Front Loader Hook Locking Mechanism for Work Vehicle

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for connecting a front loader to the main body of a work vehicle are time-consuming, complex, and require manual handling of numerous components, leading to inefficiencies and convenience issues.

Innovation Solution

A front loader locking mechanism that includes a hook, spring, and pawl, allowing for the secure and efficient connection of the front loader to the main body by rotating the hook between two angular positions, simplifying the assembly process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional manual connection methods are used for the front loader, then the connection can be achieved, but the assembly process is time-consuming and complex requiring multiple manual steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly speedVSAvoidnumber of assembly steps
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple connection functions into a single integrated locking mechanism. The hook structure integrates the latching action, locking engagement, and securing functions into one component that performs multiple operations simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate manual connection steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism is designed to automatically lock and secure the front loader once the hook is engaged with the mounting structure. The spring-loaded pawl automatically engages with the notched element to lock the hook in place without requiring additional manual intervention or complex assembly procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If traditional connection methods are used, then the front loader can be attached, but it requires manual handling of numerous components making the process inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of connectionVSAvoidnumber of components to handle
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate components from the connection process. By using a direct hook-to-mounting-structure interface with an integrated locking mechanism, the design removes the need for handles, separate latches, pins, or other manual manipulation components that would complicate the assembly process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The hook structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the primary connection interface, incorporates the locking mechanism through the pawl and notched element, and ensures secure attachment. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall connection process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 locking mechanism significantly simplifies the connection process, ensuring the front loader is securely attached to the main body, thereby enhancing efficiency and convenience while reducing manual labor and complexity.

Implementation Method 1

a spring (13) adapted to cooperate with the bearing frame (11) and the hook (12) to bias the hook (12) towards the first angular position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

a pawl (14) adapted to prevent the hook (12) in the second angular position from rotating towards the first angular position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRatchet mechanism: Ratchet

Data Source

PatentEP4556638A1Front loader locking mechanism for a work vehicle and work vehicle comprising the same
Publication Date: 2025.05.21 CNH IND ITALIA SPA
  • EP4556638A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4556638A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4556638A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

Locking mechanism (10) for a front loader (5) of a work vehicle (1), comprising a bearing frame (11), which is adapted to be connected to the front loader (5) or is part of the front loader (5) and adapted to be fixed to a main body (2) of the work vehicle (1); a hook (12), which is rotatable about a rotational axis (R) relative to the bearing frame (11) between a first angular position, in which it is adapted to engage a striker (30) of the work vehicle (1), and a second angular position, in which it is adapted to disengage the striker (30); a first spring (13), which is adapted to cooperate with the bearing frame (11) and the hook (12); the first spring (13) being adapted to bias the hook (12) towards the first angular position; and a pawl (14), which is adapted to prevent the hook (12) in the second angular position from rotating towards the first angular position.