Curved structure for a work vehicle

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing work vehicles lack effective curved structures that provide adequate protection and visibility for the operator, particularly in preventing vegetation from entering the operator station while maintaining extensive visibility of the operating area and functioning as a roll-over protection system.

Innovation Solution

A curved structure comprising a first and second curved support extending a length, with a curved windshield positioned between them, connected to a top support and mounted to the vehicle's chassis, forming an arc angle between 60 and 120 degrees, which serves as a barrier against vegetation and functions as a roll-over protection system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a curved structure with windshield is positioned behind the operator seat, then roll over protection is provided, but visibility of the operating area is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveroll over protectionVSAvoidvisibility of operating area

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The curved structure is divided into multiple support elements (first curved support, second curved support, top support, rear supports) that are segmented and positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows the structure to provide comprehensive roll over protection while maintaining visibility by distributing the protective elements rather than using a single large barrier behind the operator.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If traditional straight support structures are used, then structural integrity is achieved, but effectiveness in guiding vegetation over the operator station is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidvegetation entry into operator station

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The support structures are designed with curved geometries rather than straight lines. The first and second curved supports have specific arc angles (greater than 45 degrees, greater than 75 degrees, between 60-120 degrees) that create a rounded profile. This curvature enables the structure to effectively guide vegetation over the operator station while maintaining structural integrity, as the curved shape naturally directs debris upward and outward.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Ease of operation

If the curved windshield extends only to the front portion of the seat, then ease of operation is maintained, but protection against vegetation is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator accessibilityVSAvoidvegetation protection

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The curved windshield extends not only forward but also upward and rearward beyond the front portion of the seat, adding vertical and rearward dimensions to the protection. This multi-dimensional extension provides comprehensive vegetation protection while maintaining operator accessibility, as the extended structure creates a protective envelope without blocking the operator's forward view or movement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11926276B2Curved structure for a work vehicle

Publication Date: 2024.03.12 DEERE & CO

AI summary

A curved structure for a work vehicle includes a first curved support extending a length, a second curved support extending a length, the second curved support spaced apart a width from the first curved support, and a curved windshield positioned between and connected to the first and second curved supports.