Three-Point Hitch Draft Link With Dual-Pin Connector Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-point hitches in agricultural and industrial work machines face challenges in efficiently and reliably attaching and detaching implements due to complex mechanisms that can be cumbersome and prone to misalignment.
Innovation Solution
A draft link system with a connector featuring dual pins and springs that allow for easy attachment and detachment by transitioning between engaged and disengaged positions, ensuring secure coupling and decoupling with a simple, reliable mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex mechanisms are used for attachment and detachment, then reliability of coupling is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate pins (first pin and second pin) that operate independently. Each pin can be engaged or disengaged separately, allowing the operator to detach the implement in two stages. This segmentation simplifies the overall operation while maintaining secure coupling when both pins are engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The first pin acts as an intermediary element that provides initial alignment and partial support during the attachment process. By engaging the first pin first, it serves as a mediator that guides the second pin into proper position, ensuring reliable coupling without requiring precise simultaneous alignment of multiple components.
2Reliability
If complex mechanisms are used for attachment and detachment, then security of coupling is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector uses two separate pins instead of a single complex locking mechanism. Each pin has its own aperture and engagement path, dividing the coupling function into simpler, independent elements. This reduces overall device complexity while maintaining security through redundant engagement points.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a single complex pin that must be precisely aligned, the invention inverts the approach by using two simpler pins with different engagement characteristics. The first pin engages through an aperture in the inner surface, while the second pin engages through an aperture in the outer surface, reversing the traditional single-point engagement approach.
3Productivity
If quick attachment is implemented, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment process is segmented into two distinct stages: first pin engagement and second pin engagement. This allows the operator to complete the attachment in two simple steps without requiring precise simultaneous alignment, thereby improving productivity while reducing manufacturing precision requirements compared to a single complex alignment operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The first pin engagement serves as a preliminary action that establishes initial alignment and positioning. By completing this preliminary engagement first, the subsequent engagement of the second pin becomes simpler and less precision-critical, enabling quick attachment without demanding high manufacturing precision for both pins simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
A draft link for a three-point hitch includes a longitudinal component, a first attachment end, a second attachment end, and a connector positioned on the second attachment end. The connector includes a first pin positioned within a first aperture of the connector and a second pin positioned within a second aperture of the connector. A first end of the first pin extends through an inner surface of the connector. A second end of the first pin extends through an outer surface of the connector. A first end and a second end of the second pin extend through an outer surface of the connector. The first pin forms an extension of an inner surface of the connector. The second pin is in contact with the first pin maintaining the position of the first pin.