Abstract: A quick coupler has a frame with a hook, and an operator movable control bar. The hook has a recess for receiving a hitch pin. A latch mechanism includes a latch, a one-piece trigger, a spring, and a stop fixed to the coupler frame. The latch is pivotally coupled to the frame and moves to open and closed positions permitting and preventing the hitch pin to move into and out of the hook recess. The trigger is pivotally coupled only to the latch and to the control bar. The trigger engages the hitch pin and moves the latch to the open position. When the hitch pin is in the hook recess, the stop engages the trigger and prevents the latch from moving to its open position. A central portion of the trigger is pivotally coupled to a central portion of the latch. A shoulder surface is formed in a lower end of the latch, and a tab projects from an end of the trigger. The tab engages the shoulder surface to limit pivoting of the latch to its open position when the trigger engages the stop.

Abstract: A draft force sensor is provided for a coupling member coupled between a towing vehicle and a towed earth engaging implement, such as a scraper. The draft force sensor includes first and second bores extending through the coupling member. Each bore has a horizontal axis which extends perpendicular to a main fore-and-aft axis of the coupling member. The second bore is positioned above the first bore and spaced apart from the first bore. Each of the bores is surrounded by an outer cylindrical wall. Four electrical strain gauges are spaced apart and placed on the wall of each of the bores. A center line bisects an axis line which extends between the axes of the first and second bores. The axis of each bore is spaced apart from the center line by a distance which is less than a diameter of the bores. The strain gauges are connected electrically in a circuit which generates a draft force signal in response to draft forces applied to the coupling member.

Abstract: A method of making an investment or lost foam casting assembly of a first part movable with respect to a second part includes making first and second separate wax or foam patterns of portions of the first part. Then, a third wax or foam pattern of the second part is made. Next, ceramic core pieces are made. At least one of the core pieces is mounted on the first pattern to form a subassembly. The subassembly is combined with the third pattern so that the core pieces maintain a separation between the third pattern and the first pattern. The first and second patterns are bonded together to trap the subassembly and to form a complete casing assembly.