Bucket and work vehicle

Abstract

Spoon (50) which can be coupled to a handle (17) of a working equipment (17) in such a way that it can be pivoted about a predetermined axis (110), wherein the spoon (50) comprises: a base plate (60) which faces an opening (51) of the spoon (50); a pair of side plates (81) which are arranged facing each other on both sides of the base plate (60); a suspension (86) located on a rear surface of the base plate (60) and connectable to the handle (17) on the predetermined axis (110); and a front cutting edge (72) arranged along the opening (51), wherein the base plate (60) encloses a first inclined section (67) on one side to which the suspension (86) is attached, the base plate (60) further includes a deepest section (62) where the length from a first reference line (121) to the base plate (60) is greatest, and the first reference line (121) passes through the specified axis (110) and a front end (73) of the front cutting edge (72), an angle (β) formed between a second reference line (122) and the front cutting edge (72) is smaller than an angle (α) formed between the second reference line (122) and the first inclined section (67), and the second reference line (122) is perpendicular to the first reference line (121) and passes through the lowest section (62), and a length (Lb) of the first reference line (121) from an intersection point (P) between the first reference line (121) and the second reference line (122) to the front end (73) of the front cutting edge (72) is less than a length (La) of the first reference line (121) from the intersection point (P) between the first reference line (121) and the second reference line (122) to the specified axis (110).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to a spoon and a work vehicle. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] WO 2004 / 023 001 A1, for example, discloses a bucket for an earthmoving machine.

[0003] JP 2006-045785A describes an excavator bucket with a bottom plate and a top plate joined by welds. The bottom plate incorporates an overlap area to reinforce the connection between the two plates, eliminating the need for additional reinforcing elements such as ribs. This reduces the number of components, simplifies manufacturing by minimizing welding, and improves structural strength.

[0004] KR 10 0 263 532 B1 describes a wear-resistant bucket for an excavator, comprising a base plate, side plates, a cutting edge, and reinforcing structures. These reinforcements include upper, middle, and lower reinforcing beams attached to the side plates. The base plate features additional transverse reinforcing plates to increase structural stability. The cutting edge and side plates are designed for high abrasion resistance.

[0005] CN 10 6 368 250 A describes an excavator bucket comprising a base plate with a combination of straight and curved sections, side plates, and a cutting edge. Special features include reinforcing structures such as angle and triangular plates to increase strength and abrasion resistance, as well as a specific arrangement of teeth and reinforcing elements between the tooth positions. The aim is improved durability and performance. TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0006] As disclosed in WO 2004 / 023001A1, a bucket is known that is mounted on a work vehicle, for example a hydraulic excavator, and is used for excavating soil. Such a bucket is necessary to be able to fill it with a larger quantity of soil and thus achieve efficient excavation.

[0007] One object of the present invention is to create a bucket that enables efficient excavation and a work vehicle that contains such a bucket. SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM

[0008] A spoon according to the present invention is a spoon that can be coupled to a handle of a working tool in such a way that it can be pivoted about a predetermined axis. The spoon comprises a base plate, a pair of side plates, a suspension, and a front cutting edge. The base plate faces an opening of the spoon. The side plates are arranged facing each other on both sides of the base plate. The suspension is located on a rear surface of the base plate. The suspension can be coupled to the handle on the predetermined axis. The front cutting edge is arranged along the opening. The base plate includes a first inclined section on one side where the suspension is attached. The base plate further includes a deepest section. The length from a first reference line to the base plate is greatest at the deepest section.The first reference line passes through the specified axis and a leading edge of the front cutting edge. The angle formed between a second reference line and the front cutting edge is smaller than the angle formed between the second reference line and the first inclined section. The second reference line is perpendicular to the first reference line and passes through the lowest section. The length of the first reference line from an intersection point between the first and second reference lines to the leading edge of the front cutting edge is smaller than the length of the first reference line from the intersection point between the first and second reference lines to the specified axis.

[0009] A work vehicle according to the present invention comprises a vehicle body and work equipment. The work equipment is attached to the vehicle body.

[0010] The work equipment comprises a boom, a stick, and the bucket described above according to the present invention. The boom is pivotally coupled to the vehicle body. The stick is pivotally coupled to the boom. The bucket is pivotally coupled to the stick. ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0011] According to the present invention, a bucket that enables efficient excavation and a work vehicle that contains such a bucket can be created. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a hydraulic excavator equipped with a bucket in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing the spoon. Fig. 3 is another perspective view showing the spoon. Fig. 4 is a side view showing the spoon with an arrow IV in Fig. 3 indicated directions. Fig. 5 is a top view showing the spoon with an arrow V in Fig. 3 indicated directions. Fig. 6 is a sectional view showing the spoon with an arrow line VI-VI in Fig. 3 indicated directions. Fig. Figure 7 is a side view that illustrates an example of the function of the bucket when excavating soil. Fig. Figure 8 is a sectional view showing a spoon in the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 9 is a sectional view showing a spoon in the third embodiment of the present disclosure. DESCRIPTION OF EXECUTION FORMS

[0012] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings referenced below, the same or corresponding components are identified by the same reference numerals. First embodiment

[0013] Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a hydraulic excavator equipped with a bucket in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. A hydraulic excavator 100 includes, as in Fig. Figure 1 shows a vehicle body 11 and a working equipment 12. The vehicle body 11 includes a rotary unit 13 and a drive unit 15.

[0014] Drive Unit 15 contains a pair of 15Cr crawler tracks and a 15M drive motor. Hydraulic excavator 100 can move when the 15Cr crawler tracks are rotating. The 15M drive motor serves as a power source for Drive Unit 15. Drive Unit 15 can include a wheel (tire).

[0015] Rotary unit 13 is located on drive unit 15. Rotary unit 13 can be pivoted about the pivot center 41 relative to drive unit 15. The pivot center 41 corresponds to an axis extending in the vertical direction. Rotary unit 13 contains a cab (operator's cab) 14. Operator's cab 14 is equipped with an operator's seat 14S, in which an operator sits. The operator inside operator's cab 14 can operate hydraulic excavator 100.

[0016] Rotary unit 13 contains an engine compartment 19 and a counterweight located in a rear section of rotary unit 13. Engine compartment 19 houses an engine, a hydraulic oil tank, an air filter, a hydraulic pump, and the like.

[0017] Working equipment 12 is attached to the vehicle body 11. Working equipment 12 is attached to the rotating unit 13. Working equipment 12 performs work, for example, excavation. Working equipment 12 includes a boom 16, a stick 17, and a bucket 50.

[0018] Boom 16 is pivotally coupled to vehicle body 11 (rotary unit 13) via a boom bolt 23. Stick 17 is pivotally coupled to boom 16 via a stick bolt 24. Bucket 50 is pivotally coupled to stick 17 via a bucket bolt 25. Bucket 50 is coupled to stick 17 such that it can pivot about a central axis 110. Bucket bolt 25 is bolt-shaped and extends along central axis 110. Central axis 110 corresponds to a pivot axis of bucket 50.

[0019] The work equipment 12 also includes boom cylinders 20A and 20B, a stick cylinder 21 and a bucket cylinder 22.

[0020] Boom cylinders 20A and 20B, stick cylinder 21, and bucket cylinder 22 are all hydraulic cylinders driven by hydraulic oil. Boom cylinders 20A and 20B, which form a pair, are each located on a corresponding side of boom 16 and actuate boom 16 for slewing. Stick cylinder 21 actuates stick 17 for slewing. Bucket cylinder 22 actuates bucket 50 for slewing.

[0021] Boom 16, stick 17 and bucket 50 have pivot axes that run parallel to each other. The pivot axes of boom 16, stick 17 and bucket 50 each extend horizontally.

[0022] The hydraulic excavator 100 is a backhoe excavator designed so that the bucket 50 is attached facing an operator.

[0023] The following describes the construction of Spoon 50 in detail. Fig. 2 and Fig. Three are each a perspective view showing the spoon. Fig. 4 is a side view showing the spoon with an arrow IV in Fig. 3 indicated directions. Fig. 5 is a top view showing the spoon with an arrow V in Fig. 3 indicated directions. Fig. 6 is a sectional view showing the spoon with an arrow line VI-VI in Fig. 3 indicated directions.

[0024] Spoon 50 forms, as in Fig. Figures 2 to 6 show a space into which excavated material, such as soil, is loaded. Bucket 50 opens in one direction.

[0025] In the following description of the construction of the bucket 50, the transverse direction corresponds to the direction in which the axis of rotation (central axis 110) of the bucket 50 runs. The longitudinal direction corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the transverse direction. The side on which the pivot axis of the bucket 50 is located corresponds to the rear, while the side opposite the rear corresponds to the front. The right side of the bucket 50, which faces the front, corresponds to the right side, while the left side of the bucket 50, which faces the front, corresponds to the left side. The vertical direction corresponds to a direction perpendicular to planes extending in the longitudinal and transverse directions. The side on which the bucket 50 opens (has an opening 51) corresponds to the top, while the side opposite the top corresponds to the bottom.The directions mentioned above are defined in relation to the position of bucket 50, which is raised in the state in which excavated material, for example earth, is loaded into bucket 50.

[0026] Bucket 50 includes a base plate 60, a pair of side plates 81 (81L, 81R), a suspension 86, and a front cutting edge 72. The base plate 60, the paired side plates 81, and the front cutting edge 72 each consist of a single plate element. A space enclosed by the base plate 60, the paired side plates 81, and the front cutting edge 72 is designed to be filled with excavated material, such as soil.

[0027] The base plate 60 faces the opening 51 of the bucket 50. The base plate 60 opens vertically towards the opening 51. The paired side plates 81 are arranged facing each other on both sides of the base plate 60. The paired side plates 81 are connected to both ends of the base plate 60 in the transverse direction. The side plates 81 form a pair on the right and left sides, respectively. A side plate 81L is located on the left side of the bucket 50, while a side plate 81R is located on the right side of the bucket 50.

[0028] Base plate 60 is arranged parallel to the pivot axis of bucket 50 (central axis 110). Side plate 81 is arranged in the direction that intersects the pivot axis of bucket 50 (central axis 110). Side plate 81 is arranged in the direction that is perpendicular to the pivot axis of bucket 50 (central axis 110).

[0029] The length of the bucket 50 increases vertically towards the opening edge of the opening 51. The area of ​​the opening of the cross-section of the bucket 50 along a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction also increases vertically towards the opening edge of the opening 51.

[0030] Base plate 60 encloses a base section 61. Base section 61 forms, viewed from opening 51, a lower part of base plate 60. Base section 61, viewed in a side view in the axial direction of central axis 110 (in Fig. 3 and Fig. The 6 side views shown (hereinafter referred to as a "side view" for simplicity) have a curved shape. Bottom section 61 has a cross-section in the form of a hill (a circular arc shape) which, viewed in a cross-section along a plane at right angles to the central axis 110, projects downwards.

[0031] In a cross-section viewed along the plane at a right angle to the central axis 110, base plate 60 has a rectilinear cross-section that extends obliquely upwards in the forward direction from the end of base section 61 at the front to the opening edge of opening 51. In a cross-section viewed along the plane at a right angle to the central axis 110, base plate 60 has a rectilinear cross-section that extends obliquely upwards in the reverse direction from the end of base section 61 at the rear to the opening edge of opening 51.

[0032] Suspension 86 is located on the rear surface (the outer surface at the back) of base plate 60. Suspension 86 is an element for coupling bucket 50 with working equipment 12 (stick 17) in Fig. 1. Suspension 86 is coupled to stem 17 on central axis 110.

[0033] Suspension 86 includes a support element 89 and a plurality of plates 87. Support element 89 is connected to base plate 60 from the outside of bucket 50. Support element 89 has a cross-section shaped like a mound, projecting rearward from base plate 60 and extending transversely in the form of a plate. Plate 87 is connected to support element 89. Plate 87 consists of a plate element with a thickness extending transversely. Plate 87 extends such that it projects rearward from support element 89. The plates 87 are spaced apart from each other transversely.

[0034] Suspension 86 is provided with holes 88 and 90. Hole 88 is configured to pass through plate 87 in the transverse direction (in the thickness direction of plate 87). Hole 88 is configured to pass through the plurality of plates 87 in the transverse direction. Hole 88 has its center point on central axis 110, which serves as a pivot axis for the spoon 50. Hole 88 has a circular opening centered on central axis 110. The spoon bolt 25 is inserted into hole 88, thereby coupling the spoon 50 to the handle 17 so that it can pivot about central axis 110 (see also Fig. 1).

[0035] Hole 90 is arranged so that it passes through plate 87 in the transverse direction (in the thickness direction of plate 87). Hole 90 is arranged so that it passes through the plurality of plates 87 in the transverse direction. Hole 90 has its center point on a central axis 111. Hole 90 has a circular opening centered on central axis 111. Central axis 111 runs parallel to central axis 110. Central axis 111 is located below central axis 110. A bolt for coupling bucket 50 with bucket cylinder 22 in Fig. 1 is inserted into borehole 90.

[0036] The front cutting edge 72 is arranged along opening 51. The front cutting edge 72 faces the suspension 86 in the longitudinal direction. The front cutting edge 72 is connected to the end of the base plate 60 at the front. In a side view, the front cutting edge 72 has a predetermined thickness and extends diagonally upwards in the forward direction. The front cutting edge 72 consists of a plate element with a predetermined thickness. The front cutting edge 72 is thicker than the base plate 60. A tooth 76 is connected to the front cutting edge 72 via a tooth adapter 75.

[0037] Base plate 60 encloses a first inclined section 67 and a second inclined section 68. The first inclined section 67 and the second inclined section 68 are located on the side where the suspension 86 is attached. The first inclined section 67 adjoins base section 61. The first inclined section 67 extends linearly and obliquely upwards from the end of base section 61 at the rear. The second inclined section 68 adjoins the first inclined section 67. The second inclined section 68 is arranged along an opening 51. The second inclined section 68 is curved at the first inclined section 67 and extends to the opening edge of opening 51. The second inclined section 68 extends linearly and obliquely upwards from the first inclined section 67 at an inclination that differs from that of the first inclined section 67.In a side view, base plate 60 has a curved shape, which is bent at the boundary between the first inclined section 67 and the second inclined section 68.

[0038] Each side plate 81 is connected to a corresponding end of base plate 60 in the axial direction of central axis 110. Side plate 81 consists of a plate element with a thickness extending in the transverse direction (in the axial direction of central axis 110).

[0039] Side plate 81 encloses a lateral cutting edge 82. The lateral cutting edge 82 is arranged along opening 51. The lateral cutting edge 82 is located vertically at the same height as the front cutting edge 72. The lateral cutting edge 82 consists of a plate element with a predetermined thickness. The lateral cutting edge 82 is thicker than other sections of side plate 81. A lateral cutting edge 77 is attached to the lateral cutting edge 82. The lateral cutting edge 77 is located in a position that is closer longitudinally to the front cutting edge 72 than to the suspension 86.

[0040] A reinforcing element 91 is located in a corner section formed between side plate 81 (81L, 81R) and bottom plate 60. Reinforcing element 91 is located inside bucket 50. Reinforcing element 91 is arranged over the first inclined section 67 and the second inclined section 68.

[0041] The front cutting edge 72, the side cutting edge 82 of side plate 81L, the first inclined section 67 and the side cutting edge 82 of side plate 81R are arranged to surround opening 51. The first inclined section 67 is located below the front cutting edge 72, the side cutting edge 82 and the first inclined section 67.

[0042] It's like in Fig. Figure 6 shows a first reference line 121 that passes through the central axis 110 (the center of hole 88) and a tip end 73 of the front cutting edge 72. Tip end 73 forms the opening edge of opening 51 on the front of spoon 50. Viewed from bottom section 61, tip end 73 is a tip end section (upper end) of the front cutting edge 72. Tip end 73 is located at the uppermost position on the front cutting edge 72.

[0043] A length H from the first reference line 121 to base plate 60 varies in the linear direction along the first reference line 121.

[0044] The base plate 60 encloses a first deepest section 62 (corresponding to the "deepest section" in claim 1). The first deepest section 62 is part of the base section 61. At the first deepest section 62, the length H from the first reference line 121 to the base plate 60 has a maximum value (Hmax). The first deepest section 62 is a deepest section inside the bucket 50 with respect to the first reference line 121.

[0045] A second reference line 122 is defined, which is perpendicular to the first reference line 121 and passes through the first lowest section 62. Hmax corresponds to the length of the second reference line 122 from the first reference line 121 to the first lowest section 62. In the linear direction along the first reference line 121, the length H from the first reference line 121 to base plate 60 decreases from the first lowest section 62 towards the front and decreases from the first lowest section 62 towards the back.

[0046] The angle β formed between the second reference line 122 and the front cutting edge 72 is also smaller than the angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67 (β < α). That is, the angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67 is larger than the angle β formed between the second reference line 122 and the front cutting edge 72.

[0047] If angle α lies within a range greater than 20° and of 45° or less (20° < α ≤ 45°), then angle β lies within a range of 20° or less (β ≤ 20°). If angle α lies within a range of 30° or greater and 40° or less (30° ≤ α ≤ 40°), then angle β lies within a range less than 30°. The sum of angle α and angle β lies within a range greater than 50° and of 60° or less (50° < α + β ≤ 60°).

[0048] An angle γ formed between the second reference line 122 and the second inclined section 68 is smaller than the angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67 (γ < α). The angle γ formed between the second reference line 122 and the second inclined section 68 is smaller than the angle β formed between the second reference line 122 and the leading cutting edge 72 (γ < β). Angle γ lies within a range of 15° or above and 20° or below (15° ≤ γ ≤ 20°).

[0049] It should be noted that angle γ formed between the second reference line 122 and the second inclined section 68 can be equal to or greater than angle β formed between the second reference line 122 and the front cutting edge 72 (γ ≥ β).

[0050] An intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 lies close to the leading cutting edge 72 on the first reference line 121. The intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 lies close to the leading cutting edge 72 with respect to the central axis 110 on the first reference line 121. A length Lb of the first reference line 121 from the intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 to the tip end 73 of the leading cutting edge 72 is less than a length La from the intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 to the central axis 110 (Lb < La).

[0051] The volume of spoon 50 at the back with respect to the second reference line 122 is larger than the volume of spoon 50 at the front with respect to the second reference line 122. The volume of spoon 50 at the back with respect to the second reference line 122 can be equal to or smaller than the volume of spoon 50 at the front with respect to the second reference line 122.

[0052] Side panel 81 (81L, 81R) shows, as in Fig. Figures 2 to 6 show a lateral end section 85. The lateral end section 85 forms an opening edge of opening 51 on both the right and left sides of spoon 50. Viewed from bottom section 61, the lateral end section 85 is a tip end section (an upper end) of side plate 81 (lateral cutting edge 82).

[0053] The lateral end section 85 is provided with a recessed section 83. The recessed section 83 has a shape which, in a side view, is recessed in the direction towards the base plate 60. The recessed section 83 is arranged such that it extends over both the front and the back with respect to the second reference line 122. The recessed section 83 is located in a different position than the position of the lateral cutting edge 77.

[0054] The length h from the first reference line 121 to the recessed section 83 varies, as shown in Fig. 6 shown, in the linear direction along the first reference line 121.

[0055] The deepened section 83 includes a second deepened section 84. At the second deepened section 84, the length h from the first reference line 121 to the deepened section 83 has a maximum value (hmax). The second deepened section 84 is the deepest section within the deepened section 83 with respect to the first reference line 121.

[0056] The second lowest section 84 lies on the second reference line 122. In this case, hmax corresponds to the length of the second reference line 122 from the first reference line 121 to the second lowest section 84. In the linear direction along the first reference line 121, the length h decreases from the first reference line 121 to the sunken section 83 from the second lowest section 84 towards the front and decreases from the second lowest section 84 towards the back.

[0057] Base plate 60 has a curved shape with a curvature 1 / R (a radius of curvature R) in the first deepest section 62. The recessed section 83 has a curved shape with a curvature 1 / r (a radius of curvature r) in the second deepest section 84. The curvature 1 / r of the recessed section 83 in the second deepest section 84 is equal to or greater than the curvature 1 / R of base plate 60 in the first deepest section 62 (1 / r ≥ 1 / R). The curvature 1 / r of the recessed section 83 in the second deepest section 84 can be less than the curvature 1 / R of base plate 60 in the first deepest section 62 (1 / r ≥ 1 / R).

[0058] Fig. Figure 7 is a side view illustrating an example of the bucket's function when excavating soil. Boom cylinders 20A and 20B, stick cylinder 21, and bucket cylinder 22 are shown as in Fig. 1 and Fig. 7 shown, driven to actuate boom 16, stick 17 and bucket 50 for swiveling during soil excavation (trench excavation).

[0059] In Fig. Figure 7 represents a solid line 131 representing the ground surface before excavation, and a long dashed-dotted line 132 representing the ground surface after excavation. During excavation, the bucket 50 is moved sequentially through the positions represented by a bucket 50A, a bucket 50B, and a bucket 50C in that order.

[0060] First, the tip of tooth 76 is brought into contact with the ground surface (bucket 50A). Then, bucket 50 is actuated and pivoted around its central axis 110, so that bucket 50 penetrates the ground with tooth 76 positioned as its leading edge (bucket 50B). Then, while bucket 50 is actuated and pivoted around its central axis 110, boom 16 and stick 17 are actuated and pivoted to move bucket 50 horizontally towards cabin 14 (bucket 50C). Finally, bucket 50, filled with excavated soil, is lifted from the ground surface.

[0061] In a typical example, spoon 50 moves, as with spoon 50C in Fig. Figure 7 shows the position horizontally, with the spoon 50 assuming a position in which the first reference line 121 runs in the vertical direction and the second reference line 122 runs in the horizontal direction. The front cutting edge 72 and the front of the base plate 60 move through the subsoil below the earth's surface, while the back of the base plate 60 moves above the earth's surface.

[0062] In this case, for bucket 50, angle β formed between the second reference line 122 and the front cutting edge 72 is smaller than angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67, so that the angle formed between the front cutting edge 72 and the direction of movement of bucket 50 can be set smaller. This allows soil to be efficiently moved over the front cutting edge 72 into bucket 50 as the front cutting edge 72 and the front of the base plate 60 move through the ground, as indicated by arrow 141. Furthermore, the length Lb of the first reference line 121 from the intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 to the tip end 73 of the front cutting edge 72 is smaller than the length La from the intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 to the central axis 110.As a result, the first deepest section 62 of base plate 60, which lies on the second reference line 122, is closer to the front cutting edge 72 in the linear direction along the first reference line 121, making it easier to move the soil filled in bucket 50 from the front cutting edge 72 to the first deepest section 62.

[0063] On the other hand, on the ground above the ground surface, as with a continuous line 133 in Fig. As indicated in Figure 7, the soil, which has a shape that bulges away from the ground surface at an angle of repose δ, is displaced into a region 52 inside the bucket 50 directly below the first inclined section 67. In this case, if the first inclined section 67 is inclined at too small an angle relative to the direction of movement of the bucket 50, it may prevent soil from being moved into the region 52. Given this situation, for bucket 150, the angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67 is greater than the angle β formed between the second reference line 122 and the leading cutting edge 72, thus preventing the first inclined section 67 from being inclined too little. In this way, the soil, which has a shape that curves away from the ground surface, as indicated by arrow 142, can be efficiently moved into area 52.

[0064] For the reasons described above, the amount of soil filled into Löffel 50 can be increased, thus enabling more efficient excavation.

[0065] The following describes the relationship between the inclination of the first inclined section 67 and the angle of repose δ formed by the soil, which has a shape that curves away from the ground surface. That is, if the first inclined section 67 is inclined at an angle excessively greater than the angle of repose δ, area 52 may not be completely filled with soil. This could result in unused space inside bucket 50 when it is lifted from the ground surface. Furthermore, if the first inclined section 67 is inclined at an angle excessively smaller than the angle of repose δ, the resistance acting on the first inclined section 67 may prevent soil from being efficiently moved into area 52.

[0066] In light of the situations described above, the angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67 is set such that it lies within a range above 20° and 45° or below, and furthermore preferably within a range of 30° or above and 0° or below. This allows the first inclined section 67 to be inclined at an angle close to the angle of repose δ. This increases the amount of soil filled into the bucket 50, thus more effectively achieving the aforementioned effect of enabling more efficient excavation.

[0067] Furthermore, in bucket 50, the angle γ formed between the second reference line 122 and the second inclined section 68 is smaller than the angle formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67. This ensures that soil is also moved into the area 53 inside bucket 50 directly below the second inclined section 68, so that area 53 is completely filled with soil. This more reliably prevents the formation of unused space inside bucket 50.

[0068] When bucket 50 is caused to penetrate the ground, side plate 81 must displace soil to dig into the ground. In this case, the increased length of side plate 81 increases the resistance encountered when bucket 50 penetrates (penetration resistance). To address this, the lateral end section 85 of side plate 81 is provided with the recessed section 83, thus reducing the length of the section of side plate 81 that digs into the ground. This reduces the increase in penetration resistance caused by side plate 81, thereby improving the performance of bucket 50 when penetrating the ground.

[0069] Since the length of side plate 81 in the vertical direction is greatest at a position on the second reference line 122, which passes through the first deepest section 62 of base plate 60, side plate 81 has the greatest influence on an increase in penetration resistance on the second reference line 122. Given this situation, the recessed section 83 encloses the second deepest section 84 on the second reference line 122, so that the length of side plate 81 on the second reference line 122 can be further reduced. This allows the aforementioned effect of suppressing an increase in penetration resistance caused by side plate 81 to be achieved more effectively.Furthermore, it becomes possible to limit excessive changes in the amount of penetration resistance caused by side plate 81 between the time when side plate 81 penetrates the ground on the second reference line 122 and the time when side plate 81 penetrates the ground at the position offset longitudinally from the second reference line 122. This allows the soil excavation process to be carried out more smoothly.

[0070] Furthermore, the curvature 1 / r of the second deepest section 84 is equal to or greater than the curvature 1 / R of the first deepest section 62. Due to the design described above, the recessed section 83 in the second deepest section 84 can be deeper, thereby further reducing the length of side plate 81 on the second reference line 122 passing through the first deepest section 62. This further improves the performance of bucket 50 when penetrating the ground.

[0071] The curvature 1 / r of the second deepest section 84 can also be equal to or less than the curvature 1 / R of the first deepest section 62. In this case, it becomes possible to effectively suppress an increase in the penetration resistance caused by side plate 81 in a larger area of ​​the position offset longitudinally from the second reference line 122.

[0072] The following is a summary explanation regarding the design and effect of the bucket 50 and the hydraulic excavator 100 in the present embodiment.

[0073] Bucket 50 is coupled to stick 17 of working equipment 12 such that it can be pivoted around central axis 110 as a predetermined axis. Bucket 50 includes base plate 60, a pair of side plates 81, suspension 86, and the front cutting edge 72. Base plate 60 faces the opening 51 of bucket 50. The paired side plates 81 are arranged facing each other on both sides of base plate 60. Suspension 86 is located at the rear of base plate 60. Suspension 86 is coupled to stick 17 on central axis 110. The front cutting edge 72 is arranged along opening 51. Base plate 60 includes a first inclined section (67) on the side to which suspension 86 is attached. Base plate 60 further includes a first deepest section 62 as the deepest section. The length from the first reference straight line 121 to base plate 60 is greatest in the first deepest section 62.The first reference line 121 passes through the central axis 110 and the tip end 73 of the front cutting edge. The angle β formed between the front cutting edge 72 and the second reference line 122, which is perpendicular to the first reference line 121 and passes through the first lowest section 62, is smaller than the angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67. An intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 lies close to the front cutting edge 72 on the first reference line 121.

[0074] According to the design described above, the angle β formed between the second reference line 122 and the front cutting edge 72 is smaller than the angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67. This allows the excavated soil to be efficiently moved into bucket 50 over the front cutting edge 72. Furthermore, the intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 lies close to the front cutting edge 72 on the first reference line 121. This facilitates the movement of the soil in bucket 50 from the front cutting edge 72 to the first deepest section 62. Furthermore, angle α, formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67, is larger than angle β, formed between the second reference line 122 and the front cutting edge 72.This allows soil to be efficiently moved into area 52 directly below the first inclined section 67.

[0075] Accordingly, the amount of soil to be loaded into Löffel 50 can be increased, thus enabling more efficient excavation.

[0076] Furthermore, the angle formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67 lies in a range above 20° and 45° or below. The angle formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67 also lies in a range above 30° and 40° or below.

[0077] According to the design described above, the first inclined section 67 can be inclined at an angle closer to the angle of repose δ of the soil, which has a convex shape from the soil surface. This allows soil to be moved more efficiently into area 52 directly below the first inclined section 67.

[0078] Furthermore, base plate 60 encloses a second inclined section 68. The second inclined section 68 adjoins the first inclined section 67. The second inclined section 68 is arranged along opening 51. Angle γ formed between the second reference line 122 and the second inclined section 68 is smaller than angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67.

[0079] According to the design described above, soil can be moved into area 53 directly below the second inclined section 68, so that area 53 is completely filled with soil. This prevents the formation of unused space inside bucket 50 when bucket 50 is lifted.

[0080] Furthermore, side plate 81 encloses the lateral end section 85. The lateral end section 85 forms the opening edge of opening 51. The lateral end section 85 is provided with the recessed section 83. The recessed section 83, viewed in a side view in the axial direction of the central axis 110, is recessed in the direction towards the base plate 60.

[0081] The design described above can suppress an increase in the penetration resistance caused by side plate 81, thus improving the performance of bucket 50 when penetrating the ground.

[0082] The hydraulic excavator 100 comprises a vehicle body 11 and working equipment 12. Working equipment 12 is attached to the vehicle body 11. Working equipment 12 includes the boom 16, stick 17, and bucket 50. The boom 16 is pivotally coupled to the vehicle body 11. The stick 17 is pivotally coupled to the boom 16. The bucket 50 is pivotally coupled to the stick 17.

[0083] According to the above description, the amount of soil loaded into the bucket 50 can be increased, thus enabling more efficient excavation using the hydraulic excavator 100. Second embodiment

[0084] Fig. Figure 8 is a sectional view showing a spoon in the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 8 corresponds Fig. 6 in the first embodiment. A spoon in the present embodiment has essentially the same structure as spoon 50 in the first embodiment. The description of the same embodiment will not be repeated below.

[0085] The spoon in the present embodiment closes, as in Fig. Figure 8 shows a base plate 60, a pair of side plates 81, a suspension 86 and a front cutting edge 72.

[0086] Base plate 60 encloses a first inclined section 67. In the first embodiment, base plate 60 does not enclose the second inclined section 68.

[0087] Furthermore, an angle β formed between the second reference line 122 and the front cutting edge 72 is smaller than an angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67 (β < α). If angle α lies in a range above 20° and 45° or below (20° < α ≤ 45°), then angle β lies in a range of 20° or below (β ≤ 20°).

[0088] The intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 lies close to the front cutting edge 72 on the first reference line 121. A length Lb of the first reference line 121 from the intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 to the tip end 73 of the front cutting edge 72 is less than a length La from the intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 to the central axis 110 (Lb < La).

[0089] The same effect can be achieved with the spoon in the second embodiment of the present disclosure, which is constructed as described above, as in the first embodiment. [Third embodiment]

[0090] Fig. Figure 9 is a sectional view showing a spoon in the third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 corresponds Fig. 6 in the first embodiment. The spoon in the present embodiment has essentially the same construction as spoon 50 in the first embodiment. The description of the same embodiment will not be repeated below.

[0091] The spoon in the present embodiment closes, as in Fig. Figure 9 shows a base plate 60, a pair of side plates 81, a suspension 86 and a front cutting edge 72.

[0092] Base section 61 of base plate 60 has a curved shape at the front with respect to the second reference line 122. Base section 61 has a curved shape formed at the rear by connecting two straight lines with different inclinations with respect to the second reference line 122. The first lowest section 62 of base plate 60 forms a corner section that projects downwards.

[0093] The second deepest section 84 of the recessed section 83 is located at the position offset from the second reference line 122 in the linear direction along the first reference line 121. The second deepest section 84 is located on the front face with respect to the second reference line 122 in the linear direction along the first reference line 121. The second deepest section 84 has the shape of a triangular cutout. In the first embodiment, a lateral cutting edge 82 is not provided with the lateral cutting edge 77.

[0094] An angle β formed between the second reference line 122 and the front cutting edge 72 is smaller than an angle α formed between the second reference line 122 and the first inclined section 67 (β < α). If angle α lies in a range above 20° and 45° or below (20° < α ≤ 45°), angle β lies in a range of 20° or below (β ≤ 20°). If angle α lies in a range of 30° or above and 40° or below (30° ≤ α ≤ 40°), angle β lies in a range below 30°.

[0095] The sum of angle α and angle β lies in a range above 50° and 60° or below (50° < α + β ≤ 60°).

[0096] The intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 lies close to the front cutting edge 72 on the first reference line 121. The length Lb of the first reference line 121 from the intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 to the tip end 73 of the front cutting edge 72 is less than the length La from the intersection point P between the first reference line 121 and the second reference line 122 to the central axis 110 (Lb < La).

[0097] The spoon in the third embodiment of the present disclosure, which is constructed as described above, can achieve the same effect as in the first embodiment. INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS

[0098] The present disclosure can be applied to a spoon installed on a work vehicle. LIST OF REFERENCE MARKS

[0099] 11 Vehicle body, 12 Working equipment, 13 Rotating unit, 14 Cab, 14S Operator's seat, 15 Drive unit, 15Cr Track, 15M Drive motor, 16 Boom, 17 Stick, 19 Engine compartment, 20A, 20B Boom cylinder, 21 Stick cylinder, 22 Bucket cylinder, 23 Boom bolt, 24 Stick bolt, 25 Bucket bolt, 41 Swing center, 50, 50A, 50B, 50C Bucket, 51 Opening, 52, 53 Area, 60 Bottom plate, 61 Bottom section, 62 First deepest section, 67 First inclined section, 68 Second inclined section, 72 Front cutting edge, 73 Tip end, 75 Tooth adapter, 76 Tooth, 77 Side cutting edge, 81, 81L, 81R Side plate, 82 Side cutting edge, 83 Recessed section, 84 Second deepest section, 85 Side end section, 86 Suspension, 87 Plate, 88, 90 Hole, 89 Support element, 91 Reinforcement element, 100 Hydraulic excavator, 110, 111 Center axis, 121 First reference straight line, 122 Second reference straight line.

Claims

[1] A bucket (50) which can be coupled to a handle (17) of a working implement (17) in such a way that it can be pivoted about a predetermined axis (110), the bucket (50) comprising: a bottom plate (60) facing an opening (51) of the bucket (50); a pair of side plates (81) arranged facing each other on both sides of the base plate (60); a suspension (86) located on a rear surface of the base plate (60) and coupled to the handle (17) on the predetermined axis (110); and a front cutting edge (72) arranged along the opening (51), the base plate (60) including a first inclined portion (67) on a side to which the suspension (86) is attached, the base plate (60) further includes a deepest portion (62) at which a length from a first reference straight line (121) to the base plate (60) is greatest, and the first reference straight line (121) passes through the predetermined axis (110) and a front end (73) of the front cutting edge (72), an angle (β) formed between a second reference line (122) and the front cutting edge (72) is smaller than an angle (α) formed between the second reference line (122) and the first inclined section (67), and the second reference line (122) is perpendicular to the first reference line (121) and passes through the deepest section (62), and a length (Lb) of the first reference straight line (121) from an intersection point (P) between the first reference straight line (121) and the second reference straight line (122) to the front end (73) of the front cutting edge (72) is smaller than a length (La) of the first reference straight line (121) from the intersection point (P) between the first reference straight line (121) and the second reference straight line (122) to the predetermined axis (110). [2] Bucket (50) according to claim 1, wherein the angle (α) formed between the second reference straight line (122) and the first inclined portion (67) is in a range of more than 20° and 45° or less. [3] Bucket (50) according to claim 2, wherein the angle (α) formed between the second reference straight line (122) and the first inclined portion (67) is in a range above 30° and 40° or below. [4] Spoon (50) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the base plate (60) further includes a second inclined portion (68) which adjoins the first inclined portion (67) and is arranged along the opening (51), and an angle (γ) formed between the second reference straight line (122) and the second inclined section (68) is smaller than the angle (α) formed between the second reference straight line (122) and the first inclined section (67). [5] Spoon (50) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each of the side plates (81, 81L, 81R) includes a lateral end portion (85) forming an opening edge of the opening (51), and the lateral end portion (85) is provided with a recessed portion (83) which, in a side view from a direction along the predetermined axis (110), is recessed in a direction towards the base plate (60). [6] Work vehicle (100), which includes: a vehicle body (11); and the working equipment (12) attached to the vehicle body (11), the working equipment (12) comprising: a boom (16) pivotally coupled to the vehicle body (11), a handle (17) pivotally coupled to the boom (16), and the spoon (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the spoon (50) is pivotally coupled to the handle (17).

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