Pivoting Feed Spreader Mount for Truck Bed Access and Cargo Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile feed spreaders mounted on pickup trucks often block access to the truck bed and interfere with tasks like loading or unloading materials when attached to the receiver hitch, and they lack functionality for cargo transport.
Innovation Solution
A feed spreader designed to mount on a class III receiver hitch, capable of pivoting between an upright position for feed dispersal and a downward position that does not obstruct the truck tail gate, with a built-in platform for cargo transport, featuring a hinge assembly and mounting post for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the feed spreader is mounted on the receiver hitch in an upright position, then it can effectively disperse feed, but it blocks access to the truck bed and interferes with loading or unloading materials
Solution Approach 1:
The feed spreader is designed with a pivotable mounting system that allows it to dynamically change position between upright (for feed dispersal) and downward (for truck bed access). The hinge assembly with locking mechanism enables the spreader to transition between these states, resolving the contradiction by making the system adaptable to different operational needs.
2Reliability
If the feed spreader remains mounted on the receiver hitch, then it maintains feed dispersal functionality, but it prevents placement of the truck tail gate in the down position
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable mounting system allows the spreader to be positioned downward when the tail gate needs to be down, eliminating the conflict between mounted stability and tail gate adaptability. The hinge assembly maintains secure mounting while enabling positional flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the feed spreader is designed with dual functionality for both feed dispersal and cargo transport, then it increases versatility, but it increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The platform portion of the spreader is designed to serve dual purposes: it forms part of the feed dispersal structure and simultaneously functions as a cargo transport surface when the spreader is in the downward position. This multi-functionality approach increases versatility without requiring separate dedicated structures for each function.
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 unobstructed access to the truck bed while allowing for cargo transport without needing to remove the spreader, providing a versatile solution for both feed dispersal and material transport.
Implementation Method 1
the feed dispenser is placed upright and capable of gravity feeding material to an outlet for spreading purposes
Data Source
AI summary
A feed spreader apparatus adapted to mount readily to a receiver hitch includes a feed hopper portion, a hinge assembly that permits the hopper to be pivoted from a first upright position to a second down position providing a platform adapted to transport cargo and unimpeded access to contents of the truck bed.