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Lever connect PTO module for three-point hitch quick coupler

  • US 7,575,077 B2
  • Filed: 11/22/2006
  • Issued: 08/18/2009
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/22/2006
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A PTO connection module adapted to be affixed to a quick coupler hitch which is in turn adapted to connect a PTO-powered hitch-connected implement to a tractor having a three-point hitch and a PTO, the PTO connection module comprising:

  • a transverse frame connected to said quick coupler hitch;

    a telescoping shaft having first and second opposing ends, said first end connectable to the tractor PTO;

    an axis of rotation;

    a PTO engagement mechanism connecting said transverse frame and said second end of said telescoping shaft, said engagement mechanism having an engaged position and a disengaged position corresponding to respective forward and rearward positions along said axis of rotational of said second end between said engaged and disengaged positions, said engagement mechanism connected to said transverse frame in a manner allowing rotational, axial, and limited radial movement of said second end; and

    a torque coupler having separable drive and driven members, said drive member connected to said engagement mechanism for movement between said engaged and disengaged positions, said driven portion connected to the hitch-connected implement to allow rotational motion while constraining axial and radial movement, both said members having interlocking alignment structures to radially align said drive member along said axis of rotation during movement toward said engaged position; and

    said PTO engagement mechanism further comprises a lever for rotating a shaft, at least one elongate spring guide connected to said shaft at one end and containing at least one spring, at least one toggle link connected to said at least one spring guide, at least one positioning fork connected to said at least one toggle link, and a thrust bearing housing having at least one positioning tab for moving said housing between said engaged and disengaged positions, connection of said at least one spring guide to said at least one toggle link allowing variation in spacing between said shaft and said toggle link, said at least one spring being disposed between said shaft and said at least one toggle link whereby said spring length varies with said variation in spacing and a spring force caused by compressing said at least one spring urges said thrust bearing housing toward said engaged position, wherein the coupler drive and driven members are moved into contact by the spring force and maintained in contact, the spring force moves the coupler members into full engagement when the drive member and driven member are rotated into alignment by the telescoping shaft.

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