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Systems And Methods For Aligning A Three Point Linkage Of A Vehice With An Implement

Abstract: SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ALIGNING A THREE POINT LINKAGE OF A VEHICE WITH AN IMPLEMENT The embodiments herein achieve a system for automatic alignment of a three-point linkage assembly with an implement, which enables a user to laterally adjust a position of the three-point linkage system to align with the implement, through a user device, based on an input received from an image acquisition device. The system includes linear actuators connected to two lower links for laterally adjustment based on the control signal received from a control unit. A system comprising a screw connected between two lower links and controlled by an electric motor connected to adjust the relative position of two lower links with respect to at least one of a category one and category two implement. A method for automatic alignment of a three-point linkage assembly with an implement for attaching the implement to the three-point linkage. Fig. 1a

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Notices, Deadlines & Correspondence

Patent Information

Application #
Filing Date
27 December 2022
Publication Number
24/2023
Publication Type
INA
Invention Field
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Status
Email
rsshekar@bananaip.com
Parent Application
Patent Number
Legal Status
Grant Date
2024-03-23
Renewal Date

Applicants

Mahindra & Mahindra Limited
Mahindra Research Valley, Mahindra World City Plot No.41/1, Anjur P.O., Kanchipuram District, Chengalpattu Tamilnadu India

Inventors

1. ARJUN P
FD-Smart Implements, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited, Mahindra Research Valley Mahindra World City, Plot No.41/1, Anjur P.O. Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram District Tamilnadu India 603004
2. N SARAVANAN
FD-Smart Implements, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited, Mahindra Research Valley Mahindra World City, Plot No.41/1, Anjur P.O. Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram District Tamilnadu India 603004
3. PARTHA SARATHI SINGHA
FD-Smart Implements, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited, Mahindra Research Valley Mahindra World City, Plot No.41/1, Anjur P.O. Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram District Tamilnadu India 603004
4. DEEPAK SAINI
FD-Smart Implements, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited, Mahindra Research Valley Mahindra World City, Plot No.41/1, Anjur P.O. Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram District Tamilnadu India 603004

Specification

Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present disclosure generally relates to three-point linkage assembly/ system of agricultural vehicles, and more particularly, relates to systems for automatic alignment of a three-point linkage assembly of an agricultural vehicle with an implement and methods thereof.
BACKGROUND
[002] A three-point linkage assembly is an integral part of the agricultural vehicle such as tractor which is provided at a rear end or at a front end of the tractor for attaching various agricultural implements. The three-point linkage assembly comprises of two lower links and one top link. The three-point linkage assembly is controlled through a hydraulic system provided in the tractor, wherein the hydraulic system controls the lifting and lowering of the two lower links and the top link for controlling the positioning of the implement attached to the linkage assembly. The lowering and lifting of the three-point linkage assembly provides the vertical displacement and is controlled through a position control lever and a draft control lever. The position control lever controls the lifting and lowering the implements on turns, hitching the implement (vertical height adjustment) and setting the height of ground implements. The draft control lever is used to set the depth of the soil engaging implement.
[003] For the attachment of the implement, the user needs to align the implement with the three-point linkage hitch points, by manually adjusting the lift rod and check chains of the three-point linkage assembly. Aligning the implement with the three-point linkage hitch points require a certain level of expertise apart from requiring an additional person for aligning and attaching the implement to the three-point linkage assembly.
[004] Conventionally, in tractors, the implement is manually aligned with the hitch points of the three-point linkage assembly by the user by adjusting the height of lower links and the top link through the hydraulic system and manually adjusting the lift rod and check chains. The manual alignment of the implement with the hitch points of the three-point linkage assembly not only requires skill and training, but it is also risky due to the heavy weight of the implement. If the implement is mis-aligned, it may cause accident and harm to the user who is involved in the operation.
[005] Therefore, there is a need for a system and method which allows automatic adjustment and alignment of the three-point linkage assembly with an implement and overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks.
OBJECTS
[006] The principal object of an embodiment of this invention is to provide a system for automatic alignment of a three-point linkage assembly of an agricultural vehicle with an implement.
[007] Yet another object of an embodiment of the invention is to provide the system which enables a user to laterally adjust a position of two lower links of the three point linkage system to align with the implement, through a user device.
[008] Still another object of an embodiment of the invention is to provide the system which facilitates the lateral adjustment of the two lower links based on an input received from a control unit which is configured to receive and process at least one image received from an image acquisition device.
[009] Another object of an embodiment of the invention is to provide the system which includes at least one linear actuator operatively connected to each of the two lower links, wherein the two lower links are laterally displaced/ adjusted by the linear actuator based on the signal received from the control unit.
[0010] Still another object of an embodiment of the invention is to provide a system having a screw means connected between the two lower links, wherein an electric motor controls a tightening and a loosening of the screw, and a linear actuator connected to one of the two lower links, to adjust the lateral position of the two lower links, for aligning the three point linkage assembly with all three point linkage category implements.
[0011] Additionally, another object of an embodiment of the invention is to provide the system which is adapted to receive a quick hitch coupler.
[0012] Still another object of an embodiment of the invention is to provide a method for automatic alignment of a three-point linkage assembly with an implement.
[0013] 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 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.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0014] The embodiments herein are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the drawings, in which:
[0015] Figure 1a depicts a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system for aligning a three-point linkage of an agricultural vehicle with an implement, according to an embodiment of the present invention as disclosed herein;
[0016] Figure 1b is a schematic diagram of the system showing the two lower links of the three-point linkage assembly, a left link actuator, a right link actuator and a plurality of magnetic latches, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein;
[0017] Figure 2a is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a system showing the two lower links of the three-point linkage assembly with a screw and a link actuator arrangement, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein;
[0018] Figure 2b depicts a schematic diagram of the system comprising a motor for actuating the screw and a link actuator integrated within the agricultural vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein;
[0019] Figure 3a is a flowchart depicting a method for aligning a three-point linkage assembly of an agricultural vehicle with an implement, according to a first embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein; and
[0020] Figure 3b is a flowchart depicting a method for aligning a three-point linkage assembly of an agricultural vehicle with an implement, according to a second embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[0022] The embodiments herein achieve a system for automatic alignment of a three-point linkage assembly with an implement. Further, the embodiments herein achieve the system which enables a user to laterally adjust a position of two lower links of the three-point linkage system to align with the implement, through a user device. The embodiments herein achieve the system which facilitates the lateral adjustment of the two lower links based on an input received from a control unit which is configured to receive and process at least one image received from an image acquisition device. Moreover, the embodiments herein achieve the system which includes at least one linear actuator operatively connected to each of the two lower links, wherein the two lower links are laterally displaced/ adjusted by the linear actuator based on the signal received from the control unit. The embodiments herein achieve a system comprising a screw connected between the two lower links, wherein an electric motor controls the tightening and loosening of the screw, and a linear actuator connected to one of the two lower links, to adjust the lateral position of the two lower links, for aligning the three point linkage assembly with at least one of a category one and category two implement. Further, the embodiments herein achieve the system which is adapted to receive a quick hitch coupler. Additionally, the embodiments herein achieve a method for automatic alignment of a three-point linkage assembly with an implement. Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1a through 3b, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown embodiments.
[0023] Conventionally, in agricultural vehicles such as a tractor, an implement is manually attached to a three-point linkage assembly. The three-point linkage assembly comprising a top link, a lower left link and a lower right link is adjusted using a hydraulic system of the tractor through a position control lever and a draft control lever. However, to adjust the horizontal position of the lower links, the user has to manually align the lower links with the implement by physically aligning the hitch points of the implement with the respective hitch points of the lower left link and lower right link of the tractor. When the implement needs to be hitched, the user requires an additional person for manually hitching the implement to the three-point linkage assembly. Further, the manual alignment also involves adjusting and connecting the check chains and lift rod, which requires a person having certain level of technical skill and expertise.
[0024] The embodiments herein provide systems and methods which enable a user to automatically align the three-point linkage assembly with the implement to facilitate ease in hitching the implement to the agricultural vehicle. For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the embodiments of the invention are explained herein below with reference to a tractor. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to use the systems and methods in any other agricultural vehicle or vehicle comprising a three-point linkage assembly such as but not limited to a construction vehicle, without otherwise deterring the intended function of the system as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings.
[0025] Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b depicts a schematic diagram of a system (100A) for aligning a three-point linkage assembly comprising a top link (not shown), a lower left link (105L) and lower right link (105R), with an implement (201). The system (100A) is integrated with an agricultural vehicle (200) such as a tractor. The system (100A) comprises at least one image acquisition device (101) installed on the vehicle (200) at a predetermined position, a first linear actuator (102L) operatively connected to the lower left link (105L), a second linear actuator (102R) operatively connected to the lower right link (105R), a control unit (103) in communication with the image acquisition device (101) and the first linear actuator (102L) and the second linear actuator (102R), and a display unit/ user interface (104) provided on the vehicle (200).
[0026] The image acquisition device (101) is configured and positioned on the vehicle (200) such that the device captures images of a lower left link hitch point (105La), a lower right link hitch point (105Ra) and plurality of hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201). In an embodiment, the at least one image acquisition device (101) is at least a camera. The images of the lower left link hitch point (105La), the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) and the plurality of hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201) are captured to monitor the alignment of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) with the implement (201). Further, the images captured by the image acquisition device (101) are received by the control unit (103). The control unit (103) is configured to process the received images to check alignment of the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with corresponding hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201). The control unit (103) is also configured to actuate the first linear actuator (102L) and the second linear actuator (102 R) for a lateral displacement of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), based on the images received from the acquisition device (101), such that the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) are aligned with corresponding hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement (201). Further, the control unit (103) is configured/ programmed to identify a correct position of the lower left link hitch point (105La) and lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with respect to the corresponding hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201) and align the lower left link hitch point (105La) and lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with respect to the corresponding hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201), if said lower left link hitch point (105La) and lower right link hitch point (105Ra) is mis-aligned, based on processing feedback received from the image acquisition device (101). In an embodiment, the control unit (103) includes a machine learning algorithm which processes the correct alignment position of the lower link hitch points (105La, 105Ra) with the hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement, by input received from an image processing unit (not shown). Further, the control unit (103) is configured to receive and process feedback for correction of the alignment. The display unit/ user interface (104) is configured to display the images captured by the at least one image acquisition device (101) so that the user of the vehicle receives real-time input on the position and alignment of the lower links (105L, 105R) with respect to the implement (201).
[0027] In another embodiment, the system (100A) includes the display unit/ user interface (104) which includes a graphic user interface (not shown) having a left arrow and right arrow, to allow the user to select the direction of lateral displacement of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R). The user can select the position of the lower link hitch points (105La, 105Ra) with the corresponding hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201) to align the implement with the three-point linkage assembly (105) for hitching the implement (201), or displace the lower links (105L, 105R) to de-attach the implement (201) from the three-point linkage assembly (105), based on the images received as the input from the at least one image acquisition device (101). The control unit (103) is configured to actuate the first linear actuator (102L) and the second linear actuator (102R) based on the position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) set by the user.
[0028] In an embodiment, the at least one image acquisition device (101) captures the images of the lower link hitch points (105La, 105Ra) and the hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement (201). The control unit (103) receives the input from the image acquisition device (101) and processes the images to determine whether the hitch points (105La, 105Ra, 201L, 201R) are aligned or not. Based on the processed input, the control unit (103) actuates the first linear actuator (102L) and the second linear actuator (102R) to laterally displace the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) respectively, in a predetermined horizontal direction, such that the lower left link hitch point (105La) is aligned with a left hitch point (201L) of the implement and the lower right hitch point (105Ra) is aligned with a right hitch point (201R) of the implement. After the hitch points (201L, 201R) are aligned, the user can easily attach and secure the implement (201) to the three-point linkage assembly (105), without the requirement of physically adjusting the implement position.
[0029] Alternatively, in another embodiment the display unit/ user interface (104) displays the images captured by the image acquisition device (101). The user, based on the real time input images received from the image acquisition device (101) can adjust the position of the lower link hitch points (105La, 105Ra) with respect to the hitch points of the implement (201L, 201R), by selecting the direction of displacement of the lower links (105L, 105R) through the graphic user interface provided on the display unit / user interface (104).
[0030] Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b is a schematic view of another embodiment of the invention, showing a system (100B) for aligning the three-point linkage assembly (105) of the vehicle (200) with the implement (201). The system (100B) enables the alignment of lower links (105L, 105R) of the three-point linkage assembly (105) with all three point linkage category implements. The system (100B), according to an embodiment comprises the at least one image acquisition device (101), a linear actuator (102) operatively connected to any one of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), a screw (106A) laterally connected between an inner end of the lower left link (105L) and an inner end of the lower right link (105R), an electric motor (106B) operatively connected to the screw (106A), and a display unit/ user interface. The motor (106B) is configured to rotate the screw (106A) in a predetermined direction such that the rotation of the screw (106A) causes the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) to relatively move outward, and the rotation of the screw (106A) in an opposite direction causes the screw (106A) to retract and displace the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) relatively inwards. In an embodiment, the control unit (103) is configured to actuate the linear actuator (102) for the lateral displacement of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), and actuate the screw (106A) through the motor (106B) for relative displacement of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), based on the processing of the images received from the at least one image acquisition device (101), such that the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) is aligned with corresponding hitch point (201L,201R) of the implement (201).
[0031] In another embodiment, the display unit/ user interface (104) comprises a graphic user interface including a left arrow and a right arrow, wherein based on the input images received from the image acquisition device (101), the user can select a direction of adjustment of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) in a horizontal direction and select the direction of rotation of the screw (106A), for setting the position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) in respect of the plurality of hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201). The control unit (103) is configured to actuate the linear actuator (102) and the screw (106A) by actuating the motor (106B), based on the position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) set by the user. The control unit (103) is also configured/ programmed to identify a correct position of the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with respect to the corresponding hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201) and align the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with respect to the corresponding hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201) if the said lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) is mis-aligned, based on processing feedback received from the at least one image acquisition device (101).
[0032] In an embodiment of the system (100A) and the system (100B) include magnetic latches which are provided at each of the hitch points (105La, 105Ra) of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), wherein the magnetic latches enable easy latching of the hitch points (105La, 105Ra, 201L, 201R) when the lower links (105L, 105R) are aligned with the implement (201) through one of the systems (100A and 100B). Further, both the systems (100A) and (100B) are compatible with coupling means such as a quick hitch coupler for hitching the implement.
[0033] Fig. 3a is a flowchart depicting a method (300A) for aligning a three-point linkage assembly (105) of an agricultural vehicle (200) with an implement (201). The method (300A) includes acquiring, an image of a lower left link hitch point (105La), a lower right link hitch point (105Ra) and a plurality of hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201), by at least one image acquisition device (101) installed on said agricultural vehicle (200) at a predetermined position (at step 302A). The method (300A) further includes receiving by the control unit (103), the images captured by the at least one image acquisition device (101) (at step 304A). Furthermore, the method (300A) includes, processing by the control unit (103), the received images to check alignment of the lower left link hitch point (105La) and lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with the corresponding hitch point (201L,201R) of the implement (201) (at step 306A). Additionally, the method (300A) includes actuating the first linear actuator (102L) connected to the lower left link (105L), and the second linear actuator (102R) connected to the lower right link (105R), based on the processing of the received images. The actuation of the first linear actuator (102L) and the second linear actuator (102R) causes lateral displacement of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) respectively, such that the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) is aligned with the corresponding hitch point of the plurality of hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement (201) (at step 308A). In an embodiment, the method (300A) comprises displaying the image captured by the at least one image acquisition device (101) on a display unit/ user interface (104). The method (300A) also includes, setting by the user a position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) by selecting a direction of lateral displacement of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), based on the input received from the at least one image acquisition device (101), such that the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) is aligned with the corresponding hitch point (201L, 201R) of the implement (201). The control unit (103) controls the actuation of the first linear actuator (102L) and the second linear actuator (102R) based on the position set by the user. Further, in the method (300A), the user can set the position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) by selecting the direction of displacement of each of the lower right link (105L) and the lower left link (105R) through a graphic user interface comprising a left arrow and a right arrow provided on the display unit/ user interface (104).
[0034] Fig.3b is a flowchart depicting method (300B) for aligning a three-point linkage assembly (105) of an agricultural vehicle (200) with an implement (201). The method (300B) includes acquiring, an image of a lower left link hitch point (105La), a lower right link hitch point (105Ra) and a plurality of hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201), by at least one image acquisition device (101) installed on said agricultural vehicle (200) at a predetermined position (at step 302B). Further, the method (300B) includes receiving by the control unit (103), the images captured by the at least one image acquisition device (101), wherein the control unit (103) is provided in communication with the at least one image acquisition device (101) (at step 304B). The method (300B) also includes processing by the control unit (103), the received images to check alignment of the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with the corresponding hitch point (201L, 201R) of the implement (201) (at step 306B). Furthermore, the method (300B) includes actuating the linear actuator (102) connected to any one of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), and rotating the screw (106A) laterally connected between an inner end of the lower left link (105L) and an inner end of the lower right link (105R), in a predetermined direction, by actuating the electric motor (106B) operatively connected to the screw (106A), based on the processing of the received images from the image acquisition device (101) (at step 308B). The motor (106B) is configured to rotate the screw (106A) in a predetermined direction such that the rotation of the screw (106A) causes the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) to relatively move outward, and rotate the screw (106A) in an opposite direction such that said rotation of the screw (106A) causes the screw (106A) to retract and displace the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) relatively inwards. The actuation of the linear actuator (102) and rotation of the screw (106A) causes lateral displacement and relative displacement respectively of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), such that the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) is aligned with the corresponding hitch point (201L,201R) of the implement (201). In an embodiment, the method (300B) includes displaying the image captured by the at least one image acquisition device (101) on a display unit/ user interface (104). The user can set a position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) by selecting the direction of lateral displacement of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), and select the direction of rotation of the screw (106A), based on the input received from the at least one image acquisition device (101), such that the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) is aligned with the corresponding hitch point (201L,201R) of the implement (201). The control unit (103) controls the actuation of the linear actuator (102) and the screw (106A) based on the position set by the user. In an embodiment, the user can set the position of the lower links (105L, 105R) through a graphic user interface comprising a left arrow and a right arrow provided on the display unit/ user interface (104).
[0035] The technical advantages achieved by the embodiments disclosed herein include providing systems and method for automatic alignment of a three-point linkage assembly of a vehicle with an implement, ease of attaching an implement with the three-point linkage by assisting user in lateral aligning of the three-point linkage by providing real time information, facilitating hitching of implement by a single person, minimizing risk of accident by eliminating need for physical efforts by user for adjustment of the implement and the three-point linkage, and compatibility with quick hitch couplers.
[0036] 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 embodiments as described herein.
, Claims:1. A system (100A) for aligning a three-point linkage (105) of an agricultural vehicle (200) to an implement (201), said three-point linkage (105) having a top link, a lower left link (105L) and a lower right link (105R), the system (100A) comprising:
at least one image acquisition device (101), installed on said agricultural vehicle (200) at a predetermined position;
a control unit (103) in communication with said at least one image acquisition device (101); and
a first linear actuator (102L) operatively connected to a lower left link (105L) and a second linear actuator (102R) operatively connected to a lower right link (105R),
wherein,
said image acquisition device (101) is configured to capture images of a lower left link hitch point (105La), a lower right link hitch point (105Ra), and a plurality of hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement and communicate said captured images to said control unit (103); and
said control unit (103) is configured to receive images captured by said image acquisition device (101) and process said received images to check alignment of said lower left link hitch point (105La) and said lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with corresponding hitch points (201L, 201R) of said implement, and actuate the first linear actuator (102L) and the second linear actuator (102 R) for a lateral displacement of said lower left link (105L) and said lower right link (105R), -for aligning said lower left link hitch point (105La) and said lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with corresponding hitch points (201L, 201R) of said implement (201).

2. The system (100A) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said system (100A) comprises:
a display unit/ user interface device (104),
wherein said display unit/ user interface device (104) is configured to display images captured by said image acquisition device (101); and
allow a user to select a direction of adjustment of said lower left link (105L) and said lower right link (105R) in a horizontal direction for setting a position of said lower left link (105L) and said lower right link (105R) in respect of said plurality of hitch points (201L, 201R) of said implement (201).

3. The system (100A) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the display unit/ user interface (104) comprises a graphic user interface comprising a left arrow and a right arrow, which allows the user to select a direction of displacement of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), through said first linear actuator (102L) and said second linear actuator (102 R), for setting the position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R).

4. A system (100B) for aligning a three-point linkage (105) of an agricultural vehicle (200) to an implement (201), said three-point linkage (105) having a top link, a lower left link (105L) and a lower right link (105R), the system (100B) comprising:
at least one image acquisition device (101), installed on said agricultural vehicle (200) at a predetermined position,
a control unit (103) in communication with said at least one image acquisition device (101),
a linear actuator (102) operatively connected to any one of said lower left link (105L) and said lower right link (105R);
a screw (106A) laterally connected between an inner end of the lower left link (105L) and an inner end of the lower right link (105R); and
an electric motor (106B) operatively connected to the screw (106A),
wherein,
said at least one image acquisition device (101) is configured to capture images of a lower left link hitch point (105La), a lower right link hitch point (105Ra), and a plurality of hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement and communicate said captured images to said control unit (103);
said control unit (103) is configured to receive the images captured by said at least one image acquisition device (101) and process said received images to check alignment of said lower left link hitch point (105La) and said lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with corresponding hitch point of said plurality of hitch points of the implement (201L, 201R);
said control unit (103) is configured to operate said motor (106B) to rotate the screw (106A) in a predetermined direction, said rotation of the screw (106A) causes said lower left link (105L) and right link (105R) to relatively move in one of outward and inward direction; and
said control unit (103) is configured to actuate the linear actuator (102) for a lateral displacement of said lower left link (105L) and lower right link (105R) for aligning said lower left link hitch point (105La) and said lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with corresponding hitch points (201L, 201R) of said implement (201).

5. The system (100B) as claimed in claim 4, wherein said system (100B) comprises:
a display unit/ user interface device (104),
wherein said display unit/ user interface device (104) is configured to display images captured by said at least one image acquisition device (101); and
allow user to select a direction of adjustment of said lower left link (105L) and said lower right link (105R) in a horizontal direction and select the direction of rotation of the screw (106A), for setting a position of said lower left link (105L) and said lower right link (105R) with respect to said plurality of hitch points (201L, 201R) of said implement (201).

6. The system (100B) as claimed in claim1 and claim 4, wherein the display unit/ user interface (104) comprises a graphic user interface which allows the user to select direction of displacement of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) by selecting a left arrow or a right arrow for setting the position of the lower left link (105L) and lower right link (105R) and select the direction of rotation of said screw (106A).

7. The system (100B) as claimed in claim 4, wherein said control unit (103) is configured to:
identify a position of the lower left link hitch point (105La) and lower link right hitch point (105Ra) with respect to the corresponding hitch points (201L,201R) of the implement (201); and
align the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower link right hitch point (105Ra) with respect to the corresponding hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement (201), based on captured images received from the at least one image acquisition device (101).

8. The system (100B) as claimed in claim 1 and 4, wherein the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), and hitch points (201L, 201R) of said implement (201) each includes corresponding magnetic latches, and said implement (201) is attached to the said lower left link (105L) and lower right link (105R) through said magnetic latches.

9. The system (100B) as claimed in claim 1 and 4, wherein said system (100B) is configured to receive a quick hitch coupler, said quick hitch coupler facilitates interchange of a variety of implements thereof.

10. A method (300A) for aligning a three-point linkage assembly (105) of an agricultural vehicle (200) with an implement (201), said method (300A) comprising steps of:
acquiring image of a lower left link hitch point (105La), a lower right link hitch point (105Ra) and a plurality of hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement (201), by at least one image acquisition device (101) installed on said agricultural vehicle (200) at a predetermined position;
receiving, by a control unit (103), said images captured by the at least one image acquisition device (101);
processing, by said control unit (103), said received images to check alignment of said lower left link hitch point (105La) and lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with a corresponding hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement (201); and
actuating, a first linear actuator (102L) connected to the lower left link (105L), and a second linear actuator (102R) connected to the lower right link (105R), based on the received images to align the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with the corresponding hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement (201).

11. The method (300A) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the method (300A) includes displaying an image captured by the at least one image acquisition device (101) on a display unit/ user interface (104).

12. The method (300A) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the method (300A) includes setting by a user a position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) by selecting a direction of lateral displacement of the lower left link (105L) and lower right link (105R), based on the input received from the at least one image acquisition device (101), for aligning the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with the corresponding hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement (201).

13. The method (300A) as claimed in claim 10, wherein said control unit (103) controls the actuation of the first linear actuator (102L) and the second linear actuator (102R) based on a position set by the user.

14. The method (300A) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the method (300A) includes setting the position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) by the user by selecting the direction of displacement of each of the lower right link (105L) and the lower left link (105R) through a graphic user interface comprising a left arrow and a right arrow provided on the display unit/ user interface (104).

15. A method (300B) for aligning a three-point linkage assembly (105) of an agricultural vehicle (200) with an implement (201), said method (300B) comprising steps of:
acquiring, an image of a lower left link hitch point (105La), a lower right link hitch point (105Ra) and a plurality of hitch points of the implement (201L, 201R), by at least one image acquisition device (101) installed on said agricultural vehicle (200) at a predetermined position;
receiving, by a control unit (103), said images captured by the at least one image acquisition device (101);
processing, by said control unit (103), said received images to check an alignment of said lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with a corresponding hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement (201); and
actuating, by said control unit (103), a linear actuator (102) connected to any one of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), and rotating a screw (106A) laterally connected between an inner end of the lower left link (105L) and an inner end of the lower right link (105R), in a predetermined direction, by actuating an electric motor (106B) operatively connected to the screw (106A), based on received images from the image acquisition device (101).

16. The method (300B) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the method (300B) includes displaying an image captured by the image acquisition device (101) on a display unit/ user interface (104).

17. The method (300B) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the method (300B) comprises:
setting, by a user a position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) by selecting a direction of lateral displacement of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R), and select the direction of rotation of the screw (106A), based on the input received from the at least one image acquisition device (101), for aligning the lower left link hitch point (105La) and the lower right link hitch point (105Ra) with the corresponding hitch points (201L, 201R) of the implement (201).

18. The method (300B) as claimed in claim 15, wherein said control unit (103) controls the actuation of the linear actuator (102) and the screw (106A) based on the position set by the user.

19. The method (300B) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the method (300B) comprises setting the position of the lower left link (105L) and the lower right link (105R) by the user by selecting the direction of lateral and relative displacement of each of the lower right link (105R) and the lower left link (105L) and through a graphic user interface having a left arrow and a right arrow provided on the display unit/ user interface (104).

Documents

Application Documents

# Name Date
1 202241075816-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [27-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-27
2 202241075816-PROOF OF RIGHT [27-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-27
3 202241075816-POWER OF AUTHORITY [27-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-27
4 202241075816-FORM-26 [27-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-27
5 202241075816-FORM 3 [27-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-27
6 202241075816-FORM 18 [27-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-27
7 202241075816-FORM 1 [27-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-27
8 202241075816-ENDORSEMENT BY INVENTORS [27-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-27
9 202241075816-DRAWINGS [27-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-27
10 202241075816-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [27-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-27
11 202241075816-Request Letter-Correspondence [03-04-2023(online)].pdf 2023-04-03
12 202241075816-Power of Attorney [03-04-2023(online)].pdf 2023-04-03
13 202241075816-Form 1 (Submitted on date of filing) [03-04-2023(online)].pdf 2023-04-03
14 202241075816-Covering Letter [03-04-2023(online)].pdf 2023-04-03
15 202241075816-CERTIFIED COPIES TRANSMISSION TO IB [03-04-2023(online)].pdf 2023-04-03
16 202241075816-FORM-9 [13-06-2023(online)].pdf 2023-06-13
17 202241075816-FORM 18A [15-06-2023(online)].pdf 2023-06-15
18 202241075816-FER.pdf 2023-07-27
19 202241075816-OTHERS [29-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-29
20 202241075816-FER_SER_REPLY [29-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-29
21 202241075816-DRAWING [29-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-29
22 202241075816-CORRESPONDENCE [29-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-29
23 202241075816-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [29-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-29
24 202241075816-CLAIMS [29-08-2023(online)].pdf 2023-08-29
25 202241075816-US(14)-HearingNotice-(HearingDate-07-03-2024).pdf 2024-02-21
26 202241075816-Correspondence to notify the Controller [05-03-2024(online)].pdf 2024-03-05
27 202241075816-FORM-26 [06-03-2024(online)].pdf 2024-03-06
28 202241075816-Written submissions and relevant documents [22-03-2024(online)].pdf 2024-03-22
29 202241075816-PatentCertificate23-03-2024.pdf 2024-03-23
30 202241075816-IntimationOfGrant23-03-2024.pdf 2024-03-23
31 202241075816- Certificate of Inventorship-044000260( 11-04-2025 ).pdf 2025-04-11

Search Strategy

1 549(1)E_24-07-2023.pdf

ERegister / Renewals

3rd: 09 Dec 2024

From 27/12/2024 - To 27/12/2025