Coupling device for work tools in telehandlers

Abstract

A coupling device for coupling work tools to a telescopic boom of a telehandler, including a tool-holder plate connectable to the telescopic boom; a coupling plate configured to be fixed to a work tool and releasably retained by the tool-holder plate; a jig including a locking seat fixed to the coupling plate and a locking cylinder, provided with a seat pad fixed to the tool-holder plate and at least one piston, the piston being selectively switchable between a locking position engaged with the locking seat, and an unlocking position which frees the locking seat; a connection device including a first connector rigidly fixed to the coupling plate and a second connector fixed to a connector-holder plate mounted on the piston and alternatively translatable between a connection position, in which each second connector connects to a first connector when the piston is in the locking position, and a disconnection position, in which the second connector disconnects from the first connector when the piston is in the unlocking position.

Claims

1. A coupling device for coupling work tools to a telescopic boom of a telehandler, comprising: a tool-holder plate configured to be connected to the end of the telescopic boom; a coupling plate configured to be fixed to a work tool and releasably retained by the tool-holder plate; a jig comprising at least: a locking seat fixed to the coupling plate and a locking cylinder, provided with a seat pad fixed to the tool-holder plate and at least one piston extendable with respect to the seat pad along an extension direction, wherein the piston is selectively switchable between a locking position, in which it engages the locking seat, and an unlocking position, in which it frees the locking seat; a hydraulic and/or electrical connection device comprising: one or more hydraulic and/or electrical first connectors each rigidly fixed to the coupling plate and one or more hydraulic and/or electrical second connectors each fixed to a connector-holder plate mounted on the piston and alternatively translatable between a connection position, in which each second connector mechanically connects to a respective first connector when the piston is in the locking position, and a disconnection position, in which all the second connectors mechanically disconnect from the respective first connectors, when the piston is in the unlocking position.

2. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein each first connector and each second connector has the respective connection axis parallel and eccentric with respect to the central axis of the locking cylinder.

3. The coupling device according to claim 1, comprising centring means configured to centre each second connector with respect to the respective first connector during the translation from the disconnection position to the connection position.

4. The coupling device according claim 1, wherein the centring means comprise one or more centring pins, mounted on the connector-holder plate or the coupling plate and adapted to axially fit in respective centring holes made in the coupling plate or the connector-holder plate.

5. The coupling device according to claim 3, wherein the centring means are integrated with the at least a first connector and/or to the at least a second connector, which is of the self-centring type.

6. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more first connectors and the one or more second connectors comprise one or more hydraulic connectors for the passage of a hydraulic fluid and/or one or more electrical connectors for the passage of an electrical power line and/or electrical signals.

7. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein the connector-holder plate and/or each of the second connectors is movable in translation with respect to the piston from a forward position, in which the connector-holder plate and/or each of the second connectors is distal from the seat pad, to a rearward position, in which the connector-holder plate and/or each of the second connectors is proximal to the seat pad, in contrast with pushing means, wherein the connector-holder plate is mounted on a sleeve coaxially fitted on the piston and axially sliding thereon between the rearward and forward position, said pushing comprising a spring interposed between the piston and the sleeve.

8. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein the locking cylinder is of the double-acting type and comprises a single seat pad and two opposite pistons, on each of said pistons a respective connector plate is mounted, provided with one or more second connectors aligned, along the extension direction, with respective first connectors fixed to the coupling plate.

9. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein the coupling plate comprises: an upper semi-cylindrical seat with concavity facing downwards, wherein the semi-cylindrical seat can be engaged by a cylindrical beam connecting the tool-holder plate, and a lower bracket facing the semi-cylindrical seat configured to define an abutment for the tool-holder plate and to prevent a slipping and/or insertion translation of the tool-holder plate on a radial plane of the semi-cylindrical seat parallel to the extension direction.

10. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the tool-holder plate and the coupling plate comprises first sensor means configured to detect a correct alignment position of the locking cylinder with respect to the locking seat along the extension direction.

11. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the tool-holder plate and the coupling plate comprises second sensor means configured to detect a parameter indicative of the type of work tool which is connected to the coupling plate.

12. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the tool-holder plate and the coupling plate comprises third sensor means configured to detect the correct connection of one or more second connectors with one or more first connectors and/or the correct positioning of the piston in the locking position.

13. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein an electrical switch device for opening/closing an emergency electrical circuit is mounted on the connector-holder plate.

14. The coupling device according to claim 1, wherein on the seat pad of the locking cylinder are provided two non-return valves in series, the non-return valves are commanded.

15. A telehandler, comprising: a coupling device according to claim 1; a telescopic boom, one free end of which is coupled to a tool-holder plate of the coupling device; one or more work tools each selectively couplable to the free end of the telescopic boom, wherein each work tool is provided with one said coupling plate of the coupling device.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0073] Further features and advantages of the invention will be more apparent after reading the following description provided by way of a non-limiting example, with the aid of the figures shown in the accompanying tables.

[0074] FIG. 1 is a side view of a telehandler provided with a coupling device for a work tool (in the figure a bucket) according to the invention.

[0075] FIG. 2 is an axonometric view of the coupling device according to the invention (in a coupling/uncoupling step).

[0076] FIG. 3 is a side view of FIG. 2.

[0077] FIG. 4 is a side view of FIG. 2 (in a further coupling/uncoupling step).

[0078] FIG. 5 is a side view of FIG. 2 (in a further coupling/uncoupling step).

[0079] FIG. 6 is a sectional view of FIG. 3.

[0080] FIG. 7 is an axonometric view of a coupling plate of the coupling device according to the invention.

[0081] FIG. 8 is an axonometric view of a tool-holder plate of the coupling device according to the invention.

[0082] FIG. 9 is a front view of the tool-holder plate of FIG. 8, with the locking cylinder in the unlocking position.

[0083] FIG. 10 is a front view of the tool-holder plate of FIG. 8, with the locking cylinder in the locking position.

[0084] FIG. 11 is a sectional view of FIG. 9.

[0085] FIG. 12 is a sectional view of FIG. 10.

[0086] FIG. 13 is a schematic depiction of the locking cylinder.

[0087] FIG. 14 is a schematic view of an electronic control system of the telehandler.

[0088] FIG. 15 is a schematic view of an electrical emergency circuit in a first operating configuration.

[0089] FIG. 16 is a schematic view of an electrical emergency circuit in a second operating configuration.

[0090] FIG. 17 is a view of a detail of FIG. 8.

BEST MODE TO IMPLEMENT THE INVENTION

[0091] With particular reference to such figures, a telehandler or telescopic handler has been globally referred to as 10.

[0092] The telehandler 10 is provided with a movable supporting frame 11 on wheels 12, of which a pair of front wheels 12 supported by a front axle and a pair of rear wheels 12 supported by a rear axle.

[0093] The supporting frame 11 supports a telescopic boom 13 above.

[0094] Furthermore, the supporting frame 11 supports a driver's car, e.g., placed to the side of the telescopic boom 13.

[0095] The supporting frame 11 is substantially rigid (viz., non-deformable under the usual workloads to which it is subjected in use) and/or jointed.

[0096] The supporting frame 11 has for example an elongated shape along a longitudinal axis A (defining the longitudinal axis of the telehandler 10) and therefore has, at or near a first axial end thereof, a front section, and at or near an opposite second axial end thereof, a rear section.

[0097] In the present description, front refers to the portion of the telehandler 10 or of the supporting frame 11 which precedes (viz., it is placed at the front) in a forward direction of the telehandler 10 on the ground in a usual and preferred forward travel (viz., wherein the free end of the telescopic boom 13 is placed) and rear refers to the portion of the telehandler 10 or of the supporting frame 11 which follows (viz., it is placed at the back) in a forward direction of the telehandler 10 on the ground in the usual and preferred forward travel (or which precedes a backward travel).

[0098] The supporting frame 11 could provide ground support stabilisers, of which, for example, two front stabilisers and/or two rear stabilisers.

[0099] The stabilisers are configured to stabilise the ground support of the telehandler 10, e.g., by enlarging the ground support area (viz., the ground support quadrilateral) with respect to the ground support area (or track) defined by the wheels 12 during determined work steps/conditions of the telehandler 10.

[0100] The stabilisers are individually movably associated with the supporting frame 11 (e.g., tiltable and/or extendable), as known to the person skilled in the art, by means of specific actuators.

[0101] In particular, each stabiliser is configured to be able to be switched, alternatively, between at least one work position (preferably several work positions, depending on the tilt and/or extension thereof), wherein the stabiliser is supported on the ground (e.g., in addition to or in place of the ground support defined by one or more wheels 12), and at least one rest position, in which it is raised from the ground.

[0102] In particular, the telescopic boom 13 has a plurality of sections which can be driven between a contracted position and an extended position by means of a first (double-acting) hydraulic actuator.

[0103] The telescopic boom 13 is hinged to the supporting frame 11 (by means of its proximal section) so as to be able to oscillate around a (single) oscillation axis by means of a second oleodynamic (double-acting) actuator 131.

[0104] The telescopic boom 13 is preferably hingedat its rear endto the supporting frame 11, e.g., above it, preferably at the rear section thereof.

[0105] The telehandler 10 further comprises a coupling device 50 for the (removable) coupling of an (interchangeable) work tool 14 (at a time, e.g., chosen from a plurality of work tools all selectively couplable) to the telescopic boom 13 of the telehandler 10.

[0106] The telescopic boom 13 thus supports, at its free end (distal from the end constrained to the supporting frame 11), interchangeably, a work tool 14 by means of said coupling device 50, which will be described in detail below.

[0107] For example, each work tool 14 is selected from a group of work tools comprising forks, forks with spreader and shifter, grippers of various types, hooks, winches, jib extensions (e.g., with hook and winch), man baskets, jib extensions with man basket, buckets, buckets with claw, concrete mixing buckets, sweepers, snow blades and other known work tools.

[0108] Preferably, each work tool 14 can comprise at least one service actuator 140, preferably oleodynamic/hydraulic (e.g., double-acting), such as one or more hydraulic cylinders, which is configured to perform movements of the work tool 14 or parts thereof.

[0109] Again, the work tool 14 (e.g., when this involves the presence of persons on board the work tool, as in the case of man baskets) can be equipped with electrically-operated users and/or services, such as control consoles, electric actuators and the like.

[0110] Furthermore (in such a case), the work tool 14 can be provided with an electrical safety switch 90 (also called safety button).

[0111] The lifting boom 13 can further comprise further hydraulic (double-acting) actuators, for example configured to move (e.g., rotate around a rotation axis parallel to the oscillation axis of the telescopic boom 13) the work tool 14 with respect to the free end of the telescopic boom 13.

[0112] Furthermore, the telehandler 10 comprises a powertrain 20 for driving the drive wheels 12 and, indirectly, for moving the telescopic boom 13.

[0113] The powertrain 20 comprises at least one motor.

[0114] For example, the powertrain comprises (or consists of) an endothermic engine.

[0115] Alternatively or additionally, the powertrain comprises (or consists of) an electric motor.

[0116] Again, the telehandler 10 comprises a hydraulic control and command unit of the movement of the telescopic boom 13 and/or the work tool 14 (and/or parts thereof), viz., configured to control and command the movement, e.g., individually and/or simultaneously, of one or more uses, each of which is defined by a respective actuator 131, 140 of the telescopic boom 13 and/or the work tool 14.

[0117] The hydraulic control and command unit, in particular, comprises a hydraulic circuit or system 30 (oleodynamic) for controlling and commanding the movement of the telescopic boom 13 and/or the work tool 14 (and/or parts thereof), viz., configured to control and command the movement of one or more uses, each of which is defined by a respective actuator 131,140 of the telescopic boom 13 and/or the work tool 14, e.g., individually and/or simultaneously.

[0118] Preferably, the hydraulic system 30 comprises a valve distributor comprising one or more sections, each of which is connectable to a respective use, viz., to a respective actuator 131,140.

[0119] The hydraulic system 30 further comprises a supply apparatus, which is configured to supply a flow rate of operating fluid to the valve distributor.

[0120] The supply apparatus comprises, in turn, a pump, which is connected to (and takes its motion from) the powertrain 20.

[0121] For example, the pump is a fixed displacement pump (and rotates at the same revolutions as the motor 21, 22 of the powertrain 20).

[0122] However, it is not ruled out that the pump could be a variable displacement pump or of other types depending on the construction requirements.

[0123] A supply channel is connected to the pump through which the operating fluid is sent from the pump to the valve distributor, viz., it is supplied at high pressure to the various sections of the valve distributor.

[0124] The supply system further comprises a low pressure (oil) tank to which the discharges of the uses (viz., of each actuator 131,140) are connected, by means of one or more discharge channels.

[0125] The pump is, for example, configured to draw operating fluid from said tank or from another suitable tank.

[0126] The above-mentioned coupling device 50 comprises, in particular, a coupling plate 51 mechanically connectable/connected, e.g., fixable and/or hingeable with respect to a (single) hinge axis, to the work tool 14.

[0127] In practice, each work tool 14 has an (identical or technically/functionally similar) coupling plate 51 thereof.

[0128] The coupling device 50 further comprises a mechanically attachable/attached tool-holder plate 52, e.g., rigidly connected and/or fixed, to the free end of the telescopic boom 13.

[0129] The coupling plate 51 (of each work tool 14) is configured to be (selectively) releasably retained by the tool-holder plate 52 (of the telescopic boom 13).

[0130] The coupling plate 51 comprises a carrier body provided with a front face (facing the work tool 14 to which it is fixed) and an opposite rear face (adapted to face the tool-carrier plate 52 carried by the telescopic boom 13 for the coupling thereto).

[0131] On the front face the coupling plate comprises suitable means for fixing to the working tool 14, in the example defined by a hinge seat (e.g., with orthogonal axis with respect to the oscillation axis of the telescopic boom 13.

[0132] Furthermore, the coupling plate 51 comprises two side panels projecting to the rear with respect to the rear face (squared therewith).

[0133] In turn, the tool-holder plate 52 comprises a respective carrier body (joist) provided with a front face (facing the coupling plate 51 of the work tool 14 to which it is to be fixed) and an opposite rear face (facing the free end of the telescopic boom 13 to which it is fixed, e.g., rigidly, preferably by welding).

[0134] The tool-holder plate 52 further comprises two side flanks and two support spars squared with the two side flanks.

[0135] Preferably, the tool-holder plate 52 comprises two reinforcing gussets which join the two support spars, parallel to the side flanks and internal thereto.

[0136] The coupling plate 51 comprises an upper semi-cylindrical seat 510 with concavity facing downward (open below).

[0137] For example, the semi-cylindrical seat 510 is made by two C-shaped side ears each defined at a respective side flank and, for example, a central ear, also C-shaped, interposed axially (along the central axis of the semi-cylindrical seat) with respect to the side ears (e.g., equidistant therefrom).

[0138] Advantageously, the coupling plate 51 comprises a lower bracket 512 facing the semi-cylindrical seat 510 (at a distance therefrom) configured to define a (lower) abutment for the tool-holder plate 52. The bracket 512 is, for example, defined by a pair of (rigid) gussets each deriving from the lower end of a respective side wall, squared therewith, and facing away from the rear face of the coupling plate 51.

[0139] The tool-holder plate 52 comprises a cylindrical (upper) connection beam 520 which is adapted to be fitted (radially) inside the semi-cylindrical seat 510 of the coupling plate 51 (for centring and retaining the coupling plate 51 with respect to the tool-holder plate 52).

[0140] The cylindrical beam 520 extends with the central axis thereof parallel to the support spars (orthogonal to the side flanks) and is supported at least by the side flanks (at their opposite ends) and possibly by further supporting eyelets interposed between the side flanks.

[0141] The cylindrical beam 520 has the central axis parallel to the oscillation axis of the telescopic boom 13.

[0142] The distance between the central axis of the semi-cylindrical seat 510 and the (upper surface facing the semi-cylindrical seat 510 of the) bracket 512 is substantially equal to or slightly greater than the height of the tool-holder plate 52 (measured from the central axis of the cylindrical beam 520 to the opposite lower base).

[0143] In practice, when the cylindrical beam 520 engages the semi-cylindrical seat 510 (coaxially), the bracket 512 is configured to prevent a translation of the tool-holder plate 52 from slipping out and/or inserting on a radial plane of the semi-cylindrical seat orthogonal to the (upper surface of the) bracket 512, in practice forcing an oscillation of the tool-holder plate 52 around the central axis of the semi-cylindrical seat 510 (and of the cylindrical beam 520), by an arc sufficient to overcome the bracket 512, to allow the semi-cylindrical seat 510 to slip out and/or be inserted on a radial plane by the cylindrical beam 520 (and thus the mutual uncoupling and/or coupling between the tool-holder plate 52 and the coupling plate 51.

[0144] In the example depicted, the semi-cylindrical seat 510 (facing downward), as described above, is made in the coupling plate 51 and the cylindrical beam 520 is fixed to the tool-holder plate 52, however, it is not excluded that the semi-cylindrical seat (e.g., facing upwards), as described above, can be made in the tool-holder plate 52 and the cylindrical beam 520 is fixed to the coupling plate 51 or other equivalent configurations. In this case, for example, the aforesaid bracket 512 (also made in tool-holder plate 52) would still face the semi-cylindrical seat, but arranged above it.

[0145] The coupling device 50 further comprises a (mechanical) jig configured to mechanically interconnect, releasably, the coupling plate 51 the and tool-holder plate 52.

[0146] The jig 50 comprising a fixed part carried by the coupling plate 51 and a movable part carried by the tool-holder plate 52.

[0147] In particular, (the fixed part of) the jig 50 comprises at least one locking seat 511 fixed to (and/or made on) the coupling plate 51.

[0148] In the example, locking seat 511 is defined at a side flank.

[0149] Preferably, the coupling plate 51 comprises two locking seats 511, e.g., each arranged at a respective side flank.

[0150] For example, the two locking seats 511 are aligned along an alignment axis, preferably parallel and eccentric with respect to the central axis of the semi-cylindrical seat 510 (e.g., arranged substantially at half the height of the coupling plate 51).

[0151] Each locking seat 511 is preferably defined by a (through) hole or slot made in the respective side wall.

[0152] Furthermore, (the movable part of) the jig 50 comprises at least one locking cylinder 521 (hydraulic and/or oleodynamic), preferably double-acting, provided with a (fixed) seat pad 5210 rigidly fixed to the tool-holder plate 52 and at least one piston 5211 (or rod) which is extendable with respect to the seat pad 5210 along an extension (and contraction) direction.

[0153] In the preferred example, the extension direction is parallel to the central axis of the cylindrical beam 520.

[0154] It is not excluded that the extension direction can be oriented differently, for example orthogonal to such a central axis of the cylindrical beam 520.

[0155] The locking cylinder 521 is connected to the control system 30, e.g., the hydraulic distributor thereof, for the control and command of the (hydraulic) drive thereof.

[0156] In the example shown, the locking cylinder 521 comprises a pair of opposite pistons 5211 and a (single) seat pad 5210 common to both pistons 5211.

[0157] For example, the seat pad 5210 is fixed on a median plane of the tool-holder plate 52 equidistant from the side planks thereof.

[0158] For example, the seat pad 5210 is substantially interposed between the two support spars.

[0159] Each piston 5211 (whether a single piston or a pair of opposite pistons is present) is slidable with respect to the seat pad 5210, along the (common) extension direction, alternatively between a retracted and an extended position.

[0160] The locking cylinder 521, viz., each piston 5211 thereof, is selectively (and simultaneously) switchable between a locking position (corresponding to the retracted position of the piston 5211), wherein (at least one portion of the free end of the piston 5211) engages a (respective) locking seat 511 (i.e., axially fits therein during the extension stroke) and an unlocking position (corresponding to the retracted position of the piston 5211), wherein (each piston 5211) frees the (respective) locking seat 511 (i.e., axially slips out during the contraction stroke).

[0161] In practice, when the cylindrical beam 520 (coaxially) engages the semi-cylindrical seat 510 to the tool-holder plate 52, a coupling/uncoupling oscillation is allowed around the central axis of the semi-cylindrical seat 510, between: [0162] an alignment and coupling position, in which the central axis of the locking cylinder 521 is axially aligned with the locking seat(s) 511 (and the tool-holder plate 52 is superimposed in plan on the bracket 512, where provided); and [0163] a misalignment and uncoupling position, in which the central axis of the locking cylinder 521 is parallel and eccentric with respect to the locking seat(s) 511 (and the lower base of the tool-holder plate 52 is misaligned in plan with respect to the bracket 512, where provided).

[0164] Each piston 5211 subdivides (the inner chamber of) the seat pad 5210 into two (variable volume) environments, of which a first environment whose expansion determines the stroke of the respective piston 5211 from the retracted position to the extracted position, and a second environment, whose expansion determines the stroke of the respective piston 5211 from the extracted position to the retracted position.

[0165] For example, to control the stroke of each piston 5211 between the extracted and contracted position, a valve unit is provided (diagrammed in FIG. 13), which comprises: [0166] a first inlet V1 for pressurised fluid (oil), in connection with each second environment (through a first duct); [0167] a second inlet V2 for pressurised fluid (oil), in connection with each first environment (through a second duct).

[0168] When pressurised fluid is sent through the second inlet V2, each first environment expands and each piston 5211 passes from the retracted position to the extracted position.

[0169] The fluid present in each second environment outflows through the first inlet V1.

[0170] Conversely, when pressurised fluid is sent through the first inlet V1, each second environment expands and each piston 5211 passes from the extracted position to the retracted position.

[0171] The fluid present in each first environment outflows through the second inlet V2.

[0172] On the second duct, preferably, two (semi-automatic) non-return valves A1 and A2 are placed in series, which are configured to prevent the fluid from returning from each first environment towards the second inlet V2.

[0173] The presence/redundancy of two non-return valves in series, viz., one downstream of the other on the second duct, allows to compensate for any leakage of one of the non-return valves and increase the stability of the locking cylinder 521.

[0174] Advantageously, the two non-return valves A1,A2 are commanded.

[0175] In particular, two (parallel) control/command branches branch off from the first duct, each configured to open a respective non-return valve A1,A2 when the pressurised fluid is sent to the first inlet V1 toward each second environment, thereby allowing the outflow of fluid from each first environment to the discharge (through the open non-return valves A1,A2 and, therefore, the second inlet V2).

[0176] The coupling device 50 further comprises a hydraulic and/or electrical connection device configured to interconnect the hydraulic system 30 to the service actuator 140 and/or to the electrical users of the work tool 14 in a removable and/or releasable manner (when the coupling plate 51 is mechanically connected to the tool-holder plate 52, viz., at the same time as the connection of the aforesaid jig).

[0177] The hydraulic and/or electrical connection device is configured to interconnect (mechanically, releasably and) fluidically (oleodynamically) and/or electrically hydraulic tubes and/or electrical cables present on the tool-holder plate 52 (and connected to the control system 30 and/or to an electrical circuit of the telehandler 10) and hydraulic tubes and/or electrical cables present on the coupling plate 51 (enslaved to the service actuator 140 and/or to the electrical users of the work tool 14).

[0178] The hydraulic and/or electrical connection device comprising a fixed part carried by the coupling plate 51 (and rigidly fixed thereto) and a movable part carried by the tool-holder plate 52 (and movable with respect thereto).

[0179] In particular, (the fixed part of) the hydraulic and/or electrical connection device comprises at least one plurality of first hydraulic and/or electrical (female) connectors 513 rigidly fixed to the coupling plate 51.

[0180] The plurality of first connectors 513 could consist of one or more hydraulic first connectors (enslaved to the hydraulic system 30) and one or more electrical first connectors (for the electrical power supply of the electrical user of the work tool 14) or (only) a plurality of hydraulic first connectors or (only) a plurality of electrical first connectors.

[0181] The electrical first connectors, where provided, for example, are of the multi-pole pin or socket type (with pins with an axis parallel to the axis of the locking seat 511).

[0182] It is not excluded that in some simple applications, a single hydraulic or electrical first connector 513 can also be provided.

[0183] In particular, the coupling plate 51 comprises at least one connection plate 514 (fixed, viz., rigidly fixede.g., boltedto the coupling plate 51), e.g., parallel to the side walls and arranged internally thereto.

[0184] Preferably, the coupling plate 51 comprises a pair of connection plates 514 parallel to each other (and at a non-zero, fixed distance from each other).

[0185] For example, each connection plate 514 has a loop or recess axially aligned with the locking seats 511.

[0186] Each connection plate 514 extends (longitudinally) above and below said loop, viz., it has at least one upper portion with respect to the central axis of the locking seats 511, a lower position with respect to such a central axis of the locking seats 511.

[0187] Each connection plate 514 comprises an inner face, viz., facing the other connection plate 514, and an opposite outer face.

[0188] Each first connector 513 is rigidly fixed to a connection plate 514 (e.g., axially fitted in a through hole drilled therein).

[0189] In detail, the central (connection) axis of each first connector 513 is parallel and eccentric with respect to the central axis of the locking seats 511.

[0190] Each first connector 513 is arranged so that its (front) connection end (provided with quick coupling/uncoupling means) is arranged at/near the inner face of the (respective) connection plate 514 (and/or faces/is facing the other connection plate 514).

[0191] Each first connector 513 then has an opposite (rear) fitting end to which are connected hydraulic tubes and/or electrical cables connected (at the other end) to the service actuator 140 and/or to the users of the work tool 14.

[0192] Such hydraulic tubes and/or electrical cables have at least one end stretch, near or in contact with the respective first connector 513, which is rigid, viz., non-flexible, and which is rigidly fixed, e.g., by means of clips or similar fixing systems, to the coupling plate 51.

[0193] For example, there is at least a first connector 513 (of the plurality of first connectors 513) on each connection plate 514.

[0194] Preferably, there is a plurality of first connectors 513 on each connection plate 514, even more preferably arranged so that at least a first connector 513 is arranged above the central axis of the locking seats 511 (i.e., at the upper position of the connection plate itself) and at least a first connector 513 is arranged below the central axis of the locking seats 511 (i.e., at the lower position of the connection plate itself).

[0195] Advantageously, centring elements, e.g., one or more centring (through) holes 515, are made on each connection plate 514.

[0196] The centring holes 515 have a (through) axis parallel and eccentric to the central axis of the locking seats 511 (viz., parallel and eccentric to the central axis of each first connector 513).

[0197] Furthermore, (the movable part of) the hydraulic and/or electrical connection device comprises at least one plurality of second hydraulic and/or electrical (male) connectors 523 supported by the tool-holder plate 52 and movable with respect thereto.

[0198] Each second connector 523 is configured to connect, with a quick coupling/uncoupling (e.g., snap-in), to a respective (and unique) first connector 513.

[0199] Once connected, the second connector 523 and the respective first connector 513 define a fitting (hydraulic and/or oil-hydraulic), e.g., substantially leakproof.

[0200] In practice, each second connector 523 is conjugated to a respective first 513 connector.

[0201] In practice, the hydraulic/electrical connection device has second connectors 523 in the same number and type (albeit conjugated) as the first connectors 513 described above.

[0202] In more detail, the plurality of second connectors 523 could comprise one or more hydraulic second connectors (enslaved to the hydraulic system 30) and one or more electrical second connectors (for the electrical power supply of the electrical user of the work tool 14) or (only) a plurality of hydraulic second connectors or (only) a plurality of electrical second connectors.

[0203] The second electrical connectors, where provided, are of the multi-pole pin or socket type (with pins parallel to the extension direction).

[0204] It is not excluded that in some simple applications, a single hydraulic or electrical second connector 523 can also be provided.

[0205] In particular, the tool-holder plate 52 comprises at least one connector-holder plate 524 slidingly associated with the tool-holder plate 52 itself, preferably with respect to a sliding direction parallel to the extension direction of the jig (viz., the locking cylinder 521).

[0206] The connector-holder plate 524 is movable, alternatively, between a rearward and forward position along the sliding direction.

[0207] For example, the tool-holder plate 52 comprises one or more (in the example two in number) sliding rails with sliding axis parallel to the extension direction, whereby the connector-holder plate 524 (e.g., its opposite ends) engages such a sliding rail.

[0208] For example, the connector-holder plate 524 is parallel to the side walls of the tool-holder plate 52 and arranged internally thereto.

[0209] Preferably, the coupling plate 51 comprises a pair of connector-holder plates 524 parallel to each other (and at a non-zero and variable distance from each other).

[0210] For example, each connector-holder plate 524 is movable, alternatively (and synchronously), between the rearward position, in which the connector-holder plates 524 are approached/near each other, and the forward position, in which the connector-holder plates 524 are distanced/distal from each other.

[0211] In any case, the connector-holder plates 524, both when in their rearward position and when in their forward position, are at a shorter mutual distance than the mutual distance between the connection plates 514 of the coupling plate 51.

[0212] Each connector-holder plate 524 is mounted on a (respective) piston 5211 of the locking cylinder 521 and is translatable, therewith, along the extension direction alternatively between a connection position (corresponding to the aforesaid forward position) and a disconnection position (corresponding to the aforesaid rearward position).

[0213] For example, connector-holder plate 524 is fitted on the (respective) piston 5211.

[0214] Each connector-holder plate 524 extends (longitudinally) above and below the piston 5211 on which it is mounted, viz., it has at least one upper portion with respect to the central axis of the piston 5211 on which it is mounted and one position below with respect to such a central axis of the piston 5211 on which it is mounted.

[0215] Each connector-holder plate 524 comprises an inner face, viz., facing the other connector-holder plate 524, and an opposite outer face.

[0216] Each second connector 523 is rigidly fixed to a connector-holder plate 524 (e.g., axially fitted in a through hole drilled therein).

[0217] In detail, the central (connection) axis of each second connector 523 is parallel and eccentric with respect to the central axis of the piston 5211 on which the connector-holder plate 524 is mounted.

[0218] Each second connector 523 is arranged so that its (front) connection end (provided with quick coupling/uncoupling means) is arranged at/near the outer face of the (respective) connector-holder plate 524 (and/or faces/is facing away with respect to the other connector-holder plate 524).

[0219] Each second connector 523 then has an opposite (rear) fitting end to which hydraulic tubes and/or electrical cables are connected (at the other end) to the hydraulic distributor and/or to the electrical/electronic circuit of the telehandler 10.

[0220] For example, there is at least a second connector 523 (of the plurality of second connectors 523) on each connector-holder plate 524.

[0221] Preferably, there is a plurality of second connectors 523 on each connector-holder plate 524, even more preferably arranged so that at least a second connector 523 is arranged above the central axis of the piston 5211 on which the connector-holder plate 524 is mounted (viz., at the upper position of the connector-holder plate 524 itself) and at least a second connector 523 is arranged below the central axis of the piston 5211 on which the connector-holder plate 524 is mounted (viz., at the lower position of the connector-holder plate 524 itself).

[0222] Advantageously, the axis of each second connector 524 is adapted to be arranged coaxial to the axis of a respective (and conjugate) first connector 513, when the cylindrical beam 520 engages the semi-cylindrical seat 510 (coaxially).

[0223] When the second connectors 523 are all aligned with respective first connectors 513 and the connector-holder plate 524 is brought into the connection position (with the respective piston 5211 in the locking position), each of the second connectors 524 (simultaneously) mechanically (and functionally, viz., fluidically and/or electrically) connects to a respective first connector 513.

[0224] When the second connectors 523 are instead all aligned with the respective first connectors 513 and the connector-holder plate 524 is brought into the disconnection position (with the respective piston 5211 in the unlocking position), all the second connectors 523 (simultaneously) mechanically (and functionally, viz., fluidically and/or electrically) disconnect from the respective first connectors 513.

[0225] Advantageously, centring elements, e.g., one or more centring pins 525 (protruding axially from the outer face of the respective connector-holder plate 524) are made on each connector-holder plate 524, e.g., on each outer face thereof, adapted to cooperate with the centring holes 515 made in the connection plate 514.

[0226] The centring pins 525, for example, have at least one tapered (free) end stretch, preferably multi-conical (viz., having multiple tapers).

[0227] The central axis of each centring pin 525 is parallel and eccentric to the central axis of the piston 5211 on which the connector-holder plate 524 is mounted (viz., parallel and eccentric to the central axis of each second connector 523).

[0228] When the second connectors 523 are all substantially aligned with respective first connectors 513 and the connector-holder plate 524 is moved to the connection position (with the respective piston 5211 in the locking position), each centring pin 525 is axially fitted in a respective centring hole 515 of the coupling plate 51, effectively defining centring means configured to (precisely) centre each second connector 523 with respect to the respective first connector 513 during the translation from the disconnection position to the connection position (of the piston(s) 5211 and the connector-holder plate(s) 524).

[0229] It is not excluded that, alternatively or additionally to the above, the centring means are defined by first connectors 513 and/or second connectors 523 of the self-centring type, e.g., defining a conical connection therebetween.

[0230] Preferably, each connector-holder plate 524 is mounted on the respective piston 5211 in a movable translation mode, along a translation direction parallel to the extension direction, with respect to the piston 5211 itself.

[0231] In practice, each connector-holder plate 524 is movable with respect to the respective piston 5211 alternatively between a forward position, in which the connector-holder plate 524 is distal from the seat pad 5210, and a rearward position, in which the connector-holder plate 524 is proximal to the seat pad 5210.

[0232] Preferably, each connector-holder plate 524 is mounted in a floating manner on the respective piston 5211 and is movable with respect to the respective piston 5211 from the forward position to the rearward position in contrast to pushing means, preferably elastic.

[0233] In detail, each connector-holder plate 524 is mounted, preferably rigidly fixed or keyed, on a sleeve 526 coaxially fitted onto the respective piston 5211 and axially sliding thereon between the rearward and forward positions.

[0234] Said pushing means comprise a spring 527 interposed between the piston 5211 and the sleeve 526 and configured to push the sleeve 526 towards the forward position.

[0235] For example, the spring 527, preferably of the helical type, is radially interposed between the piston 5211 (externally thereto) and the sleeve 526 (internally thereto) and axially interposed between a fixed shoulder defined on the piston 5211 and a movable shoulder defined inside the sleeve 526.

[0236] The maximum stroke of the piston 5211 is dimensioned so to be greater than the maximum stroke allowed for the respective connector-holder plate 524, so that the spring 527 exerts a kind of compensation/preload on the connector-holder plate 524 and, therefore, on each second connector 523 towards the forward position such that it forces the connection of each second connector 523 with the respective first connector 513.

[0237] It is not excluded that, alternatively or in addition to the above, such a compensation/preload movement could be actuated by means of a mutual (elastic) translation between each second connector 523 and the respective connector-holder plate 524 (or again, between each first connector 513 and the respective connector plate 514).

[0238] The telehandler 10 further comprises an electronic control system 80 (schematically illustrated in FIG. 14), which is configured to control the operation of the telehandler itself and/or the work tool 14.

[0239] In the following reference is made to the operation of the telehandler 10 and/or work tool with particular reference to the (mechanical and/or functional) interconnection functionality between work tool 14 and telescopic boom 13.

[0240] In the embodiment considered, the control system 80 comprises a controller module 81 (electronic), a sensor assembly 82 and, optionally, a user interface 83 (arranged inside the driver's car and, in certain circumstances, also on the work tool 14if it is arranged for loading people), for example a controller (joystick or radio control or other) and/or a display.

[0241] In particular, the controller module 81 comprises an electronic control unit 810 (for example, comprising at least one of a micro-controller, a microprocessor, an FPGA, an ASIC, etc.) and, optionally, a storage unit 811 (comprising, non-volatile memory elements and, preferably, volatile memory elements) interconnected with each other and adapted to process and store, respectively, informationfor example, in binary format.

[0242] The sensor assembly 82 comprises, for example, (among other sensors) an alignment sensor 821, e.g., placed on the tool-holder plate 52 or the coupling plate 51, preferably the tool-holder plate 52, which is configured to detect a correct alignment position of the locking cylinder 521 with respect to the locking seat 511 along the extension direction.

[0243] For example, the alignment sensor 821 is a position sensor or similar.

[0244] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor assembly 82 also comprises, for example, a reader or recognition sensor 822, e.g., placed on the tool-holder plate 52, configured to detect a parameter indicative of the type (and/or model) of work tool 14 which is connected to the coupling plate 51.

[0245] Further, the sensor assembly 82 can comprise at least one detection sensor 823 (or several detection sensors 823), e.g., placed on the tool-holder plate 52 and/or the connector-holder plate 524, configured to detect the correct connection of the second connectors 523 with the first connectors 513 and/or the correct positioning of each piston 5211 in its locking position in the locking seat 511.

[0246] The sensors of the sensor assembly 82 globally are individually operatively connected to the controller module 81 and, preferably, to the electronic control unit 810 thereof.

[0247] Finally, if provided, the user interface 83 can provide information to the operator based on the signal received from the sensors, e.g., to guide/assist the coupling/uncoupling operations of the work tool 14 with respect to the telescopic boom 13.

[0248] When there is an electrical connector between the first connectors 513 and the second connectors 523, e.g., when the work tool 14 is intended to carry people (as in the case of man baskets) on board, and therefore the electrical connector (formed by the first and second connectors connected to each other) is suitable for the transmission of an electrical signal and/or an electrical power line, then the telehandler 10 is provided with an emergency electrical circuit (shown in FIG. 15 and FIG. 16).

[0249] Such an emergency electrical circuit is provided with an additional limit switch 90 on the work tool 14, e.g., what is called a safety button, which can be manually operated by the user to stop the operations of the telehandler 10 and/or the telehandler itself under emergency conditions.

[0250] There is also a similar (or identical) main limit switch 91 on the emergency circuit, e.g., arranged in the driver's car (with the same functionality).

[0251] Under these circumstances, an electrical switch device 92 for opening/closing an emergency electrical circuit can be mounted on the tool-holder plate 52 and/or connector-holder plate 524, which: [0252] when the tool-holder plate 52 is not associated with any coupling plate 51 and/or a coupling plate 51 of a work tool 14 without electrical connections is associated therewith, it is configured to close (see FIG. 15), closing the emergency electrical circuit (effectively bypassing the work tool 14); and [0253] when the tool-holder plate 52 is associated with a coupling plate 51 carrying a work tool provided with the additional safety switch 90, it is configured to open (see FIG. 16) allowing the additional safety switch 90 and the main safety switch 91 to be arranged in series (and selectively actuated by the operator) on the emergency circuit.

[0254] The electrical switch device 92 can be a micros or microswitch (mechanically operated) fixed to the tool-holder plate 52 and operablewhen the tool-holder plate 52 is fixed to a coupling plate 51 (which supports a work tool 14 provided with an additional limit switch 90)by a feeler placed on the coupling plate 51.

[0255] Alternatively, the electrical switch device 92 can be an electro-operated switch, for example from the electronic control unit 810, preferably in response to the signal from the recognition sensor 822 (indicating that the work tool 14 fixed to the telescopic boom 13 is of the type provided with the additional limit switch 90).

[0256] The electrical switch device 92 can be a magnetic proximity sensor, an induction sensor or any electrical/electronic device that can perform the function of a switch.

[0257] In light of the above, the operation of the coupling device 50 of the telehandler 10 is as follows.

[0258] The tool-holder plate 52 of the coupling device 50 (fixed to the telescopic boom 13 of the telehandler) is approached (as illustrated in FIGS. 2-4) to the coupling plate 51 of a selected work tool 14, when a work tool, such as a bucket or a blade or a man basket or a fork or other, must be coupled to the telescopic boom 13.

[0259] The semi-cylindrical seat 510 is first engaged coaxially by the cylindrical beam 520 and then, imparting a rotation to the tool-holder plate 52, brings the latter into its alignment position, in which the locking cylinder 521 is aligned with the central axis of the locking seat 511.

[0260] At this point, the locking cylinder 521 is activated (by the operator acting on a suitable command, e.g., placed in the driver's car) so as to bring each piston 5211 into its locking position (so as to engage the locking seat 511 thus acting as a latch).

[0261] Simultaneously with this, each connector-holder plate 524 approaches a connection plate 514 and each second connector 523 connects to a respective first connector 513, allowing the hydraulic/electrical coupling of the service actuator 140 and/or electrical users of the work tool 14 with the telehandler 10.

[0262] The mechanical coupling of the work tool 14 with the telescopic boom 13 and the coupling of the hydraulic system 30 and/or the electrical circuit (which allows the work tool to operate) therefore occur simultaneously.

[0263] To unlock the coupling device 50 and release the working tool 14, the reverse of the above procedure is possible.

[0264] The invention thus conceived is susceptible to several modifications and variations, all falling within the scope of protection offered by the following claims.