Work-Machine Tool Coupling With Pivot-Limited Retaining Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for work machines suffer from unequal actuating forces on the retaining element, leading to potential damage due to wear or failure conditions, such as hydraulic seal damage from angled positions.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a retaining element that is translationally and pivotably mounted relative to the mount, using bearing units to limit pivoting movement and distribute forces evenly, preventing excessive angles and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the retaining element is actuated by two linear actuators coupled to opposing sides via articulated pushing rods, then force transmission and distribution at the retaining element is improved, but unequal actuating forces may cause the retaining element to assume an angled position leading to damage of the coupling device
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining element is designed to be dynamically movable relative to the mount, allowing it to pivot around a pivot axis when unequal forces occur. This dynamic capability prevents rigid constraint damage by enabling the retaining element to accommodate force imbalances through controlled angular movement rather than transmitting damaging stresses to the actuation mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is segmented into distinct functional components: the mount, the retaining element, and the actuation mechanism. The retaining element acts as an independent intermediate component that can move relative to both the mount and the tool, isolating the actuation mechanism from direct exposure to unequal forces and potential damage
2Stability of the object's composition
If the retaining element is rigidly fixed to the mount, then structural stability is improved, but wear or failure conditions cannot be accommodated leading to potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining element transitions from a rigid fixed connection to a dynamic pivotable connection with the mount. This allows the system to maintain structural stability during normal operation while accommodating wear or failure conditions through controlled angular movement, preventing force concentration that would lead to damage
Data Source
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AI summary
A coupling device for releasably coupling a tool to a work machine. The coupling device includes a retaining element (62) for either locking or releasing a connection between a mount (52) of the coupling device and the tool. The retaining element (62) is mounted on the mount (52) by at least one bearing unit (74, 74') such that it is displaceable along a longitudinal axis (L) and pivotable around a pivot axis (P) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (L). The retaining element (62) comprises at least one bearing element (82, 82') which has a structural configuration that limits pivoting movement of the retaining element (62) relative to the mount (52) around the pivot axis (P).