Work implement assembly using adapter, adapter cover and notched base edge

Abstract

Each of the plurality of center notches (702) and the first and second end notches (724, 724') of the base edge (700) includes a different configuration including a different end notch depth (725) along the assembly direction (714), the end notch depth being greater than the center notch depth (725') along the assembly direction (714).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to work implement assemblies such as bucket assemblies used by earthmoving, mining, construction equipment, etc. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to such assemblies using a notched base edge and a tool adapter that mates with the base edge and an adapter cover that protects at least a portion of the tool adapter. Background Art

[0002] Machines such as wheel loaders and excavators utilize a work implement assembly that includes a bucket assembly, rake, shears, etc., to which teeth or tips are attached to assist in working with materials such as dirt, rock, sand, etc. For example, teeth or tips may be attached to the bucket assembly to assist the bucket assembly in penetrating the ground, thereby facilitating scooping dirt into the bucket. Adapters are typically attached to the working edge (e.g., base edge, side edge, etc.) of the bucket or other work implement, allowing different styles of teeth or tips to be attached to the work implement. Furthermore, tips or teeth can be easily replaced when worn by providing an adapter that attaches to the work implement.

[0003] Many such adapters are mechanically attached to the working edge of the work implement.However, current adapters do not always meet customer requirements for life or durability.

[0004] U.S. patent application publication numbers 20200157780, 2020015779, 20200015778, 2020015777, 2020015776, and 20200157765, assigned to the applicant of the present application, describe corner adapters, center adapters, corner adapter covers, center adapter covers, and notched base edges suitable for certain applications, such as buckets for earthmoving, mining, and construction industries, among others.

[0005] However, for other working applications, there is a need for continued improvements including providing more robust corner adapters and their attachment to the base edge of a bucket or other work implement. Additionally, an adapter cover that is less expensive to manufacture is desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0006] A base edge according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a body including a working edge defining a lateral direction and an assembly direction perpendicular to the lateral direction, the body further defining first and second lateral ends, a plurality of vertical mounting mechanism receiving apertures, a plurality of center recesses extending from the working edge, and a first end recess disposed adjacent to the first lateral end and a second end recess disposed adjacent to the second lateral end, the first end recess and the second end recess extending from the working edge. Each of the plurality of center recesses and the first and second end recesses comprises a different configuration. The first and second end recesses define a recess depth along the assembly direction, and the first and second end recesses further comprise a straight middle portion laterally straddled by first and second arcuate corner portions, the straight middle portion defining a lateral straight middle portion width, and the recess depth ranging from 0.5 times the lateral straight middle portion width to 1.25 times the lateral straight middle portion width.

[0007] A base edge according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes a body including a working edge defining a lateral direction and an assembly direction perpendicular to the lateral direction, the body further defining first and second lateral ends, a plurality of vertical mounting mechanism receiving apertures, a plurality of central recesses extending from the working edge, and a first end recess disposed adjacent to the first lateral end and a second end recess disposed adjacent to the second lateral end, the first end recess and the second end recess extending from the working edge. Each of the plurality of central recesses and the first and second end recesses includes a different configuration, the different configurations including a different end recess depth along the assembly direction, the end recess depth being greater than a central recess depth along the assembly direction.

[0008] A bucket assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a housing defining an opening and comprising a rear wall, a bottom plate, a curved shell connecting the rear wall to the bottom plate, a top plate attached to the rear wall, a side edge assembly, and a front edge assembly attached to a front edge of the bottom plate, the front edge assembly including a base edge. The base edge includes a plurality of center recesses extending from a working edge, a first end recess disposed adjacent to a first lateral end, and a second end recess disposed adjacent to a second lateral end, the first and second end recesses extending from the working edge. Each of the plurality of center recesses and the first and second end recesses includes a different configuration, the different configurations including a different end recess depth along the assembly direction, the end recess depth being greater than the center recess depth along the assembly direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1is a perspective view of a work implement assembly, such as a bucket assembly, constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, which utilizes components such as a center adapter, corner adapters, a load sharing block, a center adapter cover, corner adapter covers, a center tip, corner tips, and a notched base edge.

[0010] Figure 2 Is installed from Figure 1 Side view of the bucket assembly with the center adapter removed with the notched base edge.

[0011] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a top cross-sectional view of a center adapter and notched base edge showing how the center adapter mates with the center notch of the notched base edge.

[0012] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged perspective view of the notched base edge of FIG. 1 with the center adapter removed to more clearly illustrate the center notch of the notched base edge.

[0013] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 FIG. 1 is an enlarged side view of the center adapter and notched base edge of FIG. 1 showing a gap provided between a front portion of the notched base edge and the base edge receiving slot of the center adapter.

[0014] Figure 6 is removed from the notched base edge Figure 2 Front-oriented perspective view of the center adapter.

[0015] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Rear-oriented perspective view of the center adapter.

[0016] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 Top view of the center adapter.

[0017] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 An enlarged side view of the nose portion of the center adapter.

[0018] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A side view of an example of a center adapter, center tip, center adapter cover, notched base edge, and load sharing block of a bucket assembly.

[0019] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A top cross-sectional view showing Figure 10 The top leg of the center adapter, the vertical mounting mechanism, the notched base edge and the top load sharing block.

[0020] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 , which depicts the top load sharing block resting on the edge of the base and supporting the center adapter.

[0021] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Front-oriented perspective view of the load-sharing block.

[0022] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 Rear-oriented perspective view of the load-sharing block.

[0023] Figure 15 yes Figure 12 Top view of a load sharing block.

[0024] Figure 16 yes Figure 1 A side view of a corner adapter of a bucket assembly with the corner adapter removed from the bucket assembly for improved clarity.

[0025] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 oriented perspective view of a corner adapter, which more clearly depicts the top mating pad of the corner adapter (hereinafter referred to as the first angled portion).

[0026] Figure 18 It is from Figure 1 A top view of the corner adapter and tip is obtained, with the corner adapter cover omitted to improve clarity of the corner adapter geometry.

[0027] Figure 19 is a side cross-sectional view of a corner adapter, a notched base edge, and a corner stabilizer illustrating the secure attachment of the corner adapter to the notched base edge.

[0028] Figure 20 is with Figure 17 A top cross-sectional view of a notched base edge of a corner or end notch mating with a protrusion of a corner adapter.

[0029] Figure 21 is shown separately including Figure 1 A perspective view of the notched base edge of the corner stabilizer of the bucket assembly.

[0030] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 1. A top view of the notched base edge of FIG. 1, which more clearly shows the corner stabilizers and corner or end notches.

[0031] Figure 23 yes Figure 22Side cross-sectional view of the end notches and corner stabilizers.

[0032] Figure 24 yes Figure 21 Top view of the notched base edge with the corner stabilizers removed.

[0033] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 An enlarged top view of the end notches of the notched base edge.

[0034] Figure 26 yes Figure 1 A side view of an example of a center adapter, center tip, notched base edge, and center adapter cover illustrating material flow over the center adapter cover that helps protect the top leg of the center adapter from wear.

[0035] Figure 27 yes Figure 26 An enlarged perspective view of the center adapter, center tip, center adapter cover, and notched base edge of FIG.

[0036] Figure 28 yes Figure 27 Top view of the center adapter, center tip, center adapter cover, and notched base edge.

[0037] Figure 29 yes Figure 26 Front-oriented perspective view of the center adapter cover.

[0038] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 Rear view of the center adapter cover.

[0039] Figure 31 yes Figure 29 Front view of the center adapter cover.

[0040] Figure 32 is removed from the bucket assembly Figure 1 A perspective view of an example of a corner tip, corner adapter cover, corner adapter, side edges, horizontal mounting mechanism, and notched base edge of a bucket assembly.

[0041] Figure 33 yes Figure 32 Side view of the corner tip, corner adapter cover, corner adapter, side edge, horizontal mounting mechanism, and notched base edge.

[0042] Figure 34 yes Figure 33 Magnified top view of the corner tip, side edges, corner adapter cover, corner adapter, and notched base edge of the .

[0043] Figure 35 yes Figure 32 Front-oriented perspective view of the corner adapter cover.

[0044] Figure 36 yes Figure 35 Rear view of the corner adapter cover.

[0045] Figure 37 yes Figure 35 Front view of the corner adapter cover. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals will be used whenever possible to refer to the same or similar parts. In some cases, a reference numeral will be indicated in this specification and the drawings will show the reference numeral followed by a letter (e.g., 100a, 100b) or followed by a prime (e.g., 100', 100", etc.). It will be understood that the use of a letter or prime immediately following a reference numeral is intended to indicate that the features are similar in shape and have similar functions, such as is typically the case when geometric structures are mirrored about a plane of symmetry. For ease of explanation in this specification, letters or primes will often not be included herein but may be shown in the drawings to indicate that a duplicate of a feature discussed in the written specification is present.

[0047] Work implement assemblies using a center adapter, corner adapters, a load sharing block, a center adapter cover, a corner adapter cover, and a notched base edge according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed.

[0048] from Figure 1 Initially, the work implement assembly 100 may take the form of a bucket assembly 100' comprising a housing 101 defining an opening 102 communicating with a generally enclosed interior. Figure 1 , the bucket assembly 100 includes a curved shell profile 104 that is attached to a rear wall 106 at the top end of the shell 104. The other end of the shell is attached to a bottom plate 108 of the assembly 100. A top plate 110 is attached to the top end of the rear wall 106. The top plate 110 transitions into a spill guard 112 that is designed to funnel material into the interior of the bucket and prevent material from escaping the bucket. Reinforcing ribs 118 are provided that are attached to the top plate 110 and the spill guard 112 to provide reinforcement for strength. Two substantially flat end plates 114 are attached to the spill guard 112, the top plate 110, the rear wall 106, the bottom plate 108, and the side edges of the shell 104.

[0049] A side edge assembly 115 is attached to each end plate 114, while a front edge assembly 116 is attached to the front edge of the bottom plate 108 of the bucket assembly 100. The front edge assembly 116 includes a base edge 700; a plurality of center adapters 200 attached to the base edge 700; a plurality of tools 118, each of which is attached to one of the plurality of center adapters 200; and a plurality of center adapter covers 900', a single center adapter cover of which is interposed between one of the plurality of center adapters 200 and one of the plurality of tools 118. Furthermore, two corner adapters 1100 are also attached to the base edge 700 and the side edges 120 of the bucket assembly 100'. A single corner adapter cover 1000, 1000' is interposed between the corner adapters 1100 and each of the tools 118. A plurality of base edge protectors 122 are also provided, each of which is located between the center adapters 200 and between the center adapter 200 and the corner adapters 1100. Side edge protectors 124 are also provided and attached to the side edges 120 adjacent the corner adapters 1100 and the corner adapter covers 1000'.

[0050] It should be understood that the work implement assembly may take other forms besides a bucket assembly, including a rake assembly, a shear assembly, etc. Moreover, any embodiment of the adapter, center adapter, corner adapter, adapter cover, corner adapter cover, center adapter cover, load sharing block, and base edge, as described in more detail below, may be used to include Figure 1 Any suitable work implement assembly such as those depicted in .

[0051] Now refer to Figures 2 to 12 The center adapter 200, which can be used with the mounting mechanism 126 (see FIG. Figure 11 ) Attach the tool 118 to the work tool assembly 100 (see Figure 10 ). The center adapter 200 includes a body 202, which may include a nose portion 204 configured to facilitate attachment of the tool 118. The body 202 may also include: a first leg 206, which includes a first leg side surface 208; a second leg 210, which includes a second leg side surface 212; and a throat portion 214, which connects the legs 206, 210 and the nose portion 204 together. At least one of the first leg 206 and the second leg 210 defines a hole 215, which is configured to receive the mounting mechanism 126 (see Figure 11 ).

[0052] like Figure 2 、 6, 7, 10 and 12, the body 202 can define a recess 216 that defines an abutment surface 218. The recess 216 can be located on the first leg side surface 208 or the second leg side surface 212, and the recess 216 can define a recess height H216, a recess width W216 (see Figure 2 ) and the cavity depth D216 (see Figure 11 ).

[0053] See Figure 2 、 6 , 7 and 10, the first leg 206 and the second leg 208 and the throat portion 214 define a slot 220, which includes a closed end 222 and an open end 224. The slot 220 can define an assembly direction 226 on the work tool assembly 100a. The first leg 206 can include an inclined portion 228, which is disposed adjacent to the closed end 222 along the assembly direction 226. The inclined portion 228 can form a first inclined angle 230 with the assembly direction 226, thereby partially defining the slot 220 (see Figure 5 ). The inclined portion 228 defines an inclined portion surface normal 231 that faces downward along the assembly direction 226. The first inclined angle 230 can range from 20 degrees to 40 degrees. Thus, the slot 220 can be configured to accommodate a chamfered or beveled base edge. In other embodiments, other configurations of the slot are possible, including those formed at different angles or those configured to accommodate a square base edge, etc.

[0054] See Figure 7 , the pocket 216 can be configured to have an opening 232 facing the assembly direction 226. The pocket 216 can include a bottom pocket surface 234 that faces a direction 235 that is non-parallel to (e.g., substantially perpendicular to) the assembly direction 226. Thus, an overhanging ledge 236 is provided that can protect the load sharing block 400 from wear as material passes through the center adapter 200. In other embodiments, other configurations are possible.

[0055] exist Figure 7 、 11 12, it can be seen that the abutment surface 218 is configured to cooperate with the load sharing block 400 and may take the form of an arcuate surface 246. Figure 11, the arcuate surface 246 may include an elliptical surface 248 that defines a minor axis 250 in the range of 60 mm to 100 mm and a major axis 252 in the range of 100 mm to 130 mm. The major axis may be aligned with the assembly direction. In some embodiments, the arcuate surface 246 is divided into a plurality of differently configured surfaces. For example, the arcuate surface 246 may also include a radial surface 254 that defines a radius of curvature 256 in the range of 50 mm to 200 mm. The radial surface 246 may be disposed between the first leg side surface 208 and the elliptical surface 248. When the center adapter 200 is pushed toward the base edge 700, the interface with the load sharing block 400 may produce a wedging effect (caused by Figure 11 In other embodiments, other configurations are possible.

[0056] Now refer to Figure 2 、 3 , 6, 7 and 10, the slot 220 may also define a lateral direction 238 that is perpendicular to the assembly direction 226. The throat portion 214 may also include a first throat side surface 240 disposed along the lateral direction 230 and a second throat side surface 242 disposed on an opposite side of the throat portion 214 along the lateral direction 238. The throat portion 214 may also include a protrusion 244 disposed at the closed end 222 of the slot 220. The protrusion 244 may extend adjacent to the first throat side surface 240 and adjacent to the second throat side surface 242 along the assembly direction 226 and along the lateral direction 238.

[0057] Focus Figure 3 The protrusion 244 can define a protrusion height H244 along the assembly direction 226 and can also include a flat midsection 258 laterally straddled by the first and second arcuate portions 260, 262. The flat midsection 258 can define a lateral width W258. The protrusion height H244 can range from 0.1 times the lateral width W258 to 0.5 times the lateral width W258. The protrusion 244 can be complementarily configured to correspond to the central recess 702 of the base edge 700 (e.g., designed line-to-line). Other configurations are possible.

[0058] The first arcuate portion 260 can define a midpoint 264 and a midpoint tangent line 266 that forms a first obtuse angle 268 with the flat midsection 258 in the range of 100 to 160 degrees (e.g., approximately 130 degrees). The first arcuate portion 260 can also define an endpoint 270 and an endpoint tangent line 272 that forms a second obtuse angle 274 with the midpoint tangent line 266 in the range of 100 to 160 degrees (e.g., approximately 130 degrees). Similarly, other configurations are possible. The inclined portion and protrusion can be configured to help maximize the contact area with the base edge, thereby helping to provide stability to the adapter.

[0059] Now, an adapter 300 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. The adapter can be a central adapter (such as Figures 2 to 12 ) or in the form of corner adapters, etc. Figure 2 、 6 , 7, and 8, the adapter 300 may include a body 202 including a nose portion 204 configured to facilitate attachment of the tool 118, a first leg 206 including a first leg side surface 208, a second leg 210 including a second leg side surface 212, and a throat portion 214 connecting the legs 206, 210 and the nose portion 204. At least one of the first leg 206 and the second leg 210 may define a hole 215 configured to receive the mounting mechanism 126.

[0060] The body 202 may also define a pocket 216 that defines an abutment surface 218. The pocket 216 may be located on a side surface 208, 212 of at least one of the first leg 206 and the second leg 210. The pocket 216 may be configured as previously described herein.

[0061] The first and second legs 206, 210, and the throat portion 214 can define a slot 220 including a closed end 222 and an open end 224. The slot 220 can define an assembly direction 226 relative to the work tool assembly 100a, a lateral direction 238 perpendicular to the assembly direction 226, and a vertical direction 302 perpendicular to the assembly direction 226 and the lateral direction 238. The throat portion 214 can also include a first throat side surface 304 disposed along the lateral direction 238 and a second throat side surface 306 disposed on an opposite side of the throat portion 214 along the lateral direction 238. The first throat side surface 304 can define a first adapter cap receiving recess 308 including a first vertical surface 310. A first key 312 can extend laterally from the first vertical surface 310. The first key 312 can provide stability and support for the adapter cap when inserted onto the adapter.

[0062] Similarly, the second throat side surface 306 can define a second adapter cover receiving recess 314 including a second vertical surface 316. A second key 318 can extend laterally from the second vertical surface 318.

[0063] The body 202 includes a top surface 320 that may extend from the nose portion 204 above the throat portion 214 to the first leg 206. The throat portion 214 may also include a first sidewall 322 that extends from the first throat side surface 304, thereby partially defining the first adapter cover receiving recess 308. The first key 312 may be spaced apart from the first sidewall 322 and may also be spaced apart from the top surface 320.

[0064] See Figure 6 , the first sidewall 322 may include a front lead-in portion 324 disposed adjacent the nose portion 204 along the assembly direction 226. The front lead-in portion 324 may form an acute lead-in angle 326 with the assembly direction 226 that ranges from 15 degrees to 30 degrees. Furthermore, the first sidewall 322 may also include a rear abutment portion 328 disposed along the assembly direction 226 and a transition portion 330 connecting the rear abutment portion 328 to the front lead-in portion 324. The rear abutment portion 328 includes a rear abutment vertical surface 332. The transition portion 330 may include a serpentine shape. In other embodiments, other configurations of these various features are possible.

[0065] The first key 312 can include a first key top surface 334 and a first key bottom surface 336. The first key top surface 334 and the first key bottom surface 336 can taper along the assembly direction 226 and be configured to facilitate attaching an adapter cover (e.g., center adapter cover 900) to the adapter 200.

[0066] Next, we will refer to Figures 1 to 5 Discussion of work tool assembly 100. Work tool assembly 100a may include a notched base edge 700a defining a central notch 702 and a center adapter 200 configured to attach to notched base edge 700a. Center adapter 200 has a body 202 including a nose portion 204 configured to facilitate attachment of tool 118 using a mounting mechanism 126a (e.g., sold under the trade name CAPSURE by the assignee of the present application). Mounting mechanism 126a may be used to attach tool 118 to lugs 276 located on nose portion 204.

[0067] The body 202 may also have a first leg 206 including a first leg side surface, a second leg 210 including a second leg side surface 212, and a throat portion 214 connecting the legs 206, 210 and the nose portion 204. At least one of the first leg 206 and the second leg 210 defines an aperture 215 configured to receive the mounting mechanism 126.

[0068] The first and second legs 206, 210, and the throat portion 214 define a slot 220 including a closed end 222 and an open end 224. The slot 220 may also define an assembly direction 226 onto the work tool assembly 100a and a lateral direction 238 perpendicular to the assembly direction 226. The throat portion 214 also includes a first throat side surface 240 disposed along the lateral direction 238 and a second throat side surface 242 disposed on an opposite side of the throat portion 214 along the lateral direction 238. The throat portion 214 also includes a protrusion 244 disposed at the closed end 222 of the slot 220. The protrusion 244 may extend adjacent to the first throat side surface 240 and adjacent to the second throat side surface 242 along the assembly direction 226 and along the lateral direction 238.

[0069] Focus Figure 3 The protrusion 244 can define a protrusion height H244 along the assembly direction 226. The protrusion 244 can have a flat middle portion 258 that is laterally straddled by the first arcuate portion 260 and the second arcuate portion 262. The flat middle portion 258 can also define a lateral width W258. The protrusion height H244 can range from 0.1 times the lateral width W258 to 0.5 times the lateral width W258.

[0070] The first arcuate portion 260 defines a midpoint 264 and a midpoint tangent line 266 that forms a first obtuse angle 268 in the range of 100 to 160 degrees (e.g., approximately 130 degrees) with the flat midsection 258. Similarly, the first arcuate portion 260 may also define an endpoint 270 and an endpoint tangent line 272 that forms a second obtuse angle 274 in the range of 100 to 160 degrees (e.g., approximately 130 degrees) with the midpoint tangent line 266. The center notch 702 of the notched base edge 700a is complementarily configured to contact the protrusion 244 (e.g., designed to be line-to-line).

[0071] See Figure 4 and 5, the notched base edge 700a may include a front portion 704 including a top chamfered surface 706. The first leg 206 includes an inclined portion 228 disposed adjacent the closed end 222 along the assembly direction 226. The inclined portion 228 may form a first inclined angle 230 with the assembly direction 226, thereby partially defining the slot 220. The first inclined angle 230 may range from 20 degrees to 40 degrees. The inclined portion 228 may contact the top chamfered surface 706. The interface between the adapter and the base edge may provide a maximum amount of contact area to reduce adapter stress during loading and unloading, and the arcuate portion may reduce stress in the base edge. The components may be "pre-seated" or designed to be line-to-line, which may help provide adapter support by helping to distribute the load during loading.

[0072] like Figure 11 and 12 As shown in FIG, work tool assembly 100a may also have a load sharing block 400 attached to a notched base edge 700a having an arcuate reinforcement surface 402. Work tool assembly 100a may also have a vertical mounting mechanism 126' disposed in a hole 215 of at least one of first leg 206 and second leg 210.

[0073] The body 202 of the center adapter 200 defines a recess 216 disposed on the first leg side surface 208, the recess defining an abutment surface 218 that is complementarily configured to the arcuate reinforcing surface 202 so as to contact (e.g., in a line-to-line configuration) the arcuate reinforcing surface 402. The load sharing block 400 may be laterally spaced apart from the first leg side surface 208 by a laterally predetermined distance 128.

[0074] Now refer to Figures 13 to 15 The various embodiments of the load-sharing block 400 and their associated features previously mentioned herein are discussed in greater detail. The load-sharing block 400 may include a body 404 including a planar outer surface 406 defining a first end 408 and a second end 410. A first arcuate outer portion 412 extends from the first end 408 of the planar outer surface 406, and a second arcuate outer portion 414 extends from the second end 410 of the planar outer surface 406. The first arcuate outer portion 412 terminates in a first free end 416 and includes a first elliptical outer surface 418 extending from the first free end 416.

[0075] In addition, if Figure 15As best seen in FIG, first arcuate outer portion 412 may further include a first radial surface 420 disposed between first elliptical outer surface 418 and flat outer surface 406. First elliptical outer surface 418 may define a minor axis 422 in the range of 30 mm to 60 mm and a major axis 424 in the range of 70 mm to 100 mm. First radial surface 420 may define a radius of curvature 426 in the range of 50 mm to 100 mm.

[0076] The body 404 can also include a flat inner surface 428 that is offset inwardly from the flat outer surface 406 by a predetermined thickness 430. In a similar manner, the first arcuate inner portion 432 can be offset inwardly from the first arcuate outer portion 412 by the same predetermined thickness 430.

[0077] The body 404 may also define a vertical direction 434 perpendicular to the predetermined thickness 430 (see also Figure 13 ) and a height 436 measured along the vertical direction 434. The height 436 can range from 1.5 times the predetermined thickness 430 to 3.0 times the predetermined thickness 430.

[0078] Furthermore, the body 404 can define a midpoint 438 of the planar outer surface 406 and a plane of symmetry 440 passing through the midpoint 438. The body 404 can also include a top surface 442 disposed along the vertical direction 434, the top surface forming a right angle 444 with the planar outer surface 406 and the first elliptical outer surface 418. The body 404 can also include a bottom surface 446 and a chamfered surface 448 leading from the bottom surface 446 to the first arcuate inner portion 432 and the planar inner surface 428. The chamfered surface 448 can form an obtuse chamfered angle 450 with the bottom surface 446 at the first free end 416, the obtuse angle ranging from 30 degrees to 60 degrees.

[0079] The chamfered features can allow a weld bead to be used to attach the load sharing block to the base edge, while the symmetry of the load sharing block can allow it to be used on opposite sides of the adapter. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the configuration of these various features of the load sharing block can be changed to be different or can be omitted.

[0080] Now we will continue to refer to Figures 13 to 15 Discuss another embodiment of a load sharing block 400. This load sharing block 400 may include a body 404 including a planar outer surface 406 defining a first end 408 and a second end 410; a first arcuate outer portion 412 extending from the first end 408 of the planar outer surface 406; and a second arcuate outer portion 414 extending from the second end 410 of the planar outer surface 406.

[0081] Focus Figure 15, the flat inner surface 428 can be offset inwardly from the flat outer surface 406 by a predetermined thickness 430. The first arcuate inner portion 432 can be offset inwardly from the first arcuate outer portion 412 by the same predetermined thickness 430. Furthermore, the second arcuate inner portion 432′ can be offset inwardly from the second arcuate outer portion 414 by the same predetermined thickness 430.

[0082] The first arcuate outer portion 412 may terminate at a first free end 416 and may include a first elliptical outer surface 418 extending from the first free end 416 toward the flat outer surface 406. The second arcuate outer portion 414 may also terminate at a second free end 416' and may include a second elliptical outer surface 418' extending from the second free end 416' toward the flat outer surface 406.

[0083] The first arcuate outer portion 412 may further include a first radial surface 420 disposed between the first elliptical outer surface 418 and the flat outer surface 406. The second arcuate outer portion 414 may further include a second radial surface 420' disposed between the second elliptical outer surface 418' and the flat outer surface 406.

[0084] The second elliptical outer surface 418' can be configured symmetrically with the first elliptical outer surface 418, and both the first elliptical outer surface 418 and the second elliptical outer surface 418' can define a minor axis 422 in the range of 30 mm to 60 mm and a major axis 424 in the range of 70 mm to 100 mm. The second radial surface 420' can be configured symmetrically with the first radial surface 420, and both the first radial surface 420 and the second radial surface 420' can define a radius of curvature 426 in the range of 50 mm to 100 mm.

[0085] The body 404 may also define a vertical direction 434 that is perpendicular to the predetermined thickness 430 and a height 436 measured along the vertical direction 434. The height 436 may range from 1.5 times the predetermined thickness 430 to 3.0 times the predetermined thickness 430.

[0086] The body 404 may include a top surface 442 disposed along the vertical direction 434, the top surface forming a right angle 444 with the flat outer surface 406 and the first elliptical outer surface 418. The body 404 may also include a bottom surface 446 and a chamfered surface 448 leading from the bottom surface 446 to the first arcuate inner portion 432 and the flat inner surface 428.

[0087] Return Reference Figure 2 、 6, 7, 10 and 11, the work tool assembly 100 utilizing the load sharing block 400 and the center adapter 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be characterized as follows. The work tool assembly 100b can include a base edge 700 and a center adapter 200 configured to be attached to the base edge 700. The center adapter 200 can include a body 202 having: a nose portion 204 configured to facilitate attachment of the tool 118; a first leg 206 including a pair of first leg opposing side surfaces 208'; a second leg 210 including a pair of second leg opposing side surfaces 210'; and a throat portion 214 connecting the legs 206, 210 and the nose portion 204.

[0088] At least one of the first leg 206 and the second leg 210 can define an aperture 215 configured to receive the mounting mechanism 126. The body 202 can define a first top recess 216a, the first top recess defining a first top recess arcuate abutment surface 218a disposed adjacent one of a pair of first leg opposing side surfaces 208'. The first and second legs 206, 208, and the throat portion 214 can define a slot 220 including a closed end 222 and an open end 224. The slot 220 defines an assembly direction 226 onto the work tool assembly 100, a lateral direction 238 perpendicular to the assembly direction 226, and a vertical direction 302 perpendicular to the lateral direction 238 and the assembly direction 226. The work tool assembly 100b can also include a first load-sharing block 400a including a first arcuate reinforcement surface 402a that engages the first top recess arcuate abutment surface 218a.

[0089] In a similar manner, the body 202 also includes a second top recess 216b defining a second top recess arcuate abutment surface 218b disposed adjacent the other of the pair of first leg opposing side surfaces 208'. The work tool assembly 100b may also have a second load sharing block 400b that also includes a second arcuate reinforcement surface 402b that engages the second top recess arcuate abutment surface 218b.

[0090] refer to Figure 11 , the first load sharing block 400a and the second load sharing block 400b are configured to create a wedge-shaped profile 278 to pull into the center adapter 200, thereby providing support for lateral loads as well as vertical loads. Furthermore, the first load sharing block 400a can be laterally spaced from one of the pair of first leg opposing side surfaces 208, and the second load sharing block 400b can be laterally spaced from the other of the pair of first leg opposing side surfaces 208'.

[0091] The work tool assembly 100 may further include a vertical mounting mechanism 126 ′ disposed in the aperture 215 of at least one of the first leg 206 and the second leg 210 . The first arcuate reinforcement surface 402 may include an elliptical surface 418a and a radial surface 420 .

[0092] The elliptical surface 418a may define a minor axis 422 in the range of 30 mm to 60 mm and a major axis 424 in the range of 70 mm to 100 mm. The radial surface 420 may define a radius of curvature 426 in the range of 50 mm to 100 mm.

[0093] The aforementioned geometry and features of load-sharing block 400 serve the following functions. The oval load-sharing block profile can maximize contact area and reduce the risk of material growth in the load-sharing block, which can cause interference between the load-sharing block and the adapter, making installation or removal of the load-sharing block more difficult. In some embodiments, the arcuate load-sharing block profile can match the profile of the adapter. A gap between the load-sharing block and the adapter can help limit interference when installing or removing the load-sharing block from the adapter. Any of these features may be omitted or present in various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0094] Next, we will refer to Figures 16 to 20 and Figures 32 to 34 The corner adapter 500 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is discussed. The corner adapter 500 can be configured to allow the tool 118 to be attached to the work tool assembly 100 using the mounting mechanism 126. Figure 16 , the corner adapter 500 may include a body 502 that defines a vertical direction 504 and a horizontal direction 506. The body 502 may include a nose portion 508 that is configured to facilitate attachment of the tool 118 (e.g., via tabs 510 for use with the mounting mechanism 126a, such as the mounting mechanism sold by the assignee of the present invention under the trademark CAPSURE, see Figure 32 and 33 ).

[0095] Now focus on Figures 16 to 18, the body 502 can also have a first forked leg 512, which includes a pair of first leg side surfaces 514. The first forked leg 512 can define a vertical slot 516, which divides the first forked leg 512 into a first fork portion 518 and a second fork portion 520. The body 502 can also have: a second leg 522, which includes a pair of second leg side surfaces 524; and a throat portion 526, which connects the legs 512, 522 and the nose portion 508 together. At least one of the first fork portion 518 and the second fork portion 520 defines a hole 528, which is configured to receive the mounting mechanism 126 (for example, the mounting mechanism 126 can take the form of a horizontal mounting mechanism 126", see Figure 18 、 29 and 30).

[0096] Continue to refer Figure 16 , the first leg 512 and the second leg 522 and the throat portion 526 define a horizontal slot 530 including a closed end 532 and an open end 534. The horizontal slot 530 can define an assembly direction 536 onto the work tool assembly 100. The first bifurcated leg 512 can include a first inclined portion 538 disposed in the vertical slot 516. The first inclined portion 538 can form a first acute angle 540 (see also FIG. 5 ) with the assembly direction 536 in a range of 20 to 40 degrees (e.g., approximately 30 degrees). Figure 19 ). The first inclined portion 538 can define a first inclined portion surface normal 550 that points upward toward the assembly direction 536. In other words, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first acute angle 540 faces the assembly direction 536.

[0097] like Figure 17 As shown in FIG, the horizontal slot 530 defines a lateral direction 542 perpendicular to the assembly direction 536. The throat portion 526 further includes a first throat side surface 544 disposed along the lateral direction 542 (see FIG. Figure 18 ) and a second throat side surface 546 disposed on an opposite side of the throat portion 526 along the lateral direction 542. The throat portion 526 further includes a protrusion 548 disposed at the closed end 532 of the horizontal slot 530 (see Figure 16). The protrusion 548 extends along the assembly direction 536 and along the lateral direction 542 adjacent to the first throat side surface 544 and adjacent to the second throat side surface 546. The first bifurcated leg 512 can define a key receiving slot 547 disposed forward of the hole 528 along the horizontal direction 506, the key receiving slot 547 being disposed on at least one of the pair of first leg side surfaces 514 and defining an open end 549 facing toward the nose portion 508 along the horizontal direction 506 (e.g., in a direction opposite to the assembly direction 536). In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the key receiving slot 547 can also be at least partially disposed vertically above the horizontal slot 530.

[0098] Furthermore, the horizontal slot 530 defines a vertical height 531 with clearance, and the projection 548 includes a flat midsection 554 laterally straddled by a first arcuate section 556 and a second arcuate section 558 (see also FIG. Figure 20 ). The flat middle portion 554 may also define a lateral middle portion width 560 and a lateral middle portion vertical height 561 (see Figure 16 In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the lateral middle portion vertical height 561 ranges from 0.7 to 0.75 times the belt gap vertical height 531. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the horizontal slot 530 may define a top gap portion 533 and be located in a plane containing the horizontal and vertical directions (e.g., Figure 16 The minimum thickness 535 of the throat portion 526 measured between the top gap portion 533 and the external throat surface 537 in the plane of view in the range of 1.6 to 1.9 times the vertical height 531 with gap.

[0099] exist Figure 20 , the first arcuate portion 556 may define a midpoint 562 and a midpoint tangent line 564, wherein the midpoint tangent line forms a first obtuse angle 566 with the flat middle portion 554 in a range of 100 to 160 degrees (e.g., approximately 130 degrees). Similarly, the first arcuate portion 556 may also define an endpoint 568 and an endpoint tangent line 570, wherein the endpoint tangent line forms a second obtuse angle 572 with the midpoint tangent line 564 in a range of 100 to 160 degrees (e.g., approximately 130 degrees). As can be seen, Figure 20 The structure shown in Figure 3 In other embodiments of the present disclosure besides those explicitly shown and described herein, Figure 3 and 20 Other configurations of the features are possible.

[0100] return Figure 16, at least one of the first fork portion 518 and the second fork portion 520 may include a lifting strap 521 extending vertically upward from either or both of these fork portions. As previously mentioned herein, one of the pair of first leg side surfaces 514 can define a first key receiving slot 547, which first key receiving slot defines an open end 549 that is disposed adjacent the nose portion 508 and extends along the assembly direction 536 and terminates at the rear abutment surface 578. Moreover, a top expansion wall 580 and a bottom expansion wall 582 are provided that partially define the first key receiving slot 547. The top expansion wall 580 and the bottom expansion wall 582 are configured to facilitate attachment of the corner adapter cover 1000 (see Figures 32 to 34 ).

[0101] like Figure 18 As best seen in FIG, body 502 can define a vertical plane of symmetry 586. For other embodiments of the present disclosure, this may not be the case.

[0102] Now, refer to Figures 16 to 20 Discussing an adapter 500 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, it should be noted that the adapter 500 can take the form of a center adapter or a corner adapter.

[0103] refer to Figure 16 , the adapter 500 can be configured as previously described herein with the following features. The first and second legs (e.g., 512, 522) and the throat portion 526 can include upper and lower surfaces 602, 604 that at least partially define a slot (e.g., 530), the slot including a closed end 532 and an open end 534. The slot can be defined by an assembly direction 536 onto the work implement, a lateral direction 542 perpendicular to the assembly direction 536, and a vertical direction 504 perpendicular to the assembly direction 536 and the lateral direction 542. The slot can be defined by a protrusion 548 at the closed end 532 of the slot, the protrusion including a flat middle portion 554 that is laterally straddled by a first arcuate portion 556 and a second arcuate portion 558. The flat middle portion 554 can define a lateral middle portion width 560 (see Figure 20 ), and a tab protrusion distance 606 measured from the closed end 532 of the slot to the flat middle portion 554 along the assembly direction, and the tab protrusion distance 606 can range from 0.8 to 1.2 times the lateral middle portion width 560.

[0104] In addition, the body 502 defines an arcuate boundary surface 626 (see Figure 16), the arcuate boundary surface extends from the closed end 532 to at least one of the upper surface 602 and the lower surface 604. The upper surface 602 can be a horizontal surface 628 and the lower surface 604 can be a horizontal surface 630. In other embodiments, this may not be the case.

[0105] like Figure 16 , the slot can define a bottom void portion 636 adjacent the closed end. This portion 636 can define a bottom void portion vertical height 538 measured from the lower surface 604 to the lower end of the bottom void portion 636. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the bottom void portion vertical height 638 can range from 0.1 to 0.15 times the middle portion vertical height 561.

[0106] Reference again Figure 18 、 19 and Figures 32 to 34 , a work tool assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described. Figure 19 As best seen in FIG, the work tool assembly 100 may include a base edge 700, a corner adapter 500 attached to and in contact with the base edge 700. The corner adapter 500 may include a body 502 defining a vertical direction 504, a horizontal direction 506, and a vertical plane 586 passing through the body 502 (see FIG. Figure 18 The body 502 may have a nose portion 508 configured to facilitate attachment of the tool 118 .

[0107] Now, refer to Figures 21 to 25 The base edge 700 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is discussed. The base edge 700 can have a body 708 including a working edge 710 that defines a lateral direction 712 and an assembly direction 714 perpendicular to the lateral direction 712 (so called because this is the direction in which an adapter or tool is attached to the base edge). The body 708 can also define a first lateral end 716, a second lateral end 718, a plurality of vertical mounting mechanism receiving holes 720, a plurality of center recesses 702 extending from the working edge 710 (so called because the center recesses are spaced apart from the lateral ends), and a first end recess 724 disposed adjacent to the first lateral end 716 and a second end recess 724′ disposed adjacent to the second lateral end 718. The first end recess 724 and the second end recess 724′ can also extend from the working edge 710.

[0108] Each of the plurality of center recesses 702 and the first and second end recesses 724, 724' may include different configurations. For example, the first and second end recesses 724, 724' may define a recess depth 725 along the assembly direction 714 (see FIG. Figure 25), the notch depth is greater than the corresponding dimension of the center notch 702. That is, the end notch depth 725 can be greater than the center notch depth 725' (see Figure 24 Each of the plurality of center recesses 702 and the first and second end recesses 724, 724' may also include a straight middle portion 726 laterally straddled by first and second arcuate corner portions 728, 728' (see FIG. Figure 21 and 25 ).exist Figure 25 In the embodiment of the present invention, the straight middle portion 726 can define a lateral straight middle portion width W726, and the notch depth 725 of the end notch can range from 0.5 times the lateral straight middle portion width W726 to 1.25 times the lateral straight middle portion width W726.

[0109] The first arcuate corner portion 728 may define an arc midpoint 732 and an arc midpoint tangent line 734 that forms a first angle 736 in the range of 100 to 160 degrees (e.g., approximately 130 degrees) with the straight middle portion 726. The first arcuate corner portion 728 may also define an arc endpoint 738 and an arc endpoint tangent line 740 that forms a second angle 742 in the range of 100 to 160 degrees (e.g., approximately 130 degrees) with the arc midpoint tangent line 734.

[0110] See Figure 21 and 24 The body may also include a chamfered surface 706 ″ extending from the working edge 710 , the chamfered surface at least partially defining each of the plurality of center recesses 722 and each of the first and second end recesses 724 , 724 ′.

[0111] Additionally, working edge 710 can be divided into a plurality of regions 744 disposed along lateral direction 712 and offset from one another along assembly direction 714. Regions 744 can include a central region 744a including three central recesses of linearly laterally aligned plurality of central recesses 722.

[0112] The plurality of regions 744 may also include a first end region 744b including a first end notch 724 spaced from the first lateral end by a first end distance 746 (see FIG. Figure 25). The plurality of regions 744 also includes a first intermediate region 744c laterally disposed between the central region 744a and the first end region 744b; and a second intermediate region 744d laterally disposed between the first intermediate region 744c and the first end region 744b. The first intermediate region 744c can be offset along the assembly direction 714 by a first offset distance 748, and the second intermediate region 744d can be offset from the central region 744a by a second offset distance 750. The first end region 744b can be offset from the central region 744a by a third offset distance 752. The third offset distance 752 can be greater than the second offset distance 750, and the second offset distance 750 can be greater than the first offset distance 748. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other configurations are possible.

[0113] In addition, the plurality of regions 744 include a plurality of angled regions 744e. One of the plurality of angled regions 744e can be disposed between the central region 744a and the first intermediate region 744c. Another of the plurality of angled regions 744e can be disposed between the first intermediate region 744c and the second intermediate region 744d. A third of the plurality of angled regions 744e can be disposed between the second intermediate region 744d and the first end region 744b. The central region 744a can define a central region midpoint 754, and the body 708 can define a symmetry plane 756 (see FIG. 1 ) passing through the central region midpoint 754. Figure 24 ). For other embodiments, this may not be the case.

[0114] Continue to refer Figure 24 It should be noted that in some embodiments, the straight middle portion 726 of the first and second end recesses 724, 724', the first arcuate corner portions 728 of the first and second end recesses 724, 724', and the second arcuate corner portions 728' of the first and second end recesses 724, 724' can be configured the same as the straight middle portion 726, the first arcuate portion 728 of the center recess 702, and the second arcuate portion 728' of the center recess 702. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the center region 744a can include three of the plurality of center recesses 702 that are laterally linearly aligned with one another, while other regions can have only one center recess 702. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0115] exist Figure 19 In the embodiment of the present invention, a work implement assembly 100, such as a bucket assembly 100', may use a base edge 700 similar to the base edge just described. More specifically, the work implement assembly 100 may include a notched base edge 700a defining a notch 701 (see FIG. Figure 20 ) and a corner stabilizer 140 (see also Figures 21 to 23 ). This corner stabilizer 140 can be connected as Figure 19 The first angled portion 538 of the corner adapter 500 is shown in FIG. 5 so that the corner stabilizer helps prevent the corner adapter from vertically lifting during digging operations, etc.

[0116] Now go to Figures 29 to 31 and Figures 35 to 37 Various embodiments of the adapter cover 900, which may take the form of a center adapter cover 900' or a corner adapter cover, will now be discussed in detail.

[0117] Focus Figures 29 to 31 , the adapter cover 900 may include a housing body 902 including an outer surface 904 and an inner surface 906. Figure 31 As best seen in FIG, housing body 902 can define a vertical direction 908, a horizontal direction 910, and a vertical plane 912. Vertical plane 912 can define a plane of symmetry 912' for adapter cover 900, but need not.

[0118] Continue to refer Figures 29 to 31 The housing body 902 may further include a front portion 914 defining a through-hole 916 configured to allow the nose portion 804 of the adapter 800 to pass horizontally through the through-hole 916 , through the inner surface 906 , and then through the outer surface 904 .

[0119] Furthermore, the housing body 902 can have a single top leg 918 extending horizontally from the front portion 914, the single top leg defining an adapter key receiving recess 920 on the inner surface 906, and having a top leg side portion 922 defining a concave arcuate portion 924 extending rearwardly from the front portion 914 and a convex arcuate portion 926 extending horizontally from the concave arcuate portion 924, terminating in a vertical rear surface 928. The adapter key receiving recess 920 can extend to the vertical rear surface 928 and can define a vertical opening dimension 929 ranging from 15 mm to 35 mm and a horizontal recess depth 930 ranging from 10 mm to 20 mm (see FIG. Figure 30 ).

[0120] like Figure 31As best seen in FIG, through-hole 916 may define a partially trapezoidal perimeter 936, as well as a bottom vertical open end 938 defining a bottom lateral opening dimension 940 and a top vertical closed end 942 defining a top closed end lateral dimension 944 that is greater than the bottom lateral opening dimension 940. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0121] Additionally, a tool adapter lifting strap receiving recess 946 can extend horizontally through the vertical rear surface 928 and vertically through the single top leg 918. Furthermore, a lifting strap 948 can be disposed horizontally forward of the tool adapter lifting strap receiving recess 946 extending vertically upward from the single top leg 918.

[0122] Figure 30 The single top leg 918 is shown to terminate in a U-shaped portion 964 along a horizontal direction (or plane) and may also include a chamfer 966 extending horizontally from the rear U-shaped portion 964 toward the front portion 914.

[0123] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, any features or dimensions just mentioned may be configured differently, or may be omitted, etc.

[0124] Continue to refer Figures 26 to 28 , another embodiment of an adapter cover 900 will also be described. The adapter cover 900 may include a housing body 902 including an outer surface 904 and an inner surface 906. The housing body 902 may also define a vertical direction 908, a horizontal direction 910, and a vertical plane 912 (which may take the form of a symmetry plane 912').

[0125] The housing body 902 may also have a top leg 918 extending horizontally from the front portion 914 and a bottom leg 932 extending horizontally from the front portion 914. The top leg 918 may define an adapter key receiving recess 920 on the inner surface 906 and a top leg side portion 922 defining a concave arcuate portion 924 extending rearward from the front portion 914. A convex arcuate portion 926 may extend horizontally from the concave arcuate portion 924, terminating at the vertical rear surface 924. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0126] Figures 26 to 28 A work implement assembly 100 is shown that may utilize a center adapter cap 900 ′, such as Figures 29 to 31 The center adapter cover shown in FIG. The work tool assembly 100 may include a base edge 700 and a center adapter 200 attached to the base edge 700 .

[0127] like Figure 6 and 7 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the center adapter 200 may include a body 202 having a nose portion 204 configured to facilitate attachment of the tool 118 (at Figures 26 to 28 a first leg 206 including a pair of first leg opposing side surfaces 208 '; a second leg 210 including a pair of second leg opposing side surfaces 210 '; and a throat portion 214 connecting the legs 206, 210 and the nose portion 204 together.

[0128] Continue to refer Figure 6 and 7 At least one of the first leg 206 and the second leg 210 defines an aperture 215 configured to receive the mounting mechanism 126. The body 202 can define a first top recess 216a, the first top recess defining a first top recess arcuate abutment surface 218a disposed adjacent one of a pair of first leg opposing side surfaces 208'. Furthermore, the first and second legs 206, 210, and the throat portion 214 define a slot 220 including a closed end 222 and an open end 224. The slot 220 can define an assembly orientation 226 onto the work tool assembly 100e. The body 202 can define a top center adapter cap receiving recess 308'.

[0129] Now focus on Figures 26 to 28 , the work tool assembly 100 may also include a center adapter cover 900', which includes a housing body 902 having an outer surface 904 and an inner surface 906. The housing body 902 may also define a vertical direction 908, a horizontal direction 910, and a vertical plane 912 (which may be a plane of symmetry 912'). The housing body may also have a front portion 914, which defines a through hole 916 configured to allow the nose portion 204 of the center adapter 200 to pass horizontally through the through hole 916, through the inner surface 906, and then through the outer surface 904. In addition, a top leg 918 may extend horizontally from the front portion 914, and a bottom leg 932 may also extend horizontally from the front portion 914.

[0130] The center adapter cover 900' can be sandwiched between the tool 118 and the center adapter 200. The top leg 918 of the center adapter cover 900' can rest at least partially in the top center adapter cover receiving recess 308' of the center adapter 200. The center adapter 200 can include a top surface 320, and the top leg 918 of the center adapter cover 900' can rise vertically above the center adapter 200 while the bottom leg 932 of the center adapter cover 900' can extend vertically below the center adapter 200. This can help protect the adapter as material passes over and under the cover (see Figure 23 Material flow path 136 in.

[0131] To this end, tool 118 can define a tool top surface 132, and center adapter cover 900' can define a cover top surface 966 that merges with tool top surface 132. Tool 118 can also define a tool bottom surface. In other embodiments, other configurations of these various features are possible.

[0132] Other features will now be described that can allow material to flow over the adapter and cover along material flow path 136, etc. For example, front portion 914 can include a front radial surface 970 between tool top surface 132 and cover top surface 966. Thus, these features can be configured to provide material flow path 136 along tool top surface 132, above cover top surface 966. Additionally, front portion 914 of center adapter cover 900' defines a front portion perimeter 976, and front radial surface 970 can extend completely along front portion perimeter 976 (see FIG. Figure 31 ).

[0133] Other features that allow material flow to be reversed may be provided. For example, the top leg 918 of the center adapter cover 900 ′ defines a top rear chamfer 972 that is angled from the cover top surface 966 toward the first leg 206 of the center adapter 200 .

[0134] Return Reference Figures 29 to 31 and Figures 35 to 37 , yet another embodiment of an adapter cover can be seen, which can take the form of a center adapter cover or a corner adapter cover. Figures 35 to 37 , the adapter cover 1000 may include a housing body 1002 including an outer surface 1004 and an inner surface 1006. The housing body 1002 may also define a vertical direction 1008, a horizontal direction 1010, and a vertical plane 1012 (which may be a symmetry plane 1012' but need not be so, see Figure 37). The housing body 1002 may also include a front portion 1014 that defines a through hole 1016 that is configured to allow the nose portion 508 of the adapter 500 to pass horizontally through the through hole 1016, through the interior surface 1006, and then through the exterior surface 1004. A top single leg 1018 may be provided that extends horizontally from the front portion 1014 and defines an adapter cover key 1020 on the interior surface 1006. Furthermore, a top leg side portion 1022 (see Figure 35 ), which defines a concave arcuate portion 1024 extending rearwardly from the front portion 1014. A convex arcuate portion 1026 can extend horizontally from the concave arcuate portion 1024, terminating in a vertical rear surface 1028.

[0135] See Figure 36 , the adapter cover key 1020 can be spaced apart from the vertical rear surface 1028 and can define a vertical adapter key dimension 1032 ranging from 40 mm to 60 mm, a horizontal key height 1034 ranging from 25 mm to 35 mm, and a lateral key width 1030. The ratio of the horizontal key height 1034 to the vertical adapter key dimension 1032 can be in the range of 1.5 to 3.0. In other embodiments, other dimensions and ratios are possible. For Figures 35 to 37 In the embodiment shown in , the horizontal key height exceeds the vertical adapter key dimension, and the vertical adapter key dimension exceeds the lateral key width.

[0136] like Figure 37 , the through-hole 1016 can define a trapezoidal perimeter 1038 having a right side edge 1040, a left side edge 1042, and a top edge 1044. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the through-hole 1016 can also define a bottom open end 1036 having a bottom open end lateral width 1036w in the range of 0.4 to 0.6 of the total width W1002 of the adapter cover.

[0137] The top leg 1018 may terminate in a U-shaped portion 1062 (see FIG. Figure 35 and 36 ). The top leg 1018 may also include a chamfer 1064 that extends horizontally from the rear U-shaped portion 1062 toward the front portion 1014.

[0138] The top single leg can take the form of a top forked leg 1122 extending horizontally from the front portion 1014. The top forked leg 1122 can include a shelf 1124 spanning horizontally along the front portion 1114 and defining a top vertical slot 1126 that divides the top forked leg 1122 into a right forked portion 1128 and a left forked portion 1130.

[0139] The top forked leg 1122 can include a V-shaped pad 1134 disposed on top of the shelf 1124, and the right and left forked portions 1128, 1130 can extend from the shelf 1124. Moreover, the top forked leg 1122 can further define a cutout 1162 extending horizontally over the top of and through the V-shaped pad 1134.

[0140] Figures 32 to 34 Depicted is a work tool assembly 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. The work tool assembly 100 may include a base edge 700, a corner adapter cover 1000 including a housing body 1002 including an outer surface 1004 and an inner surface 1006 (see FIG. Figures 35 to 37 ).

[0141] exist Figures 32 to 34 In the embodiment of the present invention, the corner adapter 500 can be attached to the base edge 700. The tool 118 can be attached to the nose portion 508 in the manner previously described herein. Figures 32 to 34 In the embodiment of the present invention, the work tool assembly 100 may also include side edges 120. A corner adapter cover 1100 may be sandwiched between the tool 118 and the corner adapter 500.

[0142] exist Figure 33 , the corner adapter 500 may include a top surface 596, and the top bifurcated legs 1122 of the corner adapter cover 1000 may rise vertically above the center adapter 500. The side edges 120 may be disposed in the top vertical slots 1126 of the corner adapter cover 1100 (see FIG. Figure 32 and 33 ) and the vertical slot 516 of the corner adapter 500 (see Figure 17 ).

[0143] Continue to refer Figure 33 , the tool 118 can define a tool top surface 132, and the corner adapter cover 1100 can define a corner adapter cover top surface 1154 that at least partially merges with the tool top surface 132. Additionally, the tool 118 can define a tool bottom surface 134.

[0144] Front portion 1114 of corner adapter cover 1100 may include a front radial surface 1158 between tool top surface 132 and corner adapter cover top surface 1154 configured to provide a flow path along tool top surface 132 above corner adapter cover top surface 1154 .

[0145] For similar purposes, the front portion 1014 of the corner adapter cover 1100 can define a front portion perimeter 1160. The front radial surface 1158 can extend completely along the front portion perimeter 1160 (see FIG. Figure 37 ).

[0146] Other streamlined features may be provided. For example, Figure 32 , the top forked leg 1122 may further define a cutout 1162 that extends horizontally over the top of and through the V-shaped pad 1134. The work tool assembly 100f may further include a side edge protector 124 attached to the side edge 120, the side edge protector including a V-shaped front portion 1164 that is positioned in the cutout 1162. The V-shaped front portion 1164 may define a top vertex 1166, while the V-shaped pad 1134 may define a bottom vertex 1168 positioned adjacent the top vertex 1166. These features may allow material to more easily flow into and along the sides of the work tool assembly 100f. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other configurations of these various features are possible and these various features may be omitted.

[0147] Again, it should be noted that any size, angle, surface area, and / or configuration of the various features can be varied as desired or needed, including those not specifically mentioned herein. Although not specifically discussed, fusions such as fillets are shown to connect the various surfaces. These may be omitted in other embodiments, and it should be understood that their presence may sometimes be overlooked when reading this specification unless specifically mentioned.

[0148] Industrial Applicability

[0149] In practice, machines, work implement assemblies, center adapters, corner adapters, load sharing blocks, center adapter covers, corner adapter covers and / or base edges may be manufactured, purchased, or sold in an aftermarket context to modify a machine or work implement assembly in the field, or alternatively, may be manufactured, purchased, sold, or otherwise obtained in an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) context.

[0150] Any of the above components may be made from any suitable material, including iron, gray cast iron, steel, and the like.

[0151] It should be understood that the above description provides examples of the disclosed components and techniques. However, it is contemplated that other embodiments of the present disclosure may differ in detail from the foregoing examples. All references to the present disclosure or examples thereof are intended to reference the specific examples being discussed at the time and are not intended to imply any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure more generally. All distinctions and unfavorable remarks about certain features are intended to indicate that these features are not preferred, but are not intended to completely exclude these features from the scope of the present invention unless otherwise indicated.

[0152] Recitation of ranges of values ​​herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

[0153] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the embodiments of the apparatus and assembly methods discussed herein without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. Other embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the description and implementation of the various embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the construction and function of some apparatus may be different from those described herein, and certain steps of any method may be omitted, performed in an order different from that specifically mentioned, or performed simultaneously or in sub-steps in some cases. Furthermore, certain aspects or features of the various embodiments may be varied or modified to produce additional embodiments, and features and aspects of the various embodiments may supplement or replace other features or aspects of other embodiments in order to provide additional embodiments.

[0154] Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Additionally, this disclosure encompasses any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

1. A base edge (700) of a work tool assembly, comprising: A body (708) comprising a working edge (710) defining a lateral direction (712) and an assembly direction (714) perpendicular to the lateral direction (712), the body (708) further defining a first lateral end (716) and a second lateral end (718); a plurality of vertical mounting mechanism receiving holes (720); a plurality of central notches (702) extending from the working edge (710); and a first end notch (724) disposed adjacent the first lateral end (716) and a second end notch (724') disposed adjacent the second lateral end (718), the first end notch (724) and the second end notch (724') extending from the working edge (710); wherein each of the plurality of center recesses (702) and the first and second end recesses (724, 724') comprise different configurations, the first and second end recesses (724, 724') defining a recess depth (725) along an assembly direction (714), and the first and second end recesses (724, 724') further comprising a straight middle portion (726) laterally straddled by first and second arcuate corner portions (728, 728'), the straight middle portion (726) defining a lateral straight middle portion width (W726), and the recess depth (725) ranging from 0.5 times the lateral straight middle portion width (W726) to 1.25 times the lateral straight middle portion width (W726).

2. The base edge (700) of claim 1 , wherein the first arcuate corner portion (728) defines an arc midpoint (732) and an arc midpoint tangent (734), wherein the arc midpoint tangent forms a first angle (736) with the straight middle portion (726) in the range of 100 degrees to 160 degrees, and the first arcuate corner portion (728) also defines an arc endpoint (738) and an arc endpoint tangent (740), wherein the arc endpoint tangent forms a second angle (742) with the arc midpoint tangent (734) in the range of 100 degrees to 160 degrees.

3. The base edge (700) of claim 1, further comprising a chamfered surface (706") extending from the working edge (710) and at least partially defining each of the plurality of center recesses (702) and each of the first end recess (724) and the second end recess (724').

4. The base edge (700) according to claim 1, wherein the working edge (710) is divided into a plurality of regions (744) arranged along the lateral direction (712) and offset from each other along the assembly direction (714), the plurality of regions (744) including a central region (744a), the central region including three central recesses of the plurality of central recesses (702) aligned linearly in the lateral direction.

5. The base edge (700) of claim 4, wherein the plurality of regions (744) includes a first end region (744b), the first end region including the first end notch (724), the first end notch being spaced apart from the first lateral end (716) by a first end distance (746) in the range of 20 mm to 60 mm.

6. The base edge (700) of claim 5, wherein the plurality of regions (744) include a first intermediate region (744c) laterally disposed between the central region (744a) and the first end region (744b) and a second intermediate region (744d) laterally disposed between the first intermediate region (744c) and the first end region (744b), and the first intermediate region (744c) is offset by a first offset distance (748) along the assembly direction (714), and the second intermediate region (744d) is offset by a second offset distance (750) from the central region (744a), and the first end region (744b) is offset by a third offset distance (752) from the central region (744a), and the third offset distance (752) is greater than the second offset distance (750), and the second offset distance (750) is greater than the first offset distance (748).

7. The base edge (700) of claim 6, wherein the plurality of regions (744) include a plurality of angled regions (744e), one of the plurality of angled regions (744e) being disposed between the center region (744a) and the first intermediate region (744c), another of the plurality of angled regions (744e) being disposed between the first intermediate region (744c) and the second intermediate region (744d), and a third of the plurality of angled regions (744e) being disposed between the second intermediate region (744d) and the first end region (744b).

8. The base edge (700) of claim 7, wherein the central region (744a) defines a central region midpoint (754), and the body (708) defines a symmetry plane (756) passing through the central region midpoint (754).

9. A base edge (700) of a work tool assembly, comprising: A body (708) comprising a working edge (710) defining a lateral direction (712) and an assembly direction (714) perpendicular to the lateral direction (712), the body (708) further defining a first lateral end (716) and a second lateral end (718); a plurality of vertical mounting mechanism receiving holes (720); a plurality of central notches (702) extending from the working edge (710); and a first end notch (724) disposed adjacent the first lateral end (716) and a second end notch (724') disposed adjacent the second lateral end (718), the first end notch (724) and the second end notch (724') extending from the working edge (710); wherein each of the plurality of center recesses (702) and the first and second end recesses (724, 724') comprises a different configuration, the different configurations comprising a different end recess depth (725) along the assembly direction (714), the end recess depth being greater than the center recess depth (725') along the assembly direction (714).

10. The base edge (700) of claim 9, wherein the first and second end notches (724, 724') further comprise a straight middle portion (726) laterally straddled by the first and second arcuate corner portions (728, 728'), and the center notch (702) further comprises a straight middle portion (726) laterally straddled by the first and second arcuate corner portions (728, 728'), and the first and second end notches (724, 724') further comprise a straight middle portion (726) laterally straddled by the first and second arcuate corner portions (728, 728'), The straight middle portion (726) of the second end recess (724'), the first arcuate corner portions (728) of the first end recess (724) and the second end recess (724'), and the second arcuate corner portions (728') of the first end recess (724) and the second end recess (724') comprise the same construction as the straight middle portion (726) of the center recess (702), the first arcuate portion of the center recess (702), and the second arcuate portion of the center recess (702).

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