Wireless Tractor Remote Control for Precise Hitch Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote tractor control systems are labor-intensive due to the difficulty in accurately positioning the tractor with respect to rear-mounted implements, even with controls on the fender, and lack efficient wireless control capabilities for operators off the tractor or seated facing rearwardly.
Innovation Solution
A remote tractor control system featuring a handheld unit with command buttons for hitch control and creeping, paired with a rear switch module on the tractor, utilizing short-range radio or Bluetooth for wireless communication, with an enable button to securely transmit commands and display tractor conditions, allowing operation up to 30 feet away or while seated rearwardly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wired remote control systems are used for tractor operations, then control functionality is provided, but operator mobility and ease of operation are limited due to physical contact requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wired mechanical control systems with wireless communication technology. The handheld remote control unit transmits control signals wirelessly to the tractor, eliminating the need for physical connection and enabling operator mobility while maintaining control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication system as an intermediary between the operator and the tractor controls. This intermediary enables signal transmission without direct physical contact, resolving the contradiction between mobility and control functionality.
2Ease of operation
If controls are mounted on the rear fender for off-tractor operation, then accessibility is improved, but positioning precision remains difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control functionality from the fixed rear fender location and relocates it to a mobile handheld remote control unit. This extraction allows the operator to control the tractor from any position within wireless range, eliminating the positioning difficulties associated with fixed controls.
3Ease of operation
If wireless remote control is implemented without authentication, then ease of operation is improved, but system security and reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary authentication through an enable button that must be pressed before control signals can be transmitted. This preliminary action ensures that only intentional control commands are executed, preventing accidental or unauthorized operations while maintaining wireless convenience.
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
Enables efficient and secure wireless control of tractor functions, reducing labor intensity and enhancing user convenience by allowing precise positioning and monitoring of tractor conditions without direct contact, improving the overall efficiency of implement attachment and operation.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing short-range radio or Bluetooth for wireless communication
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A remote tractor control system (10) with a hand held remote control unit (12) having an enable button (16) that when actuated sends signals from a plurality of command buttons (18,...32) on the hand held remote control unit (12) to a three point hitch controller, a transmission controller and an engine controller on a tractor. When not actuated, a rear switch module (36) may be used to raise and lower the three point hitch or creep in forward or reverse, while the hand held remote control unit (12) may display information about tractor condition from the engine controller.