Coupling Pin Lubrication Manifold to Replace Multiple Hoses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lubrication delivery systems for machine coupling assemblies are complex and require multiple hoses, making them prone to damage from debris and increasing maintenance needs due to the high number of coupling assemblies that need lubrication.
Innovation Solution
A coupling assembly with a pin featuring internal passageways for lubricant distribution and a distribution device mounted to the pin that splits and directs lubricant to multiple outlets, reducing the need for external hoses by allowing lubricant to be delivered internally through the pin and bearing housings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple hoses are used to deliver lubricant to multiple coupling assemblies, then each coupling assembly can be lubricated effectively, but the system complexity increases and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple lubrication delivery functions into a single integrated system. The distribution device mounted on the pin consolidates multiple outlet points, allowing one hose to serve multiple coupling assemblies instead of requiring separate hoses for each assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin structure serves multiple functions: it acts as a mechanical connector for the coupling assembly and simultaneously as a lubrication distribution manifold with integrated outlets. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate lubrication lines for each coupling point.
2Reliability
If multiple hoses are used to deliver lubricant to coupling assemblies, then complete lubrication coverage is achieved, but exposure to debris and rocks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the lubrication distribution function from external hoses and relocates it to the pin structure itself. By integrating the distribution device and outlets directly on the pin, the system eliminates vulnerable external hose connections at multiple coupling points, leaving only one protected hose connection.
3Reliability
If a complex lubrication delivery system is used to serve multiple coupling assemblies, then all assemblies receive lubricant, but maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple lubrication delivery pathways into a single integrated distribution device mounted on the pin. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components that require maintenance and simplifies the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution device is designed to be mounted directly on the pin, utilizing the existing mechanical structure for lubrication distribution. This self-integrating design reduces the need for separate maintenance operations on dedicated lubrication components.
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
This solution simplifies the lubrication system, reduces the number of external hoses required, and ensures effective lubrication distribution to multiple coupling assemblies, enhancing durability and reducing maintenance by encapsulating the distribution device within the pin and bearing housings.
Implementation Method 1
a pin comprising at least a first pin passageway for lubricant extending between a first pin passageway inlet and a first pin passageway outlet for directing lubricant outside of the pin
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed towards a coupling assembly (13) for a machine (10). The coupling assembled comprises a pin (27) comprising at least a first pin passageway (31) for lubricant extending between a first pin passageway inlet (32) and a first pin passageway outlet (33) for directing lubricant outside of the pin (27). The coupling assembly (13) also comprises a distribution device (28) for distributing lubricant comprising at least one distribution device inlet (45) for receiving lubricant and at least one distribution device outlet (46, 62, 47, 48). The distribution device (28) is mounted to the pin (27) and the at least one distribution device outlet (46, 62, 47, 48) is arranged to direct lubricant into the first pin passageway inlet (32).