Tool-Free Stalk Stomper Coupling via Pin and Recess Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for securing stalk stompers to tractor or combine tool bar assemblies require tools for connection and adjustment, making them cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A quick connect/disconnect coupling system using a bracket with recesses and holes, a pin, and a retention stop allows for tool-free attachment and adjustment of stalk stompers, enabling easy assembly and disassembly by pivoting a cross bar and inserting a pin into aligned holes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If nut and bolt fasteners are used to secure the stalk stomper to the tool bar assembly, then the connection is strong and reliable, but the assembly and disassembly require tools and are time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate components: a bracket with recesses on the tool bar assembly, a cross bar on the stalk stomper that engages with the recesses, and a pin that secures the connection. This segmentation allows the cross bar to be quickly inserted into the recesses while the pin provides the secure locking mechanism, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners and enabling tool-free assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the cross bar and the bracket. It provides the secure connection function that would otherwise require nut and bolt fasteners, while enabling quick insertion and removal without threading operations. The pin serves as a simple locking mediator that maintains connection reliability while dramatically reducing assembly time.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the stalk stomper is secured with rigid nut and bolt connections, then the implement is firmly attached, but the angle adjustment requires separate tools and procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic adjustable connection. The bracket includes multiple recesses positioned at different angles, and the cross bar can engage with different recesses to change the attachment angle. The pin secures each angular position, allowing the implement to be firmly attached at various angles without requiring separate adjustment tools or procedures.
3Reliability
If traditional fastening methods are used, then the connection is secure, but the device complexity increases due to multiple components and tools required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the essential securing function from the complex nut and bolt fastening system and implements it through a simple pin insertion mechanism. The pin provides the necessary locking function while eliminating the need for threads, washers, and multiple fasteners. This extraction of the core security function dramatically simplifies the connection system while maintaining connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket with multiple recesses serves multiple functions: it provides structural attachment points, enables angle adjustment, and guides the cross bar into proper alignment. The cross bar simultaneously engages with different recesses for different angles and provides a consistent interface for the pin. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed while maintaining connection security.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connect/disconnect coupling for securing an agricultural implement, such as a stalk stomper, to a tool bar assembly on a tractor, without the need for any tools. The tool bar assembly includes a bracket having a pair of spaced-apart arm members. Each arm member has a recess therein, and a hole spaced therefrom. The recesses and the holes are generally transversely aligned. A pin is adapted to be received in the holes. The agricultural implement assembly includes a plate member. Provided on the plate member is a cross bar. The cross bar is adapted to be engaged in the recesses. To connect the agricultural implement assembly to the tool bar assembly, the cross bar is engaged in the recesses and the agricultural implement and the pin can be inserted into the transversely aligned holes to connect the agricultural implement to the tool bar assembly. A spring member biases the implement to pivot away from the plate member.