Auxiliary Hydraulic Switch Layout for Articulating Tractor Loaders
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Commercially-available loaders face challenges such as a large footprint in confined spaces and complex control systems, leading to operational inefficiencies for operators.
Innovation Solution
An auxiliary kit for articulating tractors that includes a manual switch and control system positioned for easy access, allowing operators to switch between hydraulic functions, simplifying control mechanisms and improving accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control systems and mechanisms are provided on the loader, then the hydraulic functions and control capabilities are improved, but the device complexity and operator burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary kit integrates multiple hydraulic control functions into a single unified control interface. The manual switch provides access to multiple hydraulic circuits (front loader, rear loader, snowblower, etc.) through one location, allowing one control mechanism to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate control systems distributed throughout the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple control functions and hydraulic circuits into a single auxiliary kit assembly. The manual switch, control valve, and hydraulic connections are merged into one integrated unit located at the operator's seat, consolidating what would otherwise be distributed control mechanisms across the entire vehicle into a single accessible location.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control systems and switches are distributed at various positions on the loader, then the control capabilities are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to inaccessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into a centralized auxiliary kit that can be independently positioned at the operator's seat. This separates the control functions from their traditional distributed locations and repositions them where the operator can easily access them, while maintaining all the original control capabilities through the manual switch and control valve mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary kit acts as an intermediary control interface between the operator and the distributed hydraulic systems. The manual switch and control valve in the auxiliary kit mediate control signals to the various hydraulic circuits, allowing the operator to control distant functions from a centralized, accessible location without directly accessing the distributed control mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the control system is separated from the auxiliary kit, then the functional independence and modularity are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to operator inaccessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The control functions are extracted from the main vehicle body and placed into a separate, movable auxiliary kit. This extraction allows the control system to be functionally independent and repositionable, while the manual switch and control mechanisms remain accessible to the operator through the portable kit that can be positioned at the operator's seat.
Data Source
AI summary
An articulating tractor having an auxiliary kit for utilizing one or more loader capabilities. Articulating tractor includes an articulating frame having a first articulation end and second articulation end. Articulating tractor also includes a first assembly mounted to the first articulation end of the articulating frame, and a second assembly mounted to the second articulation end of the articulating frame separated from the first assembly. Articulating tractor includes a switch of an auxiliary kit that operably engages with the first assembly. Articulating tractor includes a control system that operably engages with the second assembly. The switch is configured to control hydraulic power of a hydraulic system provided with the articulating tractor between a first operating setting and a second operating setting.