Zero Offset Loader Coupling System Maintaining OEM Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional loader couplers alter the geometry and add weight to loader arms, reducing operator visibility and deviating from original equipment specifications, necessitating a new coupling system that maintains alignment and visibility while providing secure attachment.
Innovation Solution
A loader coupling system comprising an arm coupler with plunger pins and a link coupler with a tilt link and lock system, allowing for adjustable engagement with loader arms and control links to maintain alignment and secure attachment without altering the original equipment geometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional coupler body is used to connect loader arms and control links, then the attachment can be securely connected to the loader machine, but the geometry of the relationship between loader arms and control links is altered from original equipment specifications
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler body is divided into separate modular components: an arm coupler portion with first and second coupling structures for the loader arms, and a link coupler portion with a third coupling structure for the control link. This segmentation allows each component to be independently designed and positioned to maintain precise geometric relationships matching original equipment specifications while providing secure connection points for all attachment elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm coupler portion acts as an intermediary component between the loader arms and the attachment, with specifically positioned coupling structures that replicate the original pin-on connection geometry. This intermediary design ensures that the relationship between loader arms and control links remains consistent with factory specifications while still providing a secure coupled connection point for the attachment.
2Reliability
If a coupler body is added between the attachment and loader arms, then the attachment can be coupled to the loader machine, but weight is added to the outer ends of the loader arms
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into distributed components rather than a single heavy coupler body. The arm coupler portion and link coupler portion are separated and integrated with existing loader arm structures, distributing the coupling functionality across multiple light-weight components rather than concentrating weight at the outer ends of the loader arms.
3Reliability
If a coupler body is positioned between the attachment and loader arms, then the attachment can be securely connected, but operator visibility is reduced for certain types of attachments
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional coupler body that obstructed the operator's view is extracted and replaced with distributed coupling structures integrated into the loader arms and control links. The coupling functionality is maintained through strategically positioned coupling structures and locking mechanisms that are less obstructive to visibility while still providing secure attachment connection.
4Manufacturing precision
If a conventional pin-on connection is used to attach the attachment to loader arms, then the geometry matches original equipment specifications, but the connection is not secure and allows unintended movement
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates dynamic locking and unlocking mechanisms that allow the coupling structures to transition between secured and released states. The arm coupler portion includes locking mechanisms that secure the loader arms in precise geometric positions matching original equipment specifications, while also providing controlled movement for attachment and detachment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system utilizes parameter changes in the form of movable coupling elements and adjustable locking mechanisms that can transition between different positional states. These parameter changes enable the system to maintain precise geometric alignment when locked while allowing controlled movement during attachment operations, effectively combining the benefits of secure connection and geometric precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A loader coupling system includes an arm coupler and a link coupler. The arm coupler includes first and second plunger pins located respectfully at opposite first and second ends of the body. At least one plunger actuator is operatively connected to the first and second plunger pins, and the plunger actuator is selectively operative to move the first and second plunger pins between a retracted position and an extended position. The link coupler includes a tilt link with a first end adapted to be pivotally connected to a control link of the associated loader machine and a second end including a hook adapted to selectively engage and retain a cross-pin of the associated attachment. A lock system is connected to the tilt link and is adapted to selectively capture the cross-pin of the associated attachment in the hook.