Work Tool Coupler with Electromagnetic Guidance and Wireless Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for attaching and powering work tools on machines, such as wheel loaders and excavators, require operators to exit the cabin to connect and disconnect hydraulic or electric lines, increasing installation time and risking cable damage, which leads to inefficiencies and downtime.
Innovation Solution
A work tool coupler with a mechanical interface using electromagnets to guide and fix the tool in place, combined with a wireless power transmitter to provide electrical energy to the tool, eliminating the need for physical cable connections and reducing installation complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hydraulic lines are used to provide power to the work tool, then the work tool can be powered, but the operator must exit the cabin to connect and disconnect the lines, increasing installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical hydraulic connection system with a wireless electromagnetic power transfer system. The transmitter coil in the coupler and receiver coil in the work tool enable wireless power transmission, eliminating the need for physical hydraulic line connections and thus eliminating the time loss associated with manual connection and disconnection operations.
2Reliability
If cables are used to provide electric power to the work tool, then the work tool can be powered, but the cables are susceptible to damage during operation, resulting in loss of power and downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates physical cables by implementing a wireless electromagnetic power transfer system. The transmitter coil generates an electromagnetic field that transfers power wirelessly to the receiver coil, removing cables entirely from the system and thereby eliminating all cable-related damage risks from environmental factors and operational stresses.
3Ease of operation
If the operator exits the cabin to connect cables to the work tool, then the work tool can be powered, but this increases the amount of time associated with installing and uninstalling the work tool
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless power transfer system enables the work tool to be powered automatically upon coupling with the coupler. The electromagnetic field is generated as soon as the work tool is positioned in the coupler, eliminating the need for the operator to manually connect cables or exit the cabin, thus improving ease of operation and reducing installation time.
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
This solution allows for faster and more reliable tool installation without operator intervention, reduces the risk of cable damage, and enhances energy transfer efficiency by wirelessly powering the work tools, thus improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitter coil configured to wirelessly provide electrical energy from a power source included in the work machine to the work tool
Implementation Method 2
one or more electromagnets configured to guide or fix the work tool in a coupled position with respect to the work tool coupler
Data Source
AI summary
Some implementations described herein relate to a work tool coupler for a work machine. The work tool coupler may include a mechanical interface configured to mechanically couple a work tool to the work machine. The work tool coupler may include an electrical interface between the work tool and the work machine. The electrical interface may include one or more electromagnets configured to guide or fix the work tool in a coupled position with respect to the work tool coupler. The electrical interface may include a transmitter coil configured to wirelessly provide electrical energy from a power source included in the work machine to the work tool.