Quick Coupler Actuator Assembly for Remote Latch Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of removing an implement from a quick coupler requires operators to manually unlock latching assemblies, which is inefficient as it necessitates stopping the work machine, exiting, and actuating both manual actuator assemblies, disrupting workflow.
Innovation Solution
An actuator assembly comprising a manual actuator and a remote actuator coupled via a control rod, allowing for manual or remote unlocking of the latching assembly, enabling operators to unlock the latching assembly from outside the quick coupler without needing to physically access both actuator assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual actuator assemblies are used to unlock the latching assembly, then the latching assembly can be reliably unlocked, but the operator must stop the work machine, exit, and physically access both actuator assemblies, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
A control rod is introduced as an intermediary mechanism that transmits actuation force from either manual actuators or remote actuators to the latching assembly. This allows the operator to unlock the latching assembly from inside the work machine using remote actuators, eliminating the need to exit and physically access manual actuators, thereby improving productivity while maintaining reliable unlocking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator system is designed with multi-functionality, providing two actuation modes: manual actuation from outside the quick coupler and remote actuation from inside the work machine. This universal design allows the same latching assembly to be unlocked through different methods depending on operational needs, resolving the contradiction between reliability and productivity
2Ease of operation
If the operator must physically access both manual actuator assemblies to unlock the latching assembly, then direct mechanical control is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The control rod serves as a mediator that allows actuation forces to be transmitted over distance. Remote actuators positioned inside the work machine can move the control rod to unlock the latching assembly, eliminating the need for the operator to physically access manual actuators outside the machine, thereby reducing operation time and improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical manual actuation system with a hybrid system that includes remote actuators. These remote actuators can be operated from inside the work machine, substituting the need for direct physical access to external manual actuators, thus reducing operational complexity and time loss
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator assembly for use with a quick coupler. The actuator assembly includes a manual actuator assembly, a control rod coupled to the manual actuator assembly, and a remote actuator assembly coupled to the control rod. The manual actuator assembly is configured to be hand actuated from outside of the quick part coupler, and configured to move the latching assembly from a locked position to an unlocked position via the control rod. The remote actuator assembly is configured to be remotely actuated from outside of the quick coupler, and configured to move the latching assembly from the locked position to the unlocked position via the control rod.