Front-Loader Locking Mechanism Indirect Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing front-loader arrangements for agricultural vehicles require complex production and assembly efforts due to the formation and arrangement of actuation elements for semi-automated locking mechanisms, which are often cumbersome and require direct binding to large locking elements.
Innovation Solution
A front-loader arrangement with a locking element connected via a connection element to an actuation element, allowing indirect actuation by external forces such as springs, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric actuators, enabling simpler and more compact construction with robust support for large bearing forces, and featuring a latching device for automatic locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a spring-biased locking bolt with actuation elements is used for semi-automated locking, then locking automation is improved, but production complexity and assembly effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a locking element for engagement, an actuation element for triggering the locking action, and a connection element linking them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall production complexity while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
A connection element is introduced as an intermediary between the actuation element and the locking element. This mediator transmits the actuation force from the actuation element to the locking element, enabling indirect actuation that simplifies the design of both the actuation mechanism and the locking mechanism themselves.
2Force
If actuation elements are directly connected to locking elements, then force transmission is improved, but construction complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element serves as a mediator that transmits force from the actuation element to the locking element without requiring direct connection. This indirect force transmission path allows for simpler construction of each individual component while maintaining effective force transfer for locking engagement.
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 solution simplifies the construction and assembly of front-loader locking mechanisms, allowing for efficient and automatic engagement and disengagement of the front loader, reducing production complexity and enhancing operational reliability with robust force absorption.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-biased locking bolt that can be actuated by means of actuation elements formed on a mast arrangement and on a bracket, in that the actuation elements trigger a locking through movement relative to each other, such that the locking bolt is guided through spring force into connection openings formed on the mast arrangement and on the bracket
Data Source
AI summary
A front-loader arrangement (12) for an agricultural vehicle (10) with a bracket (16) and a mast arrangement (18) for fastening a front loader (13) to the bracket (16). The mast arrangement (18) comprises a contact point (53) for application onto a bearing point (36) of the bracket (16) and a displaceable locking element (54) that extends through at least one first opening (52, 52A) formed on the mast arrangement (18) and through at least one second opening (38) brought into alignment with the first opening (52, 52A). The locking element (54) is connected by a connection element (56) to an actuation element (58) arranged offset parallel to the locking element (54). The actuation element (58) can be actuated by an external force and the locking element (54) can be displaced by the connection element (56) and by the actuation of the actuation element (58) from the unlocked position into the locked position.