Remote float on planer implement

Abstract

An implement on a power machine includes a first hydraulic actuator (146) configured to move a housing (104) of the implement in first and opposing second directions. A second hydraulic actuator (150) is configured to rotate the housing (104) of the implement in first and opposing second directions. A remotely operated first directional control valve (166) are configured to provide hydraulic fluid to operate the first hydraulic actuator (146). A remotely operated second directional control valve (170) is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to float the second hydraulic actuator or is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to pilot first and second oscillation valves to divert hydraulic fluid provided by the first directional control valve to the second hydraulic actuator.

Description

REMOTE FLOAT ON PLANER IMPLEMENTBACKGROUND

[0001] The present disclosure is directed toward power machines that have implements or attachments. More particularly, the present disclosure is related to power machines with planer implements or attachments.

[0002] Power machines, for the purposes of this disclosure, include any type of machine that generates power for the purpose of accomplishing a particular task or a variety of tasks. One type of power machine is a work vehicle. Work vehicles are generally self-propelled vehicles that have a work device, such as a lift arm (although some work vehicles can have other work devices) that can be manipulated to perform a work function. Work vehicles include loaders, excavators, utility vehicles, tractors, and trenchers, to name a few examples.

[0003] A work device on a power machine may be equipped with an implement or attachment for performing various work functions. One exemplary attachment or implement is a planer attachment, which is an implement that cuts and mills concrete and asphalt.

[0004] The discussion above is merely provided for general background information and is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.SUMMARY

[0005] An implement on a power machine includes a first hydraulic actuator, a second hydraulic actuator, a remotely operated first directional control valve and a remotely operated second directional control valve. The first hydraulic actuator is configured to move a housing of the implement in first and opposing second directions. The second hydraulic actuator is configured to rotate the housing of the implement in first and opposing second directions. The remotely operated first directional control valve is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to operate the first hydraulic actuator. The remotely operated second directional control valve is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to float the second hydraulic actuator or configured to provide hydraulic fluid to pilot first and second oscillation valves to divert hydraulic fluid provided by the first directional control valve to the second hydraulic actuator.

[0006] A power machine includes a frame having a cab, tractive elements supporting the frame and an implement coupled to the frame and having a work element that is configured to beremotely operated by an operator located in the cab. The implement includes a first hydraulic actuator, a second hydraulic actuator, a first control valve and a second control valve. The first hydraulic actuator is configured to move the work element in first and opposing second directions. The second hydraulic actuator is configured to rotate the work element in first and opposing second directions. The first control valve has first and second open positions and is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to operate the first hydraulic actuator in the first and second open positions. The second control valve has first and second open positions. The first open position of the second control valve is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to pilot a first oscillation valve and a second oscillation valve to divert hydraulic fluid provided by the first control valve to operate the second hydraulic actuator. The second open position of the second control valve is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to float the second hydraulic actuator.

[0007] An implement on a power machine includes a first hydraulic actuator, a second hydraulic actuator, a remotely operated first directional control valve and remotely operated second directional control valve. The first hydraulic actuator is configured to move a work element of the implement in first and opposing second directions. The second hydraulic actuator is configured to rotate the work element in first and opposing second directions. While the second directional control valve is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to float the second hydraulic actuator, the first directional control valve is configured to simultaneously provide hydraulic fluid to the first hydraulic actuator to move a housing of the implement in first and opposing second directions.

[0008] This summary and the abstract are provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. The summary and the abstract are not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor are they intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the basic systems of a power machine upon which disclosed embodiments may be incorporated.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating basic systems of the power machine of FIG. 1 as are relevant to interact with an implement upon which disclosed embodiments may be incorporated.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an implement according to an embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a hydraulic circuit having a remote float functionality and illustrating the hydraulic cylinders configured to operate the implement of FIG. 3.

[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates a simplified front view of a left-handed joystick control according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates a simplified side view of the left-handed joystick control of FIG. 11.

[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates a simplified front view of a right-handed joystick control according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 8 illustrates a simplified side view of the right-handed joystick control of FIG. 13.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 operating to retract a first hydraulic actuator to move a work element of the implement in a first direction under an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 5 operating to extend the first hydraulic actuator to move the work element of the implement in an opposing second direction under an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 operating to retract a second hydraulic actuator to rotatably move the work element of the implement in a first direction under an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 11 operating to extend the second hydraulic actuator to rotatably move the work element of the implement in an opposing section direction under an embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 operating to float the second hydraulic actuator under an embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 operating to simultaneously float the second hydraulic actuator and operate the first hydraulic actuator to move the work element in a first direction under an embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of FIG. 14 operating to simultaneously float the second hydraulic actuator and operate the first hydraulic actuator to the work element in an opposing second direction under an embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 operating to place a first directional control valve and a second directional control valve in closed positions under an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0025] The concepts disclosed in this discussion are described and illustrated with reference to exemplary embodiments. These concepts, however, are not limited in their application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components in the illustrative embodiments and are capable of being practiced or being carried out in various other ways. The terminology in this document is used for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Words such as “including,” “comprising,” and “having” and variations thereof as used herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, equivalents thereof, as well as additional items.

[0026] Typically, existing planer implement or attachment technology utilizes hydraulic circuitry to provide power to a work element, such as a drum, inside of which cylindrical or bladed carbide teeth bite into, chew up and spit out concrete, asphalt, and various other materials. A representative power machine on which the embodiments can be practiced is illustrated in diagram form in FIG. 1 and described below before any embodiments are disclosed. Power machines, for the purposes of this discussion, include a frame, at least one work element, and a power source that is capable of providing power to the work element to accomplish a work task. One type of power machine is a self-propelled work vehicle. Self-propelled work vehicles are a class of power machines that include a frame, work element, and a power source that is capable of providing power to the work element. At least one of the work elements is a motive system for moving the power machine under power.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the basic systems of a power machine 10 upon which the embodiments discussed below can be advantageously incorporated and can be any of a number of different types of power machines. The block diagram of FIG. 1 identifies various systems on power machine 10 and the relationship between various components and systems. As mentioned above, at the most basic level, power machines for the purposes of this discussion include a frame, a power source, and a work element. The power machine 10 has a frame 11, a power source 12, and a work element 13. Because power machine 10 shown in FIG. 1 is a self- propelled work vehicle, it also has tractive elements 14, which are themselves work elements provided to move the power machine over a support surface and an operator station 15 that provides an operating position for controlling the work elements of the power machine. A control system 16 is provided to interact with the other systems to perform various work tasks at least in part in response to control signals provided by an operator.

[0028] Certain work vehicles have work elements that are capable of performing a dedicated task. For example, some work vehicles have a lift arm to which an implement such as a bucket is attached such as by a pinning arrangement. The work element, i.e., the lift arm can be manipulated to position the implement for the purpose of performing the task. The implement, in some instances can be positioned relative to the work element, such as by rotating a bucket relative to a lift arm, to further position the implement. Under normal operation of such a work vehicle, the bucket is intended to be attached and under use. Such work vehicles may be able to accept other implements by disassembling the implement / work element combination and reassembling another implement in place of the original bucket. Other work vehicles, however, are intended to be used with a wide variety of implements and have an implement interface such as implement interface 17 shown in FIG. 1. At its most basic, implement interface 17 is a connection mechanism between the frame 11 or a work element 13 and an implement, which can be as simple as a connection point for attaching an implement directly to the frame 11 or a work element 13 or be more complex, as discussed below.

[0029] On some power machines, implement interface 17 can include an implement carrier, which is a physical structure movably attached to a work element. The implement carrier has engagement features and locking features to accept and secure any of a number of implements to the work element. One characteristic of such an implement carrier is that once an implement isattached to it, it is fixed to the implement (i.e., not movable with respect to the implement) and when the implement carrier is moved with respect to the work element, the implement moves with the implement carrier. The term implement carrier as used herein is not merely a pivotal connection point, but rather a dedicated device specifically intended to accept and be secured to various different implements. The implement carrier itself is mountable to a work element 13 such as a lift arm or the frame 11. Implement interface 17 can also include one or more power sources for providing power to one or more work elements on an implement. Some power machines can have a plurality of work elements with implement interfaces, each of which may, but need not, have an implement carrier for receiving implements. Some other power machines can have a work element with a plurality of implement interfaces so that a single work element can accept a plurality of implements simultaneously. Each of these implement interfaces can, but need not, have an implement carrier.

[0030] Frame 11 includes a physical structure that can support various other components that are attached thereto or positioned thereon. The frame 11 can include any number of individual components. Some power machines have frames that are rigid. That is, no part of the frame is movable with respect to another part of the frame. Other power machines have at least one portion that is capable of moving with respect to another portion of the frame. For example, excavators can have an upper frame portion that rotates with respect to a lower frame portion. Other work vehicles have articulated frames such that one portion of the frame pivots with respect to another portion for accomplishing steering functions.

[0031] Frame 11 supports the power source 12, which is capable of providing power to one or more work elements 13 including the one or more tractive elements 14, as well as, in some instances, providing power for use by an attached implement via implement interface 17. Power from the power source 12 can be provided directly to any of the work elements 13, tractive elements 14, and implement interfaces 17. Alternatively, power from the power source 12 can be provided to a control system 16, which in turn selectively provides power to the elements that capable of using it to perform a work function. Power sources for power machines typically include an engine such as an internal combustion engine and a power conversion system such as a mechanical transmission or a hydraulic system that is capable of converting the output from an engine into a form of power that is usable by a work element. Other types of power sources canbe incorporated into power machines, including electrical sources such as electrical motors or a combination of power sources, known generally as hybrid power sources.

[0032] FIG. 1 shows a single work element designated as work element 13, but various power machines can have any number of work elements. Work elements are typically attached to the frame of the power machine and movable with respect to the frame when performing a work task. In addition, tractive elements 14 are a special case of work element in that their work function is generally to move the power machine 10 over a support surface. Tractive elements 140 are shown separate from the work element 13 because many power machines have additional work elements besides tractive elements, although that is not always the case. Power machines can have any number of tractive elements, some or all of which can receive power from the power source 12 to propel the power machine 10. Tractive elements can be, for example, track assemblies, wheels attached to an axle, and the like. Tractive elements can be mounted to the frame such that movement of the tractive element is limited to rotation about an axle (so that steering is accomplished by a skidding action) or, alternatively, pivotally mounted to the frame to accomplish steering by pivoting the tractive element with respect to the frame.

[0033] Power machine 10 includes an operator station 15 that includes an operating position from which an operator can control operation of the power machine. In some power machines, the operator station 15 is defined by an enclosed or partially enclosed cab. Some power machines on which the disclosed embodiments may be practiced may not have a cab or an operator compartment of the type described above. For example, a walk behind loader may not have a cab or an operator compartment, but rather an operating position that serves as an operator station from which the power machine is properly operated. More broadly, power machines other than work vehicles may have operator stations that are not necessarily similar to the operating positions and operator compartments referenced above. Further, some power machines such as power machine 10 and others, whether or not they have operator compartments or operator positions, may be capable of being operated remotely (i.e., from a remotely located operator station) instead of or in addition to an operator station adjacent or on the power machine. This can include applications where at least some of the operator controlled functions of the power machine can be operated from an operating position associated with an implement that is coupled to the power machine. Alternatively, with some power machines, a remote control device can beprovided (i.e., remote from both of the power machine and any implement to which is it coupled) that is capable of controlling at least some of the operator controlled functions on the power machine.

[0034] Disclosed embodiments can be practiced on various implements and various power machines. Representative implement 18, of which the embodiments may be practiced and representative power machine 10 to which the representative attachment may be operably coupled are illustrated in diagram form in FIG. 2. For the sake of brevity, only one implement and power machine combination is discussed in detail. However, as mentioned above, the embodiments below may be practiced on any of a number of implements and these various attachments or implements can be operably coupled to a variety of different power machines.

[0035] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating basic systems of power machine 10 as are relevant to interact with implement 18 as well as basic features of implement 18, which represents an implement upon which the embodiments discussed below may be advantageously incorporated. At their most basic level, power machines for the purposes of this discussion include frame 11, power source 12, work element 13, and implement interface 17. On power machines such as loaders and excavators and other similar work vehicles, implement interface 17 includes an implement carrier 20 and a power port 22. The implement carrier 20 may be rotatably attached to a lift arm or another work element and is capable of being secured to the implement. The power port 22 provides a connection for implement 18 to provide power from the power source to the implement. Power source 12 represents one or more sources of power that are generated on power machine 10. This can include either or both of pressurized fluid and electrical power.

[0036] The implement 18, which is sometimes known as an attachment or an attachable implement, has a power machine interface 24 and a tool 26, which is coupled to the power machine interface 24. The power machine interface 24 illustratively includes a machine mount 28 and a power port 30 for coupling with power machine 10. Machine mount 28 can be any structure capable of being coupled to the implement interface 17 of power machine 10. Power port 30, in some embodiments, includes electrical couplers. Power port 30 can also include a wireless electrical connection, as may be applicable on a given attachment or implement. Whileboth machine mount 28 and power port 30 are shown, some implements may have only one or the other as part of their power machine interface 24.

[0037] In FIG. 2, implement 18 includes a work element 32, a frame 34 and an actuator 36. Frame 34 is coupled with or integral to the machine mount 28. Work element 32 is coupled to frame 34 and is moveable in some way with respect to the frame. Actuator 36 is mounted to frame 34 and to work element 32 and is actuable under power to move the work element with respect to the frame. Power may be provided to the actuator 36 via the power machine, and is selectively provided in the form of pressurized hydraulic fluid (or other power source) directly from the power machine 10 to actuator 36 via power ports 22 and 30.

[0038] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary planer implement 118 according to an embodiment. Planer implement 118 has a work element that includes a drum 102, which under one embodiment may be a one piece concentric unit, inside of which cylindrical or bladed carbide teeth bite into, chew up and spit out concrete, asphalt, and various other materials. Planer implement 118 includes a frame 134 that supports a housing 104 having drum 102. After material has been chewed up, the milled material leaves housing 104 through a rear opening 140. A left ski hydraulic cylinder 142 is configured to adjust the angle and depth of left ski 143, which is coupled to the bottom of housing 104, and a right ski hydraulic actuator 144 is configured to adjust the angle and depth of right ski 145. Planer ski hydraulic cylinders 142 and 144 are used to adjust the angle and depth of housing 104 by moving left ski 142 and right ski 144 up or down. Depth gauges are visible from the cab of a work machine to provide a measurement reference of each ski depth.

[0039] Planer implement 118 further includes a side shift hydraulic cylinder 146 that is configured to move housing 104, for example, move housing 104 horizontally in a first direction 148 along frame 134 and in an opposing second direction 149 along frame 134. Side shifting allows milling to occur outside of a width of frame 134 and therefore a width of the work machine. Still further, planer implement 118 includes an oscillation hydraulic actuator 150 that is configured to rotate housing 104 clockwise 151 or counterclockwise 153 to cut or mill at different angles that match with an uneven surface. For example, oscillation hydraulic cylinder 150 is configured to rotate housing 104 at different positions up to 8 degrees clockwise 151 or up to 8 degrees counterclockwise 153 for a total of up to 16 degrees total. Therefore, there areseveral positions oscillation hydraulic cylinder 150 can be locked in to provide a controlled milling process as to depth, width, and slope. Oscillation hydraulic cylinder 150 may also be configured to float, which allows housing 104 to oscillate side to side as indicated by directional line 155 to provide optimum surface tracking regardless of work machine movements. For example, if the tractive elements of the work machine fall into a hole or depression, the oscillation float feature will still cut or mill evenly. As will be described below, all of these described functional features including adjusting the angle and depth of housing 104 using left and right ski hydraulic cylinders 142 and 144, side shifting housing 104 using side shift hydraulic cylinder 146, rotating housing 104 using oscillation hydraulic cylinder 150 and free- floating oscillation are remotely operated by the operator sitting in the cab.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a hydraulic circuit 152 having a remote float functionality and illustrating the hydraulic cylinders and motors configured to operate implement 118. Hydraulic circuit 152 includes left ski hydraulic cylinder 142, right ski hydraulic cylinder 144, side shift hydraulic cylinder 146, oscillation hydraulic cylinder 150 and motor 154 (e.g., radial piston motor, axial motor, Geroler motor, bent axis motor or etc.) configured to operate drum 102. Each of left ski hydraulic cylinder 142, right ski hydraulic cylinder 144, side shift hydraulic cylinder 146 and oscillation hydraulic cylinder 150 include respective corresponding directional control valves 162, 164, 166 and 170 that are connected to, by for example a male or first attachment coupler 172, to a hydraulic supply on the power machine and are coupled, by for example a female or second attachment coupler 174, to a hydraulic return on the power machine. Between left ski hydraulic cylinder 142 and left ski directional control valve 162 are load sense check valves 161, dual pilot-operated check valves 163, a rod meter-out orifice check valve 165 and a base meter-out orifice check valve 167. Between right ski hydraulic cylinder 144 and right ski directional control valve 164 are load sense check valves 171, dual pilot-operated check valves 173, a rod meter-out orifice check valve 175 and a base meter-out orifice check valve 177. Therefore, respective electrically controlled solenoids on left ski directional control valve 162 actuate valve 162 into either a position to send high pressurized oil to the rod side of cylinder 142 to retract the rod or into a position to send high pressurized oil to the base side of cylinder 142 to extend the rod in order to lift or lower left ski 143. Likewise, respective electrically controlled solenoids on right skidirectional control valve 164 actuate valve 164 into either a position to send high pressurized oil to the rod side of cylinder 144 to retract the rod or into a position to send high pressurize oil to the base side of cylinder 144 to extend the rod in order to lift or lower right ski 145. Between side shift cylinder 146 and side shift directional control valve 166 are load sense check valves 181, dual pilot-operated check valves 183 and first and second oscillation valves 185 and 187.

[0041] FIGS. 5-6 illustrate plan and side views of a left-handed joystick 200 located in a remote operator cab according to an embodiment. FIG. 7-8 illustrate plan and side views of a right-handed joystick 202 located in a remote operator cab according to an embodiment. On lefthanded joystick 200, control switch 204 is configured to cause left ski 143 to lift and or to lower depending on whether control switch 204 is activated at the top or at the bottom. As illustrated in FIG. 4, when the top of control switch 204 is depressed, left ski directional control valve 162 is electrically switched to be in a position that pressurizes the rod end of left ski cylinder 142 with pressurized fluid from first attachment coupler 172 and when the bottom of control switch 204 is depressed, left ski directional control valve 162 is electrically switched to be in a position that pressurizes the base end of left ski cylinder 142 with pressurized fluid from first attachment coupler 172.

[0042] Furthermore, on right-handed joystick 202, a control switch 206 is configured to cause right ski 145 to lift or lower depending on whether control switch 206 is activated at the top or at the bottom. As illustrated in FIG. 4, when the top of control switch 206 is activated, right ski directional control valve 164 is electrically switched to be in a position that pressurizes the rod end of right ski cylinder 144 with pressurized fluid from first attachment coupler 172 and when the bottom of control switch 206 is activated, right ski directional control valve 164 is electrically switched to be in a position that pressurizes the base end of right ski cylinder 144 with pressurized fluid from first attachment coupler 172.

[0043] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate, respectively, the actuating of first or side shift hydraulic actuator 146 to shift or move housing 104 in first direction 148 (FIG. 3) and in an opposing second direction 149 (FIG. 3) by remote operator control. While first hydraulic actuator 146 may be a first hydraulic cylinder other types of hydraulic devices including a hydraulic motor are possible. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 operating to retract the rod of first hydraulic actuator 146 and therefore move the work elementor housing 104 of planer implement 118 in first direction 148 under an embodiment. As illustrated, a side shift directional control valve or first directional control valve 166 is activated into a first open position 176 by, for example, a remote control switch 208 illustrated in FIGS. 5- 6 on left-handed joystick 200. For example, remote control switch 208 may be activated to retract the rod into set positions by moving switch incrementally upwards. Upon activation, control switch 208 is configured to electrically switch a solenoid to activate first directional control valve 166 into first open position 176, while first and second oscillation valves 185 and 187 remain unpiloted and in first open positions 178 and 180 to allow first directional control valve 166 to provide hydraulic fluid to first hydraulic actuator 146. In these valve positions, pressurized fluid flows from first attachment coupler 172 through first open position 176 in first control valve 166 and through a first valve of dual pilot-operated check valves 183, which also operates to open a second valve of the dual pilot-operated check valves 183. Pressurized fluid flows through first open position 178 of first oscillation valve 185 to retract the rod of first hydraulic actuator 146. This causes fluid to flow from the base end of first hydraulic actuator 146 through first open position 180 of second oscillation valve 187, through the open second valve of dual pilot-operated check valves 183, through first open position 176 of first directional control valve 166 and to second attachment coupler 174. Meanwhile, oscillation directional control valve or second directional control valve 170 remains in a middle or closed position so as not to allow pressurized fluid therethrough.

[0044] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 9 operating to extend side shift or first hydraulic actuator 146 to move housing 104 of planer implement 118 in an opposing second direction 149. As illustrated, side shift directional control valve or first directional control valve 166 is activated into a second open position 182 by, for example, remote control switch 208 illustrated in FIGS. 5-6 on left-handed joystick 200. For example, remote control switch 208 may be activated to extend the rod into set positions by moving switch incrementally downwards. Upon activation, control switch 208 is configured to electrically switch a solenoid to activate first control valve 166 into second open position 182, while first and second oscillation valves 185 and 187 remain unpiloted and in first open positions 178 and 180. In these valve positions, pressurized fluid flows from supply 172 through second open position 182 in first control valve 166 and through a second valve of dualpilot-operated check valves 183, which also operates to open the first valve of the dual pilot- operated check valves 183. Pressurized fluid flows through first open position 180 of second oscillation valve 187 to extend the rod of first hydraulic actuator 146. This causes fluid to flow from the rod end of first hydraulic actuator 146 through first open position 178 of first oscillation valve 185, through the open first valve of dual pilot-operated check valves 183, through second open position 182 of first directional control valve 166 and to second attachment coupler 174. Meanwhile, oscillation directional control valve or second directional control valve 170 remains in a middle or closed position so as not to allow pressurized fluid therethrough.

[0045] Under one embodiment, FIGS. 1 1 and 12 illustrate, respectively, the actuating of second or oscillation hydraulic actuator 150 to rotate housing 104 in clockwise direction 151 (FIG. 3) to a set position and in counterclockwise direction 153 (FIG. 3) to a set position upon operator remote control. While second hydraulic actuator 150 may be a second hydraulic cylinder other types of hydraulic devices are possible. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 operating to retract the rod of second hydraulic actuator 150 to rotatably move housing 104 of planer implement 118 in a clockwise direction 151. As illustrated in FIG. 11, both first directional control valve 166 and second directional control valve 170 are activated to provide this oscillation functionality. First directional control valve 166 is activated into first open position 176 by, for example, remote control switch 210 illustrated in FIGS. 7-8 on right-handed joystick 202. For example, remote control switch 210 may be activated to retract the rod at various set positions by moving the switch incrementally upwards. Upon activation, control switch 210 is configured to electrically switch a solenoid to activate first directional control valve 166 into first open position 176, while also activating second directional control valve 170 into a first open position 188 in order to pilot first and second oscillation valves 185 and 187 from first open position 178 and 180 into second open positions 184 and 186, which diverts hydraulic fluid being provided by first directional control valve 166 to second hydraulic actuator 150. In these valve positions, pressurized fluid flows from first attachment coupler 172 through first open position 176 in first directional control valve 166 and through a first valve of dual pilot-operated check valves 183, which also operates to open a second valve of the dual pilot-operated check valves 183. Pressurized fluid flows through second open position 184 of first oscillation valve 185 to retract the rod of secondhydraulic actuator 150. This causes fluid to flow from the base end of second hydraulic actuator 150 through second open position 186 of second oscillation valve 187, through the open second valve of dual pilot-operated check valves 183, through first open position 176 of first control valve 166 and into second attachment coupler 174.

[0046] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIGs. 4 and 11, operating to extend the rod of second hydraulic actuator 150 to rotate housing 104 of planer implement 118 in counterclockwise direction 153. As illustrated in FIG. 12, both first directional control valve 166 and second directional control valve 170 are activated to provide this oscillation functionality. First control valve 166 is activated into second open position 182 by, for example, remote control switch 210 illustrated in FIGS. 7-8 on right-handed joystick 202. For example, remote control switch 210 may be activated to extend the rod at various set positions by moving the switch incrementally downwards. Upon activation, control switch 210 is configured to electrically switch a solenoid to activate first directional control valve 166 into second open position 182, while also activating second directional control valve 170 into a first open position 188 in order to pilot first and second oscillation valves 185 and 187 from first open position 178 and 180 into second open positions 184 and 186, which diverts hydraulic fluid being provided by first directional control valve 166 to second hydraulic actuator 150. In these valve positions, pressurized fluid flows from first attachment coupler 172 through second open position 182 in first control valve 166 and through a second valve of the dual pilot- operated check valves 183. Pressurized fluid flows through second open position 186 of second oscillation valve 187 to extend the rod of second hydraulic actuator 150, which causes fluid to flow from the rod end of second hydraulic actuator 150 through second open position 184 of first oscillation valve 185, through the open first valve of dual pilot-operated check valves 183, through second open position 182 of first control valve 166 and into second attachment coupler 174.

[0047] In other words, to remotely operate second hydraulic actuator 150 to rotate housing 104 clockwise 151 or counterclockwise 153 in set positions, first directional control valve 166 is activated to first open position 176 or second open position 182 depending on the direction and rotation desired and second directional control valve 170 is simultaneously activated to first open position 188 to pilot the first and second oscillation valves 185 and 187 from their first openposition 178 and 180 to their second open positions 184 and 186. This means that first directional control valve 166 is used to operate either first hydraulic actuator 146 or second hydraulic actuator 150 and second directional control valve 170 is used as a pilot, for example, sending pressurized fluid to pilot lines to pilot oscillation valves 185 and 187 to divert flow that was going to first hydraulic actuator 146 to second hydraulic actuator 150.

[0048] In another embodiment, an operator may prefer to remotely float second hydraulic actuator 150 so that housing 104 may rotate in both directions 155 over a changing topography or contour. FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate, respectively, the activating and deactivating of a remote floating functionality of second hydraulic actuator 150 to allow housing 104 to freely rotate in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions indicated by line 155 (FIG. 3).

[0049] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 operating to float second hydraulic actuator 150. As illustrated, second directional control valve 170 is activated into a second open position 190 by, for example, a remote control switch 212 illustrated in FIGS. 7-8 on right-handed joystick 202. For example, remote control switch 212 may be activated to second open position 190 to allow hydraulic fluid to float second hydraulic actuator 150. Upon activation, control switch 212 is configured to electrically switch a solenoid to activate second directional control valve 170 into second open position 190, while first directional control valve 166 remains in a middle or closed position. In this valve position, pressurized fluid flows from first attachment coupler 172 through second open position 190 in second directional control valve 170 and pressurizes first and second float check valves 189 and 191, which may be for example two single pilot operated check valves, to allow fluid to flow into the rod end and the base end of second hydraulic actuator 150 and to push and pull fluid to and from third attachment coupler 179. Third attachment coupler 179 may be coupled to a case drain or the like on the power machine, as needed to maintain a differential volume of hydraulic fluid in second hydraulic actuator 150 when second directional control valve 170 operates to float second hydraulic actuator 150. This remotely controlled float functionality allows fluid to flow freely.

[0050] Under another embodiment, it is possible for an operator to remotely side shift or move housing 104 using first hydraulic actuator 146 and float second hydraulic actuator 150 simultaneously. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the schematic diagram illustratedin FIG. 4 operating to simultaneously retract first hydraulic actuator 146 and float second hydraulic actuator 150. As illustrated, second directional control valve 170 is activated into second open position 190 by, for example, a remote control switch 212 illustrated in FIGS. 7-8 on right-handed joystick 202. Upon activation, control switch 212 is configured to electrically switch a solenoid to activate second control valve 170 into second open position 190. As discussed above, in this valve position, pressurized fluid flows from first attachment coupler 172 through second open position 190 in second directional control valve 170 and pressurizes first and second float check valves 189 and 191, which allow fluid to flow into the rod end and the base end of second hydraulic actuator 150 and to push and pull fluid to and from third attachment coupler 179, which is connected to a case drain on power machine, as needed. While the float functionality is activated, first directional control valve 166 may also be activated into a first open position 176 by, for example, a remote control switch 208 illustrated in FIGS. 5-6 on left-handed joystick 200. As discussed above, remote control switch 208 may be activated to retract the rod into set positions by moving switch incrementally upwards. Upon activation, control switch 208 is configured to electrically switch a solenoid to activate first control valve 166 into first open position 176. With first directional control valve in first open position 176 and second directional control valve in second open position 190, pressurized fluid flows from first attachment coupler 172 through first open position 176 in first directional control valve 166 and through a first valve of dual pilot-operated check valves 183, which also operates to open a second valve of the dual pilot-operated check valves 183. Pressurized fluid flows through first open position 178 of first oscillation valve 185 to retract the rod of first hydraulic actuator 146. This causes fluid to flow from the base end of first hydraulic actuator 146 through first open position 180 of second oscillation valve 187, through the open second valve of dual pilot- operated check valves 183, through first open position 176 of first directional control valve 166 and into second attachment coupler 174. Meanwhile, second directional control valve 170 remains in second open position 190 to float second hydraulic actuator 150.

[0051] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 operating to simultaneously extend first hydraulic actuator 146 and float second hydraulic actuator 150. As illustrated, second directional control valve 170 is activated into second open position 190 by, for example, a remote control switch 212 illustrated in FIGS. 7-8 on right-handed joystick 202. Upon activation, control switch 212 is configured to electrically switch a solenoid to activate second directional control valve 170 into second open position 190. As discussed above, in this valve position, pressurized fluid flows from supply 172 through second open position 190 in second control valve 170 and pressurizes first and second float check valves 189 and 191, which allow fluid to flow into the rod end and the base end of second hydraulic actuator 150 and to push and pull fluid to and from third attachment coupler 179 as needed. While the float functionality is activated, first directional control valve 166 may also be activated into a second open position 182 by, for example, a remote control switch 208 illustrated in FIGS. 5-6 on left-handed joystick 200. As discussed above, remote control switch 208 may be activated to extend the rod into set positions by physically moving the switch. Upon activation, control switch 208 is configured to electrically switch a solenoid to activate first directional control valve 166 into second open position 182. With first directional control valve in second open position 182 and second directional control valve in second open position 190, pressurized fluid flows from first attachment coupler 172 through second open position 182 in first directional control valve 166 and through the second valve of dual pilot-operated check valves 183, which also operates to open the first valve of the dual pilot-operated check valves 183. Pressurized fluid flows through first open position 180 of second oscillation valve 187 to extend the rod of first hydraulic actuator 146. This causes fluid to flow from the rod end of first hydraulic actuator 146 through first open position 178 of first oscillation valve 185, through the open second valve of dual pilot-operated check valves 183, through second open position 182 of first control valve 166 and into second attachment coupler 174. Meanwhile, second directional control valve 170 remains in second open position 190 to float second hydraulic actuator 150.

[0052] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 4 not operating any of the functionalities of first hydraulic actuator 146 or second hydraulic actuator 150. As illustrated, first directional control valve 166 and second directional control valve 170 are in middle or closed positions, but open to fluid draining to second attachment coupler 174 or third attachment coupler 179, For example, remote control switch 214 as illustrated in FIGS. 7-8 may be activated to turn off the float of second hydraulic actuator 150. In the neutral or default position, second control valve 170 is configured in the middle or closedposition. In this valve position, the float functionality is turned off and fluid is not able to flow freely.

[0053] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An implement on a power machine comprising: a first hydraulic actuator configured to move a housing of the implement in first and opposing second directions; a second hydraulic actuator configured to rotate the housing of the implement in first and opposing second directions; a remotely operated first directional control valve configured to provide hydraulic fluid to operate the first hydraulic actuator; and a remotely operated second directional control valve configured to provide hydraulic fluid to float the second hydraulic actuator or configured to provide hydraulic fluid to pilot first and second oscillation valves to divert hydraulic fluid provided by the first directional control valve to the second hydraulic actuator.

2. The implement of claim 1, wherein the first and second oscillation valves each comprise a first open position and a second open position.

3. The implement of claim 2, wherein each of the first and second oscillation valves are in first open positions when unpiloted to allow the first directional control valve to provide hydraulic fluid to the first hydraulic actuator.

4. The implement of claim 3, wherein each of the first and second oscillation valves are in second open positions when piloted by the second directional control valve to divert hydraulic fluid provided by the first directional control valve to the second hydraulic actuator.

5. The implement of claim 1, wherein the second directional control valve comprises a first open position that allows hydraulic fluid to pilot each of the first and second oscillation valves from first open positions to second open positions and thereby divert hydraulic fluid from the first directional control valve to the second hydraulic actuator.

6. The implement of claim 5, wherein the second directional control valve further comprises a second open position that allows hydraulic fluid to be provided to float the second hydraulic actuator.

7. The implement of claim 6, wherein the second directional control valve comprises a closed position that prevents hydraulic fluid from piloting the first and second oscillation valves and prevent operation of the second hydraulic actuator.

8. The implement of claim 7, further comprising a first attachment coupler configured to be coupled to a source of hydraulic fluid on the power machine, a second attachment coupler configured to be coupled to a return of hydraulic fluid on the power machine and a third attachment coupler configured to be coupled to a case drain on the power machine, wherein the third attachment coupler is configured to supply and receive hydraulic fluid from the case drain to maintain a differential volume of hydraulic fluid in the second hydraulic actuator when the second directional control valve operates to float the second hydraulic actuator.

9. The implement of claim 1, wherein while the remotely operated second directional control valve provides hydraulic fluid to float the second hydraulic actuator, the remotely operated first directional control valve is configured to simultaneously provide hydraulic fluid to the first hydraulic actuator to move a housing of the implement in first and opposing second directions.

10. A power machine compri sin : a frame having a cab; tractive elements supporting the frame; and an implement coupled to the frame and having a work element that is configured to be remotely operated by an operator located in the cab, wherein the implement comprises; a first hydraulic actuator configured to move the work element in first and opposing second directions;a second hydraulic actuator configured to rotate the work element in first and opposing second directions; a first control valve having first and second open positions and configured to provide hydraulic fluid to operate the first hydraulic actuator in the first and second open positions; a second control valve having first and second open positions, wherein the first open position of the second control valve is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to pilot a first oscillation valve and a second oscillation valve to divert hydraulic fluid provided by the first control valve to operate the second hydraulic actuator and wherein the second open position of the second control valve is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to float the second hydraulic actuator.

11. The power machine of claim 10, wherein the first and second oscillation valves of the implement each comprise a first open position and a second open position.

12. The power machine of claim 11, wherein each of the first and second oscillation valves are in first open positions when unpiloted to allow the first control valve to provide hydraulic fluid to the first hydraulic actuator.

13. The power machine of claim 12, wherein each of the first and second oscillation valves are in second open positions when piloted by the second control valve and are configured to divert hydraulic fluid provided by the first control valve to the second hydraulic actuator.

14. The power machine of claim 10, further comprising a case drain configured to supply and receive hydraulic fluid to maintain a differential volume of hydraulic fluid in the second hydraulic actuator when the second control valve operates to float the second hydraulic actuator.

15. The power machine of claim 10, wherein while the second control valve provides hydraulic fluid to float the second hydraulic actuator, the first control valve is configured to simultaneously provide hydraulic fluid to the first hydraulic actuator to move the work element of the implement in first and opposing second directions.

16. An implement on a power machine comprising: a first hydraulic actuator configured to move a work element of the implement in first and opposing second directions; a second hydraulic actuator configured to rotate the work element in first and opposing second directions; a remotely operated first directional control valve; and a remotely operated second directional control valve; and wherein while the second directional control valve is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to float the second hydraulic actuator, the first directional control valve is configured to simultaneously provide hydraulic fluid to the first hydraulic actuator to move a housing of the implement in first and opposing second directions.

17. The implement of claim 16, wherein the second directional control valve comprises a first open position, a second open position and a closed position.

18. The implement of claim 17, wherein when the second directional control valve is in the second open position, hydraulic fluid is provided to float the second hydraulic actuator.

19. The implement of claim 16, further comprising a first attachment coupler configured to be coupled to a source of hydraulic fluid on the power machine, a second attachment coupler configured to be coupled to a return of hydraulic fluid on the power machine and a third attachment coupler configured to be coupled to a case drain on the power machine.

20. The implement of claim 19 wherein the third attachment coupler is configured to supply and receive hydraulic fluid from the case drain to maintain a differential volume of hydraulicfluid in the second hydraulic actuator while the second directional control valve operates to float the second hydraulic actuator.

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