pin assembly

Abstract

A pin assembly for a component, such as a trunnion mount, includes a pin received in a pin hole of the component and a retainer received in a retainer opening of the component to releasably secure the pin in the pin hole. The retainer can be secured to the pin so that the pin and lock assembly rotate as a single component.

Description

[0001] Related Applications Cross Reference To

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 971,900, filed on February 7, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and forms part of this document. Background Technology

[0003] Pins are typically used to engage components that rotate relative to each other. The pin passes through an opening in each component and is held in place by mechanical means such as friction or by using a retainer on the pin or component. As the components pivot, the sides defining the opening and the pin surface form a supporting surface.

[0004] Mining equipment widely uses pins to engage oversized components used in very rough environments. Dragline excavation systems have long been used for mining and earthmoving operations. Unlike other excavating machines, the dragline bucket is controlled and supported only by rigging components such as cables and chains. To a large extent, the stability and performance of the bucket during operation must derive from the construction of the bucket and rigging components.

[0005] Figure 1 A dragline bucket system 10 for use in open-pit mining operations is shown, the system having rigging for moving the bucket. The rigging carries extreme loads as the bucket is pulled to collect soil and to lift the full bucket. The bucket 12 is pulled forward by a traction chain 16, which is attached to a towing device 18 at the front of the bucket via a traction link 14. Teeth 15 on the lower lip engage and initially collect soil into the bucket.

[0006] Once full, the bucket 12 is lifted by cables connected to an upper lifting sling assembly 20, which is connected to the bucket via an upper lifting chain 22 and a lower lifting chain 24 connected to a trunnion or trunnion bracket 26 of the bucket 12. The connection between the cables, chains, and the bucket includes one or more pins for securing the sling components to adjacent sling components.

[0007] A dragline bucket trunnion or trunnion bracket is an accessory mounted on the inner or outer wall of the bucket, and the lower lifting chain 24 is connected to the dragline bucket trunnion or trunnion bracket. In the illustrated example, the trunnion bracket 26 is located on the outer wall. The trunnion position is calculated based on the center of gravity of the bucket 12 so as to support the load of the bucket 12 tilted backward at a certain angle in the air, and to support the bucket in a vertical position after the load has been unloaded, i.e., when the front of the bucket 12 is drooping.

[0008] Trunnion 26 typically has a pair of arms defining a U-shape with a valley therebetween, and a pair of aligned orifices on opposite sides of the valley, such that pin 27 is supported by the pair of orifices and traverses the valley. Each trunnion 26 may contain two pairs of orifices, and pin 27 may be located in either pair of orifices. Each pair of orifices represents a position or pivot point that can be selected for desired displacement relative to the center of gravity.

[0009] Furthermore, the bucket and rigging components are exposed to a very rough environment where dust, stones, fine soil, and other debris can abrade the rigging and dragline bucket when they come into contact with the ground. The connections between rigging components also experience wear in areas where they come into contact with each other and are subjected to various forces. Therefore, after a period of use, dragline excavation systems must be regularly maintained to inspect, replace, or repair various parts. In most modern systems, many parts require such inspection, repair, or replacement, and this necessitates significant downtime to complete the required tasks. This downtime reduces the productivity and efficiency of dragline operations. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Pin connections are used in a wide variety of equipment that operates in diverse geotechnical environments, but are not limited to these. For example, pin assemblies are used in a broad range of mining, dredging, forestry, and construction equipment.

[0011] In one instance, the pin assembly is used in mining. Mining equipment typically operates in a rough environment where dust and debris can penetrate every crevice. Even components not intended to come into contact with soil are affected by sand, soil, fine particles, and dust generated during processing. The pin assembly according to this disclosure can reduce the time required for handling components, installing and removing pins from equipment, and / or downtime required for maintenance.

[0012] In one embodiment, a pin assembly includes a component having a pin hole and a retainer opening. The pin is received in the pin hole, and the retainer is secured to the pin and releasably secured within the retainer opening to prevent the pin from being removed from the pin hole and from rotating within the pin hole.

[0013] In another embodiment, a pin assembly includes a component having a pin hole and a retainer opening, wherein the pin hole is aligned with the retainer opening. A pin is received in the pin hole, and a retainer is received in the retainer opening to prevent the pin from being removed from the pin hole, wherein the retainer includes at least one lock to releasably secure the retainer in the opening.

[0014] In another embodiment, a pin assembly includes a component defining two pin holes and a retainer opening communicating with the pin holes. A pin can be alternately received in either of the two pin holes, and a retainer is releasably secured in the retainer opening to prevent the pin from being removed from either of the pin holes.

[0015] In another embodiment, a pin assembly includes: a component defining two pin holes and a retainer opening; a pin that can be alternately received in either of the two pin holes; and a retainer that is secured to the pin and releasably secured within the retainer opening to prevent the pin from being removed from and rotated when it is in either of the pin holes.

[0016] In another embodiment, a pin assembly includes a component defining a pin hole and a retainer opening. A pin is received in the pin hole, and a retainer is received in the retainer opening to prevent the pin from being removed from the pin hole. The retainer includes a body having opposite sides and a pair of locks secured to the body, one of the locks being associated with each of the opposite sides. Each of the locks includes a retaining member movable inside and outside the body to releasably secure the retainer in the retainer opening.

[0017] In another embodiment, a pin assembly includes: a pin; and a retainer secured to the pin for receiving in a component having a pin hole for receiving the pin and a retainer opening for receiving the retainer. The retainer includes at least one lock having a collar secured to the retainer and a locking pin screwed into the collar to translate during rotation between a retaining position for securing the retainer in the retainer opening and a releasing position for allowing the retainer to be mounted in the retainer opening.

[0018] In another embodiment, a pin assembly for a geotechnical device includes a pin having a body sized and shaped to receive into an opening in a rigging component of the geotechnical device. A retainer includes a body having a pin opening for receiving at least a portion of the pin. The retainer is secured to the pin such that the pin does not move independently of the retainer. At least one lock is secured to the body and can be used to releasably secure the retainer to the rigging component. The retainer includes a lock entry opening to allow for the entry and operation of at least one lock.

[0019] In another embodiment, a trunnion assembly includes a support having two arms opposite each other. Each arm includes a pair of spaced-apart pin holes for receiving a pin to secure the support to a rigging component. One of the arms includes an outer surface with a retainer opening that surrounds each of the pin holes and is adapted to receive a retainer to releasably secure a pin in either of the pin holes. The retainer opening includes a groove for receiving a locking component to secure a retainer within the retainer opening.

[0020] In another embodiment, a dragline bucket includes a housing having opposing sidewalls, each of which has a trunnion bracket for attachment to a rigging component. Each of the trunnion brackets defines a pin hole and a retainer opening. A pin is received in the pin hole, and a retainer is received in the retainer opening to prevent the pin from being removed from the pin hole, wherein the retainer includes at least one lock to releasably secure the retainer in the opening.

[0021] In another embodiment, a pin assembly device for a geotechnical apparatus includes: a pin having a body sized and shaped to receive into an opening in a rigging component of the geotechnical apparatus; and a retainer having a pin opening for receiving at least a portion of the pin and securing it to the pin, such that the pin and the locking assembly rotate as a single component. The retainer includes a lock entry opening having a locking passage for locking the pin in place. Once the lock is positioned in the locking passage, the pin-locking assembly is secured to the rigging component of the geotechnical apparatus. In one example, the rigging component is a trunnion support.

[0022] In another embodiment, a pin assembly includes a pin and a retainer. The retainer includes a tool entry port communicating with a lock entry port. In one example, the lock entry port includes two cavities and a lock passage in each cavity. In another example, the lock passages are in opposite directions, wherein each lock passage is transverse to the pin entry port and does not communicate with it. In another example, the retainer includes at least one lock positioned in the lock passage. In another example, at least one lock includes a collar. In another example, the collar includes a lug engaging a support surface in the lock passage.

[0023] In another embodiment, a trunnion assembly includes: a support having two arms and two holes passing through the two arms; and a retainer opening located outside the two arms and surrounding the two holes. The retainer opening is approximately elongated and round in size. The assembly includes a pin and a retainer fixed together. In a first position, the pin engages in at least one of the holes, and the retainer engages in the retainer opening. The pin assembly is removable and rotatable such that in a second position, the pin is positioned in the other hole, and the retainer is positioned in the retainer opening.

[0024] In another embodiment, a trunnion assembly includes: a support having two arms and two holes passing through the two arms; and a retainer opening located outside the two arms and surrounding the two holes. The assembly includes a pin and a retainer fixed together. In a first position, the pin engages in at least one of the holes, and the retainer engages in the retainer opening. The pin assembly is removable and rotatable such that in a second position, the pin is positioned in the other hole, and the retainer is positioned in the retainer opening. At least one slot is located within a locking assembly aperture, and at least a portion thereof is aligned with a locking passage. The support includes at least one slot positioned adjacent to the retainer opening. The slot extends transversely to and communicates with the retainer opening. The size and shape of the slot are configured such that an opposing lock will engage the slot in either direction of the retainer.

[0025] In another embodiment, the hammerless lock is secured in the locking passage of a retainer that holds the pin in the component. The lock is adjustable to alternately hold and release the pin, thereby allowing the pin to be installed and removed from the pin opening. When the pin is engaged and disengaged, the lock is held in the pin-locking assembly in the locking passage. In one instance, the retainer can reliably lock the connector pin in a fixed position to prevent rotational movement. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The above-described invention and the following detailed embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0027] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the known rigging components and dragline bucket.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a side view of a dragline bucket according to an example of this disclosure.

[0029] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the trunnion bracket and trunnion pin assembly of the dragline bucket shown.

[0030] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 The cross-section of plane 4-4 shows the positioning in more detail. Figure 3 The trunnion pin inside the trunnion bracket.

[0031] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the trunnion pin assembly.

[0032] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 Exploded view of the trunnion pin assembly.

[0033] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the pin component.

[0034] Figure 8 This is a perspective exploded view of the pin component.

[0035] Figure 9 It is the lock installed in the lock passage according to Figure 5 The cross-sectional view of section 9-9 in the figure.

[0036] Figure 10 It is a partial perspective view of the lock path before any part of the lock is inserted.

[0037] Figure 11 It is partially installed Figure 9 A partial perspective view of the lock mounting components in the lock passage.

[0038] Figure 12 It is completely installed Figure 10 A partial perspective view of the lock mounting components in the lock passage.

[0039] Figure 13 It is an exploded perspective view of the retainer, lock, and lock path.

[0040] Figure 14 It is located in Figure 3 The trunnion pin assembly at the first position within the trunnion arm of the trunnion bracket is based on Figure 3 The cross section of section 14-14.

[0041] Figure 15 Is with Figure 14 Equivalent but showing the location Figure 2 The cross-section of the trunnion pin assembly at the second position within the trunnion arm of the dragline bucket. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Mining operations typically require large and heavy-duty rigging to move dragline buckets, heavy-duty shovels, and other equipment used in open-pit mines. Rigging uses pins to hold numerous rigging components to dragline buckets, other equipment, and / or other rigging parts. During operations, these pins and components are exposed to heavy loads and abrasive particles that can wear down the rigging components and / or the parts attached to them. These particles, combined with the extreme loads applied to the pins, limit the lifespan of the pins and associated components by corroding the exposed surfaces until the components become unusable. Inspecting and / or repairing such rigging components and / or equipment requires moving parts weighing several tons and aligning parts assemblies to accommodate the assembly and disassembly of pins from the components. Moving these large parts can be dangerous for operators and can cause prolonged equipment downtime. The discussion herein regarding mining equipment is not intended to be limiting, as the pin assemblies according to this disclosure can be used in other geotechnical, forestry, and other operations that utilize large industrial connecting pins subjected to heavy loads.

[0043] Reference diagrams, especially Figure 2According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the dragline bucket 110 includes a bottom wall 112, side walls 114, and a rear wall 116 to define a bucket cavity 118 for receiving and collecting soil during excavation operations. The front of the bucket is open and is defined by the bottom wall 112, side walls 114, and an arched support frame 119 extending between the side walls 114 and providing a securing device for attaching a dumping rope. Other dragline configurations are also possible.

[0044] A lip 120 is provided along the front portion of the bottom wall 112. The lip 120 extends across the width of the cavity 118 between the side walls 114. Various designs of digging teeth and / or guards 124 and wings 126 are mounted along the lip 120 and the bucket to improve digging and protect the lip 120. Rough material contact generally flows in direction A. The dragline bucket 110 has two trunnion supports 127, each trunnion support being (e.g., by welding) fixed to one of the side walls 114 to be directly or indirectly connected to a lifting link 122, which is connected to a lifting chain as described above.

[0045] Now for reference Figures 3-6 The diagram shows one of the trunnion brackets 127 in more detail. In this example, the trunnion pin 102 can be installed in either the rear pin hole 130A or the front pin hole 131A, depending on the operation of the bucket. The U-shaped trunnion bracket 127 is used for connecting such... Figure 1 The rigging component shown is a common rigging wear-resistant component and is used as an example herein. However, other shapes are possible, such as Y-shaped or C-shaped. The U-shaped trunnion holder 127 is depicted as an example only for illustrative purposes. In addition to the trunnion holder 127 shown, the teachings of this disclosure can also be applied to other pin-connected components.

[0046] The trunnion support 127 includes a body 134 having arms 136 and 136' extending in the same generally direction, the arms being separated by a valley 135 defined therebetween. Arm 136 has two pin holes 130 and 131, which are aligned with corresponding pin holes 130' and 131' on arm 136' to define two pin holes 130A and 130B. Holes 130' and 131' can continue through the bucket sidewall 114 (…). Figure 2 Pin 102 passes through a set of openings 130, 130' or 131, 131' and traverses valley 135 to engage the two arms 136, 136' and, in some cases, engage the bucket sidewall 114 itself. In the illustrated example, another rigging component, such as chain link 122, may be received in valley 135 between arms 136, 136' and may define the chain link orifice through which pin 102 extends, such that pin 102 forms a pivot point for the dragline bucket 110.

[0047] The trunnion support 127 further includes a retainer opening 142 in the outer portion of the arm 136 for receiving a retainer 140 to secure the pin 102 within the support 127. The retainer opening 142 is coaxial with openings 130 and 131, which are formed in the inner portion of the arm 136. While the retainer opening 142 extends across the two openings 130, 131, a central wall 143 in the inner portion of the arm 136 exists between openings 130 and 131 to individually define each opening and contact the received pin. In the illustrated example, the retainer opening 142 is typically elliptical or elongated circular; however, in other examples, the central portion may be smaller or larger than an elliptical shape. Other shapes may also be used. The retainer opening 142 is sized to accommodate the retainer 140 therein. The retainer 140 includes one or more locks 200 to secure the retainer 140 within the retainer opening 142.

[0048] The retainer opening 142 includes at least one recess or slot 144 to receive a lock 200 to secure the retainer in place. In the illustrated example, two recesses or slots are provided, such as upper slots 144U and 144L (in...). Figure 6 (Best viewed in the middle). In the example shown, slots 144U and 144L are positioned above and below the center of the retainer opening 142, and parallel to direction A ( Figure 1 Extending in the opposite direction and offset from each other in direction A. However, the groove may be defined by a plurality of spaced grooves instead of a single elongated groove, which may be aligned with each other and / or may be in positions different from those shown in the figure. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the slots 144U and 144L has opposite ends (slot 144U has opposite ends 146U and 146U'; slot 144L has opposite ends 146L and 146L'), the size and shape of which are set such that when the retainer 140 is positioned in the first position, the locking end 230 of the first lock 200 ( Figure 7 The upper slot (146U or 146U') engages with one end, and the locking end 230 of the second lock 200 engages with one end of the lower slot (146L or 146L'). The locking end 230 does not need to be close to one end of the slot.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer 140 can be inserted into the retainer opening in either orientation, i.e., the pin hole 162 is aligned with either pin hole 130A, 131A. When the retainer 140 is removed and rotated (e.g., 180 degrees) to install the pin 102 into the front pin hole 130B, the retainer 140 can be inserted into the retainer opening 142 in a second inverted position. In the second position, the locking end 230 will engage the corresponding ends in the upper slot 144U and the lower slot 144L. This reversibility remains unchanged whether the retainer 140 is secured to the pin 102 to prevent rotation of the pin 102, or whether the retainer only prevents the pin from being removed from the holder. In some cases where the pin head is not received in the pin hole in the retainer and is not secured to the retainer, the retainer can be held in the same manner regardless of which pin hole the pin is installed in.

[0050] In the illustrated example, pin assembly 101 includes pin 102 and retainer 140. As shown, pin 102 includes pin body 152 and pin head 154, but other pin configurations are possible. Pin 102 can be a cylindrical pin with or without a defined head. In one example, both the pin body and pin head are cylindrical, with the diameter of the pin head being smaller than the diameter of the pin body. In the illustrated example, pin head 154 has a truncated conical shape. Pin head 154 includes a bolt 156 received in a threaded hole 156A, which can be a placeholder for an attachment device, such as a lifting ring comprising a threaded rod. Other arrangements are possible.

[0051] In the example shown, retainer 140 includes body 160 ( Figure 6 The body includes a pin hole 162, a lock entry opening 164, and a tool entry opening 166. The body 160 has a front surface 163, a back surface 165, and a side surface 167 that engages the front and back surfaces. The thickness of the body 160 allows the retainer 140 to be recessed or flush with the outer surface of the arm 136 when inserted into the retainer hole 142. Figure 3 (Best seen in the image), but other arrangements are possible. In the illustrated example, the thickness of the body 160 is greater than the thickness of the truncated conical head 154. The pin 102 can be held in the bracket 127 and prevented from rotating using welding material 155. An alternative is to weld the pin to the retainer. For example, the pin orifice 162 can be smaller than the diameter of the pin body to hold the pin in the bracket without welding, particularly when pin rotation is permitted. Other fixing arrangements (with or without pin rotation) are also possible. As another example, the pin can be formed as a single piece with the retainer and installed and removed as a unit.

[0052] In the illustrated example, the pin orifice 162 is defined by the body 160 to receive the pin head 154, and its shape is cylindrical (but other shapes are possible). The pin orifice 162 is slightly larger than the wide end of the truncated conical pin head 154. The truncated conical shape of the pin head 154 creates a gap between the pin head 154 and the pin orifice 162 to allow the weld material 155 to be enclosed in the gap. The weld material 155 may be flush with or recessed from the outer surface 163 of the arm 136 and the retainer 140 during installation, and engages the pin 102 to the retainer 140 to form a single-piece unit 101. The pin orifice 162 preferably does not communicate with the lock entry orifice 164.

[0053] In the illustrated example, the tool entry opening 166 is an elongated groove that passes through the front 163 of the retainer body 160 and curves toward and communicates with the lock entry opening 164. Figure 4 (Best viewed from above). Tool access opening 166 comprises an elongated opening 168 on the front 163 of retainer body 160. Tool access opening 166 is a J-shaped or quarter-circular passage having an inner surface 170 and an outer surface 172 (when viewed in cross-section from above). A tool (not shown), such as a hook, can be installed into tool access opening 166 to engage with pin assembly 101 and / or body 60 for removal, installation, or lifting. The tool can be supported by a crane or cable or other arrangement for installation and / or removal. Tool access opening 166 can be more easily manufactured than a conventional protruding lifting ring and is less likely to wear during use of digging bucket 110, thereby increasing the likelihood of continued access when removing pin assembly 101 and / or body 60.

[0054] The lock entry port 164 leads to the front 163 of the retainer body 160. The lock entry port 164 shown includes two lock passages 108, 108', each axially offset from the other and transverse to the pin body direction B. It should be understood that one or more lock passages may be used. The lock entry port 164 is formed by two cavities 174, 174'. Each cavity 174, 174' is positioned adjacent to a corresponding lock passage 108, 108' and opposite to the other lock passage 108', 108'. The size and shape of the lock entry port 164 are configured such that the cavities 174, 174' are staggered to form a lateral Z-shaped pattern. The size and shape of the lock 200 are configured to be installed in the lock passages 108, 108'. The size and shape of the cavities 174, 174' are configured such that the lock 200 can be inserted into the cavity 174 and lowered or raised into the lock passages 108, 108'. The size and shape of cavities 174, 174' are configured to allow tools (e.g., ratchet wrenches) to be inserted into cavities 174, 174' to operate lock 200. Lock entry port 164 may be sealed with a wear-resistant plate to protect lock 200, but this is not necessary.

[0055] Lock 200 Figures 7-13 The general layout is shown in the diagram. Each lock 200 is integrally mounted in one of the lock passages 108, 108', such that the lock is held in both the released and locked positions. The pin assembly 101 and / or the body can be disassembled, assembled, and repositioned without causing the lock 200 to fall off or be lost. This can significantly improve maintenance procedures, reduce downtime of excavating equipment, and increase safety because it reduces the need to handle the lock 200 individually. Locating fallen parts at night can be difficult and could put personnel in a dangerous situation under heavy components.

[0056] Each lock 200 is held in lock passages 108, 108' to restrict axial movement of pin 102 when installed in openings 130, 130' or 131, 131'. Lock passages 108, 108' are shown with opposite edges of side surfaces 167, and the installation of one lock 200 is opposite to the other. Lock passages 108, 108' tend to protect the lock 200 from rough soil. Each lock 200 includes a locking pin 220 received in a mounting component or collar 222 that is mechanically held in lock passages 108, 108'. Collar 222 includes features supporting integrated shipping, load transfer, and locking installation and removal. Locking pin 220 and collar 222 are preferably threaded, such that pin 220 advances helically through the center of collar 222 between two low-energy positions formed by latching mechanism 252 supported by an elastomer.

[0057] The first position (e.g., with a half-turn thread engaging between collar 222 and locking pin 220) is preferably maintained in the released position during shipment, storage, installation, and removal. Locking pin 220 advances to a second low-energy position after rotation (e.g., two half-turns, i.e., a full turn), preferably ending with a hard stop signal to the locking system 200. When pin 102 needs to be removed, locking pin 220 is rotated counterclockwise to retract it back into the released position, or the lock 200 can be removed. In a preferred configuration, slots 144U, 144L engage locking pin end 230 to hold locking pin 220 (and ultimately pin assembly 101) in place, and locking pin 220 retracts from said position to allow pin 102 to slide freely from openings 130, 130' or 131, 131' in trunnion 127. Other arrangements can be used to facilitate effective engagement of locking pin 220 and pin 102.

[0058] Lock 200 includes mounting components or collar 222 and retaining components or locking pin 220. Figure 7 , 8(9 and 13). The collar 222 engages in the passage 108 of the lock entry port 162 and includes a hole or opening 223 with threads 258 to receive the lock pin 220 with mating threads 254. A retainer 224, preferably in the form of a retaining clip, is inserted together with the collar 222 into the passages 108, 108' to prevent the collar 222 from disengaging from the passage 108. Preferably, the retainer or clip 224 is inserted during the manufacture of the retainer 140 such that the lock 200 is integrally coupled to the retainer 140 (i.e., to define a retainer 140 that integrally incorporates the lock 200) for shipment, storage, installation, and / or use of the retainer. This configuration reduces inventory and storage requirements, prevents the lock 200 from falling out during installation (which can be particularly problematic at night), ensures that the proper lock 200 is always in use, and facilitates the installation of the pin assembly 101. Although the lock 200 is preferably always held in the component, the retainer 224 can be made removable to allow removal at any time so that the lock 200 can be removed.

[0059] The collar 222 has a cylindrical body 225 with lugs 236, 237 that project outward to contact and abut against the support surface of the retaining structure 202 in the locking passage 108, thereby holding the lock 200 in place within the locking passage 108. To install the collar 222, the body 225 is inserted into the passage 108 from the lock opening 164, causing the lugs 236, 237 to slide along the passage 108. The collar 222 is preferably translated laterally in the opening 164 of the passage 108 until the flange 241 is received in the passage 108. The collar 222 is then rotated until the lugs 236, 237 cross the retaining structure 202. The rotation of the collar 222 is preferably approximately thirty degrees, causing the lugs 236, 237 to move into the upper reliefs 204, 206. The engagement of lugs 236 and 237 with the sides of retaining structure 202 holds collar 222 in passage 108, even under load during digging by excavation bucket 110. Furthermore, the cooperation of the outer lugs 236 and flange 241 provides resistive coupling to resist cantilever loads applied to locking pin 220 during use.

[0060] Once the collar 222 is in place, the retainer 224 is inserted into the passage 108. Preferably, the retainer 224 latches into the slot 210 along the passage 108, thereby preventing rotation of the collar 222 and retaining the lugs 236, 237 in the protrusions 204, 206. The retainer 224 is preferably formed of a steel plate with a curved tab 242 that snaps into a receiving recess 244 on the outer surface 246 of the collar 222 to retain the retainer 224 in the retainer 140. The retainer 224 allows the collar 222 to be locked in the passage 108 for secure storage, shipment, installation and / or use, thereby defining a portion of the retainer 140. The retainer flange 267 is preferably positioned to abut the lug 236 and prevent over-insertion of the retainer 224.

[0061] The engagement of lugs 236 and 237 with retaining structure 202 mechanically retains collar 222 in passage 108 and effectively prevents damage during transport, storage, installation, and / or use of retainer 140. Figures 10-12 During operation, the collar 222 moves inward and outward. The collar 222 is preferably a single unit (one-piece or assembled into units), and preferably a one-piece construction for strength and simplicity. The retainer 224 is preferably formed of steel plate because it does not resist heavy loads applied during operation. The retainer 224 is only used to prevent unwanted rotation of the collar 222 in the passage 108, so as to prevent the lock 200 from releasing from the retainer 140. However, other arrangements for securing the collar 222 in the passages 108, 108' can be used.

[0062] The locking pin 220 includes a head 247 and a shank 249. The shank 249 is threaded 254 along at least a portion of its length from the head 247. The pin end 230 is preferably unthreaded to receive into slots 144U, 144L in the trunnion holder 127. The locking pin 220 is preferably mounted into the collar 222 from inside the locking entry opening 164, such that the pin end 230 is the front end and the pin thread 254 engages the collar thread 258. A hexagonal sleeve (or other tool engagement formation) 248 is formed at the rear end in (or on) the head 247 for receiving a tool that rotates the locking pin 220 within the collar 222.

[0063] Lock 200 is preferably used to secure pin assembly 101 and / or body 60 to trunnion holder 127. In the illustrated embodiment, lock 200 is first installed in a passage 108, and then a second lock 200 is installed in the opposite direction in the same manner, but either lock can be secured first. In a preferred configuration, two locks 200 are installed in passages 108, 108' in opposite directions to retain pin 102 to trunnion holder 127. Alternatively, a single lock 200 can be used to secure the pin to a wear-resistant component, or more than two locks can be used. Alternatively, other types of locks or configurations can be used in place of lock 200 or as a supplement to it.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the threaded locking pin 220 includes a biased latching tooth or stop 252 that is biased to protrude beyond the surrounding threads 254. A corresponding recess or groove 256 is formed in the threads 258 of the collar 222 to receive the stop 252, such that when the latching stop 252 is aligned and engaged with the recess 256, the threaded locking pin 220 latches in a specific position relative to the collar 222. The engagement of the latching stop 252 in the recess 256 holds the threaded locking pin 220 in a released position relative to the collar 222, which holds the locking pin 220 outside the slots 144U, 144L on the trunnion 127 with sufficient clearance. The locking pin 220 is preferably shipped and stored in the released position, such that the pin assembly 101 is ready for installation. Preferably, the latching stop 252 is located at the beginning of the threads on the threaded locking pin 220. The recess 256 is preferably located approximately half a turn from the start of the thread on the collar 222. Therefore, after the locking pin 220 has rotated approximately half a turn within the collar 222, the locking pin 220 will latch into the shipping or release position. Of course, other arrangements are possible. Alternatively, the stop may be supported by the collar 222 and engage with a groove in the locking pin 220.

[0065] Applying further torque to the locking pin 220 causes the latch stop 252 to be extruded from the outer recess 256. An inner recess or groove 260 is formed at the inner end of the thread of the collar 222. When the locking pin 220 is installed in the collar 222, it is preferably rotated half a turn to the release position for transport, storage, and / or installation of the pin assembly 101. Then, the locking pin 220 is preferably rotated a full turn until the pin end 230 is fully received in the slots 144U, 144L, in a locked or serviceable position. Depending on the thread pitch and whether more than one starting point is provided for the thread, more or fewer rotations of the threaded locking pin 220 may be required. It has been found that using particularly coarse threads, for example, requiring only three full rotations of the threaded locking pin 220 to fully lock the pin 102 to the trunnion holder 127, is easy to use under field conditions and reliable under extreme digging conditions. Furthermore, coarse helical threads are preferable in installations where the pin assembly 101 will be surrounded by compacted fine particles during use.

[0066] Preferably, the lock 200 is recessed in the passages 108, 108', so that it remains protected from moving dirt throughout the service life of the pin assembly 101. Even if other components of the pin assembly 101 and the trunnion support 127 wear down, dirt tends to accumulate in the passages 108, 108' to cover the lock 200 and protect it from excessive wear. Furthermore, the lock 200 is typically centered in the lock passages 108, 108', with the pin end 230 located at or near the ends 146U, 146U', 146L, 146L' of the corresponding slots 144U, 144L, in the locked position.

[0067] To remove lock 200, pin 102 can be released by unscrewing lock pin 220 from collar 222 using a ratchet tool or other tool. Although lock pin 220 can be removed from collar 222, it is only necessary to return the lock pin to the released position. Pin assembly 101 can then be removed from trunnion 127. The torque applied to unscrewing lock pin 220 can apply a large torsional load to collar 222, which is resisted by engagement with retaining structure 202, thus providing a strong and reliable stop for lugs 236 and 237.

[0068] The mounting component or collar 222 of lock 200 defines a threaded hole 223 for receiving a threaded locking pin 220 for releasably retaining pin 102 to trunnion support 127. Compared to forming threads directly in the lock passages 108, 108', the separate mounting component 222 can be easily machined or otherwise threaded and secured within the lock passages 108, 108' to achieve a less expensive and higher-quality thread. The mounting component 222 can be mechanically retained within the lock passages 108, 108' in slots 144U, 144L to prevent axial movement in either direction (i.e., the direction of entry and exit from passage 108) during use. The collar 222 can be mechanically retained within the lock passages 108, 108' to better prevent accidental loss of lock 200 during shipment, storage, installation, and use. Given that hardened steel is typically used for retainer 140, the mounting component 222 may not be easily welded into passage 108. However, threads or partial threads can be formed in channels 108 and 108', or collar 222 can be welded into channels 108 and 108'.

[0069] Using the lock 200 according to the above examples offers numerous benefits: (i) a lock that is integrated into the retainer 140 or pin assembly 101 so that the lock 200 can be shipped and stored in a ready-to-install position, thereby reducing inventory and simplifying installation; (ii) a lock 200 that requires only common drive tools such as hexagonal tools or ratchet drives and does not require a hammer; (iii) a new lock 200 with each wear-resistant part; (iv) a lock 200 that is positioned to facilitate access to the lock entry port; (v) a lock 200 with simple, intuitive and well-known operation; and (vi) an integrated system of lock 200 built around simple castable features, in which the integration supports high loads, requires no special tools or adhesives, and forms a permanent component.

[0070] To install the pin assembly 101 when the pin and retainer are secured together (e.g., after the pin 102 has been welded to the retainer 140), the pin 102 is inserted into any one of holes 130, 130' or 131, 131', and the retainer 140 is received into the retainer opening 142. Alignment openings 130, 130', 142 in a first position or alignment openings 131, 131', 142 in a second position receive the pin assembly 101.

[0071] exist Figure 14 In the middle, the trunnion pin 102 is inserted into a set of pin holes 130, 130' ( Figure 6 In this diagram, the lock 200 may already be positioned within the retainer 140 in the released position and rotated with the tool into the locked position, such that the lock 200 engages the ends 146L and 146U of the slots 144L and 144U in a first position of the pin assembly 101. In this illustration, the pin assembly 101 is fixed (i.e., the pin 102 is welded or otherwise secured to the retainer 140) and does not rotate during operation. However, the pin may remain unsecured to the retainer and rotate within the support or be secured by different constructions to prevent rotation.

[0072] exist Figure 15 In the middle, the trunnion pin 102 is inserted into the second pin hole 131, 131' ( Figure 6 In the release position, the lock 200 may already be positioned within the retainer 140. The lock 200 is rotated together with the tool into the locked position, such that the lock 200 engages the ends 146U' and 146L' of the slots 144U and 144L in the second position of the pin assembly 101.

[0073] To remove the pin assembly 101, the lock 200 is positioned in the release position while still within the lock passages 108, 108', and the pin assembly 101 is removed from holes 130, 130', 142 (when the pin assembly 101 is in the first position) or from holes 131, 131', 142 (when the pin assembly 101 is in the second position). In either position, the pin assembly 101 is removed by securing a hook (or other connector) and / or a hook (or other connector) with a threaded rod into the hole 156A connected to a crane (or other equipment) via a tool through the orifice 166 and applying a pulling force.

[0074] Alternatively, pin 102 can be installed into the bracket, and then retainer 140 can be installed into opening 142. If the pin and retainer are to be secured together, they can be welded together after installation in the bracket. Similarly, for disassembly, if welding is omitted or pre-removed, the retainer can be removed without the pin. Then, once the retainer is removed, the pin can be removed.

[0075] It should be understood that if the pin assembly 101 is aligned with the first position but not inserted into the first position, it can be inserted into the second position by rotating the pin assembly 101 180° before insertion.

[0076] The various features of this disclosure are preferably used together in a dragline bucket. These configurations are used in combination and can simplify operation and maximize performance. However, the various features can be used individually or in limited combinations to achieve some of the benefits of this disclosure.

[0077] This disclosure refers to various configurations disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings. However, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide examples of various features and concepts related to this disclosure without limiting its scope. Those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications can be made to the configurations described above without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A pin assembly comprising: A pin, configured to be received in a first pin hole or a second pin hole of a first digging component having two spaced-apart arms to define a gap therebetween for receiving a second digging component, and each of the two arms including a pin opening aligned to define the first pin hole and the second pin hole, wherein when the pin is received in the first pin hole or the second pin hole, the pin is adapted to movably connect the first digging component and the second digging component; as well as A retainer comprising a body having a pin opening that receives a portion of the pin when the pin is located in either a first pin hole or a second pin hole, wherein the body of the retainer includes a first orientation and a second orientation, the body being configured to connect a first digging component and a second digging component in the first orientation when the pin is secured in the first pin hole, and to connect the first digging component and the second digging component in a second orientation that rotates about the longitudinal axis of the pin when the pin is secured in the second pin hole, and at least one lock being secured to the body to releasably secure the body in the first orientation and the second orientation, wherein the first orientation and the second orientation of the body are different.

2. The pin assembly of claim 1, wherein the pin is secured to the retainer such that the pin and the retainer move as a single piece.

3. The pin assembly of claim 1, wherein the retainer includes a lock entry opening for implementing the operation of the at least one lock.

4. The pin assembly of claim 3, wherein the portion of the pin received in the pin opening is welded to the retainer.

5. The pin assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one lock comprises two locks fixed to the body.

6. A pin assembly comprising: A first component, used for digging operations, includes an outer surface, a first pin hole, a second pin hole, and a retainer opening, wherein the first pin hole, the second pin hole, and the retainer opening are all opened in the outer surface of the first component and face the same direction; A pin may be alternately received in one of the pin holes, and when the pin is received in either of the pin holes, the pin is adapted to connect the first component to the second component; as well as A retainer includes a body having a pin opening that receives a portion of the pin when the pin is located in either of the pin holes, wherein the body of the retainer is capable of receiving in the retainer opening in a first orientation when the pin is secured in a first pin hole, and is capable of receiving in the retainer opening in a second orientation that rotates about the longitudinal axis of the pin when the pin is secured in a second pin hole, wherein the first and second orientations of the body are different, and at least one lock is secured to the body to releasably secure the body in the retainer opening in both the first and second orientations.

7. The pin assembly of claim 6, wherein the retainer comprises a body having opposite sides, a pair of locks secured to the body, wherein one of the locks is associated with each of the opposite sides, and each of the locks comprises a retaining member movable inside and outside the body to releasably secure the retainer in the retainer opening.

8. The pin assembly of claim 7, wherein the body includes a lock entry opening for operating the lock.

9. The pin assembly of claim 7, wherein each of the locks has a collar fixed to the retainer and a locking pin screwed into the collar to translate during rotation between a retaining position for securing the retainer in the retainer opening and a releasing position for allowing the retainer to be mounted in the retainer opening.

10. The pin assembly of claim 6, wherein the retainer includes a tool access opening for removing the retainer from the retainer opening.

11. The pin assembly of claim 6, wherein the retainer and the pin each include a tool access opening for attaching a coupling to the retainer and the pin to remove the retainer from the retainer opening.

12. The pin assembly of claim 6, wherein the second component is a rigging component.

13. The pin assembly of claim 6, wherein the first component is a trunnion bracket for a dragline bucket.

14. A dragline bucket, comprising: The housing includes opposing sidewalls, each of which has an trunnion support, and each of the trunnion supports faces away from the outer surface of the corresponding sidewall, a first pin hole, a second pin hole, and a retainer opening, wherein the first pin hole, the second pin hole, and the retainer opening are all open on the outer surface and face the same direction; A pin, which can be alternately received in one of the pin holes, the pin being adapted to secure a rigging component to the trunnion support when received in either of the pin holes; as well as A retainer comprising a body having a pin opening that receives a portion of the pin when the pin is located in either a first pin hole or a second pin hole, wherein the body of the retainer is capable of receiving in the retainer opening in a first orientation when the pin is secured in the first pin hole, and capable of receiving in the retainer opening in a second orientation about the longitudinal axis of the pin when the pin is secured in the second pin hole, and at least one lock attached to the body to releasably secure the body in the retainer opening in both the first and second orientations, the first and second orientations of the body being different, and the at least one lock releasably securing the retainer in the retainer opening to prevent the pin from being removed from the first or second pin hole and to prevent the pin from rotating in the pin hole.

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