Implement Coupling Device Locking Mechanism for Vibration Resistance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implement couplers used in construction machines are prone to loosening under vibrations and are difficult to mount, especially in adverse conditions, which can lead to insecure attachment of tools.
Innovation Solution
An implement coupling device featuring a coupling means with a first and second shaft, linked by a pivot joint and a wedge mechanism, and secured using a locking means with a tangential recess, which provides a secure and stable attachment by preventing relative movement and withstanding vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a radial screw is used to fasten the shaft through a holder into contact with the shaft, then the shaft can be fixed in position, but the screw may work itself loose over time when subjected to vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into multiple independent locking means (first locking means and second locking means) that can be applied separately to different shafts or at different locations, ensuring that failure of one does not compromise the entire fixation system
Solution Approach 2:
The locking means are designed to be pre-installed on the shafts before the implement is attached to the coupling device. This preliminary action ensures that the shafts are already secured and cannot work loose during the attachment process or subsequent vibrations
2Reliability
If a screw extending through the shaft and being fixed with a nut is used, then the shaft can be secured, but the shaft is difficult to mount under adverse conditions and the through hole will also weaken the shaft
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is extracted from the shaft itself and placed on separate locking means that attach to the shaft externally. This eliminates the need for through-holes in the shaft, avoiding weakening of the shaft structure while maintaining secure fastening
Solution Approach 2:
The locking means are pre-installed on the shafts before the implement is attached. This preliminary action simplifies the mounting process under adverse conditions by eliminating the need for precise alignment and insertion of through-holes during assembly
3Ease of operation
If the shafts are collapsed toward each other and placed between hooks, then the attachment can be connected, but the shafts must be spread-apart using a screw jack or hydraulic cylinder which adds complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device utilizes dynamic movement of the shafts that can be collapsed toward each other for attachment and automatically spread apart through the mechanical action of the locking means, eliminating the need for separate screw jacks or hydraulic cylinders to maintain the spread position
Data Source
AI summary
An implement coupling device (1) on a working machine (2) comprises a coupling means (11) provided with a first shaft (21); an engagement means (12) provided with a second shaft (22) arranged parallel to the first shaft (21); at least one linkage (13, 14) comprising a first portion (23, 24) connected to the first shaft (21) and second portion (25, 26) connected to the second shaft (22), which first and second portions are connected by a pivot joint (27); and a wedge (28) means arranged to be removably mounted between the first and second portions (23, 24; 25, 26), wherein the coupling means (11) and the engagement means (12) are displaceable relative to each other in a direction at right angles to the first and second shafts (21, 22) to attach or release the implement. At least one portion (23, 24; 25, 26) making up a linkage (13, 14) is detachably fixed to its respective shaft (21, 22) by a locking means (31, 32, 33, 34) in a longitudinal recess (41, 42, 43, 44) at right angles to the shaft (21, 22) and engaging with a tangential recess (51, 51′, 51″) in the outer surface of the shaft (21, 22).