Patent ID: 7673403
Filing Date: 2010-03-09
Classification: E02F

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for enabling a machine operator to connect an attachment to an earth moving machine without operator assistance from on the ground including an operator positionable bucket having an open face with a bucket edge and side walls, comprising: a symmetrical pair of axially aligned and horizontally opposite connecting bosses mounted on the side walls; a tooth member extending from the bucket edge; an attachment for connection to the machine, the attachment including a lateral structural member with an implement extending downwardly therefrom, the implement having a forward direction and a rearward direction; a pair of spaced apart open hooks extending upwardly from the lateral structural member, the openings thereof facing the forward direction and being made to engage the connecting bosses, with each open hook including a ramp portion leading from the open face to a seat, an inwardly curved point extending back toward the ramp portion, and opposing the seat, so that the seats engage the connecting bosses when the attachment is connected and the inwardly curved, extended points support the attachment and prevent generally vertical disengagement thereof; and at least one pocket, mounted on the forward surface of the lateral member and is located to loosely engage the extended tooth member so that the open hook can receive the boss and then maintain the attachment in a generally vertical orientation, when the bosses and open hooks connect the attachment to the bucket.