Three-Point Hitch Implement Orientation Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The attachment of agricultural implements to utility vehicles is time-consuming and challenging due to difficulties in achieving precise orientation, affecting the working properties of the implements.
Innovation Solution
A method for adjusting the orientation angle of an agricultural implement attached to a three-point hitch by determining a target length of the upper link as a function of the orientation angle and lower link angle, allowing for automatic or manual adjustment, and accounting for the vehicle's inclination angle using sensors and coordinate systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual adjustment methods are used to orient the implement, then the user can directly control the orientation, but the process becomes time-consuming and difficult to achieve precise orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated calculation system. The control unit calculates the target upper link length based on measured lower link angle and desired orientation angle, then automatically adjusts the upper link length (via hydraulic actuation or direct control), eliminating the need for manual trial-and-error adjustment and achieving precise orientation quickly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system measures the actual lower link angle using a sensor and uses this feedback to calculate the required upper link length adjustment. This closed-loop feedback ensures the implement reaches the exact target orientation by continuously monitoring and adjusting based on actual position versus desired position.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the upper link length is adjusted for different working heights, then the orientation can be maintained, but manual recalculation and adjustment is required for each height change
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment automatically. When the lower link angle changes (indicating a working height change), the sensor detects this change, the control unit automatically recalculates the new target upper link length based on the new angle and desired orientation, and the system actuates the upper link to the new length without requiring user intervention or manual recalculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates and stores the relationship between lower link angles and corresponding upper link lengths needed to maintain constant orientation. When a height change occurs, the system has already determined the required adjustment, enabling immediate and accurate re-positioning without manual computation.
3Productivity
If conventional adjustment methods are used, then simple equipment is needed, but multiple measuring devices and manual procedures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it measures the lower link angle via sensor, calculates the target upper link length based on the measured angle and desired orientation, controls the hydraulic actuation or direct adjustment mechanism, and maintains the implement orientation across varying conditions. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate measuring devices and manual procedures into a single integrated system.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for adjusting an orientation angle of an agricultural implement includes arranging a hitch such that an upper link and at least one lower link is articulated to a support structure of the utility vehicle, and adjusting the orientation angle based on a target length of the upper link. The target length of the upper link is determined as a function of the orientation angle and as a function of a lower link angle.