Having Quick-connect Coupling Patents (Class 37/468)
  • Patent number: 8662817
    Abstract: A coupler for a backhoe or other excavator includes a frame including an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion is adapted to be secured to an associated backhoe or excavator arm. The lower portion includes a first hook adapted to mate releasably with a first associated attachment pin and includes a second hook adapted to mate releasably with a second associated attachment pin. First and second safety locks are movably connected to the frame and move relative to the first hook between an engaged position for capturing the first associated attachment pin in the first hook and a disengaged position for releasing the first associated attachment pin from the first hook. An actuator is adapted to move the safety locks selectively between the engaged and disengaged positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Paladin Brands Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Shadruz Daraie, Robert Sikorski
  • Patent number: 8622645
    Abstract: A coupler for an excavator, the coupler having a body with first and second spaced-apart recesses for receiving respective pins of an excavator attachment. A first latching hook is movable into and out of a latching state in which it is capable of retaining a respective attachment pin in the first recess. A second latching hook is movable into and out of a latching state in which it is capable of retaining a respective attachment pin in the second recess. A blocking member may be provided that is movable into and out of a blocking state in which it lies in the path of the second latching member to prevent the second latching member from leaving its latching state. The blocking member may be movable into and out of the blocking state under the influence of gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Ian Hill
  • Publication number: 20130318841
    Abstract: A tool coupler system is disclosed for use with a machine. The tool coupler system may have a tool coupler with a hydraulic actuator configured to selectively lock a tool to a machine. The tool coupler system may also have a first hydraulic pump configured to generate a first flow of pressurized fluid, and a second hydraulic pump configured to generate a second flow of pressurized fluid. The tool coupler system may further have a valve configured to selectively direct the first or second flows of pressurized fluid to the hydraulic actuator of the tool coupler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Troy Curtis ROBL, Andy Lee Vering, Trent Randall Stefek
  • Patent number: 8585314
    Abstract: A safety device for quick-fastening a tool to the end of an arm including two portions (1 and 2), one of which is attached to the arm of the machine and the other of which is attached to the tool. The first portion (1) includes a cradle (3) that is insertable under the arm of the other portion (2) having an extension (5) in the form of a hook, having at least one side lug (10) that can pass through notched openings (8, 9) in the first portion (1) and in a locking plate (6). The locking plate (6) is capable of sliding on the middle portion of the first portion (1) so as to be inserted under the hook extension (5) by springs (7). The locking plate (6) is provided with an abutment member (12) that limits the return movement of the plate (6) in order to prevent the notched openings (8, 9) from coinciding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: KLAC Industrie, Societe Anonyme
    Inventors: Christian André Morin, Marcel André Jean Morin
  • Patent number: 8556534
    Abstract: An attachment coupler for heavy machinery, which detachably installs an attachment to an arm of the heavy machinery, includes a coupler body coupled to the arm of the heavy machinery, a fixed hook formed on the coupler body and coupled to the attachment via a first coupling pin, a movable hook rotatably coupled to the coupler body via a hinge axis and coupled to the attachment via a second coupling pin, a hydraulic cylinder that rotates the movable hook to be coupled to or disengaged from the second coupling pin, and a locking device that includes a locking hook and an engagement device. The locking hook is rotatably coupled to the coupler body via a hinge axis and closes an open end of the fixed hook while being coupled to the first coupling pin. The engagement device rotates in association with the rotation of the movable hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Everdignm Corp.
    Inventors: Jong-Hyuk Lim, Jong-Ho Park, Seong-Tae Jeon
  • Patent number: 8549775
    Abstract: A remotely operable latching system for securing an implement to a carrier mounted to a forward end of a lifting arm for pivoting about a horizontal tilt axis. The latching system is mounted to the carrier and includes a latching rod arrangement operated by an extensible and retractable linear electric motor between a retracted latching position and an extended unlatching position. A secondary latch arrangement is provided for rotating the latching rod arrangement to an arrested position preventing movement of the rod arrangement to its latching position once the latching rod is extended to its unlatching position. Movement of the rod arrangement to its arrested position is aided by a spring and by the electric motor. A microprocessor based control unit is coupled to the electric motor and acts in response to a boom height input signals to prevent operation of the motor when the boom is above a preset height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Henry A. Lanting, Radu T. Guja
  • Patent number: 8545124
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus (10) includes a first coupling element (12) and a second coupling element (14). The first coupling element (12) has a mating surface (16) and a wedging surface (22) at the first end (18) of the first coupling element (12). An engagement surface (30) is located at the second end (20) of the first coupling element (12) and an alignment orifice (32) extends through the first coupling element (12). A second coupling element (14) also includes a mating surface (46) and a wedge member (48) at the first end (42) of the second coupling element (14). This wedge member (48) engages the wedging surface (22). An alignment member (60) at least partially extends through the alignment orifice (32), and a locking tab (62) extends from the second coupling element mating surface (46) and engages the engagement surface (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventor: John O. Gurosik
  • Patent number: 8537767
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method for performing Power Headroom reporting procedure, adapted for a user equipment, wherein the user equipment is operated in a plurality of activated serving cells, the method includes the steps of: providing a prohibitPHR-Timer; obtaining a plurality of downlink path loss values respectively corresponding to the activated serving cells; triggering a power headroom report when the prohibitPHR-Timer expires or has expired and at least one of the downlink path loss values has changed more than a PathlossChange threshold since the last transmission of a PHR; and reporting the power headroom report.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Sunplus Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Yuanyuan Zhang, Tsung-Liang Lu
  • Patent number: 8528239
    Abstract: A quick coupling device adapted to connect a tool to the arm of a handling equipment comprises a first support member that can be connected to an end of the arm, and a second support member that can be fixed to the tool, which members are mutually engageable as a result of a relative movement along an axis of coupling transverse to the end of arm. Each support member comprise two opposed coupling formations having a double inclination, so as to turn out to be convergent towards the axis of coupling both in the direction of mutual connection of the support members and with respect to a plane transverse to the axis of coupling. A support member includes at least one movable holding member adapted to be inserted in at least one corresponding seat of the other support member in the mutually coupled configuration, in order to mutually lock the two support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Giovanni Andrina
  • Patent number: 8496424
    Abstract: An arrangement for fixing a work piece (14) to an end of a boom (1) in a working machine, like an excavator, in which arrangement the end of the boom comprises at least a tilting device (13) for the work piece (14), the moveable body of said device can be limitedly tilted in relation to the end of the boom (1) and to the moveable body of said device the work piece (14) is fixed either directly or by fitting a device (10), (11) of an other type as a distance piece, said device adjusting position of the work piece (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Kinshofer GmbH
    Inventor: Raunisto Yrjö
  • Patent number: 8490304
    Abstract: A loader coupler includes a body with spaced-apart inner rib mounts for mating respectively with ribs of a first type of attachment. The body also includes inner locking regions that are aligned with the inner rib mounts. Spaced-apart outer rib mounts are also provided on the body and are adapted to mate respectively with a second type of attachment. Outer locking regions are aligned with the outer rib mounts. A lock system is connected to the body and includes: (i) a first actuator operatively connected to left and right first lock plungers and adapted to move the left and right first lock plungers between locked and unlocked positions; and, (ii) a second actuator operatively connected to left and right second lock plungers and adapted to move the left and right second lock plungers between locked and unlocked positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Paladin Brands Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Seda, Robert Sikorski
  • Patent number: 8469623
    Abstract: In one aspect of a coupling device for securing a primary mover to a work tool may include first and second coupling bodies interconnectable to form a first connecting interface and a second connecting interface spaced apart from the first connecting interface. The coupling device may also include a rotary wedge member attached to the first coupling body and rotatable to progressively force together the first and second coupling bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Work Tools B.V.
    Inventors: Dirk Jacobus Luyendijk, Oswald Zaayman
  • Patent number: 8448357
    Abstract: Couplers for attaching an accessory to an excavator arm of an excavator. Couplers having a first side for attaching the coupler to the excavator arm and a second side onto which the accessory will be coupled. The coupler includes a latch for selectively securing and releasing an attachment pin of the accessory in a jaw, groove, hook or slot in the second side of the coupler. The coupler is fully controllable from within the cab of the excavator and it allows improved security in the securement of the accessory to the coupler, i.e. preventing accidental decouplings, but while still allowing intentional decoupling operations to be carried out without undue burden.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Miller UK Limited
    Inventors: Gary Miller, Ronald Keith Miller, Gary Pendleton, Howard Reay, Paul Grant
  • Patent number: 8444367
    Abstract: A mounting frame for attaching a backhoe or other implement to a lift arm of a vehicle, such as a compact loader, includes an upright arm on the mounting frame that is positioned ahead of and adjacent to a forward portion of a lift arm of the loader. The upright arm carries a pivoting locking handle at a first pivot and a locking link is pivotally supported on the locking handle on a first pivot pin. The locking link has a second pivot pin that can be moved to be supported in an existing pin sleeve or bushing on the lift arm. The pivot pins on the locking link are positioned so that when the locking handle is moved to a locked position, the line between the axes of the pivot pins on the locking link goes over center with respect to the pivot axis of the first pivot locking handle, and a hook end of the link latches onto a locking projection on the upright arm. The mounting frame is held in a fixed position relative to the lift arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventor: Christopher Lougheed
  • Patent number: 8419339
    Abstract: A connecting member of a construction machine has an intermediate support member disposed between first and second support plates. The intermediate support member has a bottom plate formed with a draw-out hole for drawing out a casting mold and disposed facing the boom, and a cover plate continuous with the bottom plate and disposed facing the arm so as to cover the draw-out hole. A projection protruding in a draw-out direction of the casting mold is formed in at least a part of an edge facing the draw-out hole, in the bottom plate, the projection having an inner peripheral wall and an outer peripheral wall with respect to the draw-out hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignees: Kobe Steel, Ltd, Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayoshi Okumura, Yasuto Kataoka
  • Publication number: 20130074378
    Abstract: A scoop and dozer system disclosed for a wheel dozer. The scoop and dozer system includes right and left lift arms that may be coupled together by a distal cross beam. The lift arms include proximal portions and a distal hook-shaped portion that extends forward beyond the distal cross beam. The distal hook-shaped portions pivotally connect to a bucket. The distal cross beam provides a place for the location of a bracket that supports a single dump cylinder that extends upward into a central pocket disposed in the back of the bucket. The dump cylinder is protected from debris due to its raised position and placement inside a centralized pocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR, INC.
    Inventor: Michael P. May
  • Patent number: 8403590
    Abstract: A coupler for an excavator has first and second recesses for receiving first and second pins, respectively, of an attachment. A latching member is movable into and out of a latching state in which it closes the second pin-receiving recess. A blocking member is movable into and out of a blocking state in which it closes the first pin-receiving recess. An actuator is provided for moving the first latching member into and out of the latching state, the actuator acting indirectly upon the blocking member to move the blocking member into and out of its blocking state as the latching member is moved into and out of its latching state. Preferably the actuator acts upon the blocking member via a resiliently deformable member acting between the actuator and the blocking member whereby the resilient member can deflect should the blocking member be obstructed to avoid excessive loading on the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Ian Hill
  • Patent number: 8328459
    Abstract: A coupler for an excavator, the coupler comprising first and second recesses for receiving the pins of an attachment, a latching hook movable into and out of a latching state in which it closes the second pin-receiving recess, and a blocking bar movable into and out of a blocking state in which a portion of the blocking bar closes the first recess. The arrangement is such that, when the blocking bar is engaged in use by an attachment pin contained within the first recess, the action of the pin on the blocking bar urges the blocking bar into its blocking state. The blocking bar is further arranged so that, in the blocking state, it lies in the path of the latching hook and that, upon movement of the latching hook out of the latching state, the latching hook engages with the blocking bar to retain it in the blocking state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Ian Hill
  • Patent number: 8281506
    Abstract: A tool coupler assembly for a machine. The tool coupler assembly may have a coupler frame, a first latch, a second latch, and a hydraulic actuator connected to move the second latch relative to the first latch and the coupler frame. The hydraulic actuator may have a first chamber, a second chamber, and a pressure valve with a check element movable to allow a flow of fluid into the first chamber based on a pressure of fluid in the first chamber, and a pressure regulating element movable to allow a flow of fluid out of the first chamber based on a pressure of fluid in the second chamber. The tool coupler assembly may additionally have a first pilot passage configured to communicate fluid from the second chamber with the pressure-regulating element, and a second pilot passage configured to communicate fluid from the first chamber with the pressure-regulating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Trent Randall Stefek, Troy Curtis Robl
  • Patent number: 8262310
    Abstract: A coupler includes a frame with a front hook and a rear hook. A rear hook lock moves between an unlocked position and a locked position, wherein the rear hook lock obstructs an open mouth of the rear hook when the rear hook lock is in its locked position. An actuator is connected to the frame and is operatively connected to the rear hook lock. The actuator is adapted to move the rear hook lock between its unlocked and locked positions. A secondary lock includes a latch that moves between extended and retracted positions, wherein the latch obstructs an open mouth of the front hook when the latch is in its extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Paladin Brands Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Sikorski, Shadruz Daraie
  • Patent number: 8257009
    Abstract: An assembly for detachably connecting an implement having a pair of mounting pins to a machine provided with a dipper stick and a pair of tilt links operatively connected to the dipper stick, comprising a first assembly including a pair of jaw members pivotally connected to the dipper stick and cooperable upon pivotal movement thereof to selectively grip and release one of the mounting pins, and means for selectively pivoting the jaw members in opposite directions to effect such grip and release of the one of the mounting pins; and second and third assemblies each including a pair of jaw members pivotally connected to one of the tilt links and cooperable upon pivotal movement thereof to selectively grip and release the other of the mounting pins, and means for selectively pivoting the jaw members in opposite directions to effect such grip and release of the other of the mounting pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Rockland, Inc.
    Inventor: William F. Geraghty
  • Patent number: 8256148
    Abstract: Couplers for attaching an accessory to an excavator arm of an excavator. Couplers having a first side for attaching the coupler to the excavator arm and a second side onto which the accessory will be coupled. The coupler includes a latch for selectively securing and releasing an attachment pin of the accessory in a jaw, groove, hook or slot in the second side of the coupler. The coupler is fully controllable from within the cab of the excavator and it allows improved security in the securement of the accessory to the coupler, i.e. preventing accidental decouplings, but while still allowing intentional decoupling operations to be carried out without undue burden.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Miller UK Limited
    Inventors: Gary Miller, Ronald Keith Miller, Gary Pendleton, Howard Reay, Paul Grant
  • Publication number: 20120210614
    Abstract: A quick hitch coupler having an arrangement for releasably coupling a tool such as an excavator tool to the quick hitch coupler. The arrangement for releasably coupling the tool to the quick hitch coupler has tool pin engaging members on spaced apart portions of the main body of the quick hitch coupler. One of the tool pin engaging members has an associated latching member movably mounted on the main body of the quick hitch coupler between a tool pin locking position and a tool pin releasing position. The latching member has a lock movably mounted on the latching member for locking a tool pin onto the latching member quick hitch coupler in normal use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventors: Patrick McCormick, Caroline McCormick, Lorna McCormick, Martin Segarty, William Egenton
  • Publication number: 20120210613
    Abstract: A loader coupler includes a body with spaced-apart inner rib mounts for mating respectively with ribs of a first type of attachment. The body also includes inner locking regions that are aligned with the inner rib mounts. Spaced-apart outer rib mounts are also provided on the body and are adapted to mate respectively with a second type of attachment. Outer locking regions are aligned with the outer rib mounts. A lock system is connected to the body and includes: (i) a first actuator operatively connected to left and right first lock plungers and adapted to move the left and right first lock plungers between locked and unlocked positions; and, (ii) a second actuator operatively connected to left and right second lock plungers and adapted to move the left and right second lock plungers between locked and unlocked positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventors: Anthony Seda, Robert Sikorski
  • Patent number: 8240970
    Abstract: A loader coupling system includes an arm coupler and a link coupler each adapted to mate with an associated attachment. The arm coupler includes a body adapted to be connected to and extend between first and second spaced-apart arms of an associated loader machine. First and second plunger pins are located respectfully at opposite first and second ends of the body. At least one plunger actuator is operatively connected to the first and second plunger pins, and the at least one plunger actuator is selectively operative to move the first and second plunger pins between a retracted position and an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Paladin Brands Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam Bricker, Anthony Seda, Robert Sikorski
  • Patent number: 8191288
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are various aspects of an improved snow or material pushers for use with loaders, backhoes, agricultural and larger home and garden tractors and the like for moving snow or other materials on generally flat areas such as parking lots, driveways, feed lots, runways, and loading areas. The improvements include, among others, a reversible design, extended side plates and/or wear shoes as well as improved scraping edge configurations so as to provide added functionality and versatility to pushers. As described the various features may be employed alone or in combination to provide the capability for snow and ice removal while minimizing the potential for damage to surfaces and objects thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Pro-Tech Manufacturing and Distribution, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Weagley, Michael J. Guggino, James Maier
  • Patent number: 8177454
    Abstract: A quick coupler for attaching implements, such as buckets or other tools, to heavy equipment, such as backhoes and excavators, which includes two recesses or channels for receiving a pair of machine pins of an implement. A hydraulic piston actuates a first locking lever to enclose one of the pair of machine pins in one recess and a second locking lever to enclose the other one of the pair of machine pins in the other recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: CQMS Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Steig, Jr., Richard A. Thompson, Robert K. Hawkins, Wilson A. Jones
  • Patent number: 8151494
    Abstract: A coupler assembly to interpose between the arm of the vehicle and a parallel pinned implement having two docks, one on each of the two members able to be caused to slide relative to each other, each dock engagable outwardly to its pin with at least one pin being captive in its dock by a pivoted retention member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: S T Couplers Limited
    Inventors: Michael Kevin Scheib, Timothy Craig Balemi
  • Patent number: 8117773
    Abstract: A loader coupler includes a body with spaced-apart inner rib mounts for mating respectively with ribs of a first type of attachment. The body also includes inner locking regions that are vertically aligned with the inner rib mounts. Spaced-apart outer rib mounts are also provided on the body and are adapted to mate respectively with a second type of attachment. Outer locking regions are vertically aligned with the outer rib mounts. A lock system is connected to the body and includes: (i) a first actuator operatively connected to left and right first lock plungers and adapted to move the left and right first lock plungers between locked and unlocked positions; and, (ii) a second actuator operatively connected to left and right second lock plungers and adapted to move the left and right second lock plungers between locked and unlocked positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Paladin Brands Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Seda, Robert Sikorski
  • Patent number: 8112914
    Abstract: A coupler comprising two jaws and a latch for each jaw, one of the latches being powered for movement between a latching position and a non-latching position, and being associated with a blocking mechanism that is remotely movable between a blocking position and non blocking position, and the other latch being independent of the blocking mechanism, but being also remotely moveable between a latching position and a non-latching position, wherein the powered latch, in its non-latching position, can maintain both the blocking mechanism in its non blocking position and the other latch in its non-latching position, irrespective of the orientation of the coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Miller International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Gary Miller, Howard Reay
  • Publication number: 20110252673
    Abstract: A quick coupling device adapted to connect a tool to the arm of a handling equipment comprises a first support member that can be connected to an end of the arm, and a second support member that can be fixed to the tool, which members are mutually engageable as a result of a relative movement along an axis of coupling transverse to the end of arm. Each support member comprise two opposed coupling formations having a double inclination, so as to turn out to be convergent towards the axis of coupling both in the direction of mutual connection of the support members and with respect to a plane transverse to the axis of coupling. A support member includes at least one movable holding member adapted to be inserted in at least one corresponding seat of the other support member in the mutually coupled configuration, in order to mutually lock the two support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Giovanni Andrina
  • Patent number: 8024875
    Abstract: A compact excavator includes a base frame, an upper frame and first and second track assemblies supporting the base frame. The compact excavator also includes a primary implement assembly coupled to the upper frame and a secondary implement assembly. The secondary implement assembly includes a lift arm assembly pivotally coupled to the base frame and an implement coupler pivotally coupled to the lift arm assembly. The implement coupler is configured to latch an implement to the lift arm assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventors: Michael D. Wetzel, James M. Breuer, Thomas M. Sagaser
  • Patent number: 8020324
    Abstract: A spacing assembly kit, for use with an implement assembly of a machine, includes a spacing element having a bore and a recess coaxial with the bore, the spacing element being positionable on an implement coupling pin to reduce an implement coupling width, and a spring clamp positionable within the recess and configured to inhibit movement of the spacing element along an implement coupling pin. An implement assembly includes an implement having a body and spaced apart pin supports, with a pin positionable within the pin supports and having an implement coupling width defined by an exposed portion of the pin. Spacing elements are positionable on the pin between the pin supports and configured to reduce the coupling width, spring clamps further being provided which are configured to inhibit movement of the spacing elements when the clamps are engaged about the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Mark K. Moser, Timothy A. Gardner, Collin Spellmeier
  • Patent number: 8011121
    Abstract: A coupler for a backhoe or other excavator includes a frame with a lock system including a first safety lock that moves relative to a first hook between an engaged position for capturing the first associated attachment pin in the first hook and a disengaged position for releasing the first associated attachment pin from the first hook. An actuator moves the first safety lock between its engaged and disengaged positions. At least a first lock arm is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The first lock arm engages and retains the first safety lock in its engaged position when the first lock arm is in its locked position. The first lock arm is movable to its unlocked position by contact with the associated backhoe or excavator arm when the frame is moved to a curled position relative to the associated backhoe or excavator arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Paladin Brands Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Shadruz Daraie, Robert Sikorski
  • Patent number: 8006415
    Abstract: A connector for connecting an implement to a digger or other prime mover is mountable on the digger and has a recess for receiving a connecting pin mounted on the implement. The connecting pin is retained in the recess by a retaining pin that is mounted on the connector. The retaining pin has a head that is seated on a face of the recess and a cylindrical tail portion that is received in a passage formed in the connector to secure the retaining pin on the connector with the head projecting into the recess adjacent the connecting pin. There is clearance between the head and the connecting pin and the head is shaped so that the clearance is reduced to a minimum when the retaining pin is rotated in the passage. The connector advantageously comprises spaced apart side walls joined together by across member in the form of a bent plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Bas Manufacturing Limited
    Inventor: Bruce Archibald Short
  • Patent number: 8007197
    Abstract: A coupler device for releasably connecting a boom arm to a tool such as a bucket including a coupling frame adapted for connection to the boom and having wedge members on opposite sides thereof, these members being provided to engage in channels formed by connecting members on the tool. A fluid actuated holding mechanism is provided to secure the wedge members in the channels, this mechanism including a holder pivotably mounted on the frame and a fluid actuator connected to the holder at one end and to the frame at an opposite end. The coupler device includes a locking pin mechanism for locking the wedge members in the channels, this mechanism including at least one locking pin movably mounted in the frame for movement between a locked position and an unlocked position and, optionally, a linear fluid actuator mounted on the frame and having a hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Nye Manufacturing, Ltd.
    Inventors: John Charles Nye, Mark Nye
  • Patent number: 7984576
    Abstract: Couplers for attaching an accessory to an excavator arm of an excavator. Couplers having a first side for attaching the coupler to the excavator arm and a second side onto which the accessory will be coupled. The coupler includes a latch for selectively securing and releasing an attachment pin of the accessory in a jaw, groove, hook or slot in the second side of the coupler. The coupler is fully controllable from within the cab of the excavator and it allows improved security in the securement of the accessory to the coupler, i.e. preventing accidental decouplings, but while still allowing intentional decoupling operations to be carried out without undue burden.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Miller UK Limited
    Inventors: Gary Miller, Ronald Keith Miller, Gary Pendleton, Howard Reay, Paul Grant
  • Patent number: 7984575
    Abstract: A quick coupler for connecting and disconnecting an implement such as a bucket to and from a machine such as an excavator. In an example, the quick coupler includes a frame having recesses configured to receive pins located on the implement. The quick coupler includes first and second securing latches that are movable between latched and unlatched positions for removably latching the pins of the implement in the recesses. A rocker assembly and a connector link are provided for moving the second latch between latched and unlatched positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Troy Curtis Robl, Trent Randall Stefek
  • Patent number: 7966754
    Abstract: An adapter for permitting non-standard work tools to be attached to a work machine for which they were not originally sized to fit. The adapter comprises a sleeve which fits into bores on the work machine. Pins for attaching the work tool to the machine in turn are inserted through the work tool and into the sleeves. The sleeves protect the joint through seals positioned both on an outer surface of a flange of the sleeve, and on an inner surface of the bore of the sleeve. The sleeves also include holes for permitting lubricant to pass from the sleeve's outer circumferential surface to its inner circumferential surface. The sleeves may be permitted to rotate relative to the work machine via bearings in the bores of the work machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew M. Starykowicz, John F. Halterman
  • Patent number: 7963716
    Abstract: Assembly of a pin guide member for retaining a pair of connecting pins is facilitated for improvement in an assembling property and cost reduction. On the premise that inner brackets are overlapped with outer brackets, and pins are inserted into pin holes thereof so as to connect the brackets to each other, inner collar portions of pin guide members for retaining the pins are combined and integrated with each other by bolts and nuts through a supporting plate serving as a connection member. Meanwhile, outer collar portions of both the pin guide members are supported in the pin radial direction with respect to the inner brackets and rotation thereof is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takanori Yamasaki
  • Patent number: 7963054
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus having a device for automatic connection of power lines, in particular of hydraulic lines, for the attachment of working tools to a tool mount of a excavator boom by means of a quick-action coupling, wherein, in order to connect the tool mount to the working tool, the quick-action coupling has a hook connection and a blocking unit with a movable bolt element which is operated by an actuating unit. Supply connecting pieces are fixed to the tool mount, and the corresponding power take-off connecting pieces of the working tool are fixed on a mount, which is mounted on the working tool such that it can move between a moved-forward position and a drawn-back position, wherein the mount has a driver piece for engagement with an operating element which is coupled to the movable bolt element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Wimmer Hartstahl GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Alois Wimmer, Erich Greisberger
  • Patent number: 7958657
    Abstract: In the conventional connection and fixture part between a working vehicle and an excavator, a connection pin is made to contact a guide plate to be fixed in position, thereby requiring a high rigidity of the guide plate, accuracy of recreation of positioning of the connection pin, and high cost for manufacturing the guide plate. Thus, a guide plate of a connection portion has a chevron-shaped introduction part including two sector curves. A U-shaped bent member serving as a knob is provided on a rear side surface of a connection pin in the axial direction of the connection pin, so that the proper position of the inserted connection pin is defined as the position thereof when tips of the knob come into contact with the insertion-target member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Yanmar Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kunihiko Sakamoto, Yasuo Tokieda, Hayato Tsuji, Syoubu Aramaki
  • Patent number: 7954262
    Abstract: An adapter frame for installation of a front and an accessory implement, such as a snowplow blade and a sidewing, on a vehicle having a coupling plate is disclosed. The adapter frame has a frame structure. The adapter frame also comprises a hitch coupling mechanism for removably coupling the adapter frame to the vehicle coupling plate. The adapter frame further comprises a front implement coupling receptacle mechanism for removably receiving a corresponding coupling mechanism arranged on a front implement support frame attached to a rear portion of the front implement, the front implement support frame coupling mechanism being adapted to be removably coupled to the vehicle coupling plate. The adapter frame also comprises an accessory implement coupling mechanism for removably coupling the adapter frame to the accessory implement. The adapter frame increases the implement reconfiguration capability of the vehicle. A method for installing the adapter frame is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: 177197 Canada Limitée
    Inventor: Jeff Bernier
  • Patent number: 7914226
    Abstract: A non-removable safety pin (20) for an excavator coupler for securing a latching hook thereof. The safety pin (20) comprises a head (26), a shaft (24), a distal end (22) and a longitudinal axis starting at the head (26), extending along the shaft (24) and terminating at the distal end (22), wherein either or both of the shaft (24) and the distal end (22) are keyed so as to have an element thereon that extends relative to a side of the shaft. The element prevents removal of the safety pin from a hole (36) in which the safety pin (20) is inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Miller UK Limited
    Inventor: Gary Miller
  • Patent number: 7878752
    Abstract: A bearing for use between components of a construction machine, particularly on a boom on excavators, loaders, cranes, and related equipment having a first component articulated to a second component by the bearing and in which a third component acts on the bearing. The bearing assembly having a pin extending in the direction of a swiveling axis of the bearing, borne in a bearing tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: CNH Baumaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf Schmeling, Bernhard Willaredt, Holger Oertel, Birgit Ditz
  • Patent number: 7866935
    Abstract: A coupler for use with an excavator provides a hook with a mouth which receives a cross bar of an implement such as a bucket at an upper end. Towards a bottom end the coupler receives an extension through an opening. The extension is then retained by a pin through a bore in the extension and a bore in a body of the coupler. The mouth of the hook is provided with at least one wear pad which preferably extends along a substantial width of the mouth and is provided with adjustment members which can extend the wear pad into the mouth incrementally and/or to be tensioned against a cross bar with a selected amount of tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: TAG Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert T. Wilt, Trace Errera, Alan Graham, Al Kimble
  • Patent number: 7861642
    Abstract: A valve block disposed adjacent a tool attachment of a working machine, where the tool attachment is adapted for connection to different types of hydraulically maneuvered tools or implements with the aid of a hydraulically actuated locking device. The valve block includes first port means, second port means, and third port means for connecting hydraulic lines of the working machine to hydraulic coupling elements and to the locking device respectively. The valve block includes a line system and valve means which communicate with the port means so as to fulfill at least three of the following five functions: ensuring the presence of pressure in the locking device in the event of a fracture in the hydraulic lines of the working machine; ensuring connection of the first port means with either the second port means or the third port means to obtain post-tensioning of the locking device to relieve the pressure load; and to provide pressure limitation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Oilquick AB
    Inventor: Ake Sonerud
  • Publication number: 20100319225
    Abstract: The invention, a horizontally moveable digging/trenching bucket attachment with boom, for machines (tractor, skid steer . . . ) with pivoting front end loader allows for a machine with limited capabilities to be used for various operations through simple detaching of the standard large, wide bucket and attaching the invention. This invention is unique and desirable in that it eliminates the need for multiple machines and or multiple attachments to complete operations that can be accomplished by a single machine with the attached invention. The invention is comprised of a horizontally movable digging bucket with steel teeth having a fixed or adjustable trenching plow and an attachable/detachable boom. Due to the limitations of a front end loader's motion, the unique design of the invention will add the capability of horizontal motion for maximum efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventors: Richard Namon, II, Marta de Tuya
  • Patent number: 7836616
    Abstract: A loader coupler includes left and right inner rib mounts that mate with left and right ribs of a first type of attachment coupling structure. The coupler also includes left and right outer rib mounts that mate with left and right ribs of a second type of attachment coupling structure. Left and right plunger assemblies each move between a locked and unlocked position and each includes both a first lock plunger and a second lock plunger. The left and right first lock plungers extend into left and right inner locking regions when the left and right plunger assemblies are located in the locked position. The left and right second lock plungers extend into left and right outer locking regions when the left and right plunger assemblies are located in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Attachment Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy C. Esser, Ray S. Fatemi
  • Patent number: RE44771
    Abstract: A rear-mounted implement mounting system includes semicylindrical seats open upwardly and mounted on a lower back portion of a utility vehicle chassis that receive bar members located on a facing lower part of the rear-mounted implement. The utility vehicle chassis further includes semicylindrical receivers open in a rearward direction and adjacent cylinder portions open laterally. The receivers guide cylindrical bosses, located on an upper portion of the rear-mounted implement, into alignment with the cylinder portions, when the rear-mounted implement is pivoted upwardly by extending the boom cylinder of the rear-mounted implement. Connecting pins can be slipped through the cylindrical bosses and cylinder portions to lock the rear-mounted implement to the utility vehicle chassis. An operator remaining in the vehicle cab or operator station can easily operate the mounting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: David Laverne Sprinkle, Judith Fuzzen