Tractor Coupler Assembly Automatic Jack Stand Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tractor-implement coupling mechanisms require manual operation to raise and lower jack stands, necessitating the operator to leave the tractor cab, which is inefficient and time-consuming, especially when quickly connecting or disconnecting implements.
Innovation Solution
A coupler assembly with a pivotal pickup hitch and slidably received drawbar, featuring a jack stand member that automatically raises and lowers based on the movement of the coupler frame, utilizing stop blocks and support bolts with machined slots to maintain the jack stand in a raised position during coupling and drop it for uncoupling, allowing automatic operation without leaving the cab.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is used to raise and lower jack stands, then the operator can control the coupling process, but the operator must leave the tractor cab which is inefficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The jack stand member is designed to automatically raise and lower itself through mechanical interaction with the coupler frame and stop block. When the coupler frame moves toward the vehicle, the stop block engages the jack stand member to raise it automatically. When the coupler frame moves away, the jack stand member automatically falls to its lowered position, eliminating the need for manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The jack stand member is pre-positioned in a lowered state ready to engage. The stop block is预先 positioned to engage the jack stand member when the coupler frame approaches, ensuring the support action occurs automatically at the appropriate moment without requiring operator intervention.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the jack stand member is raised to support the coupler frame, then ground clearance is maintained, but the jack stand member must be manually raised and lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The jack stand member automatically performs the function of raising and lowering itself through mechanical engagement with the stop block and coupler frame. The system uses the movement of the coupler frame itself to drive the raising action, and gravity to drive the lowering action, eliminating the need for separate manual raising and lowering operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The jack stand member transitions between static support positions (raised and lowered) through dynamic mechanical interaction with the stop block. The system allows the jack stand member to be held in the raised position during coupling operations and automatically transitions to the lowered position when uncoupling, providing dynamic adaptability to operational needs.
3Productivity
If quick coupling is implemented, then productivity increases, but automatic jack stand operation is required which adds device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic jack stand operation is achieved through self-service mechanical interaction between existing components (jack stand member, stop block, coupler frame) rather than adding a separate automated control system. The components already present in the coupling mechanism interact to automatically raise and lower the jack stand, minimizing additional complexity while enabling quick coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The jack stand raising function is merged with the existing coupling mechanism. The stop block that is already part of the pickup hitch structure serves dual purposes: controlling the drawbar movement and automatically raising the jack stand member. This integration eliminates the need for separate automated jack stand control systems.
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 quick and efficient automatic connection and disconnection of tractor implements, maintaining ground clearance and supporting the implement in a raised position without manual intervention, enhancing operational efficiency and safety by allowing operators to remain in the cab.
Implementation Method 1
the jack stand member having a first slot which slidably and rotatably receives the first support bolt and a second slot which slidably receives the second support bolt, the jack stand member being pivotal about the first support pin
Data Source
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AI summary
A coupler assembly (10) for coupling an implement to a vehicle comprises a pickup hitch (12) with an hollow inner housing (20) which is pivotal about a horizontal axis and a drawbar which is slidably received in the hollow inner housing (20). An implement coupler (16) has a coupler frame (40) adapted to be attached to the implement. A jack stand member (52, 54) is movably mounted on the coupler frame (40). A stop block (36) is mounted to the pickup hitch (12). The stop block (36) engages a first forward facing shoulder (86) of the jack stand member (52, 54) to raise the jack stand member (52, 54) from a ground engaging lowered position when the coupler frame (40) is moved towards the vehicle. The stop block (36) is spaced apart from the jack stand member (52, 54) to allow the jack stand member (52, 54) to fall to its lowered position when the coupler frame (40) is moved away from the vehicle into an uncoupled position. The jack stand member (52, 54) in its lowered position releasably supports the coupler frame (40) in a raised position above the ground.