US20140212210A1 - Tool coupler having a modular frame construction - Google Patents
Tool coupler having a modular frame construction Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20140212210A1 US20140212210A1 US13/750,394 US201313750394A US2014212210A1 US 20140212210 A1 US20140212210 A1 US 20140212210A1 US 201313750394 A US201313750394 A US 201313750394A US 2014212210 A1 US2014212210 A1 US 2014212210A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- frame module
- pair
- tool
- side plates
- coupler
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 title description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 13
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 5
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009412 basement excavation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009313 farming Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005065 mining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011435 rock Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
- E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
- E02F3/3618—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat with two separating hooks
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/36—Component parts
- E02F3/3604—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like
- E02F3/3609—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat
- E02F3/3636—Devices to connect tools to arms, booms or the like of the quick acting type, e.g. controlled from the operator seat using two or four movable transversal pins
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B2200/00—Constructional details of connections not covered for in other groups of this subclass
- F16B2200/50—Flanged connections
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16B—DEVICES FOR FASTENING OR SECURING CONSTRUCTIONAL ELEMENTS OR MACHINE PARTS TOGETHER, e.g. NAILS, BOLTS, CIRCLIPS, CLAMPS, CLIPS OR WEDGES; JOINTS OR JOINTING
- F16B2200/00—Constructional details of connections not covered for in other groups of this subclass
- F16B2200/50—Flanged connections
- F16B2200/509—Flanged connections clamped
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
- Y10T29/49947—Assembling or joining by applying separate fastener
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T403/00—Joints and connections
- Y10T403/70—Interfitted members
Definitions
- the present disclosure is directed to a tool coupler and, more particularly, to a tool coupler having a modular frame construction.
- Tool couplers generally include an upper section connected to the machine linkage and a lower section with hooks that engage corresponding pins of a selected tool.
- the upper section includes a connector assembly that is sized and arranged to connect to a particular type or size of linkage.
- the lower section includes hooks that are sized and arranged to mate with a particular arrangement of corresponding pins found on a number of different tools.
- the upper and lower sections are generally integral, with each forming a portion of a one-piece frame that is machined and assembled as a single unit.
- the coupler includes a male member attached to a boom of a machine, and a female member connected to a stick having a working tool.
- the male member can be coupled to the female member to thereby connect the stick and working tool to the boom.
- Separate sticks, each having a different working tool at one end and a female coupling member at the other may be interchangeable to allow one machine to accomplish different working functions.
- the coupler of the '250 patent may allow different tools to be connected to a common machine boom, it may be less than optimal.
- the coupler since the coupler is arranged to connect a machine boom to a stick instead of directly to a tool, it may be necessary for the machine user to purchase and store multiple sticks associated with each tool that will be utilized with the machine. The acquisition and storage of these parts may be expensive. Further, the process of interchanging tools may be more complicated and cumbersome, since each change would require replacing a bulky stick along with the tool.
- the coupler of the '250 patent requires a hydraulic connector to pass hydraulic fluid through the coupler, from the boom to the stick connected to the tool. This further complicates the process of interchanging different tools and introduces the possibility of leaks and/or part failure.
- the present disclosure is directed to overcoming one or more of the problems set forth above and/or other problems of the prior art.
- the present disclosure is directed to a tool coupler for connecting a machine to a tool.
- the tool coupler may include a first frame module having a first pair of side plates and a pair of aligned bores passing through the first pair of side plates.
- the aligned bores may be configured to receive pins that are connectable to a linkage of the machine.
- the tool coupler may also include a second frame module releasably attached to the first frame module.
- the second frame module may include a second pair of side plates and a pair of hooks fixedly connected to the second pair of side plates.
- the pair of hooks may be configured to receive corresponding pins that are connectable to the tool.
- the present disclosure is directed to a method of using a tool coupler.
- the method may include releasably attaching a first frame module to a second frame module.
- the method may also include passing pins through bores in the first frame module and a linkage of a machine to coupler the first frame module to the linkage.
- the method may further include engaging hooks of the second frame module with pins of a tool.
- FIG. 1 is a pictorial illustration of an exemplary disclosed machine
- FIGS. 2-5 are pictorial illustrations of an exemplary tool coupler that may be used with the machine of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary machine 10 .
- Machine 10 may be a fixed or mobile machine that performs an operation associated with an industry, such as mining, construction, farming, transportation, or any other industry known in the art.
- machine 10 may be an earth moving machine such as an excavator or a backhoe.
- Machine 10 may include a power source 12 , a tool system 14 driven by power source 12 , and an operator station 16 situated for manual control of tool system 14 .
- Tool system 14 may include linkage acted on by hydraulic cylinders to move a tool 18 .
- tool system 14 may include a boom 20 that is vertically pivotal about a boom axis 21 by a pair of adjacent, double-acting, hydraulic cylinders 22 , and a stick 24 that is vertically pivotal about a stick axis 26 by a single, double-acting, hydraulic cylinder 28 .
- Tool system 14 may further include a single, double-acting, hydraulic cylinder 30 that is connected to vertically pivot tool 18 about a tool axis 32 .
- hydraulic cylinder 30 may be connected at a head-end to a portion of stick 24 , and at an opposing rod-end to tool 18 by way of a power link 31 .
- Boom 20 may be pivotally connected to a frame 33 of machine 10 .
- Stick 24 may pivotally connect boom 20 to tool 18 .
- Each of hydraulic cylinders 22 , 28 , and 30 may include a tube and a piston assembly arranged within the tube to form a head-end pressure chamber and a rod-end pressure chamber.
- the pressure chambers may be selectively supplied with pressurized fluid and drained of the pressurized fluid to cause the piston assembly to displace within the tube, thereby changing the effective length of hydraulic cylinders 22 , 28 , and 30 .
- the flow rate of fluid into and out of the pressure chambers may relate to a velocity of hydraulic cylinders 22 , 28 , and 30
- a pressure differential between the head- and rod-end pressure chambers may relate to a force imparted by hydraulic cylinders 22 , 28 , and 30 on the associated linkage members.
- the expansion and retraction of hydraulic cylinders 22 , 28 , and 30 may function to assist in moving tool 18 .
- Tool 18 may include any device used to perform a particular task such as, for example, a bucket, a fork arrangement, a blade, a grapple, or any other task-performing device known in the art. Although connected in the embodiment of FIG. 1 to pivot relative to machine 10 , tool 18 may additionally rotate, slide, swing, lift, or move in any other manner known in the art. Tool 18 may include fore- and aft-located tool pins 34 , 36 that facilitate connection to tool system 14 . Tool pins 34 , 36 may be joined at their ends by a pair of spaced-apart tool brackets 38 , 39 that are welded to an external surface of tool 18 .
- a tool coupler 40 may be located to facilitate a quick connection between the linkage of tool system 14 and tool 18 .
- Tool coupler 40 may include a first frame module 42 and a second frame module 44 .
- first frame module 42 may have a pair of spaced-apart, parallel side plates 46 , 48 that are interconnected by a bottom plate 47 .
- Side plates 46 , 48 and bottom plate 47 may be integrally formed (e.g. cast as one piece) or formed separately and permanently joined together to form first frame module 42 .
- side plates 46 , 48 may each include a pair of bores 49 , 50 .
- Bores 49 may be respectively aligned with each other in opposing side plates 46 , 48 to form pin openings for receiving a first stick pin 51 of stick 24 .
- Bores 50 may be similarly aligned to form pin openings for receiving a second stick pin 52 of power link 31 .
- First and second stick pins 51 , 52 may pass through the respective bores 49 , 50 and be retained in collars 53 A, 53 B attached to outer surfaces of side plates 46 , 48 . In this manner, extension and retraction of hydraulic cylinder 30 acting through power link 31 and second stick pin 52 may function to pivot tool coupler 40 about first stick pin 51 .
- first frame module 42 may include upper mounting flanges 68 adjacent each of side plates 46 , 48 .
- Upper mounting flanges 68 may be formed by bottom plate 47 extending outwardly beyond each side plate 46 , 48 .
- Upper mounting flanges 68 may include mounting holes 70 for receiving fasteners 90 (Shown in FIGS. 2 , 3 , and 5 ).
- bottom plate 47 may further include mounting holes 71 at one end of first frame module 42
- an inclined surface 74 (angled relative to upper mounting flanges 68 ) may include additional mounting holes 72 at an opposite end of first frame module 42 .
- first frame module 42 may include a lifting eye 76 secured at one end of bottom plate 47 .
- Lifting eye 76 may include an attachment end 78 secured to bottom plate 47 and an oppositely disposed aperture end 80 .
- a brace member 82 may be secured to attachment end 78 to provide additional strength to the structure.
- An article e.g. cargo
- the article may be secured to lifting eye 76 by attaching a lifting structure (e.g. hook or rope) to aperture 80 end. In this way, first frame module 42 may be utilized individually as a lifting tool.
- a lifting structure e.g. hook or rope
- Tool coupler 40 may be detachably connected to tool 18 via second frame module 44 .
- second frame module 44 may have a pair of spaced-apart, parallel side plates 54 , 56 interconnected by cross members 55 A, 55 B at one end and an end wall 57 at an opposite end.
- a base flange 58 may connect to one edge of side plates 54 , 56 to form a mounting surface configured to mate against bottom plate 47 of first frame module 42 .
- An opening 59 may be formed within base flange 58 to provide access to a cavity 60 located between side plates 54 , 56 .
- Side plates 54 , 56 , cross members 55 A, 55 B, end wall 57 , and base flange 58 may be integrally formed (e.g. cast as one piece) or formed separately and permanently joined together to compose second frame module 44 .
- Second frame module 44 may include a connecting structure for attaching second frame module 44 to tool 18 .
- the connecting structure may include a pair of hooks 61 , 62 formed at opposite ends of side plates 54 , 56 .
- Each hook 61 , 62 may form a corresponding recess 63 , 64 for receiving a respective one of tool pins 34 , 36 .
- a locking mechanism 96 (shown in FIG. 5 ) may be installed in second frame module 44 to secure tool pins 34 , 36 in recesses 63 , 64 via a pair of latches 65 , 66 .
- Latches 65 , 66 may move between locked positions, where each respective tool pin 34 , 36 is secured between a corresponding hook 61 , 62 and latch 65 , 66 , and unlocked positions, where each pin 34 , 36 is free to move out of its respective recess 63 , 64 .
- tool 18 may be releasably secured to second frame module 44 and thus, to machine 10 via tool coupler 40 .
- Cavity 60 of second frame module 44 may be configured to house locking mechanism 96 .
- Locking mechanism 96 may be a device configured to lock second frame module 44 to tool 18 .
- locking mechanism 96 is a device configured to move latches 65 , 66 between locked and unlocked positions.
- locking mechanism 96 may include a hydraulic actuator 98 .
- Locking mechanism 96 may be accessed via opening 59 defined by base flange 58 .
- base flange 58 of second frame module 44 may be arranged to mate with upper mounting flanges 68 of first frame module 42 .
- Base flange 58 may extend substantially perpendicular to and outwardly beyond side plates 54 , 56 to form lower mounting flanges 84 .
- Each lower mounting flange 84 may include one or more reinforcing members 86 .
- Lower mounting flanges 84 may further include mounting holes 88 for receiving fasteners 90 .
- Additional mounting holes 92 may be formed in base flange 58 at one end of second frame module 44 .
- a surface of cross member 55 A may be inclined (in that it is angled relative to lower mounting flanges 84 ) and include mounting holes 94 configured to align with mounting holes 72 of inclined surface 74 .
- First frame member 42 may be attached to second frame member 44 via connection of upper mounting flanges 68 to lower mounting flanges 84 .
- notches 102 , 106 may be formed in base flange 58 .
- Notches 102 may be formed on opposing sides at a leading end of second frame module 44 .
- Notches 102 may be configured to receive a vertical flange portion 104 of each of side plates 46 , 48 .
- Notch 106 may be formed at a rear end of second frame module 44 and be configured to receive a portion 108 of lifting eye 76 .
- first frame module 42 may be releasably attached to second frame module 44 .
- bottom plate 47 may substantially seal opening 59 from the environment to prevent debris from entering cavity 60 and damaging or hindering locking mechanism 96 .
- the presently disclosed tool coupler may be applicable to a variety of machines, such as excavators and backhoes, to increase the functionality of these machines.
- a single excavator may be used for moving dirt, rock and other material, and during the excavation operations, different implements may be required such as a different size of bucket, an impact breaker, or a grapple.
- the disclosed modular tool coupler can be used to quickly change from one implement to another with ease, thus reducing the time the machine is unavailable for its intended purpose.
- the tool coupler since the tool coupler may be constructed with two separate modules, cost savings may be realized for both the manufacturer and customer.
- tool coupler 40 may by assembled by attaching first frame module 42 to second frame module 44 .
- First frame module 42 may be selected to correspond to a particular machine 10 to be used by an operator.
- a first frame module 42 with a particular spacing of bores 49 , 50 may be selected to match the pin spacing of a particular linkage on a machine 10 .
- second frame module 44 may be selected to correspond to a selected type, variety, or size range of tools 18 to be used by the operator.
- a second frame module 44 with a particular spacing of hooks 61 , 62 and recesses 63 , 64 may be selected to correspond to the pin spacing on a particular grouping of tools 18 to be used in combination with machine 10 .
- First and second frame modules 42 , 44 may be securely attached to each other to form a complete tool coupler 40 .
- first frame module 42 may be attached to stick 24 of machine 10 .
- an end of stick 24 and an end of power link 31 may be maneuvered between side plates 46 , 48 and in alignment with the pin openings formed by aligned bores 49 and 50 .
- First and second stick pins 51 , 52 may then be inserted through collars 53 A, 53 B and into bores 49 , 50 to connect stick member 24 and power link 31 , respectively, to first frame module 42 .
- Locking pins (not shown) may then be inserted through collars 53 A, 53 B and corresponding slots within stick pins 51 , 52 , if desired, to lock stick pins 51 , 52 in place. In this manner, first frame module 42 may be securely attached to an end of stick 24 throughout machine operation.
- stick member 24 may be maneuvered to a position at which a bottom portion of tool coupler 40 is above tool 18 .
- Second frame module 44 may be oriented so that recesses 63 , 64 are located to receive tool pins 34 , 36 , respectively.
- Tool coupler 40 may then be lowered onto tool 18 and pivoted as necessary so that tool pins 34 and 36 are seated within recesses 63 and 64 .
- Locking mechanism 96 may next be activated to move latches 65 , 66 into locked positions to thereby secure the second frame module 44 to tool 18 .
- an operator may want to connect a tool 18 from a different grouping to the same machine 10 to accomplish a second task.
- the operator may connect the new tool 18 by first disconnecting the first tool 18 from second frame module 44 .
- this may be accomplished by activating locking mechanism 96 to move latches 65 , 66 to unlocked positions such that tool pins 34 and 36 may be moved out of corresponding recesses 63 , 64 through appropriate movement of tool coupler 40 by machine 10 .
- the new tool 18 may include a different connector assembly than that of the previously attached tool 18 . That is, the pins of new tool 18 may have a spacing that does not match that of the previously attached second frame module 44 . Therefore, the operator may be required to change out tool coupler 40 to allow for connection of new tool 18 to machine 10 . Utilizing the disclosed modular tool coupler 40 with releasably connected first and second modules 42 , 44 , the operator may choose to replace only second frame module 44 with a new second frame module 44 (i.e. a third frame module). To accommodate connection to new tool 18 , the pair of hooks 61 , 62 of new second frame module 44 may be spaced or oriented differently than the pair of hooks 61 , 62 of second frame module 44 being replaced.
- the operator may proceed to disconnect first frame module 42 from second frame module 44 (e.g. by removing fasteners 90 ) and thereafter attach first frame module 42 to a selected new second frame module 44 (e.g. by reinserting fasteners 90 ).
- the newly assembled tool coupler 40 may be reconnected to machine 10 (if it was previously disconnected) and thereafter connected to new tool 18 .
- Machine 10 may then be free to accomplish tasks with the newly-connected tool 18 .
- modular tool coupler 40 may be utilized to attach the same tool 18 to multiple different machines 10 , each with a different linkage arrangement. This may be accomplished in a similar manner to the process described above, with the first frame module 42 being swapped with a new first frame module 42 (i.e. a fourth frame module) and second frame module 44 remaining as part of tool coupler 40 .
- modular tool coupler 40 may allow for greater versatility than a one-piece coupler. Further, the use of modular tool coupler 40 to connect machine 10 directly to tool 18 may be simpler and more efficient than other designs that may require hydraulic fluid to be passed through the coupler.
Abstract
A tool coupler for connecting a machine to a tool is disclosed. The tool coupler may have a first frame module having a first pair of side plates and a pair of aligned bores passing through the first pair of side plates. The aligned bores may be configured to receive pins that are connectable to a linkage of the machine. The tool coupler may also have a second frame module releasably attached to the first frame module. The second frame module may have a second pair of side plates and a pair of hooks fixedly connected to the second pair of side plates. The pair of hooks may be configured to receive corresponding pins that are connectable to the tool.
Description
- The present disclosure is directed to a tool coupler and, more particularly, to a tool coupler having a modular frame construction.
- Machines, for example backhoes and excavators, commonly have linkage that is movable to control the motion of a connected tool such as a bucket, a blade, a hammer, or a grapple. A tool coupler can be used to increase the functionality and versatility of a machine by allowing different tools to be quickly and interchangeably connected to the machine linkage. Tool couplers generally include an upper section connected to the machine linkage and a lower section with hooks that engage corresponding pins of a selected tool. The upper section includes a connector assembly that is sized and arranged to connect to a particular type or size of linkage. The lower section includes hooks that are sized and arranged to mate with a particular arrangement of corresponding pins found on a number of different tools. The upper and lower sections are generally integral, with each forming a portion of a one-piece frame that is machined and assembled as a single unit.
- Most tool couplers have nearly identical upper sections, since the connection to the machine linkage does not need to change for each tool connected to the coupler. The lower sections, however, can sometimes be different to accommodate different tool designs. When the upper and lower sections are integral, an operator may be required to have multiple different complete tool couplers (i.e. each including both upper and lower sections) available to accommodate tools having different pin configurations. This can be expensive for the customer and the manufacturer.
- An exemplary coupler is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,484,250 issued to Gilmore, Jr. et al. on Jan. 16, 1996. In particular, the '250 patent discloses a two-piece coupler for removably connecting a tool to a machine. The coupler includes a male member attached to a boom of a machine, and a female member connected to a stick having a working tool. The male member can be coupled to the female member to thereby connect the stick and working tool to the boom. Separate sticks, each having a different working tool at one end and a female coupling member at the other may be interchangeable to allow one machine to accomplish different working functions.
- Although the coupler of the '250 patent may allow different tools to be connected to a common machine boom, it may be less than optimal. In particular, since the coupler is arranged to connect a machine boom to a stick instead of directly to a tool, it may be necessary for the machine user to purchase and store multiple sticks associated with each tool that will be utilized with the machine. The acquisition and storage of these parts may be expensive. Further, the process of interchanging tools may be more complicated and cumbersome, since each change would require replacing a bulky stick along with the tool. In addition, the coupler of the '250 patent requires a hydraulic connector to pass hydraulic fluid through the coupler, from the boom to the stick connected to the tool. This further complicates the process of interchanging different tools and introduces the possibility of leaks and/or part failure.
- The present disclosure is directed to overcoming one or more of the problems set forth above and/or other problems of the prior art.
- In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a tool coupler for connecting a machine to a tool. The tool coupler may include a first frame module having a first pair of side plates and a pair of aligned bores passing through the first pair of side plates. The aligned bores may be configured to receive pins that are connectable to a linkage of the machine. The tool coupler may also include a second frame module releasably attached to the first frame module. The second frame module may include a second pair of side plates and a pair of hooks fixedly connected to the second pair of side plates. The pair of hooks may be configured to receive corresponding pins that are connectable to the tool.
- In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method of using a tool coupler. The method may include releasably attaching a first frame module to a second frame module. The method may also include passing pins through bores in the first frame module and a linkage of a machine to coupler the first frame module to the linkage. The method may further include engaging hooks of the second frame module with pins of a tool.
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FIG. 1 is a pictorial illustration of an exemplary disclosed machine; and -
FIGS. 2-5 are pictorial illustrations of an exemplary tool coupler that may be used with the machine ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 1 illustrates anexemplary machine 10.Machine 10 may be a fixed or mobile machine that performs an operation associated with an industry, such as mining, construction, farming, transportation, or any other industry known in the art. For example,machine 10 may be an earth moving machine such as an excavator or a backhoe.Machine 10 may include apower source 12, a tool system 14 driven bypower source 12, and anoperator station 16 situated for manual control of tool system 14. - Tool system 14 may include linkage acted on by hydraulic cylinders to move a
tool 18. Specifically, tool system 14 may include aboom 20 that is vertically pivotal about aboom axis 21 by a pair of adjacent, double-acting,hydraulic cylinders 22, and astick 24 that is vertically pivotal about astick axis 26 by a single, double-acting,hydraulic cylinder 28. Tool system 14 may further include a single, double-acting,hydraulic cylinder 30 that is connected to verticallypivot tool 18 about atool axis 32. In one embodiment,hydraulic cylinder 30 may be connected at a head-end to a portion ofstick 24, and at an opposing rod-end totool 18 by way of apower link 31.Boom 20 may be pivotally connected to aframe 33 ofmachine 10.Stick 24 may pivotally connectboom 20 totool 18. - Each of
hydraulic cylinders hydraulic cylinders hydraulic cylinders hydraulic cylinders hydraulic cylinders tool 18. - Numerous
different tools 18 may be attachable to asingle machine 10 and controllable viaoperator station 16.Tool 18 may include any device used to perform a particular task such as, for example, a bucket, a fork arrangement, a blade, a grapple, or any other task-performing device known in the art. Although connected in the embodiment ofFIG. 1 to pivot relative tomachine 10,tool 18 may additionally rotate, slide, swing, lift, or move in any other manner known in the art.Tool 18 may include fore- and aft-locatedtool pins Tool pins apart tool brackets tool 18. - A
tool coupler 40 may be located to facilitate a quick connection between the linkage of tool system 14 andtool 18.Tool coupler 40 may include afirst frame module 42 and asecond frame module 44. As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3 ,first frame module 42 may have a pair of spaced-apart,parallel side plates bottom plate 47.Side plates bottom plate 47 may be integrally formed (e.g. cast as one piece) or formed separately and permanently joined together to formfirst frame module 42. In an exemplary embodiment,side plates bores Bores 49 may be respectively aligned with each other in opposingside plates first stick pin 51 ofstick 24.Bores 50 may be similarly aligned to form pin openings for receiving asecond stick pin 52 ofpower link 31. First and second stick pins 51, 52 may pass through the respective bores 49, 50 and be retained incollars side plates hydraulic cylinder 30 acting throughpower link 31 andsecond stick pin 52 may function to pivottool coupler 40 aboutfirst stick pin 51. - As seen in
FIGS. 3 and 5 ,first frame module 42 may include upper mountingflanges 68 adjacent each ofside plates flanges 68 may be formed bybottom plate 47 extending outwardly beyond eachside plate flanges 68 may include mountingholes 70 for receiving fasteners 90 (Shown inFIGS. 2 , 3, and 5). Also,bottom plate 47 may further include mountingholes 71 at one end offirst frame module 42, and an inclined surface 74 (angled relative to upper mounting flanges 68) may include additional mountingholes 72 at an opposite end offirst frame module 42. - As an optional feature,
first frame module 42 may include a liftingeye 76 secured at one end ofbottom plate 47. Liftingeye 76 may include anattachment end 78 secured tobottom plate 47 and an oppositely disposedaperture end 80. Abrace member 82 may be secured to attachment end 78 to provide additional strength to the structure. An article (e.g. cargo) may be secured tofirst frame module 42 via liftingeye 76, such that the article may be lifted bymachine 10. The article may be secured to liftingeye 76 by attaching a lifting structure (e.g. hook or rope) toaperture 80 end. In this way,first frame module 42 may be utilized individually as a lifting tool. -
Tool coupler 40 may be detachably connected totool 18 viasecond frame module 44. As shown inFIGS. 2 and 4 ,second frame module 44 may have a pair of spaced-apart,parallel side plates cross members end wall 57 at an opposite end. Abase flange 58 may connect to one edge ofside plates bottom plate 47 offirst frame module 42. Anopening 59 may be formed withinbase flange 58 to provide access to acavity 60 located betweenside plates Side plates cross members end wall 57, andbase flange 58 may be integrally formed (e.g. cast as one piece) or formed separately and permanently joined together to composesecond frame module 44. -
Second frame module 44 may include a connecting structure for attachingsecond frame module 44 totool 18. In the exemplary disclosed embodiment, the connecting structure may include a pair ofhooks side plates hook corresponding recess FIG. 5 ) may be installed insecond frame module 44 to secure tool pins 34, 36 inrecesses latches Latches respective tool pin corresponding hook latch pin respective recess tool 18 may be releasably secured tosecond frame module 44 and thus, tomachine 10 viatool coupler 40. -
Cavity 60 ofsecond frame module 44 may be configured to house lockingmechanism 96. Lockingmechanism 96 may be a device configured to locksecond frame module 44 totool 18. In the exemplary disclosed embodiment, lockingmechanism 96 is a device configured to movelatches mechanism 96 may include ahydraulic actuator 98. Lockingmechanism 96 may be accessed via opening 59 defined bybase flange 58. - As best seen in
FIGS. 4 and 5 ,base flange 58 ofsecond frame module 44 may be arranged to mate with upper mountingflanges 68 offirst frame module 42.Base flange 58 may extend substantially perpendicular to and outwardly beyondside plates flanges 84. Each lower mountingflange 84 may include one or more reinforcingmembers 86. Lower mountingflanges 84 may further include mountingholes 88 for receivingfasteners 90. Additional mountingholes 92 may be formed inbase flange 58 at one end ofsecond frame module 44. Further, a surface ofcross member 55A may be inclined (in that it is angled relative to lower mounting flanges 84) and include mountingholes 94 configured to align with mountingholes 72 ofinclined surface 74. -
First frame member 42 may be attached tosecond frame member 44 via connection of upper mountingflanges 68 to lower mountingflanges 84. In the exemplary disclosed embodiment,notches base flange 58.Notches 102 may be formed on opposing sides at a leading end ofsecond frame module 44.Notches 102 may be configured to receive avertical flange portion 104 of each ofside plates Notch 106 may be formed at a rear end ofsecond frame module 44 and be configured to receive aportion 108 of liftingeye 76.Vertical flange portions 104 andportion 108 of liftingeye 76 may be seated innotches first frame module 42 with respect tosecond frame module 44. Thus, mountingholes 88 may be easily aligned with mountingholes 70 of upper mountingflanges 68 to allow fasteners 90 (e.g. threaded bolts) to be inserted therethrough.Additional fasteners 90 may be inserted through aligned mountingholes first frame module 42 may be releasably attached tosecond frame module 44. Whenfirst frame module 42 is attached tosecond frame module 44,bottom plate 47 may substantially seal opening 59 from the environment to prevent debris from enteringcavity 60 and damaging or hinderinglocking mechanism 96. - The presently disclosed tool coupler may be applicable to a variety of machines, such as excavators and backhoes, to increase the functionality of these machines. For example, a single excavator may be used for moving dirt, rock and other material, and during the excavation operations, different implements may be required such as a different size of bucket, an impact breaker, or a grapple. The disclosed modular tool coupler can be used to quickly change from one implement to another with ease, thus reducing the time the machine is unavailable for its intended purpose. In addition, since the tool coupler may be constructed with two separate modules, cost savings may be realized for both the manufacturer and customer.
- In operation,
tool coupler 40 may by assembled by attachingfirst frame module 42 tosecond frame module 44.First frame module 42 may be selected to correspond to aparticular machine 10 to be used by an operator. For example, afirst frame module 42 with a particular spacing ofbores machine 10. Similarly,second frame module 44 may be selected to correspond to a selected type, variety, or size range oftools 18 to be used by the operator. For example, asecond frame module 44 with a particular spacing ofhooks tools 18 to be used in combination withmachine 10. First andsecond frame modules complete tool coupler 40. - To employ the selected
tool coupler 40,first frame module 42 may be attached to stick 24 ofmachine 10. To achieve this attachment, an end ofstick 24 and an end ofpower link 31 may be maneuvered betweenside plates bores collars bores stick member 24 andpower link 31, respectively, tofirst frame module 42. Locking pins (not shown) may then be inserted throughcollars first frame module 42 may be securely attached to an end ofstick 24 throughout machine operation. - To attach a
tool 18 tosecond frame module 44 oftool coupler 40,stick member 24 may be maneuvered to a position at which a bottom portion oftool coupler 40 is abovetool 18.Second frame module 44 may be oriented so that recesses 63, 64 are located to receive tool pins 34, 36, respectively.Tool coupler 40 may then be lowered ontotool 18 and pivoted as necessary so that tool pins 34 and 36 are seated withinrecesses mechanism 96 may next be activated to movelatches second frame module 44 totool 18. - After a first task has been accomplished, an operator may want to connect a
tool 18 from a different grouping to thesame machine 10 to accomplish a second task. The operator may connect thenew tool 18 by first disconnecting thefirst tool 18 fromsecond frame module 44. In the exemplary disclosed embodiment, this may be accomplished by activatinglocking mechanism 96 to movelatches recesses tool coupler 40 bymachine 10. - The
new tool 18 may include a different connector assembly than that of the previously attachedtool 18. That is, the pins ofnew tool 18 may have a spacing that does not match that of the previously attachedsecond frame module 44. Therefore, the operator may be required to change outtool coupler 40 to allow for connection ofnew tool 18 tomachine 10. Utilizing the disclosedmodular tool coupler 40 with releasably connected first andsecond modules second frame module 44 with a new second frame module 44 (i.e. a third frame module). To accommodate connection tonew tool 18, the pair ofhooks second frame module 44 may be spaced or oriented differently than the pair ofhooks second frame module 44 being replaced. - The operator may proceed to disconnect
first frame module 42 from second frame module 44 (e.g. by removing fasteners 90) and thereafter attachfirst frame module 42 to a selected new second frame module 44 (e.g. by reinserting fasteners 90). The newly assembledtool coupler 40 may be reconnected to machine 10 (if it was previously disconnected) and thereafter connected tonew tool 18.Machine 10 may then be free to accomplish tasks with the newly-connectedtool 18. - It is further contemplated that
modular tool coupler 40 may be utilized to attach thesame tool 18 to multipledifferent machines 10, each with a different linkage arrangement. This may be accomplished in a similar manner to the process described above, with thefirst frame module 42 being swapped with a new first frame module 42 (i.e. a fourth frame module) andsecond frame module 44 remaining as part oftool coupler 40. - By requiring replacement of only one module of
tool coupler 40 to accommodate adifferent machine 10 or a different grouping of tools 18 (rather than replacing an entire tool coupler), the machine owner's operating costs may be lower. In addition,modular tool coupler 40 may allow for greater versatility than a one-piece coupler. Further, the use ofmodular tool coupler 40 to connectmachine 10 directly totool 18 may be simpler and more efficient than other designs that may require hydraulic fluid to be passed through the coupler. - It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the tool coupler of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope of the disclosure being indicated by the following claims.
Claims (20)
1. A tool coupler for connecting a machine to a tool, comprising:
a first frame module, including:
a first pair of side plates; and
a pair of aligned bores passing through the first pair of side plates, the bores configured to receive pins that are connectable to a linkage of the machine; and
a second frame module releasably attached to the first frame module, the second frame module including:
a second pair of side plates; and
a pair of hooks fixedly connected to the second pair of side plates and configured to receive corresponding pins that are connectable to the tool.
2. The tool coupler of claim 1 , wherein the first frame module further includes a bottom plate that extends outwardly beyond the first pair of side plates to form a first mounting flange that engages the second frame module.
3. The tool coupler of claim 2 , wherein the second frame module further includes a base flange that extends outwardly from the second pair of side plates to form a second mounting flange configured to mate against the first mounting flange.
4. The tool coupler of claim 3 , further including:
holes in the first and second mounting flanges; and
fasteners configured to pass through the holes to secure the first and second frame modules together.
5. The tool coupler of claim 4 , further including:
a first inclined mounting surface on the first frame module, the first inclined mounting surface angled relative to the first mounting flange;
a second inclined mounting surface on the second frame module, the second inclined mounting surface angled relative to the second mounting flange;
holes in the first and second inclined mounting surfaces; and
fasteners configured to pass through the holes in the first and second inclined mounting surfaces to further secure the first and second frame modules together.
6. The tool coupler of claim 4 , wherein the base flange of the second frame module defines an opening into a cavity between the second pair of side plates of the second frame module.
7. The tool coupler of claim 6 , wherein the bottom plate of the first frame module is configured to substantially seal the opening in the second frame module from the environment when the first frame module and second frame module are attached.
8. The tool coupler of claim 6 , further including a locking mechanism associated with the pair of hooks and configured to secure the second frame module to the tool, wherein at least a portion of the locking mechanism is located in the cavity between the side plates.
9. The tool coupler of claim 3 , further including at least one notch formed in the base flange of the second frame module, the at least one notch configured to receive a portion of the first frame module.
10. The tool coupler of claim 9 , wherein the at least one notch includes a pair of notches located on opposing sides at a leading end of the second frame module, wherein each of the pair of notches is configured to receive a portion of the first pair of side plates of the first frame module.
11. The tool coupler of claim 9 , wherein the first frame module further includes a lifting eye fixedly attached to the base plate of the first frame module.
12. The tool coupler of claim 11 , wherein the at least one notch includes a notch located at a rear end of the second frame module, the notch configured to receive a portion of the lifting eye.
13. The tool coupler of claim 1 , wherein:
the tool is a first tool;
the tool coupler further includes a third frame module including a pair of hooks configured to connect the machine to a second tool; and
wherein the pair of hooks of the third frame module are spaced or oriented differently than the pair of hooks of the second frame module.
14. A method of using a tool coupler, comprising:
releasably attaching a first frame module to a second frame module;
passing pins through bores in the first frame module and a linkage of a machine to couple the first frame module to the linkage; and
engaging hooks of the second frame module with pins of a tool.
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein attaching the first frame module to the second frame module includes securing a first mounting flange extending outwardly of a first pair of side plates of the first frame module to a second mounting flange extending outwardly of a second pair of side plates of the second frame module.
16. The method of claim 15 , wherein attaching the first frame module to the second frame module further includes inserting fasteners through corresponding holes in the first and second mounting flanges.
17. The method of claim 15 , wherein attaching the first frame module to the second frame module further includes inserting a portion of the first pair of side plates into notches formed in the second mounting flange.
18. The method of claim 14 , further including:
disconnecting the first frame module from the second frame module; and
releasably attaching the first frame module to a third frame module.
19. The method of claim 18 , wherein the third frame module includes a pair of hooks that are spaced or oriented differently than the pair of hooks of the second frame module.
20. A tool coupler for connecting a machine to a tool, comprising:
a first frame module, including:
a first pair of side plates;
a pair of aligned bores passing through the first pair side plates, the bores configured to receive pins that are connectable to a linkage of the machine; and
a bottom plate that extends outwardly beyond the first pair side plates to form a first mounting flange; and
holes in the first mounting flange;
a second frame module releasably attached to the first frame module, the second frame module including:
a second pair of side plates;
a base flange that extends outwardly from the second pair of side plates to form a second mounting flange configured to mate against the first mounting flange;
at least one notch formed in the base flange of the second frame module, the at least one notch configured to receive a portion of the first frame module;
holes in the second mounting flange;
an opening into a cavity between the second pair of side plates, the opening defined by the base flange, wherein the bottom plate is configured to seal the opening from the environment when the first frame module and second frame module are attached; and
a pair of hooks fixedly connected to the second pair of side plates and configured to receive corresponding pins that are connectable to the tool; and
fasteners passing through the holes to secure the first and second frame modules together.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US13/750,394 US20140212210A1 (en) | 2013-01-25 | 2013-01-25 | Tool coupler having a modular frame construction |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US13/750,394 US20140212210A1 (en) | 2013-01-25 | 2013-01-25 | Tool coupler having a modular frame construction |
Publications (1)
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US20140212210A1 true US20140212210A1 (en) | 2014-07-31 |
Family
ID=51223110
Family Applications (1)
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US13/750,394 Abandoned US20140212210A1 (en) | 2013-01-25 | 2013-01-25 | Tool coupler having a modular frame construction |
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US (1) | US20140212210A1 (en) |
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US20180355579A1 (en) * | 2015-12-07 | 2018-12-13 | Wedgelock Equipment Limited | A locking device for a quick coupler |
WO2022227643A1 (en) * | 2021-12-02 | 2022-11-03 | 江苏徐工工程机械研究院有限公司 | Modular excavator |
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