3-Point Hitch Lift Support for Rigid Implement Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing 3-point hitch system is inefficient for attaching implements like backhoes to utility vehicles, requiring removal or modification of the hitch for a more rigid connection, which is time-consuming and inconvenient for operators switching between different types of implements.
Innovation Solution
A connecting apparatus that includes a utility vehicle bracket, an implement bracket, and a lift support attached to the lower lift arms of the 3-point hitch, allowing for secure and rigid attachment of implements without removing the lower lift arms or modifying the hitch, utilizing hydraulic positioning to align the implement with the vehicle bracket for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the 3-point hitch is removed or modified to attach implements like backhoes requiring rigid connection, then the attachment stability is improved, but the time required for implementation increases and operational convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the attachment system into separate components: a rigid attachment bracket that can be independently installed on the utility vehicle, separate from the 3-point hitch mechanism. This segmentation allows the rigid bracket to remain in place while the 3-point hitch can be used or removed as needed, eliminating the need to modify or remove the entire hitch system when attaching rigid implements.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid attachment bracket is designed to work in conjunction with the existing 3-point hitch system, allowing the utility vehicle to accommodate both rigid implements (via the bracket) and flexible implements (via the hitch). This multi-functionality enables a single vehicle configuration to serve multiple attachment needs without time-consuming modifications.
2Ease of operation
If the 3-point hitch is used for attaching implements, then the ease of operation is improved, but the attachment rigidity deteriorates for implements like backhoes
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the rigid attachment function (performed by the bracket) from the flexible hitch function (performed by the 3-point hitch). The bracket provides the necessary rigidity for backhoes and other implements requiring stable connections, while maintaining ease of operation through simple bracket-based attachment rather than complex hitch modifications.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the lower lift arms are removed from the 3-point hitch, then the attachment stability for rigid implements is improved, but the device complexity increases and operational convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the rigid attachment function from the 3-point hitch system by installing a separate attachment bracket on the utility vehicle frame. This extraction allows the lower lift arms to remain intact on the hitch, eliminating the need for hitch modifications while providing the required attachment stability through the dedicated bracket.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment bracket serves as a universal mounting solution that works with various rigid implements without requiring modifications to the 3-point hitch components. The hitch system maintains its original configuration and can still be used for implements requiring flexible attachment, while the bracket handles rigid implement mounting needs.
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
Enables quick and secure attachment of implements requiring a stabilized connection, eliminating the need for frequent hitch modifications or removals, and reduces the need for pre-alignment with the vehicle's hydraulic system, improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing hydraulic positioning to align the implement with the vehicle bracket for secure attachment
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting apparatus and method of using the apparatus provide for attaching an implement to a utility vehicle that has a 3-point hitch including lower lift arms and connecting arms attached to rockshaft arms. The attachment apparatus and corresponding method include a lift support attached to the lower lift arms of the 3-point hitch. This combination of the lift support and lower lift arms provides for the hydraulic positioning of the implement, so that the implement (and/or brackets attached to the implement) may be attached to the utility vehicle (and/or brackets attached to the utility vehicle) without removing the lower lift arms and connecting arms.