Modular Ballasted Pull Hitch for Adjustable Weight Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ballasted hitch systems for agricultural implements require excessive labor and effort due to heavy, permanently welded ballast, leading to inefficiencies and increased part numbers as weight distribution varies with different implement configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular ballasted pull hitch assembly with a pull frame and removable ballast units of uniform cross-section, allowing for adjustable weight distribution by selecting the number and length of units to shift the center of gravity, and a retainer to secure the ballast within the hitch frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If heavy ballast is permanently welded in place within the hitch frame, then the hitch achieves stable weight distribution, but labor time and effort become excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The ballast is divided into multiple individual units that can be independently handled and installed. Each unit has a handle for easy manipulation and can be separately positioned within the hitch frame, eliminating the need for welding entire heavy ballast assemblies and reducing installation time and labor effort.
Solution Approach 2:
A retainer mechanism serves as an intermediary component between the ballast units and the hitch frame. The retainer securely holds the ballast units in place without requiring permanent welding, allowing for easy installation and removal while maintaining stable weight distribution during operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If permanently weighted hitches are manufactured with different ballast configurations, then each hitch is tailored to specific implement requirements, but the number of part numbers increases and complicates the process
Solution Approach 1:
The ballast system is segmented into standardized units that can be combined in different quantities and configurations. This allows a single base hitch design to be adapted to various weight distribution requirements by simply adding or removing ballast units, eliminating the need for multiple specialized hitch part numbers.
Solution Approach 2:
The ballast configuration becomes dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. Users can modify the ballast setup by adding or removing units as needed for different implement configurations, transforming a static, complex parts system into a flexible, simple one.
3Stability of the object's composition
If heavy ballast is used to compensate for weight distribution variations, then uniform hitch weight is achieved, but the ballast becomes difficult to load into position
Solution Approach 1:
The heavy ballast is segmented into multiple smaller, manageable units. Each unit incorporates a handle that facilitates easy lifting and positioning, allowing operators to load the ballast incrementally rather than handling one large, unwieldy weight, thereby maintaining hitch weight uniformity while improving loading ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer acts as an intermediary that guides and secures the ballast units as they are loaded into the hitch frame. This mechanism simplifies the loading process by providing a defined path and secure positioning point, reducing the physical effort and complexity of installing heavy ballast.
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural implement with a ballasted hitch having an open ended tube and removable ballast blocks sized so that they can be loaded into the hitch tube by hand. The blocks are removably retained in the hitch by a bolted plate or, alternatively, a retaining bolt or pin. The number of ballast blocks needed is determined by the weight and size of any rear implement attachment chosen by a customer.