Please download the dossier by clicking on the dossier button x
×

Coupler with improved structure and method for manufacturing same

  • US 6,691,438 B2
  • Filed: 04/25/2002
  • Issued: 02/17/2004
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/26/2001
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A method for constructing a coupler comprising:

  • securing a first upper bearing plate to a first female rib member and securing a second upper bearing plate to a second female rib member, said first and second female rib members each defining first and second spaced-apart recesses adapted to receive first and second associated pins of an associated implement;

    arranging said first and second female rib members in spaced-apart relation with said first and second bearing plates aligned and spaced-apart from each other, said first recesses aligned with each other to define a first pin-receiving hook and said second recesses aligned with each other to define a second pin-receiving hook;

    positioning a lower bearing plate to extend between said first and second female rib members, said lower bearing plate spaced from said first and second upper bearing plates whereby a slot is defined between said lower bearing plate and said first and second upper bearing plates;

    positioning at least one cross member to extend between said first and second female rib members;

    securing said at least one cross member to both said first and second female rib members;

    securing said lower bearing plate to both said first and second female rib members;

    connecting and securing a first outer rib member to said first female rib member to define a first rib assembly and connecting and securing a second outer rib member to said second female rib member to define a second rib assembly, said first and second outer rib members each defining first and second spaced apart pin openings, said first pin openings aligned with each other and said second pin openings aligned with each other;

    positioning a lock member slidably in the space defined between said separate first and second upper bearing plate and said lower bearing plate;

    securing an actuator in a space located between said first and second rib assemblies;

    operably connecting said actuator to said lock member whereby said actuator is adapted to move said lock member between a retracted position and an extended position, said lock member extending at least partially into said second pin-receiving hook when in said extended position.

View all claims
  • 17 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×