Towable Ground Working Apparatus with Modular Attachments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ground working machines are large, expensive, and specialized, limiting their ability to perform multiple tasks effectively.
Innovation Solution
A towable ground working apparatus with a frame, removable attachments (such as road conditioners, graders, and retrievers), and a winching system that allows for easy switching between different attachments for various ground working configurations, enabling the apparatus to perform multiple tasks efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large specialized machines (tractors, diggers, graders) are used for ground working tasks, then the ground working capability is improved, but the cost and size of the equipment increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The ground working apparatus is divided into a modular system consisting of a separate towable frame with wheels and interchangeable ground working attachments. This segmentation allows the attachments to be detached and replaced based on specific task requirements, reducing the need for multiple large specialized machines while maintaining effective ground working capability for various tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed with a universal frame and connection system that can accommodate multiple types of ground working attachments (graders, retrievers, road conditioners, etc.). This multi-functionality allows a single base unit to perform various ground working tasks by simply changing the attachment, thereby reducing equipment costs and complexity compared to owning multiple specialized machines.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized machines are purchased to perform different ground working tasks, then the versatility of operations is improved, but the cost and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is designed with a universal attachment system that can accommodate multiple types of ground working attachments including graders, retrievers, road conditioners, and rut fillers. This allows a single apparatus to perform diverse ground working tasks by simply changing the attachment, providing versatility equivalent to multiple specialized machines but with reduced complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the base frame from the task-specific attachments, allowing each attachment to be independently selected and attached based on the required ground working task. This segmentation enables high versatility in operations while maintaining a simple, manageable system that requires storage of only one base unit and a selection of interchangeable attachments rather than multiple complete machines.
3Power
If large specialized machines are used, then the ground working power is improved, but the accessibility to narrow or confined areas deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus uses a compact wheeled frame design that is significantly smaller than traditional ground working machines. The frame is designed to be towable and maneuverable in confined spaces, while still providing effective ground working power through the attached implements. This segmented design allows the power-generating attachment to be optimized for its function while the base frame remains compact for accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal attachment system allows the same compact frame to accommodate various ground working attachments that can deliver adequate power for their specific tasks. The frame's compact size enables access to narrow areas, roads, and confined spaces where larger machines cannot operate, while the attachments provide the necessary ground working power when engaged.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a ground working apparatus comprising a ground working apparatus having: a frame having a plurality of wheels attached; at least one removable ground working attachment supported directly or indirectly by the frame; a means which is adapted to move the at least one removable ground working attachment between a storage configuration and a ground working configuration; and a vehicle connection means; the apparatus configured such that when in use and when connected to a vehicle via the vehicle connection means movement of the attached vehicle causes the attached apparatus to move in the same direction as the attached vehicle and if the at least one removable ground working attachment is in or is moved to the ground working configuration this results in the at least one removable ground working attachment working the ground it engages with.