Three-Point Hitch Mount With Dual Slots for Load Reversal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hitch mount systems for implements like disk mowers struggle with reliably absorbing changing or reversing loads, are difficult to connect quickly and easily, and often require precise vertical alignment of hitch components, especially when the implement is offset or on uneven surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A three-point hitch mount system with a lift bar and yoke assembly featuring forward- and downward-facing slots, allowing easy attachment to various tow vehicles, even on uneven surfaces, and accommodating load reversals through angled slot orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional hitch mount systems are used with vertically aligned hitch components, then the connection requires precise alignment, but this makes it difficult to connect quickly and easily, especially on uneven surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch mount system is divided into separate components: a yoke assembly with multiple slots and a lift bar with corresponding engagement features. This segmentation allows each component to independently accommodate misalignment, enabling quick connection without requiring precise vertical alignment of the entire hitch assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The yoke assembly incorporates multiple slots (forward-facing slot and downward-facing slot) that can accommodate the lift bar at different orientations and positions. This dynamic design allows the hitch components to adapt to uneven surfaces and maintain connection capability without requiring precise pre-alignment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the implement is offset to the side of the vehicle (cantilevered), then the implement can be mounted, but the loads applied to the lower lift arms change or reverse during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The yoke assembly features asymmetric slot configurations with different orientations (forward-facing and downward-facing slots) positioned at different locations. This asymmetric design allows the system to handle cantilevered implements and accommodate load reversals by providing multiple engagement paths that distribute forces differently depending on the implement position and loading conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The hitch mount system transitions from a single vertical alignment dimension to multiple dimensional options by incorporating slots facing different directions (forward and downward). This multi-dimensional approach allows the lift bar to engage the yoke assembly from various orientations, enabling reliable mounting of offset implements while accommodating load reversals through geometric adaptation.
3Ease of operation
If the implement is lowered to the ground for operation, then the implement can function, but the loads on the lower lift arms shift or reverse
Solution Approach 1:
The yoke assembly is designed with multiple slots and engagement features that anticipate and prepare for load reversals before they occur. The forward-facing and downward-facing slots are positioned and oriented to provide structural support and load distribution pathways that accommodate both raised and lowered implement positions, cushioning against the adverse effects of load reversals.
Data Source
AI summary
Three-point hitch mount systems for connecting an implement to a tow vehicle having two lower hitch arms and an upper link arm are disclosed. The hitch mount systems may include a lift bar configured to be attached to the two hitch arms of the tow vehicle. The hitch mount systems may include a yoke assembly. The yoke assembly includes a forward-facing slot and a downward-facing slot for removably receiving the lift bar.