Coupler Guard System
Patent Number: US 10995477 Grant Date: 2021-05-04 Filing Date: 2018-03-01
Overview
This patent describes a practical, field-focused guard solution for auxiliary coupler assemblies on compact loaders and skid loaders. Filed in March 2018 and granted in May 2021, the protection system was prosecuted with careful claim drafting to cover both the encasement that wraps a top portion and interior side of the coupler and an articulating side plate that shields the exterior. Inventors based in Plantersville, TX developed a design that secures to a loader hinge extension with a removable ring and screw assemblies, while a set screw allows fine adjustment of fit. An edge trim aligns with the arm to keep debris out and distribute impact forces. The specification discloses multiple bent and unbent configurations and fastening patterns, providing durable, retrofittable protection for harsh construction environments. Our patent drafting emphasized robust claim scope and implementation flexibility to protect the commercial product and aftermarket retrofits.
Key Features
- Encasement plus side plate combination to resist side impacts
- Ring and ring-screw attachment to hinge extension for retrofit mounting
- Screw assemblies and set screw for adjustable, secure fit
- Edge trim for debris exclusion and force distribution
This coupler-guard concept addresses a common wear and damage point on hydraulic couplers, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. Its adaptability and rugged design make it relevant across construction and materials-handling equipment platforms.
Invention Details
Abstract: A coupler guard configured to protect an aux coupler assembly from side impacts in the rough use environment of a loader. The coupler guard comprises an encasement and a side plate. The loader comprises the aux coupler assembly and a hinge extension. The encasement wraps around a top portion and interior side of the aux coupler assembly. The side plate attaches to a portion of the encasement and protect an exterior side portion of the aux coupler assembly. A screw assemblies selectively attaches the encasement to the side plate. A ring attaches to a portion of the side plate. The ring selectively wraps around a portion of the hinge extension of the loader. A ring screw assembly selectively holds the ring and the rest of the coupler guard to the hinge extension. An edge trim selectively sits on top of a portion of a first arm.
Summary of the Invention: A coupler guard configured to protect an aux coupler assembly from side impacts in the rough use environment of a loader. Said coupler guard comprises an encasement and a side plate. Said loader comprises said aux coupler assembly and a hinge extension. Said encasement wraps around a top portion and interior side of said aux coupler assembly. Said side plate attaches to a portion of said encasement and protect an exterior side portion of said aux coupler assembly. A screw assemblies selectively attaches said encasement to said side plate. A ring attaches to a portion of said side plate. Said ring selectively wraps around a portion of said hinge extension of said loader. A ring screw assembly selectively holds said ring and the rest of said coupler guard to said hinge extension. An edge trim selectively sits on top of a portion of a first arm. A set screw selectively adjusts a fit of said ring with respect to said hinge extension.
Patent Document
Related: Mechanical Engineering | Construction | Plantersville, Texas | Shannon Warren, Patent Attorney