SIX-WAY BLADE ON A POWER MACHINE

Abstract

A power machine includes a frame having an undercarriage and a house rotatably coupled to the undercarriage. First and second tractive elements are coupled to the undercarriage. A lower lift arm structure is pivotally coupled to the undercarriage at a lower lift arm pivot connection. A tilt frame is pivotally coupled to the lower lift arm structure at an angle pivot connection. An implement is pivotally coupled to the tilt frame at a tilt pivot connection and has an implement front face. A tilt actuator is coupled to the tilt frame at a first tilt pivot and is pivotally coupled to the implement at a second tilt pivot. The angle pivot connection is located between the tilt actuator and the implement front face.

Claims

1. A power machine comprising: a frame including an undercarriage and a house rotatably coupled to the undercarriage; first and second tractive elements coupled to left and right sides of the undercarriage; a lower lift arm structure pivotally coupled to the undercarriage at a lower lift arm pivot connection and configured to move in first and second lift directions; a tilt frame pivotally coupled to the lower lift arm structure at an angle pivot connection and configured to move in first and second angle directions; an implement pivotally coupled to the tilt frame at a tilt pivot connection and having an implement front face; and a tilt actuator coupled to the tilt frame at a first tilt pivot and pivotally coupled to the implement at a second tilt pivot, wherein the tilt actuator is configured to move the implement in first and second tilt directions; and wherein the angle pivot connection is located between the tilt actuator and the implement front face.

2. The power machine of claim 1, further comprising a pair of first and second guide plates mounted to the back face of the implement and spaced apart from each other to provide a channel therebetween, the guide plates being configured to slidably move along opposing free ends of the tilt frame.

3. The power machine of claim 2, wherein each surface of each guide plate that faces one of the free ends of the tilt frame is curved to correspond with curved surfaces of the opposing free ends of the tilt frame.

4. The power machine of claim 2, further comprising a pair of first and second wear pads mounted to the back face of the implement and to which the each of the first and second guides plates are mounted to.

5. The power machine of claim 1, further comprising a first set of wear pads mounted to the front face of the tilt frame and a second set of wear pads mounted to the back face of the implement such that the first set of wear pads on the front face of the tilt frame contact the second set of wear pads on the back face of the implement.

6. The power machine of claim 5, wherein the tilt frame further comprises a first and second grease zerk, wherein each grease zerk is configured to feed grease to a groove formed in each wear pad mounted to the tilt frame.

7. The power machine of claim 6, wherein each groove is machined directly into one of the wear pads mounted to the front face of the tilt frame.

8. The power machine of claim 1, wherein the house is rotatably coupled to the undercarriage about a swivel axis and wherein the angle pivot connection has an angle pivot axis that is substantially parallel with the swivel axis, wherein the tilt actuator is located between the angle pivot axis and the swivel axis and more proximal to the angle pivot axis than the swivel axis.

9. A power machine comprising: a frame including an undercarriage and a house rotatably coupled to the undercarriage about a swivel axis; first and second tractive elements coupled to left and right sides of the undercarriage; a lower lift arm structure pivotally coupled to the undercarriage at a lower lift arm pivot connection; at least one lift cylinder coupled to the undercarriage at a first lift pivot and pivotally coupled to the lower lift arm structure at a second lift pivot, wherein the at least one lift cylinder is configured to raise and lower the lower lift arm structure; a tilt frame pivotally coupled to the lower lift arm structure at an angle pivot connection, wherein the angle pivot connection has an angle pivot axis that is substantially parallel with the swivel axis; an angle cylinder coupled to the lower lift arm structure at a first angle pivot and pivotally coupled to the tilt frame at a second angle pivot, wherein the angle cylinder is configured to rotate the tilt frame about the angle pivot axis; an implement pivotally coupled to the tilt frame by a tilt pivot connection, wherein the tilt pivot connection has a tilt pivot axis that intersects with the angle pivot axis; and a tilt cylinder coupled to the tilt frame at a first tilt pivot and pivotally coupled to the implement at a second tilt pivot, wherein the tilt cylinder is configured to rotate the implement about the tilt pivot axis; and wherein the tilt cylinder is located between the angle pivot axis of the angle pivot connection and the swivel axis of the house and is more proximal to the angle pivot axis than the swivel axis.

10. The power machine of claim 9, further comprising a pair of first and second guide plates mounted to the back face of the implement and spaced apart from each other to provide a channel therebetween, the guide plates being configured to slidably move along opposing free ends of the tilt frame.

11. The power machine of claim 10, further comprising a pair of first and second wear pads mounted to the back face of the implement and to which the each of the first and second guides plates are mounted to.

12. The power machine of claim 9, further comprising a first set of wear pads mounted to the front face of the tilt frame and a second set of wear pads mounted to the back face of the implement such that the first set of wear pads on the front face of the tilt frame contact the second set of wear pads on the back face of the implement.

13. The power machine of claim 12, wherein the tilt frame further comprises a first and second grease zerk, wherein each grease zerk is configured to feed grease to a groove formed in each wear pad mounted to the tilt frame.

14. The power machine of claim 13, wherein each groove is machined directly into one of the wear pads mounted to the front face of the tilt frame.

15. A power machine lift arm assembly comprising: a lower lift arm structure configured to be pivotally coupled to an undercarriage of a power machine at a lower lift arm pivot connection; at least one lift actuator configured to rotate the lower lift arm structure about the lower lift arm pivot connection; a tilt frame pivotally coupled to the lower lift arm structure at an angle pivot connection; an angle actuator configured to rotate the tilt frame about the angle pivot connection; an implement pivotally coupled to the tilt frame at a tilt pivot connection; and a tilt actuator configured to rotate the implement about the tilt pivot connection; and wherein the tilt actuator is positioned behind the angle pivot connection.

16. The power machine lift arm assembly of claim 15, further comprising first and second guide plates mounted to the back face of the implement and spaced apart from each other to provide a channel therebetween, the guide plates being configured to slidably move along opposing free ends of the tilt frame.

17. The power machine lift arm assembly of claim 16, wherein each of the first and second guide plates comprise a grease zerk that feeds lubricant to a grease groove formed in the each guide plate.

18. The power machine lift arm assembly of claim 15, further comprising a first set of wear pads mounted to the front face of the tilt frame and a second set of wear pads mounted to the back face of the implement such that the first set of wear pads on the front face of the tilt frame contact the second set of wear pads on the back face of the implement.

19. The power machine lift arm assembly of claim 18, wherein the tilt frame further comprises a first and second grease zerk, wherein each grease zerk is configured to feed grease to a groove formed in each wear pad mounted to the tilt frame.

20. The power machine lift arm assembly of claim 19, wherein each groove is machined directly into one of the wear pads mounted to the front face of the tilt frame.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating functional systems of a representative power machine on which embodiments of the present disclosure can be practiced.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a front left perspective view of a representative power machine in the form of an excavator on which the disclosed embodiments may be practiced.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a rear right perspective view of the excavator of FIG. 2.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a first exploded view of portions of a power machine which can be an embodiment of an excavator having some or all of the above-described features of the power machine illustrated in FIG. 1 and the power machine illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a second exploded view of FIG. 4.

[0016] FIG. 6 is an assembled top perspective view of FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of FIG. 6.

[0018] FIG. 8 is an assembled top view of the power machine illustrated in portions in FIGS. 4-7.

[0019] FIG. 9 is a right side view of the power machine shown in FIG. 8 and illustrating the lift function of the lift arm structure.

[0020] FIG. 10 is a left side view of the power machine shown in FIG. 8 and illustrating the lift function of the lift arm structure.

[0021] FIG. 11 is a top view of a portion of the power machine shown in FIG. 8 and illustrating the angle function of tilt frame and implement.

[0022] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a tilt frame of the power machine illustrated in FIGS. 4-11.

[0023] FIG. 13 is a back perspective view of an implement of the power machine illustrated in FIGS. 4-11.

[0024] FIG. 14 is a back view of the tilt frame of FIG. 12 assembled to the implement of FIG. 13.

[0025] FIG. 15 is a back view of FIG. 14 illustrating the tilt function of the tilt frame and implement.

[0026] FIG. 16 is a back perspective view of the tilt frame assembled to the implement as illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0027] FIG. 17 is a back perspective view of FIG. 16 illustrating the tilt function of the tilt frame and implement.

[0028] FIG. 18A illustrates an exemplary first perspective view of a first guide plate.

[0029] FIG. 18B illustrates an opposing second perspective view of the guide plate in FIG. 18A.

[0030] FIG. 19 is a side perspective view illustrating both the lift function of the lift arm structure and tilt function of the tilt frame and implement.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The concepts disclosed in this discussion are described and illustrated with reference to exemplary embodiments. These concepts, however, are not limited in their application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components in the illustrative embodiments and are capable of being practiced or being carried out in various other ways. The terminology in this document is used for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Words such as including, comprising, and having and variations thereof as used herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, equivalents thereof, as well as additional items.

[0032] Disclosed embodiments include power machines with a lower implement, such as a blade, pivotally coupled to an undercarriage frame by a lower lift arm structure with one or more cylinders that are operable to pivot the lower lift arm structure and lower implement relative to the undercarriage frame. Conventionally, in power machines, one or more cylinders only lift the blade upwards and downwards in first and second degrees of motion relative to the undercarriage frame. In other power machines, one or more cylinders may also move the blade at left and right angles in third and fourth degrees of motion relative to the undercarriage frame. Disclosed embodiments utilize a cylinder that also tilts the blade in fifth and sixth degrees of motion relative to the undercarriage frame.

[0033] These concepts may be practiced on various power machines, as will be described below. A representative power machine on which the embodiments can be practiced is illustrated in diagram form in FIG. 1 and one example of such a power machine is illustrated in FIGS. 2-3 and described below before any embodiments are disclosed. For the sake of brevity, only one power machine is discussed. However, as mentioned above, the embodiments below can be practiced on any of a number of power machines, including power machines of different types from the representative power machine shown in FIGS. 2-3. Power machines, for the purposes of this discussion, include a frame, at least one work element, and a power source that is capable of providing power to the work element to accomplish a work task. One type of power machine is a self-propelled work vehicle. Self-propelled work vehicles are a class of power machines that include a frame, work element, and a power source that is capable of providing power to the work element. At least one of the work elements is a motive system for moving the power machine under power. Disclosed embodiments can be utilized in different power machines and are particularly useful in power machines, such as excavators, where a house or upper frame rotates relative to an undercarriage or lower frame, and where a lower lift arm structure is coupled to the undercarriage frame to raise and lower a blade or other implement coupled to the lower lift arm structure. The lower lift arm structure can include an implement carrier to allow different implements to be attached thereto, or in the alternative, a blade or other implement can be formed with or permanently attached to the lower lift arm structure. In these different power machine embodiments, the cylinder or cylinders used to move the lower lift arm structure relative to the undercarriage are positioned in a configuration which allows the undercarriage to protect the cylinder or cylinders.

[0034] Referring now to FIG. 1, a block diagram illustrates the basic systems of a power machine 100 upon which the embodiments discussed below can be advantageously incorporated and can be any of a number of different types of power machines. The block diagram of FIG. 1 identifies various systems on power machine 100 and the relationship between various components and systems. As mentioned above, at the most basic level, power machines for the purposes of this discussion include a frame, a power source, and a work element. In FIG. 1, the power machine 100 has a frame 110, a power source 120, and a work element 130. Because power machine 100 shown in FIG. 1 is a self-propelled work vehicle, it also has tractive elements 140, which are themselves work elements provided to move the power machine over a support surface and an operator station 150 that provides an operating position for controlling the work elements of the power machine. A control system 160 is provided to interact with the other systems to perform various work tasks at least in part in response to control signals provided by an operator.

[0035] Certain work vehicles have work elements that are capable of performing a dedicated task. For example, some work vehicles have a lift arm to which an implement such as a bucket is attached such as by a pinning arrangement. The work element, i.e., the lift arm can be manipulated to position the implement for the purpose of performing the task. The implement, in some instances can be positioned relative to the work element, such as by rotating a bucket relative to a lift arm, to further position the implement. Under normal operation of such a work vehicle, the bucket is intended to be attached and under use. Such work vehicles may be able to accept other implements by disassembling the implement/work element combination and reassembling another implement in place of the original bucket. Other work vehicles, however, are intended to be used with a wide variety of implements and have an implement interface such as implement interface 170 shown in FIG. 1. At its most basic, implement interface 170 is a connection mechanism between the frame 110 or a work element 130 and an implement, which can be as simple as a connection point for attaching an implement directly to the frame 110 or a work element 130 or more complex, as discussed below.

[0036] On some power machines, implement interface 170 can include an implement carrier, which is a physical structure movably attached to a work element. The implement carrier has engagement features and locking features to accept and secure any of a number of implements to the work element. One characteristic of such an implement carrier is that once an implement is attached to it, it is fixed to the implement (i.e. not movable with respect to the implement) and when the implement carrier is moved with respect to the work element, the implement moves with the implement carrier. The term implement carrier is not merely a pivotal connection point, but rather a dedicated device specifically intended to accept and be secured to various different implements. The implement carrier itself is mountable to a work element 130 such as a lift arm or the frame 110. Implement interface 170 can also include one or more power sources for providing power to one or more work elements on an implement. Some power machines can have a plurality of work element with implement interfaces, each of which may, but need not, have an implement carrier for receiving implements. Some other power machines can have a work element with a plurality of implement interfaces so that a single work element can accept a plurality of implements simultaneously. Each of these implement interfaces can, but need not, have an implement carrier.

[0037] Frame 110 includes a physical structure that can support various other components that are attached thereto or positioned thereon. The frame 110 can include any number of individual components. Some power machines have frames that are rigid. That is, no part of the frame is movable with respect to another part of the frame. Other power machines have at least one portion that is capable of moving with respect to another portion of the frame. For example, excavators can have an upper frame portion that rotates with respect to a lower frame portion. Other work vehicles have articulated frames such that one portion of the frame pivots with respect to another portion for accomplishing steering functions.

[0038] Frame 110 supports the power source 120, which is capable of providing power to one or more work elements 130 including the one or more tractive elements 140, as well as, in some instances, providing power for use by an attached implement via implement interface 170. Power from the power source 120 can be provided directly to any of the work elements 130, tractive elements 140, and implement interfaces 170. Alternatively, power from the power source 120 can be provided to a control system 160, which in turn selectively provides power to the elements that capable of using it to perform a work function. Power sources for power machines typically include an engine such as an internal combustion engine and a power conversion system such as a mechanical transmission or a hydraulic system that is capable of converting the output from an engine into a form of power that is usable by a work element. Other types of power sources can be incorporated into power machines, including electrical sources or a combination of power sources, known generally as hybrid power sources.

[0039] FIG. 1 shows a single work element designated as work element 130, but various power machines can have any number of work elements. Work elements are typically attached to the frame of the power machine and movable with respect to the frame when performing a work task. In addition, tractive elements 140 are a special case of work element in that their work function is generally to move the power machine 100 over a support surface. Tractive elements 140 are shown separate from the work element 130 because many power machines have additional work elements besides tractive elements, although that is not always the case. Power machines can have any number of tractive elements, some or all of which can receive power from the power source 120 to propel the power machine 100. Tractive elements can be, for example, wheels attached to an axle, track assemblies, and the like. Tractive elements can be rigidly mounted to the frame such that movement of the tractive element is limited to rotation about an axle or steerably mounted to the frame to accomplish steering by pivoting the tractive element with respect to the frame.

[0040] Power machine 100 includes an operator station 150, which provides a position from which an operator can control operation of the power machine. In some power machines, the operator station 150 is defined by an enclosed or partially enclosed cab. Some power machines on which the disclosed embodiments may be practiced may not have a cab or an operator compartment of the type described above. For example, a walk behind loader may not have a cab or an operator compartment, but rather an operating position that serves as an operator station from which the power machine is properly operated. More broadly, power machines other than work vehicles may have operator stations that are not necessarily similar to the operating positions and operator compartments referenced above. Further, some power machines such as power machine 100 and others, whether or not they have operator compartments or operator positions, may be capable of being operated remotely (i.e. from a remotely located operator station) instead of or in addition to an operator station adjacent or on the power machine. This can include applications where at least some of the operator controlled functions of the power machine can be operated from an operating position associated with an implement that is coupled to the power machine. Alternatively, with some power machines, a remote control device can be provided (i.e. remote from both of the power machine and any implement to which is it coupled) that is capable of controlling at least some of the operator controlled functions on the power machine.

[0041] FIGS. 2-3 illustrate an excavator 200, which is one particular example of a power machine of the type illustrated in FIG. 1, on which the disclosed embodiments can be employed. Unless specifically noted otherwise, embodiments disclosed below can be practiced on a variety of power machines, with the excavator 200 being only one of those power machines. Excavator 200 is described below for illustrative purposes. Not every excavator or power machine on which the illustrative embodiments can be practiced need have all of the features or be limited to the features that excavator 200 has. Excavator 200 has a frame 210 that supports and encloses a power system 220 (represented in FIG. 3 as a block, as the actual power system is enclosed within the frame 210). The power system 220 includes an engine that provides a power output to a hydraulic system. The hydraulic system acts as a power conversion system that includes one or more hydraulic pumps for selectively providing pressurized hydraulic fluid to actuators that are operably coupled to work elements in response to signals provided by operator input devices. The hydraulic system also includes a control valve system that selectively provides pressurized hydraulic fluid to actuators in response to signals provided by operator input devices. The excavator 200 includes a plurality of work elements in the form of a first lift arm structure 230 and a second lift arm structure 330 (not all excavators have a second lift arm structure). In addition, excavator 200, being a work vehicle, includes a pair of tractive elements in the form of left and right track assemblies 240A and 240B, which are disposed on opposing sides of the frame 210.

[0042] An operator compartment 250 is defined in part by a cab 252, which is mounted on the frame 210. The cab 252 shown on excavator 200 is an enclosed structure, but other operator compartments need not be enclosed. For example, some excavators have a canopy that provides a roof but is not enclosed A control system, shown as block 260 is provided for controlling the various work elements. Control system 260 includes operator input devices, which interact with the power system 220 to selectively provide power signals to actuators to control work functions on the excavator 200.

[0043] Frame 210 includes an upper frame portion or house 211 that is pivotally mounted on a lower frame portion or undercarriage 212 via a swivel joint. The swivel joint includes a bearing, a ring gear, and a slew motor with a pinion gear (not pictured) that engages the ring gear to swivel the machine. The slew motor receives a power signal from the control system 260 to rotate the house 211 with respect to the undercarriage 212. House 211 is capable of unlimited rotation about a swivel axis 214 under power with respect to the undercarriage 212 in response to manipulation of an input device by an operator. Hydraulic conduits are fed through the swivel joint via a hydraulic swivel to provide pressurized hydraulic fluid to the tractive elements and one or more work elements such as lift arm 330 that are operably coupled to the undercarriage 212.

[0044] The first lift arm structure 230 is mounted to the house 211 via a swing mount 215. (Some excavators do not have a swing mount of the type described here.) The first lift arm structure 230 is a boom-arm lift arm of the type that is generally employed on excavators although certain features of this lift arm structure may be unique to the lift arm illustrated in FIGS. 2-3. The swing mount 215 includes a frame portion 215A and a lift arm portion 215B that is rotationally mounted to the frame portion 215A at a mounting frame pivot 231A. A swing actuator 233A is coupled to the house 211 and the lift arm portion 215B of the mount. Actuation of the swing actuator 233A causes the lift arm structure 230 to pivot or swing about an axis that extends longitudinally through the mounting frame pivot 231A.

[0045] The first lift arm structure 230 includes a first portion, known generally as a boom 232 and a second portion known as an arm or a dipper 234. The boom 232 is pivotally attached on a first end 232A to mount 215 at boom pivot mount 231B. A boom actuator 233B is attached to the mount 215 and the boom 232. Actuation of the boom actuator 233B causes the boom 232 to pivot about the boom pivot mount 231B, which effectively causes a second end 232B of the boom to be raised and lowered with respect to the house 211. A first end 234A of the arm 234 is pivotally attached to the second end 232B of the boom 232 at an arm mount pivot 231C. An arm actuator 233C is attached to the boom 232 and the arm 234. Actuation of the arm actuator 233C causes the arm to pivot about the arm mount pivot 231C. Each of the swing actuator 233A, the boom actuator 233B, and the arm actuator 233C can be independently controlled in response to control signals from operator input devices.

[0046] An exemplary implement interface 270 is provided at a second end 234B of the arm 234. The implement interface 270 includes an implement carrier 272 that is capable of accepting and securing a variety of different implements to the lift arm 230. Such implements have a machine interface that is configured to be engaged with the implement carrier 272. The implement carrier 272 is pivotally mounted to the second end 234B of the arm 234. An implement carrier actuator 233D is operably coupled to the arm 234 and a linkage assembly 276. The linkage assembly includes a first link 276A and a second link 276B. The first link 276A is pivotally mounted to the arm 234 and the implement carrier actuator 233D. The second link 276B is pivotally mounted to the implement carrier 272 and the first link 276A. The linkage assembly 276 is provided to allow the implement carrier 272 to pivot about the arm 234 when the implement carrier actuator 233D is actuated.

[0047] The implement interface 270 also includes an implement power source (not shown in FIGS. 2-3) available for connection to an implement on the lift arm structure 230. The implement power source includes pressurized hydraulic fluid port to which an implement can be coupled. The pressurized hydraulic fluid port selectively provides pressurized hydraulic fluid for powering one or more functions or actuators on an implement. The implement power source can also include an electrical power source for powering electrical actuators and/or an electronic controller on an implement. The electrical power source can also include electrical conduits that are in communication with a data bus on the excavator 200 to allow communication between a controller on an implement and electronic devices on the excavator 200. It should be noted that the specific implement power source on excavator 200 does not include an electrical power source.

[0048] The lower frame or undercarriage 212 supports and has attached to it a pair of tractive elements 240, identified in FIGS. 2-3 as left track drive assembly 240A and right track drive assembly 240B. Each of the tractive elements 240 has a track frame 242 that is coupled to the lower frame 212. The track frame 242 supports and is surrounded by an endless track 244, which rotates under power to propel the excavator 200 over a support surface. Various elements are coupled to or otherwise supported by the track 242 for engaging and supporting the track 244 and cause it to rotate about the track frame. For example, a sprocket 246 is supported by the track frame 242 and engages the endless track 244 to cause the endless track to rotate about the track frame. An idler 245 is held against the track 244 by a tensioner (not shown) to maintain proper tension on the track. The track frame 242 also supports a plurality of rollers 248, which engage the track and, through the track, the support surface to support and distribute the weight of the excavator 200. An upper track guide 249 is provided for providing tension on track 244 and prevent the track from rubbing on track frame 242.

[0049] A second, or lower lift arm 330 is pivotally attached to the lower frame or undercarriage 212. A lower lift arm actuator 332 is pivotally coupled to the lower frame or undercarriage 212 at a first end 332A and to the lower lift arm 330 at a second end 332B. The lower lift arm 330 is configured to carry a lower implement 334. The lower implement 334 can be rigidly fixed to the lower lift arm 330 such that it is integral to the lift arm. Alternatively, the lower implement can be pivotally attached to the lower lift arm via an implement interface, which in some embodiments can include an implement carrier of the type described above. Lower lift arms with implement interfaces can accept and secure various different types of implements thereto. Actuation of the lower lift arm actuator 332, in response to operator input, causes the lower lift arm 330 to pivot with respect to the lower frame or undercarriage 212, thereby raising and lowering the lower implement 334.

[0050] Upper frame portion 211 supports cab 252, which defines, at least in part, operator compartment or station 250. A seat 254 is provided within cab 252 in which an operator can be seated while operating the excavator. While sitting in the seat 254, an operator will have access to a plurality of operator input devices 256 that the operator can manipulate to control various work functions, such as manipulating the lift arm 230, the lower lift arm 330, the traction system 240, pivoting the house 211, the tractive elements 240, and so forth.

[0051] Excavator 200 provides a variety of different operator input devices 256 to control various functions. For example, hydraulic joysticks are provided to control the lift arm 230, and swiveling of the house 211 of the excavator. Foot pedals with attached levers are provided for controlling travel and lift arm swing. Electrical switches are located on the joysticks for controlling the providing of power to an implement attached to the implement carrier 272. Other types of operator inputs that can be used in excavator 200 and other excavators and power machines include, but are not limited to, switches, buttons, knobs, levers, variable sliders and the like. The specific control examples provided above are exemplary in nature and not intended to describe the input devices for all excavators and what they control.

[0052] Display devices are provided in the cab to give indications of information relatable to the operation of the power machines in a form that can be sensed by an operator, such as, for example audible and/or visual indications. Audible indications can be made in the form of buzzers, bells, and the like or via verbal communication. Visual indications can be made in the form of graphs, lights, icons, gauges, alphanumeric characters, and the like. Displays can be dedicated to provide dedicated indications, such as warning lights or gauges, or dynamic to provide programmable information, including programmable display devices such as monitors of various sizes and capabilities. Display devices can provide diagnostic information, troubleshooting information, instructional information, and various other types of information that assists an operator with operation of the power machine or an implement coupled to the power machine. Other information that may be useful for an operator can also be provided.

[0053] The description of power machine 100 and excavator 200 above is provided for illustrative purposes, to provide illustrative environments on which the embodiments discussed below can be practiced. While the embodiments discussed can be practiced on a power machine such as is generally described by the power machine 100 shown in the block diagram of FIG. 1 and more particularly on an excavator such as excavator 200 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, unless otherwise noted, the concepts discussed below are not intended to be limited in their application to the environments specifically described above.

[0054] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded first view of portions of a power machine 400 which can be an embodiment of an excavator having some or all of the above-described features of power machine 100 and excavator 200. FIG. 5 is an exploded second view of portions of power machine 400, FIG. 6 is an assembled top perspective view of FIGS. 4 and 5, FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of FIG. 6, and FIG. 8 is an assembled top view of power machine 400. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, power machine 400 includes a lower frame or undercarriage 412 (shown in broken lines) having a swivel joint 413. The upper frame portion pivotally mounted to swivel joint 413 is omitted to better illustrate features of exemplary embodiments. As described above, swivel joint 413 includes a bearing, a ring gear, and a slew motor with a pinion gear that engages the ring gear to swivel the machine. The slew motor receives a power signal from a control system to rotate the omitted house with respect to the undercarriage 412. The house is capable of unlimited rotation about a swivel axis 414 of swivel joint 413, under power with respect to the undercarriage 412, and in response to manipulation of an input device by an operator. Power machine 400 also includes a pair of tractive elements in the form of left and right track assemblies 440A and 440B, which are disposed on opposing sides of the frame undercarriage 412. Endless tracks supported by the left and right track assemblies 440A and 44B as was discussed with reference to FIGS. 2-3 are omitted in FIG. 4 to better illustrate features of exemplary embodiments.

[0055] A lower or second lift arm structure 430, separate from the upper or first lift arm structure (not shown in FIGS. 4-8), coupled to the house, is pivotally coupled to the undercarriage 412 at a lower lift arm pivot connection, which may be one or more pivot connections 436. In one exemplary embodiment, lower lift arm structure 430 includes two separate arms 430-1 and 430-2 each pivotally coupled to the undercarriage 412, and therefore would include at least two co-linear pivot connections 436. However, this need not be the case in all embodiments. A blade or other lower implement 434 is coupled to the lift arm structure 430 using a tilt frame 435. One or more lift actuators or cylinders 432 are pivotally coupled at a first end to undercarriage 412 and at a second end to lift arm structure 430 to cause the lift arm structure to rotate about pivot connections 436 to raise and lower the lift arm structure and therefore the blade or implement 434. In the illustrated embodiment, a single lift cylinder 432 is used to raise and lower the lift arm structure, however, under other embodiments, two lift cylinders each coupled to corresponding ones of arms 430-1 and 430-2 may be used to raise and lower the lift arm structure. A first end (e.g., the base end) of lift cylinder 432 is pivotally coupled to the undercarriage at a pivot connection 432A, and a second end (e.g., the rod end) of lift cylinder 432 is pivotally coupled to the lift arm structure 430 at a pivot connection 432B. Although illustrated with one particular base end and rod end configuration, those of skill in the art will recognize that the opposite base and rod end configuration can alternatively be used.

[0056] FIG. 9 is a right side view of power machine 400 and FIG. 10 is a left side view of power machine 400 so as to illustrate the lift function or first and second degrees of motion to which the power machine can move lift arm structure 430 and therefore blade 434. In particular, lift cylinder 432 is configured to move arms 430-1 and 430-2 upwards in a first lift direction illustrated by arrow 431 and lift cylinder 432 is configured to move arms 430-1 and 430-2 downwards in a second lift direction illustrated by arrow 433. For example, lift actuator or cylinder 432 is configured to raise arms 430-1 and 430-2 upwards in a range of motion that is at least as great as approximately 27 degrees from neutral and lower arms 430-1 and 430-2 downwards in a range of motion that is at least as great as approximately 23 degrees from neutral.

[0057] With reference back to FIGS. 4-8, tilt frame 435 is pivotally coupled to lower lift arm structure 430 at an angle pivot connection. Lift arm structure 430 includes a nose 460 having a nose pivot 462. Nose pivot 462 couples to a center pivot 464 of tilt frame 435 with an angle pin 466. Blade 434 and therefore the back face of blade 434 are mounted to tilt frame 435 and rotated about angle pin 466 to form the angle pivot connection. For example, center pivot 464 of tilt frame 435 and nose pivot 462 of nose 460 may include a plurality of bushings to which angle pin 466 rotates back and forth on. Therefore, tilt frame 435 is coupled to lower lift arm structure 430 at the angle pivot connection, which along with angle pin 466 is oriented along an angle pivot axis 467. As illustrated in FIGS. 4, 5 and 8, angle pivot axis 467 is substantially parallel with swivel axis 414.

[0058] An angle actuator or cylinder 468 is pivotally coupled at a first end to lift arm structure 430 and at a second end to tilt frame 435 to cause the tilt frame 435 and therefore blade 434 to rotate about the angle pivot connection and therefore angle pin 466. A first end (e.g., the base end) of angle cylinder 468 is pivotally coupled to second arm 430-2 of lift arm structure 430 at a pivot connection 468A, and a second end (e.g., the rod end) of angle cylinder 468 is pivotally coupled to tilt frame 435 at a pivot connection 468B. Although illustrated with one base end and rod end configuration, those of skill in the art will recognize that the opposite base and rod end configuration can alternatively be used. Angle actuator or cylinder 468 allows the whole face of blade 434 to rotate about angle pivot axis 467.

[0059] FIG. 11 is a top view of portions of power machine 400 and illustrates the angle function or third and fourth degrees of motion to which the power machine can move or rotate blade 434. In particular, angle cylinder 468 is configured to rotate blade 434 about the angle pivot connection, angle pin 466 or angle pin axis 467 so as to rotate blade 434 to the right in a first direction illustrated by arrow 465 and is configured to rotate blade 434 about the angle pivot connection, angle pin 466 or angle pin axis 467 to the left in a second direction illustrated by arrow 469. For example, angle actuator or cylinder 468 is configured to rotate blade 434 to the right in a range of motion that is at least as great as approximately 25 degrees from neutral and rotate blade 434 to the left in a range of motion that is at least as great as approximately 25 degrees from neutral.

[0060] With reference back to FIGS. 4-8, blade or implement 434 is pivotally coupled to tilt frame 435 at a tilt pivot connection or tilt pin 480. Implement or blade 434 includes a front face and a back face. As illustrated, blade 434 includes a cylinder mount 470 that extends rearwardly from the back face of blade 434. Cylinder mount 470 provides a pivot connection. A first end (e.g., the base end) of tilt cylinder 474 is pivotally coupled to tilt frame 435 at pivot connection 474A, and a second end (e.g., the rod end) of tilt cylinder 474 is pivotally coupled to cylinder mount 470 of blade 434 at pivot connection 474B. Although illustrated with one base end and rod end configuration, those of skill in the art will recognize that the opposite base and rod end configuration can alternatively be used. Tilt cylinder 474 is configured to rotate the whole blade 434 about the tilt pivot connection, tilt pin 480 or tilt pin axis 481. In some embodiments, tilt pin axis 481 intersects with angle pin axis 467.

[0061] The location or position of tilt cylinder 474 relative to the angle pivot connection, angle pin 466 or angle pin axis 467 is important. In particular, pivot connection 474B and therefore tilt cylinder 474 is located between the angle pivot connection, angle pin 466 or angle pin axis 467 and swivel joint axis 414 but proximal to angle pin 466 or angle pin axis 467. In other words, tilt cylinder 474 is located behind the angle pivot connection (see FIGS. 6 and 8). In still other words, the angle pivot connection is located between tilt actuator or cylinder 474 and the front face of blade 434. This position allows tilt cylinder 474 to be any size including a size that is large enough to tilt blade 434 and actually allow blade 434, when tilted and rotated, to lift power machine 400 upwards. For example, tilt cylinder 474 may include a bore cylinder size as great as 3.5 inches or more. Such a bore cylinder diameter may facilitate enhanced excavator functionality. For example, tilt cylinder 474 may be capable of lifting all or a substantial portion of the power machine. As a result, when placed perpendicular to grade, tilt cylinder 474 may be actuated to lift one side of the excavator thereby leveling the house. In addition and as illustrated in FIG. 9, tilt cylinder 474 is not only located between the angle pivot connection, angle pin 466 or angle pin axis 467 and swivel joint axis 414 and proximal to the angle pivot connection, angle pin 466 and angle pin axis 467, but as illustrated, tilt cylinder 474 is positioned with minimal rise above a top of blade 434. As a result, when power machine 400 is digging using a first lift arm structure, such as first lift arm structure 230 in FIGS. 2 and 3, especially digging an extended distance and/or depth from the power machine where there is increased risk of contact between the first and second lift arm structures, there is less of a chance for the first lift arm structure to contact tilt cylinder 474.

[0062] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of tilt frame 435 of power machine 400 illustrated in FIGS. 4-11. FIG. 13 is a back perspective view of an implement or blade 434 of power machine 400 illustrated in FIGS. 4-11. In FIG. 12, center pivot 464 of tilt frame 435 is illustrated to which nose 460 of lift arm structure 430 is pivotally coupled, pivot connection 468B of tilt frame 435 is illustrated to which the first end of angle cylinder 468 is pivotally coupled to and pivot connection 474A of tilt frame 435 is illustrated to which tilt cylinder 474 is pivotally coupled to. In addition, a pivot 476 of tilt frame 435 is illustrated which receives tilt pin 480. In FIG. 13, pivot connection 474B of blade 434 is illustrated to which tilt cylinder 474 is pivotally coupled to. In addition, a pivot 477 of blade 434 is illustrated to which receives tilt pin 480.

[0063] A set of contact or wear pads 470A and 470B are located on the back face of blade 434 as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 13 and a set of contact or wear pads 471A and 471B are located on the front face of tilt frame 435 as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 12. The wear pads 470A and 471A and wear pads 470B and 471B are configured to contact each other when blade 434 is assembled to tilt frame 435 and allow tilt frame 434 and blade 435 to rotate about tilt axis 481 relative to one another, but keep blade 434 from deflecting too much in response to an external load. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the set of wear pads 470A and 470B may be welded directly to the back face of blade 434. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the set of wear pads 471A and 471B may be welded directly to tilt frame 435. Such coupling of wear pads 471A and 471B to tilt frame may provide added stiffness to the structure of tilt frame 435. It should be realized that other ways of coupling or mounting wear pads 470A and 470B to blade 434 and coupling or mounting wear pads 471A and 471B to tilt frame 435 are possible including mechanical fastening, such as bolts.

[0064] Tilt frame 435 also includes a set of grease fittings or zerk fittings 490A and 490B (illustrated in FIG. 7) located on the back side of tilt frame 435 to feed lubricant to wear pads 471A and 471B. Each zerk fitting 490A and 490B is in communication with grease grooves 491A and 491B (illustrated in FIG. 12) that are formed directly into wears pads 471A and 471B. Grease zerks 490A and 490B feed grease through openings in tilt frame 435 to grease grooves 491A and 491B and therefore to the contact surfaces between tilt frame 435 and blade 434.

[0065] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, a pair of first and second guide plates or clamps 472A and 472B are mounted or fixed directly to the set of wear pads 470A and 470B that are mounted to blade 434 and spaced apart from each other. The space between the guide plates defines a channel configured to hold the front face and the back face of tilt frame 435. For example, guide plates 472A and 472B are mounted or fixed to blade 434 with a plurality of bolts. As illustrated, each guide plate 472A and 472 has an L shape where the longer or first leg of each guide plate 472A and 472B lifts the longer first leg away from blade 434 to create the channel and has a curved inward surface and a curved outward surface. The legs and surfaces of each guide plate define the channel for accommodating right and left ends of tilt frame 435. More specifically, the channels created by the legs and surfaces of each guide plate allow right and left free ends of tilt frame 435 to travel in the channel during the tilt rotational movement, for example, in upwards and downwards directions and restrict the tilt frame 435 from movement in the fore and aft directions relative to the blade.

[0066] FIG. 14 is a back view of tilt frame 435 assembled to implement or blade 434 and FIG. 15 is a back view of FIG. 14 illustrating the tilt function of tilt frame 435 and implement or blade 434 or fifth and sixth degrees of motion to which power machine 400 can move blade 434. FIG. 16 is a back perspective view of tilt frame 435 assembled to implement or blade 435 and illustrating angle pin 466 and FIG. 17 is a back perspective view of FIG. 16 illustrating the tilt function of tilt frame 435 and implement or blade 434 or fifth and sixth degrees of motion to which power machine 400 can move blade 434. As illustrated from a view of the back face of blade 434, tilt cylinder 474 is configured to rotate blade 434 about tilt pin 480 or tilt pin axis 481 in a first counterclockwise direction as shown by the bi-directional arrow 483 and is configured to rotate blade 434 about tilt pin 480 or tilt pin axis 481 in a second clockwise direction as shown by the bi-directional arrow 483. As shown, by tilting or rotating blade 434, guide plates 472A and 472B slide along left and right sides of tilt frame 435. For example, tilt cylinder 474 is configured to tilt or rotate blade 434 in a range of motion at least as great as approximately 10 degrees from neutral and tilt or rotate blade 434 in a range of motion that is at least as great as approximately 10 degrees from neutral.

[0067] FIG. 18A illustrates an exemplary first perspective view of first guide plate or clamp 472A and FIG. 18B illustrates an opposing second perspective view of exemplary first guide plate or clamp 472A. Each of first and second guide plates or clamps 472A and 472B include a grease fitting or zerk fitting with zerk fitting 492A illustrated in FIGS. 18A and 18B. Zerk fittings of guide plates feed lubricant to grease grooves, such as grease groove 493A, which is formed directly into the guide plate as is shown in FIG. 18B. Grease zerks, such as grease zerk 492A, feed grease through openings in the guide plate to the grease grooves and therefore to the contact surfaces between guide plates or clamps 472A and 472B and tilt frame 435.

[0068] FIG. 19 is a side perspective view illustrating all six degrees of motion or freedom including the lift function of the lift arm structure 430, the angle function of blade 434 and tilt frame 435 and the tilt function of the blade 434 and tilt frame 435. It should be realized that all three types of function may be operable simultaneously, separately or one function paired with another function. As illustrated, direction arrow 431 indicates the motion of lift arm structure 430 in an upwards direction and direction arrow 433 indicates the motion of lift arm structure 430 in a downward direction. As illustrated, direction arrow 465 indicates the motion of blade 434 and tilt frame 435 to angle to the right and direction arrow 469 indicates the motion of blade 434 and tilt frame 435 to angle to the left. As illustrated, bi-directional arrow 483 indicates the motion of blade 434 and tilt frame 435 to tilt or rotate counterclockwise and tilt or rotate clockwise.

[0069] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the discussion.