Folding Implement Transport Locks with Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding implements require operators to exit the towing vehicle to engage transport locks, and current automatic locks fail to align properly on uneven ground, causing stress and potential damage during transport.
Innovation Solution
An automatic transport lock system with variable vertical displacement and a suspension system using leaf springs allows independent movement of folding arms, enabling engagement and unlocking from the tractor seat, and utilizing hydraulic cylinders for locking and articulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual transport locks are used, then the implement can be secured for transport, but the operator must exit the towing vehicle to engage the locks
Solution Approach 1:
The transport lock system automatically engages and disengages without operator intervention. The system uses the implement's own folding motion and hydraulic system to activate the locks, eliminating the need for the operator to manually engage them while exiting the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport locks are positioned and pre-configured along the main frame members so that they automatically align and engage with the folding arm members as the implement transitions into the folded transport position, before the operator would need to intervene.
2Ease of operation
If automatic transport locks are used, then the operator does not need to exit the vehicle, but the locks fail to align properly on uneven ground
Solution Approach 1:
The transport lock system incorporates movable mounting brackets that can shift position along the main frame members. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the locks to compensate for misalignment caused by uneven ground or frame deformation, maintaining reliable engagement across varying operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows the vertical and horizontal positions of the transport locks to be adjusted through the movable brackets, changing the geometric parameters of the locking mechanism to match variations in frame position caused by uneven terrain.
3Strength
If rigid locking is used, then the implement is securely locked for transport, but stresses are induced in the implement during transport over uneven terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the transport locks and the main frame members is made flexible through movable mounting brackets rather than rigid fixed connections. This allows the locking system to maintain secure engagement while accommodating stress and movement during transport over uneven terrain.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket system provides flexible connection points that can move and deform elastically under load, distributing stresses away from critical structural components while maintaining the locking function.
4Device complexity
If fixed mounting of transport locks is used, then the locking mechanism is simple, but the locks cannot accommodate height adjustment from wear or uneven ground
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets are designed to move along the main frame members, providing adjustable positioning capability without significantly complicating the overall locking mechanism. This dynamic adjustment feature accommodates both wear-induced height changes and uneven ground conditions.
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
Enables secure folding implement transport without operator exit, reduces stress on the implement by accommodating uneven terrain, and allows for easy unlocking and unfolding.
Implementation Method 1
a suspension system using leaf springs allows independent movement of folding arms
Implementation Method 2
The transport lock is suspended in such a way as to include variable vertical displacement to compensate for any height adjustment needed over time from normal wear, and when the implement is disposed on uneven ground
Implementation Method 3
utilizing hydraulic cylinders for locking and articulation
Implementation Method 4
A pull rope is preferably utilized to unlock the mechanism from the tractor seat before opening the implement
Data Source
AI summary
A latch to secure folding implements in a transport configuration. The latch is constructed so as to permit selective disengaging of the latch to allow the folding implement to be configured for operation. A latching mechanism with a pivoting portion engages a crossbar in latching. One of the latching mechanism or pivoting portion is suspended on an extension bar which is cantilevered and suspended from either a main frame or a folding arm. The latching system tolerates misalignment of the main frame and folding arms through the suspension system.