Pivoting Flail Mower Mounting Frame for Sloped Terrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tractor-mounted implement attachment systems fail to maintain a consistent operational height on uneven or sloped terrain, leading to uneven cutting and potential damage, and require costly and maintenance-intensive solutions like shocks and loosened attachments, which are unsafe.
Innovation Solution
A mounting frame and assembly that allows pivotal movement of the implement around a longitudinal axis, using a spring assembly to maintain level orientation and secure attachment to the tractor, reducing costs and maintenance while ensuring safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If wheels and/or skids are used to track the ground surface, then the implement can maintain proper operational height on flat surfaces, but the implement moves or bounces on uneven or sloped terrain causing uneven cutting and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static wheels/skids with a dynamic spring assembly that allows the implement to move vertically in response to terrain changes. The spring assembly connects the implement to the tractor, enabling controlled movement that maintains cutting height consistency while adapting to uneven surfaces through elastic deformation rather than rigid contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter from fixed rigid support to variable elastic support. The spring assembly allows the implement to change its vertical position dynamically based on terrain conditions, transforming the system from a static height-fixation mechanism to a dynamic height-adaptation mechanism that maintains cutting consistency across varying terrains.
2Adaptability or versatility
If shocks or springs are added to allow vertical movement on uneven terrain, then some movement is permitted, but the system becomes more complex, costly, and maintenance-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex shock/spring damping system and replaces it with a simpler spring assembly that provides the necessary vertical movement capability. By removing unnecessary components and retaining only the essential spring mechanism, the design achieves terrain adaptability while reducing overall system complexity and maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple spring assembly that is cost-effective and easy to replace compared to complex shock absorber systems. The spring components are designed to be inexpensive and readily replaceable, reducing both initial cost and long-term maintenance expenses while providing sufficient terrain adaptation functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the attachment is loosened to allow vertical movement, then the implement can move on uneven terrain, but the loose attachment creates safety hazards and may cause failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a spring assembly that provides controlled cushioning between the implement and tractor. This pre-engineered elastic connection allows vertical movement while maintaining secure attachment, preventing the implement from becoming loose or detaching during operation on uneven terrain, thereby eliminating safety hazards associated with loose attachments.
4Reliability
If the implement is maintained in a level configuration on sloped terrain, then the attachment remains secure, but the vegetation is cut unevenly with one side too short and the other too long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the implement to dynamically adjust its orientation relative to the terrain rather than maintaining a fixed level configuration. The spring assembly allows the implement to pivot and tilt independently on each side, adapting to the slope while maintaining secure attachment through continuous elastic connection, thereby achieving both attachment security and cutting uniformity.
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
The solution enables consistent operational height on uneven terrain, reducing the need for costly adjustments and enhancing safety by providing a secure and stable attachment system that adapts to terrain changes.
Implementation Method 1
a spring assembly to maintain level orientation
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for attaching a forward-mounted implement that may allow pivotal movement of the implement around a longitudinal axis to better maintain proper operational height when operating on uneven or sloped terrain. Further provided, the attachment mechanism of the present disclosure may allow for a secure and safe attachment to an associated tractor or other similar vehicle while simultaneously providing for a reduced production cost and less maintenance requirements.