Agricultural Implement Frame With Front Folding Wings And Transport Wheels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wide agricultural implements, such as seeders and plows, face challenges in transport due to complex support wheel systems that limit configuration options and cause unbalanced loads during folding, affecting crop row spacing and implement stability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a wheel assembly arrangement that stores wheels in front of row units, allowing for actuated extension to lift row units off the ground and interleave with wing wheels during transport, reducing width and improving stability by shifting weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If support wheels are added to lift row units during transport, then transport capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the support wheel assembly with the existing frame structure by integrating it into the wing folding mechanism. The support wheels are mounted on the same structural elements that already provide structural support, eliminating the need for separate, independent support wheel systems and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support wheel assembly serves multiple functions: it provides transport capability by lifting row units off the ground, supports the wing structure during folding operations, and maintains implement stability during both transport and field operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
2Length of moving object
If wings are folded forward for transport, then transport width is reduced, but load balance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions support wheels and adjusts their extension timing to counterbalance the weight distribution changes that occur when wings are folded forward. By extending support wheels at specific stages of the folding process, the system maintains load balance and prevents instability during the transition to compact transport configuration.
3Stability of the object's composition
If support wheels are extended to lift row units, then transport stability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support wheel assembly is designed as a segmented, modular structure that can be manufactured independently and then integrated into the frame. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing of individual components while maintaining the overall stability function when assembled.
4Manufacturing precision
If wheels are stored in front of row units, then crop row spacing is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the space conflict by utilizing the longitudinal dimension (front-to-back positioning) rather than competing for lateral space. Wheels are positioned in front of row units along the length of the implement, allowing them to be stored without interfering with the lateral crop row spacing requirements while maintaining access to necessary operational space.
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural implement arrangement is disclosed that may provide wheel assemblies that are stored in front of wing assemblies and row units mounted thereon. The arrangement may include actuators to extend the wheel assemblies in order to lift the row units off the ground to move to a transport position. When in a fully-folded position, the wing wheel assemblies may interleave. The arrangement may also shift the weight of the wing assemblies while in transport position to the hitch of the tractor and center the rearward weight over the central wheel assembly.