Implement interface
AssigneeClark Equipment Company
InventorsEric J. Behr, Brandon Becker, Mark W. Binstock
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Disclosed is an interface for an implement that is to be operably coupled to a power machine. In one embodiment, a disclosed implement carrier is mountable to a power machine for securing an implement for use with the power machine. The implement carrier includes an implement carrier frame, a locking feature for securing an implement, and a coupler block that is pivotally mounted to the implement carrier frame for engaging couplers on the implement.
Claims25
An implement carrier configured to be mounted to a power machine, the implement carrier being configured to receive and secure an implement for use with the power machine, comprising:
- an implement carrier frame;
- a locking feature for securing an implement to the implement carrier frame;
- and
- a coupler block having a plurality of couplers mounted therein for engagement with couplers on an implement to provide a power source for the implement;
- wherein the coupler block is pivotally mounted to the implement carrier frame.
A power machine, comprising:
- a frame;
- a power source supported by the frame;
- a lift arm pivotally mounted to the frame;
- and
- an implement carrier pivotally mounted to the lift arm, the implement carrier being configured to receive and secure an implement for use with the power machine, the implement carrier including a locking mechanism for securing the implement and a plurality of couplers configured to be engaged with the implement to provide a power signal from the source to the implement;
- and
- wherein the implement carrier is further configured so that receiving and securing the implement also causes the couplers on the implement carrier to be aligned and engaged with the implement.
A method of interfacing an implement with a power machine, comprising:
- providing an implement carrier on the power machine capable of engaging and securing the implement to the power machine, the implement carrier having:
- a frame with a generally flat surface for engaging an implement;
- a coupler assembly housing a plurality of couplers that provide a power source to the implement, the coupler assembly being positioned on a back side of the frame and the couplers being accessible from a front side of the frame;
- and
- a locking mechanism for securing the implement to the implement carrier;
- aligning the implement carrier with and engaging the implement;
- aligning the coupler assembly with couplers on the implement;
- and
- actuating the locking mechanism to secure the implement to the implement carrier.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.