Shovel, Rake, Handle, Or Boom Structure Patents (Class 414/722)
  • Publication number: 20140079520
    Abstract: A bucket for a loader with integrated hydraulic cylinder is disclosed. The hydraulic cylinder is mounted at the bottom of the bucket and extends the width of the bucket in a pocket between the bottom side and rear wall of the bucket. This allows the hydraulic cylinder to be used to manipulate materials at an exterior of the bucket. The bucket allows the user to use the bucket to both move and manipulate materials without having to use multiple attachments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventor: Derek W. Kent
  • Patent number: 8631580
    Abstract: A lift arm assembly includes a first arm casting including a first end, a second arm casting including a first end, and a tubular cross member attached to the first arm casting and the second arm casting. The lift arm assembly also includes a first arm tubular member including a first end attached to the first end of the first arm casting. The lift arm assembly further includes a second arm tubular member including a first end attached to the first end of the second arm casting such that the second arm tubular member is generally parallel to the first arm tubular member. At least one of the tubular cross member, the first arm tubular member, or the second arm tubular member has a continuous periphery, a maximum of one seam, and a substantially constant cross-section along substantially an entire length of the respective member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Kort Christopher Randall, Balasubramanyam Appalla, Dale Michael Koch, Matthew Mark Robinson
  • Publication number: 20130330161
    Abstract: A locking mechanism adapted for use with a lift arm assembly. The lift arm assembly is connected to and operatively associated with a lift actuator for movement between raised and lowered positions. The lift actuator having a tubular body and an extendable rod. The locking mechanism includes a lockbar having a proximal end and a distal end opposite to the proximal end. The proximal end is configured to be pivotally connected to the lift arm assembly and movable between an inoperative position and an operative position to selectively prevent retraction of the rod within the tubular body of the lift actuator. The locking mechanism further includes a release lever pivotally connected at the distal end of the lockbar and is adapted to move between a rest position and a working position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: Caterpillar SARL LLC
    Inventor: Daniel A. Rich
  • Publication number: 20130323000
    Abstract: A machine bucket may include a wrapper. The wrapper may form a portion of a receptacle for holding material. The wrapper may include a curved upper portion defining an arc. The curved upper portion may have a central angle value (?U) of between approximately 109.5° and 110.5?. The wrapper may also include a curved lower portion defining an arc. The curved lower portion may have a central angle value (?L) of between approximately 44.5° and 45.5°. Such a machine bucket finds particular utility collecting and transporting material that is adherent to itself and the surfaces of the bucket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Ryan A. Rochel, Jeremy D. Folkerts, Samuel L. McClallen
  • Publication number: 20130323001
    Abstract: A working mechanism (4) takes a traveling stance by a way that left and right boom cylinders (9, 10) are expanded to rotate a tip end of a first boom (5) to the rear side and a positioning cylinder (11) is compressed to rotate a tip end of a second boom (6) to the lower side. In the traveling stance of the working mechanism (4), a front surface plate (23A) of a right front housing cover (23) is inclined along a tilting angle (?) of the left and right boom cylinders (9, 10), and the front surface plate (23A) of the right front housing cover (23) is arranged in a position of lining with front ends (9A1, 10A1) of tubes (9A, 10A) in the left-right direction forming the respective boom cylinders (9, 10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Ueki, Yukihiro Tatsuno, Hidefumi Hiramatsu
  • Publication number: 20130259625
    Abstract: A mining machine includes a base, a boom, a member, and a dipper. The base includes a frame portion that is rotatable relative to the support surface about a machine axis. The boom includes a first end coupled to the base, a second end opposite the first end, and a sheave coupled to the second end of the boom. A first distance is defined between the machine axis and the second end of the boom. The member is movably coupled to the boom about a pivot point that is positioned substantially between the first end and the second end of the boom. A second distance is defined between the machine axis and the pivot point. A ratio of the second distance to the first distance is between 27% and 43%. The dipper is coupled to an end of the member and is supported by a hoist rope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: HARNISCHFEGER TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: William Hren
  • Publication number: 20130261904
    Abstract: An industrial machine and a method of controlling an industrial machine, the industrial machine including a dipper supported by a dipper handle. The method may include determining an operating phase of the industrial machine, in a first operating phase of the industrial machine, limiting, with at least one controller, a reach of the dipper handle, and in a second operating phase of the industrial machine, enabling, with the at least one controller, an extended reach of the dipper handle greater than the reach in the first operating phase. The industrial machine may include at least one controller configured to determine an operating phase of the industrial machine, in a first operating phase of the industrial machine, limit a reach of the dipper handle, and, in a second operating phase of the industrial machine, enable an extended reach of the dipper handle greater than the reach in the first operating phase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Michael Linstroth, Joseph J. Colwell, Mooyoung Lee, Matthew I. Loew, Jason Knuth, Peter Gizewski, JR., Justin Zunker
  • Patent number: 8523120
    Abstract: A component support device (7) that attaches components (61, 62) on a working structure (41) of a construction machine is formed by bending a plate along at least two bending lines, the component support device (7) including a support (711) formed at a center portion between the two bending lines for supporting the components (61, 62), and a pair of attachment legs (712, 713) formed at both sides of the support (711) to be fixed on the working structure (41), in which at least one of the pair of attachment legs (712, 713) is split into a plurality of portions at a portion to be fixed on the working structure (41), and rigidity of the attachment leg (712, 713) against a bending line direction is less than rigidity of the support (711) in the bending line direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Asano, Naohisa Iwasawa, Yuji Terasaka
  • Publication number: 20130195594
    Abstract: A mining shovel including a base, a boom, a first member moveably coupled to the boom, a bucket, and a pivot actuator. The base includes a hoist drum for paying out and reeling in a hoist rope. The boom includes a first end coupled to the base and a second end opposite the first end. The hoist rope extends over the second end of the boom. The first member includes a first end and a second end. The bucket is pivotably coupled to the second end of the first member. The pivot actuator moves the bucket relative to the second end of the first member, and the pivot actuator includes a first end coupled to the first member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: HARNISCHFEGER TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Harnischfeger Technologies, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130195596
    Abstract: A rope guide that includes an arm, a rope-contacting element, and a spring damper. The rope guide is pivotably coupled to the boom of a mining shovel. The combination of the arm, spring damper, and rope-contacting element maintains a nominal tension in the rope, thereby reducing the likelihood of wear and fatigue on the rope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: HARNISCHFEGER TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Harnischfeger Technologies, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130177375
    Abstract: A boom assembly is provided for a material handling machine. The boom assembly includes a boom pivotally coupled to a frame of the machine. The boom has a pair of side plates, a top plate and a bottom plate that are rigidly interconnected. The top plates have a pair of slots which extend therethrough. An arm is pivotally coupled to an end of the boom. A mounting unit extends between a center portion of the side plates. A pair of hydraulic boom cylinders are coupled between the frame and the mounting unit. A pair of spaced apart arm cylinder mounting plates are rigidly mounted to the mounting unit. Each mounting plate extends through a corresponding one of the slots. An arm cylinder is connected between the mounting plates and an arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventors: JESSE A. CRANE, David E. Lemm
  • Publication number: 20130164106
    Abstract: An attachment for a bucket is disclosed. The bucket includes a plurality of panels including a bottom panel and two side panels. The bottom panel extends between the two side panels and has an edge. The attachment includes a plate having two major opposing surfaces. The attachment further includes an adapter extending from at least one of the two major opposing surfaces of the plate, the adapter being configured to engage the bottom panel of the bucket. The attachment further includes an attachment mechanism cooperating with at least one of the plate and the adapter to detachably attach the attachment to at least one panel in the plurality of panels of the bucket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: Caterpillar SARL
    Inventor: Caterpillar SARL
  • Publication number: 20130136570
    Abstract: The invention provides a bail for a rope shovel having a hoist rope and a dipper. The bail includes a pair of arms coupled to the dipper; and a cross-member extending between the pair of arms and being pivotably coupled to each of the arms. The cross-member includes a mounting block for coupling the hoist rope to the bail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: HARNISCHFEGER TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: HARNISCHFEGER TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130115034
    Abstract: A sensor assembly is disclosed for a pin connection of a machine linkage, such as that found on an excavator or backhoe loader, the sensor assembly including a sensor associated with a sensor housing that receives the pin, and a connector assembly that connects the sensor housing to a frame element, wherein the connector assembly is configured to allow the sensor housing to move relative to the frame element. The sensor assembly may be positioned within one of the members of the linkage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Michael C. Subrt
  • Publication number: 20130084155
    Abstract: A material handling machine includes a linkage assembly connected to a machine frame of the material handling machine. The linkage assembly configured to transport material from a front side of the machine frame to a rear side of the machine frame. The linkage assembly includes a first and a second guide rails associated with the machine frame. The linkage assembly further includes a first boom and a second boom having one end pivotally connected to the first guide rail and the second guide rails. A first and a second lift mechanism are pivotally connected to the first boom and second boom, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Peter H. Hodges, Jeffrey E. Jensen
  • Patent number: 8408862
    Abstract: The hydraulic cylinder and line guard of the claimed invention substantially surrounds and protects both a hydraulic cylinder and portions of a hydraulic line. The guard also significantly reduces the visual appearance of the hydraulic lines. While maintaining the flexibility of the hydraulic lines at pivot points, the guard inhibits movement of the line near the cylinder thereby reducing wear on the line. The claimed invention also achieves the important objective of providing an aesthetically pleasing and easily replaceable guard for hydraulic cylinders and lines. The improved guard is achieved by utilizing a resilient guard to cover both the cylinder and the line. The guard may be formed from a single stretchable resilient tube that is deformed to enclose both the line and the cylinder, wherein a cross-section of the guard is defined primarily by combined cross sections of the cylinder adjacent to the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Westendorf Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Neal W. Westendorf
  • Publication number: 20130078072
    Abstract: A beam structure of the present disclosure includes a baffle plate. A plurality of lap strips are attached around outer edges of the baffle plate. An adhesive layer is applied to outer surfaces of the lap strips. A plurality of sidewalls are assembled together around the adhesive layer, the lap strips and the baffle plate, thereby forming the beam structure. In an embodiment, the beam structure may be used as a boom assembly for a machine, such as an excavator machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Alexei P. Yelistratov, James A. Forck
  • Patent number: 8393848
    Abstract: A bale sweep having a plate assembly mounted on a rearward side of an upright frame for attaching to a skid steer loader. The bale sweep includes a step mounted to a forward side of the upright frame for easy entry into the skid steer loader. A plurality of spaced apart parallel tines are secured to the upright frame and extend in a forward direction. A brace rod, provided for each tine, has an end secured to an upper portion of the upright frame and extends forwardly and downwardly toward a brace connector secured adjacent a forward end of each tine. The brace connector includes a faceplate facing the brace rod. The faceplate having an opening for slidably receiving a forward end of the brace rod. A tension spring is connected between the brace rod and face plate allowing each tine to move upwardly independent of one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: George Krizenawski
  • Publication number: 20130058748
    Abstract: A reinforcement device for a load bearing structure is disclosed. The reinforcement device may include a tubular wall including a first end, a second end, a throat disposed between the first end and the second end, and a curved portion disposed between the throat and each of the first end and the second end. The tubular wall may also include a first dimension at the throat and a second dimension at each of the first and second ends, the first dimension being smaller than the second dimension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Springer, Jason Musheno
  • Publication number: 20130051964
    Abstract: Implements and brackets for mounting implements on the lift arms of a working machine with a front end loader configuration are disclosed. The implements and brackets are configured to enable a user to mount the implement on the lift arms of the working machine in an inverted orientation, for example in order to mount a bucket that is typically used in a forward-facing orientation for digging or clearing in an inverted rearward facing position for piercing into the ground and performing a rearward scooping action. Some embodiment includes configurations for manual or powered adjustment of a lateral position of the implement in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the working machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Gilbert Bernier
  • Publication number: 20120301257
    Abstract: A thumb and linkage assembly for covering the bucket of an excavator is shown and described. The thumb and linkage assembly includes a bracket coupled to a lift arm of an excavator or prime mover. The assembly also includes a base link and a thumb link. The base link has a proximal portion pivotally coupled to the bracket. The base link also has a distal portion pivotally coupled to a proximal portion of the thumb link. The thumb link has a distal portion pivotally coupled to at least one thumb of a plurality of thumbs. The plurality of thumbs are coupled together and pivotally coupled to the bracket. The bracket includes a first lock hole for locking the assembly in a stored position. At least one of the proximal portion of the thumb link, the distal portion of the base link or one of the thumbs include a second lock hole that is in axial alignment with the first lock hole when the assembly is in the stored position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR, INC.
    Inventor: Gregory A. Seljestad
  • Publication number: 20120291319
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for material distribution, including a draw-bar to which is fixedly connected a bucket body. Wheels are attached to the drawbar on opposite sides of the bucket body between an open side and a gate thereof. A lower edge of the open side of the bucket body, which can receive material, is in the form of a cutting blade or teeth. The gate, which is disposed opposite from the open side, can be opened and closed. At least part of a top side of the bucket body forms a platform for an operator. At least one engine is provided and is drivingly connected to the wheels. A handlebar is connected to the bucket body, forward of the platform, for pivoting the bucket body about the wheels so that the cutting blade or teeth can be brought into or out of contact with a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: David A. Jones
  • Publication number: 20120288351
    Abstract: Conventional multi-tined implements such as cutlery and serving forks, pitchforks and front-end loader machine forks, all have smooth tine surfaces from which the respective items being picked up and transferred by a user may unintentionally slip off and cause harm. All such implements are provided enhanced ability to retain their respective loads during their intentional transfer by a user by the provision of a plurality of topographic discontinuities on selected load-contacting surfaces of their tines. These topographic discontinuities include small barb-like elements generated by wedge-shaped recesses extending into the tines and/or by barb-like projections extending from the tines into inter-tine gaps between adjacent tines. On thus improved food-handling implements all intersections, corners, edges and points incidental to formation of any topographic discontinuities are smoothed out to prevent physical harm to users.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Chittaranjan N. Nirmel
  • Publication number: 20120282072
    Abstract: A skid steer attachment has an extended reach for lifting and placing heavy boulders, logs and debris in hard to reach locations. With its extended reach capabilities, the attachment makes it possible to grab and place items in locations that are hard to reach with conventional attachments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Scott O'Neal Sheppard
  • Patent number: 8297906
    Abstract: A work equipment boom is adapted to be attached at one end to a main body of a construction machine and attached at the other end to a work equipment arm. the work equipment boom includes a boom main component. The boom main component is integrally formed by expanding a tubular material. The boom main component has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The proximal end portion includes a first end part arranged to be disposed adjacent to the main body and has a shape which increases in horizontal width as it gets nearer to the first end part. The distal end portion includes a second end part arranged to be disposed adjacent to the work equipment arm and has a shape which increases in horizontal width as it gets nearer to the second end part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Eiji Nabata, Tatsushi Itou
  • Publication number: 20120251284
    Abstract: A boom assembly includes a first boom member and a second boom member slidable relative to the first member in a first direction. A stop member that at least partially defines a receptacle is attached to the first member. A closure member is attachable to the first member in a fixed position and movable away from the fixed position. A planar wearpad is insertable into the receptacle in the first direction when the closure member is moved away from the fixed position and the second member is positioned on the first member. The stop and closure members inhibit lateral movement of the wearpad in a direction parallel to the plane of the wearpad, and allow movement of the wearpad in a direction transverse to the plane, when the wearpad is positioned in the receptacle. The second member inhibits movement of the wearpad in the direction transverse to the plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: GENIE INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Randell J. Lettau
  • Publication number: 20120251285
    Abstract: A detection link of a spill guard link mechanism is pivoted and connected to a bucket bracket in a position proximate to a bucket pivot support axis rotatably supporting a bucket and above a lower surface of a boom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kosuke OYAMA, Masahiro SUGIOKA, Shusaku YAMAGUCHI
  • Patent number: 8246287
    Abstract: The hydraulic cylinder and line guard of the claimed invention substantially surrounds and protects both a hydraulic cylinder and portions of a hydraulic line. The guard also significantly reduces the visual appearance of the hydraulic lines. While maintaining the flexibility of the hydraulic lines at pivot points, the guard inhibits movement of the line near the cylinder thereby reducing wear on the line. The claimed invention also achieves the important objective of providing an aesthetically pleasing and easily replaceable guard for hydraulic cylinders and lines. The improved guard is achieved by utilizing a resilient guard to cover both the cylinder and the line. The guard may be formed from a single stretchable resilient tube that is deformed to enclose both the line and the cylinder, wherein a cross-section of the guard is defined primarily by combined cross sections of the cylinder adjacent to the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Westendorf Manufacturing, Co.
    Inventor: Neal W. Westendorf
  • Publication number: 20120195729
    Abstract: A mining shovel includes a digging assembly having a generally V-shaped boom including a lower connection point for attachment to the mining shovel. A first portion of the boom extends generally upwardly from the lower connection point, and a second portion of the boom is angled with respect to and extends upwardly and forwardly from the first portion. The second portion includes a distal end defining a sheave support, and a pivot element is positioned generally at a connection area between the first portion and the second portion. The digging assembly also includes a boom attachment having a first end that is pivotally supported by the pivot element and a second end that is supported by the sheave support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventors: William J. Hren, Rainer Poetter
  • Publication number: 20120189418
    Abstract: A front loader (12) is provided and is suitable for attachment to a tractor (10) which has an engine compartment (16) disposed forwardly of a cab (18) and transversely centred on a longitudinal axis. The front loader (12) is detachable from the tractor (10) and comprises a pair of lift arms (36), when in use, each being pivotally mounted relative to the tractor at respective pivot points (38) which are transversely spaced either side of the engine compartment. The lift arms, when lowered, extend generally forwardly and converge in front of the engine compartment to attach to a single, transversely centred, telescopic boom (40) which is disposed in front of the engine compartment (16). By providing a front loader having a telescopic boom wherein the front loader is simply detachable by a quick release mechanism, the versatility of a tractor can be increased in addition to delivering improved productivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: AGCO SA
    Inventors: Geoffroy Husson, Pierre Dupire
  • Publication number: 20120177471
    Abstract: The invention relates to an extendible dipper assembly (32) for a backhoe arm for a construction equipment machine, said arm comprising a boom to be attached to the machine, and an extendible dipper assembly (32) articulated at the free end of the boom (30) for holding a working 38 tool, said extendible dipper assembly (32) comprising a proximal part (34) articulated to the boom (30) and a distal part (36) which is slidingly connected to the proximal part so as to form a length-adjustable dipper assembly, characterized in that at least one of the dipper parts (34, 36) comprises a rectilinear profile made by extrusion of metal, said profile having a closed cross-section around at least one inner cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: Volvo Compact Equipment SAS
    Inventors: Philippe Valentini, Christophe Cartry, Jimmy Reverdy
  • Publication number: 20120163950
    Abstract: A thumb assembly mountable to a stick of an excavator is provided. The thumb assembly comprises a base member having at least a first joint location, a thumb member pivotally connected to the base member, and first and second linkage members pivotally connected at their first ends to the thumb member and the joint location respectively. The linkage members are connected by a knee joint at their second ends such that they are foldable relative to each other between a working position and a storage position in which the thumb member extends close to the base member. The knee joint permits both relative rotation and relative sliding of the first and second linkage members so that the thumb assembly can be moved between the working position and the storage position without disconnecting the linkage members from the thumb member and the joint location on the base member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory A. Seljestad
  • Patent number: 8201350
    Abstract: A machine bucket may include a wrapper. The wrapper may form a portion of a receptacle for holding material. The wrapper may include a curved upper portion defining an arc. The curved upper portion may have a central angle value (?U) of between approximately 129.5° and 130.5°. The wrapper may also include a curved lower portion defining an arc. The curved lower portion may have a central angle value (?L) of between approximately 29.5° and 30.5°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy D. Folkerts, Samuel L. McClallen
  • Publication number: 20120107079
    Abstract: A system for protecting at least one tube extending between articulating joints of a work machine including a first guard configured to be at least partially inserted inside a first opening formed in a second portion that is pivotably connected to a first portion. A second guard is configured to be at least partially inserted inside a second opening formed in the third portion that is pivotably connected to the second portion and near the first portion. The first guard and the second guard form a protective passageway for a tube extending from the first portion to the third portion, the passageway substantially preventing contact between the at least one tube and surfaces of the second portion and the third portion in close proximity with the corresponding pivotable connections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: Joseph P. Thompson, Jeffrey E. Jackson, Jared J. Thompson, Wayne F. Bietz
  • Publication number: 20120093624
    Abstract: In a work machine, a control unit controls a pilot control valve for controlling the opening area of a first direction switch valve in executing the combined operation to be less than or equal to that in executing a single operation. The combined operation represents an operation of simultaneously operating first and second actuators. The single operation represents an operation of operating only the first actuator. Further, the control unit determines the opening area of the first direction switch valve in the combined operation based on a hydraulic pressure detected by a hydraulic pressure detector unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Kouji Ohhigashi, Noritaka Nagata, Masatoshi Uchimaru
  • Publication number: 20120051878
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a first loader arm portion pivotably connected at one end to a frame of the vehicle and configured to slidably receive a second loader arm portion along an opposed end of the first loader arm portion. A mechanical linkage interconnects the loader arm portions and the frame. A fluid cylinder operatively connected between each of the frame and the loader arm portions is configured to raise and lower the loader arm portions between a retracted (lowered) position and an extended (raised) position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph M. Biggerstaff
  • Patent number: 8112913
    Abstract: Disclosed is a multi-configurable bucket for screening material comprising a blade having a bottom edge, a top edge and a connector therebetween for securing to a distal end of the arm of a earth moving equipment. The bucket has a bottom screen having front and rear edges being rotatable about the top edge of the blade section. The bottom screen is positionable so as to extend angled away from the bottom edge of the blade. The bucket further comprises a front screen rotatable relative to the bottom screen having a main screen portion and an angled end screen portion. The front screen is positionable to a closed position proximate the front edge of the bottom screen such that the front edge of the bottom screen extends past the angled bottom portion of the front screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventor: Chester Lea Sirr
  • Publication number: 20120030147
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a monolithic floor for use with a hot slag bucket. The monolithic floor improves the lifespan of the bucket when used with hot slag by reducing warpage caused by heating and cooling and thus significantly reduces the cost of owning and operating the hot slag bucket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventors: Joseph R. Zeno, Robert J. Willoughby
  • Publication number: 20110318158
    Abstract: A grapple device includes a torque tube, a pivot, a rod and cylinder, a pivot link, and a tooth. The torque tube has first and second torque pivot points and is adapted to be mounted on a bucket. The pivot is rotatably connected to the first torque pivot point at a pivot cross tube located at a second end of the pivot, and the pivot further comprises a pivot collar at a first end, and first and second pivot faces adjacent the pivot collar. The rod and cylinder are operatively connected to the second torque pivot point, includes a rod and a cylinder, and has a rod pivot at a first end of the rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: AGILE MANUFACTURING, LLC
    Inventors: TIMOTHY D. MILLER, MICHAEL L. FEILMEIER
  • Patent number: 8082084
    Abstract: A loader and a control system for a loader provide for monitoring the position of a part of the implement carried by the loader. The loader has a body with left and right upright tower portions, and a loader drive system including ground engaging drive elements. Left and right interconnected lift arm assemblies each have an implement lift arm pivotally connected with a corresponding tower portion of the body at a lift arm pivot point. A lift actuator is connected between the body and the lift arm. The implement is pivotally connected with the lift arm assemblies about an implement pivot axis. The lift arm pivot point and the implement pivot axis in side elevation define a straight reference line. At least one implement tilt actuator is connected between at least one of the lift arm assemblies and the implement. A position sensor is mounted on the body at the level of, or above, the lift arm pivot points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar Trimble Control Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Mark Nichols
  • Patent number: 8038380
    Abstract: A bucket position indication mechanism is provided for a material handling machine. The material handling machine includes a bucket and an operator's control station. The bucket position indication mechanism includes at least one position indicating element attached to the bucket at a position that is viewable by an operator at the operator's control station when a bottom plate of the bucket is aligned with a ground surface and at least a portion of the position indicating element extending in a direction parallel to the bottom plate of the bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Arve Wilhelm Opperud
  • Patent number: 8016540
    Abstract: A pivoted coupling member of a two-piece boom can be shared with standard booms. The boom comprises a first boom having, on the base end side, a pivoted coupling member that is pivotably coupled to a boom support section, and a second boom in which the base end side is pivotably coupled to the distal end side of the first boom and in which an arm is pivotably coupled to the distal end side. In the boom, the lateral width of the main body portion 51 of the second boom (18B) is designed to be smaller in the second region (Y) of the base end side than the first region (X) of the distal end side, the base end side of the second region (Y) of the second boom (18B) in inserted between the left and right side walls (29) of the distal end side of the first boom (18A), and the second boom (18B) is pivotably coupled to the first boom so as to be capable of rotating about the lateral axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Kubota Corporation
    Inventor: Shizuo Shimoie
  • Publication number: 20110188982
    Abstract: A working machine includes a base machine and a working attachment. The working attachment has a base-end boom, a lead-end boom, and an arm. The working machine is collapsible into a triple-folded state, with the base-end boom being located on the upper side and the arm being located on the lower side with respect to the lead-end boom, as a posture of the working machine for transport. The working machine further includes a lead-end boom cylinder for moving the lead-end boom, and an arm cylinder for moving the arm. The lead-end boom has a first lead-end boom cylinder attachment portion for mounting the lead-end boom cylinder, and a first arm cylinder attachment portion for mounting the arm cylinder. The first lead-end boom cylinder attachment portion is disposed at a position different from the first arm cylinder attachment portion in a widthwise direction of the working attachment, and lower than the first arm cylinder attachment portion in the transport posture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: KOBELCO CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Katsuya Irieda, Takanori Yamasaki
  • Publication number: 20110150618
    Abstract: A modular system for connecting attachments to the extension arm of a construction machine, wherein each module has a standardized coupling arrangement. As a result, each module is compatible with another module to provide great versatility in configuring the machine. Additionally, the system includes a variety of different modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: John R. Ramun
  • Publication number: 20110150617
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a work machine, in particular to an excavator, having a boom, an extension element and a piece of working equipment, wherein the extension element is attached to a pivotal connection axle of the boom via a first gimbal mounting and bears the piece of working equipment, wherein the piece of working equipment is attached to a pivotal connection axle of the extension element via a second gimbal mounting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: Liebherr-Hydraulikbagger GmbH
    Inventors: Daniel Härter, Roland Wachter, Bernd Wager, Thomas Zitterbart
  • Publication number: 20110150616
    Abstract: An assembly for controlling the angle of an implement on an earth-moving machine. The assembly includes an upper control arm, a lower control configured to mechanically interface with an implement; a rocker arm configured to pivotably couple the lower control arm to the upper control arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc
    Inventors: William C. Tracy, Michael R. Stallings
  • Patent number: 7934899
    Abstract: An attachment useful with a mobile platform is provided for containing and selectively pouring flowable materials. The attachment has an elongated spout extending outwardly and upwardly from a forward wall of the attachment. Rear and side splash guards may be provided to help contain flowable materials within the attachment. Side walls of the attachment may be angled from front to rear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventor: Bruce Downing
  • Patent number: 7882865
    Abstract: A boom unit for a tree processing machine having a boom with a square cross-section. The boom unit has a boom support with a front boom mounting at the front end of the support and a rear boom mounting at the rear end of the support. The boom is movably mounted through the front and rear boom mountings and is positioned to have a corner of the boom on the bottom and an opposite corner of the boom on the top directly over the bottom corner. The front mounting has a pair of front, bottom rollers arranged in a v shape to cradle the boom with the bottom corner of the boom between the rollers and a single, top, guide member above the bottom rollers and centered with respect to the bottom rollers to ride on the top corner of the boom to hold the boom against the bottom rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: Laurent Denis
  • Patent number: 7881845
    Abstract: A loader and a control system for a loader provide for monitoring the position of a part of the implement carried by the loader. The loader has a body with left and right upright tower portions, and a loader drive system including ground engaging drive elements. Left and right interconnected lift arm assemblies each have an implement lift arm pivotally connected with a corresponding tower portion of the body at a lift arm pivot point. A lift actuator is connected between the body and the lift arm. The implement is pivotally connected with the lift arm assemblies about an implement pivot axis. The lift arm pivot point and the implement pivot axis in side elevation define a straight reference line. At least one implement tilt actuator is connected between at least one of the lift arm assemblies and the implement. A position sensor is mounted on the body at the level of, or above, the lift arm pivot points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar Trimble Control Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Mark Nichols
  • Publication number: 20110008142
    Abstract: A working machine is provided with a front working mechanism. The front working mechanism includes a first working element, a second working element and a hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinder is connected at a forward end portion thereof to the second working element and at a rearward end portion thereof to the first working element, and is constructed pivotable relative to the second working element within a predetermined range of work angles. The working machine is provided with a pivotal movement restraining device for allowing the hydraulic cylinder to pivot within the predetermined range of work angles while the hydraulic cylinder is connected to the second working element but for restraining the hydraulic cylinder from pivoting beyond the predetermined range of work angles in a direction away from the first working element while the second working element is detached from the hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Osamu GOKITA