Implement Locking Pin Automation via Segmented Hydraulic Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implement locking mechanisms for power machines require affirmative operator action to secure or release implements, which can be cumbersome, especially when implements are not properly aligned, and may not automatically maintain the locking state when the engine is off.
Innovation Solution
An implement locking system with a locking mechanism that automatically extends locking pins using a continuous hydraulic fluid flow, controlled by a locking actuation valve, which only retracts the pins when the operator intentionally signals to do so, and automatically extends them back without further operator action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a powered implement locking mechanism utilizes a diverter valve that diverts flow from a tilt cylinder to extend locking pins, then the locking function can be automated, but the implement cannot be locked unless the tilt cylinder is completely retracted, which complicates the operation
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic system is segmented into separate circuits: one for the tilt cylinder and another for the locking pins. This allows independent operation of the locking mechanism without requiring the tilt cylinder to be in a specific position, resolving the contradiction by decoupling the locking function from the tilting function.
Solution Approach 2:
A dedicated locking actuation valve serves as an intermediary component that controls hydraulic flow specifically to the locking pins. This valve operates independently from the tilt cylinder control, enabling automated locking without requiring tilt cylinder retraction, thus simplifying operation while maintaining automation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the locking mechanism requires the tilt cylinder to be completely retracted to extend locking pins, then hydraulic flow can be diverted to locking pins, but the system becomes less adaptable to different implement positions
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic control system is divided into independent segments, with the locking actuation valve controlling locking pin extension separately from the tilt cylinder operation. This segmentation allows the locking mechanism to function at any implement position, enhancing adaptability while preserving automated locking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be dynamically independent from the tilt cylinder position. The locking actuation valve can be actuated at any time regardless of the tilt cylinder state, allowing the system to adapt to various implement positions while maintaining automated locking functionality.
3Ease of operation
If locking pins are extended automatically without operator input, then operator workload is reduced, but the system cannot distinguish between intentional release and misalignment conditions
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring positive operator action to extend pins (which would ensure intentional locking), the system is inverted to require negative action (pressing a button) to retract pins. This inversion maintains reliability by defaulting to the locked state while still reducing operator workload for the common case of securing implements.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism serves itself by automatically extending pins through the locking actuation valve without requiring operator intervention. The system monitors its own state and maintains locking automatically, reducing operator workload while preserving reliability through automatic self-correction of the locking state.
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 system ensures secure attachment and detachment of implements without operator intervention for alignment and maintains the locked state even when the engine is off, reducing operator workload and ensuring consistent implement security.
Implementation Method 1
Some powered implement locking mechanisms utilize a power source such as pressurized hydraulic fluid to extend and retract pins on the implement carrier
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an implement locking system for locking an implement to an implement carrier of a power machine. The implement locking system includes a locking mechanism having a locking pin with an extended position for locking the implement to the implement carrier and a retracted position for mounting or removing the implement from the implement carrier. A user input provides a signal indicative of an operator intent to move the locking pin to the retracted position. A locking actuation valve controls the locking mechanism to automatically and continuously extend the locking pin in the absence of the signal being indicative of the intent to move the locking pin to the retracted position. The locking actuation valve moves the locking pin to the retracted position only for the time corresponding to the signal being indicative of moving to the retracted position.