Rotating Attachment Assembly for Tractor Implement Connection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The process of attaching agricultural implements to tractors is labor-intensive and time-consuming, particularly due to the need for manual maneuvering and dismounting to connect implements to three-point hitches and facilitate power take-off connections.
Innovation Solution
An attachment assembly with a tractor-side frame and an implement-side frame that can rotate, allowing for quick shifting between closed and open configurations, enabling secure attachment and detachment of implements without requiring the operator to leave the tractor, and facilitating connection to the power take-off system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a three-point hitch is used to connect an agricultural implement to a tractor, then the implement can be raised and lowered by the tractor's hydraulic system, but the attachment process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming requiring manual maneuvering and dismounting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an attachment assembly as an intermediary device between the tractor and implement. This assembly includes a tractor-side frame with engagement arms that automatically engage with the implement's hitch pins, eliminating the need for manual connection operations. The intermediary device bridges the gap between the tractor's three-point hitch system and the implement, enabling automated attachment while maintaining hydraulic control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated mechanical system. The attachment assembly uses engagement arms that automatically grasp and secure the implement to the tractor through mechanical engagement with hitch pins, eliminating the need for operators to manually maneuver and connect components. This substitution of manual mechanical operations with an automated mechanical system directly reduces attachment time and labor intensity.
2Extent of automation
If traditional three-point hitch connection is used, then the implement can be connected to the tractor, but the operator must dismount the tractor to complete the connection
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment assembly performs self-service by automatically engaging and securing the implement to the tractor without requiring operator intervention for manual connection steps. The engagement arms automatically grasp the hitch pins, and the system self-secures through mechanical interlocking, allowing the operator to remain seated and controlled the process from the tractor cab.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment assembly serves as an intermediary that mediates between the operator and the implement connection process. It translates the operator's control inputs into automated mechanical engagement actions, eliminating the need for the operator to physically dismount and manually connect components. The intermediary device handles all manual operations automatically while remaining controlled by the operator.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a three-point hitch is used for connection, then the implement can be attached to the tractor, but the power take-off connection is not facilitated
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment assembly is designed with multi-functionality to handle both the mechanical connection and power take-off connection operations. The tractor-side frame includes both engagement arms for mechanical hitch connection and a PTO engagement mechanism for power take-off shaft connection. This universal design allows a single device to perform multiple attachment functions that would otherwise require separate operations or devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the mechanical hitch connection function and the power take-off connection function into a single integrated attachment assembly. The tractor-side frame combines engagement arms for the implement hitch with a PTO engagement mechanism, allowing both connections to be made simultaneously or sequentially through the same device. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate operations needed while managing the inherent complexity through integration.
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment assembly for connecting an agricultural implement to a tractor. The attachment assembly comprises a tractor-side frame configured to extend from a rear of the tractor, and an implement-side frame configured to be removably attached to the implement. The implement-side frame is configured to rotate with respect to the tractor-side frame.