Trencher Detachable Digging Box for Rapid Size Changes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing trenchers require substantial disassembly and reassembly to switch between different size digging boxes, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Innovation Solution

A trencher with a detachable digging box and coupler system that allows for quick detachment and attachment of different size digging boxes without decoupling the intermediate drive member, utilizing a pivotable 'C' shaped members and hydraulic actuators for efficient switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing trenchers use a fixed digging box design, then structural stability is maintained, but switching between different size digging boxes requires substantial disassembly and reassembly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to switch between different size digging boxesVSAvoiddisassembly and reassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The digging box is divided into multiple detachable sections that can be independently assembled and disassembled. The coupling mechanism separates the digging box from the support member, allowing individual components to be swapped without affecting the entire system structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling mechanism transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic detachable connection. The coupling member can be quickly engaged and disengaged, enabling the digging box to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements without complex reassembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of time

If existing trenchers use a detachable digging box design, then switching between different size digging boxes becomes easier, but the coupling mechanism increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime required for switching digging boxesVSAvoidcoupling mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling function is extracted as a separate, specialized mechanism rather than being integrated into the main structure. This dedicated coupling member can be quickly operated independently, reducing the time required for digging box replacement while keeping the overall system manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling mechanism is designed with localized features at specific points on the digging box and support member. This concentrates the complexity only where needed for detachment, while the rest of the system remains simple and unchanged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Productivity

If existing trenchers require decoupling the intermediate drive member to switch digging boxes, then power transfer integrity is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidpower transfer integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling member acts as an intermediary between the digging box and the intermediate drive member. It provides a dedicated interface for power transfer that remains engaged throughout the digging box replacement process, ensuring continuous and reliable power transmission while enabling quick digging box changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12421690B2Trencher with a detachable digging box
Publication Date: 2025.09.23 ONE PASS INNOVATORS LLC
  • US12421690B2 patent drawing
  • US12421690B2 patent drawing
  • US12421690B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A trencher includes a drive mechanism, a detachable digging box, and a digging support member. The detachable digging box receives power from an intermediate drive member transferring power from the drive mechanism to a trenching chain coupled to the detachable digging box. The drive mechanism and the detachable digging box are coupled to the intermediate drive member. The digging box support member includes a first end and a second end. The digging box support member is pivotably coupled to the detachable digging box at the first end of the digging box support member via a detachable coupler and pivotably coupled to a frame of the trencher at the second end of the digging box support member. The detachable digging box is detachable from the digging box support member via the detachable coupler without decoupling the intermediate drive member from the trencher.