Coupling Unit Lock Finger Asymmetry for Adapter Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coupling units for machinery face inefficiencies due to limited space for adapters, leading to conflicts and potential damage during the coupling and decoupling process.
Innovation Solution
The coupling unit design modifies the cross-sectional shape of actuators and lock fingers to increase space for a higher number of or larger adapters, preventing conflicts and enhancing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional coupling units use standard actuator and lock finger designs, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the space for adapters is limited causing conflicts during coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by changing the cross-sectional shape of lock fingers from circular to rectangular with rounded corners. This asymmetric rectangular profile optimizes the spatial arrangement within the actuator housing, creating additional clearance space that accommodates a higher number of adapters without causing conflicts during coupling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the geometric parameters of the actuator cross-section. Specifically, the circular cross-section is transformed into a rectangular cross-section with rounded corners, and the dimensions are optimized (width measured is lesser than height) to maximize the available space for adapter integration while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more adapters are integrated into the coupling unit, then the versatility and functionality increase, but the risk of conflicts and damage during coupling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric rectangular cross-section with rounded corners creates optimized spacing and clearance between multiple adapters mounted on the coupling unit. This geometric configuration reduces the probability of collisions and interference between adapters during the coupling and decoupling processes, thereby enhancing reliability while supporting higher adapter density.
3Loss of energy
If larger adapters are used to reduce system pressure loss, then the hydraulic efficiency improves, but the available space in the coupling unit decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the actuator housing and lock fingers to accommodate larger adapter dimensions. The rectangular cross-section with optimized width-height ratio provides sufficient internal volume and clearance for larger hydraulic adapters that reduce system pressure loss, while maintaining compact external dimensions.
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 design allows for the accommodation of more or larger adapters without conflicts, improving the efficiency and usability of the coupling unit by reducing system pressure loss and enabling additional equipment integration.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator device also features at least one hydraulic cylinder and lock finger, which work in coordination to lock the tool's rear axle in place
Implementation Method 2
Upon extension of the pairs of hydraulic cylinders the pair of lock fingers change the shape of the recess thereby locking the rear axle of the tool in a form fitting manner
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3a~4b
Figure 5a~6a
AI summary
The current invention pertains to a coupling unit designed for tool exchange that can be connected to a machine. The coupling unit comprises a frame (4) and an actuator device (6). The frame (4) includes a first side (14) with a hook-shaped cutout (26) for receiving a front axle (10) of the tool (2) and a second side (16) with a recess (28) for receiving a rear axle (12) of the tool. The actuator device (6) consists of a housing (20) with a first set of adapters (34) that can connect to a second set of adapters (8) on the tool (2). The housing (20) also contains at least one actuator (22) embedded on one side that can extend and retract along an actuator axis (a). At least one lock finger (24) connected to the housing (20) on a second side opposite the first side moves along the actuator axis (a) upon retraction or extension of the actuator (22). This movement changes the shape of the recess (28) and locks the rear axle (12) of the tool upon extension of the actuator (22). The height (h) and width (w) of a cross section of the lock finger (24) upfill the equation w < h and h is measured in a direction perpendicular to a plane (p) defined by the frame (4).