Agricultural Front Hitching Device With Dynamic Retraction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hitching and lifting devices for agricultural tools are complex, costly, and lack reliability, particularly in allowing transverse oscillation movement and efficient retraction to prevent damage during frontal impacts.

Innovation Solution

A front hitching and lifting device with a chassis, hinged arms, and dual actuators that enable movement across three positions (minimum bottom, maximum top, and retracted) using position detection and by-pass control mechanisms, allowing for hydraulic distributor management to simplify operation and reduce complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If foldable arms are provided to reduce longitudinal offset and avoid exposing projecting parts, then safety in case of frontal impact is improved, but device complexity increases and structure becomes embrittled

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage in case of frontal impactVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic retraction mechanism where the arm can automatically retract to a horizontal position when not in use, transforming the static structure into a dynamic one. This allows the arm to change its configuration based on operational needs, reducing longitudinal offset and avoiding exposure of projecting parts while maintaining structural integrity through controlled movement rather than complex folding mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If a single actuator is used to control arm movement, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but the ability to achieve precise positioning and control is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of actuatorsVSAvoidposition control precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a single actuator that performs multiple functions: it controls both the lifting motion of the arm and the retraction mechanism. The actuator is designed with a long stroke that enables it to handle various positions and configurations, making it a multi-functional component that reduces overall system complexity while maintaining operational precision through careful mechanical linkage design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual adjustment of connecting rod length is implemented, then adaptability to different positions is improved, but operation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition adjustment flexibilityVSAvoidmanual operation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-adjusting mechanism where the connecting rod length is automatically modified based on the arm's position and operational requirements. The system uses sensors and control algorithms to detect when adjustment is needed and automatically modifies the rod length, eliminating manual intervention and reducing operation time while maintaining adaptability to different positions and configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution provides a simpler, cheaper, and more reliable device that enables efficient retraction and transverse oscillation, enhancing safety and operational efficiency while reducing manual effort and costs.

Implementation Method 1

at least one first actuator one of the elements, cylinder or rod, of which is connected to the chassis whereas the other element, rod or cylinder, is connected to the arm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The supply means can comprise a hydraulic distributor connected to each of the chambers of the first actuator using a line

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure control: Hydraulic Press

Data Source

PatentUS10986764B2Front lifting device for an agricultural machine and associated control method
Publication Date: 2021.04.27 LAFORGE
  • US10986764B2 patent drawing
  • US10986764B2 patent drawing
  • US10986764B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for hitching and lifting an agricultural tool, including a frame fastened to the agricultural machine, a first arm articulated on the frame with a first tool hitch at one end, at least one first jack connected at one end to the frame and at the other to the arm, an extent of the travel of the jack allowing the end of the arm for bearing the hitch to successively pass through a first minimum low position, a second maximum high position, and a third retracted position, where a detection unit that detects a position of the end of the arm can deactivate the supply of the jack when the end reaches the second position, and a bypass controller can bypass the controller of the detection unit to reactivate the supply of the jack.