Backhoe Bucket Movable Thumb Assembly Single Lever Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backhoes with hydraulically pivotal buckets face difficulties in grasping and lifting objects due to the complexity and inefficiency of operating fixed or hydraulically operated movable thumbs, which require multiple levers and limit the range of object sizes that can be manipulated.
Innovation Solution
A movable thumb assembly that allows simultaneous control of the bucket and thumb using a single hydraulic lever, featuring a bucket bracket, link members, and a closure member connected via removable pins for pivotal movement, enabling easier and more precise operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed thumb or hydraulic control thumb is attached to the bucket, then the ability to grasp objects is improved, but the device complexity and operator fatigue increase due to requiring multiple levers for control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the thumb control mechanism with the bucket control system by connecting the thumb to the bucket via a link member. This allows both the bucket and thumb to be controlled simultaneously through a single lever, merging two separate control functions into one integrated system while maintaining the ability to grasp objects effectively
Solution Approach 2:
The single control lever serves multiple functions: it controls both the bucket movement and the thumb positioning. This multi-functional control mechanism eliminates the need for separate levers for each component, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatile object handling capabilities
2Adaptability or versatility
If a hydraulically operated movable thumb is used, then the range of object sizes that can be manipulated is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring three levers to be used simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions of the bucket and movable thumb into a single integrated control system. The link member mechanically connects the thumb to the bucket, allowing one lever to simultaneously control both components, thereby maintaining adaptability to various object sizes while dramatically improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into functional components (bucket control and thumb control) that are mechanically linked through the link member. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component's movement while maintaining coordinated control through the single lever system
3Device complexity
If a fixed thumb is used, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the ability to handle different sizes of objects deteriorates due to limited positional adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the fixed thumb into a dynamic, movable component that can adjust its position relative to the bucket. The link member enables the thumb to move and pivot, providing adaptability to handle objects of various sizes while maintaining relatively simple structural connections through pivotal joints and linkages
Data Source
AI summary
A closure member is pivotally connected with respect to a hydraulically operated bucket. A link member is pivotally connected to a hydraulically operated arm segment. The link member is also pivotally connected to the closure member. The closure member and the hydraulically operated bucket are connected for simultaneous pivotal movement in opposite directions with respect to each other.