Classifications

• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
  • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
  • F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
  • F16L37/28—Couplings of the quick-acting type with fluid cut-off means
  • F16L37/30—Couplings of the quick-acting type with fluid cut-off means with fluid cut-off means in each of two pipe-end fittings
  • F16L37/32—Couplings of the quick-acting type with fluid cut-off means with fluid cut-off means in each of two pipe-end fittings at least one of two lift valves being opened automatically when the coupling is applied
  • F16L37/36—Couplings of the quick-acting type with fluid cut-off means with fluid cut-off means in each of two pipe-end fittings at least one of two lift valves being opened automatically when the coupling is applied with two lift valves being actuated to initiate the flow through the coupling after the two coupling parts are locked against withdrawal
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
  • A01M—CATCHING, TRAPPING OR SCARING OF ANIMALS; APPARATUS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF NOXIOUS ANIMALS OR NOXIOUS PLANTS
  • A01M7/00—Special adaptations or arrangements of liquid-spraying apparatus for purposes covered by this subclass
  • A01M7/0082—Undercarriages, frames, mountings, couplings, tanks

Definitions

• the present invention relates generally to a connector assembly to transfer materials. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention concern a material application system including an applicator and supply station that provide a connector assembly to transfer liquid between the applicator and. supply station.
• Releasable fluid connectors have long been used for transferring large volumes of liquid chemicals, such as fertilizer or fuel.
• Some conventional fluid coupler assemblies are designed to transfer hazardous liquid and can be selectively coupled or decoupled while restricting liquid from leaking from the connection.
• Agricultural applicators are known in the art for applying liquid onto a crop field.
• Such applicators carry a liquid container with a limited amount of liquid, and the container is typically replenished from a supply station.
• a conventional applicator supply station includes a supply line and a storage container that feeds the supply line. The applicator container is refilled by manually positioning the supply line into fluid communication with the applicator container and pumping liquid from the storage container.
• Embodiments of the present invention provide a material application system and fluid connector assembly that do not suffer from the problems and limitations of the prior art application systems and connectors set forth above.
• a first aspect of the present invention concerns an agricultural liquid material application system that broadly includes a mobile agricultural applicator and a fluid-transferring connection assembly.
• the mobile agricultural applicator includes a chassis and a liquid material applicator tank supported on the chassis.
• the fluid-transferring connection assembly is operable to selectively define a fluid passage mat intercommunicates the applicator tank and a liquid material source when the connection assembly is in a fluid transfer configuration.
• the fluid- transferring connection assembly includes a pair of complemental fluid connectors, a first one of which is configured for association with the liquid material source and a second one of which is associated with the applicator.
• the fluid connectors are moveable into and out of sealing engagement to restrict fluid from leaking out of the connection assembly when in the fluid transfer configuration.
• connection assembly includes at least one shif ablc valve yicldably biased into a closed position in which flow through the fluid passage is prevented.
• the valve is operably coupled to 8 corresponding one of the fluid connectors so as to be automatically shifted out of the closed position when the connectors are in sealing engagement with one another and the connection assembly is in the fluid transfer configuration.
• a second aspect of the present invention concerns a mobile agricultural applicator for use with a material supply station including a liquid material storage tank and a station fluid connector fluidly coupled to the storage tank.
• the mobile agricultural applicator broadly includes a chassis, a liquid material applicator tank supported on the chassis, an applicator fluid connector, and an applicator valve.
• the applicator fluid connector is fluidly coupled to the applicator tank and is configured to sealingly engage the station fluid connector and thereby define a fluid passage between the tanks.
• the applicator fluid connector is moveable relative to the station fluid connector as the applicator is moved relative to the supply station.
• the applicator valve is yicldably biased into a closed position in which flow through the fluid passage is prevented.
• the valve is operably coupled to the applicator fluid connector so as to be automatically shifted out of the closed position when the connectors are in sealing engagement with one another and the applicator fluid connector is moved toward the station.
• a third aspect of the present invention concerns a fluid-transferring connection assembly for fluid transfer between liquid material tanks of a mobile agricultural applicator and a liquid material supply station, with the connection assembly operable to selectively intercommunicate the tanks when the assembly is in a fluid transfer configuration.
• the fluid- transferring connection assembly broadly includes a pair of complemental fluid connectors and a drive.
• the pair of complemental fluid connectors is operable to selectively define a fluid passage that fluidly communicates the tanks in the fluid transfer configuration, a first one of which is configured for association with the liquid material supply station and a second one of which is configured for association with the applicator.
• the fluid connectors axe moveable into and out of sealing engagement to restrict fluid from leaking out of the connection assembly when in the fluid transfer configuration.
• the connection assembly includes at least one shiftable valve yieldably biased into a closed position in which flow through the fluid passage is prevented.
• the drive interconnects a corresponding one of the fluid connectors and the valve.
• the corresponding one of the fluid connectors is shiftable into and out of a Valve-closing position, with the fluid connectors being in sealing engagement and relatively fixed to one another when the corresponding one of the fluid connectors is out of the valve-closing position.
• the drive automatically shifts the valve into and out of the closed position in response to shifting movement of the corresponding one of the fluid connectors into and out of the valve- closing position.
• FIG. 1 is a rear perspective of a liquid material application system constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention and including a dirigible agricultural applicator and a mobile liquid supply station;
• FIG. 2 is a fragmentary front perspective of the application system depicted b
• FIG. 1 showing a telescopic probe assembly and male fluid connector assembly of the applicator and a female fluid connector assembly and connector support assembly of the supply station, with the connector assemblies and support assembly cooperatively providing a fluid- transferring connection assembly, and showing the connection assembly shifted into a fluid transfer configuration where the connectors are sealingly engaged and permit fluid flow between the applicator and supply station;
• FIG. 3 is a fragmentary side elevation of the application system depicted in
• FIGS. 1 and 2 showing the connection assembly in the fluid transfer configuration
• FIG. 4 is a cross section taken along line 4-4 in FIG. 3, showing a frame and frame mount of the support assembly removably and adjustably bolted to each other at a pivot joint, with the frame being in a normal upright position and the pivot joint permitting limited pivotal movement of the frame relative to the frame mount about an upright axis and a lateral axis;
• FIG. 5 is a fragmentary side elevation of the application system depicted in
• FIGS. 1-4 showing the frame pivoted relative to the frame mount from the normal upright position about the lateral axis
• FIG. 6 is a fragmentary rear perspective of the application system depicted in
• FIGS. 1-5 showing the station connector, valve assembly, and pinion of the female fluid connector assembly, with an outer sleeve of the station connector supported by the frame and shifted into a locked position, the pinion mounted on a shaft of the valve assembly and intenneshing with a rack of the frame, and a cam of the valve assembly mounted on the shaft to shift the outer sleeve into the locked position, and showing the telescopic probe assembly in an extended position and the connection assembly in the fluid transfer configuration;
• FIG. 7 is a fragmentary front perspective of the application system depicted in
• FIGS. 1-6 showing the connection assembly in the fluid transfer configuration, with the frame of the support assembly including springs and brackets that position the outer sleeve of the station connector and urge the female connector assembly to return to a valve-closing position;
• FIG.8 is a fragmentary rear perspective of the application system similar to FIG. 6, but showing the connection assembly in a disengaged configuration associated with the female connector assembly in the valve-closing position, further showing the telescopic probe assembly in a retracted position, and also showing a poppet valve of the valve assembly in a closed position and the outer sleeve in an unlocked position;
• FIG. 9 is a fragmentary front perspective of the application system similar to
• FIG. 7 but showing the connection assembly in the disengaged configuration, with the female connector assembly in the valve-closing position, further showing a housing and a poppet valve of the male connector assembly, with the poppet valve being in a closed position;
• FIG. 10 is a fragmentary rear perspective of the female connector assembly and support assembly shown in FIGS. 1-9, with end flanges, proximal springs, and bracket plates of the support assembly being exploded away to show the female fluid connector, and also showing the frame mount exploded away from the frame;
• FIG. 11 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the female connector assembly and support assembly shown in FIGS. 1-10, showing the outer sleeve in the unlocked position and the valve assembly in the closed position, with the cam and pinion being exploded from the valve assembly;
• FIG. 12 is fragmentary right side elevation of the application system depicted in
• FIGS. 1 -10 showing the fluid- transferring connection assembly cross-sectioned, further showing the male connector assembly disengaged from the female connector assembly, with the corresponding poppet valve in the closed position, and showing the female connector assembly in the valve-closing position, with the outer sleeve in the unlocked position and the corresponding poppet valve in the closed position;
• FIG. 13 is fragmentary top view of the application system depicted in FIGS. 1-10 and 12, showing the fluid-transferring connection assembly cross-sectioned, with the connector assemblies disengaged and the female connector assembly in the valve-closing position, and also showing a linkage that interconnects the shaft and poppet valve of the valve assembly;
• FIG. 14 is an enlarged right side elevation of the application system depicted in
• FIGS. 1 - 10, 12, and 13 showing the fluid-transferring connection assembly cross-sectioned, and showing the male connector assembly shifted distally from the disengaged configuration so that the connector assemblies are in sealing engagement with each other, with the female connector assembly being in the valve-closing position;
• FIG. 15 is fragmentary right side elevation of the application system depicted in
• FIGS. 1-10 and 12-14 showingmefluid-transfemngconnectionassembly cross-sectioned, and showing the connector assemblies positioned so that the female connector is shifted distally from the valve-closing position and the connection assembly is shifted into the fluid transfer configuration;
• FIG. 16 is a fragmentary top view of the application system depicted in FIGS. 1-10 and 12-15, showing the fluid-transferring connection assembly cross-sectioned, and showing the connection assembly in the fluid transfer configuration, with the valve assembly shifted so that the poppet valve is in the open position.
• the drawing figures do not limit the present invention to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the preferred embodiment.
• a liquid material application system 20 is operable to distribute liquid materials throughout a crop field (not shown).
• the system 20 permits efficient transfer of liquid (not shown) between a mobile agricultural applicator 22 and an applicator supply station 24 that serves to refill the applicator 22 with liquid.
• the principles of the present invention are also applicable where the system 20 is used to transfer liquids for other purposes.
• the illustrated system 20 preferably permits fluid connection and disconnection between the applicator 22 and station 24 without direct manual contact or manual manipulation of the fluid connectors.
• the illustrated applicator 22 is preferably a dirigible, self- powered vehicle and serves to apply liquid to the crop field.
• the applicator 22 is alternatively constructed.
• the applicator 22 could be mobile but not self-powered (i.e., where the applicator is towed by another vehicle).
• the applicator 22 preferably includes, among other things, a rolling chassis 26, a cab 28, a hood 30, an engine (not shown), a sprayer assembly 32, and a fluid probe assembly 34.
• the illustrated chassis 26 preferably comprises an adjustable-height chassis that includes a longitudinally extending frame 36, front and rear axles 38,40 that support the frame 36, and wheels 42 mounted on the axles 38,40. Further details of the preferred height-adjustable chassis 26 are disclosed in U.S. Application No. , filed , entitled
• the rolling chassis 26 is powered by the engine and serves to support the sprayer assembly 32.
• the sprayer assembly 32 preferably serves to distribute liquid material uniformly and preferably includes an applicator tank 44 and boom assembly 46.
• the tank 44 is conventional and serves to hold liquid material (not shown) in the usual manner.
• the tank is mounted on the rolling chassis 26 between the boom assembly 46 and cab 28.
• the boom assembly 46 preferably includes booms 48 and boom support frame 50.
• the booms 48 are shiftably attached to corresponding ends of the boom support frame 50.
• the boom assembly 46 supports a plurality of spray nozzles (not shown) and fluid tubing (not shown) that fluidly connects the tank 44 and nozzles.
• the boom assembly 46 is preferably mounted to the rolling chassis 26 adjacent an aft end of the chassis 26.
• the sprayer assembly 32 applies liquid material rearwardly of the chassis 26.
• the boom assembly 46 is alternatively mounted on the chassis 26, e.g., where the boom assembly 46 is mounted adjacent the fore end of the chassis 26.
• the boom assembly 46 is preferably foldable for transport and when obstacles in the field are encountered.
• the illustrated fluid probe assembly 34 shiftably supports a male fluid connector assembly 52 of the applicator 22 and serves to fluidly connect the station 24 and the tank 44.
• the probe assembly 34 provides an adjustable fluid conduit with a distal end that is mechanically positionable relative to the chassis 26.
• the probe assembly 34 could be fixed to the chassis 26.
• the illustrated fluid probe assembly 34 preferably includes a telescopic fill tube 54 and a hydraulic cylinder 56.
• the telescopic tube 54 preferably includes inner and outer tube sections 58,60.
• the tube sections 58,60 each preferably comprise a substantially rigid conduit and present respective proximal and distal ends, with the proximal end of the inner tube section 58 being telescopically received within the outer tube section 60. In this manner, the tube sections 58,60 cooperatively present the fill tube 54, and the fill tube 54 presents proximal and distal ends 62,64 that are shiftable relative to each other.
• the fill tube 54 also includes weldments 66 attached to corresponding tube sections 58,60 and a flange 68 attached to the inner tube section 58 adjacent to the distal end 64.
• the telescopic fill tube 54 is supported on the chassis 26 by a bracket 70 such that the fill tube 54 preferably extends longitudinally along the chassis 26 and extends longitudinally beyond the front end of the applicator 22. However, it is also within the scope of the present invention where the fill tube 54 projects in an alternative direction relative to the chassis 26 (e.g., rearwardly, upwardly, or in a sideward direction).
• the bracket 70 secures the outer tube section 60 to the chassis 26 and permits the inner tube section 58 to shift along the longitudinal direction.
• the outer tube section 60 is fluidly attached to a supply conduit 72 that extends from the proximal end 62 in a rearward direction to the tank 44 so that the supply conduit 72 fluidly connects the fill tube 54 and tank 44.
• the hydraulic cylinder 56 is conventional and includes a cylinder housing 74 and piston 76 slidably received in the housing 74.
• the hydraulic cylinder 56 is attached to the telescopic fill tube 54 by attaching the end of the piston 76 to weldment 66 mounted on the inner tube section 58 and attaching an end of the cylinder housing 74 to weldment 66 mounted on the outer tube section 60.
• the hydraulic cylinder 56 is operably coupled to a hydraulic system (not shown) of the applicator 22 that permits the operator to preferably control the position of the piston 76 from within the cab.
• the fluid probe assembly 34 preferably includes the hydraulic cylinder 56 to shift fill tube 54, it is also within the ambit of the present invention where another drive is employed to position the fill tube 54, e.g., another type of linear motor such as a pneumatic cylinder or a linear electric motor.
• another drive e.g., another type of linear motor such as a pneumatic cylinder or a linear electric motor.
• Movement of piston 76 in and out of the housing 74 causes corresponding movement of the inner tube section 58 relative to the outer section 60 between an extended position (sec FIGS. 6 and 7) and a retracted position (see FIGS. 8 and 9).
• the hydraulic cylinder 56 serves to shift the distal end 64 of the probe assembly 34 along the longitudinal direction relative to the chassis 26.
• the fore and aft movement of the probe assembly 34 serves to position the distal end 64 for fluid connection to the station 24.
• the probe assembly 34 is also adj ustably mounted to provide substantially coaxial alignment between connector assembly 52 and the connector assembly associated with station 24, particularly when the applicator 22 and station 24 are positioned on an uneven surface.
• the probe assembly 34 is preferably mounted to the chassis 26 with a trunnion mechanism (not shown) that is configured to permit tilting of the probe assembly 34 about a lateral axis and/or pivoting of the probe assembly 34 about a vertical axis.
• a trunnion mechanism (not shown) that is configured to permit tilting of the probe assembly 34 about a lateral axis and/or pivoting of the probe assembly 34 about a vertical axis.
• the principles of the present invention are equally applicable where the probe assembly 34 is alternatively shiftable relative to the chassis 26 while still providing mechanized connection between the applicator 22 and station 24.
• Fluid connector assembly 52 is attached to flange 68 and is operable to be connected to a complemental fluid connector assembly of station 24, as will be discussed in greater detail.
• Fluid connector assembly 52 is normally closed and includes a male connector 78, and a valve assembly 80 that includes a poppet valve 82 and a spring 84.
• the male connector 78 includes an outer housing 86 that presents a proximal flange end 88 and a distal male connector end 90.
• the male connector end 90 includes internal and external seats 92,94.
• the male connector 78 also includes an inner poppet support frame 96 that presents a bore 98.
• the outer housing 86 and inner poppet support frame 96 cooperatively present a passage 100 mat extends continuously between the ends 88,90.
• the poppet valve 82 is preferably unitary and includes a head 102 and stem 104.
• the poppet valve 82 is slidably mounted on the male connector 78.
• the stem 104 is slidably received in bore 98, with the spring 84 being positioned between the support frame 96 and head 102.
• the poppet valve 82 is slidable into and out of a closed position where the head 102 is received by the internal seat 92 and prevents fluid flow through the passage 100 (see Figs. 12 and 13).
• the poppet valve 82 is yieldably biased into the closed position by the spring 84. In the closed position, the head 102 presents an endmost face that is preferably adjacent to externa ] seat 94.
• the spring 84 serves to urge the poppet valve 82 into the closed position.
• the illustrated connector assembly 52 is preferably a bottom loading adaptor, Model No.
• male connector assembly 52 is preferably installed as part of the applicator 22, it is also within the scope of the present invention where the male connector assembly 52 is installed on the supply station 24.
• the supply station 24 supplies liquid (such as liquid chemical) periodically to the applicator 22 and, in turn, the liquid is sprayed by the applicator 22 onto the field.
• liquid such as liquid chemical
• the illustrated supply station 24 is preferably mobile, but it is also within the scope of the present invention where the supply station 24 is installed at a location so as to be stationary.
• the illustrated supply station 24 preferably includes a trailer 106, a storage tank 108, a fluid pump (not shown), a female fluid connector assembly 110, and a connector support assembly 1 12.
• the station 24 could position the storage tank 108 sufficiently above the applicator tank 44 to permit gravity supply of the liquid.
• the trailer 106 is conventional and includes a trailer frame 1 14, a platform 116 supported on the trailer frame 1 14, and a pair of wheeled axles 118 that support the frame 1 14 and platform 1 16. While the illustrated trailer 106 is preferably towed by another vehicle to and from a supply location, it is also within the scope of the present invention where the station is a self-powered vehicle.
• the storage tank 108 is a conventional cylindrical liquid container for storing large amounts of liquid, and liquid is selectively pumped out of the tank 108 by a fluid pump (not shown). In the usual manner, the tank 108 includes a removable lid that permits refilling of the tank 108 and presents a lower discharge opening.
• the illustrated tank 108 is secured on the platform 1 16 and is positioned longitudinally along the platform 1 16 adjacent the axles 118.
• the connector support assembly 112 is configured to support the fluid connector assembly 1 10.
• the connector support assembly 1 12 provides mechanized engagement of the connector assemblies 52,1 10 such that manual manipulation of the connector assemblies 52,110 is unnecessary.
• the connector assemblies 52, 100 allow the applicator 22 and station 24 to be efficiently coupled and decoupled for selective fluid transfer therebetween.
• the support assembly 1 12 includes, among other things, a support frame 120, upper and lower bracket guide rods 122,124, intermediate connector guide 126, and mounting brackets 128.
• the support frame 120 is substantially rigid and includes upper and lower wall sections 130, 132, and sidewall section 134.
• the support frame 120 also includes end flanges 1 6 attached to ends of the upper and lower wall sections 130, 1 2 opposite the sidewall section 134.
• the support frame 120 additionally includes a bushing 1 8 attached below the lower wall section 132, and the bushing 138 is configured to mount the support frame 120 on the trailer 106.
• the support frame 120 further includes a toothed rack 140 and a bracket 142 that supports the rack 140.
• the bracket 142 is attached to the sidewall section 134, with the bracket 142 and rack 140 extending longitudinally between upper and lower wall sections 130,132.
• the rack 140 serves to permit opening and closing of valves associated with the connector assemblies 52,110, as will be discussed further.
• the guide rods 122,124 extend longitudinally and are supported by end flanges 136 and sidewall section 134.
• the mounting brackets 128 each include two plates 144 secured to each other by fasteners 146.
• the brackets 142 are slidably mounted on corresponding guide rods 122,124, with proximal and distal springs 148a,148b received on the guide rods 122, 124 and positioned on respective sides of the brackets 142.
• the brackets 142 serve to support the fluid connector assembly 1 10.
• the connector guide 126 includes a flange ISO and three rods 152 attached to the flange 150.
• the rods 152 are slidably mounted in corresponding openings 154 of sidewall section 134 such that the flange 150 can slide longitudinally between the upper and lowered wall sections 130,132 (see FIGS. 9 and 12).
• the support assembly 1 12 also includes a cylindrical frame mount 156 that presents an opening operable to receive the bushing 138.
• the frame mount 156 is attached adjacent an aft end of the platform 116 and is connected to the bushing 138 by a fastener 158 to cooperatively provide an adjustable pivot joint.
• the pivot joint preferably permits relative pivotal adjustment between the bushing 138 and frame mount 156 about a lateral pivot axis so that the connector assembly 1 10 is freely tiltable relative to the platform 1 16.
• the pivot joint is manually adjusted by loosening the nut and bolt of fastener 158.
• the bushing 138 is then tilted relative to frame mount 156 into a desired tilt orientation and the nut and bolt are tightened.
• the support frame 120 can be shifted from an upright orientation (see FIG. 3) to a f ' orwardly tilted orientation (see FIG. 5).
• the support frame 120 can preferably be tilted either forwardly or rearwardly from the upright orientation to provide automatic mechanized engagement of the connector assemblies 52,110.
• the support frame 120 is preferably tilted relative to platform 116 so that the longimdinal axes of connectors assemblies 52,110 are substantially coaxial as the connector assemblies 52,110 are brought into sealing engagement.
• Such adjustment is useful when the applicator 22 and supply station 24 arc positioned on an undulating surface. It is also within the ambit of the present invention where the pivot joint permits side-to-side movement of the support frame 120 relative to the frame mount 156.
• the pivot joint cooperatively presented by support frame 120 and frame mount 156 also preferably permits pivotal movement about an upright pivot axis (see FIG. 4).
• the bushing 138 includes holes that present a larger diameter dimension than the fastener 158.
• the illustrated pivot joint allows the bushing 138 to be manually rotatably adjusted relative to frame mount 156 by first loosening the nut and bolt of fastener 158. The bushing 138 is then rotated relative to frame mount 156 into a desired position and the nut and bolt are lightened.
• the support assembly 112 includes an alternative adjustment mechanism, such as a powered drive, to selectively position the connector assembly 1 10 relative to the platform 116 for alignment with the connector assembly 52.
• the fluid connector assembly 110 is fluidly connected to storage tank 108 by a flexible supply tube 160, with the supply tube 160 being received by a fitting attached to the connector guide 126 and extending through an opening in the sidewall section 134.
• the fluid connector 110 is operable to be removably connected to fluid connector assembly 52 of applicator 22.
• the connector assemblies 52,110 and support assembly 112 cooperatively provide a fluid- transferring connection assembly 162 that permits mechanized fluid engagement and disengagement of applicator 22 and supply station 24.
• the fluid connector assembly 1 10 preferably includes a female connector 164 and valve assembly 166, with the valve assembly 166 including a poppet valve 168, linkage 170, shaft 172, and cam 174 (see FIGS. 13 and 14).
• the connector assembly 110 also includes a pinion gear 176 that serves to drive the valve assembly 166, as will be discussed further.
• the female connector 164 houses the valve assembly 166 and is sbiftable into and out of sealing engagement with male connector 78. As will be discussed, the connectors 78,164 arc in sealing engagement when the connector assemblies 52,110 are in a fluid transfer configuration.
• the female connector 164 preferably includes a housing 178, outer sleeve 180 and inner sleeve 182.
• the housing 178 includes a generally cylindrical body that presents a bore 184 extending between proximal and distal ends 186, 188 of the housing 178.
• the housing 178 presents a seat 189 positioned adjacent the proximal end 186.
• the housing 178 also presents an outer surface 190 including circumferentially spaced openings 192 that are longitudinally positioned adjacent the proximal end 186 (see FIGS. 13 and 16).
• the housing 178 further includes pins 194 that are secured to the cylindrical housing body and are transversely positioned within corresponding openings 192.
• the inner sleeve 182 interconnects and sealingly engages the housing 178 and the poppet valve 168.
• the inner sleeve 182 is unitary and presents a bore with radially inner and outer sections that extend between proximal and distal ends of the inner sleeve 182.
• the inner sleeve 182 also presents interior and exterior shoulders 196, 198, with the interior shoulder 196 presented by the inner sleeve section and the exterior shoulder 198 presented by the outer sleeve section.
• the sleeve 182 is inserted in bore 184 of housing 178 adjacent the proximal end 186, with the exterior shoulder 198 being positioned adjacent an outer shoulder 200 presented by the bore 184.
• the sleeve and housing 178 cooperatively define a passage through the female connector 164.
• the distal end of the sleeve 182 is positioned adjacent an inner shoulder 202 of the bore 184, with a wave spring 204 positioned between the shoulder 202 and distal sleeve end that permits limited relative axial movement between the inner sleeve 182 and housing 178.
• an o-ring 206 is positioned in an outer o-ring gland 208 of the sleeve 182.
• Another o-ring 210 is received in engagement with inner shoulder 202 and is configured to receive a complemental sealing surface of the poppet valve 168.
• Outer sleeve 180 is slidably received around housing 178 and serves to selectively lock the male and female connectors 78, 164 to each other, as will be discussed in greater detail.
• Outer sleeve 180 is preferably unitary and includes a generally cylindrical body 212 and oppositely spaced handles 214 that are integrally formed with each other.
• the body 212 has a bore 216 with a proximal groove 218, an endless distal rib 220, and an intermediate groove 222.
• the sleeve 180 is slidably received onto housing 178 by inserting the distal end 188 of bousing 178 through the proximal end of sleeve 180, with the rib 220 being operable to contact a shoulder 224 of housing 178. As will be discussed further, the sleeve 180 is operable to be shifted between locked and unlocked positions associated respectively with the fluid transfer configuration and an occluded configuration of the fluid- transferring connection assembly 162.
• the female connector 164 also includes five (5) pawls 226 operable to releasably secure the male connector 78 to the housing 178.
• the pawls each include a hooked end presenting a cam surface 228.
• the pawls 226 are spaced circumferentially about the housing 178 and are positioned within respective openings 192.
• the pawls 226 are pivotally mounted on respective pins 194, with the cam surface 228 extending radially inwardly through the corresponding opening 192.
• Springs 230 are positioned within corresponding openings 192 and engage the pawls 226 to urge the corresponding cam surfaces 228 radially inwardly.
• the hooked ends of pawls 226 are positioned adjacent proximal groove 218 and are shiftablc radially outwardly by springs 230 to be received by the proximal groove 218.
• the hooked ends of pawls 226 arc positioned distally from the proximal groove 218 so that the sleeve 180 restricts pivotal movement of the pawls 226 relative to the housing 178.
• the female connector 164 also preferably includes a pair of interlocks 232 that selectively allow the sleeve 180 to shift between the locked and unlocked positions.
• the interlocks 232 each include a hooked end 234.
• the interlocks 232 are positioned within corresponding openings 192 of the housing 178 and are pivotally mounted on corresponding pins 194, with the hooked ends 234 facing radially outwardly.
• Springs 236 are positioned in the corresponding openings 192 and urge the hooked end 234 to extend radially outwardly from the opening 192.
• the booked end 234 is urged to be shifted radially outwardly into engagement with the intermediate groove 222 and thereby restricts axial sleeve movement relative to the housing 178.
• the interlocks 232 are shifted out of engagement with the intermediate grove 222 by inserting the connector assembly 52 into engagement with the connector assembly 1 10.
• the male connector 78 presents an endless outer rib 238 operable to engage a tabbed end of the interlock 232 opposite the hooked end 234.
• the interlocks 232 are engaged by the outer rib 238 so that the hooked ends 234 are shifted out of engagement with the groove 222.
• the sleeve 180 is permitted by the interlocks 232 to be shifted from the unlocked position and into the locked position.
• the connector assembly 1 10 preferably includes female connector 164, it is also within the scope of the present invention where the connector assembly includes male connector 78 (e.g., where the applicator 22 includes female connector 164 and support assembly 1 12). The manner of interconnecting the connectors 78 and 164 may also be varied without departing from the scope of the present invention.
• the poppet valve 168 selectively prevents fluid flow through the female connector 164 and includes a head 240 and a body 242, with the head 240 presenting a valve surface that engages o-ring 210 and an endmost face.
• the poppet valve 168 is slidably received in the passage presented by the female connector 164 and is axially shiftable between open and closed valve positions, with the poppet valve 168 preventing fluid flow through the passage when in the closed position.
• the endmost valve face is preferably substantially coplanar with the seat 189.
• the shaft 172 is elongated and is journaled in transverse shaft bore 244 in housing 178.
• the linkage 170 includes a drive link 246 mounted on the shaft 172 and driven links 248 that interconnect the drive link 246 and poppet valve 168.
• the driven links are pivotally attached to the drive link by pin 2S0 and are also pivotally attached to the poppet valve 168 by pin 252.
• rotation of shaft 172 and corresponding movement of linkage 170 is operable to shift the poppet valve 168 between the open and closed positions.
• the cam 174 includes a body 254 and a roller 256 attached to the body 254, with the body 254 presenting a cam surface 258.
• the cam 174 is mounted on shaft 172 such that the cam surface 258 permits sleeve 180 to be in the unlocked position when the poppet valve 168 is in the closed position.
• the cam surface 258 engages the distal end of sleeve 180 and shifts the sleeve 180 into the locked position as the poppet valve 168 is shifted into the open position.
• the female connector 164 and valve assembly 166 are preferably provided as Bottom Loading Coupler, Model No. 1004D3, manufactured by OPW Engineered Systems, 2726 Henkle Drive, Riverside, Ohio 45036.
• the female fluid connector assembly 1 10 is shiftably mounted to connector support assembly 112 and is shiftable along a longitudinal direction.
• brackets 142 are preferably secured to corresponding handles 214 with fasteners 146.
• Springs 148 are received on corresponding guide rods 122, 124 and are positioned on respective sides of the brackets 142 to urge the connector assembly 1 10 into the valve-closing position, as will be discussed.
• the housing 178 is preferably attached to flange 150 with fasteners 260 and, thereby, is further supported for shiftable longitudinal movement
• the connector assembly 1 10 is also preferably supported so that the pinion gear 176 is mounted to shaft 172 and intermeshes with toothed rack 140.
• the illustrated connector assembly 1 10 is selectively shiftable into and out of the valve-closing position. With the male fluid connector assembly 52 disengaged from the connector assembly 1 10, interlocks 232 engage the groove 222 to restrict movement of sleeve 180 relative to the housing 178. Consequently, the locked sleeve 180 restricts cam 174 and shaft 172 from rotating. Because the pinion gear 176 and toothed rack 140 are in intermeshing engagement, the connector assembly 1 10 is also restricted from shifting longitudinally relative to the support assembly 1 12.
• the outer rib 238 shifts the interlocks 232 out of engagement with the groove 222 to permit movement of sleeve 180, as will be discussed in greater detail. In turn, this permits rotation of cam 174 and shafts 172, and thereby permits longitudinal shifting movement of the connector assembly 1 10.
• the connector assembly 110 can shift distally from the valve-closing position once the connector assemblies 52, 110 are positioned in sealing engagement.
• the pinion gear 176 causes rotation of shaft 172 and cam 174, which shifts the sleeve 180 into the locked position.
• the connector assembly 110 is urged by distal springs 148b to shift proximal ly from the fluid transfer configuration and into the valve-closing position.
• the pinion gear 176 rotates the shaft 172, which causes the poppet valve 168 to shift into the closed position while the connector assemblies remain in sealing engagement.
• Proximal movement into the valve-closing position also rotates the cam 174 out of engagement with sleeve 180.
• proximal springs 148a urge the sleeve 180 to return to the unlocked position.
• the connector assemblies 52,1 10 can move out of sealing engagement.
• the support assembly 112 and the pinion gear 176 cooperatively provide a drive assembly 262 to preferably provide automatic shifting of the valve assembly 166 into and out of the closed position (see FIGS. 13 and 16).
• a drive mechanism is used with the connector assemblies 52,1 10 to provide automatic and mechanized shifting into and out of the fluid transfer configuration.
• a powered drive such as a solenoid motor, could be operably coupled to the valve assembly 166 to automatically shift the connectors into and out of the fluid transfer configuration.
• the support assembly 112 could be alternatively configured to shi ftably support the connector assembly 1 10 adjacent the platform [0063] Turning to FIGS.
• the applicator 22 and supply station 24 are preferably operable to be automatically fluidly engaged (i.e., where connector assemblies 52,1 10 are locked in the fluid transfer configuration) by shifting the male fluid connector assembly 52 from a disengaged configuration (see FIGS. 8 and 9) in a distal direction toward the female fluid connector assembly 1 10 and into sealing engagement with the female fluid connector assembly 1 10 in the fluid transfer configuration (see FIGS. 6 and 7).
• This relative movement between connector assemblies 52,110 is preferably provided by shifting the tube section 58 of probe assembly 34 toward the station 24 without moving the applicator 22 (i.e., by controlling the hydraulic cylinder 56).
• such relative movement can also be provided by driving the applicator 22 toward the station 24 or moving the station 24 toward the applicator 22.
• the connector assembly 1 10 As connector assembly 52 is shifted into sealing engagement with connector assembly 1 10, the connector assembly 1 10 remains in the valve-closing position.
• the rib 238 preferably serves as a catch and presents a cam surface that is automatically releasably engaged by cam surface 228 of pawls 226.
• the pawls 226 releasably engage the rib 238 so that connectors 78,164 are releasably interconnected.
• the poppet valves 82,168 are preferably positioned with endmost faces adjacent to each other. As discussed above, poppet valve 168 is opened provided that the connector assembly 1 10 is in sealing engagement with connector assembly 52 and is shifted out of the valve-closing position.
• the poppet valve 82 of connector assembly 52 opens when the endmost face of poppet valve 168 engages the corresponding endmost face of poppet valve 82 and shifts the poppet valve 82 open.
• the illustrated connector assemblies are constructed so that poppet valves 82,168 open once the connectors are in sealing engagement.
• the rib 238 also shifts the interlocks 232 out of engagement with groove 222.
• connection assembly 162 could be alternatively configured to be shifted into the fluid transfer configuration.
• the support assembly 112 could include a powered drive opcrably coupled to the valve assembly 166 to shift the poppet valve 168 open and the sleeve 180 into the locked position.
• the connector assembly 110 and support assembly 112 are preferably operable to shift the poppet valve 82 open when the connector assembly 52 urges the connector assembly 110 into the fluid transfer configuration.
• the poppet valves 82,168 are automatically shifted out of the closed position and the connector assemblies 52,110 are correspondingly shifted automatically into the fluid transfer configuration.
• the poppet valve 82 could be shifted into the open position by a mechanism other than the connector assembly 110 and support assembly 112.
• the connector assembly 52 could include a valve assembly similar to valve assembly 166
• the applicator 22 could include a support assembly similar to support assembly 112 for driving the valve assembly and poppet valve 82.
• the applicator 22 and supply station 24 are operable to be automatically fluidly disengaged by shifting the male fluid connector assembly 52 in a proximal direction away from the female fluid connector assembly 1 10 and out of sealing engagement with the female fluid connector assembly 1 10. This movement is preferably provided by shifting the tube section 58 of probe assembly 34 away from the station 24 without moving the applicator 22 (i.e., by controlling the hydraulic cylinder 56).
• the connectors 78,164 remain releasably locked in sealing engagement.
• the connector assembly 52 is preferably shifted proximally out of the fluid transfer configuration by driving the hydraulic cylinder 56 of the fluid probe assembly 34 so that the inner tube section 58 shifts proximally relative to the outer tube section 60.
• the connector assembly 52 is shifted out of the fluid transfer configuration by driving the entire applicator 22 in the proximal direction away from the supply station 24 or shifting the supply station 24 distally away from the applicator 22 to shift the connector assemblies 52,1 10 out of the fluid transfer configuration.
• the pinion gear 176 causes shaft 172 to rotate and thereby shift the poppet valve 168 into the closed position. Consequently, the spring 84 of connector assembly 52 urges the poppet valve 82 to also return to the closed position. Furthermore, the pinion gear 176 causes the cam 174 to rotate out of engagement with the distal end of the sleeve 180. As the connector 164 approaches the valve-closing position, the sleeve 180 is urged from the locked position to the unlocked position by proximal springs 148a.
• the poppet valves 82,168 are automatically shifted into the closed position while the connectors remain sealed and the connector assemblies 52,110 are correspondingly shifted automatically out of the fluid transfer configuration. Once the poppet valves 82, 168 are closed, the connectors can shift out of scaling engagement
• the sleeve 180 In the valve-closing position, the sleeve 180 returns to the unlocked position, and the interlocks 232 are urged by springs 236 to pivot so that the hooked ends 234 engage the groove 222.
• the proximal groove 218 returns to a position adjacent the hooked ends of pawls 226, and the pawls 226 are operable to be pivoted out of engagement with rib 238.
• Proximal movement of the connector assembly 52 out of sealing engagement with connector assembly 110 preferably occurs by driving the hydraulic cylinder 56 so that the inner tube section 58 shifts proximally relative to the outer tube section 60 (sec FIGS. 8 and 9).
• the connector assemblies 52,110 could be shifted out of sealing engagement by driving the entire applicator 22 in the proximal direction away from the supply station 24 or shifting the supply station 24 distally from the applicator 22.
• the rib 238 urges the cam surface 228 of pawls 226 in a radially outward direction until the male connector 78 becomes disengaged from the female connector 164.
• the proximal springs 148a preferably urge the female connector 164 to remain adjacent the valve-closing position as the connector assembly 52 is shifted out of sealing engagement.
• the poppet valves 82,168 remain in the closed position.
• the closed poppet valves 82,168 are preferably positioned adjacent to ends of the connectors 78,164 so that the heads of poppet valves 82,168 are adjacent to each other when the connectors 78,164 are in sealing engagement. In this manner, any space between the poppet valves 82, 168 that could collect liquid during the liquid transfer process is substantially eliminated. Consequently, the connector assemblies are constructed to restrict liquid spillage, particularly when Ac connector assemblies are shifted out of sealing engagement with each other.
• the illustrated probe assembly 34 is preferably associated with the applicator 22 and the support assembly 1 12 is preferably associated with the supply station 24 to provide selective fluid connection, it is also within the scope of the present invention where the applicator 22 and supply station 24 are alternatively configured.
• the applicator 22 could include the support assembly 112 and connector assembly 1 10, with die supply station 24 including the probe assembly 34 and connector assembly 52.
• the applicator 22 dispenses liquid material along a field until little or no liquid remains in the tank 44, or the applicator 22 is conveniently located at or near a supply station.
• the applicator 22 is refilled by driving the applicator 22 into a position adjacent the supply station 24 so that the connector assemblies 52,1 10 can be positioned in sealing engagement with each other.
• the connector assembly 52 can be shifted into sealing engagement by driving the applicator 22 toward the supply station 24 or shifting the probe assembly 34 toward the supply station 24.
• the connection assembly 162 permits the connector assembly 52 to be further shifted in the distal direction from the valve-closing position until the connection assembly is in the fluid transfer configuration. While in the fluid transfer configuration, liquid can be pumped from the tank 108 through the connection assembly 162, the probe assembly 34, the supply conduit 72, and into the tank 44.
• connection assembly 162 is shifted out of the fluid transfer configuration by retracting the connector assembly 52 until the connector assemblies 52,1 10 return to the valve-closing position. In the valve-closing position, the connector assemblies 52,1 10 are unlocked and the corresponding poppet valves are closed. Thus, the connector assembly 52 can be shifted out of sealing engagement with the connector assembly 110, and the applicator 22 can return to the field to continue applying liquid material.

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• 2009
  • 2009-12-11 US US12/636,448 patent/US8430139B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
• 2010
  • 2010-12-03 WO PCT/IB2010/003095 patent/WO2011070420A2/en active Application Filing
  • 2010-12-03 BR BR112012014073A patent/BR112012014073A2/pt active Search and Examination
  • 2010-12-03 EP EP10814648.1A patent/EP2510273B1/de not_active Not-in-force

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