Counter-Balanced Double 4-Bar Linkage for Single-Operator Auger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicular auger implements require two operators to maintain vertical alignment and stability, especially on uneven terrain, and often necessitate duplicate engines for power, which is costly and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A vehicular auger implement with a central articulating section using a spring or gas shock counter-balanced double 4-bar linkage, allowing single-operator operation and maintaining vertical alignment on slopes, coupled with a hydraulic power take-off system to eliminate the need for duplicate engines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional vehicular auger implements are used, then the auger can operate on various terrains, but two operators are required to maintain vertical alignment and stability
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system is divided into two independent 4-bar linkages: a upper 4-bar linkage controlling vertical motion and a lower 4-bar linkage controlling lateral motion. This segmentation allows each linkage to handle specific degrees of freedom, enabling single-operator control while maintaining stability on uneven terrain.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through spring or gas shock counter-balancing mechanisms that automatically adapt to terrain variations. The counter-balanced linkages dynamically adjust their positions to maintain vertical alignment of the auger bit regardless of vehicle movement or ground slope.
2Power
If duplicate engines are added to provide sufficient power, then the auger can operate effectively, but equipment costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power requirements for both vertical and lateral linkage operation into a single engine system. The counter-balanced linkage design reduces peak power demands by distributing the load, allowing one engine to provide sufficient power for the entire auger assembly without requiring duplicate engines.
Solution Approach 2:
Spring or gas shock counter-balancing mechanisms are used to offset the weight and inertial forces of the linkage components. This counterbalancing reduces the net power required from the engine to move the linkages, eliminating the need for additional engines while maintaining adequate power for auger operation.
3Productivity
If a single operator controls the auger, then operation efficiency increases, but maintaining vertical alignment on slopes becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The counter-balanced linkage system provides self-aligning functionality through spring or gas shock mechanisms that automatically compensate for terrain slopes. The system self-adjusts to maintain vertical alignment without requiring the operator to manually correct positioning, enabling both high productivity and precise alignment control.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical design of the counter-balanced linkages provides inherent feedback through the spring and gas shock elements, which continuously adjust their force output in response to changes in terrain angle and auger position. This passive feedback mechanism maintains vertical alignment precision while allowing single-operator control.
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
Enables safe, efficient, and cost-effective single-operator operation of augers on various terrains without the need for duplicate engines, reducing operator fatigue and equipment costs.
Implementation Method 1
A vehicular auger implement with a central articulating section using a spring or gas shock counter-balanced double 4-bar linkage
Implementation Method 2
A vehicular auger implement with a central articulating section using a spring or gas shock counter-balanced double 4-bar linkage
Implementation Method 3
The implement includes a four bar linkage comprising a first bar, a second bar, a third bar, and a fourth bar. The four bar linkage is configured to convert a rotational motion of the second bar to a vertical motion of the auger.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicular auger implement. The implement is configured to be operated by a single operator and comprises an auger having a bit. The implement includes a four bar linkage comprising a first bar, a second bar, a third bar, and a fourth bar. The first bar is coupled to each of the second bar and a hydraulically actuated arm. The auger is operably coupled to the fourth bar. The four bar linkage is configured to convert a rotational motion of the second bar to a vertical motion of the auger. A vehicle to which the auger implement is coupled is configured to remain stationary while a hole is bored using the vertical motion of the auger.