Compact Excavator Secondary Implement Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compact excavators lack the versatility to perform various tasks due to their limited power system and design, which restricts the use of diverse attachments beyond conventional earth excavation tools.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a secondary implement assembly with a lift arm and an implement coupler that allows for quick attachment and hydraulic actuation of different tools, such as an angle broom or bucket, to the compact excavator, enabling multi-functionality through pivotally coupled hydraulic actuators and a wedge locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional implement assembly is used in compact excavators, then the excavator is designed for sole purpose of earth excavation, but the adaptability to perform various tasks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single implement assembly configuration that can perform multiple functions through quick-attach mechanisms. The lift arm assembly with implement coupler allows the excavator to handle various attachments (buckets, breakers, augers, etc.) without requiring separate dedicated assemblies for each function, thus achieving multi-function usability while maintaining relatively simple device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If attachment mounting plates are used on the boom, then attachments can be quickly attached, but the power system lacks required power to utilize different types of attachments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an independent hydrostatic drive system as an intermediary power source specifically for the implement assembly. This separate power system (with its own hydraulic pump and motor) mediates between the main excavator power system and the attachments, providing additional power capacity to handle diverse attachments without overloading the main drive system, thus enabling attachment variety while managing power requirements
3Ease of operation
If a second implement assembly with lift arm assembly is added, then quick attachment and detachment of implements is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a movable implement coupler that can be quickly positioned and locked into place on the lift arm assembly. The implement coupler moves along the lift arm and can be rapidly secured using hydraulic actuators and locking mechanisms, enabling fast attachment and detachment operations. This dynamic positioning system achieves ease of operation while managing device complexity through standardized mechanical components
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 the compact excavator to perform a variety of tasks beyond conventional excavating, enhancing its usability and versatility by allowing the quick attachment and detachment of multiple implements, thereby expanding its operational capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
an implement hydraulic actuator configured to move the implement coupler about an implement coupler pivotal axis located on the lift arm assembly
Implementation Method 2
a lift arm assembly pivotally coupled to the base frame and an implement coupler pivotally coupled to the lift arm assembly
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A compact excavator (10) includes a base frame (12), an upper frame (16) and first and second track assemblies (28) supporting the base frame (12). The compact excavator (10) also includes a primary implement assembly (20) coupled to the upper frame (16) and a secondary implement assembly (34). The secondary implement assembly (34) includes a lift arm assembly (36) pivotally coupled to the base frame (12) and an implement coupler (38) pivotally coupled to the lift arm assembly (36). The implement coupler (38) is configured to latch an implement (76, 86) to the lift arm assembly (36).