Caterpillar Inc.

Paul E Pottschmidt

Dana D Branham

Robert Wayne Hunter, Jr

Karl S Kuriger

Andy R Fowkes

An interface for coupling a work tool to a stick of a machine includes a plate having an engaging face and a coupling face. The engaging face of the plate is connected to the work tool. The interface also includes a first bracket and a second bracket positioned at a predefined distance from the first bracket. The first bracket and the second bracket extend from the coupling face of the plate and include at least one first hole and at least one second hole, respectively. The interface also includes a first pin received through the at least one first hole and the at least one second hole, and connected to a coupling member. The coupling member is connected to the stick of the machine and is configured to couple the work tool to the stick of the machine.

Interface for coupling work tool to machine

Work machines having linkages may need to have the linkage assembly locked in a predetermined position to prevent damage to an implement attached to the work machine, to prevent tipping of the work machine, to operate the implement, or other reasons. Locking the linkage assembly, however, can create significant loads on the linkage assembly. The disclosed method and apparatus is for a work machine that comprises a chassis, at least one linkage assembly attached to the work machine, at least one restraint having a first-end portion and a second-end portion, the second-end portion being attached to the chassis and the first-end portion being attached to the linkage assembly, the restraint transferring a load from the linkage assembly to the chassis.

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Raleigh, NC, United States of America

Paul E Pottschmidt