Automated work tool pressure reduction circuit and method

Abstract

A control system (101) is disclosed for depressurizing a work tool auxiliary circuit (400) in fluid communication with a work tool (116) that couples to a work machine (100) by a quick coupler (114). The system (101) may include a controller (120) configured to receive an unlock signal for the work tool (116), receive tool data associated with the work tool (116), the tool data including a target pressure for the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or an opening time for a relief valve (408), and, in response to the unlock signal and the tool data, automatically actuate the relief valve (408) to open (a) for the opening time, or (b) until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or machine-side circuit (412), or (c) to reach and maintain the target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or machine-side circuit (412).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a hydraulic system of a work machine, and more specifically, to a pressure reduction of a hydraulic work tool auxiliary circuit.

Background Art

[0002] Work machines, such as excavators, backhoes, skid steers, wheel loaders, tractors, etc., are further provided with quick couplers that are generally used to attach and remove various work tool attachments, generally called implements, to and from the work machine. More specifically, some implements are generally connected at the end of a work assembly generally called the boom and arm of the work machine. Generally, a quick coupler is a heavy equipment industrial part that enables the quick and efficient replacement of buckets, hammers, grapples, compactors, rakes, and other implements to the arm of the work machine. Without a quick coupler, an operator typically has to manually drive out pins using a hammer.

[0003] Hydraulic connection quick couplers are improved over standard quick couplers. A standard quick coupler only physically connects the work tool to the machine, and still requires the hydraulic lines to be connected manually. Hydraulic connection quick couplers physically connect both the implement and the hydraulic lines to the machine when equipped. Hydraulic connection quick couplers enable the work machine to quickly switch between different hydraulic or hydro-mechanical work tools by using the hydraulic system of the work machine, and can be operated by a control device from the cab of the work machine. The hydraulic system of the work machine is generally connected to the quick coupler via the hydraulic lines of the hydraulic system. Hydraulic lines are generally provided throughout the work machine. Hydraulic lines generally utilize hydraulic couplings that form fluid-tight seals to maintain the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the circuit.

[0004] U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0217040, published on July 9, 2020, discloses a coupler for connecting an attachment to an excavator or other machine, comprising: an electric actuator for locking and unlocking a locking member; a first power coupling unit; and a second actuator for moving the power coupling unit to and from an engagement position where it can engage with a corresponding second power coupling unit on an attachment. The coupler is configured such that, after the latching member has entered a locked position, the first power coupling unit is moved to the engagement position, and when the attachment is removed from the coupler, the latching member remains locked until the first power coupling unit is disengaged from the engagement position. While beneficial, an improved hydraulic system is needed to facilitate attaching and detaching work tools from the quick coupler. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0005] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a control system is disclosed for reducing pressure in a work tool auxiliary circuit that provides fluid communication to a work tool connected to a work machine by a quick coupler. The work tool may include a work tool valve block. The quick coupler may include a quick coupler valve block and a locking member movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. When in the locked position, the work tool valve block and the quick coupler valve block can be fitted together and provide fluid communication. When in the unlocked position, the work tool valve block and the quick coupler valve block may be detachable. The work tool auxiliary hydraulic circuit may include a reservoir and a relief valve that provides fluid communication to the quick coupler valve block and the fluid reservoir. The system may include a controller configured to receive a work tool unlock signal and tool data associated with the work tool, wherein the tool data includes a target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit or an opening time for a relief valve, and to automatically activate the opening of a relief valve in response to the unlock signal and the tool data, for (a) the duration of the opening time, or (b) until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit or machine-side circuit, or (c) to reach and maintain the target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit or machine-side circuit.

[0006] Another aspect of the present disclosure discloses a method for reducing the pressure of a work tool auxiliary circuit that has fluid communication with a work tool connected to a work machine by a quick coupler. The work tool may include a work tool valve block. The quick coupler may include a quick coupler valve block and a locking member movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The work tool auxiliary hydraulic circuit may include a reservoir and a first relief valve that has fluid communication with the quick coupler valve block and the fluid reservoir. The method may include receiving a work tool unlock signal and receiving tool data associated with the work tool, the tool data including a target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit or an opening period for the first relief valve, and in response to the unlock signal and tool data, automatically activating the controller to open the first relief valve for (a) the duration of the opening time, or (b) until a target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary hydraulic circuit or the machine-side circuit, or (c) to reach and maintain a target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit or the machine-side circuit, and moving the locking member to the unlocked position.

[0007] Another aspect of this disclosure discloses a method for depressurizing a work tool auxiliary circuit that is in fluid communication with a work tool. The work tool is connected to a work machine by a quick coupler. The work tool may include a work tool valve block. The quick coupler may include a quick coupler valve block and a locking member that is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The work tool auxiliary hydraulic circuit may include a reservoir and a first relief valve that is in fluid communication with the quick coupler valve block and the fluid reservoir. The method may include receiving a lock signal for a work tool, receiving tool data associated with the work tool, the tool data including a target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit or the opening time of a first relief valve, and automatically activating the controller to open the first relief valve in order to reach and maintain the target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit or machine-side circuit by moving a locking member to the locked position, either during the opening time, or (b) until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit or machine-side circuit, or (c) before and / or during the locking of the quick coupler to the work tool, and moving the locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position to lock the quick coupler to the work tool.

[0008] These and other aspects and features of this disclosure will be more readily understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary work machine that utilizes the teachings of this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the quick coupler connected to the work tool. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the quick coupler, shown disassembled from the work tool bracket. [Figure 4]Figure 4 is a simplified, illustrative schematic diagram of a control system for reducing pressure in an exemplary (hydraulic) work tool auxiliary circuit of a working machine. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating a hydraulic circuit of a work machine in a state where a work tool is connected to the work machine before depressurization, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating a hydraulic circuit of a work machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in which a work tool is connected to the work machine and the relief value is open during depressurization. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a simplified, illustrative schematic diagram illustrating the pressure in the hydraulic circuit of a working machine after depressurization and before the relief valve moves to the closed position, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a simplified, illustrative schematic diagram illustrating the pressure in the hydraulic circuit of a work machine after the work tool has been depressurized and removed from the work machine, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a simplified, illustrative schematic diagram illustrating the pressure in the hydraulic circuit of a working machine before a work tool subjected to thermal expansion pressure is connected, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a simplified illustrative schematic diagram illustrating the pressure in the hydraulic circuit of a working machine after the work tool, which is the subject of Figure 9, has been connected, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a simplified illustrative schematic diagram illustrating the pressure in the hydraulic work tool auxiliary circuit after the work tool, which is the subject of Figure 9, has been connected and the pressure has been reduced, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating one exemplary method for depressurizing a work tool auxiliary circuit during the process of disconnecting a work tool from a machine, as disclosed herein. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating one exemplary method for depressurizing the work tool auxiliary circuit of a machine during the process of connecting a work tool to the machine, as described herein. [Figure 14]Figure 14 is an enlarged view illustrating the locking member of a quick coupler in the locked position. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is an enlarged view illustrating the locking member of a quick coupler in the unlocked position.

[0010] The figures illustrate an embodiment of the present invention for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following considerations that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods described herein may be used without departing from the principles described herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Referring here to the drawings, and in particular to Figure 1, an exemplary working machine 100, illustrated as an excavator, is shown. The following detailed description describes exemplary embodiments relating to an excavator, but it will be understood that this description also applies to the use of the disclosure in other working machines, including but not limited to backhoes, front-end loaders, skid steers, wheel loaders, and tractors.

[0012] The work machine 100 comprises a frame 102 supporting an engine 104. The frame 102 is supported on ground-engaging elements 106, exemplified as tracks. The ground-engaging elements 106 should be intended to be any other type of ground-engaging element 106, such as wheels. The work machine 100 further comprises a work assembly 108 extending from the frame 102 for performing work, such as excavating terrain or moving soil, soil, or other materials at an excavation site. The frame 102 may be a slewing body common to excavators and work machines in the agricultural and construction industries.

[0013] As illustrated, in one embodiment, the work assembly 108 may comprise a boom 110, an arm 112, a quick coupler 114 connected to the arm 112, and a work tool 116 configured to remove soil, soil, and other materials from the work site. The work tool 116 may be a bucket, dipper, hammer, thumb, hydraulic mechanical tool, or other attachment connected to the quick coupler 114 for operation by the work machine 100.

[0014] The work machine 100 uses a quick coupler 114 to attach and detach the work tool 116 to and from the work machine 100. The work tool 116 is configured to attach to / detach from the quick coupler 114 and one or more hydraulic lines 118 located on the work machine. In an exemplary embodiment, the quick coupler 114 is a hydraulic coupling quick coupler configured to connect to multiple hydraulic lines 118.

[0015] Referring here to Figure 2, the quick coupler 114 is illustrated in a state connected to the work tool 116. As shown in Figure 2, the quick coupler 114 is mounted on the work tool bracket 200, which in turn is mounted on the work tool 116. Figure 3 illustrates the quick coupler 114 disassembled from the work tool bracket 200. As shown in Figure 3, the work tool bracket 200 may include a bracket frame 202 defining a cavity 204. The work tool bracket 200 may further include a work tool valve block 302 configured to mate with the quick coupler valve block 300. The work tool valve block 302 may be located within the cavity 204.

[0016] As illustrated in Figure 3, the quick coupler 114 includes a quick coupler valve block 300 configured to mate with a work tool valve block 302 (of the work tool bracket 200). The quick coupler 114 further includes one or more locking members 306 (Figures 14-15) movable between an unlocked position 308 (Figure 15) and a locked position 310 (Figure 14). In an exemplary embodiment, the quick coupler 114 includes a primary locking member 306a and a secondary locking member 306b. The locking members 306 (e.g., primary locking member 306a and secondary locking member 306b) are configured to removably secure the quick coupler 114 to the work tool 116 (Figures 14-15). The quick coupler 114 and the work tool bracket 200 may be fully coupled when secured by the locking members 306 (e.g., primary locking member 306a and secondary locking member 306b). When the quick coupler 114 and the work tool bracket 200 are fully connected, the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302 allow fluid to pass between the work tool 116 and the quick coupler 114. On the other hand, when the quick coupler 114 and the work tool bracket 200 are fully disconnected, the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302 are disconnected, and fluid cannot move between the work tool 116 and the quick coupler 114. The quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302 are also collectively referred to as the hydraulic block 206. The quick coupler valve block 300 is configured to communicate fluidly with and disconnect from the work tool valve block 302. Similarly, the work tool valve block 302 is configured to communicate fluidly with and disconnect from the quick coupler valve block 300. The hydraulic line 118 (Figure 2) connects to the hydraulic coupling 304 (Figure 3). The hydraulic coupling 304 is installed within the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302. The hydraulic coupling 304 is configured to form a fluid sealing seal.The hydraulic coupling 304 can have two parts, a coupling body (socket or female end) and a coupling nipple (male end), which connect the hydraulic line 118 (FIG. 2) to the quick coupler valve block 300 of the quick coupler 114. The hydraulic coupling 304 (FIG. 3) connection types may include push-to-connect, pull-to-connect, screw connection, quick disconnect coupling, and universal interchange generally known in the art. The hydraulic coupling 304 is configured to control leakage, air ingress, and removal by means of special functions such as flush face design, self-sealing poppet valve, single or double shut-off valve, sleeve (automatic, manual, lock).

[0017] One or more of the hydraulic lines 118 (FIG. 2) may be used for the main operation of the work tool 116, and one or more of the hydraulic lines 118 may be used for secondary operations such as rotation, tilt, opening and closing of the work tool 116. One or more of the hydraulic lines 118 may be used to supply hydraulic operating oil to a work tool auxiliary circuit 400 configured to supply hydraulic operating oil from a pressure source 402 (see FIG. 4) to a work tool 116 connected to a work machine 100 (e.g., arm 112 of).

[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary control system 101 for depressurizing an exemplary work tool auxiliary circuit 400 of a work machine 100. For clarity, the schematic diagram of FIG. 4 illustrates the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 for a given function, but for other functions, additional elements (e.g., control valve 406, relief valve 408, etc.) may be utilized. The work tool auxiliary circuit 400 includes a machine-side circuit 412 disposed on the work machine 100 and a tool-side circuit 414. The work tool auxiliary circuit 400 may include one or more pressure sensors 426.

[0019] The tool-side circuit 414 (of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400) may include one or more tool-side hydraulic lines 416 disposed on / in the work tool 116 and configured to carry hydraulic working fluid from the work tool 116 to the work tool valve block 302 or from the work tool valve block 302 to the work tool 116.

[0020] The machine-side circuit 412 (of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400) is disposed on the machine tool 100 and may include one or more hydraulic lines 118(a - d) configured to supply / carry hydraulic working fluid, a pressure source 402, a reservoir section 404, one or more control valves 406, one or more relief valves 408a, 408b, and one or more pressure reducing lines 410(a - d) configured to supply / carry hydraulic working fluid. An exemplary machine-side circuit 412 may include one or more pressure sensors 426. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4, only one control valve 406 and two relief valves 408 are shown, but in other embodiments, there may be multiple control valves and more or fewer relief valves 408.

[0021] The control valve 406 is configured to regulate the distribution of hydraulic fluid, which is pumped by the pressure source 402, throughout the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. The control valve 406 is movable between a shut-off position 418 and one or more flow positions 420. In the shut-off position 418, the control valve 406 is configured to prevent hydraulic fluid from flowing through the control valve 406. In each of the flow positions 420, the control valve 406 is configured to allow hydraulic fluid to enter the control valve 406, flow through it, and exit therefrom. The control valve 406 may be a spool valve, a directional control valve, an electronically controlled valve, etc. In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 4, the control valve 406 is fluidly connected to the pressure source 402 by hydraulic line 118a, and the control valve 406 is fluidly connected to the quick coupler valve block 300 (of the hydraulic block 206) by hydraulic lines 118b, 118c. Furthermore, the control valve 406 is in fluid communication with the storage unit 404 via the hydraulic line 118d. The control valve 406 is also in fluid communication with the relief valves 408a and 408b via the hydraulic lines 118b and 118c, and depressurizes lines 410a and 410b.

[0022] Each relief valve 408a, 408b is configured to be movable between a closed position 422 and an open position 424. In the closed position 422, the relief valves 408a, 408b are configured to prevent hydraulic fluid from flowing through them. When in the open position 424, the relief valves 408a, 408b are configured to allow hydraulic fluid to enter, pass through, and exit them. The relief valves 408 may be electromechanical valves, including but not limited to pressure reducing valves, directional control valves, pressure control valves, flow control valves, solenoid valves, or other valves. In exemplary embodiments, each relief valve 408a, 408b may be a solenoid pressure release valve (e.g., a proportional pressure release valve). The relief valves 408 may also be used for functions other than pressure reduction (e.g., controlling the work tool operating pressure during tool use). In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 4, the relief valves 408a and 408b are fluidly connected to the control valve 406 and the quick coupler valve block 300 (of the hydraulic block 206) via depressurization lines 410a and 410b and hydraulic lines 118b and 118c, respectively. The relief valves 408a and 408b are also fluidly connected to the reservoir 404 via depressurization lines 410c and 410d and hydraulic line 118d. The relief valves 408a and 408b are further configured to release pressure within the work tool auxiliary circuit 400, for example, by fluidly connecting the depressurization lines 410a and 410b to the reservoir 404 via depressurization lines 410c and 410d and hydraulic line 118d.

[0023] The pressure sensor 426 is configured to measure fluid pressure. In the exemplary embodiments described herein, the pressure sensor 426 is located upstream of and near the relief valves 408a, 408b.

[0024] The pressure source 402 is configured to supply pressurized hydraulic fluid to the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. For example, the pressure source 402 may be configured to pump hydraulic fluid throughout the entire work tool auxiliary circuit 400 (when the relief valves 408a, 408b are in the closed position 422, as shown in Figure 4) to generate pressure in multiple hydraulic lines 118(a-d) and one or more pressure lines 410a, 410b. The pressure source 402 may be a pump or other pressure source known to those skilled in the art. In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 4, the pressure source 402 is in fluid communication with the control valve 406 via hydraulic line 118a.

[0025] The storage unit 404 is configured to store a supply of hydraulic fluid. The storage unit 404 may be a tank or the like configured to store hydraulic fluid. As is generally known in the art, the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 can utilize various hydraulic fluids stored and supplied to the storage unit 404, such as oil, water, gas, or other generally known fluids used in hydraulic circuits and hydraulic systems. In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 4, the storage unit 404 is fluid-communicated to the control valve 406 by hydraulic line 118d, and fluid-communicated to the relief valves 408a and 408b by hydraulic line 118d, and depressurizes lines 410c and 410d.

[0026] A control system 101 for reducing the pressure of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 includes a controller 120. The control system 101 may further include an operator interface 122. The control system 101 may further include a transmitter 124.

[0027] The operator interface 122 is configured to communicate with the controller 120, receive user input, and send signals (e.g., unlock signal, lock signal) to the controller 120 based on the user input (e.g., pressing a switch).

[0028] The transmitter 124 may be located on the work tool 116 or on the work machine 100. The transmitter 124 is configured to communicate with the controller 120 and send tool data associated with the work tool 116 to the controller 120.

[0029] Controller 120 is configured to control the pressure reduction of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. Controller 120 is configured to receive an unlock signal (based on user input) from the operator interface 122 and unlock the quick coupler 114. Controller 120 is further configured to receive a lock signal (based on user input) from the operator interface 122 and lock the quick coupler 114. Controller 120 is further configured to receive / acquire tool data associated with the work tool 116 from the operator interface 122, the transmitter 124, and / or the memory component 128.

[0030] The controller 120 may be configured to send a control signal to the control valve 406 to move the control valve 406 from the shut-off position 418 to the flow position 420 and vice versa, or it may be configured to send a control signal to the relief valves 408a and 408b to move the relief valves 408a and 408b from the closed position 422 to the open position 424 and vice versa.

[0031] The controller 120 may include a processor 126 and a memory component 128. The controller 120 may be configured to operably communicate with the operator interface 122 and to receive / acquire tool data associated with the work tool 116 from the operator interface 122. The controller 120 may also operably communicate with the transmitter 124 and to receive tool data associated with the work tool 116 from the transmitter 124. The controller 120 may be configured to operably communicate with the pressure sensor 426 and to receive / acquire one or more pressure measurements associated with the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or the machine-side circuit 412 from the pressure sensor.

[0032] In some embodiments, the controller 120 may be configured to activate the unlocking of the quick coupler 114 (and hydraulic block 206) by activating the movement of one or more locking members 306 (Figures 14-15) to an unlocked position 308, and in some embodiments, it may be configured to activate the locking of the quick coupler 114 (and hydraulic block 206) by activating the movement of one or more locking members 306 to a locked position 310.

[0033] The controller 120 may be configured to automatically activate one or more relief valves 408a, 408b in response to an unlock signal to open for an open time or until a target pressure is reached in (part of) the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 (e.g., in hydraulic lines 118(b, c) and depressurization lines 410(a, b) and tool-side hydraulic line 416). The pressure (target pressure) in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 (e.g., hydraulic lines 118(b, c) and depressurization lines 410(a, b) and tool-side hydraulic line 416) may be measured by one or more pressure sensors 426. In one exemplary embodiment, such pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 may be measured upstream of and near the relief valve 408. The controller 120 may be configured to activate the quick coupler 114 to move the locking member 306 (e.g., primary locking member 306a, secondary locking member 306b) from the locked position 310 to the unlocked position 308. When the locking members 306 (for example, in the exemplary embodiment, the primary locking member 306a and the secondary locking member 306b) are in the unlocked position 308, the work tool valve block 302 and the quick coupler valve block 300 may be removable (and the work tool 116 is removable from the quick coupler 114 of the work machine 100).

[0034] The controller 120 may be configured to automatically activate, in response to a lock signal, to open one or more relief valves 408a, 408b for an open time or until a target pressure is reached in (part of) the machine-side circuitry 412 (e.g., in the hydraulic lines 118(b, c) and the depressurization lines 410(a, b)). The pressure (target pressure) in the machine-side circuitry 412 (e.g., in the hydraulic lines 118(b, c) and the depressurization lines 410(a, b)) may be measured by one or more pressure sensors 426. In one exemplary embodiment, such pressure in the machine-side circuitry 412 may be measured upstream of and near the relief valve 408. In some embodiments, the controller 120 may automatically activate the quick coupler 114 to move the locking members 306 (for example, in exemplary embodiments, a primary locking member 306a and a secondary locking member 306b) from the unlocked position 308 to the locked position 310, thereby locking the work tool 116 to the quick coupler valve block 300.

[0035] In some embodiments, the controller 120 can maintain / regulate the pressure near the target pressure by keeping one or more relief valves 408a, 408b in the open position 424 as necessary to maintain the target pressure during locking (movement of the locking member 306 (for example, in the exemplary embodiment, the primary locking member 306a and the secondary locking member 306b to the locked position 310)) or during unlocking (movement of the locking member 306 (for example, in the exemplary embodiment, the primary locking member 306a and the secondary locking member 306b to the unlocked position 308)).

[0036] The processor 126 may be a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an electronic control module (ECM), an electronic control unit (ECU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a microprocessor, or any other suitable processor known in the art. The processor 126 can execute instructions and generate control signals for determining the open time or target pressure associated with the work tool, and / or for activating the relief valve during the open time or until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or the machine-side circuit 412, and / or for adjusting / maintaining the pressure (near the target pressure) during locking and / or unlocking of the locking member 306. Such instructions may be read into or incorporated into a computer-readable medium, such as a memory component 128, or provided outside the processor 126. In alternative embodiments, hard wired circuits may be used instead of or in combination with software instructions to implement the control method.

[0037] As used herein, the term “computer-readable medium” refers to any non-transient medium or combination of media involved in providing instructions to the processor 126 for execution. Such media may include all computer-readable media except for transient propagating signals. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes or any other magnetic media, CD-ROMs, any other optical media or any other computer-readable media.

[0038] The controller 120 is not limited to a single processor 126 and memory component 128. The controller 120 may comprise several processors 126 and memory components 128. In one embodiment, the processor 126 may be a parallel processor having access to a shared memory component 128. In another embodiment, the processor 126 may be part of a distributed computing system, in which case the processor 126 (and its associated memory component 128) may be located away from one or more other processors 126 (and associated memory components 128) or FPGAs that are part of the distributed computing system.

[0039] The controller 120 may also be configured to retrieve tool data, formulas, and other data necessary for the calculations and decisions described herein from the memory component 128.

[0040] Furthermore, a method for reducing the pressure of a work tool auxiliary circuit 400 that is in fluid communication with a work tool 116 connected to a work machine 100 by a quick coupler 114 is disclosed, wherein the work tool 116 comprises a work tool valve block 302, the quick coupler 114 comprises a quick coupler valve block 300 and a locking member 306 that is movable between a locked position 310 and an unlocked position 308, and the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 comprises a storage unit 404 and a first relief valve 408 that is in fluid communication with the quick coupler valve block 300 and the fluid storage unit 404. The method may include receiving an unlock signal for the work tool 116, receiving tool data associated with the work tool 116, wherein the tool data includes a target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or the opening time of the first relief valve 408, and in response to the unlock signal and tool data, automatically activating the controller 120 to open the first relief valve 408 to reach and maintain the target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or the machine-side circuit 412 by moving the locking member 306 to the locked position 310, either (a) during the opening time, or (b) until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or the machine-side circuit 412, or (c) before and / or during the locking of the quick coupler 114 to the work tool 116, by moving the locking member 306 from the unlock position 308 to the locked position 310 to lock the quick coupler 114 to the work tool 116.

[0041] Furthermore, a method is disclosed for reducing the pressure of a work tool auxiliary circuit 400 that is in fluid communication with a work tool 116 connected to a work machine 100 by a quick coupler 114, wherein the work tool 116 comprises a work tool valve block 302, the quick coupler 115 comprises a quick coupler valve block 300 and a locking member 306 that is movable between a locked position 310 and an unlocked position 308, and the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 comprises a storage unit 404 and a first relief valve 408 that is in fluid communication with the quick coupler valve block 300 and the fluid storage unit 404. The method may include receiving a lock signal for the work tool 116, receiving tool data associated with the work tool 116, wherein the tool data includes a target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or the opening time of the first relief valve 408, and automatically activating the controller 120 to open the first relief valve 408 to reach and maintain the target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or the machine-side circuit 412 by moving the locking member 306 to the locked position 310, either during the opening time, or (b) until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or the machine-side circuit 412, or (c) before and / or during the locking of the quick coupler 114 to the work tool 116, by moving the locking member 306 from the unlocked position 308 to the locked position 310, thereby locking the quick coupler 114 to the work tool 116. [Industrial applicability]

[0042] During operation, this disclosure may be applicable to many industries, including but not limited to construction, civil engineering, and agriculture. Specifically, the technology of this disclosure may be used for hydraulic pressure reduction in work machines 100, including but not limited to excavators, backhoes, skid steers, wheel loaders, and tractors, and includes a quick coupler 114 for easily connecting and disconnecting work tools 116, such as hammers, buckets, dippers, digging tools, etc. The above detailed description is made with particular reference to excavators, but it should be understood that the teachings are also applicable to other work machines 100, such as backhoes, skid steers, wheel loaders, tractors, mulchers, etc.

[0043] During operation, the controller 120 can be configured to operate according to predetermined methods 1200 to 1300, for example, as shown in Figures 12 to 13.

[0044] Figure 12 illustrates an exemplary flowchart showing a sample block performed in method 1200 of reducing the pressure in the (hydraulic) work tool auxiliary circuit 400 of the work machine 100.

[0045] Block 1210 includes receiving an unlock signal from the controller 120 to unlock the quick coupler 114 so that the work tool 116 can be removed from the work machine 100. The unlock signal may be received from the operator interface 122 based on a user input entered by the operator into the operator interface 122. For example, in one embodiment, the operator may toggle a switch in the operator station to trigger the transmission of the unlock signal (to unlock the work tool 116) from the operator interface 122 to the controller 120.

[0046] Figure 5 is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary (hydraulic) work tool auxiliary circuit 400 of the work machine 100, with the work tool 116 connected to the work machine 100 before the work tool 116 is depressurized and unlocked from the work machine 100. As can be seen from Figure 5, the control valve 406 is in the shut-off position 418. The hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic line 118a, which fluid-connects the pressure source 402 to the control valve 406, and the hydraulic lines 118b and 118c, which fluid-connect the control valve 406 to the quick coupler valve block 300 (of the quick coupler 114), may be under pressure. Furthermore, the depressurization lines 410a and 410b may also be under pressure, as may the tool-side hydraulic line 416 and the internal passages (not shown) of the work tool 116 itself.

[0047] Block 1220 includes receiving / acquiring tool data associated with the work tool 116. The tool data may include tool identification information (associated with the work tool 116) and / or target pressure of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400, and / or open time associated with the work tool 116. The open time is the duration for which the first and / or second relief valves 408a, 408b remain open. The target pressure is the pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 (or machine-side circuit 412) at which the relief valves 408a, 408b close. The tool data can be received from the operator interface 122, the memory component 128, or from another source (e.g., a transmitter 124 located on the work tool 116 or the work machine 100).

[0048] Block 1230 includes automatically activating the controller 120 to open the first and / or second relief valves 408a, 408b in response to an unlock signal and based on tool data associated with the work tool 116, for (a) a period of open time, or (b) until a target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400, or (c) once a target pressure is reached and maintained within the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. Block 1230 may also include adjusting the pressure within the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 to a predetermined target pressure by a decoupling process.

[0049] Figure 6 is a simplified illustrative schematic diagram illustrating a hydraulic work tool auxiliary circuit 400 of a work machine 100 having a work tool 116 connected to the work machine 100 with relief values ​​408a and 408b open during depressurization. As can be seen in Figure 6, when the relief valves 408a and 408b are opened, hydraulic fluid is discharged to the storage unit 404 from the hydraulic lines 118b and 118c (between the control valve 406 and the quick coupler valve block 300 (of the quick coupler 114)) and from the depressurization lines 410a and 410b to the storage unit 404. Hydraulic fluid is also discharged from the connecting work tool 116 through the tool-side hydraulic line 416, the work tool valve block 302 and the quick coupler valve block 300 (of the hydraulic block 206), and hydraulic lines 118b, 118c, and then discharged to the reservoir 404 through the pressure reduction lines 410a, 410b, and relief valves 408a, 408b. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the state after the pressure in the hydraulic circuit of the work machine 100 has been reduced (to approximately 0 pounds / square inch (psi)) and before the relief valves 408a, 408b move to the closed position 422 and the hydraulic block 206 is unlocked. As shown in Figure 7, the hydraulic line 118a between the pressure source 402 and the control valve 406 can remain under pressure.

[0050] Depending on the application, the release time of the depressurization process may need to be limited to restrict tool drift before disengaging the quick coupler 114 (or the target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 may need to be greater than 0 psi). Tool drift is the movement of the work tool 116 while hydraulic pressure is lost in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. For example, the teeth of a thumb or grapple may be held open by the hydraulic pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. When the hydraulic circuit of the work machine 100 is depressurized, the work tool 116 may begin to close or begin to drift in the direction of closing due to gravity and / or lack of hydraulic pressure.

[0051] In block 1240, after the opening time has ended, or when a target pressure has been reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or a part thereof (for example, when a target pressure measured by a pressure sensor 426 located near the relief valves 408a, 408b) the method may further include unlocking the quick coupler 114 from the work tool 116 by moving the locking member 306 to the unlocked position 308. When the locking member 306 is in the unlocked position 308, the work tool 116 can be freely removed from the quick coupler 114. Before, during, or after unlocking, the controller can activate the movement of the relief valves 408a, 408b to the closed position 422. Figure 8 is an exemplary schematic diagram illustrating the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 of the work machine 100 after the work tool 116 has been depressurized and removed from the work machine 100. As can be seen in Figure 8, the machine-side circuit 412 and the tool-side circuit 414 are depressurized.

[0052] Figure 13 illustrates an exemplary flowchart showing a sample block performed by method 1300 to depressurize the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 of the work machine 100 during the process of connecting the work tool 116 to the work machine 100. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the pressures that may be present in the tool-side circuit 414 and the machine-side circuit 412 (see, for example, the tool-side hydraulic line 416) before the work tool 116 is connected to the work machine 100. The pressure shown in the tool-side circuit 414 is typically due to thermal expansion, but such pressures may be caused by other factors. If the work tool 116 is removed from the work machine 100 without depressurizing (reducing pressure) the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 before removing the work tool 116, the pressure inside the work tool 116 may rise above the work tool 116's pressure tolerance, potentially causing damage due to thermal expansion. For example, the work tool 116 can handle up to 3000 psi, and on a cold day, the current pressure inside the work tool 116 may be 2800 psi. If, on a cold day, the operator removes the work tool 116 from the work machine 100 when the pressure inside the work tool 116 is 2800 psi, and there is a large temperature change the day after the work tool 116 is removed from the work machine 100, the pressure inside the work tool 116 may increase significantly beyond the maximum design pressure due to the thermal expansion of the oil trapped inside the work tool 116, even if the work tool 116 is still removed from the work machine 100. Reducing the pressure inside the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 reduces the force required to connect the work tool valve block 302 to the quick coupler valve block 300 (hydraulic block 206), improving the ease of connecting the work tool 116 to the work machine 100.

[0053] After the work tool 116 is picked up and coupled to the quick coupler 114, in block 1310, the controller 120 receives a lock signal to lock the work tool 116 to the quick coupler 114 to which the work tool 116 is currently attached (by locking the quick coupler valve block 300 to the work tool valve block 302). The lock signal may be received from the operator interface 122 based on a user input entered by the operator into the operator interface 122. For example, in one embodiment, the operator can trigger the transmission of the lock signal from the operator interface 122 to the controller 120 by toggling a switch in the operator station.

[0054] Block 1320 includes receiving / acquiring tool data associated with the work tool 116 by the controller 120, the tool data may include tool identification information and / or the target pressure of the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 (associated with the work tool 116), or the open time (associated with the work tool 116).

[0055] At this point in the process, the control valve 406 is in the shut-off position 418. Block 1330 includes automatically activating the controller 120 to open the first and second relief valves 408a, 408b to reach and maintain the target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or machine-side circuit 412 by moving the locking member 306 to the locked position 310, either (a) during the open time, or (b) until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 or machine-side circuit 412, or (c) before and / or during the locking of the work tool 116 to the quick coupler valve block 300. In some embodiments, this pressure reduction is initiated when the tool-side circuit 414 is not yet in fluid communication with the machine-side circuit 412 (via the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302) and can be continued after the tool-side circuit 414 is in fluid communication with the machine-side circuit 412 (via the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302). The inventors found that if an operator inadvertently pressurizes the machine-side circuit 412 before fluid communication is established with the tool-side circuit 414, the coupling between such a quick-coupler valve block 300 and the work-tool valve block 302 can be facilitated by initiating depressurization before fluid communication is established between the quick-coupler valve block 300 and the work-tool valve block 302. In another embodiment, depressurization can be initiated when the tool-side circuit 414 is fluidly connected to the machine-side circuit 412.

[0056] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating the pressure reduction in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 resulting from the opening of the relief valves 408a and 408b.

[0057] In some embodiments, the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302 may be connected by hydraulic fluid before locking. Thus, the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302 may be partially connected (sufficient to allow fluid to flow through it, but the connection process is not fully completed) or fully connected (the connection process is fully completed, and fluid flows freely through it). In one embodiment in which the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302 are connected by hydraulic fluid before the locking process, the hydraulic fluid under internal pressure in the work tool 116 flows through the quick coupler valve block 300, hydraulic lines 118 (b-d), and depressurization lines 410 (a-d) to the storage unit 404.

[0058] In some cases, the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302 may instead be configured to make hydraulic communication during the locking process. In one embodiment in which the hydraulic coupling 304 makes hydraulic communication during the locking process, the hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic lines 118 (b-d) and the depressurization lines 410 (a-d) flows to the reservoir 404. When the hydraulic coupling 304 makes hydraulic communication, the hydraulic fluid under internal pressure in the work tool 116 can flow through the quick coupler valve block 300, the hydraulic lines 118 (b-d), and the depressurization lines 410 (a-d) to the reservoir 404.

[0059] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 after depressurization. As can be seen in the embodiment shown in Figure 11, opening the relief valves 408a and 408b reduces or removes internal pressure from the tool-side circuit 414 and the machine-side circuit 412 (e.g., the quick coupler valve block 300, hydraulic lines 118(b-d), and depressurization lines 410(a-d)). In one embodiment, the hydraulic line 118a between the pressure source 402 and the control valve 406 may still be under pressure.

[0060] Block 1340 includes locking the quick coupler 114 to the work tool 116 after the opening time has ended or when the target pressure has been reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400. In some embodiments, the controller may continue to regulate the pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit 400 after the target pressure has been reached by adjusting the opening of the first relief valve 408a and / or the second relief valve 408b. In one embodiment, the locking member 306 of the quick coupler 114 is moved from the unlocked position 308 to the locked position 310 to lock the quick coupler 114 and the work tool 116 together. In some embodiments, as described above, the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302 maintain fluid communication while one or more of the locking members are locked. Furthermore, for the quick coupler valve block 300 and work tool valve block 302 that provide fluid communication before the locking process, the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302 may be partially connected, in which case it is possible for the flow to pass through, but they may not be fully connected. Allowing pressure reduction during the locking process facilitates complete locking of the quick coupler valve block 300 and the work tool valve block 302, enabling a good sealing fit.

[0061] From the above, it can be seen that the technology disclosed herein has industrial applicability in a variety of situations, including but not limited to construction and agricultural machinery 100 that utilize quick couplers 114 to connect to various work tools 116.

Claims

1. A control system (101) for reducing the pressure of a work tool auxiliary circuit (400) that is in fluid communication with a work tool (116) connected to a work machine (100) by a quick coupler (114), wherein the work tool (116) is equipped with a work tool valve block (302), and the quick coupler (114) is equipped with a quick coupler valve block (300) and a locking member (306) that is movable between a locked position (310) and an unlocked position (308), and when in the locked position (310), the work tool valve block (302) and the quick coupler valve block (300) are fitted together, When fluid is in communication with the work tool valve block (302) and the quick coupler valve block (300) are removable when in the unlocked position (308), the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) includes a pressure source (402) for supplying hydraulic fluid to the work machine (100), the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) includes a machine-side circuit (412) located on the work machine (100), a storage unit (404) provided in the machine-side circuit (412), and a relief valve (408) that fluid is in communication with the quick coupler valve block (300) and the storage unit (404), and the system is A controller (120), Receiving the unlock signal for the work tool (116), Receiving tool data associated with the work tool (116), wherein the tool data includes the target pressure of the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or the opening time of the relief valve (408). A control system (101) comprising a controller (120) configured to automatically activate the opening of the relief valve in response to the unlock signal and the tool data, for the duration of the release time, or (b) until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or the machine-side circuit (412), or (c) once the target pressure is reached and maintained in the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or the machine-side circuit (412).

2. The control system (101) according to claim 1, wherein the relief valve (408) is a solenoid pressure release valve.

3. The controller (120) is further configured to activate the movement of the locking member (306) to the unlocked position (308), and the control system (101) is further configured The control system (101) according to claim 1, comprising an operator interface (122) that communicates with the controller (120), wherein the operator interface (122) is configured to receive user input, the unlock signal is received by the controller (120) from the operator interface (122), and the operator interface (122) is configured to receive user input.

4. The controller (120) further, Receiving the lock signal of the work tool (116), Receiving the tool data associated with the work tool (116), (a) during the opening time, or (b) until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or the machine-side circuit (412), or (c) to reach and maintain the target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or the machine-side circuit (412), the controller (120) automatically opens the relief valve. The control system (101) according to claim 1, configured to activate the movement of the locking member (306) from the unlocked position (308) to the locked position (310), thereby locking the work tool valve block (302) to the quick coupler valve block (300).

5. The control system (101) according to claim 1, wherein the tool data is received by the controller (120) from the operator interface (122), and the pressure of the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or the machine-side circuit (412) is received from a pressure sensor (426) upstream of the relief valve (408).

6. The control system (101) according to claim 1, further comprising a transmitter (124) that communicates with the controller (120), wherein the tool data is received by the controller (120) from the transmitter (124) mounted on the work tool (116).

7. The control system (101) according to claim 4, wherein the opening of the relief valve (408) discharges hydraulic fluid from the work tool (116) to the storage unit (404).

8. A method for reducing the pressure of a work tool auxiliary circuit (400) that is in fluid communication with a work tool (116) connected to a work machine (100) by a quick coupler (114), wherein the work tool (116) comprises a work tool valve block (302), the quick coupler (114) comprises a quick coupler valve block (300) and a locking member (306) movable between a locked position (310) and an unlocked position (308), the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) comprises a pressure source (402) for supplying hydraulic fluid to the work machine (100), the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) comprises a machine-side circuit (412) arranged on the work machine (100), a storage unit (404) provided in the machine-side circuit (412), and a first relief valve (408) that is in fluid communication with the quick coupler valve block (300) and the storage unit (404), and the method is as follows: Receiving the unlock signal for the work tool (116), Receiving tool data associated with the work tool (116), wherein the tool data includes the target pressure of the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or the opening time of the first relief valve (408). In response to the unlock signal and the tool data, the controller (120) automatically activates to open the first relief valve (408) for (a) the duration of the opening time, or (b) until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or the machine-side circuit (412), or (c) to reach and maintain the target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) or the machine-side circuit (412). A method comprising moving the locking member (306) to the unlocked position (308).

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the first relief valve (408) is a solenoid pressure release valve.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein the automatic operation of opening the first relief valve (408) is performed in the work tool auxiliary circuit (400) until the target pressure is reached.

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