Quick Change Units and Quick Change Systems

Abstract

The present invention relates to a quick change unit (10, 110) as part of a quick change system for construction machinery, comprising a housing (12, 112) with two longitudinal walls (18) on either side, two transverse walls (20) on either side, a top side, and a bottom side, a block cylinder (28, 30) inside the housing (12, 112), a locking device (24) with at least one locking bolt (54, 154) and a drive device, the at least one locking bolt (54, 154) protruding from one of the two transverse walls (20) in the locked position, at least one first type connecting element (32) with a connecting end section (31), and at least one second type connecting element (36, 136) with a connecting end section (35). At least one first type coupling element (32) and at least one second type coupling element (36, 136) are hydraulically connected to one another, and the at least one second type coupling element (36, 136) is disposed on one of the two longitudinal walls (18) of the housing (12, 112).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a quick coupler and a quick coupler system. [Background technology]

[0002] Construction machinery can cover a wide range of applications using interchangeable attachments, such as hydraulic grabs, excavator buckets, and dredging buckets. To allow for maximum versatility, it is important to be able to quickly and safely switch between attachments. For this purpose, quick-change devices exist for construction machinery, which include a quick coupler on the vehicle side (i.e., the boom side) and an adapter on the tool side. These can be easily coupled to each other without the operator having to leave the vehicle to do this manually.

[0003] For this purpose, the quick coupler and the frame-like adapter are generally provided with means for creating a mechanical connection between the quick coupler and the adapter. Typically, these are a protrusion on the quick coupler and a pair of movable locking bolts, whereby the protrusion and the locking bolts are located on both sides of the quick coupler. The frame-type adapter is suitably provided with a transverse bolt for hooking onto the protrusion on the quick coupler and two parallel locking holes for the pair of locking bolts.

[0004] Connections between quick couplers and adapters, as is known in the art, are made in two steps. In the first step, the quick coupler is typically positioned at an angle relative to the adapter so that protrusions located on the quick coupler surround transverse bolts located on the opposing adapter. The quick coupler is then pivoted into a locking position where the adapter frame can surround the quick coupler, with the horizontal plane of the quick coupler aligned parallel to the horizontal plane of the adapter. In the second step, a pair of locking bolts located on the quick coupler move longitudinally into corresponding locking holes in the opposing adapter, creating a secure lock between the quick coupler and the adapter.

[0005] The pair of movable locking bolts of the quick coupler are typically connected to a hydraulic drive that is movable along its longitudinal axis and that in turn receives pressurized hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic system of the construction machine.

[0006] To this end, commonly known quick couplers have one or more hydraulic connections (coupling elements) with corresponding valves at the top of the quick coupler, which extend through corresponding recesses in the quick coupler housing to a blocking cylinder arranged inside the housing, which in turn is hydraulically connected to the hydraulic drive of the locking bolt pair.

[0007] These connecting elements serve to quickly connect the hydraulic hoses of the construction machine to the hydraulic system of the construction machine by connecting the ends of each hydraulic hose with the corresponding connecting element on the opposite side to each connecting element of the quick coupler. Through these connecting elements of the quick coupler, pressurized hydraulic fluid can be supplied to and appropriately controlled by the hydraulic drive of the quick coupler. Control is suitably performed from the cab of the operator of the construction machine.

[0008] German Patent Application Publication No. 102017122889 acknowledges that arranging the hydraulic connection on the upper side of the quick coupler has the disadvantage that the quick coupler is relatively high, which means that the excavator arm can only engage the quick coupler housing at a certain distance. As a solution, German Patent Application Publication No. 102017122889 proposes removing the corresponding valve of the hydraulic connection from the upper region of the block cylinder and inserting it into a side of the block cylinder extending transversely to the longitudinal axis, so that the bore of the block cylinder is located next to the bore of the pair of locking bolts. This avoids a high structure on the upper side of the quick coupler.

[0009] Typically, additional connection elements are provided on the upper side of the quick coupler and are connected to other lines of the construction machine via connection elements on the opposite side. These additional connection elements hydraulically connect to other connection elements on the lower side of the quick coupler. The additional connection elements on the lower side of the quick coupler can likewise be connected to one or more opposite connection elements on the tool side of the adapter, thereby allowing the vehicle-side hydraulic circuit to be connected to the tool-side hydraulic circuit via the quick coupler. See, for example, WO 91 / 001414.

[0010] However, to switch between tools, the connection between the other connecting element on the underside of the quick coupler and the connecting element on the opposite side of the adapter must be released, thus exposing the other connecting element on the underside of the quick coupler to weather conditions and construction site conditions, particularly dust and mud.

[0011] For example, if mud accumulates on the other connecting element of the quick coupler, it may penetrate into the quick coupler when connected to the connecting element on the opposite side of the other adapter, clogging the valve inside the other connecting element of the quick coupler. A known problem with quick couplers is that the other connecting element for connecting the adapter frequently becomes defective and needs to be replaced. The present invention aims to at least significantly reduce, and preferably completely avoid, this drawback of known quick couplers. Additionally, wear on the connecting element on the opposite side of the adapter due to exposure to mud and dirt is at least reduced. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0012] [Patent Document 1] German Patent Application Publication No. 102017122889 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 91 / 001414 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0013] The goal of the present invention is therefore to provide a quick coupler and a quick coupler system that is easy to handle and has a compact design, and whose connecting elements are protected, in particular, from the effects of mud and weather and the resulting premature wear. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] According to the present invention, this object is solved by providing a quick coupler with the features according to independent claim 1 and a quick coupler system according to claim 16.

[0015] Preferred embodiments can be found in the dependent claims.

[0016] The quick coupler according to the present invention comprises two longitudinal walls on both sides, two transverse walls on both sides, a top side and a bottom side, a block cylinder inside the housing, a locking device with at least one locking bolt and a drive device protruding from one of the two transverse walls in a locked position, at least one first-type coupling element having a coupling end section, and at least one second-type coupling element having a coupling end section, wherein the at least one first-type coupling element and the at least one second-type coupling element are hydraulically connected to each other, and the at least one second-type coupling element is arranged on one of the two longitudinal walls of the housing.

[0017] Thus, the present invention concisely solves the practical problem of the prior art, which is that the second type of coupling element must be easily accessible so that it can be coupled to a coupling element on the opposite side of a hydraulic hose of a construction machine or so that a coupling element can be coupled to a coupling element on the opposite side of an adapter. However, due to the required compactness of the quick coupler and its position between the adapter and the boom of the construction machine, the possibilities for arranging the coupling element are limited, which results in the fact that the coupling element is generally arranged on the top and / or bottom side of the quick coupler. However, in the uncoupled state, the coupling element is particularly exposed to weather conditions and mud on the construction site and is therefore often damaged. This is especially true for the second type of coupling element, since they are more often left uncoupled.

[0018] The second type of coupling element, located on the longitudinal wall of the housing, offers the particular advantage that its exposure to weather conditions is significantly reduced. This is because, for example, raindrops simply run off the sides of the quick coupler, so that moisture cannot remain on the coupling element. The same applies, for example, to snow, and mud is less likely to adhere to, for example, the sides of the quick coupler than to the top or bottom.

[0019] Due to the fact that the locking bolt and the second type of connecting element are arranged on two housing walls that are perpendicular to each other, the quick coupler is particularly easy to handle, since at least one side with the second type of connecting element is still easily accessible even when the quick coupler is locked to the adapter.

[0020] The hydraulic connection feature between the first type of connecting element and the second type of connecting element should be interpreted broadly according to the present invention. This simply means that a fluid flow is possible between the first type of connecting element and the second type of connecting element. The first type of connecting element and the second type of connecting element can be provided for a forward flow or a return flow, depending on the application.

[0021] Preferably, several connecting elements of the first type and / or connecting elements of the second type are provided.

[0022] The term connecting element should be interpreted broadly. Preferably, where applicable, it means a valve with a corresponding device for conducting pressurized hydraulic fluid in a connectable protective housing. The connecting element can be constructed of one or more parts common in the prior art for connecting connecting elements on opposite sides of construction machines or adapters. However, the term connecting element in this application also means a general valve or a valve with a hydraulic connection and a plug.

[0023] By the term connecting end section the present invention means the section of a connecting element that is used to connect to a connecting element on the opposite side.

[0024] In a preferred further development, at least one connecting element of the first type is arranged on a longitudinal wall of the housing, which on the one hand protects the connecting element of the first type from environmental influences and on the other hand ensures that the connecting element is easily accessible even in the installed and locked state.

[0025] It is further preferred that at least the coupling end section of the second type of coupling element is adjustable between an operating position and a base position. In the operating position, the coupling end section of the second type of coupling element protrudes from the longitudinal wall of the housing. A corresponding opposite coupling element of the construction machine or adapter can then be coupled to the coupling end section.

[0026] The basic position of the second type of connecting element is characterized by the fact that the second type of connecting element is arranged in the housing of the quick coupler so that it is largely protected from exposure to mud, dust, rain, snow, etc. This means that it is in a protected position. On the other hand, in the operating position, the second type of connecting element is positioned so that it can be connected to a connecting element on the opposite side of a hydraulic hose of a construction machine or to a connecting element on the opposite side of an adapter of a tool.

[0027] The present invention seeks to make the coupling elements of the quick coupler adjustable, in particular movable, tiltable, and / or pivotable, between a base position (protected position) and an operating position (coupled position), and vice versa. In this way, the coupling elements can be positioned in predetermined positions on the quick coupler, where the coupling elements on the opposite side are easily accessible, but are protected from harmful external influences in the protected position. Depending on the positioning of the second type of coupling element inside the housing, the second type of coupling element can be shifted, pivoted, tilted, or moved to change from the base position to the operating position.

[0028] The coupling end section of the second type coupling element is preferably located inside the housing in the basic position. In this way, the coupling end section of the second type coupling element, and the entire second type coupling element, are protected from dust, mud, and weather influences in the basic position. If the second type coupling element is not needed, for example because there is no need to supply hydraulic fluid to the work tool, the second type coupling element can remain protected in the basic position. Even when exchanging one adapter for the next, the second type coupling element is preferably retracted into the housing and only extended when needed again.

[0029] In particular, it is advantageous if at least one second type of coupling element is connected to a coupling drive device, whereby at least a second coupling end section of the second type of coupling element is adjustable between a basic position and an operating position and vice versa.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the coupling drive device comprises at least one linear drive attached to the block cylinder, which serves to linearly move at least a coupling end section of at least one coupling element of the second type between a basic position and an operating position.

[0031] The at least one linear drive is preferably a hydraulic drive. In a preferred embodiment, the coupling drive device can be hydraulically connected to at least one coupling element of a third type, by which said linear drive can be coupled to a hydraulic system of the construction machine.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, at least one third-type coupling element is provided, preferably positioned on a longitudinal wall of the housing. The third-type coupling element is generally used to supply the corresponding fluid to a hydraulic device inside the quick coupler. It is therefore positioned in the forward or return flow of the supply line. The third-type coupling element can be hydraulically connected, for example, to a coupling drive device or a hydraulically operated locking device.

[0033] The third type of coupling element may correspond in design to the first type of coupling element, and thus is not hydraulically connected to the second type of coupling element, but serves to control the hydraulic drive of the quick coupler, in this case serving to conveniently control the coupling drive device, preferably from the cab of the operator of the construction machine.

[0034] It is further preferred that the quick coupler is equipped with at least two second-type coupling elements, where at least the coupling end sections of the second-type coupling elements are simultaneously adjustable between a basic position and an operating position, and vice versa. For example, at least two second-type coupling elements are provided that are positioned on both longitudinal walls of the housing and are adjustable by a common coupling drive device. In particular, in this embodiment, it is advantageous for the coupling drive device to have a double-acting hydraulic cylinder, which is preferably aligned parallel to the transverse wall of the housing. In this way, two second-type coupling elements can be simultaneously operated on two different longitudinal walls.

[0035] It goes without saying that any number of adjustable second-type connecting elements can be provided on both longitudinal walls. The number of adjustable second-type connecting elements can be the same or different on both longitudinal walls. The arrangement of the second-type connecting elements on both longitudinal walls can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, preferably mirror symmetrical.

[0036] For example, if a hydraulic cylinder interacts with a connecting bridge against which the second type connecting element is stationary, then on one longitudinal wall several adjustable second type connecting elements can also be used, which can be actuated by a double-acting hydraulic cylinder.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the locking device comprises at least two locking bolts, which are oriented in opposite directions and are adjustable between a closed position and an open position and vice versa by a common actuation device. This creates a particularly secure connection between the adapter and the quick coupler, since the locking between the adapter and the quick coupler takes place on two opposite sides.

[0038] For actuating the two locking bolts on either side, the coupling drive device advantageously comprises a double-acting hydraulic cylinder, which is preferably aligned parallel to the longitudinal wall of the housing.

[0039] A particularly secure locking device is realized by providing a pair of locking bolts on each transverse side, which are arranged parallel and spaced apart relative to one another, and which are adjustable by a common drive device between a closed position and an open position and vice versa. Preferably, the two locking bolts can be moved independently of one another, but they can also be moved simultaneously.

[0040] These locking bolts can be actuated, for example, by hydraulic cylinders that can be actuated from two sides and that are part of the actuation device and interact with the locking bridges.

[0041] In another preferred embodiment, the drive device is at least one linear hydraulic drive, which is hydraulically connected to at least one connecting element of a third type.

[0042] The embodiment in which the double-acting hydraulic cylinder of the locking drive device is arranged parallel to the longitudinal wall of the housing and the double-acting hydraulic cylinder of the coupling drive device is arranged parallel to the transverse wall of the housing has the advantage that they can be arranged on two sides, so that the coupling element and the locking bolt, and therefore the coupling and locking functions of the quick coupler, do not influence each other.

[0043] Preferably, the hydraulic connection is made by a block cylinder. The first type connecting elements and the second type connecting elements can be or are connectable directly to each other via lines, which are, for example, conducted through the block cylinder. However, pressurized hydraulic fluid can also be conducted into the block cylinder via the first type connecting elements and sent to the second type connecting elements via a distribution device or other device, for example in the block cylinder. Furthermore, several first type connecting elements can be hydraulically connected to one or more second type connecting elements and vice versa.

[0044] Advantageously, the block cylinder comprises a first block cylinder and a second block cylinder, the second block cylinder being positioned below the first block cylinder, at least one second type of coupling element being provided on the first block cylinder, and at least a part of the locking device being positioned on a face of the second block cylinder, so that the locking device can be actuated separately from the coupling element and can be supplied with fluid as required.

[0045] The second block cylinder is preferably rigidly connected to the first block cylinder, for example by screws, adhesive, plugs or welding, or even formed integrally with the first block cylinder.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, if the locking device comprises at least one drive device with a locking piston, which serves to drive the at least two locking bolts, it is advantageous if this locking piston is located inside the second block cylinder, which allows for a very compact design.

[0047] In an embodiment in which at least the coupling end section of the second type of coupling element is adjustable between an operating position and a base position and a coupling drive device is provided, it is advantageous if the coupling drive device is positioned on the first block cylinder.

[0048] For a particularly compact arrangement of the hydraulic drive for the locking device and the plurality of connecting elements, it is advantageous if openings for the connecting elements of the second type are provided in the longitudinal walls of the block cylinder and if openings are provided in the second brick cylinder at the transverse sides of the block cylinder.

[0049] To allow easy installation of the adjustable second-type connecting element on the quick coupler, the first block cylinder preferably has a T-shaped cross section with a base and a ceiling, whereby at least one first-type connecting element is positioned on the ceiling surface and at least one second-type connecting element is positioned on the base surface, so that even larger and more elaborately designed second-type connecting elements have sufficient space available inside the housing.

[0050] The present invention further comprises a quick coupler system including the quick coupler described and an adapter connectable to a work tool, the quick coupler being mechanically and hydraulically connectable to the adapter.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the adapter comprises two longitudinal adapter sides on either side and at least two transverse bolts, which are connected at their end sections in a bearing-like manner to the longitudinal adapter sides of the adapter.

[0052] With this embodiment, the changeover time from one adapter to the next can be significantly reduced, since, among other things, the complex surrounding of the adapter transverse bolts with the quick coupler projections can be omitted.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, at least one opposing second type connecting element is located on at least one longitudinal wall of the adapter, and the opposing connecting element can be connected to at least one second type connecting element, preferably located on the inner side of the longitudinal wall of the adapter.

[0054] It has proven advantageous if the second type of connecting element on the opposite side is formed as a connecting block, which is preferably provided on the outside of the adapter, e.g., the connecting block can be turned into an outlet in the side wall, whereby the connecting block becomes more easily accessible.

[0055] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described in further detail in the following figures, but the present invention is not meant to be limited to these specific exemplary embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0056] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a side view of the quick coupler system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the quick coupler. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a double block cylinder. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the quick coupler excluding the housing. [Figure 7] 7 is a schematic representation of the quick coupler of FIG. 6, excluding the housing. [Figure 8] This is the design diagram of Figure 7. [Figure 9] 3 is a schematic representation of a hydraulic connection between a first type connecting element or a third type connecting element and a second type connecting element; [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a top view of the quick coupler system in a coupled state. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the quick coupler system in a coupled state. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a quick coupler. [Figure 13] 10A-10C show alternative embodiments of a block cylinder with locking and coupling elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0057] 1 shows a side view of the quick coupler system. The quick coupler system is comprised of a quick coupler 10 and an adapter 70, which can be connected to each other.

[0058] The quick coupler 10 comprises a housing 12 having an upper housing wall 14 on the construction machine or boom side, a lower housing wall 16 arranged on the opposite side thereof, side walls, i.e., two longitudinal walls 18 of the housing arranged on opposite sides, two transverse walls 20 extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the quick coupler 10, and a two-tier block cylinder 26 (see Figure 3) with a first block cylinder 28 and a second block cylinder 30 inside the housing.

[0059] A plurality of first type connecting elements 32, second type connecting elements 36, and third type connecting elements 32' are mounted in corresponding openings 22 in the housing 12 on the common opposing longitudinal housing wall 18 of the quick coupler 10. The second type connecting elements 36 extend perpendicular to the longitudinal housing wall 18 of the housing 12, while the first type connecting elements 32 and the third type connecting elements 32' are angled and have their free ends facing toward the upper housing wall 14. The first type connecting elements 32 and the third type connecting elements 32' are essentially identical in structure but function differently, as will be further explained below.

[0060] The first type connecting element 32 and the third type connecting element 32', and in particular the second type connecting element 36, are not arranged on the upper housing wall 14 on the side of the construction machine and on the boom side, nor on the lower housing wall 16 arranged on the opposite side thereof, or on the transverse housing wall 20 of the housing 12.

[0061] 1 additionally shows a pair of locking bolts 54, which are arranged perpendicular to each housing transverse wall 20 and extend into the interior of the housing 12 through respective openings in the housing transverse walls 20 of the housing 12. The two pairs of locking bolts 54 are movable in opposite directions through the openings in the housing 12 between a closed position and an open position, and vice versa. For this purpose, a locking device 24 is provided inside the housing 12, which will be described in more detail below.

[0062] The longitudinal axis of the quick coupler 10 is defined by the extension direction of the locking bolt 54 of the locking device 24 and corresponds to the longitudinal axis of conventional quick couplers according to the art.

[0063] The shape of the housing 12 consists of a main section with a rectangular cross section and two protrusions 21. Each of the protrusions 21 is provided on a transverse wall 20 of the housing (only one protrusion 21 is shown in FIG. 1). The transition from the main section of the quick coupler 10 to the protrusions 21 is smooth.

[0064] The adapter 70 comprises an adapter base 72 and two longitudinal adapter sides 74 that extend parallel to the length of the adapter 70 .

[0065] Each longitudinal adapter side 74 of the adapter 70 has, in its upper region, two bores positioned on either side of each other, into each of which an end section of a transverse bolt 78 is attached, whereby the two longitudinal adapter sides 74 are connected to each other via the two transverse bolts 78.

[0066] Furthermore, two, oppositely shown, coupling elements 76 of a second type are located on the longitudinal adapter sides 74 of the adapter 70 .

[0067] Each second type coupling element 76 on the opposite side of the adapter 70 is connectable to a hydraulic hose (not shown) that runs to a tool (not shown) to which the adapter 70 is connectable. The second type coupling element 36 is used to couple to a corresponding second type coupling element 76 on the opposite side of the adapter 70 to control a hydraulically operated tool.

[0068] The first type connecting element 32 or the third type connecting element 32' is used to connect to a first type connecting element on the opposite side via a hydraulic hose of a construction machine (not shown).

[0069] The main functional difference between the first type connecting elements 32 and the third type connecting elements 32' is that each first type connecting element 32 is fluidly connected to at least one second type connecting element 36, which serves to supply and / or return hydraulic fluid between the first type connecting element 32 and the second type connecting element 36. Conversely, the third type connecting element 32' does not serve to supply and / or return hydraulic fluid to the second type connecting element 36, but rather to a hydraulic drive located inside the housing 12. The third type connecting element 32' and the second type connecting element 36 are therefore not hydraulically connected to each other.

[0070] Each first type connecting element 32 or third type connecting element 32' includes a connecting section 31. Each first type connecting element 32 or third type connecting element 32' extends outwardly through a recess in the longitudinal wall 18 of the housing 12 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal wall 18 of the housing 12 and transitions to the connecting end section 31 of the first type connecting element 32 or third type connecting element 32' at an angle such that the connecting end section of each first type connecting element 32 or third type connecting element 32' faces upward.

[0071] Each of the first type connecting element 32 or the third type connecting element 32' is threadedly fastened to the housing 12 of the quick coupler 10 by a swivel screw fitting 34.

[0072] Inside each first type connecting element 32 or third type connecting element 32' there is preferably a valve, which is open in the connected state and closed in the unconnected state. Additionally, another device can be located inside each first type connecting element 32 or third type 32', which device serves for example to feed and / or return hydraulic fluid in the connected state and to ensure fluid tightness.

[0073] The first type connecting element 32 or the third type connecting element 32' is preferably a quick-release connecting element, which can be designed as a male or female connecting element. The first type connecting element 32 and the third type connecting element 32' are rigidly connected to the housing 12.

[0074] On the other hand, the second type of coupling element 36 is hydraulically movable or linearly displaceable perpendicular to the longitudinal housing wall 18 of the quick coupler 10 between a basic position and a closed position and is shown in the operating position in FIG. 1 .

[0075] The second type of coupling element 36 consists of a coupling plug 40 and a coupling piston 42, which in this case are a valve plug and a valve piston (see FIG. 6). They can be designed as male or female coupling elements. They are preferably quick-release coupling elements.

[0076] A valve is provided inside each second type connecting element 36, preferably in the connecting plug 40 or as a component in the second type connecting element 36. This valve is open in the connected state and closed in the unconnected state.

[0077] Each second type connecting element 36, i.e., at least the connecting end section 35 of each second type connecting element 36, extends outward through a corresponding opening in the longitudinal housing wall 18 of the quick coupler 10, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal housing wall 18 of the quick coupler 10 in the operating position.

[0078] Inside the housing 12 of the quick coupler 10, the connecting pistons 42 of the second type connecting elements 36 extend into the first block cylinders 28 (see FIG. 6). Each connecting piston 42 of the second type connecting elements 36 is positioned in a recess 37 of the first block cylinders 28 (see FIGS. 3 and 4).

[0079] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the quick coupler 10.

[0080] One can see the block cylinder 26, along with the first block cylinder 28 and the second block cylinder 30, disposed entirely inside the housing 12. Here, the block cylinder 26 is oriented within the housing such that the longitudinal axis of the quick coupler 10 in the housing 12 is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axes of the block cylinders 28, 30, and vice versa.

[0081] 3 and 4, the first block cylinder 28 has a T-shaped cross section with a first surface 27 and a second surface 29. The second surface 29 of the first block cylinder 28 is recessed from the first surface 27.

[0082] Below the first block cylinder 28 is a second block cylinder 30. The second block cylinder 30 is cubic with a square cross section and is smaller than the first block cylinder 28. The second block cylinder 30 extends longitudinally of the first block cylinder 28 at a distance from the edge of the first block cylinder 28, so that the block cylinder 26 has a cross section that gradually decreases in a stepped manner from the first face 27 of the first block cylinder 28 to the second block cylinder 30.

[0083] The first block cylinder 28 and the second block cylinder 30 can be connected to each other by screws, adhesive, plugs, or other connections. The first block cylinder 28 and the second block cylinder 30 can also be integrally formed as a double block cylinder.

[0084] 2 shows an embodiment in which nine first type connecting elements 32 and / or third type connecting elements 32' are provided in the upper region of the first block cylinder 28. There are four on one longitudinal wall of the first block cylinder 28 and five on the opposite longitudinal wall of the first block cylinder 28.

[0085] Preferably, of the shown connecting elements, five are first-type connecting elements 32 and four are third-type connecting elements 32'. The number of first-type connecting elements 32 is preferably equal to the number of second-type connecting elements 36, since in any given case, one first-type connecting element 32 can be fluidly connected to one second-type connecting element 36. The recesses 33 of the first block cylinder 28 are aligned with corresponding openings in the housing 12, so that the first-type connecting elements 32 and the third-type connecting elements 32' protrude into the recesses 33 in the first block cylinder 28 at the openings in the housing 12.

[0086] Inside the first block cylinder 28 there are hydraulic lines and, if necessary, distribution devices hydraulically connected to these nine connecting elements. Five of these lines run inside the first block cylinder 28 to a second type connecting element 36 located below the level of the first type connecting element 32, so that the first type connecting element 32 and the second type connecting element 36 are hydraulically connected to each other. Needless to say, some devices of the first block cylinder 28 can also be inserted into this connection, but this will not be described in further detail.

[0087] The line in the second type connecting element 36 also passes into the first block cylinder 28 and is thereby hydraulically connected to the first type connecting element 32 .

[0088] The number and distribution of the first type of connecting elements 32 and / or the third type of connecting elements 32' can be varied (see FIG. 3).

[0089] In the embodiment of the block cylinder 28 shown in Figure 3, preferably six recesses 33 are provided in the upper region of the longitudinal wall of the first block cylinder 28, i.e. in the first face 27 of the first block cylinder 28, for receiving the first type of connecting element 32 and / or the third type of connecting element 32'. These six recesses 33 are arranged in succession.

[0090] In the opposite longitudinal wall (not shown) of the first block cylinder 28, three further recesses 33 for receiving the first type of connecting elements 32 and / or the third type of connecting elements 32' are preferably arranged in a similar manner on the first face 29 of the first block cylinder 28. These recesses 33 are also preferably arranged consecutively.

[0091] Advantageously, all recesses 33 are provided with a thread into which a first type of connecting element 32 and / or a third type of connecting element 32' can be screwed via the opposite thread. The concept of the invention also includes alternative fastener variants or combinations thereof.

[0092] On the second face 29 of the first block cylinder 28, four further recesses 37 are provided in the illustrated longitudinal wall of the first block cylinder 28. On the opposite longitudinal wall of the first block cylinder 28, at least three further recesses 37, not shown, are provided in the first block cylinder 28. These recesses 37 serve to support second type coupling elements 36, whereby one recess in each longitudinal wall of the first block cylinder 28 serves to support a coupling bridge piston 48.

[0093] The recess 37 of the first block cylinder 28 is aligned with a corresponding opening in the housing 12, and the second type of connecting element 36 protrudes into the recess 37 in the first block cylinder 28 at the opening in the housing 12.

[0094] The second type connecting elements 36 are mounted in the recesses 37 so that they can be adjusted, in particular mounted for movement. The second type connecting elements 36 can be adjustable as a whole, i.e. as a complete unit, in particular so that they can be moved, tilted and / or swiveled. However, as an alternative, only parts of the second type connecting elements 36, such as the connecting end sections of the second type connecting elements 36, can be designed to be adjustable, in particular so that they can be moved, tilted and / or pivoted, while the other parts of the second type connecting elements 36 are rigidly fixed in the recesses 37, for example by means of a screw thread.

[0095] In both end faces of the second block cylinder 30, there are recesses 68 connected to each other via a channel. The double-acting locking bridge piston 58 in the locking device 24 is movably mounted in this channel and can move in the longitudinal direction of the second block cylinder 30. The locking device 24 is described in more detail below.

[0096] The second type of coupling element 36 is connected to a coupling drive device 38. The coupling drive device 38 is described in more detail below with reference to Figures 6 and 7.

[0097] 6 shows an exploded top view of the quick coupler 10, excluding the housing 12. The second block cylinder 30 and the first block cylinder 28 arranged below the second block cylinder 30 can be seen. In the longitudinal axis of the first block cylinder 28, two or three second type coupling elements 36 are mounted in recesses 37 (not shown).

[0098] Each of the second type coupling elements 36 comprises a coupling plug 40 and a coupling piston 42, which are aligned parallel to one another and are connected to a coupling drive device 38. The coupling drive device 38 can move the second type coupling elements 36 between a basic position (protecting position) and an operating position (coupling position).

[0099] For this purpose, the coupling drive device 38 comprises a partial coupling drive device 38a and 38b on each longitudinal wall of the first block cylinder 28. The partial coupling drive devices 38a and 38b are mirror images.

[0100] Each partially coupled drive device 38a, 38b comprises a coupling bridge 46 and a bilaterally acting coupling bridge piston 48. The coupling bridge 46 is of rectangular cross section.

[0101] The connecting bridge piston 48 is rigidly connected to the connecting bridge 46, for example via a screw.

[0102] Each connecting bridge 46 is connected to at least three guiding devices 44 on the block cylinder side. The number of guiding devices 44 corresponds to the number of second type connecting elements 36 plus the number of connecting bridge pistons 48. The guiding devices 44 are preferably ring-shaped and surround the through openings of the connecting bridges 46 on the block cylinder side.

[0103] On the side of the connecting bridge 46 facing away from the block cylinder, the connecting plug 40 of the second type connecting element 36 is positioned in the area of ​​the opening of the connecting bridge 46 and is preferably rigidly connected to the connecting bridge 46 .

[0104] In each guiding device 44 and in the corresponding through opening of the connecting bridge piston 48, at least one section of the connecting bridge piston 48 is mounted so as to be movable perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first block cylinder 28, or alternatively is fixedly connected in cross section to the guiding device 44 and / or to the edge of the opening in the connecting bridge 46, depending on whether only the connecting plug 40 or all the second type connecting elements 36 are designed so as to be movable.

[0105] The connecting bridge piston 48 is mounted in the recess 37 of the first block cylinder 28 and is hydraulically connected to at least one connecting element 32' of the third type.

[0106] Each connecting bridge piston 48 is movable between at least two positions, namely, a position close to the block cylinder and a position remote from the block cylinder.

[0107] In the position of the connecting bridge piston 48 close to the block cylinder, the two connecting bridges 46 of the partial connecting drive devices 38a and 38b are also close to the block cylinder and therefore close to the connecting end section, such as the connecting plug 46 of the second type connecting element 36. Preferably, the connecting drive device 38 is dimensioned such that in this position, the connecting plug 46 (not shown) is entirely contained within the housing 12 of the quick coupler 10. This means that the entire second type connecting element 36 is contained within the housing 12. This position is the home position (protection position) of the second type connecting element 36.

[0108] The connecting bridge piston 48 can be moved from the normal position to a position away from the block cylinder, which means that the connecting plug 46 and the connecting plug 46 with the connecting piston 42 can also be moved to a position away from the block cylinder.

[0109] In this case, the coupling drive device 38 is dimensioned so that at least one coupling end section, preferably all coupling plugs 46 of each second-type coupling element 36, are located outside the housing 12 of the quick coupler 10 in a position spaced apart from the block cylinder. This position is the operating position (coupling position) of the second-type coupling element 36.

[0110] Control of the link bridge piston 48 is effected via at least one link element 32' of a third type, which can be coupled to the hydraulic system of the construction machine. The two partially linked drive devices 38a, 38b are preferably simultaneously, i.e., movable together.

[0111] Additionally, the locking device 24 is clearly visible in FIGS.

[0112] The locking device 24 comprises a first partial locking device 24a and a second partial locking device 24b extending along the longitudinal direction of the second block cylinder 30 on each transverse side of the second block cylinder 30. The partial locking devices 24a and 24b are of mirror-symmetric design.

[0113] Each partial locking device 24 a , 24 b includes a respective locking bridge 56 and bolt driver 60 with a locking bridge piston 58 .

[0114] The locking bridge piston 58 is therefore vertically aligned with the connecting piston 42 .

[0115] The locking bridge 56 can be divided into a middle section 67 and two oppositely facing end sections 69 extending to the left and right of the middle section 67 of the locking bridge 56. The end sections 69 are in line and are recessed from the middle section 67 of the locking bridge 56 towards the second block cylinder 30. In other words, the middle section 67 of the locking bridge 56 is further away from the second block cylinder 30 than the end sections 69 of the locking bridge 56.

[0116] The locking bridge piston 58 is a conventional piston with a section movably mounted inside the second block cylinder 30 and defines at least one hydraulic chamber inside the second block cylinder 30. According to the present invention, the entire system is referred to as a bolt drive 60, so that alternative bolt drives 60 may also be understood according to the present invention as, for example, electric drives.

[0117] With its end section remote from the block cylinder, the locking bridge piston 58 is rigidly connected to the locking bridge 56 in the region of the middle section 67 of the latter, preferably by means of a screw fastening.

[0118] In the region of the end sections 69 of the locking bridges 56, the locking bolts 54 are in each case preferably threadedly attached. The locking bolts 54 extend away from the second block cylinder 30. They preferably extend parallel to one another and form a pair of locking bolts 54. Each locking bolt 54 is provided with a centering section 64 (see FIG. 8).

[0119] Each partial locking device 24a and 24b is preferably individually controllable, so that each locking bridge piston 58 of each partial locking device 24a and 24b can move independently between at least two positions, i.e., a position close to the block cylinder and a position away from the block cylinder.

[0120] In the position of the locking bridge piston 58 in the partial locking devices 24a and 24b close to the block cylinder, the corresponding pair of locking bolts 54 with the corresponding locking bridge 56 are also in a position close to the block cylinder. According to the present invention, this position of the pair of locking bolts 54 is referred to as the open position.

[0121] Each locking bridge piston 58, and therefore each pair of locking bolts 54, can be moved from an open position to a position away from the block cylinder, which, according to the present invention, is a closed position in which the locking bolts protrude through openings in the transverse walls of the housing 12.

[0122] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 1 after cutting at AA. For details, please refer to the descriptions of Figures 6 to 8.

[0123] 9 shows a schematic representation of the hydraulic connections between the first-type connecting elements 32 and the second-type connecting elements 36, and between the third-type connecting elements 32' and the connecting bridge piston 48. Five first-type connecting elements 32, four third-type connecting elements 32', and five second-type connecting elements 36 are shown. Each first-type connecting element 32 is hydraulically connected to a second-type connecting element 36. Two third-type connecting elements 32' are hydraulically connected to the connecting bridge piston 48. The remaining two third-type connecting elements 32' in the middle of the first block cylinder 28 are hydraulically connected to the locking bridge piston 58 (not shown) of the second block cylinder 30.

[0124] The first type connecting element 32 and the third type connecting element 32' can be directly connected to the hydraulic system of the construction machine, while the second type connecting element 36 can be connected to the hydraulic system of the adapter 70.

[0125] Figures 10 and 11 show the quick coupler system in a coupled state. The coupling between the quick coupler 10 and the adapter 70 will now be described in more detail in conjunction with Figure 1.

[0126] The starting point is that the quick coupler 10 is attached to the boom of the construction machine in the usual way. The hydraulic hoses of the construction machine, with the second type of coupling elements on their opposite sides, are attached to the first type of coupling element 32 and the third coupling element 32' of the quick coupler 10, whereby the hydraulic system of the quick coupler 10 is connected to the hydraulic system of the construction machine. The hydraulic system of the quick coupler 10 is under permanent pressure, especially during the connection process of at least one second type of coupling element 36, at least one coupling drive device 38, and at least one locking device 24.

[0127] For connecting the quick coupler 10 to the adapter, two different coupling scenarios are possible depending on how far the locking bolts 54 of the locking device 24 protrude from the housing 12 of the quick coupler 10 in the open position of the locking device 24 and how far the corresponding transverse bolts 78 of the adapter 70 are spaced apart from each other. Both of these scenarios are encompassed by the concept of the present invention and are described below.

[0128] In a first scenario, with the locking bolts 54 of the locking device 24 in the open position tightened against the housing 12 and / or the transverse bolts 78 of the adapter 70 widely spaced apart, the quick coupler 10 is guided over the adapter 70 until it is aligned with the adapter 70. The quick coupler 10 can then be lowered until the lower housing wall 16 of the quick coupler 10 rests against the bottom 72 of the adapter 70, and the longitudinal adapter walls 74 of the adapter 70 frame the quick coupler 10. In this position, the locking bolts 58 can extend in the manner described on either side of the quick coupler 10 in the closed position and engage beneath the transverse bolts 78 of the adapter 70.

[0129] In another step, the second type coupling elements 36, driven by the coupling drive device 38, can extend perpendicular to the longitudinal wall of the housing 18 of the quick coupler 10 until they are hydraulically coupled to second type coupling elements 76 on the opposite side of the adapter 70. The second type coupling elements 76 on the opposite side of the adapter are connected to another hydraulic hose, whereby the work tool of the adapter 70 is then coupled to the hydraulic system of the quick coupler 10 and, therefore, also to the hydraulic system of the construction machine. The work tool is now ready for use.

[0130] In the second scenario, the quick coupler 10 is positioned at an angle relative to the adapter 70 and lowered until the first transverse bolt 78 of the adapter 70 slides into the space between the projection 21 of the quick coupler 10 and the first pair of locking bolts 54 on the same side. The quick coupler 10 is then pivoted into a locked position, where the oppositely positioned pair of locking bolts 54 is below the second transverse bolt 78 on the adapter 70, and the longitudinal adapter wall 74 of the adapter 70 surrounds the quick coupler 10. The oppositely facing pairs of locking bolts 54 located on the quick coupler 10 then move into their closed position, thereby ensuring a secure connection between the quick coupler 10 and the adapter 70.

[0131] In a further step, the second type of connecting element 36 is then extended to connect with the second type of connecting element 76 on the opposite side of the adapter 70, as already described above.

[0132] Disconnection between the adapter 70 and the quick coupler 10 is achieved by following the reverse order.

[0133] The number and distribution of the first type connecting elements 32, the second type connecting elements 36, and the third type connecting elements 32' can be varied as needed.

[0134] In the embodiments shown so far, the number of coupling elements on each side of the quick coupler is different. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the number of coupling elements is the same on each side. Thus, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the quick coupler system 110 has two second-type coupling elements 136 and two opposing second-type coupling elements 176, one on each of the two longitudinal walls of the quick coupler 110 and the adapter 170, respectively. They are also arranged symmetrically. The number of second-type coupling elements or the number of second-type coupling elements on opposing sides and / or their arrangement can vary depending on the requirements of the quick coupler system.

[0135] 12, the opposing second type connecting elements 176 are formed as connection blocks 180 on the longitudinal walls 174 of the adapter, whereby the opposing connecting elements protruding from the adapter 170 are aligned such that the outlets 182 of the opposing second type connecting elements 176 face downward.

[0136] While in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 11 the locking bolt 154 or locking bridge piston 158 is threadedly fastened to the locking bridge 156, Figures 12 and 13 show an embodiment of the quick coupler 110 in which a rotational lock is provided instead of a threaded connection. For this purpose, an elongated hole 190 is provided in the locking bridge 156, and the locking bolt 154 or locking bridge piston has a bolt with an elongated head 192 at the front side. The locking bolt 154 or locking bridge piston is inserted into the elongated hole 190 by the bolt with the elongated head 192 and rotated to tighten it so that the elongated head 192 is aligned perpendicular to the elongated hole 190. In a similar manner, the second type of connecting element 136 is attached to the connecting bridge 146.

[0137] The concept of the present invention also includes a locking device 24 equipped with a pair of locking bolts 54 on only one side and only the other side, as known in the prior art, for example, protrusions may be arranged on the housing.

[0138] It goes without saying that, within the scope of the present invention, individual features illustrated in connection with one embodiment may be combined with one another.

Claims

1. 1. A quick coupler as part of a quick coupler system for connecting an adapter of a replacement attachment of a construction machine to the construction machine, comprising: a housing (12, 112) with two opposing longitudinal walls (18), two opposing transverse walls (20), a top side, and a bottom side; a block cylinder (28, 30) inside the housing (12, 112); a locking device (24) with at least one locking bolt (54, 154) and a locking drive device, said at least one locking bolt (54, 154) protruding from one of the two transverse walls (20) in the locked position; at least one first type of connecting element (32) having a connecting end section (31) and at least one second type of connecting element (36, 136) having a connecting end section (35); the first type of coupling element (32) is connectable to a hydraulic system of the construction machine, and the second type of coupling element (36, 136) is connectable to a hydraulic system of the adapter; at least one coupling element (32) of the first type and at least one coupling element (36, 136) of the second type are hydraulically connected to each other; At least one second type of connecting element (36, 136) is arranged on one of the two longitudinal walls (18) of the housing (12, 112), The quick coupler is characterized in that the locking device (24) has at least two axially opposing locking bolts (54, 154) that protrude in opposite directions and are positionable between a closed position and an open position by the common locking drive device.

2. 2. A quick coupler according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one coupling element (32) of the first type is arranged on a longitudinal wall of the housing (12, 112).

3. 3. The quick coupler according to claim 1, wherein at least the coupling end section (35) of the second type coupling element (36, 136) is adjustable between an operating position and a basic position, the basic position being inside the housing (12, 112), and wherein in the operating position, the coupling end section (35) of the second type coupling element (36, 136) protrudes from the longitudinal wall (18) of the housing (12, 112).

4. 4. The quick coupler according to claim 3, wherein at least one of the second type coupling elements (36, 136) is connected to a coupling drive device (38), whereby at least the coupling end section (35) of the second type coupling element (36, 136) is adjustable in position between the basic position and the operating position.

5. 5. A quick coupler according to claim 4, characterized in that at least one third type of coupling element (32') is provided which can be directly coupled to the hydraulic system of the construction machine.

6. 6. The quick coupler according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the quick coupler (10, 110) is equipped with at least two of the second type of coupling elements (36, 136), and at least the coupling end sections (35) of the second type of coupling elements (36, 136) are simultaneously positionable between the basic position and the operating position.

7. 7. The quick coupler according to claim 4, wherein at least two coupling elements (36, 136) of the second type are provided, positioned on the longitudinal walls (18) on either side of the housing (12, 112) and positionably adjustable by a common coupling drive device (38), the coupling drive device (38) comprising a first double-acting hydraulic cylinder.

8. A quick coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the locking drive device comprises a second double-acting hydraulic cylinder.

9. The quick coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the locking drive device comprises a locking bridge (56, 156) to which the locking bolt (54, 154) and the piston of the second double-acting hydraulic cylinder are fixed by a screw or rotary lock.

10. 10. The quick coupler according to claim 1, wherein the block cylinder (26) comprises a first block cylinder (28) and a second block cylinder (30), the second block cylinder (30) is positioned below the first block cylinder (28), at least one second type coupling element (36, 136) is provided on the first block cylinder (28), and at least a portion of the locking device (24) is positioned on a surface of the second block cylinder (30).

11. 11. The quick coupler according to claim 10, wherein the locking device (24) comprises at least one locking drive device with a locking piston, the locking piston being positioned inside the second block cylinder (30).

12. 12. The quick coupler according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that at least the coupling end section (35) of the second type coupling element (36, 136) is adjustable between an operating position and a base position, and that a coupling drive device (38) is provided, the coupling drive device (38) being arranged on the first block cylinder (28).

13. 13. The quick coupler according to claim 10, wherein openings (37) for the second type of coupling element (36, 136) are provided in the longitudinal wall of the first block cylinder (28), and openings (68) are provided in the second block cylinder (30) at the transverse sides of the block cylinder (26).

14. The quick coupler according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the first block cylinder (28) has a T-shaped cross section with a base and a ceiling, and at least one of the first type connecting elements (32) is positioned on a surface of the ceiling, and at least one of the second type connecting elements (36, 136) is positioned on a surface of the base.

15. 15. A quick coupler system comprising a quick coupler (10, 110) with the features of any one of claims 1 to 14 and an adapter (70, 170) connectable to a work tool, wherein the quick coupler (10, 110) is mechanically and hydraulically connectable to the adapter (70, 170).

16. 16. The quick coupler system according to claim 15, wherein the adapter (70, 170) comprises two longitudinal adapter sides (74, 174) on either side and two transverse bolts (78), the two transverse bolts (78) being connected at their end portions to the longitudinal adapter sides (74, 174) of the adapter (70, 170), respectively.

17. 17. The quick coupler system of claim 16, wherein at least one opposing second type coupling element (76, 176) is positioned on at least one longitudinal wall (74, 174) of the adapter (70, 170), the opposing coupling element being hydraulically connectable to at least one of the second type coupling elements (36, 136).

18. Quick coupler system according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the second type of coupling elements (76, 176) on the opposite side are designed as connecting blocks (180).

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