Excavator Quick Coupler Automatic Side Pin Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of earthmoving equipment often inadvertently move the equipment before securing the quick release coupling, leading to potential damage or injury due to the lack of automatic locking mechanisms, which can result in the excavating bucket falling.
Innovation Solution
An automatic locking device for quick release couplings in earthmoving equipment that automatically locks the side pin in place using an external force, preventing rotation and detachment, and can only be unlocked manually, ensuring the coupler remains in the working position under operational forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the operator positions the quick release coupling and actuates the locking mechanism in one action, then the operation speed is improved, but the safety deteriorates because the pin may not be properly positioned
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically actuate as soon as the pin is inserted into the coupling, without requiring manual intervention. The spring-loaded locking components engage automatically when the pin reaches its proper position, ensuring that positioning and locking occur in the correct sequence before the operator needs to move the equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is self-actuating through spring-loaded components that automatically engage with the pin grooves when the pin is inserted. The system serves itself by detecting pin insertion and automatically securing the connection, eliminating the need for separate manual locking actions while maintaining safety.
2Ease of operation
If the locking mechanism is manually actuated, then the operator has control over the locking process, but the automation level deteriorates requiring manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism automatically engages spring-loaded locking components when the pin is inserted, detecting the pin's presence and securing the connection without requiring the operator to perform additional manual locking actions. The system serves itself by automatically completing the securing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism provides visual feedback through indicators that show whether the pin is properly positioned and locked. The spring-loaded components engage only when the pin is correctly inserted, and the operator can verify the locked state through visual signals, ensuring both automation and operational awareness.
3Ease of operation
If the side pin is allowed to move freely between positions, then the ease of coupling is improved, but the reliability deteriorates allowing accidental detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded locking components are pre-positioned to engage with the pin grooves as soon as the pin is inserted. The locking mechanism counteracts any forces that might cause detachment by maintaining constant spring pressure on the locking surfaces, preventing accidental movement or separation during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin and coupling features include curved grooves and surfaces that guide the pin into proper alignment during insertion. The curved geometry ensures that the pin naturally follows the correct path and engages the locking components at the proper position, preventing misalignment or accidental disengagement.
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 automatic locking device enhances safety and efficiency by preventing accidental detachment of the bucket during operation, allowing operators to confirm engagement without moving the machine and maintaining the attachment under varying coupling forces.
Implementation Method 1
a locking spring arranged to bias the side pin into the protruding position
Implementation Method 2
The locking bush comprises a tilted surface and the supporting bush comprises a tilted surface arranged so that when the locking bush is moved relative to the supporting bush, the tilted surfaces cooperate with each other
Data Source
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AI summary
The present description relates to a quick coupler for an excavator bucket coupler comprising a jaw for engaging and holding a bucket pin and a locking device for locking said jaw in a holding position of said bucket pin, wherein the locking device comprises: a side pin arranged to move between a retracted unlocking position and a protruding locking position wherein the pin enters a cavity or hole of the bucket coupler to prevent relative movement between the jaw and the bucket coupler; a locking spring arranged to bias the side pin into the protruding position; and a socket for receiving a manual actuator for moving said side pin into the retracted position.