ATV Coupling Apparatus with Shock-Absorbing Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are prone to tipping over due to their lightweight and powerful nature, especially when used in uneven terrain or when carrying heavy loads, posing a safety risk, especially for inexperienced riders or in remote locations. Additionally, there is a need for a solution to facilitate field dressing and skinning of game animals in the field.
Innovation Solution
A game animal processing apparatus that includes a hoist with a horizontal arm and cable for hanging and skinning game animals, and a coupling apparatus with a shock-absorbing linkage to prevent ATV tipping, featuring a first and second support member connected by a coupling member with a shock absorber to stabilize the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a receiver hitch is added to an ATV to enable accessory attachment and game animal processing, then the versatility and functionality of the ATV is improved, but the risk of ATV tipping over increases due to the added weight and altered center of gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the anti-weight principle by positioning the receiver hitch and associated support members forward of the ATV's rear axle, creating a counterbalancing effect. The support members extend forward and connect to the frame, effectively distributing the load and preventing rearward tipping when heavy accessories or game animals are attached to the hitch.
2Productivity
If heavy loads such as game animals are placed on the rear of the ATV for transport and processing, then the utility and productivity of the ATV is improved, but the likelihood of the ATV tipping backwards increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-installing the receiver hitch and support member assembly on the ATV before loading game animals. The support members are positioned and configured in advance to provide structural reinforcement and load distribution, preventing tipping before it can occur during the transport and processing of heavy loads.
3Ease of operation
If the ATV is made lightweight to maintain mobility and access to difficult terrain, then the ease of operation and adaptability to rough terrain is improved, but the vehicle becomes more prone to tipping under power and load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the support structure into separate components: the receiver hitch, multiple support members (first and second support members), and connection points on the frame. This segmented approach allows the lightweight ATV body to remain mobile while the distributed support structure provides targeted reinforcement where needed, preventing tipping without adding excessive overall weight.
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 apparatus effectively prevents ATV tipping by stabilizing the vehicle and allows for efficient field dressing and skinning of game animals in remote locations, enhancing safety and convenience for ATV users.
Implementation Method 1
a coupling member (408) connecting the first support member (404) to the second support member (406). In one embodiment, a shock (410) is connected between the coupling member (408) and the second support member (406)
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling apparatus for connecting an accessory to a rear of an ATV. The coupling apparatus includes a first support member configured to connect to the rear of the ATV, a second support member configured to connect to the accessory, and a coupling member configured to connect the first support member to the second support member. Finally, a shock is connected between the coupling member and the second support member.