Removable Thumb Assembly With Spring-Loaded Attachment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detachable thumb assemblies for construction machines require significant user intervention for attachment and detachment, which is inefficient and increases operational time, especially when the thumb is not needed.
Innovation Solution
A detachable thumb assembly with a simplified attachment mechanism using spaced apart parallel fastening pins and a movable second attachment element that can be easily secured or released, allowing for automatic attachment with minimal human intervention, utilizing a spring structure and locking cam mechanism for secure retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a detachable thumb assembly is used to remove unnecessary weight, then weight reduction is achieved, but attachment and detachment require significant user intervention which increases operational time
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is designed to automatically secure the thumb assembly to the dipper arm through spring-loaded attachment elements that engage with fastening pins. The system performs the attachment function itself without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing operational time while maintaining the weight reduction benefit of the detachable design
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment elements are pre-positioned and spring-loaded to be ready for immediate engagement with the fastening pins. This preliminary preparation of the attachment mechanism eliminates the need for manual adjustment or complex securing operations during the attachment process, reducing the time required while preserving the detachable weight advantage
2Reliability
If a secure attachment mechanism is used to retain the thumb assembly, then reliability of attachment is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into separate functional elements: fastening pins on the dipper arm, corresponding receiving slots on the thumb assembly, and spring-loaded attachment elements that provide the securing force. This segmentation allows each component to be simple in design while collectively providing reliable attachment, avoiding the need for a single complex mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded attachment elements automatically engage and secure the thumb assembly to the dipper arm without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex fastening procedures. The spring force provides continuous retention pressure, ensuring reliable attachment while maintaining mechanical simplicity in the overall design
Data Source
AI summary
A removable tool assembly for a backhoe digging apparatus of a construction equipment machine having spaced apart parallel first and second fastening pins is disclosed. The removable tool assembly includes an attachment mechanism for releasably attaching the removable tool assembly onto the backhoe digging apparatus, the attachment mechanism including: a first attachment element having first receiving areas adapted to receive the first fastening pin, and a second attachment element having second receiving areas adapted to receive the second fastening pin, wherein the second attachment element is movable relative to the first attachment element between a first position, in which the first and second fastening pins can be removed from the first and second receiving areas.