Foldable Hitch-Mounted Carrying System for Tractors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small tractors lack an efficient and cost-effective method for carrying tools and items without compromising convenience, flexibility, or increasing storage space, as existing solutions like trailers are expensive, cumbersome, and prone to item damage.
Innovation Solution
A foldable carrying system with a pivoting storage basket and accessory holders that attaches easily to tractors, ATVs, and UTVs, featuring a flexible ballistic material basket and adjustable tool holders, allowing for secure and space-efficient transportation of items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a trailer is used to carry items, then the carrying capacity is improved, but the complexity of operation and storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The carrying system is merged with the vehicle itself by attaching the basket assembly to the vehicle's hitch assembly, eliminating the need for separate trailers while maintaining carrying capacity. The system integrates storage functionality directly into the vehicle operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrying system serves multiple functions: it provides cargo storage in the basket assembly, tool storage in the accessory holders, and can be easily attached or removed from the hitch assembly. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple separate carrying devices.
2Quantity of substance
If a trailer is used to carry items, then the carrying capacity is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The carrying system is divided into separable components: the frame with accessory holders, the basket assembly, and the hitch assembly connection. This segmentation allows the entire system to be quickly attached or detached from the vehicle's hitch assembly without complex procedures.
3Quantity of substance
If a trailer is used to carry items, then the carrying capacity is improved, but the storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The basket assembly nests within the frame structure, and the entire carrying system attaches to the vehicle's existing hitch assembly, effectively nesting the storage function within the vehicle's existing spatial framework without requiring additional external storage space.
4Quantity of substance
If a trailer is used to carry items, then the carrying capacity is improved, but the reliability of item security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The frame includes dedicated accessory holders positioned at specific locations for securing tools and equipment. The basket assembly provides enclosed storage space with defined boundaries, offering localized security for different types of items based on their specific storage needs.
Data Source
AI summary
A carrying system is releasably attached to a vehicle such as a tractor, zero turn mower, ATV or UTV, and includes a flexible storage basket and optional accessories for retaining a variety of items including tools and materials. The flexible storage basket pivots downwardly for use, and upwardly for storage. The carrying system includes a column that releasably engages with a hitch assembly of a vehicle, thereby allowing the carrying system to be put onto and taken off of a vehicle fairly quickly and easily.