Universal hydraulic assist reduction circuit and method for reducing a work

Abstract

A hydraulic system can be provided as a kit to an existing work machine (100) for depressurizing a work tool assist circuit (400) of the work machine (100). The system comprises: a power source (600); a reservoir (404) of hydraulic fluid; a plurality of hydraulic lines (118); a pressure source (402); a control valve (406); a decompression line (410) connected to at least one of the plurality of hydraulic lines (118) and the reservoir (404); the decompression line (410) comprises an electromechanical valve (408) for regulating the flow of hydraulic fluid in the decompression line (410); a controller (610) and a coupler switch (612) including at least two throws and having three positions, one of which actuates the electro-mechanical valve (408) to depressurize the work tool assist circuit (400).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to hydraulic systems in work machines and, more particularly, to depressurizing a hydraulic work tool auxiliary circuit. Background Art

[0002] Work machines such as excavators, backhoes, skid steers, wheel loaders, tractors, and the like are also provided with quick couplers that are used to attach and detach various work tool attachments, commonly referred to as implements, from the work machine. More specifically, some implements are connected at the ends of the work mechanism, commonly referred to as the boom and arm of the work machine. Typically, quick couplers are heavy-duty industrial components that allow buckets, hammers, grapples, compactors, rakes, and other implements to be quickly and efficiently swapped onto the arm of the work machine. Without a quick coupler, a worker would need to manually push out a pin, typically using a hammer.

[0003] Hydraulic quick couplers offer an improvement over standard quick couplers. Standard quick couplers only physically connect the work tool to the machine and still require manual connection of the hydraulic lines. Hydraulic quick couplers physically connect both the tool and the hydraulic lines (if equipped) to the machine. Hydraulic quick couplers allow the work machine to quickly switch between different hydraulic or non-hydraulic work tools by using the hydraulic system of the work machine and can be operated by a control device from the cab of the work machine. The hydraulic system of the work machine is typically connected to the hydraulic quick coupler via hydraulic lines in the hydraulic system. Hydraulic lines are typically provided throughout the work machine. Hydraulic lines typically utilize hydraulic couplings that create a liquid-tight seal to maintain hydraulic fluid pressure in the circuit. In addition, the work tool may include a hydraulic auxiliary circuit connected to the hydraulic quick coupler. The hydraulic quick coupler requires decompression of the auxiliary hydraulic circuit to be able to connect completely and correctly. Typically, the coupler switch present on the work machine is only provided with two switch positions: locked and unlocked.

[0004] Others have disclosed hydraulic circuits for actuating attachment and detachment of a work tool to a quick coupler, but have not provided a separate pressure-reducing line for depressurizing a hydraulic auxiliary circuit of the work tool. For example, U.S. Publication No. 2020 / 0217040 to Hill discloses a coupling system comprising a coupler and a pressure-reducing system, wherein a first power coupling unit of the coupler comprises at least one hydraulic coupling for connecting to a hydraulic line of a hydraulic system of an excavator or other machine, and wherein the pressure-reducing system comprises: a pressure-reducing valve device for selectively connecting the hydraulic line to a hydraulic fluid reservoir for dumping hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic line to the reservoir; and a control device for operating the pressure-reducing valve device, the control device being configured to detect operation of the coupler to exit a locked state or enter a locked state, wherein the control device is configured to operate the pressure-reducing valve device to connect the hydraulic line to the hydraulic fluid reservoir in response to detecting operation of the coupler to exit a locked state in order to dump hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic line to the reservoir, and to operate the pressure-reducing valve device to prevent hydraulic fluid from being dumped from the hydraulic line to the reservoir in response to detecting operation of the coupler to enter a locked state. Hill does not disclose a control switch having three positions for selectively selecting a depressurization function for individually depressurizing the hydraulic auxiliary circuit of a work tool.

[0005] It can therefore be seen that there is a need for an improved hydraulic system that facilitates attachment and detachment of a work tool to a quick coupler, and a need for upgrading existing hydraulic systems of work machines in the field to accommodate a hydraulically connected quick coupler. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a hydraulic system for depressurizing a work tool auxiliary circuit of a work machine is disclosed. The system includes: a power source for powering the hydraulic system; a reservoir for hydraulic fluid; a plurality of hydraulic lines; a pressure source for supplying hydraulic fluid throughout the plurality of hydraulic lines; a control valve for regulating the flow of the hydraulic fluid; a pressure reducing line connected to at least one of the plurality of hydraulic lines and the reservoir, the pressure reducing line including an electromechanical valve for regulating the flow of the hydraulic fluid in the pressure reducing line; a controller configured to communicate with the electromechanical valve via an electrical circuit; and a coupler switch including three positions configured to communicate with the controller, at least one of the three positions actuating the electromechanical valve to depressurize the work tool auxiliary circuit.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present invention, a working machine is disclosed, which includes: a frame; a ground engaging element that supports the frame; an engine that is located in the frame and provides power to the working machine; a working mechanism that extends from the frame; a quick coupler that is located on the end of the working mechanism for connecting to a working tool; a hydraulic system that includes: a power supply that is used to power the hydraulic system; a reservoir for hydraulic fluid; a plurality of hydraulic lines; a pressure source that is used to supply hydraulic fluid throughout the plurality of hydraulic lines; a control valve that is used to regulate the flow of the hydraulic fluid; a pressure reducing line that is connected to at least one hydraulic line of the plurality of hydraulic lines and the reservoir, the pressure reducing line including an electromechanical valve for regulating the flow of hydraulic fluid in the pressure reducing line; a controller that is configured to communicate with the electromechanical valve via an electric circuit; and a coupler switch that includes three positions that are configured to communicate with the controller, at least one of the three positions actuating the electromechanical valve to depressurize the working tool auxiliary circuit.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for depressurizing a work tool auxiliary circuit of a work machine is disclosed. The hydraulic system includes a plurality of hydraulic lines, a pump, a reservoir for hydraulic fluid, and an electrical circuit having a controller. The method includes: providing a work machine; installing a coupler switch having three positions in connection with the controller, at least one of the three positions depressurizing the work tool auxiliary circuit; installing a depressurizing circuit and a relay to the controller; installing a depressurizing line and an electromechanical valve to the plurality of hydraulic lines and the reservoir, the electromechanical valve communicating with the relay; and depressurizing the work tool auxiliary circuit when the depressurizing position is selected, thereby actuating the electromechanical valve to release pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit.

[0009] These and other aspects and features of the present invention will be better understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a work machine including a quick coupler coupled to a work tool including a hydraulic quick coupler circuit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 2 is an enlarged perspective view of an arm of a work machine including a quick coupler coupled to a work tool according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a hydraulic connection quick coupler and a work tool bracket according to an embodiment.

[0013] Figure 4is a schematic diagram illustrating a hydraulic circuit for a work machine according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a work tool is disconnected from the work machine.

[0014] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing a hydraulic circuit for a work machine to which a work tool is connected according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an electric power circuit for supplying electric power to a hydraulic circuit according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method for installing a pressure reducing kit for a hydraulic circuit on a work machine and selecting a function of a three-position coupler switch according to a first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 is a flowchart of a method for installing a pressure reducing kit for a hydraulic circuit on a work machine and selecting a function of a three-position coupler switch according to a second embodiment.

[0018] Figure 9 is a flowchart of a method for installing a hydraulic circuit pressure reducing kit on a work machine and selecting a function of a three-position coupler switch according to a third embodiment.

[0019] The accompanying drawings depict one embodiment of the present invention for purposes of illustration only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods shown herein may be employed without departing from the principles described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Referring now to the drawings, and in particular to Figure 1 , an exemplary work machine 100, shown as an excavator, is shown. Excavators are heavy equipment designed to move earthen material from the ground or landscape at excavation sites in construction and agriculture. Although the following detailed description describes exemplary aspects related to an excavator, it should be understood that the description is equally applicable to the use of the present invention with other work machines, including but not limited to backhoes, front-end loaders, skid steer loaders, wheel loaders, and tractors.

[0021] Work machine 100 includes a frame 102 that supports an engine 104. Frame 102 is supported on ground-engaging elements 106, shown as continuous rails. It is contemplated that ground-engaging elements 106 may be any other type of ground-engaging elements 106, such as wheels. Work machine 100 also includes a work mechanism 108 that extends from the frame to perform work, such as excavating landscaping or otherwise moving dirt, soil, or other material at an excavation site. Frame 102 may be an upper rotating body common to excavators and work machines in the agricultural and construction industries.

[0022] As shown in one embodiment, work mechanism 108 includes a boom 110, an arm 112, a quick coupler 114, and a work tool 116 for removing dirt, soil, and other materials from a landscaping site. Work tool 116 may be a bucket, shovel, hammer, thumb, hydraulic machine tool, or other attachment that is coupled to quick coupler 114 for operation by work machine 100.

[0023] Work machine 100 utilizes a quick coupler 114 to attach and detach a work tool 116 to and from work machine 100. Work machine 100 can quickly attach and detach work tool 116 to and from quick coupler 114 using a plurality of hydraulic lines 118 disposed on the work machine. In one embodiment, quick coupler 114 is a hydraulic connection quick coupler configured to connect to a plurality of hydraulic lines 118.

[0024] Now refer to Figures 2 to 3 In one embodiment, the quick coupler 114 is shown as a hydraulic connection quick coupler that is attached to a work tool 116. Figure 2As shown, the quick coupler 114 is connected to the work tool bracket 200, which is also connected to the work tool 116. The quick coupler 114 includes a quick coupler coupler 300 that mates with a work tool coupler 302 in the work tool bracket 200. The quick coupler coupler 300 and the work tool coupler 302 may also be referred to as a hydraulic block, which hydraulically connects and disconnects the quick coupler 114 from the work tool bracket 200. A plurality of hydraulic lines 118 are connected to the hydraulic block via hydraulic couplers 304 attached to the quick coupler coupler 300 side of the hydraulic block. The hydraulic couplers 304 create a fluid-tight seal to maintain pressure and allow for equipment changes such as fluid and gas transfer, tool assembly, diagnostics, and other tasks that require frequent equipment changes. The hydraulic coupler typically has two parts: a coupling body (the socket or female end) that connects the plurality of hydraulic lines 118 to the quick coupler coupler 300 of the quick coupler 114, and a coupling plug (the male end). Hydraulic coupling connection types may include push-to-connect, pull-to-connect, threaded, and universal interchange as commonly known in the art. Hydraulic couplings control spillage, air containment, and disconnection with special features such as flush face designs, self-sealing poppet valves, single or double shutoff valves, and sleeves (automatic, manual, locking).

[0025] It should be appreciated that in some applications of the work machine 100, only one hydraulic line 118 is required to connect to the quick coupler coupling 300, while in other applications of the work tool and quick coupler, multiple hydraulic lines 118 and multiple hydraulic couplings 304 may be required. In other work machines, such as a soil mulcher, there may be up to five hydraulic lines 118. The multiple hydraulic lines 118 may include a main hydraulic line and secondary hydraulic lines. The main hydraulic line is used for primary operation of the work tool 116. The secondary hydraulic lines are used for secondary operations, such as rotating, tilting, opening, and closing the work tool 116.

[0026] Now refer to Figures 4 and 5 In one embodiment, a schematic diagram of a work tool auxiliary circuit 400 is shown, wherein Figure 4 The work tool 116 is shown hydraulically disconnected from the work machine 100 and as shown in FIG. Figure 5The work tool 116 is shown hydraulically connected to the work machine 100. The work tool auxiliary circuit 400 includes a plurality of hydraulic lines 118; a pressure source 402 for pumping hydraulic fluid throughout the work tool auxiliary circuit 400, thereby generating pressure within the plurality of hydraulic lines 118; a reservoir 404 for storing a supply of hydraulic fluid; a control valve 406 for regulating the distribution of the hydraulic fluid pumped by the pressure source 402 throughout the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 and the plurality of hydraulic lines 118; an electromechanical valve 408 for relieving pressure within the work tool auxiliary circuit 400; and a pressure relief line 410. The electromechanical valve 408 is connected to the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 by connecting the pressure relief line 410 to at least one of the plurality of hydraulic lines 118 and the reservoir 404. Figures 4 and 5 Components of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 located in the work machine 100 are shown on a work machine side 412 and a work tool side 414 .

[0027] Pressure source 402 may be a pump or other pressure source capable of supplying hydraulic fluid throughout a hydraulic circuit, as is generally known in the art. Reservoir 404 may be a tank or the like for storing hydraulic fluid. Control valve 406 may be a spool valve, a directional control valve, an electronic control valve, or the like. Electromechanical valve 408 may be a pressure reducing valve, a solenoid valve, or other valve.

[0028] The work tool auxiliary circuit 400 may utilize a variety of hydraulic fluids stored and supplied in a reservoir 404 , such as oil, water, gas, or other commonly known fluids for hydraulic circuits and hydraulic systems, as is generally known in the art.

[0029] When the electromechanical valve 408 is actuated, the electromechanical valve 408 releases pressure to depressurize the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. The depressurization performed by the electromechanical valve 408 relieves pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 by temporarily connecting one side of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 to the reservoir 404. The pressure relief line 410 is connected to the plurality of hydraulic lines 118 so that when the electromechanical valve 408 is actuated, hydraulic fluid is released from the plurality of hydraulic lines 118 and returned to the reservoir 404.

[0030] like Figures 4 and 5As shown, pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400, including the two hydraulic lines 118, is relieved by temporarily connecting the two hydraulic lines 118 on each side of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 to a reservoir 404 and by connecting an electromechanical valve 408 to each of the two hydraulic lines 118 on each side of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. In a standard work machine, hydraulic flow is applied directly to the work tool 116 in a standard hydraulic auxiliary circuit that utilizes at least one of the plurality of hydraulic lines 118, also referred to as auxiliary lines, in a standard hydraulic auxiliary circuit. Figures 4 and 5 Shown in FIG as a plurality of hydraulic lines 118. Connecting the electromechanical valve 408 and the pressure reducing line 410 to the auxiliary line allows the pressure applied directly to the work tool 116 to be reduced when the electromechanical valve 408 is actuated. Figures 4 and 5 Not shown is a hydraulic control circuit which is also typically connected to the pressure source 402 and the reservoir 404 for other control operations, such as locking and unlocking of the quick coupler 114 and the work tool 116 .

[0031] Now refer to Figure 6 In one embodiment of the present invention, a power circuit 600 for providing power to the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 is shown. The power circuit 600 includes a power source 602 for providing power, an activation circuit 604, a relay circuit 606, a relay 608, an electromechanical valve 408, a quick coupler controller 610, and a coupler switch 612. As shown, the quick coupler controller 610 is electrically connected to the coupler switch 612, which is electrically connected to the relay 608 via the activation circuit 604. The relay 608 is electrically connected to the electromechanical valve 408 via the relay circuit 606. The coupler switch 612 is electrically connected to the quick coupler controller 610 via a controller circuit 614. The quick coupler controller 610 is also electrically connected to a locking valve 616 and an unlocking valve 618.

[0032] The power circuit 600 can be viewed as two separate circuits, a pressure relief circuit 620 and a locking circuit 622. The locking circuit 622 controls the unlocking and locking of the work tool 116 and the quick coupler 114 in a standard work machine. The pressure relief circuit 620 is installed in a standard work machine by upgrading the coupler switch 612 and installing the relay 608, the starter circuit 604, the pressure relief circuit, and the electromechanical valve 408. The pressure relief circuit 620 is electrically connected to the power supply 602 of the work machine 100. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the locking circuit 622 can be connected directly to the power supply 602. As those skilled in the art will recognize, the location of the power supply 602 can vary. The power supply 602 can be a battery, etc.

[0033] The coupler switch 612 may include at least two throws, such as a double throw switch. The number of throws corresponds to the number of possible output connections that can be made by the switch. The coupler switch 612 is provided with at least three positions having various configurations for various applications of the work machine 100 utilizing various work tools in a variety of environments. For example, in a first configuration, the three switch positions may be set to: (1) coupler locked, (2) coupler unlocked, and (3) coupler unlocked and depressurized. This first configuration also helps prevent tool drift when desired. Tool drift is the movement of the work tool 116 during a loss of hydraulic pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. For example, the tines on the fingers or grapple may currently be held open due to the hydraulic pressure within the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. If the hydraulic circuit of the work machine 100 is depressurized, the work tool 116 may begin to close or drift toward closing due to gravity and / or due to a lack of hydraulic pressure.

[0034] In a second configuration, the three switch positions of coupler switch 612 can be set to: (1) depressurization, (2) coupler lock, and (3) coupler unlock. This configuration allows depressurization of the auxiliary hydraulic circuit of work tool 116 independent of the selection of the coupler unlock switch. For some applications of work machine 100, the duration of the depressurization process needs to be limited to limit tool drift, while also requiring the depressurization process to occur before the coupler is released.

[0035] In a third configuration, for example, the three switch positions of the coupler switch 612 can be set to: (1) coupler locked, (2) decompression, and (3) coupler unlocked and decompression. This configuration forces the operator of the work machine 100 to utilize the decompression function. Some hydraulic quick couplers always require decompression during the coupling process. This configuration requires the operator to always be required to decompress the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 when unlocking the quick coupler 114 from the work tool 116.

[0036] One of ordinary skill in the art may select any combination of the three positions depending on the application of the work machine 100 , the type of quick coupler 114 , and the type of work tool 116 .

[0037] Industrial Applicability

[0038] In operation, the present invention can be applied to many industries, including but not limited to construction, earthmoving, and agriculture. Specifically, the technology of the present invention can be used for hydraulic pressure reduction in work machines, including but not limited to excavators, backhoes, skid steers, wheel loaders, tractors, etc., which include quick couplers for easily connecting and disconnecting work tools such as hammers, buckets, shovels, excavating tools, etc. Although the foregoing detailed description is made with specific reference to excavators, it should be understood that its teachings can also be applied to other work machines, such as backhoes, skid steers, wheel loaders, tractors, soil mulching machines, etc.

[0039] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the foregoing hydraulic system can be provided as a universal pressure reducing kit for installation on a wide range of machine sizes and machine types. This universal pressure reducing kit for the hydraulic system disclosed herein will allow the operator to reduce the pressure of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 without being connected to the hydraulic control circuit of the work tool 116. The pressure reducing of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 can be operated from the comfort of the cab with minimal effort. The universal pressure reducing kit consists of the following: the power circuit 600 of the work machine 100 and the work tool auxiliary circuit 400, which are configured with an electromechanical valve 408, a pressure reducing line 410, a coupler switch 612 with at least two throws, and a relay 608 installed to the work machine 100.

[0040] refer to Figures 7 to 9 , disclosed herein are methods 700, 800, and 900 for depressurizing a work tool auxiliary circuit of an existing work machine. The methods 700, 800, and 900 illustrate various configurations of three positions of a coupler switch 612 having at least two throws. In a first step 702, 802, and 902, a work machine 100 including an existing hydraulic circuit, an existing electrical circuit, and a quick coupler is provided. The existing hydraulic circuit of the existing work machine in the art typically includes hydraulic fluid, a plurality of hydraulic lines 118, a pressure source 402, a reservoir 404 for storing the hydraulic fluid, and a control valve 406. The existing electrical circuit of the existing work machine typically includes a power source 602 and a quick coupler controller 610 connected to an existing switch having only two positions, locked and unlocked, and having only one throw in the existing switch.

[0041] In steps 704, 804, and 904, a three-position coupler switch 612 is connected to the quick coupler controller 610 and the power circuit 600. The three-position coupler switch 612 can replace an existing switch on the work machine 100. Typically, existing control switches on current work machines in the art only have two positions: locked and unlocked. The coupler switch 612 upgrades the existing control switch from a two-position switch to a three-position switch, allowing for additional pressure relief functionality.

[0042] The coupler switch 612 provided in steps 704, 804, and 904 can be a double-throw switch having at least two throws. Using a double-throw switch, the wiring circuit for the new coupler switch 612 can be easily changed at the existing switch position of the work machine 100 by changing the position of the existing wires at the switch, thereby accommodating a variety of hydraulic quick couplers and machine systems. By changing the wiring of the existing switch to accommodate the three-position configuration of the coupler switch 612, the logic for activating pressure reduction can be easily changed for different applications. By utilizing a double-throw switch as the coupler switch 612, the electrical circuit connecting the quick coupler controller 610 to the coupler switch 612 to activate the quick coupler controller 610 is a circuit separate from the activation circuit 604, communicating with the relay 608 and the relay circuit 606, and communicating with the electromechanical valve 408. This allows the relay circuit 606 to be easily integrated into a wide range of machines and manufactured by different original equipment manufacturers.

[0043] In steps 706, 806, and 906, the pressure reducing circuit 620 is installed, connecting the relay 608 to the coupler switch 612 and connecting the electromechanical valve 408 installed in steps 708, 808, and 908 to the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 and the pressure reducing circuit 620. The relay 608 is installed between the coupler switch 612 and the electromechanical valve 408. After being installed in the power circuit 600, the relay 808 is connected to the coupler switch 612 via the starter circuit 604 and to the electromechanical valve 408 via the relay circuit 606. Utilizing the relay 608 allows smaller electrical wiring to be brought into the cab of the machine, as the wiring at the coupler switch typically does not carry loads.

[0044] In steps 708, 808, and 908, Figures 4 and 5 Electromechanical valve 408 is shown connected to reservoir 404 using pressure reducing line 410 to connect electromechanical valve 408 to a plurality of hydraulic lines 118 of work machine 100. Electromechanical valve 408 is electrically connected to power circuit 600 and supports pressure reduction by relieving pressure in work tool auxiliary circuit 400 by temporarily connecting a plurality of hydraulic lines 118 to reservoir 404 so that when pressure is released after actuating electromechanical valve 408 using coupler switch 612, hydraulic fluid is returned to reservoir 404. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the use of a separate electromechanical valve increases the versatility of the kit and facilitates its integration into a variety of work machines.

[0045] When the hydraulic system is activated by the coupler switch 612, the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 is powered by the power circuit 600. When the coupler switch 612 selects the locked or unlocked position, the power circuit 600 supplies power to the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 for unlocking and locking the quick coupler 114 via the locking circuit 622. When the coupler switch 612 connected to the power circuit 600 selects the depressurization position, the depressurization circuit 620 sends a signal to depressurize the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. When an operating signal is selected from three positions on the coupler switch 612 having at least two throws, the operation of the electromechanical valve 408 and the hydraulic block can be controlled to unlock or lock the quick coupler 114 with the work tool 116 and / or depressurize the work tool auxiliary circuit 400, depending on the logic selected for the three positions of the coupler switch 612.

[0046] For example, Figure 7 As shown, in a first configuration, three switch positions can be set so that the operator can: select (1) a coupler lock position in step 712, select (2) a coupler unlock position in step 714, and select (3) a coupler unlock and depressurize position in step 716. This first configuration allows the operator of the work machine 100 to unlock the quick coupler 114 with or without depressurizing, which is beneficial in applications where a separate work tool 116, such as a finger, is currently utilizing the same hydraulic circuit used by the hydraulically connected quick coupler. Selecting (1) the coupler lock position in step 712 actuates locking of the work tool 116 with the quick coupler 114 without depressurizing, as shown in step 718. Selecting (2) the coupler unlock position in step 714 actuates unlocking of the work tool 116 with the quick coupler 114 without depressurizing, as shown in step 720. This coupler switch 612 configuration allows the quick coupler 114 to be unlocked without depressurizing the auxiliary hydraulic circuit of the work tool 116. In step 716, the (3) coupler unlock and decompression position is selected, actuating unlocking of the work tool and simultaneously decompressing the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 by simultaneously actuating the electromechanical valve 408 via the decompression circuit 620 and the locking circuit 622 to return hydraulic fluid to the reservoir 404 during unlocking, as shown in step 722. When the electromechanical valve 408 is actuated, it temporarily connects the plurality of hydraulic lines 118 to the reservoir 404, causing the hydraulic fluid to be transferred to the reservoir 404. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the plurality of hydraulic lines 118 can be main hydraulic lines or auxiliary hydraulic lines.

[0047] like Figure 8As shown, in the second configuration, the three switch positions of the coupler switch 612 can be set to: (1) decompression, (2) coupler lock, and (3) coupler unlock. This configuration allows decompression of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 to be independent of the selection of the coupler unlock switch. For some applications of the work machine 100, the duration of the decompression process needs to be limited to limit tool drift, while also requiring the decompression process to be performed before the quick coupler 114 is unlocked. In step 812, (1) the decompression position is selected to actuate decompression of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 by actuating the electromechanical valve 408 via the decompression circuit 620 to return hydraulic fluid to the reservoir 404 during unlocking, as shown in step 818. In step 814, (2) the coupler lock position is selected to actuate locking of the work tool 116 with the quick coupler 114 without decompression via the locking circuit 622, as shown in step 820. Selecting (3) the coupler unlock position in step 816 actuates unlocking of the work tool 116 from the quick coupler 114 without depressurizing the locking circuit 622, as shown in step 820. The coupler switch 612 configuration allows unlocking of the quick coupler 114 without depressurizing the auxiliary hydraulic circuit of the work tool 116.

[0048] like Figure 9 As shown, in the third configuration, the three switch positions of the coupler switch 612 can be set to: (1) coupler locked, (2) decompression, and (3) coupler unlocked and decompression. This configuration forces the operator of the work machine 100 to utilize the decompression function. Some hydraulic connection quick couplers always require decompression during the coupling and / or decoupling process. This configuration requires the operator to always be required to decompress when unlocking the quick coupler 114 from the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. In step 912, (1) the coupler locked position is selected to actuate the locking of the work tool 116 with the quick coupler 114 via the locking circuit 622 without decompression, as shown in step 918. In step 814, (2) the decompression position is selected to actuate the decompression of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 by actuating the electromechanical valve 408 via the decompression circuit 620 to return the hydraulic fluid to the reservoir 404 via the decompression circuit 620, as shown in step 920. In step 922, (3) the coupler unlock and decompression position is selected, actuating the unlocking of the work tool via the locking circuit 622 and simultaneously decompressing the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 by actuating the electromechanical valve 408 via the decompression circuit 620 to return hydraulic fluid to the reservoir 404 during unlocking, as shown in step 922.

[0049] By using the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 and the power circuit 600, the quick coupler 114 can easily attach the work tool 116 to a hydraulic connection quick coupler that requires decompression of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 to fully connect correctly to prevent tool drift.

[0050] The power circuit 600 for the pressure reducing kit is designed to allow installation into most agricultural and construction machines that utilize a hydraulic quick coupler without making significant changes to the machine's existing power circuit and hydraulic system. The physical hardware change to the existing hardware of the work machine is to replace the existing coupler switch, which only has two positions, with a coupler switch 612 having three positions and at least two throws.

[0051] Hydraulic quick couplers are intended to replace existing quick couplers on work machines, as work machines operating in the field often lack a pressure relief function during the coupling process, as conventional quick couplers do not require this function. Furthermore, if the pressure in the auxiliary hydraulic circuit of the work tool is too high, damage to the work tool may occur during the coupling and / or uncoupling process. This can occur if the work machine 100 has been in the field for a period of time and, for example, heat from the weather has increased the pressure within the circuit.

[0052] The three-position switch with pressure relief functionality provides advantages that will be recognized by those skilled in the art. The hydraulic system disclosed herein protects the work tool 116 and the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 from damage due to thermal expansion. Damage due to thermal expansion may occur when the work tool 116 is disconnected from the work machine 100 without relieving pressure (reducing pressure) from the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 prior to disconnecting the work tool 116 due to a buildup of pressure within the work tool 116 exceeding the pressure tolerance of the work tool 116. For example, the work tool 116 may be capable of handling pressures up to 3,000 psi and the current pressure in the work tool 116 may be 2,800 psi on a cold day. If the operator disconnects the work tool 116 from the work machine 100 while the pressure within the work tool is at 2,800 psi on a cold day, and if there is a large temperature fluctuation the next day after the work tool is removed from the machine, the pressure in the work tool will significantly increase beyond the maximum design pressure due to thermal expansion of the oil trapped within the work tool while the work tool is still disconnected from the machine. Reducing the pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 reduces the force required to connect the coupler or hydraulic block and increases the ease of coupling the work tool 116 to the work machine 100. Reducing the pressure as described above also increases the life of system components such as the hydraulic coupler 304, the hydraulic block, the guide system, and the locking system. The guide system is responsible for aligning the quick coupler coupler 300 with the work tool coupler 302 on the work tool bracket 200. In addition, some hydraulic quick couplers require pressure reduction during coupling because some hydraulic quick couplers are designed in such a way that they are physically unable to be hydraulically connected to the work tool 116 without reducing the pressure and are not designed to connect with the large pressures trapped within the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. These hydraulic quick couplers may be damaged if the pressure is not reduced.

[0053] Decompression of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 provides advantages for protecting the life of the work tool when adverse pressures are present in the hydraulic auxiliary circuit of the work tool that could damage the work tool during coupling and uncoupling or during operation by the work machine. It is desirable to provide a decompression function on existing work machines to utilize existing quick coupler circuits or power circuits in the work machine to protect the work tool and to accommodate the installation of hydraulically connected quick couplers that require decompression during coupling and uncoupling with the work machine.

[0054] As can be seen from the foregoing, the technology disclosed herein has industrial applicability in a variety of settings, such as, but not limited to, work machines in construction and agriculture that utilize quick couplers to connect to various work tools.

Claims

1. A hydraulic system for decompressing a work tool auxiliary circuit (400) of a work machine (100), the hydraulic system include: a power source (600) for supplying power to the hydraulic system; a reservoir (404) for hydraulic fluid; a plurality of hydraulic lines (118); a pressure source (402) for supplying the hydraulic fluid throughout the plurality of hydraulic lines (118); a control valve (406), the control valve being used to adjust the flow rate of the hydraulic fluid; a pressure relief line (410) connected to at least one of the plurality of hydraulic lines (118) and the reservoir (404), the pressure relief line (410) comprising an electromechanical valve (408) for regulating the flow of the hydraulic fluid in the pressure relief line (410); a controller (610) configured to communicate with the electromechanical valve (408) via a power circuit (600); as well as A coupler switch (612) includes at least three positions configured to communicate with the controller (610), at least one of the three positions actuating the electromechanical valve (408) to depressurize the work tool auxiliary circuit (400).

2. The hydraulic system according to claim 1, in, The coupler switch (612) has at least two throws.

3. The hydraulic system according to claim 2, in, The power circuit (600) further comprises: a locking circuit (622) comprising a locking valve (616) and an unlocking valve (618) for connecting and disconnecting a work tool (116) to a quick coupler (114) of the work machine (100); a pressure reducing circuit (620), the pressure reducing circuit comprising a start circuit (604), a relay circuit (606), and a relay (608) between the start circuit (604) and the relay circuit (606), wherein the relay (608) is in communication with the coupler switch (612) and the electromechanical valve (408); and The coupler switch (612) is in communication with the locking circuit (622) and the pressure relief circuit (620), and at least one of the three positions of the coupler switch (612) is in communication with the pressure relief circuit (620).

4. The hydraulic system according to claim 2, in, The at least three positions of the coupler switch (612) are selected from the group consisting of: a coupler locked position, a coupler unlocked position, and a coupler unlocked and decompressed position; a decompression position, a coupler locked position, and a coupler unlocked position; as well as Coupler locked position, decompression position, and coupler unlocked and decompression position.

5. The hydraulic system according to claim 4, in, The quick coupler (114) is a hydraulic connection quick coupler (114) and the work tool (116) is a hydraulic mechanical work tool.

6. The hydraulic system according to claim 2, in, The hydraulic system is provided as a kit for installation on a work machine (100).

7. The hydraulic system according to claim 1, in, One of the plurality of hydraulic lines (118) is a slave hydraulic line, and the pressure reducing line is connected to the slave hydraulic line.

8. A working machine (100), include: frame; ground engaging elements supporting the frame; an engine located in the frame and providing power to the work machine (100); an operating mechanism extending from the frame; a quick coupler (114) located on a distal end of the working mechanism for coupling to a working tool (116); A hydraulic system according to claim 4.

9. A method of depressurizing a work tool auxiliary circuit (400) of a work machine (100), the hydraulic system comprising a plurality of hydraulic lines (118), a pressure source (402), a reservoir (404) of hydraulic fluid, and an electric circuit (600) having a controller (610), the method include: Providing the working machine (100) having a quick coupler and a working tool; A coupler switch (612) having at least three positions is mounted in connection with the controller (610), at least one of the three positions depressurizing the work tool auxiliary circuit (400); Installing a pressure reducing circuit (620) and a relay (608) to the controller (610); installing a pressure reducing line (410) and an electromechanical valve (408) to the plurality of hydraulic lines (118), the reservoir (404), the electromechanical valve (408) communicating with the relay (608); as well as When the decompression position is selected, thereby actuating the electromechanical valve (408) to release pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit (400), the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) is decompressed.

10. The method according to claim 9, in, Two electromechanical valves (408) connected to the relay (608) are provided, and the power circuit (600) further comprises: a locking circuit (622) comprising a locking valve (616) and an unlocking valve (618) for connecting and disconnecting the working tool (116) to a quick coupler (114) of the working machine (100); The pressure reducing circuit (620), the pressure reducing circuit comprising a start circuit (604), a relay circuit (606), and the relay (608) between the start circuit (604) and the relay circuit (606), wherein the relay (608) communicates with the coupler switch (612) and the electromechanical valve (408); and The coupler switch (612) is in communication with the locking circuit (622) and the pressure relief circuit (620), and at least one of the three positions of the coupler switch (612) is in communication with the pressure relief circuit (620).

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