Side Stabilizer Locking Mechanism for Quick Lower Link Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for agricultural tractor three-point linkages require time-consuming disassembly of hydraulically controlled side stabilizers during transport operations, as hydraulic connections need to be disconnected, complicating the removal of lower links.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a spring-loaded catch hook mechanism allows the side stabilizer to be pivoted into a rest position that does not obstruct the drawbar, enabling the lower links to be removed without disassembling the side stabilizer, using a bracket with a U-shaped sheet metal component and a bearing bolt for attachment, and a snap-lock mechanism for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulically controlled side stabilizers are used to prevent lateral movements in transport position, then stability is improved, but disassembly time increases due to hydraulic connection disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The side stabilizer is divided into two independent stabilizer elements (first and second stabilizer elements) that can move relative to each other along a common longitudinal axis. This segmentation allows the stabilizer to maintain stability when needed while enabling quick reconfiguration without full disassembly, as the elements can be independently positioned and locked.
Solution Approach 2:
A locking flap with a recess is pre-positioned on the first stabilizer element, and a corresponding projection is provided on the second stabilizer element. These preliminary positioning features enable rapid locking and unlocking of the stabilizer elements in predetermined positions without requiring complex disassembly procedures or hydraulic connection disconnection.
2Ease of operation
If lower links are completely removed for transport operations, then lateral freedom of movement is improved, but device complexity increases due to complete disassembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The side stabilizer is designed with movable stabilizer elements that can be dynamically repositioned between different operational states. The locking flap mechanism allows the stabilizer to be quickly transitioned to a retracted or neutral position that does not obstruct drawbar movement, eliminating the need for complete removal while maintaining operational flexibility.
3Ease of operation
If side stabilizer remains attached during transport, then ease of operation is improved, but harmful factors increase due to potential obstruction of drawbar movement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking flap with its recess and the corresponding projection on the second stabilizer element are pre-configured to automatically engage when the stabilizer elements are positioned in a retracted or neutral orientation. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the stabilizer remains attached during transport, it does not obstruct drawbar movement, while still providing the option for quick disengagement if needed.
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
Facilitates easy and quick removal of lower links by allowing the side stabilizer to remain attached, reducing the time and effort required for transport setup, while preventing unwanted contact with the drawbar.
Implementation Method 1
The locking mechanism has a spring-loaded catch hook for releasable engagement of a retaining bolt provided on the bracket
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A locking device (10) for a side stabilizer (12) of a three-point linkage comprises a side stabilizer (12) and a bracket (14) that can be attached to the three-point linkage, wherein the side stabilizer (12) is pivotably mounted on the bracket (14) by means of a bearing pin (16). The side stabilizer (12) can be locked to the bracket (14) in a predetermined rest position (106) by means of a locking mechanism (90).