Power Transmission Coupling with Multi-Axis Self-Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy coupling devices for work machines and attachments are time-consuming, mechanically stressful, and prone to wear, particularly in rubber couplings, with limited angular offset compensation and durability issues.
Innovation Solution
A device allowing the first energy coupling part to be movable and displaceable relative to the side parts along multiple degrees of freedom, enabling precise alignment and connection with the second energy coupling part without damage, using guide and centering devices for hydraulic and electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wedge is used to press the first power coupling part against the second power coupling part, then the coupling connection is established, but the coupling process takes a long time and the wedge requires a lot of space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the wedge component entirely from the coupling system. Instead of using a wedge to press the coupling parts together, the invention uses a direct docking mechanism where the coupling parts engage with each other through complementary geometries (male and female coupling parts with corresponding receptacles and engagement features), eliminating the need for the wedge and thus reducing coupling time and space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical wedge pressing system with a direct engagement mechanical system. The coupling parts are designed with interlocking features that allow them to dock directly without requiring a wedge to force them together, substituting a complex mechanical pressing mechanism with a simpler direct connection mechanism.
2Reliability
If a wedge is used to establish coupling connection, then the connection is made, but very high mechanical stress is caused on the components during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the wedge component that causes high mechanical stress. The direct docking mechanism allows the coupling parts to engage gently without the concentrated forcing action of a wedge, distributing stresses more evenly across the coupling interface and reducing peak mechanical stresses on components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates cushioning elements (such as rubber buffers or dampers) in the coupling mechanism to absorb and distribute impact forces during the coupling process. This beforehand cushioning prevents high mechanical stresses from being transmitted to the coupling components, protecting them from damage while still achieving reliable connection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rubber is used to mount the first power coupling part and the second power coupling part, then angular offset compensation is possible, but the rubber wears out frequently and must be replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from rubber to metal or other more durable materials for the coupling mounting. The metal mounting structure achieves angular offset compensation through mechanical means (such as adjustable joints or compliant metal elements) rather than relying on rubber elasticity, thereby maintaining adaptability while dramatically improving durability and reducing maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite construction where metal structural components provide the mounting framework and angular offset compensation mechanism, while minimal rubber or polymer elements are used only for specific cushioning or sealing functions. This composite approach maintains the angular offset compensation capability while eliminating the frequent replacement issue of pure rubber mountings.
4Ease of operation
If conventional rubber couplings are used, then coupling is possible, but environmental influences such as sunlight and contamination have negative effects on durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from rubber to metal or environmentally resistant materials for the coupling components. These materials are inherently more resistant to degradation from sunlight (UV radiation), contamination, and other environmental factors, thereby maintaining ease of operation while significantly improving durability and service life under various environmental conditions.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2a~2i
Figure 3~6
AI summary
The invention relates in particular to a device, energy carrier coupling, coupling and work machine, wherein the device (1) comprises the first energy coupling part (2), wherein the first energy coupling part (2) has at least one first energy coupling device (5), wherein the device (1) comprises two side parts (6), wherein the first energy coupling part (2) is arranged between the side parts (6), wherein the first energy coupling part (2) has a guide device (7), and wherein the guide device (7) is designed to cooperate with a centering device (8) of the second energy coupling part (3) for aligning the first energy coupling part (2) with respect to the second energy coupling part (3), and wherein the first energy coupling part (2) is connected to the side parts (6) in such a way that the first energy coupling part (2) can be moved with respect to the side parts (6) along at least two degrees of freedom (9,11) is movable with a maximum of three degrees of freedom (9, 11, 12), so that the first energy coupling part (2) aligns with the second energy coupling part (3) when the device (1) is connected to the attachment.