Multi-purpose power end for forming a plurality of work machines

Abstract

A multi-purpose power end for forming a plurality of work machines includes a chassis, a power source supported by the chassis, an operator station having input devices to control operation of the power source, and a set of traction devices powered by the power source to movably support the chassis on the ground. The power end further includes an engagement assembly configured to respectively engage with complementary interfaces associated with different implement ends such that the different implement ends are selectively and interchangeably couplable with the power end to form the work machines.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to working machinery having multiple parts, such as a power end and a implement end. More specifically, this disclosure relates to selectively connecting different implement ends to a multipurpose power end to form multiple working machines. Background Technology

[0002] Operating machinery such as compactors and loaders are typically used at work sites such as construction sites and / or mining sites to perform various operations. These operations may include earthmoving, material handling, soil compaction, etc.

[0003] Before being delivered to end customers, such machinery is typically transported as fully assembled units, for example, between manufacturing facilities and storage yards or distributors. Transporting such machinery, such as fully assembled units, requires the procurement of relatively large-scale transport systems to accommodate or secure the fully assembled units during transfer. This type of transport also necessitates compliance with various regulations. Furthermore, the fully assembled units are often stored at locations such as storage yards or distributors, where they occupy corresponding real estate space, thus increasing the overall inventory at these locations. These factors make managing teams of fully assembled units or fully assembled machinery a typically cumbersome task. Summary of the Invention

[0004] On one hand, this disclosure discloses a multi-purpose power end for forming multiple working machines. The multi-purpose power end includes a chassis, a power source supported by the chassis, an operator station including one or more input devices to control the power source, and a set of traction devices powered by the power source to movably support the chassis on the ground. Furthermore, the multi-purpose power end includes one or more engagement components configured to engage with one or more complementary interfaces associated with each of a plurality of different implement ends, such that the different implement ends can be selectively and interchangeably connected to the multi-purpose power end to form the working machines.

[0005] On the other hand, this disclosure relates to a work machinery system. The work machinery system includes a plurality of different implement ends. Each implement end includes one or more complementary interfaces. The work machinery system includes a multi-purpose power end for forming a plurality of work machines. The multi-purpose power end includes a chassis, a power source supported by the chassis, an operator station including one or more input devices for controlling the power source, and a set of traction devices powered by the power source to movably support the chassis on the ground. The multi-purpose power end also includes engagement assemblies configured to engage with the complementary interfaces respectively, such that the different implement ends and the multi-purpose power end can be selectively and interchangeably connected to form the work machinery.

[0006] On the other hand, this disclosure relates to a method for forming multiple working machines. The method includes applying a multi-purpose power end for forming the multiple working machines. The multi-purpose power end includes a chassis, a power source supported by the chassis, an operator station including one or more input devices for controlling the power source, a set of traction devices powered by the power source to movably support the chassis on the ground, and one or more engagement assemblies. The method also includes using different implement ends. Each implement end includes one or more complementary interfaces. Furthermore, the method includes engaging the engagement assemblies with the complementary interfaces respectively, such that the different implement ends and the multi-purpose power end are selectively and interchangeably connectable to form the working machines. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary working machine having a multi-purpose power end and a tool end hingedly connected to each other at a hinged connection, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 It is according to the embodiments of this disclosure and the support member and in relation to Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a multi-purpose power end combined with a different tool end compared to the tool end; Figure 3 and 4 This is a close-up view of the portions of the articulated connection according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing a first engagement assembly of a multipurpose power end that engages with a first complementary interface of the machine end at the articulated connection. Figure 5 Based on embodiments of this disclosure and Figure 2 A view of a multi-purpose power end combined with an implement end, wherein a second engagement assembly of the multi-purpose power end engages with a second complementary interface of the implement end at a hinged connection; and Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for forming a plurality of working machines according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0008] Reference will now be made in detail to specific embodiments or features, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. Generally, corresponding reference numerals may be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or corresponding parts; for example, 1, 1', 1'', 101, and 201 may refer to one or more equivalent components used in the same or different depicted embodiments.

[0009] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 and combined Figure 5 The document describes a work machinery 100. The work machinery 100 can be applied to a work site 104, such as a mining site, construction site, quarry, landfill, or any other work site known to those skilled in the art. As shown, the work machinery 100 may include various sections, such as a power end 108 and a implement end 112. The power end 108 may correspond to a section of the work machinery 100 that can generate power to perform one or more tasks of the work machinery 100. As an example, the power end 108 of the work machinery 100 may include a chassis 116, a power source 120 (see [reference]). Figure 5 ), hydraulic fluid source 124 (see Figure 5 The machine 100 includes an operator station 128 and a set of traction devices 132. The power end 108 of the machine 100 may include various other devices, subsystems and / or components, which are not listed in detail herein as they are conceived by those skilled in the art.

[0010] Power source 120 may be supported on chassis 116. Power source 120 may include one or more of an internal combustion engine (e.g., which can generate power by burning fossil fuels) and / or a power source such as a battery (e.g., which can generate electricity through a chemical reaction). Although the exemplary power sources described above have been discussed, other power sources now known or developed in the future may be applied. Like power source 120, operator station 128 may also be supported on a portion of chassis 116. Operator station 128 may include or accommodate one or more input devices 136 (e.g., first input device 136') to control power source 120 and / or implements (see implement 140) associated with implement end 112 of working machinery 100. First input device 136' may include one or more of a joystick, control panel, lever, etc. Furthermore, traction device 132 may be powered by power source 120 to movably support chassis 116 (and thus working machinery 100) above ground 144 (see implement 140). Figure 5 ).

[0011] Regarding hydraulic fluid source 124 (see...) Figure 5Hydraulic fluid source 124 can be any device from which hydraulic fluid can be derived to power the performance of any mechanical function. For example, hydraulic fluid source 124 may include a reservoir and / or a pump (which may be exemplarily powered by power source 120). In some embodiments, one or more first hydraulic lines (see...) Figure 5 The first hydraulic line 148 can extend from the hydraulic fluid source 124 (e.g., fluidly or operably). In some embodiments, the hydraulic fluid source 124 can be omitted from the power end 108, and the hydraulic fluid source 124 can instead be located outside the power end 108. For example, the hydraulic fluid source 124 can be located within the implement end 112 of the working machine 100.

[0012] refer to Figure 3 The power end 108 may also include a first actuator 152 and a second actuator 156 (see Figure 3 Although not limited, each of the first actuator 152 and the second actuator 156 can be a hydraulic actuator, such as comprising a cylinder-rod arrangement having a rod end chamber and a head end chamber, the head end chamber being selectively pressurized / depressurized (e.g., by inflow or outflow of pressurized fluid from a hydraulic fluid source) to actuate the actuator. The first actuator 152 and the second actuator 156 (e.g., the cylinder portions of the first actuator 152 and the second actuator 156) can be movably (e.g., pivotally) coupled to the chassis 116. In some embodiments, the first actuator 152 and the second actuator 156 can be coupled to the chassis 116 at the same height as the ground 144. In one example, the first actuator 152 and the second actuator 156 can be arranged parallel to each other, for example, when the implement end 112 is aligned with the power end 108 to perform linear motion along direction T (see...). Figure 1 )hour.

[0013] refer to Figure 4 and 5 The power end 108 may also include a first bracket 168 and (e.g., by using a first fastener 176) (see also) Figure 4 A first block 172 may be attached to the first bracket 168. Similarly, the power end 108 may include a second bracket 168' and a second block 172' (e.g., by using a second fastener 176') that may be attached to the second bracket 168'. The first bracket 168 may be positioned above the second bracket 168' along the height H of the working machine 100. Both the first bracket 168 and the second bracket 168' may be fixedly connected to the chassis 116. Although not limited, both the first bracket 168 and the second bracket 168' may be parallel to the chassis 116 and in the same direction (see direction D). Figure 5Extending upwards. When the first block 172 is assembled to the first bracket 168, a first joint assembly 180 is formed between the first bracket 168 and the first block 172 (see...). Figure 4 And defines a first cutout 184 between the first bracket and the first block. Similarly, when the second block 172' is assembled to the second bracket 168', a second joint assembly 182 is formed between the second bracket 168' and the second block 172' (see...). Figure 3 ), and defines a second cut (similar to the first cut 184) between the second bracket and the second block, the second cut not visible in the figure. When the first connector assembly 180 from Figure 3 When the view in the middle is removed, the second connector assembly 182 is in Figure 3 The best view is in the middle.

[0014] Refer again Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 The implement end 112 of the working machinery 100 may be a section of the working machinery 100 separate from the power end 108, and may include implements (e.g., the implement 140 described above). The implement 140 may be applied to perform mechanical operations, such as involving engagement with the ground 144. As an example, the implement 140 includes a compactor roller 140', and the working machinery 100 may therefore include or correspond to a compactor 100', such as a soil compactor, as... Figure 1 As exemplarily shown in the diagram, the implement 140 may be configured to contact the ground 144 to alter (e.g., level and / or compact) the ground 144 during the movement of the working machinery 100, for example, along direction T on the ground 144.

[0015] The reference to compactor roller 140' here is exemplary, and therefore, other implement ends, such as implement ends including compactor rollers and / or buckets (not shown) of different sizes, can be interchangeably connected to power end 108 in place of compactor roller 140'. As an example, a compactor roller 140' configured with a different size compared to compactor roller 140' is shown as a combination... Figure 2 and Figure 5 A portion of the tool end 112' of the power end 108. The tool end 112' and the power end 108 can be combined to define when... Figure 1 The operating machinery 100 is different from other operating machinery, such as operating machinery 102. The operating machinery 102 may also correspond to a compactor, such as compactor 102'. This interchangeability of implement ends (e.g., implement ends 112, 112') is further described below by means of the operating machinery system 250. The descriptions corresponding to implement ends 112, 112' and / or compactor rollers 140', 140'' can be appropriately applied to each other.

[0016] In some embodiments, the implement 140 may be powered to operate using hydraulic fluid. Therefore, the implement end 112 may include one or more second hydraulic lines (see...). Figure 5 The second hydraulic line 188 is shown for the working machine 102. The second hydraulic line 188 can extend from the corresponding implement (e.g., implement 140) (e.g., fluidly or operably).

[0017] refer to Figure 1 and Figures 3 to 5 The tool end 112 may include a hinged frame 192 for receiving a pin 196. The pin 196 may define an axis 200. The axis 200 may be a linearly extending axis that may extend along the height H of the working machine 100 (see...). Figure 1 Pin 196 may define a first end 204 (e.g., a first axial end) and a second end 208 (e.g., a second axial end) (see...). Figure 5 The second end 208 may be disposed opposite to the first end 204. Furthermore, the hinged frame 192 may define the first attachment portion 212 and the second attachment portion 216 (see...). Figure 3 and Figure 4 As an example, the first attachment portion 212 and the second attachment portion 216 can be positioned at the same height 144 above the ground.

[0018] Although not limited, the working machinery 100 may include a split chassis configuration and therefore may include a front chassis portion 220 and a rear chassis portion 224. The front chassis portion 220 may be associated with and / or a part of the implement end 112, while the rear chassis portion 224 may be associated with and / or a part of the power end 108. Both the front chassis portion 220 and the rear chassis portion 224 may be part of the chassis 116 as described above. Furthermore, the front chassis portion 220 may support the implement 140, and the rear chassis portion 224 may support components associated with the power end 108. The front chassis portion 220 and the rear chassis portion 224 may be operably connected to each other at a hinged connection 228 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 3 Effectively, the tool end 112 can be connected to the power end 108 at the hinge connection 228.

[0019] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 5 This disclosure includes discussions relating to exemplary configurations of the work machinery 100. Therefore, it should be understood that the power end 108 of the work machinery 100 may be a multi-purpose power end 108', which may also be connected to multiple other implement ends to form multiple other work machinery (e.g., work machinery 100, 102). Thus, the power end 108 may not be limited to being connected only to implement ends 112 and / or implement ends 112'. In this regard, the work machinery system 250 is further described below.

[0020] The working machinery system 250 includes a power end 108 and a collection of multiple different tool ends 254 or different tool ends. The number (i.e., '254') used here for different tool ends 254 is labeled on tool ends 112, 112' because tool ends 112, 112' may belong to the same set of tool ends as those found in the different tool ends 254. The expression "different tool end 254" can mean that one tool end of the different tool ends 254 may differ in type and / or specification from another tool end in the different tool ends 254. Different tool ends 254 can also be partially different, i.e., they can be substantially different parts with different part numbers. Therefore, it should be understood that one tool end of the different tool ends 254 can be any one or more of the same, similar, or dissimilar to another tool end of the different tool ends 254. For ease of reference, the expression "different tool end 254" can be used interchangeably as "tool end 254". Additionally, the terms "machine end" or "multiple machine ends" as used in this disclosure may be characterized by and / or identifiable by the machine they can support.

[0021] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 Each implement end of the working machinery system 250 (e.g., implement ends 112 and / or implement ends 112' from the set of implement ends 254) may include one or more complementary interfaces 258 (see Figure 5 Additionally, the power end 108 (e.g., multi-purpose power end 108') may include one or more engagement assemblies 262 (see...). Figure 5 The engagement assembly 262 and the complementary interface 258 can be engaged respectively, so that different tool ends 254 and power ends 108 (or multi-purpose power ends 108') can be selectively and interchangeably connected to form a number of working machines, such as working machines 100, 102.

[0022] Regarding the engagement assembly 262 and the complementary interface 258, the first engagement assembly 262' may include a plug 266 connected to (e.g., fluidly connected to) the first hydraulic line 148, and the corresponding first complementary interface 258' may include a receptacle 270 connected to (e.g., fluidly connected to) the second hydraulic line 188. The receptacle 270 is mated with the plug 266. When the plug 266 is mated with the receptacle 270 to engage the first engagement assembly 262' with the first complementary interface 258', a fluid connection is established between the first hydraulic line 148 and the second hydraulic line 188. As a result, hydraulic fluid can be transferred between the first engagement assembly 262' and the first complementary interface 258' to deliver hydraulic power (e.g., in the form of hydraulic fluid pressure derived from hydraulic fluid source 124) to the implement 140 for the function of the implement 140.

[0023] Furthermore, the second engagement assembly 262'' may include a first actuator 152, a second actuator 156, a first connector assembly 180, and a second connector assembly 182, and the corresponding second complementary interface 258'' may include a first attachment portion 212, a second attachment portion 216, and a pin 196. The first actuator 152 may be coupled between the chassis 116 and the first attachment portion 212, while the second actuator 156 may be coupled between the chassis 116 and the second attachment portion 216 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 3 In addition, the first connector assembly 180 of the first bracket 168 and the first block 172 (see...) Figure 4 The first end 204 of the pin 196 can be configured to slidably receive the first end 204 (e.g., through or into the first notch 184), and the second connector assembly 182 of the second bracket 168' and the second block 172' can be configured to slidably receive the second end 208 of the pin 196 (e.g., through or into the second notch 184) (the second notch is not shown, but is similar to the first notch 184). Relative movement between the first actuator 152 and the second actuator 156 (e.g., extension of the first actuator 152 and accompanying retraction of the second actuator 156) can hinge the articulated frame 192 (and thus the tooling end 112) relative to the power end 108 to perform motion and / or operation. The hinge can occur around the pin 196 and / or around the shaft 200 defined by the pin 196.

[0024] In this respect, the first attachment portion 212 and the second attachment portion 216 can be respectively coupled (e.g., pivotally coupled) to the first actuator 152 (e.g., a rod associated with the first actuator 152) and the second actuator 156 (e.g., a rod associated with the second actuator 156). Furthermore, when the first actuator 152 and the second actuator 156 are coupled to the first attachment portion 212 and the second attachment portion 216 respectively, and when the first connector assembly 180 slidably receives the first end 204 of the pin 196 and the second connector assembly 182 slidably receives the second end 208 of the pin 196, a hinged connection 228 between the power end 108 and the tool end 112 is defined. Additionally, engagement between the second complementary interface 258'' and the second engagement assembly 262'' is achieved.

[0025] Despite the foregoing discussion, it can be noted that one or more components of the second engagement assembly 262'' may be interchanged with one or more components of the second complementary interface 258''. Furthermore, one or more components of the second engagement assembly 262'' may be omitted in practice. Similarly, one or more components of the second complementary interface 258'' may be omitted in practice. In some embodiments, one or more components may be added to the second engagement assembly 262'' (e.g., from the second complementary interface 258''). Conversely, and also in some embodiments, one or more components may be added to the second complementary interface 258'' (e.g., from the second engagement assembly 262''). Such options are conceived by those skilled in the art. In one instance, one or more of the hinge frame 192 and pin 196 may alternatively be part of the second engagement assembly 262'' (and / or power end 108) rather than part of the second complementary interface 258'' (and / or tool end 112). In this case, the area defined by the tool end 112 to which the articulated frame 192 and / or pin 196 can be at least partially connected can form or define a second complementary interface 258''.

[0026] If implement 140 includes compactor roller 140', then (and by way of example) other implement ends 254 may include implements that may be the same as (though different from) compactor roller 140' in size and specifications, for example. Therefore, implement ends 254 may include the same compactor roller. Alternatively, and by way of example, implement ends 254 may include compactor rollers similar to (e.g., not necessarily the same as) compactor roller 140', and therefore implement ends 254 may include compactor rollers with different sizes and / or specifications relative to compactor roller 140'. In this regard, comparing the compactor rollers 140', 140'' of different implement ends 112, 112', such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As exemplarily shown in the diagram. The compactor roller 140'' is still... Figure 5 As shown in the diagram. Furthermore, as an example, implement end 254 may include implements different from the compactor roller 140', and therefore each such implement end may include implements other than the compactor roller 140', such as a bucket. The details described with respect to implement end 112 can be appropriately applied by those skilled in the art to many other implement ends based on this disclosure.

[0027] Industrial applicability refer to Figure 6 An exemplary method for forming multiple operating machines (e.g., operating machine 100) is described using flowchart 600. Combined with... Figures 1 to 5 Describe the method.

[0028] Regarding the method for forming working machines (e.g., working machines 100, 102), the operator can apply the power end 108 (see block 602 of flowchart 600). Furthermore, the operator can use different tool ends 254 available within the working machine system 250 (see block 604 of flowchart 600). Additionally, the operator can engage the engagement assembly 262 with complementary interfaces 258 (e.g., selectively engage), such that different tool ends 254 and power end 108 can be selectively and interchangeably connected to form a plurality of working machines (see block 606 of flowchart 600).

[0029] According to the exemplary configuration of the work machinery 100, an operator can select one implement end, such as implement end 112, from a set of different implement ends 254 of the work machinery system 250. The operator can then suitably engage the engagement assembly 262 of the power end 108 with the complementary interface 258 associated with the selected implement end (e.g., implement end 112). Through engagement, the work machinery 100 can be formed and thus obtained. The work machinery 102 can also be formed similarly. In practice, depending on the type of work machinery required (e.g., a compactor or a loader), any relevant implement end from the different implement ends 254 can be obtained and then engaged or coupled to the power end 108.

[0030] As those skilled in the art will understand, the engagement of the engagement assembly 262 and the complementary interface 258 (e.g., by inserting the plug 266 into the socket 270 and forming a hinged connection 228 using the first fastener 176 and the second fastener 176') is relatively easy to achieve and not too cumbersome or complex. This makes the multi-purpose power end 108' (and the working machinery system 250) largely modular. This modularity also allows the engagement assembly 262 to be easily disengaged from the complementary interface 258, thus requiring less effort and labor, and consequently allowing the same power end (i.e., power end 108) to be used with multiple other tool ends 254 of different tool ends 254.

[0031] Effectively, working machines 100, 102 are formed when corresponding tool ends (e.g., tool ends 112, 112') from different tool ends 254 are selectively connected and / or engaged (e.g., operably connected or engaged) with power end 108. Such selective connection or engagement between tool ends and power end 108 may correspond to plug 266 being inserted into socket 270, and first actuator 152 being connected (e.g., pivotally connected) to first attachment portion 212 and second actuator 156 being connected (e.g., pivotally connected) to second attachment portion 216. Furthermore, connection or engagement may correspond to first end 204 of pin 196 being slidably received into first connector assembly 180 (or first notch 184 defined by first connector assembly 180), and second end 208 of pin 196 being slidably received into second connector assembly 182 (or second notch defined by second connector assembly 182). If the implement 140 includes a compactor roller 140', then the resulting work machinery 100 may include a compactor 100'. Conversely, if the implement 140 includes a bucket, then the resulting work machinery may include a loader, such as a wheel loader. Many such examples can be envisioned by those skilled in the art.

[0032] Furthermore, it can be noted that when each engagement component of the power end 108 engages with the corresponding complementary interface of the implement end 112, at least one subsystem of the working machinery 100 is formed. In one example, the subsystem includes a hydraulic system 274 (see...). Figure 5 The hydraulic system is configured to actuate a corresponding implement (e.g., a compactor roller 140) connected to the implement end 112' of the power end 108. The hydraulic system 274 can be formed when, for example, a plug 266 is inserted into a socket 270. In this case, to control the hydraulic system 274, the operator station 128 may include one or more input devices, such as a second input device 136' (see also...). Figure 1 The second input device 136 can be different from the first input device 136.

[0033] In some embodiments, the subsystem may include a steering system 278 (see Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The steering system is configured to steer the corresponding implement (e.g., compactor roller 140') of the implement end 112' connected to the power end 108. The steering system 278 can be formed, for example, when the first actuator 152 and the second actuator 156 are connected to the first attachment portion 212 and the second attachment portion 216 respectively, and when the first joint assembly 180 slidably receives the first end 204 of the pin 196 and the second joint assembly 182 slidably receives the second end 208 of the pin 196. In other words, the steering system 278 can be formed when a hinged connection 228 is formed between the power end 108 and the implement end 112. In this case, to control the steering system 278, the operator station 128 may include one or more input devices different from both the first input device 136' and the second input device 136'', such as a third input device 136''' (see also...). Figure 1 (This can include a steering wheel.)

[0034] In some embodiments, the working machinery system 250 and / or the power end 108 may further include one or more support members, for example, see Figure 2 The support member 282 is used independently or in combination with the traction device 132 to stabilize the power end 108 relative to the ground 144, for example, when the engagement assembly 262 is being inserted into or correspondingly mated or engaged with the complementary interface 258. The support member 282 may include one or more wheels, such as wheel 286, which may allow the power end 108 to be towed or moved independently of any implement end. Although not limited, the support member 282 may retract into a portion of the power end 108, or in some cases, be completely removed from the power end 108, for example, once the working machinery (e.g., working machinery 100) is fully formed.

[0035] It can be noted that the fully formed working machinery (e.g., working machinery 100, 102) may include several other subsystems, such as electrical systems, whose components are distributed across the power end 108 and the implement end 112. To ensure that connections can be established between such components during the formation of the working machinery 100 (e.g., electrical connections in the case of electrical systems, such as arranging “wire-driven” connections and / or connections between batteries and loads across the power end 108 and the implement end 112), the working machinery 100 may include one or more additional engagement assemblies 262 and corresponding one or more additional complementary interfaces 258 that can be suitably engaged with said additional engagement assemblies 262. Engagement between the additional engagement assemblies 262 and the additional complementary interfaces 258 can establish corresponding subsystems, such as the electrical system of the working machinery 100. Those skilled in the art can conceive of such engagement assemblies 262 and such complementary interfaces 258, and the manner in which they are integrally formed into the power end 108 and / or the implement end 112, based on the content of this disclosure.

[0036] Given that power end 108 can be connected to or joined to multiple tool ends, power end 108 can be referred to as multi-purpose power end 108'. Multi-purpose power end 108' is suitable for areas where space may be limited and / or where more efficient use of space is required, such as dealerships, storage yards, and service stations. The relatively easy connectable / disconnectable nature of power end 108 relative to different tool ends 254 gives power end 108 modularity, as it allows one power end (e.g., power end 108) to be easily used with multiple tool ends in a set of different tool ends 254. This modularity is particularly useful where different operating machines that can be formed according to the above description may have similar mechanical specifications and / or occupy similar space.

[0037] Furthermore, modularity allows organizations such as rental agencies and / or dealers to store relatively fewer full-size machines. This allows organizations to utilize their machinery fleet more efficiently. In particular, the working machinery system 250 helps to maintain and / or deliver more machinery per unit of inventory area. This is because the power end 108 and the various implement ends 254 utilize relatively less floor space for inventory compared to working machinery introduced, for example, as fully assembled units. The working machinery system 250 is also particularly useful in situations where one type of machinery is preferred over another.

[0038] Unless expressly excluded, the use of the singular to describe a component, structure, or operation does not preclude the use of multiple such components, structures, or operations or their equivalents. In the context of describing this disclosure (particularly in the context of the following claims), the terms “a,” “an,” “the,” and “at least one,” or the terms “one or more,” and similar references, should be interpreted to encompass both the singular and the plural, unless the context otherwise indicates or expressly contradicts it. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (e.g., “at least one of A and B” or “one or more of A and B”) should be interpreted to indicate the selection of one item (A or B) from the listed items or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B; A, A and B; A, B and B), unless otherwise stated or expressly contradicts it. Similarly, as used herein, the word “or” refers to any possible permutation of a set of items. For example, the phrase “A, B or C” means at least one of A, B, C or any combination thereof, such as any of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C; or multiple items such as A and A; B, B and C; A, A, B, C and C, etc.

[0039] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and alterations can be made to the methods or systems disclosed herein without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the description and practice of the methods or systems disclosed herein. The specification and examples are intended to be considered illustrative only, and the true scope of this disclosure is indicated by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multi-purpose power end for forming multiple working machines, the multi-purpose power end comprising: Chassis; The power source is supported by the chassis; An operator station including one or more input devices for controlling the power source; A set of traction devices powered by the power source to movably support the chassis on the ground; as well as One or more engagement components, the one or more engagement components being configured to engage with one or more complementary interfaces associated with each of a plurality of different implement ends, such that the plurality of different implement ends are selectively and interchangeably connectable to the multipurpose power end to form the plurality of working machines.

2. The multi-purpose power end according to claim 1, wherein... When the tool end of the plurality of different tool ends is connected to the multi-purpose power end, a working machine is formed among the plurality of working machines; When each of the one or more engagement components engages with a corresponding complementary interface of one or more complementary interfaces on the end of the implement, at least one subsystem of the working machine is formed. The at least one subsystem includes a hydraulic system configured to actuate a corresponding implement connected to the implement end of the multipurpose power end, and The one or more input devices are one or more first input devices, and the operator station includes one or more second input devices to control the hydraulic system.

3. The multi-purpose power end according to claim 1, wherein... When the tool end of the plurality of different tool ends is connected to the multi-purpose power end, a working machine is formed among the plurality of working machines; When each of the one or more engagement components engages with a corresponding complementary interface of one or more complementary interfaces on the end of the implement, at least one subsystem of the working machine is formed. The at least one subsystem includes a steering system configured to steer a corresponding implement connected to the multipurpose power end. The one or more input devices are one or more first input devices, and the operator station includes one or more third input devices to control the steering system.

4. The multi-purpose power end according to claim 1, wherein Each of the plurality of different tool ends includes a hinged frame for receiving a pin, the hinged frame defining a first attachment portion and a second attachment portion. The multi-purpose power unit also includes a first actuator that can be connected between the chassis and the first attachment portion, and a second actuator that can be connected between the chassis and the second attachment portion. The relative movement between the first actuator and the second actuator causes the hinged frame to hinge relative to the multi-purpose power end.

5. The multi-purpose power end according to claim 4, further comprising: A first bracket and a first block attachable to the first bracket, wherein a first connector assembly of the first bracket and the first block is configured to slidably receive a first end of the pin; as well as A second bracket and a second block that can be attached to the second bracket, wherein a second connector assembly of the second bracket and the second block is configured to slidably receive the second end of the pin.

6. The multipurpose power unit of claim 1, further comprising one or more support members, said one or more support members being adapted for use independently or in combination with said set of traction devices to stabilize the multipurpose power unit relative to the ground, wherein said one or more support members include wheels.

7. A work machinery system, comprising: Multiple different machine terminals, each of the multiple different machine terminals including one or more complementary interfaces; as well as A multi-purpose power end for forming multiple operating machines, the multi-purpose power end comprising: Chassis; The power source is supported by the chassis; An operator station including one or more input devices for controlling the power source; A set of traction devices powered by the power source to movably support the chassis on the ground; and One or more engagement components, the one or more engagement components being configured to engage with one or more complementary interfaces respectively, such that the plurality of different implement ends and the multipurpose power end can be selectively and interchangeably connected to form the plurality of working machines.

8. The working machinery system according to claim 7 further includes: Hydraulic fluid source; A first hydraulic line extending from the hydraulic fluid source; as well as A second hydraulic line extends from a tool associated with one of the plurality of different tool ends connected to the multi-purpose power end, wherein... At least one of the one or more engagement components includes a plug connected to the first hydraulic line, and at least one of the one or more complementary interfaces includes a socket connected to the second hydraulic line, the socket being matable with the plug. and When the plug and the socket are matched to engage the at least one engagement component with the at least one complementary interface, a fluid connection is established between the first hydraulic line and the second hydraulic line.

9. The working machinery system according to claim 7, wherein Each tool end includes a hinged frame for receiving a pin, the hinged frame defining a first attachment portion and a second attachment portion. The multi-purpose power unit also includes a first actuator connectable between the chassis and the first attachment portion, and a second actuator connectable between the chassis and the second attachment portion, wherein... The relative movement between the first actuator and the second actuator causes the hinged frame to hinge relative to the multi-purpose power end.

10. The work machinery system according to claim 9, wherein the multi-purpose power end further comprises: A first bracket and a first block attachable to the first bracket, wherein a first connector assembly of the first bracket and the first block is configured to slidably receive a first end of the pin; as well as A second bracket and a second block that can be attached to the second bracket, wherein a second connector assembly of the second bracket and the second block is configured to slidably receive the second end of the pin.

11. The working machinery system according to claim 10, wherein... At least one of the one or more engagement assemblies includes the first actuator, the second actuator, the first connector assembly, and the second connector assembly, and At least one of the one or more complementary interfaces includes the first attachment portion, the second attachment portion, and the pin, wherein When the first actuator and the second actuator are respectively connected to the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion, and when the first connector assembly slidably receives the first end of the pin and the second connector assembly slidably receives the second end of the pin, a hinged connection between the multipurpose power end and the corresponding tool end is defined.

12. The working machinery system according to claim 7, wherein When the tool end of the plurality of different tool ends is connected to the multi-purpose power end, a working machine is formed among the plurality of working machines; When each of the one or more engagement components engages with a corresponding complementary interface of one or more complementary interfaces on the end of the implement, at least one subsystem of the working machine is formed. The at least one subsystem includes a hydraulic system configured to actuate a corresponding implement connected to the implement end of the multipurpose power end, and The one or more input devices are one or more first input devices, and the operator station includes one or more second input devices to control the hydraulic system.

13. The working machinery system according to claim 7, wherein When the tool end of the plurality of different tool ends is connected to the multi-purpose power end, a working machine is formed among the plurality of working machines; When each of the one or more engagement components engages with a corresponding complementary interface of one or more complementary interfaces on the end of the implement, at least one subsystem of the working machine is formed. The at least one subsystem includes a steering system configured to steer a corresponding implement connected to the multipurpose power end. The one or more input devices are one or more first input devices, and the operator station includes one or more third input devices to control the steering system.

14. The work machinery system according to claim 7, wherein the multi-purpose power end further comprises: One or more support members, the one or more support members being adapted for use independently or in combination with the set of traction devices to stabilize the multipurpose power end relative to the ground, wherein the one or more support members include wheels.

15. A method for forming a plurality of operating machines, the method comprising: An application is used to form a multipurpose power end for the plurality of operating machines, the multipurpose power end including a chassis, a power source supported by the chassis, an operator station including one or more input devices to control the power source, a set of traction devices powered by the power source to movably support the chassis on the ground, and one or more engagement assemblies; Using multiple different tool terminals, each of the multiple different tool terminals includes one or more complementary interfaces; as well as The one or more engagement components are respectively engaged with the one or more complementary interfaces, such that the plurality of different tool ends and the multipurpose power end can be selectively and interchangeably connected to form the plurality of working machines.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: When the tool end of the plurality of different tool ends is connected to the multi-purpose power end, a working machine is formed among the plurality of working machines; When each of the one or more engagement components engages with a corresponding complementary interface of one or more complementary interfaces on the implement end, at least one subsystem of the working machinery is formed, wherein The at least one subsystem includes a hydraulic system configured to actuate a corresponding implement connected to the implement end of the multipurpose power end, and The one or more input devices are one or more first input devices, and the operator station includes one or more second input devices to control the hydraulic system.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising: When the tool end of the plurality of different tool ends is connected to the multi-purpose power end, a working machine is formed among the plurality of working machines; When each of the one or more engagement components engages with a corresponding complementary interface of one or more complementary interfaces on the implement end, at least one subsystem of the working machinery is formed, wherein The at least one subsystem includes a steering system configured to steer a corresponding implement connected to the multipurpose power end. The one or more input devices are one or more first input devices, and the operator station includes one or more third input devices to control the steering system.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein Each tool end includes a hinged frame for receiving a pin, the hinged frame defining a first attachment portion and a second attachment portion, the method further comprising: The first actuator of the multi-purpose power end is connected between the chassis and the first attachment portion; as well as The second actuator of the multi-purpose power end is connected between the chassis and the second attachment portion, wherein The relative movement between the first actuator and the second actuator causes the hinged frame to hinge relative to the multi-purpose power end.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the multi-purpose power end further comprises: The method further includes: a first bracket and a first block attachable to the first bracket, and a second bracket and a second block attachable to the second bracket. The first end of the pin is slidably received into the first connector assembly of the first bracket and the first block; and The second end of the pin is slidably received into the second connector assembly of the second bracket and the second block.

20. The method of claim 15, further comprising: One or more support members are used to stabilize the multi-purpose power end relative to the ground, wherein The one or more support members are adapted for use independently or in combination with the set of traction devices, and the one or more support members include wheels.

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