Snow Groomer Quick-Coupling Interface for Cab-Side Tool Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snow grooming vehicles require manual and time-consuming coupling of working assemblies with support frames, and existing quick-coupling solutions necessitate modifications to existing vehicles and components.
Innovation Solution
A quick-coupling system for a snow grooming vehicle that allows for the coupling of the support frame and the working assembly without requiring changes to the coupling of the support frame and the working assembly, enabling rapid and safe coupling and decoupling from the cab, and can be integrated into existing vehicles without modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual coupling methods are used, then the working assembly can be coupled with the support frame, but the coupling process requires the driver to exit the vehicle and takes relatively lengthy time
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed to automatically perform the coupling operation without requiring manual intervention from the driver. The quick-coupling assembly automatically engages the working assembly with the support frame when the vehicle approaches, eliminating the need for the driver to exit the vehicle and manually operate coupling devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical coupling operations with an automated quick-coupling assembly that uses mechanical elements (telescopic rods, locking mechanisms) to automatically engage and secure the working assembly, substituting the driver's manual actions with an automated mechanical system.
2Extent of automation
If quick-coupling devices are provided on the support frame and working assembly, then automated coupling can be achieved, but preliminary machining steps must be performed on both components
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-coupling assembly is divided into separate components: a first coupling body that attaches to the support frame and a second coupling body that attaches to the working assembly. This segmentation allows the system to be implemented by adding modular components rather than modifying the entire support frame or working assembly structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-coupling assembly acts as an intermediary device between the support frame and the working assembly. Instead of modifying the original components, the coupling assembly mediates the connection, attaching to existing interfaces on both the support frame and working assembly without requiring preliminary machining of those components.
3Reliability
If the driver manually operates coupling devices, then the working assembly can be secured to the support frame, but the process requires driver intervention and reduces operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The automated quick-coupling assembly performs the coupling operation autonomously without requiring driver intervention. The system automatically engages, secures, and locks the working assembly to the support frame, maintaining reliable coupling while eliminating the need for driver actions and improving operational efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A snow grooming vehicle for refining ski slopes; the snow grooming vehicle including: a main frame to laterally support tracks and a cab at the top; a support frame coupled to the front or to rear of the main frame; a working assembly configured for refining the surface. A pre-existing coupling interface is provided between the support frame and the working assembly, formed by corresponding portions of the support frame and the working assembly configured to enable the selective coupling of the working assembly with the support frame. The snow grooming vehicle further includes a quick-coupling assembly at the pre-existing coupling interface between the support frame and the working assembly to selectively couple the working assembly with the support frame, so that the coupling between the support frame and the working assembly is no longer direct but mediated by the quick-coupling assembly, which forms a new coupling interface.