Quick-change units and quick-change systems

Abstract

The present invention relates to a quick-change unit (10; 110) as part of a quick-change system for construction machinery, comprising: – a housing (12; 112) having two longitudinal walls (18) opposite each other, two transverse walls (20) opposite each other, a top side, and a bottom side; – a block cylinder (28, 30) located inside the housing (12; 112); – a locking device (24) having at least one locking bolt (54; 154) and a drive mechanism, wherein in the locked position, the at least one locking bolt (54; 154) is disengaged from the two transverse walls (20). One of the protrusions; - at least one first-type connecting element (32) and at least one second-type connecting element (36; 136), the at least one first-type connecting element having a connecting end portion (31) and the at least one second-type connecting element having a connecting end portion (35), - wherein the at least one first-type connecting element (32) and the at least one second-type connecting element (36; 136) are hydraulically connected to each other, and - wherein the at least one second-type connecting element (36; 136) is arranged on one of the two longitudinal walls (18) of the housing (12; 112).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to quick-connect components and quick-connect component systems. Background Technology

[0002] Construction machinery can cover a wide range of applications using interchangeable attachments (such as hydraulic grapples, excavator buckets, grab buckets, etc.). For maximum flexibility, quick and safe replacement between attachments is essential. To this end, quick-change devices exist for construction machinery, comprising a quick-connect on the vehicle side (i.e., the boom side) and an adapter on the tool side, which can be easily coupled to each other without the driver leaving the vehicle to manually perform the connection.

[0003] For this purpose, devices are typically provided on quick-connect fittings and frame-like adapters to create a mechanical connection between the quick-connect fitting and the adapter. These devices are typically a protrusion on the quick-connect fitting and a pair of movable locking bolts, with the protrusion and locking bolts arranged on opposite sides of the quick-connect fitting. On the frame-like adapter, corresponding transverse bolts for hooking the protrusion of the quick-connect fitting and two parallel locking holes for the pair of locking bolts are provided.

[0004] The connection between a quick-connect coupling and an adapter, as known in the art, occurs in two stages. In the first stage, the quick-connect coupling is typically positioned at an angle to the adapter such that a protrusion on the quick-connect coupling surrounds a transverse bolt on the opposing adapter. The quick-connect coupling is then rotated to a locked position, in which the frame of the adapter can surround the quick-connect coupling, and the horizontal plane of the quick-connect coupling is now aligned parallel to the horizontal plane of the adapter. In the second stage, a pair of locking bolts on the quick-connect coupling move longitudinally into corresponding locking holes on the opposing adapter, thereby creating a secure lock between the quick-connect coupling and the adapter.

[0005] A pair of movable locking bolts of the quick-connect fitting are typically connected to a hydraulic actuator that can move along its longitudinal axis, which is then fed pressurized hydraulic fluid by the construction machinery hydraulic system.

[0006] For this purpose, known quick-connect couplings typically have one or more hydraulic connections (connecting elements) with corresponding valves on the top of the quick-connect coupling, which extend via corresponding recesses in the housing of the quick-connect coupling to a block cylinder disposed inside the housing. The block cylinder is then hydraulically connected to a hydraulic actuator of a locking bolt pair.

[0007] These connecting elements are used to quickly connect the quick-connect fitting to the hydraulic system of the construction machinery by means of corresponding reverse connecting elements at the ends of each hydraulic hose. Through these connecting elements on the quick-connect fitting, the hydraulic actuator of the quick-connect fitting can be supplied with pressurized hydraulic fluid and controlled accordingly. Control is conveniently performed from the operator's cab of the construction machinery.

[0008] DE 10 2017 122 889 A1 recognizes the disadvantage of this arrangement of the hydraulic connection on the upper side of the quick-connect, namely, the relatively high height of the quick-connect, meaning that the excavator arm can only engage with the housing of the quick-connect at a predetermined distance. As a solution, DE 10 2017 122 889 A1 proposes removing the corresponding valve of the hydraulic connection from the upper area of ​​the block cylinder and inserting it into the side of the block cylinder extending laterally to the longitudinal axis, such that the hole in the block cylinder is located next to the holes of a pair of locking bolts. This avoids the overhead structure on the upper side of the quick-connect.

[0009] Typically, additional connecting elements are located on the upper side of the quick-connect fitting, and these additional connecting elements are connected to additional lines of the construction machinery via reverse connecting elements. These additional connecting elements are hydraulically connected to additional connecting elements on the lower side of the quick-connect fitting. The additional connecting elements on the lower side of the quick-connect fitting can then be connected to one or more reverse connecting elements on the tool side of the adapter, such that the hydraulic circuit on the vehicle side can be connected to the hydraulic circuit on the tool side via the quick-connect fitting, see, for example, WO 91 / 01414.

[0010] However, in order to switch between tools, the connection between the additional connecting element on the underside of the quick-connect and the reverse connecting element of the adapter must be released. Therefore, the additional connecting element on the underside of the quick-connect is exposed to weather conditions and construction site conditions, especially to dust and dirt.

[0011] If, for example, dirt settles on another connecting element of the quick-connector, this dirt can enter the interior of the quick-connector and clog the valve inside the other connecting element when that other connecting element is connected to the reverse connecting element of the other adapter. A known problem with quick-connectors is that the other connecting element used to connect the adapter is often defective and must be replaced. The present invention aims to at least significantly reduce, and preferably completely avoid, this disadvantage of known quick-connector systems. Furthermore, at least wear on the reverse connecting element on the adapter due to exposure to dirt and dust should be reduced. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a quick-connect fitting and a quick-connect fitting system that are easy to operate, compact in design, and whose connecting elements are particularly resistant to dirt and weather and thus to premature wear.

[0013] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by providing a quick-connect component according to one aspect of the invention and a quick-connect component system according to another aspect of the invention.

[0014] Preferred embodiments can be found in other aspects of the invention.

[0015] The quick-connector according to the invention comprises: a housing having two opposing longitudinal walls, two opposing transverse walls, a top side, and a bottom side; a block cylinder located inside the housing; a locking device having at least one locking bolt and a drive mechanism, wherein in the locked position, at least one locking bolt protrudes from one of the two transverse walls; at least one first-type connecting element and at least one second-type connecting element, the at least one first-type connecting element having a connecting end section, the at least one second-type connecting element having a connecting end section, wherein the at least one first-type connecting element and the at least one second-type connecting element are hydraulically connected to each other, and wherein the at least one second-type connecting element is arranged on one of the two longitudinal walls of the housing.

[0016] Therefore, the present invention ingeniously solves the practical problems of the prior art. This is because the second type of connecting element must be easily accessible so that it can be connected to the reverse connecting element of the hydraulic hose of the construction machinery, or the connecting element can be connected to the reverse connecting element of the adapter. However, due to the compactness required for the quick-connect and the position of the quick-connect between the adapter and the boom of the construction machinery, the possibilities for arranging the connecting elements are limited, resulting in the fact that they are usually arranged on the top and / or bottom side of the quick-connect. However, there, these connecting elements are particularly exposed to climatic conditions and construction site dirt in the unconnected state, and thus these connecting elements are often damaged. This is particularly true for the second type of connecting elements, as they are kept unconnected more frequently.

[0017] The second type of coupling element, positioned on the longitudinal wall of the housing, offers the following particular advantage: significantly reduced exposure to weather conditions. This is because, for example, raindrops flow directly to one side of the quick-connect, allowing water to remain on the coupling element. The same applies to, for example, snow, and dirt is also less likely to adhere to, for example, the sides of the quick-connect rather than, for example, the top or bottom.

[0018] Because the locking bolts and the second type of connecting element are arranged on two housing walls perpendicular to each other, the quick-connect is particularly easy to manipulate, as the side with at least one second type of connecting element remains accessible, even when the quick-connect is locked using an adapter.

[0019] According to the present invention, the hydraulic connection between the first type of connecting element and the second type of connecting element is interpreted broadly. This means only that fluid flow can exist between the first type of connecting element and the second type of connecting element. The first type of connecting element and the second type of connecting element can be arranged in forward or return flow, depending on the application.

[0020] Preferably, a plurality of first-type connecting elements and / or second-type connecting elements are provided.

[0021] The term "connecting element" is interpreted broadly. Preferably, it refers to a valve, if applicable, having a corresponding device for guiding pressurized hydraulic fluid within a connectable protective housing, the corresponding device being constructed from one or more components of a reverse connecting element used in accordance with prior art for connecting construction machinery or adapters. However, the term "connecting element" in this application also refers to a common valve or a valve having a hydraulic connection and a plug.

[0022] By using the term "connecting end section," this invention refers to a section of a connecting element for connection with a reverse connecting element.

[0023] In a preferred further improvement, at least one first-type connecting element is arranged on the longitudinal wall of the housing. On the one hand, this protects the first-type connecting element from environmental influences, and on the other hand, the connecting element is easily accessible, even in the assembled and locked state.

[0024] More preferably, at least the connecting end section of the second type of connecting element is adjustable between an operating position and a basic position, wherein the connecting end section of the second type of connecting element protrudes from the longitudinal wall of the housing in the operating position. Then, a corresponding reverse connecting element of the construction machinery or adapter can be connected to said connecting end section.

[0025] The basic position of the second type of coupling element is characterized by the fact that it is arranged on the housing of the quick-connect fitting, thus largely protecting it from exposure to dirt, dust, rain, snow, etc., meaning it is in a protected position. In the operating position, on the other hand, the second type of coupling element is positioned such that it can be connected to a reverse coupling element of a hydraulic hose for construction machinery or a reverse coupling element of an adapter for a tool.

[0026] The present invention seeks a method in which the connecting elements of a quick-connect coupling are adjustable between a basic position (protected position) and an operating position (connected position), particularly movable, tiltable, and / or pivotable, and vice versa. In this way, the connecting elements can be arranged in a position of the quick-connect coupling that is easily accessible to the reverse connecting elements but protected from harmful external influences in the protected position. Depending on the positioning of the second type of connecting elements inside the housing, they can be displaced, pivoted, tilted, or moved to change from the basic position to the operating position.

[0027] Preferably, the connecting end section of the second type of connecting element is located inside the housing in its basic position. In this way, the connecting end section and the entire second type of connecting element are protected in its basic position from exposure to dust or dirt and from weather conditions. If the second type of connecting element is not needed, for example because the machining tool does not require a hydraulic fluid supply, it can remain protected in its basic position. Even when changing from one adapter to another, the second type of connecting element can preferably retract into the housing and extend only when needed again.

[0028] In particular, it is advantageous that at least one second type of coupling element is connected to the coupling drive, such that at least the second coupling end section of the second type of coupling element can be adjusted between a basic position and an operating position, and vice versa.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the coupling drive includes at least one linear drive mounted in the block cylinder. The linear drive of the coupling drive is used to linearly move at least a coupling end segment of at least one second-type coupling element between a basic position and an operating position.

[0030] At least one linear actuator is preferably a hydraulic actuator. In a preferred embodiment, it is assumed that the coupling drive can be hydraulically connected to at least one third-type coupling element, such that the linear actuator can be coupled to the hydraulic system of the construction machinery.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, at least one third-type coupling element is provided, preferably positioned within the longitudinal wall of the housing. This third-type coupling element is generally used to supply corresponding fluid to a hydraulic device inside the quick-connect fitting. Therefore, it is positioned in the forward or return flow of the supply line. The third-type coupling element can, for example, be hydraulically connected to a coupling drive or a hydraulically actuated locking device.

[0032] The third type of coupling element can be designed to correspond to the first type of coupling element, whereby the third type of coupling element is not hydraulically connected to the second type of coupling element, but is used to control the hydraulic drive of the quick coupling, in this case for controlling the coupling drive device, preferably conveniently controlled from the cab of the operator of the construction machinery.

[0033] Further preferably, the quick-connector is equipped with at least two second-type connecting elements, wherein at least the connecting end sections of the second-type connecting elements are synchronously adjustable between a basic position and an operating position, and vice versa. For example, at least two second-type connecting elements are provided, positioned on opposite longitudinal walls of the housing and adjustable by means of a common connecting drive. Particularly in this embodiment, it is advantageous that the connecting drive has a double-acting hydraulic cylinder preferably aligned parallel to the transverse walls of the housing. Thus, two second-type connecting elements can be actuated simultaneously on two different longitudinal walls.

[0034] It goes without saying that any number of adjustable second-type connecting elements can be provided on the two longitudinal walls. The number of adjustable second-type connecting elements on the two longitudinal walls can be the same or different. The arrangement of the second-type connecting elements on the two longitudinal walls can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, preferably mirror symmetrical.

[0035] Even when there are multiple adjustable second-type connecting elements on a longitudinal wall, these connecting elements can be actuated by means of a double-acting hydraulic cylinder, for example, in the case where the hydraulic cylinder interacts with a connecting bridge on which the second-type connecting elements are placed.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the locking device includes at least two locking bolts pointing in opposite directions and adjustable between a closed position and an open position by means of a common drive mechanism, and vice versa. This creates a particularly secure connection between the adapter and the quick-connect fitting because locking between the adapter and the quick-connect fitting occurs on two opposite sides.

[0037] To actuate the two opposing locking bolts, it is advantageous that the locking drive has a double-acting hydraulic cylinder preferably aligned parallel to the longitudinal wall of the housing.

[0038] A particularly secure locking device is achieved by providing a pair of locking bolts on each lateral side, the pairs of bolts being arranged parallel and spaced apart from each other. The two pairs of bolts can be adjusted between a closed position and an open position by means of a common drive mechanism, and vice versa. Preferably, the two locking bolts can move independently of each other, but they can also move synchronously.

[0039] These locking bolts can be actuated, for example, by means of a hydraulic cylinder that can be operated from both sides, the hydraulic cylinder being part of the drive unit and interacting with the locking bridge.

[0040] In a preferred alternative embodiment, it is assumed that the drive device is at least one linear hydraulic actuator hydraulically connected to at least one third-type coupling element.

[0041] An embodiment in which the double-acting hydraulic cylinders of the locking drive are arranged parallel to the longitudinal wall of the housing and the double-acting hydraulic cylinders of the connecting drive are arranged parallel to the transverse wall of the housing has the advantage that they can be arranged in two planes, so that the connection and locking functions of the connecting elements and locking bolts, and therefore the quick-connects, do not affect each other.

[0042] Preferably, the hydraulic connection is achieved by means of a block cylinder. The first type of connecting element and the second type of connecting element may be directly connected to each other or may be connected via pipelines, for example, guided through the block cylinder. However, pressurized hydraulic fluid may also be guided into the block cylinder via the first type of connecting element and transferred to the second type of connecting element, for example, via a distribution device or other means within the block cylinder. Furthermore, several first type of connecting elements may be hydraulically connected to one or more second type of connecting elements, and vice versa.

[0043] Advantageously, the block cylinder includes a first block cylinder and a second block cylinder, wherein the second block cylinder is positioned below the first block cylinder, wherein at least one second-type connecting element is disposed in the first block cylinder, and wherein at least a portion of the locking device is positioned in the plane of the second block cylinder. Therefore, the locking device can be actuated independently of the connecting element and can be supplied with fluid when needed.

[0044] Preferably, the second cylinder is securely connected to the first cylinder, for example, by screws, glue, or plugging, or welded to the first cylinder, or even integrally formed with the first cylinder.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, assuming the locking device includes at least one drive mechanism with a locking piston for driving at least two locking bolts, advantageously, the locking piston is positioned inside the second cylinder. This achieves a very compact design.

[0046] In embodiments where at least the connecting end section of the second type of connecting element is adjustable between an operating position and a basic position, and in which a connecting drive is provided, it is advantageous that the connecting drive is positioned in the first cylinder.

[0047] In order to arrange the hydraulic drive for the locking device and the multiple connecting elements in a particularly compact manner, it is advantageous that the opening for the second type of connecting element is provided in the longitudinal wall of the block cylinder and the opening is provided in the second block cylinder at the lateral side of the block cylinder.

[0048] To facilitate easy assembly of the adjustable second-type coupling element into the quick-connect assembly, the first cylinder preferably has a base and a top plate with a T-shaped cross-section, thereby positioning at least one first-type coupling element in the plane of the top plate and at least one second-type coupling element in the plane of the base. Thus, even larger and more elaborately designed second-type coupling elements have sufficient usable space inside the housing.

[0049] The invention also includes a quick-connect system comprising the quick-connect and an adapter connectable to a machining tool, wherein the quick-connect is mechanically and hydraulically connected to the adapter.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the adapter includes two opposing longitudinal adapter sides and at least two transverse bolts, wherein each of the at least two transverse bolts is connected to the longitudinal adapter side of the adapter in a bearing-like manner at its end section.

[0051] Using this embodiment, the conversion time from one adapter to the next can be significantly reduced because, among other things, the complex surrounding of the adapter's lateral bolts and protrusions on the quick-connect fittings can be omitted.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, it is assumed that at least one reverse second-type coupling element is positioned on at least one longitudinal wall of the adapter, wherein the reverse coupling element is connectable to at least one second-type coupling element. The reverse second-type coupling element is preferably positioned on the inner side of the longitudinal wall of the adapter.

[0053] It has proven advantageous that the reverse type of connecting element is formed as a connecting block, which is preferably disposed on the outside of the adapter. For example, the connecting block can deflect the outlets on the sidewall, making them more accessible. Attached Figure Description

[0054] Examples of embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail in the following figures. However, the invention is by no means limited to those specific examples of embodiments, as shown in the figures:

[0055] Figure 1 A side view of the quick-connect system is shown.

[0056] Figure 2 A perspective transparency view of the quick-connect component is shown.

[0057] Figure 3 A perspective view of the two-cylinder block is shown.

[0058] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 sectional view,

[0059] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 The sectional view following the section of AA.

[0060] Figure 6 An exploded view of the quick-connect assembly without a housing is shown.

[0061] Figure 7 It shows according to Figure 6 A schematic representation of a quick-connect fitting without a housing.

[0062] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 Design drawings,

[0063] Figure 9 A schematic diagram is shown of a hydraulic connection between a first-type or third-type connecting element and a second-type connecting element.

[0064] Figure 10 A top view of the quick-connect system in the connected state is shown.

[0065] Figure 11 A partial perspective sectional view of a quick-connect system in a connected state is shown.

[0066] Figure 12 An alternative embodiment of the quick-connect fitting is shown in perspective, and

[0067] Figure 13 An alternative embodiment of a block cylinder with locking and connecting elements is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0068] Best mode of implementation and industrial applicability of the invention:

[0069] Figure 1 A side view of the quick-connect system is shown. The quick-connect system consists of quick-connect parts 10 and adapters 70 that can be connected together.

[0070] The quick-connector 10 includes: a housing 12 having an upper housing wall 14 located on the side of the construction machinery or the boom, a lower housing wall 16 arranged opposite thereto, and side walls, namely two longitudinal housing walls 18 arranged opposite to each other and two transverse housing walls 20 extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the quick-connector 10; and a two-layer block cylinder 26 (see...). Figure 3 The two-layer block cylinder has a first block cylinder 28 and a second block cylinder 30 on the inner side of the outer shell.

[0071] Multiple first-type connecting elements 32, second-type connecting elements 36, and third-type connecting elements 32' are respectively mounted on the opposing longitudinal housing walls 18 of the quick-connect 10 in corresponding openings 22 in the housing 12. The second-type connecting element 36 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal housing wall 18 of the housing 12, while the first-type connecting elements 32 and the third-type connecting elements 32' are angled to their free ends and their free ends point towards the upper housing wall 14. The first-type connecting elements 32 and the third-type connecting elements 32' are substantially the same in construction but different in function, as will be explained further below.

[0072] The first type of connecting element 32 or the third type of connecting element 32', and especially the second type of connecting element 36, are not arranged on the upper housing wall 14 on the construction machinery side or boom side of the housing 12, but on the lower housing wall 16 or the transverse housing wall 20 arranged opposite to it.

[0073] also, Figure 1 A pair of locking bolts 54 are shown, arranged perpendicular to each housing transverse wall 20 and extending into the interior of housing 12 via corresponding openings in the housing transverse wall 20. The two pairs of locking bolts 54 are movable in opposite directions between a closed position and an open position, and vice versa, via said openings in housing 12. For this purpose, a locking device 24 is disposed inside housing 12, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0074] The longitudinal axis of the quick coupling 10 is defined by the extension direction of the locking bolt 54 of the locking device 24 and corresponds to the longitudinal axis of a conventional quick coupling according to the prior art.

[0075] The outer casing 12 is shaped by a main section with a rectangular cross-section and two protrusions 21, each of which is disposed on the transverse wall 20 of the outer casing (in Figure 1 Only one protrusion 21 is shown in the image. The transition from the main section of the quick-connect 10 to the protrusion 21 is smooth.

[0076] The adapter 70 includes an adapter base 72 and two longitudinal adapter sides 74 extending parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction of the adapter 70.

[0077] Each longitudinal adapter side 74 of the adapter 70 has two holes positioned opposite each other in the upper region, and the end section of the transverse bolt 78 is installed in each of the two holes, such that the two longitudinal adapter sides 74 are connected to each other via the two transverse bolts 78.

[0078] In addition, two schematically indicated reversed second-type connecting elements 76 are located in the longitudinal adapter side 74 of the adapter 70.

[0079] Each of the reverse second-type coupling elements 76 of the adapter 70 can be connected to a hydraulic hose (not shown), which extends to a tool (not shown) that can be connected to the adapter 70. A second-type coupling element 36 is used to connect with a corresponding reverse second-type coupling element 76 of the adapter 70 for use in controlling the hydraulic operation of the tool.

[0080] The first type of connecting element 32 or the third type of connecting element 32' is used to connect via the hydraulic hose of the construction machinery to the reverse first type of connecting element (not shown).

[0081] The main functional difference between the first type of coupling element 32 and the third type of coupling element 32' is that each first type of coupling element 32 is hydraulically connected to at least one second type of coupling element 36 for supplying and / or returning hydraulic fluid between the first type of coupling element 32 and the second type of coupling element 36. In contrast, the third type of coupling element 32' is not used for supplying and / or returning hydraulic fluid to the second type of coupling element 36, but rather supplies hydraulic actuators arranged inside the housing 12. Therefore, the third type of coupling element 32' and the second type of coupling element 36 are not hydraulically connected to each other.

[0082] Each first-type connecting element 32 or third-type connecting element 32' includes a corresponding connecting section 31. Each first-type connecting element 32 or third-type connecting element 32' extends outward through a recess in the longitudinal wall 18 of the housing 12 perpendicular to the longitudinal wall 18, and enters the connecting end section 31 of the first-type connecting element 32 or third-type connecting element 32' at an angle, such that the connecting end section of each first-type connecting element 32 or third-type connecting element 32' points upward.

[0083] Each of the first type of connecting element 32 or the third type of connecting element 32' is screwed onto the housing 12 of the quick coupling 10 by means of the swivel screw fitting 34.

[0084] Preferably, a valve is provided inside each of the first type of connecting element 32 or the third type of connecting element 32', which is open in the connected state and closed in the unconnected state. In addition, additional devices may be located inside each of the first type of connecting element 32 or the third type of connecting element 32', such as for allowing hydraulic fluid to flow forward and / or back in the connected state and ensuring fluid sealing.

[0085] The first type of connecting element 32 or the third type of connecting element 32' is preferably a quick-release connecting element, which may be designed as a convex or concave connecting element. The first type of connecting element 32 or the third type of connecting element 32' is securely connected to the housing 12.

[0086] On the other hand, the second type of connecting element 36 is hydraulically movable or linearly displaceable between the basic position and the closed position, perpendicular to the longitudinal housing wall 18 of the quick-connect member 10, and Figure 1 The image shows the operating position.

[0087] The second type of connecting element 36 consists of a connecting plug 40 and a connecting piston 42 (see...). Figure 6 It consists of a valve plug and a valve piston in this case. They can be designed as convex or concave connecting elements. It is preferably a quick-release connecting element.

[0088] Inside each second-type coupling element 36, preferably in the coupling plug 40 or as part of the second-type coupling element 36, a valve is provided that is open in the coupled state and closed in the uncoupled state.

[0089] Each second type of coupling element 36, i.e., at least the coupling end section 35 of each second type of coupling element 36, extends outward through a corresponding opening in the longitudinal housing wall 18 of the quick coupling 10 in the operating position perpendicular to the longitudinal housing wall 18 of the quick coupling 10.

[0090] Inside the housing 12 of the quick-connect component 10, the connecting piston 42 of the second type of connecting element 36 extends into the first block cylinder 28 (see...). Figure 6 Each coupling piston 42 of the second type of coupling element 36 is positioned in a recess 37 in the first cylinder 28 (see...). Figure 3 and Figure 4 ).

[0091] Figure 2 A perspective transparency view of the quick-connect component 10 is shown.

[0092] A block cylinder 26 having a first block cylinder 28 and a second block cylinder 30 can be seen completely arranged inside the housing 12, wherein the block cylinder 26 is oriented in the housing such that the longitudinal axis of the housing 12 of the quick coupling 10 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the block cylinders 28 and 30, and vice versa.

[0093] As in Figure 3 and Figure 4 As can be seen, the first cylinder 28 has a T-shaped cross-section with a first plane 27 and a second plane 29. The second plane 29 of the first cylinder 28 is moved backward from the first plane 27.

[0094] Below the first cylinder 28 is the second cylinder 30. The second cylinder 30 is a cube with a square cross-section and is smaller than the first cylinder 28. The second cylinder extends in the longitudinal direction of the first cylinder 28 at a certain distance from the edge of the first cylinder 28, such that the cross-section of the cylinder 26 tapers in a stepped manner from the first plane 27 of the first cylinder 28 to the second cylinder 30.

[0095] The first cylinder 28 and the second cylinder 30 may be connected to each other by screws, glue, plug-in, or other connections. The first cylinder 28 and the second cylinder 30 may also be integrally formed as a double cylinder.

[0096] Figure 2 An embodiment is shown in which nine first-type coupling elements 32 and / or third-type coupling elements 32' are disposed in the upper region of the first cylinder block 28. Four are located on one longitudinal wall of the first cylinder block 28, and five are located on the opposite longitudinal walls of the first cylinder block 28.

[0097] Preferably, five of the connecting elements shown are first-type connecting elements 32 and four of them are third-type connecting elements 32'. The number of first-type connecting elements 32 is preferably equal to the number of second-type connecting elements 36, because in each case one first-type connecting element 32 can be hydraulically connected to one second-type connecting element 36. The recess 33 in the first cylinder 28 is aligned with the corresponding opening in the housing 12, such that the first-type connecting elements 32 and the third-type connecting elements 32' in the opening of the housing 12 protrude into the recess 33 of the first cylinder 28.

[0098] The first cylinder 28 has hydraulic lines and, if necessary, a distribution device hydraulically connected to the nine connecting elements. Five of these lines extend from the inside of the first cylinder 28 to a second type connecting element 36 located below the horizontal plane of the first type connecting element 32, such that the first type connecting element 32 and the second type connecting element 36 are hydraulically connected to each other. It goes without saying that several devices of the first cylinder 28 can also be inserted within this connection, which will not be discussed in detail here.

[0099] The pipeline of the second type of connecting element 36 also extends into the first cylinder 28 and is therefore hydraulically connected to the first type of connecting element 32.

[0100] The number and distribution of the first type of connecting element 32 and / or the third type of connecting element 32' may vary (see, for example) Figure 3 ).

[0101] exist Figure 3In the embodiment of the block cylinder 28 shown, preferably six recesses 33 are provided on the longitudinal wall of the first block cylinder 28 in the upper region (i.e., the first plane 27) for receiving a first type of connecting element 32 and / or a third type of connecting element 32'. These six recesses 33 are arranged consecutively.

[0102] On the opposing longitudinal wall (not shown) of the first cylinder 28, three additional recesses 33 for receiving the first type of connecting element 32 and / or the third type of connecting element 32' are preferably arranged in a similar manner in the first plane 29 of the first cylinder 28. These recesses 33 are also preferably arranged continuously.

[0103] Advantageously, all recesses 33 are provided with threads, into which the first type of connecting element 32 and / or the third type of connecting element 32' can be screwed via a reverse thread. It should be understood that the invention also includes alternative fastening variations or combinations thereof.

[0104] In the second plane 29 of the first cylinder 28, four additional recesses 37 are provided on the longitudinal wall of the first cylinder 28 shown. At least three additional recesses 37 are embedded in the first cylinder 28 on opposite longitudinal walls (not shown). The recesses 37 serve to support the second type of connecting element 36, thereby one of the recesses on each longitudinal wall of the first cylinder 28 serves to support the connecting bridge piston 48.

[0105] The recess 37 in the first cylinder 28 is aligned with the corresponding opening in the housing 12, such that the second type of connecting element 36 in the opening of the housing 12 protrudes into the recess 37 of the first cylinder 28.

[0106] Second-type connecting elements 36 are mounted in recesses 37, in which they can be adjusted, particularly for movement. The second-type connecting elements 36 can be adjusted as a whole (i.e., as a complete unit), particularly they are movable, tiltable, and / or rotatable. Alternatively, however, only portions of the second-type connecting elements 36, such as the connecting end sections of the second-type connecting elements 36, can be designed to be adjustable, particularly movable, tiltable, and / or pivotable, and other portions of the second-type connecting elements 36 are securely anchored in the recesses 37, for example, by means of threads.

[0107] The second cylinder 30 has recesses 68 on its opposing end faces that are connected to each other via channels. The double-acting locking bridge piston 58 of the locking device 24 is movably mounted in these channels and is movable in the longitudinal direction of the second cylinder 30. The locking device 24 will be discussed in more detail below.

[0108] The second type of connecting element 36 is connected to the connecting drive unit 38, which will be referred to below. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Let's discuss this in more detail.

[0109] Figure 6 An exploded view shows a top view of the quick-connect fitting 10 without the housing 12. A second cylinder 30 and a first cylinder 28 arranged below the second cylinder 30 are visible. Two or three second-type connecting elements 36 are mounted in recesses 37 (not shown) on the longitudinal wall of the first cylinder 28.

[0110] The second type of connecting element 36 each includes a connecting plug 40 and a connecting piston 42, the connecting pistons 42 being aligned parallel to each other. They are connected to a connecting drive 38, which allows the second type of connecting element 36 to move between a basic position (protective position) and an operating position (connecting position).

[0111] For this purpose, the coupling drive 38 includes partial coupling drive units 38a and 38b located on each longitudinal wall of the first cylinder 28. The partial coupling drive units 38a and 38b are mirror-symmetrical.

[0112] Each of the connecting drive units 38a and 38b includes a connecting bridge 46 and a connecting bridge piston 48 that can operate on both sides. The connecting bridge 46 has a rectangular cross-section.

[0113] The connecting bridge piston 48 is securely connected to the connecting bridge 46, for example, via screws.

[0114] Each connecting bridge 46 is connected to at least three guide devices 44 on the block cylinder side. The number of guide devices 44 corresponds to the number of second-type connecting elements 36 plus the number of connecting bridge pistons 48. The guide devices 44 are preferably annular and surround the through-hole of the connecting bridge 46 on the block cylinder side.

[0115] On the side of the connecting bridge 46 away from the block cylinder, the connecting plug 40 of the second type connecting element 36 is positioned in the opening area of ​​the connecting bridge 46 and is preferably securely connected to the connecting bridge 46.

[0116] In each guide device 44 and in the corresponding through-hole of the connecting bridge piston 48, at least one section of the connecting bridge piston 48 is movably mounted perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first cylinder 28, or alternatively, is fixedly connected in the section to the edge of the opening of the guide device 44 and / or the connecting bridge 46, depending on whether only the connecting plug 40 or the entire second type connecting element 36 is designed to be movable.

[0117] The connecting bridging piston 48 is mounted in the recess 37 of the first cylinder 28 and is hydraulically connected to at least one third type connecting element 32'.

[0118] Each connecting bridge piston 48 can move between at least two positions, namely a position close to the block cylinder and a position far from the block cylinder.

[0119] At the position of the connecting bridge piston 48 near the block cylinder, the two connecting bridges 46 of the partial connecting drive devices 38a and 38b are also correspondingly located near the block cylinder and therefore near the connecting end section, such as the connecting plug 46 of the second type connecting element 36. Preferably, the connecting drive device 38 is sized such that the connecting plug 46 is completely contained within the housing 12 (not shown) of the quick-connect 10 at this position, meaning that the entire second type connecting element 36 is contained within the housing 12. This position is the basic position (protective position) of the second type connecting element 36.

[0120] The connecting bridging piston 48 can be moved from its normal position to a position away from the block cylinder, which means that the connecting plug 46 or the connecting plug 46 and the connecting piston 42 can also be moved to a position away from the block cylinder.

[0121] In this configuration, the dimensions of the coupling drive 38 are set such that at least one coupling end section of each second-type coupling element 36, preferably the entire coupling plug 46, is located outside the housing 12 of the quick-connect 10, away from the block cylinder. This position is the operating position (coupling position) of the second-type coupling element 36.

[0122] Control of the connecting bridging piston 48 is achieved via at least one third-type connecting element 32', which can be connected to the hydraulic system of the construction machinery. The two partial connecting drive units 38a and 38b are preferably capable of moving synchronously (i.e., together).

[0123] In addition, the locking device 24 Figures 6 to 8 It is clearly visible in the middle.

[0124] The locking device 24 includes a first partial locking device 24a and a second partial locking device 24b extending in the longitudinal direction of the second cylinder 30 on each lateral side of the second cylinder 30. The partial locking devices 24a and 24b have a mirror-symmetrical design.

[0125] Each locking device 24a, 24b includes a corresponding locking bridge 56 and a bolt driver 60 with a locking bridge piston 58.

[0126] The locking bridging piston 58 is therefore aligned perpendicularly to the connecting piston 42.

[0127] The locking bridge 56 is divided into a middle section 67 and two opposite end sections 69 extending to the left and right sides of the middle section 67. The end sections 69 are aligned and moved backward from the middle section 67 of the locking bridge 56 toward the second cylinder 30. In other words, the middle section 67 of the locking bridge 56 is further away from the second cylinder 30 than the end sections 69 of the locking bridge 56.

[0128] The locking bridging piston 58 is a conventional piston, its section being movably mounted inside the second cylinder 30, and the locking bridging piston defining at least one hydraulic chamber inside the second cylinder 30. According to the invention, the overall system is referred to as bolt actuator 60, thereby alternative bolt actuators 60, such as electric actuators, can also be implemented according to the invention.

[0129] Using its end section away from the block cylinder, the locking bridge piston 58 is securely connected to, preferably screwed to, the locking bridge 56 in the region of the middle section 67 of the locking bridge 56.

[0130] In the region of the end section 69 of the locking bridging member 56, the locking bolts 54 are attached, preferably screwed, in each case. The locking bolts 54 extend away from the second cylinder 30. They preferably extend parallel to each other and form a pair of locking bolts 54. Each locking bolt 54 is provided with a central section 64 (see...). Figure 8 ).

[0131] Each locking device 24a and 24b is preferably individually controllable, such that each locking bridge piston 58 of each locking device 24a and 24b can move independently between at least two positions, namely a position close to the block cylinder and a position far from the block cylinder.

[0132] In the locking bridge pistons 58 of partial locking devices 24a and 24b, near the block cylinder, a corresponding pair of locking bolts 54 with corresponding locking bridges 56 are also near the block cylinder. According to the invention, this position of the pair of locking bolts 54 is referred to as the open position.

[0133] Each locking bridge piston 58, and therefore each pair of locking bolts 54, can be moved from the open position to a position away from the block cylinder. According to the invention, this position is the closed position. In this position, the locking bolts protrude through openings in the transverse wall of the housing 12.

[0134] Figure 5 It shows the result after cutting according to AA. Figure 1 A sectional view. For details, please refer to the section on... Figures 6 to 8 The explanation.

[0135] Figure 9A schematic diagram shows the hydraulic connections between the first type of connecting element 32 and the second type of connecting element 36, and between the third type of connecting element 32' and the connecting bridge piston 48. Five first type of connecting elements 32, four third type of connecting elements 32', and five second type of connecting elements 36 are shown. Each first type of connecting element 32 is hydraulically connected to a second type of connecting element 36. Two third type of connecting elements 32' are hydraulically connected to the connecting bridge piston 48. The remaining two third type of connecting elements 32' in the middle of the first cylinder 28 are hydraulically connected to the locking bridge piston 58 (not shown) of the second cylinder 30.

[0136] The first type of connecting element 32 and the third type of connecting element 32' can be directly connected to the hydraulic system of the construction machinery, while the second type of connecting element 36 can be connected to the hydraulic system of the adapter 70.

[0137] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The quick-connect system in a connected state is shown. (Combined) Figure 1 The connection between quick connector 10 and adapter 70 will now be described in more detail.

[0138] The starting point is that the quick-connect fitting 10 is mounted on the boom of the construction machinery in a conventional manner. The hydraulic hoses of the construction machinery and their reverse second-type connecting elements are attached to the first-type connecting element 32 and the third-type connecting element 32' of the quick-connect fitting 10, thereby connecting the hydraulic system of the quick-connect fitting 10 to the hydraulic system of the construction machinery. The hydraulic system of the quick-connect fitting 10 is then kept under constant pressure during the connection process, specifically at least one second-type connecting element 36, at least one connecting drive device 38, and at least one locking device 24.

[0139] In order to connect the quick connector 10 to the adapter, two different connection scenarios can be envisioned, depending on how far the locking bolt 54 of the locking device 24 protrudes from the housing 12 of the quick connector 10 in the open position of the locking device 24 and how far apart the corresponding transverse bolts 78 of the adapter 70 are from each other. These two scenarios are covered by the concept of the present invention and are described below.

[0140] In the first scenario, with the locking bolt 54 of the locking device 24 in the open position abutting tightly against the housing 12 and / or the transverse bolts 78 of the adapter 70 at wider intervals, the quick-connect member 10 is guided on the adapter 70 until it is aligned with the adapter. The quick-connect member 10 can then be lowered until the lower housing wall 16 of the quick-connect member 10 rests against the bottom 72 of the adapter 70 and the longitudinal adapter wall 74 of the adapter 70 frames the quick-connect member 10. In this position, the locking bolts 58 can extend to the closed position on opposite sides of the quick-connect member 10 in the manner described above and engage below the transverse bolts 78 of the adapter 70.

[0141] In a further step, the second type of coupling elements 36, driven by the coupling drive 38, extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal wall of the housing 18 of the quick coupling 10 until they are hydraulically coupled to the reverse second type of coupling elements 76 on the adapter 70. The reverse second type of coupling elements 76 on the adapter are connected to additional hydraulic hoses, such that the machining tool on the adapter 70 is now connected to the hydraulic system of the quick coupling 10 and thus to the hydraulic system of the construction machinery. The machining tool is immediately ready for use.

[0142] In the second scenario, the quick-connector 10 is positioned at an angle to the adapter 70 and lowered until the first transverse bolt 78 of the adapter 70 slides into the space between the protrusion 21 on the quick-connector 10 and the first pair of locking bolts 54 on the same side. The quick-connector 10 then returns to a locked position, in which the opposing pair of locking bolts 54 are located below the second transverse bolt 78 of the adapter 70, and the longitudinal adapter wall 74 of the adapter 70 surrounds the quick-connector 10. The pair of locking bolts 54, now arranged on the quick-connector 10 and facing opposite directions, move to their closed position, thus ensuring a secure connection between the quick-connector 10 and the adapter 70.

[0143] In a further step, the second type of coupling element 36 now extends to engage with the reverse second type of coupling element 76 on the adapter 70, as already described above.

[0144] The separation between the adapter 70 and the quick connector 10 is performed in the reverse order accordingly.

[0145] The number and distribution of the first type of connecting element 32, the second type of connecting element 36 and the third type of connecting element 32' can be varied as needed.

[0146] In the embodiments shown so far, the number of connecting elements on both sides of the quick-connect member is different. Figure 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the number of connecting elements is the same on both sides. Therefore, in Figure 12In the illustrated embodiment, the quick-connect system 110 has two second-type connection elements 136 and two opposing second-type connection elements 176 on each of the two longitudinal walls of the quick-connect 110 and the adapter 170. They are even arranged symmetrically. It should be understood that the number and / or arrangement of the second-type connection elements or opposing second-type connection elements may vary depending on the requirements of the quick-connect system.

[0147] exist Figure 12 In the adapter 170 shown, a reverse second type coupling element 176 is formed as a connecting block 180 on the longitudinal wall 174 of the adapter, wherein the portion of the reverse coupling element protruding from the adapter 170 is angled such that the outlet 182 of the reverse second type coupling element 176 faces downward.

[0148] And in Figures 1 to 11 In the illustrated embodiment, the locking bolt 154 or the locking bridge piston 158 is screwed onto the locking bridge 156. Figure 12 and Figure 13 An embodiment of the quick-connect fitting 110 is shown, featuring a rotary lock instead of a threaded connection. For this purpose, an elongated hole 190 is provided in the locking bridge 156, and the locking bolt 154 or locking bridge piston has a bolt with an elongated head 192 on its front side. The locking bolt 154 or locking bridge piston is inserted into the elongated hole 190 by means of the bolt with the elongated head 192 and rotated for tightening, such that the elongated head 192 is aligned perpendicular to the elongated hole 190. Similarly, the second type of connecting element 136 is attached to the connecting bridge 146.

[0149] The invention also includes a locking device 24, which is equipped with a pair of locking bolts 54 on only one side, while on the opposite side, as is known in the prior art, a protrusion may be arranged on the housing, for example.

[0150] It goes without saying that, within the scope of this invention, the various features described in conjunction with one embodiment can be combined with each other.

Claims

1. A quick-connect component as part of a quick-connect system for construction machinery, comprising: - Casing (12; 112), the casing having two opposing longitudinal walls (18), two opposing transverse walls (20), a top side, and a bottom side, - Block cylinder (28, 30), the block cylinder being located inside the outer casing (12; 112), - A locking device (24) having at least one locking bolt (54; 154) and a drive mechanism, wherein in the locked position, the at least one locking bolt (54; 154) protrudes from one of the two transverse walls (20); - At least one first-type connecting element (32) and at least one second-type connecting element (36; 136), the at least one first-type connecting element having a connecting end section (35), the at least one second-type connecting element having a connecting end section (35), - wherein at least one first-type coupling element (32) and at least one second-type coupling element (36; 136) are hydraulically connected to each other, and - wherein at least one of the second-type connecting elements (36; 136) is arranged on one of the two longitudinal walls (18) of the housing (12; 112), The locking device (24) is characterized in that it includes at least two locking bolts (54; 154) pointing in opposite directions and capable of being adjusted between a closed position and an open position by means of a common drive device, and vice versa.

2. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one first-type connecting element (32) is arranged on the longitudinal wall of the housing (12; 112).

3. The quick-connect fitting according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, At least the connecting end section (35) of the second type of connecting element (36; 136) is adjustable between an operating position and a basic position, wherein the connecting end section (35) of the second type of connecting element (36; 136) protrudes from the longitudinal wall of the housing (12; 112) in the operating position.

4. The quick-connect fitting according to claim 3, characterized in that, The at least one second-type coupling element (36; 136) is connected to the coupling drive device (38) such that at least the coupling end section (35) of the second-type coupling element (36; 136) can be adjusted between the basic position and the operating position, and vice versa.

5. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 4, characterized in that, Provide at least one third type of connecting element (32').

6. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The at least one third-type connecting element is positioned in the longitudinal wall (18) of the housing (12; 112).

7. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The quick-connector (10; 110) is equipped with at least two second-type connecting elements (36; 136), wherein at least the connecting end section (35) of the second-type connecting element (36; 136) is capable of being adjusted synchronously between the basic position and the operating position, and vice versa.

8. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 4, characterized in that, At least two second-type coupling elements (36; 136) are provided, which are positioned on opposite longitudinal walls (18) of the housing (12; 112) and can be adjusted by means of a common coupling drive (38) having a double-acting hydraulic cylinder.

9. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The double-acting hydraulic cylinder is aligned parallel to the transverse wall (20) of the housing (12; 112).

10. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive unit includes a double-acting hydraulic cylinder.

11. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The double-acting hydraulic cylinder is aligned parallel to the longitudinal wall of the housing (12; 112).

12. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The drive unit includes a locking bridge (56; 156).

13. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The block cylinder includes a first block cylinder (28) and a second block cylinder (30), wherein the second block cylinder (30) is positioned below the first block cylinder (28), wherein at least one second type connecting element (36; 136) is disposed in the first block cylinder (28), and wherein at least a portion of the locking device (24) is positioned in the plane of the second block cylinder (30).

14. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The locking device (24) includes at least one drive device with a locking piston, wherein the locking piston is positioned inside the second cylinder (30).

15. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to any one of claims 13 or 14, characterized in that, At least the connecting end section (35) of the second type of connecting element (36; 136) is adjustable between an operating position and a basic position, and is provided with a connecting drive (38), wherein the connecting drive (38) is arranged in the first block cylinder (28).

16. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 13, characterized in that, An opening for the second type of connecting element (36; 136) is provided in the longitudinal wall of the first block cylinder (28), and an opening is provided in the second block cylinder (30) on the lateral side of the block cylinder.

17. The quick-connect fitting (10; 110) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first cylinder (28) has a base and a top plate with a T-shaped cross-section, wherein at least one first-type connecting element (32) is positioned in the plane of the top plate, and at least one second-type connecting element (36; 136) is positioned in the plane of the base.

18. A quick-connect system, comprising: It has a quick-connector (10; 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 17; And an adapter (70; 170) capable of being connected to a machining tool, wherein the quick coupling (10; 110) is mechanically and hydraulically coupled to the adapter (70; 170).

19. The quick-connect system according to claim 18, characterized in that, The adapter (70; 170) includes two opposing longitudinal adapter sides (74; 174) and two transverse bolts (78), wherein the two transverse bolts (78) are each connected at their end portions to the longitudinal adapter sides (74; 174) of the adapter (70; 170).

20. The quick-connect system according to claim 19, characterized in that, At least one reverse second-type coupling element (76; 176) is positioned on at least one longitudinal wall of the adapter (70; 170), wherein the at least one reverse second-type coupling element is hydraulically connectable to the at least one second-type coupling element (36; 136).

21. The quick-connect system according to claim 20, characterized in that, The reverse second type of connecting element (76; 176) is designed as a connecting block (180).

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