Simplified Model of Prototype Feeding Configuration
The prototype configuration, as illustrated in the figure, is composed of a floor chain which slowly feeds the sprig mass into four vertically aligned flail bars. The flail bars then attempt to control the feeding rate of sprigs onto the beater bar which in turn distributes the sprigs to the ground. The sprigs are then pressed into the soil with vertical disks. Power is supplied by a tractor through a PTO shaft and into a right angle gear-box. There is no speed reduction in line to the flail bars or beater bar. Speed reduction to the floor chain is accomplished through a variable ring-cone gearbox with a 432:1 minimum reduction and sprockets.
Variable Ring-cone gearbox