Pivoting implements and adjustment arrangements for earth moving or materials handling machines

Abstract

An implement pivots with respect to an earth moving or materials handling machine to which the implement is attached. The implement may be a bucket adapted to pivot laterally with respect to an excavator or other machine to which the bucket is attached. An adjustment arrangement includes a linear actuator which operates along a substantially fixed axis to drive the pivoting movement. The linear actuator may drive a rack which engages with a pinion to cause pivoting movement.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention relates to pivoting implements for attachment to earth moving or materials handling machines.BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION[0002]Earth moving or materials handling machines can be adapted for and / or used in various applications including construction, earthworks, demolition, forestry, drainage, quarrying, mining etc. Implements are attached to the machine, for example to the arm of an excavator. Implements include buckets, rippers, ploughs, rakes, spades and rollers.[0003]Some excavator buckets are capable of adjustable pivoting with respect to the machine. This is generally achieved using a pivot between the main body of the bucket and a coupling part of the bucket. The bucket may be connected to an excavator by the coupling part. One or two hydraulic cylinders are connected to the bucket and to the coupling part and drive rotation of the bucket with respect to the coupling part. The coupling part remains fixed with respect to the excavator.[0...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

These are common failure points, since adjustment creates wear in the connection and also because lateral loads imposed on the bucket during use are transmitted through these connections.

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