Dual Lock Implement Coupling for Higher Work Vehicle Force Rating
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of coupling implements to work vehicles is time-consuming and inefficient, and the force rating of implements is limited due to the transmission of forces through vehicle arms, which restricts their operational capacity.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring dual lock assemblies with actuators that engage specific openings on the implement to form secure connections between the implement and both the vehicle arm and frame, enhancing stability and force transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single connection point is used to couple the implement to the work vehicle arm, then the coupling process is simpler, but the force rating is limited and the coupling time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into two separate lock assemblies: a first lock assembly that couples the implement to the work vehicle arm, and a second lock assembly that couples the implement to the work vehicle frame. This segmentation allows simultaneous engagement of multiple connection points, increasing the force rating while maintaining efficient coupling through automated actuation of both locks.
2Strength
If forces are transmitted through the work vehicle arm to the chassis, then the coupling mechanism is simpler, but the maximum force rating of the implement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The second lock assembly provides an additional dimensional pathway for force transmission by directly coupling the implement to the work vehicle frame, bypassing the arm structure. This creates a parallel force transmission route that increases the overall force rating without complicating the primary arm-based coupling mechanism.
3Productivity
If multiple lock assemblies are used to engage the implement, then the force transmission capacity increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Both the first and second lock assemblies use substantially similar structures with locks and actuators, creating a universal coupling mechanism that can handle different implements. This multi-functionality allows the system to increase operational capacity through redundancy rather than through increasingly complex specialized mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A system configured to couple an implement to a work vehicle includes a first lock assembly coupled to an arm of the work vehicle, and the first lock assembly includes a first lock, a second lock, and a first actuator configured to drive the first lock and the second lock laterally outwardly to engage respective first openings formed in the implement. The system also includes a second lock assembly coupled to a frame of the work vehicle, and the second lock assembly includes a third lock, a fourth lock, and a second actuator configured to drive the third lock and the fourth lock laterally outwardly to engage respective second openings formed in the implement.