Abstract: A method includes transmitting an instruction to a motive power supply of an elastically deformable device to drive the elastically deformable device in accordance with a drive setting; measuring a force exerted on the elastically deformable device with a sensor; outputting an observed value representative of the force; comparing the observed value with a reference value corresponding with a predetermined force to be exerted on the elastically deformable device; and adjusting the drive setting based on a determination that the observed value is outside of a predetermined range of the reference value. The method prevents slack in the elastically deformable device over time. Related apparatuses, systems, techniques and articles are also described.

Abstract: A hitch assembly comprising a hitch bar 1 having a hitch 2 for attachment to a tractor at its leading end; a pair of drawbars 4,5, each having one end pivotally connected to the hitch bar 1 so as to be swingable in a substantially horizontal plane between a work position in which it extends laterally to the direction of travel, one on each side of the hitch bar, and with the outer end of one bar 5 extending rearwards further than the outer end of the other drawbar 4, and a transport position in which it trails rearwards of the work position; a support wheel 8,16 attached to the outer end of each drawbar 4,5; a hitch 10,18 on each drawbar for attachment to an implement, the hitch 18 on said one drawbar trailing behind that on said other drawbar in the work position; and a pair of stay-bars 23,24 each having one end pivotally connected to the hitch bar 1 so as to be swingable in a substantially horizontal plane between work and transport positions, each stay bar 23,24 in its work position being connectable by a