Quick Coupler

Abstract

The present invention relates to a coupler for securing an attachment to an earthmoving machine. The coupler includes a coupler body providing a receptacle having a capture area. A pin on the attachment is movable into and out of the capture area. A retaining device is capable of capturing the pin within the capture area, but the retaining device is movable by a hydraulically driven driver to a position that allows the pin to be released from the capture area. A trigger that the pin strikes as it moves into or out of the capture area disengages the driver from the retaining device, which can then be spring-biased back into its retaining position.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to quick couplers for earthmoving machines, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to quick couplers having a trigger mechanism for resetting a retaining member for an attachment.

[0002] A quick coupler is used to quickly engage or disengage an attachment, such as a bucket, from an excavator. The quick coupler may be attached to the end of an excavator arm. The quick coupler may allow the machine operator to engage and disengage the attachment without having to move the operator from the excavator cab or operating position. An attachment placed on the ground may be connected by the operator maneuvering the excavator arm to couple with the attachment. No other assistance is required to maneuver the attachment and achieve coupling, thus making the coupling "quick" to achieve.

[0003] NZ546893 describes one type of quick coupler for coupling an attachment, such as a bucket, to an excavator. As can be seen in NZ546893 and also in FIGS. 1A-1B and 2, the attachments are typically provided in a spaced-apart fashion, with two parallel pins P1 and P2, each of which can be releasably held in a respective receptacle on the quick coupler. The forward pin P1 can be held closer to the excavator, and the rearward pin P2 can be held more distally from the excavator. The quick coupler must be able to securely hold these attachments. The attachments can be heavy and can support large loads. Errors in establishing a secure connection can result in fatal accidents or injuries. Furthermore, quick coupling and uncoupling of the quick coupler and the attachment is also desirable to help improve productivity. Thus, a trade-off exists between secure coupling and quick coupling. As can be seen in Figure 1, pin P1 can be received in receptacle R1 and pin P2 can be received in receptacle R2. Receptacle R1 is provided with a safety retention device 6 that can retain pin P1 in receptacle R1. Receptacle R2 is provided with a wedge 3 that can be moved to retain pin P2 in receptacle R2.

[0004] Excavators are conventionally equipped with hydraulic delivery and return lines and a hydraulic 4 / 2 valve at the end of the arm to service the hydraulic components. These can be used by the quick coupler's hydraulic rams to operate both the holding 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 holding device and one for the wedge.

[0005] Examples of how an attachment can be removed from a quick coupler of the type described in NZ546893 are illustrated in Figures 2-6. Figure 2 shows an excavator 5 with an attachment secured to the end of an arm 7. The attachment can be placed on a surface, such as the ground, to remove the load from the coupler. Figure 3 shows the coupler with the pins secured. Figure 4 shows the retraction of both the retainer 6 and the wedge 3. This retraction can occur when the operator triggers the buildup of hydraulic pressure on the appropriate hydraulic circuits, actuating the hydraulic rams for each of the retainer and the wedge. The two hydraulic rams move the retainer and the wedge, respectively, to their released positions. Figure 5 shows how the operator can 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 retainer were released, the timer system can trigger the actuation of the retainer 6 to move it to its retaining position as seen in FIG.

[0006] Figures 7-10 show how an attachment can be attached 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 retaining device 6 moving to allow entry. The retaining device can pivot against a spring bias to allow pin P1 to be received in receptacle R1. When pin P1 moves far enough into receptacle R1, the retaining device 3 is spring-loaded and moves to its retaining state. When pin P1 moves far enough into receptacle R1, the retaining device snaps into its retaining state under the influence of the spring. The snap-fit ​​retention means that no operator input is required to move the retaining device into its retaining state during installation. Pin P1 simply needs to move deep enough into receptacle R1. Figure 9 shows the operator triggering the buildup of hydraulic pressure, expanding the wedge and holding 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 of Figures 2-10 may have the operation of the holding device on a timer system. After a certain period of time has elapsed since the holding device was released, the holding device is reset to its holding position to release pin P1, as seen in Figure 6. This means that the holding device is reset to a holding state in which it can hold pin P1. This can be achieved by electrical and hydraulic means to reset the holding device to the holding position. A preset time is included between actuating the holding device to its release state before the holding device can return to its holding state. This allows the operator sufficient time to remove pin P1 from receptacle R1. An alarm can sound while the holding device 6 is being raised so that the operator is aware that pin P1 can be removed from receptacle R1. The time delay can be 10 seconds, which 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 to release the second pin P2 and substantially simultaneously release the holding device holding the first pin P1 for a set period of time. If the operator does not remove the attachment from the quick coupler within the set period of time, the holding device resets to the holding position. The operator may not realize that the holding device has returned to the holding position and that pin P1 is still connected, so the operator may attempt to remove the attachment, thereby damaging the holding device.

[0009] The quick couplers of Figures 2-10 may use hydraulic rams to drive the wedge and separate hydraulic rams to retract the holding 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 must be retrofitted to the excavator to allow both rams to operate, or a pair of additional hydraulic lines must be routed through. This adds expense.

[0010] Known quick couplers may also require the attachment to be pushed fully toward the excavator to allow for attachment removal. This can be a problem for some attachments whose center of gravity is significantly away from the quick coupler mounting area, such as breaker bars. Breaker bars may also be stored vertically in a cradle for transportation. Problems can arise when the breaker bar needs to be pushed toward the excavator for disengagement and then loaded into a vertical cradle position. Handling a disengaged or partially disengaged attachment can be dangerous.

[0011] It is therefore a preferred object of the present invention to provide a coupler and / or an earth moving machine including a coupler that overcomes at least one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages and / or to provide the public with a useful choice.

[0012] Where reference is made herein to external sources, including patents and other literature, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for describing features of the present invention. Unless otherwise expressly stated, citation of such sources should not be construed as an admission that such sources are prior art or form part of the common general knowledge in the art in any jurisdiction.

[0013] For purposes of this specification, when method steps are described in a sequence, the sequence does not necessarily imply that the steps are chronologically arranged in that order unless there is another logical way to interpret the sequence.

[0014] Thus, in a first aspect, the present invention may be said to be a coupler for securing an attachment to an earth moving machine, the coupler comprising a coupler body providing a receptacle with a mouth opening, through which a pin of the attachment can pass and move through a passage in the receptacle to a capture area of ​​the receptacle, the passage in the receptacle being capable of being blocked sufficiently to prevent the pin from exiting the capture area by a retention device provided moveable from and relative to the coupler body, the retention device being biased to a first position in which the passage is blocked and movable to a second position relative to the passage in which the retention device prevents the pin from exiting the capture area, whereby (i) pressing the pin against a retaining device and moving the retaining device against the bias toward the second position, thereby causing the pin to enter the capture area; (ii) a driver that allows the pin to exit the capture area, and that is movable relative to the coupler body such that the driver (a) can be coupled with the retaining device to allow the driver to move the retaining device to its second position, and (b) can be disengaged from the retaining device to prevent the driver from controlling the position of the retaining device between its first and second positions; The coupler further includes a trigger that is movable relative to the coupler body in a manner that allows the driver to be decoupled from the retaining device when the trigger is moved by the pin and that allows the trigger to engage with and be moved by the pin as the pin moves through the passage.

[0015] In one embodiment, the trigger can decouple the coupled retention device and driver, thereby allowing the retention device to move to its first position under the influence of the bias, if not already in its first position.

[0016] In one embodiment, the trigger can move and uncouple the coupled retention device and driver relative to each other, such that the retention device is not restricted by the driver from moving to its first position.

[0017] In one embodiment, the driver can be moved between a coupled state and an uncoupled state by a driver actuator.

[0018] In one embodiment, the retainer is mounted for movement in a rotational manner relative to the body about a retainer axis of rotation.

[0019] In one embodiment, the coupler body may be fixed or attached to the earth moving machine.

[0020] In one embodiment, the driver is coupled to a driver actuator to move the driver in a manner that can move the retainer.

[0021] In one embodiment, the driver actuator, when actuated, moves the driver in an actuation direction such that when the driver is coupled to the retainer, the retainer can move to or toward its second position.

[0022] In one embodiment, the driver actuator, when stopped, allows the driver to move in a stopping direction opposite to the actuation direction such that when the driver is coupled to the retaining device, the retaining device moves to or toward its first position.

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

[0024] In one embodiment, the trigger is mounted relative to the body for translation relative to the body in a trigger direction and perpendicular to the retainer 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 for slidable translation relative to the trigger in an actuation / deactuation direction to move the retainer between the retainer first position and the retainer second position.

[0027] In one embodiment, the driver is configured to move only in an actuation / deactuation direction relative to the trigger.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[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 decouple from the driver actuator.

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

[0037] In one embodiment, when the driver decouples from the retainer, the driver also decouples the driver actuator.

[0038] In one embodiment, when the driver uncouples the driver actuator, the driver is biased back toward the stop.

[0039] In one embodiment, a second receptacle is provided by the coupler body at a location remote from the first-mentioned receptacle, the second receptacle being provided to receive and retain a second pin of the attachment.

[0040] In one embodiment, the second receptacle is provided to be capable of holding a second pin of an attachment when the first receptacle holds the first pin, and / or the second receptacle is capable of holding a second pin of an attachment when the first receptacle does not have the first pin therein.

[0041] In one embodiment, a second retaining device is provided and is positioned by the coupler body in a manner that 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 can release the retained second pin from the second receptacle.

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

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

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

[0047] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to cause lost motion with the second retainer actuator.

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

[0049] In one embodiment, the lost motion structure provides lost motion between full extension of the second retainer actuator and an engaged position between extension of the second retainer and full retraction of the second retainer actuator.

[0050] In one embodiment, the engagement position and the full retraction of the second retainer actuator and the driver actuator are paired or coupled.

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

[0052] In one embodiment, the traveled travel distance is equal to the distance required to actuate the driver to lift the retainer to its retracted position.

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

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

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

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

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

[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 be engaged by the second retainer actuator or second retainer when it is retracted to the engaged position, and once at or past the engaged position, the push rod moves with the second retainer actuator or second retainer, simultaneously moving the driver.

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

[0062] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to be engaged by the second retainer actuator or the second retainer via abutting engagement.

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

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

[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 the second holding device or second holding device actuator, which arm hydraulically drives the first hydraulic actuator and thus the second hydraulic actuator which drives the driver.

[0067] In one embodiment, the first hydraulic actuator and the second hydraulic actuator do not share hydraulic fluid with the second retention 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 include 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 a selected one of the second retainer actuator and the second retainer.

[0071] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is a positively driven hydraulic ram and associated cylinder configured to engage and drive the driver to move the retaining 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 retainer actuator.

[0074] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is hydraulically dependent from and / or shares the same hydraulic fluid with the second retainer actuator.

[0075] In one embodiment, the driver actuator comprises a cam configured to follow the second retainer actuator, which in turn drives the driver directly or indirectly.

[0076] In one embodiment, the driver actuator includes a push rod configured to follow and be driven by the cam as the cam rotates, the push rod being configured to in turn drive the driver.

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

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

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

[0080] Thus, in a second aspect, the present invention may be said to be a coupler for securing an attachment to an earth moving machine, the coupler comprising a coupler body providing a receptacle with a mouth opening, a pin of the attachment being movable through the mouth opening and through a passage in the receptacle to a capture area of ​​the receptacle, the passage in the receptacle being capable of being blocked sufficiently to prevent the pin from exiting the capture area by a retention device provided moveable from and relative to the coupler body, the retention device being biased to a first position in which the passage is blocked and movable to a second position relative to the passage in which the retention device prevents the pin from exiting the capture area, whereby (i) pressing the pin against a retaining device and moving the retaining device against the bias toward the second position, thereby causing the pin to enter the capture area; (ii) a driver that allows the pin to exit the capture area, and that is movable relative to the coupler body such that the driver (a) can be coupled with the retaining device to allow the driver to move the retaining device to its second position, and (b) can be disengaged from the retaining device to prevent the driver from controlling the position of the retaining device between its first and second positions; The coupler further includes a trigger that engages with and can be translated by the pin as the pin moves through the passage, such that the trigger is translatable relative to the coupler body in a manner that, when translated by the pin, decouples the driver from the retaining device, the driver being supported by the trigger.

[0081] In one embodiment, the trigger can decouple the coupled retention device and driver, thereby allowing the retention device to move to its first position under the influence of the bias, if not already in its first position.

[0082] In one embodiment, the trigger can move and uncouple the coupled retention device and driver relative to each other, such that the retention device is not restricted by the driver from moving to its first position.

[0083] In one embodiment, the driver can be moved between a coupled state and an uncoupled state by a driver actuator.

[0084] In one embodiment, the retainer is mounted for movement in a rotational manner relative to the body about a retainer axis of rotation.

[0085] In one embodiment, the coupler body may be fixed or attached to the earth moving machine.

[0086] In one embodiment, the driver is coupled to a driver actuator to move the driver in a manner that can move the retainer.

[0087] In one embodiment, the driver actuator, when actuated, moves the driver in an actuation direction such that when the driver is coupled to the retainer, the retainer can move to or toward its second position.

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

[0089] In one embodiment, the trigger is mounted relative to the body for translation relative to the body in a trigger direction and perpendicular to the retainer rotation axis.

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

[0091] In one embodiment, the driver is mounted to the trigger for slidable translation relative to the trigger in an actuation / deactuation direction to move the retainer between the retainer first position and the retainer second position.

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

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

[0094] In one embodiment, the driver has an abutting 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 driver first position in which the driver is coupled with the retaining device when the retaining device is in the retaining device first position, a driver second position in which the driver is coupled with the retaining device when the retaining device is in the retaining device second position, and a driver third position in which the driver is decoupled from the retaining device.

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

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

[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 decouple from the driver actuator.

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

[0102] In one embodiment, when the driver decouples from the retainer, the driver also decouples the driver actuator.

[0103] In one embodiment, when the driver uncouples the driver actuator, the driver is biased back toward the stop.

[0104] In one embodiment, a second receptacle is provided by the coupler body at a location remote from the first-mentioned receptacle, the second receptacle being provided to receive and retain a second pin of the attachment.

[0105] In one embodiment, the second receptacle is provided to be capable of holding a second pin of an attachment when the first receptacle holds the first pin, and / or the second receptacle is capable of holding a second pin of an attachment when the first receptacle does not have the first pin therein.

[0106] In one embodiment, a second retaining device is provided and is positioned by the coupler body in a manner that 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 can release the retained second pin from the second receptacle.

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

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

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

[0112] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to cause lost motion with the second retainer actuator.

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

[0114] In one embodiment, the lost motion structure provides lost motion between full extension of the second retainer actuator and an engaged position between extension of the second retainer and full retraction of the second retainer actuator.

[0115] In one embodiment, the engagement position and the full retraction of the second retainer actuator and the driver actuator are paired or coupled.

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

[0117] In one embodiment, the traveled travel distance is equal to the distance required to actuate the driver to lift the retainer to its retracted position.

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

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

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

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

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

[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 be engaged by the second retainer actuator or second retainer when it is retracted to the engaged position, and once at or past the engaged position, the push rod moves with the second retainer actuator or second retainer, simultaneously moving the driver.

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

[0127] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is configured to be engaged by the second retainer actuator or the second retainer via abutting engagement.

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

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

[0130] In one embodiment, the driver actuator comprises an arm driven by the second holding device or second holding device actuator, which arm hydraulically drives the first hydraulic actuator and thus the second hydraulic actuator which drives the driver.

[0131] In one embodiment, the first hydraulic actuator and the second hydraulic actuator do not share hydraulic fluid with the second retention 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 include 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 a selected one of the second retainer actuator and the second retainer.

[0135] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is a positively driven hydraulic ram and associated cylinder configured to engage and drive the driver to move the retaining 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 retainer actuator.

[0138] In one embodiment, the driver actuator is hydraulically dependent from and / or shares the same hydraulic fluid with the second retainer actuator.

[0139] In one embodiment, the driver actuator comprises a cam configured to follow the second retainer actuator, which in turn drives the driver directly or indirectly.

[0140] In one embodiment, the driver actuator includes a push rod configured to follow and be driven by the cam as the cam rotates, the push rod being configured to in turn drive the driver.

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

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

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

[0144] Other aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

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

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

[0147] The term "comprising" as used in this specification (and claims) means "consisting of at least a portion of." When interpreting statements in this specification (and claims) that include this term, and features that begin with this term in each statement, all must be present, but other features may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprised" should be interpreted in the same way.

[0148] The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications, cited above and below, if any, are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0149] The present invention can also be broadly described as consisting of the parts, elements, and features individually or collectively referred to or shown in the specification of this patent application, and any and all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements, or features, and where a particular integer having a known equivalent in the art to which the invention pertains is described herein, such known equivalent is deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0150] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings: [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 shows a side view of an attachment, such as a bucket, partially engaged with a coupler. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 shows a side view of a bucket fully coupled to a coupler. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view of a prior art coupler disengaging with a pin of an attachment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view of a prior art coupler disengaging with a pin of an attachment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view of a prior art coupler disengaging with a pin of an attachment. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view of a prior art coupler disengaging with a pin of an attachment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view of a prior art coupler disengaging with a pin of an attachment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view of a prior art coupler engaging with a pin of an attachment. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view of a prior art coupler engaging with a pin of an attachment. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view of a prior art coupler engaging with a pin of an attachment. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view of a prior art coupler engaging with a pin of an attachment. [Figure 11]FIG. 1 shows an enlarged side schematic view of the retention system. [Figure 12] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 13] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 14] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 15] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 16] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 17] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 18] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 19] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 20] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 21] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 22] 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment exiting for retention by the retention system. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the retention system reset to "lift mode" after the pin has exited. [Figure 24] FIG. 23 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the pin has exited, such as following FIG. 22 (first engagement mode). [Figure 25]FIG. 23 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the pin has exited, such as following FIG. 22 (first engagement mode). [Figure 26] FIG. 23 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the pin has exited, such as following FIG. 22 (first engagement mode). [Figure 27] FIG. 23 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the pin has exited, such as following FIG. 22 (first engagement mode). [Figure 28] FIG. 23 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the pin has exited, such as following FIG. 22 (first engagement mode). [Figure 29] FIG. 23 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the pin has exited, such as following FIG. 22 (first engagement mode). [Figure 30] FIG. 23 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the pin has exited, such as following FIG. 22 (first engagement mode). [Figure 31] FIG. 23 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the pin has exited, such as following FIG. 22 (first engagement mode). [Figure 32] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment leaving retention system of an alternative (second variant) embodiment. FIG. [Figure 33] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment leaving retention system of an alternative (second variant) embodiment. FIG. [Figure 34] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment leaving retention system of an alternative (second variant) embodiment. FIG. [Figure 35] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment leaving retention system of an alternative (second variant) embodiment. FIG. [Figure 36] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment leaving retention system of an alternative (second variant) embodiment. FIG. [Figure 37] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment leaving retention system of an alternative (second variant) embodiment. FIG. [Figure 38] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment leaving retention system of an alternative (second variant) embodiment. FIG. [Figure 39] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment leaving retention system of an alternative (second variant) embodiment. FIG. [Figure 40] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment leaving retention system of an alternative (second variant) embodiment. FIG. [Figure 41] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment leaving retention system of an alternative (second variant) embodiment. FIG. [Figure 42] FIG. 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the retention system is in "lift mode" (second engagement mode). [Figure 43] FIG. 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the retention system is in "lift mode" (second engagement mode). [Figure 44] FIG. 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the retention system is in "lift mode" (second engagement mode). [Figure 45] FIG. 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system after the retention system is in "lift mode" (second engagement mode). [Figure 46] FIG. 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the attachment pin entering the retention system after the retention system is in "lift mode" (third engagement mode) and the operator actuates the retention system for engagement. [Figure 47] FIG. 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the attachment pin entering the retention system after the retention system is in "lift mode" (third engagement mode) and the operator actuates the retention system for engagement. [Figure 48] FIG. 10 shows a detailed side schematic view of the attachment pin entering the retention system after the retention system is in "lift mode" (third engagement mode) and the operator actuates the retention system for engagement. [Figure 49] FIG. 10 shows a side detail view of the retention system of the present invention with spring bias and detent details. [Figure 50] 1 shows a top perspective view of a retention system of the present invention. [Figure 51] 1 shows a top view of the retention system of the present invention. [Figure 52] A schematic diagram of the hydraulic system is shown. [Figure 53] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an alternative hydraulic system. [Figure 54] 10 shows a side view of a third variant of the retention system. [Figure 55] 10 shows a side view of a third variant retention system with further features removed to reveal the driver and trigger. [Figure 56] 56 shows a top rear perspective view of FIG. 55. [Figure 57] FIG. 56 shows a top rear perspective view of FIG. 55 with the trigger housing removed to highlight the driver ram and return spring. [Figure 58] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system of the third variant in the first engagement mode. [Figure 59] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system of the third variant in the first engagement mode. [Figure 60] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system of the third variant in the first engagement mode. [Figure 61] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system of the third variant in the first engagement mode. [Figure 62] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system of the third variant in the first engagement mode. [Figure 63]10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system of the third variant in the first engagement mode. [Figure 64] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system of the third variant in the first engagement mode. [Figure 65] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system of the third variant in the first engagement mode. [Figure 66] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment entering the retention system of the third variant in the first engagement mode. [Figure 67] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 68] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 69] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 70] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 71] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 72] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 73] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 74] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 75] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 76] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 77]10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 78] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 79] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 80] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 81] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 82] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 83] 10 shows a detailed schematic side view of the pin of the attachment exiting the retention system of the third variant. [Figure 84] FIG. 1 shows a detailed side schematic view highlighting the latch system for the driver. [Figure 85] 10 shows a schematic side view of a pin of an attachment having a retention system of an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment; [Figure 86] 10 shows a schematic side view of a pin of an attachment having a retention system of an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment; [Figure 87] 10 shows a schematic side view of a pin of an attachment having a retention system of an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment; [Figure 88] 10 shows a schematic side view of a pin of an attachment having a retention system of an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment; [Figure 89] 10 shows a schematic side view of a pin of an attachment having a retention system of an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment; [Figure 90] 10 shows a schematic side view of a pin of an attachment having a retention system of an alternative (fourth variant) embodiment; [Figure 91]10 shows a schematic side view of a pin of an attachment having a retention system of an alternative (fifth variant) embodiment. [Figure 92] 10 shows a schematic side view of a pin of an attachment having a retention system of an alternative (fifth variant) embodiment. [Figure 93] 10 shows a schematic side view of a pin of an attachment having a retention system of an alternative (fifth variant) embodiment. [Figure 94] Figure 10 shows a schematic side view of the pin of the attachment with the retention system of an alternative (fifth variant) embodiment.Figure 11 shows a schematic side view of a fifth trigger variant with an alternative drive actuator. [Figure 95] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a second alternative driver actuator and retention system of Variant 2 with the retention system retracted to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 96] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a second alternative driver actuator and retention system of Variant 2 with the retention system retracted to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 97] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a second alternative driver actuator and retention system of Variant 2 with the retention system retracted to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 98] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a second alternative driver actuator and retention system of Variant 2 with the retention system retracted to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 99] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a second alternative driver actuator and retention system of Variant 2 with the retention system retracted to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 100] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a third alternative driver actuator and retention system of Variant 2 with the retention system retracted to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 101]FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a third alternative driver actuator and retention system of Variant 2 with the retention system retracted to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 102] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a third alternative driver actuator and retention system of Variant 2 with the retention system retracted to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 103] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a third alternative driver actuator and retention system of Variant 2 with the retention system retracted to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 104] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a third alternative driver actuator and retention system of Variant 2 with the retention system retracted to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 105] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a retention system in which a fourth alternative driver actuator acts to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 106] FIG. 10 shows a side schematic view of a retention system in which a fourth alternative driver actuator acts to allow the pin of the attachment to exit the coupler. [Figure 107] FIG. 1 shows a side schematic view of a driver actuator with a cam and push rod. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0151] Referring to the above drawings, in which like features are generally designated by like numerals, there is shown a retention system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] 1A and 1B, a quick coupler C is shown. The quick coupler may include a body 2, which may include multiple attachment points 4A and 4B for securing the quick coupler to, for example, the end of an arm 7 of an excavator 5 (shown in FIG. 2). The quick coupler is attachable to and detachable from an attachment A. In the example shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the attachment A may be an excavator bucket. The attachment A provides two spaced parallel pins P1 and P2 that can be securely received in spaced receptacles R1 and R2, respectively, of the coupler C. A second retention device 3 is used to retain pin P2 in receptacle R2. The second retention device 3 may be, for example, a retention device that can be moved between a retracted state and an extended state via a hydraulic ram 40, as shown in FIG. 52. The second retention device may be or include a wedge shape, and may also be a bar, plate, rod, or the like. A retention system 1 is provided in the first receptacle R1. The positions of the holding system 1 and the second holding device can be interchanged around the positions shown in the figure.

[0153] The body 2 of the quick coupler C may consist of two main plates. Main plate 500 is shown in FIG. 1A. The second main plate is spaced apart from the first main plate and preferably connected to it in a parallel relationship. The main plate and / or other parts of the body preferably define a receptacle R1. The plate may include an edge profile appropriately shaped for such purpose. Pin P1 (e.g., the front pin of attachment A) can be received in receptacle R1. Pin P1, as well as pin P2, extend and protrude through the lateral sides of the main plates when engaged with the body. For ease of illustration, the depth of the coupler is not shown in most of the figures; instead, a side view facing the main plates is shown in most of the figures.

[0154] In its fully retained state, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the retention system can securely retain pin P1 in the capture area CR of receptacle R1, even though pin P1 cannot be removed from receptacle R1 through the receptacle's mouth. Referring to FIG. 11, a portion of the body 2 of coupler C at receptacle R1 is shown. Receptacle R1 has a mouth opening M large enough to allow pin P1 to pass therethrough and into receptacle R1. Receptacle R1 may include a capture area CR in which pin P1 can be seated and captured by retention device 6. Seating in the capture area CR may be free or with play. Intermediate between the capture area CR and the mouth M is a passage P, as shown in FIG. 23. The pin can pass through the passage P of receptacle R1 and move to the capture area CR of receptacle R1. The passage P of the receptacle R1 can be blocked by a retainer 6 biased to a position blocking the passage of the pin in the capture region through the passage P to prevent the pin from exiting the capture region CR. In one embodiment, as seen in the side view of FIG. 11, the retainer 6 can protrude from one side of the passage and at least partially transverse the receptacle R1. The retainer is preferably made of steel. As shown in FIG. 11, the retainer 6 in its retaining state, also referred to herein as its first position, protrudes sufficiently far across the receptacle R1 to prevent the pin P1 from being removed from the capture region. In a preferred embodiment, the retainer 6 is rotatably mounted to the body 2 (e.g., mounted to, and preferably by, the main plate) about a retainer axis 15. The retainer axis 15 is preferably parallel to the elongated pin axis 16 of the forward pin P1 when engaged.

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

[0156] The retainer 6 can be moved from its pin-retaining position, shown in FIG. 11, to a pin-release position, shown in FIG. 16. This can be accomplished through the use of a driver 11. The driver 11 can be coupled to the retainer 6. This can be accomplished via a retainer lug 8 on the retainer 6. The retainer lug 8 can be a pin or a surface on the retainer 6 configured and adapted to allow the driver 11 to couple. The driver 11 can be moved from a first position, as shown in FIG. 11, to a second position, as shown in FIG. 16. The driver 11 can be moved by a driver actuator 9, e.g., a mechanical or hydraulic ram 9. Movement of the driver 11 to its second position can rotate the retainer 6 from its pin-retaining position to its pin-release position when the driver 11 and retainer 6 are coupled. The retainer lug 8 is positioned a distance from the retainer axis 15 of the retainer 6 to allow a rotational force / torque to be applied to the retainer 6 by the driver 11 as the driver moves to the second position. The driver 11 may include a coupling area 19 that may be hooked and / or otherwise removably coupled to the retainer lug 8 .

[0157] To enable pin P1 to be released from receptacle R1, driver 11, when coupled with retainer 6, can be moved from its first position shown in FIG. 11 to its second position shown in FIG. 16 to remove retainer 6 from its extended state at least partially, if not completely, across receptacle R1.

[0158] A notable feature of some modes and / or embodiments is that when the retainer is in its second position shown in Figures 16, 33, 46, and 73, the retainer 6 can fully exit the receptacle R1 such that there cannot be any interference between the pin and the retainer 6. If the retainer 6 were susceptible to interference by the pin P1, the pin P1 could push the retainer beyond a point that could decouple the retainer lug 8 from the coupling region 19. This full rotation of the retainer 6 retains it outside the receptacle in its second position, or at least helps prevent accidental decoupling.

[0159] In the position shown in FIG. 16, pin P1 can exit receptacle R1 without interference from retention device 6. It will be recognized that when reference is made to extending into or out of a receptacle, this is in a frame of reference facing body / housing main plate 500, as shown, for example, in FIG. 11. A retention device is located adjacent to first main plate 500; similarly, a corresponding retention device may be provided adjacent a second main plate (not shown), and other associated retention system components may similarly be provided on the other side of the quick coupler body. Driver 11 may guide movement along a path (preferably movement caused by driver actuator 9) by a track or slot 20 in the housing to which an axle 21 of driver 11 is mounted. Axle 21 slides within slot 20 and may translate along it. Driver 11 is preferably mounted to rotate about driver axis 22. Such rotation allows driver 11 to move between a coupled state shown in Fig. 11, in which driver 11 is coupled with retainer 6 at retainer lugs 8 and coupling areas 19, and a disengaged state shown in Fig. 22, in which coupling areas 19 and retainer lugs 8 are disengaged from one another. Slot 20 and axle 21 allow such rotation to occur in the example shown in Figs. 11 and 22.

[0160] Variant 1 trigger Additionally, the retention system 1 includes a trigger 10. The trigger 10 is preferably rotatably mounted to 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 thus the trigger region 25, is provided to protrude at least partially across the passage P to contact a pin moving through the passage. The trigger region 25 therefore contacts the pin P1 as the pin P1 passes through the trigger 10, thereby allowing it to move in a rotational manner on its trigger axis 24. The trigger may be mounted for linear movement rather than relative to the body 2 (as shown in alternative embodiments in FIGS. 32-41). Preferably, the trigger is shaped, and the receptacle is shaped, such that a pin moving through the passage cannot avoid contact with the trigger.

[0161] Additionally, in some forms, trigger 10 may have a trip region 26 that may interact with driver 11 in an appropriate manner to control rotation of driver 11 about its driver axis 22. Driver 11 may include a trip pin 27 that may receive trip region 26 of trigger 10.

[0162] In the preferred embodiment, the driver axis 22, retainer axis 15, and trigger axis 24 are all parallel to each other and to the pin axis 16 when retained or advanced as well.

[0163] To explain how the retention device system 1 of the present invention functions, reference will now be made to the series of Figures 12-23, which illustrate the process of disengaging pin P1, and Figures 24-31, which illustrate the process of engaging pin P1.

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

[0165] Driver actuator of variant 1 In any embodiment, hydraulic ram 9 (driver actuator 9) and hydraulic ram 40 actuate driver 11 and holding device 3, respectively. Both hydraulic ram 9 and hydraulic ram 40 are preferably fed from the same hydraulic circuit, as shown in FIG. 52. To release the attachment, pressure is supplied to hydraulic ram 40 to retract holding device 3 and release pin P2, and in the preferred embodiment, simultaneously retracts holding device 6 by hydraulic ram 9 via driver 11, allowing pin P1 to be released. However, holding device 6 is reset to its holding position without the need for any hydraulic pressure due to the exit of front pin P1 triggering mechanical trigger 10 of holding system 1. To attach attachment A from the previously described state, pins P1 and P2 enter their respective receptacles R1 and R2. Through reversal or release of hydraulic pressure, hydraulic ram 40 expands holding device 3 to hold rear pin P2. Holding device 6 expands independently of holding device 3 due to the operation of trigger 10 as described. However, the driver 11 is engaged with the hydraulic ram 9, which may return the driver 11 to its first position, such as under bias (eg, from a spring), upon reversal or release of hydraulic pressure in the driver actuator.

[0166] Continued displacement of the driver 11 to its second position rotates the retaining device 6 clockwise sufficiently that it no longer prevents removal of the pin P1 from the receptacle R1. Such displacement may completely remove the retaining device 6 from protruding into the receptacle R1, as shown in FIG. 16, or may have it still partially protruding into the receptacle R1, as shown in FIG. 15. In a preferred form, 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 FIGS. 16-19), which may 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 steer the pin out of the receptacle R1. While the retaining device 6 is being 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 contact the pin P1 as it leaves the receptacle R1.

[0168] It will be appreciated that different sized pins from different attachments may be aligned with the receptacle R1. Therefore, it is important that the trigger area 25 be wide enough to provide contact with different sized pins, and therefore leave the receptacle, without allowing the pin to pass through the trigger area 25 without actuating the trigger 10. Therefore, for illustrative purposes, a small pin P1 is shown exiting the receptacle R1 to show the extreme case and to illustrate how a small pin can still activate the trigger 10. Similarly, with respect to pin entry, a large pin P1 is shown entering the receptacle R1, this large pin P1 being shown to show the extreme case and to illustrate how the large pin will not engage the retention device 6, described below, with the coupling area 25.

[0169] Trigger actuation occurs when, in response to removal or entry of pin P1 into the capture region, the force of the pin acts on trigger 10, moving trigger 10, such as by rotation about 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, counterclockwise rotation of trigger 10 about trigger axis 24 as the pin advances from receptacle R1 causes trip region 26 to apply a force to trip pin 27 of driver 11. This causes decoupling between retainer lug 8 of retainer 6 and coupling region 19 of driver 11.

[0170] In response to the retainer 6 being uncoupled from the driver 11, the retainer 6 can rotate back toward its retaining position. The retainer is no longer held by the driver 11 in the released position shown in FIG. 18, but can rotate back toward its retaining position. The retainer 6 is preferably spring biased to the retaining position by a torsion spring 31 acting about the retainer axis 15. An example of a spring bias is shown in FIGS. 49-51. This helps snap the retainer into its retaining position when the driver is uncoupled.

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

[0172] As can be seen from FIGS. 20-22, the preferred geometry of the retainer 6 is such that, once pin P1 engages the trigger region 25 of the trigger, its return to its retaining position is interfered with by P1. This means that the trigger 10 can only trip the coupling between the driver and the retainer (e.g., between the retainer lug 8 and the coupling region 19) in response to pin P1 being sufficiently removed from the receptacle R1 so that the retainer 6 is no longer prevented from further movement from the receptacle R1 in response to tripping the retainer 6. As can be seen from FIGS. 20-22, the retainer 6 receives pin P1 in response to tripping the mechanism. However, if pin P1 were removed more quickly, or if the biasing of the retainer 6 caused the movement of the retainer 6 to occur less or more slowly (such as by use of a hydraulic accumulator), the retainer 6 would no longer receive pin P1 in response to its exit.

[0173] Figure 23 shows the retention system reset to its first state shown in Figure 11. In the step between retention device 6 rotating to its bottom point (Figure 22) and driver 11 recoupling with retention device 6 (Figure 23), driver actuator 9 enables or causes driver 11 to return to its first state. Driver 11, due to rotational and lateral spring bias (via spring 31), progresses back to its coupled state and recoupling with retention device 6.

[0174] The operator may, for example, by releasing the driver actuator 9 (e.g., by releasing hydraulic pressure from the driver actuator 9), a) the holding device 6 is fully raised (i.e. the holding device 6 is still coupled to the driver 11) and then before the holding device 6 returns to its holding position, or b) The pin is out (i.e. pin P1 is not actuating trigger 10) and then release of actuation of driver 11 must occur before holding device 6 returns to its holding position.

[0175] The figure shows the operator causing the release of driver 11 at the stage in Fig. 23 when pin P1 exits receptacle R1. However, the operator may release driver 11 from the stage in Fig. 20 where trigger 10 is actuated to trip driver 11 from coupling to retainer 6 at retainer lug 8. Fig. 19 shows the trip point where retainer lug 8 trips from coupling region 19.

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

[0177] Trigger 10, in a preferred embodiment, can be free-floating, separate from biased driver 11 pressing on trigger 10, which in turn biases trigger 10. Alternatively, a separate bias can also be applied to trigger 10. This bias can be provided by a spring (not shown in this embodiment, but shown as spring 34 in the alternative embodiment of FIG. 55) acting in a clockwise direction as viewed in the figure between body 2 and trigger 10. The direct or indirect bias of trigger 10 helps reset trigger 10 to a state in which trigger region 25 protrudes into receptacle R1.

[0178] Preferably, the trigger can contact the driver when the pin engages the trigger and is not in contact with the driver when the pin is not in contact with the trigger. Alternatively, the trigger is always in operable contact with the driver. In an alternative described later herein, the trigger and driver can move in coordination relative to the coupler body between a coupled state and a discoupled state of the driver. Preferably, the trigger can decouple the driver from the retaining device, such that the retaining device is not constrained by the driver in its movement to its first position.

[0179] The operator may enter lift mode by advancing the coupler from the state seen in FIG. 22 to the state seen in FIG. 23. In lift mode, both retainers 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 state of FIG. 22 to the state of FIG. 23 (i.e., to lift mode) by causing a release or reversal of hydraulic pressure, which causes retainer 3 to extend to its retaining position (shown in FIG. 1B) and also releases hydraulic pressure to driver actuator 9, allowing driver 11 to be urged back into engagement with retainer 6.

[0180] 24-31, we will now illustrate how a pin P1 can be engaged with a coupler C for retention by the coupler in a first engagement mode. For example, in the first engagement mode, an old pin is removed from a receptacle R1 and is desirably replaced with a new pin P1 from another attachment. The operator triggers the application of hydraulic pressure (or a similar means of actuation, such as a mechanical screw) to retract the retention device 3 and raise the retention device 6. The old pin is removed, tripping the trigger 10, and the retention device 6 moves to its retention position. Note that the driver 11 is still in its released position (i.e., in the second position) because it is held there by the hydraulic ram 9. The operator can then advance a new pin into the receptacle R1, as shown in FIG. 24, which is secured to the receptacle R1 by the retention device 6. Even though the driver has not yet returned to its position for mating with the retention device in its first position, The operator advances pin P2 into receptacle R2, causing retaining device 3 to expand and move into a position to retain pin P2. Retention of pin P2 can be achieved independently of retention of pin P1.

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

[0182] FIG. 24 shows the retainer system 1 in its retaining state. The retainer 6 is in its retaining position (no pin in receptacle R1) and is partially tripped into receptacle R1, extending after the old pin has been reset by exiting receptacle R1. The driver 11 is still in its operating position. The operator then operates the quick coupler C to introduce a new pin P1 into receptacle R1 through the mouse M. This movement of pin P1 into receptacle R1 rotates the retainer 6 clockwise, as seen in FIG. 25. The lug 8 can act on the driver 11 but does not re-latch.

[0183] A preferred feature that prevents recoupling of the driver 11 and lug 8 (i.e., at the coupling area) is a guide surface 28, shown in FIG. 24. The guide surface abuts against the lug 8 or another portion of the driver 11 to prevent coupling of the driver 11 and retainer 6. As the pin P1 enters the receptacle, it engages the retainer 6. The lug 8 of the retainer 6 abuts against the guide surface of the driver 11, thereby preventing coupling between the driver and retainer until the driver returns to a position that allows coupling with the retainer when the retainer is in its first position. The driver preferably returns to its first position more slowly than the retainer. The trigger 10 is free-floating relative to the movement caused by the pin P1 in this embodiment.

[0184] Pin P1 can be moved to fully seat in receptacle R1 as a result of idle rotation of retaining device 6 to clear pin P1. Once pin P1 has fully cleared retaining device 6 as shown in Figures 28 and 29, retaining device 6 can be rotated counterclockwise to its retaining position under bias as previously described.

[0185] During movement of pin P1 into 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, at that time, trigger 10 is not active in resetting retainer 6 back to its retaining position, nor is it active in establishing or disconnecting the coupling between retainer lug 8 and coupling region 19, because retainer 8 is not coupled to driver 11. In this case, trigger 10 is simply idle and can move out of the way of pin P1 as it enters receptacle R1.

[0186] Once pin P1 is fully seated in its receptacle R1 or the retaining device 6 can move past pin P1, the retaining device 6 is moved or shifted via its rotational bias to its retaining position shown in Figure 29. At this point, the operator (once the front pin P1 is held) releases or reverses the hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic cylinder 40 in the preferred embodiment, thereby allowing the rear pin P2 to be held by the retaining device 3, while the driver 11 returns to its biased position shown in Figures 30-31.

[0187] As shown in FIG. 31 , the driver 11 can be or is reset to its first position to engage with the retainer lug 8 upon reversing or releasing the actuation or hydraulic pressure of the driver actuator 9 associated with the driver 11.

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

[0189] Trigger region 25 of trigger 10 is shaped to act as a camming surface, allowing movement of pin P1 past trigger 10. Trigger region 25 preferably has a rounded surface that does not inhibit movement of pin P1 in and out of receptacle R1. This allows trigger 10 to rotate about its trigger pivot 24, yet does not interfere with movement of pin P1 during movement in and out of its receptacle R1.

[0190] The shape of the retaining device 6 is such that when the pin is in the receptacle R1 and the retaining device 6 is in its retaining position, it retains the pin P1 within the receptacle R1 until such time as the retaining device 6 is actively moved to its release position. The stops 33 described herein help prevent rotation of the retaining device 6 beyond certain limits, thereby ensuring that the pin P1 remains fixed within its 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 the retaining device 6 does not engage an actuated driver 11 when the pin P1 is received within the receptacle R1 (and the retaining device 6 is rotated to its released position, as seen in FIG. 26). As can be seen in FIGS. 25-30, the driver 11 does not prevent the retaining device 6 from being biased back to the retained position (i.e., does not couple with the retaining device 6) under the influence of its torsion spring 30 (shown in FIG. 49). In an alternative embodiment, the shape of the trigger 10 simply causes movement of the driver 11 to prevent coupling between the lug 8 and the driver 11 as the pin P1 enters the receptacle R1.

[0192] The geometry around the area of ​​lug 8 is important to ensure that the driver 11 does not restrict movement of the retainer 6 back to its retaining position once 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 retainer lug 8 does not inhibit movement of the retainer between the first and second positions by the driver 11 once pin P1 is fully inside its receptacle R1.

[0193] A subsequent rotational displacement of the driver 11 back towards its coupled position can then occur.

[0194] An operator can, in one embodiment, cause engagement of pin P1 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 holding position and latched with the driver 11. Without retracting the retaining device 6, the operator manipulates the coupler C so that the pin moves into the receptacle R1, as shown in Figures 42-45. 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 is in the holding position and latched with the driver 11. The operator causes the retaining device 6 to retract by actuating the driver 11. The operator manipulates 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 holding position; this process is partially shown in Figures 46-48. The operator then advances pin P2 into the receptacle R2 and then releases the actuation pressure, allowing the retaining device 3 to move back to its holding position and retain pin P2. Retention of pin P1 is independent of retention of pin P2.

[0196] In one example, the driver is preferably mounted relative to the body so as to move only in a rotational manner to move between a coupled state and a decoupled state. Preferably, the trigger is mounted relative to the body so as to move only in a rotational manner. Preferably, the rotational mounting of the trigger, the retaining device, and the driver relative to the body is about respective rotational axes that are parallel to one another. Preferably, the trigger can move the driver relative to the body and relative to the retaining device to decouple the driver from the retaining device. Preferably, the trigger is provided to be in contact with the pin both in and out of the pin capture area. Preferably, the retaining device, when in the first position, prevents the pin from exiting when the pin is retained in the receptacle, and can move against a biasing action on the retaining device to allow the pin to enter the receptacle and pass over the retaining device. Preferably, the retaining device, when in the second position, provides itself so as not to be in contact with the pin when it is in the receptacle.

[0197] Thus far, reference has been made generally to one embodiment of a trigger mechanism referred to as Variant 1 trigger mechanism. However, other variations of trigger mechanisms utilizing the same concepts as Variant 1 trigger mechanism are described herein. Five trigger mechanisms are described herein. Combinations of features of these variations are contemplated within the scope of the present invention.

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

[0199] Variant 2 trigger A variation of the mechanism shown in FIGS. 11-31 and 42-51 (also referred to herein as Variation 1) will now be described with reference to FIGS. 32-41 (also referred to herein as Variation 2). In the trigger mechanism of Variation 2, the driver 11 pushes the retaining device 6 from its retaining position 6a to its fully retracted position 6b, rather than pulling it. FIG. 32 shows a coupler C having a forward receptacle R1 into which a forward pin P1 is aligned. FIGS. 32-41 show that pin P1 can be removed from the coupler by actuating the retaining device to the release position, and then tripping the trigger to move the retaining device back to its closed position via pin P1. The illustrations of this embodiment do not show pin entry.

[0200] However, as part of the retention system 1 there is a retention device 6 pivotally mounted to the body 2 of the coupler C for rotation about its axis of rotation 15. Retention device lugs 8, which also rotate with the retention device 6, form part of or engage with the retention device. The retention device lugs 8 can be engaged and coupled by a driver 11 which can be driven by a driver actuator 9.

[0201] In this embodiment, coupled and uncoupled do not necessarily mean connected and disconnected, respectively. The driver 11 may or may not still be connected to the retainer 6 when uncoupled, but the driver 11 does not have any drive or can exert any force on the retainer 6 until the retainer 6 is coupled. That is, instead of the driver 11 being uncoupled from the retainer / lug 8, the drive to the driver can be uncoupled. In the embodiment shown, the driver 11 is mechanically uncoupled via a release of contact with the lug 8.

[0202] The driver actuator 9 can displace the driver 11 (between positions 9a and 9b) and, when coupled, press against the lug 8 to move the retaining device 6 from its retaining position shown in FIG. 32 to the released position shown in FIG. 35. The driver 11 itself can both displace and rotate. The driver 11 can, for example, be mounted to the driver actuator 9 in a pivotal manner at a driver axle 21 to define a driver axis 22 for the driver 11.

[0203] A preferred feature that prevents re-latching of the driver 11 and lug 8 (i.e., at the mating region) is a guide surface 28, shown in FIG. 39. The guide surface abuts against the lug 8 or another portion of the driver 11 to prevent mating of the driver 11 and retainer 6. As pin P1 enters the receptacle, it contacts and rotates the retainer 6. The lug 8 of the retainer 6 abuts against the guide surface of the driver 11, thereby helping to prevent mating between the two. In this embodiment, the trigger 10 can move due to the driver 11 being engaged with the trigger 10.

[0204] Similar to the retention system 1 described with reference to FIGS. 11-31 , a trigger 10 is provided that can be displaced by pin P1 entering and exiting receptacle R1. When the retention device 6 is in its retracted position shown in FIG. 35 , removal of pin P1 from receptacle R1, shown in FIGS. 36-39 , moves trigger 10 to uncouple driver 11 from retention device lug 8. Similar to retention system 1 described with FIGS. 11-31 , trigger 10 includes a slot to support or guide driver 11. A slot 26 is formed by trigger 10, as shown in FIG. 32 , to retain pin 27 of driver 11. The slot also includes or is a trip region 26 that engages pin 27 of driver 11. Trip region 26 allows actuation of trip pin 27 of driver 11 (between positions 10 a and 10 c) to travel along a defined trip surface or slot 26 formed by trigger 10.

[0205] Decoupling of the driver 11 from the lug 8 (when the trigger is in position 10c) causes the retainer 6 to snap back into its retaining position once it is decoupled from the driver 11. Decoupling cannot occur between positions 10a and 10b, but can occur beyond 10b towards position 10c.

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

[0207] When the first embodiment is in a decoupled state as shown in at least FIG. 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 decoupled, such that the driver 11 cannot control the position of the retaining device 6. Thus, the driver 11 is ineffective for driving but can still follow and connect to the retaining device 6, at least similarly to the variation shown in FIG. 32 . As with the coupled state of the driver 11 and the retaining device 6, the driver 11 and the retaining device 6 may or may not be connected to each other, but in both embodiments, in the coupled state the driver 11 can affect the retaining device 6.

[0208] Actuation of the driver 11 may be effected manually, such as through a screw thread mechanism. Alternatively, actuation of the driver 11 may be via hydraulic rams. In a preferred form, there are two hydraulic rams provided with couplers C for actuation of the driver 11 (actuator 9) as well as the second holding device 3 (actuator 40), as shown in FIG. 52.

[0209] Preferably, one of the trigger and the retainer (e.g., retainer lug) can engage with a region of the driver to hold the driver in a position that prevents the driver from mating with the retainer. Preferably, the trigger can house and position one or more of the driver actuator, the driver, and the driver spring. Preferably, the retainer lug engages with a region of the driver to hold the driver and associated trigger when not mated with the driver in a state in which the retainer does not allow such mating.

[0210] Variant 3 trigger A variation of the mechanism described above (herein referred to as Variation 3) will now be described with reference to Figures 54-83. Variation 3 retains the same reference numerals used above in the previous two variations. In this variation, the driver 11 is part of, positioned by, and supported by a driver assembly 60. The driver assembly 60 includes the driver 11, a driver actuator 9, a return spring 31, an extension that protrudes into the recess R1 and acts as a trigger 10, as well as other components. When moved by an external force, such as a pin entering or leaving the receptacle R1, the trigger 10 can actuate the driver assembly to rotate about the axle 21.

[0211] Having the driver assembly 60 support the trigger 10 means that the coupling system has fewer connections to the body 2. For example, in the variation shown in FIG. 55, the driver assembly 60 / driver 11 uses the same connection point as the trigger 10 to the body 2, which is the driver / trigger or driver assembly axle 21. In this embodiment, the driver assembly axle 21 acts as an axle about which the driver 11 and trigger 10 can rotate relative to the body.

[0212] The reduction in connection points to the body 2 allows for easier manufacturing of the coupling system and / or modularity between different sized bodies 2. Modularity allows for use with different sized bodies on different sized machines. The reduction in connection points may increase manufacturing efficiency and may further aid in repair and / or maintenance of the coupling system.

[0213] In this embodiment, the driver 11 moves purely translationally relative to the trigger 10 to drive the retention device 6. However, the driver 11 also moves in a rotational path because the driver assembly 60 can rotate about 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 the driver 11 back / returning. However, in this variant, the return spring 31 is a tension spring instead of a torsion spring.

[0215] As with the previous embodiment, the trigger 10 preferably extends into the receptacle R1 and has two trigger regions 25, one for the pin's entering contact and one for the pin's exiting contact. As seen in FIG. 56, the driver assembly 60 has an intermediate housing portion 510 that is integral with or engages with the trigger 10. The housing portion 510 can house the hydraulic ram 9 and return spring 31, which drive the driver 11 to retract, respectively. FIG. 57 shows the trigger 10, hydraulic ram 9, and return spring 31, but hides the intermediate housing portion for clarity. The return spring 31 is secured 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, the driver 10 translates relative to the trigger 10 along a linear translational path that may extend radially relative to the axis of rotation of the trigger axle 21. The driver 11 can be guided during operation along this linear translational path via a guide means. In the embodiment shown, the guide means is a protrusion 48 and a complementary guide channel 47. The protrusion 48 is positioned on the driver 11, and the complementary guide channel 47 is part of the drive assembly 60. The protrusion 48 can be seen in FIG. 55, and the guide channel 47 can be seen in FIG. 57. There can be numerous mechanisms and configurations for enabling 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 previous embodiment described. The driver 11 includes a coupling region 19 that can couple with the lug 8 on the retainer 6. When the driver 11 is driven forward by the hydraulic actuator 9, the retainer 6 is rotatably pressed about its axis of rotation, causing the region of the retainer 6 that extends into the receptacle R1 to disengage from the receptacle opening, 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, tripping the trigger 10 and lifting the driver assembly 40 and the trigger 10 around the axle 21. In doing so, it disengages the coupling region 19, and the driver 11 is no longer engaged with the retainer 6. Therefore, the retainer 6 is then urged back into the opening of the receptacle R1 via the torsion return spring 31.

[0218] The feature that prevents re-latching of the driver 11 and lug 8 (i.e., with the mating area) is guide surface 28, shown in FIGS. 57-59. Guide surface 28 abuts lug 8 or another portion of driver 11 to help prevent mating of driver 11 and retainer 6. As pin P1 enters receptacle R1, it contacts and rotates retainer 6. Lug 8 of retainer 6 abuts guide surface 28 on driver 11, thereby preventing mating between the two. Trigger 10 in this embodiment moves with driver 11 when driver 11 is supported directly by trigger 10.

[0219] In this embodiment, the trip region of Figure 26 does not exist because the trigger 10 is now supporting the driver 11. Therefore, movement of the trigger 10 directly moves the supported driver 11 when triggered.

[0220] The combination of the driver 11 and trigger 10 may be referred to as a trigger / driver assembly. The trip region 25 may be located on the driver 11 or driver actuator of the trigger / driver assembly. This alternative is not shown.

[0221] To explain the retainer system 1 shown in Figures 54 to 57, reference will now be made to a series of drawings, Figures 58 to 66, which show the process of engaging pin P1, and Figures 67 to 83, which show the process of disengaging pin P1.

[0222] 58-66 show the pin entering the retention system 1 when the retention system is in the first engagement mode, which is the most typical mode when an operator is changing attachments. In the first engagement mode, the driver 11 is already extended from the previous disengagement process.

[0223] Figure 58 shows the driver 11, and in this embodiment the associated trigger 10, being raised via the retainer lug 8 engaging the trip region 26 (partially hidden in this drawing to show the driver 11 for clarity, but can be seen in Figure 57). When the lug 8 is engaged with the trip region 26, the trigger 10 substantially extends into and does not block the passage P. The pin P1 can enter the passage P of the receptacle R1 with or without contact against the trigger region 25.

[0224] As pin P1 passes through passage P and enters the receptacle, it contacts retainer 6, thus rotating retainer 6 about retainer shaft 17. Retainer 6 is biased back to its biased state once pin P1 has fully passed. Trigger 10 is not biased back to its biased state until the user releases hydraulic pressure from driver ram 9, allowing driver return spring 31 to pull driver 11 back to its retracted position, as shown in FIGS. 64-66. As driver 11 returns to its retracted position, trigger 10 can rotate about its trigger axle 21 to its biased position because trip region 26 is no longer obstructed by retainer lug 8 (FIGS. 65-66). The trigger may be biased by trigger return spring 34, which may act on the trigger and / or driver to help rotate the trigger / driver clockwise in the orientation shown in the figures. While the driver 11 is extended, the trip region 26 of the trigger 10 and the retainer lug 8 engage one another.

[0225] The retainer 6 is seen at one of its full rotation limits in Fig. 60 with the largest possible pin P1. A smaller pin would not allow the retainer 6 to rotate to this extent (but could still be used effectively), but the large pin P1 means that the lugs 8 of the driver 11 never leave or extend beyond the guide surfaces 28, and therefore the driver 11 does not engage with the lugs 8 at the engagement area 19 while the driver 11 is expanded.

[0226] Figures 67-83 show the pin exiting the retention system 1. Figure 67 shows pin P1 in an operational actuation mode, captured in the receptacle. With the driver 11 retracted, the trigger 10 is forced downward, forcing the retainer 6 downward to lock pin P1 into the receptacle R1, with the trip region 25 extending into the passage P. Figure 68 shows the driver 11 beginning to expand via hydraulic pressure being applied to the driver ram 9. Figures 68-69 show the driver 11 coupling region 19 beginning to engage the retainer 6. Figures 69-70 show the retainer 6 rotating about its retainer shaft 17 until it reaches its rotation limit in Figure 73, thereby unblocking the passage P to prevent pin removal. At this stage, the operator / user can move the retention system 1, allowing pin P1 to exit the receptacle R1 via passage P.

[0227] FIG. 74 shows pin P1 beginning to interfere with trip region 25 of trigger 10, causing the driver to lift and lose operative contact with lug 8. FIG. 76 shows lug 8 of retainer 6 at the point where it loses contact with coupling region 19 of driver 10. FIG. 77 shows lug 8 of retainer 6 passing beyond coupling region 19, allowing detent 33 (shown in FIG. 72) to stop retainer 6 from beginning to rotate back to its retaining position. At this stage, pin P1 still lifts driver 11 and trigger 10 upward, completely releasing retainer 6 from driver 10. FIG. 78 shows retainer 6 and associated lug 8 and associated coupling region 19 without any obstruction to driver 10.

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

[0229] The geometry of the lug 8 and driver 11 at the coupling area 19 must be such that the coupling area 19 can slide off the lug 8 when the retainer 6 is at or near its range of rotation corresponding to a state where it does not substantially obstruct the receptacle R1. If the lug 8 is undercut too much, the lug 8 may block the upward movement of the trigger by the pin.

[0230] In many embodiments, the lugs 8 are shown as being integral with or attached with the retainer 6. However, it is envisioned that the lugs 8 or other coupling features may be separate or separate from the retainer 6, such as being attached to the rotating shaft of the retainer 6. The retainer 6 may also be integrally formed with its rotating shaft, so that the lugs 8 may still be integral with the retainer 6.

[0231] The location and shape of the trigger region 25 of the trigger relative to the operating region of the retainer 6 is also important. As seen in FIGS. 73-83, when the pin P1 leaves the receptacle R1, the pin P1 must contact the trigger region 25 with a surface facing the direction of advancement of the pin P1, and then allow the retainer 6 to rotate back into the receptacle R1 after the pin P1 has fully advanced out of the receptacle R1. The retainer 6 must be shaped and / or positioned so that it does not contact a surface facing the direction of advancement of the pin P1 in a manner that would prevent the pin P1 from further progressing out of the receptacle R1. Ideally, the retainer 6 would contact a surface facing the trailing direction of the pin P1 with a surface facing the 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 area 19 of the driver 11 may be a geared rack-type feature. A complementary geared rack, surface, or gear that acts to achieve a similar function as the lug 8 is located on or integral with the holding device 6. The linear action of the driver, when engaged with the coupling area of ​​the holding device 6, moves the geared rack coupling area back and forth, driving the rack. A trigger may still act on this geared linear driver to uncouple and couple the geared driver and holding device 6. A disadvantage of a geared system is that the teeth of a geared system may wear faster than a single surface engagement, or debris may inhibit 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 as a lug, but is driven by the rotary drive driver. That is, the driver does not have a linear action but instead is a rotary drive gear wheel with teeth that act as the coupling region and engage similar teeth on the retainer 6. A trigger can still act on this geared rotary driver to decouple and couple the geared driver to the retainer 6. The coupling and decoupling can be in the form of a mechanical system decoupling or a hydraulic / electric drive decoupling. The geared driver may be positioned at the end of a pivoted lever that, when triggered, is lifted to decouple the geared driver from the gear of the retainer 6. In an alternative embodiment, the geared driver may have a hydraulic decoupling, which allows the geared driver, when decoupled, to rotate freely and urge the retainer 6 back to its passageway closed position. In a further alternative to this alternative embodiment, the driver may be torsionally biased to rotate rearward to rotate the retainer 6 back to its closed position, instead of the retainer being torsionally biased. Alternatively, both the driver and retainer may be torsionally biased such that they are biased to rotate back to their initial rotational positions. In this embodiment, the driver may not be a full geared wheel, but rather a section / periphery of interchordal teeth that rotates about a shared pivot axis.

[0234] However, in other embodiments, some of which are shown in the figures and described herein, the coupling region 19 and lug 8 are not geared interfaces. The coupling region 19 and lug 8 have sliding surface engagement, gliding surface engagement, abutting surface engagement, and / or single surface engagement. The advantages of such surface engagement may allow for reduced wear, potential for debris capture, and / or manufacturing tolerances compared to geared or more complex or other systems. This can also be stated with respect to the engagement (if any) between the retainer 6 or lug 8 and the guideway 8.

[0235] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), coupling region 19 is a shaft or axle that shares an axis of rotation with one or more of the holding devices 6. The axle is driven directly or indirectly by a driver, such as a hydraulic or electric motor. Rotation of the holding devices 6 to move the holding devices 6 from their closed position to their raised position is via rotation of the motor, driving the axle to rotate and drive the holding devices 6. To enable coupling of the motor from the holding devices 6, a trigger system is required to trigger either a) a hydraulic or electrical decoupling to drive the motor, i.e., to allow the motor to rotate freely and release the holding devices 6 from their raised position, or b) a mechanical trigger to decouple the motor from the holding devices and allow the holding devices 6 to be biased back to their closed position.

[0236] In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 84 , guide surface 28 is now positioned below protrusion 48. Guide surface 20 has no interaction with retainer 6 or lug 8. Instead, spring latch system 50 can capture driver 10 and prevent it from engaging lug 8 of retainer 6 after driver 10 is fully extended and triggered upward to disengage. This allows retainer 6 to rotatably move back to its closed position in the passageway without re-engaging or contacting until driver 10 moves back to the first position. When driver 10 is triggered by trigger 11, it is pushed above latch 51 of spring latch system 50. Once a portion of driver 10, in this embodiment, protrusion 48, is above latch 51, driver 10 is prevented from urging downward and contacting retainer 6. When driver 10 is retracted, the protrusion slides off latch 51, allowing driver 10 to rotatably urge back to its original position. Spring 52 of spring latch system 50 allows latch 51 to slide a distance under guide surface 28 when driver 10 is driven upward by trigger 11. The driver is raised and then held by latch 51, allowing the holding device to rotate freely without interacting with the driver.

[0237] In an alternative embodiment (not shown) to the embodiment shown in FIG. 84 , the driver 10 may be guided by a path or slot. When the driver expands to drive the retainer 6 to its raised position, the driver follows a first extension path. 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. Thus, the guide surface 28 has no interaction with the retainer 6 or lug 8. Instead, the guide surface 28 is part of a slot that is fixed relative to the body of the coupler, and the engagement surface 28 engages a portion of the driver 10.

[0238] Variant 4 trigger The trigger mechanism of the retention system (referred to herein as Variant 4) will now be described with reference to Figures 85-90. Retention system Variant 4 is distinguished from some of the other variations by the trigger having linearly translatable movement relative to the coupler body. With the trigger 10 translating relative to the coupler, the trigger 10 may also support a driver 11. The driver 11 may be supported by the trigger 10 and may move between a retaining position 6a and a non-retaining or retracted position 6b.

[0239] The driver 11 can be configured to translate to push / drive the retainer 6 from its retaining position 6a (FIG. 85) to its retracted position 6b (FIG. 88). FIGS. 85-87 show a coupler C having a forward receptacle R1 into which a forward pin P1 is aligned. FIGS. 88-90 show pin P1 that can be removed from the coupler via actuation of the retainer 6 to a release position 6b. Thereafter, tripping the trigger 10 via pin P1 as shown in FIGS. 88 and 89 moves the retainer 6 back to its retaining position 6a as shown in FIG. 90.

[0240] The driver actuator 9 and driver 11 can be configured to extend / actuate in an actuation direction X shown in FIG. 85 between positions 11A and 11B. The actuation direction X is generally perpendicular to the linear trigger direction Y and the rotary holder axis 15. In one embodiment, the driver actuator 9 is configured to releasably engage with the driver 11. In one embodiment, the releasable engagement does not couple the driver 11 and ram 9 together, but can be an abutment of an end 9c of the ram 9 against a surface 11c of the driver 11. Preferably, the engagement only 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 relative to the end 9c in the trigger direction Y. The engagement can be referred to as a sliding engagement, or a slidingly engaging or abuttingly engaging.

[0241] The driver 11 may include guide formations (not shown) on the surface 11c that allow the end 9c to be held somewhat laterally by the driver 11. The guide formations may be channels or grooves, and similarly the end 9c may have complementary formations.

[0242] As with the other trigger variations, the driver actuator 9 can be any one of the driver actuators 9 described herein.

[0243] Variant 5 trigger A further embodiment of the trigger mechanism (also referred to herein as Variant 5) is shown in Figures 91-94 and shows a retention system similar to Variant 4, with the difference 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 Figure 93) without also having to move the driver actuator 9 from position 9B back to position 9A. Thus, the retention device 6 can be disengaged from the driver actuator 9 without having to move the driver actuator 9 in the stop direction X back to position 9A.

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

[0245] With regard to trigger mechanism variant 4, it is preferred that the retaining device 6 over-rotate to a position that pin P1 cannot reach by pressing the trigger 10, stopping the system from "re-latching", i.e., the trigger from dropping into the receptacle R1. Variant 5 ideally eliminates the need to over-rotate the retaining device 6.

[0246] FIG. 9 shows a trigger variation 5 with a generic driver actuator 9, which may not be a hydraulic actuator.

[0247] Hydraulic circuit for the driver actuator of variant 1 A further advantage of the hydraulics provided on the excavator as standard is that the standard 4 / 2 valve that most excavators are equipped with can be utilized in the current system without any modifications. The hydraulic system of driver actuator 9 variant 1 is shown in Figure 52, with the standard 4 / 2 valve 41 shown diagrammatically. Coupler hydraulic system 42 with coupler C is shown with holding device 3, hydraulic ram 40, and holding device 6, hydraulic ram 9. Retract and extend lines are illustrated, which correspond to the hydraulic lines that, when pressurized, operate the retraction and extension of ram 40, respectively.

[0248] In modern machines, hydraulic system pressure can sometimes be rapidly reduced to save fuel. This can create problems for the retraction and extension of the hydraulic ram 9 which indirectly operates the retaining device 6. This is because if there is a lack of pressure while unlocking the front pin P1, the hydraulic ram 9 may retract before it is fully extended and can fully unlock the receptacle R1 by rotating the retaining device 6 from its opening.

[0249] The addition of a pilot check valve 44 improves the usability of the system with such modern machinery. The addition of a pilot check valve 44 is not required for all systems.

[0250] An example of a hydraulic circuit with a pilot check valve 44 for the 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 retract (unlock) procedure. This can be accomplished by having an intermediate check valve 44 feed the hydraulic ram 9 from the retract line to prevent fluid from returning from the hydraulic ram 9 to the retract line if the fluid pressure in the retract 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 running from the "high" pressure extension line to the pilot check valve 44 to open the pilot check valve 44 during operation of the extension circuit. When high pressure is delivered through the extension circuit, the pilot check valve 44 opens, allowing fluid to flow through the low pressure (retract) line and back to tank. The hydraulic ram 9 retracts due to its spring bias from spring 31. Alternatively, the pilot line 47 could be delivered from another area of ​​the extension circuit, such as after the pilot valve 45, before the ram 40, or outside the ram 40.

[0252] The hydraulic rams 40 may also have respective pilot check valves 46 to prevent the holding device 3 and hydraulic ram 40 from retracting while the coupler is in the locked position and there is no high pressure from the extension 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 corresponding pilot lines 46 to open the pilot check valves 46. The pilot lines 46 are fed from the retract line.

[0253] While pressure is driven through the extend line, the hydraulic ram 40 extends. When pressure from the extend 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 retainer 3 (attached to the hydraulic ram 40) will not retract (and passage P will not open) unless the user applies pressure to the retract line.

[0254] It is envisioned that there are numerous ways to configure the hydraulic circuit so that it can be used with a standard 4 / 2 valve and still include the advantages described above.

[0255] Other Variations of the Driver Actuator 9 Like the trigger mechanism, the driver actuator 9 can also be modified for different applications while still allowing the retention system to operate correctly. There are four driver actuators 9 described herein. Driver Variation 1: As shown in Figures 32-37, 49, 52-84 Driver Variation 2: As shown in Figures 95-99 Driver Variation 3: As shown in Figures 100-104 Driver Variation 4: Shown in Figures 105-106 Driver Variation 5: As shown in Figure 107

[0256] In other embodiments, the driver 11 may not be actuated by a hydraulic ram driver actuator, which is hydraulically connected to a hydraulic circuit that can also actuate the hydraulic ram 40 (shown in FIGS. 52 and 53). Instead, the driver 11 is actuated by another means, such as a mechanical or hydraulic means that is subordinate to the hydraulic ram 40. This may have advantages such as a reduced number of connected hydraulic rams, fewer parts, improved reliability, and / or reduced complexity. Any of the foregoing retention 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 retention systems described herein may be modified to utilize the described driver actuators 9.

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

[0258] As can be seen from the figure, there is preferably 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 where it is not coupled with the hydraulic ram 40. Figure 95 also shows that the driver actuator 9 has a stop, indicated by arrow 9a, that engages with a complementary stop on the coupler or hydraulic ram 40.

[0259] 96 shows the position where the hydraulic ram 40 engages the driver actuator 9 to begin driving the driver actuator 9. The engagement, in one embodiment, is a simple abutting engagement between two complementary surfaces on each of the driver actuator 9 and the hydraulic ram 40.

[0260] Preferably, the driver actuator 9 is supported by at least a slot 80 in 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 actuation direction X that is perpendicular to the retainer axis 15, and in this embodiment also parallel to the actuation / deactuation direction of the hydraulic ram 40. However, in other embodiments, it is envisioned that the driver actuator translates at an angle relative to the hydraulic ram 40.

[0261] Preferably, in this embodiment, the driver 11 can slidably translate relative to the coupler body between positions 11A and 11B, as well as rotate relative to the coupler body. This is similar to the function of the first holding system variant. As with the other systems, the holding device 6 can be decoupled from the driver actuator 9 via decoupling of the driver 11 with the holding device 6.

[0262] Preferably, the coupler includes stops associated with positions 9A and 9B of the driver actuator 9. The stop associated with position 9B is indicated by arrow 9B in FIG. 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 phase. The actuation of the hydraulic ram 40 also allows the driver actuator 9 to expand and return to its position 9A via spring bias 31 when it expands to expand the retainer 3 and capture pin P2. Thus, although the driver actuator 9 relies almost entirely on the hydraulic ram 40 for movement, 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 a holding position 11A shown in Figure 97, which allows the holding device 6 to be in the passageway blocking position 6A.

[0264] Figure 97 shows the driver actuator 9 beginning to actuate, lifting the retention device. Figure 98 shows the retention device 6 fully lifted, which also relates to the degree of actuation of the hydraulic ram 40 and driver actuator 9. Figure 99 shows the pin leaving the track after tripping the trigger 10 and the retention device 6 decoupled from the driver 11 so that it can be urged back down into the track. Once the operator actuates the hydraulic ram 40 to re-extend the retention device 3, the driver actuator 9 can be reset back to position 9A and re-coupled with the driver 11.

[0265] Driver actuator driver variant 3 A third variation of a mechanical driver actuator 9 similar to variation 2 is shown in FIGS. 100-104. Here, the driver actuator is also a rigid arm, acting as a push rod and extending between the hydraulic ram 40 and the driver 11. As with the previous embodiment shown, there is also lost motion between the hydraulic ram 40 and the driver actuator 9. FIGS. 100 and 101 show that a portion of the distance traveled by the hydraulic ram 40 does not affect the driver actuator 9. In FIG. 101, the driver 9 is actuated by the hydraulic ram 40 or the holding device 3 to drive the driver actuator 9 from its position 9A to its position 9B, shown in FIG. 102. FIG. 103 shows the pin P1 emerging from the receptacle R1, displacing the trigger 10 and uncoupling the driver 11 from the holding device 6. FIG. 104 shows the holding device 6 completely uncoupled from the driver 11.

[0266] In variant 3, as in variant 2 above, the driver actuator 9 is permanently connected to the driver 11 by a rotatable connection. A permanent connection is not required and it is envisaged that a disengageable connection could be used. In this embodiment, the driver actuator 9 is at an angle from the hydraulic ram 40 so that there is an abutting / sliding connection F between the hydraulic ram 40 and the driver actuator 9. The driver actuator 9 is therefore provided with a bias, i.e. a spring bias 31 or the like, which biases the driver actuator in the stopping direction X, as shown in FIG. 104.

[0267] Other embodiments of the driver actuator 9 are possible, 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, the lost motion being achieved by a spring that pulls into the stack until it reaches a certain limit compression point which allows the arm to then drive the driver 11. This embodiment is not shown.

[0268] Driver actuator driver variant 4 A fourth variation of the driver actuator 9 is shown in FIGS. 105 and 106. These figures are simplified for clarity. In this embodiment, the driver actuator 9 is a combination of two hydraulic rams hydraulically coupled together. The first hydraulic ram 71 is configured to actuate the driver 11 (not shown), which in turn drives the holding device 6. The first ram 71 is hydraulically coupled via a hydraulic line 70 to a second hydraulic ram 72 that can be driven by the hydraulic actuator 40, which drives the holding device 3. There is no hydraulic connection between the hydraulic actuator 40 and the driver actuator 9. In the first position shown in FIG. 105, the holding device 3 is in an extended position to block the passage of the second receptacle R2. In this position, the arm 73 or a 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 to retract the holding device 3, the mechanism or arm 73 connected to the hydraulic actuator 40 or the holding device 3 is retracted back into engagement with the second ram 72. The second ram 72 is then pushed in by the arm 73 to hydraulically actuate the first ram 71, which in turn actuates the driver and holding device 6, as shown in FIG.

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

[0270] A similar lost motion system may be utilized as previously described, where the stroke of the holding device 3 is longer than the stroke required for the driver actuator 9 to push in 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 holding device 6. As noted 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 actuating the second ram 72 with the hydraulic actuator 40. Those skilled in the art will understand the basic concept behind this system and determine the details accordingly. Driver actuator variant 4 may be preferred for use with larger couplers where the distance between the holding device 3 / hydraulic actuator 40 is further from the holding device 6. For smaller couplers, driver actuators 9 of variants 2 and 3 may be more appropriate.

[0272] Driver actuator driver variant 5 A fifth variation of the driver actuator 9 is shown in FIG. 107. This figure is simplified for clarity and does not show the trigger mechanism / retention system. The trigger mechanism can be any of those described herein. Variant 5 of the driver actuator 9 is similar to the push rod style of variants 2 and 3, but in variant 5, the push rod 82 is driven by a cam-type system 81. There can be one or more cams 81 driven directly or indirectly by the hydraulic ram 40 or the retention device 3. In a preferred embodiment, the hydraulic ram 40 (instead of the retention device 3) actuates the cam 81 so that it is closer to the retention system of the forward receptacle 1 than the retention device 3. The cam 81 can then directly or indirectly drive the driver 11 (not shown in FIG. 107).

[0273] In a preferred variation, the cam 81 drives a follower 83 of a push rod 82, which in turn drives the driver 11. The cam 81 also has a follower 86 that is complementary to a driver abutment 87 on the hydraulic ram 40. The abutment 87 can engage the follower 86 to rotate the cam 81.

[0274] The cam 81 is spring-loaded by a spring 85 to rotate the cam in a direction that follows the hydraulic ram 40 and also to allow the push rod 82 to move in a direction X that allows the holding device to move to its holding position 6A. The rotation of the cam 81 may be limited by a stop 88, which prevents the cam 81 from over-rotating and following the hydraulic ram 40 too far. The rotation of the cam 81 is about its cam rotation axis 87. Preferably, the rotation axis 87 is perpendicular to the actuation direction X of the hydraulic ram 40 and / or the direction of movement of the push rod 82.

[0275] The driver actuator 9 may include a cam 81 or multiple cams to modify the translational rate of the driver actuator 9 so that it is not directly proportional to the rate of movement of the hydraulic ram 40. The cam configuration may also incorporate lost motion between the hydraulic ram 40 and the driver actuator 9 push rod. This lost motion is in the form of a cam 81 having a portion 89 of the cam periphery 88 that does not extend the driver actuator 9 push rod when the cam 81 rotates.

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

[0277] As with the other variations, the push rod 82 is biased similar to a spring to keep the follower 83 engaged with the cam 81. FIG. 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 FIG. 107, this spring 85 keeps the driver biased in the driver retracted position 9A.

[0278] Another bias that may be possible in any of the variations is hydraulic damping, such as air or other gas, which can be compressed and biased to expand in volume to push or expand the driver actuator 9. Similarly, elastic stops or formations may 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; variations may include more than one of the features 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 retention system may not include a driver 11, but instead may have an arrangement to allow the trigger 10 to directly couple and decouple the driver actuator 9 from the retention device 6. This means that the driver actuator is configured to pivot or similarly to allow decoupling with the retention device 6 / lug 8.

[0281] In some embodiments, a sound may be emitted via speaker 43 when the operator enters a particular mode. In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 52, a lockout switch 44 is also provided. When the operator activates switch 44, the coupler hydraulic system may be engaged. In the preferred embodiment, a buzzer 43 sounds simultaneously with activation of switch 44. In this preferred embodiment, there cannot be any accidental release of any pin P1 or P2 without activation of switch 44, which allows the hydraulic system to operate and release either of the retainers 3 and 6.

[0282] Where the foregoing description refers to elements or integers that have known equivalents, such equivalents are included as if they were individually set forth.

[0283] While the invention has been described by way of example and with reference to specific embodiments, it will be understood that modifications and / or improvements can be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. 1. A coupler for securing an attachment to an earthmoving machine, the coupler comprising: a coupler body having a first receptacle with a mouth opening; a first pin of the attachment movable through the mouth opening and through a passage in the first receptacle to a capture area of ​​the first receptacle; the passage in the first receptacle may be sufficiently blocked to prevent the first pin from leaving the capture area by a retention device provided movable from and relative to the coupler body; the retention device being biased to a first position in which the passage is blocked and in which the retention device prevents the first pin from leaving the capture area; and the retention device being movable to a second position relative to the passage, whereby: (i) pressing the first pin against the retaining device and moving the retaining device against the bias of the retaining device toward the second position, thereby causing the first pin to enter the capture area; (ii) a driver that allows the first pin to exit the capture area, the driver being movable relative to the coupler body such that: (a) the driver is coupled with the retaining device to allow the driver to move the retaining device to a second position of the retaining device; and (b) the driver is disengaged from the retaining device to prevent the driver from controlling movement of the retaining device between the first and second positions of the retaining device; the driver is coupled or coupleable to a driver actuator to move the driver in a manner that can move the retention device; a second receptacle is provided by the coupler body at a location spaced from the first receptacle, the second receptacle being provided to receive and retain a second pin of the attachment when the first receptacle retains the first pin; A second retaining device is provided, the second retaining device having a first position that prevents the second pin positioned in the second receptacle from exiting the second receptacle, and a second position that releases the retained second pin from the second receptacle. a second position of a second holding device that can be moved relative to the coupler body; The second retainer is actuated to move between the first position and the second position by a second retainer actuator. A coupler wherein the driver actuator is actuated directly or indirectly by the second retainer actuator.

2. A coupler as described in claim 1, further comprising a trigger, the trigger being movable relative to the coupler body in a manner that can engage with and be moved by the first pin as the first pin moves through the passage, in a manner that can decouple the driver from the holding device when the trigger is moved by the first pin.

3. A coupler as described in claim 2, wherein the trigger is capable of decoupling the coupled holding device and driver, thereby allowing the holding device to move to its first position under the influence of the biasing force if it is not in its first position.

4. A coupler as described in claim 2, wherein the trigger can move the coupled holding device and driver relative to each other to uncouple them, whereby the holding device is not restricted in its movement to its first position by the driver.

5. A coupler as described in claim 1, wherein the driver can be moved between a coupled state and an uncoupled state by the driver actuator.

6. A coupler as described in claim 1, wherein the retaining device is mounted to move in a rotational manner relative to the coupler body about a retaining device rotation axis.

7. A coupler as described in claim 1, wherein the driver is permanently coupled to a driver actuator by a rotatable connection.

8. A coupler as described in claim 7, wherein the driver actuator, when actuated, moves the driver in an actuating direction such that when the driver is coupled to the retaining device, the retaining device can move to or toward a second position of the retaining device.

9. A coupler as described in claim 6, further comprising a trigger, the trigger being attached to the coupler body so as to translate in a trigger direction relative to the coupler body and perpendicular to the holding device rotation axis.

10. A coupler as described in claim 2, wherein the trigger is configured to be movable linearly relative to the coupler body, and the driver is carried by the trigger so as to move together with the trigger.

11. The coupler of claim 10, wherein the driver is configured to lose contact with or decouple from the driver actuator.

12. The coupler of claim 10, wherein the driver actuator is capable of slidingly engaging with the driver.

13. A coupler as described in claim 1, wherein the second holding device actuator is a hydraulic actuator.

14. A coupler as described in claim 1, wherein the driver actuator is a push rod configured to be engaged by the second retaining device actuator or second retaining device when it retracts to an engaged position, and when at or past the engaged position, the push rod moves together with the second retaining device actuator or second retaining device, simultaneously moving the driver.

15. The coupler of claim 1, wherein the driver actuator is a combination of a first hydraulic actuator and a second hydraulic actuator hydraulically connected together.

16. A coupler as described in claim 15, wherein the driver actuator comprises an arm driven by the second holding device or second holding device actuator, the arm hydraulically driving the first hydraulic actuator and therefore the second hydraulic actuator which drives the driver.

17. A coupler for securing an attachment to an earthmoving machine, the coupler comprising a coupler body having a receptacle with a mouth opening, a pin of the attachment can pass through the mouth opening and move through a passage in the receptacle to a capture area of ​​the receptacle, the passage in the receptacle can be sufficiently blocked to prevent the pin from leaving the capture area by a retaining device provided movably from and relative to the coupler body, the retaining device being biased to a first position in which the passage is blocked and in which the retaining device prevents the pin from leaving the capture area, and can be moved to a second position relative to the passage, whereby (i) pressing the pin against the retaining device and moving the retaining device against the bias of the retaining device toward the second position, thereby causing the pin to enter the capture area; (ii) a driver that allows the pin to exit the capture area, the driver being movable relative to the coupler body such that: (a) the driver is coupled with the retaining device to allow the driver to move the retaining device to a second position of the retaining device; and (b) the driver is disengaged from the retaining device to prevent the driver from controlling movement of the retaining device between the first and second positions of the retaining device; The coupler further comprises a trigger that is linearly movable relative to the coupler body, the trigger being translatable relative to the coupler body in a manner that engages with and can be linearly translated by the pin as the pin moves through the passage in a manner that can decouple the driver from the retaining device when translated by the pin, and the driver is carried by the trigger to move with the trigger.

Images