EP3321427A1 - Koppler - Google Patents

Koppler Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3321427A1
EP3321427A1 EP17175927.7A EP17175927A EP3321427A1 EP 3321427 A1 EP3321427 A1 EP 3321427A1 EP 17175927 A EP17175927 A EP 17175927A EP 3321427 A1 EP3321427 A1 EP 3321427A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
coupler assembly
hydraulic
locking member
actuator
lock actuator
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP17175927.7A
Other languages
English (en)
French (fr)
Inventor
Surajith RAVINDRAN
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
JB Attachments Ltd
Original Assignee
JB Attachments Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by JB Attachments Ltd filed Critical JB Attachments Ltd
Publication of EP3321427A1 publication Critical patent/EP3321427A1/de
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
    • E02F3/36—Component parts
    • E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
    • E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
    • E02F3/3618—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat with two separating hooks
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
    • E02F3/36—Component parts
    • E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
    • E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
    • E02F3/3622—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat with a hook and a locking element acting on a pin
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
    • E02F3/36—Component parts
    • E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
    • E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
    • E02F3/3645—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat with auto-engagement means for automatic snap-on of the tool coupler part
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
    • E02F3/36—Component parts
    • E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
    • E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
    • E02F3/365—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat with redundant latching means, e.g. for safety purposes
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
    • E02F3/36—Component parts
    • E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
    • E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
    • E02F3/3659—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat electrically-operated
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
    • E02F3/36—Component parts
    • E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
    • E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
    • E02F3/3663—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat hydraulically-operated
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49815—Disassembling
    • Y10T29/49822—Disassembling by applying force
    • Y10T29/49824—Disassembling by applying force to elastically deform work part or connector
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T403/00—Joints and connections
    • Y10T403/32—Articulated members
    • Y10T403/32254—Lockable at fixed position
    • Y10T403/32262—At selected angle
    • Y10T403/32319—At selected angle including pivot stud

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a coupler, and in particular, but not exclusively to a coupler for attaching work implements to the arm or boom of an excavator or similar vehicle.
  • Couplers are often used to connect work attachments or implements to the booms of excavators, diggers, back hoes, etc.
  • the couplers are sometimes also referred to as “quick hitches”, or “pin grabber” couplers as they grab the two connecting pins that are attached to many attachments for the purpose of connecting the attachment to an arm.
  • the couplers allow implements to be changed quickly and efficiently by being able to release the connecting pins of one implement, and to grab the connecting pins of another, using remotely controlled hydraulic actuators on the coupler.
  • the invention may broadly be said to consist in a coupler assembly for coupling implements having a first connecting pin and a second connecting pin, to a vehicle, the coupler having; a body component that is connectable to the vehicle, and which includes a forward recess for receiving the first connecting pin, a movable component which is supported by the body component and which is movable through a range of travel relative to the body component, and which includes, or forms a part of, an aft recess for receiving the second connecting pin, and, a movable component actuator for selectively moving the movable component relative to the body component, a rear locking member which is a part of the movable component and which is movable relative to the movable component between an extended position in which the rear locking member prevents the second connecting pin from exiting the aft recess and a retracted position in which the rear locking member does not prevent the second connecting pin exiting the aft recess, and a rear lock actuator for moving
  • a connection between the rear lock actuator and the rear locking member includes a link member.
  • the rear locking member and the link member are configured in such a manner that; an initial range of movement of the link member pushes the rear locking member from its retracted position to its extended position, and a second and further range of movement of the link member positions a stop member which prevents movement of the rear locking member away from its extended position.
  • the stop member is a part of the link member.
  • the rear lock actuator is mounted on the movable component.
  • the movable component slides relative to the body component.
  • the link member slides relative to the movable component.
  • the rear locking member is pivotally connected to the movable component.
  • the coupler further includes a forward locking member which is movable relative to the body component between an extended position in which the forward locking member prevents the first connecting pin from exiting the forward recess and a retracted position in which the forward locking member does not prevent the first connecting pin exiting the forward recess.
  • a forward locking member which is movable relative to the body component between an extended position in which the forward locking member prevents the first connecting pin from exiting the forward recess and a retracted position in which the forward locking member does not prevent the first connecting pin exiting the forward recess.
  • the coupler includes a forward lock actuator for moving the forward locking member between its extended and retracted positions.
  • the forward lock actuator is pivotally connected to a hydraulic manifold of the coupler assembly.
  • pivotal connection between the forward lock actuator and the hydraulic manifold is configured to provide a hydraulic fluid flow path between the hydraulic manifold and the forward lock actuator.
  • the movable component actuator, the rear lock actuator and the forward lock actuator are all hydraulic actuators.
  • a hydraulic system of the coupler includes sequence valves to control the sequence of operation of the movable component actuator, the rear lock actuator and the forward lock actuator during any engagement and/or disengagement processes.
  • the invention may broadly be said to consist in a coupler assembly for coupling implements having a first connecting pin and a second connecting pin, to a vehicle, the coupler assembly having; a first recess for receiving the first connecting pin, an second recess for receiving the second connecting pin, a first locking member for securing the first connecting pin within the first recess, a hydraulic system including at least one actuator configured to enable the coupler assembly to positively engage with the first and second connecting pins of an implement, and the hydraulic system also including at least one hydraulic manifold block; wherein the coupler assembly also includes a hydraulic first lock actuator which is supported on, and receives a hydraulic supply from, the hydraulic manifold block.
  • the first lock actuator is pivotally connected to the hydraulic manifold block.
  • the hydraulic supply from the hydraulic manifold block to the first lock actuator passes through a pivotal connection between the first lock actuator and the hydraulic manifold block.
  • the hydraulic fluid flow path between the hydraulic manifold and the first lock actuator is a path that passes through a passage within a pivot pin that is part of the pivotal connection between the first lock actuator and the hydraulic manifold block.
  • the coupler assembly further includes a movable component which is supported by a body component and which is movable through a range of travel relative to the body component, and which includes, or forms a part of, the second recess.
  • the coupler assembly further includes a movable component actuator for selectively moving the movable component relative to the body component.
  • the hydraulic manifold block is a part of the movable component actuator.
  • the first lock actuator is a single acting actuator with a spring return mechanism.
  • the coupler assembly further includes a second locking member which is a part of the movable component and which is movable relative to the movable component between an extended position in which the second locking member prevents the second connecting pin from exiting the second recess and a retracted position in which the second locking member does not prevent the second connecting pin exiting the second recess.
  • a second locking member which is a part of the movable component and which is movable relative to the movable component between an extended position in which the second locking member prevents the second connecting pin from exiting the second recess and a retracted position in which the second locking member does not prevent the second connecting pin exiting the second recess.
  • the coupler assembly further includes a second lock actuator for moving the second locking member between its extended and retracted positions.
  • the movable component slides relative to the body component.
  • the second locking member is pivotally connected to the movable component.
  • a hydraulic system of the coupler includes sequence valves to control the sequence of operation of the movable component actuator, the second lock actuator and the first lock actuator during any engagement and/or disengagement processes.
  • the invention may broadly be said to consist in a vehicle incorporating at least one coupler substantially as specified herein.
  • the vehicle is an excavator.
  • the invention may broadly be said to consist in a method of disengaging a work attachment or implement from a coupler having a body and a movable component, including the steps of; operating a forward lock actuator to move a forward locking member from an extended position to a retracted position, operating a rear lock actuator to move a rear locking member from an extended position to a retracted position, and when the rear locking member is in its retracted position, operating a movable component actuator to move a movable component out of engagement with a rear pin of the work attachment, and then disengaging a forward pin of the work attachment from the body.
  • the method of disengaging includes an automatic operation of the forward lock actuator to move the forward locking member from the retracted position to the extended position a pre-determined time period after the operation of the forward lock actuator, the rear lock actuator or the movable component actuator to disengage the coupler from an implement.
  • the invention may also broadly be said to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of the parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents, such equivalents are incorporated herein as if they were individually set forth.
  • a first example of a coupler assembly (31) is shown in an exploded perspective view and in a series of perspective and cutaway views. Included also are hydraulic and electrical circuits used to control the operation of the coupler assembly (31).
  • the coupler assembly (31) is of the type typically used for coupling implements having a first connecting pin and a second connecting pin, to a vehicle such as an excavator or a back hoe.
  • the coupler assembly (31) has a body component (33) that is connectable to the vehicle.
  • the body component (33) itself includes two coupler mounting pins (35) which are used to connect the coupler assembly (31) to the end of an arm of the vehicle.
  • the body component (33) also includes a forward recess (37) for receiving the first connecting pin of an implement.
  • the coupler assembly (31) also includes a movable component or slide assembly (39) which is supported by the body component (33).
  • the slide assembly (39) is movable through a range of travel relative to the body component (33).
  • the range of travel of the slide assembly (39) is substantially in a fore and aft direction relative to the body (33).
  • the slide assembly (39) includes, or at least forms a part of, an aft recess (41) for receiving the second connecting pin of an implement.
  • a movable component actuator or slide assembly actuator (43) of the coupler assembly (31) is used to selectively move the slide assembly (39) relative to the body component (33).
  • a slide component (45) of the slide assembly (39) includes elongate tabs (47). These elongate tabs (47) engage with corresponding slots (49) on the body component (33), allowing the slide assembly (39) to slide in a fore and aft direction relative to the body component (33).
  • the slide assembly (39) includes a rear locking member (51).
  • the rear locking member (51) is movable relative to the slide assembly (39), between an extended position in which the rear locking member (51) prevents the second connecting pin from exiting the aft recess (41) and a retracted position in which the rear locking member (51) does not prevent the second connecting pin exiting the aft recess (41).
  • the slide assembly (39) also includes a rear lock actuator (53) (refer Figures 2 , 3 and 11 ) for moving the rear locking member (51) between its extended and retracted positions.
  • the rear lock actuator (53) is mounted on the slide assembly (39), and moves with the slide assembly (39).
  • the rear lock actuator (53) includes a rear lock actuator spring (54) which biases the actuator toward an extended configuration in which the rear lock actuator (53) pushes the rear locking member (51) to its extended position.
  • a feature of the coupler assembly (31) is the connection between the rear lock actuator (53) and the rear locking member (51).
  • the connection includes a link member (55).
  • the rear locking member (51) is pivotally connected to the slide component (45) by a rear lock connecting pin (57).
  • the link member (55) slides fore and aft relative to the slide assembly (39) under the influence of the rear lock actuator (53).
  • the rear locking member (51) and the link member (55) are configured in such a manner that an initial range of movement of the link member (55) pushes the rear locking member (51) from its retracted position to its extended position. And a second and further range of movement of the link member (55) positions a stop member (59) which prevents movement of the rear locking member (51) away from its extended position.
  • the stop member (59) is a part of the link member (55).
  • the link member (55) is in the form of a substantially rectangular shaped plate (61), having tabs (63) extending from the plate (61) for connection to the rear lock actuator (53).
  • the plate (61) includes a rectangular shaped hole (65) positioned substantially centrally within the principal plane of the plate (61).
  • the link member (55) comprises a forward transverse member (67), and aft transverse member (69), and side plates (71), one on the left side and one on the right side of the link member (55).
  • the side plates (71) each span between the outermost extremities of the forward and aft transverse members (67) and (69).
  • the side plates (71) of the link member (55) engage with, and slide within, slide grooves (73) on each side of the slide assembly (39).
  • the rear locking member (51) includes an upwardly protruding control tab (75), and two rearwardly extending locking tabs (77).
  • the two rearwardly extending locking tabs (77) each include a locking surface (79).
  • the locking surfaces (79) are situated on an upper part of each locking tab (77) and are substantially aligned with a lower edge (81) of the slide grooves (73) when the rear locking member (51) is in its fully extended position.
  • the link member (55) When the slide assembly (39) is assembled, the link member (55) is held within the slide grooves (73). And when the rear locking member (51) is in its fully extended position, the control tab (75) of the rear locking member (51) is situated within the rectangular hole (65) in the link member (55).
  • the rectangular hole (65) is of sufficient size to allow a range of movement of the link member (55) relative to the rear locking member (51) without contact being made between the link member (55) and the rear locking member (51). However, movement of the link member beyond this range of movement does result in contact between the link member (55) and the rear locking member (51). And this contact is used to move the rear locking member (51) between its retracted position and its extended position as will be explained below.
  • Movement of the rear locking member (51) from its retracted position to its extended position is achieved as follows.
  • the link member (55) is moved from its forward most position, and in an aft direction, by the rear lock actuator (53).
  • an aft edge (83) of the side plates (71) contacts a forward edge (85) of the locking tabs (77). This contact causes rotation of the rear locking member (51) about the rear lock connecting pin (57), and rotation of the rear locking member (51) to its fully extended position.
  • the rectangular hole (65) in the link member (55) is configured to allow continued aft movement of the link member (55) even though the control tab (75) is now situated within the rectangular hole (65).
  • the slide assembly (39) is configured such that the locking surfaces (79) are immediately adjacent the side plates (71) when the link member (55) is fully aft. In this way, the side plates (71) act as stops preventing movement of the rear locking member (51) away from its fully extended position.
  • Movement of the rear locking member (51) from its extended position to its retracted position is achieved as follows.
  • the link member (55) is moved forward by the rear lock actuator (53).
  • An initial range of forward movement of the link member (55) moves the side plates (71) away from their location above the locking surfaces (79). This unlocks the rear locking member (51) allowing it to be moved to its retracted position.
  • a second range of forward movement of the link member (55) initially brings a forward edge (87) of the rear transverse member (69) into contact with a rear surface (89) of the control tab (75).
  • the coupler assembly (31) further includes a forward locking member (91).
  • the forward locking member (91) is movable relative to the body component (33) between an extended position, in which the forward locking member (91) prevents the first connecting pin from exiting the forward recess (37), and a retracted position, in which the forward locking member does not prevent the first connecting pin exiting the forward recess (37).
  • the coupler assembly (31) also includes a forward lock actuator (93) for moving the forward locking member (91) between its extended and retracted positions.
  • the coupler assembly (31) is used with a hydraulic control system (111) and an electrical control circuit (113) as shown in Figures 21 and 22 respectively.
  • the electrical control circuit (113) includes two manually controlled switches and a timer, and the hydraulic control system (111) includes solenoid operated control valves and sequence valves, to control the sequence of operation of the slide assembly actuator (43), the rear lock actuator (53) and the forward lock actuator (93), during any engagement and/or disengagement processes.
  • the design of the hydraulic control system (111) allows the coupler assembly (31) to be controlled using only two hydraulic lines.
  • the electrical control circuit (113) has a master switch (115) which is used to supply or disconnect electrical power to the control circuit.
  • a master switch (115) which is used to supply or disconnect electrical power to the control circuit.
  • an alarm (117) sounds and optionally a warning light operates also. This warns personal in the vicinity of the vehicle that the coupler (31) will be operated to release and/or engage implements from the arm of the vehicle.
  • a second switch (119) is a 'hold to run' style of switch, meaning that the contacts of the switch are only engaged while the operator continues to hold the switch down.
  • a second alarm (121) and warning light operates, and power is supplied to a first solenoid operated valve (123) of the hydraulic control system (111).
  • a timer (125) is also initiated, which in turn provides power to a second solenoid operated valve (127) via a timer relay (128), after a pre-determined time period, for example a time period in the range of three to eight seconds.
  • the first and second solenoid operated valves (123) and (127) of the hydraulic control system (111) are situated on the vehicle along with a pressure regulating valve (129) for regulating the hydraulic pressure to a set value and minimising pressure spikes.
  • the first solenoid operated valve (123) is used to initiate the disengage or engage signals to the coupler (31).
  • the second solenoid operated valve (127) controls the draining of hydraulic fluid from the forward lock actuator (93) after the pre-determined time delay period to allow a forward lock actuator spring (99) within the forward lock actuator (93) to move the forward locking member (91) backs to its extended position.
  • Two hydraulic lines, a supply line (131) and a return line (133), are used to power and control the coupler assembly (31).
  • the coupler assembly (31) itself includes a first sequence valve (135) which controls the sequencing of the three actuators and ensures that the rear lock actuator (53) and the forward lock actuator (93) operate to retract their respective locking members (51) and (91) prior to the retraction of the slide assembly actuator (43) to move the slide assembly (39) forward.
  • a first sequence valve (135) which controls the sequencing of the three actuators and ensures that the rear lock actuator (53) and the forward lock actuator (93) operate to retract their respective locking members (51) and (91) prior to the retraction of the slide assembly actuator (43) to move the slide assembly (39) forward.
  • a first pressure operated check valve (137) and a second pressure operated check valve (139) act as safety locks to lock the position of the slide assembly actuator (43) in case of a hydraulic failure.
  • the locked slide assembly actuator (43) holds the slide assembly (39) fixed preventing the pins of an implement from exiting the forward and aft recess (37) and (41) of the coupler (31).
  • a second sequence valve (141) controls the sequencing of the slide assembly actuator (43) and the rear lock actuator (53) to ensure that the rear lock actuator (43) moves the rear locking member (51) to its retracted position before the slide assembly actuator (43) begins to move the slide assembly (39) aft.
  • a third pressure operated check valve (143) isolates the rear lock actuator (53) from the forward lock actuator (93) when fluid is drained from the forward lock actuator (93) by the second solenoid operated valve (127) as described above.
  • the slide assembly actuator (43) is at least partly extended and is holding the slide assembly (39) in engagement with an aft connecting pin (95) of an implement.
  • the rear lock actuator (53) is extended under hydraulic pressure and the rear locking member (51) is in its extended position and is able to prevent the aft connecting pin (95) from exiting the aft recess (41).
  • the forward lock actuator is retracted under spring tension only and is holding the forward locking member (91) in its extended position and is able to prevent a forward connecting pin (97) from exiting the forward recess (37).
  • the master switch (115) is switched on. Then the second switch (119), the 'hold to run switch' is depressed.
  • the first solenoid operated valve (123) then operates to provide hydraulic pressure to the return line (133). Due to the configuration of the first sequence valve (135) the hydraulic pressure is initially directed to the rear lock actuator (53) and the forward lock actuator (93) to retract the rear and forward locking members (51) and (91) - refer to figure 16 .
  • the coupler assembly (31) is rotated, for example by using the crowd actuator of the excavator, to allow the coupler assembly (31) to be moved aft without re-engaging with the aft connecting pin (95) in the aft recess (41) - refer figure 18 .
  • Figure 20 shows the subsequent movement of the forward locking member (91) to its extended position after the time delay period.
  • the second solenoid operated valve (127) operates to vent the fluid from the forward lock actuator (93), allowing a spring (99) within the forward lock actuator (93) to retract the actuator and move the forward locking member (91) to its extended position.
  • the pressure operated check valves (137), (139) and (143) prevent any movement of fluid from the slide assembly actuator (43) and the rear lock actuator (53).
  • This automatic resetting of the forward locking member (91) to its extended position is a safety feature ensuring that the forward locking member (91) is ready to hold and secure the forward connecting pin (97) of the next implement in the forward recess (37) as soon as the pick up or engagement procedure begins.
  • the rear locking member (51) is retracted, and as noted above, the forward locking member (91) is extended and ready to hold and secure the forward connecting pin (97).
  • the coupler assembly (31) is manipulated, for example using the arm of the excavator, to engage the forward connecting pin (97) of the next implement within the forward recess (37).
  • the forward locking member (91) is configured so that it is pushed away from its extended position by the forward connecting pin (97) as it enters the forward recess (37) - refer to figure 12 .
  • the coupler assembly (31) is configured such that the spring (99) pushes the forward locking member (91) back to its extended position once the forward connecting pin (97) has passed fully into the forward recess (37) - refer to figure 13 .
  • a first locking feature is provided by the first and second pressure operated check valves (137) and (139) which hydraulically lock the slide assembly actuator (43) in the case of a hydraulic failure, for example a rupture of the supply or return lines (131) or (133).
  • a second locking feature is provided by the forward locking member (91) which holds the forward connecting pin (97) within the forward recess (37).
  • a third locking feature is provided by the rear locking member (51) which holds the aft connecting pin (95) within the aft recess (41).
  • the coupler assembly (31) employs the following method of disengaging a work attachment or implement from the coupler assembly (31); the forward lock actuator (93) is operated to move the forward locking member (91) from its extended position to its retracted position, the rear lock actuator (53) is operated to move the rear locking member (51) from its extended position to its retracted position, and when the rear locking member (51) is in its retracted position, the slide assembly actuator (43) is operated to move the slide assembly (39) out of engagement with a rear pin (95) of the work attachment, and when the forward locking member (91) is retracted and the rear pin (95) is no longer engaged within the slide assembly (39), the forward pin (97) of the work attachment is disengaged from the body (33).
  • the method of disengaging also includes an automatic operation of the forward lock actuator (93) to move the forward locking member (91) from the retracted position to the extended position a pre-determined time period after the operation of; the forward lock actuator (93), the rear lock actuator (53), or the slide assembly actuator (43), to disengage the coupler (31) from an implement.
  • coupler assembly (161) With reference to Figures 23 to 26 , a second example of a coupler assembly (161) will now be described.
  • the operation of the coupler assembly (161) is similar to that of the first example of a coupler assembly (31), and the only significant difference between the first and second examples is the configuration of a forward locking assembly (163).
  • a forward lock actuator (165) of the forward locking assembly (163) is pivotally connected at its aft end to a hydraulic manifold block (167) of the coupler assembly (161). In this way the forward lock actuator (165) is supported by the hydraulic manifold block (167).
  • the hydraulic manifold block (167) routes fluid for a slide actuator (169) and a rear lock actuator (171), and also routes hydraulic fluid directly to the forward lock actuator (165).
  • a pivot pin (173) connects an aft end of the forward lock actuator (165) to the hydraulic manifold block (167).
  • a first passage (175) within the hydraulic manifold block (167) communicates with a second passage (177) within the pivot pin (173).
  • the second passage (177) communicates with the hydraulic cylinder (179) of the forward lock actuator (165) via a third passageway (181) in an end fitting (183) of the forward lock actuator (165).
  • the forward lock actuator (165) is a single acting actuator with a spring return mechanism. For this reason the forward lock actuator (165) only requires a single hydraulic supply.
  • This configuration eliminates the need for an external hydraulic connection to the forward lock actuator (165), while at the same time allowing the forward lock actuator (165) to pivot as it moves the forward locking member (185). This allows a compact configuration of the forward locking assembly (163), and the configuration is expected to have a high reliability.
  • the slide assembly actuator, the rear lock actuator and the forward lock actuator are all hydraulic actuators.
  • alternative actuators could be used, for example electrically operated linear actuators.
  • At least the preferred form of the invention provides a coupler which provides a high level of safety.
  • the rear locking member locks the aft connecting pin positively within the aft recess and the arrangement of the rear lock actuator and its connection to the rear locking member provides a positive and robust lock of the rear locking member in its extended position.
  • the configuration of the locks is relatively simple and not excessively prone to interference from dirt or other foreign matter that may accumulate around the components.
  • the coupler assembly can be controlled using only two hydraulic lines which is advantageous as it eliminates the need for additional lines where two are already available.
  • each actuator includes a biasing means in the form of a spring which biases each actuator toward a fail-safe configuration, that is, a configuration which retains the pins of the implements within the coupler.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Shovels (AREA)
  • Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)
EP17175927.7A 2012-12-18 2013-12-11 Koppler Withdrawn EP3321427A1 (de)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NZ60485812 2012-12-18
EP13864674.0A EP2935704A4 (de) 2012-12-18 2013-12-11 Koppler

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP13864674.0A Division EP2935704A4 (de) 2012-12-18 2013-12-11 Koppler

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3321427A1 true EP3321427A1 (de) 2018-05-16

Family

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EP13864674.0A Withdrawn EP2935704A4 (de) 2012-12-18 2013-12-11 Koppler
EP17175927.7A Withdrawn EP3321427A1 (de) 2012-12-18 2013-12-11 Koppler

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EP13864674.0A Withdrawn EP2935704A4 (de) 2012-12-18 2013-12-11 Koppler

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (1) US20150330053A1 (de)
EP (2) EP2935704A4 (de)
KR (1) KR20150123787A (de)
CN (1) CN104937174A (de)
AU (1) AU2013364566A1 (de)
CA (1) CA2895410A1 (de)
WO (1) WO2014098616A1 (de)

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JP6176666B2 (ja) * 2014-04-08 2017-08-09 キャタピラー エス エー アール エル 作業機械におけるクイックカプラ用制御装置
AU2014203664B1 (en) * 2014-07-03 2014-10-23 Norm Engineering Pty Ltd A coupler for coupling attachments to excavation machines
US10400419B2 (en) 2015-06-04 2019-09-03 Gerome Rangi Hart Coupler
DE102015015809A1 (de) * 2015-12-07 2017-06-08 Liebherr-Hydraulikbagger Gmbh Ventileinheit für Schnellwechsler sowie Schnellwechselsystem
GB2548401B (en) * 2016-03-18 2018-06-06 Caterpillar Work Tools Bv Coupler for an implement assembly
DE202016004202U1 (de) * 2016-07-05 2017-10-06 Kinshofer Gmbh Schnellkuppler
AU2017330165B2 (en) * 2016-09-20 2023-01-05 Attach2 Limited Quick hitch coupler
JP2018091091A (ja) * 2016-12-06 2018-06-14 株式会社田口クリエイト アタッチメント着脱装置
WO2019026031A1 (en) * 2017-08-04 2019-02-07 Wedgelock Equipment Limited QUICK COUPLING
KR102105629B1 (ko) * 2018-05-28 2020-05-26 강토중공업 (주) 퀵 커플러
GB2576486B (en) * 2018-06-25 2023-05-10 Miller Uk Ltd Coupler
CN112292492B (zh) * 2018-06-27 2022-06-03 沃尔沃建筑设备公司 用于对运土设备中的工具的快速联接进行安全管理的方法和系统
EP3887605A4 (de) * 2018-11-30 2022-08-17 Hughes Asset Group Pty Ltd Koppler
EP3770330B1 (de) * 2019-07-25 2023-07-12 Rädlinger Maschinen- und Stahlbau GmbH Schnellwechsler
US11702816B2 (en) * 2020-01-30 2023-07-18 Wedgelock Equipment Limited Quick coupler
KR102213709B1 (ko) * 2020-10-12 2021-02-08 황규관 고정후크 잠금 기능이 구비된 퀵 커플러
KR102192172B1 (ko) * 2020-10-16 2020-12-16 유한회사 대한중공업 수동 가동후크 잠금 기능이 구비된 퀵 커플러
WO2022097388A1 (ja) 2020-11-04 2022-05-12 ミツミ電機株式会社 光学素子駆動装置、カメラモジュール、及びカメラ搭載装置
KR102642671B1 (ko) 2020-11-24 2024-02-29 미쓰미덴기가부시기가이샤 광학 소자 구동 장치, 카메라 모듈, 및 카메라 탑재 장치

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US20080193210A1 (en) * 2007-02-08 2008-08-14 Cws Industries (Mfg.) Corp. Pin grabber coupler
GB2474576A (en) * 2009-10-16 2011-04-20 Ian Hill Coupler with gravity operated safety valve
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GB2482515A (en) * 2010-08-04 2012-02-08 Miller Int Ltd Coupler blocking bar with catch mechanism

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2935704A4 (de) 2016-08-31
EP2935704A1 (de) 2015-10-28
WO2014098616A1 (en) 2014-06-26
US20150330053A1 (en) 2015-11-19
CN104937174A (zh) 2015-09-23
AU2013364566A1 (en) 2015-07-09
KR20150123787A (ko) 2015-11-04
CA2895410A1 (en) 2014-06-26

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