Electric Quick Coupler Locking Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick couplers for construction machines require multiple hydraulic connections and high hydraulic pressure to actuate locking and securing elements, making them complex, expensive, and difficult to retrofit, especially when only two hydraulic connections are available.
Innovation Solution
An electrically controllable quick coupler with an electric drive that acts independently of the hydraulic system, using an electric drive assembly with a pump and optional tank to provide pressure medium for actuating locking and securing elements, eliminating the need for additional hydraulic connections and high pressure requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple hydraulic connections and high hydraulic pressure are used to actuate locking and securing elements, then reliable locking is achieved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the actuation of both locking elements (first and second locking axles) into a single hydraulic circuit. The first adjustment actuator is connected to both locking elements through the hydraulic system, allowing one hydraulic connection to control multiple locking functions. This merging reduces the number of hydraulic connections from multiple separate lines to a single integrated circuit, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable locking through coordinated actuation of both locking elements.
2Ease of operation
If additional hydraulic connections are added for independent actuation of locking and securing elements, then operational flexibility is improved, but installation difficulty and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The first adjustment actuator is designed with multi-functionality to control both the first locking element and the second locking element through a single hydraulic connection. The hydraulic circuit is configured so that one actuator can selectively actuate different locking elements based on operational needs. This universal design provides operational flexibility comparable to having separate actuators while avoiding the installation complexity of multiple hydraulic connections, making the system easier to manufacture and install.
3Force
If high hydraulic pressure is provided for quick coupler actuation, then locking force is increased, but requirements for hydraulic system modifications increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes in the hydraulic system design, specifically using a single hydraulic connection that can operate at optimized pressure levels without requiring the excavator's hydraulic system to be modified for high-pressure operation. The first adjustment actuator is designed to generate sufficient locking force through efficient mechanical advantage and hydraulic pressure multiplication, achieving strong locking without requiring the carrier unit's hydraulic system to be upgraded or modified, thus maintaining system compatibility.
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
The electrically controllable quick coupler simplifies the actuation of locking and securing elements, reducing the complexity and cost of hydraulic installations and allowing for easy retrofitting of existing systems without requiring increased hydraulic connections or high pressure, ensuring secure and reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
an electric drive for actuating the locking element adjustment actuator
Implementation Method 2
using an electric drive assembly with a pump and optional tank to provide pressure medium for actuating locking and securing elements
Data Source
AI summary
A quick coupler for coupling a tool such as an excavator bucket, a clamshell grapple or demolition shears to a tool operator such as an excavator arm or the like. The quick coupler including a coupling mount for receiving a first locking part and a locking mount for receiving a second locking part, wherein a locking element for locking the second locking part in the locking mount is at least associated with the locking mount, with the locking element being actuable by an adjustment actuator. The quick coupler can be electrically controllable, with the quick coupler having an electric drive for actuating the adjustment actuator for the locking element.