Self-locking Coupler with Automatic Cam-Unit Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional couplers for attaching accessories like buckets to tractor booms require manual locking and unlocking operations that are difficult to automate, necessitating the driver to exit the cab, compromising efficiency and safety.
Innovation Solution
A four-point coupler design with hydraulic rams and cam-unit components allows for automatic locking and unlocking of buckets, enabling operations to be performed from the cab without the need for manual pin insertion or removal, utilizing a slider and lever assembly to secure and release the bucket.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual locking and unlocking operations are used in traditional couplers, then the driver must exit the cab to perform tasks on the coupler, but this reduces operational efficiency and increases safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler automatically performs locking and unlocking operations through the lever assembly and cam-unit mechanism. When the bucket is engaged, the lever is automatically positioned by the bucket lug, triggering the cam-unit to lock the bucket in place without driver intervention. Similarly, pulling the lever manually unlocks the mechanism automatically
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a slider and lever assembly as an intermediary mechanism between the driver and the locking function. The driver simply pulls the lever from the cab, which through the slider and cam-unit, automatically executes the complex unlocking sequence, mediating between simple driver input and complex locking mechanism
2Device complexity
If manual pin insertion and removal is required for locking, then the locking mechanism is simple, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The lever assembly is pre-positioned and spring-loaded to automatically engage the locking sequence. When the bucket is engaged, the lever is automatically positioned by the bucket lug, pre-setting the mechanism for immediate locking action through the cam-unit, eliminating the need for manual pin insertion steps
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces static manual pin insertion with a dynamic automatic locking sequence. The spring-loaded lever and cam-unit create a dynamic system that automatically transitions from unlocked to locked state through controlled movement, reducing the time-consuming manual operations
3Productivity
If automatic locking mechanism is implemented, then operational efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the lever assembly for driver input, the slider for motion conversion, and the cam-unit for locking action. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function, making the complex automatic locking system manageable and maintainable while achieving high operational efficiency
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 solution simplifies the attachment and detachment of buckets, enhancing operational efficiency and safety by allowing all tasks to be performed from the tractor cab, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing the risk of accidents.
Implementation Method 1
There is also a slider-spring which urges the slider to move to the right, so as to drive the bottom-pin into the bottom-lug
Implementation Method 2
The coupler may be operated with twin hydraulic rams (as in the drawings), or with one single ram
Data Source
AI summary
The coupler is mounted on the end of the boom of a boom-tractor, and provides secure locking-in of a bucket. The coupler having been set to its latched-open condition, the tractor is driven to the bucket so that the bottom-lug of the bucket enters the coupler, whereupon the bucket is picked up and is automatically securely locked into coupler, without and manipulation of the coupler being required of the tractor-driver other than manipulation of the boom. For setting the bucket down on the ground, after use, the driver manually pulls out a slider of the coupler. That action sets the coupler into its slider-held condition, whereby when the tractor is driven away from the bucket, the coupler is automatically left set in the said latched-open condition.