Modular ground engaging tool system

Abstract

A tool system includes a bucket including a lip having a plurality of apertures extending at least partially through the lip. The tool system also includes a modular adapter configured to be partially inserted into any of the apertures along an insertion axis. The adapter is configured to be detachably connected to the lip. The adapter includes a first portion configured to extend into the aperture, and a second portion configured to extend out of the aperture. The tool system also includes a locking system having a fastener configured to extend at least partially into the aperture and connect the adapter to the lip.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application filed on November 17, 2017, with application number 201711143877.6 and invention title "Modular Ground Joining Tool System".

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 424,161, filed November 18, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and claims priority thereto. Technical Field

[0004] This invention relates to a mining shovel, and more specifically, to a ground engagement tool system for the bucket of a mining shovel. Background Technology

[0005] Industrial excavating machinery, such as electric rope excavators or power loaders and dragline excavators, is used to perform excavation operations to remove material from ore piles. In a traditional rope excavator, the bucket is attached to a handle and supported by a cable or rope passing through a cantilever pulley. The rope is secured to a lifting beam pivotally connected to the bucket. The handle moves along the saddle to manipulate the position of the bucket. During the lifting phase, the rope is wound up by a winch within the machine base, thereby lifting the bucket upwards through the ore pile and separating the material to be excavated. To release the material placed inside the bucket, a bucket door is pivotally connected to the bucket. When the bucket door is not locked to the bucket, it pivots away from the bottom of the bucket, thus releasing the material through the bottom of the bucket.

[0006] Buckets typically include a ground engagement tool, which consists of an adapter, teeth, and / or shroud that attach to the bucket lip. The ground engagement tool is used to dig through material piles and withstands the significant overall wear experienced by the bucket. Currently, the adapter and shroud are directly attached to the lip, while outriggers straddle both the top and bottom of the lip. In addition to the wear protection already provided by the portion of the adapter or shroud extending forward from the lip, the outriggers serve a dual purpose: structurally supporting the adapter or shroud against the lip and also providing additional material wear protection along the top and bottom of the lip. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Other aspects of the invention will become clearer upon consideration of the specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0008] According to one configuration, a tool system includes a bucket comprising a lip having a plurality of orifices extending at least partially through the lip. The tool system also includes a modular adapter configured to be partially inserted along an insertion axis into one of the orifices. The adapter is configured to be detachably connected to the lip. The adapter includes a first portion configured to extend into the orifice and a second portion configured to extend out of the orifice. The tool system further includes a locking system with fasteners configured to at least partially extend into the orifice and connect the adapter to the lip.

[0009] According to another configuration, an adapter is configured to be detachably attached to the lip of a bucket, the adapter comprising: a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion. The first portion is configured to be inserted along an axis into a first orifice in the lip. The second orifice extends through the first portion. The second orifice is configured to receive a fastener.

[0010] Other aspects of the invention will become clearer upon consideration of the specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 Perspective view of an excavator.

[0012] Figure 2 and 3 It is a perspective view of a modular ground engagement tool system designed for use with an excavator.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a modular ground engagement tool system, showing the lip of the bucket and multiple orifices within the lip.

[0014] Figure 5-9 These are perspective and sectional views of the modular adapters for the modular ground engagement tool system.

[0015] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the modular protective components of a modular ground engagement tool system.

[0016] Figure 11-13 This is a perspective view of a modular ground engagement tool system based on another construction, showing a separate wear component connected to the lip.

[0017] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of a modular ground engagement tool system based on another construction, which shows the locking system.

[0018] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of a modular ground engagement tool system based on another construction.

[0019] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 An exploded view of the modular ground engagement tool system, which shows the locking system.

[0020] Figure 17 and 18 yes Figure 15 Sectional and perspective views of modular adapters for a modular ground engagement tool system. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Before explaining any embodiments of the invention in detail, it should be understood that the application of the invention is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The invention can have other embodiments and can be practiced or performed in various ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting.

[0022] Figure 1 A powered loader 10 is shown. The loader 10 includes: a movable base 15, drive tracks 20, a turntable 25, a rotating frame 30, a boom 35, a lower end 40 of the boom 35 (also referred to as a cantilever foot), an upper end 45 of the boom 35 (also referred to as a cantilever point), cables 50, a lifting frame tensile member 55, a lifting frame compressive member 60, pulleys 65 rotatably mounted on the upper end 45 of the boom 35, a bucket 70, a bucket door 75 pivotally connected to the bucket 70, lifting ropes 80, a winch drum (not shown), a handle 85, a saddle block 90, a transmission shaft 95, and a drivetrain (also referred to as a digging drive, not shown). The turntable 25 defines the axis of rotation 100 of the loader 10. The axis of rotation 100 is perpendicular to a plane 105 defined by the base 15 and generally corresponds to the slope of the ground or support surface.

[0023] The movable base 15 is supported by drive tracks 20. The movable base 15 supports the turntable 25 and the rotating frame 30. The turntable 25 is capable of rotating 360 degrees relative to the movable base 15. The cantilever 35 is pivotally connected to the rotating frame 30 at its lower end 40. The cantilever 35 is held in place by cables 50 extending upward and outward relative to the rotating frame 30, and the cables 50 are fixed to the tensile member 55 and the compressive member 60 of the lifting platform. The compressive member 60 of the lifting platform is mounted on the rotating frame 30.

[0024] Bucket 70 is suspended from cantilever 35 by lifting rope 80. Lifting rope 80 is wound around pulley 65 and connected to bucket 70 at bail 110. Lifting rope 80 is secured to winch drum (not shown) of rotating frame 30. The winch drum is driven by at least one electric motor (not shown) containing a transmission mechanism (not shown). As the winch drum rotates, lifting rope 80 is released to lower bucket 70 or pulled in to raise bucket 70. Handle 85 is also connected to bucket 70. Handle 85 is slidably supported in saddle block 90, and saddle block 90 is pivotally mounted to cantilever 35 at transmission shaft 95. Handle 85 includes a rack and toothed structure thereon that meshes with a drive pinion (not shown) mounted in saddle block 90. The transmission pinion is driven by an electric motor and a transmission device (not shown) to extend or retract the shovel handle 85 relative to the saddle block 90.

[0025] A power source (not shown) is mounted on the rotating frame 30 to supply power to a hoisting motor (not shown) for driving the winch drum, one or more digging motors (not shown) for driving the crowd conveyor, and one or more rotary motors (not shown) for rotating the turntable 25. Each of the digging, hoisting, and rotary motors is driven by its own motor controller or in response to a control signal from a controller (not shown).

[0026] Figure 2-10 A modular ground engagement tool system 200 for use with a loader 10 or other excavating machines is shown. The modular ground engagement tool system 200 includes a bucket 205 having a lip 210, and a plurality of modular adapters 215 and modular guards 220 detachably connected to the lip 210 via orifices 225 in the lip 210.

[0027] In some configurations, the bucket 70 of the loader 10 can be replaced by the bucket 205. In other configurations, the bucket 70 is modified to include an orifice 225 to receive various modular adapters 215 and modular guards 220. In still other configurations, the excavator is originally configured to include the bucket 205.

[0028] like Figure 4As shown, in the illustrated configuration, the lip 210 includes thirteen orifices 225 evenly spaced apart from each other. Other configurations include a different number and arrangement of orifices 225 than those shown. For example, in some configurations, fewer than thirteen orifices 225 are provided. In some configurations, more than thirteen orifices 225 are provided. In some configurations, the spacing of the orifices 225 differs from that shown. In some configurations, at least one of the orifices 225 has a different size and / or shape than shown. In some configurations, all orifices 225 have the same size and shape, while in other configurations, at least one of the orifices 225 has a different size and / or shape than another orifice 225.

[0029] like Figure 2-4 As shown in Figures 8-10, each aperture 225 extends completely through the lip 210 from the first outer side 230 to the opposite second inner side 235 of the lip 210. Figure 9 As shown, the diameter of the orifice 225 changes as it moves from the first side 230 of the lip 210 to the second side 235 of the lip 210. In the illustrated configuration, each orifice 225 has a first diameter 240 adjacent to the first side 230, a second diameter 245 between the first side 230 and the second side 235, and a third diameter 250 adjacent to the second side 235. In the illustrated configuration, the first diameter 240 is larger than the second diameter 245 and the third diameter 250, and the second diameter is smaller than the first diameter 240 and the third diameter 250.

[0030] like Figure 3 As shown, in the illustrated configuration, the bucket 205 includes reinforcing elements 255 positioned along the bottom 260 of the bucket 205. The reinforcing elements 255 are elongated ribs evenly spaced from each other and extending parallel to each other along the bucket 205. The reinforcing elements 255 extend along the bottom 260 of the bucket 205 to the inner side 235 of the lip 210. The reinforcing elements 255 are alternated with orifices 225, such that a single reinforcing element 255, when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the inner side 235 of the lip 210, is positioned between any two orifices 225. Other configurations include reinforcing elements 255 of different sizes, shapes, and arrangements as shown. In some configurations, the bucket 205 does not include reinforcing elements 255.

[0031] like Figure 5-9As shown, each modular adapter 215 includes a first portion 265 and a second portion 270. The first portion 265 is sized and shaped to engage with either of the orifices 225. The second portion 270 extends from the first portion 265 and is sized and shaped to extend out of the orifice 225. In the illustrated configuration, the first portion 265 is an elongated rod sized and shaped to slide into one of the orifices 225 and provides structural support and stability for the modular adapter 215 on the bucket 205 (e.g., opposite to the use of outriggers straddling opposite sides of the bucket lip, as seen in existing adapters). The cross-section of the first portion 265 gradually decreases, such that the cross-section of the first portion 265 near the second portion 270 is larger than the cross-section away from the second portion 270. In the illustrated configuration, the first portion 265 has an overall size and shape approximately equal to the size and shape of at least one of the orifices 225, such that once the first portion 265 is inserted into the orifice 225, the first portion 265 typically maintains a frictional fit within the orifice 225. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in some configurations, the first portion 265 has a generally clover-shaped cross-section. However, other configurations include a variety of other shapes and sizes different from those shown. For example, as... Figure 7 As shown, in some structures, the modular adapter 215 has a first portion 265 with a circular cross-sectional shape.

[0032] Continue to refer to Figure 5-9 The second part 270 includes a central body 275 and a mating protrusion 280 extending from the central body 275, the size and shape of which are configured to connect to the tooth tip 285. A first part 265 of the modular adapter 215 extends from the central body 275. The central body 275 has a larger cross-section than the first part 265 and the orifice 225, such that when the modular adapter 215 is connected to the lip 210, the central body 275 abuts against the first outer side 230 of the lip 210. Figure 8 and 9 The mating protrusion 280 has a smaller cross-section than the central body 275, and the cross-section generally decreases in size with increasing distance from the central body 275. For example... Figure 9As shown, the size and shape of the mating protrusion 280 are configured to precisely engage with a correspondingly shaped concave recess 290 in the tooth tip 285. The tooth tip 285 withstands abrasion from the material excavated by the forklift 10 and is held on the mating protrusion 280 by any of a variety of different mechanisms or techniques. For example, in some configurations, the tooth tip 285 is held on the mating protrusion 280 entirely by friction engagement. In other configurations, the tooth tip 285 is held on the modular adapter 215 using pins or other mechanisms (e.g., commercially available structures or systems). In some configurations, the tooth tip 285 is a commercially available tooth tip.

[0033] Referring again to 5-9, modular adapter 215 includes adapter port 295, which extends from the first portion 265 of modular adapter 215 to the second portion 270 of modular adapter 215. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the adapter orifice 295 is a through hole, comprising a first region 300 having a first diameter 305 and a second region 310 having a second diameter 315. In some configurations, the first region 300 is threaded. The second diameter 315 is larger than the first diameter 305. The adapter orifice 295 is along axis 330 ( Figure 9 It extends from the end surface 320 of the first portion 265 to the inclined surface 325 of the mating protrusion 280. For example... Figure 9 As shown, axis 330 is the same as the axis in which the first part 265 is inserted into the orifice 225 of the lip 210.

[0034] Continue to refer to Figure 9 The modular ground engagement tool system 200 includes a locking system 335 that removably locks the modular adapter 215 to the lip 210. In the illustrated configuration, the locking system 335 includes a fastener 340 (e.g., a bolt) shaped and sized to extend into an adapter orifice 295 of the modular adapter 215. The fastener 340 includes a first portion 345 and a second portion 350 (e.g., a head), the first portion 345 having a diameter equal to or smaller than a first diameter 305 of the adapter orifice 295, and the second portion 350 having a diameter greater than the first diameter 305 and equal to or smaller than a second diameter 315 of the adapter orifice 295. The fastener 340 can be inserted into the adapter orifice 295 at an inclined surface 325 until the second portion 350 reaches the transition portion between the first region 300 and the second region 310 of the adapter orifice 295, wherein the second portion 350 is then prevented from further translation along the axis 330. In some configurations, the second part 350 is a head that receives a tool to push, thread, or otherwise move the fastener 340 through the adapter orifice 295.

[0035] Continue to refer to Figure 9The locking system 335 also includes a nut 355 (e.g., threaded) that receives the fastener 340. Figure 8 As shown, the diameter of the nut 355 is larger than the second diameter 245 of the orifice 225 of the lip 210. By rotating the fastener 340 through the nut 355 and / or rotating the nut 355 onto the fastener 340, the fastener 340 and the nut 355 are tightened relative to each other, and the modular adapter 215 is held firmly against the first outer side 230 of the lip 210.

[0036] like Figure 10 As shown, each modular protective element 220 includes a first portion 360 and a second portion 365. The first portion 360 is sized and shaped to fit precisely into either of the orifices 225. The second portion 365 extends from the first portion 360, and is sized and shaped to extend out of the orifice 225. In the illustrated configuration, the first portion 360 is an elongated rod sized and shaped to slide into one of the orifices 225. The cross-section of the first portion 360 gradually decreases, such that the cross-section of the first portion 360 near the second portion 365 is larger than the cross-section away from the second portion 365. In the illustrated configuration, the overall size and shape of the first portion 360 are approximately equal to the size and shape of at least one of the orifices 225, thereby ensuring a frictional fit within the orifice 225.

[0037] Continue to refer to Figure 10 The second part 365 includes a central body 370 and a wear protrusion 375 extending from the central body 370. The first part 360 of the modular protective element 220 extends from the central body 370. (As...) Figure 10 As shown, the central body 370 has a larger cross-section than the opening 225 within the first portion 360 and the lip 210, such that when the modular guard 220 is attached to the lip 210, the central body 370 abuts against the first outer side 230 of the lip 210. The wear protrusion 375 has a smaller cross-section than the central body 370, and its cross-section generally decreases with distance from the central body 370. Figure 8 and 10 As shown, the wear protrusion 375 remains exposed outside the lip 210 to withstand the wear caused by the material excavated by the loader 10.

[0038] Continue to refer to Figure 10 Modular protective component 220 includes an aperture 380 extending from a first portion 360 of modular protective component 220 to a second portion 365 of modular protective component 220. For example... Figure 10As shown, orifice 380 is a through hole, comprising a first region 385 having a first diameter 390 and a second region 395 having a second diameter 400. In some configurations, the first region 385 is threaded. The second diameter 400 is larger than the first diameter 390. Orifice 380 extends along axis 415 from end surface 405 of first portion 360 to inclined surface 410 of wear protrusion 375. Figure 10 As shown, axis 415 is the same as the axis in the hole 225 of the lip 210 into which the first part 360 is inserted.

[0039] Continue to refer to Figure 10 ,and Figure 9 Similarly, the same locking system 335 that removably locks the modular adapter 215 to the lip 210 can optionally be used to removably lock the modular guard 220 to the lip 210. Therefore, as Figure 10 As shown, the fastener 340 is inserted into the orifice 380 at the inclined surface 410 and can be connected to the nut 355.

[0040] Figure 11-13 A modular ground engagement tool system 500 is shown, comprising a bucket 505 with a lip 510 and individual wear parts 515 attached to the bucket 505 to further withstand abrasion from material excavated by the loader 10. Each individual wear part 515 has a generally rectangular shape and protrudes upward from the inner surface 520 of the bucket 505. Other configurations include different shapes and sizes than those shown. In some configurations, the individual wear parts 515 are integrally formed as part of the bucket 505.

[0041] Continue to refer to Figure 11-13 The modular ground engagement tool system 500 includes modular adapters 525. Figure 11 and 12 ) and modular shrouds 530 ( Figure 13 Each of the modular adapter 525 and modular protective element 530 engages precisely with any one of the different orifices 535 within the lip 510, similar to the ground engagement tool system 200. Figure 11-13As shown, individual wear parts 515 are spaced apart and placed generally adjacent to the modular adapter 525 and the guard 530; however, other configurations include different locations. The modular ground engagement tool system 500 also includes a locking system 540 to detachably lock the modular adapter 525 and the modular guard 530 to the lip 510. Additionally, similar to the modular adapter 215 described above, the modular adapter 525 is connected to the tooth tip 545. No description is provided for the modular adapter 525, the modular guard 530, the locking system 545, and the tooth tip 545, as they are the same as those described above in the modular ground engagement tool system 200.

[0042] The individual wear component 515, used in conjunction with the individual modular adapter 525 and modular guard 530, allows the overall wear experienced by the bucket 505 to be distributed among the various components, each of which can be replaced as needed based on the wear it has experienced. For example, in some configurations, the individual wear component 515 may wear out more slowly than the modular adapter 525 or the modular guard 530 during use of the bucket 505. Therefore, the modular adapter 525 and the modular guard 530 can be replaced as needed, while the individual wear component 515 remains in place.

[0043] Figure 14 A modular ground engagement tool system 600 is shown, comprising a bucket 605 with a lip 610 and a separate wear part 615 connected to an inner surface 620 of the bucket 605 to further withstand wear from material excavated by the loader 10. The modular ground engagement tool system 600 includes a modular adapter 625 (and a modular guard, not shown), each of which is fitted precisely into any one of the various orifices 630 within the lip 610, similar to ground engagement tool systems 200 and 500. Figure 14 As shown, individual wear parts 615 are spaced apart and placed generally adjacent to the modular adapter 525 and the guard, although other configurations include different locations. The modular adapter 625 is also connected to the tooth tip 640. Furthermore, the modular ground engagement tool system 600 includes a locking system 645 to detachably lock the modular adapter 625 (or the modular guard) to the lip 610.

[0044] Continue to refer to Figure 14 The orifice 630 extends from the first outer side 650 of the lip 610 to the opposite second inner side 655 of the lip 610. The orifice 630 has a first diameter 660 adjacent to the first outer side 650 and a second diameter 665 adjacent to the second inner side 655. The orifice 630 gradually and continuously decreases in diameter between the first diameter 660 and the second diameter 665.

[0045] The locking system 645 includes a fastener 670 (e.g., a bolt similar to or the same as the fastener 340 described above), whose shape and size are configured to extend into an aperture 675 (e.g., a threaded hole) of the modular adapter 625. Figure 14 As shown, orifice 675 is a blind hole with an opening at the inner end of modular adapter 625 within lip 610. Fastener 670 includes a first portion 680 (e.g., threaded) having a first diameter and a second portion 685 (e.g., a head) having a larger second diameter. In some configurations, the second portion 685 is a head that receives a tool to push, screw, or otherwise move the fastener 670 into orifice 675.

[0046] Continue to refer to Figure 14 The locking system 645 also includes a washer 690 having a second diameter 665 larger than the orifice 630 of the lip 610. To lock the modular adapter 625, a fastener 670 is moved (e.g., screwed into) the orifice 675 from the rear of the modular adapter 625 in a direction toward the tooth tip 640. As the fastener 670 rotates, the second portion 685 eventually contacts the washer 690, which prevents further translation of the second portion 685. Subsequently, when the fastener 670 rotates again, the modular adapter 625 is pulled against the first outer side 650 of the lip 610, thereby locking the modular adapter 625 to the lip 610.

[0047] Figure 15-18 A modular ground engagement tool system 700 is shown, comprising a bucket 705 having a lip 710, a separate wear component 725 (e.g., wear-bearing), and a plurality of separate modular adapters 715 and modular guards 720 detachably connected to the lip 710 via orifices 730 in the lip 710. Modular adapters 715 are connected to tooth tips 740. In the illustrated configuration, orifices 730 extend fully through the lip 710, although in other configurations, orifices 730 extend only partially through the lip 710 (e.g., as blind holes). The modular ground engagement tool system 700 also includes a locking system 745 for detachably locking the modular adapters 715 and / or the modular guards 720 to the lip 710. The modular ground engagement tool system 700 is similar to modular ground engagement tool systems 200, 500, and 600; for brevity, only the differences are discussed here.

[0048] like Figure 16-18As shown, each modular adapter 715 includes a first portion 765 and a second portion 770. The first portion 765 is sized and shaped to fit precisely into any of the orifices 730. The second portion 770 extends from the first portion 765, sized and shaped to extend out of the orifice 730. In the illustrated configuration, both the first portion 765 and the second portion 770 are tapered; however, other configurations include different shapes and sizes. The first portion 765 includes a slot 750 oriented along an axis 840 perpendicular to the axis 845, through which the modular adapter 715 is inserted. The slot 750 extends completely through the first portion 765 along the axis 840. The second portion 770 includes a central body 775 and a mating protrusion 780 extending from the central body 775 and sized and shaped to connect to a tooth tip 740. The connecting orifice 755 extends into the mating protrusion 780 and is oriented along axis 850, which is orthogonal to axes 840 and 845. In some configurations, the connecting orifice 755 together form a single through hole that extends completely through the mating protrusion 780.

[0049] like Figure 17 and 18 As shown, the size and shape of the protrusion 780 are configured to precisely engage with the corresponding concave seat 790 in the tooth tip 740. The tooth tip 740 is connected by a pin 760 ( Figure 16 While held in place on the mating protrusion 780 and module adapter 715, pin 760 is inserted into connection hole 755. When the mating protrusion 780 is received in concave recess 790, tooth tip 740 has contact with connection hole 755. Figure 16 Aligned orifice 785 ( Figure 16 In the illustrated configuration, pins 760 are inserted through orifices 785 and connecting orifices 755 to connect tooth tips 740 to modular adapters 715. Other configurations connect modular adapters 715 to tooth tips 740 via various other mechanisms (other pins, etc.).

[0050] Continue to refer to Figure 16 and 17 The locking system 745 includes a fastener 795. In the illustrated configuration, the fastener 795 includes a first wedge element 855 having a tab 875 and a second wedge element 860. The locking system 745 also includes an orifice 800 extending into the bucket lip 710 (and in some embodiments, further extending through one of the separate wear members 725 on the lip 710). The orifice 800 intersects the orifice 730 along an axis 870 parallel to or coincident with the axis 840.

[0051] During assembly, a modular adapter 715 is inserted into orifice 730 so that slot 750 is aligned with orifice 800 along axis 870. Fastener 795 is then inserted into orifice 800 and slot 750 to attach modular adapter 715 to bucket lip 710. For example, in some configurations, a first wedge element 855 is inserted into orifice 800 and slot 750. A second wedge element 860 is then inserted (e.g., by pushing with a hammer or other tool) into orifice 800 and slot 750. A guide rail 865 located on the second wedge element 860 is connected to a guide rail (not shown) on the first wedge element 855, thereby guiding and connecting the first wedge element 855 and the second wedge element 860 together. When the first wedge element 855 and the second wedge element 860 are joined together and the second wedge element 860 has been pushed down, the lug 875 extends onto the ledge 877 within the lip 710, thereby facilitating the securing of the modular adapter 715 in place. Other constructions include fasteners 795, different from those shown, which can be partially or fully inserted into the orifice 800 to secure the modular adapter 715 to the bucket lip 710.

[0052] like Figure 15-17 As shown, in some configurations, the collar 815 extends around a portion of the central body 775 (or around a portion of the protective element 720). For example... Figure 16 As shown, the collar 815 includes a protrusion 820 and a central opening 825. The protrusion 820 engages on the inner surface 830 of the bucket 705 (the inner surface 830 faces the inside of the bucket 705 that receives material), allowing the collar 815 to abut against the lip 710. When the modular adapter 715 is inserted into the orifice 730, the first portion 765 of the modular adapter 715 is inserted into the central opening 825 of the collar 815. In some configurations, the size and shape of the cross-section of the central opening 825 are substantially similar to the size and shape of the cross-section of the central body 775. This provides a secure fit for the modular adapter 715 within the collar 815. In the illustrated configuration, as... Figure 17 As shown, when the modular adapter 715 is attached to the bucket 705, the end 817 of the tooth tip 740 is adjacent to the collar 815, such that the collar 815 fits tightly between the tooth tip 740 and the bucket lip 710. Other configurations include various other shapes and sizes of collar 815 different from those shown.

[0053] In some configurations, one or more modular adapters 215, 525, 625, 715 described herein are integrally formed as a single piece with their corresponding tooth tips 285, 545, 640, 740, thereby forming a single-piece wear structure (e.g., an integral structure) that inserts into an orifice in the bucket lip. For example, as Figure 17As shown, in some configurations, the mating protrusion 780 does not mate with the tooth tip 740. Instead, the mating protrusion 780 and the tooth tip 740 are integrally topographically formed as a single structure extending away from the central body 775.

[0054] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the invention described.

Claims

1. A tool system, characterized in that, The tool system includes: A modular adapter configured to be partially inserted along an insertion axis into any one of a plurality of orifices within the lip of a bucket, wherein the adapter is configured to be detachably connected to the lip, the adapter including a first tapered portion configured to extend into the orifice, and a second portion configured to extend out of the orifice; A locking system including fasteners configured to extend at least partially into the orifice and connect the adapter to the lip; A separate wear component, the wear component being configured to connect to the inner surface of the bucket; The orifice is a first orifice that extends completely through the lip from a first side to an opposite second side of the lip, wherein the diameter of the first orifice changes as it moves from the first side of the lip to the second side of the lip. The adapter includes a second orifice that extends at least partially through the adapter along an axis perpendicular to the insertion axis, wherein the second orifice is configured to align with a third orifice within the lip, the third orifice is configured to intersect with the first orifice, and the third orifice is aligned with the second orifice when the adapter is attached to the lip, wherein the third orifice is configured to extend through the individual wear member; The fastener is configured to pass through the individual wear component, thereby connecting the individual wear component to the inner surface of the bucket without using the fastener; A collar configured to be connected to the lip, wherein the collar includes a central opening and a protrusion, the central opening being sized and shaped to receive a first portion of the adapter, the protrusion being configured to fit into the inner surface of the bucket, and the protrusion being aligned with the individual wear member along the insertion axis; and The tooth tip is configured to be connected to the modular adapter, wherein the tooth tip includes an end portion configured adjacent to the collar such that the collar fits tightly between the tooth tip and the bucket lip.

2. The tool system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tool system also includes the bucket and the lip.

3. The tool system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fastener is configured to extend into the second and third openings to connect the adapter to the lip.

4. The tool system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fastener includes a first wedge element and a second wedge element, wherein the second wedge element includes a guide rail configured to guide movement of the second wedge element relative to the first wedge element, wherein the second wedge element is configured to be driven to engage with the first wedge element.

5. The tool system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tool system also includes a modular protective element configured to be partially inserted into any of the openings of the lip.

6. The tool system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fastener is configured to fit perfectly within the lip.

7. The tool system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tool system also includes the bucket and the lip, wherein the adapter is directly secured to the lip by the fasteners.

8. A tool system, characterized in that, The tool system includes: A modular adapter extending along a first axis and configured to be partially inserted along the first axis into any one of a plurality of orifices within the lip of a bucket, each orifice extending completely through the lip from a first side to an opposite second side of the lip, wherein each orifice undergoes a change in diameter as it moves from the first side to the second side of the lip; wherein the adapter is configured to be detachably connected to the lip, the adapter including a first tapered portion configured to extend into the orifices within the lip, and a second tapered portion configured to extend out of the orifices, wherein the second portion includes a central body and a mating protrusion extending from the central body, wherein a connecting orifice extends along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, wherein the first tapered portion includes a slot extending completely through the first tapered portion along a third axis perpendicular to both the first and second axes; The tool system further includes a collar configured to be connected to the lip of the bucket, wherein the collar includes a central opening and a protrusion, the central opening being sized and shaped to receive a first tapered portion of the adapter, and the protrusion being configured to fit into the inner surface of the bucket, the protrusion being aligned along an insertion axis with a separate wear member connected to the inner surface of the bucket. The tool system further includes the lip, the adapter is fixed to the lip, and the adapter is in direct contact with the collar.

9. The tool system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The tool system also includes a locking system comprising fasteners configured to extend into the slot and connect the adapter to the lip.

10. The tool system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The fastener includes a first wedge element and a second wedge element, wherein the second wedge element includes a guide rail configured to guide movement of the second wedge element relative to the first wedge element, wherein the second wedge element is configured to be driven to engage with the first wedge element.

11. The tool system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The tool system also includes the bucket and the lip.

12. A tool system, characterized in that, The tool system includes: A modular adapter configured to be partially inserted along an insertion axis into any one of a plurality of orifices within the lip of a bucket, each orifice extending completely through the lip from a first side to an opposite second side of the lip, wherein each orifice undergoes a change in diameter as it moves from the first side to the second side of the lip; wherein the modular adapter is configured to be detachably connected to the lip, the modular adapter including a first portion configured to extend into the orifice and a second portion configured to extend out of the orifice; A locking system including fasteners configured to at least partially extend into the orifice and connect the modular adapter to the lip; and A collar configured to be connected to the lip, wherein the collar is a separate component relative to the modular adapter, and the collar includes a central opening and a protrusion, wherein a first portion of the adapter is configured to extend through the central opening, and the protrusion is configured to fit into the inner surface of the bucket, the protrusion being aligned along the insertion axis with a separate wear component connected to the inner surface of the bucket. The tool system further includes the lip, the modular adapter is fixed to the lip, and the modular adapter is in direct contact with the collar.

13. The tool system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The tool system also includes the bucket.

14. The tool system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The orifice is a first orifice, wherein the modular adapter includes a second orifice extending through the first portion, wherein the second orifice is configured to receive the fastener to connect the modular adapter to the lip.

15. The tool system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first part is conical.

16. The tool system according to claim 12, characterized in that, The tool system also includes the bucket, wherein the collar abuts against the lip.

17. A tool system, characterized in that, The tool system includes: A modular guard is configured to be partially inserted along an insertion axis into any one of a plurality of orifices within the lip of a bucket, each orifice extending completely through the lip from a first side to an opposite second side of the lip, wherein each orifice undergoes a change in diameter as it moves from the first side to the second side of the lip; wherein the modular guard is configured to be detachably connected to the lip, the modular guard including a first tapered portion configured to extend into the orifice, and a second portion configured to extend out of the orifice; A locking system including fasteners configured to at least partially extend into the orifice and connect the modular guard to the lip; and A separate wear component is configured to be attached to the inner surface of the bucket; A collar configured to be connected to the lip, wherein the collar includes a central opening and a protrusion, a first portion of the modular guard is configured to extend through the central opening, the protrusion is configured to fit into the inner surface of the bucket, and the protrusion is aligned with the individual wear member along the insertion axis; The orifice is a first orifice, the modular guard includes a second orifice extending at least partially through the modular guard along an axis perpendicular to the insertion axis, the second orifice being configured to align with a third orifice within the lip, the third orifice being configured to intersect the first orifice, and the third orifice being aligned with the second orifice when the modular guard is attached to the lip, wherein the third orifice is configured to extend through the individual wear member; The fastener is configured to pass through the individual wear component, thereby connecting the individual wear component to the inner surface of the bucket without using the fastener.

18. The tool system according to claim 17, characterized in that, The fastener is configured to fit perfectly within the lip.

19. The tool system according to claim 17, characterized in that, The tool system also includes the bucket and the lip, wherein the modular protective element is directly secured to the lip with the fasteners.

20. A tool system, characterized in that, The tool system includes: A modular guard is configured to be partially inserted along an insertion axis into any one of a plurality of orifices within the lip of a bucket, each orifice extending completely through the lip from a first side to an opposite second side of the lip, wherein each orifice undergoes a change in diameter as it moves from the first side to the second side of the lip; wherein the modular guard is configured to be detachably connected to the lip, the modular guard including a first tapered portion configured to extend into the orifice, and a second portion configured to extend out of the orifice; A locking system including fasteners configured to at least partially extend into the orifice and connect the modular guard to the lip; and A collar configured to be connected to the lip, wherein the collar includes a central opening and a protrusion, wherein a first portion of the modular guard is configured to extend through the central opening, and the protrusion is configured to fit into the inner surface of the bucket, the protrusion being aligned along the insertion axis with a separate wear member connected to the inner surface of the bucket; The tool system further includes the lip, wherein the modular guard is fixed to the lip and the modular guard is in direct contact with the collar.

21. A tool system, characterized in that, The tool system includes: A lip, connected to the bottom surface of the bucket, wherein the lip protrudes outward from the outer surface of the bottom wall of the bucket body, the lip including a plurality of orifices, each orifice extending completely through the lip from a first side to an opposite second side of the lip, each orifice changing in diameter as it moves from the first side to the second side of the lip, the plurality of orifices being configured to offset from the bottom surface of the lip; The tool system also includes the bucket, which has a body defining the bottom surface, the bottom surface including a plurality of reinforcing elements located on the bottom surface, the reinforcing elements being evenly spaced from each other, each reinforcing element being located between any two openings of the orifice.

22. The tool system according to claim 21, characterized in that, Each of the orifices has a first diameter, a second diameter, and a third diameter, the first diameter being adjacent to a first side of the lip, the second diameter being between the first and second sides of the lip, and the third diameter being adjacent to a second side of the lip, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter and the third diameter, and the second diameter is smaller than the first diameter and the third diameter.

23. The tool system according to claim 21, characterized in that, The lip is connected to the body, the lip extends below the body of the bucket, and the plurality of orifices are located below the bottom surface of the body.

24. The tool system according to claim 21, characterized in that, The tool system also includes: A modular adapter configured to be partially inserted into any of the orifices along an insertion axis, wherein the adapter is configured to be detachably connected to the lip, the adapter including a first portion configured to extend into the orifice and a second portion configured to extend out of the orifice; and A locking system including fasteners configured to extend at least partially into the orifice and connect the adapter to the lip.

25. The tool system according to claim 24, characterized in that, The tool system also includes a tooth tip configured to be detachably connected to a second part of the adapter.

26. The tool system according to claim 24, characterized in that, The fastener includes a first wedge element and a second wedge element.

27. The tool system according to claim 24, characterized in that, The fastener is a bolt configured to be inserted into the orifice of the adapter.

28. The tool system according to claim 24, characterized in that, Individual wear parts are attached to the inner surface of the bucket.

29. The tool system according to claim 24, characterized in that, The tool system also includes a modular protective element configured to be partially inserted into any of the openings of the lip.

30. A tool system, characterized in that, The tool system includes: A bucket having a body defining a top wall, a first side wall, a second side wall opposite the first side wall, and a bottom wall, the bottom wall extending between the first and second side walls, the bottom wall having an outer surface, and the bucket further including a door connected to the body; and A lip, the lip being connected to the outer surface of the bottom wall of the body, wherein the lip protrudes outward from the outer surface of the bottom wall of the body of the bucket, and the lip includes a plurality of orifices offset from the bottom wall of the body, each orifice extending completely through the lip from a first side to an opposite second side of the lip; The outer surface includes a plurality of reinforcing elements, which are evenly spaced from each other, with each reinforcing element located between any two of the orifices.

31. The tool system according to claim 30, characterized in that, Each of the orifices extends through the lip in a direction parallel to the outer surface of the bottom wall.

32. The tool system according to claim 30, characterized in that, The diameter of each of the orifices varies as it moves from the first side of the lip to the second side of the lip.

33. The tool system according to claim 32, characterized in that, Each of the orifices has a first diameter, a second diameter, and a third diameter, wherein the first diameter is adjacent to a first side of the lip, the second diameter is between the first and second sides of the lip, and the third diameter is adjacent to a second side of the lip, wherein the first diameter is larger than the second diameter and the third diameter, and the second diameter is smaller than the first diameter and the third diameter.

34. The tool system according to claim 30, characterized in that, The tool system includes: A modular adapter configured to be partially inserted into any of the orifices along an insertion axis, wherein the modular adapter is configured to be detachably connected to the lip, the modular adapter including a first portion configured to extend into the orifice and a second portion configured to extend out of the orifice; and A locking system including fasteners configured to extend at least partially into the orifice and connect the modular adapter to the lip.

35. The tool system according to claim 34, characterized in that, The tool system also includes a tooth tip configured to be detachably connected to a second part of the modular adapter.

36. The tool system according to claim 34, characterized in that, The fastener includes a first wedge element and a second wedge element.

37. The tool system of claim 34, wherein the fastener is a bolt configured to be inserted into the orifice toward the modular adapter.

38. The tool system according to claim 34, characterized in that, The tool system also includes a modular protective element configured to be partially inserted into any of the openings of the lip.

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