Snowplow Hookup System for Light-Duty Work Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snowplow attachments for work machines are often incompatible with light-duty machines, require specific mounting mechanisms, and can interfere with the operation of the machine, limiting maneuverability and visibility.
Innovation Solution
A unique snowplow hookup system that includes a structural combination of beams, hinge members, and an actuator, allowing for adjustable positioning of the snowplow attachment relative to the work machine, ensuring compatibility with various machines and maintaining operational integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional snowplow attachments are used, then mounting capability is achieved, but compatibility with light-duty work machines is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The snowplow attachment is divided into modular components including a plow assembly, a hookup mechanism with separate beams and hinge members, and an actuator system. This segmentation allows the attachment to be configured in different weight configurations suitable for light-duty machines while maintaining mounting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hookup mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including hinge members that allow rotational movement and an actuator that adjusts the position of the plow assembly relative to the work machine. This dynamic configuration enables the attachment to adapt to different machine types and operating conditions without requiring a completely different attachment design.
2Ease of operation
If conventional mounting mechanisms are used, then attachment capability is achieved, but interference with machine operation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The hookup mechanism is designed to be detachably mounted to the work machine, allowing it to be removed when not in use. This extraction capability eliminates interference with machine operation during non-plowing tasks while maintaining attachment capability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge members enable the hookup mechanism to rotate and adjust its position, allowing it to clear obstacles and avoid interference with machine components during operation. The dynamic adjustment capability maintains maneuverability while preserving the mounting function.
3Illumination intensity
If fixed position mounting is used, then structural stability is achieved, but visibility and field of vision are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator-controlled hookup mechanism allows the plow assembly to be positioned at different angles and heights, enabling the operator to adjust the configuration to optimize visibility while maintaining structural stability during plowing operations.
4Power
If heavy-duty snowplow attachments are used, then plowing capability is achieved, but compatibility with light-duty machines is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The hookup mechanism is designed with specific local characteristics including hinge members positioned at optimized locations and beams with appropriate cross-sectional properties. These local quality features enable the attachment to deliver sufficient plowing capability while keeping the overall weight compatible with light-duty machines.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for attaching a snow plow to the front of a work machine includes a first beam extending in a first longitudinal direction. A first hinge member is coupled with the first beam. A second beam is coupled with the first beam and extends rearward in a second longitudinal direction angled upward relative to the first beam member. A second hinge member coupled with the second beam. A bracket is positioned upward of the second hinge member and is coupled with a third hinge member. A fourth hinge member is coupled with the first beam or the second beam. An actuator is rotatably coupled with the third hinge member and the fourth hinge member and is adjustable to vary the position of the first beam and the second beam relative to the upper bracket with the upper bracket maintained in a fixed position.