Quick coupler automatic locking mechanism and method
AssigneeCaterpillar Inc.
InventorsMark W. Thompson, Trent R. Stefek
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A quick coupler and methods of coupling and decoupling a quick coupler and work tool are disclosed. The quick coupler includes a frame, cylinder, primary blocking member, secondary blocking member, biasing member, and controller. The method of coupling includes activating an AUTOMATIC LOCKING state, automatically locking a second tool pin within a hook, a first tool pin entering a notch, and activating a LOCKED state. The method of decoupling includes activating the AUTOMATIC LOCKING state, resting the work tool on a surface, activating an UNLOCKED state, and separating the quick coupler and work tool. Advantageously, the quick coupler can automatically lock the second tool pin without actuation of the cylinder.
Claims8
A method of coupling a work tool to a quick coupler comprising the steps of:
- activating an AUTOMATIC LOCKING state of the coupler;
- maneuvering the coupler to automatically lock a second tool pin of the work tool within a hook of the coupler without actuation of a cylinder of the coupler, such that;
- the second tool pin forces a secondary blocking member to move from a locked position to an unlocked position;
- the second tool pin enters the hook;
- and
- the secondary blocking member returns to the locked position;
- the first tool pin entering a notch of the coupler;
- and
- activating a LOCKED state of the coupler.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.