Boom Stabilization for Narrow Transport Implement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural implements, such as planters, face challenges during transport due to the torque-induced negative load on the hitch and tow vehicle when wing members are rotated to a vertical transport position, which can upset light vehicles and complicate the transport process.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a pivotal hitch assembly coupled to a rigid central boom and rear frame, allowing wing frames to be raised and folded rearwardly, transferring torque to the central boom and rear frame, thereby eliminating the negative hitch load and enabling a compact transport configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If wing members are rotated to a vertical transport position, then the implement width is reduced for transport, but a torque is induced on the central boom resulting in high negative load on the hitch and tow vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the central boom movable rather than fixed. The boom is configured to rotate relative to the rear frame about a longitudinal axis, allowing it to tilt forward during the wing folding operation. This dynamic movement absorbs the torque generated when wings are folded, converting the harmful static load into a controlled dynamic motion that reduces the negative hitch load.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the central boom in a tilted forward position before the wing folding operation begins. This preliminary positioning of the boom creates readiness to absorb the upcoming torque load, allowing the system to handle the wing folding moment more effectively and reduce the negative load on the hitch assembly during transport configuration transition.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wing assemblies are supported by the central boom during raising, then the floating arrangement enables ground conformance, but the torque from rotation induces high negative load on the hitch
Solution Approach 1:
The central boom is designed with rotational freedom about the longitudinal axis, transforming it from a static support structure into a dynamic element. This allows the boom to naturally respond to and absorb torque loads generated during wing folding while maintaining its ground-following capability through the floating hydraulic connection, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and force transmission.
3Strength
If the central boom is rigidly coupled to the hitch assembly, then structural strength is maintained, but torque from wing rotation creates high negative load on the hitch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection between the central boom and the rear frame by introducing a rotational joint about the longitudinal axis. This segmentation allows the boom to move independently relative to the frame, decoupling the torque transmission path while maintaining structural integrity through the controlled rotational degree of freedom, thus reducing negative hitch load without compromising overall strength.
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural implement is provided with folding wing assemblies coupled to a central boom that provides a simplified arrangement for transporting the implement. The implement may include wing frames and row units that may be raised to allow the wing assemblies to fold rearwardly, into a compact, transport position. While being raised, prior to being folded rearwardly, the wing assemblies may be supported by the central boom, which is rigidly coupled to a central frame. The central boom is pivotally coupled to a hitch assembly.