Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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MODULAR SYSTEM FOR CONNECTING ATTACHMENTS
TO A CONSTRUCTION MACHINE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention relates to a modular system for construction or
demolition
equipment which is adapted to be attached to a backhoe for attaching multiple
tools, such as a
heavy-duty metal cutting shear, a plate shear, a claw, a hammer, a bucket, a
grapple, or a
concrete crusher.
[0002] While the discussion hereafter will make reference to construction
equipment, such
equipment is also referred to as demolition equipment, scrap handling
equipment, and the
like. The description of construction equipment is not intended to be
restrictive of the
equipment being referenced. Demolition equipment, such as heavy-duty metal
cutting shears,
plate shears, claws, hammers, buckets, grapples, and concrete crushers have
been mounted on
backhoes powered by hydraulic cylinders for a variety of jobs in the
demolition field. This
equipment provides for the efficient cutting and handling of scrap. For
example, in the
dismantling of an industrial building, metal scrap in the form of various
diameter pipes,
structural I-beams, channels, angles, sheet metal plates, and the like, must
be efficiently
severed and handled by heavy-duty metal shears. Such metal shears can also be
utilized for
reducing automobiles, truck frames, railroad cars, and the like. The shears
must be able to
move and cut the metal scrap pieces regardless of the size or shape of the
individual scrap
pieces and without any significant damage to the shears. In the demolition of
an industrial
building, concrete crushing devices, such as a concrete pulverizer or concrete
crackers, are
also used to reduce the structure to manageable components which can be easily
handled and
removed from the site. A grapple is often utilized where handling of debris or
work pieces is
a primary function of the equipment. Historically, all these pieces of
equipment represent
distinct tools having significant independent capital costs. Consequently, the
demolition
industry has tended to develop one type of tool that can have the greatest
possible utility and
application.
[0003] In general, construction equipment, such as a backhoe, is made up of a
tractor
having attached thereto a hydraulically operated boom and attached to the boom
is a
hydraulically operated stick. Each manufacturer of construction equipment
provides a variety
of attachments for their equipment, however, these attachments fit on only
that
manufacturer's equipment. As a result, the purchasing of such attachments not
only requires
a dedicated commitment to a single manufacturer of construction equipment, but
furthermore,
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puts the equipment owner at a significant disadvantage if the particular
equipment
manufacturer does not provide a particular attachment which may be needed by
the
equipment owner. It is inefficient and costly for an equipment owner to own
and maintain
two separate construction machines because certain attachments are made by one
manufacturer and certain other attachments are made by another manufacturer.
[0004] Additionally, different construction tasks require different
configurations of the
construction machine and, depending upon the equipment manufacturer, there may
be only a
limited number of configurations possible for a specific construction machine.
In the event
that the machine owner desires a different configuration, then it may be
necessary to
approach the equipment manufacturer and ask for the specialized services
associated with a
customized part. This may become prohibitively expensive.
[0005] A design is needed that will provide the machine owner with the
flexibility of a
single set of attachments that may be suitable for use with any of a variety
of construction
machines from different manufacturers. Furthermore, a design is needed whereby
a machine
owner may have the flexibility to configure the attachments in any desirable
sequence,
thereby maximizing the efficiency of the construction machine. Finally, a
design is needed
whereby it is possible for the machine owner to maximize the versatility of a
construction
machine by utilizing a plurality of different attachments that may be attached
to the
construction machine.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] A modular system for connecting a module to an extension arm of a
construction
machine has a wing secured to the end of the extension arm, wherein the wing
at an end
opposite the extension arm has one of a standardized proximal mounting
arrangement with a
pair of spaced-apart parallel plates or a standardized distal mounting
arrangement with two
pairs of spaced-apart parallel plates. The two pairs each have two closely
spaced plates
defining a slot therebetween, wherein the width of the slot is approximately
the thickness of
one of the plates associated with the standardized proximal coupling
arrangement. The
system also has a module made up of a modified stick having a first end
adapted to be
secured to the wing and has the other of the standardized distal coupling
arrangement or the
standardized proximal coupling arrangement adapted to be coupled to the
coupling
arrangement on the wing so that the module may be interchangeably secured to
the wing.
Each of the plates associated with the wing is positioned adjacent a plate
associated with the
module. At least one common mating hole extends through each wing plate and
the adjacent
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module plate. A pin adapted to slide into at least one mating hole to restrict
translation of the
wing plate and the module plate relative to one another in a direction
parallel to the plates.
The modified stick has a longitudinal axis and a hydraulic cylinder mounted to
the stick. The
standard proximal coupling is pivotally attached to hydraulic cylinder. The
modified stick
may be secured to the wing with the cylinder on top such that extending the
cylinder drives
any member attached to the modified stick in a downward direction. The
modified stick may
be secured to the wing with the cylinder on the bottom, such that extending
the cylinder
drives any member attached to the modified stick in an upward direction.
[0007] Another embodiment is directed to a modular system for connecting any
one of a
plurality of modules to an extension arm of a construction machine. The system
has a wing
secured to the end of the extension arm, wherein the wing at an end opposite
the extension
arm has one of a standardized proximal mounting arrangement with a pair of
spaced-apart
parallel plates or a standardized distal mounting arrangement with two pairs
of spaced-apart
parallel plates. The two pairs each have two closely spaced plates defining a
slot
therebetween. The system also has a plurality of modules, wherein each module
has a first
end adapted to be secured to the wing and comprises the other of a
standardized proximal
coupling arrangement or a standardized distal coupling arrangement adapted to
be coupled
with the coupling arrangement of the wing. As a result, each module may be
interchangeably
secured to the wing. The width of the slot is approximately the thickness of
one of the plates
associated with the standardized proximal coupling arrangement and each of the
wing plates
associated with one of the proximal mounting arrangement or distal mounting
arrangement is
positioned adjacent to one of the pair of module plates associated with the
other of the distal
mounting arrangement or the proximal mounting arrangement. At least one common
mating
hole extends through each wing plate and the adjacent module plate. A pin is
adapted to slide
into at least one mating hole to restrict translation of the wing plate and
the module plate
relative to one another in a direction parallel to the plates.
[0008] Yet another embodiment is directed to a modular system for connecting
any one of
a plurality of structural extension modules to another structural extension
module on a
construction machine. The system has a proximal coupling adapter module having
a first end
with a standardized proximal coupling arrangement with a pair of spaced-apart
parallel plates
and a second end with a standardized proximal coupling arrangement with a pair
of spaced-
apart parallel plates. The spaced-apart plates each have a width. A connection
module has at
one end a distal coupling arrangement having two pairs of spaced-apart
parallel plates. The
two pairs each have two closely spaced plates defining a slot therebetween for
each pair,
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wherein the width of the slot is approximately equal to the thickness of one
of the plates
associated with the standardized proximal coupling arrangement. Each plate of
the pair of
plates in the standardized proximal coupling arrangement at one end of the
adapter module is
positioned adjacent and within the slot of a pair of plates associated with
the standardized
distal coupling arrangement of the connection module. At least one common
mating hole
extends through each plate of the adapter module and the connector module. A
pin is adapted
to slide into mating holes of adjacent plates of the standardized proximal
coupling
arrangement and the standardized distal coupling arrangement to restrict
translation of the
adapter module and the connecting module relative to one another in a
direction parallel to
the plates.
[00091 Yet another embodiment is directed to a modular system for connecting
any one of
a plurality of structural extension modules to another structural extension
module on a
construction machine. The system has a distal coupling adapter having, at a
first end, a
standardized distal coupling arrangement and having, at a second end, a
standardized distal
coupling arrangement. Each standardized distal coupling arrangement has two
pairs of
spaced apart parallel plates, wherein the two pairs each have two closely
spaced plates
defining a slot therebetween for each pair. A connector module has a first end
with a
standardized proximal coupling arrangement with a pair of spaced-apart
parallel plates,
wherein the spaced-apart plates each have a width and, wherein the width of
the slot between
the plates of the standardized distal couplings is approximately equal to the
thickness of one
of the plates associated with the standardized proximal coupling arrangement.
Each plate of
the pair of plates in the standardized proximal coupling arrangement at one
end of the
connector module is positioned adjacent and within the slot of a pair of
plates associated with
the standardized distal coupling arrangement of the adapter module. At least
one common
mating hole extends through each plate of the adapter module and the connector
module. A
pin is adapted to slide into mating holes of adjacent plates of the
standardized proximal
coupling arrangement and the standardized distal coupling arrangement to
restrict translation
of the adapter module and the connecting module relative to one another in a
direction
parallel to the plates.
[0010] In yet another embodiment, a split boom extends from the base of a
construction
machine. The split boom has a lower boom portion portion with a first end
secured to the
base of the construction machine and one of a standardized proximal coupling
arrangement or
a standardized distal coupling arrangement attached at the second end of the
lower boom
portion. The standardized proximal coupling arrangement has a pair of spaced-
apart parallel
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plates, wherein the spaced-apart plates each have a width and, wherein the
standardized distal
coupling arrangement has two pairs of spaced-apart parallel plates. The two
pairs each have
two closely spaced plates defining a slot therebetween for each pair. An upper
boom portion
portion has a first end with the other of the standardized proximal coupling
arrangement or
the standardized distal coupling arrangement. Each plate of the pair of plates
in the
standardized proximal coupling arrangement at one end of either the lower boom
portion or
upper boom portion is positioned adjacent and within the slot of a pair of
plates associated
with the standardized distal coupling arrangement of the other of the lower
boom portion or
upper boom portion. At least one common mating hole extends through each plate
of the
lower boom portion and the upper boom portion. A pin is adapted to slide into
mating holes
of adjacent plates of the standardized proximal coupling arrangement and the
standardized
distal coupling arrangement to restrict translation of the lower boom portion
and the upper
boom portion relative to one another in a direction parallel to the plates.
[0011] These and other advantages of the present invention will be clarified
in the
description of the preferred embodiments, wherein like reference numerals
represent like
elements throughout.
BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] Figure 1 is a schematic of a construction machine with the stick
positioned to
receive an attachment;
[0013] Figure 2 is a schematic of the construction machine in Figure 1 with a
stick wing
mounted to the stick;
[0014] Figure 3 is a schematic of a construction machine with the boom
positioned to
receive an attachment;
[0015] Figure 4 is a schematic of the construction machine in Figure 3 with a
boom wing
attached to the boom;
[0016] Figures 5A and 5B are a side view and a front view of a stick wing;
[0017] Figures 6A and 6B are a side view and a top view of a boom wing;
[0018] Figure 7A is an exploded isometric view of one embodiment of the
coupling
arrangement in accordance with the subject invention;
[0019] Figure 7B is an assembled isometric view of the coupling arrangement
illustrated in
Figure 7A;
[0020] Figure 8 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of the coupling
arrangement in
accordance with the subject invention;
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[0021] Figure 9 is a side view of another alternate coupling arrangement in
accordance
with the subject invention;
[0022] Figure 10 is an exploded view of a stick wing and a portion of an
adapter;
[0023] Figure 11 is the view of the stick in Figure 10 along lines "XI ¨ XI"
in Figure 10;
[0024] Figure 12A is a view of the adapter illustrated in Figure 10 along
lines "XII-XII"
with the tie bars extended;
[0025] Figure 12B is a view of the adapter in Figure 12A with the tie bars
retracted;
[0026] Figures 13A-13C illustrate the sequential steps for securing the stick
wing to the
adapter;
[0027] Figures 14A, 14B, and 14C are front, top, and left end views,
respectively, of an
adapter;
[0028] Figures 15, 16, 17, and 18 are exploded side views of different
configurations of
modules possible utilizing the design in accordance with the subject
invention;
[0029] Figure 19 is an assembled view of the exploded element in Figure 18
excluding the
multi-tool;
[0030] Figures 20A and 20B are side views of a folding adapter, in different
positions, in
accordance with the subject invention, whereby the folding member and the
adapter member
are integral with one another;
[0031] Figures 20C and 20D are side view of the folding module and adapter
module
illustrated in Figures 20A and 20B but includes a removable coupling between
the two parts;
[0032] Figures 21A-21D are sequential side views of the motion possible
utilizing the
arrangement in accordance with Figure 18;
[0033] Figure 22 is an exploded side view of a bucket associated with a stick
wing and a
rotator module thcrebetween;
[0034] Figure 23 is a side view of the arrangement illustrated in Figure 22
but in an
assembled configuration;
[0035] Figures 24-26 are a side view, a left end view, and a right end view of
a rotator
module in accordance with the subject invention;
[0036] Figure 27 is an exploded side view similar to that of Figure 22,
however, without
the rotator module between the stick wing and bucket;
[0037] Figure 28 is a side view of an assembled configuration of the elements
in Figure 27;
[0038] Figure 29 is an exploded side view of a claw associated with a stick
wing;
[0039] Figure 30 is a side view of the arrangement in Figure 29, but in an
assembled
configuration;
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[0040] Figure 31 is an exploded side view of a hammer associated with a stick
wing;
[0041] Figure 32 is the hammer illustrated in Figure 31, but assembled and
mounted upon
the stick of a construction machine;
[0042] Figures 33 and 34 are a side view and a top view, respectively, of a
reducer module;
[0043] Figures 35 and 36 are a side view and a top view of an enlarger module;
[0044] Figure 37A is a schematic of a construction machine, whereby a
supplemental
extension arin has been added to the stick for a system designed to be
utilized with an electric
magnet for retrieving scrap;
[0045] Figure 37B is a schematic of a construction machine, whereby a modified
stick has
been added in place of the stick illustrated in Figure 37A;
[0046] Figure 37C is a schematic of a construction machine, whereby a second
modified
stick has been added in place of the supplemental extension arm illustrated in
Figure 37B;
[0047] Figures 38 and 39 are a top view and a side view, respectively, of the
supplemental
extension arm illustrated in Figure 37A;
[0048] Figure 40A is a modified stick having a squared-off coupling end;
[0049] Figure 40B is a modified stick similar to the modified stick
illustrated in Figure
40A, but with an angled coupling end;
[0050] Figures 41A-41E illustrate a sequence of motion possible utilizing the
elements
illustrated on the construction machine in Figure 37A;
[0051] Figure 42 is a schematic of a construction machine, whereby the
supplemental
extension member has been added to the boom for a system designed to be
utilized with an
electric magnet for retrieving scrap;
[0052] Figures 43A-43C illustrate, in different positions, a telescopic
adapter module
mounted to the boom of a construction machine
[0053] Figure 44 is an exploded top view of a stick wing and a portion of an
adapter;
[0054] Figure 45 is a side view of the stick wing illustrated in Figure 44;
[0055] Figure 46 is an assembled top view of the arrangement illustrated in
Figure 44, with
the locking pins retracted;
[0056] Figure 47 is an assembled top view similar to the arrangement
illustrated in Figure
46, but with the locking pins extended to engage the adapter;
[0057] Figure 48 is a side view of a multi-tool secured to a universal adapter
plate suited
for mounting upon a skid steer;
[0058] Figure 49 is a perspective view of the universal adapter plate
illustrated in Figure
48.
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[0059] Figure 50 is a schematic similar to that illustrated in Figure 37C,
wherein the
modified extension ann is oriented such that the cylinder is beneath the
modified extension
arm to provide lift to an attachment mounted thereupon;
[0060] Figure 51 is a schematic similar to that illustrated in Figure 2,
wherein in Figure 51
the stick wing has a standardized distal coupling arrangement;
[0061] Figures 52A and 52B are similar to that illustrated in Figures 5A and
5B, however,
now a standardized distal coupling arrangement is located where, originally,
the standardized
proximal coupling arrangement was located;
[0062] Figure 53 illustrates an arrangement similar to that in Figure 4,
however, the boom
wing now has a standardized proximal coupling arrangement as opposed to the
standardized
proximal coupling arrangement illustrated in Figure 4;
[0063] Figures 54A and 54B illustrate schematics similar to those found in
Figures 6A and
6B, however, now a standardized distal coupling arrangement is located where,
originally, the
standardized proximal coupling arrangement was located;
[0064] Figures 55, 56, and 57 illustrate a perspective view, an end view, and
side view,
respectively, of an adapter with a standardized proximal coupling arrangement
at each end;
[0065] Figures 58, 59, and 60 illustrate a perspective view, an end view, and
a side view,
respectively, of an adapter with a standardized distal coupling arrangement at
each end;
[0066] Figures 61, 62, and 63 illustrate an exploded, a cut-away, and an
assembled view of
the adapter found in Figure 55 arranged to show its relationship with other
attachments;
[0067] Figure 64 is a schematic of a side view of a construction machine with
a split boom
with the lower boom portion illustrated;
[0068] Figure 65 illustrates the split boom of Figure 64 with the upper boom
portion
extension having a cylinder which is oriented for lifting; and
[0069] Figure 66 is similar to the arrangement illustrated in Figure 65,
however, now the
boom extension has been rotated such that it is now best suited to impart a
downward force to
the extension, which in one application it may be used for digging.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0070] Figure 1 illustrates a construction machine 10, including a tractor 12,
having an
extension arm or boom 15 mounted thereupon and pivoted upon the tractor 12
with a
hydraulic cylinder (not shown). Attached to the boom 15 is an extension arm or
stick 20
operated by a hydraulic cylinder 25 attached between the boom 15 and the stick
20. A stick
pivot attachment point 30, in conjunction with a stick linkage attachment
point 35, provides
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points of attachment through which other tools and accessories may be attached
to the stick
20. A hydraulic cylinder 40, in conjunction with a connecting linkage 45, acts
to move the
stick linkage attachment point 35 to manipulate any accessory attached
thereto. It is
important to note that the stick pivot attachment point 30 and stick linkage
attachment point
35 may significantly differ from one manufacturer to another, such that one
accessory or tool
from a particular manufacturer may not be compatible to mount upon the stick
of another
manufacturer.
[0071] Directing attention to Figure 2, the subject invention is intended to
overcome this
deficit by providing a modular system comprised of different functional
modules that may be
attached to the stick 20 through the use of a stick wing 50. The proximal end
51 of the stick
wing 50 is connected to the stick 20 at the stick pivot attachment point 30
and at the stick
linkage attachment point 35. The distal end 52 of the stick wing 50 includes a
standardized
proximal coupling arrangement 55 which may be used as a base for mounting any
number of
modular accessories or tools.
[0072] Additionally, directing attention to Figures 3 and 4, which illustrate
a construction
machine 10 having a tractor 12 with only a boom 15 extending therefrom, a boom
pivot
attachment point 60 and a boom linkage attachment point 65, driven by the
hydraulic cylinder
25, may be used as attachment points to receive the proximal end 71 of a boom
wing 70
(Figure 4). Once again, a distal end 72 of the boom wing 70 has a standardized
proximal
coupling arrangement 75 adapted to receive a variety of different modular
accessories and
tools.
[0073] Through the use of the stick wing 50 and the boom wing 70 it is
possible to adapt a
large variety of different construction machines to accept a plurality of
standardized
attachments and tools, thereby providing the maximum versatility for a
construction machine
in the event a manufacturer does not provide a full complement of such
attachments
and/or tools, or, in the event a machine owner wishes to maximize the capacity
of the
machine.
[0074] In particular, the proximal end 51 of the stick wing 50 or the proximal
end 71 of the
boom wing 70 may be customized to accommodate the stick attachment points or
the boom
attachment points of any variety of different designs.
[0075] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate a front and side view of a stick wing 50.
In particular,
the stick wing 50 is comprised of at least two plates 80, 81, each having at
least two holes 82,
84 extending therethrough and spaced apart to define a hole pattern 85. The at
least two
opposing plates 80, 81 have mounting surfaces 86, 88 thereupon. It is the
location of these
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plates 80, 81 and the associated holes 82, 84 which define the proximal
coupling arrangement
associated with the stick wing 50. The opposing plates 80, 81 are connected
together through
the use of a connecting member 90.
[0076] Additionally, each opposing plate 80, 81 has therethrough connecting
bores 92, 94
spaced apart from one another on each plate 80, 81. It is the location and
design of each of
these connecting bores 92, 94 which provide a connection to the stick wing 50
of one
manufacturer or another manufacturer. The stick wing 50 may be designed such
that the size
and the location of the connecting bores 92, 94 accommodate the attachment of
the stick for
different construction machines. While it may be necessary for a machine owner
to have in
inventory a variety of different stick wings 50, each designed to adapt for
different
construction machinery, it will not be necessary for the machine owner to
purchase
customized tools for each construction machine because, as will be seen, the
modular system,
in accordance with the subject invention, permits the use of a single set of
tools upon
machines from different manufacturers.
[0077] Figures 6A and 6B illustrate a side view and a top view of a boom wing
70 having
the standardized proximal coupling arrangement 75 and connecting bores 100,
102 extending
through plates 104, 106 designed to be connected to the boom pivot attachment
point 60 and
boom linkage attachment point 65 illustrated in Figure 3. The standardized
proximal
coupling arrangement 75 is identical to the standardized proximal coupling
arrangement 55
previously described in association with the stick wing 50. Additionally, the
connecting
bores 100, 102 may be sized and spaced appropriately to accommodate the
attaclunent points
for booms from manufacturers of different construction machines. Just as with
the stick wing
50, the boom wing 70 may be comprised of at least two opposing plates 104, 106
and each of
these opposing plates 104, 106 may have mounting surfaces 108, 110.
[0078] A typical configuration for the proximal coupling arrangement and
distal coupling
arrangement herein discussed is illustrated in Figures 7A and 7B. Directing
attention to
Figure 7A, an adapter 210 having a standardized proximal coupling arrangement
55 is
illustrated in an exploded isometric view relative to the standardized distal
coupling
arrangement 115 of another adapter 211. In particular and using reference
numbers already
used with respect to the stick wing 50 and the boom wing 70, the proximal
coupling
arrangement 55 is comprised of opposing plates 80, 81 with a hole pattern 85
defined by
holes 82, 84 which extend through both plates 80, 81. Each plate 80, 81 has a
mounting
surface 86, 88.
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[0079] The standardized distal coupling arrangement 115 is also comprised of
at least two
opposing plates 120, 122 with a hole pattern 124 defined by spaced-apart holes
126, 128.
Each opposing plate 120, 122 has a mounting surface 130, 132 each of which is
generally
aligned with a mounting surface 86, 88 of the distal coupling arrangement 55.
The opposing
plates 80, 81 of the proximal coupling arrangement 55 are spaced in
complimentary
relationship with the opposing plates 120, 122 of the distal coupling
arrangement 115, such
that when the plates 80, 81 and 120, 122 are merged, the mounting surfaces 86,
130 and 88,
132 are adjacent to one another. Additionally, the hole pattern 85 of the
distal coupling
arrangement 55 identified by holes 82, 84 match the hole pattern 124 of the
distal coupling
arrangement 115 defined by holes 126, 128. As a result, the proximal coupling
arrangement
55 is mated with the distal coupling arrangement 115 and the hole patterns 85,
124 align,
such that the retention pins 140, 142, 144, 146 may be inserted within the
holes, thereby
securing the proximal coupling arrangement 55 within the distal coupling
arrangement 115,
as illustrated in Figure 7B. The retention pins 140, 142, 144, 146 each have
bores 140a,
142a, 144a, 146a extending diametrically therethrough to accept locking pins
(not shown)
which are engaged through the bores 140a, 142a, 144a, 146a and through
matching bores
140b, 142b, 144b, 146b extending through the adapter.
[0080] It is also possible, as illustrated in Figure 7A, for the distal
coupling arrangement
115 to further include with each opposing plate 120, 122, a reinforcement
plate 148, 150
spaced next to the opposing plate 120, 122 to define slots 152, 154
therebetween. Each
reinforcement plate 148, 150 has an identical hole pattern 156 to that of the
hole pattern 124
associated with the opposing plate within the slot 152.
[0081] From inspection of Figure 7A, it should be appreciated that each
adapter module
210, 211 has a standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55 and a
standardized distal
coupling arrangement 115 at each end. As a result, a plurality of adapter
modules 210, 211
may be connected to one another in a string of modules. As will be discussed,
each different
type of module hereinafter discussed will have one or both of the proximal
coupling
arrangement 55 and the distal coupling arrangement 115. As a result, these
modules may be
selected and matched with one another to provide a nearly limitless
combination of different
modules.
[0082] Although throughout this application a specific configuration is
described, with
respect to each distal coupling arrangement and each proximal coupling
arrangement, it is
entirely possible for the configuration associated with one coupling
arrangement to be
associated with the other configuration. In particular, with respect to Figure
7A, it is entirely
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possible for the distal coupling arrangement to be associated with reference
number 115 and
the proximal coupling arrangement to be associated with reference number 55.
[0083] Directing further attention to Figures 7A and 7B, the standardized
distal mounting
arrangement 115 illustrated therein on adapter 211 includes two pairs of
spaced-apart parallel
plates 120, 122. Opposing plate 120 forms with reinforcement plate 148, a slot
152, having a
width W in the adapter 211. The plate 80 on adapter 210 has a thickness t
which is
approximately equal to but less than, the width W of the slot 152.
[0084] Additionally, the opposing plate 122 on adapter 211 forms with the
reinforcement
plate 150 a slot 154 having a width W in the adapter 211.
[0085] This same relationship exists with respect to the opposing plate 122
and the
reinforcement plate 150 of the adapter 211 which form the slot 154 having a
width W and the
plate 81 of the adapter 210, which has a thickness t. Common mating holes 126,
128 extend
through the pairs of spaced-apart parallel plates 120, 122 and plates 148, 150
in the adapter
211 and the plates 80, 81 in the adapter 210. Pins 140, 144 extend through the
common hole
126, while pins 142, 146 extend through the common hole 128 to restrict
translation of the
adapter 210 and the adapter 211 relative to one another in a direction
parallel to the plates.
Depending upon the configuration, it is possible for a single bore through the
plates and a
single pin extending therethrough to limit the translation of the adapter 210
and the adapter
211 relative to one another.
[0086] While Figure 7A illustrates a standardized proximal coupling
arrangement 55 on
one side of the adapter 210 and a standardized distal coupling arrangement 115
on one side of
the adapter 211, it is entirely possible to switch the standardized proximal
coupling
arrangement 55 and the standardized distal coupling arrangement 115 so that,
while the same
coupling occurs between the adapters 210, 211, the standardized proximal and
standardized
distal coupling arrangements are reversed between the adapter 210 and the
adapter 211.
Although this coupling reversal is discussed with respect to adapter 210 and
adapter 211
illustrated in Figures 7A and 7B, this type of alternate arrangement may be
applied to any of
the configurations discussed herein.
[0087] Although the proximal coupling arrangement and mating distal coupling
arrangement heretofore disclosed will be the typical arrangement discussed
throughout this
application, it should be appreciated that there are multiple other coupling
arrangements
which may be used with the subject invention. In particular, as illustrated in
Figure 8, a
standardized distal coupling arrangement 155 is mateable with a standardized
proximal
coupling arrangement 215, whereby the arrangement 155 is comprised of a
hooking plate 160
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with a hole 162 therethrough and a spaced-apart hook 164. The proximal
coupling
arrangement 215 is comprised of a hooked plate 166 with a spaced-apart hole
168
therethrough and a pivot pin 170, such that the hook 164 of the hooking plate
160 may
engage the pivot pin 170 of the hooked plate 166 and the spaced-apart holes
162, 168 aligned
to receive a support pin 172 extending therethrough, thereby providing a
secure coupling
between the distal coupling arrangement 155 and the proximal coupling
arrangement 215.
[0088] Figure 9 illustrates yet another coupling arrangement, whereby a distal
coupling
arrangement 175 is connected to a proximal coupling arrangement 180. In
particular, the
distal coupling arrangement 175 is comprised of a plate 185 having a hole 187
extending
therethrough and a wide protruding end 188. A projection 189 extends
transversely to the
end 188. The proximal coupling arrangement 180 is comprised of a plate 195
having a hole
197 extending therethrough and a matching wide receiving end 198. A recess 199
complimentary in shape to the projection 189 extends transversely within the
end 198 in a
direction corresponding to the projection 189. The wide protruding end 188 of
the distal
coupling arrangement 175 is brought into abutment with the matching wide
receiving end
199 of the proximal coupling arrangement 215, wherein the holes 187, 197 are
aligned and
the projection 189 is engaged with the recess 199. A retention bolt 201 is
then placed within
the holes 187, 197 to provide a secure coupling between the two coupling
arrangements 175,
180.
[0089] What has so far been described is a distal mounting arrangement secured
to a
proximal mounting arrangement through the use of pins which are secured within
mating
hole patterns between the proximal mounting arrangement and the distal
mounting
arrangement. While it is entirely possible to manually secure these pins
within the holes of
the matching hole patterns, it is also possible to automate this function so
that the pins may be
hydraulically activated to be engaged or disengaged from the matching holes of
the proximal
mounting arrangement and distal mounting arrangement.
[0090] In particular and directing attention to Figures 10-13C, an
automatically actuated
coupling system 300 will be discussed. For purposes of discussion, as shown in
Figure 10, a
stick wing 305 will be attached to an adapter 310. The stick wing 305 is
comprised of a base
312 having at least one plate 314 with at least two holes 316, 318 extending
therethrough
defining a hole pattern 319.
[0091] Directing attention to Figures 10 and 12A, and focusing on one half of
a coupling
arrangement 305, 310, at least two locking posts 320, 322 are aligned with the
holes 316, 318
and secured to a tie bar 324. When the stick wing 305 is aligned with the
adapter 310, the
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posts 320, 322 are slidable within the holes 316, 318 of the base plate 314.
The adapter 310
is a module having a plate 328 with a hole pattern 330 extending therefrom
matching that
hole pattern 319 of the base plate 314 when the adapter 310 is positioned next
to the stick
wing 305. A manipulator rod 335 (Figure 11) is moved back and forth by an
actuator 340.
Figure 11 illustrates the manipulator rod 335 in a retracted position. The
actuator 340 may
be, among other things, a hydraulic cylinder or an electric solenoid capable
of moving the
manipulator rod 335 from a retracted position, illustrated in Figure 11, to an
extended
position, illustrated in Figure 13A. The manipulator rod 335 extends from the
stick wing 305
to engage a slot 342 in the tie bar 324, as illustrated in Figures 10 and 13A.
As illustrated in
Figure 13B, once the manipulator rod 335 engages the slot 342 within the tie
bar 324 the
manipulator rod 335 may be retracted, which at the same time will pull the tie
bar 324 toward
the adapter plate 328 thereby moving the locking posts 320, 322 (Figure 12A)
into the holes
316, 318 (Figure 10) of the wing 305 to secure the adapter 310 within the wing
305. Figures
12A and 13A illustrate the adapter 310 with the tie-bar 324 and the pins 320,
322 in the
extended position, while Figure 13C illustrates the stick wing 305 secured to
the adapter 310
when the tie bar 324 is positioned in the retracted manner. As a safety
precaution, directing
attention to Figure 13C, locking pins 344, 346 may be used to secure the
manipulator rod 335
within its refracted position relative to the adapter 310. By utilizing such
an arrangement, it
is possible to automatically actuate retention pins to engage or disengage
modules associated
with one another.
[0092] It should be noted that in a preferred embodiment, the stick wing 305
and the
adapter 310 have been discussed with a single based plate 314 and a single
adapter plate 328.
However, it should be understood and as illustrated in Figures 10-13C, that
each stick wing
305 and adapter 310 has at least a pair of opposing plates to provide an
arrangement which is
symmetrical about the center of each the stick wing 305 and the adapter 310.
It should also
be noted that while, with respect to Figures 10 ¨ 13C, only one side of the
arrangement was
discussed, there are four retention pins in a typical adapter coupling in a
symmetric
arrangement to pins 320, 322, illustrated in Figure 12A.
[0093] Figures 10-13C illustrate one type of automatically actuated
coupling system 300,
whereby the locking posts mounted upon the adapter 310 are moved inwardly to
engage the
holes 316, 318 of the stick wing 305.
[00941 Directing attention to Figures 44-47, it is also possible for the
locking posts to move
outwardly. In particular, an automatically actuated coupling system 1300 will
be discussed.
For purposes of discussion as shown in Figure 44, a stick wing 1305 will be
attached to an
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adapter 1310. The stick wing 1305 is comprised of a base 1312 having at least
one plate
1314 with at least two holes 1316, 1318 extending therethrough defining a hole
pattern 1319.
At least two locking posts 1320, 1322 are aligned with the holes 1316, 1318
and slidably
mounted within a guide 1324 attached to the stick wing base. When the stick
wing 1305 is
aligned with the adapter 1310, the posts 1320, 1322 are slidable within the
holes 1316, 1318
of the base plate 1314. The adapter 1310 is a module having a plate 1328 with
a hole pattern
similar to that of hole pattern 1319 extending therefrom and matching the hole
pattern 1319
of the base plate 1314 when the adapter 1310 is positioned next to the stick
wing 1305.
When the stick wing 1305 is properly positioned adjacent to the adapter 1310,
the locking
pins 1320, 1322 are expanded outwardly to engage the holes 1316, 1318 from the
retracted
position, illustrated in Figure 46, to the extended position, illustrated in
Figure 47, where the
locking posts 1320, 1322 engage the adapter 1310. The locking posts 1320, 1322
may be
hydraulically activated within the guide 1324. It should be noted that while
the locking posts
1320, 1322 within the guide 1324 are associated with the stick wing 1305, it
is entirely
possible for the locking posts 1320, 1322 within the guide 1324 to be
associated instead with
the adapter 1310.
[0095] Briefly returning to Figures 7A and 7B, described therein was a
proximal coupling
arrangement 55 mateable with a distal coupling arrangement 115. Figures 14A-
14C illustrate
a single adapter module 350 for connecting to a construction machine, wherein
the module
350 has a body 352 with a first end 354 and a second end 356. A proximal
coupling
arrangement 55 similar to that illustrated in Figure 7A is associated with the
first end 354 and
a distal coupling arrangement 115 similar to that illustrated in Figure 7A is
associated with
the second end 356. The reference numbers applied in Figure 7A may also be
applied to the
elements in Figures 14A-14C. It should be appreciated that other modules
having a proximal
coupling arrangement 55 on their first end and a distal coupling arrangement
115 on their
second end may be arranged with one another and interlocked together in any
desirable
fashion. It is this interchangeability which provides the machine owner with
maximum
versatility and maximum efficiency in mixing and matching any number of a
variety of
different modules each having a proximal coupling arrangement and/or a distal
coupling
arrangement which are compatible with other modules.
[0096] The module 350 illustrated in Figures 14A-14C, is an adapter module
which, as will
be discussed, is intended to attach to a multi-tool. The adapter module 350 at
its first end 354
includes a sleeve 401 with a longitudinal axis 403 and a passageway 405
extending
therethrough along the longitudinal axis 403. The sleeve 401 is adapted to
encompass the
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hydraulic cylinder portion 362 (Figure 15) on the end of the multi-tool 360,
which is used to
operate the multi-tool 360.
[0097] Figure 15 is an exploded side view of an arrangement, whereby a stick
wing 50
may be secured to an adapter module 350 which itself may be secured to a multi-
tool 360.
The multi-tool 360 includes a distal coupling arrangement 115 similar to that
illustrated in the
adapter module 350 of Figures 14A-14C.
[0098] Briefly returning to Figures 14A-14C, the body 352 includes a window
358. When
the adapter module 350 is secured to the multi-tool 360, the window 358
provides access for
the hydraulic lines which operate the multi-tool 360.
[0099] Figure 16 illustrates the stick wing 50 with the adapter module 350 and
a multi-tool
360 adjacent thereto. Between the stick wing 50 and the adapter module 350 is
an extension
module 365 which is similar to the adapter module 350 but exists purely to
provide an
extension between the stick wing 50 and another module. The extension module
365
includes a support structure 367 with a proximal coupling arrangement 55
associated with the
first end 369 and a distal coupling arrangement 115 associated with the second
end 371.
1001001 While the adapter module 350 and the extension module 365 provide
rigid
structures between the proximal coupling arrangement and the distal coupling
arrangement of
each of these modules, Figure 17 illustrates a folding module 375 which is
capable of
pivoting, such that the proximal coupling arrangement 55 and distal coupling
arrangement
115 may be oriented relative to one another at different angles. The folding
module 375,
illustrated in Figure 17, is attached to an adapter module 350 at the first
end 377 and to a stick
wing 50 at the second end 379. Just as before, the adapter module 350 is
connected to the
multi-tool 360.
[00101] The configuration illustrated in Figure 18 is identical to the
configuration
illustrated in Figure 17 with the exception that the stick wing 50 is replaced
by the boom
wing 70 previously described. With this interchangeability, it should be
appreciated that any
module that may be attached to the stick wing 50, illustrated in Figure 2, may
also be
attached to the boom wing 70, illustrated in Figure 4. Nevertheless, returning
to Figure 18,
the folding module 375 as described with respect to Figure 17 is capable of
orienting the
proximal coupling arrangement 55 at a different angle relative to the distal
coupling
arrangement 115.
[00102] Directing attention to Figures 18 and 19, the folding module 375 is
comprised of a
two-part structure between the first end 377 and the second end 379. Figure 18
illustrates the
folding adapter 375 in a straight pattern, while Figure 19 illustrates the
folding adapter 375 in
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a folded configuration. A first part 380 and a second part 382 are connected
at one point 384
by a pivot 386 and are connected at a different point 388 by a driving
cylinder 390 with a
cylinder rod 392 such that the motion of the cylinder rod 392 changes the
angular orientation
of the first part 380 relative to the second part 382 and, as a result,
changes the angular
orientation of the adapter 350 relative to the boom wing 70 or to any other
module to which
the first part 380 may be attached.
[00103] The arrangements illustrated in Figure 18 and in Figure 19 are a boom
wing 70
attached to a folding module 375, which itself is attached to an adapter
module 350. To
conserve space and to minimize the number of parts, it is entirely possible to
consolidate the
boom wing 70 and the folding module 375, illustrated in Figures 18 and 19, to
generate a
folding adapter module 395, illustrated in Figures 20A and 20B. The folding
adapter module
395 is comprised of a two-part structure, wherein the first part is an adapter
part 397 similar
to the adapter module 350 previously described, but now, the adapter part 397
is an integral
part of the folding adapter module 395. The adapter part 397 is at the module
first end 409.
[001041 The folding adapter module 395 includes a first part 407 which has an
adapter at
the module first end 409 and includes similar features to the adapter module
350 described
with respect to Figures 14A-14C. In particular, the first part 407 at the
first end 409 includes
a sleeve 401 with a longitudinal axis 403 and a passageway 405 extending
therethrough along
the longitudinal axis 403. The sleeve 401 is adapted to overlap a hydraulic
cylinder portion
362 (Figure 15) on the end of a tool 360.
[00105] The second part is a folding member 411. The first part 407 and the
second part
411 are connected to one another at one point 484 by a pivot 486 and at a
different point 488
by a driving cylinder 490 with a cylinder rod 492, such that motion of the
cylinder rod 492
changes the angular orientation of the first part 407 relative to the second
part 411 and, as a
result, changes the angular orientation of the boom wing 70 and the first end
409.
[00106] The folding adapter module 395 illustrated in Figures 20A and 20B is
comprised
of a first part 407, which is an adapter, and a second part 411, which is the
folding member.
Figures 20C and 20D illustrate a similar arrangement but with a standardized
proximal
coupling arrangement 55 associated with the folding member 411 adjacent to the
first part
407. As a result, the first part 407 includes a standardized distal coupling
arrangement 115
such that, in contrast to the arrangement in Figures 20A and 20B, the first
part 407 may be
easily secured to or removed from the folding member 411. This arrangement is
similar to
that shown in Figure 19 except now the boom wing 70 (Figure 19) and the second
part 382
are unified as a single part. Additionally, with the standardized proximal
coupling
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arrangement 55 on the folding member 411, any of a variety of other members
may be
mounted to the folding member 411, as long as those members have a compatible
standardized distal coupling arrangement 115.
[00107] Figures 21A-21D illustrate the versatility of a multi-tool 360
attached to a boom
wing 70 by way of the folding adapter module 395 just described. Not only may
the multi-
tool 360 be rotated by the motion of the boom 15 as it is pivoted about the
tractor (not
shown), but additionally, through the use of the folding adapter module 395,
the multi-tool
360 may have an additional joint of rotation such that, as illustrated in the
sequence of
Figures 20A-20C, the multi-tool 360 may be rotated through an angular range of
approximately 1350. While such a rotation may be available utilizing a
standard boom/stick
combination, the space required for this arrangement coupled with a multi-tool
360 would be
prohibitive and, as a result, the folding adapter module 395 provides a
solution not heretofore
available in previous designs.
[00108] The modular design so far discussed is amenable to both a terminal
module with a
standardized coupling arrangement at only one end or an intermediate module
which includes
a standardized proximal coupling arrangement on one end and a distal coupling
arrangement
on another end.
[00109] Returning attention to Figure 16, the extension module 365 is one
example of an
intermediate module which, on a first end 369, includes a standardized
proximal coupling 55
and, on the second end 371, includes a standardized distal coupling 115, such
that the
extension module 365 may be secured between two other modules having an
identical distal
coupling arrangement or proximal coupling arrangement. As illustrated in
Figure 16, the
stick wing 50 includes a proximal coupling arrangement 55 which is secured to
the distal
coupling arrangement 115 at one end 371 of the extension module 365 while the
proximal
coupling arrangement 55 at the other end 369 of the extension module 365 is
secured to the
distal coupling arrangement 115 of the adapter module 350. As such, the
adapter module 350
is also an intermediate module used to accommodate the multi-tool 360.
[00110] In order to accommodate the proximal coupling arrangement 55 of the
adapter
module 350, the multi-tool 360 has a front end 500 (Figure 15) with a
standardized proximal
coupling arrangement 115 with the hydraulic cylinder portion 362 extending
therefrom. As
previously mentioned, the tool adapter 350 includes a sleeve 401 (Figure 14B)
with a
longitudinal axis 403 and a passageway 405 extending therethrough along the
longitudinal
axis 403. The sleeve 401 overlaps the hydraulic cylinder portion 362 (Figure
15) and has a
standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55 secured to the standardized
distal coupling
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arrangement 115 of the multi-tool 360. In this arrangement, the multi-tool
360, since it has
only a standardized distal coupling arrangement 115, is considered to be a
terminal module.
On the other hand, the tool adapter 350, since it has both a standardized
proximal coupling
arrangement 115 and a standardized distal coupling arrangement 55, is
considered to be an
intermediate module.
1001111 An intermediate module may also be the extension module 365 previously
discussed with respect to Figure 16. An intermediate module may furthermore be
the folding
module 375 discussed with respect to Figures 17 and 18. Additionally, an
intermediate
module may be the folding adapter module 395 discussed with respect to Figures
19-20B.
[00112] Directing attention to Figures 22 and 23, the intermediate module may
also be a
rotator module 510 that may, for example, be secured between the stick wing 50
and a bucket
512 having a distal coupling arrangement 115 thereupon. Figure 23 illustrates
this
arrangement assembled.
[00113] Directing attention to Figures 24-26, the rotator module 510 is
comprised of a
rotator 514 between a first end 516 and a second end 518. The rotator 514 is
comprised of a
first part 520 rotatably connected to a second part 522 and further includes a
driver 524 to
mechanically rotate the first part 520 relative to the second part 522,
thereby providing
rotation between the module first end 516 and the module second end 518. The
driver 524
rotates a driver gear which mates with an engaging gear to provide relative
rotation between
the first part 520 and the second part 522. The driver 524 may be a
hydraulically driven
motor or, in the alternative, may be an electric motor. The rotator module has
a standardized
distal coupling arrangement 115 at the first end 516 and a standardized
proximal coupling
arrangement 55 at the second end 518.
[00114] Although Figures 22 and 23 illustrate a bucket 512 secured to the
stick wing 50
through a rotator module 510, as illustrated in Figures 27 and 28, it is
entirely possible to
mount the bucket 512 directly to the stick wing 50.
[001151 Figures 29 and 30 illustrate an exploded and an assembled view of a
claw 530
secured to the stick wing 50 through a rotator module 510. The claw 530 may be
comprised
of two tines 532, 534 pivotally secured to the body 536 of the claw and
operated by hydraulic
cylinders (not shown).
[001161 Figures 31 and 32 illustrate a hammer 540 secured to the stick wing 50
in a typical
manner discussed within this application. Depending upon the manufacturer of
the hammer,
540, it may be necessary to install a fitting plate 542 which includes a
distal coupling
arrangement 115 similar to those discussed herein. With such an arrangement,
the hammer
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540 may be mounted via the stick wing 50 to the stick 20 of a construction
machine. Note
the hydraulic cylinder 40 (Figure 2) has been removed in Figure 32.
[00117] As previously stated, while a module having a proximal coupling
arrangement on
one end and a distal coupling arrangement on the opposing end has been
referred to as an
intermediate module, a module having only a standardized distal coupling
arrangement at one
end may be referred to as a terminal module. In particular, the multi-tool 360
(Figure 15)
may be considered a terminal module as may the bucket 512 (Figure 27), claw
530 (Figure
29), and hammer 540 (Figure 31).
[00118] Note the bucket 512 in Figures 22-23 and 27-28 is comprised of
opposing side
walls 513a, 513b and a curved bottom 515 connecting the side walls 513a, 513b.
The
standardized distal coupling 115 is mounted directly to the side wall 513a of
the bucket 512.
The shape of the bucket 512 in conjunction with the standardized distal
coupling 115
mounted directly to the side wall 513a permits the center of gravity of the
bucket 512 to be
closer to the proximal distal coupling 115, thereby reducing the overhang of
the bucket 512
relative to the construction machine. In particular, the hole pattern 156
(Figure 7A) has holes
126, 128 along a line parallel to the side wall 513a of the bucket 512.
[00119] What has so far been discussed are proximal coupling arrangements and
distal
coupling arrangements all compatible with one another. Such arrangements may
typically be
associated with a construction machine having a specific design capacity.
However, it is
entirely possible, depending upon the intended loading of a construction
machine, to mate a
coupling arrangement of one size with a coupling arrangement of a different
size. In
particular and with attention directed to Figures 33 and 34, a reducer module
550 is
comprised of a first end 552 having a distal coupling arrangement 115 and a
second end 554
having a proximal coupling arrangement but proportionately smaller to
accommodate a
proximal coupling arrangement also proportionately smaller for an adjacent
module. In
particular, the distance between slots in the distal coupling arrangement 115
is Li and the
distance between the center lines of the protrusions 557, 558 for the proximal
coupling
arrangement 55, which normally would extend within the slots 555, 556, is L2
which, as
illustrated in Figure 34, is less than Ll.
[00120] In the alternative, an enlarger module 560 may have a first end 562
with a distal
coupling arrangement having a distance between slots 566, 567 of L3 with a
second end 564
having a distance L4 between protrusions 568, 569, wherein L4 is greater than
L3, and the
standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55 is proportionately smaller than
the
standardized distal coupling arrangement 115.
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[00121] It should be noted that the size and the spacing of the mounting holes
for each
adapter will also change depending on the size of the coupling arrangement.
[00122] Figure 37A illustrates a construction machine 12 with a boom 15 and a
stick 20
with a stick wing 50 attached thereto and a supplemental extension arm 570
attached to the
wing 50. An electric magnet 575 is suspended by cables 577 from the
supplemental
extension arm 570. The electric magnet must be powered by an electric cable
578 extending
all of the way from the tractor 12 to the magnet 575 and, as a result, the
electrical cable 578 is
exposed not only to the motion of the boom 15 and the stick 20, but
furthermore, is exposed
to the environment which may include demolition debris contacting or severing
the electrical
cable 578.
[00123] The supplemental extension arm 570 is illustrated in Figures 38 and
39 and
includes a first window 585 providing an entrance to the internal frame and a
second window
587 providing an exit from the internal frame, thereby protecting the
electrical cable 578
along the length of the supplemental extension arm 570. By doing so, the
electrical cable 578
powering the magnet 575 is shielded along the segments of the construction
machine where
the cable 578 would normally be most vulnerable. The supplemental extension
arm 570 has
lifting slots 572, 573 extending therethrough suitable to accept the tines of
a forklift or
suitable to accept a cable sling for lifting.
[00124] In a design similar to that to be discussed with respect to Figures
40A and 40B, the
supplemental extension arm 570, as illustrated in Figures 38 and 39, may also
have a
standardized distal coupling 115 oriented at an angle A perpendicular to
longitudinal axis L.
[00125] Figure 37B illustrates an arrangement similar to that arrangement in
Figure 37A,
except now the stick 20 has been replaced by a modified stick 579. The
modified stick 579 is
similar to the stick 20 previously described with the addition of the
standardized distal
coupling 115. The modified stick 579, also illustrated in Figure 40A, may
include a first
window 581, which provides access to the internal frame of the modified stick
579 to protect
the electrical cable, and a second window 583, which together provide an
entrance point and
an exit point for the electrical cable 578. A hydraulic cylinder 590 is
mounted to the
modified stick 579 and the standardized proximal coupling 55, in the form of
the stick wing
50, is pivotally coupled to the hydraulic cylinder 590. As illustrated in
Figure 40A, the
standardized distal coupling 115 of the modified stick 579 may be oriented at
an angle A
perpendicular to a longitudinal axis L extending along the length of the
modified stick 579.
By providing a standardized distal coupling 115, which forms a perpendicular
angle with the
longitudinal axis L, it is possible to flip the modified stick 579 so that the
hydraulic cylinder
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590 is on the bottom of the configuration as opposed to the arrangement in
Figures 37B and
40A, with the hydraulic cylinder 590 on the top. As a result, the modified
stick 579 may be
oriented so that the hydraulic cylinder 590 is on the top or the bottom of the
configuration to
provide improved performance depending upon whether the modified stick 570 is
used to
push down on (cylinder on top) or lift (cylinder on bottom) an object. By
design, hydraulic
cylinders are designed to provide their greatest forces when the piston is
extended from the
cylinder housing. While the hydraulic cylinder 590 is illustrated on the top
of the modified
stick 579, the appearance of the modified stick 579 flipped with the hydraulic
cylinder 590 on
the bottom may be easily envisioned. On the other hand, the standardized
distal coupling
115, as illustrated in Figure 40B, may be oriented at a non-perpendicular
angle A relative to
the longitudinal axis L extending along the length of the arm 570.
[00126] While Figures 37B and 40A illustrate the hydraulic cylinder 590,
positioned on the
top of the modified stick 579, Figure 50 illustrates the same modified stick
579, but flipped,
such that the hydraulic cylinder 590 is on the bottom of the modified stick
579. In this
configuration, the modified stick 579 is better suited to lifting objects
since the cylinder 590
exerts a much greater force as it is being extended as opposed to retracted.
Additionally, a
second modified stick 579' may also be added with the hydraulic cylinder 590'
on the bottom
to provide not only an extension to the construction machine but to also
provide that
extension with the ability to lift an object. The modified stick 579 has a
first end 578A
adapted to be secured to the boom wing 70 in a fashion similar to that
configuration
previously described with respect to Figure 4.
[00127] The modified stick 579 in Figure 40B is identical to that illustrated
in Figure 40A
and presented in the earlier figures with the exception that now the
standardized distal
coupling 115 is oriented at a non-perpendicular angle A relative to the
longitudinal axis L.
[00128] Figure 37C illustrates an arrangement, whereby a first modified stick
579 may be
secured to a second modified stick 579'. While the second modified stick 579'
may be
identical to the first modified stick 579, it may be preferred for the second
modified stick 579'
to be smaller than the first modified stick 579. However, in principle,
multiple modified
sticks may be attached to one another to provide extension to a given machine.
[00129] Figures 41A-41E illustrate the versatility of a construction machine
10 having a
hydraulically activated boom 15, a hydraulically activated stick 20, and a
hydraulically
activated supplemental extension arm 570. As may be seen in the sequence
presented in
Figures 41A-41E, the end 589 of the supplemental extension arm 570 is capable
of being
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rotated 3600. Such a range of motion provides a machine operator with
tremendous
flexibility and versatility.
[00130] Figure 42 illustrates a construction machine 12 with a boom 15 and a
boom wing
70 attached thereto. The supplemental extension arm 570 is connected to the
boom wing 70.
Attached to the supplemental extension arm 570 through a support cable 577, is
an electric
magnet 575 powered by an electric cable 578. Therefore, it should be apparent
that the
supplemental extension arm 570 having an electric magnet 575 attached thereto
may be
secured to either the stick wing 50, as illustrated in Figure 37, or the boom
wing 70, as
illustrated in Figure 42.
[00131] Figures 43A-43C illustrate a telescopic adapter module 600 secured to
the boom
wing 70 of a construction machine 12. It should be appreciated that the
telescopic adapter
module 600 may also be mounted to a stick wing (not shown) or one of the
intermediate
adapters previously discussed herein.
[00132] The telescopic adapter module 600 is comprised of a base 605 with an
axially
moving nested segment 610 extending from the base 605. As can be seen in
Figures 43A-
43B, multiple nesting segments are possible. In particular, Figure 43C
illustrates a second
nested segment 615 extending from the first nested segment 610. At the
furthermost end of
nested segment 615 is a standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55 of a
particular size.
A central cylinder 620 may be activated to extend the segments 610, 615 from
the base 605.
In one embodiment of the subject invention, nested segment 615 is the only
segment that
includes the standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55. However, in
another
embodiment, the base 605 includes a standardized proximal coupling arrangement
55 of one
size, the first nested segment 610 includes a standardized proximal coupling
arrangement 55
of another size and, as mentioned, the second nested segment 615 includes yet
another
standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55 of yet another size. As a
result, the
telescopic adapter module 600 functions not only as a telescoping unit, but
furthermore,
provides the versatility to connect any number of different sized standardized
distal coupling
arrangements to the telescopic adapter module. As seen in Figure 43C, the
standardized
proximal coupling arrangement 55 becomes progressively smaller in each segment
610, 615
extending away from the base 605. The embodiment illustrated in Figures 43A-
43C includes
two nested segments 610, 615 extending from a base 605, wherein the
furthermost end of
each segment 610, 615 has a standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55.
[00133] The subject invention is also directed to a method of interchanging
one module
with another module to provide versatility to a construction machine. In
particular and with
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attention directed to Figures 22-23, the rotator module 510 may be secured
between the stick
wing 50 and the bucket 512 with the standardized coupling arrangements mating
with one
another. Additionally, with attention directed to Figures 27-28, the bucket
512 may be
attached directly to the stick wing 50. As a result, it should be apparent
that the modules
described throughout this application may be attached in any number of
combinations to
provide configurations desired by the machine owner. It is also possible to
remotely lock and
unlock these modules to one another by aligning the hole patterns between a
standardized
distal coupling arrangement and a standardized proximal coupling arrangement
and securing
retention pins through the matching holes as described herein.
[00134] The arrangements discussed so far have been directed to the members
having one
or both of the standardized proximal coupling and a standardized distal
coupling associated
with a relatively large construction machine. Directing attention to Figures
48-49, a universal
adapter plate 1400 which includes a standardized proximal coupling arrangement
55 may be
secured to a mounting plate 1410 suitable, for example, for mounting upon a
skid steer loader
(not shown). As a result, multi-tool 360 secured to an adapter 210, which has
a standardized
distal coupling arrangement 115, may be secured to the mounting plate 1410. It
should be
appreciated that the mounting plate 1410 may be configured for attachment to
any number of
different machines or tools. In such a fashion, the versatility provided by
the system
described herein may be utilized on other construction equipment, such as the
skid steer
loader.
[00135] The discussion associated with Figures 7A and 7B highlighted that,
depending
upon the configuration of the system, for a given module, the standardized
proximal coupling
arrangement 55 at one end may be switched to a standardized distal coupling
arrangement
115 at the same end.
[00136] Briefly directing attention to Figure 2, attached to the stick 20 is a
stick wing 50
having at its distal end 52 a standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55.
Figures 5A and
5B provide details of the stick wing 50 with the standardized proximal
coupling arrangement
55 shown in Figure 5A with a pair of spaced-apart parallel plates 80, 81. This
arrangement is
suitable to receive a standardized distal coupling arrangement.
[00137] Now directing attention to Figures 51, 52A, and 52B, a stick wing 710
has a
proximal end 712 pivotally connected to the stick 20 through a stick pivot
attachment point
30 and a stick linkage attachment point 35. However, now the distal end 712 of
the stick
wing 750 includes a standardized distal coupling arrangement 715, whereby, as
illustrated in
Figures 52A and 52B, the standardized distal coupling arrangement 715 is made
up of two
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opposing plates 720, 722 with mating holes 726, 728 extending theretlarough to
define a hole
pattern 724. Reinforcement plates 748, 750 are each closely spaced with
respective opposing
plates 720, 722 defining slots 752, 754 with a width W therebetween, wherein
the width W of
the slots 752, 754 are approximately equal to the thickness t of; for example,
a plate 80
(Figure 7A) from a standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55 intended to
be placed
within the slot 152 and secured therein using pins. The proximal end 712 of
the stick wing
750 is similar to the proximal end illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B.
[00138] What has just been described is a stick wing 750 having a standardized
distal
coupling arrangement 715. Briefly directing attention to Figure 4, a boom 15
has attached
thereto a boom wing 70 having a standardized proximal coupling arrangement 75.
[00139] Directing attention to Figures 53, 54A, and 54B, the boom 15 may also
have a
boom wing 760 having a proximal end 761 and a distal end 762. The proximal end
761 is
attached to the boom 15 at the boom pivot attachment point 60 and the boom
linkage
attachment point 65. At the distal end 762 is a standardized distal coupling
arrangement 765
which, directing attention to Figures 54A and 54B, is made up of two opposing
spaced-apart
parallel plates 770, 772 having a hole pattern 774 defined by holes 776, 778.
Spaced-apart
parallel reinforcement plates 780, 782, which are spaced from opposing plates
770, 772
define slots 784, 786 each having a width W suitable to receive plates 80, 82
(Figure 7A), for
example, from a standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55, wherein the
plates 80, 82
have a thickness t suitable to fit within the slots 784, 786 and to be secured
therein with pins
extending through the holes 776, 778. In this fashion, the boom 15 of a
construction machine
may be equipped with a stick wing or a boom wing, wherein the stick wing and
the boom
wing may have either of a standardized proximal coupling arrangement or a
standardized
distal coupling arrangement attached to their distal ends.
[00140] Figures 7A and 7B have illustrated adapters 210, 211 each having at
one end a
standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55 and, at an opposing end, a
standardized distal
coupling arrangement 115. Directing attention to Figures 55, 56, and 57, it is
also possible to
have an adapter 810 having a standardized proximal coupling arrangement 855 at
one end
and a similar standardized proximal coupling arrangement 855' at an opposing
end. The
arrangement and the plates are similar to the standardized proximal coupling
arrangement 55
described in Figures 7A and 7B.
[00141] Just as the adapter 810 may have standardized proximal coupling
arrangements
855, 855' at opposing ends, Figures 58-60 illustrate an adapter 910, similar
to that adapter 210
illustrated in Figures 7A and 7B, however, now having at each end standardized
distal
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coupling arrangements 915, 915' having similar features to the standardized
distal coupling
arrangement 115 described with respect to Figures 7A and 7B.
[00142] Figures 61, 62, and 63 illustrate the manner which the adapter 810,
shown in
Figures 55-57, may be mated with two adjacent components. In particular, an
adapter 950
may have a standardized distal coupling arrangement 960 that is adapted to
mate with the
standardized proximal coupling arrangement 855 of the adapter 950 and,
additionally, a
rotator element 970 may have at one end a standardized distal coupling
arrangement 980
suitable to be mated with the standardized proximal coupling arrangement 855'
of the adapter
810. Figure 62 shows cut-away portions revealing the manner by which the
plates of the
couplings mate with one another, while Figure 63 illustrates the parts
assembled in a final
configuration.
[00143] Figures 64-66 illustrate a construction machine 10 having a split boom
1500 with
a lower boom portion portion 1505 with a first end 1507 secured to the base of
the
construction machine 10. The second end 1508 has one of a standardized
proximal coupling
arrangement 1555 similar to standardized proximal coupling arrangement 55
described with
respect to Figures 7A and 7B or a standardized distal coupling arrangement
1615 similar to
that of standardized distal coupling arrangement 115 described with respect to
Figures 7A
and 7B. An upper boom portion 1520 has a lower end 1522 having the other of
the
standardized proximal coupling arrangement 1555 or standardized distal
coupling
arrangement 1615. As discussed with respect to the standardized proximal
coupling
arrangement 15 and the standardized distal coupling arrangement 115, at least
one common
mating hole extends through each plate associated with the couplings and a pin
is adapted to
slide into the mating holes and adjacent plates of the couplings to restrict
translation of the
lower boom portion portion 1505 and the upper boom portion portion 1520
relative to one
another in a direction parallel to the plates.
[00144] As illustrated in Figure 65, the lower boom portion 1505 and the upper
boom
portion 1520 have longitudinal axes 1506, 1521 that are generally co-axial
when the lower
boom portion 1505 and the upper boom portion 1520 are assembled together.
[00145] Additionally, while Figures 65 and 66 show the lower boom portion
portion 1505
and the upper boom portion 1520 in the assembled state, it should be
appreciated that each of
these have two significant differences. First of all, with respect to Figure
65, the upper boom
portion 1520 has at its upper end 1525 a boom wing 1570 with a standardized
distal coupling
arrangement 1575 similar to those described herein. Additionally, the upper
boom portion
1520 has a hydraulic cylinder 1580 mounted on one side, wherein the boom wing
1570 is
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pivotally attached to the hydraulic cylinder 1580. The hydraulic cylinder 1580
exerts the
greatest force when the cylinder rod 1582 is being extended and, for that
reason, the
configuration illustrated in Figure 65 is optimum for pivoting the boom wing
1570 in a
counterclockwise direction for lifting objects.
[00146] Directing attention to Figure 66, because of the symmetry of the
standardized
proximal coupling arrangement 1555 and the standardized distal coupling
arrangement 1615,
the entire upper boom portion 1520 may be rotated relative to the lower boom
portion 1505
so that the hydraulic cylinder 1580 is flipped or on the opposite side from
that illustrated in
Figure 65. In this configuration, the stick wing 1590, when the rod 1582 of
the hydraulic
cylinder 1580 is extended, rotates in a clockwise direction, thereby applying
a downward
force to a member connected to the stick wing 1590. In this fashion, the
hydraulic cylinder
1580 provides a downward motion suitable for digging. It should be noted in
the
arrangements illustrated in Figures 64-66, that the coupling between the
second end 1508 of
the lower boom portion 1505 and the first end 1525 of the upper boom portion
1520 are
oriented at an angle generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 1506 of
the lower boom
portion 1650. The coupling between the second end 1508 of the lower boom
portion 1505
and the first end 1525 of the upper boom portion 1520 may also be oriented at
an angle non-
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 1506 of the lower boom portion 1505.
[00147] It should now be appreciated that the system, in accordance with the
subject
invention, provides tremendous versatility for using the intermediate modules
and the
terminal modules to assemble from the stick or the boom of a construction
machine and
almost limitless number of different combinations to accommodate the needs of
a machine
operator since all of the intermediate modules and the terminal modules are
compatible with
one another through the standardized coupling arrangements.
[00148] While specific embodiments of the invention have been described in
detail, it will
be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and
alternatives to those
details could be developed in light of the overall teachings of the
disclosure. The presently
preferred embodiments described herein are meant to be illustrative only and
not limiting as
to the scope of the invention which is to be given the full breadth of the
appended claims and
any and all equivalents thereof.
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