EP3572588A1 - Worktool coupler - Google Patents
Worktool coupler Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3572588A1 EP3572588A1 EP19173525.7A EP19173525A EP3572588A1 EP 3572588 A1 EP3572588 A1 EP 3572588A1 EP 19173525 A EP19173525 A EP 19173525A EP 3572588 A1 EP3572588 A1 EP 3572588A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- coupler
- configuration
- coupling configuration
- coupling
- lhs
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
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Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
- E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
- E02F3/3631—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat with a hook and a transversal locking element
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
- E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
- E02F3/3654—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat with energy coupler, e.g. coupler for hydraulic or electric lines, to provide energy to drive(s) mounted on the tool
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
- E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
- E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
- E02F3/3618—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat with two separating hooks
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
- E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
- E02F3/3622—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat with a hook and a locking element acting on a pin
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
- E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
- E02F3/3627—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat with a hook and a longitudinal locking element
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
- E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
- E02F3/364—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat using wedges
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
- E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
- E02F3/3663—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat hydraulically-operated
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/96—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with arrangements for alternate or simultaneous use of different digging elements
Definitions
- the invention relates to couplers to connect worktools to host machines.
- Host machines such as excavators can be equipped with a variety of worktools such as grabs, buckets, hammers, drills, etc. Host machines that switch between worktools with some frequency may benefit from so-called quick couplers, i.e. adapters that can relatively quickly connect to, and disconnect from, worktools.
- quick couplers i.e. adapters that can relatively quickly connect to, and disconnect from, worktools.
- There are multiple systems of host machines, worktools and couplers on the market which may be of a disadvantage owners/operators as they could be locked into one particular provider to ensure compatibility of multiple host machines and/or and work tools.
- the current disclosure aims to overcome some of the existing disadvantages by providing an extended range of compatibility.
- the invention provides a coupler for coupling a worktool to a work machine, the coupler having a first coupling configuration and a second coupling configuration, the coupler comprising: a side wall having an end surface, an upper surface and a side surface, the side wall having in sequential order:
- Figs. 1 to 9 show a coupler 10 for coupling a worktool 12 such as for example a clamshell grab to a host machine 14 such as an excavator (partially shown).
- a worktool 12 such as for example a clamshell grab
- a host machine 14 such as an excavator (partially shown).
- the coupler 24 is provided with two coupling configurations as set out in more detail below such that host machines with one of two types of linkages can be coupled to the worktool 12.
- Traditional couplers have single configurations meaning they are restricted to pick up by host machines with one specific type of linkage only.
- the coupler 10 includes a base plate 20.
- the base plate 20 may be connected to the worktool 12 using threaded fasteners 22 or other suitable means such as welding.
- the coupler 10 further includes a first side wall 26 and a second side wall 28 that are connected to the base plate 30 via any suitable means such as welding.
- First and second side walls 26, 28 may be provided with different features, but are provided with common features that will be discussed below. For ease of understanding only side wall 26 will be described, but it is understood that the description substantially applies to both side walls 26, 28 and like numerals will be applied to like features as to a large extend, the first and second sidewalls 26, 28 may mirror each other.
- the side wall 26 is provided with a first end surface 34, a second end surface 36, a lower surface 38, an upper surface 40, an inner side surface 42 and an outside surface 44. Starting from the first end surface 34, the first side wall 26 is provided with the following features (in sequential order):
- the first recess 50 may be a generally conical recess. At least one of the second and third recesses 52 and 54 may be generally U-shaped recess. In an embodiment both of the second and third recesses 52 and 54 may be generally U-shaped recesses.
- the first recess 50, the second recess 52 and the third recess 58 form, or are associated with, the first coupling configuration 59, whereas the first pin 54, the concave region 56 and the second pin 60 form, or are associated with, the second coupling configuration 61.
- the first recess 50 may be partially covered with a protective hood 62.
- the concave region 56' may be omitted from the second sidewall 28.
- the first and second pins 54, 60 may extend between and connect with both the first and second sidewalls 26, 28.
- a host machine 14 with a linkage 64 of the type compatible with the first configuration engages the coupler 10 in the following manner.
- the linkage 64 is manipulated such that a generally pin shaped first linkage section 70 engages the third recess 58, followed by a generally pin shaped second linkage section 72 engaging the second recess 52 and followed by a generally wedge shaped third linkage section 74 moving into the first recess 50 thereby locking the linkage 64 in place with the coupler 10.
- a host machine 14 with a linkage 78 of the type compatible with the second configuration engages the coupler 10 in the following manner.
- the linkage 78 is manipulated such that a generally U-shaped first linkage section 80 engages the first pin 54, followed by a generally pin shaped second linkage section 82 engaging the concave region 56 closely followed by a generally semi-U-shaped third linkage section 84 engaging the second pin 60.
- the coupler 10 and linkage 78 are locked into position by a locking device 86 on the linkage 78 sliding under the second pin 60 thereby completing the semi-U shaped of the third linkage section 78 to a full general U-shape.
- the first coupling configuration 59 is adapted to receive a host machine 14 with a linkage compatible with the first coupling configuration 59 from a first end proximal to second pin 60.
- the second coupling configuration 61 is adapted to receive a host machine 14 with a linkage compatible with the second coupling configuration 61 from a second end proximal to first recess 50.
- Figs. 2-7 show the mechanical coupling arrangement between a host machine 14 and a worktool 12.
- Many types of worktool 12 require a fluid connection with the host machine 14 to hydraulically power elements of the worktool 12 such as for example hydraulic cylinders and hydraulic motors (not shown).
- a control device such as a joystick (not shown) mounted in a cabin on host machine 14.
- Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of worktool 12 provided with a fluid system 100.
- the fluid system 100 has a first connector block 102, a second connector block 104 and a third connector block 106.
- the fluid system further comprises a junction block 108.
- First and second connector blocks 102 and 104 are associated with the first coupling configuration 59, whereas the third connector block 106 is associated with the second coupling configuration 61.
- Junction block 108 is associated with both the first and second coupling configurations 59 and 61.
- At least one of the first and second connector blocks 102, 104 is positioned on one of the outside surfaces 44, 44'.
- first connector block 102 is positioned on an outside surface 44 of said first sidewall 26, and said second connector block 104 is positioned on an outside surface 44' of said second sidewall 28.
- Either one or both of the third connector block 106 and junction block 108 is positioned generally in between the first and second side walls 26, 28.
- first and second connector blocks 102 and 104 are configured to be connected manually to a fluid system (not shown) on the linkage 64.
- the third connector block is configured to be connected automatically to a fluid system (not shown) on the linkage 78.
- Junction block 108 has four sets of ports, 110, 112, 114 and 116.
- Ports 110 and 112 are configured to receive fluid lines 122, 124 from first and second connector blocks 102 and 104 respectively.
- Ports 114 are configured to receive fluid lines 126 (not shown) from third connector block 106 and ports 116 are configured to receive fluid lines 120 (not shown) from worktool 12.
- the four sets of ports 110, 112, 114 and 116 may each include one or more ports and the ports within each set may be conveniently grouped together.
- Fluid lines 120, 122, 124 and 126 may be pressure ("P") or tank (“T”) lines as set out below.
- the engagement between the coupler 10 and a linkage 64 (compatible with the first configuration) or a linkage 78 (compatible with the second configuration) occurs from different sides of the coupler 10.
- a linkage 64 or a linkage 78 compatible with the second configuration
- the response of the worktool 12 based on a specific operator input would be different as the fluid connections would be made in the opposite "hand", i.e. LHS (Left Hand Side) and RHS (Right Hand Side) connections would be switched.
- the fluid system 100 has been provided with a unique configuration as shown in Fig. 9 .
- an axis X is shown in Fig. 9 dividing the fluid system 100 in two zones which may be interpreted as a LHS zone and a RHS zone of the worktool 12 (see Fig. 8 ).
- a “P” denotes a pressure line
- a “T” denotes a tank line
- an "L” a leak line
- an "S” is a spare connection.
- the numerals "1” and “2" immediately following the "P” and “T” tank line denominators refer to a first and second worktool function such as for example clamping and rotation.
- a “W” indicates the fluid connection extending to the worktool 12.
- the exact functions associated with “1” and “2” may be worktool dependent and are of no particular relevance. The configuration and location of the "L” and “S” lines is not of particular further interest.
- the pressure lines PI of the first coupling configuration 59 are on one of the LHS and RHS and the pressure lines P2 of the second coupling configuration 61 are on the other one of the LHS and RHS.
- the tank lines T1 of the first coupling configuration 59 are on the other one of the LHS and RHS.
- the tank lines T2 of the second coupling configuration 61 are on the other one of the LHS and RHS.
- Junction block 108 connects the pressure lines PI of the first coupling configuration 59 with the pressure lines P2 of the second coupling configuration 61.
- the first connector block 102 contains pressure lines PI
- the second connector block 104 contains tank lines T1
- the third connector block 106 contains pressure and tank lines P2, T2, with the junction block 108 receiving pressure and tank lines PI, P2, T1, T2 from the first, second and third connector blocks 102, 104, 106.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Operation Control Of Excavators (AREA)
- Valve Housings (AREA)
- Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)
- Agricultural Machines (AREA)
Abstract
The disclosure relates to a coupler for coupling a worktool to a work machine. The work machine may for example be wheeled loader that has to be coupled to some kind of worktool. Coupling standards have not been harmonised in the industry hence there are a variety of couplers in use. The couple of this disclosure is configured such that it can be used in two different coupling systems where a machine would connect with the coupler from one end or another end depending on the system required at that time. The hydraulic connections are configured such that whatever the coupling system used, the behaviour of the operator controls remain the same.
Description
- The invention relates to couplers to connect worktools to host machines.
- Host machines such as excavators can be equipped with a variety of worktools such as grabs, buckets, hammers, drills, etc. Host machines that switch between worktools with some frequency may benefit from so-called quick couplers, i.e. adapters that can relatively quickly connect to, and disconnect from, worktools. There are multiple systems of host machines, worktools and couplers on the market which may be of a disadvantage owners/operators as they could be locked into one particular provider to ensure compatibility of multiple host machines and/or and work tools. The current disclosure aims to overcome some of the existing disadvantages by providing an extended range of compatibility.
- Accordingly, the invention provides a coupler for coupling a worktool to a work machine, the coupler having a first coupling configuration and a second coupling configuration, the coupler comprising: a side wall having an end surface, an upper surface and a side surface, the side wall having in sequential order:
- a first recess associated with the first configuration in the first end surface
- a second recess associated with the first configuration in the upper surface
- a first pin associated with the second configuration projecting from the side surface
- a concave region associated with the second configuration in the upper surface
- a third recess associated with the first configuration in the upper surface
- a second pin associated with the second configuration projecting from the side surface.
- Other features and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.
- The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
Fig. 1 is a coupler providing two configurations according to current disclosure; -
Figs. 2-4 show a connection sequence of the coupler ofFig. 1 using the first of the two configurations; -
Figs. 5-7 show a connection sequence of the coupler ofFig. 1 using the second of the two configurations; -
Fig. 8 shows the coupler ofFig.1 with an emphasis on components of a fluid system; -
Fig. 9 shows an hydraulic schematic of the fluid system ofFig. 8 . -
Figs. 1 to 9 show acoupler 10 for coupling aworktool 12 such as for example a clamshell grab to ahost machine 14 such as an excavator (partially shown). - The coupler 24 is provided with two coupling configurations as set out in more detail below such that host machines with one of two types of linkages can be coupled to the
worktool 12. Traditional couplers have single configurations meaning they are restricted to pick up by host machines with one specific type of linkage only. - The
coupler 10 includes abase plate 20. Thebase plate 20 may be connected to theworktool 12 using threadedfasteners 22 or other suitable means such as welding. Thecoupler 10 further includes afirst side wall 26 and asecond side wall 28 that are connected to the base plate 30 via any suitable means such as welding. - First and
second side walls side wall 26 will be described, but it is understood that the description substantially applies to bothside walls second sidewalls - The
side wall 26 is provided with afirst end surface 34, asecond end surface 36, alower surface 38, anupper surface 40, aninner side surface 42 and anoutside surface 44. Starting from thefirst end surface 34, thefirst side wall 26 is provided with the following features (in sequential order): - a
first recess 50 in thefirst end surface 34. - a
second recess 52 in theupper surface 40; - a
first pin 54 projecting from theinner side surface 42; - a
concave region 56 in the upper surface; - a
third recess 58 in the upper surface; and - a
second pin 60 projecting from theinner side surface 42. - The
first recess 50 may be a generally conical recess. At least one of the second andthird recesses third recesses - The
first recess 50, thesecond recess 52 and thethird recess 58 form, or are associated with, the first coupling configuration 59, whereas thefirst pin 54, theconcave region 56 and thesecond pin 60 form, or are associated with, thesecond coupling configuration 61. - The
first recess 50 may be partially covered with aprotective hood 62. The concave region 56' may be omitted from thesecond sidewall 28. The first andsecond pins second sidewalls - As shown in
Figs. 2-4 , ahost machine 14 with alinkage 64 of the type compatible with the first configuration engages thecoupler 10 in the following manner. Thelinkage 64 is manipulated such that a generally pin shapedfirst linkage section 70 engages thethird recess 58, followed by a generally pin shapedsecond linkage section 72 engaging thesecond recess 52 and followed by a generally wedge shapedthird linkage section 74 moving into thefirst recess 50 thereby locking thelinkage 64 in place with thecoupler 10. - As shown in
Figs. 5-7 , ahost machine 14 with alinkage 78 of the type compatible with the second configuration engages thecoupler 10 in the following manner. Thelinkage 78 is manipulated such that a generally U-shapedfirst linkage section 80 engages thefirst pin 54, followed by a generally pin shapedsecond linkage section 82 engaging theconcave region 56 closely followed by a generally semi-U-shapedthird linkage section 84 engaging thesecond pin 60. Thecoupler 10 andlinkage 78 are locked into position by alocking device 86 on thelinkage 78 sliding under thesecond pin 60 thereby completing the semi-U shaped of thethird linkage section 78 to a full general U-shape. - It is clear from
Figs 2-4 and5-7 that the engagement between thecoupler 10 and a linkage 64 (compatible with the first configuration) or a linkage 78 (compatible with the second configuration) occurs from different sides of thecoupler 10. The first coupling configuration 59 is adapted to receive ahost machine 14 with a linkage compatible with the first coupling configuration 59 from a first end proximal tosecond pin 60. Thesecond coupling configuration 61 is adapted to receive ahost machine 14 with a linkage compatible with thesecond coupling configuration 61 from a second end proximal tofirst recess 50. -
Figs. 2-7 show the mechanical coupling arrangement between ahost machine 14 and aworktool 12. Many types ofworktool 12 require a fluid connection with thehost machine 14 to hydraulically power elements of theworktool 12 such as for example hydraulic cylinders and hydraulic motors (not shown). Once a fluid connection have been established, an operator can control theworktool 12 via a control device such as a joystick (not shown) mounted in a cabin onhost machine 14. -
Fig. 8 shows an embodiment ofworktool 12 provided with afluid system 100. Thefluid system 100 has afirst connector block 102, asecond connector block 104 and athird connector block 106. The fluid system further comprises ajunction block 108. First andsecond connector blocks third connector block 106 is associated with thesecond coupling configuration 61.Junction block 108 is associated with both the first andsecond coupling configurations 59 and 61. At least one of the first andsecond connector blocks outside surfaces 44, 44'. In an embodimentfirst connector block 102 is positioned on anoutside surface 44 of saidfirst sidewall 26, and saidsecond connector block 104 is positioned on an outside surface 44' of saidsecond sidewall 28. Either one or both of thethird connector block 106 andjunction block 108 is positioned generally in between the first andsecond side walls - In an embodiment the first and second connector blocks 102 and 104 are configured to be connected manually to a fluid system (not shown) on the
linkage 64. The third connector block is configured to be connected automatically to a fluid system (not shown) on thelinkage 78. -
Junction block 108 has four sets of ports, 110, 112, 114 and 116.Ports fluid lines Ports 114 are configured to receive fluid lines 126 (not shown) fromthird connector block 106 andports 116 are configured to receive fluid lines 120 (not shown) fromworktool 12. The four sets ofports Fluid lines - As discussed above, the engagement between the
coupler 10 and a linkage 64 (compatible with the first configuration) or a linkage 78 (compatible with the second configuration) occurs from different sides of thecoupler 10. When aworktool 12 is connected to ahost machine 14, it is highly desirable to create the same type of response of a worktool based on a specific operator input regardless whether alinkage 64 or alinkage 78 is being used to couple theworktool 12 to thehost machine 14. However, due to the fact that the first coupling configuration 59 is adapted to receive ahost machine 14 with a linkage compatible with the first coupling configuration 59 from a first end proximal tosecond pin 60 and thesecond coupling configuration 61 is adapted to receive ahost machine 14 with a linkage compatible with thesecond coupling configuration 61 from a second end proximal tofirst recess 50, the response of theworktool 12 based on a specific operator input would be different as the fluid connections would be made in the opposite "hand", i.e. LHS (Left Hand Side) and RHS (Right Hand Side) connections would be switched. To overcome this problem, thefluid system 100 has been provided with a unique configuration as shown inFig. 9 . For ease of reference an axis X is shown inFig. 9 dividing thefluid system 100 in two zones which may be interpreted as a LHS zone and a RHS zone of the worktool 12 (seeFig. 8 ). - A "P" denotes a pressure line, a "T" denotes a tank line, an "L" a leak line, an "S" is a spare connection. The numerals "1" and "2" immediately following the "P" and "T" tank line denominators refer to a first and second worktool function such as for example clamping and rotation. A "W" indicates the fluid connection extending to the
worktool 12. The exact functions associated with "1" and "2" may be worktool dependent and are of no particular relevance. The configuration and location of the "L" and "S" lines is not of particular further interest. If an engagement between thecoupler 10 and alinkage 64 would happen from the same side as an engagement between thecoupler 10 and alinkage 78, the pressure lines of both the first coupling configuration 59 and thesecond coupling configuration 61 would be expected to be found in the same zone, i.e. in one of the LHS or RHS zones. The tank lines of both the first coupling configuration 59 and thesecond coupling configuration 61 would then be expected to be located in the other of the LHS and RHS zones. It can be seen fromFig. 9 that the fluid connections have been switched to account for the relative opposite approaches oflinkages second coupling configuration 61 and vice versa. - In an embodiment the pressure lines PI of the first coupling configuration 59 are on one of the LHS and RHS and the pressure lines P2 of the
second coupling configuration 61 are on the other one of the LHS and RHS. Where the pressure lines PI of the first coupling configuration 59 are on one of the LHS and RHS, the tank lines T1 of the first coupling configuration 59 are on the other one of the LHS and RHS. Where the pressure lines P2 of thesecond coupling configuration 61 are on one of the LHS and RHS, the tank lines T2 of thesecond coupling configuration 61 are on the other one of the LHS and RHS.Junction block 108 connects the pressure lines PI of the first coupling configuration 59 with the pressure lines P2 of thesecond coupling configuration 61. - In an embodiment the
first connector block 102 contains pressure lines PI, thesecond connector block 104 contains tank lines T1, thethird connector block 106 contains pressure and tank lines P2, T2, with thejunction block 108 receiving pressure and tank lines PI, P2, T1, T2 from the first, second and third connector blocks 102, 104, 106. - It is to be understood that the exact geometric arrangement of the
coupler 10 may be modified without materially affecting its function as will be apparent to the person skilled in the art. Other modifications may be made within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (15)
- A coupler for coupling a worktool to a work machine, the coupler having a first coupling configuration and a second coupling configuration, the coupler comprising:
a side wall having an end surface, an upper surface and a side surface, the side wall having in sequential order:- a first recess associated with the first configuration in the first end surface- a second recess associated with the first configuration in the upper surface- a first pin associated with the second configuration projecting from the side surface- a concave region associated with the second configuration in the upper surface- a third recess associated with the first configuration in the upper surface- a second pin associated with the second configuration projecting from the side surface - A coupler according to claim 1, wherein said first recess is a generally conical recess.
- A couple according to any of the preceding claims wherein at least one of said second and third recesses is a generally U-shaped recess.
- A coupler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said first coupling configuration is adapted to receive a host machine with a linkage compatible with said first coupling configuration from a first end of said coupler proximal to said second pin and said second coupling configuration is adapted to receive a host machine with a linkage compatible with said second coupling configuration from a second end of said coupler proximal to said first recess.
- A coupler according to any of the preceding claims wherein said sidewall is the first of a pair of spaced parallel sidewalls, wherein said second sidewall has its own first, second and third recesses substantially mirroring those of the first sidewall and said first and second pins extend between, and connect with, said first and second sidewalls.
- A coupler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said coupler is provided with a fluid system comprising first and second connector blocks associated with said first configuration, at least one of said first and second connector blocks being positioned on an outside surface of said sidewall.
- A coupler according to claim 6 wherein said first connector block is positioned on an outside surface of said first sidewall, and said second connector block is positioned on an outside surface of said second sidewall.
- A coupler according to any of claims 6-7, wherein said fluid system further comprises a third connector block associated with said second configuration, said connector block being positioned generally between said first and second sidewalls.
- A coupler according to any of claims 6-8, wherein said fluid system further comprises a junction block associated with both said first and second configurations.
- A coupler according to claim 8 wherein said junction block is positioned generally between said first and second sidewalls.
- A coupler according to any of the preceding claims wherein said coupler has a left hand side (LHS) and a right hand side (RHS) wherein the first coupling configuration comprises pressure lines that are on one of the LHS and RHS and the second coupling configuration comprises pressure lines that are on the other one of the LHS and RHS.
- A coupler according to any of the preceding claims wherein said coupler has a left hand side (LHS) and a right hand side (RHS) wherein the first coupling configuration comprises pressure lines that are on one of the LHS and RHS and the first coupling configuration comprises tank lines that are on the other one of the LHS and RHS.
- A coupler according to any of claims 11-12 wherein the pressure lines of the second coupling configuration are on one of the LHS and RHS and the tank lines of the second coupling configuration are on the other one of the LHS and RHS.
- A coupler according to any of claims 8-12, wherein said junction block connects the pressure lines of the first coupling configuration with the pressure lines of the second coupling configuration.
- A coupler according to any of claims 9-14 wherein said first connector block (102) contains pressure lines, said second connector block (104) contains tank lines, said third connector block (106) contains pressure and tank lines, with said junction block (108) receiving pressure and tank lines from said first, second and third connector blocks.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1807593.7A GB2573550A (en) | 2018-05-10 | 2018-05-10 | Worktool coupler |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3572588A1 true EP3572588A1 (en) | 2019-11-27 |
Family
ID=62623245
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP19173525.7A Withdrawn EP3572588A1 (en) | 2018-05-10 | 2019-05-09 | Worktool coupler |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP3572588A1 (en) |
GB (1) | GB2573550A (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN111360831A (en) * | 2020-03-18 | 2020-07-03 | 南华大学 | Remote reloading system and method for end tool of nuclear decommissioning robot |
CN113833047A (en) * | 2020-06-08 | 2021-12-24 | 优快科德国公司 | Adapter for a quick change system and quick change system having such an adapter |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102007023751A1 (en) * | 2007-05-22 | 2008-11-27 | Kurz, Andreas, Dipl.-Ing. | Quick change device for earth moving vehicle i.e. excavator, has locking device arranged behind adapter, where device is not arranged between support elements, and axes of elements are located close to or on axes of bolts of vehicle |
CA2727324A1 (en) * | 2011-01-10 | 2012-07-10 | Garier Inc. | Latching mechanism for a quick coupler |
US20120237283A1 (en) * | 2011-03-14 | 2012-09-20 | Brandt Industries Ltd. | Compact quick coupling mechanism for tool attachment |
DE202017107699U1 (en) * | 2017-12-19 | 2018-01-10 | Oilquick Deutschland Gmbh | Adapter, quick coupler and quick-change system |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE202010003567U1 (en) * | 2010-03-12 | 2010-07-08 | Josef Martin Gmbh & Co. Kg | attachment |
FR3027037B1 (en) * | 2014-10-13 | 2018-01-26 | Groupe Mecalac | TOOL HOLDER FOR CONSTRUCTION OR PUBLIC WORKS EQUIPMENT |
-
2018
- 2018-05-10 GB GB1807593.7A patent/GB2573550A/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2019
- 2019-05-09 EP EP19173525.7A patent/EP3572588A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102007023751A1 (en) * | 2007-05-22 | 2008-11-27 | Kurz, Andreas, Dipl.-Ing. | Quick change device for earth moving vehicle i.e. excavator, has locking device arranged behind adapter, where device is not arranged between support elements, and axes of elements are located close to or on axes of bolts of vehicle |
CA2727324A1 (en) * | 2011-01-10 | 2012-07-10 | Garier Inc. | Latching mechanism for a quick coupler |
US20120237283A1 (en) * | 2011-03-14 | 2012-09-20 | Brandt Industries Ltd. | Compact quick coupling mechanism for tool attachment |
DE202017107699U1 (en) * | 2017-12-19 | 2018-01-10 | Oilquick Deutschland Gmbh | Adapter, quick coupler and quick-change system |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN111360831A (en) * | 2020-03-18 | 2020-07-03 | 南华大学 | Remote reloading system and method for end tool of nuclear decommissioning robot |
CN111360831B (en) * | 2020-03-18 | 2021-11-02 | 南华大学 | Remote reloading method for tail end tool of nuclear decommissioning robot |
CN113833047A (en) * | 2020-06-08 | 2021-12-24 | 优快科德国公司 | Adapter for a quick change system and quick change system having such an adapter |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB201807593D0 (en) | 2018-06-27 |
GB2573550A8 (en) | 2019-11-27 |
GB2573550A (en) | 2019-11-13 |
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