Tandem Coupling Device with Hydraulic Power Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current agricultural practices require multiple passes over a field to complete sequential tasks with different implements attached to a tractor, leading to inefficiencies in time, fuel consumption, and tractor wear due to the inability to power two implements simultaneously while towing.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a frame and hydraulic pump system that connects two agricultural implements in tandem, allowing them to be powered and operated together behind a tractor, featuring a separation distance for smooth articulation and turning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If two agricultural implements are connected in tandem to be powered simultaneously, then productivity and operational efficiency are improved, but device complexity and structural requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into distinct functional components: a frame structure for mechanical connection, a hydraulic pump system for power transmission, and a control system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to enable tandem implement operation, resolving the contradiction between improved productivity and increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can accommodate different implement types and configurations. The frame structure includes standardized mounting points and the hydraulic system can service multiple implements simultaneously, allowing a single coupling device to perform multiple functions and reduce overall system complexity
2Ease of operation
If a separation distance is provided between two implements for smooth articulation, then ease of operation and turning capability are improved, but the length of the coupling device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure incorporates curved members that provide the necessary separation distance between implements while maintaining a compact overall configuration. The curved geometry allows for smooth articulation and turning motion without requiring excessive linear length, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device length
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device includes dynamic elements such as pivoting connections and flexible mounting points that allow the implements to articulate relative to each other during turning operations. This dynamic capability provides smooth operation and turning capability without requiring a fixed, excessively long separation distance
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
Enables simultaneous operation of two agricultural implements, reducing operator time, fuel usage, and tractor wear by allowing both implements to perform their functions in a single pass, improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling device further comprises a hydraulic pump system used to power the second agricultural implement once it is coupled to the frame. The hydraulic pump system may include a hydraulic pump having a PTO shaft and a pair of extended hydraulic hoses having connection couplers.
Implementation Method 2
there may be at least one dolly wheel and spindle assembly supported to and/or adjacent to the frame to add stability, enhance articulation of the coupling device during powered operation and keep the coupling device from dragging along the ground
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device to connect and separate first and second agricultural implements for tandem towing behind a tractor and to provide hydraulic power to the second agricultural implement for its powered operation is disclosed. Such coupling device has a frame having a separation distance, first connection means for attaching the frame to the rear of a first agricultural implement, second connection means for attaching the frame to the front of a second agricultural implement, and a hydraulic pump system to power the second agricultural implement. A dolly wheel and spindle assembly may adjoin the frame.