Folding Implement Frame Segmentation and Hydraulic Weight Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural implement frames face challenges in efficiently transitioning between field use and transport positions, requiring a solution that minimizes transport dimensions while maintaining operational efficiency and stability during folding and unfolding processes.
Innovation Solution
The implement frame features a locking hinge assembly and hydraulic systems for weight transfer and oil management, allowing the frame to fold from a seven-section configuration in the field use position to a nine-section configuration in the transport position, with hydraulic cylinders and accumulators to manage oil flow and reduce the load on the tractor's hydraulic system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the frame is configured with multiple sections for folding, then the transport dimensions are reduced, but the complexity of the folding mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple sections (main section, inner wings, middle wings, rigid wings, outer wings) that can be folded relative to each other. This segmentation allows the frame to transition from a seven-section field use configuration to a nine-section transport configuration, reducing transport dimensions while maintaining operational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame employs dynamic folding mechanisms with hydraulic actuators and locking hinges that enable smooth transitions between operational and transport positions. The locking hinge assembly provides stable locking in both configurations, while the hydraulic system enables controlled movement during transitions.
2Extent of automation
If hydraulic cylinders are used to fold the frame, then the folding operation is automated, but the oil exchange with the tractor increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic system is designed to minimize oil exchange with the tractor by recovering and reusing hydraulic fluid during folding operations. The system maintains hydraulic pressure and fluid circulation within the implement's own hydraulic circuit, reducing the need to draw oil from or return oil to the tractor's hydraulic system.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the frame is made stable during folding, then the operational safety is improved, but the folding speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic system performs preliminary weight transfer during the folding sequence, moving load from the inner wings to the main section before the actual folding motion begins. This preliminary action stabilizes the frame configuration and reduces the dynamic loads during folding, enabling safer operation at reduced speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking hinge assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism that provides controlled resistance and stability during the folding process. It allows the frame to be held in stable positions during weight transfer while enabling controlled movement when needed, balancing stability requirements with folding speed requirements.
4Productivity
If the frame is designed for large operational width, then the productivity is improved, but the transport width increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into multiple foldable sections including inner wings, middle wings, rigid wings, and outer wings that can be collapsed inward during transport. This segmentation allows the frame to achieve large operational width for high productivity in the field while collapsing to a compact transport width that fits standard transportation constraints.
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
This configuration enables the frame to be compactly transported while maintaining stability and reducing the oil exchange with the tractor, allowing for larger operational widths without increasing transport dimensions, thus enhancing productivity and compatibility with various tractors.
Implementation Method 1
hydraulic cylinders and accumulators to manage oil flow and reduce the load on the tractor's hydraulic system
Implementation Method 2
hydraulic cylinders and accumulators to manage oil flow
Data Source
AI summary
A folding implement frame having seven sections in a use position and nine sections when folded. The frame design allows a frame having a width of greater than 27 meters to be folded into a transport position having a width of less than eight meters and a height of less than six meters. The hydraulic system transfers weight to the center frame section during folding and unfolding to enhance stability. The hydraulic system uses accumulators to minimize the amount of oil reduction in the tractor reservoir resulting from extension of the hydraulic cylinders of the implement. Implement raise and lower cycle times are minimized by a helper cylinder to lift the frame main section when the entire implement weight is on the main section and allowing a smaller cylinder to lift the frame main section in the use position for shorter cycle times to raise and lower the implement.