame assembly (210) for movement of the racking machine (100) while maintaining a defined gap between the floor and the plurality of blades (252) of the tiller head assembly (250) and also providing stability to the raking machine (100) while maneuvering raking unit in poultry farm, the wheel assembly (260) having a threaded sleeve (264) welded on the cowl mounting plate (212), a U clamp (262) fitted to the threaded stud (266) and a wheel (261) attached to the U clamp (262), wherein height of the wheel assembly (260) is adjusted by moving the nut (263) on the threaded stud (266) into the threaded sleeve (264);
V a cowl assembly (270) mounted on the cowl mounting plates (212) on the rear side of the base frame assembly (210) using screws (272) to enclose the tiller head assembly (250) thereby preventing splashing of loose litter, the cowl assembly (270) having a cowl (271) being formed of thin sheet in circular shape concentric to the plurality of blades (252), the cowl (271) having a center cutout (273) configured thereon for mounting the tiller head gear box (250) on the vertical plate (235);
•S an enclosure assembly (280) mounted on the base frame assembly (210) by means of screws (282) to enclose entire raking unit assembly (200) thereby avoiding any direct contact of raking unit with live stock or human operator as well as reducing vibration and noise generation during an operation, the enclosure assembly (280) being formed of a thin sheet material selected from any of metal, plastic or any other material; and
V a handle and control unit assembly (300) attached to the rear side of the mounting pipe (214) of the base frame assembly (210) to push the racking machine (100), the handle and control unit assembly (300) having,
a handle assembly (310) being assembled from a u -shaped base handle (311) inserted into the mounting pipes (214) of the base frame assembly (210), a main handle (312) slidably fitted into the base handle
(311) , and a knob (313) configured thereon for fitting the main handle (312) into the base handle (312),
a power control assembly (320) mounted on the main handle
(312) by means of bolting to control the power supply to the electrical motor (232), the power control assembly (320) having a power control unit (321) with a control lever (322) for power on-off, a power input cable (323) along with a restraint clip (325), and an output cable (324) having a female plug connected to the male pin connector (233) during operation, the restraint clip (325) being attached connected to the main handle (312) to avoid abnormal / accidental disengagement of external power supply, and
a trolley wheel assembly (330) attached to the base handle (311), the trolley wheel assembly having a 3-position indexing plate (331), two wheels (332) connected using a shaft (333), two indexing arms (334) attached to the shaft (333) and joined on the base handle (311), and a spring loaded locking pin (335) attached on one of indexing arms (334) for easy movement of the raking machine (100) during idle and operating condition.
2. The enclosed raking machine (100) as claimed in 1, wherein the roller assembly (220) is mounted on the front side of the base frame assembly (210) using bolts and encloses bearings (224) using side plates (223) which avoid direct contamination of poultry litter and dust.
3. The enclosed raking machine (100) as claimed in 1, wherein the at least one roller (222) is made from any one of corrosion resistant material like high density polyethylene (HDPE) material or nylon material or Poly urethane (PU) material or plastic material or any other material to help complete raking unit to float and roll over poultry litter.
4. The enclosed raking machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wiper plates (213) is made from plates of any material to help to remove any manure/litter sticking to the at least one roller (222).
5. The enclosed raking machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrical motor (232) is selected from any one of AC motor, DC motor or special motor (232) running on any one of electrical, battery and petrol / diesel generator. 6. The enclosed raking machine (100) is claimed in claim 1, wherein tiller head assembly (250) is mounted on vertical side of the mounting plate (231) using bolts (253) for easy removal for repair and cleaning purpose.
7. The enclosed raking machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism assembly (240) is selected from any one of a timing or V-type belt and pulley drive, a chain and sprocket drive, and a gear drive.
8. The enclosed raking machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composite power transmission shaft (241) has splined arrangement on one end thereof and the drive pulley (249) is selected from any of timer pulley, v-groove pulley, chain sprocket or gear of any type on other end of shaft.
9. The enclosed raking machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the male (233)-female (324) electrical connectors help to detach the handle assembly (300) and the power control assembly (320) from a raking machine unit (200) during idle condition of the enclosed raking machine (100).
10. The enclosed raking machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cowl assembly (270) is made from any one of a sheet metal, a plastic material and a fiber material to ensure efficient raking operation while preventing splashing of poultry litter and easy removal for cleaning.
11. The enclosed raking machine (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the indexing plate (331) is a three-position indexing plate, wherein top position of the indexing plate ensures that the trolley wheels (332) does not touch ground or litter thereby ensuring contact with the rear wheel with flooring; wherein, lower position of the indexing plate (331) ensures that trolley wheel (332) as well as the rear wheel (261) and the plurality of blades (252) do not touch ground; and wherein, center position of the indexing plate ensures that the trolley wheel (332) touches surface of litter and the plurality of blades (252) inside the litter bed to perform raking and thus useful when no proper flooring is available in the poultry farm.
PCT/IN2018/050182 2017-04-20 2018-03-29 An enclosed raking machine WO2018193464A1 (en)

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Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109997451A (en) * 2019-04-08 2019-07-12 张毅 A kind of self-propelled farmyard manure automatic charging broadcast application all-in-one machine and its application method
CN111903534A (en) * 2020-07-31 2020-11-10 王德贤 Beef cattle manure matched cleaning equipment
CN112868543A (en) * 2021-01-08 2021-06-01 刘世扬 Environment-friendly automatic rake overturning all-in-one machine for farm
WO2023242500A1 (en) 2022-06-16 2023-12-21 Octopus Biosafety Machine for scarifying the soil, in particular the litter layer of the soil, of a poultry farming area

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FR3024939A1 (en) * 2014-08-25 2016-02-26 Pierre Godbillon MACHINE FOR CURING BOXES AND REMOVING MANURE
US20170293305A1 (en) * 2016-04-09 2017-10-12 Mike Altomare Robotic litter processing system

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EP2135505A2 (en) * 2008-06-17 2009-12-23 Metal Inventions Holland B.V. Device for removing manure from a grid floor
FR3024939A1 (en) * 2014-08-25 2016-02-26 Pierre Godbillon MACHINE FOR CURING BOXES AND REMOVING MANURE
US20170293305A1 (en) * 2016-04-09 2017-10-12 Mike Altomare Robotic litter processing system

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109997451A (en) * 2019-04-08 2019-07-12 张毅 A kind of self-propelled farmyard manure automatic charging broadcast application all-in-one machine and its application method
CN111903534A (en) * 2020-07-31 2020-11-10 王德贤 Beef cattle manure matched cleaning equipment
CN112868543A (en) * 2021-01-08 2021-06-01 刘世扬 Environment-friendly automatic rake overturning all-in-one machine for farm
WO2023242500A1 (en) 2022-06-16 2023-12-21 Octopus Biosafety Machine for scarifying the soil, in particular the litter layer of the soil, of a poultry farming area
FR3136630A1 (en) * 2022-06-16 2023-12-22 Tibot MACHINE FOR SCARING THE GROUND, IN PARTICULAR LITTER, OF A POULTRY FARMING SURFACE

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