Hinged Support Frame for Implement Load Distribution and Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Underside-mounted supporting frames for vehicles lack sufficient ground clearance due to their fixed position, which restricts the effective distribution of load from implements like plows, and existing solutions do not adequately address this issue.
Innovation Solution
A support frame with a rear section and a front section hingedly connected, featuring a biasing assembly that downwardly biases the front section into an operative position for load distribution, allowing it to pivot upwardly for increased ground clearance when not in use, utilizing a resilient member and a rear attachment mechanism for mounting to the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If an underside-mounted supporting frame is used, then load distribution is improved, but ground clearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support frame is divided into a rear section and a front section that can pivot relative to each other. The rear section mounts to the vehicle underside while the front section supports the implement, allowing the frame to achieve both good load distribution (through underside mounting) and increased ground clearance (through pivotal upward movement of the front section).
Solution Approach 2:
The support frame transitions from a static fixed-position structure to a dynamic pivotal structure. The front section can pivot upward relative to the rear section, enabling the frame to adapt its position between a lowered operative state (for load distribution) and a raised inoperative state (for ground clearance).
2Length of stationary object
If a front-mounted supporting frame is used, then ground clearance is improved, but load distribution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the frame into rear and front sections with a pivot connection, the invention allows the rear section to remain mounted on the vehicle underside (maintaining good load distribution) while the front section can pivot upward (achieving high ground clearance when not in use).
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of mounting the entire frame at the front or fixing it at the underside, the invention inverts the approach by creating a two-section frame where the mounting point remains at the underside but the implement-supporting section can move upward, combining advantages of both mounting locations.
3Length of stationary object
If the front section is allowed to pivot upwardly, then ground clearance is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge connection creates a dynamic system where the front section can pivot upward for ground clearance when needed, but the biasing assembly provides a restoring force that returns the frame to its stable operative position, maintaining structural stability during operation while enabling clearance when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing assembly acts as a counterbalancing mechanism that provides downward force on the front section, counteracting the upward pivotal movement and ensuring the frame returns to its stable operative position, thereby maintaining structural stability while allowing temporary elevation for clearance.
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
The support frame effectively distributes the load of implements while providing increased ground clearance by allowing the front section to pivot upwardly, mitigating the limitations of traditional underside-mounted frames.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient member, located at least partially into a cavity of the front section or of the rear section adjacent to the pivot for biasing the front section into the operative position
Data Source
AI summary
A frame for supporting an implement (e.g. a plow) on a vehicle is disclosed. The support frame extends longitudinally and generally comprises, at its rear end, a rear attachment mechanism for removably mounting the support frame to the underside of the vehicle, and at its front end, a front attachment assembly for supporting the implement. The frame comprises a rear section and a front section hingedly connected together such that the front section can pivot upwardly with respect to the rear section. The support frame also comprises a biasing assembly or mechanism, generally comprising a resilient member engaging the front and rear sections, such as to downwardly bias the front portion. By overcoming the downward bias of the biasing assembly, the front section can be further raised with respect to the ground surface, thereby providing greater clearance.