Quick Coupler

Abstract

Some known quick couplers may also require the attachment to be fully pushed towards the excavator in order to allow for its removal. Handling disengaged or partially disengaged attachments can be dangerous. [Solution] The present invention relates to a coupler for securing an attachment to an earthmoving machine. The coupler comprises a coupler body that provides a receptacle having a capture area. The attachment's pin can move in and out of the capture area. A retaining device can capture the pin within the capture area, but the retaining device can be moved to a position that allows the pin to be released from the capture area by a hydraulically driven driver. A trigger that the pin strikes when it moves in or out of the capture area allows the driver to be disengaged from the retaining device, and then the retaining device to be spring-driven back to its retaining position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a quick coupler for earthmoving machinery. More particularly, but not limited thereto, it relates to a quick coupler having a trigger mechanism for resetting a retaining member for an attachment.

[0002] Quick couplers are used to quickly engage or disengage attachments, such as buckets, to an excavator. The quick coupler can be attached to the end of an excavator arm. The quick coupler can allow an operator to engage and disengage the attachment without having to move from the cab or operating position of the excavator. An attachment placed on the ground can be connected by the operator maneuvering the excavator arm to engage with the attachment. No other assistance is required to maneuver the attachment to achieve the connection, and thus the connection is achieved "quickly".

[0003] NZ546893 describes one type of quick coupler for coupling attachments such as buckets to an excavator. As can be seen from NZ546893 and also from Figures 1A-1B and 2, the attachment is typically supplied in a spaced-out configuration and has two parallel pins P1 and P2, each of which can be releasably held at the respective receptacle of the quick coupler. The forward pin P1 can be held closer to the excavator, and the rear pin P2 can be held further distal to the excavator. The quick coupler needs to be able to hold those attachments securely. Attachments can be heavy and can support large loads. Errors in establishing a secure coupling can lead to fatal accidents or damage. Furthermore, to aid in increased productivity, rapid coupling and uncoupling of the quick coupler and attachment is also desirable. Thus, there is a trade-off between secure coupling and rapid coupling. As shown in Figure 1, pin P1 can be received by receptacle R1, and pin P2 can be received by receptacle R2. Receptacle R1 is provided with a safety holding device 6 that can hold pin P1 in receptacle R1. Receptacle R2 is provided with a wedge 3 that can move to hold pin P2 in receptacle R2.

[0004] The excavator conventionally features hydraulic delivery and return lines, as well as hydraulic 4 / 2 valves, at the end of the arm for servicing hydraulic components. These can be used by the hydraulic ram of a quick coupler to actuate both the retaining device 6 and the wedge 3 to engage and / or disengage one or both pins. In NZ546893, there are two hydraulic rams used: one for the retaining device and the other for the wedge.

[0005] An example of how an attachment can be removed from a quick coupler of the type described in NZ546893 is illustrated in Figures 2–6. Figure 2 shows an excavator 5 with an attachment fixed to the end of an arm 7. The attachment may be placed on a surface such as the ground to remove the load from the coupler. Figure 3 shows a coupler with pins fixed to it. Figure 4 shows the retraction of both the retainer 6 and the wedge 3. This retraction can be caused by an operator triggering a buildup of hydraulic pressure on the appropriate hydraulic circuit, thereby acting on hydraulic rams for each of the retainer and the wedge. The two hydraulic rams move the retainer and the wedge, respectively, into a released state. Figure 5 shows how an operator may move the coupler away from the attachment so that pins P1 and P2 can exit their respective receptacles R1 and R2. After a certain period of time has elapsed since the wedge and retaining device were released, the timer system can trigger the operation of the retaining device 6 to move it to its retaining position, as shown in Figure 6.

[0006] Figures 7-10 show how the attachment can be mounted to a quick coupler of the type described in NZ546893. Figures 7 and 8 show the wedge 3 retracted. Figures 7 and 8 show the entry of pin P1 into receptacle R1 and the movement of retaining device 6 to allow entry. The retaining device can pivot against spring bias to allow pin P1 to be received in receptacle R1. When pin P1 has moved far enough into receptacle R1, retaining device 3 is spring-loaded and moves to its retaining position. When pin P1 has moved far enough into receptacle R1, the retaining device snaps into the retaining position due to spring influence. Snap-fit ​​retention means that no operator input is required to move the retaining device to its retaining position during mounting. Pin P1 simply needs to move sufficiently deep into receptacle R1. Figure 9 shows the operator triggering hydraulic pressure buildup, which expands the wedge and holds pin P2 in receptacle R2. A quick rattle test is then performed to confirm that the attachment is secured to the coupler.

[0007] For safety reasons, the quick couplers in Figures 2-10 may have a retaining device operation on a timer system. After a certain period has elapsed since the release of the retaining device, the retaining device is reset to its retaining position to release pin P1, as seen in Figure 6. This means that the retaining device is reset to a retaining state in which it can hold pin P1. This can be achieved by electrical and hydraulic means to reset the retaining device to the retaining position. A preset time is included between the time the retaining device is actuated to its released state and the time it is able to return to its retaining state. This gives the operator sufficient time to remove pin P1 from receptacle R1. An alarm may sound while the retaining device 6 is being raised so that the operator realizes that pin P1 can be removed from receptacle R1. The time delay may be 10 seconds. This may be too long and time-consuming.

[0008] Quick couplers that utilize a timer can be damaged by users unfamiliar with the system. The operator controls the hydraulic ram within a set period to release the second pin P2 and, substantially simultaneously, the retaining device that holds the first pin P1. If the operator does not remove the attachment from the quick coupler within the set period, the retaining device resets to its retaining position. Because the operator may not realize that the retaining device has returned to its retaining position and that pin P1 is still engaged, the operator may attempt to remove the attachment and thus damage the retaining device.

[0009] The quick couplers in Figures 2-10 can use hydraulic rams to drive a wedge and a separate hydraulic ram to retract the retaining device. This means that a conventional 4 / 2 valve is not sufficient to control both hydraulic rams and maintain the timeout function. A non-OEM hydraulic valve needs to be retrofitted to the excavator to allow both rams to operate or to pass through a pair of additional hydraulic lines. This adds to the cost.

[0010] Known quick couplers may also require the attachment to be fully pushed towards the excavator in order to allow for its removal. This can be a problem with some attachments, such as breaker bars, where the center of gravity is quite far from the quick coupler mounting area. Breaker bars can also be stored vertically within the cradle for transport. Problems can arise if the breaker bar needs to be pushed towards the excavator for disengagement and then loaded into its vertical cradle position. Handling disengaged or partially disengaged attachments can be dangerous.

[0011] Therefore, a preferred object of the present invention is to provide a coupler and / or earthmoving machinery including a coupler that overcomes at least one of the aforementioned drawbacks, and / or to provide a useful option to the public.

[0012] Where references are made in this specification to external sources, including patent specifications and other documents, these are intended to provide background for describing the features of the invention in general. Unless otherwise specified, references to such sources should not be construed in any jurisdiction as an acknowledgment that such sources are prior art or part of common knowledge in the art.

[0013] For the purposes of this specification, when method steps are described in order, the order does not necessarily mean that the steps are arranged in chronological order, unless there is another logical way to explain the order.

[0014] Therefore, in a first aspect, the present invention can be said to be a coupler for fixing an attachment to an earthmoving machine, the coupler comprising a coupler body providing a receptacle having a mouse opening, the pin of the attachment being able to move through the mouse opening and through a passage in the receptacle to a capture area of ​​the receptacle, the passage in the receptacle being able to be sufficiently blocked by a retaining device provided movably from and relative to the coupler body so as to prevent the pin from leaving the capture area, the retaining device being biased to a first position where the passage is blocked so as to prevent the pin from leaving the capture area, and being able to move to a second position relative to the passage, thereby, (i) By pressing the pin against the retaining device and moving the retaining device toward the second position against its biasing force, the pin enters the capture area, (ii) the driver may allow the pin to exit the capture area, and the driver may be moved relative to the coupler body so that (a) it can be coupled to the retaining device, allowing the driver to move the retaining device to its second position, and (b) it can be discoupled from the retaining device, preventing the driver from controlling the position of the retaining device between its first and second positions. The coupler further comprises a trigger, which is movable relative to the coupler body in such a manner that when the trigger is moved by the pin, the driver can be disengaged from the retaining device, and that the trigger engages with the pin and can be moved by the pin as the pin moves through the passage.

[0015] In one embodiment, the trigger can cause the coupled retainer and driver to be uncoupled, thereby allowing the retainer to move to its first position under the influence of a bias if it is not in its first position.

[0016] In one embodiment, the trigger can move the coupled retainer and driver relative to each other to discouple them, thereby preventing the retainer from being restricted by the driver from moving to its first position.

[0017] In one embodiment, the driver can move between a coupled state and a discoupled state by a driver actuator.

[0018] In one embodiment, the holding device is mounted so as to move in a rotational manner relative to the main body around the holding device rotation axis.

[0019] In one embodiment, the coupler body can be fixed to or attached to earthmoving machinery.

[0020] In one embodiment, the driver is coupled to a driver actuator to move the driver in a manner that allows the holding device to be moved.

[0021] In one embodiment, when the driver actuator is activated, it moves the driver in the operating direction, and when the driver is coupled to the retaining device, the retaining device can move to or toward its second position.

[0022] In one embodiment, when the driver actuator stops, the driver is configured to move in a stop direction opposite to the operating direction such that when the driver is coupled to the holding device, the holding device moves to or toward its first position.

[0023] In one embodiment, the trigger is translatable.

[0024] In one embodiment, the trigger is mounted to the body so as to translate in a trigger direction with respect to the body and at a right angle to the holding device rotation axis.

[0025] In one embodiment, the trigger direction is perpendicular to the stop direction.

[0026] In one embodiment, the driver is mounted to the trigger so as to slidably translate with respect to the trigger in an operating / stop direction to move the holding device between a first position and a second position of the holding device.

[0027] In one embodiment, the driver is configured to move only in the operating / stop direction with respect to the trigger.

[0028] In one embodiment, the driver is supported by the trigger.

[0029] In one embodiment, the driver has a contact and / or sliding engagement with the driver actuator.

[0030] In one embodiment, the driver is biased in the stop direction.

[0031] In one embodiment, the driver is configured to move laterally between a first position of the driver where the driver is coupled to the holding device when the holding device is in its first position, a second position of the driver where the driver is coupled to the holding device when the holding device is in its second position, and a third position of the driver where the driver is decoupled from the holding device.

[0032] In one embodiment, the driver maintains contact with the driver actuator via biasing.

[0033] In one embodiment, the biasing force is a spring biasing force.

[0034] In one embodiment, the driver maintains contact with the driver actuator via a spring.

[0035] In one embodiment, the driver is configured to lose contact with or discouple from the driver actuator.

[0036] In one embodiment, the driver is discoupled from the driver actuator at a third position of the driver.

[0037] In one embodiment, when the driver disconnects from the holding device, the driver also disconnects the driver actuator.

[0038] In one embodiment, when the driver disengages from the driver actuator, the driver is biased to return to the stop direction.

[0039] In one embodiment, a second receptacle is provided by the coupler body at a position away from the first receptacle, and the second receptacle is provided for receiving and holding a second pin of the attachment.

[0040] In one embodiment, the second receptacle is provided so that it can hold the second pin of the attachment when the first receptacle holds the first pin, and / or the second receptacle can hold the second pin of the attachment when the first receptacle does not have the first pin there.

[0041] In one embodiment, a second retaining device is provided, which is positioned by the coupler body in such a manner that it moves between a first position of the second retaining device that prevents a second pin positioned in the second receptacle from exiting the second receptacle and a second position of the second retaining device that allows the retained second pin to be released from the second receptacle.

[0042] In one embodiment, the second holding device is operated to move between a first position and a second position by an actuator of the second holding device.

[0043] In one embodiment, the second holding device actuator is a hydraulic actuator.

[0044] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is actuated directly or indirectly by a second retaining device actuator.

[0045] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is not self-powered.

[0046] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is mechanically driven by a second retaining device actuator.

[0047] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to lose motion by a second holding device actuator.

[0048] In one embodiment, the driver actuator includes a lost motion structure configured to experience lost motion between the driver actuator and a second holding device actuator.

[0049] In one embodiment, the lost motion structure causes lost motion between the fully extended second retainer actuator and the engagement position between the extended second retainer and the fully retracted second retainer actuator.

[0050] In one embodiment, the engagement position, the fully retracted position of the second retaining device actuator, and the driver actuator are paired or coupled.

[0051] In one embodiment, the driver actuator and the second retaining device actuator act in a paired motion between the engagement point of the second retaining device actuator and its full retraction.

[0052] In one embodiment, the distance traveled is equal to the distance required to drive the driver to lift the holding device to its retracted position.

[0053] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is pivotably connected to the driver.

[0054] In one embodiment, the driver is slidably mounted on the coupler body.

[0055] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is slidably mounted on the coupler body.

[0056] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is biased to slide toward the second retaining device in the stopping direction, and / or the driver actuator is biased to slide toward the stopping direction.

[0057] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is biased to move in a direction that moves the retaining device to a first position of the retaining device when coupled with it.

[0058] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is spring-biased.

[0059] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is a push rod.

[0060] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to engage with a second retaining actuator or second retaining device when it retracts to an engagement position, and when it is in or past the engagement position, the push rod moves together with the second retaining actuator or second retaining device, simultaneously moving the driver.

[0061] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to contact the second retaining device actuator or the second retaining device when it has moved to or is moving to a second position of the second retaining device.

[0062] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to be engaged by a second retaining device actuator or a second retaining device via a contact engagement.

[0063] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to be engaged by a second retaining actuator or a second retaining device via a sliding contact engagement.

[0064] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is a combination of a first hydraulic actuator and a second hydraulic actuator, both of which are hydraulically connected.

[0065] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is a combination of a first hydraulic actuator and a second hydraulic actuator operating on the same circuit.

[0066] In one embodiment, the driver actuator comprises an arm driven by a second retaining device or a second retaining device actuator, the arm hydraulically driving a first hydraulic actuator and therefore a second hydraulic actuator that drives the driver.

[0067] In one embodiment, the first hydraulic actuator and the second hydraulic actuator do not share the hydraulic fluid with the second holding device actuator.

[0068] In one embodiment, the first hydraulic actuator and the second hydraulic actuator are independent hydraulic systems.

[0069] In one embodiment, the first hydraulic actuator and the second hydraulic actuator do not have a hydraulic pump and / or are passively driven.

[0070] In one embodiment, the driver actuator includes a lost motion structure for lost motion between the arm and one selected from a second retaining device actuator and a second retaining device.

[0071] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is an actively driven hydraulic ram and associated cylinder configured to engage and drive a driver to move the holding device to its second position.

[0072] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is a hydraulic actuator.

[0073] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is separate from the second holding device actuator.

[0074] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is hydraulically dependent on and / or shares the same hydraulic fluid with a second holding device actuator.

[0075] In one embodiment, the driver actuator comprises a cam configured to follow a second retaining device actuator, the cam then directly or indirectly drives the driver.

[0076] In one embodiment, the driver actuator includes a push rod configured to be driven in accordance with the cam as the cam rotates, and the push rod is configured to then drive the driver.

[0077] In one embodiment, the cam is spring-biased.

[0078] In one embodiment, the cam has a rotation axis perpendicular to the direction of movement of the second retaining device actuator.

[0079] In one embodiment, the cam has an outer circumference having a portion configured to create lost motion between the actuator and the push rod of the second retaining device.

[0080] Therefore, in a second aspect, the present invention can be said to be a coupler for fixing an attachment to an earthmoving machine, the coupler comprising a coupler body providing a receptacle having a mouse opening, the pin of the attachment being able to move through the mouse opening and through a passage in the receptacle to a capture area of ​​the receptacle, the passage in the receptacle being able to be sufficiently blocked by a retaining device provided movably from and relative to the coupler body so as to prevent the pin from leaving the capture area, the retaining device being biased to a first position where the passage is blocked so as to prevent the pin from leaving the capture area, and being able to move to a second position relative to the passage, thereby, (i) By pressing the pin against the retaining device and moving the retaining device toward the second position against its biasing force, the pin enters the capture area, (ii) the driver may allow the pin to exit the capture area, and the driver may be moved relative to the coupler body so that (a) it can be coupled to the retaining device, allowing the driver to move the retaining device to its second position, and (b) it can be discoupled from the retaining device, preventing the driver from controlling the position of the retaining device between its first and second positions. The coupler further comprises a trigger which can engage with a pin as the pin moves through a passage and be translated by the pin, thereby the trigger can be translated relative to the coupler body in such a manner that when translated by the pin, it disengages the driver from the retaining device, and the driver is supported by the trigger.

[0081] In one embodiment, the trigger can cause the coupled retainer and driver to be uncoupled, thereby allowing the retainer to move to its first position under the influence of a bias if it is not in its first position.

[0082] In one embodiment, the trigger can move the coupled retainer and driver relative to each other to discouple them, thereby preventing the retainer from being restricted by the driver from moving to its first position.

[0083] In one embodiment, the driver can move between a coupled state and a discoupled state by a driver actuator.

[0084] In one embodiment, the holding device is mounted so as to move in a rotational manner relative to the main body around the holding device rotation axis.

[0085] In one embodiment, the coupler body can be fixed to or attached to earthmoving machinery.

[0086] In one embodiment, the driver is coupled to a driver actuator to move the driver in a manner that allows the holding device to be moved.

[0087] In one embodiment, when the driver actuator is activated, it moves the driver in the operating direction, and when the driver is coupled to the retaining device, the retaining device can move to or toward its second position.

[0088] In one embodiment, the driver actuator allows the driver to move in a stopping direction opposite to the operating direction, such that when stopped, the retainer moves to or toward its first position when the driver is coupled to the retainer.

[0089] In one embodiment, the trigger is mounted on the main body such that it is translated in the trigger direction relative to the main body and perpendicular to the rotation axis of the holding device.

[0090] In one embodiment, the trigger direction is perpendicular to the stop direction.

[0091] In one embodiment, the driver is mounted on the trigger so as to be slidably translated relative to the trigger in the actuation / deactivation direction, thereby moving the retaining device between a first position and a second position of the retaining device.

[0092] In one embodiment, the driver is configured to move only in the actuation / deactivation direction in relation to the trigger.

[0093] In one embodiment, the driver is supported by a trigger.

[0094] In one embodiment, the driver has contact and / or sliding engagement with the driver actuator.

[0095] In one embodiment, the driver is biased in the stopping direction.

[0096] In one embodiment, the driver is configured to move laterally between a first position of the driver in which the driver is coupled to the retaining device when the retaining device is in a first position of the retaining device, a second position of the driver in which the driver is coupled to the retaining device when the retaining device is in a second position of the retaining device, and a third position of the driver in which the driver is discoupled from the retaining device.

[0097] In one embodiment, the driver maintains contact with the driver actuator via biasing.

[0098] In one embodiment, the biasing force is a spring biasing force.

[0099] In one embodiment, the driver maintains contact with the driver actuator via a spring.

[0100] In one embodiment, the driver is configured to lose contact with or discouple from the driver actuator.

[0101] In one embodiment, the driver is discoupled from the driver actuator at a third position of the driver.

[0102] In one embodiment, when the driver disconnects from the holding device, the driver also disconnects the driver actuator.

[0103] In one embodiment, when the driver disengages from the driver actuator, the driver is biased to return to the stop direction.

[0104] In one embodiment, a second receptacle is provided by the coupler body at a position away from the first receptacle, and the second receptacle is provided for receiving and holding a second pin of the attachment.

[0105] In one embodiment, the second receptacle is provided so that it can hold the second pin of the attachment when the first receptacle holds the first pin, and / or the second receptacle can hold the second pin of the attachment when the first receptacle does not have the first pin there.

[0106] In one embodiment, a second retaining device is provided, which is positioned by the coupler body in such a manner that it moves between a first position of the second retaining device that prevents a second pin positioned in the second receptacle from exiting the second receptacle and a second position of the second retaining device that allows the retained second pin to be released from the second receptacle.

[0107] In one embodiment, the second holding device is operated to move between a first position and a second position by an actuator of the second holding device.

[0108] In one embodiment, the second holding device actuator is a hydraulic actuator.

[0109] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is actuated directly or indirectly by a second retaining device actuator.

[0110] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is not self-powered.

[0111] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is mechanically driven by a second retaining device actuator.

[0112] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to lose motion by a second holding device actuator.

[0113] In one embodiment, the driver actuator includes a lost motion structure configured to experience lost motion between the driver actuator and a second holding device actuator.

[0114] In one embodiment, the lost motion structure causes lost motion between the fully extended second retainer actuator and the engagement position between the extended second retainer and the fully retracted second retainer actuator.

[0115] In one embodiment, the engagement position, the fully retracted position of the second retaining device actuator, and the driver actuator are paired or coupled.

[0116] In one embodiment, the driver actuator and the second retaining device actuator act in a paired motion between the engagement point of the second retaining device actuator and its full retraction.

[0117] In one embodiment, the distance traveled is equal to the distance required to drive the driver to lift the holding device to its retracted position.

[0118] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is pivotably connected to the driver.

[0119] In one embodiment, the driver is slidably mounted on the coupler body.

[0120] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is slidably mounted on the coupler body.

[0121] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is biased to slide toward the second retaining device in the stopping direction, and / or the driver actuator is biased to slide toward the stopping direction.

[0122] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is biased to move in a direction that moves the retaining device to a first position of the retaining device when coupled with it.

[0123] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is spring-biased.

[0124] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is a push rod.

[0125] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to engage with a second retaining actuator or second retaining device when it retracts to an engagement position, and when it is in or past the engagement position, the push rod moves together with the second retaining actuator or second retaining device, simultaneously moving the driver.

[0126] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to contact the second retaining device actuator or the second retaining device when it has moved to or is moving to a second position of the second retaining device.

[0127] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to be engaged by a second retaining device actuator or a second retaining device via a contact engagement.

[0128] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to be engaged by a second retaining actuator or a second retaining device via a sliding contact engagement.

[0129] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is a combination of a first hydraulic actuator and a second hydraulic actuator, both of which are hydraulically connected.

[0130] In one embodiment, the driver actuator comprises an arm driven by a second retaining device or a second retaining device actuator, the arm hydraulically driving a first hydraulic actuator and therefore a second hydraulic actuator that drives the driver.

[0131] In one embodiment, the first hydraulic actuator and the second hydraulic actuator do not share the hydraulic fluid with the second holding device actuator.

[0132] In one embodiment, the first hydraulic actuator and the second hydraulic actuator are independent hydraulic systems.

[0133] In one embodiment, the first hydraulic actuator and the second hydraulic actuator do not have a hydraulic pump and / or are passively driven.

[0134] In one embodiment, the driver actuator includes a lost motion structure for lost motion between the arm and one selected from a second retaining device actuator and a second retaining device.

[0135] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is an actively driven hydraulic ram and associated cylinder configured to engage and drive a driver to move the holding device to its second position.

[0136] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is a hydraulic actuator.

[0137] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is separate from the second holding device actuator.

[0138] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is hydraulically dependent on and / or shares the same hydraulic fluid with a second holding device actuator.

[0139] In one embodiment, the driver actuator comprises a cam configured to follow a second retaining device actuator, the cam then directly or indirectly drives the driver.

[0140] In one embodiment, the driver actuator includes a push rod configured to be driven in accordance with the cam as the cam rotates, and the push rod is configured to then drive the driver.

[0141] In one embodiment, the cam is spring-biased.

[0142] In one embodiment, the cam has a rotation axis perpendicular to the direction of movement of the second retaining device actuator.

[0143] In one embodiment, the cam has an outer circumference having a portion configured to create lost motion between the actuator and the push rod of the second retaining device.

[0144] Other aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following embodiments for carrying out the invention, given by reference to the accompanying drawings, merely as examples.

[0145] As used herein, the term "and / or" means "and" or "or" or both.

[0146] As used herein, "(s)" following a noun signifies the plural and / or singular form of the noun.

[0147] As used herein (and in the claims), the term “comprising” means “consisting of at least a part of.” When interpreting any description in this specification (and in the claims) that contains the term, and any feature beginning with the term in each description, all must be present, but other features may also be present. Related terms such as “comprise” and “comprised” should be interpreted similarly.

[0148] All applications, patents, and publications cited above and below are incorporated herein by reference, where they exist.

[0149] The present invention can also be said, in a broad sense, to consist of parts, elements, and features that are mentioned or described individually or collectively in the specification of this patent application, as well as any combination of any two or more of such parts, elements, or features, and where a particular integer having known equivalents in the art to which the present invention relates is described herein, such known equivalents shall be deemed to be incorporated herein as if they were described separately. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0150] Here, the present invention will be explained with reference to the following drawings, which are merely illustrative examples. [Figure 1A] This shows a side view of an attachment, such as a bucket, partially engaged with a coupler. [Figure 1B] This shows a side view of the bucket fully coupled to the coupler. [Figure 2] A schematic side view of a prior art coupler that engages and disengages with an attachment pin is shown. [Figure 3] A schematic side view of a prior art coupler that engages and disengages with an attachment pin is shown. [Figure 4] A schematic side view of a prior art coupler that engages and disengages with an attachment pin is shown. [Figure 5] A schematic side view of a prior art coupler that engages and disengages with an attachment pin is shown. [Figure 6] A schematic side view of a prior art coupler that engages and disengages with an attachment pin is shown. [Figure 7] A schematic side view of a prior art coupler engaging with the attachment pin is shown. [Figure 8] A schematic side view of a prior art coupler engaging with the attachment pin is shown. [Figure 9] A schematic side view of a prior art coupler engaging with the attachment pin is shown. [Figure 10] A schematic side view of a prior art coupler engaging with the attachment pin is shown. [Figure 11]An enlarged side view schematic of the holding system is shown. [Figure 12] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 13] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 14] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 15] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 16] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 17] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 18] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 19] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 20] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 21] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 22] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins that protrude for retention by the retention system is shown. [Figure 23] A detailed side view of the holding system after the pins have been extended and reset to "lift mode" is shown. [Figure 24] Following Figure 22 (first engagement mode), a detailed side view of the attachment pins entering the retaining system is shown. [Figure 25]Following Figure 22 (first engagement mode), a detailed side view of the attachment pins entering the retaining system is shown. [Figure 26] Following Figure 22 (first engagement mode), a detailed side view of the attachment pins entering the retaining system is shown. [Figure 27] Following Figure 22 (first engagement mode), a detailed side view of the attachment pins entering the retaining system is shown. [Figure 28] Following Figure 22 (first engagement mode), a detailed side view of the attachment pins entering the retaining system is shown. [Figure 29] Following Figure 22 (first engagement mode), a detailed side view of the attachment pins entering the retaining system is shown. [Figure 30] Following Figure 22 (first engagement mode), a detailed side view of the attachment pins entering the retaining system is shown. [Figure 31] Following Figure 22 (first engagement mode), a detailed side view of the attachment pins entering the retaining system is shown. [Figure 32] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins retaining the retention system of the alternative (second variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 33] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins retaining the retention system of the alternative (second variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 34] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins retaining the retention system of the alternative (second variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 35] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins retaining the retention system of the alternative (second variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 36] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins retaining the retention system of the alternative (second variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 37] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins retaining the retention system of the alternative (second variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 38] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins retaining the retention system of the alternative (second variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 39] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins retaining the retention system of the alternative (second variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 40] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins retaining the retention system of the alternative (second variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 41] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins retaining the retention system of the alternative (second variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 42] This shows a detailed side schematic of the attachment pins that enter the retaining system after the retaining system enters "lift mode" (second engagement mode). [Figure 43] This shows a detailed side schematic of the attachment pins that enter the retaining system after the retaining system enters "lift mode" (second engagement mode). [Figure 44] This shows a detailed side schematic of the attachment pins that enter the retaining system after the retaining system enters "lift mode" (second engagement mode). [Figure 45] This shows a detailed side schematic of the attachment pins that enter the retaining system after the retaining system enters "lift mode" (second engagement mode). [Figure 46] The holding system enters "lift mode" (third engagement mode), and a detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins entering the holding system after the operator has activated the holding system for engagement is shown. [Figure 47] The holding system enters "lift mode" (third engagement mode), and a detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins entering the holding system after the operator has activated the holding system for engagement is shown. [Figure 48] The holding system enters "lift mode" (third engagement mode), and a detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins entering the holding system after the operator has activated the holding system for engagement is shown. [Figure 49] A side view detail of the holding system of the present invention, including details of spring biasing and anti-rotation, is shown. [Figure 50] This shows a top perspective view of the holding system of the present invention. [Figure 51] This shows a top view of the holding system of the present invention. [Figure 52] A schematic diagram of the hydraulic system is shown. [Figure 53] A schematic diagram of the alternative hydraulic system is shown. [Figure 54] A side view of the holding system for the third deformation form is shown. [Figure 55] A side view of the retention system in a third variant form is shown, with further features removed to reveal the driver and trigger. [Figure 56] Figure 55 shows a rear perspective view of the top of the structure. [Figure 57] Figure 55 shows a top rear perspective view with the trigger housing removed to highlight the driver ram and return spring. [Figure 58] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins entering the retention system in the third deformation mode in the first engagement mode is shown. [Figure 59] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins entering the retention system in the third deformation mode in the first engagement mode is shown. [Figure 60] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins entering the retention system in the third deformation mode in the first engagement mode is shown. [Figure 61] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins entering the retention system in the third deformation mode in the first engagement mode is shown. [Figure 62] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins entering the retention system in the third deformation mode in the first engagement mode is shown. [Figure 63]A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins entering the retention system in the third deformation mode in the first engagement mode is shown. [Figure 64] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins entering the retention system in the third deformation mode in the first engagement mode is shown. [Figure 65] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins entering the retention system in the third deformation mode in the first engagement mode is shown. [Figure 66] A detailed side schematic view of the attachment pins entering the retention system in the third deformation mode in the first engagement mode is shown. [Figure 67] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 68] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 69] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 70] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 71] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 72] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 73] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 74] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 75] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 76] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 77]A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 78] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 79] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 80] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 81] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 82] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 83] A detailed side schematic diagram of the attachment pins exiting the retention system for the third transformation mode is shown. [Figure 84] A detailed side schematic diagram highlighting the latching system for the driver is shown. [Figure 85] A schematic side view of the pins of an attachment having a retaining system in an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 86] A schematic side view of the pins of an attachment having a retaining system in an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 87] A schematic side view of the pins of an attachment having a retaining system in an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 88] A schematic side view of the pins of an attachment having a retaining system in an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 89] A schematic side view of the pins of an attachment having a retaining system in an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 90] A schematic side view of the pins of an attachment having a retaining system in an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 91]A schematic side view of the pins of an attachment having a retaining system in an alternative (fifth variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 92] A schematic side view of the pins of an attachment having a retaining system in an alternative (fifth variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 93] A schematic side view of the pins of an attachment having a retaining system in an alternative (fifth variant) embodiment is shown. [Figure 94] A schematic side view of the pins of an attachment having a retaining system in an alternative (fifth variant) embodiment is shown. A schematic side view of a fifth variant of a trigger having an alternative drive actuator is shown. [Figure 95] A schematic side view of the retaining system is shown, illustrating the second alternative driver actuator and the retaining system of variant form 2 retracting to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 96] A schematic side view of the retaining system is shown, illustrating the second alternative driver actuator and the retaining system of variant form 2 retracting to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 97] A schematic side view of the retaining system is shown, illustrating the second alternative driver actuator and the retaining system of variant form 2 retracting to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 98] A schematic side view of the retaining system is shown, illustrating the second alternative driver actuator and the retaining system of variant form 2 retracting to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 99] A schematic side view of the retaining system is shown, illustrating the second alternative driver actuator and the retaining system of variant form 2 retracting to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 100] A schematic side view of the retaining system is shown, illustrating the third alternative driver actuator and the retaining system of variant form 2 retracting to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 101]A schematic side view of the retaining system is shown, illustrating the third alternative driver actuator and the retaining system of variant form 2 retracting to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 102] A schematic side view of the retaining system is shown, illustrating the third alternative driver actuator and the retaining system of variant form 2 retracting to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 103] A schematic side view of the retaining system is shown, illustrating the third alternative driver actuator and the retaining system of variant form 2 retracting to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 104] A schematic side view of the retaining system is shown, illustrating the third alternative driver actuator and the retaining system of variant form 2 retracting to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 105] A schematic side view of the retention system is shown, where a fourth alternative driver actuator acts to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 106] A schematic side view of the retention system is shown, where a fourth alternative driver actuator acts to allow the attachment pins to exit the coupler. [Figure 107] A schematic side view of a driver actuator equipped with a cam and a pushrod is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0151] Referring to the above drawings, similar features are generally indicated by similar figures, illustrating a holding system 1 according to a first aspect of the present invention.

[0152] Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, a quick coupler C is shown. The quick coupler may comprise a body 2 which may include a number of mounting points 4A and 4B for securing the quick coupler to, for example, the end of an arm 7 of an excavator 5 (shown in Figure 2). The quick coupler is attachable to and detachable from attachment A. In the example shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the attachment may be an excavator bucket. Attachment A provides two spaced parallel pins P1 and P2 which can be reliably received in spaced receptacles R1 and R2 of the coupler C, respectively. A second retaining device 3 is used to hold the pins P2 in receptacle R2. The second retaining device 3 may be a retaining device which can move between a retracted state and an extended state via a hydraulic ram 40, for example, as shown in Figure 52. The second retaining device may be wedge-shaped or include a wedge shape, and may also be a bar or plate or rod or similar. A retaining system 1 is provided on the first receptacle R1. The positions of the holding system 1 and the second holding device can be swapped around the positions shown in the figure.

[0153] The body 2 of the quick coupler C may consist of two main plates. Figure 1A shows a main plate 500. The second main plate is spaced apart from the first main plate and is preferably connected to the first main plate in a parallel manner. The main plates and / or other parts of the body preferably define a receptacle R1. The plate may include an edge profile that is appropriately molded for such purposes. The receptacle R1 can receive a pin P1 (e.g., the front pin of attachment A). Pins P1 and P2 extend and protrude through the lateral side of the main plate when engaged with the body. For ease of illustration, the depth of the coupler is not shown in most of the figures; instead, most of the figures show a side view facing the main plate.

[0154] As shown in Figures 1A and 1B, in its fully retained state, the retaining system can reliably hold pin P1 in the capture area CR of the receptacle R1, even if pin P1 cannot be removed from the receptacle R1 through the mouse of the receptacle. Referring to Figure 11, a portion of the body 2 of the coupler C in the receptacle R1 is shown. The receptacle R1 has a mouse opening M that is large enough to allow pin P1 to enter the receptacle R1 through there. The receptacle R1 may have a capture area CR through which pin P1 can be seated and captured by the retaining device 6. Seating in the capture area can be free or in a loose state. The intermediate space between the capture area CR and the mouse M is a passage P, as shown in Figure 23. The pin can move through the passage P of the receptacle R1 to the capture area CR of the receptacle R1. The passage P of the receptacle R1 can be blocked by a retaining device 6 that is biased to a position that blocks the passage of the pin in the capture region through the passage P, in order to prevent the pin from leaving the capture region CR. In one embodiment, as seen in the side view of Figure 11, the retaining device 6 can project from one side of the passage and at least partially traverse the receptacle R1. The retaining device is preferably made of steel. As shown in Figure 11, in its retaining state, also referred herein to as its first position, the retaining device 6 projects far enough across the receptacle R1 to prevent the pin P1 from being removed from the capture region. In a preferred embodiment, the retaining device 6 is rotatably mounted on the body 2 around a retaining device axis 15 (for example, on and preferably by the main plate). The retaining device axis 15 is preferably parallel to the elongated pin axis 16 of the forward pin P1 when engaged.

[0155] The retaining device 6 is preferably mounted on the body 2 on a retaining shaft 17, allowing the retaining device 6 to rotate about its retaining axis 15. The retaining shaft may be fixed at its end to the main plate of the body. The retaining device 6 can pivot clockwise on its retaining axis 15 from its first retaining position, as shown in Figure 11. This pivoting may occur when a pin P1 is inserted into the receptacle R1 by a pin pushing the retaining device away from its first position toward its second position, or by a driver as described later herein. A stopper 33 may be provided to prevent the retaining device 6 from rotating counterclockwise from its retaining position shown in Figure 11. For clarity, the stopper 33 is not shown in Figure 11 but is shown in Figure 49. It will be recognized that many alternative forms of the stopper may be provided to prevent over-rotation of the retaining device 6.

[0156] The retaining device 6 can be moved from its pin-holding position shown in Figure 11 to its pin-release position shown in Figure 16. This can be achieved by using a driver 11. The driver 11 can be coupled to the retaining device 6. This can be achieved via a retaining device lug 8 of the retaining device 6. The retaining device lug 8 may be a pin or a surface of the retaining device 6 configured and adapted to allow the driver 11 to be coupled to it. The driver 11 can be moved from a first position as shown in Figure 11 to a second position as shown in Figure 16. The driver 11 may be moved by a driver actuator 9, for example, a mechanical or hydraulic ram 9. The movement of the driver 11 to its second position allows the retaining device 6 to rotate from its pin-holding position to its pin-release position when the driver 11 and the retaining device 6 are coupled. The retaining device lug 8 is positioned at a distance from the retaining device axis 15 of the retaining device 6 to allow rotational force / torque to be applied to the retaining device 6 by the driver when the driver 11 moves to the second position. The driver 11 may have a coupling region 19 that can be hooked onto the retaining device lug 8 and / or otherwise detachably coupled.

[0157] To enable the release of pin P1 from receptacle R1, the driver 11, when coupled with the retaining device 6, moves from its first position shown in Figure 11 to its second position shown in Figure 16, thereby disengaging the retaining device 6 from its extended position across receptacle R1, at least partially, if not completely.

[0158] A notable feature of some modes and / or embodiments is that the retainer 6 can fully exit the receptacle R1 such that no interference between the pin and the retainer 6 can exist when the retainer is in its second position as shown in Figures 16, 33, 46, and 73. If the retainer 6 were susceptible to interference by the pin P1, the pin P1 could push the retainer beyond the point where the retainer lug 8 could be discoupled from the coupling area 19. This full rotation of the retainer 6 keeps it outside the receptacle in its second position or at least helps prevent accidental discoupler.

[0159] In the position shown in Figure 16, pin P1 can exit receptacle R1 without interference from retaining device 6. When referring to extending into or out of the receptacle, it will be recognized that this is a reference frame facing the main plate 500 of the body / housing, as shown, for example, in Figure 11. Retaining devices are located adjacent to the first main plate 500, and similarly, corresponding retaining devices may be provided adjacent to a second main plate (not shown), and other related retaining system components may also be provided on the other side of the body of the quick coupler. The driver 11 can be guided to move along a path by a track or slot 20 of the housing in which the axle 21 of the driver 11 is mounted (preferably movement caused by the driver actuator 9). The axle 21 can slide within the slot 20 and translate along it. The driver 11 is preferably mounted to rotate about a driver shaft 22. Such rotation allows the driver 11 to move between a coupled state, as shown in Figure 11, in which the driver 11 is coupled to the retainer 6 at the retainer lug 8 and the coupling region 19, and a discoupled state, as shown in Figure 22, in which the coupling region 19 and the retainer lug 8 are discoupled from each other. The slot 20 and axle 21 allow such rotation to occur in the examples shown in Figures 11 and 22.

[0160] Trigger for transformation mode 1 In addition, the holding system 1 includes a trigger 10. The trigger 10 is preferably rotatably mounted on the body 2 by a trigger axle 23 to allow the trigger 10 to rotate about a trigger axis 24. The trigger 10 is provided such that a trigger region 25 of the trigger protrudes, or can protrude, at least partially across the receptacle R1. Preferably, the trigger 10, and therefore the trigger region 25, is provided to protrude at least partially across the passage P to contact a pin moving through the passage. Thus, the trigger region 25 contacts the pin P1 as the pin P1 passes through the trigger 10, and thereby can move in a rotational manner on its trigger axis 24. The trigger may be mounted to move linearly rather than relative to the body 2 (as shown in alternative embodiments Figures 32-41). Preferably, the trigger and the receptacle are molded such that a pin moving through the passage cannot avoid contact with the trigger.

[0161] In addition, in some configurations, the trigger 10 may have a trip region 26 that can interact with the driver 11 in an appropriate manner to control the rotation of the driver 11 around its driver axis 22. The driver 11 may be equipped with a trip pin 27 that can receive the trip region 26 of the trigger 10.

[0162] In a preferred embodiment, the driver shaft 22, the retainer shaft 15, and the trigger shaft 24 are all parallel to each other and are also parallel to the pin shaft 16 when held or in the entry position.

[0163] To illustrate how the holding device system 1 of the present invention functions, the following series of drawings, Figures 12-23, which illustrate the process of disengaging pin P1, and Figures 24-31, which illustrate the process of engaging pin P1, are referenced below.

[0164] Figure 12 shows a pin P1 securely and reliably held by the retaining device 6 in the receptacle R1. To allow the pin P1 to be removed from the receptacle R1, the driver 11 is displaced when coupled with the retaining device lug 8. For example, a hydraulic ram 9 can be actuated by an operator to displace the driver 11 in a direction that causes the retaining device 6 to rotate clockwise, as shown in Figures 12-16.

[0165] Driver actuator in transformation form 1 In any embodiment, the hydraulic ram 9 (driver actuator 9) and hydraulic ram 40 actuate the driver 11 and the retaining device 3, respectively. Both the hydraulic ram 9 and the hydraulic ram 40 are preferably supplied from the same hydraulic circuit as shown in Figure 52. To release the attachment, pressure is supplied to the hydraulic ram 40 to retract the retaining device 3 and release pin P2, and in a preferred embodiment, simultaneously, the retaining device 6 is retracted by the hydraulic ram 9 via the driver 11, allowing the release of pin P1. However, the retaining device 6 is reset to its retaining position without requiring any hydraulic pressure resulting from the mechanical trigger 10 of the retaining system 1 being triggered by the protruding forward pin P1. To attach the attachment A from the previously described state, pins P1 and P2 enter their respective receptacles R1 and R2. Through the reversal or release of hydraulic pressure, the hydraulic ram 40 extends the retaining device 3 to hold the rear pin P2. The retaining device 6 extends independently of the retaining device 3 due to the operation of the trigger 10 described. However, the driver 11 is engaged with the hydraulic ram 9 and can be returned to its first position under bias (for example, from a spring) in response to the reversal or release of hydraulic pressure in the driver actuator.

[0166] The continued displacement of the driver 11 to its second position rotates the retaining device 6 sufficiently clockwise so as not to prevent the pin P1 from being removed from the receptacle R1. Such displacement may cause the retaining device 6 to be completely removed from protruding to the receptacle R1, as shown in Figure 16, or to still partially protrude to the receptacle R1, as shown in Figure 15. In a preferred embodiment, the retaining device 6 does not obstruct the receptacle R1 at all. Preferably, the pin P1 cannot push the retaining device 6 into this position (shown in Figures 16-19) so as to allow the retaining device 6 to re-latch with the driver 11.

[0167] For example, when the retaining device 6 is in the retracted position as shown in Figure 16, the operator can move the excavator arm, and therefore the quick coupler C, to maneuver the pin out of the receptacle R1. While the retaining device 6 is removed from the receptacle R1, the trigger 10 is provided with its trigger area 25 protruding into the receptacle R1. The trigger area protrudes far enough into the receptacle R1 to make contact with the pin P1 as the pin moves away from the receptacle R1.

[0168] It will be recognized that pins of different sizes from different attachments can be aligned with the receptacle R1. Therefore, it is important that the trigger region 25 is wide enough to provide contact with pins of different sizes and thus allow them to leave the receptacle without the pins being able to pass through the trigger region 25 without activating the trigger 10. For illustrative purposes, a small pin P1 is shown exiting the receptacle R1 to illustrate an extreme case and to show how the small pin can still activate the trigger 10. Similarly, with respect to the entry of pins, a large pin P1 entering the receptacle R1 is shown, this large pin P1 is shown to illustrate an extreme case and to show how the large pin does not engage the retaining device 6, which will be described later, with the coupling region 25.

[0169] Trigger activation occurs when, in response to the removal or entry of pin P1 into the capture area, the force of the pin acts on the trigger 10, causing the trigger 10 to move, such as by rotation on its trigger axis 24. In the orientation shown in the drawings, such rotation is counterclockwise. As seen in the series of drawings in Figures 18 and 19, as the pin advances from the receptacle R1, the counterclockwise rotation of the trigger 10 around the trigger axis 24 causes a force to be applied to the trip pin 27 of the driver 11 in the trip area 26. This results in the disengagement of the retainer lug 8 of the retainer 6 and the coupling area 19 of the driver 11.

[0170] As the retaining device 6 is disengaged from the driver 11, the retaining device 6 can rotate back toward its retaining position. The retaining device is no longer held by the driver 11 in the released position shown in Figure 18, but can rotate back toward its retaining position. The retaining device 6 is preferably biased to the retaining position by a spring, such as a torsion spring 31 acting around the retaining device shaft 15. An example of spring biasing is shown in Figures 49-51. This helps to snap the retaining device to its retaining position when the driver disengages.

[0171] The advancement of pin P1 from receptacle R1 after the driver 11 and retaining device 6 are discoupled allows the retaining device 6 to rotate to its retaining position as shown in Figure 22. Pin P1 and retaining device 6 may come into contact during this advancement, but pin P1 is no longer held in receptacle R1 by retaining device 6.

[0172] As can be seen from Figures 20-22, the preferred geometry of the retaining device 6 is such that, when the pin P1 engages with the trigger region 25 of the trigger, its return to the retaining position is interfered with by P1. This means that the trigger 10 can only cause a trip in the coupling between the driver and the retaining device (for example, between the retaining device lug 8 and the coupling region 19) as the pin P1 is sufficiently disengaged from the receptacle R1, and as further movement from the receptacle R1 corresponding to a trip in the retaining device 6 is no longer prevented by the retaining device 6. As can be seen from Figures 20-22, the retaining device 6 receives the pin P1 in response to the trip of the mechanism. However, if the pin P1 is disengaged more quickly, or if the biasing of the retaining device 6 (by the use of a hydraulic accumulator, for example) causes the movement of the retaining device 6 to be weaker or slower, the retaining device 6 will no longer receive the pin P1 in response to its exit.

[0173] Figure 23 shows the holding system reset to its first state shown in Figure 11. In the step between the holding device 6 rotating to its lowest point (Figure 22) and the driver 11 re-engaging with the holding device 6 (Figure 23), the driver actuator 9 enables or causes the driver 11 to return to its first state. Due to rotational and lateral spring biasing (via the spring 31), the driver 11 proceeds back to its coupled state and re-engages with the holding device 6.

[0174] The operator may, for example, release the driver actuator 9 (for example, by releasing the hydraulic pressure from the driver actuator 9), a) Before the retaining device 6 is fully raised (i.e., still coupled to the driver 11), and before the retaining device 6 returns to its retaining position, b) The driver 11 must be released before the pin is extended (i.e., pin P1 is not activating the trigger 10) and before the retaining device 6 returns to its retaining position.

[0175] The figure shows that at the stage shown in Figure 23, when pin P1 exits receptacle R1, the operator causes the driver 11 to release. However, the operator can release the driver 11 from the stage shown in Figure 20, when the trigger 10 is activated to trip the driver 11 as it is coupled to the retainer 6 at the retainer lug 8. Figure 19 shows the trip point at which the retainer lug 8 trips from the coupling region 19.

[0176] In the preferred embodiment described above, the retaining device 6 is preferably biased to its retaining position by a torsion spring 30, for example, as shown in Figures 49-51. In addition, biasing of the driver 11 may occur. Such biasing may occur by the spring 31 pushing the driver 11 toward its coupled state, as shown in Figure 49. Figure 49 shows the same spring 31 acting between the body 2 and the driver 11 in a direction that biases the driver 11 in a counterclockwise rotational direction. This causes the driver 11 to move toward its first state through its rotational and translational coupling. In other embodiments, although not shown, the function of the spring 31 may be achieved by more than one spring.

[0177] In a preferred embodiment, the trigger 10 may float freely and then bias independently of the biased driver 11 pressing the trigger 10. Alternatively, a separate bias may also be applied to the trigger 10. This bias may be provided by a spring (not shown in this embodiment, but shown as spring 34 in the alternative embodiment of Figure 55) acting clockwise between the body 2 and the trigger 10 as shown in the figure. Direct or indirect biasing of the trigger 10 helps to reset the trigger 10 to a state in which the trigger region 25 protrudes into the receptacle R1.

[0178] Preferably, the trigger can contact the driver when the pin is engaged with the trigger, and not contact the driver when the pin is not in contact with the trigger. Alternatively, the trigger is always in operable contact with the driver. In alternative configurations described later herein, the trigger and the driver may move in coordination with the coupler body between coupled and discoupled states of the driver. Preferably, the trigger can discouple the driver from the retaining device, thereby freeing the retaining device from being constrained by the driver to move to its first position.

[0179] The operator can enter the lift mode by moving from the coupler state shown in Figure 22 to the state shown in Figure 23. In the lift mode, both retaining devices 6 and 3 are in the retaining position, but the pins are not present in their respective receptacles. In a preferred embodiment, the operator can retract the coupler and move from the stage in Figure 22 to the stage in Figure 23 (i.e., the lift mode) by releasing or reversing the hydraulic pressure, thereby extending retaining device 3 to its retaining position (shown in Figure 1B), and also releasing the hydraulic pressure to the driver actuator 9, so that the driver 11 can be energized and returned to the state coupled with retaining device 6.

[0180] The following describes how, with reference to Figures 24-31, pin P1 can be engaged with coupler C for retention in a first engagement mode. For example, in the first engagement mode, it is desirable that the old pin has been removed from receptacle R1 and replaced with a new pin P1 from another attachment. The operator triggers the application of hydraulic pressure (or similar means of operation, such as a mechanical screw) to retract retaining device 3 and raise retaining device 6. The old pin is removed, tripping trigger 10, and retaining device 6 moves to its retaining position. Note that the driver 11 is still positioned away from its biased state (i.e., in the second position) as it is held there by the hydraulic ram 9. The operator can then insert the new pin into receptacle R1 as shown in Figure 24, which is then secured to receptacle R1 by retaining device 6, even if the driver has not returned to the position for coupling with retaining device in its first position. The operator inserts pin P2 into receptacle R2, and the retaining device 3 expands and moves to a position to hold pin P2. The retention of pin P2 can be achieved independently of the retention of pin P1.

[0181] The first engagement mode is the most typical mode when the operator is changing attachments.

[0182] Figure 24 shows the retaining device system 1 in its retaining state. The retaining device 6 is in its retaining position (the pin is not inside the receptacle R1) and partially trips into the receptacle R1, then expands after being reset by the old pin leaving the receptacle R1. The driver 11 remains in its operating position. The quick coupler C is then operated by the operator to introduce the new pin P1 into the receptacle R1 through the mouse M. This movement of pin P1 into the receptacle R1 causes the retaining device 6 to rotate clockwise, as seen in Figure 25. The lug 8 can act on the driver 11 but does not re-latch.

[0183] A preferred feature that prevents recombination (i.e., in the coupling region) of the driver 11 and lug 8 is the guide surface 28 shown in Figure 24. The guide surface contacts lug 8 and / or another part of driver 11 to prevent coupling of driver 11 and retainer 6. When pin P1 enters the receptacle, pin P1 engages with retainer 6. Lug 8 of retainer 6 contacts the guide surface of driver 11, thereby preventing coupling between driver and retainer until driver returns to a position where driver can couple with retainer when retainer is in its first position. Driver preferably returns to its first position more slowly than retainer. In this embodiment, trigger 10 floats freely with respect to movement caused by pin P1.

[0184] Pin P1 can move to fully seat on the receptacle R1 as a result of the retaining device 6 rotating in an idle state and passing through pin P1. Once pin P1 has passed through the retaining device 6 as shown in Figures 28 and 29, the retaining device 6 can rotate counterclockwise to its retaining position under biasing force as described earlier.

[0185] During the movement of pin P1 to receptacle R1, trigger 10 may also be displaced from its active position shown in Figure 24 to its tripped position shown in Figures 25-26. However, in this case, trigger 10 is neither active in resetting the retainer 6 back to its retaining position nor in establishing or disconnecting the coupling between the retainer lug 8 and the coupling region 19, because the retainer 8 is not coupled to the driver 11. In this case, trigger 10 is simply idle and can move so as not to obstruct pin P1 as it enters receptacle R1.

[0186] When pin P1 is fully seated in its receptacle R1, or when the retaining device 6 can move beyond pin P1, the retaining device 6 is moved, or otherwise moved, via its rotational bias to its retaining position as shown in Figure 29. At this point, the operator (when the forward pin P1 is held) can, in a preferred embodiment, release or reverse the hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic cylinder 40, thereby allowing the rear pin P2 to be held by the retaining device 3, and at the same time, the driver 11 can return to its biased position as shown in Figures 30-31.

[0187] As shown in Figure 31, the driver 11 can be reset to its first position in order to couple with the retaining device lug 8 when the operation or hydraulic pressure of the driver actuator 9 associated with the driver 11 is reversed or released.

[0188] The driver 11 can then be coupled to the retaining device 6, as shown in Figures 12-23, to rotate the retaining device 6 back to its release position, thereby releasing the pin P1 from the receptacle R1.

[0189] The trigger region 25 of the trigger 10 is shaped to act as a cam-acting surface, allowing the movement of the pin P1 over the trigger 10. The trigger region 25 preferably has a rounded surface that does not restrict the movement of the pin P1 in and out of the receptacle R1. This allows the trigger 10 to rotate around its trigger pivot 24, but still does not interfere with the movement of the pin P1 during its movement in and out of the receptacle R1.

[0190] The shape of the retaining device 6 is such that it holds the pin P1 within the receptacle R1 until the retaining device 6 actively moves to its release position when the pin is inside the receptacle R1 and the retaining device 6 is in its retaining position. The stopper 33 described herein helps to prevent the retaining device 6 from rotating beyond certain limits, thereby ensuring that the pin P1 remains fixed within the receptacle R1 when the retaining device 6 is in its retaining position.

[0191] The geometry of the retaining device 6 is preferably configured so that when the pin P1 is received in the receptacle R1 (and when the retaining device 6 is rotated to its released position, as seen in Figure 26), the retaining device 6 does not engage with the actuated driver 11. As can be seen from Figures 25-30, the driver 11 does not prevent the retaining device 6 from being biased back to the retaining position under the influence of its torsion spring 30 (shown in Figure 49) (i.e., it does not couple with the retaining device 6). In an alternative embodiment, the shape of the trigger 10 simply causes the driver 11 to move in such a way that it prevents the lug 8 from coupling with the driver 11 when the pin P1 enters the receptacle R1.

[0192] The geometric shape around the area of ​​lug 8 is important to ensure that the driver 11 does not restrict the movement of the retainer 6 back to its retaining position when the pin P1 is fully received within its receptacle R1. The shape of the retainer 6 and trip area 26 relative to the trip pin 27 is important to ensure that the driver 11 does not restrict the movement of the retainer lug 8 between the first and second positions of the retainer when the pin P1 is fully inside its receptacle R1.

[0193] Subsequently, a rotational displacement may occur in which the driver 11 returns towards its coupling position.

[0194] In one embodiment, the operator can cause the pin P1 to engage through second and third coupler engagement modes. 1) In the second engagement mode, the coupler is already in the lift (first) mode; that is, at least the retaining device 6 is in the retaining position and latched with the driver 11. The operator maneuvers the coupler C so that the pin moves into the receptacle R1, as shown in Figures 42-45, without retracting the retaining device 6. The difference between the second engagement mode and the first engagement mode is that in the second mode, the driver 11 is not actuated to its second position.

[0195] In the third engagement mode, the coupler was already in the lift (first) mode; that is, at least the retaining device 6 was in the retaining position and latched with the driver 11. The operator causes the retaining device 6 to retract by acting on the driver 11. The operator operates the coupler C so that the pin moves into the receptacle R1 and the trigger 10 is tripped, resetting the retaining device 6 to its retaining position, a process partially shown in Figures 46-48. The operator then causes the pin P2 to enter the receptacle R2, and then releases the operating pressure, thereby allowing the retaining device 3 to move back to its retaining position and retain pin P2. The retention of pin P1 is independent of the retention of pin P2.

[0196] In one example, the driver is preferably mounted to the body so as to move in a rotational manner only to move between a coupled and uncoupled state. Preferably, the trigger is preferably mounted to the body so as to move in a rotational manner only. Preferably, the rotational mounting of the trigger and retainer and driver to the body is around their respective axes of rotation which are parallel to each other. Preferably, the trigger can move the driver relative to the body and the retainer, thereby uncouple the driver from the retainer. Preferably, the trigger is provided to contact the pin with respect to both the inward and outward movement of the pin into and out of the pin's capture area. Preferably, the retainer, when in the first position, prevents the pin from coming out when the pin is held in the receptacle, and can move in response to a biasing force on the retainer to allow the pin to enter the receptacle and pass over the retainer. Preferably, the retainer in the second position provides itself so as not to contact when the pin is inside the receptacle.

[0197] Up to this point, we have generally referred to one embodiment of the trigger mechanism, known as the trigger mechanism of Modification 1. However, other variations of the trigger mechanism that utilize the same concepts as the trigger mechanism of Modification 1 are described herein. Five trigger mechanisms are described herein. Combinations of the features of these variations are assumed to be within the scope of the present invention.

[0198] The diagrams listed below relate to the following trigger mechanisms. Modification 1: Shown in Figures 11-31 and 42-51. Modification 2: Shown in Figures 32-41. Modification 3: Shown in Figures 54-84. Modification 4: Shown in Figures 85-88. Modification 5: Shown in Figures 89-94.

[0199] Trigger for transformation mode 2 Hereinafter, modified forms of the mechanism shown in Figures 11-31 and 42-51 (also referred to herein as Modification 1) will be described with reference to Figures 32-41 (also referred to herein as Modification 2). In the trigger mechanism of Modification 2, the driver 11 is configured to push the retaining device 6 from its retaining position to its retracted position, rather than pulling the retaining device 6 from its retaining position 6a to its fully retracted position 6b. Figure 32 shows a coupler C having a front receptacle R1 into which a front pin P1 is aligned. Figures 32-41 show that the pin P1 can be removed from the coupler by operating the retaining device to the release position, and then the retaining device can be moved back to its closed position via the pin P1 by tripping the trigger. The pin entry is not shown in the figures of this embodiment.

[0200] However, as part of the holding system 1, there is a retaining device 6 that is pivotally mounted on the body 2 of the coupler C so as to rotate around its rotation axis 15. A retaining device lug 8, which also rotates with the retaining device 6, forms part of the retaining device or engages with it. The retaining device lug 8 can be engaged and coupled by a driver 11, which can be driven by a driver actuator 9.

[0201] In this embodiment, coupling and uncoupling do not necessarily mean connection and disconnection, respectively. The driver 11 may still be connected to or disconnected from the retaining device 6 when uncoupled, but the driver 11 has no drive to or can not apply force to the retaining device 6 until it is coupled. That is, instead of the driver 11 being uncoupled from the retaining device / lug 8, the drive to the driver can be uncoupled. In the shown embodiment, the driver 11 is mechanically uncoupled via disconnection from contact with the lug 8.

[0202] The driver actuator 9 can displace the driver 11 (between positions 9a and 9B) and, when coupled, push the lug 8, thereby moving the retaining device 6 from its retaining position shown in Figure 32 to the release position shown in Figure 35. The driver 11 itself can both displace and rotate. The driver 11 may be mounted to the driver actuator 9 in a pivotal manner on, for example, the driver axle 21 to define the driver shaft 22 for the driver 11.

[0203] A preferred feature that prevents re-latch engagement of the driver 11 and lug 8 (i.e., in the coupling region) is the guide surface 28 shown in Figure 39. The guide surface contacts lug 8 and / or another part of driver 11 to prevent coupling of driver 11 and retainer 6. As pin P1 enters the receptacle, pin P1 contacts and rotates retainer 6. Lug 8 of retainer 6 contacts the guide surface of driver 11, thereby assisting in preventing coupling between the two. In this embodiment, trigger 10 can move as driver 11 is engaged with trigger 10.

[0204] Similar to the retaining system 1 described with reference to Figures 11-31, a trigger 10 is provided that can displace pin P1 by entering and exiting the receptacle R1. When the retaining device 6 is in its retracted position shown in Figure 35, the removal of pin P1 from the receptacle R1 shown in Figures 36-39 can move the trigger 10, causing the driver 11 to be discoupled from the retaining device lug 8. Similar to the retaining system 1 described in Figures 11-31, the trigger 10 is provided with a slot to support or guide the driver 11. The slot 26 is formed by the trigger 10 as shown in Figure 32 to hold the pin 27 of the driver 11. The slot also includes, or is, a trip area 26 that engages with the pin 27 of the driver 11. The trip area 26 allows the operation of the trip pin 27 of the driver 11 (between positions 10a and 10c) to move along the defined trip surface or slot 26 formed by the trigger 10.

[0205] By disengaging the driver 11 from the lug 8, a disengagement occurs (when the trigger is at position 10c), and when the retaining device 6 is disengaged from the driver 11, the retaining device can be snapped back to its retaining position. Disengagement cannot occur between positions 10a and 10b, but can occur beyond 10b towards position 10c.

[0206] In this embodiment, it is clear that the movement of the trigger 10 may be linear relative to the body 2. Other embodiments may show a purely rotational movement of the trigger when triggered. It is also conceivable that there may be a combination of rotational and linear movement.

[0207] In the first embodiment, when the coupling state is at least as shown in Figure 11, the driver 11 and the retaining device 6 are preferably disconnected. In other embodiments, the driver 11 and the retaining device 6 are connected but in a disconnected state, thereby preventing the driver 11 from controlling the position of the retaining device 6. Therefore, the driver 11 is ineffective for driving but can still follow and connect to the retaining device 6, at least in substantially the same way as in the modified form shown in Figure 32. Similar to the coupled state of the driver 11 and the retaining device 6, the driver 11 and the retaining device 6 may be connected to each other or not, but in both embodiments, when coupled, the driver 11 can influence the retaining device 6.

[0208] The driver 11 can be operated manually through a screw mechanism or the like. Alternatively, the driver 11 may be operated via a hydraulic ram. In a preferred embodiment, there are two hydraulic rams provided with couplers C for operating the driver 11 (actuator 9) and the second retaining device 3 (actuator 40), which is shown in Figure 52.

[0209] Preferably, one of the trigger and the retaining device (e.g., retaining device lug) can engage with the driver's area to hold the driver in a position that prevents the driver from coupling with the retaining device. Preferably, the trigger can house and position one or more of the driver actuator, driver, and driver spring. Preferably, the retaining device lug engages with the driver's area to hold the driver and associated trigger when the retaining device is not coupled with the driver in a way that prevents such coupling.

[0210] Trigger for transformation form 3 The following describes a modified form of the mechanism described above (referred to herein as Modification 3), with reference to Figures 54-83. Modification 3 uses the same reference numerals as those used above in the previous two modifications. In this modification, the driver 11 is part of the driver assembly 60, which positions and supports it. The driver assembly 60 comprises the driver 11, the driver actuator 9, the return spring 31, an extension that protrudes into the recess R1 and acts as a trigger 10, and other components. The trigger 10 can actuate the driver assembly to rotate around the axle 21 when it is moved by an external force, such as when a pin enters or exits the receptacle R1.

[0211] Having the driver assembly 60 support the trigger 10 means fewer connections to the main body 2 of the coupling system. For example, in the modified configuration shown in Figure 55, the driver assembly 60 / driver 11 uses the same connection point to the main body 2 as the trigger 10, which is the driver / trigger or driver assembly axle 21. In this embodiment, the driver assembly axle 21 acts as an axle that allows the driver 11 and trigger 10 to rotate around it relative to the main body.

[0212] Reducing the number of connection points to body 2 facilitates the manufacture of coupling systems and / or enables a modular system between body 2s of different sizes. Modularity allows for use with body 2s of different sizes in machines of different sizes. Reducing connection points can increase manufacturing efficiency and further assist in the repair and / or maintenance of coupling systems.

[0213] In this embodiment, the driver 11 drives the retaining device 6 by moving purely by translation relative to the trigger 10. However, the driver 11 also moves along a rotational path, as the driver assembly 60 can rotate around the axle 21. The driver assembly 60 rotates when the trigger region 25 is moved by the pin P1.

[0214] The driver assembly 60 includes a hydraulic ram 9 for driving the driver 11. The driver assembly, much like the previous variant, includes a return spring 31 for biasing and returning the driver 11. However, in this variant, the return spring 31 is a tension spring instead of a torsion spring.

[0215] Similar to the previous embodiment, the trigger 10 preferably extends into the receptacle R1 and has two trigger regions 25, one of which is a contact into which the pin enters and the other is a contact into which the pin exits. As seen in Figure 56, the driver assembly 60 has an intermediate housing portion 510 that is integrated with or engages with the trigger 10. The housing portion 510 can house a hydraulic ram 9 and a return spring 31, respectively, which drive the driver 11 to retract. Figure 57 shows the trigger 10, the hydraulic ram 9, and the return spring 31, but the intermediate housing portion is hidden for clarity. The return spring 31 is fixed to the trigger 10 at one end and to the driver 11 at the other end.

[0216] The driver 11 can translate relative to the trigger 10. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the driver 10 translates relative to the trigger 10 along a linear translational path that can extend radially with respect to the axis of rotation of the trigger axle 21. The driver 11 can be guided in motion along this linear translational path via guide means. In the embodiment shown, the guide means are a projection 48 and a complementary guide channel 47. The projection 48 is positioned on the driver 11, and the complementary guide channel 47 is part of the drive assembly 60. The projection 48 can be seen in Figure 55, and the guide channel 47 can be seen in Figure 57. Numerous mechanisms and configurations can exist to enable the driver 11 to mount the drive assembly in a translational manner relative to the trigger 10.

[0217] The driver 11 operates in a similar manner to the embodiments described above. The driver 11 has a coupling region 19 that can be coupled to a lug 8 on the retainer 6. When the driver 11 is driven forward by the hydraulic actuator 9, the retainer 6 is pressed rotatably around its axis of rotation, thereby disengaging the region of the retainer 6 that extends into the receptacle R1 from the opening of the receptacle, allowing the pin P1 to pass through the opening. As the pin P1 passes through the opening, it interferes with the region 25 of the trigger 10, and thus trips the trigger 10, causing the driver assembly 40 to rise and the trigger 10 to rise around the axle 21. At that time, the coupling region 19 is disengaged, and thereby the driver 11 is no longer engaged with the retainer 6. The retainer 6 is then biased back into the opening of the receptacle R1 via the torsion spring 31.

[0218] The feature that prevents the re-latching engagement of the driver 11 and the lug 8 (i.e., with the engagement area) is the guide surface 28 shown in FIGS. 57 to 59. The guide surface 28 abuts against the lug 8 or another part of the driver 11 to assist in preventing the engagement of the driver 11 and the holding device 6. When the pin P1 enters the receptacle R1, the pin P1 contacts and rotates the holding device 6. The lug 8 of the holding device 6 abuts against the guide surface 28 of the driver 11, thereby preventing the engagement between these two. The trigger 10 in this embodiment moves together with the driver 11 when the driver 11 is directly supported by the trigger 10.

[0219] In this embodiment, since the trigger 10 supports the driver 11 at this point, there is no trip region in FIG. 26. Therefore, the movement of the trigger 10 directly moves the supported driver 11 when triggered.

[0220] The combination of the driver 11 and the trigger 10 can be called a trigger / driver assembly. The trip region 25 can be positioned on the driver 11 or the driver actuator of the trigger / driver assembly. This alternative is not shown.

[0221] To describe the holding device system 1 shown in FIGS. 54 to 57, the following, a series of drawings of FIGS. 58 to 66 showing the process of engaging the pin P1 and FIGS. 67 to 83 showing the process of disengaging the pin P1 are referred to.

[0222] FIGS. 58 to 66 show the pin entering the holding system 1 when the holding system is in the first engagement mode, which is the most typical mode when the operator exchanges the attachment. In the first engagement mode, the driver 11 has already been extended from the previous disengagement process.

[0223] FIG. 58 shows the driver 11 being lifted via the retaining device lug 8 engaged with the trip region 26, and in this embodiment, the associated trigger 10 (for clarity, the driver 11 is partially hidden in this drawing to show it, but can be seen in FIG. 57). When the lug 8 is engaged with the trip region 26, the trigger 10 substantially extends into the passage P and does not block the passage P. The pin P1 can enter the passage P of the receptacle R1 regardless of whether there is contact with the trigger region 25.

[0224] When the pin P1 passes through the passage P and enters the receptacle, the pin P1 contacts the retaining device 6, and thus rotates the retaining device 6 around the retaining device shaft 17. The retaining device 6 is biased to return to its biased state when the pin P1 has fully passed through. The trigger 10, as shown in FIGS. 64 - 66, is biased to its biased state and does not return until the user releases the hydraulic pressure from the driver ram 9 and the driver return spring 31 pulls the driver 11 back to its retracted position. When the driver 11 returns to its retracted position, since the trip region 26 is no longer obstructed by the retaining device lug 8, the trigger 10 can rotate around its trigger axle 21 to its biased position (FIGS. 65 - 66). The trigger can be biased by a trigger return spring 34. This can assist in acting on the trigger and / or the driver to rotate the trigger / driver clockwise to the orientation shown in the figure. While the driver 11 is extended, the trip region 26 of the trigger 10 and the retaining device lug 8 engage with each other.

[0225] The retaining device 6 is seen at one of its full rotation limits in FIG. 60 by the largest possible pin P1. A smaller pin does not rotate the retaining device 6 as far (but can still be used effectively), but a large pin P1 indicates that the lug 8 of the driver 11 never leaves or extends beyond the guide surface 28, and thus the driver 11 does not engage with the lug 8 in the coupling region 19 while the driver 11 is extended.

[0226] Figures 67–83 show the pin exiting the retaining system 1. Figure 67 shows the pin P1 in its operating mode, captured in the receptacle. The driver 11 retracts, the trigger 10 is biased downward, and the retaining device 6 is biased downward, locking the pin P1 into the receptacle R1, with the tripping region 25 expanding into the passage P. Figure 68 shows the driver 11 beginning to expand via the hydraulic pressure applied to the driver ram 9. Figures 68–69 show the driver 11 engagement region 19 beginning to engage with the retaining device 6. Figures 69–70 show the retaining device 6 rotating around its retaining device shaft 17 until it reaches its rotation limit in Figure 73, thereby not blocking the passage P to prevent pin removal. At this stage, the operator / user can move the retaining system 1, thereby allowing the pin P1 to exit the receptacle R1 through the passage P.

[0227] Figure 74 shows pin P1 beginning to interfere with the trip region 25 of the trigger 10. This causes the driver to lift, preventing it from making operational contact with lug 8. Figure 76 shows lug 8 of the retainer 6 at the point where it loses contact with the coupling region 19 of the driver 10. Figure 77 shows lug 8 of the retainer 6, which allows the retainer 6 to pass over the coupling region 19 and begin to rotate back to its retaining position, to be stopped by the anti-rotation device 33 (shown in Figure 72). At this stage, pin P1 still lifts the driver 11 and trigger 10 upward, completely freeing the retainer 6 from the driver 10. Figure 78 shows the retainer 6 and associated lug 8, as well as the associated coupling region 19, with the driver 10 no longer obstructed.

[0228] Figure 79 shows the retainer 6 and trigger 10 at their highest points, or nearly fully or completely retracted from the receptacle R1. From Figure 80, the retainer 6 begins to return to its biased position into the receptacle R1 as the pin leaves the receptacle R1. In Figure 80, the trigger 10 is at its highest point. In Figure 81, the trigger 10 has entered the receptacle R1 and is beginning to return. Figure 83 shows the stage shown in Figure 58 at this point.

[0229] The geometry of the lug 8 and driver 11 in the coupling region 19 must be such that the coupling region 19 slides away from the lug 8 when it is within or near its rotational range corresponding to a state in which the retaining device 6 does not substantially obstruct the receptacle R1. If the notch in the lug 8 is too large, the upward movement of the trigger by the pin may be prevented by the lug 8.

[0230] In many embodiments, the lug 8 is shown as being integrated with or attached to the retaining device 6. However, it is conceivable that the lug 8 or other coupling features are separate or detached from the retaining device 6, such as being attached to the rotating shaft of the retaining device 6. Since the retaining device 6 may be formed integrally with its rotating shaft, the lug 8 can still be integrated with the retaining device 6.

[0231] Furthermore, the position and shape of the trigger region 25 of the trigger relative to the operating region of the retaining device 6 are also important. As shown in Figures 73-83, when the pin P1 leaves the receptacle R1, the pin P1 must contact the trigger region 25 with the surface facing the direction of the advance of the pin P1, and then, after the pin P1 has advanced sufficiently outward from the receptacle R1, the retaining device 6 must be able to rotate and return to the receptacle R1. The retaining device 6 must be molded and / or positioned so as not to contact the surface facing the direction of the advance of the pin P1 in a manner that prevents the pin P1 from advancing further out of the receptacle R1. Ideally, the retaining device 6 may contact the surface facing the direction of the pin P1 with the surface facing the trailing direction of the pin P1 as the pin P1 advances out of the receptacle R1.

[0232] Alternative Embodiments In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the coupling region 19 of the driver 11 may be a feature of a geared rack type. A complementary geared rack, surface, or gear acting to achieve a similar function to the lug 8 is located on or integrated with the retaining device 6. The linear action of the driver drives the rack by moving the geared rack coupling region back and forth when engaged with the coupling region of the retaining device 6. A trigger can still act on this geared linear driver to disengage and connect the geared driver and the retaining device 6. Disadvantages of the geared system are that the teeth of the geared system may wear out faster than a single surface engagement, or that fragments may impair its function.

[0233] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the driver's coupling region may be a geared rack or gear, which acts to achieve a similar function to a lug but is driven by a rotary-driven driver. That is, the driver is a rotary-driven gear wheel that has no linear action and instead has teeth to act as a coupling region to engage with similar teeth on the retaining device 6. A trigger still acts on this geared rotary driver to discouple and couple the geared driver and the retaining device 6. The coupling and discoupler may take the form of discoupler of a mechanical system or discoupler of a hydraulic / electric drive. The geared driver may be positioned at the end of a pivoted lever, which, when triggered, is lifted to discouple the geared driver from the gears of the retaining device 6. In an alternative embodiment, the geared driver may have a hydraulic discoupler, thereby allowing the geared driver to rotate freely when discoupled, thereby biasing the retaining device 6 back to a closed position. In a further alternative embodiment of this alternative embodiment, the driver may, instead of the retainer being torsion-biased, be torsion-biased and rotate backward, thereby rotating the retainer 6 back to its closed position. Alternatively, both the driver and the retainer may be torsion-biased so that they are biased to rotate and return to their initial rotational positions. In this embodiment, the driver may not be a fully geared wheel and may be a section / outer circumference of interchord teeth rotating around a shared pivot axis.

[0234] However, in some embodiments shown in the figures and other embodiments described herein, the coupling region 19 and lug 8 are not geared interfaces. The coupling region 19 and lug 8 have sliding surface engagements, gliding surface engagements, contact surface engagements, and / or single surface engagements. The advantages of such surface engagements are that they can allow for reduced wear, less chance of trapping debris, and / or reduced manufacturing tolerances compared to geared systems or more complex systems or other systems. This can also be said with respect to the engagement between the retaining device 6 or lug 8 and the guide surface 8 (if engagements exist).

[0235] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the coupling region 19 is a shaft or axle that shares a rotation axis with one or more retaining devices 6. The axle is driven directly or indirectly by a driver such as a hydraulic or electric motor. The rotation of the retaining devices 6 to move them from their closed position to their raised position is driven by the rotation of the motor, which drives the axle to rotate and drive the retaining devices 6. To enable the coupling of the motor from the retaining devices 6, the trigger system is required to trigger either a) a motor drive, i.e., a hydraulic or electrical discoupling that allows the motor to rotate freely and release the retaining devices 6 from their raised position, or b) a mechanical trigger that discouples the motor from the retaining devices, allowing the retaining devices 6 to return biased to their closed position.

[0236] In the alternative embodiment shown in Figure 84, the guide surface 28 is positioned below the projection 48 at this point. The guide surface 20 has no interaction with the retaining device 6 or the lug 8. Instead, the spring latch system 50 can capture the driver 10 after it has fully extended and been triggered upward to disengage, preventing it from engaging with the lug 8 of the retaining device 6. This allows the retaining device 6 to move rotatably and return to its closed position in the passage without re-engaging or contacting until the driver 10 moves back to its first position. The driver 10 is pushed upward by the latch 51 of the spring latch system 50 when triggered by the trigger 11. When a portion of the driver 10, in this embodiment the projection 48, is above the latch 51, the driver 10 is prevented from being biased downward to contact the retaining device 6. When the driver 10 retracts, the projection slides away from the latch 51, allowing the driver 10 to be rotatably biased to return to its original position. The spring 52 of the spring latch system 50 allows the latch 51 to slide a certain distance below the guide surface 28 when the driver 10 is driven upward by the trigger 11. By raising the driver and then being held by the latch 51, the retaining device is allowed to rotate freely without interacting with the driver.

[0237] In an alternative embodiment (not shown) to the embodiment shown in Figure 84, the driver 10 may be guided by a path or slot. The driver follows a first expansion path when it expands and drives the retainer 6 to its raised position. When the driver is triggered upward, the driver enters a return path, and when the driver retracts, the driver follows the return path. The return path prevents interaction between the driver 10 and the retainer 6 when the retainer 6 returns to its closed position. Therefore, the guide surface 28 has no interaction with the retainer 6 or the lug 8. Instead, the guide surface 28 is part of a slot fixed to the body of the coupler, and the engaging surface 28 engages with a part of the driver 10.

[0238] Trigger for transformation mode 4 The trigger mechanism of the holding system (referred to herein as Modification 4) will be described below with reference to Figures 85-90. Modification 4 of the holding system is distinguished from some of the other modifications by a trigger having linear translational movement relative to the coupler body. Along with the trigger 10 which translates relative to the coupler, the trigger 10 can also support the driver 11. The driver 11 can be supported by the trigger 10 and can move between a holding position 6a and a non-holding position or a retracted position 6B.

[0239] The driver 11 may be configured to translate and push / drive the retaining device 6 from its retaining position 6a (Figure 85) to its retracted position 6b (Figure 88). Figures 85-87 show a coupler C having a front receptacle R1 into which a front pin P1 is aligned. Figures 88-90 show the pin P1 which can be detached from the coupler by operating the retaining device 6 to the release position 6b. Subsequently, the retaining device 6 is moved back to its retaining position 6a, as shown in Figure 90, by tripping the trigger 10 via pin P1, as shown in Figures 88 and 89.

[0240] The driver actuator 9 and driver 11 may be configured to extend / actuate between positions 11A and 11B in the operating direction X shown in Figure 85. The operating direction X is approximately perpendicular to the linear trigger direction Y and the rotational retainer axis 15. In one embodiment, the driver actuator 9 is configured to engage releasably with the driver 11. In one embodiment, the releasable engagement may be abutment of the end 9c of the ram 9 against the surface 11c of the driver 11, without coupling the driver 11 and the ram 9 together. Preferably, the engagement allows the ram 9 to push the driver 11 toward the lug 8, but does not allow the ram 9 to retract the driver 11. Preferably, the abutment between the end 9c and the surface 11c allows the surface 11c to slide against the end 9c in the trigger direction Y. The engagement may be called a sliding engagement, or it may engage slidingly or abutmentally.

[0241] The driver 11 may include a guide forming portion (not shown) on the surface 11c that can hold the end portion 9c somewhat laterally by the driver 11. The guide forming portion may be a channel or a groove, and similarly, the end portion 9c may have a forming portion of complementary shape.

[0242] Similar to other trigger deformation forms, the driver actuator 9 can be any one of the driver actuators 9 described herein.

[0243] Trigger of Variant 5 A further embodiment of the trigger mechanism (also referred to as Variant 5 herein) is shown in FIGS. 91 to 94, and a holding system similar to Variant 4 is shown, except that the driver 11 can be disengaged from the driver actuator 9. This allows the driver 11 to be moved back to position 11A (shown in FIG. 93) without the need to also move the driver actuator 9 back from position 9B to position 9A. Thus, the holding device 6 can disengage from the driver actuator 9 without the need to move the driver actuator 9 in the stop direction X back to position 9A.

[0244] An advantage of the Variant 5 trigger mechanism over the Variant 4 trigger mechanism is that when the trigger 10 is raised by the passage of the pin and the holding device 6 is disengaged from the driver 11, the trigger 10 cannot fall back to position 10A (i.e., "re-latch engage") until the driver actuator 9 moves back to the stop position 9A.

[0245] Regarding Variant 4 of the trigger mechanism, it is preferable that the holding device 6 over-rotates to a position that cannot be achieved by the pin P1 pushing the trigger 10, to prevent the system from "re-latching engage", i.e., the trigger from falling into the receptacle R1. Variant 5 ideally eliminates the need to over-rotate the holding device 6.

[0246] Figure 9 shows a modified form 5 of a trigger having a general-purpose driver actuator 9, which may not be a hydraulic actuator.

[0247] Hydraulic circuit for driver actuator in modified form 1 A further advantage of the hydraulics provided on the excavator as standard is that the standard 4 / 2 valve, which is present in most excavators, can be utilized in the current system without any modifications. The hydraulic system of the driver actuator 9 variant 1 is shown in Figure 52, with the standard 4 / 2 valve 41 schematically shown. The coupler hydraulic system 42, with coupler C, is shown together with retainer 3, hydraulic ram 40, and retainer 6, hydraulic ram 9. Retraction and extension lines are illustrated, corresponding to the hydraulic line that operates the retraction of the ram 40 when pressurized, and the hydraulic line that operates the extension of the ram 40 when pressurized, respectively.

[0248] In modern machinery, the pressure in a hydraulic system can be rapidly reduced at times to conserve fuel. This can lead to problems with the indirect operation of the retraction and extension of the hydraulic ram 9, which indirectly acts as the retaining device 6. This is because, if there is insufficient pressure while the front pin P1 is being released, the hydraulic ram 9 may retract before it can fully extend and completely release the receptacle R1 by rotating the retaining device 6 through the opening of the receptacle R1.

[0249] The addition of the pilot check valve 44 improves the usefulness of systems with such modern machinery. The addition of the pilot check valve 44 is not essential for all systems.

[0250] An example of a hydraulic circuit with a pilot check valve 44 for a hydraulic ram 9 is shown in Figure 53. The pilot check valve 44 prevents the hydraulic ram 9 from retracting or at least reduces the speed or rate of retraction during the retraction (unlocking) procedure. This can be achieved by having an intermediate check valve 44 supply fluid from the retraction line to the hydraulic ram 9, preventing fluid from returning from the hydraulic ram 9 to the retraction line if the fluid pressure in the retraction line drops.

[0251] A side effect of the check valve 44 is that the hydraulic ram 9 cannot retract in that case. This is overcome by having a pilot line 47 that extends from the "high" pressure expansion line to the pilot check valve 44 in order to open the pilot check valve 44 while the expansion circuit is operating. When high pressure is supplied through the expansion circuit, the pilot check valve 44 opens, allowing fluid to flow through the low pressure (retraction) line and return to the tank. The hydraulic ram 9 retracts due to its spring bias from the spring 31. Alternatively, the pilot line 47 may be supplied from other areas of the expansion circuit, such as behind the pilot valve 45, in front of the ram 40, or outside the ram 40.

[0252] The hydraulic ram 40 may also have pilot check valves 46 to prevent the retaining device 3 and the hydraulic ram 40 from retracting while the coupler is in the locked position and no high pressure is present from the expansion line. A side effect of the check valves 45 is that the hydraulic ram 40 cannot retract in that case. To overcome this, the pilot check valves 46 have a corresponding pilot line 46 to open the pilot check valves 46. The pilot line 46 is supplied from the retraction line.

[0253] The hydraulic ram 40 expands while pressure is driven through the expansion line. When the pressure from the expansion line is released or reduced, the hydraulic ram 40 is prevented or limited from retracting by the pilot check valve 44. This is a desirable safety feature, as the retaining device 3 (attached to the hydraulic ram 40) will not retract (and the passage P will not open) unless the user applies pressure to the retraction line.

[0254] There are numerous ways to configure hydraulic circuits, which can be used with standard 4 / 2 valves, and it is assumed that they still include the advantages described above.

[0255] Other variations of the driver actuator 9 Similar to the trigger mechanism, the driver actuator 9 can also be modified for different applications, but still ensure that the holding system functions correctly. There are four driver actuators 9 described herein. Driver modification form 1: Shown in Figures 32-37, 49, and 52-84. Driver modification form 2: Shown in Figures 95-99. Driver modification form 3: Shown in Figures 100-104. Driver modification form 4: Shown in Figures 105-106. Driver modification form 5: Shown in Figure 107.

[0256] In other embodiments, the driver 11 may not be actuated by a hydraulic ram driver actuator that is hydraulically connected to a hydraulic circuit capable of similarly acting on the hydraulic ram 40 (as shown in Figures 52 and 53). Instead, the driver 11 is actuated by another means, such as mechanical or hydraulic means dependent on the hydraulic ram 40. This may have advantages such as a reduction in the number of hydraulic rams connected, a reduction in parts, improved reliability, and / or reduced complexity. Any of the aforementioned holding systems and trigger / trigger mechanisms may use any of the driver actuators 9 described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that any of the holding systems described herein may be modified to utilize the driver actuators 9 described herein.

[0257] Driver Actuator Driver Modification Form 2 In one embodiment shown in Figures 95-99 (driver variant 2), the driver actuator 9 is actuated by a mechanical connection, such as a pushrod type system, to a hydraulic ram 40 that drives a second retaining device 3. When coupled with the hydraulic ram 40, the driver actuator 9 can move between an operating position 9A and a retracted position 9B. However, the driver actuator 9 may be actuated by either the hydraulic ram 40 or the second retaining device 3.

[0258] As can be seen from the figure, preferably, there is lost motion between the hydraulic ram 40 and the driver actuator 9. Figure 95 shows that the hydraulic ram 40 is fully extended, yet the driver actuator 9 remains in position 9a, not coupled to the hydraulic ram 40. Figure 95 also shows that the driver actuator 9 is equipped with a fastener that engages with a coupler or complementary fastener on the hydraulic ram 40, indicated by arrow 9a.

[0259] Figure 96 shows the position in which the hydraulic ram 40 engages with the driver actuator 9 in order to begin driving the driver actuator 9. In one embodiment, the engagement is a simple contact engagement between two complementary surfaces of the driver actuator 9 and the hydraulic ram 40.

[0260] Preferably, the driver actuator 9 is supported by at least a slot 80 of the coupler body C. The driver actuator 9 translates relative to the coupler body along the slot 80. Preferably, the driver actuator 9 moves in an operating direction X that is perpendicular to the retaining device axis 15, and in this embodiment, further parallel to the operating / stopping direction of the hydraulic ram 40. However, in other embodiments, it is assumed that the driver actuator translates at an angle to the hydraulic ram 40.

[0261] Preferably, in this embodiment, the driver 11 can be slidably translated with respect to the coupler body between positions 11A and 11B. Similarly, it can rotate with respect to the coupler body. This is substantially the same function as the variant 1 of the retaining system. As with other systems, the retaining device 6 can be discoupled from the driver actuator 9 via the discoupler of the driver 11 having the retaining device 6.

[0262] Preferably, the coupler includes fasteners associated with positions 9A and 9B of the driver actuator 9. The fastener associated with position 9B is indicated by arrow 9B in Figure 97. Preferably, the translation of the driver actuator 9 is directly proportional to the translation of the hydraulic ram 40, apart from the lost motion stage. The operation of the hydraulic ram 40 also allows the driver actuator 9 to expand via the spring bias 31 and return to its position 9A when it expands and causes the retaining device 3 to expand and capture the pin P2. Thus, the driver actuator 9 is almost entirely dependent on the hydraulic ram 40 for movement, but there is no hydraulic connection between the two systems.

[0263] Preferably, the driver actuator 9 is biased by a spring 31, which biases the driver actuator 9 to move the driver to the holding position 11A shown in Figure 97. Here, the holding position 11A is a position that allows the holding device 6 to be within the passage-blocking position 6A.

[0264] Figure 97 shows the driver actuator 9 in operation, lifting the retainer. Figure 98 shows the retainer 6 fully lifted, which also relates to the degree of operation of the hydraulic ram 40 and the driver actuator 9. Figure 99 shows the retainer 6 released from the passage after the trigger 10 tripped, and discoupled from the driver 11, thereby allowing it to be biased and returned downward into the passage. When the operator operates the hydraulic ram 40 to extend the retainer 3 again, the driver actuator 9 can be reset to position 9A and then recoupled with the driver 11.

[0265] Driver Actuator Driver Modification Form 3 A third variant of the mechanical driver actuator 9, similar to variant 2, is shown in Figures 100-104. Here, the driver actuator is also a rigid arm, acting as a pushrod and extending between the hydraulic ram 40 and the driver 11. As with the previously shown embodiments, there is also lost motion between the hydraulic ram 40 and the driver actuator 9. Figures 100 and 101 show that a portion of the distance advanced by the hydraulic ram 40 does not affect the driver actuator 9. In Figure 101, the driver 9 is actuated by the hydraulic ram 40 or the retainer 3 to drive the driver actuator 9 from its position 9A to its position 9B, as shown in Figure 102. Figure 103 shows a pin P1 exiting the receptacle R1 and moving the trigger 10, which discouples the driver 11 from the retainer 6. Figure 104 shows the retainer 6 completely discoupled from the driver 11.

[0266] In variant 3, as in variant 2, the driver actuator 9 is permanently connected to the driver 11 by a rotatable connection. A permanent connection is not required, and it is assumed that a disengaged connection can be used. In this embodiment, since the driver actuator 9 is at a certain angle from the hydraulic ram 40, a contact / sliding connection F exists between the hydraulic ram 40 and the driver actuator 9. Thus, the driver actuator 9 is equipped with a bias, i.e., a spring bias 31 or similar, that biases the driver actuator in the stopping direction X, as shown in Figure 104.

[0267] Other embodiments of the driver actuator 9 are possible, in which the arm of the driver actuator 9 is a telescopic arm including an internal or external spring / air spring. The driver actuator 9 may be in constant contact with the hydraulic ram 40, and lost motion is achieved by a spring that engages the stack until it reaches a certain limit compression point that allows the arm to then drive the driver 11. This embodiment is not shown.

[0268] Driver Actuator Driver Modification Form 4 A fourth variant of the driver actuator 9 is shown in Figures 105 and 106. These figures are simplified for clarity. In this embodiment, the driver actuator 9 is a combination of two hydraulic rams that are hydraulically connected together. The first hydraulic ram 71 is configured to actuate a driver 11 (not shown) and then drive the retaining device 6. The first ram 71 is hydraulically connected via a hydraulic line 70 to a second hydraulic ram 72, which can be driven by a hydraulic actuator 40 that drives the retaining device 3. There is no hydraulic connection between the hydraulic actuator 40 and the driver actuator 9. In the first position shown in Figure 105, the retaining device 3 is in an extended position to block the passage of the second receptacle R2. In this position, the arm 73 or any mechanism such as a linkage of the driver actuator 9 is not engaged with the second ram 72. When the hydraulic actuator 40 is retracted and the holding device 3 is retracted, the mechanism or arm 73 connected to the hydraulic actuator 40 or the holding device 3 retracts and returns to a state engaged with the second ram 72. Then, as shown in Figure 106, the second ram 72 is pushed in by the arm 73, hydraulically acting the first ram 71, and then acting the driver and the holding device 6.

[0269] In this system, the driver actuator 9 is hydraulically independent of the hydraulic actuator 40, and the system does not share any fluid. The driver actuator 9 does not have a hydraulic pump 9, and the fluid is stored within the system.

[0270] A similar lost motion system may be used as previously described, where the stroke of the retaining device 3 is longer than the stroke required for the driver actuator 9 to push the second ram 72. Preferably, the first and second hydraulic rams of the driver actuator 9 are of different sizes, appropriately configured for the stroke and power required to drive the driver and retaining device 6. As mentioned above, the system may also utilize a bias to retract the first ram 71.

[0271] This system can be modified and changed in several ways, for example, by acting the second ram 72 by the hydraulic actuator 40. Those skilled in the art will understand the basic concept behind this system and determine the details accordingly. Modification 4 of the driver actuator may be preferred for use with larger couplers where the distance between the retaining device 3 and the hydraulic actuator 40 is further away from the retaining device 6. For smaller couplers, the driver actuators 9 of modifications 2 and 3 may be more suitable.

[0272] Driver Actuator Driver Modification Form 5 A fifth variant of the driver actuator 9 is shown in Figure 107. This figure is simplified for clarity and does not show the trigger mechanism / holding system. The trigger mechanism may be one of those described herein. Variant 5 of the driver actuator 9 is similar in style to the pushrods of variants 2 and 3, except that in variant 5 the pushrod 82 is driven by a cam-type system 81. There may be one or more cams 81 driven directly or indirectly by the hydraulic ram 40 or the holding device 3. In a preferred embodiment, the hydraulic ram 40 (instead of the holding device 3) acts on the cams 81 so that they are closer to the holding system of the forward receptacle 1 than the holding device 3. The cams 81 can then directly or indirectly drive the driver 11 (not shown in Figure 107).

[0273] In a preferred variant, the cam 81 drives a follower 83 of the pushrod 82. The pushrod 82 then drives the driver 11. The cam 81 also has a follower 86 on the hydraulic ram 40 that is complementary to the driver contact portion 87. The contact portion 87 engages with the follower 86 to rotate the cam 81.

[0274] The cam 81 is spring-biased by a spring 85, causing it to rotate in a direction that follows the hydraulic ram 40, and further, allowing the push rod 82 to move in a direction X that enables the retaining device to move to its retaining position 6A. The rotation of the cam 81 may be restricted by a stopper 88, which prevents the cam 81 from over-rotating and from following the hydraulic ram 40 too far. The rotation of the cam 81 is around its cam rotation axis 87. Preferably, the rotation axis 87 is perpendicular to the operating direction X of the hydraulic ram 40 and / or the direction of movement of the push rod 82.

[0275] The driver actuator 9 can be modified by having a cam 81 or multiple cams, thereby preventing its translational speed from being directly proportional to the travel speed of the hydraulic ram 40. The cam shape can also incorporate lost motion between the hydraulic ram 40 and the push rod of the driver actuator 9. This lost motion is in the form of a cam 81 having a portion 89 on the outer circumference 88 of the cam that does not extend the push rod of the driver actuator 9 when the cam 81 rotates.

[0276] Alternatively, or in combination, the driver actuator 9 may be equipped with a stopper that prevents the cam from following the hydraulic ram 40 at a specific position.

[0277] As with other variations, the push rod 82 is biased, like a spring, to keep the follower 83 engaged with the cam 81. Figure 107 shows a spring 84 that keeps the follower 83 of the driver actuator push rod 82 engaged with the cam 81. As shown in Figure 107, this spring 85 biases the driver to the driver's retracted position 9A.

[0278] Other biases that may be possible in any of the modified forms are hydraulic damping, such as air or other gases, which can be compressed and are also biased to expand in volume to push or expand the driver actuator 9. Similarly, elastic stoppers or forming parts can also be used. In other embodiments, the driver actuator 9 or other features may rely on gravity to move and return to the biased position.

[0279] The system is shown in a simplified side view, and the variant configuration may have multiple features of those described, but side by side. For example, in a larger coupler, there may be multiple driver actuators 9.

[0280] Other details In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the holding system may not include a driver 11 and instead may have a configuration that allows the trigger 10 to directly couple and uncouple the driver actuator 9 from the holding device 6. This means that the driver actuator may be pivoted or similarly configured to allow uncoupling with the holding device 6 / lug 8.

[0281] In some embodiments, a sound may be emitted via speaker 43 when the operator enters a particular mode. In a preferred embodiment shown in Figure 52, a lockout switch 44 is also provided. The coupler hydraulic system can be used when the operator activates switch 44. In a preferred embodiment, a buzzer 43 sounds simultaneously with the activation of switch 44. In this preferred embodiment, there can be no accidental release of any pin P1 or P2 without the activation of switch 44, which allows the hydraulic system to be activated to release either of the retaining devices 3 and 6.

[0282] Where the preceding explanation refers to an element or integer that has known equivalents, such equivalents are included as if they were listed separately.

[0283] Although the present invention has been described illustratively and with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that modifications and / or improvements can be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A coupler for securing an attachment to an earthmoving machine, the coupler comprising a coupler body providing a receptacle having a mouse opening, the pin of the attachment being able to move through the mouse opening and through a passage in the receptacle to a capture area of ​​the receptacle, the passage in the receptacle being able to be sufficiently blocked by a retaining device provided movably from and relative to the coupler body so as to prevent the pin from leaving the capture area, the retaining device being biased to a first position where the passage is blocked so as to prevent the pin from leaving the capture area, and being able to move to a second position relative to the passage, thereby, (i) By pressing the pin against the retaining device and moving the retaining device toward the second position against its biasing force, the pin enters the capture area, (ii) The driver enables the pin to exit the capture area, and the driver can be moved relative to the coupler body so that (a) it can be coupled to the retaining device, enabling the driver to move the retaining device to its second position, and (b) it can be discoupled from the retaining device, preventing the driver from controlling the position of the retaining device between its first and second positions. The coupler further comprises a trigger, the trigger being movable relative to the coupler body in such a manner that when the trigger is moved by the pin, the driver can be disengaged from the retaining device, and the trigger engages with the pin and can be moved by the pin as the pin moves through the passage.

2. The coupler according to claim 1, wherein the trigger can cause the coupled retaining device and driver to be uncoupled, thereby allowing the retaining device to move to its first position under the influence of the biasing force if it is not in its first position.

3. The coupler according to claim 1, wherein the trigger can move the coupled retaining device and driver relative to each other to discouple them, thereby preventing the retaining device from moving to its first position by the driver.

4. The coupler according to claim 1, wherein the driver can move between a coupled state and a discoupled state by the driver actuator.

5. The coupler according to claim 1, wherein the retaining device is mounted such that it moves in a rotational manner relative to the main body around the rotating axis of the retaining device.

6. The coupler according to claim 1, wherein the driver is coupled to a driver actuator such that the driver is moved in a manner that allows the holding device to be moved.

7. The coupler according to claim 6, wherein when the driver actuator is activated, it moves the driver in the operating direction, and when the driver is coupled to the retaining device, the retaining device can move to or toward its second position.

8. The coupler according to claim 5, wherein the trigger is mounted on the main body such that it is translated relative to the main body in the trigger direction and perpendicular to the rotation axis of the holding device.

9. The coupler according to claim 6, wherein the driver is configured to lose contact with or discouple from the driver actuator.

10. The coupler according to claim 1, wherein a second receptacle is provided by the coupler body at a position away from the first receptacle, and the second receptacle is provided for receiving and holding a second pin of the attachment.

11. The coupler according to claim 10, wherein a second receptacle is provided that can hold the second pin of the attachment when the first receptacle holds the first pin, and / or the second receptacle can hold the second pin of the attachment when the first receptacle does not have the first pin therein.

12. The coupler according to claim 11, wherein a second retaining device is provided, the second retaining device being positioned by the coupler body in such a manner that it moves between a first position of the second retaining device that prevents the second pin positioned in the second receptacle from exiting the second receptacle and a second position of the second retaining device that allows the retained second pin to be released from the second receptacle.

13. The coupler according to claim 12, wherein the second retaining device is operated to move between the first position and the second position by an actuator of the second retaining device.

14. The coupler according to claim 12, wherein the second holding device actuator is a hydraulic actuator.

15. The coupler according to claim 12, wherein the driver actuator is operated directly or indirectly by the second holding device actuator.

16. The coupler according to claim 15, wherein the driver actuator is not self-powered.

17. The coupler according to claim 15, wherein the driver actuator is configured to engage with the second retaining actuator or the second retaining device when it is retracted to an engagement position, and when the push rod is in or past the engagement position, moves together with the second retaining actuator or the second retaining device, thereby simultaneously moving the driver.

18. The coupler according to claim 6, wherein the driver actuator is a combination of a first hydraulic actuator and a second hydraulic actuator, both of which are hydraulically connected.

19. The coupler according to claim 18, wherein the driver actuator comprises an arm driven by the second holding device or the second holding device actuator, and the arm hydraulically drives the first hydraulic actuator, and therefore the second hydraulic actuator that drives the driver.

20. A coupler for securing an attachment to an earthmoving machine, the coupler comprising a coupler body providing a receptacle having a mouse opening, the pin of the attachment being able to move through the mouse opening and through a passage in the receptacle to a capture area of ​​the receptacle, the passage in the receptacle being able to be sufficiently blocked by a retaining device provided movably from and relative to the coupler body so as to prevent the pin from leaving the capture area, the retaining device being biased to a first position where the passage is blocked so as to prevent the pin from leaving the capture area, and being able to move to a second position relative to the passage, thereby, (i) By pressing the pin against the retaining device and moving the retaining device toward the second position against its biasing force, the pin enters the capture area, (ii) The driver enables the pin to exit the capture area, and the driver can be moved relative to the coupler body so that (a) it can be coupled to the retaining device, enabling the driver to move the retaining device to its second position, and (b) it can be discoupled from the retaining device, preventing the driver from controlling the position of the retaining device between its first and second positions. The coupler further comprises a trigger, the trigger being translatable relative to the coupler body in such a manner that when the trigger is translated by the pin, the driver can be discoupled from the retaining device, and the trigger engages with the pin and is translated by the pin when the pin is moved through the passage, and the driver is supported by the trigger.

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