Spatial Agricultural Vehicle Frame for Interchangeable Fuel Tanks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing agricultural vehicle frame structures do not support the mounting of interchangeable fuel tanks and alternative energy systems, limiting their adaptability and operational autonomy, and lack maneuverability due to fixed designs.

Innovation Solution

A spatial frame structure with interconnected longitudinal beams, transverse and diagonal pipes, and stiffening elements allows for the connection of interchangeable fuel tanks and alternative energy systems, providing additional space and enhanced maneuverability through a narrow front chassis with electric drive and high steering angle.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed frame structure design is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability for interchangeable fuel tanks and alternative energy systems is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability for interchangeable fuel tanks and alternative energy systemsVSAvoidframe structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structure is divided into multiple horizontal structures (upper, middle, lower) with multiple attachment points, allowing different components to be mounted on different segments. This segmentation enables the frame to accommodate various configurations of fuel tanks and alternative energy systems without requiring a completely different frame design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame structure is designed with universal attachment capabilities across all horizontal structures, allowing the same frame to support multiple functions including traditional fuel tanks, interchangeable fuel tanks, and alternative energy systems. The multiple attachment points and structured design provide universal mounting options for diverse components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Duration of action of moving object

If traditional frame designs are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but operational autonomy and working time are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational autonomy and working timeVSAvoidframe structure manufacturing
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The frame utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement with upper, middle, and lower horizontal structures, creating multiple levels for component placement. This dimensional approach allows fuel tanks and energy systems to be positioned in previously unused spatial zones, increasing operational capacity without complicating the basic manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If a standard chassis width is used, then structural stability is maintained, but maneuverability and steering angle are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaneuverability and steering angleVSAvoidchassis stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structure implements different design characteristics at different locations: the front part features a narrowed width to improve steering angle and maneuverability, while the rear and side portions maintain sufficient width and structural elements to ensure stability. This local differentiation allows the chassis to optimize both maneuverability and stability in their respective zones.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Volume of moving object

If components are mounted inside the frame, then space utilization is improved, but access for maintenance and repair becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilization for fuel tanksVSAvoidaccess to components for maintenance
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The frame's horizontal structures are designed with multiple attachment points and open configurations that allow components to be mounted in accessible positions. Rather than enclosing all components within the frame, the segmented structure provides access points throughout, enabling maintenance personnel to reach components without disassembling the entire frame.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The horizontal structures serve as intermediary mounting platforms that position components in optimal locations - neither completely inside nor outside the frame - providing both space utilization and accessibility. These structures act as intermediate mounting surfaces that balance the competing requirements of compact arrangement and easy access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP4054920B1Spatial agricultural vehicle frame structure
Publication Date: 2025.07.09 AUGA GROUP AB
  • EP4054920B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4054920B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4054920B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

This description describes the spatial frame structure of a vehicle designed for connecting structural assemblies. The described frame construction differs from the analogues in that it allows the use of interchangeable high-capacity fuel tanks. As a result, most structural assemblies are mounted to the outside of the frame, thus creating additional space in which elements of alternative fuel and energy source systems (e.g. natural gas tanks, electric batteries) can be assembled. This makes it possible to increase the working time of the agricultural vehicle. The frame construction consists of rigidly interconnected longitudinal tubular beams, transverse, perpendicular and diagonally arranged structural pipes, additionally connecting stiffness elements. The structure includes fastening elements for connecting the following structural assemblies: rear wheel hubs, which are assembled with electric drives; mechanical implement coupling device; structure of replaceable fuel tanks; door platform; folding driver's cab; chassis steering axle with electric drive; side component containers; power plant; mechanical coupling device for trailers and semi-trailers.