Clark Equipment Company Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150076381 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A COMPRESSOR INLET VALVE - An air compressor system includes a housing defining an inlet and an outlet, a butterfly valve coupled to the inlet and movable between a closed position and an open position, and an actuator coupled to the butterfly valve and operable to apply an actuator force to the butterfly valve to move the actuator and the butterfly valve to a desired position between the closed position and the open position. A feedback actuator is coupled to the actuator and is operable to apply a variable secondary force to the butterfly valve in opposition to the actuator force, the secondary force varying in response to the position of the butterfly valve. | 03-19-2015 |
20150020892 | IMPLEMENT INTERFACE - Disclosed is an interface for an implement that is to be operably coupled to a power machine. In one embodiment, a disclosed implement carrier is mountable to a power machine for securing an implement for use with the power machine. The implement carrier includes an implement carrier frame, a locking feature for securing an implement, and a coupler block that is pivotally mounted to the implement carrier frame for engaging couplers on the implement. | 01-22-2015 |
20140327248 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A DIESEL ENGINE - A power generating set includes an engine operable in response to a flow of fuel to produce a flow of exhaust gas. A generator is coupled to the engine and is operable in response to operation of the engine to produce a total electrical power, a primary load is electrically connected to the generator to receive a portion of the total electrical power, and a secondary load is selectively connected to the generator to receive a portion of the total electrical power. An insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) is positioned to selectively transition between a connected state and a disconnected state. The secondary load is connected to the generator when the IGBT is in the connected state and is disconnected from the generator when the IGBT is in the disconnected state. | 11-06-2014 |
20140277985 | TRACTION CONTROL FOR POWER MACHINE - A disclosed power machine has a power source with a rotational output that drives a first axle assembly with first and second wheels with one of the first and second wheels being a sensed wheel. Wheel speed and rotational speed sensors monitor the rotation speed of the first sensed wheel and the rotational output, respectively. A controller communicates with the wheel speed sensor, the rotational output speed sensor, and a braking system that is operable to brake the first and second wheels. A controller calculates, as a function of the sensed wheel and rotational output speeds, a traction score indicative of whether one of the first wheel and second wheel is slipping and signals to the braking system to brake the first wheel when the traction score indicates that the first wheel is slipping and brake the second wheel when the traction score indicates that the second wheel is slipping. | 09-18-2014 |
20140263607 | SCANNABLE CODES TO DISPLAY MACHINE INFORMATION - Disclosed embodiments include methods, systems and apparatus for providing power machine and/or implement information. In disclosed methods, which can be implemented using power machine controllers and display devices, information relating to the power machine or implement can be provided and instructional information can be accessed from a website or otherwise from a computer located remotely. A scannable code is generated such that it is embedded with information relating to one of the power machine and an implement coupled to the power machine, with the information including an operating condition component or dynamic information component unique to the power machine at a particular point in time. The code is displayed on a display device. When scanned by a personal mobile computing device, the code causes the computing device to access a website and provide the operating condition or dynamic information component to the website. | 09-18-2014 |
20140263606 | VALVE IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM - A control system valve assembly includes a valve port, a valve stem in the valve port, and an actuator connectable to the valve stem and actuable to control a flow of hydraulic fluid through the valve port. A method for identifying and operating the control system valve assembly through an electronic controller includes incorporating a port identification tag with the valve port, the port identification tag including identification information for the valve port; incorporating a stem identification tag with the stem, the stem identification tag including identification information for the stem; incorporating a reading device with the actuator; reading the identification information from the port identification tag and the stem identification tag with the reading device; communicating the identification information read by the reading device to the electronic controller; and operating the valve assembly with the electronic controller consistent with the identification information. | 09-18-2014 |
20140260224 | Control System for Variable Displacement Hydraulic Motor - A control system for a variable displacement hydraulic motor. A movable element is movable to adjust the operating displacement of hydraulic fluid through the motor. A positioning actuator moves the movable element between first and second positions to cause maximum and minimum operating displacement of the motor. A range limiting actuator positions a movable stop in a desired position, such that the movable stop interengages the movable element to cause motor displacement between the maximum and minimum operating displacements. The control system thus operates the motor in at least three modes: maximum operating displacement; minimum operating displacement; and an intermediate operating displacement. | 09-18-2014 |
20140260149 | Rotary Cutter Implement for Power Machine - A rotary cutter implement includes a carrier interface, a frame, and a mower deck including a ball joint interconnecting the mower deck with the frame. The ball joint enables freedom of movement of the mower deck with respect to the frame. A hydraulic motor is mounted on an upper surface of the mower deck and includes an output shaft extending through the mower deck. The hydraulic motor is adapted to operate under the influence of hydraulic fluid provided by the power machine. A rotary cutting blade is operably coupled to the output shaft and rotatable under the mower deck in response to operation of the hydraulic motor. | 09-18-2014 |
20140060487 | UTILITY VEHICLE HORSEPOWER MANAGEMENT - Disclosed are horsepower management systems and methods for use on power machines with an engine that powers a drive system. An engine speed control device controls the engine speed. A variable displacement drive pump controlled by a displacement control member provides pressurized fluid to a drive motor. A control system communicates with the engine speed control device and the pump displacement control member. The control system includes a user input device and a command lever rotatably coupled to the displacement control member and capable of receiving the user input. The command lever provides a signal to the engine speed control device in response to the user input. The command lever also commands a given displacement via the displacement control member subject to load forces on the hydrostatic pump transmitted to a limiting mechanism coupled to the command lever and the displacement control member. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060248 | UTILITY VEHICLE TWO SPEED DRIVE MOTOR CONTROL - Disclosed are power machines, and drive systems for use thereon, as well as methods of controlling the displacement of a hydraulic drive motor. The drive system includes a drive pump capable of providing a hydraulic power output and a drive motor operably coupled to the drive pump that receives the hydraulic power output from the drive pump. The drive motor has an operating displacement that is variable between a minimum displacement and a maximum displacement and it provides a rotational output member. A shift actuator is operably coupled to the drive motor and it is configured to vary the displacement of the drive motor between the minimum displacement and the maximum displacement. A controller controls the shift actuator to cause the drive motor to provide infinitely variable displacement between the minimum and maximum displacements. | 03-06-2014 |
20140060219 | FRONT POWER TAKEOFF FOR UTILITY VEHICLE - Disclosed are power systems for use on various types of power machines, including an engine and a hydraulic pump assembly positioned in-line with and powered by an engine output shaft. A driving member powered by the engine has a central cavity through which access to the engine output shaft is provided to the hydraulic pump. A driven member is in communication with the driving member to receive power. The driven member is coupleable to a gearbox drive shaft that drives a gearbox, the gearbox having an output capable of driving a power take-off shaft. | 03-06-2014 |
20140041471 | AUTOMATIC SHIFT OF MECHANICAL GEARBOX - Disclosed are power machines, and drive systems for use thereon, as well as methods of providing automatic gear shifting. The drive system includes a controller configured to implement automatic gear shifting. Gear engagement is determined following a gear shift, and a drive pump or other drive system components is automatically controlled to rotate a gearbox gear in first and second directions until the gear is properly engaged. | 02-13-2014 |
20130344792 | VENTILATION SYSTEM FOR A POWER MACHINE - A ventilation system for a power machine is disclosed. The ventilation system includes a first ductwork section and a second ductwork section. An intermediate unsealed cavity is positioned between the first ductwork section and the second ductwork section. A source of air having a primary fan is provided. The source moves air through the first ductwork section into an intermediate cavity. A secondary fan draws air from the intermediate cavity, re-pressurizes the air, and forces the air out of the second ductwork section. | 12-26-2013 |
20130343813 | IMPLEMENT COUPLING SYSTEM FOR A POWER MACHINE - An implement locking system for locking an implement to an implement carrier of a power machine is disclosed. The implement locking system includes a locking mechanism having a locking pin with an extended position for locking the implement to the implement carrier and a retracted position for mounting or removing the implement from the implement carrier. A user input provides a signal indicative of an operator intent to move the locking pin to the retracted position. A locking actuation valve controls the locking mechanism to automatically and continuously extend the locking pin in the absence of the signal being indicative of the intent to move the locking pin to the retracted position. The locking actuation valve moves the locking pin to the retracted position only for the time corresponding to the signal being indicative of moving to the retracted position. | 12-26-2013 |
20130318958 | CONTROL VALVE ASSEMBLY - A power machine and a power conversion system for a power machine are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the power conversion system includes a pump configured to provide a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid and a control valve assembly to receive the hydraulic fluid. The control valve assembly includes a first valve element configured to direct hydraulic fluid to an actuator when the first valve element is in first and second actuated positions. The control valve assembly also includes a second valve element downstream of the first spool. The first valve element is moveable between an unactuated position and the first and second actuated positions and is configured to direct hydraulic fluid received from the actuator through the second actuated position to the second valve element and to direct hydraulic fluid received from the actuator through the first actuated position to bypass the second valve element. | 12-05-2013 |
20130238178 | POWER MANAGEMENT FOR A DRIVE SYSTEM - A power machine having an engine that generates a torque output and a power conversion system configured to receive the torque output and provide a drive power signal in response to actuation signals for propelling the machine is disclosed. An engine controller provides an engine torque data signal indicative of a torque load on the engine. A user input device generates an input signal indicative of intention to propel the machine. An electronic controller is in communication with the user input device, the power conversion system, and the engine controller. The electronics controller receives the input signal and provides actuation signals to the power conversion system. The electronic controller further provides the actuation signals as a function of the engine torque data signal to limit the engine torque load. | 09-12-2013 |
20130236331 | COMPRESSOR AND CONTROLLER WITH ALTITUDE COMPENSATION - A fluid compression system includes a gaseous fluid compressor having a fluid inlet and a compressed fluid discharge, a prime mover coupled to the gaseous fluid compressor in driving relation, and a demand sensor positioned to measure a compressor demand and output a demand signal. An engine control unit is coupled to the prime mover and is operable to measure prime mover speed and prime mover power output. The engine control unit sets a variable maximum rated speed that maintains the engine power below a predetermined limit. A compressor controller unit is arranged to receive the demand signal and vary an operating speed based in part upon the demand signal. The operating speed is limited to the maximum rated speed set by the engine control unit. | 09-12-2013 |
20130216347 | IMPLEMENT CARRIER AND IMPLEMENTS - Disclosed embodiments include implement carriers and power machines with implement carriers. In some embodiments, the implement carriers have a mounting structure having first and second mounting structure surfaces with first and second pluralities of mounting features located along the first mounting structure surfaces, respectively. Each of the second plurality of mounted features is aligned with one of the first plurality of mounting features. The mounting structure is configured to receive an implement in a first attitude and a second attitude different from the first attitude. | 08-22-2013 |
20130173138 | DUAL THROTTLE ENGINE SPEED CONTROL - Disclosed embodiments include throttle engine speed control systems, methods and power machines incorporating the same. In one embodiment, a power machine has a controllable power source that receives a command signal to control the power source. First and second throttle input devices provide first and second throttle input signals, respectively, that are indicative of actuation thereof. A controller receives and combines the first and second throttle input signals to generate the command signal. | 07-04-2013 |
20130173117 | ELECTRONIC TAG ALONG - Disclosed embodiments include power machines that provide an electronic tag along mode of operation. A control system is coupled to and selectively provides power to the left and right side tractive elements from the power source. First and second user input devices each provide an actuation signal indicative of manipulation between a neutral state and a forward state. An electronic tag-along input device provides a tag-along activation signal. When each of the first and second user input devices are in the forward state and the electronic tag-along input device provides a tag-along activation signal, a controller maintains power to the left and right side tractive elements when one of the first and second user input devices is in the forward state and the other of the first and second user input devices is the forward or neutral state. | 07-04-2013 |
20130133319 | AUTOMATED SHIFTING OF HYDRAULIC DRIVE SYSTEMS - A drive system for propelling a power machine over a support surface is disclosed. The drive system includes a hydraulic pressure source and a drive assembly. The drive assembly has a hydraulic motor in fluid communication with the hydraulic pressure source that is switchable between first and second displacement arrangements. A shift valve receives pressurized fluid from the hydraulic pressure source and provides a shift signal to the hydraulic motor to selectively cause the displacement of the hydraulic motor to shift between the first and second displacement arrangements. A sensing device capable of generating a load signal indicative of a load condition provided by the drive assembly is also provided. An electronic controller provides a control signal to the shift valve to control the displacement of the hydraulic motor in response at least in part due to the load signal. | 05-30-2013 |
20130036728 | PUMP SUCTION CHARGING SYSTEM - Disclosed are hydraulic pump systems and pump suction charging systems which reduce or eliminate cavitation in the systems, as well as methods of operating the same and work machines including the same. | 02-14-2013 |
20120283915 | DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE AND METHOD - A method of altering a drive parameter of a machine having a drive system that is configured to operate a left side of the machine independently of the right side of the machine. The method includes entering, by a user, a drive parameter alteration mode by actuating a first input, and actuating a second input to alter one or more parameters associated with a controller of the machine. | 11-08-2012 |
20120207576 | PALLET FORK IMPLEMENT FOR WORK MACHINE - A pallet fork implement is configured to be mounted on a blade of a power machine. The pallet fork implement includes an engagement portion for engaging the blade of the power machine, and a tine portion for performing a work function. The tine portion is configured to extend generally forward of the blade when the engagement portion is engaged with the blade. The engagement portion of the pallet fork implement is a unitary assembly. | 08-16-2012 |
20110276222 | IMPLEMENT INTERFACE DISPLAY - A power machine having an operator interface is disclosed. The power machine has a frame, an engine supported by the frame, and a cab supported that defines an operator compartment. The power machine provides an auxiliary power source capable of providing auxiliary power to an implement that is operably coupled to the power machine. Control input devices that are actuable by an operator provide signals indicative of actuation thereof. The implement is in communication with the power machine. The operator interface is accessible within the operator compartment for providing operational information related to control of the implement to the operator. The operator interface receives signals related to the provided operational information that are communicated by the implement. | 11-10-2011 |
20110203565 | Vehicle-Mounted Hydraulic Slab Cutter - A cutting implement configured to be attached to an implement carrier of a power machine. The cutting implement includes an attachment structure that is capable of engaging and being secured to the implement carrier. The cutting implement further includes a boom having a distal end and a proximal end. The proximal end is attached to the attachment structure. A trolley is selectively positionable between the proximal end and the distal end of the boom. An undercarriage is operably coupled to the trolley and has a cutting element attached to it. The undercarriage is moveable under power in a lateral direction with respect to the trolley so that the cutting element is capable of being offset along a lateral direction with respect to the boom. | 08-25-2011 |
20110182066 | RETRACTABLE LIGHT TOWER - A portable light tower comprises a base and a mast. The mast is movable between a first configuration in which the mast is stored substantially within the base and a second configuration in which the mast extends in an upright position from the base. A light source is disposed on the base and a reflector is positioned on an end of the mast opposite the base. The reflector is configured to reflect light from the light source toward the surroundings of the light tower. | 07-28-2011 |
20110067893 | Floating Pivot Joint for Work Implement - An implement capable of being attached to a power machine having a mounting portion and a tool portion. The mounting portion is configured to engage with, and be secured to, an implement carrier on the power machine. The tool portion is capable of performing a work function. The implement has a joint for attaching the tool portion to the mounting portion and an actuator having first and second ends with the first end attached to the mounting portion at a first actuator attachment point and second end attached to the tool portion at a second actuator attachment point. The tool portion is capable of rotating about an axis that extends through the joint. The joint is capable of pivoting so that the axis about which the tool portion rotates is rotatable with respect to the tool portion. | 03-24-2011 |
20110005889 | DRIVE UNCOUPLER - A coupling device including a drive member that is rotatable about an axis, a driven member that is substantially aligned with the drive member and is selectively rotatable about the axis, a speed sensing member that is coupled to the drive member and is movable between a first position and a second position in response to the rotational speed of the drive member, and a clutch member that is movable between a disengaged position and an engaged position in response to movement of the speed sensing member between the first position and the second position. At least a portion of the clutch member is removable without changing the alignment between the drive member and the driven member. | 01-13-2011 |
20100307855 | Work Machine Having Modular Ignition Switch Keypad with Latching Output - A work machine having an engine, a hydraulic system powered by the engine, a source of electrical power, and electrical systems which run on the electrical power includes an ignition system and a modular ignition switch keypad to control the ignition system. The modular ignition keypad is mounted to the work machine in the operator compartment and generates a latching output to control electrical power distribution to the electrical systems and to control ignition functions to turn on and turn off the engine. The modular ignition switch keypad includes a start user input, a run user input, a stop user input and latching logic circuitry providing the latching output. | 12-09-2010 |
20100264696 | RELEASABLE DOOR HINGE - A power machine having a frame, an engine, a cab defining an operator compartment having an access opening, and a door capable of being attached to the cab adjacent the opening is discussed. A hinge includes first and second hinge components attached to the cab and the door, respectively. A hinge securing mechanism for securing the second hinge component to the door is attached to the door. The mechanism includes a shaft with a handle moveable between first and second positions coupled to its first end and a protrusion extending radially proximal to its second end. The shaft extends through a bore in the door so that the handle is proximal to an interior surface and the protrusion is proximal to an exterior surface of the door. The shaft extends through an aperture in the second hinge component when the second hinge component is mounted to the door. | 10-21-2010 |
20100236857 | Operator Compartment Assembly - A work machine includes a frame supported for movement over the ground, a prime mover for driving movement of the frame, an operator compartment supported on the frame and a cradle coupling the operator compartment to the frame. The cradle is pivotable between an operating position and a service position and includes a biasing mechanism for biasing cradle toward the service position and an isolation mount coupling the operator compartment to the cradle. The isolation mount permits deflection of the operator compartment relative to the cradle along a selected axis. A latch mechanism releasably couples the cradle to the frame and a handle is provided for actuating the latch mechanism. The isolation mount includes a deformable member having a void defining the selected axis. The axis can be aligned with a force exerted on the cradle by the operator compartment to reduce stress on the biasing member. | 09-23-2010 |
20100187859 | Work Machine Vehicle Having Joystick Controls on an Adjustable Suspended Seatbar - Disclosed are work machine vehicles having an adjustable seatbar assembly in the operator protective structure. The adjustable seatbar assembly is suspended from a seat in the operator protective structure. Vehicle controls are integrated with the adjustable seatbar assembly such that the vehicle controls and the operator sitting on the seat are maintained at constant relative positions with respect to each other even as the work machine vehicle moves over rough terrain and the seat moves up and down on a seat suspension. | 07-29-2010 |
20100187858 | Work Machine Vehicle Having Seat Mounted Controls with Nested Seatbar - Disclosed are work machine vehicles having an operator protective structure with a seat mounted in the operator protective structure. In disclosed embodiments, first and second adjustable armrest assemblies are mounted to a structure of the seat such that the first and second armrest assemblies can be adjusted in fore and aft directions relative to a seatback of the seat. Vehicle controls are integrated with the first and second adjustable armrest assemblies such that adjustment of the first and second adjustable armrest assemblies adjusts positions of the vehicle controls relative to an operator sitting on the seat. After adjustment, the vehicle controls and the operator sitting on the seat are maintained at constant relative positions with respect to each other even as the work machine vehicle moves over rough terrain and the seat moves up and down. A nested seatbar is pivotably mounted to a structure of the work machine vehicle such that the nested seatbar can be moved to a down position in which portions of the nested seatbar are located between the first and second adjustable armrests. | 07-29-2010 |
20100107453 | LOW MOUNT THREE POINT ENGINE AND PUMP MOUNTING - An attachment system to fasten a power system to a frame of a loader is discussed. The frame has a proximal end, a distal end, and first and second opposing sides. The power system has an engine, and an arrangement of one or more hydraulic pumps attached to the engine. The attachment system has first and second connection points positioned in close proximity to a center of gravity of the power system relative to the direction between the proximal and distal ends of the loader. The attachment system also has a third connection point positioned distally from the first and second connection points, wherein the positions of the first, second and third connection points connect the power system to the frame to allow most of the weight of the power system to be loaded onto the first and second connection points. | 05-06-2010 |
20100101223 | FLOW COMPENSATED RESTRICTIVE ORIFICE FOR OVERRUNNING LOAD PROTECTION - A hydraulic circuit for an actuator that has a piston and piston rod that will move a load in a first direction, and which can be externally loaded in an opposite direction, includes a flow compensated valve between the actuator and a control valve. When the piston in the actuator is moved in the second opposite direction under the external load and the rate of flow of fluid out of the actuator through the flow compensated valve exceeds a selected rate, an orifice is introduced in the flow path to restrict flow from the actuator. | 04-29-2010 |
20100098521 | Skid Steer Loaders with Variable Isolation on Vibratory Roller - Disclosed are skids steer loaders and vibratory roller attachments embodiments in which an improved variable isolator is provided to isolate the skid steer loader, and thus the operator of the loader, from the severity of the vibrations in the vibratory roller. The vibratory roller attachment includes a frame configured to be mounted to the skid steer loader. A drum is supported by the frame, and an eccentric weight is positioned within the drum. A plurality of variable isolators couple the drum to the frame to provide isolation of the skid steer loader from vibrations of the vibratory roller. The plurality of variable isolators each have a non-cylindrical exterior shape. The non-cylindrical shape can include an exterior surface having curved end portions separated by a substantially linear middle portion to allow for improved deflection of the variable isolators, and thus improved vibration isolation between the attachment and the skid steer loader. | 04-22-2010 |
20100095840 | HYDRAULIC CYLINDER ROD POSITION SENSOR - A fluid pressure cylinder assembly has a sensor to provide a signal indicating the amount of extension of a piston rod from the cylinder. The sensor includes a sleeve that is fixed relative to a base of the cylinder and passes into a longitudinal bore in the piston rod, and the piston rod carries a sensor core that is in the bore and is secured to the piston rod at an end opposite from a piston on the rod. The core slides on the interior of the sensor sleeve. A connection is provided to the sensor sleeve such that as the core moves relative to the sensor sleeve a signal indicating the amount of movement and the relative position of the cylinder base and the piston rod is provided. | 04-22-2010 |
20100092233 | INTEGRAL POWER OR ELECTRICAL CONDUIT COUPLER - A conduit connector assembly for attachments on a loader includes a mounting plate with at least one coupler section mounted on the plate and secured rigidly to a forward end of one of the lift arms of a loader. The coupler section or sections are connected with conduits to power or electrical signal sources on the loader. The coupler section or sections on the lift arm are connectable to mating coupler sections attached to conduits from an attachment that requires power and/or control signals for operation. The coupler sections are supported to one side of the lines of vision that an operator in an operator's cab of the loader needs for watching the attachment. | 04-15-2010 |
20100089668 | FULLY WELDED TRACK UNDERCARRIAGE TRANSMISSION WITH INBOARD MOTOR MOUNTING FLANGE - A track driven vehicle has an undercarriage transmission assembly that has a central transmission housing forming a one piece all welded housing. The central transmission housing has upright side wall portions with multiple layers of plates or walls in a sandwich construction on which drive motors are mounted. The drive motors are on the interior of the transmission housing, with track driven sprocket assemblies on the exterior of the side walls. Track mounting pods or frames are welded to the exterior of the side walls of the transmission housing. | 04-15-2010 |
20100071978 | COMBUSTION AIR CLEANER SCAVENGE SYSTEM - A work vehicle, such as a compact loader, has a cooling system including a cooling fan generating air flow to cool engine components. The fan is shown as an axial flow fan having an inlet throat in a shroud surrounding the fan. The inlet throat is under a negative or low pressure, and a duct or conduit is connected to the inlet throat and to a precleaner of an air filter assembly providing combustion air to the engine. The negative pressure in the inlet throat causes air to flow from the precleaner to the inlet throat. | 03-25-2010 |
20100071870 | MULTIPLE AIR FLOW PATHS USING SINGLE AXIAL FAN - A cooling system for a compact vehicle such as a compact loader having an engine and an engine compartment, includes a single axial flow fan that is surrounded by a shroud and has a high pressure side and a low pressure side. Air flow generated by the fan is used for cooling components of the compact vehicle and exhausting heated air from a second shroud. Auxiliary openings are provided between the engine compartment and the shrouds to provide air flow between the engine compartment and one or both of the shrouds when the fan is rotating. The motor driving the fan is reversible. | 03-25-2010 |
20100059305 | SPLIT CHAINCASE WITH FIXED AXLES - A tool carrier, such as a compact loader, has a main frame formed as a transmission housing that is all welded construction. The transmission housing has drives from motors and drive shafts on each side of the transmission housing. The drives are in enclosed chain cases forming integral parts of the transmission housing. The drive shafts span the power drive cases and are supported on bearings on both ends. The drives in each of the power drive cases drive front and rear axles of the compact loader. Axle tubes also are welded in place on the transmission housing. The rear portions of the transmission housing have support arm castings supported in and closing the ends of the power drive cases. The support arm castings provide support for mounting lift arms for the compact loader. | 03-11-2010 |
20100025058 | ATTACHMENT ARM REMOVAL AND ACTUATOR STORAGE - An attachment assembly for use with a vehicle includes an arm support assembly and an attachment interface assembly pivotally mounted to the arm support assembly. The attachment interface assembly includes an interface plate configured to accept a work attachment. The attachment interface assembly and interface plate pivots under the influence of respective lift and tilt actuators. The attachment interface assembly is removable from the arm support assembly, and the actuators are pivotable into stowed positions, upon removing a pin that attaches the lift actuator piston rod to the attachment interface assembly, a pin that attaches the tilt actuator piston rod to the interface plate, and a pin that pivotally attaches the attachment interface assembly to the arm support assembly. The pins may be used to secure the actuators in the stowed positions, and an additional clip may be used to secure one or both of the actuators in the stowed position. | 02-04-2010 |
20100021325 | Two Bolt Adjustable Centering System - A centering mechanism for a hydraulic pump, a hydraulic pump assembly and a method of assembling a hydraulic pump assembly. The pump assembly generally includes a hydraulic pump, a control arm, and a centering mechanism. The pump generally includes a pump housing, a pump mechanism operable to control a flow of hydraulic fluid through the housing, the pump mechanism having a neutral condition in which fluid does not flow through the housing, a trunnion cap connectable to the housing, the trunnion cap and the housing cooperating to house the pump mechanism, and an input shaft extending along an axis and through the trunnion cap, the shaft being rotatable to operate the pump mechanism. The control arm is connected to the shaft, and movement of the control arm causes rotation of the shaft. The centering mechanism may generally include a first bracket fixable to the housing, a second bracket adjustably fixable to the first bracket, and biasing structure operable to return the control arm to a centered position when an operating force is not applied to the control arm. The second bracket is adjustable relative to the first bracket to an adjusted position such that the centered position corresponds to the neutral condition of the pump mechanism, the second bracket being fixable in the adjusted position. Fasteners fix the first bracket and the trunnion cap to the pump housing. | 01-28-2010 |
20100014952 | LOCKING DEVICE FOR SECURING A BACKHOE ATTACHMENT TO A CARRIER LIFT ARM - A mounting frame for attaching a backhoe or other implement to a lift arm of a vehicle, such as a compact loader, includes an upright arm on the mounting frame that is positioned ahead of and adjacent to a forward portion of a lift arm of the loader. The upright arm carries a pivoting locking handle at a first pivot and a locking link is pivotally supported on the locking handle on a first pivot pin. The locking link has a second pivot pin that can be moved to be supported in an existing pin sleeve or bushing on the lift arm. The pivot pins on the locking link are positioned so that when the locking handle is moved to a locked position, the line between the axes of the pivot pins on the locking link goes over center with respect to the pivot axis of the first pivot locking handle, and a hook end of the link latches onto a locking projection on the upright arm. The mounting frame is held in a fixed position relative to the lift arm. | 01-21-2010 |
20100013214 | Integral 90 Degree Fitting Hydraulic Quick Coupler and Attachments and Work Machines Employing the Same - A hydraulic quick coupler for coupling hydraulic hoses of an attachment to a work machine includes a cylindrical quick release coupler end portion configured to mate with another quick coupler to form a sealed hydraulic connection. A middle portion of the quick coupler is connected to the end portion and provides a fluid path to the end portion. An integral 90° elbow of the quick coupler includes a threaded end providing a threaded connection to the middle portion, a flare style coupler end for coupling to a fitting of a hydraulic hose, and a 90° bend section connected between the threaded end and the flare style coupler. The 90° bend section provides a fluid path between the threaded end and the flare style coupler and is configured to redirect hydraulic fluid flow by 90°. | 01-21-2010 |
20090294603 | Quick Release Hose Guide - Disclosed embodiments provide various quick release hose guide designs which can be attached to, or removed from, a work machine with less effort than conventionally required. Exemplary embodiments of the hose guides include a sleeve which slides over a post on the work machine when hydraulic hoses of an attachment are to be connected to the hydraulic system of the work machine. A quick release pin is inserted through apertures in the sleeve and in the post to secure the hose guide in place. A snap clip connected to the pin can then be used to help insure that the pin remains in place. In some embodiments, unlike conventional hose guide designs, the hose guides remain with the attachment or implement hoses when the attachment is removed from the work machine. | 12-03-2009 |
20090273233 | MODULAR TRACK TENSIONING SYSTEM - A spring loaded track tensioning assembly for a track on a track driven vehicle has a spring subassembly that is retained on a spring shaft under a preload with a first fixed spring retainer and a second slidable spring retainer. The spring shaft has an outer end that extends beyond the second spring retainer and the outer end is slidably received in a bore in a piston or actuator shaft of a grease cylinder, with the end of the actuator shaft bearing on the second spring retainer. The grease cylinder contacts and applies a force to the second spring retainer, for initial positioning of the tensioning assembly, and additional loads on the first spring retainer that compress the spring cause the outer end of the spring shaft to slide in the bore of the actuator shaft as the second spring retainer slides along the spring shaft. | 11-05-2009 |
20090265963 | BUCKET DEBRIS GUARD - A removable and attachable debris guard for a back wall of a loader bucket or a bulldozer blade is provided with a frame that is a generally inverted U-shape with outwardly tapering side legs, and has a strong mesh screen supported on the frame. The frame includes a cross plate that extends rearwardly of the mesh screen and has attachment hooks for fitting over a top rail of a back wall of a loader bucket. The frame includes brackets for securing the legs to a forward side of the back wall. | 10-29-2009 |
20090256327 | Method of Retaining Structural Transmission Members - A track driven vehicle comprises a structural member underneath the vehicle. The structural member includes a plurality of structural member apertures for receiving fasteners inserted therethrough. The vehicle also includes a first track carrier and a first mounting strut attached to the first track carrier. The first mounting strut, which attaches the first track carrier to the structural member, includes a plurality of mounting strut apertures which, when aligned with the structural member apertures, receive the fasteners inserted therethrough. One of the first mounting strut and the structural member includes a fixedly attached dowel pin, and the other of the first mounting strut and the structural member includes a pin receiving aperture. When attaching the first track carrier to the structural member using the first mounting strut, the dowel pin extends into the pin receiving aperture to prevent cross-shearing between the structural member and the first mounting strut. This reduces camber between the structural member and the track carrier and allows fewer fasteners to be used to attach the first track carrier to the structural member. | 10-15-2009 |
20090230749 | SWING-OUT JOYSTICK - An operator control assembly includes an operator manipulable control, and a first armrest movably coupling the operator manipulable control to a frame of a construction vehicle. The first armrest is movable from a first vertical orientation to a second vertical orientation and from a first horizontal orientation to a second horizontal orientation, such that when the armrest is in the second horizontal orientation, the armrest is positioned with in a footprint of the vehicle. | 09-17-2009 |
20090230710 | REAR ACCESSIBLE SERVICE HATCH - A zero tail swing construction vehicle includes a body, a pair of track assemblies for supporting the body for movement over a surface, an engine supported on the body for providing power, a lower attachment pivotably coupled to the body, an upper attachment pivotably coupled to the body, a hydraulic system for providing power to the lower attachment and the upper attachment, an operator support pivotably coupled to the body and a rear hatch coupled to the operator support. The operator support is pivotable from a usage position forward about a horizontal axis to a service position. The rear hatch is pivotable with the operator support from the usage position to the service position. The construction vehicle further includes a plurality of service check points located underneath the operator support in the usage position. In the usage position the rear hatch conceals the service check points, while in the service position service check points are accessible through an opening. | 09-17-2009 |
20090229894 | VARIABLE-WIDTH VEHICLE - A construction vehicle includes first and second track assemblies. The track assemblies each include an inner portion, and outer portion and a middle portion between the inner portion and the outer portion. An adjustment mechanism is pivotably coupled to the middle portions of the first and second track assemblies. The adjustment mechanism extends and retracts along a width axis to adjust a distance between the first and second track assemblies. The width of the first and second track assemblies can determine an overall width of the construction vehicle. | 09-17-2009 |
20090216412 | Carrier and Backhoe Control System and Method - A power machine includes a carrier comprising a supporting frame, an operator compartment and a joystick controller disposed in the operator compartment and configured to generate movement signals in response to operator movement of the joystick controller. An attachment is detachably coupled to the power machine. A carrier control unit is disposed on the carrier and configured to receive the movement signals from the joystick controller. An attachment control unit is disposed on the attachment and configured to control movement of the attachment. A network is coupled to the carrier control unit and to the attachment control unit and is configured to carry instructions from the carrier control unit to the attachment control unit. A state selection input is disposed in the operator compartment to select one of at least two operational states including a carrier state and an attachment state. In the carrier state, the carrier control unit is configured to control operation of the carrier in response to operator movement of the joystick controller. In the attachment state, the attachment control unit is configured to control operation of the attachment in response to operator movement of the joystick controller. | 08-27-2009 |
20090191068 | VARIABLE VOLUME RESERVOIR - A reservoir for a hydraulic pump system includes a reservoir body, an inner wall dividing an interior of the reservoir body into a first pressure chamber and a second pressure chamber, and a one-way valve connecting the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber. A piston assembly forms a first cylinder portion connected to the first pressure chamber and a second cylinder portion that is vented. The piston is movable within the cylinder under the influence of a biasing member to increase and decrease the overall volume of the first pressure chamber. The piston pressures a piston pump inlet connected to the first pressure chamber and maintains a constant pressure within the first pressure chamber under a variety of piston pump operating conditions. | 07-30-2009 |
20090169007 | Control Area Network Data Encryption System and Method - A power machine is configured to carry an attachment which is detachably coupleable to the power machine. The power machine includes a supporting frame with an operating compartment from which an operator operates the power machine to actuate one or more actuators of the power machine. A sensing unit senses a change in an operating device of the power machine and generates data indicative of the change. A first controlling unit, positioned on and coupled to the power machine, receives the data from the sensing unit indicative of the change in the operating device, and generates in response a set of corresponding operating messages. An encryption module positioned on and coupled to the power machine uses a key to encrypt at least a first portion of the set of operating messages into encrypted messages. A first control-area-network (CAN) controller formats the encrypted messages into a CAN format, and the encrypted messages in the CAN format are transmitted over a CAN bus. At an attachment, the encrypted messages are received from the CAN bus, decrypted using the key, and used by a second controlling unit to execute instructions or acts. | 07-02-2009 |
20090144027 | POWER MACHINE DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM AND METHOD - A power machine diagnostic system. The diagnostic tool system includes a first interface removably coupled to a power machine, a computer to identify a type of the power machine coupled at the first interface, and a second interface to interface between the tool and the computer. | 06-04-2009 |
20090121540 | HYDRAULIC BRAKE SYSTEM - Embodiments of a hydraulic brake system are disclosed. In one embodiment, a priority flow control valve for supplying operating pressure has a first orientation in which operating pressure is provided at a controlled flow port and a second orientation in which operating pressure is provided at the controlled flow port and an excess flow port. A steering control unit has an inlet port for receiving operating pressure and an outlet port for communicating a steering control load sense signal. A brake control unit has an inlet port for receiving operating pressure and an outlet port for communicating a braking control load sense signal. The inlet port of the brake control unit and the inlet port of the steering control unit are connected to the controlled flow port. | 05-14-2009 |
20090081017 | ADJUSTABLE HAND CONTROLS FOR SMALL LOADER - A control system for a walk behind loader which includes a control plate that is mounted to a shaft about an upright axis, wherein pivoting the control plate about the upright axis provides a steering input to the loader. A control handle is pivotally mounted about a generally horizontal axis and movable to provide for a direction and speed control input coupling through a control link. The control handle is mounted onto a handle mounting section section, that in turn is pivotally mounted to a support about an axis that is substantially coincident with the an axis coupling the handle to the control link, so that the control handle can be moved as the handle mounting section pivots between a raised and lowered position without causing a change in the position of controls controlled by the handle. The loader is capable of being operated by an operator walking on the ground when the control handle is in the lowered position, and by an operator standing on a platform attached to the loader, when the control handle is in the raised position. | 03-26-2009 |
20090078488 | AUXILIARY HYDRAULIC FLOW CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A SMALL LOADER - A vehicle having an auxiliary power system for supplying power to an implement is disclosed. The power system includes a power enablement device having an enablement component that allows or prevents supplying power to the implement, and an auxiliary actuator operably coupled to the power enablement device. The auxiliary actuator can be manipulated between a first, de-actuated position and a second, actuated position. An operator actuable continuous actuation device is moveable between engaged and disengaged positions, providing an actuation signal indicative of its position. A continuous enablement actuator is capable of engaging the enablement component when the enablement component is in the actuated position to discourage the enablement component from moving to the de-actuated position. The continuous enablement actuator engages the enablement component when the actuation signal indicates one of the engaged and disengaged positions and is disengaged from the enablement component when the actuation signal indicates the other position. | 03-26-2009 |
20090050379 | TRACK VEHICLE HAVING DRIVE AND SUSPENSION SYSTEMS - A track vehicle includes a cab operable to support an operator. Left and right motors each rotate an output shaft at a first speed, and a speed reduction system is operably coupled to each output shaft. Left and right drive shafts are driven by the speed reduction system at a second speed that is slower than the first speed. Left and right drive sprockets are mounted for rotation with the respective first and second drive shafts. Left and right track carriages support the cab and left and right tracks are mounted for rotation about the track carriages in response to rotation of the respective left and right drive shafts, such that the left and right tracks are driven by the left and right drive sprockets to move the track vehicle along a ground surface. | 02-26-2009 |
20090044434 | Hydraulic Control System for a Swiveling Construction Machine - A hydraulic control system for a swiveling construction machine includes at least one hydraulic travel motor, a first hydraulic actuation device, a second hydraulic actuation device and a hydraulic diverter valve assembly. The at least one hydraulic travel motor is configured to move the swiveling construction machine in a first travel speed and a second travel speed based on a variable pilot pressure signal. The first hydraulic actuation device is configured to actuate a first function of an implement. The second hydraulic actuation device is configured to actuate a second function of an implement. The hydraulic diverter valve assembly is configured to divert hydraulic power between the first hydraulic actuation device and the second hydraulic actuation device while maintaining operation of the at least one hydraulic travel motor in one of the first and the second speeds. | 02-19-2009 |
20090038693 | COMBINATION RELIEF VALVE AND INJECTION FITTING - A valve for regulating the flow of fluid through an access port in a fluid chamber includes a body having a first end and a second end, the second end being located in the access port and the first end protruding outside of the access port. An axial bore extends from the first end to the second end, an injection fitting is formed at the first end of the body in fluid communication with the axial bore, and the second end of the body includes a selective sealing interface. The body forms a sealing interface with a threaded inner wall surface of the access port. A one-way valve assembly is positioned within the axial bore, and is arranged to permit a flow of fluid therethrough in a downstream direction and prevent the flow of fluid therethrough in an upstream direction. A bypass passageway extends from the selective sealing interface separate from the axial bore. A connecting passageway connects the bypass passageway with the axial bore upstream of the one-way valve assembly. | 02-12-2009 |
20080300759 | DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE AND METHOD - A method of altering a drive parameter of a machine having a drive system that is configured to operate a left side of the machine independently of the right side of the machine. The method includes entering, by a user, a drive parameter alteration mode by actuating a first input, and actuating a second input to alter one or more parameters associated with a controller of the machine. | 12-04-2008 |
20080300758 | DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE AND METHOD - A method of altering a drive parameter of a machine having a drive system that is configured to operate a left side of the machine independently of the right side of the machine. The method includes entering, by a user, a drive parameter alteration mode by actuating a first input, and actuating a second input to alter one or more parameters associated with a controller of the machine. | 12-04-2008 |
20080296083 | STEERABLE SERIES TWO SPEED MOTOR CONFIGURATION - A hydraulic system includes first and second pumps, first and second motors, and three valves for selectively creating combined and basic hydraulic flow. The arrangement of valves permits combined flow to be provided to both motors in series to cause high speed operation of the motors, and permits combined flow to be provided to one motor and basic flow to the other motor. When applied to a vehicle, the arrangement provides a steerable high speed series arrangement of the vehicle's drive motors. | 12-04-2008 |
20080250259 | Power Machine or Vehicle with Power Management - Power management control for a power machine or vehicle is disclosed. In illustrated embodiments, a user interface of the power machine or vehicle includes a power management selection for activating and deactivating power management control. In illustrated embodiments, power management control is implemented through a power management control component based upon feedback from an RPM sensor. As disclosed in illustrative embodiments, the power management control component utilizes control methods and characteristics stored in system memory to determine control input to adjust hydrostatic parameters for power management. | 10-09-2008 |
20080237992 | TWO COMPONENT PIN SEAL - A pair of pivoting parts are held together with a pin, with a first part, such as a rod end of a hydraulic actuator, positioned between two flanges of a bracket, with the flanges having surfaces mating with sides surfaces of the rod end. A seal is placed in each of a pair of recesses on the opposite side surfaces of the rod end to provide an annular seal around the surface of the pin as the parts pivot, and also having a flange forming a side seal that seats on one of the mating surfaces of the bracket at a location spaced outwardly from the pin and extending annularly around the pin. The seal portion engaging the pin is spaced inwardly from the respective side surface of the bracket, and the outer annular lip seals a space surrounding the pin to form a pocket to receive grease that is used to lubricate the pin relative to the rod end. | 10-02-2008 |
20080236953 | Lift Arm Assembly for a Power Machine or Vehicle - The application discloses embodiments of a universal pinning system for lift arms of a power machine or vehicle. In embodiments disclosed, the universal pinning system includes a universal shaft. Lift arms are coupled to the universal shaft to provide a common pivot axis for the lift arms. The universal shaft is coupled to a frame or support of the power machine or vehicle via a pinning assembly. As disclosed, the universal pinning system has application for radial lift arms operable along a radial path or vertical lift arms operable along a vertical path. | 10-02-2008 |
20080223026 | HYDRAULIC POWER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A machine having a hydraulic power management system. The machine includes an internal combustion engine driving first and second fixed displacement pumps to produce a combined flow of pressurized fluid. Main and auxiliary implements are operable in response to a flow of pressurized fluid, and a control valve selectively directs the combined flow to the main and auxiliary implements. A power management system is operable to stop the flow of pressurized fluid to the main implement from the second pump when the pressure of the combined flow exceeds a pressure indicative of the impending engine stall. A means for providing the combined flow to the auxiliary implement without regard to the pressure of the combined flow is also provided, and may take the form of a power management override or bypass mechanism. | 09-18-2008 |
20080203372 | LIFT ARM ASSEMBLY WITH INTEGRATED CYLINDER STOP - A hydraulic lift arm assembly includes a lift arm, a lift cylinder raising and lowering the lift arm, a lift arm stop, and a stowing mechanism. The stowing mechanism automatically retains the lift arm stop in a stowed position in response to the lift arm stop moving into the stowed position. The lift arm stop is movable into a locked position in which the stop resists substantial actuation of the lift cylinder from an extended condition, and thereby resists substantial lowering of the lift arm from a raised position. The lift arm stop may include a slot and pin arrangement to permit linear and pivotal movement of the stop with respect to the lift arm. The linear movement may provide clearance for a tongue on the stop to pivot past a portion of the lift cylinder as the stop is moved into the locked position. | 08-28-2008 |