Snow Groomer Quick-Coupling Interface for Cab-Controlled Tool Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snow grooming vehicles require manual coupling and release of working assemblies, which is time-consuming and impractical for vehicles already in use, and existing quick-coupling solutions necessitate modifications to existing components.
Innovation Solution
A quick-coupling system for snow grooming vehicles that integrates a first and second coupling body at the pre-existing interface, allowing for automated coupling and release of working assemblies without modifying the support frame or working assembly, using telescopic rods and hydraulic/electrical actuation from the cab.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual coupling and release of working assemblies is used, then the system is simple and requires no additional components, but the operation time is excessive and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
A coupling body is introduced as an intermediary component between the support frame and the working assembly. This coupling body includes coupling elements that automatically engage with corresponding elements on the working assembly when the support frame approaches, enabling quick coupling without manual intervention. The coupling body acts as a mediator that transforms the manual coupling process into an automated mechanical engagement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is designed to perform the coupling operation automatically through mechanical self-engagement. When the support frame approaches the working assembly, the coupling elements on the coupling body automatically engage with the corresponding coupling elements on the working assembly without requiring external actuation or manual intervention. The system serves itself by utilizing the relative motion between components to trigger the coupling action.
2Productivity
If quick-coupling solutions are implemented, then coupling speed is improved, but modifications to existing components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into distinct functional components: the coupling body mounted on the support frame, the coupling elements on the working assembly, and the hydraulic/electrical actuation system. This segmentation allows the coupling mechanism to be added as a separate module without modifying the existing support frame or working assembly structures. The coupling elements are designed as detachable components that interface with existing mounting points.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling body is designed with universal coupling elements that can interface with standard mounting interfaces on various working assemblies. The hydraulic and electrical connections are designed to be compatible with existing vehicle systems, allowing the quick-coupling functionality to be integrated without requiring dedicated modifications to each specific working assembly type.
3Ease of operation
If automated coupling from the cab is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical coupling operation is replaced with an automated actuation system that can be controlled from the driver's cab. Hydraulic actuators or electrical motors are used to drive the coupling elements into engagement position, replacing the need for manual manipulation of coupling mechanisms. This substitution transforms a complex manual mechanical operation into a simple controlled actuation process.
Solution Approach 2:
Hydraulic actuators are employed to provide the force necessary for coupling and decoupling operations. The hydraulic system utilizes fluid pressure to drive the coupling elements into engagement and to release them when decoupling is required. This pneumatic/hydraulic approach provides powerful, controlled actuation that can be easily managed from the cab through standard hydraulic control valves.
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
Enables quick, safe, and automated coupling and release of working assemblies directly from the cab, without requiring modifications to existing vehicle components, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
hydraulic/electrical actuation from the cab
Implementation Method 2
hydraulic/electrical actuation from the cab
Data Source
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AI summary
A snow grooming vehicle for refining ski slopes; wherein the snow grooming vehicle comprises: 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; wherein 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 allow the selective coupling of the working assembly with the support frame; wherein the snow grooming vehicle further comprises 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.