Protective assembly

Abstract

A guard assembly (204, 205, 704) for a canopy (110, 710) of a machine (100) includes a top portion (206, 502, 706) defining a first end (208), a second end (210), and a first length (L). The guard assembly (204, 205, 704) includes at least two bracket members (302, 504, 708) fixedly coupled to the top portion (206, 502, 706). The at least two bracket members (302, 504, 708) define a plurality of first through holes (304, 702) and a plurality of second through holes (306, 704). Each of the plurality of first and second through holes (304, 702, 306, 704) is aligned with a corresponding aperture (203) of the plurality of apertures (203) in the frame member (202, 702) to receive a mechanical fastener (303, 703) therethrough. The guard assembly (204, 205, 704) further includes at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713) spaced apart along the first length (L) defined by the top portion (206, 502, 706). The guard assembly (204, 205, 704) further includes at least one second support structure (320, 508) extending along the first length (L) defined by the top portion (206, 502, 706).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a protective component, and more specifically to a protective component for a machine. Background Technology

[0002] Machines such as trucks have a main body that transports a payload from one location to another and a canopy extending from the main body. During operation, various materials may fall onto the machine near the walking area around the operator's cab or onto machine parts (such as mirrors, muffler tips, etc.). Such materials may include rocks, debris, and some of the payload loaded on the machine. Machine parts may be exposed to this falling material, and these parts may be susceptible to damage. For example, material falling on a mirror may damage the mirror. Typically, multiple protective components are attached to the canopy to deflect this material and prevent it from falling onto the walking area or machine parts.

[0003] These protective components are typically welded to the canopy. During operation, material falling onto the protective components can damage them. In such cases, the protective components may need to be replaced or repaired promptly to ensure continuous protection of machine parts. Because the protective components are welded to the canopy, they can be difficult to remove and replace. In some situations, welding cutting / removal operations may be necessary to remove damaged protective components. Therefore, removing and replacing protective components can be a laborious and time-consuming process, impacting the overall productivity of the machine.

[0004] In some cases, this process of removing protective components may damage the canopy structure, which is undesirable. Therefore, machine operation may have to be stopped before the protective components and / or the canopy can be replaced or repaired. Consequently, combined repair of the canopy and maintenance / replacement of the protective components require significant labor, cost, and loss of productivity. Additionally, the protective components are typically heavy and bulky, making them difficult to handle due to their high position above the ground, and they also add to the weight of the main body.

[0005] U.S. Patent No. 10,384,631 describes a protective assembly for a canopy of a truck body. The protective assembly includes a protective member configured to be attached to the canopy. The protective device includes a first surface and a second surface. The first surface includes a plurality of fins provided in a spaced-apart arrangement. The fins are configured to provide structural rigidity to the protective device and a permeable material contacting the first surface of the protective device. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect of the invention, a protective assembly is provided. The protective assembly is adapted to be removably attached to a canopy of a machine. The protective assembly includes a top portion defining a first end, a second end defined opposite to the first end, and a first length. The protective assembly also includes at least two support members fixedly coupled to the top portion near the second end of the top portion. The at least two support members define a plurality of first through-holes and a plurality of second through-holes. Each of the plurality of first and second through-holes is aligned with a corresponding opening in the canopy to receive a mechanical fastener passing through it. The protective assembly also includes at least two first support structures spaced apart along the first length defined by the top portion. Each of the at least two first support structures is fixedly coupled to the top portion and a corresponding support member of the at least two support members. The protective assembly includes at least one second support structure extending along the first length defined by the top portion. The at least one second support structure is fixedly connected to the top portion and the at least two first support structures.

[0007] In another aspect of the invention, a canopy for a machine is provided. The canopy includes a frame member defining a plurality of orifices. The canopy also includes a plurality of protective components adapted for removable attachment to the frame member. Each of the plurality of protective components includes the top portion defining a first end, a second end defined opposite the first end, and a first length. Each of the plurality of protective components also includes at least two support members fixedly attached to the top portion at the second end near the top portion. The at least two support members define a plurality of first through holes and a plurality of second through holes. Each of the plurality of first and second through holes is aligned with a corresponding orifice in the plurality of orifices in the frame member to receive mechanical fasteners passing through therethrough. Each of the plurality of protective components also includes at least two first support structures spaced apart along the first length defined by the top portion. Each of the at least two first support structures is fixedly attached to the top portion and a corresponding support member of the at least two support members. Each of the plurality of protective components includes at least one second support structure extending along the first length defined by the top portion. The at least one second support structure is fixedly attached to the top portion and the at least two first support structures.

[0008] Other features and aspects of this application will become clear from the following description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a machine according to an embodiment of this application;

[0010] Figure 2 It shows the relationship with Figure 1 A top view of the canopy associated with the machine;

[0011] Figure 3 This illustrates an embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 A perspective view of the two protective components associated with the canopy;

[0012] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 2 An exploded view of the protective components on the right side of the canopy and the structure of the canopy.

[0013] Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 A perspective view of the protective components;

[0014] Figure 6 It shows Figure 4 A cross-sectional side view of the protective components;

[0015] Figure 7 This is an exploded view illustrating a protective component associated with another awning according to an embodiment of this application; and

[0016] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 A cross-sectional side view of the protective components. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Use the same reference numerals to denote the same or similar parts in all the accompanying drawings, whenever possible. (Refer to...) Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of an exemplary machine 100. Machine 100 is implemented as a large mining truck that can be used in high-volume mining and heavy construction environments. Alternatively, machine 100 can be implemented as other trucks, such as dump trucks or haul trucks that can be used to transport construction equipment from one construction site to another.

[0018] Machine 100 includes a frame 102. A power source, such as an engine or battery, is supported on the frame 102. Additionally, machine 100 includes an operator's cab 104. The operator's cab 104 includes a seating arrangement for an operator and various control devices for operating machine 100. The machine includes a plurality of wheels 106. The wheels 106 allow machine 100 to move on the ground.

[0019] The machine 100 also includes a truck body 108 coupled to a frame 102. The truck body 108 is pivotally attached to the frame 102. The truck body 108 is adapted to hold a payload therein. More specifically, the truck body 108 pivots about at least one pin 114 and from a first position ( Figure 1 The machine 100 moves to a second position (not shown). The second position is the position where the machine 100 is in tilt mode. This movement of the truck body 108 is controlled by one or more actuators (not shown).

[0020] During mining operations, the truck body 108 carries a payload, and the machine 100 transports the payload from one location to another for unloading. When the truck body 108 is in a first position, it may be loaded with a payload. After moving to the unloading position, the truck body 108 can be actuated to move to a second position for unloading the payload. Although the machine 100 is illustrated herein as a mining truck, those skilled in the art will understand that the machine 100 can be any other known covered machine.

[0021] In addition, the machine 100 includes a canopy 110 located at the front 112 of the machine 100 and extending from the truck body 108. The canopy 110 can cover / protect the operator's cab 104 and other parts of the machine 100 from the impact of payloads and other objects (such as rocks or debris) that fall on the machine 100 during machine operation.

[0022] See Figure 2 A top view of an awning 110 is shown. The awning 110 defines a left side 116 and a right side 118. The awning 110 includes a frame member 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame member 202 includes an outer surface 207 having a generally planar profile (e.g., ...). Figure 3 and 4 (As shown). Alternatively, the shape of the outer surface 207 can vary based on the design of the awning 110 without any limitations. The frame member 202 defines a plurality of openings 203 (as shown). Figure 4 (As shown). Furthermore, frame member 202 defines a first height "H1" (as shown). Figure 5 (as shown) and the second height "H2" (as shown) Figure 5 (As shown). In the illustrated example, the first height "H1" is greater than the second height "H2". Furthermore, the awning 110 includes a plurality of protective assemblies 204, 205 removably coupled to the frame member 202 of the awning 110. In one embodiment, the protective assembly 204 is secured using a plurality of mechanical fasteners 303 (in... Figure 4 and 5 (As shown in the figure) It is removably connected to frame member 202, which will be explained later in the section.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, the right side 118 and left side 116 of the canopy 110 each include two protective components 204 and 205, and one protective component 204. Protective component 204 can be used to protect the rearview mirror of the machine 100, and protective component 205 can be used to protect the muffler or other accessories of the machine 100. In some other embodiments, the number of protective components 204 and 205 on the left side 116 and right side 118 can vary depending on application requirements. Furthermore, the positions of the protective components 204 and 205 on the canopy 110 can also vary depending on application requirements.

[0024] See Figure 3 The diagram shows a perspective view of protective components 204, 205 removably attached to the frame member 202 of the canopy 110. It should be noted that each protective component 204, 205 is attached to the frame member 202 in the same manner. Furthermore, each protective component 204, 205 includes similar parts and designs. Therefore, this section will now be explained with respect to the single protective component 204 associated with the right side 118 of the canopy 110. However, the details provided below also apply to the other protective components 204, 205 respectively located at the left side 116 and right side 118 of the canopy 110, without any limitation.

[0025] The protective assembly 204 includes a top portion 206. The top portion 206 defines a first end 208, a second end 210 defined opposite to the first end 208, and a first length “L”. The second end 210 is positioned against and near the frame member 202 of the canopy 110. The top portion 206 includes a curved portion 209 defined near the first end 208. The curved portion 209 allows material to deflect and fall to the ground. More specifically, the second end 210 provides corner stiffness and support to the top portion 206, eliminating the need for additional support structures such as gussets. The top portion 206 also includes two or more extensions 212 defined near the second end 210. In the illustrated example, the top portion 206 includes three extensions 212. The extensions 212 have a generally dovetail-shaped structure.

[0026] Now refer to Figure 4 The protective assembly 204 includes two or more support members 302, which are fixedly connected to the top portion 206 near their second end 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the protective assembly 204 includes three support members 302. Alternatively, the total number of support members 302 may vary based on a first length "L" of the top portion 206. Each support member 302 is generally perpendicular to the top portion 206. As shown, each support member 302 is generally I-shaped. In some embodiments, the shape of the support members 302 may vary according to design requirements; for example, the support members 302 may have a rectangular or square shape.

[0027] The support member 302 defines a plurality of first through holes 304 and a plurality of second through holes 306. Each of the first through holes 304 and second through holes 306 is aligned with a corresponding orifice 203 among a plurality of orifices 203 in the frame member 202 to receive a mechanical fastener 303. More specifically, the protective assembly 204 includes a plurality of mechanical fasteners 303 for removably engaging the protective assembly 204 to the frame member 202. It should be noted that, for illustrative purposes, only some mechanical fasteners 303 are shown in the drawings. However, for each support member 302, the protective assembly 204 includes eight mechanical fasteners 303 that can be received in the first through holes 304 and four mechanical fasteners 303 that can be received in the second through holes 306. The number of mechanical fasteners 303 can vary depending on the size and carrying capacity of the machine 100. In addition, the pattern configuration of the first through holes 304 and the second through holes 306 can also vary. Furthermore, the spacing between each first through hole 304 and the spacing between each second through hole 306 can vary depending on application requirements. Mechanical fastener 303 is implemented herein as a bolt. In other embodiments, mechanical fastener 303 may be implemented as a screw.

[0028] Furthermore, each support member 302 includes a first portion 308 fixedly connected to the top portion 206. Specifically, the first portion 308 is fixedly connected to a corresponding extension 212 of the top portion 206 (see...). Figure 3 In one embodiment, the first portion 308 may be welded to the top portion 206. The first portion 308 defines a third height “H3”. The third height “H3” is equal to the first height “H1” of the frame member 202 (see...). Figure 5 The first portion 308 defines the number of first through holes 304. More specifically, the first portion 308 defines eight first through holes 304. Each support member 302 also includes a second portion 310. The second portion 310 is configured opposite to and substantially parallel to the first portion 308. The second portion 310 defines a fourth height “H4”. The fourth height “H4” is equal to the second height “H2” of the frame member 202 (see...). Figure 5 In the example shown, the third height "H3" is greater than the fourth height "H4". The second portion 310 defines the number of second through holes 306. More specifically, the second portion 310 defines four second through holes 306. Each support member 302 also includes a third portion 312 extending between the first portion 308 and the second portion 310. The third portion 312 is generally perpendicular to the first portion 308 and the second portion 310.

[0029] The protective assembly 204 also includes two or more first support structures 314 spaced apart along a first length “L” defined by the top portion 206. In the illustrated example, the protective assembly 204 includes three first support structures 314. Each of the first support structures 314 is fixedly coupled to the top portion 206 and a corresponding support member 302 of the support member 302. In one embodiment, each of the first support structures 314 may be welded to the top portion 206 and the corresponding support member 302. The total number of first support structures 314 corresponds to the total number of support members 302. Therefore, the total number of first support structures 314 varies based on the total number of support members 302.

[0030] Each first support structure 314 includes a first arm 316 connected to the top portion 206 and a second arm 318 connected to a corresponding support member 302. In one embodiment, the first arm 316 and the second arm 318 of each of the first support structures 314 may be welded to the top portion 206 and the corresponding support member 302, respectively.

[0031] The protective assembly 204 also includes one or more second support structures 320 extending along a first length "L" defined by the top portion 206. Each of the second support structures 320 is fixedly coupled to the top portion 206 and the first support structure 314. In one embodiment, each of the second support structures 320 may be welded to the top portion 206 and the first support structure 314. In the illustrated example, the protective assembly 204 includes two second support structures 320. Each of the second support structures 320 extends between first support structures 314 disposed adjacent to each other.

[0032] Furthermore, each of the second support structures 320 includes a pair of third arms 322 defined at opposite ends 326, 328 of each of the second support structures 320. The pair of third arms 322 are fixedly connected to a corresponding first support structure 314 of the first support structure 314. The pair of third arms 322 are fixedly connected to first support structures 314 arranged adjacent to each other. Each of the second support structures 320 also includes an intermediate portion 324 extending between the pair of third arms 322. The intermediate portion 324 is fixedly connected to the top portion 206. Specifically, the intermediate portion 324 may be welded to the top portion 206.

[0033] See now Figure 5 and Figure 6The canopy 110 includes a plurality of first gusset plates 402. The first gusset plates 402 are spaced apart along a first length “L” defined by a top portion 206 outside the protective assembly 204 and inside the canopy 110. The first gusset plates 402 are weldable to the frame member 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the protective assembly 204 includes five first gusset plates 402 arranged along the first length “L” of the top portion 206, without any limitation. Of the plurality of first gusset plates 402, two or more first gusset plates 402 are aligned with corresponding first support structures 314 of two or more first support structures 314. When the protective assembly 204 includes three first support structures 314, the three first gusset plates 402 are aligned with corresponding first support structures 314. When the protective assembly 204 is attached to the canopy 110, a portion of the frame member 202 and a portion of the support member 302 are located between the first gusset plates 402 and the corresponding first support structures 314. It should be noted that the design of the first gusset plate 402 shown herein is exemplary in nature, and the first gusset plate 402 may include any other design without any limitation.

[0034] Furthermore, the canopy 110 includes two or more second gusset plates 404. The second gusset plates 404 are spaced apart along a first length “L” defined by the top portion 206 outside the protective assembly 204 and inside the canopy 110. The second gusset plates 404 can be welded to the frame member 202. Each of the two or more second gusset plates 404 is aligned with a corresponding first support structure 314 among the two or more first support structures 314. When the protective assembly 204 includes three first support structures 314, the three second gusset plates 404 are aligned with their respective first support structures 314.

[0035] When the protective assembly 204 is connected to the canopy 110, a portion of the frame member 202 and a portion of the support member 302 are located between the second gusset plate 404 and the corresponding first support structure 314. Furthermore, the second gusset plate 404 is also aligned with the corresponding first gusset plate 402. More specifically, the second gusset plate 404 is positioned vertically above the corresponding first gusset plate 402. It should be noted that the shape of the second gusset plate 404 is generally similar to the shape of the first support structure 314. However, the shape of the second gusset plate 404 can vary depending on application requirements. It should also be noted that the design of the first gusset plate 402 shown herein is exemplary in nature, and the first gusset plate 402 can include any other design without any limitation.

[0036] Now about Figure 5The details of protective assembly 205 are explained below. It should be noted that protective assembly 205 is attached to canopy 110 using mechanical fasteners (not shown) similar to those used with mechanical fasteners 303 associated with protective assembly 204. As shown, protective assembly 205 includes a top portion 502 that is similar in design to the top portion 206 of protective assembly 204. Protective assembly 205 also includes a pair of support members 504. Each support member 504 is similar in design to the support member 302 of protective assembly 204. Furthermore, protective assembly 205 includes a pair of first support structures 506. Each of the first support structures 506 is similar in design to the first support structure 314 of protective assembly 204. Protective assembly 205 also includes a second support structure 508. The second support structure 508 is similar in design to the second support structure 320 of protective assembly 204. Additionally, the first support structures 506 are aligned with corresponding first gusset plates 402 and second gusset plates 404.

[0037] Figure 7 and Figure 8 Another embodiment of the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the canopy 710 associated with machine 100 includes a frame member 702. Figure 7 As shown, the frame member 702 includes an outer surface 707 with a curved profile. Furthermore, the protective assembly 704 is removably attached to the frame member 702 of the canopy 710 using a plurality of mechanical fasteners 703.

[0038] As shown in the figure, the protective component 704 includes a top portion 706, which is designed to be similar to the reference slab. Figures 2 to 6 The protective assembly 204 is explained as having a top portion 206. The protective assembly 704 also includes a plurality of support members 708. In the illustrated embodiment, the protective assembly 704 includes four support members 708. Each of the support members 708 is similar in design to the reference [reference]. Figures 2 to 5 The protective assembly 204 is described with a support member 302. Furthermore, the protective assembly 704 includes four first support structures 713, which are similar to those in the reference design. Figures 2 to 6 The first support structure 314 is explained. The protective assembly 704 also includes three second support structures (not shown), which are similar to those described in the reference document. Figures 2 to 5 The second support structure 320 is described. The bracket member 708 defines a plurality of first through holes 712 and a plurality of second through holes 714.

[0039] The canopy 710 also includes an intermediate structure 730 that allows the protective assembly 704 to be removably coupled to the frame member 702. The intermediate structure 730 includes a support plate 731. The protective assembly 704 is removably coupled to the support plate 731 by a plurality of mechanical fasteners 703. Furthermore, the support plate 731 includes a plurality of spaced-apart brackets 732. In one embodiment, each of the brackets 732 may be designed similarly to the bracket member 708 of the protective assembly 704. In other embodiments, the design of each bracket 732 may differ from the bracket member 708 of the protective assembly 704. In the illustrated example, the support plate 731 includes four brackets 732.

[0040] Each of the brackets 732 defines a plurality of third through holes 736 and a plurality of fourth through holes 738. Each of the first through holes 712 is aligned with a corresponding third through hole 736 to receive a mechanical fastener 703 passing through it. Furthermore, each of the second through holes 714 is aligned with a corresponding fourth through hole 738 to receive a mechanical fastener 703 passing through it. Thus, a plurality of mechanical fasteners 703 removably connect the protective assembly 704 to the intermediate structure 730. It should be noted that, for illustrative purposes, only some mechanical fasteners 703 are shown in the drawings. However, eight mechanical fasteners 703 may be received within the first through holes 712 and the third through holes 736, and four mechanical fasteners 703 may be received within the second through holes 714 and the fourth through holes 738. It should be noted that the number of mechanical fasteners 703 may vary depending on the size and carrying capacity of the machine 100. Additionally, the configuration of the patterns of the third through holes 736 and the fourth through holes 738 may also vary. Furthermore, the intermediate structure 730 also includes a plurality of plates 734 extending between adjacently arranged supports 732. In the illustrated example, the intermediate structure 730 includes three plates 734. The plates 734 are typically rectangular. In one example, the supports 732 and the plates 734 may be manufactured as a single integral part. Alternatively, the supports 732 and the plates 734 may be manufactured as separate parts welded together to form the intermediate structure 730.

[0041] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the intermediate structure 730 also includes a plurality of third gusset plates 740 and a plurality of fourth gusset plates 742 extending between the support 732 and the frame member 702. More specifically, the third gusset plates 740 and fourth gusset plates 742 extend between each support 732 and the frame member 702. In other examples, the intermediate structure 730 may include a single gusset plate extending between each support 732 and the frame member 702. In such an example, the shape of the single gusset plate contacting the frame member 702 may correspond to the shape of the outer surface 707.

[0042] In addition, the intermediate structure 730 includes multiple plate members 744 (such as... Figure 7 (As shown). It should be noted that plate member 744 covers an opening that would otherwise exist between support plate 731 and frame member 702. Plate member 744 extends between adjacent third gusset plates 740. In one example, each plate member 744 is welded to adjacent third gusset plates 740 and plate 734 (see...). Figure 7 ).

[0043] The intermediate structure 730 is connected to the frame member 702 of the canopy 710. Specifically, the third corner gusset 740 and the fourth corner gusset 742 may be welded to the outer surface 707 of the frame member 702 to connect the intermediate structure 730 to the canopy 710. In the illustrated example, the various parts of the intermediate structure 730, such as the support plate 731, the third corner gusset 740, the fourth corner gusset 72, and the plate member 744, are manufactured as separate components welded to each other. However, in other examples, the entire intermediate structure 730 may be manufactured as a single-piece assembly. It should be understood that the various features shown or described for one embodiment may be combined with the various features shown or described for another embodiment. The above implementations do not limit the scope of this application in any way. Therefore, it should be understood that although some features are shown or described to illustrate the use of this application in the context of the functional paragraphs, these features may be omitted from the scope of this application without departing from the spirit of this application as defined by the appended claims.

[0044] Industrial applicability

[0045] This part will now be described with respect to the protective assembly 204 associated with machine 100 at the right side 118 of canopy 110. The details provided below also apply to other protective assemblies 204, 205 at the left side 116 and right side 118 of canopy 110, as well as the protective assembly 704 associated with canopy 710. Furthermore, the protective assembly 204 described herein can be attached to canopies of various machines.

[0046] This invention provides a time-saving, cost-effective, and simple technique for removably attaching a protective assembly 204 to a canopy 110 of a machine 100. Furthermore, the protective assembly 204 includes a robust design and reduced weight compared to currently available commercially available protective assemblies. Moreover, the protective assembly 204 can be modified for use on existing machines by modifying the canopy 110. A support member 302 defining a first through-hole 304 and a second through-hole 306 is used to attach the protective assembly 204 to the canopy 110. The first through-hole 304 and the second through-hole 306 are aligned with an opening 203 in the frame member 202 to receive a mechanical fastener 303, which allows for removable attachment of the protective assembly 204 to the canopy 110. The first through-hole 304 and the second through-hole 306 are spaced apart along the support member 302 such that any load applied to the protective assembly 204 by material falling on it is evenly distributed across the support member 302. Furthermore, the first through hole 304 and the second through hole 306 are perpendicularly spaced apart, such that when a load is applied to the protective assembly 204 from falling material, the tensile and shear loads experienced by the fastener 303 in the first through hole 304 will be offset by the opposing force generated by the contact between the fastener 303 in the second through hole 306 and the frame member 202.

[0047] In the event of damage to the protective component 204 due to rocks, debris, or other objects / materials falling on it, the protective component 204 can be easily removed and replaced or repaired as needed. Furthermore, in the event of damage to the protective component 204, the canopy 110 will not be damaged. The use of mechanical fasteners 303 to attach the protective component 204 to the canopy 110 provides easy installation and removal of the protective component 204. Because the mechanical fasteners 303 are easily accessible during maintenance or replacement, the maintainability and replacement of the protective component 204 saves time and thereby improves efficiency and productivity associated with machine 100.

[0048] Furthermore, the top portion 206 includes an extension 212 welded to the support member 302. The shape of the extension 212 is determined to improve the weld strength between the top portion 206 and the support member 302. In the disclosed protective assembly 204, each of the first support structure 314 and the second support structure 320 provides structural rigidity and support for the protective assembly 204. Additionally, the first gusset plate 402 and the second gusset plate 404 in the canopy 110 provide additional support and increase the overall strength of the protective assembly 204. When rocks, debris, or other materials fall on the protective assembly 204, the first support structure 314 and the second support structure 320, as well as the first gusset plate 402 and the second gusset plate 404, help to distribute the load evenly across the protective assembly 204.

[0049] The first height "H1" and the second height "H2" of the frame member 202 are selected to allow the support member 302 to be mechanically attached to the frame member 202 without the need for additional mounting brackets or blocks welded to one side of the frame member 202, which are quite heavy and costly to combine. Furthermore, the first height "H1" and the second height "H2" of the frame member 202 may be equal to each of the third height "H3" and the fourth height "H4" of the support member 302, respectively, which provides ease of mounting the support member 302 to the frame member 202. In some examples, the first height "H1" and the second height "H2" of the frame member 202 may not be equal to the third height "H3" and the fourth height "H4," respectively.

[0050] It should also be noted that the protective components 204, 205, and 704 described herein can be attached to corresponding frame members 202 and 702 with different constructions. For example, protective components 204 and 205 can be attached to frame member 202 having a generally flat outer profile. In other examples, protective component 704 can be attached to frame member 702 having a curved outer profile. Therefore, this application provides a time-saving and cost-effective technique for attaching protective component 704 to a canopy 710 having a curved frame member 702. Furthermore, the intermediate structure 730 allows for the attachment of protective component 704 to frame member 702. Including the intermediate structure 730 provides a simple way to attach protective component 704 to frame member 702. In addition, the third corner gusset 740 and the fourth corner gusset 742 provide structural rigidity and support for the intermediate structure 730 and protective component 704.

[0051] While various aspects of this application have been specifically shown and described with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various additional embodiments can be conceived through modifications to the disclosed machines, systems, and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Such embodiments should be understood to fall within the scope of this application as defined by the claims and any equivalents.

Claims

1. A protective assembly (204, 205, 704) adapted for removable attachment to a canopy (110, 710) of a machine (100), said protective assembly (204, 205, 704) comprising: A top portion (206, 502, 706) defines a first end (208), a second end (210) defined opposite to the first end (208), and a first length (L); At least two support members (302, 504, 708) are fixedly connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706) near the second end (210) of the top portion (206, 502, 706), the at least two support members (302, 504, 708) defining a plurality of first through holes (304, 702) and a plurality of second through holes (306, 704), wherein each of the plurality of first through holes (304, 702) and second through holes (306, 704) is aligned with a corresponding opening (203) in the canopy (110, 710) to receive mechanical fasteners (303, 703) passing through therethrough; At least two first support structures (314, 506, 713) are spaced apart along a first length (L) defined by the top portion (206, 502, 706), wherein each of the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713) is fixedly connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706) and a corresponding support member (302, 504, 708) of the at least two support members (302, 504, 708); as well as At least one second support structure (320, 508) extends along the first length (L) defined by the top portion (206, 502, 706), wherein the at least one second support structure (320, 508) is fixedly connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706) and the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713).

2. The protective component (204, 205, 704) according to claim 1, wherein, The top portion (206, 502, 706) includes a curved portion (209) defined adjacent to the first end (208).

3. The protective component (204, 205, 704) according to claim 1, wherein, The top portion (206, 502, 706) includes at least two extension portions (212) defined near the second end (210).

4. The protective component (204, 205, 704) according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the at least two support members (302, 504, 708) is substantially perpendicular to the top portion (206, 502, 706).

5. The protective component (204, 205, 704) according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the at least two support members (302, 504, 708) is generally I-shaped.

6. The protective component (204, 205, 704) according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the at least two support members (302, 504, 708) includes: A first portion (308) adapted to be fixedly connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706), wherein the first portion (308) defines the plurality of first through holes (304, 702); A second portion (310), which is opposite to and substantially parallel to the first portion (308), wherein the second portion (310) defines the plurality of second through holes (306, 704); and A third portion (312) extending between the first portion (308) and the second portion (310), wherein the third portion (312) is generally perpendicular to the first portion (308) and the second portion (310).

7. The protective component (204, 205, 704) according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713) includes a first arm (316) adapted to be connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706) and a second arm (318) adapted to be connected to a corresponding support member (302, 504, 708) among the at least two support members (302, 504, 708).

8. The protective component (204, 205, 704) according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one second support structure (320, 508) includes: A pair of third arms (322) defined at opposite ends (326, 328) of the at least one second support structure (320, 508), wherein each of the pair of third arms (322) is fixedly connected to a corresponding first support structure (314, 506, 713) of the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713); and An intermediate portion (324) extending between the pair of third arms (322), wherein the intermediate portion (324) is fixedly connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706).

9. The protective component (204, 205, 704) according to claim 1, wherein, The canopy (110, 710) includes a plurality of first gusset plates (402), and each of at least two of the plurality of first gusset plates (402) is aligned with a corresponding first support structure (314, 506, 713) of the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713).

10. The protective component (204, 205, 704) according to claim 1, wherein, The canopy (110, 710) includes at least two second gusset plates (404), and each of the at least two second gusset plates (404) is aligned with a corresponding first support structure (314, 506, 713) of the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713).

11. A canopy (110, 710) for a machine (100), said canopy (110, 710) comprising: Frame members (202, 702) that define multiple openings (203); as well as A plurality of protective components (204, 205, 704), said protective components being adapted to be removably coupled to said frame member (202, 702), wherein each of said plurality of protective components (204, 205, 704) includes: A top portion (206, 502, 706) defines a first end (208), a second end (210) defined opposite to the first end (208), and a first length (L); At least two support members (302, 504, 708) are fixedly connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706) near the second end (210) of the top portion (206, 502, 706), the at least two support members (302, 504, 708) defining a plurality of first through holes (304, 702) and a plurality of second through holes (306, 704), wherein each of the plurality of first through holes (304, 702) and second through holes (306, 704) is aligned with a corresponding orifice (203) of the plurality of orifices (203) in the frame member (202, 702) to receive mechanical fasteners (303, 703) passing through them; At least two first support structures (314, 506, 713) are spaced apart along a first length (L) defined by the top portion (206, 502, 706), wherein each of the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713) is fixedly connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706) and a corresponding support member (302, 504, 708) of the at least two support members (302, 504, 708); as well as At least one second support structure (320, 508) extends along the first length (L) defined by the top portion (206, 502, 706), wherein the at least one second support structure (320, 508) is fixedly connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706) and the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713).

12. The awning (110, 710) according to claim 11, wherein, The top portion (206, 502, 706) includes a curved portion (209) defined adjacent to the first end (208).

13. The awning (110, 710) according to claim 11, wherein, The top portion (206, 502, 706) includes at least two extension portions (212) adjacent to the second end (210).

14. The awning (110, 710) according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the at least two support members (302, 504, 708) is substantially perpendicular to the top portion (206, 502, 706).

15. The awning (110, 710) according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the at least two support members (302, 504, 708) is generally I-shaped.

16. The awning (110, 710) according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the at least two support members (302, 504, 708) includes: A first portion (308) adapted to be fixedly connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706), wherein the first portion (308) defines a plurality of first through holes (304, 702); A second portion (310), which is opposite to and substantially parallel to the first portion (308), wherein the second portion (310) defines a plurality of second through holes (306, 704); and A third portion (312) extending between the first portion (308) and the second portion (310), wherein the third portion (312) is generally perpendicular to the first portion (308) and the second portion (310).

17. The awning (110, 710) according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713) includes a first arm (316) adapted to be connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706) and a second arm (318) adapted to be connected to a corresponding support member (302, 504, 708) among the at least two support members (302, 504, 708).

18. The awning (110, 710) according to claim 11, wherein, The at least one second support structure (320, 508) includes: A pair of third arms (322) defined at opposite ends (326, 328) of the at least one second support structure (320, 508), wherein each of the pair of third arms (322) is fixedly connected to a corresponding first support structure (314, 506, 713) of the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713); and An intermediate portion (324) extending between the pair of third arms (322), wherein the intermediate portion (324) is fixedly connected to the top portion (206, 502, 706).

19. The awning (110, 710) according to claim 11 further includes a plurality of first gusset plates (402), wherein each of at least two of the plurality of first gusset plates (402) is aligned with a corresponding first support structure (314, 506, 713) of the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713).

20. The awning (110, 710) according to claim 11 further includes at least two second gusset plates (404), wherein each of the at least two second gusset plates (404) is aligned with a corresponding first support structure (314, 506, 713) of the at least two first support structures (314, 506, 713).

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