Manual Quick Coupling for Excavator Tools Without Hydraulic Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick couplings for earth-moving machines are complex, leading to high manufacturing and assembly costs, and require hydraulic lines for operation, which complicates actuation and control.
Innovation Solution
A quick coupling design with reduced complexity and no hydraulic lines, featuring a first and second fixing body connected by reversible snap-on coupling means, including fixed and retractable coupling teeth, translation means, and safety devices, operated manually through a manoeuvring rod.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If hydraulic actuators and dedicated hydraulic lines are used for operating the retractable coupling teeth, then the coupling mechanism can be automated and operated remotely, but the device complexity and manufacturing costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the hydraulic system entirely from the coupling mechanism. The retractable coupling teeth are operated manually through a rod that directly translates operator input into the retraction motion, eliminating hydraulic lines, pumps, and control valves while achieving the essential automated coupling function through simple mechanical means
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be self-operating through direct manual intervention. The operator uses a rod to directly move the coupling teeth without requiring external hydraulic power sources or complex control systems, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for dedicated hydraulic infrastructure
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components including hydraulic actuators are integrated into the quick coupling, then the coupling functionality is enhanced, but the manufacturing and assembly costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The quick coupling is divided into distinct functional modules: fixed coupling teeth for initial engagement, retractable coupling teeth for secure locking, and a manual rod mechanism for operation. Each module can be manufactured separately using simple machining processes and assembled without specialized hydraulic system integration, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex hydraulic system to drive the coupling teeth, the patent inverts the approach by using direct manual operation through a rod. This reversal eliminates the need for expensive hydraulic components while maintaining the essential coupling functionality, achieving versatility without high manufacturing costs
3Ease of operation
If hydraulic lines are installed for operating the quick coupling, then remote operation capability is achieved, but the installation complexity and potential leak points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent completely removes hydraulic lines from the system. The coupling teeth are retracted through direct manual operation using a rod that the operator inserts and manipulates. This eliminates all hydraulic connections, seals, and potential leak points while maintaining full operational capability through simple mechanical means
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to be operated directly by the user without requiring external hydraulic infrastructure. The manual rod mechanism allows the operator to self-operate the coupling teeth retraction, eliminating dependence on hydraulic systems and their associated reliability issues with seals and connections
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 design achieves efficient, safe, and cost-effective coupling without hydraulic lines, reducing manufacturing and operational complexity while maintaining efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic rotation element configured to cause a rotation of the transferring element from a first setup of free translation of the moving element to a second setup of locking with the moving element
Implementation Method 2
a thrust elastic element configured to push the slider block towards the first extraction setup
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention concerns a quick coupling (10) for the reversible connection of a tool (B) to a movement arm (A), particularly for earth-moving machines and the like, comprising: - a first fixing body (11), configured to be fixed to the end of a movement arm (A) or to another support of an operating machine; - a second fixing body (12), configured to be fixed to a tool (B); - reversible coupling means (13) for connecting said first fixing body (11) to said second fixing body (12); said reversible coupling means (13) comprising: - two coupling crosspieces (14, 15), a front crosspiece (14) and a rear crosspiece (15), which are fixed to said second fixing body (12); - one or two fixed coupling teeth (16), configured to be coupled to the rear crosspiece (15), which are integral with the first fixing body (11); - one or two retractable coupling teeth (17), supported by the first fixing body (11) and configured to be coupled to the front crosspiece (14).