Implement Coupler Integrating Generator for Work Vehicle Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Work vehicles, such as tractors, often lack sufficient electrical power to meet the needs of attached implements, which can exceed the power provided by the vehicle's prime mover.
Innovation Solution
An implement coupler system that includes a power takeoff to provide mechanical force and an adjustment mechanism, supporting a drive shaft and generators to generate electrical power, allowing for the transfer of mechanical force into electrical power for the implement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the implement is equipped with additional electrical components to meet higher power requirements, then the electrical power capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical power generation system with the mechanical implement coupling system by integrating generators onto the quick coupler hitch assembly. This merging allows the implement coupler to simultaneously perform mechanical coupling and electrical power provision, resolving the contradiction by improving electrical power capability while avoiding the need for separate complex electrical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick coupler hitch is designed to perform multiple functions: mechanical coupling of implements and generation/provision of electrical power. By making the coupler universal and multi-functional, the system improves electrical power capability without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the same structural components serve dual purposes.
2Power
If generators and drive components are integrated into the coupler, then the electrical power provision is improved, but the weight of the coupler increases
Solution Approach 1:
The generators and drive components are merged with the existing coupler structure rather than being added as separate heavy assemblies. The drive shaft connects the power takeoff to the generators, which are mounted on the coupler frame, integrating power generation into the existing structural framework to minimize additional weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a dynamic drive shaft connection between the power takeoff and generators, allowing flexible power transmission. This dynamic arrangement enables the generators to be positioned optimally on the coupler structure, distributing weight more effectively and reducing the overall impact on coupler weight while maintaining electrical power provision capability.
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 the provision of electrical power to work implements, accommodating varying power requirements by integrating generators and drive components into the coupler, enhancing the operational capabilities of work vehicles and their implements.
Implementation Method 1
The drive shaft is configured to transfer mechanical force provided by the power takeoff. A generator is supported by the support frame and is operatively connected to the drive shaft, wherein the generator is configured to generate electrical power based on the mechanical force provided through the drive shaft.
Data Source
AI summary
An implement coupler including an electrical generator configured to generate electric power in response to a mechanical force provided by a power takeoff of a work vehicle. The implement coupler includes a support frame and an adjustment mechanism operatively connected to the support frame, wherein the adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the position of the support frame with respect to the work vehicle. The generator is located on the support frame and is operatively connected to the power takeoff. The implement coupler further includes a drive shaft connected to the power takeoff and to the generator, an electrical coupler electrically coupled to the generator to provide access to the generated electrical power wherein the electrical coupler includes an output configured to provide the generated electrical power, and a line coupler including a connector configured to couple to source of material and to deliver the material.