Vehicle Hitch Locking Mechanism for Quick Lower Link Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hitch systems for agricultural tractors require time-consuming and labor-intensive procedures to change the length of lower links for different operations, often necessitating special tools and posing risks of damage due to improper link lengths.
Innovation Solution
A hitch system with pivotably mounted support arms and a releasable locking device that allows easy and quick removal and replacement of implement attachment links of varying lengths, eliminating the need for tools and reducing operational complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If same length lower links are used for all operations, then device complexity is reduced, but harmful factors increase due to lateral stresses and damage risks
Solution Approach 1:
The support arms are designed with a universal holding means that can accommodate implement attachment links of different lengths. The holding means includes a slot and locking mechanism that works with various link configurations, allowing the same support arm structure to serve multiple operational requirements without requiring separate arms for each link length
2Adaptability or versatility
If longer lower links are used for municipal operations, then adaptability to agricultural operations is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to steering difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables dynamic adjustment of implement attachment link length based on operational requirements. The support arms can quickly transition between different link configurations through the releasable locking mechanism, allowing the operator to optimize the link length for each specific task - longer links for agricultural operations and shorter links for municipal operations requiring better steering
3Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used for implement attachment links, then reliability of connection is improved, but loss of time increases due to tool requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed as a self-service system that can be operated without external tools. The releasable locking device includes a manual release mechanism that allows the operator to quickly remove and replace implement attachment links by hand, eliminating the need for special tools while maintaining secure connection during operation
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 system significantly reduces the time and effort required to change implement attachment links, enhances operational versatility, and prevents damage by allowing the use of appropriate link lengths for specific tasks.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of left and right support arms pivotably mounted to the main frame at a first end
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 6~7
AI summary
A hitch (10) for a vehicle, especially an agricultural tractor, includes a main frame (12) which is mountable to the vehicle chassis. A pair of left and right lower support arms (16) are pivotably mounted to the main frame (12) at a first end. At a second end, each of the support arms (16) has a holding means (20) for holding an implement attachment link (22). A releasable locking device (24) is provided for fixing the implement attachment link (22) to the holding means (20).