U-Shaped Implement Support Frame for Twist-Resistant Load Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implement support systems face challenges in efficiently managing torque forces and weight distribution, particularly when carrying heavy implements on uneven terrain and during turns, due to the offset weight and sloping ground conditions, which can lead to instability and increased stress on the support frame.
Innovation Solution
The implement support apparatus features a U-shaped frame with rotatable wheels and a hitch assembly that allows for adjustable beam segments and hydraulic systems to align weight distribution, incorporate beam lock connections to resist twisting, and utilize rub guides for precise positioning, ensuring stable operation on varying terrains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the support frame carries heavy implements on uneven terrain and during turns, then the implement capacity and versatility are improved, but the torque forces increase and stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the wheel positions adjustable relative to the support frame. The wheels can be moved laterally to different positions along the side beams, allowing the frame to adapt its configuration based on the implement being carried. This dynamic adjustment enables the frame to optimize its stability characteristics for different loading conditions, terrain types, and turning requirements, thereby maintaining stability while carrying heavy implements of various sizes and configurations
2Adaptability or versatility
If the wheels are positioned to accommodate wider implements, then the adaptability is improved, but the frame width increases and may cause interference
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel positioning mechanism allows dynamic adjustment of the lateral distance between wheels and the support frame. This enables the frame to accommodate implements of varying widths by positioning the wheels appropriately, while maintaining a compact overall frame structure that avoids unnecessary width increases and potential interference with surrounding equipment or terrain features
3Strength
If the side beams are made rigid to resist twisting, then the strength is improved, but the ability to accommodate different implement configurations decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The side beams are designed as segmented structures with multiple attachment points for the wheels along their length. This segmentation allows the beams to maintain structural strength and twist resistance while providing flexible positioning options for the wheels. The beams can be constructed as I-beams or channel sections with reinforced structures that provide both strength and multiple mounting locations, enabling the system to achieve both rigidity and adaptability
Data Source
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AI summary
A U-shaped support frame has a base beam and parallel side beams extending rearward from the base beam and defining an open implement area, which can be made adjustable. A hitch is attached to the front end of the support frame and frame wheels support the side beams, and rotate about a horizontal frame wheel axis that is fixed in an orientation perpendicular to the operating travel direction. Implements are configured to perform an implement operation and to rest on the ground surface when in an idle position. The support frame is moved rearward to a loading position where each implement is movable to an operating position supported by the support frame. Each implement provides a beam lock connection between the side beams that resists twisting movement of the side beams to maintain the frame wheels and the side beams in a substantially fixed relationship with respect to each other.