Universal Three-Point Hitch Attachment for Lateral Implement Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural implement attachment systems are limited in their ability to provide universal lateral adjustment, often requiring specific designs for different types of implements and not allowing for movement without forward displacement, which can be disadvantageous.
Innovation Solution
A laterally adjustable attachment system comprising a first element attachable to a three-point hitch and a second element that is slidably mounted relative to the first element using a power-operated actuator, allowing the implement to be guided along a target path based on position signals and path information, with the second element being detachably attached and capable of accommodating various coupling devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pivoting drawbar attachment is used for lateral adjustment, then the implement can be positioned on a target path, but the attachment is only suitable for implements that support themselves on the ground through wheels or tillage tools
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system uses a universal interface with a first element attachable to a three-point hitch and a second element with multiple coupling devices that can accommodate different implement types (wheeled implements, tillage tools, and implements requiring lateral adjustment). This universal design allows the same attachment mechanism to work with various implement categories without requiring ground support, resolving the limitation of pivoting drawbars.
2Measurement precision
If a hydraulic cylinder with GPS antennas is used for lateral adjustment, then the implement can be guided along the target path, but the hydraulic cylinder and GPS antenna can only be used for a single implement
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a universal interface (first element and second element with multiple coupling devices) as an intermediary between the vehicle and various implements. This intermediary carries the GPS antennas and control systems, allowing the same guidance infrastructure to serve multiple implement types without requiring dedicated sensors for each implement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the second element is slidably mounted relative to the first element using a power-operated actuator, then universal attachment of different implements is enabled, but the system requires external power and control infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The power-operated actuator is controlled based on position signals from GPS antennas and target path information, enabling automatic lateral adjustment without continuous operator intervention. The system serves itself by using the vehicle's existing power infrastructure and GPS receiver to automatically position the second element relative to the first element, reducing the burden on external control infrastructure.
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 universal attachment of different agricultural implements without forward movement, allowing precise guidance along a target path and accommodating various coupling devices, enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an externally powered actuator by which the second element is displaceable relative to the first element in the horizontal direction and transverse to the forward direction
Data Source
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AI summary
The arrangement comprises an element (38), which is connected to a three-point clutch of the vehicle and another element (48), which is connected to the tool. The latter element is pivoted opposite to the former element in the direction running horizontal and transverse to the forward direction.