Automatic Coupling Device for Soil Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling-decoupling devices for soil working tools, such as rollers, are difficult to operate remotely and require manual intervention, are sensitive to uneven ground and machine height variations, and are prone to obstruction by debris, making quick and safe coupling and decoupling challenging.
Innovation Solution
An automatic coupling-decoupling device with movable attachment structures that allow sequential coupling and decoupling, enabling operation from the cockpit without direct intervention, using a mobile frame with actuating elements like jacks and springs to ensure alignment and secure attachment, even on uneven ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual intervention is required for coupling, then the coupling process can be verified securely, but the operator must exit the cockpit increasing risk and time loss
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device performs self-verification through automatic detection systems that sense when the coupling is complete and secure, eliminating the need for manual verification by the operator
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automatic feedback to the operator through visual or audible signals that confirm the coupling status, allowing verification without exiting the cockpit
2Stability of the object's composition
If coupling planes must be parallel for attachment, then a rigid connection is achieved, but positioning becomes difficult on uneven ground
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates movable and adjustable components that can adapt their position dynamically, allowing the coupling planes to align automatically even when the ground is uneven
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows for adjustment of coupling parameters such as angle and position to accommodate variations in ground level while maintaining the rigid connection requirement
3Reliability
If drilling is used for locking, then secure attachment is achieved, but debris or dried soil can obstruct the operation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the drilling component from the coupling mechanism, replacing it with a non-intrusive locking method that is not susceptible to obstruction by debris or dried soil
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism uses simple, robust components that are less sensitive to contamination, prioritizing reliability in dirty agricultural environments over complex precision mechanisms
4Ease of operation
If the roller must be stored at a specific height for attachment, then coupling is possible, but the height must precisely match the main frame height
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates height-adjustable mechanisms that allow the roller to be positioned at the correct coupling height dynamically, eliminating the need for precise pre-matching during manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is designed with universal height adjustment capabilities that can accommodate variations in main frame height, making it compatible with different configurations
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
Facilitates safe, quick, and reliable coupling and decoupling of soil working tools, independent of machine height and ground level, reducing operator risk and minimizing interference from debris, with precise control and adjustment capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
by means of a cylinder and a spring, or by means of a double-acting cylinder
Implementation Method 2
by means of a cylinder and a spring, or by means of a double-acting cylinder
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The device makes two coupling structures (11, 12) of the apparatus (1) interact sequentially with a mobile chassis (19) carried by a machine (2). The primary structure (11) reaches a docking state simply as a result of the progress of the machine (2) on the ground (6) towards the apparatus (1). At this stage, there is still a large distance between the engaging hooking means (16 and 17) of the secondary structure (12). In order to bring them together, the driver of the machine (2) orders the lifting of the mobile chassis (19). This lifts the apparatus (1) and makes it pivot about the axis (31) defined by the primary hooking structure (11), until the secondary structure (12) is in turn coupled. A spring (27) then tensions the two structures (11, 12) relative to each other, completing the rigid securing of the frame (9) of the device (1) to the mobile chassis (19). The invention also relates to the use of the device for fully automatic coupling-decoupling regardless of random variables such as uneven ground, the height of the chassis of the machine and fouling of the coupling means.