METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING A LOADER (THIRD FUNCTION AUXILLARY)

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/650,636, filed on May 22, 2025; the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure is directed to an auxiliary kit that is equipped to an articulating tractor for controlling a loader or similar implements.

BACKGROUND ART

Loaders and other similar heavy equipment are commonly used in construction projects to move or load materials such as soil, rock, sand, timber, and other debris or material to and from certain construction areas. Generally, these loaders and similar heavy equipment transfer materials from or into other construction machinery that are commonly used in these projects. These loaders may also have various implements equipped to one or more locations on a given loader based on the construction project at hand. In one instance, loaders may have a front-mounted wide bucket connected to booms or loading arms that scoop loose material from a ground surface or a pile. In another instance, loaders may also have other various implements dictated by the construction project at hand, including forks, clamshell buckets, grapple machines, and other similar implements for specialized construction tasks.

However, commercially-available loaders have disadvantages for certain operators of these machines. In one instance, operators must deal with a large and/or cumbersome footprint with these types of machines in small or confined constructions areas. In another instance, operators must also deal with multiple control systems and mechanisms in order to properly use the given features included with these loaders which may lead to complexity and slow down the operator in construction projects. In this same instance, these control systems and mechanisms may include multiple switches, dials, or other input devices located at various positions on the loader that may not be readily accessible to the operator when operating the loader with ease.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The presently disclosed auxiliary kit is equipped to an articulating tractor provides advantages to the operator of said articulating tractor. In one instance, auxiliary kit includes a manual switch that is readily accessible to the operator for switching between one or more hydraulic systems on-board the articulating tractor. When the auxiliary switch is provided in a first operating position, the operator may use a first set of hydraulic functions on the articulating tractor. When the auxiliary switch is provided in a second operating position, the operator may use a second set of hydraulic functions on the articulating tractor. Additionally, a control system of the articulating tractor is located on a first articulating side of the articulating tractor while the auxiliary kit and the hydraulic system are located on a second articulating side of the articulating tractor.

In one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an articulating tractor. The articulating tractor includes an articulating frame having a first articulation end and second articulation end; a first assembly mounted to the first articulation end of the articulating frame; a second assembly mounted to the second articulation end of the articulating frame separated from the first assembly; a switch of an auxiliary kit operably engaged with the first assembly; and a control system operably engaged with the second assembly; wherein the switch is configured to control hydraulic power of a hydraulic system provided with the articulating tractor between a first operating setting and a second operating setting.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the articulating frame further comprises: a pivot point positioned between the first articulation end and the second articulation end; wherein the control system and the switch are separated and spaced apart from one another by the pivot point. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a first end of the articulating tractor; a second end of the articulating tractor opposite to the first end; and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; wherein the switch and the control system are collectively positioned to one side of the articulating tractor relative to the longitudinal axis. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a first side of the articulating tractor; and a second side of the articulating tractor opposite to the first side; wherein the switch and the control system are collectively positioned at the first side of the articulating tractor or the second side of the articulating tractor.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an articulating tractor. The articulating tractor includes a controller; a control system operatively in communication with the controller; a hydraulic system operatively in communication with the controller for operating a pair of loading arms and an implement equipped to the articulating tractor; and a manual switch of an auxiliary kit operatively in communication with the controller; wherein the manual switch is configured to control hydraulic power of the hydraulic system and inputs applied to the control system between a first operating setting and a second operating setting.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a first end of the articulating tractor; a second end of the articulating tractor opposite to the first end; and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; wherein the switch and the control system are each collectively positioned to one side of the articulating tractor relative to the longitudinal axis. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a first end of the articulating tractor; a second end of the articulating tractor opposite to the first end; and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; wherein the switch, the control system, and the hydraulic system are each collectively positioned to one side of the articulating tractor relative to the longitudinal axis. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a pivot point of an articulating frame positioned between a first articulation end of the articulating frame and a second articulation end of the articulating frame; wherein the control system is separated and spaced apart from the switch by the pivot point. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the hydraulic system comprises: at least one check valve mechanism operatively in communication with the controller and a set of hydraulic actuators of the hydraulic system; wherein the control system is separated and spaced apart from the at least one check valve mechanism by the pivot point.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method of translating one or both of a pair of loading arms and an implement of an articulating tractor. The method includes steps of actuating a switch of an auxiliary kit of the articulating tractor from a first operating position to a second operating position; applying a first input on a control system of the articulating tractor; outputting a signal, by a controller of the articulating tractor, upon receiving a first input on the control system; directing hydraulic fluid to at least one set of hydraulic lines of a hydraulic system of the articulating tractor, by a check valve mechanism of the hydraulic system and an auxiliary check valve mechanism of the auxiliary kit, based on the signal sent by the controller; and translating one or both of the pair of loading arms and the implement of the articulating tractor.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include wherein when the switch is in the first operating position, the hydraulic power is directed to the hydraulic system to actuate the one or both of the pair of loading arms and the implement in a first set of directions and in a second set of directions; and wherein when the switch is in the second operating position, the hydraulic power is directed to the hydraulic system to actuate the one or both of the pair of loading arms and the implement in the first set of directions, in the second set of directions, and in a third set of directions. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include steps of: defining a pivot point of an articulating frame of the articulating tractor between a first articulation end and a second articulation end opposite to the first articulation end; and separating the control system from the switch by the pivot point. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include steps of: defining a longitudinal axis between a first articulation end of the articulating tractor and a second articulation end of the articulating tractor opposite to the first articulation end; and positioning the switch and the control system, collectively, to one side of the articulating tractor relative to the longitudinal axis. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a step of: positioning the switch and the control system, collectively, at a first side of the articulating tractor or a second side of the articulating tractor opposite to the first side. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include steps of: defining a longitudinal axis between a first articulation end of the articulating tractor and a second articulation end of the articulating tractor opposite to the first articulation end; and positioning the switch, the control system, and the hydraulic system, collectively, to one side of the articulating tractor relative to the longitudinal axis. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include steps of: defining a pivot point of an articulating frame of the articulating tractor between a first articulation end and a second articulation end; and separating the control system from the check valve mechanism by the pivot point. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further that the step of translating the one or both of the pair of loading arms and the implement further comprising: actuating the one or both of the pair of loading arms and the implement in a first set of directions by a first input device of the control system; actuating the one or both of the pair of loading arms and the implement in a second set of directions by a second input device of the control system; and actuating the one or both of the pair of loading arms and the implement in a third set of directions by a third input device of the control system. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the third input device is located on the second input device. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include steps of: defining a longitudinal axis between a first articulation end of the articulating tractor and a second articulation end of the articulating tractor opposite to the first articulation end; and positioning the first input device, the second input device, and the third input device, collectively, to one side of the articulating tractor relative to the longitudinal axis.

In yet another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an articulating tractor. The articulating tractor having an articulating frame having a first articulation end, a second articulation end opposite to the first articulation end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first articulation end and the second articulation end; a first assembly mounted to the first articulation end of the articulating frame; a second assembly mounted to the second articulation end of the articulating frame separated from the first assembly; a switch of an auxiliary kit operably engaged with the first assembly; and a control system operably engaged with the second assembly; wherein the switch is configured to control hydraulic power of a hydraulic system positioned on the second assembly between a first operating position and a second operating position.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include wherein when the switch is in the first operating position, the hydraulic power is directed to the hydraulic system to actuate an implement operably engaged with the second assembly in a first set of directions and in a second set of directions; and wherein when the switch is in the second operating position, the hydraulic power is directed to the hydraulic system to actuate the implement operably engaged with the articulating frame in the first set of directions, in the second set of directions, and in a third set of directions. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the articulating frame further comprises: a pivot point positioned between the first articulation end and the second articulation end; wherein the control system is separated and spaced apart from the switch by the pivot point. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include the switch is positioned between the first articulation end of the pivot point; and wherein the control system is positioned between the second articulation end and the pivot point. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a first side of the articulating tractor; and a second side of the articulating tractor opposite to the first side; wherein the switch and the control system are collectively positioned at the first side of the articulating tractor or the second side of the articulating tractor. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the switch, the control system, and the hydraulic system are each collectively positioned to one side of the articulating tractor relative to the longitudinal axis. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the hydraulic system comprises: a set of hydraulic actuators; and at least one check valve mechanism operatively in communication with a controller and the set of hydraulic actuators; wherein the control system is separated and spaced apart from the at least one check valve mechanism and the hydraulic actuators by a pivot point positioned between the first articulation end and the second articulation end. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the control system comprises: a first input device operatively engaged with the hydraulic system to actuate an implement operably engaged with the articulating frame in a first set of directions; a second input device operatively engaged with the hydraulic system to actuate the implement operably engaged with the articulating frame in a second set of directions; and a third input device operatively engaged with the hydraulic system to actuate the implement operably engaged with the articulating frame in a third set of directions; This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the third input device is located on the second input device. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the first input device, the second input device, and the third input device are collectively positioned to one side of the articulating tractor relative to the longitudinal axis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Sample embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the following description, are shown in the drawings and are particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.

FIG. 1 is side elevation view of an articulating tractor having loading arms and an implement engaged with said loading arms in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the articulating tractor includes an auxiliary kit.

FIG. 2 is an enlargement of the articulating tractor, particularly a control system of the articulating tractor as shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the articulating tractor shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an operational view of the articulating tractor, wherein an operator actuates a switch of the auxiliary kit from a first operating position to a second operating position.

FIG. 5A is another operational view continuing from FIG. 4, wherein an operator actuates a first control input of the control system.

FIG. 5B is another operational view continuing from FIG. 5A, wherein the loading arms are raised or lowered based on the operator's input on the first control input.

FIG. 6A is another operational view continuing from FIG. 4, wherein an operator actuates a second control input of the control system.

FIG. 6B is another operational view continuing from FIG. 6A, wherein the implement is rotated based on the operator's input on the second control input.

FIG. 7A is another operational view continuing from FIG. 4, wherein an operator actuates the second control input of the control system and a third control input of the control system.

FIG. 7B is another operational view continuing from FIG. 7A, wherein components of the implement are opened and closed based on the operator's inputs on the second control input and the third control input.

Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A drivable outdoor power equipment device in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated in FIG. 1 and is shown generally at 1; the drivable outdoor power equipment device 1 may also be referred to as an articulating tractor or vehicle herein. Articulating tractor 1 has a front end 1a, a rear end 1b longitudinally opposite to the front end 1a, and a longitudinal direction defined therebetween. Articulating tractor 1 also has a first side 1c, a second side 1d transversely opposite to the first side 1c, and a transverse direction defined therebetween. Articulating tractor 1 also includes a longitudinal axis 1e that extends between the front end 1a and the rear end 1b and is parallel with the longitudinal direction of articulating tractor 1. During operation, articulating tractor 1 will typically travel in a forward direction. When articulating tractor 1 moves in the forward direction, the front end 1a comprises the leading end of articulating tractor 1. In some instances, articulating tractor 1 may need to reverse, in which case the direction of travel will be opposite to the direction noted previously, and then rear end 1b will comprise the leading end of the articulating tractor 1.

It will be understood that any suitable vehicle, tractor, or drivable outdoor power equipment device may be used with an implement discussed herein. One exemplary articulating tractor 1 for use with an implement discussed herein is a Ventrac compact tractor commercially available for sale and known in the industry as a Ventrac 4520 tractor. Another exemplary articulating tractor 1 for use with an implement discussed herein is a Ventrac compact tractor commercially available for sale and known in the industry as a Ventrac 4500 tractor.

Articulating tractor 1 includes an articulating frame 2 upon which a front assembly 4 and a rear assembly 6 are mounted. As best seen in FIG. 1, articulating frame 2 includes an actuating mechanism 2a that includes a pivot point 2b separating the articulation between the first assembly 4 and the second assembly 6. As such, the articulating tractor 1 articulates at the pivot point 2b in order to turn and maneuver the articulating tractor in a lateral direction. Particularly, the first assembly 4 and the second assembly 6 pivot at the pivot point 2b in order to turn and maneuver the articulating tractor in a lateral direction.

It should be noted the front assembly 4 may house or maintain various types of components commonly used with articulating tractor 1, including an engine or motor, steering wheel, mechanical or hydraulic mechanisms, and other necessary components housed or maintained by this assembly, as well as new components that are discussed in greater detail below. It should be also be noted the rear assembly 6 may house or maintain various types of components commonly used with articulating tractor 1, including an operating seat, controls of articulating tractor 1, and other necessary components housed or maintained by this assembly, as well as new components that are discussed in greater detail below. It should also be noted that front assembly 4 and rear assembly 6 are separated from one another by articulating frame 2 such that the front assembly 4 and rear assembly 6 articulate independently of one another.

Articulating tractor 1 also includes ground engaging wheels 8 that are mounted to articulating frame 2 so that articulating tractor 1 may be driven across a ground surface. It should be noted that articulating tractor 1 may include more than one wheel at each corner of the articulating frame 1 depending upon the operator's preferences when operating said articulating tractor 1. In one example, operator may install dual wheel assemblies to the articulating frame 2 when the operator wants to prevents unnecessary damage to the ground surface or requires additional support when traversing uneven or sloped terrain.

Articulating tractor 1 also includes a control system 10 that enables the operator to control articulating tractor 1. As best seen in FIG. 2, control system 10 includes a first input device 10a, a second input device 10b, and a third input device 10c where the third input device 10c is located on the second input device 10b. In the present disclosure, the first input device 10a enables the operator of articulating tractor 1 to apply a first response or input when operating the articulating tractor 1. In one example, first input device 10a enables the operator to at least control the speed of the articulating tractor 1 in either the forward direction or the reverse direction; other operations that enables the operator to control an implement or other loading mechanisms of the articulating tractor 1 when initializing an on-board auxiliary kit by first input device 10a are discussed in greater detail below. In the present disclosure, the second input device 10b also enables the operator of articulating tractor to apply a second response or input when the operating the articulating tractor 1; such second response is different than the first response provided by first input device 10a. In the present disclosure, the third input device 10b also enables the operator of articulating tractor to apply a third response or input when operating the articulating tractor 1; such third response is different than the first response provided by first input device 10a and the second response provided by second input device 10b. Such first, second, and third responses provided by first input device 10a, second input device 10b, and third input device 10c are discussed in greater detail below.

Articulating tractor 1 also includes an operating seat 12 that is positioned on the rear assembly 6 of articulating tractor 1. As best seen in FIG. 3, the operating seat 12 is positioned adjacent to the control system 10 such that the first input device 10a, the second input device 10b, and the third input device 10c are accessible to the operator when sitting in the operating seat 12.

Articulating tractor 1 also includes a controller 14. As best seen in FIG. 1, the controller 14 is diagrammatically shown as a dashed box and being housed in the front assembly 4. In the present disclosure, controller 14 is also operatively in communication with the control system 10; such communication between the control system 10 and controller 14 is denoted by lines labeled “W1” in FIG. 1. It should be noted that any suitable electrical connections may be used to allow communication between the control system 10 and controller 14, either wired or wireless communication. In the present disclosure, the controller 14 is configured to at least output necessary signals to respective device and components of articulating tractor 1 based on the actions input by operator when using control system 10. It should be understood that any suitable controller or similar controlling device or any number of controllers may be equipped with articulating tractor 1 for controlling necessary actions input by the operator.

Articulating tractor 1 also includes a pair of loading arms 16. As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 3, the pair of loading arms 16 is pivotably engaged with the front assembly 4 near the front end 1a of articulating tractor 1. In the present disclosure, each loading arm of the pair of loading arms 16 includes a first end 16a that pivotably engages with the front assembly 4 and a second end 16b that is spaced apart from the front end 1a and is opposite to the first end 16a. While not illustrated herein, first ends 16a of the pair of loading arms 16 are operably engaged with motors or similar mechanical devices that rotate the pair of loading arms 16 along a vertical axis to raise and lower an attached implement.

Articulating tractor 1 also includes an implement 18. As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 3, the implement 18 is pivotably engaged with the pair of loading arms 16. In the present disclosure, the implement 18 includes an attachment frame 18a that pivotably engages with the second ends 16b of the pair of loading arms 16 and a set of jaws 18b that pivotably engages with the attachment frame 18a. It should be noted that implement 18 illustrated herein is a grappling implement used for grasping large, loose objects such as logs or similar loose objects. In other exemplary embodiments, other suitable implements or loader implements commonly used in commercial environments may be equipped to the pair of loading arms 16 for a specific construction operation.

Articulating tractor 1 also includes a hydraulic system 20 for at least translating the pair of loading arms 16 and the implement 18. As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 3, the hydraulic system 20 is primarily housed and engaged with the front assembly 4 on the first side 1c of articulating tractor 1. Hydraulic system 20 includes a set of quick couplers 20a that are mounted to an outer surface of front assembly 4; such quick couplers 20a allow for operator to releasably connect desired hydraulic lines for various on-board actuators that are discussed in greater detail below.

Hydraulic system 20 also includes a check valve mechanism 20b that is in fluid communication with the set of quick couplers 20a. Check valve mechanism 20b is also operatively in communication with the controller 14 so that check valve mechanism 20b may be set to a desired valve configuration by the controller 14; such communication between the controller 14 and the check valve mechanism 20b is denoted by a line labeled “W2” in FIG. 1. In the present disclosure, the check valve mechanism 20b is connected to and in fluid communication with an on-board hydraulic pump (not illustrated herein) for directing and delivering hydraulic fluid to a particular group of hydraulic lines. It should be understood that any commercially-available check valve mechanism may be used with articulating tractor for directing and delivering hydraulic fluid to a particular group of hydraulic lines.

Still referring to hydraulic system 20, hydraulic system 20 includes a first pair of actuators 20c, a second pair of actuators 20d, and a third pair of actuators 20e. As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 3, the first pair of actuators 20c is equipped to the pair of loading arms 16 for raising and lowering the pair of loading arms 16 along a vertical axis (see FIG. 5B). Still referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the second pair of actuators 20d is equipped to the pair of loading arms 16 for pivoting the implement 18 in a forward direction and in a reverse direction (see FIG. 6B) to float the implement 18. Still referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the third pair of actuators 20e is equipped to the implement 18 for opening and closing the jaws 18b of implement 18 to grasp and hold loose objects (see FIG. 7B).

Still referring to hydraulic system 20, hydraulic system 20 includes a set of hydraulic lines or hoses that connect the quick couplers 20a and the hydraulic actuators 20c, 20d, 20e with one another. In one example, first and second hydraulic lines (labeled HH1 and HH2 in FIG. 1) connect first and second couplers of the set of couplers 20a with the first pair of actuators 20c. Similarly, in this same example, third and fourth hydraulic lines (labeled HH3 and HH4 in FIG. 1) connect third and fourth couplers of the set of couplers 20a with the second pair of actuators 20d. With such connections, hydraulic fluid may be directed to the first pair of actuators 20c and the second pair of actuators 20d based on the operator's input placed on one or more of the first input device 10a, second input device 10b, and third input device 10c, which is discussed in greater detail below.

Articulating tractor 1 also includes an auxiliary kit 40 that is operatively in communication with the control system 10 and the controller 14. As discussed in greater detail below, auxiliary kit 40 enables an operator of articulating tractor 1 to switch between multiple operating settings provided with articulating tractor 1. Such components of auxiliary kit 40 are now discussed in greater detail below.

Auxiliary kit 40 includes a switch 42 that is mounted to and accessible at the first assembly 4. As best seen in FIG. 1, switch 42 is operatively in communication with the controller 14 for enabling the operator to change between two operating settings; such communication between the controller 14 and the switch 42 is denoted by a line labeled “W3” in FIG. 1 while such operating settings are discussed in greater detail below. In the present disclosure, switch 42 diagrammatically shown as a generic switch for illustrative purposes; any commercially available switch may be used, including a rocker switch or similar commercially available switch.

Auxiliary kit 40 also includes a pair of auxiliary quick couplers 44 that is operatively in communication with an auxiliary check valve mechanism 46. Similar to the hydraulic system 20, the pair of auxiliary quick couplers 44 and the auxiliary check valve mechanism 46 are equipped to the front assembly 4 for ease of access along with the hydraulic system 20 (see FIG. 1). In the present disclosure, the pair of auxiliary quick couplers 44 is mounted to an outer surface of front assembly 4; such auxiliary quick couplers 44 also allows the operator to releasably connect desired hydraulic lines for various on-board actuators that are discussed in greater detail below. The auxiliary check valve mechanism 46 is in fluid communication with the pair of auxiliary quick couplers 44. In the present disclosure, the auxiliary check valve mechanism 46 is connected to and in fluid communication with an on-board hydraulic pump (not illustrated herein) for directing and delivering hydraulic fluid to a particular group of hydraulic lines. It should be understood that any commercially-available check valve mechanism may be used with articulating tractor for directing and delivering hydraulic fluid to a particular group of hydraulic lines. Auxiliary check valve mechanism 46 is also operatively in communication with the controller 14 so that auxiliary check valve mechanism 46 may be set to a desired valve configuration by the controller 14; such communication between the controller 14 and the auxiliary check valve mechanism 46 is denoted by a line labeled “W4” in FIG. 1.

Still referring to auxiliary kit 40, auxiliary kit 40 includes a set of auxiliary hydraulic lines or hoses that connect the auxiliary quick couplers 44 and the third pair of hydraulic actuators 20e with one another. In one example, fifth and sixth hydraulic lines (labeled HH5 and HH5 in FIG. 1) connect first and second couplers of the pair of auxiliary couplers 44 with the third pair of actuators 20e. With such connections, hydraulic fluid may be directed to the third pair of actuators 20e based on the operator's input asserted on second input device 10b and third input device 10c, collectively.

In operation, switch 42 of auxiliary kit 40 controls the direction and deliver of hydraulic fluid to specific hydraulic actuators. When the switch 42 is provided in the first operating position (see FIG. 1), the check valve mechanism 20b and auxiliary check valve mechanism 46 are set to a first valve configuration, via the controller 14, to allow hydraulic fluid to pass to the first and second pairs of hydraulic actuators 20c, 20d while such hydraulic fluid is free from passing to the third pair of hydraulic actuators 20e. When the switch 42 is provided in the second operating position (see FIG. 4), the check valve mechanism 20b and auxiliary check valve mechanism 46 are set to a second valve configuration, via the controller 14, to allow hydraulic fluid to pass to the first, second, and third pairs of hydraulic actuators 20c, 20d, 20e; such operation when the switch 42 is provided in the second operating position is discussed in greater detail below.

It should be understood that the location of certain components of articulating tractor 1 may be placed on certain sides or location for ease of accessing such components when operating articulating tractor 1. In one example, the control system 10 and the switch 42 are positioned at the first side 1c of the articulating tractor 1 and/or positioned on the same side of articulating tractor 1 relative to the longitudinal axis 1e of tractor 1. In this same example, the control system 10 and the switch 42 are positioned on separate assemblies where the switch 42 is located on the front assembly 4 of articulating tractor 1 and the control system 10 is located on the rear assembly 6. In this same example, the control system 10 and the switch 42 are separated by the pivot point 2b where the switch 42 is located on the front assembly 4 of articulating tractor 1 and the control system 10 is located on the rear assembly.

In another example, the control system 10 and the switch 42 may be positioned on the same assembly where the control system 10 and the switch 42 are each located on the front assembly 4 of articulating tractor 1 or located on the rear assembly 6.

In another example, the control system 10, the hydraulic system 20 and the auxiliary kit 40 are positioned on separate assemblies where the hydraulic system 20 and auxiliary kit 40 are each located on the front assembly 4 of articulating tractor 1 and the control system 10 is located on the rear assembly 6. In this same example, the control system 10, the hydraulic system 20 and the auxiliary kit 40 are positioned on the same side of articulating tractor 1 relative to the longitudinal axis 1e of tractor 1. In this same example, the control system 10, the hydraulic system 20 and the auxiliary kit 40 are positioned on separate assemblies where the switch 42 (along with the auxiliary kit 40) and the hydraulic assembly 20 are each located on the front assembly 4 of articulating tractor 1, and the control system 10 is located on the rear assembly 6. In this same example, the control system 10 is separated from the switch 42 (along with the auxiliary kit 40) and the hydraulic assembly 20 by the pivot point 2b where the switch 42 along with the auxiliary kit 40) and the hydraulic assembly 20 are located on the front assembly 4 of articulating tractor 1 and the control system 10 is located on the rear assembly 6.

Having now discussed the assemblies, components, and mechanisms of the articulating tractor 1 with the auxiliary kit 40, methods of using the articulating tractor 1 with the auxiliary kit 40 is now discussed in greater detail below.

Prior to use, operator must manually change the position of the switch 42 from the first operating position to the second operating position to use the full function of the loading arms 16 and the implement 18. It should be noted that an arrow labeled “A” in FIG. 4 denotes the actuation of the switch 42 from the first operating position to the second operating position. Upon such actuation, the controller 14 outputs a signal to the check valve mechanism 20b and the auxiliary check valve mechanism 46 to direct hydraulic fluid to the quick couplers 20a and the auxiliary quick couplers 44. As discussed previously, the second operating position allows hydraulic fluid to be directed to the first, second and third pairs of hydraulic actuators 20c, 20d, 20e in order to use full function of the pair of loading arms 16 and the implement 18.

Once the switch 42 is provided in the second operating position, the operator may then apply actions or inputs on the control system 10. Such inputs on control system 10 are discussed in greater detail below.

In one instance, operator may apply an input on the first input device 10a of control system 10 to raise or lower the pair of loading arms 16 and the implement 18, collectively; such input applied on the first input device 10a is denoted by a double arrow labeled “B1” in FIG. 5A, and such change of height of the pair of loading arms 16 and the implement 18 is denoted by arrows labeled “B2” in FIG. 5B. As best seen in FIG. 5A, operator may apply an input on the first input device 10a in a first lateral direction or in a second lateral direction to raise or lower the pair of loading arms 16 and the implement 18, collectively. When the operator applies an input on the first input device 10a in the first lateral direction (i.e., pulls first input device 10a towards the operating seat 12), the first pair of hydraulic actuators 20c raises the pair of loading arms 16. Similarly, when the operator applies an input on the first input device 10a in the second lateral direction (i.e., pushes first input device 10a away from the operating seat 12), the first pair of hydraulic actuators 20c lowers the pair of loading arms 16.

In another instance, operator may also apply an input on the second input device 10b of control system 10 to rotate the implement 18 in a forward direction or in a reverse direction; such input applied on the second input device 10b is denoted by a double arrow labeled “C1” in FIG. 6A, and such rotation of the implement 18 is denoted by arrows labeled “C2” in FIG. 6B. As best seen in FIG. 6A, operator may apply an input on the second input device 10b in a first lateral direction or in a second lateral direction to rotate the implement 18 in a forward direction or in a reverse direction. When the operator applies an input on the second input device 10b in the first lateral direction (i.e., pulls second input device 10b towards the operating seat 12), the second pair of hydraulic actuators 20d rotates implement 18 towards the front end 1a of articulating tractor 1. Similarly, when the operator applies an input on the second input device 10b in the second lateral direction (i.e., pushes second input device 10b away from the operating seat 12), the second pair of hydraulic actuators 20d rotates implement 18 away from the front end 1a of articulating tractor 1.

In yet another instance, operator may also apply inputs on the second input device 10b and the third input device 10c of control system 10 to open and close jaws 18b of implement 18; such input applied on the second input device 10b is denoted by a double arrow labeled “D1” in FIG. 7A (similar to inputs shown in FIG. 6A), such input applied on the third input device 10c is denoted by an arrow labeled “D2” in FIG. 7A, and such opening and closing of the jaws 18b of the implement 18 is denoted by arrows labeled “D3” in FIG. 7B. As best seen in FIG. 7A, operator may apply a first input in a first lateral direction or in a second lateral direction on the second input device 10b and a second input, simultaneously, on the third input device 10c to open and close jaws 18b of implement 18. When the operator applies an input on the second input device 10b in the first lateral direction (i.e., pulls second input device 10b towards the operating seat 12) while also pressing third input device 10C, the third pair of hydraulic actuators 20e opens the jaws 18b of implement 18. Similarly, when the operator applies an input on the second input device 10b in the second lateral direction (i.e., pushes second input device 10b away from the operating seat 12) while also pressing third input device 10C, the third pair of hydraulic actuators 20e closes the jaws 18b of implement 18.

It should be understood that the operator may actuate one or more of the input devices 10a, 10b, 10c simultaneously when operating articulating tractor 1. In one example, operator may actuate both the first input device 10a and the second input device 10b simultaneously if desired. In another example, operator may actuate both the second input device 10b and the third input device 10c simultaneously if desired.

As described herein, aspects of the present disclosure may include one or more electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, or other similar secondary components and/or systems therein. The present disclosure is therefore contemplated and will be understood to include any necessary operational components thereof. For example, electrical components will be understood to include any suitable and necessary wiring, fuses, or the like for normal operation thereof. Similarly, any pneumatic systems provided may include any secondary or peripheral components such as air hoses, compressors, valves, meters, or the like. It will be further understood that any connections between various components not explicitly described herein may be made through any suitable means including mechanical fasteners, or more permanent attachment means, such as welding or the like. Alternatively, where feasible and/or desirable, various components of the present disclosure may be integrally formed as a single unit.

Various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, of which an example has been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

Any flowchart and/or block diagrams in the Figures illustrate some exemplary architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the Figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

The above-described embodiments can be implemented in any of numerous ways. For example, embodiments of technology disclosed herein may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware or a combination thereof. When implemented in software, the software code or instructions can be executed on any suitable processor or collection of processors, whether provided in a single computer or distributed among multiple computers or in firmware. Furthermore, the instructions or software code can be stored in at least one non-transitory computer readable storage medium.

Also, a computer or controller may be utilized to execute the software code or instructions via its processors may have one or more input and output devices. These devices can be used, among other things, to present a user interface. Examples of output devices that can be used to provide a user interface include printers or display screens for visual presentation of output and speakers or other sound generating devices for audible presentation of output. Examples of input devices that can be used for a user interface include keyboards, and pointing devices, such as mice, touch pads, and digitizing tablets. As another example, a computer may receive input information through speech recognition or in other audible format.

The various methods or processes outlined herein may be coded as software/instructions that are executable on one or more processors that employ any one of a variety of operating systems or platforms. Additionally, such software may be written using any of a number of suitable programming languages and/or programming or scripting tools, and also may be compiled as executable machine language code or intermediate code that is executed on a framework or virtual machine.

In this respect, various inventive concepts may be embodied as a computer readable storage medium (or multiple computer readable storage media) (e.g., a computer memory, one or more floppy discs, compact discs, optical discs, magnetic tapes, flash memories, USB flash drives, SD cards, circuit configurations in Field Programmable Gate Arrays or other semiconductor devices, or other non-transitory medium or tangible computer storage medium) encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more computers or other processors, perform methods that implement the various embodiments of the disclosure discussed above. The computer readable medium or media can be transportable, such that the program or programs stored thereon can be loaded onto one or more different computers or other processors to implement various aspects of the present disclosure as discussed above.

The terms “program” or “software” or “instructions” are used herein in a generic sense to refer to any type of computer code or set of computer-executable instructions that can be employed to program a computer or other processor to implement various aspects of embodiments as discussed above. Additionally, it should be appreciated that according to one aspect, one or more computer programs that when executed perform methods of the present disclosure need not reside on a single computer or processor but may be distributed in a modular fashion amongst a number of different computers or processors to implement various aspects of the present disclosure.

Computer-executable instructions may be in many forms, such as program modules, executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Typically, the functionality of the program modules may be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments. As such, one aspect or embodiment of the present disclosure may be a computer program product including least one non-transitory computer readable storage medium in operative communication with a processor, the storage medium having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processor, implement a method or process described herein, wherein the instructions comprise the steps to perform the method(s) or process(es) detailed herein.

Also, data structures may be stored in computer-readable media in any suitable form. For simplicity of illustration, data structures may be shown to have fields that are related through location in the data structure. Such relationships may likewise be achieved by assigning storage for the fields with locations in a computer-readable medium that convey relationship between the fields. However, any suitable mechanism may be used to establish a relationship between information in fields of a data structure, including through the use of pointers, tags or other mechanisms that establish relationship between data elements.

All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

“Logic”, as used herein, includes but is not limited to hardware, firmware, software, and/or combinations of each to perform a function(s) or an action(s), and/or to cause a function or action from another logic, method, and/or system. For example, based on a desired application or needs, logic may include a software controlled microprocessor, discrete logic like a processor (e.g., microprocessor), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmed logic device, a memory device containing instructions, an electric device having a memory, or the like. Logic may include one or more gates, combinations of gates, or other circuit components. Logic may also be fully embodied as software. Where multiple logics are described, it may be possible to incorporate the multiple logics into one physical logic. Similarly, where a single logic is described, it may be possible to distribute that single logic between multiple physical logics.

Furthermore, the logic(s) presented herein for accomplishing various methods of this system may be directed towards improvements in existing computer-centric or internet-centric technology that may not have previous analog versions. The logic(s) may provide specific functionality directly related to structure that addresses and resolves some problems identified herein. The logic(s) may also provide significantly more advantages to solve these problems by providing an exemplary inventive concept as specific logic structure and concordant functionality of the method and system. Furthermore, the logic(s) may also provide specific computer implemented rules that improve existing technological processes. The logic(s) provided herein extends beyond merely gathering data, analyzing the information, and displaying the results. Further, portions or all of the present disclosure may rely on underlying equations that are derived from the specific arrangement of the equipment or components as recited herein. Thus, portions of the present disclosure as it relates to the specific arrangement of the components are not directed to abstract ideas. Furthermore, the present disclosure and the appended claims present teachings that involve more than performance of well-understood, routine, and conventional activities previously known to the industry. In some of the method or process of the present disclosure, which may incorporate some aspects of natural phenomenon, the process or method steps are additional features that are new and useful.

More particularly, the device, assembly, or system of the present disclosure, which may include the logic(s) presented herein, includes the features, components, techniques or processes detailed herein that, as combined, accomplished the desired results detailed herein. These specific elements, configuration or techniques of the device, assembly, or system of the present disclosure, some of which may be included in at least one of the appended claims, accomplish these desired results to overcome the then existing problems in the relevant field of computer processor-based systems. Additionally, the features, components, techniques or processes of the device, assembly, or system of the present disclosure, are an unconventional arrangement of elements or unconventionally perform a method detailed herein that was unavailable without the unconventional arrangement of elements. These exemplary, yet particular, arrangements provide an improvement over existing technologies that have failed to operate in the manner, and with the efficiency that is taught by the device, assembly, or system of the present disclosure.

The articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.” The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims (if at all), should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc. As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc. As another example, “at least one of: A, B, or B” is intended to cover A, B, C, A-B, A-C, B-C, and A-B-C, as well as any combination with multiple of the same item.

While components of the present disclosure are described herein in relation to each other, it is possible for one of the components disclosed herein to include inventive subject matter, if claimed alone or used alone. In keeping with the above example, if the disclosed embodiments teach the features of A and B, then there may be inventive subject matter in the combination of A and B, A alone, or B alone, unless otherwise stated herein.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the term “effecting” or a phrase or claim element beginning with the term “effecting” should be understood to mean to cause something to happen or to bring something about. For example, effecting an event to occur may be caused by actions of a first party even though a second party actually performed the event or had the event occur to the second party. Stated otherwise, effecting refers to one party giving another party the tools, objects, or resources to cause an event to occur. Thus, in this example a claim element of “effecting an event to occur” would mean that a first party is giving a second party the tools or resources needed for the second party to perform the event, however the affirmative single action is the responsibility of the first party to provide the tools or resources to cause said event to occur.

When a feature or element is herein referred to as being “on” another feature or element, it can be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and/or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly on” another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. It will also be understood that, when a feature or element is referred to as being “connected”, “attached” or “coupled” to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly attached” or “directly coupled” to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown can apply to other embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed “adjacent” another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

Spatially relative terms, such as “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper”, “above”, “behind”, “in front of”, and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “lateral”, “transverse”, “longitudinal”, and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.

Although the terms “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various features/elements, these features/elements should not be limited by these terms, unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature/element from another feature/element. Thus, a first feature/element discussed herein could be termed a second feature/element, and similarly, a second feature/element discussed herein could be termed a first feature/element without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

An embodiment is an implementation or example of the present disclosure. Reference in the specification to “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “one particular embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” or “other embodiments,” or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the invention. The various appearances “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “one particular embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” or “other embodiments,” or the like, are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiments. Furthermore, the use of any and all examples or exemplary language (“e.g.,” “such as,” or the like) is intended merely to better illustrate or illuminate the embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of that or those embodiments. No language in this specification should be construed as indicating any unclaimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosed embodiment.

If this specification states a component, feature, structure, or characteristic “may”, “might”, or “could” be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included. If the specification or claim refers to “a” or “an” element, that does not mean there is only one of the element. If the specification or claims refer to “an additional” element or “another” element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element or the another element.

As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word “about” or “approximately,” even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase “about” or “approximately” may be used when describing magnitude and/or position to indicate that the value and/or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and/or positions. For example, a numeric value may have a value that is +/−0.1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−2% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−5% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein. Further, recitation of ranges of values herein are not intended to be limiting, referring instead individually to any and all values falling within that range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value within such range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

Additionally, the method of performing the present disclosure may occur in a sequence different than those described herein. Accordingly, no sequence of the method should be read as a limitation unless explicitly stated. It is recognizable that performing some of the steps of the method in a different order could achieve a similar result.

In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

To the extent that the present disclosure has utilized the term “invention” in various titles or sections of this specification, or in the context of those sections, this term has been included as required by the formatting requirements of word document submissions (i.e., docx submissions) pursuant the guidelines/requirements of the United States Patent and Trademark Office and shall not, in any manner, be considered a disavowal of any subject matter.

In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.

Moreover, the description and illustration of various embodiments of the disclosure are examples and the disclosure is not limited to the exact details shown or described.