Landing leg tube assembly for a work machine

Abstract

A leg tube assembly for a work machine includes a leg tube adapted to raise or lower a frame of the work machine relative to a ground surface. The leg tube defines an outer surface. The leg tube assembly also includes a locking system associated with the leg tube. The locking system includes at least one protrusion coupled with the outer surface of the leg tube. The locking system also includes a locking element coupled with the frame of the work machine. The locking element is adapted to engage with the at least one protrusion to lock the frame with the leg tube assembly to dispose the frame at a desired height relative to the ground surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a working machine, a leg tube assembly for the working machine, and a method for adjusting the working machine. Background Technology

[0002] Working machines, such as cold milling machines or reclaimers, are typically used for milling various surfaces. A working machine includes multiple ground-mounted components. The frame of the working machine can be raised or lowered relative to the ground surface as needed. The working machine further includes multiple outrigger assemblies. The outrigger assemblies are movable between an extended state and a retracted state to raise or lower the height of the frame relative to the ground surface.

[0003] The outrigger assembly can be moved to the extended position, thereby raising the frame to the desired height for maintenance or other service purposes. The outrigger assembly of the working machine is locked at the desired height using outrigger locks. Typically, the outrigger locks are manually activated to lock the frame at the desired height. When outrigger locks are installed, the working machine's steering system cannot be activated because the outrigger locks may become detached or damaged.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 12,017,705 describes a vehicle including a support assembly extending between a chassis and a cab. The support assembly includes a first bracket coupled to the chassis, a second bracket coupled to the cab, a retaining arm having a first end coupled to the first bracket and an opposing second end, and a locking assembly. The retaining arm forms a locking interface between the first end and the opposing second end. The locking assembly includes a slider, an actuator, a release arm, and a pawl. The slider is translatable along the retaining arm. The slider defines a first interface coupled to the second bracket, a second interface coupled to the actuator, and a third interface. The release arm is coupled to the actuator and the third interface. The pawl is coupled to the release arm at the third interface. Depending on the configuration of the actuator, the pawl selectively engages with the locking interface. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect of the invention, a leg tube assembly for a working machine is provided. The leg tube assembly includes leg tubes adapted to raise or lower the frame of the working machine relative to the ground surface. The leg tubes define an outer surface. The leg tube assembly also includes a locking system associated with the leg tubes. The locking system includes at least one protrusion coupled to the outer surface of the leg tube. The locking system also includes a locking element coupled to the frame of the working machine. The locking element is adapted to engage with at least one protrusion to lock the frame to the leg tube assembly, thereby positioning the frame at a desired height relative to the ground surface.

[0006] In another aspect of the invention, a working machine is provided. The working machine includes a frame. The working machine also includes a leg tube assembly. The leg tube assembly includes leg tubes adapted to raise or lower the frame of the working machine relative to the ground surface. The leg tubes define an outer surface. The leg tube assembly also includes a locking system associated with the leg tubes. The locking system includes at least one protrusion coupled to the outer surface of the leg tubes. The locking system also includes a locking element coupled to the frame of the working machine. The locking element is adapted to engage with at least one protrusion to lock the frame to the leg tube assembly, thereby positioning the frame at a desired height relative to the ground surface.

[0007] In another aspect of the invention, a method for adjusting a working machine is provided. The method includes providing a leg tube assembly comprising a leg tube and a locking system associated with the leg tube. The locking system includes at least one protrusion coupled to an outer surface of the leg tube and a locking element coupled to a frame of the working machine. The method further includes actuating the locking element to move it toward the at least one protrusion. The method further includes engaging the locking element with the at least one protrusion based on the actuation of the locking element. The method includes locking the frame with the leg tube assembly. The method also includes positioning the frame at a desired height relative to the ground surface based on the locking of the frame to the leg tube assembly.

[0008] Other features and aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of an operating machine according to an example of the present invention; Figure 2 This is an example illustrating the outrigger tube assembly of a working machine according to the present invention. Figure 1 A schematic front view of part X of the working machine; Figure 3 This is an example according to the invention. Figure 2 A schematic view of the outrigger tube assembly and the locking system for the outrigger tube assembly; Figure 4 This is another example according to the invention. Figure 1 A schematic view of the outrigger tube assembly and the locking system of the outrigger tube assembly of the working machine; Figure 5 This is an example according to the invention. Figure 4 A block diagram of the outrigger tube assembly; and Figure 6 This is an example according to the invention. Figure 1 A flowchart of the method for adjusting the working machine. Detailed Implementation

[0010] In all the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals will be used as much as possible to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0011] refer to Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary working machine 100 is shown. The working machine 100 is embodied herein as a cold milling machine. The working machine 100 can perform one or more work operations associated with industries such as mining, construction, farming, transportation, or any other industry known in the art. The working machine 100 may also alternatively include a reclaimer, a stabilizer, or any other machine including outrigger assemblies.

[0012] The work machine 100 can be a manned / manually operated machine or an unmanned machine. In some examples, the work machine 100 can be a machine with different levels of autonomy, such as a fully autonomous machine, a semi-autonomous machine, a remotely operated machine, or a remotely monitored machine.

[0013] The work machine 100 can operate on work sites such as mines, quarries, construction sites, or any other type of work site. The work machine 100 can be used to remove, mix, or recycle materials from work surfaces such as streets, highways, and airport runways.

[0014] The working machine 100 defines a front end 104 and a rear end 106 opposite to the front end 104. The working machine 100 includes a frame 108 that supports various machine components thereon. The working machine 100 also includes a power source (not shown) for generating power. The power source may be an engine, such as an internal combustion engine, a battery system, a fuel cell, etc. The power source is housed within a housing 110.

[0015] The work machine 100 further includes a pair of front tracks 112 disposed near the front end 104 of the work machine 100 and a pair of rear tracks 114 disposed near the rear end 106 of the work machine 100. Alternatively, the work machine 100 may include wheels (not shown) instead of tracks 112, 114. The work machine 100 includes an operator's cab 116. When the work machine 100 is embodied as a manual or semi-autonomous machine, the operator of the work machine 100 may operate or drive the work machine 100 while seated in the operator's cab 116. The operator's cab 116 includes one or more control devices that allow the operator to perform one or more work operations.

[0016] Furthermore, the working machine 100 also includes a mixing chamber (not shown) defined between the front track 112 and the rear track 114. The mixing chamber is an enclosed space defined below the frame 108 and extending laterally through the working machine 100. Additionally, a rotor (not shown) is disposed within the mixing chamber. The rotor is rotatably coupled to the working machine 100 to perform one or more machine operations, such as cutting, mixing, and / or pulverizing materials. The rotor is powered by a power source. The rotor includes a housing member (not shown) and several cutting components (not shown) disposed on the housing member. The working machine 100 includes a machine controller 126 (e.g., Figure 5 (As shown). The machine controller 126 can generate information when the work machine 100 is off or when the work machine 100 is in service mode.

[0017] The working machine 100 further includes outrigger tube assemblies 120. In some examples, the working machine 100 includes four outrigger tube assemblies 120. Each track 112, 114 includes a corresponding outrigger tube assembly 120. The four outrigger tube assemblies 120 may be similar to each other in design and size. The outrigger tube assembly 120 may also be referred to as a lifting column. In some examples, each track 112, 114 may be connected to the frame 108 via the corresponding outrigger tube assembly 120. Each outrigger tube assembly 120 may include an actuator (not shown), such as a hydraulic actuator, to facilitate raising and lowering the frame 108 relative to the ground surface 132.

[0018] In other examples, the work machine 100 may include three outrigger assemblies 120, such that two outrigger assemblies 120 are positioned near the front end 104 and one outrigger assembly 120 is positioned near the rear end 106. It should be noted that the invention is not limited to the outrigger assemblies 120 associated with the work machine 100.

[0019] refer to Figure 2 A schematic front view of part X of the working machine 100 is shown. The outrigger tube assembly 120 includes outrigger tubes 122 for raising or lowering the frame 108 relative to the ground surface 132 (see Figure 108). Figure 1 The outrigger tube 122 defines the outer surface 124. Specifically, one end of the outrigger tube 122 is connected to the frame 108, and the other end is connected to the tracks 112, 114 (see...). Figure 1 Furthermore, the actuator of the outrigger tube assembly 120 is disposed within the outrigger tube 122.

[0020] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The outrigger tube assembly 120 also includes a locking system 200 associated with the outrigger tube 122. The locking system 200 includes one or more protrusions 202 that engage with the outer surface 124 of the outrigger tube 122. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the example shown, one or more protrusions 202 include a plurality of protrusions 202 arranged adjacent to each other. It should be noted that the positions of the protrusions 202 shown in this invention are essentially exemplary, and the protrusions 202 can be located anywhere on the circumference of the leg tube 122. A plurality of protrusions 202 are arranged continuously and vertically on the outer surface 124 of the leg tube 122. The plurality of protrusions 202 can be integral with the leg tube 122, can be fixedly connected to the leg tube 122, or can be removably connected to the leg tube 122. In some examples, the protrusions 202 can be fixedly connected to the leg tube 122 by welding. In some examples, the protrusions 202 can be removably connected to the leg tube 122 using mechanical fasteners such as bolts, screws, and pins.

[0021] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the example shown, the protrusions 202 are directly adjacent to each other, such that one protrusion 202 extends from the adjacent protrusion 202. Further, a groove 212 is formed between two adjacent protrusions 202. One or more protrusions 202 are triangular. Specifically, each protrusion 202 is shaped like a right-angled triangle. In other examples, the protrusions 202 may be square, rectangular, or any other suitable shape without limiting the scope of the invention. One or more protrusions 202 define an engagement surface 204 (in... Figure 3 (Most obviously in the middle).

[0022] The locking system 200 also includes a locking element 206 that is coupled to the frame 108 of the working machine 100. The locking element 206 engages with one or more protrusions 202 to lock the frame 108 to the outrigger tube assembly 120, thereby positioning the frame 108 at a desired height relative to the ground surface 132. Specifically, the locking element 206 may engage with any one of the plurality of protrusions 202. Furthermore, because the locking system 200 includes a plurality of protrusions 202, the frame 108 may be positioned at different heights relative to the ground surface 132. For example, the frame 108 may be positioned at a maintenance height, which is the highest possible height at which the frame 108 can be positioned relative to the ground surface 132.

[0023] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the example shown, locking element 206 is coupled to steering ring 130 of frame 108 of work machine 100. Steering ring 130 can be used to control the direction and maneuverability of work machine 100. Steering ring 130 may be part of the steering system (not shown) of work machine 100, which allows the operator to adjust the orientation of tracks 112, 114 (see...). Figure 1 This allows the working machine 100 to move and turn in different directions. The steering ring 130 circumferentially surrounds the outrigger tube 122.

[0024] refer to Figure 3 The locking element 206 includes an engagement portion 208. Figure 3 In the example shown, the engagement 208 is triangular. In some examples, the shape of the engagement 208 may be similar to the shape defined by the groove 212. Furthermore, when the locking element 206 engages with one of the protrusions 202, the engagement 208 is received within the groove 212.

[0025] The engaging portion 208 of the locking element 206 contacts the engaging surface 204 of one or more protrusions 202, thereby engaging the locking element 206 with the protrusions 202. Specifically, the engaging portion 208 rests against the engaging surface 204 to secure the frame 108 (see...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 It is kept at the desired height. When the engagement portion 208 of the locking element 206 contacts the engagement surface 204, the frame 108 will be prevented from moving in the downward direction D1.

[0026] Furthermore, the locking system 200 includes a spring 216. The spring 216 is disposed around the locking element 206. The spring 216 holds the locking element 206 in an engaged position, i.e., the spring 216 keeps the locking element 206 in contact with one of the protrusions 202. Furthermore, when the locking element 206 is in the disengaged position, i.e., when the locking element 206 is not engaged with any of the protrusions 202, the spring 216 is in a retracted state. Figure 3 The locking element 206 shown is in the disengaged position.

[0027] The locking system 200 further includes a lever 210 coupled to the locking element 206. An operator can operate the lever 210 to engage the locking element 206 with one or more protrusions 202. In some examples, the locking system 200 may include a wheel or any other input device to engage the locking element 206 with any of the plurality of protrusions 202.

[0028] Figure 4 An outrigger tube assembly 404 and a locking system 400 associated with the outrigger tube assembly 404 are shown as another example according to the invention. The outrigger tube assembly 404 is substantially similar to the outrigger tube assembly 120 (see...). Figure 2 and Figure 3 Their common components are represented by the same numbers. Locking system 400 is essentially similar to locking system 200 (see...). Figure 2 and Figure 3 The common components are indicated by the same numbers. The locking system 400 includes one or more protrusions 402 and a locking element 206. Specifically, the locking system 400 includes three protrusions 402 spaced apart from each other along the leg tube 122. The design and function of the protrusions 402 are similar to those of the protrusions 202 (see...). Figure 2and Figure 3 Furthermore, the locking element 206 can be based on the rack 108 (see...). Figure 1 The desired height for positioning, engaging with any of the three protrusions 402. Figure 4 The image shows the locking element 206 in the engaged position. When the locking element 206 engages with the outrigger tube assembly 404, the frame 108 is prevented from moving in the downward direction D1.

[0029] Further, the locking system 400 includes a drive mechanism 414 coupled to the locking element 206. The drive mechanism 414 drives the locking element 206. Driven by the locking element 206, the locking element 206 moves toward one or more protrusions 402, engaging the locking element 206 with one or more protrusions 402. The drive mechanism 414 may include a solenoid valve, an actuator, or any other mechanism capable of moving the locking element 206 toward the protrusions 402. The drive mechanism 414 may be driven hydraulically, electrically, or pneumatically without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0030] Now for reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The locking system 400 also includes a controller 420 communicatively coupled to the drive mechanism 414. In one example, when the machine 100 is off or in service mode, the controller 420 activates the drive mechanism 414, causing the locking element 206 to engage with one or more protrusions 402. For example, when the machine 100 is in service mode or off, the controller 420 may receive information from the machine controller 126. Based on the information received from the machine controller 126, the controller 420 may activate the drive mechanism 414.

[0031] In another example, controller 420 may activate drive mechanism 414 based on input signal 424 received from sensor 422. In this example, locking system 400 further includes sensor 422 communicatively coupled to controller 420. Sensor 422 may be a tilt sensor, position sensor, etc., without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0032] In this example, sensor 422 generates an input signal 424 indicating that the frame 108 is not properly positioned relative to the leg tube 122. In another example, the input signal 424 may be generated during unintentional movement of the leg tube 122. Further, controller 420 activates drive mechanism 414 based on the input signal 424 received from sensor 422. Additionally, drive mechanism 414 drives locking element 206, causing it to move toward one or more protrusions 402 to engage with them.

[0033] It should be understood that a single feature shown or described for one embodiment may be combined with a single feature shown or described for another embodiment. The above embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention in any way. Therefore, it should be understood that although some features have been shown or described to illustrate the use of the invention in the context of the functional sections, such features may be omitted from the scope of the invention without departing from the spirit of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0034] Industrial applicability This invention relates to locking systems 200 and 400 for outrigger tube assemblies 120 and 404. Locking systems 200 and 400 include a plurality of protrusions 202 and 402 that engage with the outer surface 124 of the outrigger tube 122. Engagement portions 208 of locking elements 206 engage with engagement surfaces 204 of one or more protrusions 202 and 402 to lock the frame 108 to the outrigger tube assemblies 120 and 404, thereby positioning the frame 108 at a desired height.

[0035] In some examples, the locking element 206 is driven by a lever 210. The operator of the work machine 100 can manually activate the lever 210 to engage the locking element 206 with one or more protrusions 202, thereby locking the frame 108 and the outrigger tube assembly 120 at the desired height relative to the ground surface 132.

[0036] In some examples, the locking element 206 is driven by a drive mechanism 414. The drive mechanism 414 can be activated by a controller 420. When the machine 100 is off or in service mode, the controller 420 can activate the drive mechanism 414 to engage the locking element 206 with one of the plurality of protrusions 402.

[0037] Locking systems 200 and 400 reduce reliance on manual locks typically used to lock the outrigger tube 122 to the frame 108. Furthermore, locking systems 200 and 400 can either replace or be used in conjunction with manual locks. Additionally, when locking systems 200 and 400 are engaged, the working machine 100 can be turned without the risk of damage.

[0038] Locking systems 200 and 400 can improve the stability of the working machine 100 during maintenance procedures. Locking systems 200 and 400 can position the working machine 100 at a transport height, for example, when the rotor is off the ground surface 132, or at a maintenance height, for example, when the outrigger tube 122 is fully extended. Furthermore, if a tipping event is predicted due to the retraction of the outrigger tube 122, locking systems 200 and 400 can allow the outrigger tube 122 to be held in place. Locking systems 200 and 400 also eliminate the need for using various sizes of manual locks.

[0039] Overall, the outrigger tube assemblies 120, 404 and locking systems 200, 400 are relatively simple in design because they do not include complex components. Furthermore, the outrigger tube assemblies 120, 404 and locking systems 200, 400 may be cost-effective, allowing for quick locking of the outrigger tube 122 to the frame 108, easy installation, and retrofitting to existing work machines.

[0040] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of method 600 for adjusting the work machine 100. (Reference) Figures 1 to 6 At step 602, outrigger tube assemblies 120 and 404 are provided, the outrigger tube assemblies including outrigger tube 122 and locking systems 200 and 400 associated with outrigger tube 122. Locking systems 200 and 400 include one or more protrusions 202 and 402 coupled to the outer surface 124 of outrigger tube 122, and locking elements 206 coupled to the frame 108 of the working machine 100.

[0041] At step 604, the locking element 206 is driven to move toward one or more protrusions 202, 402.

[0042] At step 606, based on the actuation of locking element 206, locking element 206 engages with one or more protrusions 202, 402.

[0043] At step 608, the frame 108 is locked to the leg tube assemblies 120, 404 based on the engagement of the locking element 206 with one or more protrusions 202, 402.

[0044] At step 610, based on the locking of the frame 108 and the outrigger tube assemblies 120, 404, the frame 108 is positioned at the desired height relative to the ground surface 132.

[0045] In one example, the locking system 200 further includes a lever 210 coupled to the locking element 206. In these examples, at step 604, the operator operates the lever 210 to engage the locking element 206 with one or more protrusions 202.

[0046] In another example, the locking system 400 includes a drive mechanism 414 coupled to the locking element 206 and a controller 420 communicatively coupled to the drive mechanism 414. In these examples, at step 604, the controller 420 actuates the drive mechanism 414 when the work machine 100 is off or when the work machine 100 is in service mode. Furthermore, at step 604, the drive mechanism 414 actuates the locking element 206, causing the locking element 206 to move toward one or more protrusions 402, thereby engaging the locking element 206 with one or more protrusions 402 based on the activation of the drive mechanism 414.

[0047] It should be noted that steps 602, 604, 606, 608, and 610 of method 600 can be related to... Figure 6 The different orders of execution are explained. Furthermore, steps 602, 604, 606, 608, and 610 can be executed together.

[0048] While various aspects of the invention have been specifically shown and described with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various additional embodiments can be contemplated by modifications to the disclosed machines, systems, and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Such embodiments should be understood to fall within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims and any equivalents.

Claims

1. A leg tube assembly for a working machine, the leg tube assembly comprising: Outrigger tubes, adapted to raise or lower the frame of the working machine relative to the ground surface, the outrigger tubes defining an outer surface; as well as A locking system associated with the outrigger tube, the locking system comprising: At least one protrusion is connected to the outer surface of the leg tube; A locking element, which is connected to the frame of the working machine, wherein the locking element is adapted to engage with the at least one protrusion to lock the frame to the outrigger tube assembly, thereby positioning the frame at a desired height relative to the ground surface.

2. The outrigger tube assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one protrusion is triangular.

3. The outrigger tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the locking element includes an engagement portion.

4. The outrigger tube assembly of claim 3, wherein the at least one protrusion defines a mating surface, and wherein, The engaging portion of the locking element contacts the engaging surface of the at least one protrusion to engage the locking element with the protrusion.

5. The outrigger tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the locking system further comprises a lever coupled to the locking element, wherein an operator can operate the lever to engage the locking element with the at least one protrusion.

6. The outrigger tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the locking system further comprises a drive mechanism coupled to the locking element, wherein the drive mechanism is adapted to drive the locking element, and wherein the drive of the locking element causes the locking element to move toward the at least one protrusion to engage the locking element with the at least one protrusion.

7. The outrigger tube assembly of claim 6, wherein the locking system further includes a controller communicatively coupled to the drive mechanism.

8. The outrigger tube assembly of claim 7, wherein the controller is configured to activate the drive mechanism when the working machine is off or when the working machine is in service mode.

9. The outrigger tube assembly of claim 7, wherein the locking system further includes a sensor communicatively coupled to the controller, wherein the sensor is configured to generate an input signal indicating that the frame is not in the correct position relative to the outrigger tube, and wherein the controller is configured to activate the drive mechanism based on the input signal received from the sensor.

10. The outrigger tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the locking element is coupled to a steering ring of the frame of the working machine, and wherein the steering ring circumferentially surrounds the outrigger tube.

11. The outrigger tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one protrusion comprises a plurality of protrusions arranged adjacent to each other.

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