Crane attachment for loading machines

Abstract

A self-contained, full-function, crane attachment for loading machines that is capable of quick release coupling with the standard bucket attachment mechanism of conventional loaders. The attachment comprises a wheel-mounted supporting frame equipped with two hydraulically driven outriggers to provide additional stability and with a control panel pivotally adjustable for comfortable use from the loader's driver seat. A horizontal boom platform is rotatably connected to the supporting frame through a vertical central axle and a generally horizontal hydraulic cylinder for adjusting the relative position of the two, so as to provide a lateral rotational degree of freedom for the platform of approximately 45 degrees in either direction. The bottom of a boom is pivotally hinged to the back edge of the boom platform on one side of the axle, while a second hydraulic cylinder is similarly pivotally hinged on the opposite, front side and is also connected to the upper portion of the boom, so as to provide by its contraction and expansion a lifting action that determines the boom's position and elevation. The boom includes multiple stages that can be telescopically extended and retracted by a hydraulically driven boom cable system. A pulley at the tip of the boom and a winch-operated hoist cable with a hook provide the structure for securing and lifting heavy objects toward the tip of the extended boom. Finally, a system of hydraulic hoses and control valves, powered by the loader's hydraulic circuit, provides the control system for operating the crane attachment.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.