Position biasing lock pin assembly for ground engaging members

Abstract

A locking pin assembly (106) for securing a wear member to a support structure can include a body portion (110) and can include a shaft member (112) partially disposed within and extending from the body portion and rotatable between a first position mechanically preventing removal of the ground engaging member from the support structure and a second position allowing removal of the ground engaging member from the support structure. A wear member (104) for receiving the locking pin assembly (106) can include a bore (160) extending transversely through the bore member having a proximal opening and a distal opening, an installation ramp (182) and a removal ramp (184) can be disposed at the proximal opening for engaging a tang (126) of the shaft member (112) of the locking pin assembly (106).

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on April 14, 2020, with application number 202080029041.7, international application number PCT / US2020 / 028111, and entitled "Position bias locking pin assembly for ground wear member".

[0002] priority

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Nonprovisional Patent Application No. 16 / 843,623, filed April 8, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 834,214, filed April 15, 2019, entitled “Position-Biased Locking Pin Assembly For a Ground Engaging Wear Member,” which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to a digging tooth assembly including a locking pin assembly for securing components of the digging tooth assembly. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a digging tooth assembly secured by a releasable locking pin assembly having an improved locking structure that prevents accidental unlocking through rotational interference. Background Technology

[0005] Material displacement equipment, such as excavating buckets found on construction, mining, and other earthmoving equipment, typically includes replaceable wear parts, such as grounding teeth. These wear parts are usually removably supported by a larger base structure (e.g., the excavating bucket) and come into abrasive contact with the displaced soil or other material. For example, an excavating tooth assembly mounted on excavating equipment (e.g., an excavating bucket, etc.) typically includes a relatively large adapter portion that is properly anchored to a structure of the equipment (e.g., the front bucket lip). The adapter portion typically includes a nose that is reduced in cross-section and projects forward. Replaceable tooth tips typically include openings that releasably receive the adapter nose. To retain the tooth tip on the adapter nose, generally aligned lateral openings are formed on the tooth tip and the adapter nose, and a suitable connector structure is driven into and forcibly held within the aligned openings to releasably anchor the replaceable tooth tip to its associated adapter nose.

[0006] There are many different types of traditional connector structures. One type of connector structure typically requires forcibly driving, for example with a sledgehammer, into the aligned teeth and adapter nose opening. The inserted connector structure must then be forcibly knocked out of the teeth and adapter nose opening to allow removal and replacement of worn teeth from the adapter nose. This traditional method of knocking the connector structure in and out easily creates safety hazards for installers and removers.

[0007] Several alternatives to knock-in connector structures have been previously proposed to removably hold replaceable tooth tips on the adapter nose. While these alternative connector structures ideally eliminate the need to knock the connector structure into and out of the adapter nose, they typically have various other types of problems, limitations, and drawbacks, including but not limited to complexity of construction and use or undesirable high costs.

[0008] Some connector types can rotate between a locked and unlocked position. However, continuous vibration, high shock, and cyclic loading of the tooth tips can cause the connector structure to unintentionally rotate from the locked to the unlocked position. This can lead to excessive wear at the interface between the connector structure and the tooth tips, potentially affecting the lifespan of both.

[0009] Therefore, an improved connector structure is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0010] According to one exemplary aspect, this disclosure relates to a position offset locking pin assembly for securing a grounding member having a side opening to a support structure that can be aligned with the side opening.

[0011] In one aspect of this disclosure, a locking pin assembly for securing a grounding member to a support structure includes a body portion, a shaft member, a locking feature, a biasing member, and a plunger. The body portion may be arranged to non-rotatably and selectively project into an opening in the support structure and may have an opening formed therein. The shaft member may have a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end having a first engagement feature and being disposed within the body portion. The locking feature may include a shank extending radially from the proximal end of the shaft member beyond the body portion. The shaft member is rotatable relative to the body portion between a first position and a second position, in which the locking feature is positioned to mechanically prevent removal of the locking pin assembly from the grounding member when positioned to secure the grounding member to the support structure, and in the second position, the locking feature is positioned to allow removal of the locking pin assembly from the grounding member when positioned to secure the grounding member to the support structure. A biasing member may be disposed within the body portion. The plunger may be disposed between the biasing member and the distal end of the shaft member and may include a second engagement feature configured to selectively engage the first engagement feature of the shaft member. The biasing member may push the plunger toward the shaft member. The second engagement feature can be configured to engage the first engagement feature to provide resistance during each rotation of the shaft member relative to the plunger in two opposite directions.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature can be configured to rotate relative to each other when the rotational force applied to the shaft member exceeds the magnitude of the rotational resistance applied by the biasing member, thereby rotating the shaft member from one of a first position and a second position to the other of the first position and the second position. The first engagement feature, the second engagement feature, and the biasing member can be configured such that the rotational resistance applied by the biasing member appears during a first portion of the rotational stroke and does not appear during a second portion of the rotational stroke. One of the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature may include two adjacent recesses spaced apart by a resistance tip, and the other of the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature may include a tooth configured to optionally be located within each of the two recesses. The resistance tip may be positioned approximately midway between the two adjacent recesses. The two adjacent recesses may be spaced approximately 90 degrees apart and centered. The other of the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature may include a third recess, and the size and shape of the resistance tip may be designed to engage within the third recess when the tooth is located within one of the two adjacent recesses. The first engagement feature, the second engagement feature, and the offset member can be configured such that rotation of the shaft member between two adjacent notches provides tactile feedback to the user, confirming the transition from the first position to the second position and from the second position to the first position.

[0013] In some embodiments, the locking pin assembly may include an anti-rotation element. The shaft member may include a partially circumferential groove formed therein. The anti-rotation element may be configured to mechanically interfere with opposite ends of the groove to limit the range of rotation of the shaft member relative to the body portion. The groove may extend helically such that engagement of the anti-rotation element with the groove translates rotation of the shaft member into axial displacement of the shaft member relative to the body portion. An anti-rotation element interfering with the ends may limit rotation of the shaft member to approximately 90 degrees relative to the body portion. For example, the anti-rotation element may be a pin extending through a portion of the body portion.

[0014] In some embodiments, the locking pin assembly may include a second anti-rotation element extending from the plunger and configured to prevent rotation of the plunger while allowing axial displacement of the plunger. The second anti-rotation element may include a second pin fixed relative to the body portion. The plunger may include an elongated recess into which the second pin extends. Alternatively or additionally, the second anti-rotation element may include a protrusion extending from and fixed relative to the plunger. This protrusion may extend into a longitudinal channel formed in an inner wall surface of the body portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the shaft member and the plunger may define a longitudinally extending reference axis. A first cross-section of the body portion adjacent to the proximal end of the body portion and perpendicular to the reference axis may have a first cross-sectional area, while a second cross-section of the body portion adjacent to the distal end of the body portion and perpendicular to the reference axis may have a second cross-sectional area smaller than the first cross-sectional area. The body portion may include an engagement surface only along one side parallel to the reference axis. In this respect, the locking pin assembly may be configured to be oriented within a hole extending through the grounding member and into the support structure, such that at least a portion of the engagement surface engages a bearing surface of the support structure defined by the inner wall of the hole. This bearing surface may be disposed on one side of the hole, on which the locking pin assembly applies a force in response to a force tending to remove the wear member from the support structure.

[0016] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the body portion may be shaped to be received within a hole extending through the wear member and into the support structure, such that when installed, the locking pin assembly is fixed relative to the wear member but movable relative to the support structure. The body portion may include a head, and a shaft member may extend through the head. The head may have a periphery, a portion of which has a non-circular shape, configured to be received within a correspondingly shaped recess in the wall of the wear member, such that engagement of the head with the wall of the recess prevents rotation of the body portion.

[0017] In some embodiments, a locking pin assembly for securing a grounding member to a support structure may include a body portion, a head, and a tip. The body portion may include an outer surface having a proximal end and a distal end. The head may be located at the proximal end and may have a periphery, a portion of which has a non-circular shape, configured to be received within a corresponding shaped proximal recess in the wall of the grounding member. The tip may be located at the distal end, and a portion of the tip may have a non-circular outer peripheral profile with at least one flat side, configured to be received within a corresponding shaped distal recess in a portion of the grounding member opposite the first recess. The engagement of the head with the proximal recess and the engagement of the tip with the distal recess prevent rotation of the body portion relative to the grounding member.

[0018] A reference axis may extend longitudinally through the main body portion. An outer surface may include a mating surface along a side parallel to the reference axis. At least a portion of the outer surface opposite the mating surface is not parallel to the reference axis. For example, the top, bottom, and rear sides of the main body portion may not be parallel to the front side. A locking pin assembly may be configured to be oriented within a hole extending through the grounding member and into the support structure, such that at least a portion of the mating surface engages with a bearing surface of the support structure defined by the inner wall of the hole. The bearing surface may be located on one side of the hole, and the locking pin assembly applies a force on that side in response to a force tending to remove the grounding member from the support structure.

[0019] In another aspect of this disclosure, a wear member for mounting on an adapter carried on a grounding device using a locking pin assembly may include an outer surface and an inner surface, a hole, a mounting ramp, and a removal ramp. The inner surface may define a cavity within the wear member. The hole may extend from the outer surface on a first wall through the wear member to an outer surface on a second wall opposite to the first wall. The mounting ramp may be disposed adjacent to the hole and configured to engage a first surface of the shank of the locking pin assembly as the shank of the locking pin assembly rotates in a first direction from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration when the shank is disposed within the hole. The removal ramp may also be disposed adjacent to the hole and configured to engage a second surface of the shank opposite to the first surface of the shank as the shank rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. In some embodiments, the mounting ramp and the removal ramp are integrated into the first wall. The mounting ramp may be configured such that engagement of the mounting ramp with the first surface translates rotation of the shank in the first direction into axial displacement of the locking pin assembly, thereby facilitating the placement of the locking pin assembly within the wear member. Similarly, the removal ramp can be configured such that the engagement of the removal ramp with the second surface converts the rotation of the shank in the second direction into axial displacement of the locking pin assembly, thereby facilitating the removal of the locking pin assembly from the wear member.

[0020] In another aspect of this disclosure, a method for locking a worn member to or removing a worn member from an adapter carried on a grounding device using a locking pin assembly may include a first rotation step, which, while disposing the locking pin assembly within a hole passing through the worn member and the adapter, rotates a shaft member of the locking pin assembly relative to a body portion of the locking pin assembly in a first direction through a first range of motion (or "stroke portion"), in which a first surface of the teeth of the shaft member engages a corresponding first surface of a recess in a plunger disposed within the body portion. The plunger may be substantially rotatably fixed relative to the body portion, and the rotation of the shaft member in the first range of motion axially displaces the plunger toward a biasing member from an initial position to a compressed position. The method may further include a second rotation step, which rotates the shaft member relative to the body portion in the first direction through a second range of motion, in which a second surface of the teeth slides relative to a corresponding second surface of the recess. During the rotation of the shaft through the second range of motion, the biasing member may return the plunger to its initial position. The first and second rotation steps may move locking features of the locking pin assembly, such as a shank extending from the shaft member, from a first configuration to a second configuration. When the locking feature is in one of the first and second configurations, the locking feature may interfere with the wear member or adapter to prevent the locking pin assembly from being withdrawn from the wear member, while when the locking feature is in the other of the first and second configurations, the locking pin assembly may be removed from the wear member.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first range of motion includes a range between 0 and 180 degrees, and the second range of motion includes a range between 0 and 180 degrees. For example, in some embodiments, one or both of the first and second ranges of motion may include a range between 20 and 160 degrees, between 40 and 140 degrees, between 70 and 100 degrees, etc.

[0022] In another embodiment, this disclosure relates to a locking pin assembly for securing a grounding member to a support structure. The locking pin assembly may include a body portion arranged to selectively project non-rotatably into an opening in the support structure. The body portion has an opening formed therein. A shaft member may have a first axis and may include a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end having a first plurality of equally spaced teeth. The first plurality of equally spaced teeth may be radially spaced about the first axis in a range between approximately 30 degrees and 120 degrees, wherein the distal end is disposed within the body portion. A shank extends radially from the proximal portion of the shaft member beyond the body portion. The shaft member is rotatable relative to the body portion between a first position and a second position, in which the shank is positioned to mechanically prevent removal of the locking pin assembly from the grounding member when positioned to secure the grounding member to the support structure, and in the second position, the shank is positioned to allow removal of the locking pin assembly from the grounding member when positioned to secure the grounding member to the support structure. A biasing member may be disposed within the body portion. A plunger may be disposed between the distal ends of the biasing member and the shaft member, the plunger having a second axis and including a second plurality of equally spaced teeth. The second plurality of equally spaced teeth are radially spaced about the second axis in a range between approximately 30 degrees and 120 degrees, and are shaped to selectively engage a first plurality of equally spaced teeth of the shaft member to provide rotational resistance in two opposite directions. In some aspects, the first and second plurality of equally spaced teeth are shaped to provide approximately equal rotational resistance in both directions.

[0023] In another exemplary aspect, this disclosure relates to a locking pin assembly for securing a grounding member to a support structure. The locking pin assembly may include a body portion in which an opening is formed, and may include a shaft member having a first axis and including a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end may have a protruding tooth extending axially and offset from the first axis, and the distal end may be disposed within the body portion. A shank extends radially from the proximal end of the shaft member beyond the body portion. The shaft member is rotatable relative to the body portion between a first position and a second position, in which the shank is positioned to mechanically prevent removal of the locking pin assembly from the grounding member when positioned to secure the grounding member to the support structure, and in the second position, the shank is positioned to allow removal of the locking pin assembly from the grounding member when positioned to secure the grounding member to the support structure. A biasing member may be disposed within the body portion. A plunger may be disposed between the biasing member and the distal end of the shaft member. The plunger may have a second axis and may include a second tooth extending proximally and offset from the second axis. The second tooth may engage the first tooth to provide rotational resistance in two opposite directions. In some respects, one of the shaft members and plungers includes a notch adjacent to a corresponding first tooth or second tooth, each of the first tooth and the second tooth being sized to form a radial arc around a first axis and a second axis, respectively, within a range between approximately 30 degrees and 120 degrees.

[0024] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following figures and detailed description are exemplary and interpretive in nature, intended to provide an understanding of the disclosure without limiting its scope. In this respect, additional aspects, features, and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 1 This is an assembly perspective view of the excavating tooth assembly embodying the principles of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The exploded perspective of the components.

[0028] Figure 3A This is an exploded perspective view of the locking pin assembly according to this disclosure.

[0029] Figure 3B The diagram shows Figure 3A An example of a plunger tip.

[0030] Figure 3C An alternative example of a plunger tip is illustrated.

[0031] Figure 4A yes Figure 3A Top view of the locking pin assembly in the assembly configuration.

[0032] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A The front view of the locking pin component.

[0033] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the locking pin assembly.

[0034] Figure 4D This is a cross-sectional view of the alternative locking pin assembly with a slender profile.

[0035] Figure 5A This is a partial side view of the locking pin component in the unlocked position.

[0036] Figure 5B This is a partial side view of the locking pin component in the locked position.

[0037] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing an anti-rotation element that interacts with a groove in a shaft member according to the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 The front cross-sectional view of the component.

[0039] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A top-down cross-sectional view of the components.

[0040] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 A partial left-hand view of the components, illustrating the interaction between the locking pin assembly and the wear member.

[0041] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 The right-side cross-sectional view of the component illustrates the interaction between the locking pin assembly and the wear member.

[0042] Figure 11 This is a right-side perspective view of a wear component embodying the principles of this disclosure.

[0043] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A partial left-side perspective view of a worn component, illustrating the proximal opening of a hole passing through the worn component.

[0044] Figure 13 It was observed from inside the cavity of the worn component. Figure 12 A perspective view of the proximal opening.

[0045] Figure 14 yes Figure 12A cross-sectional view of the proximal opening.

[0046] Figure 15 Is it through Figure 12 A right-side cross-sectional view of the cavity of the worn component, illustrating... Figure 12 The proximal opening.

[0047] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of a method for securing a worn component to an adapter using a locking pin assembly, according to the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of a method for removing a worn component secured by a locking pin assembly from an adapter.

[0049] The following detailed explanation will help to better understand these figures. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To facilitate understanding of the principles of this disclosure, embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings will now be referred to and described using specific language. However, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Any changes and further modifications to the described apparatus, instruments, methods, and any further application of the principles of this disclosure are fully contemplated as would normally be expected by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Furthermore, while this disclosure describes certain elements or features in detail with respect to one or more embodiments or drawings, elements or features identical to these elements or features appearing in subsequent drawings are not described with such a high degree of detail. It is entirely conceivable that features, components, and / or steps described with respect to one or more embodiments or drawings may be combined with features, components, and / or steps described with respect to other embodiments or drawings of this disclosure. For simplicity, in some cases, the same or similar reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar components.

[0051] This disclosure relates to a digging tooth assembly including a locking pin assembly arranged to removably secure an adapter to a wear member, such as a digging tooth. The locking pin assembly includes a radially extending rotatable locking element (or “shank”) that engages an inner surface of the wear member and mechanically prevents the locking pin assembly from being accidentally removed. A biasing member causes mechanical interference between the shank and rotation from a locked position to an unlocked position. During rotation of the shank relative to the body portion of the locking pin assembly from the locked position to the unlocked position and from the unlocked position to the locked position, resistance to rotation is provided during a first range of motion, while no resistance is provided during a second range of motion. This feature provides tactile feedback to the user, ensuring that the locking pin assembly has correctly transitioned from locked to unlocked or from unlocked to locked. Furthermore, the rotational resistance helps reduce or minimize the chance of unintentional rotation.

[0052] Because the locking pin assembly employs mechanical interference to prevent unintentional rotation of its components, it can withstand vibration, high shocks, and cyclic loading while minimizing the chance of accidental unlocking. Furthermore, some embodiments of the locking pin assembly are arranged to emit an audible sound, such as a click, when the assembly reaches the locked position. Therefore, users such as machine operators can more easily install new worn components and replace old worn components compared to using conventional connector pins.

[0053] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of a component according to the present disclosure is illustrated as a digging tooth assembly 100, including a wear member 104 (or “grounding member”), which typically has the form of a replaceable tooth tip that is mounted to an adapter 102 (or “support structure”) using a locking pin assembly 106. It should be understood that the component according to the present disclosure can include any type of grounding member and corresponding support structure, the grounding member being secured to the support structure by a pin. The digging tooth assembly 100 can find particular applicability in earthmoving equipment. For example, the digging tooth assembly 100 can be used in construction, mining, drilling, and other industries. The adapter 102 has a rear base including a fork-shaped member that can be received and welded or otherwise secured to, for example, the lip of a bucket. Extending from the rear base is a nose that projects forward for receiving the wear member 104. A lateral bore 160 extends through the opposing vertical sides of both the wear member and the nose, into which the locking pin assembly 106 can be inserted to retain the wear member 104 on the adapter 102. It is worth noting that the tooth assembly 100 may also include one or more intermediate adapters, and the locking pin assembly 106 can be inserted to hold the intermediate adapter as a wear member on the adapter 102, or to hold the wear member 104 on the intermediate adapter. It should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the hole may not extend all the way through the adapter. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first hole may extend into a first side of the adapter, while the second hole may extend into a second side of the adapter. In such embodiments, two locking pin assemblies may be used.

[0054] The locking pin assembly 106 is sized and shaped to be received within the bore 160 of the wear member 104 and the adapter 102. As described herein, the locking pin assembly 106 can removably secure the wear member 104 to the adapter 102 in place. Furthermore, at least a portion of the locking pin assembly 106 is operable between an unlocked position and a locked position. When the wear member 104 is properly positioned on the adapter 102, the locking pin assembly 106 can be operated from the unlocked position to the locked position. When in the locked position, the locking pin assembly 106 prevents the wear member 104 from being removed from the adapter 102 by mechanically preventing separation of the wear member 104 from the adapter 102. When needed, a user, such as an operator, can operate the locking pin assembly 106 from the locked position to the unlocked position. This allows the user to remove the locking pin assembly 106 from the bore 160, and subsequently remove the wear member 104 from the adapter 102.

[0055] Go to Figure 3A An exploded view shows that the locking pin assembly 106 includes components such as a body portion 110 and a shaft member 112. The body portion 110 may be a body having an outer surface 146 corresponding to the shape of the hole 160. The shaft member 112 is partially disposed within and extends from a locking cavity 125, which is an opening in the body portion 110 through the head 124. In some examples (including...) Figure 3A In the example shown, the locking cavity 125 is a generally cylindrical bore that partially extends through the body portion 110. The distal portion of the shaft member 112 has a cylindrical outer surface, sized and arranged to fit within the locking cavity 125. In this embodiment, the shaft member 112 has a fitting clearance that allows it to rotate within the locking cavity 125.

[0056] Shaft member 112 includes a shank 126 that projects radially beyond body portion 110. Shank 126 is a feature that provides mechanical interference with wear member 104 to prevent locking pin assembly 106 from retracting from hole 160 in a locked position. Using tool engagement feature 128, shaft member 112 can be rotated to rotate shank 126 to transition locking pin assembly 106 from an unlocked position to a locked position, in which shank 126 passes over a portion of wear member 104 during insertion and removal, and in which shank 126 engages that portion of wear member 104 in the locked position. In this embodiment, tool engagement feature 128 includes a hexagonal tool recess configured to receive a hexagonal tool (e.g., a hex wrench) and also includes a hexagonal outer surface configured for engagement by a crescent wrench or socket. Other tool interfaces and tools that are obvious to those skilled in the art may be used.

[0057] The tool engagement feature 128 is sized and arranged to accommodate a user-operable working tool (not shown). The working tool can be inserted into the tool engagement feature 128 and rotated to rotate the shaft member 112 to actuate the locking pin assembly 106 from a locked position to an unlocked position, or from an unlocked position to a locked position.

[0058] During rotation, shaft member 112 interacts with plunger 116 and biasing member 118 to provide resistance to rotation to prevent unintentional unlocking and to provide tactile feedback to the user. It should be understood that shaft member 112 can rotate in opposite directions without axial movement. In this respect, shaft member 112 can rotate clockwise and counterclockwise while experiencing resistance to this rotation due to the continuous contact between shaft member 112 and plunger 116.

[0059] The biasing member 118 is a helical spring in the illustrated embodiment, but can be any suitable spring or biasing mechanism, with one end resting against the distal wall of the locking cavity 125 and the other end engaging the plunger 116. In this respect, the plunger 116 can be biased toward the shaft member 112 and prevent axial movement that tends to push the plunger 116 further into the locking cavity 125.

[0060] It may be necessary to prevent the plunger 116 from rotating to ensure that the plunger 116 provides resistance against the rotation of the shaft member 112. In this regard, the plunger 116 may include an anti-rotation element. In the illustrated embodiment, the anti-rotation element includes a plunger pin 122 disposed in a pin recess 123 intersecting with the locking cavity 125. The plunger pin 122 passes through an elongated orifice 134 of the plunger 116. The elongated shape of the orifice 134 allows the plunger 116 to slide axially within the locking cavity 125 but not to rotate relative to the body portion 110. It should be understood that the plunger pin 122 may be removed from the pin recess 123 to facilitate disengagement of the locking pin assembly 106, for example, to facilitate cleaning or repair, but it is conceivable that the plunger pin 122 or another anti-rotation element may be integrally formed with the body portion 110.

[0061] In an alternative embodiment, the anti-rotation element may include a protrusion extending from the plunger. This protrusion may be disposed within a longitudinal channel formed on the inner wall surface of the locking cavity 125. In this respect, the plunger 116 can slide freely axially within the locking cavity 125 as the protrusion slides within the longitudinal channel. However, mechanical interference between the sidewall of the longitudinal channel and the protrusion will prevent rotation of the plunger 116.

[0062] A pin 120 may be disposed in a pin recess 121, which intersects with a locking cavity 125 to engage a groove 130 on the shaft member 112. Like the plunger pin 122, the pin 120 may be removable or permanently attached to the body portion 110. The groove 130 is arranged such that it extends generally laterally rather than longitudinally relative to the shaft member 112. In this respect, the shaft member 112 is rotatable, but as shown below... Figure 5A-6 As described in more detail, axial movement is substantially limited by the interference between the shaft pin 120 and the groove 130. This limitation of axial movement caused by the shaft pin 120 holds the shaft member 112 in the locking cavity 125 and prevents the shaft member 112 from displacing in response to the force applied to the shaft member 112 by the plunger 116 during rotation of the shaft member 112. It should be understood that the shaft pin 120 and the groove 130 are merely exemplary means of limiting the axial movement of the shaft member 112, and other suitable means of limiting the axial movement of the shaft member 112 while allowing rotation are also considered to be within the scope of this disclosure.

[0063] The interface between shaft member 112 and plunger 116 may include crown-like features to facilitate rotational resistance of shaft member 112, as teeth extending from non-rotatable plunger 116 clamp corresponding teeth extending from shaft member 112. As described herein, each pair of adjacent teeth of shaft member 112 forms a notch configured to receive a corresponding tooth of plunger 116, and vice versa. The furthest extent of the teeth may be referred to as the resistance tip, as this narrowest point of the teeth may correspond to a rotational position where resistance reaches its maximum due to maximum compression of bias member 118. As a tooth of one member (shaft member 112 or plunger 116) passes over the resistance tip of another member, resistance may drop to zero as the tooth begins to slide and engage in a position.

[0064] Although the illustration shows multiple serrated teeth, it should be understood that the teeth and notches can be formed by smooth, wavy curves. This profile can provide less rotational resistance than in the illustrated embodiment, but may have extended service life or other advantages. In some embodiments, the teeth are shaped to provide approximately equal resistance to rotation in two opposite directions.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, each of the shaft member 112 and the plunger 116 may have four equidistant teeth. In this respect, rotation of the shaft member 112 from the locked position to the unlocked position will involve a rotation of approximately 90 degrees, corresponding to the realignment of the teeth 138 of the shaft member 112 from the notch 136a of the plunger 116 to the adjacent notch 136b. To return the shaft member 112 to the locked position, the rotation will be reversed. It should be understood that more or fewer teeth may be provided, for example, one tooth on one engagement feature and two notches on another engagement feature. Alternatively, each engagement feature may include 5 teeth, 10 teeth, or more. The range of rotation between adjacent tooth / notch pairs may increase or decrease corresponding to a decrease or increase in the number of teeth and notches.

[0066] In some embodiments, the teeth are chosen to be spaced between approximately 30 degrees and 120 degrees apart. For example, some embodiments utilize three teeth spaced approximately 120 degrees apart. Some embodiments utilize twelve teeth spaced approximately 30 degrees apart.

[0067] like Figure 3BAs shown, each tooth is defined by a resistance tip 137 extending between two notches 136a, 136b, and each tooth is oriented at an angle α relative to the rotational direction of the shaft member 112. The desired angle α can be any suitable angle that provides rotational resistance while still allowing the shaft member 112 to rotate. In the illustrated embodiment, angle α can be between approximately 45 and 75 degrees. In one example, angle α can be, for example, approximately 59 degrees. The interaction between each tooth of the shaft member 112 and the corresponding tooth of the plunger 116 converts rotation into an axial force with a component transverse to the direction of rotation. Because the axial movement of the shaft member 112 is restricted by the shaft pin 120, this force causes the plunger 116 to be axially displaced against the biasing member 118 during the first portion of the stroke, corresponding to the upward slope of an inclined surface of each tooth. Once the resistance tip of each tooth 138 of the shaft member 112 passes the resistance tip 137 of the corresponding tooth of the plunger 116, the second portion of the stroke begins, in which there is no rotational resistance. In fact, in some embodiments, rotation is propelled during the second portion of the stroke as the resistance tip of each tooth of the shaft member 112 slides over the downward slope of the corresponding second surface of each tooth of the plunger 116, bringing the shaft member 112 into a fully seated position relative to the plunger 116 when the plunger 116 is pushed back to its initial position by the biasing member 118. In some embodiments, by forming each tooth with two adjacent surfaces having similar slopes and similar lengths, the reciprocating movement of the shaft member 112 relative to the plunger 116 between the locked and unlocked positions can be facilitated with a similar degree of resistance provided by the coronal interface, generating similar tactile feedback to the user in both rotational directions, confirming the complete transition of the tooth from one notch to the adjacent notch. In the illustrated example where adjacent teeth are spaced 90 degrees apart, the transition of tooth 138 from one notch 136a to the adjacent notch 136b corresponds to a 90-degree rotation between the locked and unlocked positions.

[0068] Figure 3C The diagram shows Figure 3B An alternative embodiment of the plunger tip. In this alternative embodiment, each tooth of the plunger 116 may have a generally flat portion comprising a flat surface at the resistance tip 137 and a corresponding flat portion at the base of the notches 136a, 136b. The flat surface may extend between a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface defining the tooth of the plunger. The shaft member 112 may have a shape similar to... Figure 3C The corresponding teeth of the plunger. The desired angle β can be any suitable angle that provides rotational resistance while still allowing the shaft member 112 to rotate. In the illustrated embodiment, angle β can be between approximately 60-80 degrees, and in some examples, approximately 72-73 degrees. An angle larger than angle α can provide greater rotational resistance and can also affect the rotational distance required to achieve full axial displacement. For example, in Figure 3B In this case, complete axial displacement (using the four-tooth example) can be achieved through a rotation of approximately 90 degrees. Figure 3C In the example, full axial displacement (using the four-tooth example) can be achieved by a rotation of approximately 60–85 degrees. However, it should be understood that other factors, such as the spring constant of the bias member 118, may also affect the rotational resistance provided.

[0069] It should be understood that the aforementioned function of the coronal interface can be facilitated by providing a single tooth 138 extending from the shaft member 112 and two notches formed in the plunger 116 (or by providing two teeth 138 extending from the shaft member 112 and a single notch formed in the plunger 116). However, it may be desirable to have multiple teeth and multiple notches to extend the service life of the locking pin assembly 106 by forces distributed between the plunger 116 and the shaft member 112 across multiple tooth interfaces. Furthermore, a symmetrical distribution of multiple teeth and notches around the interface can help maintain linear alignment of the plunger 116 and the shaft member 112, thereby preventing component engagement within the locking cavity 125 and providing predictable and consistent resistance to rotation of the shaft member 112.

[0070] O-ring 114 can fit into the full-circumferential groove 132 of shaft member 112. When locking pin assembly 106 is assembled, O-ring 114 provides a seal between shaft member 112 and the inner wall of locking cavity 125. This seal effectively prevents debris from entering locking cavity 125 and interfering with the movement of plunger 116 and biasing member 118.

[0071] Go to Figure 4A and 4B The assembled locking pin assembly 106 is shown in both top and front views. A reference axis 140 extends longitudinally through the center of the locking cavity 125, the shaft member 112, and the plunger 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the front side 150 of the body portion 110 may be defined by a portion of an outer surface 146 extending parallel to the reference axis 140. Figure 4C As shown, this portion of the outer surface 146 may include an infinitely narrow line extending longitudinally through the front side 150, such that each transverse cross-section through the body portion 110 is circular. In this respect, some or all of the circular cross-sections may be offset from the reference axis 140. Alternatively, the portion of the outer surface 146 parallel to the reference axis 140 may include a flat surface, which may be planar, such that one or more cross-sections are D-shaped.

[0072] Conversely, each of the rear side 151, bottom side 152, and top side 153 may be defined by a portion of the outer surface 146 that is not parallel to the reference axis 140. These sides 151, 152, 153 may include a tapered shape extending from the proximal end 142 of the body portion 110 to the distal end 144 of the body portion 110. That is, regardless of the head 124, the maximum outer diameter of the body portion 110 is located at the proximal end 142, and regardless of the tip 168, the minimum outer diameter of the body portion 110 is located at the distal end 144. The tapered shape of the body portion 110 improves the ease with which the locking pin assembly 106 can be removed from the hole 160. That is, because the locking pin assembly 106 may be subjected to extremely large compressive and torsional forces during use, a cylindrical body portion may wedge into the hole 160 and be difficult to remove. However, a pin with a tapered shape, such as the locking pin assembly 106, is better able to resist this problem. The taper between the maximum and minimum outer diameters may be linear or non-linear. Furthermore, the taper on one or more of the sides 151, 152, 153 may be asymmetrical relative to one or more other sides.

[0073] The asymmetrical design of the main body 110 offers at least two advantages. First, if the shape of the hole 160 entering or passing through the adapter 102 is similar to the outer surface 146 of the main body 110, rotation of the locking pin assembly 106 can be prevented. In other words, if the hole is non-circular, the width of the main body 110 from the front 150 to the rear 151 may exceed the height of the hole 160, and the main body 110 will not be able to rotate when positioned in the hole 160. For example, it is possible to... Figure 4D This configuration can be seen in the alternative cross-sectional view.

[0074] Secondly, particularly when the portion of the outer surface 146 parallel to the reference axis 140 includes a flat surface, the load-bearing capacity of the digging tooth assembly 100 can be improved. That is, if the load distribution is poor, the load applied to the wear member 104 (which is then transferred to the locking pin assembly 106 and adapter 102) may cause excessive wear or breakage of the locking pin assembly 106 and / or adapter 102. For example, a body portion that is tapered on all sides and mounted in a cylindrical bore will bear a greater load at one end closer to the body portion than at the other. However, by providing a surface on the body portion 110 that is parallel to, rather than tapered, relative to the reference axis 140, the load can be evenly distributed across the front side 150. It is also anticipated, additionally or alternatively, that a parallel portion may be provided at the rear side 151 of the outer surface 146 to evenly distribute the load during digging as the wear member 104 is pressed against the rear of the adapter 102.

[0075] Go to Figure 5A and 5B ,exist Figure 5AThe image shows shaft member 112 in the unlocked configuration, while... Figure 5B The figure shows the shaft member 112 in the locked configuration. As shown, when the shaft member 112 is in the unlocked position, the handle 126 can be separated from the head 124 of the body portion 110 by a distance L2. When the shaft member 112 is rotated to the locked position, the shaft member 112 can be axially displaced such that the handle 126 is separated from the head 124 by a distance L1, which can be zero. This is achieved by forming a groove 130 with a slightly helical orientation (see Figure 112). Figure 3A This movement is facilitated by the rotation of the shaft member 112. Since the pivot pin 120 remains stationary and fixed in place relative to the body portion 110, rotation of the shaft member 112 causes the sides of the helical groove 130 formed in the shaft member 112 to be pushed out from the pivot pin 120, thereby axially displacing the shaft member 112. This feature also helps to provide tactile feedback to the user. Preferably, the width of the groove 130 matches the width of the pivot pin 120 to achieve a tight fit clearance. However, it is contemplated that the width of the groove 130 may be wider than that of the pivot pin 120.

[0076] Figure 6 It is along Figure 4A The cross-section taken by line 6-6 further illustrates the interaction between the groove 130 and the anti-rotation element (e.g., the pin 120). The groove 130 may be partially circumferential, its length limited and defined by the opposing ends of the groove 130. Furthermore, the finite length of the groove 130 limits the range of rotation of the shaft member 112. In this respect, the pin 120, positioned in the pin recess 121, mechanically interferes with the rotation of the shaft member 112 by contacting the end of the groove 130 as the shaft member 112 rotates, thereby preventing further rotation. In the illustrated embodiment, the groove 130 is configured with an arc length allowing approximately 90 degrees of rotation, corresponding to a 90-degree rotation facilitated by the four equidistant teeth on the shaft member 112 and the plunger 116. This 90-degree range of rotation is sufficient to transition the foot 126 from the unlocked position to the locked position, or from the locked position to the unlocked position. However, the groove 130 can be configured to any length to facilitate any desired range of motion.

[0077] Go to Figure 7-10 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 They are shown respectively Figure 1 The front cross-sectional view of the excavating tooth assembly taken along line 7-7 and the top cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8. Figure 9 A left-side view of the hole 160 of the digging tooth assembly is shown, while Figure 10 It shows along Figure 8 The cross-sectional view taken from line 10-10.

[0078] The hole 160 extends through the wear member 104 and the adapter 102 from a proximal opening 162 in the first wall of the wear member 104 to a distal opening 164 in the opposing second wall of the wear member 104. However, as described above, the hole 160 may alternatively not extend completely through the adapter 102, but may extend only partially into the adapter 102, in which case a shorter locking pin assembly corresponding to the short hole length can be provided.

[0079] like Figure 8-10 As best shown, the body portion 110, particularly the head 124, is sized and shaped to mechanically interfere with the proximal opening 162 at its proximal end, while the body portion 110, particularly the tip 168, is sized and shaped to mechanically interfere with the distal opening 164. Thus, at least in these locations, the body portion 110 has a non-circular peripheral profile or shape that prevents rotation of the body portion 110 relative to the wear member 104. Furthermore, the close engagement between the body portion 110 and the proximal and distal openings 162 allows the locking pin assembly 106 to move in unison with the wear member 104. Advantageously, this prevents the wear member 104 from exerting a force on the shank 126, a force that could undesirably unlock it when the wear member 104 moves relative to the adapter 102 during use.

[0080] like Figure 10 As best shown, the proximal opening 162 may have an asymmetrical profile, with at least a portion being non-circular. In this respect, the asymmetrical shape helps the user insert the locking pin assembly 106 into the hole 160 in the correct orientation. That is, a symmetrical head might cause the user to attempt to insert the locking pin assembly upside down, which could result in an improper loading distribution across the body portion by positioning the portion of the outer surface parallel to the reference axis 140 in the wrong area of ​​the hole 160. Furthermore, the non-circular portion of the profile of the head 124 allows the head 124 to be tightly seated within at least a portion of the proximal opening 162 in a manner that prevents the locking pin assembly 106 from rotating relative to the wear member 104.

[0081] like Figure 8 As shown, a bearing surface 166 can be fitted into the portion of the hole 160 that passes through the adapter 102. The size and shape of this bearing surface can be designed to closely correspond to the front side 150 of the outer surface 146 of the body portion 110, which can be parallel to the above-mentioned... Figure 4A The reference axis 140. Although the adapter 102 is preferably designed to manipulate the load applied in all directions by the wear member 104 and the locking pin assembly 106, the bearing surface 166 can be particularly adapted to ensure a uniform distribution of the load across the body portion 110.

[0082] The distal opening 164 is smaller than the diameter of a portion of the body portion 110 to prevent the locking pin assembly 106 from sliding out of the distal end of the hole 160 and to ensure that the locking pin assembly 106 does not fall so deeply into the hole 160 that it becomes wedged in and difficult to remove. Although in an alternative embodiment, the distal opening 164 may be replaced by a distal recess on the inner wall of the abrasive member 104 instead of penetrating the wall, in the illustrated embodiment, the distal opening 164 is configured as an access point for a tool (e.g., a punch) to remove the locking pin assembly 106 if it becomes stuck in the hole 160. The tip 168 may extend well into the distal opening 164 to allow the user easy access to the body portion 110 if it becomes stuck.

[0083] exist Figure 7 and 8 In the locked position, the shank 126 is secured within the hole 160 due to mechanical interference of the wall of the wear member 104 above the proximal opening 162 and the shank 126. The positioning of the shank 126 relative to the wall of the wear member 104 will be described below. Figure 12-15 Let's discuss this in more detail.

[0084] As described above regarding Figure 3 Figure 8 Additional views are provided of the plunger pin 122 and the elongated hole 134 through which it passes, as well as the shaft pin 120 and its position relative to the shaft member 112 and the groove 130.

[0085] Figure 11-15 Various illustrations of the wear member 104 are provided, with particular attention to the features associated with the proximal opening 162 of the hole 160. Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the right side of the worn component. Figure 12 This is a partial left-side perspective view of the proximal opening of the worn component. Figure 13 It was observed from inside the cavity of the worn component. Figure 12 A perspective view of the proximal opening. Figure 14 It is a cross-sectional view of the near-side opening, and Figure 15 This is a right-side cross-sectional view through the cavity of the worn component.

[0086] Wear member 104 includes an outer surface 170 and an inner surface 172. The inner surface 172 defines a cavity 174 into which adapter 102 can be inserted. Wear member 104 includes a first wall 176 and a second wall 178 opposite to the first wall. A hole 160 extends from a proximal opening 162 through both the first wall 176 and the second wall 178 to a distal opening 164.

[0087] like Figure 12As best shown in the illustrated embodiment, the proximal opening 162 has a generally D-shaped profile at the outer surface 170 of the wear member 104. The flat wall of the D-shape engages with the head 124, providing a similarly flat surface that offers rotational resistance. The proximal opening 162 also has a convex angle extending into the first wall 176 at a portion of its periphery away from the flat wall. This convex angle further ensures that the head 124 is inserted in the correct orientation and does not rotate relative to the wear member 104.

[0088] Two inclined surfaces are present within the first wall 176 to aid in the installation and removal of the locking pin assembly 106. The mounting ramp 182 is configured to engage the proximal side of the foot 126 as the foot rotates from the unlocked position to the locked position. The mounting ramp 182 may be located in the proximal region of the first wall 176. As the foot 126 rotates toward the locked position, it slides over the mounting ramp 182, which is angled to the bore 160. In this respect, rotation of the shaft member 112 is converted into axial movement by the foot 126 sliding over the mounting ramp 182, forcing the locking pin assembly 106 into its seated position within the bore 160. The final portion of the travel of the foot 126 during rotation to the locked position may correspond to a portion of the mounting ramp 182 that is flat, not inclined, and oriented transversely to the bore 160. This transverse end of the mounting ramp 182 may extend within a rotational range of approximately 5–30 degrees and may correspond to the fully seated state of the locking pin assembly 106. That is, when the locking pin assembly 106 is fully inserted into the hole 160, the handle 126 may only reach the lateral end. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 126 does not engage with the mounting ramp 182 until it has reached approximately 45 degrees of rotation. In this respect, when the user rotates the handle 126 90 degrees from the unlocked position to the locked position, the handle may rotate unengaged during the first 45-degree rotation. At this point, the proximal side of the handle 126 may engage and begin to slide across the mounting ramp 182. It should be understood that the mounting ramp 182 may extend only a small portion (e.g., 5 degrees) through the range of rotation of the handle 126 or may extend through the entire range of rotation of the handle 126.

[0089] Due to the orientation of the mounting ramp 182, as the shank 126 slides past the mounting ramp 182, the locking pin assembly 106 is further pushed into the hole 160 until it reaches its fully seated position. At this point, the shank 126 can rotate 5-25 degrees over the lateral portion of the mounting ramp 182 until the shank 126 is vertical. At this point, the shank 126 may contact the inner wall of the abrasion member 104, which prevents the shank 126 from over-rotating beyond its preferred position. Positioning the shank 126 stationary at the lateral end of the mounting ramp 182 (which is perpendicular to the direction from which the locking pin assembly 106 is removed from the hole 160) helps to retain the locking pin assembly 106 in the hole 160.

[0090] A removal bevel 184 is provided adjacent to the mounting bevel 182. The removal bevel 184 can function in a similar manner to the mounting bevel 182, but can engage the distal side of the shank 126 when it rotates from the locked position to the unlocked position. That is, the shaft member 112 can rotate from the locked position to the unlocked position when the locking pin assembly 106 is fully in place. Initially, the shank 126 can travel within a range of rotation without contacting the removal bevel 184. At some point during rotation from the locked position to the unlocked position, for example, when rotating from approximately 10-70 degrees to 90 degrees, the shank 126 can engage the removal bevel 184, which interferes with the distal side of the shank 126, to push the locking pin assembly 106 out of the hole 160. This can be particularly advantageous for removal when debris or stress has jammed the locking pin assembly 106 in the hole 160.

[0091] In some embodiments, the angle of the mounting ramp 182 and the angle of the removal ramp 184 may differ, or may differ at specific locations along the range of rotation of the shank 126. The term "angle" used with reference to the mounting ramp 182 and the removal ramp 184 refers to the magnitude of the axial displacement of the shank 126 caused by the travel of the shank 126 over a specified distance on the respective ramp. That is, a larger angle refers to the orientation of the ramp surface that causes a greater axial displacement of the locking pin assembly 106 than a smaller angle. For example, the lateral end of the mounting ramp may effectively have a zero angle. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting ramp 182 may have a smaller angle than the removal ramp 184. In some embodiments, the difference in angle may correspond to a difference in ramp length. For example, a longer mounting ramp 182 may have a smaller angle to distribute the axial displacement of the locking pin assembly 106 over a larger distance. Conversely, if the locking pin assembly 106 becomes wedged due to debris or deformation, it is expected that the removal ramp 184 will have a greater slope to facilitate the removal of the locking pin assembly 106.

[0092] As shown, a gap 186 may be provided between a portion of the mounting ramp 182 and a portion of the removal ramp 184. The gap 186 is sized to allow the foot 126 to pass through the gap 186 during rotation. It should be understood that the removal ramp 184 does not extend through the entire range of rotation of the foot 126, but in some embodiments, overlaps with the mounting ramp 182 only for a small portion of their respective range of rotation. This feature can advantageously allow the foot 126 to rotate to a position where it is clear that removal will not be obstructed by the portion of the first wall 176 including the mounting ramp 182 before the foot 126 engages the removal ramp 184 and begins to push outward through the proximal opening 162. The overlap of the mounting ramp and the removal ramp (when such overlap is present) allows the gap 186 to exist in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the proximal opening 162.

[0093] Figure 16 A method 200 for securing a wear member to an adapter using the locking pin assembly of this disclosure is illustrated. It should be understood that although described in the context of a wear member and an adapter, this method is also applicable to securing an intermediate adapter to an adapter or securing a wear member to an intermediate component. The method may include step 202 of positioning the wear member on the adapter such that a hole through both the wear member and the adapter is aligned. In some embodiments, the hole may only pass through a portion of the adapter, while in other embodiments, the hole may pass entirely through both the wear member and the adapter.

[0094] The method may include step 204 of inserting a locking pin assembly in the unlocked position into a hole through a proximal opening in the bore in the wear member. Positioning the locking pin assembly in the unlocked position ensures that the shank passes over the wall surface of the proximal opening, allowing insertion of the locking pin assembly. The method may also include step 206 of engaging the shaft member via a tool engagement feature using a user-operated tool and applying a rotational force in the direction that pushes the shaft member toward the locking position. The method may include step 208 of rotating the shaft member as the shank contacts a mounting ramp disposed in or near the hole. As the shank continues to rotate, this rotation can translate into axial displacement of the locking pin assembly to position the locking pin assembly in the desired location within the hole.

[0095] The method may further include a first rotation step 210, which rotates the shaft member of the locking pin assembly relative to the body portion of the locking pin assembly through a first range of motion in a first direction, in which resistance is provided by the interaction of a first engagement feature of the shaft member with a second engagement feature of the plunger, and in some embodiments, increases the resistance. For example, a first surface of the teeth of the shaft member may engage a corresponding first surface of a recess in the plunger disposed within the body portion, while the plunger is substantially rotated and fixed relative to the body portion and the shaft member rotates through the first range of motion to axially displace the plunger toward the biasing member from an initial position to a compressed position, thereby providing rotational resistance.

[0096] The method may further include a second rotation step 212, which rotates the shaft member relative to the body portion through a second range of motion in a first direction. During the second range of motion, the first and second engagement features may temporarily disengage or engage in a manner that significantly reduces the resistance provided. For example, during the shaft rotation through the second range of motion, the second surface of the teeth may slide relative to the corresponding second surface of the notch, and the biasing member may return the plunger to its initial position. During the second rotation, the user may continue to apply rotational force in the first direction, or simply allow the first and second engagement features to engage the shank in a locked position, where a portion of the wall of the abrasive member interferes with the axial displacement of the shank in a direction associated with the withdrawal of the locking pin assembly from the hole.

[0097] In an exemplary embodiment, the rotation between the unlocked and locked positions can cover approximately 90 degrees. The first range of motion can include a range between 10 and 80 degrees, while the second range of motion can include a range between 10 and 80 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, both the first and second ranges of motion comprise approximately 45 degrees.

[0098] Go to Figure 17 A method 300 for removing a worn member from an adapter is shown, wherein the worn member is secured to the adapter with a locking pin. The method may include step 302, which, for example, engages the shaft member with a tool and applies a rotational force greater than the resistance caused by the offset member and plunger interfering with the rotation of the shaft member. The rotational force may be applied in a direction that tends to move the shank from a locked position to an unlocked position. A step 304 may be included where the shaft member contacts and slides relative to a removal ramp. This interaction between the shank and the removal ramp can translate the rotation of the shaft member into axial displacement of the locking pin assembly in the direction of removal from the hole.

[0099] The method further includes step 306, which involves continuously applying a rotational force throughout the entire first stroke portion of the shank. During the first stroke portion, the first engagement feature and the second engagement feature may interact to continuously provide rotational resistance. In some embodiments, this resistance may increase during the first stroke portion. The method may also include step 308, which allows the shaft member to engage in an unlocked position during a second stroke portion when no rotational resistance is provided, and can actually drive this rotation as the plunger is pushed back to its initial position by the biasing member.

[0100] When the handle is in the unlocked position, step 310 of the method may include removing the locking pin assembly from the hole through the proximal opening. The method may also include step 312 of removing the worn member from the adapter.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the first and second stroke portions may each include a rotation range of approximately 45 degrees.

[0102] The range of motion described herein is intended only as an example for illustrating the illustrated embodiments. Anyone skilled in the art will understand that the various ranges of motion can be increased or decreased for the desired implementation. For example, the range of rotation of the shank between the locked and unlocked positions may be substantially greater than or substantially less than 90 degrees. The proximal opening of the hole can be geometrically reconfigured accordingly, including mounting and / or removing bevels, which may require extending by a greater or lesser distance to achieve the desired level of axial displacement of the locking pin assembly during rotation.

[0103] The locking pin assembly described herein offers advantages and benefits not found in conventional devices. For example, it may be more resistant to damage from accidental unlocking, wedging into holes, and loading compared to some conventional pin assemblies. While described with reference to wear components and adapters, it should be understood that the locking pin assembly can be used in other applications. For example, but not limited to, the locking pin assembly can be used to attach adapters to other structures in the bucket or grounding tool industry.

[0104] Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments covered by this disclosure are not limited to the specific exemplary embodiments described above. In this regard, while illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, a wide range of modifications, alterations, combinations, and substitutions are contemplated in the foregoing disclosure. It should be understood that such changes can be made to the foregoing without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, it is appropriate that the appended claims be interpreted broadly and in a manner consistent with this disclosure.

Claims

1. A locking pin assembly for securing a grounding member to a support structure, comprising: Rotatable lock part; The main body portion is connected to the rotatable lock portion and includes an outer surface having a proximal end and a distal end; A head, which is disposed at the proximal end, has a periphery, a portion of which has a non-circular shape, the non-circular shape being configured to be received within a correspondingly shaped proximal recess in the wall of the grounding member; and A tip, which is located at the distal end, has a portion having a non-circular outer peripheral profile configured to be received within a correspondingly shaped distal recess in a portion of the grounding member opposite the proximal recess, wherein engagement of the head with the proximal recess and engagement of the tip with the distal recess prevents rotation of the body portion relative to the grounding member.

2. The locking pin assembly of claim 1, wherein the non-circular outer peripheral profile of the tip has at least one flat side.

3. The locking pin assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The reference axis extends longitudinally through the body portion, and a portion of the outer surface includes a mating surface along a first side, the mating surface being parallel to the reference axis.

4. The locking pin assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The portion of the outer surface opposite the mating surface is not parallel to the reference axis.

5. The locking pin assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The first side is the front side of the main body portion, and the top, bottom, and rear sides of the main body portion are not parallel to the front side.

6. The locking pin assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The first side is the rear side of the main body.

7. The locking pin assembly according to claim 5, wherein, Each of the top, bottom, and rear sides is tapered, with the outer diameter near the distal end being smaller than the outer diameter near the proximal end.

8. The locking pin assembly according to claim 5, wherein, The width of the main body portion from the front side to the rear side is greater than the height of the main body portion from the bottom side to the top side.

9. The locking pin assembly according to claim 3, wherein, Each cross-section between the head and the tip, transverse to the reference axis, is circular.

10. The locking pin assembly according to claim 3, wherein, Each cross-section between the head and the tip, transverse to the reference axis, is non-circular.

11. The locking pin assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The mating surface includes a flat surface.

12. A wear member mounted on a nose using a locking pin assembly, the nose being carried on a grounding device, the wear member comprising: Outer surface; The inner surface defines a cavity; A hole extends from the outer surface of the first wall through the wear member to the outer surface of the second wall opposite the first wall; An mounting bevel is disposed near the hole and configured to engage a first surface of the shank when the locking pin assembly is disposed within the hole, as the shank of the locking pin assembly rotates in a first direction from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration. The mounting bevel includes a helical portion and a flat portion, the flat portion being oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the hole. and A removal bevel is provided near the hole and configured to engage a second surface of the foot opposite to the first surface of the foot as the foot rotates from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration in a second direction opposite to the first direction, wherein the mounting bevel and the removal bevel are integrated into the first wall.

13. The wear member of claim 12, wherein the mounting ramp is configured such that engagement of the mounting ramp with the first surface converts rotation of the shank in the first direction into axial displacement of the locking pin assembly, thereby facilitating the positioning of the locking pin assembly within the wear member.

14. The wear member of claim 13, wherein the removal ramp is configured such that engagement of the removal ramp with the second surface converts rotation of the shank in the second direction into axial displacement of the locking pin assembly to facilitate removal of the locking pin assembly from the wear member.

15. The wear member of claim 12, wherein the portion of the hole near the outer surface on the first wall comprises a flat surface and a curved surface.

16. The wear member of claim 15, wherein the portion of the hole includes a recess or channel extending into the first wall.

17. The wear member of claim 12, wherein the end portion of the mounting ramp is oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the hole.

18. The wear member of claim 17, wherein the end portion extends circumferentially through a range of 5° to 30° relative to the longitudinal axis of the hole.

19. The wear member of claim 12, wherein the mounting ramp extends circumferentially relative to the longitudinal axis of the hole through a range of 5° to 45°.

20. The wear member of claim 12, wherein at least a portion of the removal ramp has a slope greater than that of the mounting ramp.

21. The wear member of claim 12, wherein the length of the removal ramp is less than the length of the mounting ramp.

22. The wear member of claim 12, wherein a gap is formed between a portion of the mounting ramp and a portion of the removal ramp, the gap having a thickness in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hole, the thickness of the gap being greater than the thickness of the shank.

23. The wear member of claim 12, wherein a portion of the removal ramp circumferentially overlaps a portion of the mounting ramp around the axis of the hole, and wherein a majority of the removal ramp circumferentially does not overlap the mounting ramp around the axis of the hole.

24. A wear member mounted on a support structure using a locking pin assembly, the support structure being supported on a grounding device, the wear member comprising: Outer surface; The inner surface defines a cavity; A hole extends from the outer surface of the first wall through the wear member to the outer surface of the second wall opposite the first wall; A mounting bevel, integrated into the first wall near the hole and configured to engage a first surface of the shank when the locking pin assembly is disposed within the hole, as the shank of the locking pin assembly rotates along a first direction from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration. The mounting bevel is configured such that engagement of the mounting bevel with the first surface translates rotation of the shank along the first direction into axial displacement of the locking pin assembly, facilitating the positioning of the locking pin assembly within the wear member. The mounting bevel extends circumferentially through a range of 5° to 45° relative to the longitudinal axis of the hole, and has a flat portion oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the hole and configured to engage the shank in the locked configuration.

25. The wear member of claim 24, further comprising a removal ramp integrated into the first wall near the hole and configured to engage a second surface of the shank opposite to a first surface of the shank as the shank rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration; the removal ramp is configured such that engagement of the removal ramp with the second surface converts rotation of the shank in the second direction into axial displacement of the locking pin assembly to facilitate removal of the locking pin assembly from the wear member.

26. A digging tooth assembly, comprising: Locking pin assembly; Support structure; and A wear member configured to be mounted on the support structure using the locking pin assembly, the wear member comprising: Outer surface; An inner surface that defines a cavity configured to receive the nose portion of the support structure; A hole extends from the outer surface of the first wall through the wear member to the outer surface of the second wall opposite the first wall; An mounting bevel, disposed near the hole and configured to engage a first surface of the locking pin assembly as the pin is rotated in a first direction from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration when the locking pin assembly is disposed within the hole, the mounting bevel comprising a helical portion and a flat portion, the flat portion being oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the hole; and Remove the bevel, which is located near the hole and configured to engage the second surface of the foot opposite to the first surface of the foot as the foot rotates from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

27. The digging tooth assembly of claim 26, wherein the mounting ramp is configured such that engagement of the mounting ramp with the first surface converts rotation of the shank in the first direction into axial displacement of the locking pin assembly to facilitate the locking pin assembly being positioned in the wear member, and wherein the removal ramp is configured such that engagement of the removal ramp with the second surface converts rotation of the shank in the second direction into axial displacement of the locking pin assembly to facilitate removal of the locking pin assembly from the wear member.

28. The digging tooth assembly according to claim 26, wherein, The end portion of the mounting ramp is oriented transversely to the axis of rotation of the shaft member of the locking pin assembly within the hole.

29. The digging tooth assembly according to claim 28, wherein, A portion of the first wall is configured to engage the shank and prevent the shank from rotating beyond a radial position corresponding to the fully seated position of the locking pin assembly within the hole.

30. The digging tooth assembly according to claim 29, wherein, The portion of the first wall is substantially vertical.

31. A wear member assembly capable of attaching to a nose having a hole, comprising: A wear member, the wear member including a cavity, the cavity being sized to accommodate the nose; as well as A locking pin assembly configured to secure the wear member to the nose portion, the locking pin assembly comprising: The main body portion includes an outer surface having a proximal end and a distal end; A head, the head being disposed at the proximal end, the head having a periphery, a portion of the periphery having a non-circular shape, the non-circular shape being configured to be received within a correspondingly shaped proximal recess in the wall of the wear member; and A tip, wherein the tip is disposed at the distal end, a portion of the tip having a non-circular outer peripheral profile configured to be received within a correspondingly shaped distal recess in a portion of the wear member opposite the proximal recess, wherein engagement of the head with the proximal recess and engagement of the tip with the distal recess prevents rotation of the body portion relative to the wear member.

32. The wear component assembly according to claim 31, wherein, The reference axis extends longitudinally through the body portion of the locking pin assembly, and a portion of the outer surface includes an engagement surface along a first side, the engagement surface being parallel to the reference axis.

33. The wear component assembly according to claim 32, wherein, The reference axis is centered within the hole formed in the main body portion.

34. The wear component assembly according to claim 33, wherein, The first side is the front side of the main body, and the top, bottom and rear sides of the main body are not parallel to the front side.

35. The wear component assembly according to claim 32, wherein, The portion of the outer surface opposite the mating surface is not parallel to the reference axis.

36. The wear component assembly according to claim 32, wherein, The inner wall of the hole defining the nose includes a bearing surface, and the locking pin assembly is configured to be oriented within the hole such that at least a portion of the engagement surface engages the bearing surface.

37. The wear component assembly according to claim 36, wherein, The bearing surface is disposed on the front side of the hole, and the locking pin assembly is configured to apply a force to the front side of the hole in response to a force tending to remove the wear member from the nose.

38. The wear component assembly according to claim 32, wherein, Each cross-section between the head and the tip, transverse to the reference axis, is circular.

39. The wear component assembly according to claim 32, wherein, Each cross-section between the head and the tip, transverse to the reference axis, is non-circular.

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