Drawbar Coupling Lever Mechanism for Ergonomic Pin Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drawbar coupling systems are ergonomically difficult to use due to manual manipulation of the pin, which requires pushing the lever, making the coupling process cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A drawbar coupling system with an actuation unit that includes a lever and a transmission assembly to convert rotational movement into linear motion of the pin, allowing ergonomic use by pulling the lever and providing a mechanical advantage, along with a biasing mechanism to maintain the pin in the retracted position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of the pin is used, then the structure remains simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to ergonomic difficulties and manual leverage requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional manual mechanical operation with a pneumatic actuation system. A pneumatic cylinder converts compressed air into linear motion to automatically move the pin between retracted and extended positions, eliminating the need for manual leverage and significantly improving ergonomics while accepting increased system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a pneumatic actuator that uses compressed air to drive the pin movement. The pneumatic system includes a cylinder with a piston that converts pneumatic pressure into mechanical linear motion, providing automated, ergonomic operation of the drawbar coupling mechanism
2Reliability
If the pin is extended for engagement, then the coupling function is achieved, but the accessibility deteriorates as the pin occupies the engagement zone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic pin position system that transitions between retracted and extended states based on operational requirements. The pin can be automatically retracted to allow drawbar insertion and accessed, then extended to engage with the drawbar for secure coupling, optimizing both accessibility and coupling reliability through dynamic repositioning
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
The system facilitates easier and more ergonomic coupling by allowing the lever to be pulled instead of pushed, enhancing user convenience and efficiency in coupling and uncoupling operations.
Implementation Method 1
a transmission assembly configured to convert rotational movement of the lever from the first lever position to the second lever position into movement of the pin along the pin axis from the extended position to the retracted position
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a pneumatic actuator for controlled pin movement
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3a
Figure 3b~3c
AI summary
There is disclosed a drawbar coupling system for coupling a drawbar to a vehicle, the drawbar coupling system comprising: a mount configured to fix the drawbar coupling system to a vehicle, and an actuation unit, the actuation unit comprising: a pin configured to move along a pin axis between a retracted position and an extended position; an engagement zone within which the pin is at least partially disposed in the extended position for engagement with a drawbar, wherein the pin is removed from the engagement zone when in the retracted position; a lever provided with a handle, the lever being configured to rotate through a travel between a first lever position and a second lever position, wherein the handle is closer to the mount in the first lever position than in the second lever position; and a transmission assembly configured to convert rotational movement of the lever from the first lever position to the second lever position into movement of the pin along the pin axis from the extended position to the retracted position.