Shank Mounting Assembly With Hook-Slot Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Adjusting and replacing shanks on tillage implements is time-consuming, especially when dealing with multiple row units, as existing methods lack efficiency in mounting, adjusting, and removing shanks.
Innovation Solution
A shank mounting assembly with a fixed and removable portion, featuring slots and hooks for secure attachment, along with a handle assembly and spring-biased bolt for easy installation and removal, allowing for quick reconfiguration of shanks on tillage implements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mounting methods are used for shanks on tillage implements, then the shanks can be securely attached, but the process of mounting, adjusting, and removing shanks becomes time-consuming and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is divided into a fixed portion (mounted to the row unit) and a removable portion (with the plate and hooks). This segmentation allows the removable portion to be quickly detached and reattached, enabling rapid shank replacement without requiring complete disassembly of the mounting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly transitions from a static, permanently fixed structure to a dynamic system with movable components. The removable portion can be easily detached and repositioned, allowing operators to quickly adjust shank positions or replace shanks between different field operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed mounting structures are used, then shanks are securely held in place, but adjusting shank mounting heights and replacing shank types becomes tedious work
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate multiple shank types (e.g., strip freshener shanks, strip till shanks) and multiple mounting heights. The standardized fixed portion with slots and the removable portion with hooks create a multi-functional system that simplifies the replacement process across different shank configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixed portion is pre-mounted to the row unit with slots positioned at predetermined locations, and the removable portion is designed with hooks that mate with these slots. This preliminary preparation of the mounting structure eliminates the need for complex adjustments during field operations, allowing operators to simply attach or detach the removable portion to achieve the desired shank configuration.
3Reliability
If simple mounting structures are used, then the mounting process is quick, but the security and reliability of shank attachment may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The securing function is extracted into a dedicated removable portion with hooks that mate with slots in the fixed portion. This separation of the securing mechanism from the overall mounting structure allows for a relatively simple design that provides reliable attachment through the hook-slot interface, while maintaining ease of removal when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A shank mounting assembly for connecting a shank to a row unit of a tillage implement is provided. The shank mounting assembly includes a fixed portion, the fixed portion comprising a left wall and a right wall extending outwardly and a plurality of slots in each of the left wall and the right wall. The shank mounting assembly further includes a removable portion comprising a plate having a first set of hooks for mating with the plurality of the slots in the left wall and a second set of hooks for mating with the plurality of the slots in the right wall. The shank mounting assembly further includes a handle assembly operatively connected to the plate.