Windrower Quick-Attach Header Adapter Latch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional windrowers face difficulties in quickly and efficiently attaching and detaching headers due to their manual bolt or pin connection systems, making the process time-consuming and physically demanding for operators.
Innovation Solution
A quick-attachment header adapter system for agricultural work vehicles, featuring a selectively actuatable latch assembly and adapter frame with end and center supports, allowing for easy securement and disconnection of the harvesting header, reducing the physical effort required for attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manually secured bolts or pins are used to connect the header to the windrower chassis, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the attachment and detachment processes become time-consuming and physically demanding
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into multiple independent latch assemblies (at least two latches) that can engage and disengage separately. Each latch independently secures a portion of the header to the windrower chassis, allowing for distributed securing forces and simplified individual latch operations compared to a single complex bolt connection system
Solution Approach 2:
A quick-attach mechanism serves as an intermediary device between the header and chassis, replacing the direct bolt-or-pin connection. This intermediate coupling system includes latches that engage with corresponding receptacles, providing both secure connection and rapid release capabilities through a mediating mechanical interface
2Reliability
If manually secured bolts or pins are used to connect the header to the windrower chassis, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the attachment and detachment processes become physically demanding for the operator
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assemblies are designed to be self-securing through spring-loaded or cam-actuated mechanisms that automatically engage and lock when the header is positioned on the chassis. The latches self-adjust to secure the connection without requiring manual tightening or complex alignment procedures by the operator
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-attach mechanism acts as an intermediary that reduces operator effort by providing leveraged handle operations and guided alignment features. The mechanical intermediary translates small operator inputs into large securing forces through cam surfaces and lever arms, making the attachment process physically easier
3Productivity
If a quick-attachment header adapter with latch assembly is used, then attachment and detachment become rapid and easy, but the device complexity increases compared to simple bolt connections
Solution Approach 1:
The complex quick-attach system is segmented into standardized, modular latch assemblies that can be manufactured independently and assembled in a systematic way. Each latch is a self-contained module with standardized dimensions and mounting requirements, reducing overall system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly design incorporates universal features that allow the same basic mechanism to serve multiple functions: securing the header, providing release capability, and accommodating minor positioning variations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, managing complexity while maintaining versatility
Data Source
AI summary
An agricultural work vehicle is operable to be advanced along the ground to sever a swath of standing forage plants and to lay the severed forage material into a windrow. The agricultural work vehicle includes a powered chassis, a harvesting header, and a quick-attachment header adapter. The header adapter is shiftably supported by the powered chassis and is configured to selectively support the harvesting header. The header adapter includes an adapter frame, having end supports and a center support, and a selectively actuatable latch assembly supported on the adapter frame. The latch assembly is associated with at least one of the supports to releasably secure the harvesting header to the adapter frame when the latch assembly is engaged and permit disconnection from the adapter frame when the latch assembly is disengaged.