DE102020121067A1 - Connection device for coupling an attachment to a working device and working device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a connecting device for the detachable coupling of an attachment to a working device, comprising: a support device which is or can be fixed to the working device and on which a first receptacle for a first coupling part of the attachment and a second receptacle for a second coupling part of the attachment are formed, wherein the receptacles are arranged at a distance from one another on the support device; a locking device held on the support device, which comprises an actuator and a locking element that can be transferred by this from a release position to a holding position and vice versa, wherein the first receptacle is released in the release position for inserting the first coupling part and the first coupling part in the holding position in the first recording is held; a securing device which comprises a securing element which is held movably in particular on the carrying device and which can be transferred from a release position to a securing position and vice versa, with an insertion opening of the second receptacle for the second coupling part being released in the release position and blocked in the securing position; and a coupling device via which the securing device is in operative connection with the locking device, the securing element being transferred from the securing position to the release position when the locking element is transferred from the holding position to the release position. The invention also relates to a working device with a connecting device.

Description

The present invention relates to a connecting device for detachably coupling an attachment to a working device, the connecting device comprising a carrying device with two spaced-apart receptacles for coupling parts of the attachment and a locking device.

In addition, the present invention relates to a working device with a connecting device and at least one attachment.

The working device can be, for example, an earth-moving device, in particular an excavator. Correspondingly, the attachment can be configured in different ways. In the case of a working device in the form of an excavator, the attachment can in particular be an excavator bucket.

A connecting device of the type mentioned makes it possible to detachably connect the attachment to the working device. Since the attachment can be coupled to the working device, the connection device can be referred to as a coupling device. In particular, such connection devices are also referred to as “quick coupling” or “quick coupler”. With such devices, a vehicle driver can act on the locking device, for example from a driver's cab, as a result of which the attachment can be fixed in the receptacles or released from the receptacles via corresponding coupling parts.

A connecting device of the generic type is used in particular with an attachment which comprises two coupling parts which are arranged at a distance from one another. Each coupling part is assigned to one of the receptacles and can be positioned in it.

the EP 2 766 529 B1 describes a connecting device of the type mentioned above. One of the coupling parts of the attachment can be held in one of the receptacles by means of the locking device. Another coupling part can engage in the other receptacle.

The object of the present invention is to provide a connecting device with which work safety is increased.

• - eine an der Arbeitsvorrichtung festgelegte oder festlegbare Trageinrichtung, an der eine erste Aufnahme für ein erstes Kupplungsteil des Anbaugerätes und eine zweite Aufnahme für ein zweites Kupplungsteil des Anbaugerätes gebildet sind, wobei die Aufnahmen im Abstand zueinander an der Trageinrichtung angeordnet sind;
• - eine an der Trageinrichtung gehaltene Verriegelungseinrichtung, die einen Aktuator und ein von diesem von einer Lösestellung in eine Haltestellung und umgekehrt überführbares Verriegelungselement umfasst, wobei die erste Aufnahme in der Lösestellung zum Einführen des ersten Kupplungsteils freigegeben ist und das erste Kupplungsteil in der Haltestellung in der ersten Aufnahme gehalten ist;
• - eine Sicherungseinrichtung, die ein insbesondere an der Trageinrichtung beweglich gehaltenes Sicherungselement umfasst, das von einer Freigabestellung in eine Sicherungsstellung und umgekehrt überführbar ist, wobei eine Einführöffnung der zweiten Aufnahme für das zweite Kupplungsteil in der Freigabestellung freigegeben und in der Sicherungsstellung gesperrt ist; und
• - eine Kopplungseinrichtung, über die die Sicherungseinrichtung mit der Verriegelungseinrichtung in Wirkverbindung steht, wobei das Sicherungselement beim Überführen des Verriegelungselementes von der Haltestellung in die Lösestellung von der Sicherungsstellung in die Freigabestellung überführt wird.

This object is achieved by a connecting device according to the invention for detachably coupling an attachment to a working device, comprising:

• - A fixed or fixable on the working device carrying device, on which a first receptacle for a first coupling part of the attachment and a second receptacle for a second coupling part of the attachment are formed, wherein the receptacles are arranged at a distance from each other on the support device;
• - a locking device held on the support device, which comprises an actuator and a locking element that can be transferred by this from a release position to a holding position and vice versa, wherein the first receptacle is released in the release position for inserting the first coupling part and the first coupling part in the holding position in the first shot is held;
• - a safety device which comprises a safety element which is held movably in particular on the support device and which can be transferred from a release position to a safety position and vice versa, with an insertion opening of the second receptacle for the second coupling part being released in the release position and blocked in the safety position; and
• - A coupling device via which the safety device is in operative connection with the locking device, the safety element being transferred from the safety position to the release position when the locking element is transferred from the holding position to the release position.

The device according to the invention can, for example, be held on the working device via the carrying device, or the working device itself has the carrying device. It goes without saying that the connecting device and the attachment are preferably adapted to one another in terms of size and function. The first coupling part can be held in the first receptacle via the locking device. For this purpose, the locking element can assume the holding position. In the release position, the first coupling part can be inserted into or removed from the receptacle. The securing device makes it possible to secure the second coupling part in the second receptacle when the securing element is in the securing position. In a release position, the second coupling part can be inserted into the second receptacle or guided out of it. According to the invention, a coupling device is provided which couples the locking device to the safety device. In this case, the actuator is preferably effective both for moving the locking element and for moving the securing element. It is possible to use the locking element ment to convert into the release position and the securing element in the release position.

In the case of the connecting device according to the invention, it is accordingly necessary to move the securing element, in particular actively, from the securing position into the release position. It therefore requires active involvement on the part of the vehicle driver in order to decouple the attachment from the connecting device. In practice, it is not uncommon for vehicle drivers to lift attachments that are only to be moved and not used for work simply by inserting the second coupling part into the second receptacle. Accidents have occurred here because the second coupling part is not secured in the second receptacle. These accidents can be avoided with proper use of the connecting device according to the invention.

An undesired decoupling of the second coupling part from the second receptacle can also occur in the case of the aforementioned EP 2 766 529 B1 connection device described. When the locking device is opened and the locking element is moved into the release position, a cam which is arranged on the second receptacle and is assigned to the second coupling part can pivot automatically and release an insertion opening of the second receptacle. In this case, too, the attachment may fall off the connecting device and cause an accident.

It can be provided that the securing element can only be transferred from the securing position to the release position via the locking device if a force exerted by the second clutch part on the securing element does not exceed a predetermined or specifiable threshold (threshold value force). The securing element can be prevented from being transferred into the release position by the force. For example, when used as intended, the attachment should be placed on a set-up surface before it is uncoupled, and the connecting device should preferably be aligned essentially horizontally. When the connecting device is inclined relative to a direction of gravity, it may happen that the coupling part bears against the securing element as a result of the weight of the attachment and applies a force to it. The locking device and/or the coupling device can be designed in such a way that it is not possible to transfer the safety device into the release position in order to overcome a force above the threshold force acting on the safety element. For example, this can be provided in order to avoid overloading the locking device, the coupling device and/or the safety device. Alternatively or additionally, this can be provided, for example, in order to further increase operational reliability.

According to what has been said, it can be advantageous if a force with which the safety device can be acted upon for transferring the safety element from the safety position into the release position is limited or can be limited. For example, the connection device, in particular the coupling device, can comprise a device for limiting the force and/or a force-limiting element.

If the locking element assumes the release position or the holding position, this is also referred to as the release position or holding position of the locking device. If the safety element assumes the release position or the safety position, this is also referred to as the release position or safety position of the safety device.

It is advantageous in the connection device according to the invention that the actuator can be effective both for moving the locking element and for moving the securing element.

It can be advantageous if the securing device is operatively connected to the locking device via the coupling device in such a way that the securing element is transferred from the release position to the securing position when the locking element is transferred from the release position to the holding position. In particular, the actuator can also be effective for the engagement process.

It is favorable if the connecting device comprises or forms a first stop element for the securing element when the release position is assumed. The range of movement of the securing element is limited by the stop element, and in the release position the securing element assumes a defined position. This increases the operational reliability of the connecting device.

It is favorable if the connecting device includes or forms a second stop element for the securing element when the securing position is assumed. The range of movement of the securing element is limited by the stop element, and in the securing position the securing element assumes a defined position. This increases the operational reliability of the connecting device.

In particular, the second stop element can also secure the position of the securing element when a force is applied to it via the second coupling part. For example, if the attachment is held on the connecting device only with the second coupling part, the coupling part can be prevented from falling out of the second receptacle in this way, because the second stop element prevents movement of the securing element. For example, the securing element can only be transferred into the release position by actuating the locking device in order to release the second receptacle.

At least one stop element, preferably the first stop element and the second stop element, is arranged stationarily on the support device in a preferred embodiment of the invention. In particular, at least one of the stop elements is positioned on the support device independently of a position of the locking element.

A purely mechanical coupling of the safety device and the locking device can be advantageous.

The securing element is preferably movably mounted and in particular pivotable about a pivot axis on the support device. The movable bearing ensures that the safety device functions reliably. For example, the securing element is mounted on or next to an edge of the second receptacle.

The pivot axis is preferably aligned transversely to an insertion direction of the second receptacle.

It can be favorable if the securing element has a taper in the direction of a free end which protrudes into the second receptacle in the securing position. The narrowing is formed, for example, by two surfaces of the securing element which adjoin one another at an angle of approximately 90° or preferably less. One of the surfaces can be a contact element, for example a sliding surface, for the second coupling part, along which contact element the coupling part slides when it is inserted into the second receptacle and thereby transfers the securing element from the securing position to the release position.

The securing element can in particular be designed as a cam which is preferably pivotably mounted on or next to an edge of the receptacle.

The coupling device advantageously includes a coupling element which is connected directly or indirectly to the securing element and which is designed to be movable relative to the actuator. The coupling element can advantageously be movably coupled to the actuator, as explained below.

The coupling element is preferably a push and/or pull element that is designed to be displaceable relative to the support device.

In a different preferred embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the coupling device comprises a coupling element which is connected to the actuator and the securing element and moves the securing element when the actuator moves. The movement of the actuator can directly trigger a movement of the coupling element in order to move the securing element.

For example, the coupling element is rod-shaped.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling element is aligned and/or displaceable parallel to a displacement direction of the locking element.

For example, the coupling element is arranged on the support device on a side of the actuator that faces away from the attachment.

It is favorable if the connecting device comprises a guide device for guiding the coupling element on the support device and/or on the actuator.

It can be advantageous if the actuator and the coupling element are in engagement with one another in order to ensure reliable functioning of the coupling device.

For example, the actuator includes a through-opening through which the coupling element extends. In this way, a guide device for the coupling element can preferably be formed.

For example, a holding member which encompasses the through-opening and through which the coupling element extends is provided on the actuator.

It can prove to be advantageous if the coupling element is connected to the securing element via a joint member, which is articulated to the securing element and to the coupling element. The joint member allows, for example, a deflection of a force from Kopp development element is applied to the fuse element, and / or vice versa. As a result, a compact design of the connecting device can preferably be ensured in practice.

It is advantageous if the locking device, in particular the actuator, and the coupling element comprise stop elements which are assigned to one another and which couple directly or indirectly to one another when the locking device is transferred from the holding position to the release position, in particular when the actuator is displaced relative to the carrying device in order to To transfer fuse element from the backup position to the release position. A force of the locking device can be transmitted to the securing element via the mutually associated stop elements, also referred to below as “first stop elements”. It is preferably provided here that the coupling element is designed to be movable relative to the actuator, as explained above.

In the present case, a “displacement of the actuator” can in particular be understood to mean that a part or section of the actuator is displaced.

When transferring the locking device from the holding position to the release position, it can be provided that the stop elements do not couple to one another immediately, but only after the stop element has traveled a predetermined distance on the locking device.

The coupling device preferably comprises an energy storage element which is positioned and effective between the stop elements. The energy storage element allows energy to be absorbed during a movement of the stop element on the locking device, to be temporarily stored and to be released to the stop element of the coupling element. In particular, the energy storage element can be used to ensure a limitation of the force with which the coupling element and, via this, the securing element can be acted upon by the locking device.

Accordingly, the energy storage element is in particular a force-limiting element or forms one.

The force limiting element can be used, for example, to limit a force with which the securing element acts on the second coupling part when the second coupling part is in contact with the securing element as a result of the weight of the attachment. As explained at the outset, this can be used, for example, to avoid overloading the connecting device. As an alternative or in addition, the securing element can advantageously be prevented from being transferred into the release position against the force of the coupling part, pushing it away to a certain extent. This serves to increase the operational reliability of the connecting device.

The energy storage element is preferably designed as a spring element surrounding the coupling element. The spring element is, for example, a compression spring that is positioned between the first stop elements.

It is advantageous if the locking device, in particular the actuator, and the coupling element comprise stop elements which are assigned to one another and which couple directly or indirectly to one another when the locking device is transferred from the release position to the holding position, in particular when the actuator is displaced relative to the carrying device in order to Apply fuse element with a force to take the backup position. These stop elements, also referred to below as “second stop elements”, allow a force to be exerted on the securing element via the actuator and the coupling device. It can be provided here, for example, that the securing element is held in the secured position or is transferred from the release position to the secured position.

The coupling device can preferably comprise an energy storage element which is positioned and effective between the stop elements. The energy storage element can, for example, temporarily store energy under deformation, which energy can be used to apply a restoring force to the securing element via the coupling element.

Accordingly, the energy storage element can in particular be a restoring element or form one.

The energy storage element is preferably designed as a spring element surrounding the coupling element. For example, the spring element is a compression spring that is positioned between the second stop elements.

In a preferred embodiment, the energy storage element can be prestressed between stop elements.

It is favorable if the securing element is independent of whether the locking element assumes the release position or the holding position can be transferred from the securing position to the release position. In this way, there is in particular the possibility of engaging the second clutch part without actuating the actuator.

For example, the securing element can be transferred from the securing position to the release position by means of the second coupling part when it is inserted into the second receptacle.

It is advantageous if the securing element can be transferred from the securing position to the release position against a restoring force of the aforementioned energy storage element, with the energy storage element being the energy storage element mentioned in connection with the second stop elements. If the second clutch part is engaged, the securing element returns to the securing position as a result of the restoring force of the energy storage element without further action, in particular without actuating the actuator. This increases the operational reliability of the connecting device.

The actuator can preferably include a holding member on which the stop elements of the locking device are arranged and which is preferably in engagement with the coupling element.

The locking device can be designed in different ways. For example, hydraulically (preferred), pneumatically, mechanically, and/or electrically.

The actuator preferably includes or is a piston-cylinder unit, in particular a hydraulic unit.

It can be favorable if a piston of the piston-cylinder unit is held stationary on the support device and a cylinder of the piston-cylinder unit, on which the locking element is held and which is coupled to the coupling device, is displaceable relative to the support device. For example, the cylinder may form the slidable part or portion of the actuator as described above.

Alternatively, it can be advantageous if the locking element is fixed to a piston of the piston-cylinder unit, which is displaceable relative to the support device, and if a cylinder of the piston-cylinder unit is fixed in place on the support device. For example, the piston may form the slidable part or portion of the actuator as described above.

It is favorable if the connecting device comprises or forms a display device with which a user can be shown that the securing element has assumed the release position and/or the securing position. In this way, the user can visually see what position the securing element is in. For example, if the securing element is in the release position, the user can actuate the actuator to secure the second clutch part.

The display device is preferably arranged on the security element or is encompassed by it.

It can be advantageous if at least two locking elements and two securing elements are provided, which are each positioned at a distance from one another and each serve to lock or secure the coupling parts. For example, two first receptacles and/or two second receptacles are provided, on which the locking elements or the securing elements are arranged. It can also be provided that there is only a first recording and only a second recording.

In a preferred embodiment, two or more locking elements can be adjusted by means of only one actuator, so that a locking device with two locking elements is provided.

Correspondingly, the security device can comprise two security elements. A coupling device can be provided which couples the two securing elements to the locking device. Alternatively, each securing element can be assigned an independent coupling device for operative connection with one or two locking device(s).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is favorable if the connecting device comprises two locking devices, two securing devices and two coupling devices, as well as two first receptacles and two second receptacles, which are each arranged at a distance from one another, and if the first coupling part is in the first receptacles and the second coupling part can be arranged in the second recordings. Correspondingly, for example, two first stop elements and two second stop elements can be present. By duplicating the above-mentioned and described components of the connecting device, an even more reliable attachment of the attachment to the connecting device can be ensured.

As mentioned at the outset, the present invention also relates to a working device. an invent The working device according to the invention comprises a connecting device of the type mentioned above and at least one attachment that can be detachably fixed to it. The working device is, for example, an earth-moving device, in particular an excavator. The attachment can be an excavator bucket, for example.

The advantages that have already been mentioned in connection with the explanation of the connecting device according to the invention can also be achieved with the working device according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the working device according to the invention result from advantageous embodiments of the connecting device. In this regard, to avoid repetition, reference can be made to the above statements.

• 1: eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Arbeitsvorrichtung, umfassend eine erfindungsgemäße Verbindungsvorrichtung;
• 2: eine perspektivische schematische Darstellung der Verbindungsvorrichtung gemäß Detail A in 1;
• 3: eine Vorderansicht der Verbindungsvorrichtung mit Blick in Richtung des Pfeiles „3“ in 2;
• 4: eine Schnittansicht längs der Linie 4-4 in 3, bei der eine Verriegelungseinrichtung eine Lösestellung und eine Sicherungseinrichtung eine Freigabestellung einnimmt, sowie zwei Kupplungsteile eines Anbaugerätes;
• 5: eine Darstellung entsprechend 4, wobei die Verriegelungseinrichtung eine Haltestellung und die Sicherungseinrichtung eine Sicherungsstellung einnimmt;
• 6: eine Darstellung entsprechend 5, wobei ein Kupplungsteil in eine Aufnahme eingeführt wird;
• 7: eine Darstellung entsprechend 5, wobei die Verbindungsvorrichtung geneigt bezüglich einer Schwerkraftrichtung ausgerichtet ist;
• 8: eine Darstellung entsprechend 7 nach Überführen der Verriegelungseinrichtung von der Haltestellung in die Lösestellung; und
• 9: eine vergrößerte Darstellung von Detail B in 4.

The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, in conjunction with the drawing, serves to explain the invention in more detail. Show it:

• 1 : a schematic representation of a working device according to the invention, comprising a connecting device according to the invention;
• 2 : a perspective schematic representation of the connecting device according to detail A in 1 ;
• 3 : a front view of the connecting device looking in the direction of arrow "3" in 2 ;
• 4 : a sectional view taken along line 4-4 in 3 , in which a locking device assumes a release position and a securing device assumes a release position, and two coupling parts of an attachment;
• 5 : a representation accordingly 4 , wherein the locking device assumes a holding position and the securing device assumes a securing position;
• 6 : a representation accordingly 5 , wherein a coupling part is inserted into a socket;
• 7 : a representation accordingly 5 wherein the connecting device is oriented inclined with respect to a direction of gravity;
• 8th : a representation accordingly 7 after transferring the locking device from the holding position to the release position; and
• 9 : an enlarged view of detail B in 4 .

1 shows a schematic representation of a side view of an advantageous embodiment of a working device according to the invention, which is given the reference number 10 . In the present case, the working device 10 is an earth-moving device, designed as an excavator 12.

The excavator 12 includes an attachment 14, here in the form of an excavator bucket 16.

The working device 10 also includes an advantageous embodiment of the connecting device according to the invention, which is given the reference number 18 . The excavator bucket 16 can be detachably fixed to the excavator 12 with the connecting device 18 . The connecting device 18 can in turn be held firmly on an excavator arm 20 . Alternatively, it is conceivable that the connecting device 18 can be releasably connected to the excavator arm 20 .

It goes without saying that the attachment 14 and the connecting device 18 are adapted to one another in terms of function and dimensions. In the present case, the connecting device 18 is designed to hold an attachment 14 which comprises two coupling parts 22 and 24 which are arranged at a distance from one another. The coupling parts 22, 24 are bolt-shaped and aligned parallel to one another.

The connecting device 18 includes a support device 26 for fixing to the excavator arm 20. The support device 26 forms a frame 28 with two frame parts 32, 34 spaced apart from one another in a transverse direction 30. The frame parts 32, 34 are connected to one another via connecting parts 36. The support device 36 defines a longitudinal direction 38 transverse to the transverse direction 30. In the longitudinal direction 38, the support device 26 has a first side 40 and a second side 42. The first side 40 faces away from the driver of the excavator 12, and the second side 42 faces the facing the driver.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the connecting device 18 comprises a plurality of components explained below, which are each present in duplicate, for example the locking device, the securing device, the coupling device, first and second receptacles and first and second stop elements. The respective components that correspond to one another have the same function and are mirror-symmetrical to one another with respect to a central longitudinal plane 44 . In the following, only one set of these components is referred to, namely those in 3 components arranged to the right of the median longitudinal plane 44 . The relevant explanations apply in a corresponding manner to the respective other set of components.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, it can be provided, for example, that two locking elements of the locking device can be moved by means of a common actuator. Alternatively or additionally, two securing elements of the securing device can be provided, which are operatively connected to one actuator via one or two coupling device(s). It can be provided, for example, that an actuator, based on a transverse direction 30, is arranged between the locking elements in the area of the central longitudinal plane.

The connecting device 18 includes a first receptacle 46 for the (first) coupling part 22. The receptacle 46 is arranged on the first side 40 and is formed in particular by a recess on the frame part 32. The coupling part 22 can be inserted into the receptacle 46 in an insertion direction 48 which is oriented transversely to the longitudinal direction 38 and transversely to the transverse direction 30 . This is typically done by the vehicle driver moving the excavator arm 20 in a corresponding manner relative to the stationary excavator bucket 16 .

The same also applies to receiving the (second) coupling part 24 with the connecting device 18.

The coupling part 22 can be held in the receptacle 46 . For this purpose, the connecting device 18 includes a locking device 52. The locking device 52 includes an actuator 54, configured in the present case as a piston-cylinder unit 56.

The piston-cylinder unit 56 has a cylinder 58 with a housing 60 and a piston 62. The cylinder 58 and the piston 62 can be displaced relative to one another. In the present case, the piston-cylinder unit 56 is designed hydraulically. A connection element 64 is provided for connecting a hydraulic line. The cylinder 58 is in particular a so-called H cylinder.

In the present case, the piston 62 is held stationary on the frame part 32 of the support device 26 . The housing 60 is designed to be displaceable relative to the support device 26. The housing 60 and the cylinder 58 are displaceable sections of the actuator 54. The direction of displacement corresponds to the longitudinal direction 38.

The locking device 52 includes a locking element 66. The locking element 66 is fixed to the housing 60, in this case on the side facing away from the piston 62, which faces the first side 40. The piston 62 faces the second side 42 .

The locking element 66 is in the form of a bolt and passes through a through-opening 68 on the frame part 32 which opens into the receptacle 46 . At the end, the locking element 66 is claw-shaped. In combination with the frame part 32, the receptacle 46 is delimited in a U-shape by the locking element 66 when this assumes a holding position ( 5 ).

The locking element 66 can be transferred from a release position to a holding position and vice versa via the actuator 54 . These positions are at the same time positions of the locking device 52. The locking element 66 can be displaced in the longitudinal direction 38.

In the release position, the piston 62 is retracted into the cylinder 58, as a result of which the cylinder 58 is displaced away from the receptacle 46 in the longitudinal direction 38. The locking element 66 is displaced away from the receptacle 46 into the through-opening 68 . The receptacle 46 is free to insert the coupling part 22 ( 4 ).

The locking element 66 can be transferred from the release position into a holding position by means of the actuator 54 . In the holding position, the coupling part 22 is held between the locking element 66 and the frame part 32 ( 5 ).

The piston is extended out of the cylinder 58 in order to move the locking element 66 into the holding position. In the process, the cylinder 58 is displaced in the longitudinal direction 38 relative to the carrying device 26 . This displaces the locking element 66 out of the through opening 68.

On the second side 42 the connecting device 18 comprises a second receptacle 70 which is assigned to the coupling part 24 . The receptacle 70 has an insertion direction 72 . In the present example, the insertion direction 72 is aligned in or essentially in the longitudinal direction 38 and in particular transversely to the insertion direction 48. The coupling part 24 can be inserted into the receptacle 70 in the insertion direction 72 and can be guided out of it counter to the insertion direction 72 ( 4 ).

An edge 74 is essentially U-shaped and delimits the receptacle 70. In addition to the edge 74, a recess 76 is formed on the frame part 32, which is open to the receptacle 70 and into which a through-opening 78 opens. The through opening 78 runs in the longitudinal direction 38.

To secure the coupling part 24 in the receptacle 70, the connecting device 18 comprises a securing device 80. The securing device 80 comprises a securing element 82.

The securing element 82 is movably and in particular pivotably mounted on the support device 26 . In the present case, a joint 84 is provided for storage next to the edge 74 and defines a pivot axis 86 . The pivot axis 86 runs in the transverse direction 30.

The securing element 82 is designed as a cam 88 which can be pivoted into the receptacle 70 and pivoted out of it.

The securing element 82 can assume a release position in which an insertion opening of the receptacle 70 is released, as a result of which the coupling part 24 can be inserted into the receptacle 70 ( 4 ).

Starting from the release position, the securing element 82 can be transferred to a securing position. In the securing position, the securing element 82 projects into the receptacle 70 with a free end 90 . As a result, the cross section of the insertion opening 72 is reduced so that it is blocked. The coupling part 24 is secured in the receptacle 70 and cannot be guided out of it.

The securing element 82 has a taper 92 in the direction of the free end 90 . On the insertion side of the receptacle 70, the securing element 82 comprises a contact element for the coupling part 24, designed as a slide-on surface 94.

The support device 26 includes a stationary stop element 96 for the securing element 82 when this assumes the release position ( 4 ). In the present case, the stop element 96 is arranged on the top side of the frame 28 on the second side 42 .

In addition, the carrying device 26 includes a stop element 98 for the securing element 82 when this assumes the securing position ( 5 ). In the present case, the stop element 98 is arranged in a stationary manner on the edge 74 of the receptacle 70 .

In a different embodiment, the stop elements 96, 98 can be arranged at different positions. For example, the stop element 98 can be arranged on the top side on the frame 28 and the stop element 96 can be arranged on the edge 74 of the receptacle.

The range of movement of the securing element 82 is limited by the stop elements 96, 98 and the respective release position or securing position is clearly defined.

A holding member 100 is arranged on the actuator 54 . The holding member 100 is in particular a projection of the housing 60. The holding member 100 is arranged in a receiving space 102 on the frame part 32, into which the through-opening 78 opens.

A through hole 104 is formed on the holding member 100 .

The holding member 100 has a stop element 106 facing the first side 40 . Facing the second side 42 , the holding member 100 has a stop element 108 .

The connecting device 18 includes a coupling device 110 via which the locking device 52 is in operative connection with the securing device 80 . In this way, in particular, the securing element 82 can be moved by means of the actuator 54 .

In the present case, the coupling device 110 is arranged on the side of the locking device 52 and in particular of the actuator 54 facing away from the attachment 14 .

In relation to the transverse direction 30, the locking device 52, the securing device 80 and the coupling device 110 are arranged essentially in the same area on the frame 28, namely on the frame part 32.

The coupling device 110 comprises a coupling element 112. In the present case, the coupling element 112 is embodied as a rod 114, which can be moved in the support device 26 and, in particular, can be displaced in the longitudinal direction 38.

The coupling element 112 is in particular movable and in particular displaceable relative to the actuator 54 . In this case, the coupling element 112 is in engagement with the actuator 54 .

In particular, the coupling element 112 reaches through the holding member 100 at the through-opening 104. The holding member 100 thus forms a guide device for the coupling element 112.

The coupling element 112 is aligned in the longitudinal direction 38 and engages in the through opening 78 . An edge of the through opening 78 forms a further guide device for the coupling element 112.

The securing element 82 is connected to the coupling element 112 via a joint member 116 of the coupling device 110 . The link member 116 is pivotable at a first pivot 118 with the coupling member 112 and at a second pivot 120 with the safety tion element 82 connected. The respective pivot axes are aligned parallel to one another and parallel to the pivot axis 86 .

If the coupling element 112 is displaced in the longitudinal direction 38, the securing element 82 pivots about the pivot axis 86.

The coupling element 112 includes a stop element 122 which is assigned to the stop element 106 . The stop element 122 is arranged on the coupling element 112 facing the first side 40, in the present case at the end on the coupling element 112.

The stop elements 106, 122 are "second" stop elements in the sense of the above explanations.

The coupling device 110 includes an energy storage element 124, which is arranged between the stop elements 106, 122 and is effective. The energy storage element 124 is designed as a spring element 126 which surrounds the coupling element 112 . The spring element 126 is a compression spring.

The spring element 126 can be compressed by the stop elements 106, 122, which can be brought closer together, while storing energy. Conversely, the energy can be released to displace the coupling element 112 in the direction of the first side 40 relative to the holding member 100 .

The coupling element 112 further includes a stop element 128 which is assigned to the stop element 108 . The stop element 128 is arranged on the coupling element 112 facing the second side 42 . The stop element 128 is formed by a shoulder 130 on the coupling element 112 .

The stop elements 108, 128 are "first" stop elements in the sense of the above explanations.

An energy storage element 132 is arranged between the stop elements 108, 128 and is effective. The energy storage element 132 is designed as a spring element 134 which surrounds the coupling element 112 . The spring element 134 is a compression spring.

If the stop elements 108, 128 are moved toward one another, the spring element 134 can be compressed while storing energy. Conversely, the energy can be released, for example in order to displace the coupling element 112 in the direction of the second side 42 relative to the holding member 100 .

The functioning of the connecting device 18 is explained below.

To couple the attachment 14, the locking device 52 can be transferred to the release position. Due to the moving holding member 100, the stop elements 108, 128 can couple indirectly via the spring element 134. The stop element 108 contacts the spring element 134 which in turn contacts the stop element 128 .

As a result, the coupling element 112 is displaced in the direction of the second side 42 . The securing element 82 is pivoted into the release position via the joint member 116, which pivots into the recess 76, until it rests against the stop element 96 ( 4 ).

The coupling part 24 is inserted into the receptacle 70 . Then the coupling part 22 is inserted into the receptacle 46 .

The actuator 54 is then actuated in order to move the locking device into the holding position. The locking element 66 assuming the holding position secures the coupling part 22 in the receptacle 46.

The movement of the holding member 100 enables the stop elements 106, 122 to be effectively coupled to one another via the spring element 126. The spring element 126 transmits a force from the stop element 106 to the stop element 122. As a result, the coupling element 112 is displaced in the direction of the first side 40.

The link member 116 pivots back out of the recess 76 . As a result, the securing element 82 is transferred from the release position to the securing position and is in contact with the stop element 98 . The coupling part 24 is thus also secured in the receptacle 70 .

It is advantageous that actuation of the actuator 54 is required in order to transfer the securing element 82 from the securing position to the release position. This ensures that the coupling part 24 does not inadvertently come out of the receptacle 70 .

It is also advantageous that the securing element 82 can be transferred from the securing position to the release position by the locking device 52 independently of whether the release position or the holding position is assumed ( 6 ).

6 shows the locking device 52 in the locking position. When the coupling part 24 against the securing element 82 on the on sliding surface 94 strikes, the securing element 82 can thereby be transferred from the securing position to the release position. The movement of the securing element 82 causes the coupling element 112 to be displaced in the direction of the second side 42, against a restoring force of the spring element 126. The spring element 126 is preferably pretensioned.

In this case, the spring element 126 acts as a restoring element, under the effect of which the coupling element 112 is displaced again when the coupling part 24 is fully inserted into the receptacle 70 . Due to the displacement of the coupling element 112, the securing element 82 pivots back into the securing position.

In this way, the connecting device 18 can be used, for example, to convert the attachment 14, with only the second coupling part 24 being coupled. True, this does not correspond to the handling and safety regulations. However, in practice it has been shown that, contrary to such a regulation, vehicle drivers move attachments only when they are coupled on one side. In such cases, the invention increases operational safety and reduces the risk of accidents.

7 and 8th each show an orientation of the connecting device 18 inclined relative to a direction of gravity 136. Here, the second side 42 faces the ground and the first side 40 faces away from the ground. The insertion opening of the receptacle 70 points towards the floor.

The coupling part 22 is in the 7 and 8th shown dashed. The advantages mentioned below can be achieved regardless of whether both coupling parts 22, 24 are coupled or whether only the coupling part 24 for shifting the attachment 14 is coupled.

the 7 shows the locking device 52 in the locked position, the 8th in the release position.

In the 7 The situation shown corresponds to that of 5 , in which the securing element 82 assumes the securing position.

Due to the inclination of the connecting device 18, however, the free end of the securing element 82 is subjected to a force by the coupling part 24 due to the weight of the attachment 14. The securing element 82 is blocked in the securing position by the stop element 98 and cannot be pivoted. As a result, it is not possible for the coupling part 24 to get out of the receptacle 70 .

In particular, if only the coupling part 24 is coupled and the coupling part 22 is free (not shown), the attachment 14 remains held on the connecting device 18 in this case and cannot fall down. The risk of accidents is reduced as a result, and the connecting device 18 has a high level of operational reliability.

According to the situation 8th the locking device 52 is in the release position. The coupling part 22 is released as a result of the actuation of the actuator 54 (dashed representation in 8th ), or the coupling part 22 is already free from the outset if it was not previously engaged.

The coupling part 24 acts on the securing element 82, which is in the securing position, with a force which, as just explained, is prevented from pivoting by the stop element 98.

The housing 60 with the holding member 100 is displaced towards the second side 42 . Here, the stop elements 108, 128 are effective, and the spring element 134 is compressed between them, while storing energy.

However, the spring element 134 is designed in such a way that the spring force is not sufficient to exceed the force acting on the securing element 82 from the coupling part 24 . Therefore, in this case, the securing element 82 is not transferred from the securing position to the release position against the force exerted by the coupling part 24, but instead remains in the securing position.

Since the spring element 134 cannot apply the force required to pivot the coupling part 24, it acts as a force-limiting element in this case.

The force limitation has the advantage that the coupling part 24 cannot be pushed back into the receptacle 70 by the securing element 82 in such a way that the securing element 82 pivots past the coupling part 24 into the release position. In addition, an excessive load on the locking device 52 can be avoided.

Irrespective of whether the coupling part 22 is initially engaged or not or whether the locking device 52 assumes the release position from the beginning or is transferred from the holding position to this, the coupling part 24 therefore remains held in the receptacle 70 by means of the securing element 82 . A risk of accidents can be reduced, and the connecting device 18 has high reliability.

The connecting device 18 has a display device 138 by means of which the driver of the vehicle can identify the position of the securing element 82 .

In the present example, the display device 38 is arranged on the securing element 82 . A surface 140 of the securing element 82, which is arranged in the securing position in the recess 76, is marked, for example colored red. In the release position, the surface 140 is pivoted out of the recess 76 and can be seen by the vehicle driver on the second side 42 . In this way, the driver of the vehicle always has information about the position of the securing element 82 when looking at the connecting device 18 .

In addition or as an alternative, the slide-on surface 94 can be marked, for example with green paint. If the securing element 82 assumes the securing position, the slide-on surface 94 can be seen by the driver of the vehicle. In contrast, the slide-on surface 94 cannot be seen when the securing element 82 is in the release position.

Reference List

10

working device

12

excavator

14

attachment

16

excavator bucket

18

connecting device

20

excavator arm

22, 24

coupling part

26

carrying device

28

frame

30

transverse direction

32, 34

frame part

36

connection part

38

longitudinal direction

40

first page

42

second page

44

median longitudinal plane

46

first shot

48

insertion direction

52

locking device

54

actuator

56

Piston-cylinder unit

58

cylinder

60

housing

62

Pistons

64

connection element

66

locking element

68

passage opening

70

second recording

72

insertion direction

74

edge

76

recess

78

passage opening

80

security device

82

fuse element

84

joint

86

pivot axis

88

cam

90

free end

92

rejuvenation

94

sliding surface

96

stop element

98

stop element

100

holding link

102

recording room

104

passage opening

106, 108

stop element

110

coupling device

112

coupling element

114

pole

116

articulated link

118, 120

joint

122

stop element

124

energy storage element

126

spring element

128

stop element

130

shoulder

132

energy storage element

134

spring element

136

direction of gravity

138

display device

140

surface

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• EP 2766529 B1 [0006, 0011]

Claims (26)

Connection device for detachably coupling an attachment (14) to a working device (10), comprising: - A carrying device (26) which is fixed or can be fixed to the working device (10) and on which a first receptacle (46) for a first coupling part (22) of the attachment (14) and a second receptacle (70) for a second coupling part (24) of the attachment (14), the receptacles (46, 70) being arranged at a distance from one another on the carrying device (26); - a locking device (52) held on the support device (26) and comprising an actuator (54) and a locking element (66) which can be transferred from a release position to a holding position and vice versa, the first receptacle (46) in the release position being Insertion of the first coupling part (22) is released and the first coupling part (22) is held in the holding position in the first receptacle (46); - A securing device (80) which comprises a securing element (82) which is movably held in particular on the carrying device (26) and which can be transferred from a release position to a securing position and vice versa, with an insertion opening of the second receptacle (70) for the second coupling part ( 24) released in the release position and locked in the locked position; and - a coupling device (110) via which the securing device (80) is in operative connection with the locking device (52), the securing element (82) being transferred from the securing position to the release position when the locking element (66) is transferred from the holding position to the release position will. Connection device according to claim 1 , characterized in that the securing element (82) cannot be transferred from the securing position to the release position via the locking device if a force exerted by the second coupling part (24) on the securing element (82) exceeds a predetermined or specifiable threshold force. Connection device according to claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the connecting device (18) comprises a force limiting device and/or a force limiting element (132) for limiting a force which can be applied to the securing device (80) for transferring the securing element (82) from the securing position to the release position . Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the securing device (80) is operatively connected to the locking device (52) via the coupling device (110) in such a way that the securing element (82) when the locking element (66) is transferred from the release position to the holding position is transferred from the release position to the securing position. Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting device (18) comprises or forms a first stop element (96) for the securing element (82) when the release position is assumed and/or that the connecting device (18) has a second stop element (98) comprises or forms for the securing element (82) when assuming the securing position. Connection device according to claim 5 , characterized in that at least one stop element (96, 98) is arranged stationarily on the support device (26). Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the securing element (82) is movably mounted and in particular pivotable about a pivot axis (86) on the support device (26), the pivot axis (86) preferably being transverse to an insertion direction (72) of the second receptacle (70) is aligned. Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the securing element (82) has a taper (92) in the direction of a free end (90) which protrudes into the second receptacle (70) in the securing position. Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling device (110) comprises a coupling element (112) which is connected directly or indirectly to the securing element (82) and which is designed to be movable relative to the actuator (54). Connecting device according to one of Claims 1 until 8th , characterized in that the coupling device (110) comprises a coupling element (112) which is connected to the actuator (54) and to the securing element (82) and moves the securing element (82) when the actuator (54) moves. Connection device according to claim 9 or 10 , characterized in that the coupling element (112) is a push and/or pull element which is designed to be displaceable relative to the carrying device (26), and/or that the coupling element (112) is rod-shaped. Connecting device according to one of claims 9 until 11 , characterized in that the coupling element (112) is aligned and/or displaceable parallel to a displacement direction of the locking element (66). Connecting device according to one of claims 9 until 12 , characterized in that the connecting device (18) comprises a guide device for guiding the coupling element (112) on the support device (26) and / or on the actuator (54). Connecting device according to one of claims 9 until 13 , characterized in that the actuator (54) and the coupling element (112) are in engagement with each other, in particular that the actuator (54) comprises a through-opening (104) through which the coupling element (112) extends, and/or that the coupling element (112) is connected to the securing element (82) via a joint member (116), which is articulated to the securing element (82) and to the coupling element (112). Connecting device according to one of claims 9 until 14 , characterized in that the locking device (52), in particular the actuator (54), and the coupling element (112) comprise mutually associated stop elements (108, 128) which, when the locking device (52) is transferred from the holding position to the release position, indirectly or couple directly to one another, in particular when the actuator (54) is displaced relative to the carrying device (26), in order to convert the securing element (82) from the securing position into the release position. Connection device according to claim 15 , characterized in that the coupling device (110) comprises an energy storage element (132) which is positioned between the stop elements (108, 128) and is effective, preferably in that the energy storage element (132) is configured as a spring element (134) surrounding the coupling element (112). is. Connecting device according to one of claims 9 until 16 , characterized in that the locking device (52), in particular the actuator (54), and the coupling element (112) comprise mutually associated stop elements (106, 122) which, when the locking device (52) is transferred from the release position to the holding position, indirectly or couple directly to one another, in particular when the actuator (54) is displaced relative to the support device (26), in order to apply a force to the securing element (82) to assume the securing position. Connection device according to Claim 17 , characterized in that the coupling device (110) comprises an energy storage element (124) which is positioned between the stop elements (106, 122) and is effective, preferably in that the energy storage element (124) is configured as a spring element (126) surrounding the coupling element (112). is. Connection device according to Claim 18 , characterized in that the energy storage element (124) between the stop elements (106, 122) is biased. Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the securing element (82) can be transferred from the securing position to the release position independently of whether the locking element (66) assumes the release position or the holding position, in particular that the securing element (82) can be moved by means of the second Coupling part (24) can be converted from the securing position into the release position against a restoring force of the energy storage element (132) when it is inserted into the second receptacle (70). Connecting device according to one of claims 9 until 20 , characterized in that the actuator (54) comprises a holding member (100) on which the stop elements (106, 108) of the locking device (52) are arranged and which is preferably in engagement with the coupling element (112). Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuator (54) is or comprises a piston-cylinder unit (56). Connection device according to Claim 22 , characterized in that a piston (62) of the piston-cylinder unit (56) is held stationary on the support device (26) and a cylinder (58) of the piston-cylinder unit (56) on which the locking element (66 ) is fixed and which is coupled to the coupling device (110), is displaceable relative to the support device (26), or that the locking element (66) is fixed to a piston (62) of the piston-cylinder unit (56) which is relatively to the support device (26) is displaceable, and that a cylinder (58) of the piston-cylinder unit (56) is fixed in place on the support device (26). Connection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection device (18) comprises or forms a display device (138) with which a user can take the Frei release position and/or the securing position can be indicated by the securing element (82), preferably that the display device (138) is arranged on the securing element (82) or is encompassed by it. Connecting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting device (18) comprises two locking devices (52), two securing devices (80) and two coupling devices (110) and two first receptacles (46) and two second receptacles (70) which are each arranged at a distance from one another, and that the first coupling part (22) can be arranged in the first receptacles (46) and the second coupling part (24) in the second receptacles (70). Working device, comprising a connecting device (18) according to one of the preceding claims and at least one attachment (14) which can be detachably fixed thereon.

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