Coupling Head Locking Mechanism for Single-Action Hitch Securing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural machines with swing arm hitches have ergonomic and security issues with their locking mechanisms, requiring separate pins that are difficult to access and prone to loss, necessitating manual handling and storage.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with integrated dual latches and a single control mechanism that synchronizes the movement of both latches, allowing secure locking and unlocking without separate parts, enhancing ergonomics and reducing the risk of loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate pins are used for locking, then the locking mechanism provides security, but the operation becomes difficult and parts are prone to loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates two previously separate locking pins into a single unified locking device. This combined device performs the function of both pins simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate components and improving accessibility while maintaining security through the integrated dual-latch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The single locking device is designed to perform multiple functions: it simultaneously engages both lateral sides of the swing arm, providing both security and ease of operation. The unified structure allows one operator to control both locking actions from a single accessible location, making the device universal for both protective and operational requirements.
2Reliability
If separate pins are used for locking, then the locking mechanism can be implemented, but the device complexity increases due to multiple parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces device complexity by merging two separate pin components into one integrated locking device. This consolidation maintains the security function of having two locking points while eliminating the complexity of managing multiple separate parts, their storage, and their individual installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
While reducing overall complexity, the device internally segments the locking function into two independent latch mechanisms within the single device structure. This allows the device to provide dual-side locking capability without requiring two separate external components, effectively segmenting the function while unifying the form.
3Reliability
If separate pins are used for locking, then the locking function is provided, but time is lost due to manual handling and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated locking device eliminates the time required to handle, store, and retrieve separate pins. By combining both locking functions into one device that remains attached to the implement, the operator saves the time previously spent on manual part management while maintaining secure locking through the dual-latch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is pre-integrated onto the implement structure, eliminating the need for operators to search for, retrieve, or store separate pins. The device is already in position and ready for use, performing the preliminary action of being prepared and accessible before the locking operation begins, thus reducing operational time.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
The invention relates to an agricultural machine, in particular a plow, comprising a frame carrying at least one tool and a hitch head (3) for its connection with a three-point hitch device of a tractor vehicle, the hitch head (3) comprising, on the one hand, a hitch cross member (4) having at its two opposite ends attachments (5) intended to engage with the two lower hitch points of the three-point hitch device, and, on the other hand, an articulated assembly piece (6) for the cross member (4), which receives this cross member (4) in a flat mounting space (PM) in which it is mobile with guidance in translation and rotation, the relative rotational movements between the cross member (4) and the articulated assembly piece (6) being limited by stops, respectively front (9) and rear (10).Machine characterized in that the coupling head (3) includes a locking device (11) with at least two locks (12, 12') and a single control, configured to lock in position, in translation and in rotation, the coupling cross member (4) relative to the articulated assembly part (6), this in cooperation with at least one of the stops (9, 10).