Retention sleeve and retention system

Abstract

A retaining sleeve with an anti-rotation feature. In some implementations, a retaining sleeve may include a body that includes at least a partially annular configuration that defines a geometric retaining axis. The body may include an inner surface configured to rotatably receive an outer surface of a latch. The body may include a plurality of plates joined circumferentially together with respect to the geometric retaining axis, wherein a first plate of the plurality of plates includes a first leg joined to the first plate that extends in the opposite direction to the geometric retaining axis and configured to contact a latch cavity of the latch.The body may include an anti-rotation feature, disposed on the first plate, extending into the inner surface toward the geometric retaining axis, wherein the anti-rotation feature includes a locking surface configured to contact a locking skirt of the latch, wherein the locking surface is disposed at a first angle relative to a lower end of the first plate.

Description

1 / 40 “RETAINER SLEEVE AND RETENTION SYSTEM” Field of technique

[001] The present disclosure relates generally to soil penetration tools and, for example, to a retention sleeve with an anti-rotation feature. Background

[002] Earthmoving machines, such as, for example, excavators, wheel loaders, hydraulic mining loaders, cable loaders, bucket wheel excavators, bulldozers and dragline excavators, are generally used to excavate or penetrate earth or rock and / or move loose work material from one place to another on a work site. These earthmoving machines include various earthmoving implements, such as a bucket or a shovel, for excavating or moving work material. These implements may be subjected to extreme wear from abrasion or impacts experienced during earthmoving applications.

[003] To protect these implements against wear and thus extend their service life, various ground-penetrating tools, such as teeth, edge guards, and other wear members, can be fitted to earthmoving implements in areas where most abrasion and damaging impacts occur. These ground-penetrating tools are removablely attached to the implements using customized retention systems, so that worn or damaged ground-penetrating tools can be easily removed and replaced with new ones. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 8 / 56 2 / 40 on the ground. Vibrations or loads on implements or ground engaging tools can cause movement or rotation of the ground engaging tools. This movement or rotation can cause the ground engaging tool to rotate to an unlocked position, resulting in the ground engaging tool disengaging from the custom retention system and implements.

[004] US Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0378093 discloses a retaining sleeve for use with a locking mechanism in a ground-penetrating tool with a locking cavity, wherein the locking mechanism has an outer surface and a retaining recess. The retaining sleeve includes a skirt that extends partially around a geometric retaining axis, forming an inner surface shaped to rotatably receive the outer surface of the locking mechanism. The skirt includes a first plate, a second plate located adjacent to the first plate, and a circumferentially bent center that extends between the first and second plates relative to the geometric retaining axis. The retaining sleeve further includes a first leg attached to the first plate, which extends in the opposite direction to the geometric retaining axis, and is shaped to fit with the locking cavity of the ground-penetrating tool.The retaining sleeve additionally includes a second leg attached to the second plate, which extends in the opposite direction to the geometric axis of retention, and is shaped to fit with the locking cavity of the ground penetration tool.

[005] The retention sleeve of this disclosure solves one or more of the problems presented above and / or others. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 9 / 56 3 / 40 problems with the technique. Summary

[006] In some implementations, a retaining sleeve for use with a lock on a ground-penetrating tool with a locking cavity includes a body that includes at least a partially annular configuration defining a geometric retention axis, wherein the body includes: an inner surface configured to rotatably receive an outer surface of the lock; a plurality of plates joined circumferentially together with respect to the geometric retention axis, wherein a first plate of the plurality of plates includes a first leg joined to the first plate extending in the opposite direction to the geometric retention axis and configured to contact the locking cavity;and an anti-rotation feature, disposed on the first plate, extending inward from the inner surface towards the geometric axis of retention, wherein the anti-rotation feature includes a locking surface configured to contact a locking skirt of the latch, wherein the locking surface is disposed at a first angle relative to the lower end of the first plate.

[007] In some implementations, a retention sleeve for use with a lock on a ground-penetrating tool includes a plurality of plates joined together to form an annular shape around a geometric retention axis; an anti-rotation feature, disposed on an inner surface of a first plate of the plurality of plates, extending inward toward the geometric retention axis, wherein the anti-rotation feature includes a surface Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 10 / 56 4 / 40 locking mechanism configured to prevent rotation of the lock relative to the geometric axis of retention, wherein the locking surface is disposed at a first angle relative to a lower end of the first plate and the locking surface is substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the first plate; and a detaining projection extending from one side of a second plate of the plurality of plates configured to engage a detaining recess of the lock to retain the lock in a releasable manner.

[008] In some implementations, a retention system for a ground-penetrating tool includes a lock that includes: a head portion having a tool interface; a locking skirt extending from the head portion and including an outer surface, wherein the locking skirt includes an angled surface; and a retention sleeve that includes: a body that includes at least a partially annular configuration around a geometric retention axis; an anti-rotation feature, disposed on an inner surface of the body, extending inward toward the geometric retention axis, wherein the anti-rotation feature includes a locking surface configured to contact the angled surface of the locking skirt, wherein the locking surface is disposed at a first angle relative to the lower end of the body, wherein the first angle corresponds substantially to the angled surface;and a plurality of legs extending from an upper extremity of the body in the opposite direction to the geometric axis of retention, wherein at least two legs of the plurality of legs have different characteristics; Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 11 / 56 5 / 40 lengths. Brief description of the drawings

[009] Figure 1 is a perspective view diagram illustrating a wheel loader bucket having a plurality of ground engaging tools attached to it as described in this document.

[010] Figure 2 is a diagram of an example of an exploded perspective view of a set of teeth described in this document.

[011] Figure 3 is a diagram of an example cross-section of a portion of the tip of the tooth assembly described in this document.

[012] Figure 4 is a top perspective view of a latch of the retention system described in this document.

[013] Figure 5 is a bottom perspective view of the latch described in this document.

[014] The Figure is a front perspective view of a retaining sleeve described in this document.

[015] Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of the retaining sleeve described in this document.

[016] Figure 8 is a top view of the retaining sleeve described in this document.

[017] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a central flange, a plate and a leg described in this document.

[018] Figure 10 is a front view of the plate with an anti-rotation feature described in this document.

[019] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the plate with the anti-rotation feature described herein. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 12 / 56 6 / 40 document.

[020] Figure 12 is a top view of a latch and retaining sleeve assembly described in this document.

[021] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the locking and retaining sleeve assembly described in this document.

[022] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of an assembly of the tip, lock and retaining sleeve described in this document. Detailed description

[023] This disclosure relates to a retaining sleeve, which is applicable to any machine that includes a removable ground-penetrating tool. For example, the machine may be an excavator, a backhoe loader, a wheel loader, a hydraulic mining loader, a cable loader, a variable-speed steering loader, a tractor, a bucket wheel excavator, a bulldozer and / or a dragline excavator, among other examples.

[024] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a wheel loader bucket having a plurality of ground-engaging tools described in this document. Figure 1 illustrates an excavator bucket assembly 100 as an exemplary implement of an earthmoving machine. The excavator bucket assembly 100 includes a bucket 102 used for excavating work material in a known manner. The bucket 102 may include a variety of ground-engaging tools. For example, the bucket 102 may include a plurality of tooth assemblies 104 as ground-engaging tools. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 13 / 56 7 / 40 ground, fixed to a base edge 106 of the bucket 102. The tooth assemblies 104 can be attached to the bucket 102 using retention systems described herein. Although several embodiments of the present disclosure are described in connection with a particular ground-penetrating tool (e.g., tooth assembly 104), the retention systems and retention sleeves described herein can be applied to, or used in connection with, any other type of ground-penetrating tools or components. Furthermore, one or more features described in connection with one embodiment can be implemented in any of the other disclosed embodiments, unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[025] As indicated above, Figure 1 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 1.

[026] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a tooth assembly 104 described in this document. The tooth assembly 104 may include an adapter 200 configured to engage the base edge 106 of the bucket 102 or other suitable support structure of an implement. The tooth assembly 104 may also include a ground penetration tip, or tip, 300 formed to be attached to the adapter 200 in a removable manner. The tooth assembly 104 may additionally include a retention system 400 formed to secure the tip 300 to the adapter 200. The tip 300 withstands most of the impact and abrasion caused by penetration into the work material and wears out more quickly and breaks more frequently than the adapter. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 14 / 56 8 / 40 200. Consequently, multiple tips 300 can be attached to the adapter 200, wear out, and are replaced before the adapter 200 itself needs to be replaced. As described in more detail in this document, several exemplary embodiments of the retention system 400, consistent with the present disclosure, can facilitate the attachment of ground-penetrating tools and tips 300 to and from the adapter 200 attached to an implement.

[027] The adapter 200 may include a first mounting leg 202 and a second mounting leg 204 which define a recess 206 between them to receive the base edge 106. The adapter 200 may be secured in place on the base edge 106 by attaching the first mounting leg 202 and the second mounting leg 204 to the base edge 106 using any suitable connection method. For example, the mounting legs 202 and 204 and the base edge 106 may have corresponding holes (not shown) through which any suitable fasteners, such as dowels or rivets, may be inserted to hold the adapter 200 in place. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting legs 202 and 204 may be welded to the corresponding upper and lower surfaces of the base edge 106. Any other connection method and / or configuration known in the art may be used.For example, in some exemplary embodiments, an adapter 200 may be configured to use any of the retention systems 400 described in this document to attach the adapter 200 to a ground penetration tip 300.

[028] Adapter 200 may include a nose 208 that extends in a forward direction. The nose 208 may be Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 15 / 56 9 / 40 configured to be received in a mounting cavity 302 (shown in Figure 3) of tip 300. Nose 208 can be configured to support tip 300 during use of bucket 102 and facilitate retention of tip 300 in nose 208 when supporting the work material load.

[029] The nose 208 may include an integral column 210 extending from each lateral side 212 and 214. The column 210 may have various shapes and sizes. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the column 210 may have a frustoconical shape. As described in more detail in this document, the columns 210 may cooperate with the retention system 400 to secure the tip 300 to the adapter 200.

[030] The tip 300 may have several other shapes. For example, the tip 300 may generally taper as it extends forward. An upper surface 304 of the tip 300 may slope downward as it extends forward, and a lower surface 306 of the tip 300 may generally extend upward as it extends forward. Alternatively, the lower surface 306 may generally extend straight or downward as it extends forward. At a forward end of the tip 300, the tip 300 may have a wedge-shaped edge 308.

[031] Tip 300 can be attached to adapter 200 by means of the retention system 400. The retention system 400 may include a locking mechanism 500 and a retention sleeve 600. Tip 300 and / or adapter 200 may have various configurations to accommodate the locking mechanism 500 and the retention sleeve 600. For example, tip 300 may include a locking cavity 310 on the lateral sides 312 (or on each lateral side 312). Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 16 / 56 10 / 40 of tip 300) to house the lock 500 and the retaining sleeve 600. The lock 500 and the retaining sleeve 600 may be seated within the locking cavity 310 when mounted to tip 300. Tip 300 may also include a locking protrusion 314 extending outward from each locking cavity 310. The locking cavity 310 may include a shoulder 316 extending adjacent to the outer circumferential edges of the locking cavity 310. Although the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 2 has the locking cavity 310 and the locking protrusion 314 on each lateral side 312 of tip 300, tip 300 may have different numbers and / or arrangements of locking cavities 310 and locking protrusions 314.

[032] As indicated above, Figure 2 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 2.

[033] Figure 3 is a cross-section of a portion of the tip of the tooth assembly 104 shown in Figure 2, with a lock 500 and a retaining sleeve 600 positioned in a locking cavity 310 of the tip 300 described in this document. The tip 300 may define the mounting cavity 302 within the tip 300 which has a complementary configuration with respect to the nose 208 of the adapter 200. The tip 300 and / or the adapter 200 may have various configurations to accommodate the lock 500 and the retaining sleeve 600 therein. For example, the lock 500 and the retaining sleeve 600 can be seated within the lock cavity 310 when mounted to the tip 300.

[034] The lock 500 and the retaining sleeve 600 can be configured to fit within an inner surface 318 of the lock cavity 310 in a manner that allows the lock 500 to rotate at least partially around an axis. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 17 / 56 1 1 / 40 geometric rotation of the lock 502 (not shown in Figure 3) relative to the retaining sleeve 600. The retaining sleeve 600 may seat directly against the inner surface 318 of the locking cavity 310, and the lock 500 may seat against an inner surface 602 (shown in Figure 7) of the retaining sleeve 600. On a rear side of the locking cavity 310, the locking cavity 310 may open into a side slot 320 that extends rearward from the locking cavity 310 along an inner surface 322 of the side side 312. The side slot 320 may have a cross-section configured to allow passage of at least a portion of the column 210 of the adapter 200 being inserted from the rear end of the tip 300.

[035] As indicated above, Figure 3 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 3.

[036] Figure 4 is a top perspective view of the latch 500 of the retention system 400 described in this document. The latch 500 may include a latch skirt 504 with an outer surface 506 that may extend circumferentially around and concentrically with respect to the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502. The latch skirt 504 may have a substantially cylindrical or conical shape. The latch skirt 504 may have a detention recess 508 that may extend radially inward from the outer surface 506 of the latch skirt 504. The detention recesses 508 may include a concave surface, such as a curved surface of constant radius, that extends radially inward from the outer surface 506. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 18 / 56 12 / 40

[037] The lock 500 may include a head portion 510 attached to the lock skirt 504 adjacent to one end of the lock skirt 504. The head portion 510 may include a wall 512 extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502 and through the end of the lock skirt 504 adjacent to the head portion 510. The head portion 510 may include a projection 514 extending from the wall 512 in the opposite direction to the lock skirt 504 along the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502. The projection 514 may include a substantially cylindrical outer surface 516 extending around most of the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502 and a lock tab 518 extending radially outward relative to the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502. The lock 500 may include a tool interface 520 in the portion of head 510 to facilitate rotation of latch 500 around the geometric axis of rotation of latch 502.The tool interface 520 may include any type of features shaped to be engaged by a tool to apply torque to the latch 500 around the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502. The latch cavity 310 may provide an access opening for a tool to engage the tool interface 520.

[038] As indicated above, Figure 4 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 4.

[039] Figure 5 is a bottom perspective view of the 500 latch described in this document. The 500 latch can be configured to receive at least part of the 210 column of the 200 adapter. The 500 latch may include a locking slot. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 19 / 56 13 / 40 522 extending into the locking skirt 504. The locking slot 522 may have an open end 524 between two circumferential ends of the locking skirt 504 and a closed end 526 adjacent to a middle portion of the locking skirt 504. The locking slot 522 may have a size and shape such that the locking skirt 504 is configured to receive the column 210. An inner surface 528 of the locking skirt 504 may be inclined to fit with the column 210 adjacent to the closed end 526 of the locking slot 522.

[040] In some implementations, the wall 512 may completely enclose the side of the locking slot 522 adjacent to the head portion 510. The side of the head portion 510 opposite the locking slot 522 may include the projection 514 extending from the wall 512. The locking flap 518 may extend transversely relative to the direction that the locking slot 522 extends from the open end 524 to the closed end 526. In some implementations, at least one (or both) of the circumferential ends of the locking skirt 504 may be angled relative to a surface 530 of the locking slot 522. For example, a circumferential end of the locking skirt 504 may extend from the surface 530 at an angle 532. For example, the inner surface 528 of the locking skirt 504 may be inclined at an angle 532 (e.g., so as to (to fit with column 210). Angle 532 can be from 105 degrees to 125 degrees.

[041] As indicated above, Figure 5 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 5.

[042] Figure 6 is a front perspective view of Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 20 / 56 14 / 40 retaining sleeve 600 described in this document. Several of the elements shown are commonly shared elements, and to improve clarity and readability, some numerical references are not shown here and in other figures. The retaining sleeve 600 may have at least a partially annular configuration, defining a geometric retaining axis 604. For example, the retaining sleeve 600 may generally have a C shape. The retaining sleeve 600 may include a body 606 that extends along the entire C, which may be circumferentially around and concentric with the geometric retaining axis 604. Therefore, the body 606 may extend circumferentially around and be concentric with the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502 (shown in Figures 4 and 5) when the retaining sleeve 600 is mounted with the latch 500 in the latch cavity 310.Body 606 may form an annular shape, or a continuous C shape, extending partially around the geometric retaining axis 604. Body 606 may extend 180 degrees or more around the geometric retaining axis 604. In some examples, body 606 may extend approximately the same angular degree around the geometric retaining axis 604 as the inner surface 322 of the locking cavity 310 extends around the geometric rotation axis of the lock 502. Body 606 may be configured to receive the lock 500.

[043] The 606 body may include a plurality of plates, such as a first plate 608a, a second plate 608b, a third plate 608c, a fourth plate 608d, and a fifth plate 608e. In one implementation, there may be five plates 608a-e. However, in other implementations, there may be one, two, Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 21 / 56 15 / 40 three, four, five, six, seven or more plates. Each plate of the plurality of plates 608a-e may be substantially parallel to the geometric retaining axis 604. Alternatively, each plate of the plurality of plates 608a-e may be angled toward the geometric retaining axis 604 or in the opposite direction to the geometric retaining axis 604. The plurality of plates 608a-e may form the inner surface 602 (shown pointing to the third plate 608c) or form a portion of the inner surface 602. Each of the plurality of plates 608a-e may have a planar shape and may generally be rectangular. Alternatively, each of the plurality of plates 608a-e may have a curved shape.Each of the multiple 608a-e plates may include lower recesses and upper recesses to form a rectangle with concave curves on the edges of the rectangle (for example, to provide stress relief during the manufacturing and forming process of the 600 retaining sleeve).

[044] A plate (shown with the fourth plate 608d in Figure 6) may include a first side 610, a second side 612, an upper end 614 and a lower end 616 which form the sides of a generally rectangular shape of the fourth plate 608d. The descriptions given to the first side 610, the second side 612, the upper end 614 and the lower end 616 for the fourth plate 608d may be similarly used for the descriptions of a first side 610, a second side 612, an upper end 614 and a lower end 616 for the first plate 608a, the second plate 608b, the third plate 608c and / or the fifth plate 608e. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 22 / 56 16 / 40

[045] The plurality of plates 608a-e may be joined (e.g., circumferentially joined) in at least a partially annular configuration (e.g., the plurality of plates 608a-e may be joined to have, in general, a “C” shape). For example, the first side 610 of the second plate 608b may extend from the second side 612 of the first plate 608a. The plurality of plates 608a-e may each be joined by a central fold 618 (shown only between the fourth plate 608d and the fifth plate 608e for clarity). The central fold 618 may extend circumferentially from at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e to another of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The central fold 618 may, in general, be curved and extend, in general, parallel to the plurality. from plates 608a-ee to the geometric retaining axis 604.The fold (or folds) 618 can join the plurality of plates 608a-e to form a substantially solid and / or continuous body 606 (for example, in a configuration that is at least partially annular around the geometric retaining axis 604).

[046] The retaining sleeve 600 may include an anti-rotation feature 620. The anti-rotation feature may be disposed of in the body 606 of the retaining sleeve 600. For example, the anti-rotation feature 620 may be disposed of in a first plate of the plurality of plates 608a-e (shown as the fourth plate 608d in Figure 6). For example, the anti-rotation feature 620 may be disposed of in a plate, of the plurality of plates 608a-e, that is adjacent to the two plates of the plurality of plates 608a-e. In other words, the anti-rotation feature 620 may be disposed of in any plate 608b-d (for example, Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 23 / 56 17 / 40 but not on the first plate 608a or the fifth plate 608e). Alternatively, the anti-rotation feature 620 may be disposed on the first plate 608a or the fifth plate 608e. The anti-rotation feature 620 may extend inward from the inner surface 602 of the body 606 towards the geometric retaining axis 604. Although only one anti-rotation feature 620 is represented and described in this document, the retaining sleeve 600 may include multiple anti-rotation features 620.

[047] The anti-rotation feature 620 may include a locking surface 622. The locking surface 622 may be configured to contact the locking skirt 504 of the lock 500 (e.g., if the lock 500 rotates about the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502 when the retaining sleeve 600 is mounted with the lock 500 in the locking cavity 310, as described in more detail elsewhere in this document). The locking surface 622 may be a substantially flat surface (e.g., to prevent the lock 500 from rotating past the anti-rotation feature 620 about the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502). Alternatively, the locking surface 622 may be a surface that is at least partially curved. The locking surface may be substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 602 of the body 606 (e.g., and the fourth plate 608d).For example, the locking surface 622 may be a substantially flat surface and / or may be substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 602 to ensure that the lock 500 is unable to rotate past the anti-rotation feature 620 around the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502 without a certain amount. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 24 / 56 18 / 40 significant force or torque may be applied to the lock 500. The locking surface 622 may face a radial end 628 of the body 606.

[048] The locking surface 622 may be arranged at a first angle 624 (shown in Figure 10) relative to the lower end 616 of the fourth plate 608d. The locking surface 622 may be arranged radially at a second angle 626 (shown in Figure 8) relative to the radial end 628 of the body 606 and the geometric retaining axis 604. The size of the second angle 626 may correspond substantially to an amount of rotation that could cause the latch 500, when rotated about the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502, to move to an unlocked position. In other words, the size of the second angle 626 may be smaller than the amount of rotation that could cause the latch 500, when rotated about the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502, to move to an unlocked position.

[049] The anti-rotation feature 620 may include an enclosure 630. The enclosure 630 may define a body of the anti-rotation feature 620. The enclosure 630 may define a cavity 632 (e.g., a well) between the enclosure 630 and the inner surface 602. The thickness of the enclosure 630 may substantially correspond to the thickness of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The locking surface 622 may include a first hole 634 for the cavity 632. Alternatively, the locking surface 622 may be a solid surface. The locking surface 622 may have different shapes and / or geometries. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the locking surface may include Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 25 / 56 19 / 40 a first curve and a second curve extending in the opposite direction to the inner surface 602. The first curve and the second curve may have the same radius or they may have different radii. The first curve and the second curve may join with a flat edge to form the shape of the locking surface 622. Alternatively, the locking surface 622 may not have any curves (for example, it may have a rectangular shape or a square shape).

[050] The housing 630 of the anti-rotation feature 620 may have different shapes and / or geometries. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the housing 630 may slope from the locking surface 622 to the inner surface 602. In some examples, the housing 630 may include at least one curved edge 636 and at least one flat edge 638. The curved edge 636 may include one or more folds. In some examples, as shown in Figure 6, the curved edge 636 may include two folds. The curved edge 636 may include folds and have the same radius and / or folds that have different radii. The locking surface 622 may define the flat edge 638. For example, the housing 630 may have a substantially D-shape. Other shapes and geometries of the housing 630 are possible. For example, the 630 enclosure may not have any curved edges 636 and may have a rectangular shape.

[051] Body 606 may include one or more detaining projections 640a and 640b for engaging the corresponding detaining recesses 508 of latch 500. Body 606 may include detaining projections 640a and 640b that extend circumferentially from the first plate 608a and the fourth plate 608e. Detaining projections 640a and 640b may Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 26 / 56 20 / 40 can be located in various positions on the retaining sleeve 600. For example, the retaining projections 640a and 640b can be spaced approximately 180 degrees from each other with respect to the geometric retaining axis 604 at opposite ends of the “C” shaped retaining sleeve 600.

[052] Detention projections 640a and 640b may have various shapes. In an exemplary embodiment, each detention projection 640a and 640b may include a first detention portion 642, a second detention portion 644, and a third detention portion 646 (shown only in detention projection 640a in Figure 6 for clarity). Alternatively, detention projections 640a and 640b may have a single portion with a curvature of a constant radius. The first detention portion 642 may extend from the first plate 608a or the fifth plate 608e and have a concave shape relative to the geometric detention axis 604. Alternatively, the first detention portion 642 may be straight, have a convex shape, or may have a variable curvature with multiple radii. The second detention portion 644 may extend from the first detention portion 642 and have a convex shape with respect to the geometric detention axis 604.Alternatively, the second detention portion 644 may be straight and have a concave surface or may have a variable curvature with multiple radii. The third detention portion 646 may extend from the second detention portion 644, opposite the first detention portion 642. The third detention portion 646 may have a concave surface or a convex surface relative to the geometric axis of detention 604 and have a constant curvature or a variable curvature. The prison projections 640a and 640b. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 27 / 56 21 / 40 may include detention ends 648 that are spaced relative to each other at opposite circumferential ends of the body 606 and are at the ends of the third detention portions 646.

[053] The retaining sleeve 600 may include a first bend 650 (shown only with the fifth plate 608e for clarity) extending from each of the lower ends 616 of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The first bend 650 may extend flexibly into and generally be transverse from at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e with respect to the geometric retaining axis 604. The first bend 650 may be shaped to transition from being generally oriented parallel to at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e to being generally transverse to at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e.

[054] The retaining sleeve 600 may include a center tab 652 (shown only next to the third plate 608c for clarity) extending from at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The center tab 652 may extend from the first fold 650. The center tab 652 may generally extend parallel from the first fold 650 inward toward the geometric retaining axis 604. The center tab 652 may be D-shaped with the straight side joined to the first fold 650 or the lower end 616 of at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e and the curved side located opposite the straight side. The retaining sleeve 600 may include multiple center tabs 652.

[055] The retaining sleeve 600 may include an end tab 654 (shown only next to the fifth plate 608e Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 28 / 56 22 / 40 for clarity) or multiple end tabs 654 arranged close to one of the detaining ends 648 and extending from the first fold 650. The end tab 654 may extend from the lower end 616 of at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The end tab 654 may generally extend parallel from the first fold 650 inward toward the geometric retaining axis 604. The end tabs 654 may include protrusions 656 that may generally extend parallel and circumferentially in the opposite direction to the center tabs 652. The protrusions 656 may provide additional engagement with the locking skirt 504 of the lock 500 while the lock 500 is in a locked position. The central tabs 652 may be positioned circumferentially between the end tabs 654.

[056] The retaining sleeve 600 may include a plurality of legs 658a-e. For example, the plurality of legs 658a-e may include a first leg 658a, a second leg 658b, a third leg 658c, a fourth leg 658d, and a fifth leg 658e. For example, each leg 658a-e may extend from a plate of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The legs 658a-e are described in more detail in connection with Figures 7 and 9.

[057] As indicated above, Figure 6 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 6.

[058] Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of the retaining sleeve 600 described in this document. As shown in Figure 7, each of the legs 658a-e may include a second fold 660. As shown in Figure 7, the sleeve Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 29 / 56 23 / 40 retention sleeve 600 may include five legs. Alternatively, retention sleeve 600 may include two, three, four, six, seven or more legs 658a-e. Multiple legs 658a-e may correspond to multiple of the plurality of plates 608ae.

[059] Each of the legs 658a-e may include external surfaces 662, which collectively form a segmented frustoconical surface configured, generally, in a segmented “C” shape (or a segmented annular configuration). The legs 658a-e may be formed for engagement in the locking cavity 310 of the tip 300. The legs 658ae may be flexibly joined to the body 606, so that the retaining sleeve 600 is compressible for insertion into the locking cavity 310 and expandable when the retaining sleeve 600 is mounted within the locking cavity 310.

[060] The first leg 658a, the third leg 658c and the fifth leg 658e may include a second fold 660, a first extension 664, a third fold 666 and a second extension 668. Each leg 658a-e may be similarly shaped, with the differences in shape relating to a third fold 666 and the second extension 668 being included in one or more of the legs, such as the first leg 658a, the third leg 658c and / or the fifth leg 658e (for example, and not included in one or more other legs). For example, any other leg among the legs 658a-e may include a first fold 666 and a second extension 668. Alternatively, each of (or none of) the legs 658a-e may include a third fold 666 and a second extension 668. For example, the legs 658a-e that include the second extension 668 may have a length Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 30 / 56 24 / 40 is different from a 658a-e leg which does not include the second 668 extension.

[061] The third bend 666 can extend flexibly from the first extension 664. The third bend 666 can transition from outward-oriented to inward-oriented relative to the geometric retaining axis 604. The third bend 666 can have a constant radius that can be from 0.5 millimeters (mm) to 6.0 mm. The third bend 666 can transition from the first extension 664 to the second extension 668 at an angle. The angle can be from 40 degrees to 110 degrees relative to the first extension 664. The second extension 668 can extend downward and inward from the third bend 666 relative to the geometric retaining axis 604. The second extension 668 can extend from the first extension 664 opposite the first plate 608a. The first extension 664 may taper from wider near the third bend 666 or the first plate 608a to narrower near one end of the second extension 668.

[062] The body 606 of the retaining sleeve 600 may include a second hole 670. For example, the fourth plate 608d may include the second hole 670. In other words, the plate of the plurality of plates 608a-e that includes the anti-rotation feature 620 may include the second hole 670. The second hole 670 may define a second opening for the cavity 632 defined by the housing 630 of the anti-rotation feature 620. A shape of the second hole 670 may correspond to a shape of the housing 630 of the anti-rotation feature 620. For example, the second hole 670 may have a substantially D shape, with a flat edge and a curved edge. Alternatively, the second hole 670 Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 31 / 56 25 / 40 may not have any curved edges (for example, they may be rectangular in shape). For example, the anti-rotation feature 620 may be a vane formed from the fourth plate 608d, such that the first hole 634 and the second hole 670 provide openings for the cavity 632 defined by the housing 630 of the anti-rotation feature 620. In some examples, the anti-rotation feature 620 may be a punch in the fourth plate 608d. The first hole 634 and the second hole 670 may define a passage or hole through the fourth plate 608d.

[063] As indicated above, Figure 7 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 7.

[064] Figure 8 is a top view of the retaining sleeve 600 described in this document. As shown in Figure 8, the retaining sleeve 600 may have a substantially annular shape around the geometric retaining axis 604. For example, the retaining sleeve 600 may form a “C” shape around the geometric retaining axis 604. The retaining sleeve 600 may form the substantially annular shape through the central fold (or folds) 618 that joins the plurality of plates 608a-e.

[065] The anti-rotation feature 620 may be radially arranged at the second angle 626 relative to the radial end 628 (e.g., and / or a detent projection 640a or 640b) of the body 606 and the geometric detent axis 604. For example, the locking surface 622 (e.g., a front radial edge of the locking surface 622) may be arranged at the second angle 626 relative to the radial end 628 (e.g., and / or a detent projection 640a) Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 32 / 56 26 / 40 or 640b) of the body 606 and the geometric retaining axis 604. A size of the second angle 626 may correspond substantially to an amount of rotation that could cause the latch 500, when rotated about the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502, to move to an unlocked position. In other words, the size of the second angle 626 may be smaller than the amount of rotation that could cause the latch 500, when rotated about the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502, to move to an unlocked position. For example, the second angle 626 may be from 30 degrees to 37.5 degrees.

[066] As indicated above, Figure 8 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 8.

[067] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the center flange 652, the fourth plate 608d and the fourth leg 658d described in this document. The second leg 658b can be shaped similarly to the fourth leg 658d, and similar features described in connection with the fourth leg 658d can be used for the features of the second leg 658b.

[068] The first bend 650 can transition from the center flap 652 to the lower end 616 of the fourth plate 608d at a third angle 672. The third angle 672 can be from 85 degrees to 90 degrees relative to the fourth plate 608d. The second bend 660 can extend flexibly from the upper end 614 of the fourth plate 608d, opposite the first bend 650. The second bend 660 can extend outwards relative to the geometric retaining axis 604. The second bend 660 can be formed with a constant radius that can be from 0.5 mm to 6.0 mm. The second bend 660 can transition from Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, p. 33 / 56 27 / 40 fourth plate 608d to the first extension 664 at a fourth angle 674. The fourth angle 674 can be from 20 degrees to 50 degrees relative to the fourth plate 608d.

[069] The first extension 664 may extend in the opposite direction to the second bend 660 or the fourth plate 608d and outward from the second bend 660 or the fourth plate 608d relative to the geometric retaining axis 604. The first extension 664 may taper from wider near the second bend 660 or the fourth plate 608d to narrower opposite the fourth plate 608d or near one end of the first extension 664. For example, the tapering may be from 5 degrees to 10 degrees. The first extension 664 may have a constant radius curvature, such as a radius of 60 mm to 65 mm. The first extension 664 may have a concave curvature relative to the fourth plate 608d. In another example, the first extension 664 may be straight or have a variable curvature.

[070] As shown in Figure 9, the anti-rotation feature 620 can extend from the fourth plate 608d (or from the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600) towards the geometric retaining axis 604. For example, the anti-rotation feature 620 can extend from 2 mm to 5 mm from the fourth plate 608d (or from the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600).

[071] As indicated above, Figure 9 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 9.

[072] Figure 10 is a front view of the fourth plate 608d with the anti-rotation feature 620 described in this document. Figure 10 shows a cutaway view of the retaining sleeve 600, which shows only the fourth plate 608d and a Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 34 / 56 28 / 40 portion of the fifth plate 608e for clarity.

[073] The locking surface 622 of the anti-rotation feature 620 may be disposed at the first angle 624 relative to the lower end 616 of the fourth plate 608d. The first angle 624 may be from 20 degrees to 35 degrees. In some implementations, the first angle 624 may be approximately 27.5 degrees. The first angle 624 may correspond substantially to the angle 532 of the locking skirt 504 of the lock 500. For example, the first angle 624 and the angle 532 may be supplementary angles (so that a sum of the first angle 624 and the angle 532 is approximately 180 degrees).This may allow for an increased locking surface area when the locking surface 622 contacts a circumferential end of the locking skirt 504 (for example, the surface area of ​​the locking surface 622 that contacts the circumferential end of the locking skirt 504 may be larger due to the fact that the first angle 624 and angle 532 are approximately supplementary angles). Alternatively, the first angle 624 may be greater than 35 degrees. For example, the locking surface 622 of the anti-rotation feature 620 may be substantially perpendicular to the lower end 616 of the fourth plate 608d.

[074] The 630 housing of the 620 anti-rotation feature may include one or more curved edges 636. The one or more curved edges 636 may have a constant radius or may have variable radii. The one or more curved edges 636 may have a constant radius of 0.5 mm to 2 mm. The 630 housing may have a depth of 676 and a width of 678. The depth of 676 may Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pp. 35 / 56 29 / 40 can be from 3 mm to 8 mm. The width 678 can define a locking surface length 622. The width 678 can be from 5 mm to 11 mm. The depth 676 and / or the width 678 can be a function of, or may depend on, a retaining sleeve size 600 and / or a locking latch size 500.

[075] The anti-rotation feature 620 may be disposed at a first distance 680 from the lower end 616 of the fourth plate 608d. The first distance 680 may be from 0.5 mm to 4 mm. The anti-rotation feature 620 may be disposed approximately in the center of the fourth plate 608d in relation to the first side 610 and the second side 612. For example, the anti-rotation feature 620 may be disposed at a second distance 682 from the second side 612 of the fourth plate 608d. The second distance 682 may be from 1.5 mm to 4.5 mm.

[076] As indicated above, Figure 10 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 10.

[077] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the fourth plate 608d with the anti-rotation feature 620 described in this document. For example, the cross-sectional view of the fourth plate can be from a plane AA shown in Figure 10.

[078] As shown in Figure 11, the locking surface 622 of the anti-rotation feature 620 can be substantially flat and / or perpendicular to the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600. As a result, the anti-rotation feature can be configured to prevent rotation of the latch 500 relative to the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502 due to the fact that the latch 500 can rotate passing through the anti-rotation feature 620 only if the feature Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 36 / 56 30 / 40 anti-rotation 620 fail (for example, the flat and / or perpendicular locking surface 622 may not allow the latch 500 to rotate past the anti-rotation feature 620 unless sufficient torque is applied to the latch 500 to cause the anti-rotation feature 620 to fail).

[079] The anti-rotation feature 620 may be a blade or a punch in the fourth plate 608d. For example, the anti-rotation feature 620 may include the first hole 634 in the locking surface 622 and the second hole 670 in the body 606 and / or in the fourth plate 608d of the retaining sleeve 600. The anti-rotation feature 620 may define an opening or a passage through the fourth plate 608d (for example, from a rear side of the fourth plate 608d to the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600). The anti-rotation feature 620 may include the housing 630 which defines the cavity 632. The housing 630 and / or the locking surface 622 may extend in the opposite direction to the inner surface 602 towards the geometric retaining axis 604. For example, the housing 630 and / or the locking surface 622 may extend from 2 mm to 5 mm in the opposite direction to the inner surface 602.

[080] The casing 630 may have a thickness that substantially corresponds to a thickness of the fourth plate 608d. For example, the casing 630 may extend from the fourth plate 608d. For example, the casing 630 may extend from the inner surface 602 of the fourth plate 608d to the locking surface 622. As shown in Figure 11, the casing 630 may be inclined. For example, the casing 630 may include at least one bend. As shown in Figure 11, the casing 630 may Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 37 / 56 31 / 40 include a fourth fold 684 and a fifth fold 686. The fourth fold 684 may extend from the fourth plate 608d. The fourth fold 684 may be a convex fold relative to the geometric retaining axis 604. The fourth fold 684 may have a constant radius that may be from 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. The fifth fold 686 may extend from the fourth fold 684 to the locking surface 622 (or to a flat section of the housing 630). The fourth fold 684 may be a concave fold relative to the geometric retaining axis 604. The fourth fold 684 may have a constant radius that may be from 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm. Alternatively, the housing 630 may include a single fold or no folds. For example, the housing 630 may have a rectangular shape instead of an inclined or curved shape.

[081] As indicated above, Figure 11 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 11.

[082] Figure 12 is a top view of an assembly of the latch 500 and retaining sleeve 600 described in this document. Figure 12 represents the latch 500 in a locked position. The body 606 of the retaining sleeve 600 may include a continuous inner surface 602 facing the geometric retaining axis 604. The inner surface 602 may be formed by the plurality of plates 608a-ee central fold (or folds) 618. The latch 500 may be configured to engage with the inner surface 602. For example, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the latch 500 may include a latch skirt 504 with an outer surface 506 that has substantially the same profile as the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600. The outer surface 506 may be concentric with and / or extend circumferentially around the geometric axis. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pp. 38 / 56 32 / 40 rotation of the latch 502. The latch skirt 504 and the outer surface 506 may extend only partially around the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502. The latch 500 may be configured within the retaining sleeve 600 with the outer surface 506 of the latch 500 fitted to the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600. When the latch 500 is positioned within the retaining sleeve 600, the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502 may coincide with the geometric axis of the retaining sleeve 604.

[083] The latch 500 may include one or more detention recesses 508 configured to engage the corresponding detention projections 640a and 640b of the detention sleeve 600 to hold the latch 500 in a releasable manner in predetermined rotational positions around the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502 (e.g., in the locked position). The detention recesses 508 may have a shape configured to fit with the detention projections 640a and 640b. Consequently, the latch 500 can be positioned in the retaining sleeve 600 with the outer surface 506 fitted against the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600 and with the detention projections 640a and 640b extending into the detention recesses 508. The retaining sleeve 600 can be configured so as to allow the detention projections 640a and 640b to engage and / or disengage the detention recesses 508.For example, the 600 retention sleeve may be constructed at least partially of a flexible material, including, but not limited to, a plastic or elastomeric material. In some implementations, the 600 retention sleeve may be constructed entirely of such a flexible material. Additionally or alternatively, the retention sleeve... Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, page 39 / 56 33 / 40 600 retaining sleeves can be constructed from self-lubricating material that can exude or release lubricating substance. As another example, the 600 retaining sleeve can be produced from metal, such as steel. A 600 retaining sleeve produced from such material can exhibit low friction while maintaining dimensional stability.

[084] As indicated above, Figure 12 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 12.

[085] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the locking assembly 500 and retaining sleeve 600 described in this document. Figure 13 represents the locking assembly 500 in a rotated position. The locking assembly 500 can be installed with the retaining sleeve 600 in the locking cavity 310 with the outer surface 506 of the locking assembly 500 engaged with the center tab(s) 652, the end tab(s) 654, and the inner surface 602. When the locking assembly 500 is arranged in this position, the open end 524 of the locking slot 522 can be facing backward, as shown in Figure 3. This position allows for sliding insertion and removal of the column 210 into and out of the locking slot 522 through the open end 524. Consequently, this position of the locking assembly 500 can be termed an unlocked position.

[086] To lock column 210 within the locking slot 522, the lock 500 can be rotated relative to the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502 until a locked position is reached. In the locked position, the portion of the locking skirt 504 adjacent to the closed end 526 can prevent the sliding movement of column 210 relative to the locking slot 522, thus preventing, Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pp. 40 / 56 34 / 40 thus, the sliding movement of the 300 tip in relation to the 200 adapter.

[087] The anti-rotation feature 620 of the retaining sleeve 600 can be configured to allow the latch 500 to be rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position. For example, due to the fact that the housing 630 of the anti-rotation feature 620 is inclined or curved, the latch 500 can be rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position when sufficient torque is applied to the latch 500. However, the anti-rotation feature 620 of the retaining sleeve 600 can be configured to prevent the latch 500 from rotating from the locked position to the unlocked position. For example, as shown in Figure 13, the locking surface 622 can prevent rotation of the latch 500 past the anti-rotation feature 620.For example, due to the fact that the locking surface 622 is substantially flat and / or perpendicular to the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600, the lock 500 may be prevented or blocked from rotating past the anti-rotation feature 620 around the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502. For example, in some cases, vibrations or force may cause the detent projections 640a, 640b and / or the detent recesses 508 to move apart and disengage from each other. When the detention projections 640a, 640b and the detention recesses 508 are disengaged from each other, the outer surface 506 of the locking skirt 504 can slide along the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600 as the lock 500 rotates around the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502. The anti-rotation feature 620 can block such rotation of the lock 500 to prevent the lock from... Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pp. 41 / 56 35 / 40 500 inadvertently rotate to the unlocked position.

[088] As indicated above, Figure 13 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 13.

[089] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of an assembly of the tip 300, the lock 500 and the retaining sleeve 600 described in this document. The retaining sleeve 600 can be formed to fit with the inner surface 318 of the locking cavity 310. For example, the retaining sleeve 600 can include legs 658a-e that form a frustoconical shape configured to fit with a corresponding frustoconical portion of the inner surface 318 in the locking cavity 310. Therefore, the legs 658a-e can be configured to hold the retaining sleeve 600 and / or the lock 500 within the locking cavity 310.

[090] As indicated above, Figure 14 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from what is described in relation to Figure 14. Industrial applicability

[091] The 400 retention system and ground-engaging tools described in this document may be applicable to various earthmoving machines, such as excavators, wheel loaders, hydraulic mining loaders, cable loaders, bucket wheel excavators, bulldozers, and dragline excavators. When installed, the 400 retention system and ground-engaging tools described in this document may protect various implements associated with earthmoving machines from wear in areas where the most damaging abrasions and impacts occur, and Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pp. 42-56 36 / 40 thus, extending the useful life of the implements.

[092] Some implementations described in this document enable a secure and reliable attachment of ground-penetrating tools to various earthmoving implements. For example, the retention system 400 may include the lock 500 and the retention sleeve 600. To attach the tip 300 to the adapter 200, the lock 500 and the retention sleeve 600 can be mounted in the locking cavity 310. The locking cavity 310 opens into the rearward-extending side slot 320, which allows the passage of the adapter 200 column 210. A column 210 is inserted into the locking slot 522, the lock 500 can rotate around the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502 until a locked position. In this position, the portion of the locking skirt 504 adjacent to the closed end 526 can prevent the column 210 from sliding in and out of the locking slot 522, thus preventing the sliding movement of the tip 300 relative to the adapter 200.In the locked position, the detent recesses 508 of the lock 500 can engage the detent projections 640a and 640b of the retaining sleeve 600, which can releasably hold the lock 500 in the locked position.

[093] The anti-rotation feature 620 of the retaining sleeve 600 may allow the latch 500 to be rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position. For example, the angled housing 630 of the anti-rotation feature 620 may allow the latch 500 to be rotated over and / or through the anti-rotation feature 620 and into the locked position. The anti-rotation feature 620 may be configured to prevent rotation of the latch 500 around the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502 from the locked position to the unlocked position. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pp. 43 / 56 37 / 40 For example, due to the fact that the detaining projections 640a, 640b can be held in a releasable manner with the latch 500 in position, the latch 500 can be disengaged from the detaining projections 640a, 640b and can rotate around the geometric axis of rotation of the latch 502 (for example, due to vibrations or other force not intended to rotate the latch 500 from the locked position). The locking surface 622 can be configured to contact a circumferential end of the latch skirt 504 to prevent or block the rotation of the latch 500.

[094] For example, the locking surface 622 may be a substantially flat surface and / or the locking surface 622 may be substantially perpendicular to the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600. As a result, the locking surface 622, when the circumferential end of the locking skirt 504 comes into contact with the locking surface 622, may prevent rotation of the lock 500. Furthermore, the locking surface 622 may be disposed at the first angle 624 that corresponds substantially to the angle 532 of the circumferential end of the locking skirt 504. As a result, when the circumferential end of the locking skirt 504 comes into contact with the locking surface 622, there may be a larger contact surface area between the circumferential end of the locking skirt 504 and the locking surface 622.This larger surface area can provide greater locking force, improving the ability of the anti-rotation feature 620 to prevent rotation of the lock 500 around the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502. For example, to detach the tip 300 from the adapter 200, sufficient torque is required. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pp. 44 / 56 38 / 40 needs to be applied to the 500 lock to cause the 620 anti-rotation feature to fail. In other words, the 500 lock may not be able to inadvertently rotate by passing the 620 anti-rotation feature to an unlocked position. This improves the ability of the 400 retention system, the 500 lock, and / or the 600 retention sleeve to ensure that the 300 tip remains fixed to the 200 adapter.

[095] The legs 658a-e of the retaining sleeve 600 can be configured to engage with the inner surface 318 of the locking cavity 310 of the tip 300. The lock 500 can be configured to engage with the inner surface 602 of the retaining sleeve 600. The first bend 650, the second bend 660, the first extension 664, the second extension 668, and the third bend 666 are configured to provide flexibility and a spring-like effect to the body 606. The legs 658a-e can help accommodate variations in the dimensions of the lock 500 and the locking cavity 310. The legs 658a-e can be configured to produce a compressive force against the locking cavity 310 to hold the lock 500 in place. For example, the first fold (or folds) 650 can be configured, when flexed, to stimulate the plurality of plates 608a-e to induce a compressive force against the outer surface 506.The second fold (or folds) 660 can be configured, when flexed, to induce a compressive force against the inner surface 318 of the locking cavity 310 to keep the retaining sleeve 600 centered around the geometric axis of rotation of the lock 502. The third fold 666 can be configured, when flexed, to induce a compressive force against the inner surface 318 of the locking cavity 310 to prevent the sleeve from... Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pp. 45 / 56 39 / 40 retention 600 and the 500 lock change positions or fail during use.

[096] The aforementioned disclosure provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive nor to limit implementations to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications and variations may be made in light of the above disclosure or may be acquired from the practice of the implementations. Additionally, any of the implementations described herein may be combined unless the aforementioned disclosure expressly provides a reason why one or more implementations cannot be combined. Although specific combinations of features are mentioned in the claims and / or disclosed in the descriptive report, these combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of multiple implementations. Although each dependent claim listed below may directly depend on only one claim, the disclosure of multiple implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with the other claims in the set of claims.

[097] As used in this document, a and an and a set are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with one or more. Additionally, as used in this document, the article the / a is intended to include one or more items mentioned in connection with the article the / a and may be used interchangeably with one or more. Additionally, the phrase based on is intended to mean based, at least in part, on, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Also, as used in Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pages 46 / 56 40 / 40 in this document, the term "or" is intended to be inclusive when used in a series and may be used interchangeably with "and / or," unless explicitly stated otherwise (for example, if used in combination with any one of or only one of). Additionally, spatially relative terms, such as "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and similar terms, may be used in this document to facilitate the description of the relationship of an element or feature to another element (or elements) or feature (or features) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the apparatus, device, and / or element in use or operation in addition to the orientation represented in the figures.The device can be oriented in another way (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used in this document can be similarly interpreted appropriately. Petition 870250106156, dated 11 / 19 / 2025, pp. 47 / 56

Claims

1 / 4 CLAIMS 1. Retaining sleeve, for use with a lock (500) in a ground penetration tool with a locking cavity (310), comprising: a body (606) that includes at least a partially annular configuration defining a geometric retaining axis (604), wherein the body (606) includes: an inner surface (602) configured to rotatably receive an outer surface (506) of the lock (500); a plurality of plates (608a-e) joined circumferentially together with respect to the geometric retaining axis (604), wherein a first plate (608d) of the plurality of plates includes a first leg (658d) joined to the first plate (608d) that extends in the opposite direction to the geometric retaining axis (604) and configured to contact the locking cavity (310);and an anti-rotation feature (620) disposed on the first plate (608d) and extending inward from the inner surface (602) towards the geometric retaining axis (604), the retaining sleeve being characterized in that the anti-rotation feature (620) includes a locking surface (622) configured to contact a locking skirt 504 of the lock (500), the locking surface being disposed at a first angle relative to the lower end of the first plate (608d) and the anti-rotation feature comprising a housing (630) extending radially away from the locking surface and sloping from the locking surface towards the inner surface, defining a cavity.

2. Retaining sleeve, according to claim 1, Petition 870260050553, dated 05 / 27 / 2026, page 9 / 19 2 / 4 characterized in that the anti-rotation feature (622) is radially arranged at a second angle (626) relative to a radial end (628) of the body (606) and the geometric retaining axis (604).

3. Retaining sleeve, according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking surface comprises a first hole (634) that defines a first entry to a cavity defined by an anti-rotation housing (630) (620).

4. Retaining sleeve, according to claim 3, characterized in that the first plate (608d) comprises a second hole (670) which defines a second opening for a cavity defined by an anti-rotation feature housing (630) (620).

5. Retaining sleeve, according to claim 1, characterized in that the body (606) comprises a retaining projection (640a) extending from one side of at least one of the plurality of plates (608ae), wherein at least one of the plurality of plates is not adjacent to the two plates of the plurality of plates (608a-e) and the retaining projection (640a) is configured to engage a retaining recess of the latch, so as to retain the latch in a releasable manner.

6. Retaining sleeve, according to claim 1, characterized in that the first plate (608d) is adjacent to two plates of the plurality of plates.

7. Retention system, for a ground-penetrating tool, comprising: a lock (500) comprising: a head portion (510) having a tool interface (520); a locking skirt (504) extending from the head portion (510) and comprising an outer surface (506), wherein the locking skirt (504) comprises an angled surface; and a retaining sleeve (600) comprising: a body (606) comprising at least a partially annular configuration around a geometric retaining axis (604); a plurality of legs (658a-e) extending from an upper end (614) of the body (606) in the opposite direction to the geometric axis of retention (604), with at least two legs of the plurality of legs having different lengths;and an anti-rotation feature (622) disposed on an inner surface (602) of the body (606), which extends inward toward the geometric retention axis (604), the retention system being characterized in that the anti-rotation feature (622) includes a locking surface (622) configured to contact the angled surface of the locking skirt (604), the locking surface (604) being disposed at a first angle (624) relative to a lower end (616) of the body (606), the first angle (624) corresponding substantially to the angled surface.

8. Retention system according to claim 7, characterized in that the body (606) additionally includes a plurality of plates (608a-e), and the anti-rotation feature (620) is disposed in at least one plate (608d) of the plurality of plates (608a-e).

9. Retention system, according to claim 7, Petition 870260050553, dated 05 / 27 / 2026, page 11 / 19 4 / 4 characterized in that the anti-rotation feature (620) extends to a distance from the inner surface (602) of the body (606), this distance being from 2 millimeters to 5 millimeters.

10. Retention system, according to claim 7, characterized in that the anti-rotation feature (620) includes a housing (630) that defines a cavity (632) extending from the inner surface (602) of the body (606) towards the geometric retention axis (604), wherein the housing (630) has a curved edge (636) and a flat edge (638), wherein the locking surface (622) defines the flat edge (638).

11. Retention system, according to claim 7, characterized in that the retention sleeve (604) further includes a retention projection (640a) extending from a radial end of the body (606), configured to engage a retention recess of the latch (500), so as to retain the latch (500) in a releasable manner and wherein the anti-rotation feature (622) is configured to block rotation of the latch relative to the geometric retention axis (604).

12. Retention system according to claim 7, characterized in that the anti-rotation feature (622) includes a housing (630) that defines a cavity (632), wherein the locking surface (622) includes a first hole (634) for the cavity (632), and wherein the body (606) includes a second hole (670) for the cavity (632). Petition 870260050553, dated 05 / 27 / 2026, page 12 / 19

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