Modular Tractor Attachment Assembly for Fast Multi-Task Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Agricultural operations face high costs and inefficiencies due to the need for multiple specialized tools and equipment, which are time-consuming to switch between, particularly in small to mid-sized operations where resource constraints are pronounced.

Innovation Solution

A multifunctional attachment assembly that easily attaches to agricultural vehicles, combining the functionalities of multiple tools and equipment into a single apparatus, allowing for the transport of individuals, equipment, and tools, and enabling quick transitions between tasks such as snow removal, landscaping, and repair without the need for multiple machines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple specialized tools and equipment are used for different agricultural tasks, then task-specific functionality is improved, but cost and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask-specific functionalityVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment assembly is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple agricultural tasks through different attachments. The base assembly includes a hitch mechanism for coupling to vehicles, a platform for mounting various implements, and a support structure that accommodates diverse equipment types. This allows a single device to replace multiple specialized tools, reducing operational complexity while maintaining task-specific functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment assembly is divided into modular components including a base structure, hitch mechanism, platform, and detachable implements. Each component can be independently selected, attached, or removed based on the specific task requirements. This segmentation allows users to configure the system for different agricultural operations without needing entirely separate equipment for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple specialized tools and equipment are used for different agricultural tasks, then task-specific functionality is improved, but time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask-specific functionalityVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment assembly is pre-configured with a standardized mounting platform and hitch mechanism that allows for quick attachment and detachment of different implements. Common attachments are kept ready for rapid swapping, eliminating the need to transport and set up entirely different equipment for each task. This preliminary preparation significantly reduces the time required to transition between agricultural operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple specialized tools and equipment are used for different agricultural tasks, then task-specific functionality is improved, but purchasing and maintenance costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask-specific functionalityVSAvoidequipment quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment assembly serves as a universal base that can accommodate multiple types of agricultural implements through standardized mounting interfaces. Instead of purchasing separate specialized equipment for each task (snow removal, landscaping, tree cutting, painting, repair), users can attach different implements to the single platform, significantly reducing the total quantity of equipment needed while maintaining full task-specific functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20240399966A1Multifunctional Attachment Assembly
Publication Date: 2024.12.05 ELECTRONIC DESIGN ASSOCIATES LLC
  • US20240399966A1 patent drawing
  • US20240399966A1 patent drawing
  • US20240399966A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a attachment assembly for attachment to an agricultural vehicle, such as a tractor, to transport agricultural implements, tools and at least one person, the attachment assembly including a frame including plurality of panels cooperating to define an open space having side walls, and a back. Embodiments may also include a base having a front bumper with a hitch that detachably couples the frame to the agricultural vehicle. In some embodiments, the base may be attached to the frame and defines a floor of the attachment assembly. Embodiments may also include a safety rail assembly detachably attached to a front end of the frame. Embodiments may also include a leveling drag mounted on a bottom side of the base.