GB2522420A - Exchange system for implement of machine - Google Patents

Exchange system for implement of machine Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2522420A
GB2522420A GB1401071.4A GB201401071A GB2522420A GB 2522420 A GB2522420 A GB 2522420A GB 201401071 A GB201401071 A GB 201401071A GB 2522420 A GB2522420 A GB 2522420A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
arm
pins
openings
pin
grapple
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.)
Granted
Application number
GB1401071.4A
Other versions
GB201401071D0 (en
GB2522420B (en
Inventor
Frank Van Koningsbrugge
Rob Louwers
Joeri Faasen
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.)
Caterpillar Work Tools BV
Original Assignee
Caterpillar Work Tools BV
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 Caterpillar Work Tools BV filed Critical Caterpillar Work Tools BV
Priority to GB1401071.4A priority Critical patent/GB2522420B/en
Publication of GB201401071D0 publication Critical patent/GB201401071D0/en
Priority to PCT/EP2014/076592 priority patent/WO2015110209A1/en
Priority to CN201480072934.4A priority patent/CN105899734B/en
Priority to EP14811814.4A priority patent/EP3097237B1/en
Publication of GB2522420A publication Critical patent/GB2522420A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of GB2522420B publication Critical patent/GB2522420B/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02FDREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28Dredgers; 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
    • E02F3/36Component parts
    • E02F3/40Dippers; Buckets ; Grab devices, e.g. manufacturing processes for buckets, form, geometry or material of buckets
    • E02F3/413Dippers; Buckets ; Grab devices, e.g. manufacturing processes for buckets, form, geometry or material of buckets with grabbing device
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66CCRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
    • B66C3/00Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith and intended primarily for transmitting lifting forces to loose materials; Grabs
    • B66C3/02Bucket grabs
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66CCRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
    • B66C3/00Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith and intended primarily for transmitting lifting forces to loose materials; Grabs
    • B66C3/14Grabs opened or closed by driving motors thereon
    • B66C3/16Grabs opened or closed by driving motors thereon by fluid motors
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02FDREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28Dredgers; 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
    • E02F3/36Component parts
    • E02F3/3604Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
    • E02F3/3609Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02FDREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28Dredgers; 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
    • E02F3/36Component parts
    • E02F3/3604Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
    • E02F3/3609Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
    • E02F3/3622Devices 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
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02FDREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28Dredgers; 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
    • E02F3/36Component parts
    • E02F3/3604Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
    • E02F3/3609Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
    • E02F3/3636Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat using two or four movable transversal pins
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02FDREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28Dredgers; 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
    • E02F3/36Component parts
    • E02F3/3604Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
    • E02F3/3609Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
    • E02F3/3663Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat hydraulically-operated
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02FDREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28Dredgers; 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
    • E02F3/36Component parts
    • E02F3/40Dippers; Buckets ; Grab devices, e.g. manufacturing processes for buckets, form, geometry or material of buckets
    • E02F3/402Dippers; Buckets ; Grab devices, e.g. manufacturing processes for buckets, form, geometry or material of buckets with means for facilitating the loading thereof, e.g. conveyors
    • E02F3/404Dippers; Buckets ; Grab devices, e.g. manufacturing processes for buckets, form, geometry or material of buckets with means for facilitating the loading thereof, e.g. conveyors comprising two parts movable relative to each other, e.g. for gripping
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02FDREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
    • E02F3/00Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
    • E02F3/04Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
    • E02F3/28Dredgers; 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
    • E02F3/36Component parts
    • E02F3/40Dippers; Buckets ; Grab devices, e.g. manufacturing processes for buckets, form, geometry or material of buckets
    • E02F3/413Dippers; Buckets ; Grab devices, e.g. manufacturing processes for buckets, form, geometry or material of buckets with grabbing device
    • E02F3/4135Dippers; Buckets ; Grab devices, e.g. manufacturing processes for buckets, form, geometry or material of buckets with grabbing device with grabs mounted directly on a boom

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)
  • Load-Engaging Elements For Cranes (AREA)

Abstract

An exchange system for an implement such as a hydraulic clamshell grapple having moveable components (116, 118) with inner openings (302, 304) and outer openings (306, 308). The system (126) includes a frame (120), first and second arms (128, 130) having inner (202, 204) and outer ends (206, 208). First and second inner pins (214, 216) pivotally couple the arms (128, 130) to the frame (120) at the inner ends (202, 204). First and second hydraulic cylinders (122, 124) are disposed between the frame (120) and the first and the second arms (128, 130). The hydraulic cylinders (122, 124) pivot the arms (128, 130) about the pins (214, 216). Outer pins (230, 232) are disposed at the outer ends (206, 208) of the arms (128, 130). The inner pins (214, 216) include a protruded portion (218, 220) to be received within the inner openings (302, 304), which rotate to lock the inner pins (214, 216) within the inner openings (302, 304).

Description

EXCHANGE SYSTEM FOR IMPLEMENT OF MACHINE
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to an implement of a machine, arid more particularly to an exchange system for the implement.
Background
[0002] Due to various types of operational and terrain conditions, machines are required to use different types and sizes of implements, such as grapples.
Typically, such grapples include a number of moveable components, such as shells, tines, jaws etc. These grapples and the corresponding moveable components may need to be changed every time for different types of operations.
Generally, these grapples are attached to an implement system of the machine by using fastening elements. However, while assembling and/or exchanging the grapples, the fastening elements are fastened and unfastened manually, which is a cumbersome and a time consuming task. Moreover, grapples may be very heavy and fastening and unfastening of these grapples may be an unsafe task.
[0003] Also, the moveable components may tend to fall apart from each other while assembling and/or exchanging the grapples, which may not be desired as it can be hazardous to the operator of the machine and the surroundings of the machine.
Summary
[0004] In an aspect of the present disclosure, an exchange system for an implement having a plurality of moveable components with inner openings and outer openings is provided. The exchange system includes a frame and a first and second arm having an inner end and an outer end. First and second inner pins are provided to pivotally couple the first and the second arms to the frame at the inner ends. First and second hydraulic cylinders are disposed between the frame and the first and the second arm, The first and the second hydraulic cylinders are configured to pivot the first and the second arm about the first and the second inner pins. A first and second outer pin is disposed at the outer ends of the first and the second aims. Each of the first and the second inner pins include a protruded portion to be received within the inner openings of the moveable components, such that rotation of the first and the second inner pins locks the first and the second inner pins within the inner openings of the moveable components.
100051 In another aspect of the present disclosure, a grapple assembly is provided. The grapple assembly includes a plurality of grapple shells having inner openings and outer openings. The grapple assembly includes an exchange system for the grapple assembly. The exchange system includes a frame and a first and second arm having an inner end and an outer end. First and second inner pins are provided to pivotally couple the first and the second arms to the frame at the inner ends. First and second hydraulic cylinders are disposed between the frame and the first and the second arm. The first and the second hydraulic cylinders are configured to pivot the first and the second arm about the first and the second inner pins. A first and second outer pin is disposed at the outer ends of the first and the second arms. Each of the first and the second inner pins include a protruded portion to be received within the inner openings of the grapple shells, such that a rotation of the first and the second inner pins locks the first and the second inner pins within the inner openings of the grapple shells.
10006] In a yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a machine is provided. The machine includes an implement having a plurality of moveable components with inner openings and outer openings and a power source for supplying power to the implement. Further, the machine includes an exchange system for the implement. The exchange system includes a frame and a first and second arm having an inner end and an outer end, First and second inner pins are provided to pivotally couple the first and the second anns to the frame at the inner ends. First and second hydraulic cylinders are disposed between the frame and the first and the second arm, The first and the second hydraulic cylinders are configured to pivot the first and the second arm about the first and the second inner pins. A first and second outer pin is disposed at the outer ends of the first and the second arms, Each of the first and the second inner pins include a protruded portion to be received within the inner openings of the moveable components, such that rotation of the first and the second inner pins locks the first and the second inner pins within the inner openings of the moveable components [0007] Other features and aspects of this disclosure will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.
Brief Description of the Drawinits
[0008] FIG. I illustrates an exemplaw machine having a grapple assembly with an exchange system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; [0009] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a first and a second arm of the grapple assembly of FIG. 1; [00101 FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a first and a second grapple shell of the grapple assembly of FIG. 1; [0011] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate perspective view of the first and the second grapple shells having a positioning system, according to an embodiment of the
present disclosure; and
[0012] FIGS. 6 to 8 illustrate perspective views of various positions of the grapple assembly with the exchange system of FIG. I
Detailed Description
[0013] The present disclosure relates to an exchange system for a grapple of a machine. The present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference being made to accompanying figures. FIG. I illustrates an exemplary machine 100, such as a hydraulic excavator. In other embodiments, the machine 100 may be a backhoe loader, a digger, a knuclde boom loader, a harvester, etc. The machine 100 may include an implement system 102 configured to move or position an imp'ement 104. The implement 104 may be attached to a stick member 106 of the implement system 102. As shown in FIG. 1, the machine 100 may further include a frame 108, a drive system 110 for propelling the machine 100, a power source 112 that provides power to the implement 104 and the drive system 110, and an operator station 114 to control the implement 104 and the drive systems 110. The operator station 114 includes one or more operator input devices configured to receive and/or transmit various inputs indicative of an operator desired movement of the implement 104 and/or the machine 100.
[0014] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the implement 104 may be embodied as a clamshell grapple assembly, hereinafter referred to as the grapple assembly 104. In various alternative embodiments, the implement 104 may be two hydraulic cylinder operated crusher, shear, or any other demolition tool. It may be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art, the machine 100 may include additional implements mounted on the machine 100 for various other purposes. The grapple assembly 104 may include a number of moveable components, such as a first moveable component 116 and a second moveable component 118 pivotally attached to a frame 120 of the grapple assembly 104. In an exemplary embodiment, the first and the second moveable components 116, 118 of the grapple assembly 104 may be grapple shells, hereinafter interchangeably referred to as grapple shells 116, 118. The grapple assembly 104 may be operated by pivoting the grapple shells 116, 118 using a first hydraulic cylinder 122 and a second hydraulic cylinder U4, respectively.
[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, an exchange system 126 for the grapple assembly 104 is provided. The exchange system 126 is configured to facilitate quick changing of the grapple shells 116, 118 as per operation specific requirements. For example, different sizes of the grapple shells 116, 118 may be chosen for different sort of operations and operating conditions. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the exchange system 126 includes the frame 120, a first arm 128 and a second arm 130, and the first and the second hydraulic cylinders 122, 124. The first and the second hydraulic cylinders 122, 124 are disposed between the frame 120 and the respective first and the second arms 128, 130. Further, the first and the second arms 128, 130 are configured to pivotally couple the frame 120 to the grapple assembly 104.
[0016] FIG, 2 illustrates a perspective view of the first arm 128 and the second arms 130 of the exchange system 126. Each of the first arm 128 and the second arm 130 has an inner end 202, 204 and an outer end 206, 208 respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, the inner ends 202, 204 include a first opening 210 and a second opening 212 configured to receive a first inner pin 214 and a second inner pin 216 respectively. The first and the second inner pins 214, 216 are configured to pivotally couple the first arm 128 and the second arm 130 at the inner ends 202, 204 respectively. For example, the first and the second inner pins 214, 216 may be identical elongated fastener pins. Each of the first and the second inner pins 214, 216 include a protruded portion 218, 220 disposed on the opposite sides of the first and the second inner pins 214, 216 respectively. In an embodiment, each of the protruded portions 218, 220 include a pair of chord cut out portions 222, 224 respectively. As shown in FiG, 2, each chord cut out portion of the pair of chord cut out portions 222, 224 may be disposed on opposite sides of the protruded portions 218, 220.
100171 Further, each of the first ann 128 and the second arm 130 includes a third opening 226 and a fourth opening 228 disposed at the outer ends 206, 208 respectively. The third opening 226 and the fourth opening 228 are configured to receive a first outer pin 230 and a second outer pin 232 respectively. The first and the second outer pins 230, 232 may be identical elongated fastener pins. In an embodiment, each of the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 include a second protruded portion 234, 236 having a second pair of chord cut out portions 238, 240. Similar to the protruded portions 218, 220, the second protruded portions 234, 236 are disposed on the opposite sides of the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 respectively. In an alternative embodiment, the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 may be elongated fastener pins without any protruded portion.
100181 Furthermore, each of the first and the second arms 128, 130 may include a disc 242, 244 disposed at the outer ends 206, 208 respectively. In an embodiment, each of the discs 242, 244 may include a second opening 246 (only one shown) configured to receive the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 respectively. It may be contemplated that the second opening 246 is aligned adjacent to the third and the fourth openings 226, 228 respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, the shape of the second opening 246 may be similar to the outer shape of the second protruded portions 234, 236 having the second pair of chord cut out portions 238, 240, such that the second protruded portions 234, 236 align to engage within the opening 246.
[0019] In an embodiment, each of the first arm 128 and the second arm 130 may include a first upper pin 248 and a second upper pin 250 respectively, and disposed between the inner ends 202, 204 and an outer ends 206, 208. The first and the second upper pins 248, 250 are configured to pivotally support the first hydraulic cylinder 122 and the second hydraulic cylinder 124 respectively. In an alternative embodiment, the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 may be configured to pivotally support the first and the second hydraulic cylinders 122, 124 respectively. The first and the second hydraulic cylinders 122, 124 are configured to pivot the first arm 128 and the second arm 130 about the inner ends 202, 204 respectively.
[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the first and the second grapple shells 116, 118 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the first and the second grapple shells 116, 118 include first pair of inner openings 302 and a second pair of inner openings 304 respectively. The first and the second pair of inner openings 302, 304 are configured to receive the first and the second inner pins 214, 216 respectively. In an embodiment, the first and the second inner pins 214, 216 are received at the protruded portions 218, 220 into the first and the second pair of inner openings 302, 304, such that upon rotation the chord cutout portions 222, 224 lock the first and the second inner pins 214, 216 within the first and the second pair of inner openings 302, 304. For example, when the pins 214, 216 are inserted into the pair of inner openings 302, 304, the chord cutout portions 222, 224 are in vertical position. Further, when the pins 214, 216 are inserted and rotated, the chord cutout portions 222, 224 turn into substantially horizontal orientation, thereby locking the pins 214, 216 within the pair of inner openings 302, 304. In an exemplary embodiment, the first and the second inner pins 214, 216 are rotated automatically by the hydraulic cylinders 122, 124 respectively.
[002t] In an embodiment, the first and the second grapple shells 116, 118 further include a first pair of outer openings 306 and a second pair of outer openings 308. The first and the second pair of outer openings 306, 308 are configured to receive the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 respectively, In an embodiment, the second protruded portions 234, 236, with the chord cutout portions 238 and 240, lock the outer pins 230, 232 within the first and the second pair of outer openings 306, 308 in a similar manner as explained previously with reference to the first and the second inner pins 24, 216. In an exemplary embodiment, the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 are rotated manually to lock them within the first and the second pair of outer openings 306, 308 respectively.
[0022] However, in an alternative embodiment, each of the first and the second pair of outer openings 306, 308 may include a first end and a second end (not shown). The second end rotates when the outer pins 230, 232 engages within the first and the second pair of outer openings 306, 308 and flips over the outer pins 230, 232 to lock the outer pins 230, 232 within the second pair of outer openings 306, 308 respectively.
[0023] Furthermore, the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 are fastened within the first and the second pair of outer openings 306, 308 by a fastener 252, such as a bolt (as shown in FIG. 2). In an exemplary embodiment, the disc 242 may include a pair of semi-circular notches 247, 249 disposed 90 degrees apart from each other on an outer diameter of the disc 242. The fastener 252 is engaged with either one of the notches 247, 249 to selectively lock and unlock the outer pins 230, 232 within the first and second pair of outer openings 306, 308. For example, to lock the outer pins 230, 232 within the first and second pair of outer openings 306, 308, the disc 242 is fastened by securing the fastener 252 to the first notch 247. However, for unlocking the outer pins 230, 232, the disc 242 along with the outer pins 230, 232 are rotated, such that the disc 242 is fastened by securing the fastener 252 to the second notch 249. Also, the outer pins 230, 232 are rotated to be in vertical position, thereby unlocking the outer pins 230, 232 from the first and the second pair of outer openings 306, 308.
Furthermore, the outer pins 230, 232 are removed from the first and the second pair of outer openings 306, 308 without detaching from the first and the second arms 128, 130 respectively.
[0024] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate a perspective view of the first and the second grapple shells 116, 118 having a positioning system 400. The positioning system 400 is configured to position the first arid the second grapple shells 116, 118 during the exchange process. For example, the positioning system 400 is configured to secure the first and the second grapple shells 116, 118 against an axial movement during the grapple exchange process.
[0025] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the positioning system 400 may include a first element 402 attached to the first grapple shell 116 and a second element 404 attached to the second grapple shell 118. The first element 402 is configured to engage with the second element 404 to secure the first and the second grapple shells 116, 118. For example, when the grapple shells 116, 118 are not being used, such as in a closed position, then the first and the second elements 402, 404 may engage with each other thereby restrict a further axial and/or transverse movement of the grapple shells 116, 118. Whereas, when the grapple shells 116, 118 move opposite to each other, for an open position, the first element 402 and the second element 404 may disengage to thereby allow the movement of the grapple shells 116, 118. It may be contemplated that only one positioning system 400 with the first and the second elements 402, 402 is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, however, the positioning system 400 may also be positioned on the back side (not shown) of the grapple assembly 104.
[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the first element 402 includes a protmded portion 406. The second element 404 includes an opening 408 configured to receive the protruded portion 406 of the first element 402 to secure the first and the second grapple shell 116, 118 during the exchange process (as shown in FIG. 5), In an exemplary embodiment, the protruded portion 406 is circular in shape and the opening 408 is a partial arcuate opening.
[0027] In an alternative embodiment, the first element 402 and the second element 404 may include flanged portions that may engage with each other. In this example, the flanged portions when engaged with each other may restrict the axial movement of the grapple shells 116, 118 thereby securing the two during the exchange process and during transportation or storage of the grapple shells.
In a yet alternative embodiment, the flanged portions of the first and the second elements 402, 402 may snap fit into each other, thereby securing the grapple shells 116, 118 during the exchange process and during transportation or storage of the grapple shells.
Industrial Applicability
[0028] The industrial applicability of the exchange system 126 and the positioning system 300 of the grapple assembly 104 will be readily understood from the foregoing discussion.
100291 As explained previously, exchanging of the grapples may be a cumbersome task when done manually. Therefore, the present disclosure relates to the exchange system 126 and the positioning system 400 for the grapple assembly 04, In an embodiment, the exchange system 126 facilitates quick exchanging of the grapple assembly 104, and/or the shells 116, 118 involving minimum human intervention. Therefore, the exchange system 126 provides a convenient, safe, cost efficient, and error free system for changing the grapple assembly 104 and/or the shells 116, 118 as per the requirements.
[0030] Further, the positioning system 400 facilitates securing of the grapple shells 116, 118 against the axial and/or transverse movement during the exchange process. For example as the grapple shells 116, 118 are heavy they tend to fall in the axial direction by virtue of their design and weight. The positioning system 400 therefore, secures the grapple shells 116, 8 thereby preventing falling of the grapple shells 116, 118.
[0031] FIGS 6 to 8 illustrate perspective views of the grapple assembly 104 having the exchange system 126 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6, the frame 120 along with the first and the second arms 128, 130 are placed above the grapple shells 116, 118 respectively. The grapple shells 116, 118 may be supported by fixed stand 600 and the first element 402 and the second element 404 are engaged to avoid any axial movement between the grapple shells 116, 118. The first and the second inner pins 214, 216 are aligned above the first and the second pairs of inner openings 302, 304. As shown in the figure, the first and the second hydraulic cylinders 122, 124 are pivotally supported on the first and the second upper pins 248, 250 respectively.
Furthermore, the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 are received within the third and the fourth openings 226, 228 respectively.
100321 As shown in FIG. 7, the frame 120 along with the first and the second arms i28, 130 is lowered towards the grapple shells 116, 118. In an embodiment, the first and the second inner pins 214, 26 are received within the first and the second pair of inner openings 302, 304 respectively. For example, the chord cutout portions 222, 224 are aligned vertically with respect to the first arid the second pair of inner openings 302, 304 respectively.
[0033] Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the frame 120 is coupled to the grapple shells 116, 118. In an exemplary embodiment, the first and the second hydraulic cylinders 122, 24 extend to position the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 within the first and the second pairs of outer openings 306, 308 respectively. As shown in FIG. 8, the first and the second inner pins 214, 216 rotate to align the chord cut out portions 222, 224 horizontally with respect to the first and the second pairs of inner openings 302, 304, thereby locking the first and the second inner pins 214, 216 within the first and the second pairs of inner openings 302, 304 respectively.
[00341 Furthermore, the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 also rotate and lock within the first and the second pairs of outer openings 306, 308 in a similar manner as described above with respect to the first and the second inner pins TN, 216. Tn an exemplary embodiment, the fasteners 252 may be used to fasten and unfasten the first and the second outer pins 230, 232 within the first and the second pair of outer openings 306, 308.
[0035] While aspects of the present disclosure have been particularly shown and described with reference to the embodiments above, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various additional embodiments may be contemplated by the modification of the disclosed machines, systems and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of what is disclosed. Such embodiments should be understood to fall within the scope of the present disclosure as detennined based upon the claims and any equivalents thereof

Claims (20)

  1. --I I--Claims What is claimed is: 1 An exchange system for an implement having a plurality of moveable components with inner openings and outer openings, the exchange system comprising: a frame; a first arm and a second arm, each of the first arm and the second ann having an inner end and an outer end; a first inner pin and a second inner pin to pivotally couple the first arm and the second arm to the frame at the inner ends respectively; a first hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and the first ann and configured to pivot the first arm about the first inner pin; a second hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and the second arm and configured to pivot the second arm about the first inner pin; and a first outer pin and a second outer pin disposed at the outer ends of the first and the second arms respectively; wherein each of the first and the second inner pins include a protmded portion configured to be received within the inner openings of the moveable components, such that a rotation of the first and the second inner pins locks the first and the second inner pins within the inner openings of the moveable components; and wherein each of the first and the second outer pins are configured to be received within the outer openings of the moveable components.
  2. 2. The exchange system of claim further includes a first upper pin and a second upper pin disposed between the inner ends and the outer ends of the first arm and the second respectively.
  3. 3. The exchange system of claim 2, wherein the first and the second upper pins are configured to pivotally support the first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder.
  4. 4, The exchange system of claim I, wherein the protruded portion includes a chord cut out portion.
  5. 5. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein each of the outer openings include a first end and a second end, such that a rotation of the second end when the outer pin engages with the first end of the outer openings locks the outer pins within the outer openings of the moveable components.
  6. 6. The exchange system of claim, wherein each of the first and the second outer pins include a second protruded portion configured to be received within the outer openings of the moveable components, such that a rotation of the first and the second outer pins locks the first and the second outer pins within the outer pins of the moveable components.
  7. 7. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein each of the outer ends of the first and the second arms include an opening configured to receive the first and the second outer pins respectively.
  8. 8. The exchange system of claim 7, wherein the outer ends of the first and the second arms include a disc having a second opening disposed adjacent to the opening.
  9. 9. The exchange system of claim 8, wherein the first and the second outer pins are configured to be received into the second opening of the disc at the outer ends of the first and the second arms respectively.
  10. 10. The exchange system of claim I, wherein the implement is a clamshell grapple.
  11. 11. A grapple assembly comprising: a plurality of grapple shells having inner openings and outer openings; an exchange system for the grapple assembly, the exchange system including: a frame; a first arm and a second arm, each of the first arm and the second arm having an inner end and an outer end; a first inner pin and a second inner pin to pivotally couple the first arm and the second arm to the frame at the inner ends respectively; a first hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and the first arm and configured to pivot the first arm about the first inner pin; a second hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and the second arm and configured to pivot the second arm about the first inner pin; and a first outer pin and a second outer pin disposed at the outer ends of the first and the second arms respectively; wherein each of the first and the second inner pins include a protruded portion configured to be received within the inner openings of the grapple shells, such that a rotation of the first and the second inner pins locks the first and the second inner pins within the inner openings of the grapple shells; and wherein each of the first arid the second outer pins are configured to be received within the outer openings of the grapple shells.
  12. I 2. The grapple assembly of claim II, wherein the exchange system further includes a first upper pin and a second upper pin disposed between the inner ends and the outer ends of the first arm and the second respectively.
  13. 13. The grapple assembly of claim 12, wherein the first and the second upper pins are configured to pivotally support the first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder.
  14. 14. The grapple assembly of claim I I, wherein each of the outer openings include a first end and a second end, such that a rotation of the second end when the outer pin engage with the first end of the outer openings locks the outer pins within the outer openings of the grapple shells.
  15. 15. The grapple assembly of claim 11, wherein each of the first and the second outer pins include a second protruded portion configured to be received within the outer openings of the grapple shells, such that a rotation of the first and the second outer pins locks the first and the second outer pins within the outer pins of the grapple shells.
  16. 16. The grapple assembly of claim 11, wherein each of the outer ends of the first and the second arms include an opening configured to receive the first and the second outer pins respectively.
  17. 17. The grapple assembly of claim 16, wherein the outer ends of the first and the second arms include a disc having a second opening disposed adjacent to the opening.
  18. 18. The grapple assembly of claim 17, wherein the first and the second outer pins are configured to be received into the second opening of the disc at the outer ends of the first and the second arms respectively.
  19. 19. The grapple assembly of claim 10, wherein the grapple assembly is a clamshell grapple.
  20. 20. A work machine comprising: A work tool implement having a plurality ol moveable components with inner openings and outer openings; a power source configured to supply powcr to the implement; and an exchange system for the implement. the exchange system comprising: a frame; a first arm and a second arm, each of the first arm and the second arm having an inner end and an outer end; a first inner pin and a second inner pin to pivotally couple the first arm aud the second arm to the frame at the inner ends respectively; a first hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and (he first arm and configured to pivot the first arm about the first r inner pin; a second hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame 0 and the second arm and configured to pivot the second arm about the first inner pin; and a first outer pin and a second outer pin disposed at the outer ends of the first and the second aims respectively; wherein each of the first and the second inner pins include a protruded portion configured to he received within the inner openings of the moveable components, each protruded portion comprising a pair of chord cut out portions such that a rotation of (lie Iirst and the second inner pins locks the first and (lie second inner pins within the inner openings of the moveahie components: and wherein each of the first and the second outer pins are configured to be received within the outer openings of the movcable components. (4 r aD
    20, A machine comprising: an implement having a plurality of moveable components with inner openings and outer openings; a power source configured to supply power to the implement; and an exchange system for the implement, the exchange system comprising: a frame; a first arm and a second arm, each of the first arm and the second arm having an inner end and an outer end; a first inner pin and a second inner pin to pivotally couple the first arm and the second arm to the frame at the inner ends respectively; a first hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and the first arm and configured to pivot the first arm about the first inner pin; a second hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and the second arm and configured to pivot the second arm about the first inner pin; and a first outer pin and a second outer pin disposed at the outer ends of the first and the second arms respectively; wherein each of the first and the second inner pins include a protruded portion configured to be received within the inner openings of the moveable components, such that a rotation of the first and the second inner pins locks the first and the second inner pins within the inner openings of the moveable components; and wherein each of the first and the second outer pins are configured to be received within the outer openings of the moveable components.Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows Claims What is claimed is: 1. An exchange system for a work tool implement having a plurality of moveable components with inner openings and outer openings, the exchange system comprising: a frame; a first arm and a second arm, cach of the first arm and the second aim having an inner end and an outer end; a first inner pin and a second inner pin to pivotally couple the first arm and the second arm to the frame at the inner ends respectively; a first hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and the first aim and configured to pivot the first arm about the first inner pin; a second hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and the second arm and configured to pivot the second arm about the first inner pin; and a first outer pin and a second outer pin disposed at the outer ends of the first and the second arms respectively; wherein each of the first and the second inner pins include a o protruded portion configured to be received within the inner openings of the moveable components. each protruded portion comprising a pair of chord cut out portions such that a rotation of the first and the second inner pins locks the first and the second inner pins within the inner openings of the movcahlc components; and wherein each of the first and the second outer pins are configured to be received within the outer openings of the moveable components.2. The exchange system of claim 1 further includes a first upper pin and a second upper pin disposed between the inner ends and the outer ends of the first arm and the second respectively.3. The exchange system of daim 2, wherein the first and the second upper pins are configured to pivotally support the first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder.4. The exchange system of daim I, wherein the protruded portion includes a chord cut out portion.5. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein each of the outer openings include a first end and a rotatahie second end, wherein a rotation of the second end when the outer pin engages with the first end of the outer openings locks the outer pins within the outer openings of the moveablc components.6. The exchange system of claim 1. wherein each of the first and the second outer pins include a second protruded portion configured to be received within the outer openings of the moveable components, the second protruded portion comprising a pair of chord cut out portions such that a rotation of the first and the second outer pins locks the first and the second outer pins within the outer pins of r the moveable components. Co0 7. The exchange system of claim 1. wherein each of the outer ends of the first and the second arms include an opening configured to receive the first and the second outer pins respectively.8. The exchange system of claim 7, wherein the outer ends of the first and the second arms indude a disc having a second opening disposed adjacent to the opening.9. The exchange system of daim 8, wherein the first and the second outer pins are configured to he received into the second opening of the disc at the outer ends of the first and the second anus respectively.10. The exchange system of claim 1, wherein the implement is a clanishefi grapple.11. A grapple assembly comprising: a p'urality of grapple shells having inner openings and outer openings; an exchange system for the grapple assembly, the exchange system including: a frame; a first arm and a second arm, each of the first arm and the second arm having an inner end and an outer end; a first inner pin and a second inner pin to pivotally couple the first arm and the second arm to the frame at the inner ends respectively; a first hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and the first arm and configured to pivot the first arm about the first inner pin: r a second hydraulic cylinder disposed between the frame and the second arm and configured to pivot the second aim about 0 the first inner pin; and a first outer pin and a second outer pin disposed at the outer ends of the first and the second aims respectively; wherein each of the first and the second inner pins include a protruded portion configured to be received within the inner openings of the grapple shells, each protruded portion comprising a pair of chord cut out portions such that a rotation of the first and the second inner pins locks the first and the second inner pins within the inner openings of the grapple shells; and wherein each of the first and the second outer pins are configured to be received within the outer openings of the grapple shells.12. The grapple assemhly of claim 11, wherein the exchange system further includes a first upper pin and a second upper pin disposed between the inner ends and the outer ends of the first arm and the second respectively.13. The grapp'e assemily of claim 12, wherein the first and the second upper pins arc configurcd to pivotally support thc first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder.14. The grapple assembly of claim II, wherein each of the outer openings include a first end and a rotatable second end, wherein a rotation of the second end when the outer pin engage with the first end of the outer openings locks the outer pins within the outer openings of the grapple shells.15. The grapple assembly of claim 11, wherein each of the first and the second outer pins include a second protruded portion configured to be received within the outer openings of the grapple shells, the second protruded portion comprising a pair of chord cut out portions such that a rotation of the first and the r second outer pins locks the first and the second outer pins within the outer pins of the grapple shells.16. The grapple assemffly of claim 11, wherein each of the outer ends of the first and the second aims include an opening configured to receive the first and the second outer pins respectively.17. The grapp'e assemily of claim 16, wherein the outer ends of the first and the second arms include a disc having a second opening disposed adjacent to the opening.18. The grapple assembly of claim 17, wherein the first and the second outer pins are configured to be received into the second opening of the disc at the outer ends of the first and the second arms respectively.19. The grapple assembly of claim 10, wherein the grapple assembly is a clamshell grapple.
GB1401071.4A 2014-01-22 2014-01-22 Exchange system for implement of machine Active GB2522420B (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1401071.4A GB2522420B (en) 2014-01-22 2014-01-22 Exchange system for implement of machine
PCT/EP2014/076592 WO2015110209A1 (en) 2014-01-22 2014-12-04 Exchange system for implement of machine
CN201480072934.4A CN105899734B (en) 2014-01-22 2014-12-04 The replacement system of instrument for machinery
EP14811814.4A EP3097237B1 (en) 2014-01-22 2014-12-04 Work tool with exchange system

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1401071.4A GB2522420B (en) 2014-01-22 2014-01-22 Exchange system for implement of machine

Publications (3)

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GB201401071D0 GB201401071D0 (en) 2014-03-05
GB2522420A true GB2522420A (en) 2015-07-29
GB2522420B GB2522420B (en) 2018-09-05

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EP (1) EP3097237B1 (en)
CN (1) CN105899734B (en)
GB (1) GB2522420B (en)
WO (1) WO2015110209A1 (en)

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US10190283B2 (en) 2015-11-24 2019-01-29 Caterpillar Work Tools B.V. Apparatus and method for coupling a work tool to an arm assembly of a machine

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Publication number Publication date
CN105899734B (en) 2018-11-06
WO2015110209A1 (en) 2015-07-30
GB201401071D0 (en) 2014-03-05
EP3097237B1 (en) 2019-11-13
GB2522420B (en) 2018-09-05
EP3097237A1 (en) 2016-11-30
CN105899734A (en) 2016-08-24

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