EP3710641A1

EP3710641A1 - Quick coupler

Info

Publication number: EP3710641A1
Application number: EP18844738.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Bo VIKSTRÖM
Original assignee: Goetene Ufo AB
Current assignee: Goetene Ufo AB
Priority date: 2017-08-10
Filing date: 2018-08-07
Publication date: 2020-09-23
Also published as: WO2019032000A1; SE542259C2; SE1730208A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a quick coupler (1 ) suitable for use in connecting at least one attachment (2) with a construction equipment machine or the like. The quick coupler (1 ) comprising at least one first coupling device (4) comprising at least one first coupling bracket (6) suitable for connection with at least one first fastener (10) in the attachment (2) and at least one second coupling device (5) comprising at least one coupling bracket (8) suitable for connection with at least one second fastener (1 1 ) in the attachment (2). The quick coupler (1 ) comprises at least one locking device (12) which, with the aid of at least one locking member (13) with at least one actuator (14), locks the attachment (2) to and respectively releases the attachment (2) from the quick coupler (1 ).

Description

Quick coupler

Field of the Invention

The present invention concerns a variant of a quick coupler (quick hitch) for the connection of attachments to construction equipment (excavators, diggers, wheel loaders, backhoes and the like) in accordance with the claims.

Background of the Invention

Currently, construction equipment is used to perform a variety of tasks. For most types of construction equipment, such as excavators and similar vehicles, there is a need to quickly connect, or disconnect, various types of attachments to the vehicle to conform the attachment to the task at hand.

In order to enable quick connection and quick release of attachments to a vehicle, a large number of attachment coupler variants, commonly referred to as quick couplers, have been developed. Despite the fact that a variety of attachment coupler designs have been developed, there are still a number of problems with the known types of quick couplers. One of the aforementioned problems with existing quick couplers is the problem that the connection of the attachment to the quick coupler is not performed correctly resulting in the attachment only being partially connected to the quick coupler. In the event of incorrect connection of the attachment to the quick coupler, the attachment may loosen from its connector in the quick coupler, which in turn may cause a significant risk of damage to equipment and, in the worst case to persons adjacent the vehicle.

Another problem with known designs of quick couplers is that some of these require electrical connection or electrical installation to the attachment or the like. Electrical installations to the quick coupler is expensive and results in a risk of damage to the cabling with malfunctions as a consequence. Prior Art

In order to eliminate the mentioned problems, a number of patents and patent applications for quick couplers have been proposed over the years. For example, SE535681 by applicant SteelWrist AB discloses a variant of a quick coupler which permits a quick connection with and release from an attachment. The quick coupler according to its description differs,

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(Rule 12.4) however, to a significant extent from the design according to the present patent application. For example, the design according to SE535681 does not include a function that prevents actuation of a bucket's locking device when the bucket is not properly connected to the vehicle's quick coupler. A variant of a method for securing the connection of an attachment to construction equipment is disclosed in SE510716. The device and method according to its description differs to a significant extent from the design in accordance with the present patent application. For example, the design according to SE510716 does not include a function that prevents operation of the locking function when the bucket is not properly connected to the vehicle's quick coupler.

A variant of a quick coupler intended to be coupled with an attachment in the form of a bucket is disclosed in US6139212. The design differs from the design of the present invention. For example, the design according to US6139212 does not include a function that prevents operation of the locking function when the bucket is not properly connected to the vehicle's quick coupler.

A variant of a quick coupler which is intended to be coupled with an attachment is disclosed in SE535681. The design differs to a significant extent from the design in accordance with the present patent application. For example, the design according to SE535681 does not include a function that prevents operation of the locking function when the bucket is not properly connected to the vehicle's quick coupler.

With reference to US20070166143, a version of a locking device for a quick coupler is shown. The design differs to a significant extent from the design in accordance with the present patent application. For example, the design according to US2007166143 does not include a function that prevents operation of the locking function when the bucket is not properly connected to the vehicle's quick coupler.

Purpose of the Invention

The main purpose of the present invention is to eliminate or significantly reduce at least one of the earlier mentioned or any in the following description mentioned problems with known types of quick couplers. This purpose is achieved by a quick coupler in accordance with the claims. Brief Description of the Drawings

The present invention will be described in greater detail below with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings that in an exemplifying purpose show the current preferred embodiments of the invention. Figs. 1 A and IB show a quick coupler in accordance with a first embodiment.

Fig. 2 shows a quick coupler in more detail, when it is not connected to an attachment.

Figs. 3A - 3D show the quick coupler in more detail in a cross- sectional view.

Figs. 4A and 4B show a quick coupler in accordance with a second embodiment.

Fig. 5 shows the quick coupler in accordance with the second embodiment, in more detail. Fig. 6A shows the quick coupler, when it is not connected to an attachment, in more detail in a cross-sectional view.

Fig. 6B shows the quick coupler, connected to an attachment, in more detail in a cross- sectional view.

Fig. 7 shows a simple version of a hydraulic diagram. Fig. 8 shows a complete quick coupler with an upper part, or a second part. Detailed Description of the Invention

With reference to the figures, a quick coupler (quick hitch) 1 in accordance with the present patent application will be described in more detail. Fig. 8 shows a complete quick coupler while in the other figures the upper part is omitted for purposes of clarity. The quick coupler (quick hitch) 1 is preferably used to connect at least one attachment 2 to construction equipment, construction machines, vehicles or the like. In the figures, the attachment 2 is shown only partially. Said construction equipment may for example be an excavator or other type of construction machine (vehicle).

The quick coupler 1 comprises at least one frame 3, structure or the like and at least one first coupling device 4. Preferably, the quick coupler 1 comprises at least one first coupling device 4 and at least one second coupling device 5. With the coupling device 4, or the coupling devices 4 and 5, an attachment 2 is connected to the quick coupler 1. The first coupling device 4 comprises at least one first coupling bracket 6. In the exemplifying embodiment, the coupling device 4 comprises at least one first coupling bracket 6 and at least one second coupling bracket 7. The second coupling device 5 comprises at least one third coupling bracket 8. In the exemplifying embodiment, the second coupling device 5 comprises at least one third coupling bracket 8 and a fourth coupling bracket 9. The design of the first coupling bracket 6, the second coupling bracket 7, the third coupling bracket 8 and the fourth coupling bracket 9 may vary within the scope of the invention. In alternative embodiments, the number of coupling brackets in the coupling device 4 and in the coupling device 5 may be more or less than the said number. Coupling bracket 6 and coupling bracket 7 of the first coupling device 4 are suitable for connection to at least one first fastener 10 in the attachment 2 and the coupling bracket 8 and the coupling bracket 9 of the second coupling device 5 are suitable for connection to at least one second fastener 11 in the attachment 2.

The quick coupler 1 further comprises at least one locking device 12 (shown in Fig. 2) with which the attachment 2 is locked to and released from the quick coupler 1. In the

exemplifying embodiment of the figures, the locking device comprises at least one locking member 13, which is movably arranged relative to the frame 3. The locking member 13 is operated with at least one actuator 14, operating device or the like between a position where the attachment 2 is locked to the quick coupler 1 and to a position where the attachment 2 is not locked to the quick coupler 1. In the exemplifying embodiment, the actuator 14 consists of a hydraulic cylinder.

The quick coupler 1 preferably also comprises at least one visually observable indicator device 15 shown in Figs. 4A, 4B and 5, which visually indicates whether the attachment 2 is connected or not connected to the quick coupler 1. In the exemplifying embodiment, the indicator device 15 consists of earlier know technology such as at least one rod or other design suitable for the purpose.

With reference to Figs. 1 to 3, a first embodiment of the present patent application is shown. In the exemplifying first embodiment of the quick coupler 1, it is suitable for connection to an attachment 2 with a so-called mounting bracket or the like. For example, said attachment 2 can consist of buckets and the like for excavators or other attachments with said mounting bracket. The mounting bracket of the attachment comprises in the exemplifying embodiment at least one first fastener 10 comprising at least one first shaft (axel) 16 and at least one second fastener 11 comprising at least one second shaft 17. The shafts 16 and 17 are spaced at a distance from each other. Referring to Fig. 8, a quick coupler 1 preferably comprising a lower section 32, alternatively a first section or half, and an upper section 33, alternatively a second section or half is shown. For the sake of clarity the upper section is omitted in other figures and only shown in Fig. 8. It is essentially comprised of prior art which is connected to the lower section with previously known technology. The lower, first section, is suitable for connection to an attachment and the upper section is connected to the connecting device in the vehicle's boom, arm or the like. This design may include more or fewer parts than the number shown in the figures.

The specific feature of the present quick coupler 1 further comprises at least one activation device 18, maneuvering device or the like. The activation device 18 closes or opens for a flow of pressure fluid or the like to at least one hydraulic component. In the exemplifying embodiment, the hydraulic component is comprised of a locking device 12, which locks the attachment to the quick coupler. In the exemplifying embodiment, the activation device (maneuvering device) 18 opens or closes at least one valve 19 or the like which allows or prevents flow of pressure fluid to the locking device 12. When the position of the attachment 2 is incorrect, the flow to the hydraulic component is blocked, in the exemplifying embodiment comprising a locking device 12. The locking member 13 can not be actuated to a locked position unless the coupling devices 4 and 5 are correctly connected to the attachment's fasteners.

In the exemplifying embodiment of the activation device 18 it comprises at least one arm 20, sensing arm, sensing mechanism, maneuvering (control) arm or the like. The shape of the arm 20, maneuvering (control) arm may vary within the scope of the invention. The arm 20 in the exemplifying embodiment has an elongate shape with a first end 21 and a second end 22. The arm 20 is at its ends or in the vicinity of its ends movably, pivotally arranged.

The first end 21 of the arm 20, or in the vicinity of its end, is during connection of the attachment to the quick coupler suitable to be actuated by at least the first fastener 10 in the attachment 2 such as at least the first shaft 16 or the like. The second end 22 of the arm 20 or in the vicinity of its end is during the connection of the attachment 2 to the quick coupler 1 suitable to be actuated by at least the second fastener 11 in the attachment 2 such as at least the second shaft 17 or the like. In the exemplifying embodiment, the position of the arm 20 is maneuvered by at least one valve 19. The valve 19 opens or blocks flow to the actuator 14.

The arm 20 can move between a position, location, where both ends are affected and the valve 19 is in an open or in position or positions where the position of the arm causes the valve 19 to be closed.

Referring to Fig. 3D, an exemplifying steering of the arm 20 is shown. In the exemplifying embodiment, the arm 20 at its ends 21 and 22, or ends 21 and 22 proximity, is pivotally, movably arranged via at least one steering 23 or alternatively bearing. Each respective steering 23 is achieved in the exemplifying embodiment via at least one pin 24, shaft or the like which is inserted into at least one slot (groove) 25, hole or the like. The pin 24, the shaft, has a diameter slightly less than the width of the slot 25. The slot 25 has a length which allows the arm 20 to move between a first position (see Fig. 3D) where the arm is engaged with the first fastener 10 and the second fastener 11 and a second position (see Fig. 3 A) where the arm is not engaged with the fasteners 10 and 11. The length (height) of the slot 25 may vary within the scope of the invention. The arm 20 can thus be moved between the position where the valve 19 is closed and to a position where the valve 19 is open. In alternative embodiments, the steering may consist of another for the purpose suitable steering device.

In the exemplifying embodiment, the design comprises at least one springy (elastic) device 26 which actuates the arm during an inactivated position to return to an unactuated position. The springy device comprises at least one elastic member 27. The springy device may consist of another for the purpose suitable design.

Referring to Figs. 3A to 3C, the quick coupler 1 is shown at different levels of engagement with the attachment 2. In Fig. 3A, the quick coupler 1 is shown when it is not connected to any part of the attachment 2. Thus, the arm 20 is not actuated at either of its ends 21 and 22. The arm 20 is actuated by the springy device 26 or springy devices 26 to be in a position where the valve 19 is closed, causing flow of pressure fluid to the locking device 12 to be prevented. In Fig. 3B, the first shaft 16 is engaged with the first coupling device's 4 first coupling bracket 6 causing the arm 20 at its first end 21 to be in the actuated position.

Because the second coupling device 5 of the quick coupler 1 is not connected to the second shaft 17, the valve 19 is in a closed position. In Fig. 3C, the first shaft 16 is engaged with the coupling bracket 6 of the coupling device 4 causing that the arm 20 at its first end 21 to be in an actuated position. The coupling bracket 7 of the second coupling device 5 is further connected to the second shaft 17 which moves the arm 20 to a position where the valve 19 is actuated to the open position. Because the arm 20 at both its first end 21 is actuated by the first shaft 16 and that the arm 20 at its other end 22 is actuated by the second shaft 17, the valve 19 is open. The actuator 14 of the locking member 13 can therefore be actuated to a position where the shaft 16 is locked to the coupling device 5.

With reference to Figs. 4 to 6, a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. In the exemplifying alternative embodiment of the second quick coupler, it consists of a bracket for, for example, a bucket for an excavator or the like. In the exemplifying embodiment, the quick coupler comprises at least one first coupling device 4 and at least one second coupling device 5. The first coupling device 4 is suitable for connection to at least one first shaft, axel, rod or the like in the attachment 2.

In the exemplifying embodiment of the quick coupler 1, the second fastener 11 consists of at least one fastening hook 28. In this embodiment, the locking device 12 comprises at least one locking member 13, which engages the fastening hook 28. The locking member 13 is maneuvered to engage or not to engage with the fastening hook 28. The fastening hook 28 is suitable to work together with at least one recess 29, groove or the like, in the lower section of the quick coupler.

In the second exemplifying embodiment of the activation device 18 it comprises at least one arm 20, control arm, or the like. The shape of the arm 20, control arm may vary within the scope of the invention. The arm 20, in the exemplifying embodiment, has an elongate shape with a first end 21 and a second end 22. The arm 20 is at its ends 21 and 22 or in the vicinity of its ends movably, pivotally arranged.

The first end 21 of the arm 20, or the end's vicinity, is suitable to be actuated, directly or indirectly, of at least the first fastener 10 in the attachment such as at least the first shaft 16, axel, rod or similar. The second end 22 of the arm 20, or the end's vicinity, is suitable to be actuated directly or indirectly by at least the second fastener 11 in the attachment. In the exemplifying embodiment, the first end 21 of the arm 20 or the end's vicinity is actuated via at least one first spacer 30, which is actuated by the shaft 16 when connected to the coupling device 4. In the exemplifying embodiment, the second end 22 of the arm 20 or the second end's vicinity 22 is actuated, via at least one second spacer 31 when it is actuated by the second fastener 11 or alternatively another surface or surfaces on the attachment 2. In Fig. 4B, the first shaft 16 consisting of at least two sections 16a and 16b is in engagement with the coupling bracket 6 of the coupling device 4 allowing for the arm 20 in the first end 21 to be in the actuated position while the arm 20 in the second end 22 is in a position where it is not actuated. The valve 19 is thus in a closed position. In Figs. 4A and 6B, the first shaft 16 is in engagement with the coupling bracket 6 of the coupling device 4 allowing for the arm

20 in the first end 21 to be in an actuated position. Further, the fastening hook 28 is connected to the second coupling device 5 of the quick coupler. Because the arm 20 in both its one end

21 and its second end 22 is in actuated positions, the valve 19 is open. The locking member 13 of the locking device 12 can therefore be actuated to a locked position where the fastening hook 28 in the attachment 2 is locked to the quick coupler 1.

Referring to Fig. 7, is shown an exemplifying hydraulic diagram for actuating the locking device. The circuit comprises at least one valve 19, which is actuated by the position of the arm 20 to be open or closed.

In the detailed description of the present invention, design details may have been omitted which are apparent to persons skilled in the art. Such obvious design details are included to the extent necessary so that the proper and full performance of the present invention is achieved.

Even if certain preferred embodiments have been described in detail, variations and modifications within the scope of the invention may become apparent for specialists in the field and all such are regarded as falling within the scope of the following claims. Thus, it is conceivable that the present invention be used for purposes and applications other than those disclosed in the patent application. In alternative embodiments, the invention may define an activation device or activation mechanism for the lock device.

In alternative embodiments of the quick coupler, it may be suitable for connection with other types of attachments than exemplified in this patent application. It is further possible that the quick coupler be used for applications other than those disclosed in this patent application.

Advantages of the Invention

The present invention achieves several advantages. Firstly, an improved quick coupler is achieved which solves, or reduces, at least one of the technical problems mentioned in the background or in the description. Further, with the present invention, there are reduced risks of personal injury and property damage.

Claims

1. A quick coupler (1) suitable for use in connecting at least one attachment (2) with a construction equipment machine or the like, said quick coupler (1) comprising at least one first coupling device (4) comprising at least one first coupling bracket (6) suitable for connection with at least one first fastener (10) in the attachment (2) and at least one second coupling device (5) comprising at least one coupling bracket (8) suitable for connection with at least one second fastener (11) in the attachment (2) and that the quick coupler (1) comprises at least one locking device (12) which, with the aid of at least one locking member (13) with at least one actuator (14), locks the attachment (2) to and respectively releases the attachment (2) from the quick coupler (1) and that the locking device (12) comprises an activation device (18) which actuates the operation of the locking member (13) and respectively prevents actuation of the locking member (13), and that the quick coupler (1) comprises at least one valve (19) that controls the flow of hydraulic fluid to the actuator (14) characterized in that the quick coupler comprises at least one activation device (18) comprising at least one maneuvering arm (20) whose position controls whether the valve (19) is in an open or in a closed position and is open when the maneuvering arm's (20) first end (21) or the arm's (20) first end's (21) vicinity are actuated by the connection of the first fastener (10) and the first coupling device (4) and that the second end (22) of the arm (20) or the vicinity of the second end of the arm (20) is actuated by the connection of at least the second fastener (11) and the second coupling device (5).

2. A quick coupler (1) according to claim 1 characterized in that the first coupling device (4) comprises at least one first coupling bracket (6) and at least one second coupling bracket (7) and that the second coupling device (5) comprises at least one third coupling bracket (8) and at least one fourth coupling bracket (9), and that the coupling members (6) and (7) are connected to a mounting bracket in an attachment comprising at least one first shaft (16) and that the coupling brackets (8) and (9) are suitable for connection to the mounting bracket's second shaft (17).

3. A quick coupler (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized in that the first coupling device (4), when connected to the attachment (2), is connected to at least one first shaft (16) in the attachment (2) and the second coupling device (5),

RECORD COPY TRANSLATION

(Rule 12.4) when connected with the implement (2), is connected to at least one fastening hook (28) in the attachment (2).

4. A quick coupler (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims characterized in that the quick coupler (1) comprises at least one first spacer (30) connected to the first end (21) of the maneuvering arm (20) and at least one second spacer (31) connected to the arm's (20) second end (22).

5. A quick coupler (1) according to at least one of the preceding claims characterized in that the actuator (14) consists of at least one hydraulic cylinder.