Depth Control of Integral Flexible Implements 690591

The trend to larger and heavier integral implements mounted on faster and more powerful tractors has brought increased emphasis upon the parameters for balanced design of implement-tractor stability, weight distribution, and hitch lift capacity. This paper discusses how load and depth response for an entire integral flexible implement and additional tractor hitch lift capacity may be obtained with a single-lever hydraulic control system. The system utilizes gauge wheels on a flexible implement which is mounted to the tractor three point hitch. The gauge wheels, mounted on the flexible outriggers of the implement, are actuated by hydraulic cylinders connected in series with the tractor rockshaft cylinder. Cylinder displacements are sized so that the flexible outriggers lift in synchronism with the tractor three point hitch. All cylinders synchronize at each full stroke. Since draft loads are applied to the tractor three point hitch, the entire integral flexible implement is load responsive and maintains a uniform draft load over uneven terrain.