Tractor Coupling Hook with Self-Resetting Catch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling hooks for tractors require manual operation to return to the locking position, posing safety risks if not properly reset, as they can lead to hazardous situations when the implement is lifted back into the hook without the catch locking, and there is a risk of the operating lever being broken if it strikes the drawbar.
Innovation Solution
A coupling hook mechanism where the catch automatically returns to the locking state when the coupling ball is raised, ensuring the implement is securely locked, with a design that includes a forged body housing a catch mechanism pivoted near the coupling throat, utilizing gravity and a compression spring to automatically reset the operating lever to the locking position, eliminating the need for manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operating lever is manually returned to the locking position, then the coupling ball can be locked into the coupling throat, but the operator must get up from the driver's seat and there is a risk of the operating lever being broken if it strikes the drawbar
Solution Approach 1:
The catch mechanism automatically returns to the locking position through the action of a return spring when the operating lever is released, eliminating the need for manual resetting by the operator. The system serves itself by automatically resetting the catch to the locked position after the coupling ball is inserted, preventing safety hazards associated with manual operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the operating lever remains raised, then the coupling ball can be removed from the coupling throat, but the operating lever may be broken when the hook strikes the drawbar
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring is pre-loaded to automatically return the catch and operating lever to the locking position before any potential impact with the drawbar can occur. This preliminary resetting action ensures the operating lever is in the safe, locked position prior to any striking event, preventing breakage while still allowing coupling ball removal when needed.
3Reliability
If the catch is manually operated to lock the coupling ball, then secure attachment is achieved, but the operation is time-consuming and requires driver intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The catch mechanism with return spring automatically performs the locking action after the coupling ball is inserted into the coupling throat. The operator simply needs to insert the ball, and the spring-driven catch automatically engages to secure the attachment, eliminating time-consuming manual operation while maintaining secure attachment reliability.
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 solution provides a reliable and easy-to-use coupling mechanism that automatically locks the implement in place, preventing hazardous situations and reducing the risk of mechanical damage, while ensuring secure attachment under stress conditions.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing gravity and a compression spring to automatically reset the operating lever to the locking position
Implementation Method 2
utilizing gravity and a compression spring to automatically reset the operating lever to the locking position
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 1c
AI summary
The invention relates to a coupling hook, which is intended to attach an implement to a tractor by means of a coupling ball (11). The body (1), includes a housing (25) for a catch mechanism and a coupling throat (27) arranged to receive particularly the said coupling ball (11) and a catch (2) rotating in the housing (25) for locking the coupling ball (11) into the coupling throat (27). In the free position, the catch (2) can rotate, thus permitting the coupling ball (11) to rise out of the coupling throat (27). The catch (2) is operated by an operating lever (3). The catch (2) is arranged to return the operating lever (3) to the locking position, when the coupling ball (11) rotates it as it rises out of the coupling throat.