Work Tool Assembly Linkage for Skid Steer Loader Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Off-highway machines, such as skid steer loaders, face challenges in efficiently attaching, detaching, and stowing work tools due to design constraints like weight distribution, which can make transportation inconvenient and unwieldy.
Innovation Solution
A machine system with a work tool assembly featuring an adjustable linkage that projects rearwardly from the machine, allowing the work tool to pivot between a tucked orientation at the raised linkage position and a service orientation at the middle and lowered linkage positions, optimizing positioning and reducing collision risks during transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the work tool is positioned for service orientation, then the work tool can perform ground-penetrating operations, but the machine becomes unwieldy and inconvenient for transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system is designed to dynamically adjust between service orientation and tucked orientation, allowing the work tool to transition from an operational position for ground-penetrating work to a retracted position for compact transportation. This dynamic repositioning capability enables the machine to adapt to different operational modes without permanent structural modifications.
2Ease of operation
If the linkage is raised to allow trailer loading, then the work tool can be positioned clear of the trailer, but the work tool orientation becomes difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage is raised to a predetermined upper position that automatically positions the work tool clear of the trailer before loading occurs. This preliminary positioning action ensures that the work tool is pre-configured in a safe, non-interfering position, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments during the loading process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the work tool is allowed to pivot freely, then the work tool can adapt to different working positions, but the work tool may collide with the trailer during transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system provides localized control over work tool orientation by defining specific operational ranges. When the linkage is in the upper position for transportation, the work tool's pivoting capability is effectively constrained to a narrow angular range that prevents collision with the trailer, while maintaining sufficient flexibility for precise positioning during service operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine system includes a machine having a work tool assembly coupled to a back machine end and including a linkage adjustable among raised, lowered, and middle linkage positions in a vertical operating range. A work tool coupled to the linkage has an angular orientation dependent upon the position of the linkage and is pivotable at a greater pivoting ratio to the raised linkage position and a reduced pivoting ratio to the lowered linkage position. The configuration enables maintaining the work tool at a desired service orientation in a ground-penetrating portion of the vertical operating range, whilst tucking the work tool at the raised linkage position to facilitate loading of the machine onto a trailer.