Auxiliary Hydraulic Depressurization Circuit for Quick Tool Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic systems in work machines require manual connection and disconnection of hydraulic lines when attaching or detaching work tools, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A control system that automatically depressurizes the work tool auxiliary circuit by actuating a relief valve based on an unlock signal and tool data, allowing for quick and efficient disconnection of work tools from the quick coupler.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual connection and disconnection of hydraulic lines is used, then system complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary depressurization of the hydraulic circuit before tool disconnection. The control system activates relief valves to reduce pressure in the auxiliary circuit prior to allowing quick coupler separation, preventing tool drift while enabling rapid tool changes without manual line disconnection
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the work tool's own hydraulic pump and relief valves to self-depressurize the auxiliary circuit. When the quick coupler is in the unlocked position, the control system opens relief valves that allow the tool-side pump to discharge pressure from the auxiliary circuit back to the tool, eliminating the need for external depressurization systems
2Ease of operation
If hydraulic lines are manually connected, then ease of operation is reduced, but reliability is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the physical connection and hydraulic connection functions into a single quick coupler mechanism. The quick coupler simultaneously connects both the mechanical linkage and the hydraulic lines, eliminating separate manual connection steps while maintaining fluid-tight seals through integrated coupling design
Solution Approach 2:
The quick coupler acts as an intermediary device that facilitates automatic hydraulic line connection. It includes internal valves and sealing mechanisms that automatically establish fluid-tight connections when engaged, eliminating the need for manual line handling while ensuring reliable hydraulic coupling
3Ease of operation
If pressure is not controlled during disconnection, then ease of operation is improved, but harmful factors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary depressurization of the hydraulic circuit before tool disconnection. The control system activates relief valves to reduce pressure in the auxiliary circuit prior to allowing quick coupler separation, preventing tool drift while enabling rapid tool changes without manual line disconnection
Solution Approach 2:
The control system monitors the quick coupler lock member position and uses this feedback to control relief valve activation. When the lock member is in the unlocked position, the system knows it is safe to depressurize the auxiliary circuit, creating a closed-loop control system that prevents tool drift while maintaining ease of operation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and automated depressurization of the hydraulic system, facilitating quick tool changes and reducing operator effort, while maintaining control over pressure levels to prevent tool drift and ensure safe coupling and uncoupling processes.
Implementation Method 1
a first relief valve fluidly connected to the quick coupler valve block and to the fluid reservoir... automatically actuating opening of the first relief valve until the target pressure is reached
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a control system for depressurizing a work tool auxiliary circuit fluidly connected to a work tool coupled to a work machine by a quick coupler. The system may comprise a controller configured to: receive an unlock signal for the work tool; receive tool data associated with the work tool, the tool data including a target pressure for the work tool auxiliary circuit or a release duration for the relief valve; and in response to the unlock signal and the tool data, automatically actuate opening of the relief valve (a) for the release duration or (b) until the target pressure is reached in the work tool auxiliary circuit or machine-side circuit or (c) to reach and maintain the target pressure in the work tool auxiliary circuit or machine-side circuit.