Excavator Thumb Toolbar Coupling System for Rapid Tooling Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thumb assemblies for mining and construction machines require multiple thumbs with different tooling, leading to inventory management challenges and time-consuming tooling changes, as existing solutions are cumbersome and difficult to remove and replace.
Innovation Solution
A thumb assembly with a removable toolbar system, featuring a toolbar saddle, post saddle, and fastening portions that allow quick detachment and reattachment, reducing the need for multiple thumbs and simplifying tooling changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple thumbs with different tooling are stored and maintained, then various tooling needs are accommodated, but inventory management complexity and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The thumb assembly is segmented into a permanent thumb portion and a removable toolbar portion. The toolbar can be detached and replaced independently, allowing operators to swap tooling without replacing the entire thumb assembly. This segmentation reduces inventory requirements while maintaining versatility across different tooling needs.
Solution Approach 2:
A single thumb assembly with a universal mounting interface can accommodate multiple toolbar configurations. The standardized coupling system allows one thumb to perform multiple functions by simply changing the attached toolbar, eliminating the need for multiple specialized thumbs for different applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If removable tooling is used on thumbs, then tooling changes are possible, but the removal and replacement process is time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The toolbar is designed as a separate, modular component that can be quickly detached from the thumb assembly. The segmentation of the tooling system into removable toolbar units enables rapid tooling changes without requiring time-consuming disassembly of the entire thumb structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The toolbar is extracted as a removable component from the thumb assembly, allowing it to be easily removed and replaced. This extraction of the tooling element enables quick tooling changes while keeping the main thumb structure in place, significantly reducing tooling change time.
3Strength
If integral tooling is made to the thumb, then structural strength is maintained, but the ability to change tooling is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The thumb assembly is divided into a permanent structural portion and a removable tooling portion. The toolbar is designed to be replaceable while maintaining structural integrity during operation. This segmentation allows the permanent thumb to provide structural strength while the removable toolbar provides tooling flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system transitions from a static integral connection to a dynamic removable connection. The toolbar can be securely attached when needed for operational strength, and easily detached when tooling changes are required, providing both structural integrity and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A toolbar for a thumb assembly for a machine is disclosed. The toolbar includes a toolbar member, tooling joined to the toolbar member, a first toolbar plate and a second toolbar plate extending from opposite ends of the toolbar member. The first toolbar plate and the second toolbar plate each include a plate member connector joined to the toolbar member, a leaf arm, and a saddle extension. The leaf arm extends from the plate member connector. The saddle extension extends from the leaf arm proximal the plate member connector forming a post saddle for receiving a post of a thumb frame of the thumb assembly.