Tractor Stabilizer Locking Flap Prevents Dirt Accumulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Stabilizers for tractor lower links face operability issues under adverse environmental conditions due to dirt accumulation in recesses, affecting usability and reliability.

Innovation Solution

A stabilizer design featuring a pivotable locking flap and securing clip system that prevents dirt entry, with a locking lug arrangement that ensures the stabilizer elements remain clean and functional, and a safety clip mechanism for easy operation and bracing, including a one-piece locking lug and multi-stage bracing capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a locking flap is used to block spring movement, then stability is improved, but dirt accumulation in recesses impairs operability

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestabilityVSAvoidoperability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking flap is divided into a functional area (locking mechanism) and a protective covering (locking lug), allowing the recess to be sealed while the locking function remains accessible

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking slot is extracted from the recess area and placed on the locking lug surface, separating the dirt-prone recess from the operational locking interface

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If a locking bracket is added to prevent rotation, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanti-rotation protectionVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking bracket and locking flap are combined into a single integrated component, reducing the number of parts while maintaining both anti-rotation and spring blocking functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking bracket serves multiple functions: it provides anti-rotation protection, allows spring movement accommodation, and can be integrated with the locking flap mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the locking lug is positioned to cover the locking slot, then dirt accumulation is prevented, but access for operation is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirt accumulationVSAvoidaccess
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking lug is designed to rotate or move relative to the locking slot, allowing it to cover the slot for protection while permitting access when needed for operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking lug acts as an intermediary element between the locking slot and the external environment, providing protection while maintaining operational access through its movable design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enhances operability under dirty conditions by preventing dirt accumulation, ensuring reliable operation and easy maintenance, while allowing for secure bracing and adjustment of the stabilizer length.

Implementation Method 1

a spring mechanism, wherein the second stabilizer element can be rotated relative to the first stabilizer element to adjust the stabilizer length

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring mechanism: Spring

Implementation Method 2

A locking bracket pivotally attached to the first stabilizer element engages a locking slot on the circumference of the second stabilizer element to prevent the two stabilizer elements from rotating

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical locking: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 3

a locking flap is provided, which can be pivoted into a closed position to block any spring movement occurring between the stabilizer links

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical constraint: Hinge

Data Source

PatentEP3228165B1Stabilizer for a lower link of a three-point hitch of a tractor
Publication Date: 2019.02.27 DEERE & CO
  • EP3228165B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3228165B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3228165B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Stabilizer (10) for a lower link of a three-point implement attachment of a tractor, comprising a first stabilizer link (12) and a second stabilizer link (16) spring-loaded to the first stabilizer link (12), wherein the second stabilizer link (16) can be rotated relative to the first stabilizer link (12) to adjust the stabilizer length. A locking bracket (58) pivotally connected to the first stabilizer link (12) can be engaged with a locking slot (60) formed on the circumference of the second stabilizer link (16) to prevent the two stabilizer links (12, 16) from rotating. Furthermore, a locking flap (62) is provided, which can be pivoted into a closed position to block any spring movement occurring between the stabilizer links (12, 16).A locking flap section (64) facing the locking bracket (58) in the pivoting direction is shaped such that the locking bracket (58) can be pivoted out of the locking slot (60) to clamp a lower link equipped with the stabilizer (10) even when the locking flap (62) is in the closed position, the locking slot (60) being formed in a locking lug (76) formed on the circumference of the second stabilizer element (16).