Automatic quick connect apparatus

Abstract

An automatic quick connect apparatus facilitates the coupling of a work machine to an attachment. The system includes a work machine, an attachment, a coupling mechanism, and a connector mechanism mounted on the work machine and attachment to structurally latch the work machine to the attachment and connect various other components. A first connection manifold on the attachment features at least one hydraulic connector part, while a second connection manifold on the work machine includes at least one corresponding hydraulic connector part. The connector mechanism, linked to the coupling mechanism, ensures that when the coupling mechanism structurally connects the attachment to the work machine, it simultaneously actuates the connector mechanism. This actuation automatically aligns and connects the second connection manifold with the first connection manifold, engaging various other elements. This integration streamlines the attachment process, enhancing operational efficiency by synchronizing mechanical and other connections in a single automated action.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE1. Field of the Disclosure

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an automatic quick connect apparatus for automatically connecting a work machine to an attachment.2. Description of the Prior Art

[0002] A typical small frame work machine such as a skid steer loader or a compact track loader uses various fluids and electricity to operate attachments. Attachments likewise require various fluids and electricity to operate. This necessitates the ability of the work machine and the attachment to not only structurally latch together but also to connect the various fluid and electrical couplings. The process of coupling a work machine's various fluids and electricity to an attachment has typically required an operator to manually make the connections. However, this process may not only be time consuming but may also present dangers to the operator.

[0003] The process may become increasingly dangerous if the various couplings become damaged due to operator mishandling, the repetitive motions of the work machine and the attachment, and environmental hazards such as dust and debris entering the system and compromising the connections.

[0004] There is a need for improved connections between the work machine and the attachment to eliminate the problems noted above, and to allow for fully autonomous use of the work machine.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] The present disclosure provides an automatic quick connect apparatus for automatically connecting a work machine to an attachment without manual operator intervention.

[0006] In one embodiment, an automatic quick connect apparatus includes a work machine, an attachment, a coupling mechanism, a first connection manifold, a second connection manifold, and a connector mechanism. The coupling mechanism is mounted on the work machine and configured to structurally latch the attachment to the work machine. The first connection manifold is mounted on the attachment and includes at least one first hydraulic connector part. The second connection manifold is mounted on the work machine and includes at least one second hydraulic connector part configured to be engaged with the at least one first hydraulic connector part. The connector mechanism is connected to the coupling mechanism and is configured such that actuation of the coupling mechanism to structurally connect the attachment to the work machine also actuates the connector mechanism to automatically move the second connection manifold relative to the first connection manifold to connect the at least one second hydraulic connector part to the at least one first hydraulic connector part.

[0007] In another embodiment a method is provided for automatically coupling a work machine to an attachment. The method includes:

[0008] engaging the work machine with the attachment;

[0009] actuating a coupling mechanism mounted on the work machine such that the work machine and attachment are structurally latched together;

[0010] automatically actuating a connector mechanism connected to the coupling mechanism such that a second connection manifold mounted on the work machine is moved relative to a first connection manifold mounted on the attachment when the attachment is being latched to the machine; and

[0011] engaging at least one second hydraulic connector part included on the second connection manifold mounted on the work machine with at least one first hydraulic connector part included on the first connection manifold mounted on the attachment.

[0012] Numerous objects, features, and advantages of the embodiments set forth herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading of the following disclosure when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a work machine in the form of a compact track loader connected to an attachment in the form of a blade incorporating the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the coupling mechanism and the connector mechanism.

[0015] FIG. 3 is a rear isometric view of the connector mechanism in partial cutaway.

[0016] FIG. 4 is another rear isometric view of the connector mechanism.

[0017] FIG. 5(a) is a rear isometric view of the connector mechanism showing the lever in a first position.

[0018] FIG. 5(b) is a rear isometric view of the connector mechanism showing the lever in a second position.

[0019] FIG. 5(c) is a rear isometric view of the connector mechanism showing the lever in a third position.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a front isometric view of the coupling mechanism in partial cutaway.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, a representative work machine is shown and generally designated 102. FIG. 1 shows a compact track loader (“CTL”), but it may be understood that the work machine 102 could be one of many types of work machines, including, and without limitation, a skid steer loader, a backhoe loader, a front loader, a bulldozer, and other work machines, having distinctions in their respective components with respect to the CTL and as may be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

[0022] An automatic quick connect apparatus 100 includes the work machine 102 and an attachment 104, shown in the form of a blade in FIG. 1. The attachment 104 may further or alternatively be any number of work tools such as a bucket, forks, an auger, a drill, or a hammer, just to name a few possibilities. A coupling mechanism 106 is mounted on the work machine 102 that is configured to structurally latch the work machine 102 to the attachment 104. A connector mechanism 116 is connected to the coupling mechanism 106 and configured to simultaneously connect other necessary functions between the work machine 102 and the attachment 104 including, without limitation, hydraulic lines, electrical connections, and the like.

[0023] A first connection manifold 108 is mounted on the attachment 104. A second connection manifold 112 is mounted on the work machine 102. The location of the first connection manifold 108 on the attachment 104 is such that it is easily accessible and configured to engage with the second connection manifold 112. The location of the second connection manifold 112 on the work machine 102 is such that it is easily accessible and configured to engage with the first connection manifold 108 mounted on the attachment 104.

[0024] The first connection manifold 108 may include a first fixed block 109 and a first sliding block 111, as shown in FIG. 2. The first fixed block 109 may be fixed to the attachment 104. The first fixed block 109 may include a plurality of supports 145 extending laterally away from the first fixed block 109 and toward the second connection manifold 112. The first sliding block 111 may be supported by the plurality of supports 145. The plurality of supports 145 may be captured within a plurality of springs 136. As shown in FIG. 2, the first sliding block 111 may include an at least one first hydraulic connector part 110. The at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 may be in the form of a male automatic quick disconnect type coupling 128. The first sliding block 111 may also include a plurality of guiding member receivers 134 configured to receive a plurality of guiding members 132, as shown in FIG. 3. The first sliding block 111 may also include an at least one first electric connector part 138 configured to couple with an at least one second electric connector part 140, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0025] The plurality of springs 136 may be configured to bias the first sliding block 111 laterally away from the first fixed block 109 and toward the second connection manifold 112. The plurality of springs 136 may be configured to allow lateral movement of the first connection manifold 108 relative to the second connection manifold 112. By biasing the first sliding block 111 laterally toward the second connection manifold 112, the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 is continuously biased toward the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 thus assisting the connection between the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114. The plurality of springs 136 may also allow some degree of movement in multiple directions including without limitation longitudinally and vertically. By allowing some degree of movement, the plurality of springs 136 may assist the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112 with alignment, should the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112 not be sufficiently in-line with one another such that the plurality of guiding members 132 do not align with the plurality of guiding member receivers 134.

[0026] The plurality of guiding members 132 may be in the form of rods, stakes, or the like. As shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of guiding member receivers 134 may include chamfered edges configured to guide the plurality of guiding members 132 into the plurality of guiding member receivers 134.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 4, the second connection manifold 112 may include a second fixed block 113 and a second sliding block 115. The second fixed block 113 may be fixed to the work machine 102 (not shown). The second sliding block 115 may include the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114. The at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 may be in the form of a female automatic quick disconnect type coupling 126. The second fixed block 113 may include a plurality of rails 144 extending laterally away from the second fixed block 113 and toward the first connection manifold 108. The second sliding block 115 may be supported by the plurality of rails 144 and configured to slide along the plurality of rails 144 relative to the second fixed block 113 in the lateral direction toward and away from the first connection manifold 108. The second sliding block 115 may also include the at least one second electric connector part 140 (as shown in FIG. 4) configured to couple with the at least one first electric connector part 138 (as shown in FIG. 3).

[0028] As shown in FIG. 4, the second connection manifold 112 may include a plunger 124 contained within the second sliding block 115 and configured to extend and retract relative to the second sliding block 115. The plunger 124 may include an extended pin 146 extending longitudinally toward the work machine 102 (not shown). The extended pin 146 is configured to interact with a slot 148 included in a lever 118. As the lever 118 is rotated relative to the second fixed block 113, the extended pin 146 engages with the slot 148 and slides along a length 149 of the slot 148 causing the second sliding block 115 to slide along the plurality of rails 144 in the lateral direction relative to the fixed block 113 and toward and away from the first connection manifold 108.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 4, the plunger 124 may be configured to engage with the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114. The plunger 124 may be configured to move relative to the second connection manifold 112 such that as the lever 118 is rotated and the slot 148 of the lever 118 engages the extended pin 146, the plunger 124 extends and retracts relative to the second connection manifold 112 in the lateral direction toward and away from the first sliding block 111. The plunger 124 may also be configured to disengage the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 from the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 when the plunger 124 is retracted relative to the second connection manifold 112. When the plunger 124 is retracted, it may engage with and push a button 130 located on the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 which causes the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 to disengage from the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110. The plunger 124 has a multi-lobed head that is configured to simultaneously engage the push buttons 130 of all three of the second connector parts 114.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, the connector mechanism 116 may include the lever 118 that is connected to the second connection manifold 112 via the extended pin 146 (not shown) such that the lever 118 is configured to move the second sliding block 115 laterally relative to the first connection manifold 108 by engaging the extended pin 146 with the slot 148. The coupling mechanism 106 may include an over-center locking linkage 120. The over-center locking linkage 120 may be connected to an actuator 122 connected to the work machine 102 (not shown). The actuator 122 may be configured to extend and retract. During extension and retraction, the actuator 122 may cause the over-center locking linkage 120 to rotate about a pivot point 150. As the over-center locking linkage 120 rotates about the pivot point 150, a tail 154 of the over-center locking linkage 120 is rotated into and out of a tail receiver 156 (as shown in FIG. 6) in the attachment 104 (not shown) causing the work machine 102 (not shown) and the attachment 104 (not shown) to be structurally latched together.

[0031] A lever linkage 152 connects the lever 118 to the over-center locking linkage 120. As the actuator 122 extends and retracts, the actuator 122 causes the over-center locking linkage 120 to rotate about the pivot point 150 which simultaneously causes the lever linkage 152 to actuate and rotate the lever 118.

[0032] The actuator 122 may be electrical, hydraulic, or the like and configured to be activated manually by an operator of the work machine 102. Alternatively, the actuator 122 may be configured to be activated remotely by an operator of the work machine 102 should the work machine 102 be part of an autonomous working system.

[0033] The coupling mechanism 106 and the connector mechanism 116 may also be configured to be engaged manually. In the manual configuration, the actuator 122 is deactivated, non-existent, or otherwise non-operable. An operator (not shown) manually engages the work machine 102 with the attachment 104. Next, an operator manually rotates the lever 118 towards the first connection manifold 108 which causes the work machine 102 and the attachment 104 to be structurally latched by causing the over-center locking linkage 120 to rotate about the pivot point 150 which causes the tail 154 of the over-center locking linkage 120 to be rotated into the tail receiver 156 thus structurally latching the work machine 102 to the attachment 104. Rotating the lever 118 towards the first connection manifold 108 moves the second connection manifold 112 toward the first connection manifold 108 via the engagement between the extended pin 146 and the slot 148 of the lever 118. As the second connection manifold 112 and the first connection manifold 108 move toward each other, the plurality of guiding members 132 are received by the plurality of guiding member receivers 134 and the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 as well as the at least one first electric connector part 138 and the at least one second electric connector part 140 are connected.

[0034] The coupling mechanism 106 and the connector mechanism 116 may also be configured to be disengaged manually. In the manual configuration, the actuator 122 is deactivated, non-existent, or otherwise non-operable. With the work machine 102 and attachment 104 structurally latched and the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 as well as the at least one first electric connector part 138 and the at least one second electric connector part 140 connected, an operator manually rotates the lever 118 toward the second sliding block 115 which causes the work machine 102 and attachment 104 to be disengaged. Manually rotating the lever 118 toward the second sliding block 115 causes the plunger 124 to retract which pushes the button 130 located on the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 which causes the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 to disconnect from the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114. Manually rotating the lever 118 toward the second fixed block 113 also causes the second connection manifold 112 to move laterally relative to the first connection manifold 108 and toward the second fixed block 113. Manually rotating the lever 118 toward the second fixed block 113 causes the over-center locking linkage 120 to rotate about the pivot point 150 which causes the tail 154 of the over-center locking linkage 120 to be rotated out of the tail receiver 156 thus disengaging the work machine 102 from the attachment 104.

[0035] The coupling mechanism 106 may also be configured to selectively lock together the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 as a secondary locking in addition to a primary locking provided by the engagement of the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114. This secondary locking may allow the automatic quick connect apparatus 100 to comply with various international standards, including without limitation, ISO13031.

[0036] FIG. 5(a)-(c) illustrate the coupling sequence of the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112. As shown in FIG. 5(a), the lever 118 is in a vertical, neutral position relative to the second connection manifold 112, and the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112 are disengaged. As shown in FIG. 5(b), as the actuator 122 extends, the coupling mechanism 106 is actuated which structurally latches the work machine 102 to the attachment 104 by rotating the over-center locking linkage 120 about the pivot point 150 which causes the tail 154 (as shown in FIG. 6) of the over-center locking linkage 120 to rotate into the tail receiver 156 (as shown in FIG. 6) located on the attachment 104 (as shown in FIG. 6). Simultaneously, the connector mechanism 116 is actuated when the rotation of the over-center locking linkage 120 about the pivot point 150 causes the lever 118 to rotate toward the first fixed block 109. As the lever 118 is rotated toward the first fixed block 109, the second connection manifold 112 is slid along the plurality of rails 144 toward the first connection manifold 108 via the extended pin 146 engaging with the slot 148 of the lever 118. As shown in FIG. 5(c), the lever 118 is rotated fully toward the first fixed block 109, the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 are coupled, and the plurality of guiding members 132 are received by the plurality of guiding member receivers 134. Also as shown in FIG. 5(c), the first sliding block 111 is moved toward the first fixed block 109 by the second sliding block 115 as indicated by the compression of the plurality of springs 136 which provides an indication that the connections between the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 have been made. Thus, the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112 are fully engaged.

[0037] The work machine 102 and the attachment 104 may also be automatically disengaged from each other. The coupling mechanism 106 may be actuated to structurally unlatch the work machine 102 from the attachment 104. Actuation of the coupling mechanism 106 may be achieved by an operator remotely retracting the actuator 122. Retracting the actuator 122 actuates the coupling mechanism 106 by rotating the over-center locking linkage 120 about the pivot point 150 toward the first fixed block 109 which rotates the tail 154 of the over-center locking linkage 120 out of the tail receiver 156 located on the attachment 104. Rotating the over-center locking linkage 120 about the pivot point 150 toward the first fixed block 109 simultaneously actuates the connector mechanism 116 by rotating the lever 118 toward the second fixed block 113, which is connected to the over-center locking linkage 120 via the lever linkage 152, causing the slot 148 of the lever 118 to engage the extended pin 146 of the plunger 124. Once the slot 148 of the lever 118 engages the extended pin 146 of the plunger 124 and the lever 118 is continually rotated toward the second fixed block 113, the plunger 124 pushes the button 130 of the female automatic quick disconnect type coupling 126 which disengages the female automatic quick disconnect type coupling 126 from the male automatic quick disconnect type coupling 128. As the lever 118 continues to rotate toward the second fixed block 113 due to the retraction of the actuator 122, the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112 are disengaged. The work machine 102 and attachment 104 are thus disengaged.

[0038] Thus, it is seen that the apparatus and methods of the embodiments disclosed herein readily achieve the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those inherent therein. While certain preferred embodiments have been illustrated and described for purposes of the present disclosure, numerous changes in the arrangement and construction of parts and steps may be made by those skilled in the art, which changes are encompassed within the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0021]Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, a representative work machine is shown and generally designated 102. FIG. 1 shows a compact track loader (“CTL”), but it may be understood that the work machine 102 could be one of many types of work machines, including, and without limitation, a skid steer loader, a backhoe loader, a front loader, a bulldozer, and other work machines, having distinctions in their respective components with respect to the CTL and as may be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

[0022]An automatic quick connect apparatus 100 includes the work machine 102 and an attachment 104, shown in the form of a blade in FIG. 1. The attachment 104 may further or alternatively be any number of work tools such as a bucket, forks, an auger, a drill, or a hammer, just to name a few possibilities. A coupling mechanism 106 is mounted on the work machine 102 that is configured to structurally latch the work machine 102 to the attachment 104. A connector mec...

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE1. Field of the Disclosure

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an automatic quick connect apparatus for automatically connecting a work machine to an attachment.2. Description of the Prior Art

[0002] A typical small frame work machine such as a skid steer loader or a compact track loader uses various fluids and electricity to operate attachments. Attachments likewise require various fluids and electricity to operate. This necessitates the ability of the work machine and the attachment to not only structurally latch together but also to connect the various fluid and electrical couplings. The process of coupling a work machine's various fluids and electricity to an attachment has typically required an operator to manually make the connections. However, this process may not only be time consuming but may also present dangers to the operator.

[0003] The process may become increasingly dangerous if the various couplings become damaged due to operator mishandling, the repetitive motions of the work machine and the attachment, and environmental hazards such as dust and debris entering the system and compromising the connections.

[0004] There is a need for improved connections between the work machine and the attachment to eliminate the problems noted above, and to allow for fully autonomous use of the work machine.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] The present disclosure provides an automatic quick connect apparatus for automatically connecting a work machine to an attachment without manual operator intervention.

[0006] In one embodiment, an automatic quick connect apparatus includes a work machine, an attachment, a coupling mechanism, a first connection manifold, a second connection manifold, and a connector mechanism. The coupling mechanism is mounted on the work machine and configured to structurally latch the attachment to the work machine. The first connection manifold is mounted on the attachment and includes at least one first hydraulic connector part. The second connection manifold is mounted on the work machine and includes at least one second hydraulic connector part configured to be engaged with the at least one first hydraulic connector part. The connector mechanism is connected to the coupling mechanism and is configured such that actuation of the coupling mechanism to structurally connect the attachment to the work machine also actuates the connector mechanism to automatically move the second connection manifold relative to the first connection manifold to connect the at least one second hydraulic connector part to the at least one first hydraulic connector part.

[0007] In another embodiment a method is provided for automatically coupling a work machine to an attachment. The method includes:

[0008] engaging the work machine with the attachment;

[0009] actuating a coupling mechanism mounted on the work machine such that the work machine and attachment are structurally latched together;

[0010] automatically actuating a connector mechanism connected to the coupling mechanism such that a second connection manifold mounted on the work machine is moved relative to a first connection manifold mounted on the attachment when the attachment is being latched to the machine; and

[0011] engaging at least one second hydraulic connector part included on the second connection manifold mounted on the work machine with at least one first hydraulic connector part included on the first connection manifold mounted on the attachment.

[0012] Numerous objects, features, and advantages of the embodiments set forth herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading of the following disclosure when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a work machine in the form of a compact track loader connected to an attachment in the form of a blade incorporating the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the coupling mechanism and the connector mechanism.

[0015] FIG. 3 is a rear isometric view of the connector mechanism in partial cutaway.

[0016] FIG. 4 is another rear isometric view of the connector mechanism.

[0017] FIG. 5(a) is a rear isometric view of the connector mechanism showing the lever in a first position.

[0018] FIG. 5(b) is a rear isometric view of the connector mechanism showing the lever in a second position.

[0019] FIG. 5(c) is a rear isometric view of the connector mechanism showing the lever in a third position.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a front isometric view of the coupling mechanism in partial cutaway.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, a representative work machine is shown and generally designated 102. FIG. 1 shows a compact track loader (“CTL”), but it may be understood that the work machine 102 could be one of many types of work machines, including, and without limitation, a skid steer loader, a backhoe loader, a front loader, a bulldozer, and other work machines, having distinctions in their respective components with respect to the CTL and as may be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

[0022] An automatic quick connect apparatus 100 includes the work machine 102 and an attachment 104, shown in the form of a blade in FIG. 1. The attachment 104 may further or alternatively be any number of work tools such as a bucket, forks, an auger, a drill, or a hammer, just to name a few possibilities. A coupling mechanism 106 is mounted on the work machine 102 that is configured to structurally latch the work machine 102 to the attachment 104. A connector mechanism 116 is connected to the coupling mechanism 106 and configured to simultaneously connect other necessary functions between the work machine 102 and the attachment 104 including, without limitation, hydraulic lines, electrical connections, and the like.

[0023] A first connection manifold 108 is mounted on the attachment 104. A second connection manifold 112 is mounted on the work machine 102. The location of the first connection manifold 108 on the attachment 104 is such that it is easily accessible and configured to engage with the second connection manifold 112. The location of the second connection manifold 112 on the work machine 102 is such that it is easily accessible and configured to engage with the first connection manifold 108 mounted on the attachment 104.

[0024] The first connection manifold 108 may include a first fixed block 109 and a first sliding block 111, as shown in FIG. 2. The first fixed block 109 may be fixed to the attachment 104. The first fixed block 109 may include a plurality of supports 145 extending laterally away from the first fixed block 109 and toward the second connection manifold 112. The first sliding block 111 may be supported by the plurality of supports 145. The plurality of supports 145 may be captured within a plurality of springs 136. As shown in FIG. 2, the first sliding block 111 may include an at least one first hydraulic connector part 110. The at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 may be in the form of a male automatic quick disconnect type coupling 128. The first sliding block 111 may also include a plurality of guiding member receivers 134 configured to receive a plurality of guiding members 132, as shown in FIG. 3. The first sliding block 111 may also include an at least one first electric connector part 138 configured to couple with an at least one second electric connector part 140, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0025] The plurality of springs 136 may be configured to bias the first sliding block 111 laterally away from the first fixed block 109 and toward the second connection manifold 112. The plurality of springs 136 may be configured to allow lateral movement of the first connection manifold 108 relative to the second connection manifold 112. By biasing the first sliding block 111 laterally toward the second connection manifold 112, the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 is continuously biased toward the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 thus assisting the connection between the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114. The plurality of springs 136 may also allow some degree of movement in multiple directions including without limitation longitudinally and vertically. By allowing some degree of movement, the plurality of springs 136 may assist the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112 with alignment, should the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112 not be sufficiently in-line with one another such that the plurality of guiding members 132 do not align with the plurality of guiding member receivers 134.

[0026] The plurality of guiding members 132 may be in the form of rods, stakes, or the like. As shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of guiding member receivers 134 may include chamfered edges configured to guide the plurality of guiding members 132 into the plurality of guiding member receivers 134.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 4, the second connection manifold 112 may include a second fixed block 113 and a second sliding block 115. The second fixed block 113 may be fixed to the work machine 102 (not shown). The second sliding block 115 may include the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114. The at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 may be in the form of a female automatic quick disconnect type coupling 126. The second fixed block 113 may include a plurality of rails 144 extending laterally away from the second fixed block 113 and toward the first connection manifold 108. The second sliding block 115 may be supported by the plurality of rails 144 and configured to slide along the plurality of rails 144 relative to the second fixed block 113 in the lateral direction toward and away from the first connection manifold 108. The second sliding block 115 may also include the at least one second electric connector part 140 (as shown in FIG. 4) configured to couple with the at least one first electric connector part 138 (as shown in FIG. 3).

[0028] As shown in FIG. 4, the second connection manifold 112 may include a plunger 124 contained within the second sliding block 115 and configured to extend and retract relative to the second sliding block 115. The plunger 124 may include an extended pin 146 extending longitudinally toward the work machine 102 (not shown). The extended pin 146 is configured to interact with a slot 148 included in a lever 118. As the lever 118 is rotated relative to the second fixed block 113, the extended pin 146 engages with the slot 148 and slides along a length 149 of the slot 148 causing the second sliding block 115 to slide along the plurality of rails 144 in the lateral direction relative to the fixed block 113 and toward and away from the first connection manifold 108.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 4, the plunger 124 may be configured to engage with the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114. The plunger 124 may be configured to move relative to the second connection manifold 112 such that as the lever 118 is rotated and the slot 148 of the lever 118 engages the extended pin 146, the plunger 124 extends and retracts relative to the second connection manifold 112 in the lateral direction toward and away from the first sliding block 111. The plunger 124 may also be configured to disengage the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 from the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 when the plunger 124 is retracted relative to the second connection manifold 112. When the plunger 124 is retracted, it may engage with and push a button 130 located on the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 which causes the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 to disengage from the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110. The plunger 124 has a multi-lobed head that is configured to simultaneously engage the push buttons 130 of all three of the second connector parts 114.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, the connector mechanism 116 may include the lever 118 that is connected to the second connection manifold 112 via the extended pin 146 (not shown) such that the lever 118 is configured to move the second sliding block 115 laterally relative to the first connection manifold 108 by engaging the extended pin 146 with the slot 148. The coupling mechanism 106 may include an over-center locking linkage 120. The over-center locking linkage 120 may be connected to an actuator 122 connected to the work machine 102 (not shown). The actuator 122 may be configured to extend and retract. During extension and retraction, the actuator 122 may cause the over-center locking linkage 120 to rotate about a pivot point 150. As the over-center locking linkage 120 rotates about the pivot point 150, a tail 154 of the over-center locking linkage 120 is rotated into and out of a tail receiver 156 (as shown in FIG. 6) in the attachment 104 (not shown) causing the work machine 102 (not shown) and the attachment 104 (not shown) to be structurally latched together.

[0031] A lever linkage 152 connects the lever 118 to the over-center locking linkage 120. As the actuator 122 extends and retracts, the actuator 122 causes the over-center locking linkage 120 to rotate about the pivot point 150 which simultaneously causes the lever linkage 152 to actuate and rotate the lever 118.

[0032] The actuator 122 may be electrical, hydraulic, or the like and configured to be activated manually by an operator of the work machine 102. Alternatively, the actuator 122 may be configured to be activated remotely by an operator of the work machine 102 should the work machine 102 be part of an autonomous working system.

[0033] The coupling mechanism 106 and the connector mechanism 116 may also be configured to be engaged manually. In the manual configuration, the actuator 122 is deactivated, non-existent, or otherwise non-operable. An operator (not shown) manually engages the work machine 102 with the attachment 104. Next, an operator manually rotates the lever 118 towards the first connection manifold 108 which causes the work machine 102 and the attachment 104 to be structurally latched by causing the over-center locking linkage 120 to rotate about the pivot point 150 which causes the tail 154 of the over-center locking linkage 120 to be rotated into the tail receiver 156 thus structurally latching the work machine 102 to the attachment 104. Rotating the lever 118 towards the first connection manifold 108 moves the second connection manifold 112 toward the first connection manifold 108 via the engagement between the extended pin 146 and the slot 148 of the lever 118. As the second connection manifold 112 and the first connection manifold 108 move toward each other, the plurality of guiding members 132 are received by the plurality of guiding member receivers 134 and the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 as well as the at least one first electric connector part 138 and the at least one second electric connector part 140 are connected.

[0034] The coupling mechanism 106 and the connector mechanism 116 may also be configured to be disengaged manually. In the manual configuration, the actuator 122 is deactivated, non-existent, or otherwise non-operable. With the work machine 102 and attachment 104 structurally latched and the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 as well as the at least one first electric connector part 138 and the at least one second electric connector part 140 connected, an operator manually rotates the lever 118 toward the second sliding block 115 which causes the work machine 102 and attachment 104 to be disengaged. Manually rotating the lever 118 toward the second sliding block 115 causes the plunger 124 to retract which pushes the button 130 located on the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 which causes the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 to disconnect from the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114. Manually rotating the lever 118 toward the second fixed block 113 also causes the second connection manifold 112 to move laterally relative to the first connection manifold 108 and toward the second fixed block 113. Manually rotating the lever 118 toward the second fixed block 113 causes the over-center locking linkage 120 to rotate about the pivot point 150 which causes the tail 154 of the over-center locking linkage 120 to be rotated out of the tail receiver 156 thus disengaging the work machine 102 from the attachment 104.

[0035] The coupling mechanism 106 may also be configured to selectively lock together the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 as a secondary locking in addition to a primary locking provided by the engagement of the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114. This secondary locking may allow the automatic quick connect apparatus 100 to comply with various international standards, including without limitation, ISO13031.

[0036] FIG. 5(a)-(c) illustrate the coupling sequence of the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112. As shown in FIG. 5(a), the lever 118 is in a vertical, neutral position relative to the second connection manifold 112, and the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112 are disengaged. As shown in FIG. 5(b), as the actuator 122 extends, the coupling mechanism 106 is actuated which structurally latches the work machine 102 to the attachment 104 by rotating the over-center locking linkage 120 about the pivot point 150 which causes the tail 154 (as shown in FIG. 6) of the over-center locking linkage 120 to rotate into the tail receiver 156 (as shown in FIG. 6) located on the attachment 104 (as shown in FIG. 6). Simultaneously, the connector mechanism 116 is actuated when the rotation of the over-center locking linkage 120 about the pivot point 150 causes the lever 118 to rotate toward the first fixed block 109. As the lever 118 is rotated toward the first fixed block 109, the second connection manifold 112 is slid along the plurality of rails 144 toward the first connection manifold 108 via the extended pin 146 engaging with the slot 148 of the lever 118. As shown in FIG. 5(c), the lever 118 is rotated fully toward the first fixed block 109, the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 are coupled, and the plurality of guiding members 132 are received by the plurality of guiding member receivers 134. Also as shown in FIG. 5(c), the first sliding block 111 is moved toward the first fixed block 109 by the second sliding block 115 as indicated by the compression of the plurality of springs 136 which provides an indication that the connections between the at least one first hydraulic connector part 110 and the at least one second hydraulic connector part 114 have been made. Thus, the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112 are fully engaged.

[0037] The work machine 102 and the attachment 104 may also be automatically disengaged from each other. The coupling mechanism 106 may be actuated to structurally unlatch the work machine 102 from the attachment 104. Actuation of the coupling mechanism 106 may be achieved by an operator remotely retracting the actuator 122. Retracting the actuator 122 actuates the coupling mechanism 106 by rotating the over-center locking linkage 120 about the pivot point 150 toward the first fixed block 109 which rotates the tail 154 of the over-center locking linkage 120 out of the tail receiver 156 located on the attachment 104. Rotating the over-center locking linkage 120 about the pivot point 150 toward the first fixed block 109 simultaneously actuates the connector mechanism 116 by rotating the lever 118 toward the second fixed block 113, which is connected to the over-center locking linkage 120 via the lever linkage 152, causing the slot 148 of the lever 118 to engage the extended pin 146 of the plunger 124. Once the slot 148 of the lever 118 engages the extended pin 146 of the plunger 124 and the lever 118 is continually rotated toward the second fixed block 113, the plunger 124 pushes the button 130 of the female automatic quick disconnect type coupling 126 which disengages the female automatic quick disconnect type coupling 126 from the male automatic quick disconnect type coupling 128. As the lever 118 continues to rotate toward the second fixed block 113 due to the retraction of the actuator 122, the first connection manifold 108 and the second connection manifold 112 are disengaged. The work machine 102 and attachment 104 are thus disengaged.

[0038] Thus, it is seen that the apparatus and methods of the embodiments disclosed herein readily achieve the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those inherent therein. While certain preferred embodiments have been illustrated and described for purposes of the present disclosure, numerous changes in the arrangement and construction of parts and steps may be made by those skilled in the art, which changes are encompassed within the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0021]Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, a representative work machine is shown and generally designated 102. FIG. 1 shows a compact track loader (“CTL”), but it may be understood that the work machine 102 could be one of many types of work machines, including, and without limitation, a skid steer loader, a backhoe loader, a front loader, a bulldozer, and other work machines, having distinctions in their respective components with respect to the CTL and as may be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

[0022]An automatic quick connect apparatus 100 includes the work machine 102 and an attachment 104, shown in the form of a blade in FIG. 1. The attachment 104 may further or alternatively be any number of work tools such as a bucket, forks, an auger, a drill, or a hammer, just to name a few possibilities. A coupling mechanism 106 is mounted on the work machine 102 that is configured to structurally latch the work machine 102 to the attachment 104. A connector mec...

Claims

1. An automatic quick connect apparatus for automatically coupling a work machine to an attachment, comprising:the work machine;the attachment;a coupling mechanism mounted on the work machine and configured to structurally latch the attachment to the work machine;a first connection manifold mounted on the attachment and including at least one first hydraulic connector part;a second connection manifold mounted on the work machine and including at least one second hydraulic connector part configured to be engaged with the at least one first hydraulic connector part; anda connector mechanism connected to the coupling mechanism and configured such that actuation of the coupling mechanism to structurally connect the attachment to the work machine also actuates the connector mechanism to automatically move the second connection manifold relative to the first connection manifold to connect the at least one second hydraulic connector part to the at least one first hydraulic connector part.

2. The automatic quick connect apparatus of claim 1, wherein:the coupling mechanism includes a lever movably connected to the second connection manifold, the lever being configured to move the second connection manifold relative to the first connection manifold.

3. The automatic quick connect apparatus of claim 2, wherein:the coupling mechanism comprises an over-center locking linkage connected to an actuator configured to move the over-center locking linkage when the work machine and the attachment are engaged.

4. The automatic quick connect apparatus of claim 2, wherein:the second connection manifold includes a plunger configured to engage with the at least one second hydraulic connector part.

5. The automatic quick connect apparatus of claim 4, wherein:the plunger is configured to move relative to the second connection manifold such that as the lever is actuated, the plunger extends and retracts relative to the second connection manifold.

6. The automatic quick connect apparatus of claim 5, wherein:the plunger is configured to disengage the at least one second hydraulic connector part from the at least one first hydraulic connector part as the plunger is retracted relative to the second connection manifold.

7. The automatic quick connect apparatus of claim 6, wherein:the at least one second hydraulic connector part is a female automatic quick disconnect type coupling and the at least one first hydraulic connector part is a male automatic quick disconnect type coupling wherein the at least one second hydraulic connector part includes a button configured to be pushed by the plunger when the plunger is retracted which causes the at least one second hydraulic connector part to be disengaged from the at least one first hydraulic connector part.

8. The automatic quick connect apparatus of claim 1, wherein:the second connection manifold includes a plurality of guiding members configured to align the second connection manifold with the first connection manifold, and the first connection manifold includes a plurality of guiding member receivers configured to receive the plurality of guiding members.

9. The automatic quick connect apparatus of claim 1, wherein:the first connection manifold includes a plurality of springs configured to allow lateral movement of the first connection manifold relative to the second connection manifold.

10. The automatic quick connect apparatus of claim 1, wherein:the first connection manifold includes at least one first electric connector part and the second connection manifold includes at least one second electric connector part, the at least one first electric connector part and the at least one second electric connector part configured to be engaged when the at least one first hydraulic connector part and the at least one second hydraulic connector part are engaged.

11. The automatic quick connect apparatus of claim 1, wherein:the coupling mechanism is configured to selectively lock together the at least one first hydraulic connector part and the at least one second hydraulic connector part in addition to a primary locking provided by engagement of the at least one first hydraulic connector part and the at least one second hydraulic connector part.

12. A method of automatically coupling a work machine to an attachment, the method comprising:engaging the work machine with the attachment;actuating a coupling mechanism mounted on the work machine such that the work machine and the attachment are structurally latched together;automatically actuating a connector mechanism connected to the coupling mechanism such that a second connection manifold mounted on the work machine is moved relative to a first connection manifold mounted on the attachment when the attachment is being latched to the work machine; andengaging at least one second hydraulic connector part included on the second connection manifold mounted on the work machine with at least one first hydraulic connector part included on the first connection manifold mounted on the attachment.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein:actuating the coupling mechanism mounted on the work machine includes pivoting a lever that is connected to the second connection manifold such that pivoting the lever moves the second connection manifold relative to the first connection manifold.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein:moving the second connection manifold relative to the first connection manifold comprises sliding the second connection manifold along a plurality of guides configured to align the first connection manifold with the second connection manifold.

15. The method of claim 12, further comprising:further actuating the coupling mechanism to unlatch the attachment from the work machine; andautomatically retracting a plunger contained within the second connection manifold and thereby disengaging the at least one second hydraulic connector part from the at least one first hydraulic connector part.

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