Agricultural Header Transport Apparatus Width Minimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loading and transport apparatuses for agricultural headers or implements with primary and secondary tools are complex and require special trailers, making them costly and inflexible for transporting various agricultural headers or implements safely and efficiently on public roads.
Innovation Solution
A loading and transport apparatus with a guide frame, a first support device for the primary tool, and a second support device for the secondary tool, connected via a coupling element, allowing for coordinated movement between loading and transport positions, which minimizes width and facilitates universal attachment to standard trailers without the need for special equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a complex combination of hydraulic cylinders, lift arms, levers, shafts and connection elements is used to enable relative movement of rest surfaces, then the loading and unloading function is achieved, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into two independent support devices (first support device for primary tool, second support device for secondary tool), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows each device to be simpler while collectively achieving the loading and unloading function through coordinated movement along the guide frame.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling element acts as an intermediary between the first and second support devices, enabling coordinated movement without requiring a complex integrated mechanism. The coupling element translates the movement of one support device into corresponding movement of the other, simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single loading and transport apparatus is designed for complete cutting unit transport, then the cutting unit can be transported, but the apparatus cannot be universally installed on existing trailers
Solution Approach 1:
The loading and transport apparatus is designed with a guide frame and support devices that can be universally installed on existing trailers without requiring special trailer modifications. The apparatus can handle different cutting units (primary tool and secondary tool combinations) making it multi-functional and adaptable to various agricultural implements.
3Ease of manufacture
If the apparatus maintains fixed width configuration, then structural simplicity is achieved, but the width cannot be minimized for transport on public roads
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second support devices are movably arranged on the guide frame, allowing the apparatus to dynamically adjust its configuration. The support devices can move along the guide frame to minimize the width during transport on public roads, while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of guided linear movement rather than complex articulated mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A loading and transport apparatus for an agricultural header or implement that comprises a primary tool and a secondary tool, comprising a guide frame. On the guide frame is arranged a first support device having a first rest surface for movably holding the primary tool. On the guide frame is further arranged a second support device having a second rest surface for movably holding the secondary tool. A coupling element is arranged to the first support device, wherein the coupling element connects the first support device to the second support device. To the guide frame is arranged a support element, which contacts the second support device, wherein the coupling element and the support element are designed and arranged such that a movement of the first support device in a first direction along the guide frame effects lifting of the second rest surface.