Tractor Hitch With Detachable Lower Link Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tractor hitches require time-consuming operations to connect implements using lower links, as they necessitate removing the pivoting arm from the chassis and connecting lower links, which is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A tractor hitch design that allows the lower link unit to be easily detached or attached to the mounting plate while keeping the pivoting hitch arm and lift means in place, enabling conversion between direct implement mounting and lower link attachment without detaching the mounting plate or pivoting arm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a pivoting arm with mounting plate is used to position implement closer to tractor, then weight distribution improves and maneuverability increases, but the ability to connect implements using lower links is lost requiring removal of the pivoting arm
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a fixed pivoting arm with mounting plate for direct implement attachment, and a detachable lower link unit that can be independently attached or removed. This segmentation allows the pivoting arm to remain permanently installed while the lower link unit can be added when needed, resolving the contradiction between maintaining close implement positioning and preserving lower link connectivity capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting plate is designed with dual functionality: it serves as both a direct mounting surface for implements and as a base for attaching the lower link unit. This multi-functionality allows the same structural component to support both mounting methods, eliminating the need to choose between them and enabling versatile implement connection options.
2Ease of operation
If lower links are connected to chassis using traditional three point hitch, then implement connection is achieved, but the operation is time-consuming and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The lower link unit is pre-assembled with all necessary components (lower links, upper link, mounting brackets) before being brought to the tractor. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid attachment to the mounting plate without requiring on-site assembly operations or tools, significantly reducing connection time and improving operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The lower link unit acts as an intermediary component that simplifies the connection process. Instead of directly connecting implements to the chassis through complex three-point hitch operations, the pre-assembled lower link unit serves as a mediator that attaches to the mounting plate and provides ready-to-use connection points, eliminating time-consuming assembly steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pivoting arm is removed from chassis to connect lower links, then lower link connection is possible, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the pivoting arm (permanently mounted) from the lower link unit (detachable), allowing the lower link functionality to be added without removing or modifying the pivoting arm. This segmentation eliminates the complex operation of detaching and reattaching the pivoting arm while maintaining both direct mounting and lower link capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The lower link unit is designed with dynamic attachability - it can be easily attached when lower link functionality is needed and removed when direct mounting is preferred. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt its capabilities without permanent modifications or complex operations, simply by adding or removing the modular lower link unit.
Data Source
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AI summary
A tractor hitch has a pivoting hitch arm (13) carrying an implement mounting plate (16) at its outer-end. Lift means (15) are provided for pivoting the hitch arm to raise and lower the mounting plate, and a lower link unit (18) is mountable on the mounting plate for providing an alternative mount for implements via lower links mounted on the plate. The lower link unit may be pivotally mounted (20)on the mounting plate (16) so that when it is desired to mount an implement un the mounting plate the lower link unit can be pivoted to a non-operative position in which the mounting plate is clear for the attachment of implements.