Design and Test of a Remote Quick-Connect System for Multipurpose Excavators
Abstract
Quick repair of bomb-damaged runways is a task being addressed by an Air Force program entitled 'Rapid Runway Repair' (RRR). Increased emphasis is being placed on the design of mechanized equipment that will expedite repairs and, at the same time, ensure the safety of the operator exposed to the hazardous postattack environment. The objective of the effort described in this report is to provide a system which allows the operator to rapidly and remotely change tools which are attached to the boom of the excavator. The tool exchange process involves an automatic hydraulic connection as well as the mechanical attachment of three tools: an excavator bucket, a hydraulic hammer, and a hydraulic compactor plate. The 'Quick-Connect' system also includes a tool-carrying device for transporting these tools to the job site. The Air Force awarded and managed two separate contracts to obtain two independent Quick-Connect system designs. These designs were developed, fabricated, and installed on multipurpose excavators for Air Force test and evaluation. The program established the technical feasibility of remotely changing excavator tools in less than 1 minute and demonstrated the excavator's capability to transport three attachments on a tool carrier.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA292825
Entities
People
- D. T. Atkinson
- J. Spector
- P. K. Laird
- P. St Louis
- R. Kleinhans