QUICK-CHANGE SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a tool-free quick-change system for a single-axle or multi-axle vehicle, preferably a single-axle motor mower, crane, or plow. The quick-change system is for coupling an attachment, for example a mower. Coupling should be possible in a substantially horizontal movement, particularly when starting. The quick-change system comprises a connecting element firmly connected to the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle and a base plate for an attachment. The base plate comprises a catch tab for receiving a wedge-shaped locking element, which has two opposing clamping surfaces extending at an acute angle to one another, wherein the catch tab can pierce the connecting element.The wedge-shaped locking element is designed and arranged in such a way that it can be received in the catch tab and can pierce it, whereby the base plate can be detachably connected to the connecting element. State of the art

[0002] Particularly in the agricultural sector, various quick-change systems for single-axle or multi-axle vehicles are well known, which enable the coupling of a wide variety of attachments such as a mower.

[0003] A tool-free quick-change system for a single-axle motor mower from Brielmaier is known from the state of the art. This tool-free quick-change system comprises a connecting element permanently connected to the single-axle motor mower and a corresponding base plate for an attachment. A fixed connection can be established using a manually operated lever.

[0004] This well-known quick-change system has the disadvantage that with larger attachments, such as larger mowers with a bar width of three meters and more, the resulting mechanical stress is too great in the long run, meaning that the necessary locking mechanism is no longer positively locking in the long run and the connection is therefore no longer secure.

[0005] Furthermore, three-point quick-change systems in the form of a three-point coupling, such as the so-called Euro quick-change system, are particularly common in agricultural vehicles for coupling attachments. The functionality of this Euro quick-change system essentially involves a triangular quick-change frame with three locking receptacles that is firmly connected to the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle. To create a firm connection between the quick-change frame of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle and a base plate of the attachment, two locking bolts are usually first inserted into corresponding locking receptacles, and then, typically in a pivoting movement, the third locking bolt is inserted into a corresponding locking receptacle.

[0006] This well-known Euro quick-change system in the form of a three-point coupling has the disadvantage that it is particularly difficult to handle due to the need for a swivel movement when coupling the attachment.

[0007] Furthermore, from the document DE 1 632 816 A1, a single-axle motor mower is known with a tool-free quick-change system for attaching the cutter bar support frame, which includes, among other things, a catch tab and a corresponding wedge-shaped locking element.

[0008] This tool-free quick-change system, known from document DE 1 632 816 A1, has the disadvantage that it cannot withstand greater mechanical stress, particularly in the case of mowers with bar widths of three metres and more or in the case of other heavy attachments such as a mulcher, a multi-twister or similar devices.

[0009] Another connection system between a motor vehicle and a piece of equipment is known from DE 1505501. The coupling is achieved by three or four bolts that penetrate a plate and are then secured by three or four latches that extend through slots in the bolts. This rigid locking mechanism can be inserted into the designated guides either by means of a hydraulic cylinder, an electric motor, or manually with a lever. In each case, all latches are closed simultaneously. This requires complex mechanical couplings and connections, which in turn leads to considerable play. Therefore, high wear and tear can be expected, especially considering the high forces acting on the equipment during operation.

[0010] DE 4213724 also describes a coupling of a device to a motor vehicle, in which the device must be hooked in from above before it can be secured at both sides. Securing is achieved centrally by adjustable, wedge-shaped slides, which are inserted into corresponding lateral recesses by means of hydraulic cylinders. A pressure accumulator ensures that the locking pins are pressurized even when the pressure supply is shut off. Description of the invention

[0011] The present invention aims to provide a tool-free quick-change system as mentioned above, which overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages of the known prior art and, in particular, improves mechanical stability, especially for larger attachments. In particular, the mechanics are to be simplified while simultaneously improving the play-free hold between the vehicle and the connecting element.

[0012] These tasks are fulfilled by a quick-change system with the features of patent claim 1.

[0013] According to the invention, the base plate comprises exactly one central catch tab for centrally receiving a single wedge-shaped locking element, wherein the wedge-shaped locking element is also under pretension in the locked state, whereby the first clamping surface can be pressed against the catch tab of the base plate and the second clamping surface on both sides of the catch tab can be pressed against the connecting element in order to secure the base plate centrally and without play on the connecting element.

[0014] According to the present invention, a secure connection between the connecting element of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle and the base plate of the attachment is achieved using the wedge-shaped locking element. The preload additionally secures this connection and maintains consistent contact pressure during operation, ensuring that the connection is snug at all times and remains free of play even during repeated use. Thus, this connection is achieved by mechanically coupling an attachment solely using this single, preloaded, wedge-shaped locking element, which penetrates the catch tab located centrally on the base plate.

[0015] It has been shown that a single locking element-catch tab connection is entirely sufficient for reliably securing attachments such as those described above. Preferably, an anti-twist device is additionally installed between the base plate and the connecting element. Such anti-twist protection can be achieved by at least one positive fit between the base plate and the connecting element, for example, a mandrel-cone sleeve fit. Preferably, two, three, or more such fits are installed, evenly distributed around the catch tab. Since the locking element is preloaded, it is ensured that the base plate is always pulled toward the connecting element, thus ensuring the required freedom from play.

[0016] In contrast to the Euro quick-change system, which requires three locking elements to be actuated, the quick-change system according to the invention only requires the wedge-shaped locking element to be actuated. Furthermore, unlike the Euro quick-change system, the quick-change system according to the invention completely eliminates the need for a pivoting movement during coupling. Thus, with the quick-change system according to the invention, an attachment, such as a mower, can be coupled in a substantially horizontal movement (especially when starting up).

[0017] Compared to the tool-free quick-change system known from document DE 1 632 816 A1, the preload not only increases mechanical stability but also safety.

[0018] Ultimately, the quick-change system according to the invention has the advantage of easily enabling fully automatic coupling of an attachment without the need for manual intervention. For example, this additional, fully automatic coupling function can be achieved using a so-called "Faster ®<" system, which eliminates the need for manual intervention.

[0019] Further advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent patent claims.

[0020] The base plate preferably comprises at least one, preferably two or three, pins, and the connecting element comprises at least one, preferably two or three, sleeves corresponding to the pins, which together form couplings. This allows for the design of a two- or three-point quick-change system in the form of a two- or three-point coupling. If multiple couplings are present, these evenly surround the central catch tab.

[0021] A coupling is understood here as a position, pressure, and anti-rotation locking device. Unlike the single catch plate, which can be secured with the wedge-shaped locking element, it does not have a tension lock. As soon as the single locking element is removed from the single catch plate, the base plate is released from the connecting element. The vehicle can reverse while the base plate remains in place.

[0022] Such mandrels and sleeves, for example, designed as cones, have the advantage of additionally supporting the positioning and centering of the connecting element on the base plate, thus supporting the coupling of an attachment in a substantially horizontal movement, thus completely defining the position. As a further advantage, such mandrels and sleeves can distribute any torsional forces across three points in the form of a three-point coupling.

[0023] The fact that only one central locking mechanism is required greatly simplifies the necessary mechanics. A complicated rod system, which is prone to jamming between the numerous moving parts, is eliminated. The central seat is firmly secured by preload, with the preferably additionally attached pins providing additional support and centering between the base plate and the connecting element.

[0024] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a single-axle or multi-axle vehicle, preferably a single-axle motor mower, crane or plough, comprising the quick-change system according to the invention. Short description of the drawings

[0025] Preferred embodiments of the subject matter of the invention are described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. They show: Figure 1a shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the quick-change system according to the invention; Figure 1b shows a perspective view of a base plate; Figure 2 shows a sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the quick-change system according to the invention; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a connecting element of a preferred embodiment of the quick-change system according to the invention; Figure 4a shows a further preferred embodiment according to Figure 1a with alternative pretensioning device; Figures 4b, 4c: Sectional view of the closure device with the wedge-shaped locking element; Figure 4c: Perspective view of the closure device with the wedge-shaped locking element. Description

[0026] Like reference symbols indicate like components in the figures.

[0027] Figure 1ashows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a quick-change system S according to the invention for a single-axle or multi-axle vehicle, preferably a single-axle motor mower, crane, or plow, for coupling an attachment not shown here, for example a mower. Coupling is possible in a substantially horizontal movement, particularly when starting the vehicle. This tool-free quick-change system S comprises a connection element 4 firmly connected to the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle, as well as a base plate 1 for an attachment. Figure 1b the base plate is shown alone.

[0028] The base plate 1 comprises a firmly formed catch tab 5 for receiving a wedge-shaped locking element 6, which can also be used in Fig. 4a-c is shown.

[0029] As in Fig. 1aAs can be seen, the wedge-shaped locking element 6 is designed in such a way that the wedge-shaped locking element 6 can be received in the catch tab 5 and thereby a detachable connection can be established between the connecting element 4 of a single-axle or multi-axle vehicle (not shown here) and the base plate 1 of an attachment (not shown here).

[0030] The locking element 6 has two clamping surfaces 13, 14 which extend at an acute angle to each other and are located opposite each other, as also in Fig. 4c shown. For fastening, the catch tab 5 first pierces the connecting element 4. The locking element 6 is designed and arranged such that it can be received in the catch tab 5 and can pierce it to lock the connecting element 4, whereby the base plate 1 is detachably connected to the connecting element 4.

[0031] According to the invention, the base plate 1 comprises exactly one central catch tab 5 for the central reception of a single wedge-shaped locking element 6. In the locked state, this is under a prestress, whereby the first clamping surface 13 is pressed against the catch tab 5 of the base plate 1 and the second clamping surface 14 on both sides of the catch tab 5 is pressed against the connecting element 4 in order to secure the base plate 1 centrally and without play on the connecting element 4.

[0032] The connecting element 4 further comprises a beam pin 10, which is operatively connected to the hydraulic system of a single-axle or multi-axle vehicle (not shown here) and the hydraulic system of an attachment (not shown here) for the operation of the attachment. The base plate 1 comprises, for example, three Fig. 2visible, firmly formed mandrels 2 and the connecting element 4 here comprises three sleeves 3 which correspond to the mandrels 2 and are designed here as a cone, so that preferably a three-point quick-change system in the form of a three-point coupling is formed.

[0033] As in Fig. 1a As can be seen, the wedge-shaped locking element 6 is firmly connected to a double-acting cylinder, preferably designed as a hydraulic cylinder 7, to achieve a preload. As a result, the wedge-shaped locking element 6 is subjected to a preload, whereby the preload additionally secures the connection between the base plate 1 and the connecting element 4. According to one of the Fig. 1aIn the preferred embodiment shown here, the pressure cylinder designed as a hydraulic cylinder can be firmly connected to the connecting element 4 via a screw connection. According to the preferred embodiment shown here, the pressure cylinder designed here as a hydraulic cylinder 7 can be brought into operative connection with a hydraulic system (not shown here) of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle, preferably a single-axle motor mower, crane, or plow, so that the hydraulic fluid of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle can be used.

[0034] Particularly preferably, a single-axle or multi-axle vehicle (not shown here), preferably a single-axle motor mower, crane, or plow, comprising the quick-change system according to the invention, is designed such that, for example, the hydraulic fluid of the hydraulic system or the working hydraulics of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle can be diverted into the pressure cylinder designed as a hydraulic cylinder 7 via a 4 / 2-way valve. Thus, the hydraulic system of the attachment (not shown here) is preferably integrated such that the existing working hydraulics of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle can be utilized.

[0035] According to a first, preferred variant, the pressurization required for preload is achieved solely by means of the hydraulic fluid of the hydraulic system of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle. In particular, for safety reasons, it is mandatory or particularly advantageous in this first, preferred variant for the hydraulic system of the attachment (not shown here) to be integrated into the working hydraulics of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle, so that the set pressure is applied openly or directly (i.e., in particular without current and without the use of a valve or the like) to the piston crown side of the hydraulic cylinder 7 during operation. The pressure range required for operation of the clutch is particularly preferably around 110 bar for single-axle vehicles, while for larger clutch versions (i.e., in particular for attachments on multi-axle vehicles), the preferred pressure range is higher than 110 bar.

[0036] According to a further, second preferred variant according to Fig. 2 The pressure cylinder is designed as a gas-filled or fillable hydraulic cylinder 7, in particular one filled or fillable with elemental nitrogen N 2. Particularly preferably, a pressure of 50 to 180 bar, more preferably 100 to 180 bar, and most preferably about 110 bar, necessary for prestressing can be achieved here.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the wedge-shaped locking element to be firmly connected to a preload spring to achieve the preload. This advantageously results in a particularly simple mechanical solution or embodiment of the quick-change system S according to the invention.

[0038] As in the Figures 1a and 4aThe base plate 1 is shown firmly connected to a telescopic support leg 9 with a crank, for example, manually operable here, for locking it in a horizontal position. This further facilitates or facilitates the coupling of an attachment by means of a substantially horizontal movement.

[0039] Figure 2 shows one in Fig. 1a indicated sectional view AA of a preferred embodiment of the quick-change system S according to the invention. As in the Fig. 2 As can be seen from the sectional view shown, according to the further, second preferred variant, the hydraulic cylinder comprises a first chamber K1, wherein the hydraulic fluid of the hydraulic system can be received via a first receiving opening 11, and a second chamber K2 separated from the first chamber K1, wherein a gas, in particular elemental nitrogen N 2 , can be received via a second receiving opening 12.

[0040] Particularly preferably, the pressure cylinder designed as a hydraulic cylinder 7 comprises a seal 8 designed in such a way that the first chamber K1 for receiving hydraulic fluid and the wedge-shaped locking element 6 is separated in a gas-tight manner from the second chamber K2 for receiving a gas, in particular elemental nitrogen N 2 or the like.

[0041] As in Fig. 1b As can be seen, the base plate 1 comprises three mandrels 2 which are firmly formed on the base plate 1, while the connecting element 4, as in Fig. 3 shown, here comprising three sleeves 3 corresponding to the mandrels 2. Furthermore, Fig. 1b and 2 It can be seen how the base plate 1 comprises a centrally fixed catch tab 5, which can receive or receives the wedge-shaped locking element 6 in a front opening. Fig. 1bIt is also clear that the spikes 2 surround the catch tab 5 evenly, here in a star shape.

[0042] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a connecting element 4 of the preferred embodiment of a quick-change system according to the invention. Fig. 3 In the perspective view shown, the three mandrels 3 are visible arranged in an equilateral triangle, which the mandrels 2 not shown here according to Fig. 1b and thus create a three-point coupling that surrounds the catch plate 5. The catch plate 5 is inserted into a centrally located Fig. 3 shown cone, also in Fig. 2 visible to center the.

[0043] Figure 4a shows a figure according to Fig. 1a, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a lever 16, which can lock or unlock the wedge-shaped locking element 6 in the catch tab 5. This locking mechanism comprises, instead of a pressure cylinder, a pre-tension spring 15, shown in Fig. 4b , which is firmly connected at its first end to the wedge-shaped locking element 6 to achieve the preload. Furthermore, the preload spring 15 is firmly but also pivotably connected at its second end to the lever 16. The lever 16 is also pivotably connected to the connecting element 4.

[0044] By turning the lever 16, the wedge-shaped locking element 6 moves from the locked position under pretension to the unlocked position or vice versa.

[0045] According to a first embodiment, the preload spring 15 can be a connecting element comprising a preloaded spring for building up the preload in the locked state.

[0046] In an alternative embodiment, the preload spring 15 can be configured as a connecting element that is compressible due to its material properties. This is attached to the lever 16 in such a way that the lever 16 overcomes a dead center when flipped, thereby building up tension that compresses the connecting element. In this case, the spring effect lies partly in the compressible connecting element and also in the material compression of the locking element 6 and any other components that are compressed, albeit only minimally, when the dead center is overcome.

[0047] Preferably, a securing device 17, for example a split pin 17, is provided to secure the lever 16 in the locked position. List of reference symbols

[0048] 1Base plate 2Pin (on the base plate) 3Sleeve (on the connecting element) 4Connecting element 5Catch tab 6Wedge-shaped locking element 7Pressure cylinder, hydraulic cylinder 8Seal 9Support foot 10Beam pin 11First receiving opening (for receiving the hydraulic fluid) 12Second receiving opening (for receiving a gas) 13First clamping surface 14Second clamping surface 15Preload spring 16Lever 17Safety device; split pin K1First chamber (for receiving hydraulic fluid) K2Second chamber (for receiving a gas) SQuick-change system

Claims

1. A tool-free quick-change system (5) for a single-axle or multi-axle vehicle for coupling an add-on device, comprising: - a connection element (4) that can be firmly connected to the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle; - a base plate (1) for an add-on device; wherein the base plate (1) comprises a catch tab (5) for the central reception of a single wedge-shaped locking element (6), wherein the catch tab (5) can push through the connection element (4); a wedge-shaped locking element (6), which comprises a first and a second clamping surfaces (13, 14) extending at an acute angle to one another and lying opposite one another, the wedge-shaped locking element (6) is configured and arranged in such a way that it can be accommodated in the catch tab (5) and can push through the latter, and the base plate (1) can be detachably connected to the connection element (4); characterised in that the base plate (1) comprises exactly one central catch tab (5) and the wedge-shaped locking element (6) is under a prestress in the locked state, whereby the first clamping surface (13) is pressed against the catch tab (5)) of the base plate (1) and the second clamping surface (14) is pressed on both sides of the catch tab (5) against the connection element (4) in order to secure the base plate (1) centrally on the connection element (4) without play.

2. Tool-free quick-change system according to patent claim 1, characterised in that the base plate (1) comprises at least one, preferably three, pins (2) and the connection element (4) comprises at least one, preferably three, sleeves (3) corresponding to the pins (2), so that a three-point quick-change system in the form of a three-point coupling is formed.

3. Tool-free quick-change system according to patent claim 2, comprising at least two, preferably three, pins (2) and sleeves (3), characterised in that the catch tab (5) is arranged centrally between the pins (2).

4. Tool-free quick-change system according to one of the patent claims 1 to 3, characterised in that a pressure cylinder (7) and / or a prestressing spring (15) is firmly connected to the wedge-shaped locking element (6) to achieve the prestressing.

5. Tool-free quick-change system according to patent claim 4, characterised in that the pressure cylinder (7) and / or the prestressing spring (15) can be firmly connected to the connection element (4).

6. Tool-free quick-change system according to patent claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the pressure cylinder (7) is designed as a hydraulic cylinder (7) and that the pressure cylinder (7) designed as a hydraulic cylinder (7) can be operatively connected to the hydraulic system of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle, preferably a single-axle motor mower, crane or plough, so that the hydraulic fluid of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle can be used.

7. Tool-free quick-change system according to patent claim 6, characterised in that the hydraulic fluid of the hydraulic system of the single-axle or multi-axle vehicle can be directed into the pressure cylinder (7) designed as a hydraulic cylinder (7) via a 4 / 2 directional control valve.

8. Tool-free quick-change system according to one of the patent claims 6 or 7, characterised in that the pressure cylinder (7) is preferably designed as a gas-filled hydraulic cylinder (7), in particular one filled with nitrogen (N2).

9. Tool-free quick-change system according to one of the patent claims 6 to 8, characterised in that the pressure cylinder (7) configured as a hydraulic cylinder (7) comprises a seal (8) configured in such a way that a first chamber (K1) for receiving hydraulic fluid and the wedge-shaped locking element (6) is separated in a gas-tight manner from a second chamber (K2) for receiving a gas such as nitrogen (N2) or the like.

10. Tool-free quick-change system according to patent claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the prestressing spring (15) is firmly connected at a first end to the wedge-shaped locking element (6) and is attached by a second end to a lever (16), wherein by turning the lever (16) the wedge-shaped locking element (6) changes from the locked position to the unlocked position under prestress or vice versa.

11. Tool-free quick-change system according to patent claim 10, characterised in that the prestressing spring (15) is a connecting element which comprises a prestressed spring for building up the prestressing in the locked state.

12. Tool-free quick-change system according to patent claim 10, characterised in that the prestressing spring (15) itself is a connecting element that can be compressed due to its material properties and the prestressing spring (15) is attached to the lever (16) in such a way that the lever (16) overcomes a dead centre when it is flipped over, allowing tension to be built up.

13. Tool-free quick-change system according to one of patent claims 10 to 12, characterised by a locking device (17), for example comprising a split pin (17), for securing the lever (16) in the locked position.

14. Tool-free quick-change system according to one of the previous patent claims, characterised in that the base plate (1) is firmly connected to a telescopic support foot (9) with a crank for adjusting a horizontal position.

15. A single-axle or multi-axle vehicle, preferably a single-axle motor mower, crane or plough, comprising a quick-change system according to one of the previous patent claims.