Drive Over Hopper
Innovating Grain Handling, One Model at a Time
Client: MBC Ag & Manildra
Location: Grong Grong, NSW
Services: Mechanical Engineering
Completed: In Progress
Cresco Australia was engaged to deliver a comprehensive design, fabrication, and certification package for a Drive Over Hopper, a specialised grain drive-over grid system.
This project aimed to create a unique and innovative design tailored to the client’s specific needs, with an emphasis on enhancing existing models used throughout Australia.
Video: Existing Drive Over Hopper Shown Below
Design & Innovation
The client’s vision was to develop a distinct model that incorporated cutting-edge features and an increased capacity compared to standard grids.
To achieve this, the design process required significant customisation and ingenuity.
Given the limited availability of reference materials from existing models, Cresco Australia approached the project with a meticulous piece-by-piece design methodology.
This approach allowed for continuous verification of connections and ensured the feasibility of the fabrication process.
As the design evolved, structural analyses were conducted to validate the safety and practicality of each component, ensuring the final product met the highest standards of structural integrity.
Video: Hopper Model Connection to Existing Stacker 3D Point Cloud Scan
Collaborative Efforts
The complexity of the Drive Over Hopper necessitated a multidisciplinary approach.
Cresco Australia collaborated closely with electrical and hydraulic engineers to integrate advanced power and control systems into the grid.
This collaboration ensured that the hopper could operate efficiently across various modes, enhancing functionality and user experience.
Revision A Model: A Platform for Future Developments
The Drive Over Hopper’s current design is being implemented in what could be called a Revision A Model. The initial version serves as the foundation prototype upon which future iterations will be built.
The Revision A model includes the core innovations in structural design, component integration, and operational functionality that will act as a baseline for future improvements
Cresco Australia recognises that industrial requirements evolve, and with that, so too must the design of the Drive Over Hopper.
The flexibility built into the first model allows for future modifications, incorporating feedback from real-world use and technological advancements.
The future revisions will continue to develop and enhance areas such as grid size, operational efficiency, material durability, and integration of new electrical and hydraulic technologies.
This approach ensures that each subsequent model will push the boundaries of grain handling, continuously striving for increased reliability and performance.
Continuous Improvement & Future Developments
Recognising the potential for ongoing innovation, Cresco Australia committed to a long-term partnership with the client to refine and enhance the Drive Over Hopper.
The initial design serves as a foundation for future models, with a focus on continuous improvement.
The team remains dedicated to exploring new technologies and design methodologies to advance the hopper’s capabilities and efficiency in grain handling operations.
Conclusion
The Drive Over Hopper project exemplifies Cresco Australia’s commitment to delivering bespoke and innovative engineering solutions.
Through careful design, rigorous testing, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, the team has created a robust and innovative product.
The project stands as a testament to Cresco Australia’s expertise in handling complex engineering challenges and our dedication to pushing the boundaries of industrial design.
As the project progresses, the team looks forward to continued innovation and excellence in future iterations of the Drive Over Hopper.
Video: 3D Render of Drive Over Hopper
