DESIGN NOTES Edited by Mike Santora • Associate Editor
Auto-Dock Systems: The future is now
Center Auto-Dock
Advances in hydraulic connection technology are again evolving within mobile machinery and tool attachment design while positively impacting professional use. The increased demands of worksite productivity and efficiency by the expert user have challenged manufacturers of machines, attachments, and component suppliers with technological improvements. After all, “time is money.” This article focuses on the advances of the autodock system — What is it, what is causing this demand, and how is it impacting manufacturers and professionals? To better understand how auto-dock systems provide much-needed support, let’s review the evolution of hydraulic quick connects.
ISO A/B “poppet” quick connect coupling
Often termed the general-purpose quick connect, its basic design was only to offer an economical means to connect and disconnect hydraulic lines between machines and tools and attachments. This basic quick connect coupling has been in use for more than 50 years. 16
FLUID POWER WORLD
8 • 2020
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ISO 16028 “flat Face” quick connect coupling
Demand required the introduction of a no-spill/ non-drip quick disconnect and easier “one-handed” connection — to eliminate oil loss and reduce contamination to the hydraulic system. Eventually, a residual pressure elimination nipple was introduced to ease concerns with difficulty in connecting attachments from thermal expansion.
Screw-to-connect coupling
The development of heavier duty machines increased concerns with vibration damage and surge flow issues. A screw-to-connect coupling allowed a quick break for heavier duty equipment while withstanding the difficult application effects of vibration and surge flows
