Work Vehicle Hitch Mount Extension Around Rear CVT Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The obstruction caused by the hydraulic static continuously variable transmission protruding rearward from the vehicle body frame hinders easy attachment of a hitch to the work vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A work vehicle design featuring a guard member covering the transmission, an extension member protruding rearward from a first attachment portion located behind the rear wheels, and a second attachment portion for hitch attachment, which is positioned rearward of the transmission, allowing easy hitch attachment and minimizing obstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the continuously variable transmission protrudes rearward from the vehicle body frame, then the transmission can be integrated with the engine and transmission system, but the hitch attachment becomes difficult due to obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the attachment point rearward beyond the transmission's rearward protrusion, creating a new spatial dimension for hitch attachment. The extension member projects the attachment interface to a position where it is no longer obstructed by the transmission, effectively moving the attachment function to a different longitudinal position along the vehicle body.
2Ease of operation
If the attachment portion is located at the rear end of the vehicle body frame, then the hitch can be attached, but the attachment point becomes visually difficult to recognize due to the transmission and guard member
Solution Approach 1:
The extension member serves as an intermediary element that visually bridges the gap between the operator and the attachment point. By extending the attachment interface rearward to a more visible position, the extension member acts as a visual guide that draws the operator's attention to the correct attachment location, solving the visibility problem without compromising attachment functionality.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the extension member is permanently fixed to the vehicle body frame, then the hitch attachment structure is stable, but the extension member may contact obstacles behind the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The extension member is designed with removable or adjustable attachment to the vehicle body frame, transforming it from a static, permanently fixed component to a dynamic element that can be installed or removed as needed. This allows the extension member to be present during hitching operations for stability and visibility, but removable when not in use to avoid contact with obstacles behind the vehicle.
Data Source
AI summary
A work vehicle includes an engine, a running gear having rear wheels, a continuously variable transmission that protrudes rearward from the rear wheels and that is configured to continuously change driving force from the engine, a guard member covering the continuously variable transmission at least from a rear side, a first attachment portion provided at a position overlapping with the rear wheels in a side view, and an extension member attached to the first attachment portion and protruding rearward from the first attachment portion, in which the extension member is connected to the guard member and has a second attachment portion to which a hitch is attachable.