Elastically Deformable Sulky Chassis for Quick Frame Attachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing small self-propelling work machines with sulky attachments have complex and time-consuming processes for fitting and removing the sulky, which obstructs access to machine components underneath, requiring laborious operations and equipment.
Innovation Solution
A sulky design featuring a U-shaped, elastically deformable chassis with vertically flexible devices that snap-fit onto the machine frame, allowing quick attachment and detachment, and integrating a shield for stable and secure fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sulky is rigidly constrained to the frame using bolts and pre-established perforation positions, then the fastening is stable and secure, but the fitting and removal process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The chassis is divided into multiple elastic legs that can independently deform and snap into place, allowing the sulky to be quickly attached without complex alignment procedures. Each leg acts as an independent fastening element that can be inserted and locked separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic legs undergo parameter changes through vertical elastic deformation when bearing the operator's weight. This deformation allows the legs to flex during insertion and then return to their original shape to lock securely into the frame's longitudinal members.
2Ease of operation
If the sulky is suspended using spring mechanisms, then the structure provides cushioning and comfort, but the overall structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension function and the fastening function are merged into a single elastic leg structure. The same elastic legs that secure the sulky to the frame also provide cushioning and shock absorption, eliminating the need for separate spring mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic legs utilize parameter changes through elastic deformation to provide both mechanical fastening and suspension functions. The material properties and geometric configuration allow the legs to flex under load, providing comfort while maintaining structural integrity.
3Reliability
If the shield is integrated with the sulky structure, then the shield provides protection and completes the machine cover, but the removal of the shield requires previous removal of the sulky
Solution Approach 1:
The shield is segmented from the sulky structure, allowing independent removal. The shield can be detached without requiring removal of the entire sulky assembly, providing easier access to machine components while maintaining protective coverage when attached.
4Manufacturing precision
If templates and pre-established perforation positions are used for bolting, then the fastening positions are precise and standardized, but the fitting process requires laborious operations and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic legs perform self-alignment and self-positioning during insertion. The longitudinal members of the frame guide the legs into the correct positions, eliminating the need for templates or pre-marked perforation locations. The structure itself provides the positioning function.
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 rapid and secure fitting and removal of the sulky, ensuring stable fastening and easy access to machine components while maintaining structural integrity and simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
devices which are vertically elastically deformable under the weight bearing down on the seat
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~3A
AI summary
A sulky for small work machines comprising a seat and means for removably fixing the seat to a frame of the machine, the means for removably fixing the seat being vertically elastically deformable under a weight bearing down on the seat.