Sugarcane Harvester Frame Coupling System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing sugarcane harvester assembly process is hindered by limited access to connection locations, making it difficult and time-consuming to connect the basecutter assembly to the main frame, leading to increased labor time and potential poor build quality.
Innovation Solution
A frame coupling system featuring a coupler with a rotatable leg and a fixed receiver, including a catch mechanism, allows for efficient alignment and secure connection of the basecutter frame to the main frame, enabling easier assembly and independent movement of basecutters along uneven ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional welding or bolting methods are used to connect the basecutter frame to the main frame, then the connection is strong and reliable, but the assembly process is time-consuming and difficult due to limited access to connection locations
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into distinct functional components: a coupler attached to the basecutter frame, a receiver mounted on the main frame, and a catch mechanism for securing the connection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easier assembly compared to traditional monolithic connection methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler acts as an intermediary element between the basecutter frame and the main frame. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies the connection process, allowing the basecutter assembly to be quickly attached and detached without complex welding or bolting operations in difficult-to-reach locations.
2Strength
If traditional connection methods are used, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the ease of operation during assembly is reduced due to difficult access to connection points
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is designed with rotational capability, allowing it to move from a loading position to an engaged position with the receiver. This dynamic feature enables operators to easily align and connect the basecutter frame to the main frame without requiring precise manual positioning in difficult-to-reach areas, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining structural integrity through the catch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The catch mechanism automatically engages with the coupler when the basecutter frame is brought into position, providing self-aligning and self-securing functionality. This reduces the skill level and time required by operators during assembly while ensuring reliable structural connection.
3Ease of manufacture
If the basecutter assembly is moved to the main frame for assembly, then the manufacturing process can be completed, but the positioning precision is compromised due to limited access for alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is pre-attached to the basecutter frame during subassembly manufacturing, and the receiver is pre-mounted on the main frame. This preliminary preparation allows for precise positioning of the connection interface before final assembly, improving manufacturing precision while maintaining ease of manufacture through modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment methods (requiring manual measurement and adjustment in difficult-to-reach areas) with a geometric coupling system. The coupler and receiver are designed with complementary geometries that inherently guide proper alignment when brought together, ensuring precise positioning without requiring operator access to tight spaces for manual adjustment.
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
This solution reduces assembly time, improves ergonomics, and enhances the build quality by facilitating easier and more precise connection of subassemblies, allowing for efficient harvesting operations.
Implementation Method 1
a leg (100) rotatably coupled to and extending from one of the main frame (26) or the basecutter frame (60)
Data Source
AI summary
A sugarcane harvester for harvesting sugarcane including a main frame, a basecutter, and a coupler configured to couple the main frame to the basecutter, the coupler including a leg rotatably coupled to and extending from one of the main frame or a frame of the basecutter and a receiver fixedly coupled to the other of the main frame or the basecutter frame. A catch is located at the receiver, wherein the catch engages the leg to locate the main frame at a fixed distance with the basecutter. The catch includes a spring actuated plunger to engage a depression in the arm to fixedly couple the basecutter and the main frame. In one embodiment, the sugarcane harvester includes basecutter frames or split frames, each of which is rotatably connected to the mainframe with a coupler.