Automatic Tractor Implement Linkage and PTO Coupling

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Connecting and disconnecting mid-mounted implements, such as mower decks, to tractors is difficult due to the weight of the implement and the need for precise alignment of connection points, particularly with the PTO coupling members, which requires additional effort and can be time-consuming.

Innovation Solution

An automatic connection mechanism using a pair of rear and forward lift linkages that pivotably engage the implement to the tractor frame, along with a PTO coupling system that automatically and releasably connects the tractor PTO to the implement's propeller shaft, allowing for quick and easy attachment and detachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual connection methods are used for mid-mounted implements, then connection stability is ensured, but connection time increases and operational efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection speedVSAvoidtime for alignment and securing

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connection mechanism enables self-alignment through the automatic engagement design where the implement's connection points automatically align with the tractor's PTO shaft and lift linkage mounting points during the lowering motion, eliminating the need for manual alignment operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The implement is positioned and pre-aligned on the ground before lifting, with connection points already oriented correctly. The lift linkage automatically guides the implement into proper alignment during the lifting operation, performing alignment actions beforehand rather than during the connection process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If heavy mid-mounted implements are manually connected, then secure attachment is achieved, but physical effort and difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of connectionVSAvoidphysical effort required

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The automatic connection mechanism acts as an intermediary between the operator and the heavy implement, using the tractor's lift linkage system to automatically engage and secure the implement without requiring the operator to manually handle the heavy weight or perform forceful alignment operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If precise alignment of PTO coupling members is required, then connection reliability is improved, but connection complexity and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidalignment requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The PTO coupling members are designed to self-align during the automatic engagement process, where the rotational and positional alignment is achieved automatically through the mechanical interaction of the coupling components rather than requiring precise pre-alignment by the operator

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8234847B2Automatic connection mechanism for mid-mounted implement

Publication Date: 2012.08.07 DEERE & CO

AI summary

An automatic connection mechanism for a mid-mounted implement to a tractor is disclosed. The automatic connection mechanism includes a rear lift linkage pivotably attached to the tractor, that automatically and releasably engage the rear of the implement. The forward lift linkage is pivotably attached to the front of the implement, and automatically and releasably engages the forward end of the tractor. A PTO coupling member also is attached to the rear lift linkage to engage an opposing PTO coupling member on the implement.