Piston Lock Pin Linkage for Space-Constrained Header Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cylinder lock mechanisms for agricultural equipment are cumbersome, time-consuming to operate, and lack sufficient strength to securely hold large modern headers and feeders, especially when space constraints limit their applicability.
Innovation Solution
A piston lock system comprising a cylinder, piston, rod, and lock pin mechanism that allows for simultaneous locking of multiple actuators, with a control link system enabling easy operation and ensuring the piston and rod remain in the extended position, preventing accidental retraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cylinder lock mechanisms are used to lock the feeder in the raised position, then the locking function is achieved, but the mechanism becomes cumbersome and time-consuming to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple lock pins into a single integrated locking mechanism that can simultaneously engage with multiple pistons. The lock bar connects several lock pins, allowing them to be operated together as one unit rather than individually, thereby reducing operation time while maintaining reliable locking of the feeder in the raised position
Solution Approach 2:
The lock pins are pre-positioned and spring-loaded to automatically engage with the piston rods when the feeder reaches the raised position. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for manual adjustment during operation, reducing the time required to secure the feeder while ensuring reliable locking
2Strength
If rigid rod locks with open slots are used to prevent piston retraction, then the locking strength is sufficient, but the mechanism requires large clear space for rotation and is not applicable when space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a rotational locking mechanism (requiring lateral space) to a linear axial locking mechanism. The lock pins move along the axis of the piston rods rather than rotating perpendicular to them, eliminating the need for large clear space while maintaining sufficient locking strength through direct axial engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The lock pins are designed to nest within the piston rod structure, with the lock bar passing through slots in the piston rods. This nested configuration allows the locking mechanism to be compact and integrated within the existing spatial constraints of the hydraulic actuator assembly, eliminating the need for external rotation space
3Productivity
If multiple lock members are connected by a pivot shaft to rotate out of the plane, then simultaneous locking is achieved, but the mechanism is only feasible when there is sufficient room for rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the motion dimension from rotational (out-of-plane) to linear (in-plane along the axis). The lock pins move linearly along the piston rod axes rather than rotating on a pivot shaft, enabling simultaneous locking capability while adapting to space-constrained environments where rotational motion is not feasible
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A piston lock system comprising: a cylinder (200), a rod receiver (214) fixed to the cylinder (200), a piston (206) slidably mounted to the cylinder (200), and a rod (218) fixed to a free end of the piston (206) and extending parallel to the piston (206) to be located within the rod receiver (214). The piston (206) and rod (218) are movable relative to the cylinder (200) and rod receiver (214) between a retracted position and an extended position. A lock pin (220) is mounted to the rod receiver (214) and movable between a unlocked position in which the lock pin (220) does not intersect a path of the rod (218), and a locked position in which the lock pin (220) intersects the path of the rod (218) and prevents the rod (218) and piston (206) from moving to the retracted position. Lock pins (220) of multiple actuators can be connected to operate in unison.