Rotating Lift System for Agricultural Implement Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing equipment for transporting large agricultural implements is often oversized for smaller applications and lacks a lift mechanism with the necessary advantages and features for efficient field use and transport configuration changes.
Innovation Solution
A rotating lift system comprising a rotator arm, rotator arm guide, arcuate rotation track, and load lift assembly that engages, lifts, and rotates implements between field use and transport positions, utilizing hydraulic pistons and cylinders for movement and stabilization, allowing for efficient reconfiguration between perpendicularly opposed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing equipment for transporting large agricultural implements is used, then large implements can be transported, but the equipment is oversized for smaller applications
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting system uses a rotator arm that can rotate between a first position for lifting implements and a second position for transport, allowing the system to dynamically adapt between loading and transport configurations. This dynamic repositioning enables a single system to handle both small and large implements efficiently
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting system is designed with universal functionality to handle both small and large agricultural implements using the same equipment. The rotator arm and lift assembly can accommodate various implement sizes through hydraulic control, eliminating the need for oversized specialized equipment
2Productivity
If a lift mechanism is added to transport equipment, then implements can be loaded and unloaded efficiently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting mechanism is merged with the trailer structure itself, where the rotator arm integrates both the lifting function and the transport function. This combination eliminates the need for separate lifting equipment and simplifies the overall system while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
Hydraulic pistons and cylinders are used to provide controlled lifting and rotating motions. The hydraulic system enables smooth, controlled operation of the rotator arm and lift assembly, achieving efficient loading and unloading through fluid power actuation
3Volume of moving object
If implements are rotated for transport, then space efficiency improves, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotator arm rotates dynamically between a first position (perpendicular to trailer direction) for loading and a second position (parallel to trailer direction) for transport. This dynamic repositioning achieves space-efficient transport configuration using a relatively simple rotational mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The rotator arm serves as an intermediary mechanism between the lift assembly and the implement. It mediates the transition between loading and transport configurations by rotating the implement into the optimal position, simplifying the overall rotation mechanism
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 loading and unloading of implements by rotating them between field and transport configurations, providing a compact solution suitable for smaller applications while maintaining stability and ease of operation, thus addressing the need for a versatile and space-efficient transport solution.
Implementation Method 1
The lifting system is pushed forwards and backwards on the trailer by a hydraulic piston-and-cylinder
Implementation Method 2
A second hydraulic piston-and-cylinder raises and lowers a linkage assembly for connecting with a three-point hitch of an implement or load
Implementation Method 3
The rotator arm is connected to a pivot member for rotation about a vertical axis
Implementation Method 4
The load lift assembly is mounted on the rotator arm and is adapted for engaging an implement's three point hitch or header attachment and lifting the implement or header
Data Source
AI summary
A lift system and method for transporting agricultural implements. The lift system includes a pair of lower linkage arms, an upper link, and at least four carriage wheels for transporting the lift system along carriage guide rails of a trailer frame. A load lift assembly is mounted on the trailer and is movable between lowered, loading position, a raised position, and a transport position. It is capable of connecting to a load having a three-point hitch. A gas strut may optionally be equipped to aid in the lifting process. A telescoping light bar may be included to increase safety while in transport.