A loader arrangement for a tractor and a work vehicle

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a loader arrangement (1) for a tractor (3), said loader arrangement (1) comprises two extending arms (5a, 5b) arranged parallel to each other, one end of which can be connected to the tractor (3) and the other end of which can be connected to an implement (2), and at least one pump system (10), wherein the at least one pump system (10) comprises at least one pump (12), wherein the at least one pump (12) is configured to control at least one hydraulic actuator (15, 16) of the loader arrangement (1). The disclosure further relates to a work vehicle arrangement (30).

Description

[0001] A loader arrangement for a tractor and a work vehicle

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a loader arrangement for a tractor. More specifically, the disclosure relates to a loader arrangement for a tractor as defined in the introductory parts of the independent claims.

[0004] Background art

[0005] Vehicles or working machines, usually tractors used for various types of work, for example lifting work, are previously known. The vehicles are normally provided with a construction, for example, a base, fastening irons, brackets, or similar, on which an arm construction, usually known as a "loader" is mounted. In the following text, the term tractor is used to represent any type of vehicle or working machine.

[0006] The loader is an extended construction, generally called an arm construction, that connects a vehicle with a tool or implement, and that makes possible movement of the tool relative to the vehicle. The loader comprises two arms arranged parallel to each other, which in turn comprise extended arm sections, parallel struts, linkage systems and joints. The loader has at one of its ends, the end that is facing towards the vehicle, two parts or bearing boxes, arranged parallel to each other and terminating the arms, to which hydraulic actuators and other arm parts are attached. Each bearing box is mounted onto the vehicle.

[0007] The loader has at its second end, the foremost end, the end that faces away from the vehicle, towards the working area, an attachment arrangement that makes it possible to attach implements at the outermost end of the loader. A distance up on or into the loader, above the implement, there is characteristically a transverse constructional part, arranged between the two arms of the loader. The construction stabilizes the arm construction and offers an attachment region for control and regulatory units.

[0008] The primary power source used for vehicles of the above-mentioned type is typically a diesel engine which further rotates a large hydraulic pump. The purpose of the hydraulic pump is to convert the mechanical energy produced by the diesel engine to hydraulic energy. The hydraulic energy contained in the hydraulic system of the vehicle is further used to power the actual hydraulic actuators of the vehicle or the hydraulic actuators of attachments of the vehicle. The hydraulically driven actuators, for example in a tractor, include wheel steering, frame (articulation) steering and lifting arrangements in the front or rear of the tractor. The hydraulically driven actuators, for example in attachments connected to a tractor, include the actuators used on a loader to move the tool relative to the tractor. The diesel engine, which is used as the primary power source, can also be coupled with a number of various hydraulic pumps which may be placed, for example, one after the other on the same driving shaft.

[0009] A tractor, known from EP2189581 Al, has a loader device with a loader boom, and a hydraulic system for raising and lowering the boom.

[0010] A problem with today's solution is that a large amount of energy is needed in order to control the loader, resulting in increased fuel consumption or increased size of a battery needed if the tractor is battery powered. Thus, there is a need for a loader that consumes less energy.

[0011] It is an object of the present disclosure to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above-identified deficiencies and disadvantages in the prior art and solve at least one of the above mentioned problems.

[0012] According to a first aspect there is provided a loader arrangement for a tractor. The loader arrangement comprises two extending arms arranged parallel to each other, one end of which can be connected to the tractor and the other end of which can be connected to an implement. The loader arrangement further comprises at least one pump system. The at least one pump system comprises at least one pump. The at least one pump is configured to control at least one hydraulic actuator of the loader.

[0013] This solution with the pump system arranged on the loader is advantageous since all functions related to the loader are controlled by the pump system. Therefore, there is no need to arrange the tractor with a pump system, resulting in a loader that is more energy efficient. A more energy efficient loader is advantageous since a longer operational time on a given amount of energy is achieved, wherein the energy may come from a battery or liquid fuel, such as diesel or gasoline. Some other benefits, with a more energy efficient loader, are that a smaller battery in the tractor can be used, since less energy is needed on a given operational time, less fuel is consumed, and the tractor is lighter. Less energy consumed is better for the environment and lowers the costs. Another advantage with this solution is that it is easier to fit the tractor with different parts. For example, the loader can be removed and replaced with other working tools.

[0014] Yet another advantage is that, since the tractor do not need any pumps, hydraulic tanks or hydraulic hoses that transport the hydraulic oil from the pump to the loader, less hoses and less hydraulic oil can be used, resulting in a simpler tractor having a lower cost. It is also better for the environment to use less hydraulic oil.

[0015] Further, problem with a central hydraulic pump on the tractor is that it necessitates long hydraulic hoses running to the loader. These long runs can lead to pressure drops, reducing efficiency. Furthermore, the tractor's main pump is often mechanically coupled to the engine, meaning it may operate even when the loader is idle, wasting energy. With the present solution, fuel consumption can be decreased or a drain on the battery of an electric tractor can be slower.

[0016] In order to supply power to the at least one pump system, the loader arrangement may further be arranged with an electrical power interface part that is electrically connected to the at least one pump system and operationally connectable to a corresponding electrical power interface part of the tractor. The electrical power interface part can then be connected to the corresponding part of the vehicle, so that the at least one pump system is powered via the tractor. The electrical power interface is any suitable type of electrical connector.

[0017] It is advantageous to arrange the loader arrangement with an electrical power interface that is connected to the at least one pump, since the service and maintenance of the loader arrangement is facilitated since it is easy to disconnect the power between the tractor and the pump system by unplugging the power interface. Another advantage is that the electrical power interface facilitates the removal and mounting of the loader arrangement to and from the tractor.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the loader arrangement may comprise a second electrical power interface part electrically connectable to the implement and connectable to a corresponding second electrical power interface part of the implement so that when the second electrical power interface part is connected to the corresponding second part of the implement, the implement is powered via the tractor. The second electrical power interface is of any suitable type of electrical connector.

[0019] By providing the loader arrangement with an electrical power interface connectable to the implement, an electrically controlled implement may be provided. For example, an implement that is electrically powered can be used. This means that an even more energy efficient tractor and / or implement can be provided. Some other benefits with a more energy efficient tractor and / or implement are that a smaller battery in the tractor can be used, since less energy is needed on a given operational time, less fuel is consumed, and the tractor is lighter. Less energy consumed is also better for the environment and lowers the costs._

[0020] According to some embodiments, the at least one pump system further comprises at least one electrical machine arranged to power the at least one pump. The electrical machine may be a motor driven by alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC).

[0021] According to some embodiments, the at least one pump system comprises at least one electrical machine powering at least two pumps wherein the at least two pumps is arranged to control at least one first actuator and at least one second actuator and / or the implement.

[0022] It is advantageous to use, for example one electrical machine to power at least two pumps, since fewer parts are needed in order to control the loader arrangement, which lowers the costs.

[0023] The electrical power interface of the loader arrangement is connected to the electrical machine, thereby providing electrical energy to the electrical machine. The electrical machine may be a motor driven by alternating current (AC). In order to convert direct current, from a battery, to alternating current, the electrical machine may further comprise a DC to AC inverter. As an alternative, the DC to AC inverter may be a separate part, arranged at the loader arrangement or at the tractor.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the pump of the at least one pump system may be in fluid connection with said at least one hydraulic actuator and configured for controlling the at least one hydraulic actuator. The flow direction of the hydraulic fluid in the pump system determines the movement direction of the at least one hydraulic actuator. The actuator movement direction is controlled by the pump system. For example, when the hydraulic fluid is controlled in a first direction, the at least one hydraulic actuator is extending and when the hydraulic fluid is controlled in a second direction, the at least one hydraulic actuator is retracting. The first and second direction is opposite to each other.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the at least one pump system may further comprise a valve system fluidly connecting the pump and the at least one actuator and configured for controlling the at least one actuator. For example, when the hydraulic fluid is directed in the valve system in a first direction, the at least on hydraulic actuator is extending and when the hydraulic fluid is directed in a second direction, the hydraulic actuator is retracting. The first and second direction is opposite to each other.

[0026] The valve system may be any type of suitable valve system, such as proportional directional valves and / or pilot-operated proportional valves. Any type of electro-mechanical or hydraulic-mechanical controlled valves can be used.

[0027] By arranging the pump system with a valve system, one pump can be arranged to control one or more actuators. For example, instead of one pump controlling only one actuator, one pump can control two or more actuators. This results in a minimized system complexity whilst still enabling a pump system on the loader powered via an electrical interface, which leads to better and more exact controlling of the actuators, which is more energy efficient. In one example, the valve system is general purpose control valves adapted to support the hydraulic functions of the loader arrangement.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the at least one actuator comprises a at least one first actuator arranged to control a lifting function of the loader and at least one second actuator arranged to control another function of the loader, such as a tilting function, and / or to control the implement. The at least one pump system is configured to control the at least one first actuator and the at least one second actuator.

[0029] According to some examples, the loader arrangement comprises a first pump system arranged to control the at least first actuator and a second pump system arranged to control the at least one second actuator. The loader arrangement may further comprise a third pump system arranged to control the implement. Any number of pump systems can be used in order to control different functions of the loader arrangement.

[0030] In other words, the loader arrangement can be arranged with one pump system configured to control the first actuator and the second actuator. Another example is that the loader arrangement can be arranged with two pump systems, wherein the first pump system may be configured to control the first actuator, and the second pump system may be configured to control the second actuator. Another example is that the loader arrangement can be arranged with three pump systems, wherein the first pump system may be configured to control the first actuator, and the second pump system may be configured to control the second actuator, and the third pump system may be configured to control the implement. Alternatively, the third pump system may be arranged at the implement. By arranging the loader arrangement with several pump systems, each function of the loader arrangement can be individually controlled. Since each function is controlled by a dedicated pump system, each function can be controlled in an optimum way without influence of the other function which leads to lower energy consumption.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the at least one pump system may further comprise a valve system fluidly connectable to the pump and further to the at least one actuator and to a hydraulic interface of the implement and configured for controlling the at least one actuator and / or the implement.

[0032] According to some embodiments, the loader arrangement comprises a controller and a digital interface part connected to the controller and connectable to a corresponding digital interface part of the tractor so that when the digital interface part is connected to the corresponding part of the tractor, data communication between the loader and tractor is enabled. The digital interface is of any suitable type of electrical connector. The digital interface and the electrical power interface can be in the same connector or in separate connectors. The controller may also comprise a DC to AC inverter and / or an AC to DC inverter. In an example, when a control signal for a required action is sent from the tractor by an operator to the controller, the controller then controls the pump system (the pump or the valve system) which in turn control the at least one actuator. The control signal can be generated for example from a joystick, physical button(s), software based graphical userinterface or another controller on the tractor. In other words, when the operator requires a lifting function, the operator activates a joystick for the lifting function. The joystick sends a signal to the controller. The controller controls the pump system to direct hydraulic oil to the actuator related to the lifting function.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the data communication comprises at least one of status information sent from the loader to the tractor and relating to the loader, said status information may comprise at least one of pump parameter values, valve settings, valve flows, energy consumption, energy distribution etc., and control data from the tractor to the loader for control of the pump system. The data from the loader can be displayed in the tractor._

[0034] By sending the status information of loader to the tractor a more precise controlling of the loader arrangement is achieved. This results in that electrical energy and / or power requirements are reduced. According to some embodiments, the loader arrangement may further comprise a controller and a digital interface part connected to the controller and connectable to a corresponding digital interface part of the tractor and a second digital interface part connected to the controller and connectable to a corresponding digital interface part of the implement so that when the digital interface part is connected to the corresponding part of the tractor and the second digital interface part is connected to the corresponding part of the implement, data communication between the implement and tractor is enabled. The second digital interface is of any suitable type of electrical connector. The second digital interface and the second electrical power interface can be in the same connector or in separate connectors. The controller may also comprise a DC to AC inverter and / or an AC to DC inverter. In an example, when a control signal for a required action is sent from the tractor by an operator to the controller, the controller then controls the pump system (the pump or the valve system) which in turn controls a function of the implement. The control signal can be generated for example from a joystick, physical button(s), software based graphical user-interface or another controller on the tractor. In other words, when the operator requires a function of the implement, the operator activates a joystick for the implement function. The joystick sends a signal to the controller. The controller controls the pump system to direct hydraulic oil to the functions related to the implement function.

[0035] The data communication comprises at least one of status information sent from the loader to the implement and relating to the implement, said status information may comprise at least one of pump parameter values, valve settings, valve flows, energy consumption, energy distribution etc., and control data from the tractor to the implement for control of the implement.

[0036] By sending the status information of the implement to the tractor a more precise controlling of the implement is achieved. This results in less electrical energy and power is needed.

[0037] According to some embodiments, the pump system is arranged for recovering hydraulic energy from the at least one actuator and convert it to electrical energy.

[0038] The recovered electrical energy can be stored in a battery in the tractor. Recovering the return oil pressure / flow and convert it to electrical energy is advantage since less electrical energy is needed to control the loader arrangement since a part of the energy needed to lift the loader is converted to electrical energy and reused when the loader is lifted again. According to some embodiments, the at least one pump system is arranged at the at least one hydraulic actuator.

[0039] For example, one pump system is arranged at each one of the at least one hydraulic actuator. For example, the lifting and lowering of the loader is controlled by two actuators, resulting in that two pump systems is used, one at each actuator. Alternatively, one pump system can be arranged at one actuator and arranged to control two or more actuators.

[0040] According to some embodiments, the loader arrangement further comprises at least one beam element, having an open inner space, arranged between the two arms and connects the two arms to each other and where the at least one pump system is arranged at or inside the at least one beam element.

[0041] By arranging the pump system at or inside the at least one beam element, the pump system is less likely to become covered with snow and dirt, which creates unsatisfactory environmental conditions, increases wear and places limitations on the movements of the loader. Further, the view of the driver is not obstructed.

[0042] According to some embodiments, at least a part of the at least one beam element is arranged as a hydraulic tank, fluidly connected to the pump system and the at least one actuator.

[0043] By arranging the hydraulic tank at the at least one beam element, fewer components of the loader arrangement are needed, since the hydraulic tank can be a part of the constructional elements of the loader.

[0044] The beam element can also house the hydraulic tank, protecting it from the environment.

[0045] According to some embodiments, at least a part of the at least one beam element is arranged as an accumulator, fluidly connected to the pump and the at least one actuator.

[0046] By arranging the accumulator at the at least one beam element, fewer components of the loader arrangement are needed, since the accumulator can be a part of the constructional elements of the loader.

[0047] The beam element can also house the accumulator, protecting it from the environment. Further, a part of the beam element can be arranged as a hydraulic tank and a second part of the beam element can be arranged as an accumulator. Le., the beam element can house both the hydraulic tank and the accumulator.

[0048] According to some embodiments, the at least one pump system further comprises an accumulator fluidly connected to the pump of the pump system and the at least one actuator.

[0049] By adding an accumulator enables a hydraulic system to cope with extremes of demand using a less powerful pump, to respond more quickly to a temporary demand, and to smooth out pulsations. The accumulator can also be used as an energy storage for the hydraulic pressure.

[0050] According to some embodiments, the at least one pump system further comprises a hydraulic tank fluidly connected to at least the pump and / or the at least one hydraulic actuator.

[0051] According to some embodiments, the at least one pump system may further comprise a third hydraulic interface configured for controlling a second implement. The third hydraulic interface may also be in fluid connection with the valve system. The third hydraulic interface may be configured so that the at least one hydraulic actuator of the loader arrangement can be disconnected from the pump system in order to control the second implement.

[0052] By arranging the at least one pump system with a third hydraulic interface, a second implement can be controlled by the at least one pump system, thereby reducing the need for additional pump systems. The second implement may be arranged at another location than the loader arrangement. The second implement may be located at the opposite side of the tractor or is a standalone implement. In an example the second implement is a backhoe, digger, wood splitter, wood cutter or any type of implement that may be controlled by hydraulic fluid and may be arranged at the back of the tractor or a standalone implement.

[0053] According to a second aspect there is provided a work vehicle arrangement comprising a work vehicle, such as a tractor and the loader arrangement described above.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the work vehicle comprises means for attachment such that the implement is rotatable in relation to the work vehicle in at least one direction.

[0055] According to some embodiments, the loader arrangement is removable attached to the work vehicle. The present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description given below. The detailed description and specific examples disclose preferred embodiments of the disclosure by way of illustration only. Those skilled in the art understand from guidance in the detailed description that changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the disclosure.

[0056] Brief of the

[0057] The above objects, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure, will be more fully appreciated by reference to the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of example embodiments of the present disclosure, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0058] Figure 1 schematically shows a perspective view of the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Figure 2 schematically illustrates the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Figure 3 schematically illustrates the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Figure 4 schematically illustrates the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Figure 5 schematically illustrates the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Figure 6 schematically illustrates the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] Figure 7 schematically illustrates the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Figure 8 schematically shows a perspective view of the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Figure 9 schematically shows a perspective view of the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10 schematically illustrates the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] Figure 11 schematically illustrates the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] Figure 12 schematically illustrates a hydraulic diagram of the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Figure 13 illustrates an example of a working vehicle arrangement comprising a working vehicle with a first implement and a second implement attached thereto.

[0070] Detailed description

[0071] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred example embodiments of the disclosure are shown. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in other forms and should not be construed as limited to the herein disclosed embodiments. The disclosed embodiments are provided to fully convey the scope of the disclosure to the skilled person.

[0072] Figure 1 shows a loader arrangement 1 for a tractor 3, not shown in the figure, the loader arrangement 1 comprises two extending arms 5a and 5b arranged parallel to each other. One end of the extending arms is releasably connected to the tractor and the other end of the extending arms may be connected to an implement, not shown in the figure.

[0073] Figure 1 further shows that the loader arrangement 1 comprises at least one pump system 10, wherein the at least one pump system 10 comprises at least one pump 12. The at least one pump 12 is configured to control at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 of the loader arrangement.

[0074] Figure 1 further shows that the loader arrangement 1 may also be configured with an electrical power interface part 13 that is electrically connected to the at least one pump system 10 and operationally connectable to a corresponding electrical power interface part 13b of the tractor 3 so that when the electrical power interface part 13 is connected to the corresponding part of the tractor 3, the at least one pump system 10 is powered via the tractor 3. Figure 1 shows that the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 comprises a first hydraulic actuator 15a arranged to control a lifting function of the loader arrangement 1 and at least one second hydraulic actuator 16a arranged to control another function of the loader arrangement 1, such as a tilting function of the implement 2, not shown in the figure, and / or to control the implement 2.

[0075] The loader arrangement typically includes pairs of actuators operating in parallel to ensure balanced movement. As shown in Figure 1, the at least one first hydraulic actuator 15 for controlling the lifting function comprises a pair of actuators 15a, 15b, one on each arm 5a, 5b. Similarly, the at least one second hydraulic actuator (16) for the tilting function comprises a pair of actuators 16a, 16b. These actuators are typically, but not exclusively, double-acting hydraulic cylinders.

[0076] Figure 2 schematically shows that the at least one pump system 10 may further comprise at least one electrical machine 25 arranged to power the at least one pump 12. The electrical machine 25 may be an electrical motor powered by the tractor 3 via the electrical power interface 13 and 13b, through a DC to AC inverter 5.

[0077] Figure 2 further shows that the pump 12 of the at least one pump system 10 may be in fluid connection with said at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 and configured for controlling the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16. When the hydraulic fluid is controlled in a first direction, the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 is extending and when the hydraulic fluid is directed in a second direction, the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 is retracting. The first and second direction is opposite to each other.

[0078] Figure 3 corresponds to figure 2, with the difference that figure 3 shows that the at least one pump system 10 may have at least one electrical machine 25 powering at least two pumps 12a, 12b. Wherein the at least two pumps 12a, 12b are arranged to control at least one first hydraulic actuator 15a and at least one second hydraulic actuator 16a or the implement 2. In other words, the pump 12a is arranged to control the at least one first hydraulic actuator 15a and the pump 12b is arranged to control the at least one second hydraulic actuator 16a.

[0079] Figure 4 corresponds to figure 2, with the difference that figure 4 schematically shows that the loader arrangement 1 may also be configured with a second electrical power interface part 14 electrically connectable to the implement 2 and connectable to a corresponding second electrical power interface part 14b of the implement 2 so that when the second electrical power interface part 14 is connected to the corresponding part 14b of the implement 2, the implement 2 is powered by the tractor 3 via the electrical power interface part 13 and the corresponding electrical power interface part 13b.

[0080] Figure 5 schematically shows the at least one pump system 10 may further comprise a valve system 20 fluidly connecting the pump 12 and the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 and configured for controlling the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16.

[0081] Figure 6 shows that the loader arrangement 1 may comprise a first pump system 10a arranged to control the first hydraulic actuator 15a and a second pump system 10b arranged to control the second hydraulic actuator 16a.

[0082] Figure 7 shows another example where the pump system 10 may further comprise a valve system 20 fluidly connectable to the pump 12 and to a hydraulic interface 11 to the implement 2, via a second hydraulic interface lib and configured for controlling the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 and / or the implement 2. A third hydraulic interface 21 may also be fluidly connectable to the pump 12 or the valve system 20 and configured for controlling a second implement 50.

[0083] According to another example, shown in figure 1, the loader arrangement 1 may comprise a controller 40 and a digital interface part 45 connected to the controller 40 and connectable to a corresponding digital interface part 45b of the tractor 3 so that when the digital interface part 45 is connected to the corresponding part of the tractor 3, data communication between the loader arrangement 1 and tractor 3 is enabled.

[0084] The data communication comprises at least one of status information sent from the loader arrangement 1 to the tractor 3 and relating to the loader arrangement 1, said status information may comprise at least one of pump parameter values, valve settings, valve flows, etc., and control data from the tractor 3 to the loader arrangement 1 for control of the pump system 10.

[0085] Figure 1 further shows that the loader arrangement 1 may further comprise the controller 40 and the digital interface part 45 connected to the controller 40 and connectable to a corresponding digital interface part of the tractor 3 and a second digital interface part 46 connected to the controller 40 and connectable to a corresponding second digital interface part 46b of the implement 2. When the digital interface part 45 is connected to the corresponding part 45b of the tractor 3 and the second digital interface part 46 is connected to the corresponding second part 46b of the implement 2, data communication between the implement 2 and tractor 3 is enabled.

[0086] The electrical power interface 13 and the digital interface 45 are any suitable means for transferring power and data, respectively. This can include, but is not limited to, one or more multi-pin connectors, separate dedicated connectors for power and communication, or a combination of wired connections for power and wireless connections (e.g., CAN bus over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) for data communication.

[0087] According to another example, the pump system 10 is arranged for recovering return pressure oil from the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 and convert hydraulic energy to electrical energy. For example, when the loader arrangement is going from a lifted position to a lower position, the oil in the actuators 15a, 16a is lead through the pump 12, that is connected to the electrical machine 25, that rotates the electrical machine 25 thereby generating electrical energy. The electrical energy can be transmitted via the electrical power interfaces 13, 13b and stored in a battery 4 in the tractor 3.

[0088] In other words, during a lowering operation of the loader arrangement, the gravitational potential energy of the loader and any attached implement 2 forces hydraulic fluid out of the actuators 15a, 16a. This pressurized fluid flow is directed through the pump 12, causing it to act as a hydraulic motor. The pump (12) in turn drives the electrical machine 25, which now functions as a generator, converting the hydraulic energy into electrical energy. This recovered electrical energy can then be transmitted via the electrical power interfaces 13, 13b and stored in a battery 4 in the tractor 3.

[0089] The pump system 10 is advantageously a self-contained, modular unit mounted on the loader arrangement 1. In its basic form, the pump system 10 includes the pump 12. However, in various embodiments, the pump system 10 can be an integrated module further comprising the electrical machine 25, an inverter 5, a controller 40, and potentially a valve system 20, and / or a hydraulic tank 18, and / or an accumulator 17. This modularity simplifies manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.

[0090] Figure 8 shows an alternative positioning of the at least one pump system 10, the at least one pump system 10 may be arranged at the at least one actuator 15, 16. For example, a pump system 10 is arranged at each of the at least one actuator 15, 16.

[0091] This configuration, where a pump system 10 is arranged at an actuator 15, 16, creates an integrated electro-hydraulic actuator unit. By co-locating the pump system with the actuator it controls, the need for long hydraulic hoses from a central point is eliminated. This reduces potential leak points, minimizes hydraulic pressure losses, and allows for a faster and more precise actuator response to control signals from the controller 40.

[0092] Figure 9 shows that the loader arrangement 1 may further comprise an at least one beam element 30 arranged between the two arms 5a, 5b and connects the two arms 5a, 5b to each other and where the at least one pump system 10 is arranged at or inside the at least one beam element 30. The beam element 30 may be bent to form a "C", or a "U" shape along the direction of its longitudinal extent. The beam element 30 can have any suitable shape that is required by its function, such as a rectangular, square or round cross section. The beam element 30 has two ends, each connected to an arm, 5a and 5b. The beam element 30 may have an open inner space arranged to house equipment or machinery or hydraulic parts.

[0093] According to an example, shown in figure 9, at least a part of the at least one beam element 30 is arranged as a hydraulic tank 18. The tank 18 is fluidly connected to the pump 12 and the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16.

[0094] According to an example, the beam element 30 can function as a housing or as an integrated component. In an example, separate components such as the hydraulic tank 18 or accumulator 17 are placed within the open inner space of the beam element 30 for protection and compact packaging. In another example, the beam element 30 is itself formed as a sealed, hollow vessel, wherein the interior volume of the beam element's structure constitutes the hydraulic tank 18 and / or the accumulator 17, thereby reducing component count and weight.

[0095] Alternative or additionally, at least a part of the at least one beam element 30 is arranged as an accumulator 17. The accumulator 17 is fluidly connected to the pump 12 and the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16.

[0096] Figure 9 shows that a part of the beam element 30 may be arranged as a hydraulic tank 18 and a second part of the beam element 30 can be arranged as an accumulator 17. The beam element 10 can house both the hydraulic tank 18 and the accumulator 17.

[0097] In addition to protecting the pump system 10, the beam element 30 serves a critical structural purpose. By rigidly connecting the two parallel arms 5a, 5b, it significantly increases the torsional rigidity of the overall loader arrangement. This structural reinforcement is crucial for resisting twisting forces and maintaining the parallel alignment of the arms, especially when lifting uneven loads. This enhanced stability improves operational precision and safety. Figure 10 shows that the at least one pump system 10 may comprise an accumulator 17 fluidly connected to the pump 12. The pump 12 may further be fluidly connected to the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16.

[0098] Figure 10 further shows that the at least one pump system 10 may also comprise a hydraulic tank 18 fluidly connected to at least the pump 12.

[0099] Figure 11 corresponds to figure 6, with the difference that figure 11 schematically shows that a first valve system 20a is fluidly connected to the first pump system 10a and configured for controlling the at least one hydraulic actuator 15 and that a second valve system 20b is fluidly connected to the second pump system 10b and configured for controlling the at least one hydraulic actuator 16 and / or the implement 2.

[0100] Figure 12 shows an example of a hydraulic diagram of the loader arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The hydraulic diagram in figure 12 shows that the pump 12, powered by the electrical machine 25, of the at least one pump system 10 may be in fluid connection with the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 and configured for controlling the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16. When the hydraulic fluid is controlled in a first direction, the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 is extending and when the hydraulic fluid is controlled in a second direction, the at least one hydraulic actuator 15, 16 is retracting. The first and second direction is opposite to each other. The hydraulic diagram further shows that the at least one pump system 10 comprises the valve system 20. In one example, the valve system 20 are general purpose control valves adapted to support the hydraulic functions of the loader arrangement.

[0101] In figure 13 a working vehicle arrangement is illustrated. The working vehicle arrangement 30 comprises a working vehicle 3 comprising a fastening arrangement 32 connectable to the loader arrangement 1. The loader arrangement 1 has a cooperating fastening arrangement 34 which fastens to the fastening arrangement 32 of the working vehicle 3. The loader arrangement 1 may be detachably fastened to the working vehicle 3. The loader arrangement 1 may be fastened to the working vehicle 3 such that the loader arrangement 1 is rotatable around its points of attachment in relation to the working vehicle 3 in at least one direction. The working vehicle arrangement 30 may further be equipped with a second implement 50. The second implement 50 may be detachably fastened to the working vehicle 3. The person skilled in the art realizes that the present disclosure is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. The person skilled in the art further realizes that modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. Additionally, variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by the skilled person in practicing the claimed disclosure, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A loader arrangement (1) for a tractor (3), said loader arrangement (1) comprises two extending arms (5a, 5b) arranged parallel to each other, one end of which can be connected to the tractor (3) and the other end of which can be connected to an implement (2), and at least one pump system (10), wherein the at least one pump system (10) comprises at least one pump (12), wherein the at least one pump (12) is configured to control at least one hydraulic actuator (15, 16) of the loader arrangement (1).

2. The loader arrangement (1) according to claim 1, further comprises an electrical power interface part (13) electrically connected to the at least one pump system (10) and operationally connectable to a corresponding electrical power interface part (13b) of the tractor (3) so that when the electrical power interface part (13) is connected to the corresponding electrical power interface part (13b) of the tractor (3), the at least one pump system (10) is powered via the tractor (3).

3. The loader arrangement (1) according to claim 2, further comprises a second electrical power interface part (14) electrically connectable to the implement (2) and connectable to a corresponding second electrical power interface part (14b) of the implement (2) so that when the second electrical power interface part (14) is connected to the corresponding second electrical power interface part (14b) of the implement (2), the implement (2) is powered by the tractor (3) via the electrical power interface part (13) and the corresponding electrical power interface part (13b).

4. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one pump system (10) further comprises at least one electrical machine (25) arranged to power the at least one pump (12).

5. The loader arrangement (1) according to claim 4, wherein the at least one electrical machine (25) is powering at least two pumps (12a, 12b) wherein the at least two pumps (12a, 12b) are arranged to control at least one first hydraulic actuator (15a) and at least one second hydraulic actuator (16a) or the implement (2).

6. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pump(12) of the at least one pump system (10) is in fluid connection with said at least one hydraulicactuator (15, 16) and configured for controlling the at least one hydraulic actuator (15, 16), the flow direction of the hydraulic fluid in the pump system (10) determines the movement direction of the at least one hydraulic actuator (15, 16).

7. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of claims 1-5, wherein the at least one pump system (10) further comprises a valve system (20) fluidly connecting the pump (12) and the at least one hydraulic actuator (15, 16) and configured for controlling the at least one hydraulic actuator (15,16), the flow direction of the hydraulic fluid in the valve system (20) determines the movement direction of the at least one hydraulic actuator (15, 16).

8. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one hydraulic actuator (15, 16) comprises at least one first hydraulic actuator (15a, 15b) arranged to control a lifting function of the loader arrangement (1) and at least one second hydraulic actuator (16a, 16b) arranged to control tilting function of the loader arrangement (1) and / or to control the implement (2), and wherein the at least one pump system (10) is configured to control the at least one first hydraulic actuator (15a, 15b) and the at least one second hydraulic actuator (16a, 16b).

9. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the loader arrangement (1) comprises a first pump system (10a) arranged to control the at least one first hydraulic actuator (15) and a second pump system (10b) arranged to control the at least one second hydraulic actuator (16).

10. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one pump system (10) further comprises a valve system (20) fluidly connectable to the pump (12) and to a hydraulic interface (11) of the implement (2) and configured for controlling the at least one hydraulic actuator (15, 16) and the implement (2).

11. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprises a controller (40) and a digital interface part (45) connected to the controller (40) and connectable to a corresponding digital interface part of the tractor (3) so that when the digital interface part (45) is connected to the corresponding part of the tractor (3), data communication between the loader arrangement (1) and tractor (3) is enabled.

12. The loader arrangement (1) according to claim 11, wherein the data communication comprises at least one of status information sent from the loader arrangement (1) to the tractor (3) and relating to the loader arrangement (1), said status information may comprise at least one of pump parameter values, valve settings, valve flows, etc, and control data from the tractor (3) to the loader arrangement (1) for control of the pump system (10).

13. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of claim 11, further comprises a second digital interface part (46) connected to the controller (40) and connectable to a corresponding second digital interface part (46b) of the implement (2) so that when the digital interface part (45) is connected to the corresponding part (45b) of the tractor (3) and the second digital interface part (46) is connected to the second corresponding part (46b) of the implement (2), data communication between the implement (2) and tractor (3) is enabled.

14. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pump system (10) is arranged for recovering hydraulic energy from the at least one hydraulic actuator (15, 16) and convert it to electrical energy.

15. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one pump system (10) is arranged at the at least one actuator (15, 16).

16. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the loader arrangement (1) further comprises an at least one beam element (30) arranged between the two arms (5a, 5b) and connects the two arms (5a, 5b) to each other and where the at least one pump system (10) is arranged at or inside the at least one beam element (30).

17. The loader arrangement (1) according to claim 16, wherein at least a part of the at least one beam element (30) is arranged as a hydraulic tank (18), fluidly connected to the at least one pump system (10).

18. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of claims 16 or 17, wherein at least a part of the at least one beam element (30) is arranged as an accumulator (17), fluidly connected to the pump (12) and the at least one hydraulic actuator (15, 16).

19. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one pump system (10) further comprises a hydraulic tank (18) fluidly connected to at least the pump (12).

20. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one pump system (10) further comprises an accumulator (17) fluidly connected to the pump (12) and / or the at least one hydraulic actuator (15,16).

21. The loader arrangement according to any of claims 16-20, wherein pump system (10) is arranged at or inside the beam element (30) and that the rotational axis of the at least one pump (12) and the electrical machine (25) is parallel to the beam element (30).

22. The loader arrangement (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one pump system (10) further comprises a third hydraulic interface (21) configured for controlling a second implement (50).

23. A work vehicle arrangement (30) comprising a work vehicle (3), and the loader arrangement (1) according to any of claims 1-22 attached to said work vehicle (3).

24. The work vehicle arrangement (30) according to claim 23, wherein the work vehicle (3) comprises means for attachment (32) such that the loader arrangement (1) is rotatable in relation to the work vehicle (3) in at least one direction.

25. The work vehicle arrangement (30) according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the loader arrangement (1) is removable attached to the work vehicle (3).

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