Caterpillar Inc.

Gregory K Stuckey

Lynn A Sutton

Jeffrey A Moore

Mark A Steffen

Rex N Johnsen

A hitch for a work machine such as an agricultural tractor permits controlled towing of an implement behind the work machine. The hitch is attached to the machine frame. The hitch includes first and second draft arms that are pivotally connected with and spaced apart on the frame by intermediate links. The intermediate links provide pivotal movement of the draft arms constrained about a first horizontal axis. The intermediate links also provide pivotal movement of the first draft arm constrained about a second axis, and of the second draft arm constrained about a third axis. At least one draft cylinder is connected to one of the intermediate links and to a respective draft arm. The hitch incorporates multiple degrees of movement in a compact package and is useful as a steerable component of the machine to provide positive steering force.

Hitch assembly for a work machine

All wheel steer work vehicles are useful for working in conditions which require greater maneuverability and traction. When simultaneous work operations and steering is required, a control having both functions is required. The subject vehicle includes a steering wheel for steering a first pair of wheels, an implement lever for controlling the implement work functions, and a switch means for steering a second pair of wheels mounted on the implement lever. This arrangement of components provides simultaneous movement of a work mechanism and steering of the second pair of wheels using only one hand of an operator.

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Omaha, NE, United States of America

Gregory K Stuckey