Harvesting Header Transport Carriers Single Operator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing harvesting header transport systems are cumbersome and require multiple operators to manage, as they are not adaptable to different header sizes and are difficult to maneuver on public roadways, making it challenging to transport headers of varying widths safely and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
The system comprises front and rear carriers with steerable wheel assemblies and extendable strap systems that can be secured to the harvesting header, allowing for easy attachment and towing by a single operator, with the rear carrier's winch mechanism lifting it into position under the header for secure transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the header is placed lengthwise on a trailer, then it can be safely transported on public roadways, but the system cannot be conveniently manipulated by a single operator and requires multiple mounting points that may not align with header attachment sites
Solution Approach 1:
The transport system is divided into separate front and rear carriers that can be independently positioned and attached to the header. This segmentation allows a single operator to manipulate each carrier separately, lowering the header gradually onto the carriers rather than requiring complex coordinated movements of a single large trailer structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The carriers are designed with adjustable and movable components, including extendable arms and positioning mechanisms that can be dynamically adjusted during the loading process. This dynamic design enables adaptability to different header configurations and facilitates single-operator control throughout the attachment process.
2Productivity
If fixed-size trailers are used, then headers can be transported, but the system is not easily adapted for headers of different sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The front and rear carriers are designed as universal support structures that can accommodate headers of various sizes and configurations. The carriers include adjustable mounting points, extendable arms, and configurable attachment mechanisms that can be adapted to different header widths and weights, making the system versatile for multiple farming operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The carriers feature dynamic adjustment capabilities including telescoping arms, movable support points, and adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow the system to be reconfigured for different header sizes. This dynamic design enables the same carrier system to handle both small and large headers efficiently.
3Productivity
If a large trailer is used to transport the header, then the header can be moved, but the trailer is difficult for a single operator to manipulate and requires two or three people to situate and move the header
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than using a single large trailer, the system segments the transport function into separate front and rear carriers. Each carrier is a smaller, more manageable unit that can be easily positioned and manipulated by a single operator. The carriers work together to support the header, distributing the operational complexity across multiple simple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The carriers are designed to be self-positioning and self-attaching to the header through controlled lowering. The system minimizes manual intervention requirements by allowing the header itself to be gradually lowered onto the carriers in a controlled manner, reducing the need for multiple people to physically move and position heavy components.
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 enables the safe and efficient transport of harvesting headers along standard roadways by a single operator, overcoming the limitations of prior systems by being adaptable to different header sizes and reducing the need for multiple personnel, thus simplifying the movement and storage of bulky farm equipment.
Implementation Method 1
The rear carrier includes and extendable strap system connected to a winch. The straps can be secured to the structure of the header and once in place the winch can be operated to attract the straps lifting the rear carrier into place underneath the header.
Data Source
AI summary
A transport system for transport of a harvesting header comprises separate front and rear carriers in a configuration that permits a single person to prepare a harvesting header for transport. The wheeled front carrier engages a support member attached to one end of the harvesting header and includes a towing member and means of connecting the front carrier to a towing vehicle. A wheeled rear carrier comprises deployable straps that can be attached to the harvesting header. A winch applies tension to the straps and on retraction pulls the rear carrier up and into position underneath the header. The harvesting header is then lowered to transfer the weight to the carriers and the header then disconnected from the combine, and is ready for transport.