Agricultural Implement Chassis Pivoting for Transport Width Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing attachments for agricultural machines face challenges in transportation due to width restrictions, requiring complex and time-consuming processes such as using transport trolleys or pivoting mechanisms that compromise ground clearance and driver visibility.
Innovation Solution
An attachment with a frame coupled to an agricultural machine, featuring a chassis with a multi-dimensional pivoting suspension system, allowing the attachment to transition between a transport position where it is partially vertically under the frame and a working position where it is predominantly vertically upwards and horizontally shifted, enabling easier and safer transportation and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the attachment is coupled to the agricultural machine for field cultivation, then the attachment can perform field work, but the attachment width exceeds road use restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment incorporates a rotatable wheel assembly that can dynamically change its orientation between a working position (where wheels are laterally extended for field cultivation) and a transport position (where wheels are rotated to align with the longitudinal axis, reducing width for road travel). This dynamic reconfiguration allows the same attachment to adapt to different operational requirements without permanent modification.
2Length of moving object
If a transport trailer is used to move the attachment, then road transport is enabled, but additional purchase cost and time for loading/unloading are required
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment is equipped with its own integrated wheel assembly and suspension system that enables it to support itself during transport. The wheel assembly can be rotated to a transport position where the wheels contact the ground and support the attachment's weight, allowing it to be towed directly behind the agricultural machine without requiring external trailers or additional equipment for transport.
3Device complexity
If the attachment remains on the agricultural machine for road travel, then transport is simplified, but the attachment weight increases axle load and restricts driver visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment is divided into functionally independent components: a frame structure, a rotatable wheel assembly with suspension, and the working mechanism. The wheel assembly can be independently rotated and positioned, allowing it to be tucked alongside the frame during transport. This segmentation enables the attachment to be transported in a compact configuration that minimizes interference with the driver's visibility and reduces the need for additional support axles on the agricultural machine.
4Length of moving object
If a complex swivel mechanism is used to rotate the attachment, then road transport is enabled, but the mechanism increases device complexity and technical difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly is designed with a simple rotational joint that allows it to pivot between working and transport positions. The suspension system incorporates pivot arms with pivot axes that enable the wheel assembly to rotate smoothly. This dynamic design uses straightforward mechanical joints rather than complex multi-stage swivel mechanisms, reducing technical complexity while achieving the required position changes.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to an implement (1) for field cultivation, which is designed to be coupled to and supported by an agricultural machine in a working mode and to be pulled by a tractor in a transport mode, comprising a frame (2) which is coupled to the agricultural machine at least indirectly in working mode, and a chassis (10) connected to the frame (2) with a suspension part (11) and at least one wheel (15) mounted thereon, wherein the chassis (10) is adjustable by at least one actuator (26) between a transport position corresponding to the transport mode, in which it is arranged at least partially vertically under the frame (2) to support it, and a working position corresponding to the working mode, in which it is displaced at least predominantly vertically upwards and horizontally sideways relative to the transport position.To simplify the use and transport of an attachment for an agricultural machine, the invention provides that the suspension part (11) is connected to the frame (2) firstly via a suspension bearing element (14) with several degrees of freedom and secondly via a guide mechanism (18) which is designed to guide the chassis (10) in a multidimensional pivoting movement around the suspension bearing element (14) between the transport position and the working position.