U.S. patent application number 15/468432 was filed with the patent office on 2018-09-27 for dragline bucket rigging with active tilt device.
This patent application is currently assigned to Caterpillar Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Caterpillar Inc.. Invention is credited to John M. Plouzek.
Application Number | 20180274202 15/468432 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 63581789 |
Filed Date | 2018-09-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180274202 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Plouzek; John M. |
September 27, 2018 |
DRAGLINE BUCKET RIGGING WITH ACTIVE TILT DEVICE
Abstract
A method for moving material efficiently using a machine with a
bucket comprises determining at least one of the following
variables: location of the material to be moved relative to the
machine, type of material to be moved, orientation of the surface
of the material to be moved, and the desired direction for moving
the bucket to move the material, and changing the orientation of
the bucket relative to the machine based on any one of these
variables.
Inventors: |
Plouzek; John M.; (Peoria,
IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Caterpillar Inc. |
Peoria |
IL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Caterpillar Inc.
Peoria
IL
|
Family ID: |
63581789 |
Appl. No.: |
15/468432 |
Filed: |
March 24, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02F 9/2016 20130101;
E02F 3/48 20130101; E02F 3/60 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E02F 3/40 20060101
E02F003/40; E02F 9/14 20060101 E02F009/14; E02F 9/16 20060101
E02F009/16; E02F 9/20 20060101 E02F009/20; E02F 9/22 20060101
E02F009/22 |
Claims
1. A bucket assembly for use with a machine, the bucket assembly
comprising: a bucket including a base member, a first side member
extending from the base member, a second side member extending from
the base member in an opposing manner to the first side member
defining a distance from the first side member to the second side
member, a rear member extending from the base member and spanning
at least the majority of the distance between the first side member
and the second side member, wherein the first side member, second
side member and base member define a mouth for receiving material
into the bucket; the bucket defines a center of gravity and a first
attachment region, a second attachment region, and a third
attachment region configured to connect to flexible members, and at
least a first flexible member attached to the first attachment
region, at least a second flexible member attached to the second
attachment region and at least a third flexible member attached to
the third attachment region; and an active tilt device that is in
operative association with the first flexible member and the second
flexible member.
2. The bucket assembly of claim 1 further comprising an arch and
the first attachment region is disposed on the arch.
3. The bucket assembly of claim 2 wherein the first, second and
third attachment regions include a plurality of attachment
points.
4. The bucket assembly of claim 1 wherein the active tilt device
includes a winch.
5. The bucket assembly of claim 4 wherein the winch is a
hydraulically powered winch.
6. The bucket assembly of claim 4 wherein the winch is an
electrically powered winch.
7. The bucket assembly of claim 1 further comprising a power supply
line attached to the winch.
8. The bucket assembly of claim 1 wherein the second attachment
region is disposed on the rear member.
9. The bucket assembly of claim 1 wherein the second attachment
region is disposed on the first and second side members.
10. The bucket assembly of claim 1 wherein the third flexible
member is not in operative association with the first and second
flexible members.
11. A machine comprising: a frame; a motor; a boom; a cable drum
driven by the motor and a rig system connected to the cable drum; a
cab; an undercarriage drive driven by the motor; and a bucket
connected to the rig system, the bucket including a base member, a
first side member extending from the base member, a second side
member extending from the base member in an opposing manner to the
first side member defining a distance from the first side member to
the second side member, a rear member extending from the base
member and spanning at least the majority of the distance between
the first side member and the second side member, and an arch
spanning between the first and second side members; wherein the
first side member, second side member and base member define a
mouth for receiving material into the bucket and the bucket defines
a center of gravity and includes a first attachment region, a
second attachment region, and a third attachment region configured
to connect to flexible members, and at least a first flexible
member attached to the first attachment region, at least a second
flexible member attached to the second attachment region and at
least a third flexible member attached to the third attachment
region; and an active tilt device disposed in the rig system
between the bucket and the cable drum.
12. The machine of claim 11 further comprising an arch and the
first attachment region is disposed on the arch.
13. The machine of claim 11 wherein the active tilt device is in
operative association with the first flexible member and the second
flexible member.
14. The machine of claim 13 wherein the third flexible member is
not in operative association with the first and second flexible
members.
15. The machine of claim 11 wherein the rig system is a three cable
rig system.
16. A method for moving material efficiently using a machine with a
bucket, the method comprising: determining at least one of the
following variables: location of the material to be moved relative
to the machine; type of material to be moved; orientation of the
surface of the material to be moved; and the desired direction for
moving the bucket to move the material; and changing the
orientation of the bucket relative to the machine based on any one
of these variables.
17. The method of claim 16 wherein changing the orientation
includes changing the location of the attachment point of one or
more attachment regions of the bucket.
18. The method of claim 17 wherein changing the location of the
attachment point is performed in a discrete manner.
19. The method of claim 17 wherein changing the location of the
attachment point is performed in a continuous manner.
20. The method of claim 16 wherein changing the orientation
includes activating an active tilt device that is operatively
connected to the bucket at two locations.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to dragline buckets used in
various applications to move materials of various sorts. More
specifically, the present disclosure relates to dragline buckets
with the ability to adjust the placement of the chain connections
depending on the application.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Machines such as dragline machines used in the mining
industry and the like will often employ dragline buckets move
various materials such as soil, rock, ore, etc. As can be imagined,
the situation or application for use of such machines and dragline
buckets will change from time to time. For example, the angle at
which the digging is performed or other variables dealing with the
digging layout may change. Also, the type of material be excavated
may also vary from application to application. In some cases, it
may desirable to chop a wall. In other cases, the dragline bucket
may be oriented to perform a level drag near bench height. In yet
further applications, the bucket may be dragged downhill or uphill.
Examples of different materials that may be moved include loose
soil, sand soil, clump or adhesive materials or soil, rocky soil,
etc. Digging performance is typically affected by the application
variables. Accordingly, it may be desirable to vary the orientation
or construction of the apparatus to increase the digging
performance.
[0003] U.S. Pat. No. 3,384,430 to Steil discloses a dragline bucket
that may be used in applications. Looking at FIG. 1 of Steil, the
bucket has two fixed locations for a vertical chain and a vertical
dumping rope to be attached to the bucket and one forward fixed
location for a horizontal chain to be attached to the bucket.
Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 5,791,809 to Bessey discloses a bucket
design in FIG. 2 where the rearward vertical chain attachment is
fixed and the intermediate attachment is used to attach a dumping
rope in a fixed position. Last, the front most horizontal chain
attachment is also fixed.
[0004] The relative positioning of the buckets in Bessey and Steil
relative to the material desired to be moved and/or the machine is
achieved by moving the chains or ropes relative to each other.
Since the dumping rope is connected often to a horizontal chain,
the versatility of moving the bucket is limited. In one typical
orientation, the horizontal chain attached to the front of the
bucket is pulled forward just enough so that the mouth of the
bucket is facing horizontal. In another typical orientation, the
horizontal chain attached to the front of the bucket is pulled down
slightly to achieve a down angle attitude to the material desired
to be moved and/or the machine. It has been found that this system
lacks the desired versatility to maximize the digging performance
for various applications.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0005] A bucket assembly according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure for use with a machine is provided. The bucket assembly
comprises a bucket including a base member, a first side member
extending from the base member, a second side member extending from
the base member in an opposing manner to the first side member
defining a distance from the first side member to the second side
member, a rear member extending from the base member and spanning
at least the majority of the distance between the first side member
and the second side member, wherein the first side member, second
side member and base member define a mouth for receiving material
into the bucket. The bucket defines a center of gravity and a first
attachment region, a second attachment region, and a third
attachment region configured to connect to flexible members, and at
least a first flexible member attached to the first attachment
region, at least a second flexible member attached to the second
attachment region and at least a third flexible member attached to
the third attachment region. An active tilt device is in operative
association with the first flexible member and the second flexible
member.
[0006] A machine according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure is provided. The machine comprises a frame, a motor, a
boom, a cable drum driven by the motor and a rig system connected
to the cable drum, a cab, an undercarriage drive driven by the
motor, and a bucket connected to the rig system, the bucket
including a base member, a first side member extending from the
base member, a second side member extending from the base member in
an opposing manner to the first side member defining a distance
from the first side member to the second side member, a rear member
extending from the base member and spanning at least the majority
of the distance between the first side member and the second side
member, and an arch spanning between the first and second side
members. The first side member, second side member and base member
define a mouth for receiving material into the bucket and the
bucket defines a center of gravity and includes a first attachment
region, a second attachment region, and a third attachment region
configured to connect to flexible members, and at least a first
flexible member attached to the first attachment region, at least a
second flexible member attached to the second attachment region and
at least a third flexible member attached to the third attachment
region. An active tilt device is disposed in the rig system between
the bucket and the cable drum.
[0007] A method for moving material efficiently using a machine
with a bucket according to an embodiment of the present disclosure
is provided. The method comprises determining at least one of the
following variables: location of the material to be moved relative
to the machine, type of material to be moved, orientation of the
surface of the material to be moved, and the desired direction for
moving the bucket to move the material, and changing the
orientation of the bucket relative to the machine based on any one
of these variables.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a side view of a dragline machine that may employ
a bucket with adjustable placement of chain connections and the
like used to move a material such as soil or the like according to
an embodiment of the present disclosure, and/or, a bucket with an
active tilt device disposed between the bucket and the machine
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a front oriented perspective view of a bucket with
adjustable placement of chain connections according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure shown in isolation from a
machine and in a horizontal orientation.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the bucket of FIG. 2 shown
in a tilted or substantially vertical orientation.
[0011] FIG. 4 is a side view a bucket showing an alternative way of
attaching a flexible member such as chain, cable or rope to the
bucket using a trunnion type connection.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a front oriented perspective view of a bucket with
adjustable placement of chain connections according to another
embodiment of the present disclosure shown in isolation from a
machine and in a horizontal orientation.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the bucket of FIG. 5 shown
in a tilted or substantially vertical orientation.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a front oriented perspective view of a bucket with
an active tilt device attached to the rigging between the bucket
and the boom of the machine according to an embodiment of the
present disclosure shown in isolation from a machine in a
horizontal direction.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the bucket of FIG. 7 shown
in a tilted or substantially vertical orientation.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a side view of dragline machine that may employ a
bucket with adjustable placement of chain connections and the like
used to move a material such as soil or the like according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure, and/or, a bucket with an
active tilt device disposed between the bucket and the machine
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the
bucket being used to move material at a location low and far away
from the machine. The bucket is being moved horizontally toward the
machine during excavation.
[0017] FIG. 10 is a side view of dragline machine that may employ a
bucket with adjustable placement of chain connections and the like
used to move a material such as soil or the like according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure, and/or, a bucket with an
active tilt device disposed between the bucket and the machine
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the
bucket being used to move material at a location of medium height
and far away from the machine. The bucket is being moved
horizontally toward the machine during excavation.
[0018] FIG. 11 is a side view of dragline machine that may employ a
bucket with adjustable placement of chain connections and the like
used to move a material such as soil or the like according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure, and/or, a bucket with an
active tilt device disposed between the bucket and the machine
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the
bucket being used to move material at a location high and far away
from the machine. The bucket is being moved horizontally toward the
machine during excavation.
[0019] FIG. 12 is a side view of dragline machine that may employ a
bucket with adjustable placement of chain connections and the like
used to move a material such as soil or the like according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure, and/or, a bucket with an
active tilt device disposed between the bucket and the machine
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the
bucket being used to move material at a location high and far away
from the machine. The bucket is being moved down vertically during
excavation.
[0020] FIG. 13 is a side view of dragline machine that may employ a
bucket with adjustable placement of chain connections and the like
used to move a material such as soil or the like according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure, and/or, a bucket with an
active tilt device disposed between the bucket and the machine
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the
bucket being used to move material at a location low and far away
from the machine. The bucket is being moved horizontally toward the
machine during excavation. For this embodiment, a side cut where
material is located below and above the bucket is being
illustrate.
[0021] FIG. 14 shows the use of an eye plate with a hook, clevis or
loop type connection that may be used to attach a flexible member
to a bucket according to any embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 15 depicts the use of tabs and slots that may mate with
a pin type connection that may be used to attach a flexible member
to a bucket according to any embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 16 illustrates a similar connection to that of FIG. 15
except that multiple tabs and slots are provide which may be allow
for offset connections, providing a method for adjusting the
location of the connection point according to various embodiments
of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 17 shows the use of a moving connection point that is
powered by a screw or other similar apparatus that moves the
connection point as the screw is rotated.
[0025] FIG. 18 illustrates another moving connection point in the
form of sliding connector that mates with the bucket using a tongue
in groove construction. The connector may slide to a desired
position and then be locked into place using devices and methods
known in the art.
[0026] FIGS. 19 and 20 show the use of a pin connection with spacer
members that may be altered to adjust the location of the
attachment point according to yet another embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 21 is a flowchart containing a method according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure for efficiently moving
material.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the
disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying
drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be
used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. In
some cases, a reference number will be indicated in this
specification and the drawings will show the reference number
followed by a letter for example, 100a, 100b or a prime indicator
such as 100', 100''etc. It is to be understood that the use of
letters or primes immediately after a reference number indicates
that these features are similarly shaped and have similar function
as is often the case when geometry is mirrored about a plane of
symmetry. For ease of explanation in this specification, letters or
primes will often not be included herein but may be shown in the
drawings to indicate duplications of features discussed within this
written specification.
[0029] In some instances, digging performance is improved by
changing the size, shape, and/or angle of the ground engaging
tools: tips and/or shrouds, etc. that are attached to the bucket.
This disclosure describes the creation of dragline bucket with
multiple connection locations and/or with adjustable connection
locations. The multiple/adjustable connection locations allow the
bucket to be quickly adapted to changes in application and/or the
material being dug. This creates value for the machine user, as the
dragline and bucket may have increased performance and dig more
material. This disclosure also describes the creation of dragline
bucket with adjustable bucket tilt mechanism/device. The adjustable
tilt mechanism/device enables the bucket to be tilted more upward
or more downward to dig more effectively with changes in
application and/or the material being dug. This creates value for
the machine user.
[0030] First, a machine will now be described to give the reader
the proper context for understanding how various embodiments of the
present disclosure are used to excavate or mine material to be
moved. It is to be understood that this description is given as
exemplary and not in any limiting sense. Any embodiment of an
apparatus or method described herein may be used in conjunction
with any suitable machine.
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates a dragline earth-moving machine 100
including a frame 102 and a cabin or cab 104 containing the power
machinery such as a motor 106 and cable drums 108 and providing a
base for one end of a boom 110. A bucket 200, 300, 400 is suspended
from the tip 112) of the boom 110) remote from the cabin 104 by a
hoist rope or cable 15(114) which passes through a boom sheave
16(116) at the tip 14(112). The cable 114 is operated by a cable
drum 108 in the cabin 104. In other words, the machine 100 includes
a rig system 118 including one or more cables or ropes that are
connected to one or more cable drums 108, 108', which are powered
by the motor 106. The motor could be an electrical motor, an
internal combustion engine, etc. The machine also includes an
undercarriage drive 120 driven by the motor 104. The undercarriage
drive may take any suitable form include wheels, endless track,
walking mechanism, etc.
[0032] The hoist rope 114 moves the bucket 200, 300, 400 in a
vertical direction while a dragrope 122 moves it in a horizontal
direction. The dragrope 122 is operated by a cable drum 108 from
the cabin 104 and passes through a sheave 124 located at the front
of the cabin 104.
[0033] The bucket 200, 300, 400 is attached to the hoist rope 114
by hoist chains 126 attached to hoist trunnions 128 at either side
of the bucket 200, 300, 400. The trunnions 128 are spaced from the
center of gravity 130 of the bucket in a direction remote from the
front or lip end 132 of the bucket 200, 300, 400.
[0034] The dragrope 122 is attached to the bucket 200, 300, 400 by
chains 134 which are fastened by bail fastenings 136 to either side
of the bucket adjacent the lip end 132 thereof and normally below
the arch 138. The arch 138 spans the distance between the sidewalls
of the bucket at the front thereof and is spaced above and normally
slightly in front of the lip 132. The chains 134 are attached to
the dragrope through a fastening such as a crow's foot 140. The
chains 126 are attached to the hoist rope 114 through a member 142
which also serves as a point of attachment for a dump sheave 144
which is either integral with member 142 or is attached thereto so
as to anchor the dump sheave 144 to the hoist rope 114. A dump rope
146 has one end thereof attached to the dragrope 122 through the
crow's foot 140 and the other end thereof attached to the forward
part of the bucket such as the arch 138 at a central point 148
thereof.
[0035] During operation, the bucket 200, 300, 400 is dropped to the
ground at a position approximately below the tip 112 of the boom
110 as is illustrated in position A of FIG. 1. From this position,
the bucket 200, 300, 400 is towed forward by the dragrope 122
across the surface 150 to be excavated. During this towing
operation, the hoist rope may be slack. The dump rope 122 may also
be slack. When the bucket is full, the hoist rope is used to lift
it from the surface 150 as is indicated in the position B of FIG.
1. Because the trunnions 128 attaching the hoist chains 126 to the
bucket 200, 300, 400 are located behind the center of gravity 130,
the bucket has a tendency to tip forward which would dump the load.
To compensate for this, the dump rope 146 is kept in a state of
tension to retain the front of the bucket level with the rear
thereof. When it is desired to dump the load as indicated by the
position C of FIG. 1, releasing the tension in the dump rope 146
will allow the front of the bucket to tilt downwardly thereby
dumping the load from the bucket.
[0036] In order to keep tension in the dump rope 146, it is
necessary to keep tension in the dragrope 122. For this reason, it
is impossible to lift the bucket from a position directly under the
boom without having it tilt forward. The tension in the dump rope
146 is created and dependent upon the existence of tension in the
dragrope 122. Tension in the dragrope 122 is, in turn, a function
of the weight of the bucket and contents and the angular
displacement thereof from a position vertically below the boom
sheave 116.
[0037] The tension necessary in the dump rope 146 to keep the
bucket level is in turn dependent upon the weight of the bucket and
contents and the length of the moment arm created by the distance
between hoist trunnions 128 and the center of gravity 130. Because
the dump line 146 is connected to the bucket at an angle to the
horizontal or bucket level, the tension required in the dump rope
is also a function of the placement of the dump sheave 144 which
creates that angularity.
[0038] Inasmuch as it is necessary to be able to adjust the bucket
to a level position when empty, the length of the dump rope 146 and
positioning of the dump sheave 144 are set so as to optimize the
ability to manipulate the bucket into a level position as close as
possible vertically under the boom sheave when the bucket is empty.
As the bucket is filled, and therefore becomes heavier, the tension
necessary in the dump rope to prevent the increasing tilting moment
also increases. If it is assumed that the entirety of the tension
in the dragrope 122 is transferrable to the dump rope 146 to keep
the bucket level, then it can be seen that because of the increase
in required tension in the dump rope, the bucket must be moved
further and further from the point vertically under the boom
sheave. In addition, due to the attachment of the dump sheave 144
to the hoist rope 114, the vertical component of the tension in the
dump rope 146 becomes an added force which must be lifted in
addition to the weight of the bucket and contents.
[0039] Looking now at FIGS. 2 and 3, a bucket 200 that may be used
with a machine 100 such as that shown in FIG. 1 using a two cable
rigging system 118 is depicted. FIG. 2 illustrates the bucket in a
horizontal orientation used to excavate material while FIG. 3 The
bucket 200 may comprise a base member 202, a first side member 204
extending from the base member 204, a second side member 206
extending from the base member 200 in an opposing manner to the
first side member 204 defining a distance 208 from the first side
member 204 to the second side member 206, and a rear member 210
(best seen in FIG. 3) extending from the base member and spanning
at least the majority of the distance 208 between the first side
member 204 and the second side member 206. For this embodiment, the
back end is completely enclosed, meaning that the rear member
extends all the between the first and second side members.
[0040] As a result of this construction, the first side member 204,
second side member 206 and base member 202 define a mouth 211 for
receiving material into the bucket 200 and the material will not
exit the back end easily. The bucket 200 defines a center of
gravity C and a first attachment region 212, a second attachment
region 214, and a third attachment region 216 configured to connect
to flexible members 218 such as chains, cables or ropes. For this
embodiment, the first side member 204, second side member 206, and
rear member 210 define a top opening 222 (best seen in FIG. 3).
This may not be the case for other embodiments.
[0041] Each attachment region 212, 214, 216 includes a plurality of
attachment points 220. These attachment points 220 may take the
form of trunnions 128 as shown or may take other forms as will be
discussed shortly. The attachment points may be on the outside of
the various members such as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In other
embodiments, the attachment points may be located on the inside of
the various members or near the top of the various members. It is
to be understood that for the second and third attachment regions,
symmetrical attachment points would typically be found on the other
side of the bucket, mirrored about a plane defined by the hoist
cable 114 and the dump rope 146. Similarly, there would typically
be a first set of attachment points such as 220h and 200j and
second set of attachment points such as 220g and 200i so that the
ropes or chains attached thereto would properly balance the bucket
load. The first attachment region 212 includes at least two
different attachment points 200, the second attachment region 214
includes five different attachment points 200 and the third
attachment region 216 includes at least three attachment points
200. The number of attachment points and their configuration may be
varied as needed or desired.
[0042] The arch 138 is attached to the first and second side member
204, 206 and positioned proximate the mouth 211 of the bucket 200,
and the first attachment region 212 is disposed near the top of the
arch 138.
[0043] As alluded to earlier herein, the second attachment region
214 is positioned on the first and second side members 204, 206
between the center of gravity C and the rear member 210 along a
direction 224 parallel with the base member 202 and the third
attachment region 216 is positioned on the first and second side
members 204, 206 in front of the center of gravity C and proximate
the mouth 211 of the bucket 200 along a direction parallel 224 with
the base member 202.
[0044] FIG. 4 is a side view of a bucket 200' showing an
alternative way of attaching a flexible member such as chain or
rope to the bucket using a rotating bolt type connection 226. As
shown, a bail member 228 is attached to first or second side member
204', 206' using a rotating bolt type connection 226. Though not
shown, the flexible member may be attached to the bail in any
suitable manner including using a trunnion, etc. Any suitable
method of attachment may be used for any of the embodiments
discussed herein.
[0045] Turning now to FIGS. 5 and 6, an alternative embodiment of a
bucket 300 for use with a machine that uses a three cable rigging
system 118' is shown. The bucket 300 may comprise a base member
302, a first side member 304 extending from the base member 302, a
second side member 304 extending from the base member 302 in an
opposing manner to the first side member 304 defining a distance
308 from the first side member 304 to the second side member 306, a
rear member 310 extending from the base member 302 and spanning at
least the majority of the distance 308 between the first side
member 304 and the second side member 306, and an arch 138'
spanning between the first and second side members 304, 306. The
first side member 304, the second side member 306 and the base
member 302 define a mouth 311 for receiving material into the
bucket 300. The first side member 304, second side member 306, and
rear member 310 define a top opening 322.
[0046] The bucket 300 defines a center of gravity C and a first
attachment region 312, a second attachment region 314, and a third
attachment region 316 configured to connect to flexible members
318, and at least two attachment regions include a plurality of
attachment points 320 and the first attachment region 312 is
disposed on the arch 138'. For this embodiment, the arch 138' is
positioned proximate the mouth 311 of the bucket 300, and the first
attachment region 312 is disposed near the top of the arch 138'.
The second attachment region 318 is disposed on the rear member 310
and includes two attachment points 320 and the third attachment
region 316 includes three attachment points 320. The second
attachment region could be switched to the sides of the first and
second side members if so desired, etc.
[0047] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a bucket assembly for use with a
machine. The bucket assembly 400 may comprise a bucket 401
including a base member 402, a first side member 404 extending from
the base member 402, a second side member 406 extending from the
base member 402 in an opposing manner to the first side member 404
defining a distance 408 from the first side member 404 to the
second side member 406, a rear member 410 extending from the base
member 402 and spanning at least the majority of the distance 408
between the first side member 404 and the second side member 406.
The first side member 404, second side member 406 and base member
402 define a mouth 411 for receiving material into the bucket
401.
[0048] The bucket 401 defines a center of gravity C and a first
attachment region 412, a second attachment region 414, and a third
attachment region 416 configured to connect to flexible members
418, and at least a first flexible member 418a attached to the
first attachment region 412, at least a second flexible member 418b
attached to the second attachment region 414 and at least a third
flexible member 418c attached to the third attachment region 416,
and an active tilt device 424 that is in operative association with
the first flexible member 414a and the second flexible member
414b.
[0049] In some embodiments like the one shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the
bucket 400 may further comprise an arch 138'' and the first
attachment region 412 may be disposed on the arch 138''. This may
not be the case for other embodiments. For the embodiments shown in
FIGS. 7 and 8, the first, second and third attachment regions 412,
414, 418 do not necessarily include a plurality of attachment
points 420 but they could such as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. As shown
the second attachment region 414 is disposed on the rear member 410
but this region may be disposed on the first and second side
members 404, 406 in other embodiments such as shown in FIGS. 2 and
3.
[0050] The active tilt device 424 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 may be any
device that alters the relative position of one flexible member 418
connected to the bucket 401 with respect to another flexible member
418 connected to the bucket upon receiving a signal. For example,
the active tilt device 424 may be a solenoid, hydraulic cylinder or
a winch, etc. When the device takes the form of a winch 426, the
winch 426 may be powered hydraulically or electrically. In such a
case, a power supply line 428 such as a hydraulic line or
electrical cable may be connected to or attached to the winch for
providing power thereto. The power supply line typically would lead
back to the cabin and be in communication with a controller. The
user may interact with the controller via hand controls, a GUI,
etc. to send a signal to the winch 426 to change the angle or tilt
of the bucket 401 or bucket assembly 400 as needed or desired. For
the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first flexible member
418a would be drawn toward and around the winch 426 or away from
the winch, changing its angle relative to the second flexible
member 418b. For this embodiment, the third flexible member 418c is
not in operative association with the first and second flexible
members 418a, 418b. Other arrangements are possible, this
arrangement being one suited for a three cable rig system 118'.
[0051] For the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the winch or
other active tilt device is positioned in the boom of the machine
for support while also being in operative association with the
cables or other flexible members of the rigging system of the
bucket and/or machine. It is contemplated that the active tilt
device might not be so positioned in other embodiments and may be
closer to the bucket in other embodiments.
[0052] It should be noted that any of these dimensions and ratios
of any bucket and/or bucket assembly as well as the rig system
associated therewith, etc. may be varied as desired or needed and
may differently configured if so desired or needed.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0053] In practice, a bucket according to any of the embodiments
discussed herein may be manufactured, bought, or sold to retrofit
an existing machine in the field to improve digging performance. In
other situations, the bucket may be sold according to any
embodiment described herein with a machine in an original equipment
scenario or the like, that is to say, new.
[0054] Referring back to FIGS. 1-6, a machine 100 fitted with any
of these buckets in the OEM or aftermarket context may comprise a
frame 102, a motor 106, a boom 110, a cable drum 108 driven by the
motor 106 and a rig system 118 connected to the cable drum 108, a
cab 104, and an undercarriage drive driven by the motor 106.
[0055] Also, a bucket 200, 300 may be connected to the rig system
118 and may include a base member 202, 302, a first side member
204, 304 extending from the base member 202, 302, a second side
member 206, 306 extending from the base member 202, 302 in an
opposing manner to the first side member 204, 304 defining a
distance 208, 308 from the first side member 204, 304 to the second
side member 206, 306, a rear member 210, 310 extending from the
base member 202, 302 and spanning at least the majority of the
distance 208, 308 between the first side member 204, 304 and the
second side member 206, 306, and an arch spanning between the first
and second side members. The first side member, second side member
and base member define a mouth 211, 311 for receiving material into
the bucket 200, 300, and the bucket defines a center of gravity C
and a first attachment region 212, 312 disposed on the arch 138,
138' that includes at least two attachment points 220, 320.
[0056] In some embodiments, for example, such as those shown in
FIGS. 2 and 3, the bucket 200, 300 further includes a second
attachment region 214, 314 disposed on the first and second side
members 204, 304, 206, 306 between the center of gravity C and the
rear member 210, 310 along a direction 224, 324 parallel to the
base member 202, 302. In other embodiments, such as those shown in
FIGS. 5 and 6, the second attachment region 214, 314 is disposed on
the rear member 210, 310. In either case, the second attachment
region 214, 314 may include a plurality of attachment points 220,
320.
[0057] Typically, the bucket 200, 300 further includes a third
attachment region 216, 316 disposed on the first and second side
members 204, 304, 206, 306 in front of the center of gravity C of
the bucket 200, 300 and proximate the mouth 211, 311 of the bucket
200, 300 along a direction parallel 224, 324 with the base member
202, 302, the third attachment region 216, 316 including a
plurality of attachment points 220, 320.
[0058] The machine may use a two cable rigging system 118, a three
cable rigging system 118' or any other suitably configured rigging
system to connect the bucket to the machine.
[0059] Furthermore, after such a bucket has been installed on a
machine, an active tilt device may be interposed between the
machine and the bucket, being in operative association with the
rigging. In some applications, the bucket and the active tilt
device may be sold or otherwise provided together to be later
installed on a machine, etc.
[0060] Similar statements may be made relative to the bucket
assembly of FIGS. 7 and 8 as have just been made with respect to
FIGS. 1-6. More specifically, various features shown in FIGS. 1-6
may be added to, substituted for, etc. with the embodiments shown
in FIGS. 7 and 8. In other instances, the tilt device may be added
to a bucket or bucket subassembly already present in the field.
Once the bucket subassembly 400 has been installed on the machine
100, the machine may be operated as previously described to change
the angle or tilt of the bucket or bucket subassembly. The machine
may be described as comprising a frame 102, a motor 106, a boom
110, a cable drum 108 driven by the motor 106 and a rig system 118
connected to the cable drum 108, a cab 104, an undercarriage drive
120 driven by the motor 104, and a bucket 401 connected to the rig
system 118.
[0061] The bucket 401 may include a base member 402, a first side
member 404 extending from the base member 402, a second side member
406 extending from the base member 402 in an opposing manner to the
first side member 404 defining a distance 408 from the first side
member 404 to the second side member 406, a rear member 410
extending from the base member 402 and spanning at least the
majority of the distance 408 between the first side member 404 and
the second side member 406, and an arch 138'' spanning between the
first and second side members 404, 406.
[0062] The first side member 404, second side member 406 and base
member 402 define a mouth 411 for receiving material into the
bucket 401 and the bucket 401 defines a center of gravity C and
includes a first attachment region 412, a second attachment region
414, and a third attachment region 416 configured to connect to
flexible members 418, and at least a first flexible member 418a is
attached to the first attachment region 412, at least a second
flexible member 418b attached to the second attachment region 414
and at least a third flexible member 418c attached to the third
attachment region 416, and an active tilt device 424 disposed in
the rig system 118 between the bucket 401 and the cable drum 108.
The rig system 118 may be a three cable system, two cable system,
or any other suitable cable system.
[0063] Any embodiments of the buckets 200, 300, 401 or bucket
assemblies 400 discussed herein may be used to excavate or
otherwise move material 152 in a host of applications in an
efficient manner. Looking now at FIG. 9, this figure illustrates
that machine 100 and bucket 200, 300, 401, 400 may be used in a
manner similar to what has been shown and described with respect to
FIG. 1. For this application, a surface excavation may be
accomplished by placing the bucket below the machine 100 vertically
at a considerable distance horizontally away from the machine 100.
Then, a predominantly horizontal dragging movement 154 may be
accomplished to fill the bucket 200, 300, 401, 400. It is to be
understood that the bucket will often rotate slightly upward at the
end of the movement once enough material has entered the bucket so
that material may be moved to a dumping site without having the
material fall out of the bucket.
[0064] Referring now to FIG. 10, a similar horizontal dragging
movement 154 may be used to move material 152 when the bucket 200,
300, 400, 401 is at relatively the same vertical height as the
machine 100 and the movement begins a location far away
horizontally from the machine 100.
[0065] FIG. 11 illustrates that various embodiments of the buckets
200, 300, 401 or bucket assemblies 401 as described herein may be
used to make a horizontal digging motion 154 at a place elevated
above the machine and located far away horizontally from the
machine 100. For this application, the movement 156 may actually be
horizontal and slightly downward vertically to maximize the payload
scooped by the bucket as the bucket engages the work material 152.
This application may be used when a hill 158 is present.
[0066] Turning now to FIG. 12, the bucket 200, 300, 400, 401 may be
moved downward vertically (see arrow 160) to allow the face of a
cliff 162 or other step in the terrain to be excavated. The
movement may start at far as away as possible from the machine 100
both vertically and horizontally. Downward movement 160 of the
bucket will cause material 152 to enter the bucket and then the
bucket may be rotated to achieve a horizontal configuration,
helping to keep the material to stay within the bucket while being
moved to a dump site. The vertical orientation of the bucket may be
also used to dump the payload of the bucket once the bucket is
positioned over the dump site.
[0067] FIG. 13 depicts a side cut where the bucket 200, 300, 400,
401 makes a cut on the terrain along a vertical extending shelf 164
of the terrain. The bucket is moved horizontally and then away from
the shelf (see arrow 166), creating a tunnel 168 or groove along
the shelf 164 as work material 152 enters the bucket. Other types
of cuts or excavation orientations are possible, etc. The location
of the side cut may be high on the shelf or low, etc. Also, the
side cut may be used in conjunction with the other types of
excavations described herein and vice versa.
[0068] As mentioned earlier herein, various type of connections 500
or attachments may be used at the attachment points 220, 320, 420
such as trunnions 128 (see FIGS. 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8) and bolted
connections 226 (see FIG. 4). FIG. 14 shows another type of
connection 500 that may be used at an attachment point 220, 320,
420 for various embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, an
eye plate 502 with an aperture 504 may be provided through which a
hook 506, a clevis fastener 508 or a pin 510, etc. may be placed to
hang the bucket 200, 300, 401 from a flexible member such as a
cable or chain or the like.
[0069] Similarly, FIG. 15 shows that a pair of tabs 512 with a slot
514 therebetween may be used with a complimentarily configured tab
member 516 on the bucket 200, 300, 401 to attach a flexible member
using a pin 510 or bolt with a clevis fastener 508 to the to the
bucket or the like by sliding the pin 510 or bolt through the
apertures 504 of the tabs 512 and the clevis fastener 508. As shown
by FIG. 16, a plurality of tabs 512 and slots 514 may be provided
so that the mating member 516 with complimentary shaped tabs 512
and slots 514 may fit together at a plurality of locations. Hence,
multiple positions of attachment points may be provided. Again, the
connection 500'' may be completed using a pin or bolt, etc. Other
types of connections are possible.
[0070] Alternatively, rather than have discrete positions for the
attachment points, a continuously varying position of the
attachment point may be provided. Looking at FIG. 17, a screw
mechanism 602 may mate with the connection 600 using a plate 604
with an aperture 606 and a clevis fastener 608 and pin 610
combination. The screw mechanism may be rotated by a motor, such as
one powered hydraulically or electrically, etc., causing the
connection 600 to move up or down the screw mechanism 602. Hence,
the position of the connection 600 may be varied as needed or
desired without being limited a specific space.
[0071] Likewise, FIG. 18 shows that a sliding plate 702 with an
aperture 704 may be used in conjunction with a clevis fastener or
the like (not shown), etc. so that the attachment point may also be
varied continuously by sliding the tongue 706 of the plate 702 in
the groove 708 of the bucket. The connection 700 may be clamped
into position using methods or devices known in the art once the
desired location has been determined and set. Other possible
mechanisms that may provide for continuous adjustment of the
location of the include spring latch slide mechanisms, hydraulic
slide mechanisms such as those that are connected to a piston/rod
that are part of a hydraulic cylinder or the like, etc.
[0072] The mechanisms in FIGS. 17 and 18 may be described as being
configured to alter or continuously vary the position of an
attachment point, thereby providing a plurality of attachment
points for a particular attachment region. These mechanisms may be
controlled using methods and devices known in the art using a
controller or hand controls located in the cabin of the machine.
The user may send a signal to the mechanisms to alter the movement
of the attachment point using hydraulics, a mechanical system, an
electrical motor, etc.
[0073] FIGS. 19 and 20 show the use of a pin connection 800 with
spacer members 802 that may be altered to adjust the location of
the attachment point according to yet another embodiment of the
present disclosure. More specifically, a first pin 804 is used to
keep the space members 802 and the plate 806 in a fixed position.
Then a clevis fastener 808 may be attached to the plate 806 using a
second pin 810 in a manner as previously described. The connection
may be disassembled and the spacers rearranged and the connection
reassembled so the first configuration in FIG. 19 may be changed to
the second configuration shown in FIG. 20.
[0074] As can be imagined, a host of embodiments are possible that
may be used with any number of applications. For example, a bucket
may have regions that only have a discrete plurality of attachment
points or a combination of regions having both continuously varying
attachment points and a discrete plurality of attachment points.
Furthermore, some buckets may have regions that only have
continuously varying attachment points, etc.
[0075] Focusing now on FIG. 21, this figure contains a flowchart
describing a method according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure for efficiently moving material using a machine with a
bucket. The method 900 comprises determining at least one of the
following variables: location of the material to be moved relative
to the machine; type of material to be moved; and the desired
direction for moving the bucket (step 902); and changing the
orientation of the bucket relative to the machine based on any one
of these variables (step 904). These steps may be performed
manually by the user or operator or may be performed automatically
via the controller of the machine, etc.
[0076] In some embodiments, changing the orientation includes
changing the location of the attachment point of one or more
attachment regions of the bucket (step 906).
[0077] Changing the location of the attachment point may be
performed in a discrete manner (step 908).
[0078] Changing the location of the attachment point may be
performed in a continuous manner (step 910).
[0079] In other embodiments, changing the orientation may include
activating an active tilt device that is operatively connected to
the bucket at two locations (step 912). For example, when a three
cable rigging system is provided, the active tilt device may be
connected to two of the flexible members and not a third flexible
member as previously described herein. As a consequence, the bucket
may tilt up or down without moving the bucket relative to the
machine. Other configurations are possible.
[0080] It will be appreciated that the foregoing description
provides examples of the disclosed assembly and technique. However,
it is contemplated that other implementations of the disclosure may
differ in detail from the foregoing examples. All references to the
disclosure or examples thereof are intended to reference the
particular example being discussed at that point and are not
intended to imply any limitation as to the scope of the disclosure
more generally. All language of distinction and disparagement with
respect to certain features is intended to indicate a lack of
preference for those features, but not to exclude such from the
scope of the disclosure entirely unless otherwise indicated.
[0081] Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to
serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each
separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated
herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the
specification as if it were individually recited herein.
[0082] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments of the
apparatus and methods of assembly as discussed herein without
departing from the scope or spirit of the invention(s). Other
embodiments of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in
the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the
various embodiments disclosed herein. For example, some of the
equipment may be constructed and function differently than what has
been described herein and certain steps of any method may be
omitted, performed in an order that is different than what has been
specifically mentioned or in some cases performed simultaneously or
in sub-steps. Furthermore, variations or modifications to certain
aspects or features of various embodiments may be made to create
further embodiments and features and aspects of various embodiments
may be added to or substituted for other features or aspects of
other embodiments in order to provide still further
embodiments.
[0083] Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and
equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended
hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of
the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is
encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or
otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
* * * * *