Modular Electric Machine Coupler for Work Vehicle Power Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implement couplers for work vehicles do not efficiently transfer power from the power takeoff (PTO) to work implements, limiting the versatility and power distribution capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular electric machine system with a support frame, gearbox, and pulley system that allows for the configuration of one to four electric machines, enabling efficient power transfer through belts and pulleys, and accommodating various power requirements by allowing additional machines to be added as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a traditional implement coupler is used to transfer power from the PTO to work implements, then the structure is simple, but the power transfer efficiency is insufficient and versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power transmission system is segmented into multiple independent electric machines (first, second, third, and fourth electric machines), each capable of being independently controlled and optimized for specific power requirements. This segmentation allows efficient power distribution to multiple implements simultaneously while maintaining a modular structure that can be configured based on actual needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler design incorporates multiple electric machines that can be selectively activated based on the power requirements of different implements. The system can operate with one, two, three, or four electric machines simultaneously, providing universal adaptability for various power transfer scenarios and implement configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electric machines are added to the support frame to increase power distribution capabilities, then versatility and power requirements are met, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed with dynamic configurability, allowing the number of active electric machines to be adjusted based on the specific power requirements of the implements being operated. Users can activate only the necessary number of electric machines (from one to four), optimizing the balance between power distribution capability and system complexity for each operational scenario.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single support frame is used to support multiple electric machines, then space is saved and modularility is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal support frame is designed to accommodate up to four different electric machines at various mounting positions. This universal frame structure provides a standardized platform that simplifies manufacturing while enabling flexible configuration for different power distribution requirements, reducing the need for multiple specialized frames.
Solution Approach 2:
The support frame incorporates segmented mounting positions and standardized interfaces that allow individual electric machines to be independently installed, removed, or replaced. This segmentation approach simplifies the manufacturing of each component while maintaining the overall modular architecture that supports multiple configurations.
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 efficient power transmission to work implements, supports multiple applications with a single support frame, and allows for incremental power upgrades, reducing costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
At least one endless member is disposed about the at least one drive pulley for rotation therewith. A first electric machine is mounted on the support frame at a first of the electric machine mounts and has a first input pulley coupled to the at least one drive pulley by the at least one endless member.
Data Source
AI summary
An implement coupler for a work vehicle includes a support frame having a drive opening and an array of electric machine mounts arranged about the drive opening. A gearbox is mounted on the support frame and has a gearbox shaft extending through the drive opening. At least one drive pulley is coupled to the gearbox for rotation. At least one endless member is disposed about the drive pulley for rotation therewith. A first electric machine is mounted on the support frame at a first of the electric machine mounts and having a first input pulley coupled to the drive pulley by the at least one endless member.