Adjustable Connector Link With Integrated Shock Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current three-point linkage systems in agricultural vehicles, particularly all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility task vehicles (UTVs), lack shock absorption, leading to structural failure and instability due to rigid connections, which can result in safety concerns and vehicle instability under load.
Innovation Solution
A modified connector link with a tubular body, threaded and unthreaded bolts, and a suspension member, such as a spring or hydraulic shock absorber, that adjusts length and counteracts compressive and expansive forces, allowing for automatic switching between rigid and floating positions to absorb shocks and isolate impact loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid members are used in the three-point linkage system, then structural strength is maintained, but shock absorption capability deteriorates leading to structural failure and vehicle instability
Solution Approach 1:
The connector link changes its structural parameter dynamically between rigid and flexible states. During normal operation, it maintains rigidity for strength, but during shock events, it becomes flexible to absorb impacts. This is achieved through the threaded bolt mechanism that allows rotation between locked (rigid) and unlocked (flexible) positions, resolving the contradiction between needing strength and needing shock absorption.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector link transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system that can change its mechanical properties in real-time. The threaded bolt and adjusting bar create a mechanism where the link can switch between being a fixed rigid connector and a flexible shock-absorbing element, allowing the system to adapt to different operational conditions and resolve the contradiction between strength and reliability.
2Ease of manufacture
If rigid connector link is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but safety deteriorates due to structural failure and vehicle instability under load
Solution Approach 1:
The connector link is segmented into distinct functional components: the tubular body for structural strength, the threaded bolt for adjustability and rigidity control, the unthreaded bolt for suspension connection, and the adjusting bar for operation. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using simple processes while collectively providing the complex safety function of shock absorption and rigid/flexible switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded bolt acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the rigid tubular body and the flexible suspension connection. It provides the mechanism for transforming the rigid structure into a controllable rigid-flexible system, enabling safety functionality while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through a straightforward mechanical threading mechanism.
3Reliability
If shock absorber assembly is added to absorb shocks, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases and additional space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorption functionality is merged with the existing connector link structure rather than being added as a separate assembly. The threaded bolt mechanism that provides rigidity control also enables the shock absorption function by allowing the link to become flexible during impacts. This merging eliminates the need for additional shock absorber components and reduces system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector link is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides structural connection, enables rigidity adjustment, and delivers shock absorption. The same threaded bolt mechanism that controls rigidity also enables the flexible shock-absorbing state. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate shock absorber assemblies, reducing device complexity while improving reliability through integrated shock absorption.
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 improved safety and comfort by reducing component wear, enhancing driving performance, and optimizing ground contact, while being compatible with existing linkage systems and requiring no additional space or components.
Implementation Method 1
The unthreaded eyebolt (9) is configured to connect the implement to a suspension member (14) to counter compressive and expansive forces
Implementation Method 2
The connector link (1) can further comprise a hydraulic shock absorber (92)
Implementation Method 3
The threaded eyebolt (8) is configured to be threaded inside tubular structure of the connector link (1) for adjustment of length
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
A connector link (1) disclosed here comprises a tubular body (13), a threaded bolt (8), and an unthreaded bolt (9). The threaded bolt (8) is insertable within one end of the tubular body (13), where the threaded bolt (8) is configured to be threaded inside the tubular body (13) for adjustment of length of the connector link (1). The unthreaded bolt (9) is insertable within other end of the tubular body (13), where the unthreaded bolt (9) is connected to a suspension member (14, 10) to counter compressive and expansive forces caused due to movement of an implement that is connected to the unthreaded bolt (9).