Tracked Toolbar Implement Rearward Track Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheeled toolbar implements cannot be easily converted to tracked implements due to space interference issues, as track assemblies are bulkier and interfere with row units.
Innovation Solution
A method and design that allows for the conversion of a wheeled toolbar implement to a tracked implement by adding a main frame extension, longitudinal frame members, and track assemblies positioned aft of the wing toolbars, with a center toolbar extending past the track assemblies to accommodate row units without interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If track assemblies are substituted for wheels in a wheeled toolbar implement, then soil compaction is reduced and operation in wet fields is improved, but space interference problems arise and conversion becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The toolbar implement is divided into distinct sections: wing toolbars with row units, track assemblies, and a center toolbar. This segmentation allows the track assemblies to be positioned independently at the rear, eliminating interference with the row units while maintaining the benefits of reduced soil compaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The track assemblies are positioned in a different spatial dimension (rearward of the wing toolbars) rather than replacing wheels in the same plane. This dimensional repositioning eliminates the space interference problem while preserving the soil protection benefits of tracks.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If track assemblies are added to a toolbar implement, then operation in wet fields is improved, but the overall width increases and storage/transport becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The implement is segmented into wing toolbars, track assemblies, and a center toolbar that can be independently positioned. This allows the track assemblies to be confined to a specific rearward zone, minimizing the overall width increase while maintaining wet field operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The track assemblies are localized to the rearward portion of the implement rather than spanning the entire width. This local positioning reduces the overall width increase compared to having tracks across the full implement width, while still providing sufficient ground contact for wet field operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the center toolbar is positioned to accommodate row units, then row unit attachment is enabled, but interference with track assemblies occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The toolbar system is segmented into wing toolbars and a separate center toolbar positioned rearward of the track assemblies. This segmentation allows the center toolbar to be independently positioned to accommodate row units without interfering with the track assemblies, as they occupy different spatial zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The center toolbar is positioned in a different spatial dimension (rearward of the track assemblies) rather than in the same plane as the wing toolbars. This dimensional arrangement allows row unit attachment while avoiding interference with the track assemblies.
Data Source
AI summary
A toolbar implement connects to a tractor and a plurality of row units are connected to the toolbar implement. The toolbar implement contains: (a) a main longitudinal frame; (b) a transverse left wing toolbar hingedly connected to the frame; (c) a transverse center bar connected to the frame; (d) a transverse right wing toolbar hingedly connected to the frame; (e) a plurality of lift arms connected to the center bar; (f) an axle connected to the distal ends of the lift arms; (g) a plurality of track assemblies mounted on the axle; (h) a left longitudinal frame member connected to the center bar and extending rearwardly; (i) a right longitudinal frame member connected to the center bar and extending rearwardly; and (j) a transverse center toolbar connected to the main frame, the left longitudinal frame member, and the right longitudinal frame member.