Five-Point Tractor Linkage Absorbs Off-Axis Torque

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing three-point hitch systems for tractors fail to effectively absorb and transmit the torque and bending moment generated by off-axis working tools, leading to potential damage to connectors and drives.

Innovation Solution

A connection system that includes two adjustable arms connected to the rear axle of a tractor, with a rotatable tube parallel to the machine axis, which is connected to the tool carrier, allowing the tube to absorb and not transmit torque and bending moment, and can be adjusted in length using telescopic arms and quick attachments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a three-point suspension system is used to connect off-axis tools to a tractor, then the tool can be positioned and adjusted, but the rotational and bending moment generated by the off-axis tool is transmitted to the connection, causing potential damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool positioning and adjustment capabilityVSAvoidconnection durability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A telescopic tube is introduced as an intermediary element between the three-point suspension and the tool carrier. This tube can rotate independently and absorb the rotational and bending moments generated by off-axis tool operation, preventing these forces from being transmitted to the suspension connection points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system is made dynamic by allowing the telescopic tube to rotate freely and the arms to adjust their positions. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to the moments generated during off-axis operation without transmitting damaging forces to the fixed connection points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the tool operates off-axis to perform work, then operational versatility is improved, but a moment is generated that can damage the connection and drive mechanism

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoff-axis operation capabilityVSAvoidmoment-induced damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The telescopic tube serves as a mediator that decouples the tool's off-axis operation from the tractor's suspension system. It absorbs the harmful moments through its rotational freedom, allowing off-axis operation without transmitting damaging forces to the connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The rotational moment generated by off-axis tool operation, which was previously harmful, is converted into a beneficial feature by allowing the telescopic tube to rotate freely. This converts the harmful moment into a rotational degree of freedom that protects the connection system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Power

If a rigid connection is used to transmit force effectively, then power transmission is improved, but the connection cannot absorb moments from off-axis tools

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveforce transmission efficiencyVSAvoidresistance to moment-induced damage

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system transitions from a purely rigid structure to a dynamic system with rotational freedom. The telescopic tube can rotate to absorb moments while the three-point suspension maintains rigid force transmission for effective power delivery to the tool.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system is segmented into two functional parts: the three-point suspension for rigid force transmission and the telescopic tube for moment absorption. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specialized function without interfering with the other.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

This solution effectively absorbs and prevents the transmission of torque and bending moment from off-axis tools, enhancing the durability of the connector and drive system, and can be implemented as a kit to modify existing three-point hitch systems into a five-point system.

Implementation Method 1

the tube is rotatably connected to the tool carrier... the rotatable tube does not transmit the rotational and/or bending moment that can be generated by the off-axis tool

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRotational movement:

Implementation Method 2

They are advantageously supported by ball bearings

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBall bearing: Ball Bearing

Data Source

PatentEP3298870B1Connection system for agricultural devices

Publication Date: 2020.05.13 SEPPI M

Figure 1~4
Figure 5~8
Figure 9~12

AI summary

A connection system (1) between an agricultural, forestry, or similar machine and a tool carrier (200) is described, comprising a three-point linkage (2, 3, 4). According to the invention, the system includes two further arms (5, 6) which are rigidly connected at one end to the agricultural machine (100) and at the other end to a roller body (7), wherein the roller body is rotatably connected to the tool carrier (200).