Space frame center lower frame connection

Abstract

A center lower frame connection (220) for a space frame (20) includes an outer lift cylinder connection boss (2204), an inner down tube connection boss (2206), a center cylinder (2202) between the outer lift cylinder connection boss (2204) and the inner down tube connection boss (2206), a suspension connection boss (2208), an outer rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss (2210), an inner rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss (2211), a vertical center lower frame tube connection boss (2212), a forward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss (2214), an outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2216) and an inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2217). The outer lift cylinder connection boss (2204), the inner down tube connection boss (2206) and the center cylinder (2202) may have a common center axis. The central lower frame connection (220) may also have a rearwardly inclined beam (2220) and a forwardly horizontal beam (2230).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to space frames, and more particularly to space frame center lower frame connections, and systems, components and methods thereof. Background Art

[0002] Conventional haul trucks, such as off-highway haul trucks, may use welded steel frames, which may be very heavy and may require many meters of welding to make a complete frame. Space frames provide a lighter and stronger alternative to conventional welded steel frames because less steel is required. Therefore, space frames provide considerable benefits in terms of cost, manufacturability, and performance. For example, a haul truck with a space frame can haul relatively large payloads and consume less fuel.

[0003] Conventional space frame structures may use manufactured node connections. Such node connections may be used to create space frame structures associated with static applications. However, vehicle applications are at least partially dynamic in nature, and haul trucks may represent particularly difficult applications because of the loads applied to the space frame and the bending, twisting and / or flexing that may occur when the haul truck travels on various types of terrain, such as off-road terrain. Carefully designed high-strength castings and fabrication are required to provide the appropriate stiffness and flexibility characteristics while ensuring appropriate load transfer from the dump body to the wheels.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 10,183,706 ("the '706 patent") describes a node for interconnecting frame members of a frame. According to the '706 patent, a plurality of cup-shaped node connectors are arranged on a node body, wherein each node connector includes a closed end attached to the node body and an open end opposite the closed end and extending away from the node body. The '706 patent further describes a sidewall extending between and connecting the closed end to the open end, and forming a tenon on the open end. According to the '706 patent, the tenon is shaped and sized to fit within the frame member, and a transition portion is formed between the sidewall and the tenon, the transition portion defining a circumferential, radially outwardly facing groove that cooperates with the frame member, wherein the groove is shaped and sized to receive a weld. Summary of the invention

[0005] In one aspect, a center lower frame connection casting for a space frame is disclosed. The center lower frame connection casting may include an outer lift cylinder connection boss; an inner down tube connection boss; a center cylinder located between the outer lift cylinder connection boss and the inner down tube connection boss, wherein the outer lift cylinder connection boss, the inner down tube connection boss and the center cylinder have a common center axis; a suspension connection boss; an outer rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss; an inner rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss; a vertical center lower frame tube connection boss; a forward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss; an outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss; an inner A forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss; a rearward inclined beam, which has an outer rearward inclined beam component connecting the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder, and an inner rearward inclined beam component connecting the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder; and a forward horizontal beam, which has an outer forward horizontal beam component connecting the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder, and an inner forward horizontal beam component connecting the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder.

[0006] On the other hand, a space frame for an off-highway rear haul truck is disclosed. The space frame may include a first center lower frame connection casting; and a second center lower frame connection casting, which is spaced apart from the first center lower frame connection casting in the width direction of the space frame. The first and second center lower frame connection castings may each include an outer lift cylinder connection boss, an inner down tube connection boss, a center cylinder located between the outer lift cylinder connection boss and the inner down tube connection boss, the outer lift cylinder connection boss and the inner down tube connection boss being integrally attached to the center cylinder, and the outer lift cylinder connection boss, the inner down tube connection boss, and the center cylinder share a common center axis; a suspension connection boss, the suspension connection boss being integrally attached to the center cylinder; an outer rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss; an inner rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss; a vertical center lower frame tube connection boss; a forward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss; an outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss; an inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss; a rearward An inclined beam, which has an outer rear inclined beam member connecting the outer rear inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder, and an inner rear inclined beam member connecting the inner rear inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder, the outer rear inclined beam member and the inner rear inclined beam member are integrally joined at the center cylinder and oriented at a first acute angle relative to each other, and a forward horizontal beam, which has an outer forward horizontal beam member connecting the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder; and an inner forward horizontal beam member connecting the inner rear inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder, the outer forward beam member and the inner forward beam member are integrally joined at the center cylinder and oriented at a second acute angle relative to each other.

[0007] On the other hand, a method for connecting a center lower frame is disclosed. The method may include providing an outer lifting cylinder connection boss for the center lower frame connection; providing an inner down tube connection boss for the center lower frame connection; providing a center cylinder for the center lower frame connection between the outer lifting cylinder connection boss and the inner down tube connection boss, wherein the outer lifting cylinder connection boss, the inner down tube connection boss and the center cylinder have a common center axis; providing a suspension connection boss for the center lower frame connection; providing an outer rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss for the center lower frame connection; providing an inner rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss for the center lower frame connection; providing a vertical center lower frame tube connection boss for the center lower frame connection; providing a forward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss for the center lower frame connection; providing the center An outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss is provided for connection with the center lower frame; an inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss is provided for connection with the center lower frame; a rearward inclined beam is provided for connection with the center lower frame, which has an outer rearward inclined beam component connecting the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder, and an inner rearward inclined beam component connecting the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder; and a forward horizontal beam is provided for connection with the center lower frame, which has an outer forward horizontal beam component connecting the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder, and an inner forward horizontal beam component connecting the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss to the center cylinder.

[0008] Other features and aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 is a side view of a machine according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0010] Figure 2 According to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter Figure 1 A front view of a machine with the cab of the machine removed to show the space frame and its dumping body.

[0011] Figure 3 is a side view of a space frame according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0012] Figure 4-7 is a view of a center lower frame connection casting according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0013] Figure 8 is an exploded view of a space frame and pour body according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter to illustrate defined contact points. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Referring now to the drawings and in particular to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , these figures illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a machine 10. Machine 10 may be a mobile machine that performs some type of operation associated with an industry such as mining, construction, or any other industry known in the art. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, machine 10 may be an earth moving machine, and more particularly an off-highway rear haul truck 10 .

[0015] The machine 10 may have a space frame 20 supported by front wheels 14 and rear wheels 16 (including respective tires). The front and rear wheels 14, 16 may be connected to the space frame 20 via front suspension members and rear suspension systems, respectively. The machine 10 may also include a bed or body 30 supported by the space frame 20. Such a bed or body 30 is referred to herein as a dump body 30. The dump body 30 may be configured as a receiver for receiving hauled material.

[0016] The rear portion 34 of the pouring body 30 can be pivotally coupled or attached to a portion (including multiple portions) at the rear portion 24 of the space frame 20. As discussed in more detail below, the portion of the pouring body 30 between the rear portion 34 and the front portion 36 of the pouring body 30 can be movably positioned relative to a corresponding portion of the space frame 20 to support the pouring body 30 on the space frame 20 in a static position of the pouring body 30. The static position of the pouring body 30 can be considered to be the positioning of the pouring body 30 so that the front portion 36 of the pouring body 30 is in the lowest position (i.e., not raised). The pouring body 30 can be pivoted about the rear portion 24 of the space frame 20 at the rear portion 34 to raise or lower the portion of the pouring body 30 in front of the pivot (and thus move the portion of the pouring body 30 behind the pivot in the opposite direction). This pivoting of the pouring body 30 to raise the front portion 36 of the pouring body 30 can pour the contents from the pouring body 30. Similarly, pivoting of the pouring body 30 to lower the front portion 36 of the pouring body 30 to the resting position may be to receive the contents of the pouring body 30 .

[0017] The machine 10 may have a cab 18 supported by a space frame 20. The machine 10 may also be equipped with a steering mechanism and controls to move the machine 10 and to control raising and lowering of a dump body 30. The steering mechanism and controls may be located within the cab 18 of the machine 10.

[0018] The machine 10 may have a prime mover (not explicitly shown) supported by the space frame 20. Typically, the prime mover may be disposed in the space 21 of the space frame 20. The prime mover may be configured to propel the front and rear wheels 14, 16 in a forward or backward direction. The prime mover may be longitudinally aligned on the space frame 20 along the direction of travel of the machine 10. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the prime mover may be aligned laterally. In an exemplary embodiment, the prime mover may be an internal combustion engine, such as a two-stroke or four-stroke diesel engine. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the prime mover may be any other type of internal combustion engine, such as a gasoline engine or a gas fuel powered engine. The prime mover may be connected to the front wheel 14 and / or the rear wheel 16 via other components such as a transmission (not shown) to transfer power to move the front wheel 14 and / or the rear wheel 16 in a forward or backward direction.

[0019] Exhaust from the prime mover may be output from one or more exhaust outputs (not explicitly shown). Optionally, the one or more exhaust outputs may be generally disposed between the cab 18 and the front wall 37 of the dumping body 30 such that exhaust is provided toward at least a predetermined portion of the front wall 37. A coupler (e.g., a bellows) may be provided to connect the one or more exhaust outputs to the front wall 37 of the dumping body 30, such as to a heating channel disposed in or on the front wall 37 of the dumping body 30 to heat the material carried in the dumping body 30.

[0020] In general, a space frame according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, such as space frame 20, can be a frame including structural members connected to each other at nodes and / or joints. The structural members can include hollow tubes and / or solid tubes, and in some cases can be connected according to a triangular structure. For example, the structural members can be made of metal, metal alloys, or reinforced composite materials.

[0021] Figure 3 2 is a more detailed view of the space frame 20. As shown, the space frame 20 may include a pair of rear frame connections 210 at the rear 24 of the space frame 20, a pair of center lower frame connections 220, a center upper horizontal frame connection 225, a pair of center upper frame connections 230, a pair of center upper frame node connections 240, a pair of front upper frame connections 250, a pair of front lower frame connections 260, a front upper frame connection 270, a pair of front upper suspension connections 280, and a front lower suspension connection 290. Although the foregoing connections are described as being in pairs, the connections of a pair may not be identical. For example, a pair of connections may be symmetrical, typically but not necessarily identical. The foregoing connections may be castings or fabrication. Typically, castings may refer to connections that are not welded to another support component of the space frame 20, while fabrication may refer to connections that are welded to another support component of the space frame 20.

[0022] The center upper horizontal frame connection 225 and corresponding connections may be as described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 663,930; the center upper frame connection 230 and corresponding connections may be as described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 664,042; the center upper frame node connection and corresponding connection 240 may be as described in Application No. (19-0771); the front upper frame connection 250 and corresponding connections may be as described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 664,010; the front lower frame connection 260 and corresponding connections may be as described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 664,104; the front upper suspension connection 280 and corresponding connections may be as described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 664,124; and / or the front lower suspension connection 290 and corresponding connections may be as described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 664,169. The above applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0023] Space frame 20 may also include a plurality of elongated support members, such as elongated support member 201, elongated support member 202, elongated support member 203, elongated support member 204, elongated support member 205, and elongated member 206. According to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, the elongated support members may be in the form of, for example, circular rods and / or tubes, some or all of which may be solid or hollow.

[0024] Go to Figure 4-7 Each center lower frame connection 220 may have a center cylinder 2202, an outer lifting cylinder connection boss 2204, an inner down tube connection boss 2206, a suspension connection boss 2208, an outer rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2210, an inner rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2211, a vertical center lower frame tube connection boss 2212, a forward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2214, an outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216, and an inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217. Each center lower frame connection 220 may also have a rearward tilted beam 2220 and a forward horizontal beam 2230.

[0025] The center cylinder 2202 may be disposed between the outer lift cylinder connection boss 2204 and the inner drop tube connection boss 2206. Optionally, the outer lift cylinder connection boss 2204 and the inner drop tube connection boss 2206 may be integrally attached to the center cylinder 2202. That is, according to one or more embodiments, the center cylinder 2202, the outer lift cylinder connection boss 2204, and the inner drop tube connection boss 2206 may be formed as one body. In addition, the center cylinder 2202, the outer lift cylinder connection boss 2204, and the inner drop tube connection boss 2206 may have a common center axis. When in the space frame 20, the common center axis may extend or extend in the width direction of the space frame 20.

[0026] The suspension connection boss 2208, the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2210, the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2211, the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216 and / or the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217 can be integrally attached to the center cylinder 2202 (i.e., formed as a single piece). Optionally, the vertical center lower frame tube connection boss 2212 and / or the forward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2214 can be formed as a single piece with the center cylinder 2202.

[0027] Typically, the suspension connection boss 2208, the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2210, the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2211, the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216, the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217, the vertical center lower frame tube connection boss 2212, and the forward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2214 may extend radially outward from the center cylinder 2202. According to one or more embodiments, an acute angle may be formed between the suspension connection boss 2208 and the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2210, the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2210 and the vertical center lower frame tube connection boss 2212, the vertical center lower frame tube connection boss 2212 and the forward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2214, and / or the forward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2214 and the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216. Some or all of the acute angles defined in the vertical reference frame may be different. For example, Figure 6 Exemplary angular relationships between the aforementioned connecting components are shown. Optionally, respective webs may be provided between some or all of the aforementioned connecting members.

[0028] According to one or more embodiments, the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2210 and the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2211 can be positioned at an acute angle relative to each other. Similarly, the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216 and the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217 can be positioned at an acute angle relative to each other. The acute angle between the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2210 and the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2211 can be different from the acute angle between the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216 and the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217, where the acute angle is generally defined in a horizontal reference frame.

[0029] Optionally, according to one or more embodiments, some or all of these bosses, i.e., the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss 2210, the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss 2211, the vertical center lower frame tube connecting boss 2212, the forward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss 2214, the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss 2216, and the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss 2217 can gradually taper from thick to thin toward the center cylinder 2202.

[0030] The rearwardly inclined beam 2220 may include an outer rearwardly inclined beam member 2222 and an inner rearwardly inclined beam member 2223. The outer rearwardly inclined beam member 2222 and the inner rearwardly inclined beam member 2223 may respectively connect the outer rearwardly inclined lower center frame tube connection boss 2210 and the inner rearwardly inclined lower center frame tube connection boss 2211 to the center cylinder 2202. The outer rearwardly inclined beam member 2222 and the inner rearwardly inclined beam member 2223 may be integrally joined at the center cylinder 2202, and similar to the outer rearwardly inclined lower center frame tube connection boss 2210 and the inner rearwardly inclined lower center frame tube connection boss 2211, may be positioned at an acute angle relative to each other.

[0031] The forward horizontal beam 2230 may include an outer forward horizontal beam member 2232 and an inner forward horizontal beam member 2233. The outer forward horizontal beam member 2232 and the inner forward horizontal beam member 2233 may connect the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216 and the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217 to the center cylinder 2202, respectively. The outer forward horizontal beam member 2232 and the inner forward horizontal beam member 2233 may be integrally joined at the center cylinder 2202 and may be positioned at an acute angle relative to each other similar to the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216 and the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217. The acute angle between the outer forward horizontal beam member 2232 and the inner forward horizontal beam member 2233 may be different from the acute angle between the outer rearward inclined beam member 2222 and the inner rearward inclined beam member 2223.

[0032] When the center lower frame connection 220 is in the space frame 20, the suspension connection boss 2208, the outer rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2210, and the inner rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2211 can extend rearward from the center cylinder 2202 in the length direction of the space frame 20. Similarly, when the center lower frame connection 220 is in the space frame 20, the forward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2214, the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216, and the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217 can extend forward from the center cylinder 2202 in the length direction of the space frame 20.

[0033] like Figure 3-7As shown, the space frame 20 can provide the following connections: the outer lift cylinder connection boss 2204 can be connected to the lift cylinder 125, the inner drop tube connection boss 2206 can be connected to the elongated support member 206, which can be a drop tube, and the suspension connection boss 2208 can be connected to the rear suspension link 116. Therefore, in a side view of the space frame 20, the lift cylinder 125 located laterally outboard of the center lower frame connection 220 can extend upward and rearward; the elongated support member 206 can extend laterally inward from the inner drop tube connection boss 2206 between the opposing center lower frame connections 220; and the rear suspension link 116 can extend rearward from the suspension connection boss 2208 and at least sometimes downward from the center lower frame connection 220. The rear suspension link 116 can be connected to the pivot of the suspension connection boss 2208. The elongated support member 206 can be fixedly connected to the inner drop tube connection boss 2206, such as by welding.

[0034] The space frame 20 may also provide the following connections: the outer and inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection bosses 2210, 2211 may be connected to the corresponding elongated support member 204; the vertical center lower frame tube connection boss 2212 may be connected to the elongated support member 205; the forward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2214 may be connected to the elongated support member 202; and the outer and inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection bosses 2216, 2217 may be connected to the corresponding elongated support member 203. Some or all of such connections may be fixed connections, such as by welding.

[0035] Back to Figure 3 , in a top plan view of the space frame 20, each elongated support member 201 may be disposed between the rear frame connection 210 and the front upper frame connection 270. More specifically, each elongated support member 201 may be disposed between the center upper horizontal frame connection 225 and one of the rear frame connections 210. Furthermore, each elongated support member 201 may extend longitudinally generally horizontally, in this case, extending rearwardly from the center upper horizontal frame connection 225 at a positive acute angle relative to a horizontal plane passing through the front wheels 14 and the rear wheels 16. Since the elongated support members 201 are disposed outside the space frame 20 in the width direction of the space frame 20, the elongated support members 201 may be considered as outer elongated support members 201. As an example, the outer elongated support members 201 may be outer frame tubes.

[0036] Each rear frame connection 210, which may be a casting, may have a rear support 211 and a rear suspension node 215. As discussed in more detail below, the rear support 211 may directly support the dump body 30, and the rear suspension node 215 may be coupled to the rear suspension member 115 of the rear suspension system. The rear frame connection 210 may also be coupled to a plurality of elongated support members, including the elongated support member 201. In accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, each rear frame connection 210 may be a seven-point connection. For example, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, the rear frame connection 210 and corresponding connections may be as described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 663,815, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0037] The rear support 211 can be configured as a pivot pin boss having a pivot pin hole or opening 212. According to one or more embodiments, the outer surface of the rear support 211 (i.e., the pivot pin boss) and the pivot pin hole 212 can be cylindrical. The axis of the pivot pin hole 212 can extend in the width direction of the space frame 20. In addition, the axes of the pivot pin holes 212 of the rear supports 211 from the pair of rear frame connections 210 can be aligned with each other. That is, the axes of the pivot pin holes 212 can be coaxial or common. The pivot pin hole 212 can be configured to receive the pivot pin of the pivot pin interface 213, so that the pivot pin interface 213 is pivotally connected to the rear support 211 via the pivot pin hole 212, and the pivot pin interface 213 can pivot or rotate around the axis of the pivot pin of the pivot pin hole 212 and the pivot pin of the pivot pin interface 213. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the pivot pin interface 213 may also be coupled to the bottom 35 of the pouring body 30 .

[0038] like Figure 3 As shown, the front upper frame connection 270 can be fixedly coupled to the front upper suspension connection 280, and the bottom of the front upper frame connection 270 can be fixedly coupled to the front upper frame connection 250. In addition, the front upper frame connection 270 (which can be a manufacturing) can have a body with a pair of rocker attachment interfaces 272 on its top surface. According to one or more embodiments, the front upper frame connection 270 and the corresponding connection can be as described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 663,849, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0039] The rocker attachment interfaces 272 may be spaced apart from one another in the width direction of the space frame 20, for example, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the front upper frame connection 270 is disposed at the opposite outer edges of the main body. Each rocker attachment interface 272 may have a pivot pin hole configured to receive a pivot pin. Optionally, the pivot pin can be considered as a part of the rocker attachment interface 272. The pivot pin hole and the axis of rotation of the pivot pin can extend horizontally or substantially horizontally in the length direction of the space frame 20. In addition, the axes of rotation of the rocker attachment interfaces 272 can be parallel to each other.

[0040] Each rocker attachment interface 272 can have a support rocker 274 rotatably attached thereto by a pivot pin. Since the rocker attachment interfaces 272 can be spaced apart from one another in the width direction of the space frame 20, the support rockers 274 can also be spaced apart from one another. In addition, the support rockers 274 can rotate or pivot about respective rotation axes defined by the rocker attachment interfaces 272 laterally or in the width direction of the space frame 20.

[0041] According to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, each support rocker 274 can have an upwardly facing contact surface 275. The upwardly facing contact surface 275 can be concave, such as semi-cylindrical, elliptical, or multi-planar. In addition, the upwardly facing contact surface 275 can be or include a pad. As discussed in more detail below, the support rocker 274, and in particular its upwardly facing contact surface 275, can receive a portion of a corresponding vertical support structure 370 of the pouring body 30 (see Figure 8 ).

[0042] Now go to Figure 8 The pouring body 30 may have a rear pivot support 310 and a pair of flat contact surfaces 301 on its bottom 35 , and a pair of vertical support structures 370 on its front wall 37 .

[0043] The rear pivot support 310 may be disposed at the rear portion 34 of the pouring body 30, such as Figure 8 The rear pivot support 310 may have a pair of rear pivots 311. The rear pivots 311 may be spaced apart from each other in the width or lateral direction of the pouring body 30, such as Figure 8 The rear pivot support 310 may further include a cross member 314, which may be disposed between the rear pivots 311 and fixedly connected to the rear pivots 311 or a portion of the rear pivots 311 (ie, integral and / or one-piece therewith).

[0044] The rear pivot support 310 can be fixedly coupled to the bottom 35 of the pouring body 30. For example, the rear pivot support 310 can be welded to the bottom 35 of the pouring body 30. More specifically, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, each rear pivot 311 can be welded to a corresponding longitudinal body support member 377 on the bottom 35 of the pouring body 30. For example, Figure 8 As shown, each rear pivot 311 can be welded in line with the corresponding longitudinal body support member 377. Therefore, the rear pivot 311 can be considered to be part of the longitudinal body support member 377 (ie, integral and / or one-piece therewith).

[0045] Each rear pivot 311 may also include a plurality of cutouts 313, such as two cutouts 313, which are spaced apart from each other in the length direction of the pouring body 30. Each cutout 313 may receive or accept a transverse body support member 378. In addition, the cutouts 313 of one rear pivot 311 may accommodate different transverse body support members 378, such as adjacent transverse body support members 378, such as Figure 8 In addition, as shown, each lateral body support member 378 can extend through one cutout 313 of one rear pivot 311 and through an opposing cutout 313 of the other rear pivot 311. The rear pivot supports 310 and corresponding connections can be as described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 663,627, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0046] The rear pivot 311 may be pivotally coupled to the rear support 211 of the space frame 20 via a pivot pin interface 213. More specifically, for each rear pivot 311 / rear support 211 pair, the rear support 211 may be disposed in a pivot hole of the rear pivot 311 (e.g., between two pivot hole portions of a single rear pivot 311) such that the pivot hole 212 of the rear support 211 is aligned with the pivot hole, and such that the pin of the pivot pin interface 213 extends through the pivot hole 212 of the rear support 211 and the pivot hole of the rear pivot 311. The arm 214 of the pivot pin interface 213 may have one or more notches configured to mate with a corresponding one or more protrusions of the attachment interface.

[0047] The bottom 35 of the pouring body 30 may include a plurality of flat contact surfaces 301, such as Figure 8 As shown. The flat contact surface 301 may be in the form of a plate, such as a rectangular or square plate, but embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are not limited to the aforementioned geometric shapes. Optionally, the flat contact surface 301 may have a chamfered portion on its bottom edge. The flat contact surface 301 may be disposed approximately in the middle of the pouring body 30. In a top plan view of the pouring body 30, the pair of flat contact surfaces 301 may be located between the rear pivot support 310 and the pair of vertical support structures 370 in the length direction of the pouring body 30. In addition, the flat contact surfaces 301 may be disposed on corresponding longitudinal support body members 377. For example, the flat contact surface 301 may be disposed on an inwardly facing surface of the longitudinal support body member 377. Therefore, in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, the flat contact surface 301 may be vertically oriented, such as Figure 8 In addition, the flat contact surface 301 on one longitudinal support member 377 may be spaced apart from the flat contact surface 301 on the opposite longitudinal support member 377 in the width direction of the pouring body 30. As a non-limiting example, the flat contact surface 301 may be coupled to the longitudinal support member 377, for example, by welding, rivets, or bolts.

[0048] According to one or more embodiments, each flat contact surface 301 may be composed of a first flat contact surface portion and a second flat contact surface portion, wherein the second flat contact surface portion is spaced apart from the first flat contact surface portion in the length direction of the pouring body 30, such as Figure 8 As shown in . Optionally, the first and second flat contact surface portions of the flat contact surface 301 can have the same configuration. Of course, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, each flat contact surface 301 can be represented by a single flat contact surface (e.g., a single plate). For example, Figure 8 Only one of the illustrated first or second planar contact surface portions may constitute the planar contact surface 301 .

[0049] As discussed in more detail below, when the pouring body 30 is in the lowered position (ie, the resting position), the flat contact surface 301 attached to the pouring body 30 may be as follows: Figure 8 That is, the flat contact surface 301 can be disposed adjacent to an outer side or lateral side of the outer elongated support member 201. According to one or more embodiments, the flat contact surface 301 can be parallel to the outer elongated support member 201.

[0050] The vertical support structures 370 of the pouring body 30 may extend from the front of the front wall 37 of the pouring body 30. The vertical support structures 370 may be fixed to the front of the front wall 37, for example, by welding. The vertical support structures 370 may be spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the pouring body 30. According to one or more embodiments, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, in a front view of the machine 10, the vertical support structure 370 may be centered on opposite sides of the vertical centerline of the pour body 30. The vertical support structure 370 may be as described in U.S. Application No. 16 / 663,825, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0051] The vertical support structure 370 may be vertical at least in a front view of the pouring body 30. Depending on the configuration of the front wall 37 of the pouring body 30, the vertical support structure 370 may be substantially vertical in a side view of the pouring body 30, such as at an angle of 10 degrees or less from the vertical.

[0052] According to one or more embodiments, the vertical support structure 370 may extend through the horizontal support structure 375, which may also be fixed (e.g., welded) to the front face of the front wall 37. For example, the intersecting surfaces of the horizontal support structure 375 and each vertical support structure 370 may be fixedly attached by welding.

[0053] Each vertical support structure 370 can have a downward facing contact surface 371. According to one or more embodiments, the downward facing contact surface 371 can be convex, such as semi-cylindrical, elliptical, or multi-planar. The downward facing contact surface 371 can be configured to receive or seat in the upward facing contact surface 275 of the support rocker 274. Unlike the support rocker 274, the vertical support structure 370 itself does not pivot.

[0054] Industrial Applicability

[0055] As described above, embodiments of the present invention relate to space frame center lower frame connections and systems, components, and methods thereof.

[0056] Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may provide a lightweight, durable machine configuration with reliable support definition of the load point between the dump body 30 and the space frame 20, for example, based on dimensional variations due to tolerances and / or component deflections.

[0057] In terms of the components of the space frame 20, the space frame 20 may include a pair of center lower frame connections 220. Each center lower frame connection 220 may have a center cylinder 2202, an outer lift cylinder connection boss 2204, an inner drop tube connection boss 2206, a suspension connection boss 2208, an outer rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2210, an inner rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2211, a vertical center lower frame tube connection boss 2212, a forward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2214, an outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216, and an inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217. Each center lower frame connection 220 may also have a rearward tilted beam 2220 and a forward horizontal beam 2230.

[0058] Typically, the suspension connecting boss 2208, the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss 2210, the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss 2211, the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss 2216, the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss 2217, the vertical center lower frame tube connecting boss 2212 and the forward inclined center lower frame tube connecting boss 2214 can extend radially outward from the center cylinder 2202.

[0059] Optionally, according to one or more embodiments, some or all of these bosses, i.e., the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2210, the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2211, the vertical center lower frame tube connection boss 2212, the forward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2214, the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216, and the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217 may taper from thick to thin toward the center cylinder 2202. This tapering from thick to thin may drive stress concentration toward the rearward inclined beam 2220 and the forward horizontal beam 2230, respectively, depending on the location of a particular boss.

[0060] When the center lower frame connection 220 is in the space frame 20, the suspension connection boss 2208, the outer rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2210, and the inner rearward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2211 can extend rearward from the center cylinder 2202 in the length direction of the space frame 20. Similarly, when the center lower frame connection 220 is in the space frame 20, the forward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss 2214, the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2216, and the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss 2217 can extend forward from the center cylinder 2202 in the length direction of the space frame 20.

[0061] like Figure 3-7 As shown, the space frame 20 can provide the following connections: the outer lift cylinder connection boss 2204 can be connected to the lift cylinder 125, the inner drop tube connection boss 2206 can be connected to the elongated support member 206, which can be a drop tube, and the suspension connection boss 2208 can be connected to the rear suspension link 116. Therefore, in a side view of the space frame 20, the lift cylinder 125 located laterally outboard of the center lower frame connection 220 can extend upward and rearward; the elongated support member 206 can extend laterally inward from the inner drop tube connection boss 2206 between the opposing center lower frame connections 220; and the rear suspension link 116 can extend rearward from the suspension connection boss 2208 and at least sometimes downward from the center lower frame connection 220. The rear suspension link 116 can be connected to the pivot of the suspension connection boss 2208. The elongated support member 206 can be fixedly connected to the inner drop tube connection boss 2206, such as by welding.

[0062] The space frame 20 may also provide the following connections: the outer and inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection bosses 2210, 2211 may be connected to the corresponding elongated support member 204; the vertical center lower frame tube connection boss 2212 may be connected to the elongated support member 205; the forward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss 2214 may be connected to the elongated support member 202; and the outer and inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection bosses 2216, 2217 may be connected to the corresponding elongated support member 203. Such connections may be fixed connections, such as by welding.

[0063] According to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, the dump body 30 can be operably contacted with the space frame 20 according to a predetermined contact arrangement. For example, an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter can provide a six-point contact arrangement between the dump body 30 and the space frame 20. According to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, such a contact arrangement can be provided when the dump body 30 is in a static position. The static position used herein can mean that the dump body 30 is in a lowest or fully lowered position and is not lifted by the lifting cylinder 125, which can be coupled to the center lower frame connection 220.

[0064] Reference Figure 8 , which shows an exploded view of the space frame 20 and the dump body 30 of the machine 10, a first pair of contact points may be provided by the rear supports 211 of the space frame 20 and the rear pivots 311 of the rear pivot supports 310 of the dump body 30. Each rear support 211 may be pivotally connected to the dump body 30 via the rear pivots 311. Such connection may allow the front portion 36 of the dump body 30 to be raised and lowered between uppermost and lowermost positions by rotation about a common pivot axis created by the connection between the rear supports 211 and the rear pivots 311.

[0065] A second pair of contact points may be provided by positioning the flat contact surface 301 relative to the elongated support member 201. In particular, the flat contact surface 301 (which may be on the pouring body 30 or a portion of the pouring body 30, rather than the space frame 20) may be disposed adjacent to an outer side or lateral side of the elongated support member 201, such as Figure 8 As shown. As described above, the flat contact surface 301 can be positioned parallel to the slender support member 201. In addition, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, the flat contact surface 301 can contact the slender support member 201. Such positioning of the flat contact surface 301 can be performed when the pouring body 30 is in the lowest or resting position. In addition, such positioning of the flat contact surface 301 can accommodate lateral forces from the corresponding slender support member 201 of the space frame 20. In addition, as described above, the flat contact surface 301 can have a chamfered portion on its bottom edge. Such a chamfered portion helps to center the pouring body 30 when the pouring body 30 transitions to the resting or fully downward position.

[0066] By removably positioning the vertical support structure 370 (particularly the downward facing contact surface 371 thereof) on the support rocker 274 (particularly the upward facing contact surface 275 thereof), a third pair of contact points can be provided. According to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, the downward facing contact surface 371 can be removably positioned on the upward facing contact surface 275. In addition, in a front view of the machine 10, the vertical center axis of the downward facing contact surface 371 of each vertical support structure 370 can be offset from the rotation axis (i.e., the pivot axis) of a corresponding one of the support rockers 274. For example, as Figure 2 As shown, the vertical center axis of the downward facing contact surface 371 may be offset inwardly in the width direction of the machine 10 relative to the axis of rotation of the support rocker 274 .

[0067] The vertical support structure 370, and particularly the downward facing contact surface 371 when contacting the upward facing contact surface 275 of the support rocker 274, can transfer loads to the front suspension system and the front wheel 14 through the space frame 20. In addition, the vertical support structure 370 can provide support for the horizontal component of the force vector relative to the dump body 30, the load of which is transferred to the front wheel 14 through the space frame 20 and the front suspension system. In addition, because the support rocker 274 can pivot laterally and independently of each other, and because both the support rocker 274 and the vertical support structure 370 have cooperating contact surfaces (i.e., the upward facing contact surface 275 and the downward facing contact surface 371, respectively), proper placement between the vertical support structure 370 and the support rocker 274 can be maintained, particularly when the dump body 30 is in a stationary position, and even, for example, when the machine 10 is moving. Figure 2 As shown, such an arrangement may therefore provide a uniform load distribution LD with respect to each side (ie, side-to-side or lateral) of the support arrangement.

[0068] In addition, Figure 2 As shown, in a front view, the support rocker 274 / vertical support structure 370 combination can be positioned along the longitudinal axis of the corresponding front strut 121 of the corresponding front suspension member 120 connected to the same side of the space frame 20. For example, the pivot axis of the support rocker 274 can be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the corresponding front strut 121. The longitudinal axes may intersect at a point CL1 at the vertical centerline of the top of the dump body 30. Of course, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are not limited in this regard, and the longitudinal axis of the front strut 121 may not be aligned with the support rocker 271 / support structure 270 combination, such as the pivot axis of the support rocker 274. As also shown in FIG. Figure 2As shown, the longitudinal axes of the additional suspension members on opposite sides of the space frame 20 may intersect at point CL2 at the same vertical centerline of the machine 10 as point CL1. Thus, the arrangement of the third pair of contact points may evenly transfer loads from the dump body 30 to the front suspension system through the support rocker 274 and the space frame 20.

[0069] Although various aspects of the present invention have been specifically shown and described with reference to the above embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various additional embodiments may be contemplated by modifications to the disclosed machines, components, systems, and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. These embodiments should be understood to fall within the scope of the present invention as determined based on the claims and any equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A central lower frame connection casting (220) for a space frame (20), comprising: External lifting cylinder connecting boss (2204); The inner down pipe is connected to the boss (2206); A central cylinder (2202) located between the outer lifting cylinder connecting boss (2204) and the inner descending tube connecting boss (2206), wherein the outer lifting cylinder connecting boss (2204), the inner descending tube connecting boss (2206) and the central cylinder (2202) have a common central axis; Suspension connection boss (2208); An outwardly rearwardly inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2210); An inwardly rearwardly inclined central lower frame tube connection boss (2211); A vertical center lower frame tube connecting boss (2212); tilting the center lower frame tube connection boss (2214) forward; Outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2216); Inwardly forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2217); a rearwardly inclined beam (2220) having an outer rearwardly inclined beam member (2222) connecting the outer rearwardly inclined central lower frame tube connection boss (2210) to the central cylinder (2202), and an inner rearwardly inclined beam member (2223) connecting the inner rearwardly inclined central lower frame tube connection boss (2211) to the central cylinder (2202); as well as A forward horizontal beam (2230) having an outer forward horizontal beam member (2232) connecting the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss (2216) to the center cylinder (2202), and an inner forward horizontal beam member (2233) connecting the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss (2217) to the center cylinder (2202).

2. The central lower frame connection casting according to claim 1, wherein the outer lift cylinder connection boss (2204) and the inner drop tube connection boss (2206) are integrally attached to the center cylinder (2202), wherein the suspension connection boss (2208) is integrally attached to the central cylinder (2202), wherein the outer rearwardly inclined beam member (2222) and the inner rearwardly inclined beam member (2223) are integrally joined at the center cylinder (2202) and are oriented at a first acute angle relative to each other, and Wherein the outer forward horizontal beam member (2232) and the inner forward horizontal beam member (2233) are integrally joined at the central cylinder (2202) and are oriented at a second acute angle relative to each other.

3. The center lower frame connection casting according to claim 1, wherein an acute angle is formed between the suspension connection boss (2208) and the outward rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2210), between the outward rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2210) and the vertical center lower frame tube connection boss (2212), between the vertical center lower frame tube connection boss (2212) and the forward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2214), and between the forward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2214) and the outward forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2216).

4. The center lower frame connection casting according to claim 1, wherein the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2210) and the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2211) are positioned at an acute angle relative to each other.

5. The center lower frame connection casting according to claim 1, wherein the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2216) and the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2217) are positioned at an acute angle relative to each other.

6. The center lower frame connection casting according to claim 1, wherein each of the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2210), the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2211), the vertical center lower frame tube connection boss (2212), the forward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2214), the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2216) and the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2217) gradually becomes thinner from thick to thin toward the center cylinder (2202).

7. A method for connecting a central lower frame, comprising: An outer lift cylinder connection boss (2204) is provided for connection to the center lower frame of the space frame (20); Providing an inner down tube connection boss (2206) for connection to the central lower frame; A central cylinder (2202) connected to the central lower frame is provided between the outer lifting cylinder connection boss (2204) and the inner descending tube connection boss (2206), wherein the outer lifting cylinder connection boss (2204), the inner descending tube connection boss (2206), and the central cylinder (2202) have a common central axis; Providing a suspension connection boss (2208) to which the central lower frame is connected; Providing an outwardly rearward inclined central lower frame tube connection boss (2210) for connection of the central lower frame; Providing an inwardly rearward inclined central lower frame tube connection boss (2211) for connection of the central lower frame; Providing a vertical center lower frame tube connection boss (2212) to which the center lower frame is connected; Providing a forward tilted center lower frame tube connection boss (2214) to which the center lower frame is connected; Providing an outward forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2216) for connection of the center lower frame; Providing an inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connection boss (2217) for connection of the center lower frame; Providing a rearwardly inclined beam (2220) connected to the central lower frame, which has an outer rearwardly inclined beam member (2222) connecting the outer rearwardly inclined central lower frame tube connection boss (2210) to the central cylinder (2202), and an inner rearwardly inclined beam member (2223) connecting the inner rearwardly inclined central lower frame tube connection boss (2211) to the central cylinder (2202); and A forward horizontal beam (2230) connected to the center lower frame is provided, which has an outer forward horizontal beam component (2232) connecting the outer forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss (2216) to the center cylinder (2202), and an inner forward horizontal beam component (2233) connecting the inner forward horizontal center lower frame tube connecting boss (2217) to the center cylinder (2202).

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising casting the central lower frame connection.

9. The method according to claim 7 further includes connecting one or more of the lift cylinders (125) to the outer lift cylinder connection boss (2204), connecting the down tube (206) to the inner down tube connection boss (2206), connecting the rear suspension link (116) to the suspension connection boss (2208), connecting a first slender support member to the inner rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2211), and connecting a second slender support member to the outer rearward inclined center lower frame tube connection boss (2212). The central lower frame tube connecting boss (2210) connects the third slender support member (205) to the vertical central lower frame tube connecting boss (2212), connects the fourth slender support member (202) to the forward inclined central lower frame tube connecting boss (2214), connects the fifth slender support member to the outer forward horizontal central lower frame tube connecting boss (2216), and connects the sixth slender support member to the inner forward horizontal central lower frame tube connecting boss (2217).

10. The method of claim 7, further comprising providing a second central lower frame connection spaced apart from the central lower frame connection such that their common axes are aligned.

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