Valve Unit for Construction Machine Quick Coupler Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick-change systems for construction machines face complexity and safety issues due to the integration of central directional control valves, which complicates operation on third-party devices and may lead to unnoticed hydraulic component malfunctions, potentially causing unintended unlocking of attachments.
Innovation Solution
A dedicated valve unit for hydraulically actuating the locking means of a mechanical quick-change adapter, featuring separate directional control valves and a pressure cut-off valve, designed to ensure secure locking and simplified adapter structure, enhancing compatibility with third-party devices and safety by preventing simultaneous valve failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a central 4/3 directional control valve is integrated into the quick-change adapter for controlling multiple consumers, then the hydraulic control function is achieved, but the adapter design complexity significantly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic control system is segmented into separate functional units. Instead of integrating a central 4/3 directional control valve into the quick-change adapter, the patent uses individual 2/2-way switching valves for each consumer (locking valve and grab control valve). This segmentation simplifies the adapter design while maintaining full hydraulic control functionality for multiple consumers.
2Reliability
If safety measures are focused only on electronics and electrical control, then unintentional unlocking is prevented, but hydraulic component malfunctions remain undetected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a pressure monitoring system with a pressure sensor that continuously monitors the locking pressure line. This feedback mechanism detects hydraulic component malfunctions (such as valve leakage or pressure loss) and triggers an alarm or safety response, complementing the existing electrical control safety measures and providing comprehensive safety coverage for both electrical and hydraulic systems.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a valve unit for the exclusively hydraulic actuation of the locking means of a mechanical quick coupler for attachments of a construction machine, wherein the valve unit comprises a supply pressure port for applying the supply pressure, a first valve unit output for connecting a release pressure line, a second valve unit output for connecting a locking pressure line, at least one relief to the tank and at least two switchable directional control valves, wherein the supply pressure port is connected or switchable with the second valve unit output via a series connection of the at least two switchable directional control valves.