Multi-Coupling Lever Trigger for One-Handed Safe Uncoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-coupling devices for hydraulic, electrical, and pneumatic lines require two hands to connect and disconnect, making operations from a tractor seat inconvenient and sometimes necessitating the operator to leave the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A coupling/uncoupling device with an innovative safety system that allows single-handed operation by integrating a trigger mechanism enabling the operator to connect and disconnect the plates using a lever that can be rotated without needing to press a separate safety button, utilizing a sliding trigger element and elastic means for disengagement and re-engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a safety button system is integrated into the coupling/uncoupling device, then accidental uncoupling is prevented, but two hands are required for operation making it inconvenient to operate from tractor seat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the safety button function and lever operation into a single integrated mechanism. The trigger element is mechanically linked to the lever, allowing the operator to simultaneously disengage the safety lock and operate the lever with one hand. This merging of functions eliminates the need for two-handed operation while maintaining safety protection against accidental uncoupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger element acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operator's hand and the lever system. By pulling the trigger, the operator activates a mechanical linkage that disengages the safety lock and enables lever movement. This intermediary component translates a simple single-handed pulling motion into the coordinated action needed to release safety and operate the coupling mechanism.
2Reliability
If a separate safety button is provided, then uncoupling safety is ensured, but device complexity increases requiring additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously separate safety button and lever operation into a single integrated trigger mechanism. The trigger element is mechanically coupled to the lever system, combining what were previously two separate control elements into one unified component. This reduces the total number of parts while maintaining the safety function through the mechanical interlocking design.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a safety lock disengagement mechanism, a lever release trigger, and an operational control. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated safety button and lever release mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while ensuring uncoupling safety through its inherent mechanical design.
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
Enables efficient, one-handed connection and disconnection of multiple lines, preventing accidental uncoupling and reducing operator inconvenience, allowing seamless operation from the tractor seat without the need for both hands.
Implementation Method 1
a) elastic means, in particular a spring, placed between said trigger and said plate-like element and acting to keep said trigger in the advanced position
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a coupling/uncoupling device (10) for a plate-like multi-coupling device (30) for the simultaneous connection of a plurality of hydraulic and/or electrical and/or pneumatic lines, comprising quick couplings (33). In particular, the coupling/uncoupling device according to the present invention is provided with safety means (20) suitable for preventing accidental uncoupling, which are configured so as to be operated by the operator with one hand alone. A plate-like multi-coupling device comprising said coupling/uncoupling device is also the object of the present invention.