US 12,276,081 B2
Lubrication distribution system for machine with kinematic linkages
Dragos Marinescu, Montgomery, IL (US); Brian C. Howson, Bolingbrook, IL (US); Matthew J. Fritzke, Watertown, MN (US); and Matthew T. Hansen, Big Rock, IL (US)
Assigned to Caterpillar Inc., Peoria, IL (US)
Filed by Caterpillar Inc., Peoria, IL (US)
Filed on Jun. 6, 2022, as Appl. No. 17/833,390.
Prior Publication US 2023/0392348 A1, Dec. 7, 2023
Int. Cl. E02F 9/08 (2006.01); F16N 7/38 (2006.01); F16N 25/00 (2006.01); F16N 29/02 (2006.01); E02F 3/34 (2006.01)
CPC E02F 9/0858 (2013.01) [E02F 9/0841 (2013.01); F16N 7/38 (2013.01); F16N 25/00 (2013.01); F16N 29/02 (2013.01); E02F 3/34 (2013.01)] 22 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. A machine comprising:
a first kinematic joint, wherein the first kinematic joint is lubricated based on a first schedule;
a second kinematic joint, wherein the second kinematic joint is lubricated based on a second schedule, wherein the first schedule is different than the second schedule;
a lubricant pump configured to pump a lubricant; and
a distribution valve in communication with the lubricant pump, the distribution valve having a first fluid outlet configured to supply the lubricant from the lubricant pump to the first kinematic joint and a second fluid outlet configured to supply the lubricant from the lubricant pump to the second kinematic joint,
wherein the first fluid outlet and the second fluid outlet are connected to one or more control valves for separately controlling the flow of lubricant to the first kinematic joint and the second kinematic joint, and
wherein at least one of the first fluid outlet or the second fluid outlet is connected to at least two of the control valves.