The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
May. 08, 2001
Filed:
Oct. 31, 1997
Sherrie R. Baker, Sanford, NC (US);
Matthew P. Burr, Apex, NC (US);
Jeffrey A. Deneve, Sanford, NC (US);
Owen S. Loughrin, Sanford, NC (US);
Charles T. McMillan, Sanford, NC (US);
Kevin J. Romanchok, Holly Springs, NC (US);
Caterpillar S.A.R.L., Geneva, CH;
Abstract
In the operation of a construction machine, such as a wheel loader, it is essential to provide load distribution capabilities for improved strength characteristics in the components. Additionally, high visibility is required for an operator to view a work implement during normal operation or coupling. The present invention includes a hydraulic coupler utilizing a pair of separate coupler assemblies which are connected at opposing ends of an upper and lower coupler pin boss at a pair of pin joints including a pair of pins to define a spatial relationship therebetween. The pins each have a cylindrical central portion and rectangular shaped end portions which are fixed within rectangular shaped pin mounting openings in first and second end portions of the coupler assemblies. The separation of the coupler assemblies provides enhanced visibility for an operator. The utilization of the pins as structural members distributes loading in a substantially straight path from the work implement to the machine decreasing the load burden on components, such as the hydraulic coupler.