OPERATOR PLATFORM SUSPENSION WITH LOWER REACTION BUMPER

BACKGROUND

This disclosure is directed toward a platform apparatus to be used with a power machine. Power machines, for the purposes of this disclosure, include any type of machine that generates power to accomplish a particular task or a variety of tasks. One type of power machine is a work vehicle. Work vehicles are generally self-propelled vehicles that have a work device, such as a lift arm (although some work vehicles can have other work devices) that can be manipulated to perform a work function. Work vehicles include excavators, loaders, utility vehicles, tractors, and trenchers, to name a few examples.

The discussion above is merely provided for general background information and is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, an exemplary apparatus is configured for attachment to a power machine. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises first and second side plates, a lower plate, a platform assembly and a first bumper. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the first and second side plates is configured for pivotal attachment to the power machine at a first pivot joint. In an exemplary embodiment, the lower plate has a fixed orientation relative to each of the first and second side plates. In an exemplary embodiment, the platform assembly comprises a platform and a frame, and the frame is attached to each of the first and second side plates at a second pivot joint. In an exemplary embodiment, the first bumper is disposed between the platform and the lower plate. An exemplary method of supporting a load applied on an apparatus of a power machine comprises applying the load onto the platform and compressing the first bumper between the platform and the lower plate.

This summary and the Abstract are provided to introduce concepts in simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the disclosed or claimed subject matter and is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the disclosed or claimed subject matter. Specifically, features disclosed herein with respect to one embodiment may be equally applicable to another. Further, this summary is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Many other novel advantages, features, and relationships will become apparent as this description proceeds. The figures and the description that follow more particularly exemplify illustrative embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosed subject matter will be further explained with reference to the attached figures, wherein like structure or system elements are referred to by like reference numerals throughout the several views. All descriptions are applicable to like and analogous structures throughout the several embodiments, unless otherwise specified.

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

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a representative power machine in the form of a mini track loader of a type on which the disclosed embodiments can be practiced.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the representative power machine.

FIG. 4 is a partial rear perspective view of the representative power machine, showing an exemplary platform suspension apparatus.

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the exemplary platform suspension apparatus removed from the power machine.

FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary platform suspension apparatus.

FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of the exemplary platform suspension apparatus with one side plate removed so that internal structures are visible.

FIG. 8 is a partial side elevation view of the platform suspension apparatus attached to a power machine and in an unloaded state.

FIG. 9 is similar to FIG. 8 but shows the platform suspension apparatus in a loaded state.

FIG. 10A is a top perspective view of a pivot frame of the apparatus.

FIG. 10B is a top perspective view of a platform assembly of the apparatus.

While the above-identified figures set forth one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, other embodiments are also contemplated, as noted in the disclosure. In all cases, this disclosure presents the disclosed subject matter by way of representation and not limitation. It should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that fall within the scope of the principles of this disclosure.

The figures may not be drawn to scale. In particular, some features may be enlarged relative to other features for clarity. Moreover, where terms such as above, below, over, under, top, bottom, side, right, left, vertical, horizontal, etc., are used, it is to be understood that they are used only for ease of understanding the description. It is contemplated that structures may be oriented otherwise.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments, and the terminology is not intended to be limiting. Unless indicated otherwise, ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third, etc.) are used to distinguish or identify different elements or steps in a group of elements or steps and do not supply a serial or numerical limitation on the elements or steps of the embodiments thereof. For example, “first,” “second,” and “third” elements or steps need not necessarily appear in that order, and the embodiments thereof need not necessarily be limited to three elements or steps. Unless indicated otherwise, any labels such as “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “forward,” “reverse,” “clockwise,” “counter clockwise,” “up,” “down,” or other similar terms such as “upper,” “lower,” “aft,” “fore,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “proximal,” “distal,” “intermediate” and the like are used for convenience and are not intended to imply, for example, any particular fixed location, orientation, or direction. Instead, such labels are used to reflect, for example, relative location, orientation, or directions. The singular forms of “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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 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.

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 and 3. For the sake of brevity, only one power machine is discussed. However, the disclosed teachings can be practiced on any of a number of power machines, including power machines of different types from the representative, illustrated power machine. Power machines, for the purposes of this discussion, include a frame, at least one work element, and a power source that can provide 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 can provide power to the work element. At least one of the work elements is a motive system for moving the power machine under power.

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 several distinct 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. 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.

Certain work vehicles have work elements that can perform a dedicated task. For example, some work vehicles have a lift arm structure to which an implement 180 such as a bucket is attached such as by a pinning arrangement. The work element, i.e., the lift arm structure can be manipulated to position the implement 180 for performing the task. The implement 180, in some instances can be positioned relative to the work element, such as by rotating a bucket relative to a lift arm structure, 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 180, 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.

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 several 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 structure 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.

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 can move with respect to another portion of the frame. For example, excavators can have an upper frame portion that rotates about a swivel 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.

Frame 110 supports the power source 120, which can provide 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 are capable of using it to perform a work function. Power sources for power machines frequently include an engine such as an internal combustion engine and a power conversion system such as a mechanical transmission or a hydraulic system that can convert 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.

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.

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 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 can control at least some of the operator-controlled functions on the power machine.

FIGS. 2-3 illustrate a loader 200, which is one particular example of a power machine of the type illustrated in FIG. 1 in which the embodiments discussed below can be advantageously employed. The loader 200 is a tracked loader and more particularly, a mini-loader. A mini-loader for the purposes of this discussion is a small loader relative to other compact loaders such as traditional skid-steer loaders and compact track loaders; typically, a mini-loader does not have an enclosed operator cab. Some mini-loaders have a platform on which an operator can ride, which serves as operator station 150. Other mini-loaders can be operated by an operator who walks behind the loader. Still other mini-loaders have a platform that is moveable or removable to allow an operator to alternatively ride on the platform or walk behind the loader. The illustrated loader 200 is a tracked loader, though in some embodiments, the tractive elements 140 can be wheels.

The loader 200 should not be considered limiting, especially as to features that the loader 200 may have described herein that are not essential to the disclosed embodiments. Such features may or may not be included in power machines other than the loader 200 upon which the embodiments disclosed below may be advantageously practiced. Unless specifically noted otherwise, embodiments disclosed below can be practiced on a variety of power machines, with the loader 200 being only one of those power machines. For example, some or all of the concepts discussed below can be practiced on many other types of stand-on work vehicles such as mowers, aerators, and spreaders, to name but a few examples. Moreover, while the illustrated embodiment shows a platform configured for a standing operator, the described platform suspension system can also be used for a seating platform, for example.

In an exemplary embodiment, loader 200 includes frame 210. The frame 210 supports a power system 220, the power system 220 being configured to generate or otherwise provide power for operating various functions on the power machine. The frame 210 also supports a work element in the form of a lift arm structure 230 that is selectively powered by the power system 220 in response to signals from an operator control system 260 and can perform various work tasks. The lift arm structure 230 in turn supports an implement carrier 272, which is configured to receive and secure various implements to the loader 200 for performing various work tasks. The loader 200 can be operated from an operator station 250 from which an operator can manipulate various control devices to cause the power machine to perform various functions, discussed in more detail below. In an exemplary embodiment, the frame 210 also supports a traction system 240, which is also selectively powered by the power system 220 in response to signals from the operator control system 260. The traction system 240 is configured to propel the power machine over a support surface.

Various power machines that can include and/or interact with the structures and/or functions of embodiments discussed below can have various frame components that support various work elements. The elements of frame 210 discussed herein are provided for illustrative purposes and are not necessarily the only type of frame that a power machine on which the embodiments discussed below can be practiced can be employed, unless otherwise specifically indicated. The frame 210 of the loader 200 includes an undercarriage or lower portion 211 of the frame and a mainframe or upper portion 212 of the frame that is supported by the undercarriage. The mainframe 212 of the loader 200 is attached to the undercarriage 211 such as with fasteners or by welding the undercarriage to the mainframe. The mainframe 212 includes a pair of upright portions 214 located on either side and toward the rear of the mainframe that support the lift arm structure 230 and to which the lift arm structure 230 is pivotally attached. The lift arm structure 230 is illustratively pinned to each of the upright portions 214. The combination of mounting features on the upright portions 214 and the lift arm structure 230 and mounting hardware (including pins used to pin the lift arm structure to the mainframe 212) are collectively referred to as joints 216 (one is located on each of the upright portions 214) for the purposes of this discussion. The joints 216 are aligned along an axis 218 so that the lift arm structure is capable of pivoting, as discussed below, with respect to the frame 210 about axis 218. Other power machines may not include upright portions on either side of the frame or may not have a lift arm structure that is mountable to upright portions on either side and toward the rear of the frame. For example, some power machines may have a single arm, mounted to a single side of the power machine or to a front or rear end of the power machine. Other machines can have a plurality of work elements, including a plurality of lift arms, each of which is mounted to the machine in its own configuration. The frame 210 also supports a pair of tractive elements 242 on either side of the loader 200, which on the loader 200 are track assemblies.

The lift arm structure 230 shown in FIGS. 2-3 is one example of a lift arm structure that can be attached to a power machine such as the loader 200 or other power machines on which embodiments of the present discussion can be practiced. The lift arm structure 230 has a set of lift arms 232 that are disposed on opposing sides of the frame 210. (It should be noted, however, that a lift arm structure may incorporate only a single lift arm or exhibit other configurations.) A first end 232A of each of the lift arms 232 is pivotally coupled to the power machine at joints 216 and a second end 232B of each of the lift arms is positioned forward of the frame 210 when in a lowered position as shown in FIG. 2. The lift arm structure 230 is moveable (i.e., the lift arm structure can be raised and lowered) under control of the loader 200 with respect to the frame 210. That movement (i.e., the raising and lowering of the lift arm structure 230) is described by a radial travel path, shown generally by arrow 233. For the purposes of this discussion, the travel path 233 of the lift arm structure 230 is defined by the path of movement of the second end 232B of the lift arm structure.

The lift arms 232 are each coupled to a cross member 236 that provides increased structural stability to the lift arm structure 230. A pair of actuators 238, which on loader 200 can be hydraulic cylinders configured to selectively receive pressurized fluid from power system 220, are pivotally coupled to both the frame 210 and the lift arms 232 at pivotable joints 238A and 238B, respectively, on either side of the loader 200. The actuators 238 are sometimes referred to individually and collectively as lift cylinders. Actuators 238 can instead be other types of actuators, such as electric actuators. Actuation (i.e., extension and retraction) of the actuators 238 causes the lift arm structure 230 to pivot about joints 216 and thereby be raised and lowered along a fixed path illustrated by arrow 233. The lift arm structure 230 shown in FIGS. 2-3 is representative of one type of lift arm structure that may be coupled to the power machine 200. Other lift arm structures, with different geometries, components, and arrangements can be pivotally coupled to the loader 200 or other power machines upon which the embodiments discussed herein can be practiced without departing from the scope of the present discussion. For example, other machines can have lift arm structures with lift arms that each have two portions (as opposed to the single piece lift arms 232) that are pivotally coupled to each other along with a control arm to create a four-bar linkage and a substantially vertical travel path or at least more vertical than the radial path of lift arm structure 230. Other lift arm structures can have an extendable or telescoping lift arm. Still other lift arm structures can have several (i.e. more than two) portions segments or portions. Some lift arms, most notably lift arms on excavators but also possible on loaders, may have portions that are controllable to pivot with respect to another segment instead of moving in concert (i.e., along a pre-determined path) as is the case in the lift arm structure 230 shown in FIGS. 2-3. Some power machines have lift arm structures with a single lift arm, such as is known in excavators or even some loaders and other power machines. Other power machines can have a plurality of lift arm structures, each being independent of the other(s).

An example of an implement interface 270 is provided at the second end 232B of the lift arms 232, as shown in FIG. 2. The implement interface 270 includes the implement carrier 272 that is configured to accept and secure a variety of different implements to the lift arm structure 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 232B of each of the arms 232. An implement carrier actuator 237 is operably coupled to the lift arm structure 230 and the implement carrier 272 and is operable to rotate the implement carrier with respect to the lift arm structure 230. Other examples of power machines can have a plurality of implement carrier actuators. Still other examples of power machines of the type that can advantageously employ the disclosed embodiments discussed herein may not have an implement carrier such as implement carrier 272, but instead may allow only for implements to be directly attached to its lift arm structure such as by pinning.

The implement interface 270 also includes an implement power source 235 available for connection to an implement on the lift arm structure 230. The implement power source 235 can include pressurized hydraulic fluid ports to which an implement can be coupled. The pressurized hydraulic fluid ports selectively provide pressurized hydraulic fluid for powering one or more functions or actuators on an implement. The implement power source can, but need not, also or alternatively include an electrical power source for powering electrical actuators and/or an electronic controller on an implement. An electrical power source can also include electrical conduits that are in communication with a data bus on the loader 200 to allow communication between a controller on an implement and electronic devices on the loader 200.

The lower frame portion 211 supports a pair of attached tractive elements, identified in FIGS. 2-3 as left track assembly 242A and right track assembly 242B (collectively tractive elements 242). Each of the tractive elements 242 has a track frame 243 that is coupled to the frame 210. The track frame 243 supports and is surrounded by an endless track 244, which rotates under power to propel the loader 200 over a support surface. Various elements are coupled to or otherwise supported by the track frame 243 for engaging and supporting the endless track 244 and cause it to rotate about the track frame 243. For example, a sprocket 246 is supported by the track frame 243 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 244. The track frame 243 also supports a plurality of rollers 248, which engage the track and, through the track, the support surface on which the weight of the loader 200 is distributed.

The operator station 250 is positioned toward the rear of the frame 210. While an operator stands on the platform 252, and operator has access to a plurality of operator control inputs 262 that, when manipulated by the operator, can provide control signals to control work functions of the power machine 200, including, for example, the traction system 240 and the lift arm 230. Operator control inputs 262 can include joysticks, switches, buttons, knobs, levers, variable sliders, roller-ball inputs and other multi-axis input devices, for example. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-3, the operator station 250 is open to the back of the power machine 200. Similar other power machines, including other mini-loaders, can include operator stations toward the rear of the respective frames, without necessarily being open to the back of the power machines.

Display devices 264 are provided in the operator station 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 designed 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.

Frame 210 supports and generally encloses the power system 220 so that the various components of the power system 220 are not visible in FIGS. 2-3. More information regarding lift arm control is described in commonly owned US published patent application US 2022/0025607 entitled “Mechanical Self-leveling Lift Arm Structure for Power Machine,” which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIG. 4 is a partial rear perspective view of an exemplary power machine configured as loader 200, including an exemplary embodiment of a platform suspension apparatus 300. In an exemplary embodiment, apparatus 300 is pivotally attached to frame 210 at pivot joints 302. In an exemplary embodiment, foot pedal 304 is operatively connected to operator control system 260 so that when some implements 180 are used, absence of pressure on pedal 304 automatically ceases operation of the implement 180. For example, if the implement is a mower, if the operator steps off the back of the platform 252 and is no longer exerting pressure on pedal 304, the mower blades automatically stop.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary platform suspension apparatus 300 removed from the power machine 100, 200. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, an exemplary apparatus 300 includes pivot frame 330 of FIG. 10A and platform assembly 326 of FIG. 10B. In an exemplary embodiment, pivot frame 330 includes two side plates 324 connected to front plate 310, lower plate 318 and rear member 334. In an exemplary embodiment, front plate 310 and lower plate 318 are formed integrally as an angle member. As shown in FIG. 10B, an exemplary platform assembly 326 includes platform 252, with pedal 304 thereon, attached to platform frame 328. In an exemplary embodiment, hinges 332 of platform frame 328 are attached at pivot joints 322 of pivot frame 330. In an exemplary embodiment, platform 252 has apertures 312 through the platform surface with raised, toothed perimeters. This construction decreases weight while increasing traction and allowing for shedding of debris and water. In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 4, 8 and 9, a mat 313 is positioned on the top surface of platform 252 to offer enhanced cushioning and traction. In an exemplary embodiment, mat 313 has apertures therethrough aligned with apertures 312 of platform 252.

In an exemplary embodiment, a first shock absorber 306 and a second shock absorber 308 are provided under the platform 252 and in front of the platform 252, respectively. Shock absorbers 306, 308 compress and recover to counteract jostling as the loader 200 traverses a bumpy ground surface. In exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second shock absorbers is configured as a tubular bumper formed of a compressible, resilient material such as rubber, polymers, and combinations thereof. Suitable bumpers can be obtained from Minor Rubber Company of Bloomfield, New Jersey. For each bumper 306, 308 a selection of a particular material, cross sectional configuration, thickness, and size depend on factors such as a desired stiffness of the suspension, a weight of expected operators and cost. The bumpers 306, 308 can comprise the same material or different materials. Moreover, they can have the same compression rate or different compression rates. While tubular bumpers are illustrated, other shock absorbers can also be used, including conical bumpers and springs, for example.

As shown in FIG. 7, in an exemplary embodiment, front bumper 308 is attachable to front plate 310 at one of a plurality of attachment features 314 with fastener 316. Similarly, lower bumper 306 is attachable to lower plate 318 through one of a plurality of attachment features 314 with fastener 316. These attachment features are illustrated as apertures through each of the plates 310, 318. Moreover, upper plate 320 and platform 252 can have aligned apertures therethrough to serve as attachment features 314 for bumper 306 that provide convenient access from a top of platform suspension apparatus 300. It is contemplated that other variable location attachment devices could also be used, including without limitation a slider, track and ratchet, ball screw, or clamps. These different placement options for each of the front bumper 308 and lower bumper 306 allow for customization for accommodating various weights of operators to be supported on platform 252 and/or standing position without changing out the bumpers 306, 308 themselves.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, upper plate 320 is provided above the lower bumper 306 and extends at a distance corresponding to lower plate 318 to provide two surfaces against which the lower bumper 306 is compressed. Thus, this upper plate 320 takes the brunt of the mechanical load from the platform 252 itself. While a particular configuration of upper and lower plates 320, 318 is illustrated, it is contemplated that these elements may have other configurations, particularly with an extension in a length parallel to the primary direction of travel of power machine 100, 200, to accommodate even more variability in operator weight, standing positon, terrain and suspension stiffness preference. As shown in FIGS. 6-9, in an exemplary embodiment, the angular relationship between front plate 310 and lower plate 318 is fixed, such as by attachment to side plates 324. However, the platform 252 and its attached upper plate 320 are able to pivot about the pivot joint 322 relative to the side plates 324 to which the front plate 310 and lower plate 318 are attached.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are side elevation views of a platform suspension apparatus 300 attached to a power machine 200, with the platform 252 in unloaded and loaded configurations, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, an unloaded platform 252 in FIG. 8 is slightly inclined at about 14 radial degrees from horizontal. As shown in FIG. 9, even while loaded, a slight inclination is maintained. This inclination induces an operator to lean forward toward the operator controls 262 rather than backward while standing.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bumpers 306, 308 are selected and positioned so that when an operator stands upon platform 252, compression of the bumpers 306, 308 is intermediate between the configurations of FIGS. 8 and 9. If the bumpers are completely flattened out, they will not be able to offer recoil support to the operator. With an intermediate compression level, the bumpers still have a range for compression and recovery during travel over a bumpy ground surface. Thus, the operator experiences a stable ride, even over unlevel ground surfaces, as the suspended platform moves back and forth about pivot joints 302, 322, cushioned by bumpers 306, 308 to attenuate bouncing experienced by the power machine 100, 200.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, with load and travel, side plate 324, front plate 310 and lower plate 318 swing about pivot joint 302. With this motion, front plate 310 compresses front bumper 308 against undercarriage 211 of loader 200. If only the front bumper 308 is provided in the platform assembly, this front bumper may flatten completely under load of a heavy operator, so that it no longer is able to absorb vibration and serve a suspension function for the operator. This may also occur when an operator stands at the front of the platform 252 rather than toward a back of the platform 252. Thus, the lower bumper 306 offers an additional means of resilient support for load upon platform 252.

As shown in FIG. 9, if the second pivot joint 322 were not provided, a loaded platform 252 at its front end would remain at a vertical level about even with a top of front plate 310. With the load as illustrated in FIG. 9, this might result in a less desirable rearward inclination of platform 252 relative to a horizontal ground surface. However, with the provision of the pivot joint 322, by which the platform 252 and its attached upper plate 320 pivot relative to the frame assembly of side plate 324, front plate 310, and lower plate 318, a slight forward tilt of the platform 252 is maintained with compression of lower bumper 306 by weight of the operator on platform 252. Thus, the apparatus 300 with dual bumpers 306, 308 offers an enhanced suspension effect on platform 252 with more accommodation for greater load placed upon platform 252. Moreover, the dual pivot construction maintains the slightly inclined orientation of the platform for enhanced stability.

The dual bumper structure of apparatus 300 also accommodates different operator positions on the platform 252, even with an operator of average weight. For example, when the operator stands forward on the platform and more directly above the lower bumper 306, the lower bumper 306 primarily reacts to this load. Conversely, when an operator stands at the back of the platform, near pivot joint 322, the front bumper 308 primarily reacts to the load. When the operator stands in the middle of the platform, at a location between the upper plate 320 and pivot joint 322, the weight load of the operator is reacted by both bumpers 306, 308 and rotation of the apparatus 300 is experienced about both pivot joint 302 and pivot joint 322.

Exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of an assembly and method are described. While these descriptions relate to the illustrative embodiments for ease of understanding, it is to be understood that the subject matter is not limited to these examples. An exemplary platform apparatus 300 is configured for attachment to a power machine 100, 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises first and second side plates 324, a front plate 310, a lower plate 318, a platform assembly 326 comprising a platform 252 and frame 328, and a first bumper 306. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the first and second side plates 324 is configured for pivotal attachment to the power machine 100, 200 at a first pivot joint 302. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the front plate 310 and lower plate 318 has a fixed orientation relative to each of the first and second side plates 324. In an exemplary embodiment, the frame 328 of the platform assembly 326 is attached to each of the first and second side plates 324 at a second pivot joint 322. In an exemplary embodiment, the first bumper 306 is disposed between the platform 252 and the lower plate 318.

In an exemplary embodiment, a second bumper 308 is attached to the front plate 310. In an exemplary embodiment, the lower plate 318 comprises a plurality of attachment features 314 configured for selective attachment of the first bumper 306. In an exemplary embodiment, an upper plate 320 is disposed between the platform 252 and the first bumper 306. In an exemplary embodiment, the first bumper 306 is tubular.

An exemplary method of supporting a load applied on a platform apparatus 300 of a power machine 100, 200 comprises applying the load onto the platform 252 and compressing the first bumper 306 between the platform 252 and the lower plate 318. An exemplary method comprises pivoting the platform assembly 326 about the second pivot 322 joint relative to the first and second side plates 324. In an exemplary embodiment, the platform apparatus 300 comprises a second bumper 308 disposed between the front plate 310 and frame 210 of the power machine 100, 200. An exemplary method comprises compressing the second bumper 308. An exemplary method comprises selectively attaching the first bumper 308 to one of a plurality of attachment features 318.

Although the subject of this disclosure has been described with reference to several embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, any feature disclosed with respect to one embodiment may be included in another embodiment, and vice-versa. All references mentioned in this disclosure are hereby incorporated by reference.

OPERATOR PLATFORM SUSPENSION WITH LOWER REACTION BUMPER

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BACKGROUND

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