TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention described herein generally relates to a system and method for hitching of implements to a farm machinery through an electromechanical means. More particularly, it relates to a system positioned such that an operator requires minimal effort for lifting, holding, lowering, and depth setting of an implement which is coupled to farm machinery.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Tractors of present era are equipped with a hitch control system for operating three-point hitch which is used to Lift, Hold or Lower the mounted or semi-mounted implements.
[0003] Hitch control system can be further divided into following sub-systems viz.:
1. Operating controls – This is an interface with the operator and transfers the operating inputs for the position and draft controls as well as operating controls for any other features, if provided, to the system which uses these inputs for the primary function of lifting, holding and lowering.
2. Hydraulic system – This sub-system delivers the functions of lift, hold or lower for the three-point hitch based on operating inputs as well as feedback inputs.
3. Feedback mechanisms – This sub-system sends feedback inputs to the hydraulic system after sensing the actual variations in the hitch position and the draft force.
[0004] Current hitch control systems in tractors can be broadly classified into following two types:
a) Mechanically operated Hydraulic Hitch System: In this, 1) operating controls have mechanical means comprising control levers for position control (PC) and draft control (DC) and mechanical linkages to transfer input signals from PC / DC levers; 2) Hydraulic system comprising a mechanically operated hydraulic control valve, hydraulic cylinder with shaft and lift arms; and 3) Feedback mechanisms for position control (PC) comprising mechanical linkages and for draft control (DC) comprising Draft Sensing Spring.
(b) Electro Hydraulic Hitch System: In this type, 1) Operating controls are in the form of an electronic control panel comprising actuators, switches and electronic circuits and in addition to position and draft controls, incorporate various features such as quick lift, fender hitch control, lowering rate control, dampening control, transport height control, etc.; 2) Hydraulic system comprising electro-hydraulic control valve, hydraulic cylinder with shaft and lift arms; and 3) Feedback mechanisms comprising electronic angle feedback potentiometer for position control (PC) and electronic load cell for draft control (DC).
[0005] Additionally, electro-hydraulic lift system has a central processing unit (CPU) which receives input signals from operating controls and feedback signals from feedback mechanisms and gives appropriate output signals to electrohydraulic control valve of the hydraulic system.
[0006] Mechanically operated hydraulic hitch systems have been in use since quite long as compared to the technologically advanced version of electrohydraulic hitch systems.
[0007] Principal advantages of the mechanically operated hydraulic hitch system are - simplicity of construction, ease of assembly and service as well as comparatively lesser cost. But it also has its limitations in terms of relatively high efforts to move the position and draft control levers, difficulty in placement of the operating controls in the ergonomically best suited location due to space constraints and complexity to incorporate additional user-friendly features.
[0008] Advantages of electro hydraulic hitch System are – better ergonomics for operating controls in terms of accessibility, user-friendliness and less efforts; flexibility to provide multi-function controls such as quick lift, controls on fender for hitching, dampening control, lowering rate control etc. It is also more precise because of electrohydraulic proportional valve, electronic feedback potentiometers and CPU. The disadvantages of electrohydraulic hitch system are – complex arrangement, high skills required in assembly and service, high efforts required in customer training to adapt to the technology and relatively very high cost.
[0009] The above-mentioned information in the background section is only intended to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the field to which the present invention pertains. Therefore, unless explicitly stated otherwise, any of the features or aspects discussed above should not be construed as prior art merely because of its inclusion in this section.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The principal object of this invention is to provide the operation of Position Control and draft control easier and ergonomically better in the conventional mechanically operated hydraulic hitch system.
[0011] Another object of this invention is to provide user-friendly operating interface which is capable of incorporating additional features in the conventional mechanically operated hydraulic hitch system.
[0012] Another object of this invention is to equip the conventional mechanically operated hydraulic hitch system with an ergonomic and user-friendly operating interface that is inexpensive as compared to electro-hydraulic hitch system.
[0013] Another object of this invention is to provide the conventional mechanically operated hydraulic hitch system, equipped with ergonomic operating controls and user-friendly features, simple for assembly, servicing and customer adaptation as compared to electrohydraulic hitch system.
[0014] These and other objects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.

SUMMARY
[0015] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a system and method for hitching implements to a farm machine through electromechanical means. More specifically, it pertains to a system positioned such that an operator may require minimal effort for lifting, holding, lowering, and depth setting of the implement which may be coupled at rear of farm machinery.
[0016] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a system and method for hitching implements to a farm machine, the system may comprise a minimum one motor may be coupled with minimum one linkage unit. Minimum one input resistor may be coupled with minimum one actuator, and input resistor senses a first set of attributes associated with the actuation of the actuator. Minimum one feedback resistor may be coupled with the motor to sense a second set of attributes associated with a movement of the linkage unit.
[0017] In an aspect, a processing unit may operatively be coupled with the one or more input resistors and the one or more feedback resistors. The processing unit extract a first set of parameter values from the sensed first set of attributes, and a second set of parameter values from the sensed second set of attributes. The processing unit may compare the extracted first set of parameter values with the extracted second set of parameter values, determine a variance values between the compared first set of parameter values and the second set of parameter values, and based on the determined variance values, the processing unit generates a one or more signals indicative to rotate the motor in in either a clockwise direction, or an anticlockwise direction, or keep motor in static position to facilitate lifting, or lowering, or holding of an implement coupled with the farm machine.
[0018] In an aspect, minimum one input resistor may be selected from group comprising position control potentiometer, quick lift potentiometer, draft control potentiometer.
[0019] In an embodiment, minimum one or more feedback resistors may be selected from group comprising position control feedback potentiometer, draft control feedback potentiometer.
[0020] In an embodiment, minimum one actuator may be selected from group comprising position control actuator, draft control actuator, and quick lift actuator.
[0021] In an embodiment, the first set of parameter values may pertain to variable voltage divider, reference voltage, variable resistances, and variable electric potential.
[0022] In an embodiment, the second set of parameter values may pertain to angular displacement voltage, angle variance values voltage, deflection voltage, and feedback voltage.
[0023] In an embodiment, the motor may comprises a position control motor, a draft control motor, and the position control motor and the draft control motor may be coupled with the processing unit, such that the one or more motors rotates based on the one or more signals.
[0024] In an embodiment, the linkage unit may comprise position control linkage unit, draft control linkage unit, and the position control linkage unit may be coupled with the position control motor, and the draft control linkage unit may be coupled with the draft control motor.
[0025] In an embodiment, the system may comprise a quick lift switch coupled between the input resistor, and the processing unit, the quick lift switch in on position may be adapted to operate the input resistor for instant lifting and lowering of the implement.
[0026] In an embodiment, the system may comprise a selector switch positioned between the processing unit and the position control motor, and the selector switch may be adapted for selecting one of the one or more signals received.
[0027] In an embodiment, the system may comprise a hydraulic control valve coupled with the position control linkage unit and the draft control linkage unit, and the hydraulic control valve enables lifting, lowering, or holding position of the implements.
[0028] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for hitching implements to a farm machine, the method may comprise coupling, minimum one motor with minimum one linkage unit. A coupling, minimum one input resistor with minimum one actuator to sense a first set of attributes associated with an actuation of the actuator. A sensing, by minimum one feedback resistor may be coupled with the motor to sense a second set of attributes associated with movement of the linkage units. An extracting, by a processing unit, a first set of parameter values from the sensed first set of attributes, and a second set of parameter values from the sensed second set of attributes. Comparing, by a processing unit, the extracted first set of parameter values with the extracted second set of parameter values, and determining, by a processing unit, variance values between the compared first set of parameter values and the second set of parameter values, and based on the determined variance values the processing unit generates a one or more signals indicative to rotate the motor in either a clockwise direction, or an anticlockwise direction, or keep the motor in static position to facilitate lifting, lowering, or holding of an implement coupled with the farm machine.
[0029] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of the proposed system for hitching implements to a farm machine, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 2A illustrates various components of the proposed system for hitching implements to a farm machine, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary proposed system incorporated on a farm machine, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 2C illustrates a selector switch incorporated on a farm machine of the proposed system for hitching implements to a farm machine, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary diagram of the proposed system for hitching implements to a farm machine, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 4 illustrates a method of hitching implements to a farm machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0037] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0038] If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0039] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. This disclosure may however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the disclosure, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure).
[0040] Various terms as used herein. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0041] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0042] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[0043] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the appended claims.
[0044] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a system and method for hitching implements to a farm machine through electromechanical means. More specifically, it pertains to a system positioned such that an operator can require minimal effort for lifting, holding, lowering, and depth setting of the implement which can be coupled at rear of farm machinery.
[0045] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a system and method for hitching implements to a farm machine, the system can include minimum one motor can be coupled with minimum one linkage unit. Minimum one input resistor can be coupled with minimum one actuator, and minimum one input resistor senses a first set of attributes associated with the actuation of the actuator. Minimum one feedback resistor can be coupled with the motor to sense a second set of attributes associated with a movement of the linkage unit.
[0046] In an aspect, a processing unit can operatively be coupled with the minimum one input resistor and the minimum one feedback resistor. The processing unit extract a first set of parameter values from the sensed first set of attributes, and a second set of parameter values from the sensed second set of attributes. The processing unit can compare the extracted first set of parameter values with the extracted second set of parameter values, determine a variance values between the compared first set of parameter values and the second set of parameter values, and based on the determined variance values, the processing unit generates a one or more signals indicative to rotate the motor in in either a clockwise direction, or an anticlockwise direction, or keep motor in static position to facilitate lifting, lowering, or holding of an implement coupled with the farm machine.
[0047] In an embodiment, the one or more input resistors can be selected from group comprising a position control potentiometer, quick lift potentiometer, draft control potentiometer.
[0048] In an embodiment, the feedback resistor can be selected from group comprising a position control feedback potentiometer, draft control feedback potentiometer.
[0049] In an embodiment, the first set of parameter values can pertain to variable voltage divider, reference voltage, variable resistances, and variable electric potential.
[0050] In an embodiment, the second set of parameter values can pertain to angular displacement voltage, angle variance values voltage, deflection voltage, and feedback voltage.
[0051] In an embodiment, the actuator can be selected from group comprising a position control actuator, draft control actuator, and quick lift actuator.
[0052] In an embodiment, the motor can include a position control motor, a draft control motor, and the position control motor and the draft control motor can be coupled with the processing unit, such that the motor rotates based on the one or more signals.
[0053] In an embodiment, the linkage unit can include a position control linkage unit, draft control linkage unit, and the position control linkage unit can be coupled with the position control motor, and the draft control linkage unit can be coupled with the draft control motor.
[0054] In an embodiment, the system can include a quick lift switch configured between the input resistor, and the processing unit, the quick lift switch in on position can be adapted to operate the input resistor for instant lifting and lowering of the implement.
[0055] In an embodiment, the system can include a selector switch positioned between the processing unit and the position control motor, and the selector switch can be adapted for selecting one of the one or more signals received.
[0056] In an embodiment, the system can include a hydraulic control valve coupled with the position control linkage unit and the draft control linkage unit, and the hydraulic control valve enables lifting, or lowering, or holding position of the implements.
[0057] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for hitching implements to a farm machine, the method can include coupling, minimum one motor with minimum one linkage units. A coupling, by minimum one input resistors with minimum one actuator to sense a first set of attributes associated with an actuation of the one or more actuators. A sensing, by minimum one feedback resistors can be coupled with the motor to sense a second set of attributes associated with movement of the linkage unit. An extracting, by a processing unit, a first set of parameter values from the sensed first set of attributes, and a second set of parameter values from the sensed second set of attributes. Comparing, by a processing unit, the extracted first set of parameter values with the extracted second set of parameter values, and determining, by a processing unit, variance values between the compared first set of parameter values and the second set of parameter values, and based on the determined variance values the processing unit generates a one or more signals indicative to rotate the motor in either a clockwise direction, or an anticlockwise direction, or keep the one or more motors in static position to facilitate lifting, lowering, or holding of an implement coupled with the farm machine.
[0058] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of the proposed system for hitching implements to a farm machine 100, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0059] In an embodiment, proposed system 100 can automatically enable lifting, lowering, holding of an implement with a user-friendly actuator. The system 100 for hitching implements to a farm machine can enable lifting, lowering, holding, and setting depth of the implement without operating a position control lever and a draft control lever. The system 100 for hitching implements to a farm machine can include a one or more motors 108-1, 108-2 (collectively can be referred to as 108, herein), a one or more input resistors 104-1, 104-2, 104-3 (collectively can be referred to as 104, herein), a one or more feedback resistors 112-1, 112-2 (collectively can be referred to as 112, herein), a processing unit 106, a one or more linkage units 110-1, 110-2 (collectively can be referred to as 110, herein), a quick lift switch 116, a selector switch 120, and the likes. Minimum one motor 108 can be coupled with minimum one linkage unit 110 of a farm machinery for lifting, lowering, or holding of an implement. Minimum one input resistor 104 can be coupled with minimum one actuator, and input resistor 104 can sense a first set of attributes associated with the actuation of the actuator 102. The actuator can be actuated by an operator. Minimum one feedback resistor 112 can be coupled with the motor 108 to sense a second set of attributes associated with a movement of the linkage unit 110.
[0060] In an embodiment, a processing unit 106 can be operatively coupled with the minimum one input resistor 104 and the minimum one feedback resistor 112. The processing unit can extract a first set of parameter values from the sensed first set of attributes, and a second set of parameter values from the sensed second set of attributes. The processing nit 106 can compare the extracted first set of parameter values with the extracted second set of parameter values. The processing unit 106 can determine a variance values between the compared first set of parameter values and the second set of parameter values. The processing unit 106 based on the determined variance values can generate a one or more signals indicative to rotate the motor 108 in in either a clockwise direction, or an anticlockwise direction, or keep motor 108 in static position to facilitate lifting, or lowering, holding of an implement coupled with the farm machine.
[0061] In an embodiment, the input resistor 104 can be selected from group including a position control potentiometer 104-1, quick lift potentiometer 104-2, draft control potentiometer 104-3, and the likes. The position control potentiometer 104-1 can be coupled with a processing unit 106, the quick lift potentiometer 104-2 can be coupled with the processing unit 106, and the draft control potentiometer 104-3 can be coupled with the processing unit 106.
[0062] In an embodiment, the one or more actuators 102-1, 102-2, 102-3 (collectively can be referred to as 102, herein) can be coupled with minimum one input resistor 104. The actuator 102 can be selected from group including a position control actuator 102-1, a quick lift actuator 102-2, a draft control actuator 102-3, and the likes. The position control actuator 102-1 can be coupled with the position control potentiometer 104-1, the quick lift actuator 102-2 can be coupled with the quick lift potentiometer 104-2, and the draft control actuator 102-3 can be coupled with the draft control potentiometer 104-3. The actuator 102 can be actuated by the operator for lifting, lowering, holding, or depth setting of the implement. The actuation of the position control actuator 102-1 by an operator can enable lifting, lowering, or keep the implement in static position. In another embodiment, the actuation of the position control actuator 102-1 can enable movement of the implement in the clockwise direction, or anticlockwise direction, or keep the implement in static position. In an exemplary embodiment, a clockwise actuation of the position control actuator 102-1 can enable lowering of the implement. In another exemplary embodiment, an anticlockwise actuation of the position control actuator 102-1 can enable lifting of the implement. In yet another exemplary embodiment, an actuation of the draft control actuator 102-3 can enable required setting depth of the implement in a farm land.
[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, the actuator 102 can be configured at a fender, such that an operator can easily actuate the actuator 102 for lifting, lowering, holding, depth setting, quick lifting, and quick lowering of the implement. The position control actuator 102-1 can be configured proximal to a fender, such that the position control actuator 102-1 can be easily actuated by the operator for lifting, lowering, or holding the implement. The draft control actuator 102-3 can be configured proximal to the fender, such that the draft control actuator 102-3 can be easily actuated by the operator for setting operating depth of the implement. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the quick lift actuator 102-2 can be configured for quick lifting and lowering of the implements during headland turns of the farm machinery working in a farm field.
[0064] In an embodiment, the motor 108 can be coupled with the processing unit 106, such that based on the one or more signals the motor 108 can rotate in the clockwise, or anticlockwise, or keep the motor in static position. The motor 108 can be coupled with the minimum one feedback resistor 112. A shaft of the motor 108 can be configured with the feedback resistor 112. The shaft of the motor 108 can be configured with the minimum one linkage unit 110. The motor 108 can include but not limited to a position control motor 108-1, a draft control motor 108-2, and the likes. The position control motor 108-1 can be coupled with the processing unit 106, such that the position control motor 108-1 can rotate based on the received one or more signals. The draft control motor 108-2 can be coupled with the processing unit 106, such that the draft control motor 108-2 can rotate based on the one or more signals. In an exemplary embodiment, the minimum one motor 108 can be direct current (DC) motors.
[0065] In an embodiment, the quick lift switch 116 can be configured between the input resistor 104 and the processing unit 106. In another embodiment, the quick lift switch 116 can be configured between the position control potentiometer 104-1 and the processing unit 106. In yet another embodiment, the quick lift switch 116 can be configured between the quick lift potentiometer 104-2 and the processing unit 106. In yet another embodiment, the quick lift switch 116 can be configured between the position control potentiometer 104-1, quick lift potentiometer 104-2, and the processing unit 106. The quick lift switch 116 in an on position can enable fast lifting and fast lowering of the implement. The quick lift switch 116 in an on position can enable the position control motor 108-1 to follow quick lift potentiometer 104-2. The quick lift switch 116 in an off position can enable position control motor 108-1 to follow position control potentiometer 104-1. In an exemplary embodiment, the quick lift switch 116 in an on position can enable quick lift actuator 102-2 for fast lifting and fast lowering of the implement during headland turns in a field.
[0066] In an embodiment, minimum one linkage unit 110 can be coupled with a shaft of the minimum one motor 108, such that the linkage unit 110 can move proportional to movement of the shaft of the motor 108. The linkage unit 110 can include but not limited to position control linkage unit 110-1, draft control linkage unit 110-2, and the likes. In an exemplary embodiment, the position control linkage unit 110-1 can be configured with the shaft of the position control motor 108-1, such that the position control linkage unit 110-1 can rotate proportional to rotation of the shaft of the position control motor 108-1. In another exemplary embodiment, the draft control linkage unit 110-2 can rotate proportional to rotation of the shaft of the draft Control motor 108-2.
[0067] In an embodiment, the minimum one feedback resistor 112 can be configured with the shaft of minimum one motor 108. The feedback resistor 112 can include but not limited to a position control feedback potentiometer 112-1, draft control feedback potentiometer 112-2, and the likes. The position control feedback potentiometer 112-1 can be coupled with the shaft of the position control motor 108, such that the position control feedback potentiometer 112-1 senses real time angular deflection of the shaft of the position control motor 108-1. The draft control feedback potentiometer 112-2 can be configured with the shaft of the motor 108, such that the draft control feedback potentiometer 112-2 senses real time angular deflection of the shaft of the draft control motor 108-2.
[0068] In an embodiment, the processing unit 106 can be operatively coupled with minimum one input resistor 104 and minimum one feedback resistor 112. A communication between the input resistor 104, feedback resistor 112, and the processing unit 106 can be established via a wired or wireless connection as is known in the art. The processing unit 106 can include a single processor or multiple processors in communication with each other. Each processing unit 106 can include, or be communicatively coupled to, memory having computer executable storage instructions. The processing unit 106 can execute the computer executable storage instructions, causing the processor unit(s) to perform their function.
[0069] In an embodiment, the processing unit 106 can extract a first set of parameter values from the sensed first set of attributes. The processing unit 106 can extract a second set of parameter values from the sensed second set of attributes. The first set of parameter values can be associated with variable voltage divider, voltage, variable resistances, variable electric potential, and the likes. The second set of parameter values can be associated with an angular displacement voltage, angle variance values voltage, deflection voltage, and the likes.
[0070] In an embodiment, the processing unit 106 can compare the extracted first set of parameter values with the extracted second set of parameter values. In another embodiment, the processing unit 106 can compare the voltage, which can be associated with the input resistor 104 to the angular displacement voltage, which can be associated with the feedback resistor 112. In yet another embodiment, the processing unit 106 can compare the voltage produced by the actuation of the input resistor 104 to the angular displacement voltage sensed by the feedback resistor 112. In an exemplary embodiment, the processing unit 106 can compare the voltage produced by the actuation of the position control potentiometer 104-1 to the angular displacement voltage sensed by the position control feedback potentiometer 112-1, which can be positioned at the position control motor 108-1. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the processing unit 106 can compare the voltage produced by the actuation of the draft control potentiometer 104-3 to the angular displacement voltage sensed by the draft control feedback potentiometer 112-2, which can be positioned at the draft control motor 108-2.
[0071] In an embodiment, the processing unit 106 can determine a variance values between compared the first set of parameter values and the second set of parameter values. In another embodiment, the processing unit 106 can determine difference in values of the voltage and the angular displacement voltage. In another embodiment, the processing unit 106 can determine difference between the voltages produced by actuation of the input resistor 104 to the angular displacement voltage sensed by the feedback resistor 112. In an exemplary embodiment, the processing unit 106 can determine difference between the voltage produced by actuation of the position control potentiometer 104-1 and the angular displacement voltage sensed by the position control feedback potentiometer 112-1 positioned at the position control motor 108-1.
[0072] In an embodiment, the processing unit 106 based on determined variance values generates a one or more signals indicative to rotate the motor 108 in a clockwise direction, or an anticlockwise direction, or keep motor 108 in static position. In another embodiment, the processing unit 106 based on determined variance values of the voltage and the angular displacement voltage can generate a one or more signals indicative to rotate the motor 108 in a clockwise direction, an anticlockwise direction, and a neutral direction. In an exemplary embodiment, the position control actuator 102-1 actuated by an operator can provide a proportional voltage to the processing unit 106. The position control feedback potentiometer 112-1, which can be coupled on the position control motor 108-1 can provide angular displacement voltage, proportional to the angular displacement due to rotation of the position control motor 108-1 to the processing unit 106. Based on difference in voltage from the position control potentiometer 104-1 and the angular displacement voltage from the position control feedback resistor 112-1, a one or more signals of +12 V or zero V or -12 V can be generated in the processing nit 106, which in turn drives the position control motor in forward direction with +12 V signal and in reverse direction with -12 V signal. When the voltage and the angular displacement voltage can be equal, a difference between the voltage and the angular displacement voltage can be zero, and the one or more signals generated in processing unit 106 can be zero V resulting in stoppage of the position control motor. In another exemplary embodiment, the motor 108 can continue to rotate in forward or reverse direction as long as it gets the one or more signals of +12 V or -12 V from the processing unit 106.
[0073] In an embodiment, the selector switch 120 (interchangeably can be referred to as three position switch 120, herein) can be positioned between the processing unit 106 and the position control motor 108-1, and the selector switch 120 can be adapted for selecting one of the one or more signals received. The selector switch 120 can be actuated at one or more positions.
[0074] In an embodiment, the fender hitch control switch 118 can be coupled between the selector switch 120 and the position control motor 108-1, and the fender hitch control switch 118 in an on position can enable starting of the position control motor 108-1. In another embodiment, the fender hitch control switch 118 can be coupled between the selector switch 120 and the position control motor 108-1. The fender hitch control switch 118 can be adapted to lift or lower a three point hitch during hitching of an implement from rear of the farm machinery. The fender hitch control switch 118 can be used as a selection switch to select either the one or more signals from the processing unit 106 or the voltage from the three position switch 120. The three position switch 120 can receive voltage of +12 V, zero V and -12 V from the processing unit 106 at all the time. Based on selected position of the three position switch 120, either +12V, zero V, and -12 V can be provided to the fender hitch control switch 118. When the fender hitch control switch 118 in on position, an output from the three position switch 120 can be provided to the position control motor 108-1, which in turn performs function of the lifting, holding or lowering when voltage signals from the three position switch 110-1 can be +12V, zero V, and -12 V respectively.
[0075] In an embodiment, the hydraulic control valve 114 of manually operated three point hitch can be coupled with the minimum one linkage unit 110. The hydraulic control valve 114 of manually operated three point hitch enables lifting, lowering, and holding an implement positioned at rear of an agricultural vehicle. The position control linkage unit 110-1 can be coupled with the hydraulic control valve 114 of manually operated three point hitch, such that the position control linkage unit 110-1 enables movement of the hydraulic control valve 114 of manually operated three point hitch, thereby moving the three point hitch for lifting, lowering, holding, and setting depth of the implement. The draft control linkage unit 110-2 can be coupled with the hydraulic control valve 114 of manually operated three point hitch.
[0076] FIG. 2A illustrate various components of the proposed system for hitching implements to a farm machine, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary system incorporated on a farm machine, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2C illustrates a selector switch incorporated on a farm machine of the proposed system for hitching implements to a farm machine, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0077] In an embodiment, the system for hitching implements to a farm machine can include a control panel 210, three position switch 120, electro-mechanical operating means 212 for position control and draft control, hydraulic control valve 114, hydraulic cylinder 204 with shaft and lift arms, position control feedback mechanism 206, and draft control feedback mechanism 208.
[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, the control panel 210 can be an interface for the operator and can be placed at a very convenient location from ergonomics point of view. In another embodiment, the control panel 210 can be positioned proximal to an operator seat such that the control panel 210 can be easily operated by the operator. The control panel 210 can include the position control actuator 102-1, position control potentiometer 104-1, draft control actuator 102-3, draft control potentiometer 104-3, quick lift actuator 102-2, quick lift potentiometer 104-2, system on-off switch 202, quick lift switch 116, processing unit 106, fender hitch control switch 118, position control actuator 102-1, draft control actuator 102-3, and quick lift actuator 102-2 can be used for providing operator input commands for three point hitch position, depth setting, and quick lift setting of the implements. An input signals from the position control actuator 102-1, draft control actuator 102-3, and quick lift actuator 102-2 can be fed to position control potentiometer 104-1, draft control potentiometer 104-3, and quick lift potentiometer 104-2 respectively. The system on-off switch 202 can be used for switching on an electrical system. When the quick lift switch 116 can be switched on, a quick lift operation of the implement can be active. An input signals from the position control potentiometer 104-1, draft control potentiometer 104-3, quick lift potentiometer 104-2, system on-off switch 202, and quick lift switch 116 can be provided to the processing unit 106, which can compare the signals with the feedback signals from the position control feedback potentiometer 112-1 and draft control feedback potentiometer 112-2. The processing unit 106 can provide output signals in form of +12 V, Zero V to the fender hitch control switch 118 and the draft control motor 108-2. The processing unit 106 can supply +12V and -12V output to a three position switch 120 for the fender hitch control switch 118. When the fender hitch control switch 118 can be switched on, the fender hitch control function can become active.
[0079] In an embodiment, the three position switch 120 can be configured on the rear side of the fender. The three position switch 120 can provide +12 V and -12V signals from the processing unit 106, and can provide output voltage of +12V, zero V and -12V to the fender hitch control switch 118, which in turn provides signals to the position control motor 108-1 when the three position switch 120 can be operated in top, centre or down position respectively.
[0080] In an embodiment, the electromechanical operating means can include a position control motor 108-1, draft control motor 108-2, draft control feedback potentiometer 112-2, position control linkage unit 110-1, and draft control linkage unit 110-2. The position control motor 108-1 can receive +12V, zero V or -12V from the fender hitch control switch 118, and the draft control motor 108-2 receives +12V, zero V or -12V from the processing unit 106. The position control motor 108-1 and draft control motor 108-2 can be coupled with the position control feedback potentiometer 112-1, and draft control feedback potentiometer 112-2 respectively. The position control feedback potentiometer 112-1, and draft control feedback potentiometer 112-2 can provide feedback signals to the processing unit 106. The position control motor 108-1 and the draft control motor 108-2 can be coupled with a position control linkage unit 110-1 and draft control linkage unit 110-2, which in turn can drive spool of the hydraulic control valve 114.
[0081] In an exemplary embodiment, the hydraulic control valve 114 can receive signals from the position control linkage unit 110-1, draft control linkage unit 110-2, position control feedback potentiometer 112-1, and draft control feedback potentiometer 112-2, and directs a hydraulic oil into the hydraulic cylinder during lifting operation of the implement, and direct hydraulic oil back to an oil tank during lowering operation of the implement. In another exemplary embodiment, in an absence of any signals the hydraulic control valve 114 can be in a position such that no hydraulic oil can enter the hydraulic cylinder or go back to the oil tank, thereby keeping the implement in hold position.
[0082] In an embodiment, the hydraulic cylinder 204 with a shaft and a lift arms, mainly include a structural component of a conventional mechanically operated three point hitch system. The hydraulic oil in a hydraulic cylinder 204 can generate a force acting on its piston, and rotates a shaft of the hydraulic cylinder 204, which in turn move the lift arms.
[0083] In an exemplary embodiment, a critical function of a conventional mechanically operated hydraulic hitch system can retrieve a spool of the hydraulic control valve 114 to the hold position once an operation of lifting or lowering of the implement can be completed to a desired position as decided by an input signal from the position control linkage unit 110-1. A position control feedback mechanism 206 can be governed by a movement of a cam mounted on shaft of the hydraulic cylinder 204, which in turn sends feedback signal to a spool of the hydraulic control valve 114.
[0084] In an embodiment, a draft control feedback mechanism 208 can include a draft spring, which receives signal pertaining to a draft force, and soil resistance of the implement through the one or more linkage unit 110. The proportional displacement of the draft spring can be transferred as a signal to a spool of the hydraulic control valve 114. A signal from the draft control linkage unit 110-2 as well as the draft spring can act together to actuate a spool of the hydraulic control valve 114 to move the lift arms during lifting, holding, and lowering operations of the implement.
[0085] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary diagram of the proposed system for hitching implements to a farm machine, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0086] In an exemplary embodiment, the minimum one actuator 102 can be coupled with minimum one input resistor 104. When the actuator 102 rotates, the resistor104 can rotate and provide a proportional reference voltage to the processing unit 106. Minimum one feedback resistor 112 can be coupled with the motor 108, which can provide feedback voltage proportional to an angular displacement due to the motor 108 rotation to the processing unit 106. Based on difference in reference voltage from the minimum one input resistor 104, and feedback voltage from one or more feedback resistors 104, a digital output voltage of +12 V or zero V or -12 V can be generated in the processing unit 106. The processing unit 106 can drive the minimum one motor in forward direction with +12 V signal, and in reverse direction with -12 V signal. When the reference voltage and the feedback voltage are equal, that is the difference between the two is zero, the output voltage generated in the processing unit 106 can be zero V resulting in stoppage of the one or more motors 108. The motor 108 can continue to rotate in forward or reverse direction as long as it gets the output voltage of +12 V or -12 V from the processing unit 106. The feedback resistor 112 can continuously measure an angular position of the motor 108, and the voltage proportional to the position of the motor 108 can be provided as feedback voltage to the processing unit 106. Hence, an angular displacement of the motor 108 can be proportional to movement of the actuators 102. Minimum one motor 108 can be coupled with the minimum one linkage unit 110, which in turn drives the hydraulic control valve 114 of the conventional mechanically operated three point hitch.
[0087] FIG. 4 illustrates a method of hitching implements to a farm machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0088] In an embodiment, the proposed method may be described in general context of computer executable instructions. Generally, computer executable instructions can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, procedures, modules, functions, etc., that perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types. The method can also be practiced in a distributed computing environment where functions are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, computer executable instructions may be located in both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices.
[0089] The order in which the method as described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks may be combined in any order to implement the method or alternate methods. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from the method without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, the method may be implemented in any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof. However, for ease of explanation, in the embodiments described below, the method may be considered to be implemented in the above described system.
[0090] In an embodiment, present disclosure elaborates upon a method for hitching implements that comprises, at block 402, coupling, the minimum one motor 108 with a minimum one linkage unit 110.
[0091] In an embodiment, the method further comprises at block 404, sensing, by input resistor 104 coupled with minimum one actuator 102, a first set of attributes associated with an actuation of the actuator 102.
[0092] In an embodiment, the method further comprises at block 406, sensing, by feedback resistor 112 coupled with the motor 108, a second set of attributes associated with movement of the linkage unit 110.
[0093] In an embodiment, the method further comprises at block 408, extracting, by a processing unit, a first set of parameter values from the sensed first set of attributes, and a second set of parameter values from the sensed second set of attributes.
[0094] In an embodiment, the method further comprises at block 410, comparing, by the processing unit, the extracted first set of parameter values with the extracted second set of parameter values.
[0095] In an embodiment, the method further comprises at block 412, determining, by the processing unit, variance values between the compared first set of parameter values and the second set of parameter values, wherein based on the determined variance values, the processing unit 106 generates one or more signals indicative to rotate the motor 108 in either a clockwise direction, or an anticlockwise direction, or keep the motor 108 in static position to facilitate lifting, lowering, or holding of an implement coupled with the farm machine.
[0096] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refer to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C ….and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc. The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
[0097] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[0098] The present disclosure provides the operation of position control and draft control easier and ergonomically better in the conventional mechanically operated hydraulic hitch system.
[0099] The present disclosure provides a system and method for hitching implements to a farm machine which makes user-friendly operating interface which is capable of incorporating additional features in the conventional mechanically operated hydraulic hitch system.
[00100] The present disclosure provides the conventional mechanically operated hydraulic hitch system with an ergonomic and user-friendly operating interface that is inexpensive as compared to electrohydraulic hitch system.
[00101] The present disclosure provides conventional mechanically operated hydraulic hitch system, equipped with ergonomic operating controls and user-friendly features, simple for assembly, servicing and customer adaptation as compared to electrohydraulic hitch system.

CLAIMS:1. A system for hitching implements to a farm machine, wherein said system (100) comprising:
minimum one motor (108) coupled with minimum one linkage units (110);
minimum one input resistor (104) coupled with minimum one actuator (102), wherein the input resistor (104) senses a first set of attributes associated with the actuation of the actuator (102);
minimum one feedback resistor (112) coupled with the motor (108) to sense a second set of attributes associated with movement of the linkage units (110); and
a processing unit (106) operatively coupled with the input resistor (104) and the feedback resistor (112) wherein processing unit (106) compares the first set of parameter values extracted from the sensed first set of attributes with the second set of parameter values extracted from the sensed second set of attributes; and
determines variance values between the compared parameter values,
wherein based on the determined variance values, the processing unit (106) generates one or more signals indicative to rotate the motor (108) in either a clockwise direction, or an anticlockwise direction, or keep motor (108) in static position to facilitate lifting, lowering, or holding of the implement coupled with the farm machine.

2. The system (100) for hitching implements to a farm machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein input resistor (104) is selected from group comprising a position control potentiometer (104-1), quick lift potentiometer (104-2), draft control potentiometer (104-3) or combination thereof and the feedback resistor (112) is selected from group comprising a position control feedback potentiometer (112-1), draft control feedback potentiometer (112-2) or combination thereof.

3. The system (100) for hitching implements to a farm machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuator (102) is selected from group comprising a position control actuator (102-1), draft control actuator (102-3), quick lift actuator (102-2) or combination thereof.

4. The system (100) for hitching implements to a farm machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first set of parameter values pertain to variable voltage divider, reference voltage, variable electric potential, and the second set of parameter values pertain to angular displacement voltage, angle variance voltage, deflection voltage, and feedback voltage.

5. The system (100) for hitching implements to a farm machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the motor (108) comprises a position control motor (108-1), a draft control motor (108-2) or combination thereof, wherein the position control motor (108-1) and the draft control motor (108-2) are coupled with the processing unit (106), such that minimum one motor (108) rotates based on the signals received from the processing unit (106).

6. The system (100) for hitching implements to a farm machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the linkage unit (110) comprises a position control linkage unit (110-1), draft control linkage unit (110-2) or combination thereof, wherein the position control linkage unit (110-1) is coupled with the position control motor (108-1), and the draft control linkage unit (110-2) is coupled with the draft control motor (108-2).

7. The system (100) for hitching implements to a farm machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said system (100) includes a quick lift switch (116) coupled between the input resistor (104) and the processing unit (106), wherein the quick lift switch (116) when in an ON position is adapted to operate the input resistor (104) for intended function of instant lifting and lowering of the implement.

8. The system (100) for hitching implements to a farm machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the said system (100) includes a selector switch (120) coupled between the processing unit (106) and the position control motor (108-1), wherein the selector switch (120) is adapted for selecting one of the one or more signals from the processing unit (106).

9. The system (100) for hitching implements to a farm machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) includes a hydraulic control valve (114) coupled with the position control linkage unit (110-1) and the draft control linkage unit (110-2), wherein the hydraulic control valve (114) enables lifting, or lowering, or holding of the implements.

10. A method (400) for hitching implements to a farm machine, said method (400) comprising:
coupling, minimum one motor (108) with minimum one linkage unit (110);
sensing a first set of attributes associated with the actuation of the actuator (102) by minimum one input resistor (104) coupled with minimum one actuator (102);
sensing a second set of attributes associated with the movement of the linkage unit (110) by minimum one feedback resistor (112) coupled with the motor (108);
extracting a first set of parameter values from the sensed first set of attributes, and a second set of parameter values from the sensed second set of attributes by a processing unit (106);
comparing the extracted first set of parameter values with the extracted second set of parameter values by the processing unit (106); and
determining variance values between the compared first set of parameter values and the second set of parameter values by the processing unit (106), wherein based on the determined variance values, the processing unit (106) generates one or more signals indicative to rotate the motor (108) in either a clockwise direction, or an anticlockwise direction, or keep the motor (108) in static position to facilitate lifting, lowering, or holding of the implement coupled with the farm machine.