Implement Coupling System with Alignment Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for coupling implements to work vehicles are inefficient, requiring multiple alignments and manual efforts, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, and often limit the maximum force rating of the implement due to single-point connections.
Innovation Solution
A connection system that includes a receiver assembly on the implement and a connector assembly on the work vehicle, with an alignment indicator system and actuators to facilitate automatic alignment and locking, allowing the implement to be coupled directly to the work vehicle's frame for enhanced force distribution and increased force rating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual alignment method is used to couple implement to work vehicle, then operator can control the coupling process, but multiple alignment attempts are required which increases time consumption and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment indicator system provides visual feedback to the operator by displaying the relative position between the receiver assembly and connector assembly. This feedback mechanism allows the operator to make precise adjustments without requiring multiple trial-and-error alignment attempts, thereby reducing coupling time while maintaining manual control.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment indicator system acts as an intermediary between the mechanical components (receiver and connector assemblies) and the operator. It translates the complex spatial relationship between components into a simple visual indication, enabling faster and more accurate alignment without requiring the operator to directly manipulate the components themselves.
2Device complexity
If single-point connection is used to couple implement to work vehicle, then coupling mechanism is simple, but force rating is limited due to concentrated load
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into two distinct connection points: a primary connector assembly for hydraulic/electrical connections and a secondary mounting portion for structural attachment. This segmentation distributes the load across multiple points, increasing the overall force rating while maintaining relatively simple individual connection structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single-point connection to a multi-point connection by adding the mounting portion that couples directly to the work vehicle frame. This dimensional expansion from one connection point to multiple connection points allows for better force distribution and higher load capacity without significantly increasing structural complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple alignment attempts are required for proper coupling, then operator can ensure correct positioning, but alignment time increases which reduces operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment indicator system provides preliminary visual information about the relative positioning of the receiver and connector assemblies before the coupling operation begins. This preliminary indication allows the operator to pre-position the components correctly, eliminating the need for multiple trial-and-error alignment attempts and reducing overall alignment time while maintaining precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection system for coupling an implement to a work vehicle. The connection system includes a receiver assembly of the implement, which couples the implement to a connector assembly of the work vehicle. An implement frame includes a first end having a mounting portion and a second end coupled to a mounting assembly of the implement frame. The mounting portion of the implement frame couples the implement directly to a frame of the work vehicle. The receiver assembly is directly coupled to the implement frame. An alignment indicator system provides a visual indication of alignment of the receiver assembly with the connector assembly.