Integrated Locking Bolt with Media Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical coupling devices for tools on construction equipment require additional space and are prone to damage and contamination, with complex and laborious processes for connecting media lines and protective mechanisms, limiting versatility and efficiency in tool attachment and use.
Innovation Solution
A locking bolt system with integrated media couplings that allows for a force-fitting connection with side plates and recesses for precise force transmission and sealing, enabling simultaneous connection of tools with and without media lines without additional space or protective elements, using cylindrical or polygonal bolts with countersunk media connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate coupling systems for media lines are arranged on carrier devices and tools, then media connections can be established, but additional space requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical coupling function and media coupling function into a single integrated locking bolt system. The locking bolt includes both force transmission areas for mechanical connection and receiving bores for hydraulic/electrical connectors, eliminating the need for separate coupling systems and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable media connections
Solution Approach 2:
The locking bolt is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs mechanical force transmission and media line connection. The same locking bolt structure provides both structural support and integrated media coupling, allowing a single component to fulfill multiple functions that previously required separate systems
2Reliability
If media coupling elements are arranged laterally to connecting bolts, then media connections can be made, but space requirements increase and mounting versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving bores for media connectors are positioned within the body of the locking bolt itself, between the force transmission areas, rather than laterally adjacent to it. This integration allows the same locking bolt to provide both mechanical connection and media coupling, enabling versatile tool mounting configurations including 180° rotated positions without interference from lateral coupling elements
3Object-affected harmful factors
If protective plates or dummy fittings are added to prevent contamination, then protection against soil and water ingress is improved, but device complexity and manual intervention requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bolt design integrates the media connectors directly into its structure, eliminating exposed external coupling elements that would require protective plates. The unified structure reduces contamination risk by design, eliminating the need for additional protective mechanisms and manual cleaning operations
4Manufacturing precision
If mechanical coupling and media line connection are performed separately, then connection precision can be ensured, but connection time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bolt enables simultaneous achievement of both mechanical force transmission and media line connection through a single unified structure. The integrated design allows both functions to be accomplished in one operation rather than requiring separate sequential steps, reducing connection time while maintaining precision through the inherent geometric constraints of the integrated system
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention describes a locking bolt system with media coupling for connecting two elements, wherein one element has a connecting bolt which is provided at its end regions with accurately fitting force transmission regions which engage in a force-fitting manner into lateral plates which serve substantially to transmit transverse forces and bending moments. Between these force transmission regions in the connecting bolt there are arranged, transversely to the bolts axis, receiving bores for hydraulic plugs or other media connection plugs. A cutout which fits accurately with the geometry of the connecting bolt is arranged on the element to be connected via the connecting bolt. This cutout at least partially has contact faces which fit accurately with and are congruent to the corresponding contact faces on the connecting bolt and thus, in the connected state, provide sealing for the hydraulic plugs or other connection plugs.