Self-Locking Tool Leg Bracket Wedge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection systems for adjusting the angle of agricultural tillage tools require tools for operation, have bearing play under load, and lack a simple locking mechanism for secure adjustment and locking.
Innovation Solution
A connection system where the locking means features converging contact surfaces that wedge under load, allowing for tool-free adjustment and locking, with a single locking mechanism that automatically secures the tool stalk in the stalk pocket, and can be easily released without tools, enabling quick position changes and tool exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connection systems with multiple locking elements are used, then secure locking and adjustment are achieved, but device complexity and operation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking elements are merged into a single locking element that can engage with multiple contact surfaces. The locking element comprises a first contact surface for engaging a first locking position and a second contact surface for engaging a second locking position, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms for each position.
Solution Approach 2:
The single locking element serves multiple functions by providing both locking and positioning capabilities. It can engage with different contact surfaces to achieve different locking positions while maintaining secure connection, replacing the need for multiple specialized locking components.
2Reliability
If conventional connection systems requiring tools are used, then secure locking is achieved, but ease of operation and adjustment time worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to be manually operable without requiring external tools. The geometry of the locking element and contact surfaces allows for direct manual engagement and disengagement, enabling the operator to perform locking and adjustment operations using only hand force.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system allows dynamic adjustment between different locking positions during operation. The tool-free design enables quick transitions between locked and unlocked states, as well as between different angular positions, adapting to changing operational requirements without tool intervention.
3Strength
If conventional connection systems are used, then connection strength is achieved, but bearing play under load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The contact surfaces are specifically designed with different geometric characteristics optimized for their local functions. The first contact surface has a geometry optimized for engaging the first locking position, while the second contact surface has a different geometry for the second locking position, ensuring optimal local contact and minimizing bearing play at each position.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact surfaces incorporate curved or angled geometries that facilitate self-centering and even load distribution under pressure. The angled contact surfaces create a wedging effect that tightens the connection under load, reducing bearing play and improving connection reliability.
4Measurement precision
If multiple locking elements are used, then positioning accuracy is improved, but adjustment time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple positioning functions are combined into a single locking element that can engage with different contact surfaces to achieve different angular positions. This merging maintains positioning accuracy through precise contact surface geometry while dramatically improving adjustment speed by eliminating the need to manipulate multiple separate locking elements.
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
The system provides a tool-free, low-play, and secure adjustment of tillage tools, allowing for efficient angular positioning and easy tool exchange, reducing wear and improving work quality by minimizing lateral or vertical offsets in the main cutting region.
Implementation Method 1
Due to the arrangement of the contact surfaces of the locking device in the stem pocket in a converging shape, tapering towards the opening of the stem pocket, the locking device wedges itself securely under the load of the tillage implement.
Implementation Method 2
Two clamping screws secure the shank against being pulled out by friction.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a self-locking connection between a leg bracket and a tool leg of an agricultural soil-working equipment, the angle of which can be adjusted without tools and by means of which different soil-working tools can be rapidly exchanged.