Excavator Coupler Hydraulic Connection Sequencing for Safe Attachment Changes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hydraulic couplers for excavators require manual connection of hydraulic systems, exposing operators to safety risks and inefficiencies, as mechanical coupling is automated while hydraulic system connection is not.
Innovation Solution
A coupler with a powered actuator and hydraulic circuit that automatically engages and disengages hydraulic connections upon locking, allowing for safe and efficient operation from within the cab, using a locking member, actuating means, and a hydraulic sequence valve to manage hydraulic pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual connection of hydraulic systems is used, then the operator can connect hydraulic systems, but the operator is exposed to safety risks and must leave the cab
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic coupling unit automatically engages with the attachment's hydraulic coupling upon mechanical coupling, without requiring operator intervention. The system serves itself by detecting the mechanical engagement state and automatically establishing hydraulic connections, eliminating the need for the operator to manually connect hydraulic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation of connecting hydraulic systems with an automated mechanism. The actuating means, triggered by the locking member's position, automatically moves the hydraulic coupling unit into engagement, substituting operator action with an automated mechanical-hydraulic system.
2Productivity
If manual connection of hydraulic systems is used, then the hydraulic systems can be connected, but the operation is slow and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mechanical coupling operation with the hydraulic connection operation into a single automated sequence. Both actions occur simultaneously or in immediate succession triggered by the same control input, eliminating the separate manual steps and significantly reducing the total coupling time.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic coupling unit is pre-positioned and ready to engage, and the actuating means is pre-configured to automatically move it into engagement when the mechanical coupling is detected. This preliminary preparation eliminates delays that would occur with manual operation.
3Extent of automation
If automated locking member is used, then mechanical coupling is automated, but hydraulic system connection remains manual
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating means serves multiple functions: it controls the locking member for mechanical coupling and simultaneously controls the hydraulic coupling unit for hydraulic connection. This multi-functionality allows the system to automate both operations without requiring separate control mechanisms, thereby managing complexity while maximizing automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating means acts as an intermediary between the control system and both the locking member and hydraulic coupling unit. It translates a single control input into coordinated actions of both subsystems, simplifying the overall control architecture while achieving dual automation.
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 safe and efficient hydraulic connection and disconnection of attachments without the operator leaving the cab, reducing the risk of accidents and improving operational efficiency by automating the hydraulic coupling process.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic sequence valve that is responsive to hydraulic pressure in said hydraulic circuit above a threshold level to cause said second actuator to move said first power coupling unit into said engaging position
Implementation Method 2
The actuating means may comprise a second powered actuator, and said activation means comprises a component of a circuit for operating said second powered actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler for coupling an attachment to an excavator or other machine comprises a powered actuator for actuating a locking member into and out of said locking state, a first power coupling unit, and a second actuator for moving the power coupling unit into and out of an engaging position in which it is engagable with a corresponding second power coupling unit of the attachment. The coupler is configured to cause the first power coupling unit to move into the engaging position after said latching member adopts the locking state and, when decoupling the attachment from the coupler, to cause said latching member to remain in its locking state until after the first power coupling unit is moved out of its engaging position.