Front Hitch Implement Attachment System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional implement installation/removal systems for agricultural tractors are complex, time-consuming, and often require additional equipment or manual labor, leading to significant equipment unavailability and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained implement installation/removal system featuring a modified three-point hitch and an integrated crane, allowing for quick and simplified attachment and detachment of implements under the tractor frame, with the crane attaching to a structural member outside the frame to facilitate easy movement of hitch pins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If implements are attached to the rear attachment hitch system, then installation/removal is relatively simple, but the operator is unable to see the implement during operation without physically looking backwards
Solution Approach 1:
The implement attachment location is changed from the rear of the tractor to the front attachment hitch system, allowing the implement to be positioned in front of the operator. This spatial repositioning enables the operator to view the implement during operation without turning around, while still maintaining simple installation and removal procedures through the front hitch mechanism.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If implements are mounted underneath the tractor frame, then the operator can view the implement during use, but the installation/removal process becomes complex and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch system is divided into modular components including separate attachment points, quick-release mechanisms, and interchangeable implement interfaces. This segmentation allows the implement to be quickly detached and reattached without complex manual operations, reducing both time and complexity while maintaining front-mounted visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The front attachment hitch system incorporates dynamic quick-release mechanisms that enable rapid implement changes without requiring complex manual assembly or disassembly procedures. The system transitions from static complex mounting to dynamic quick-connect operations, significantly reducing installation and removal time.
3Reliability
If a conventional three-point hitch system is used, then the implement is securely attached during operation, but removal requires external lifting devices like cranes and multiple manual operations
Solution Approach 1:
The front attachment hitch system is designed to be self-sufficient, eliminating the need for external cranes or lifting devices. The implement can be removed and reattached using only the tractor's own hitch mechanisms and minimal manual effort, making the system self-serving and dramatically reducing removal time while maintaining secure attachment during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch system incorporates pre-positioned attachment points and pre-configured quick-release mechanisms that are prepared in advance for rapid implement changes. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex on-site assembly or external equipment, allowing operators to quickly swap implements without time-consuming manual operations.
4Ease of operation
If a carrier system with wheels or rollers is used, then implement movement is facilitated, but additional ground clearance is required and it does not function well on rough surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier system's wheeled/rollered ground-contact components are completely removed from the solution. Instead, the implement is moved and positioned using the front attachment hitch system and manual lifting, eliminating the need for wheels or rollers that would require ground clearance and fail on rough agricultural surfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment system for removably attaching an implement under a vehicle. The mounting system includes a vehicle frame. The vehicle frame has a pair of spaced apart frame portions. Each of a pair of hitch receiving points is connectable with a respective one of the frame portions. An implement includes support structure extending for a length. A pair of hitch pins is associated with the support structure. The hitch pins are spaced apart in a direction along the length of the support structure. Each hitch pin is for attachment to a respective one of the hitch receiving points. A structural member is associated with the support structure and has a portion adapted to attach to structure outboard of a frame portion. A lift mechanism is connectable with a portion of the vehicle frame. The lift mechanism is attachable with the structural member to move the hitch pins relative to the hitch receiving points.