Compact Quick Coupling Mechanism for Mini-Excavators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick coupler mechanisms for larger excavators are not suitable for mini-excavators due to space constraints when scaled down, as hydraulic cylinders and spring biasing elements are typically located inside the mechanism, leading to crowding and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compact quick coupling apparatus with the hydraulic cylinder and spring biasing elements located externally, featuring a wedge and latch mechanism that uses a single acting hydraulic cylinder and wedge bias element to securely engage and disengage tools from the tool arm, allowing for efficient operation in confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic cylinder and spring biasing elements are located inside the mechanism, then the coupling mechanism can maintain structural integrity, but the mechanism becomes crowded and cannot be scaled down for mini-excavators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional arrangement by positioning the hydraulic cylinder and spring biasing elements on the exterior of the coupling mechanism rather than inside. This external placement eliminates internal crowding, allows for compact scaling, and enables the mechanism to be adapted for mini-excavators while maintaining structural integrity through the inverted configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a three-dimensional internal arrangement to a two-dimensional external arrangement, positioning components on the outer surface of the mechanism. This dimensional change allows components to be distributed across the exterior surface rather than competing for internal space, enabling compact scaling without sacrificing structural integrity.
2Volume of moving object
If a single acting hydraulic cylinder is used, then the mechanism becomes more compact and suitable for mini-excavators, but the cylinder must perform multiple functions including latching and unlatching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality to the single acting hydraulic cylinder, enabling it to perform multiple functions: driving the wedge for coupling, latching the tool in position, and unlatching for tool removal. This universal design eliminates the need for separate cylinders for each function, maintaining compact size while managing operational complexity through integrated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the hydraulic cylinder's own motion to automatically trigger latching and unlatching functions. When the cylinder extends or retracts, it mechanically actuates the latch mechanism, allowing the system to service itself without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems.
3Reliability
If the wedge bias element continuously pushes the wedge into the groove, then the tool remains securely latched, but the force must be maintained without hydraulic fluid pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The spring biasing element provides continuous automatic latching force without requiring hydraulic fluid pressure. The spring continuously pushes the wedge into the groove, maintaining secure latching through elastic potential energy storage and release, eliminating the need for continuous hydraulic energy input to maintain latch security.
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 secure and efficient coupling and uncoupling of tools on mini-excavators by maintaining the wedge in the closed position without hydraulic fluid, preventing accidental disengagement and allowing remote operation, thus reducing operational time and improving control.
Implementation Method 1
A wedge bias element extends in the opening direction from the wedge, the wedge bias element operative to continuously exert a wedge bias force on the wedge in the closing direction to push the wedge into the groove
Implementation Method 2
A single acting hydraulic cylinder extends through the wedge and extends in the opening direction from the wedge, and the hydraulic cylinder is configured such that when pressurized fluid is directed into the hydraulic cylinder, the hydraulic cylinder extends and the hydraulic cylinder first contacts the safety latch and exerts a force moving the safety latch to the unlatched position
Implementation Method 3
A wedge is mounted on the coupler member and is movable, when the coupler member and mounting bracket are engaged, from a closed position where the wedge is engaged in a groove on the mounting bracket and where a tapered side of the wedge bears against a corresponding tapered side of the groove to draw the coupler member into engagement with the mounting bracket
Data Source
AI summary
A compact quick coupling apparatus has a wedge movable between closed and open positions. A wedge spring extends in the opening direction from the wedge and urges the wedge in the closing direction. A latch spring urges a safety latch to a latched position to prevent the wedge from moving. A single acting hydraulic cylinder extends through the wedge and extends in the opening direction from the wedge. As the hydraulic cylinder extends it first moves the safety latch to the unlatched position, and then moves the wedge in the opening direction. When pressurized fluid is released from the hydraulic cylinder, it retracts and the wedge moves in the closing in response to the wedge spring until the wedge reaches the closed position, and then the hydraulic cylinder further retracts in response to the latch spring and the safety latch moves to the latched position.