Wear assembly, digging edge, and insert for earth working equipment

Abstract

A wear assembly for attaching a wear member to a base, wherein the wear member includes a pair of legs straddling the base and a curved portion between the legs. The curved portion includes two rearwardly converging side surfaces and a central surface extending therebetween. The central surface can have a non-linear extension between the side surfaces and / or a curved profile defined by at least two different radii of curvature in a vertical direction.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 143,046, filed January 29, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to wear components, excavation edges, and / or inserts for geotechnical equipment. Background Technology

[0004] The common practice is to secure wear components (e.g., teeth and guards) along the digging edge of the bucket or other equipment. As you may understand, wear components are typically placed under harsh working conditions, where they are subjected to heavy loads and abrasive environments. To mitigate damage and / or wear to the digging edge and to perform other functions (e.g., enhancing penetration, gathering material, etc.), replaceable wear components are usually provided.

[0005] Such wear components can consist of multiple parts, including, for example, an adapter, a tip, and a lock. Mechanically connected adapters are often used to facilitate replacement. Examples include conventional Whisler adapters and other Whisler-type adapters (e.g., shown in U.S. Patent No. 7,299,570). In some applications, the adapter has a rear mounting end with bifurcated legs spanning the excavation edge and a forward-projecting nose for mounting the tip. The tip has an earth-penetrating end and a rearward-opening socket for receiving the adapter nose. A lock can be installed within the wear assembly to secure the tip to the adapter. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure relates to securing wear-resistant components to geotechnical equipment.

[0007] In one example, a wear member for a geotechnical device includes at least one leg and a mounting configuration defining a cavity for receiving a base of the geotechnical device. The at least one leg extends rearward over the base, and the mounting configuration approaches the front of the cavity to abut against a complementary support on which the base of the wear member is mounted. The mounting configuration includes a pair of laterally spaced lateral bearing surfaces and a rear bearing surface extending between the lateral bearing surfaces, the rear bearing surface being concave in a side-to-side direction between the lateral bearing surfaces.

[0008] In another example, a wear member for a geotechnical device includes at least one leg and a mounting configuration that defines a cavity for receiving a base of the geotechnical device. The at least one leg extends rearward over the base, and the mounting configuration approaches the front of the cavity to abut against a complementary support on which the base of the wear member is mounted. The mounting configuration includes a rear bearing surface curved vertically away from the at least one leg to define a curved upper profile and a curved lower profile, one of which has a tighter curvature than the other.

[0009] In another example, a wear member for a geotechnical device includes at least one leg and a mounting configuration defining a cavity for receiving a base of the geotechnical device. The at least one leg extends rearward over the base, and the mounting configuration is located at the front of the cavity to abut against a complementary support structure on which the base of the wear member is mounted. The mounting configuration includes a pair of side bearing surfaces and a rear bearing surface, the side bearing surfaces converging towards each other to be generally upwardly facing rearward and laterally, and the rear bearing surface being generally upwardly facing rearward and having a non-linear configuration.

[0010] In another example, a wear member includes a rearward mounting configuration abutting against a support structure on which the wear member is mounted. The rearward configuration includes outward-facing side bearing surfaces and a rearward-facing central surface extending between the side bearing surfaces. The central surface has a non-linear side-to-side shape.

[0011] In another example, a wear member includes a rearward mounting configuration abutting against a support structure on which the wear member is mounted. The rearward configuration includes outward-facing side bearing surfaces and a rearward-facing central surface extending between the side bearing surfaces. The central surface includes a plurality of different curvatures in a direction transverse to the side-to-side extension of the central surface between the side surfaces.

[0012] In one example, a wear member includes two inclined surfaces sized and shaped to mate with an insert in a digging edge having a rearwardly converging inner surface of a leading arm of the digging edge.

[0013] In another example, the excavation edge of a geotechnical device includes an inner surface, an outer surface, a leading surface, and a support member adjacent to the leading surface for abutting against a wear member mounted on the excavation edge. The support member includes two converging lateral bearing surfaces and a forward-facing front bearing surface. The front bearing surface has a convex shape in the lateral direction.

[0014] In another example, the excavation edge of a geotechnical device includes an inner surface, an outer surface, a leading surface, and a support structure adjacent to the leading surface to abut against a wear member mounted on the excavation edge. The support structure includes a front bearing surface that is curved in a direction from the inner surface to the outer surface to define a curved upper profile and a curved lower profile, wherein one of the upper profile or the lower profile has a tighter curvature than the other.

[0015] In another example, the excavation edge of a geotechnical device includes an inner surface, an outer surface, a leading surface, and a support member adjacent to the leading surface to abut against a wear member mounted on the excavation edge. The support member includes a front bearing surface curved in a direction from the inner surface to the outer surface to define a curved upper profile and a curved lower profile, wherein one of the upper or lower profile has a tighter curvature than the other.

[0016] In another example, the insert is mounted on the excavation edge. The insert comprises a body and two protruding arms. The body and / or the protruding arms may include curved surfaces in a direction transverse to the excavation edge, wherein the curved surfaces are defined by at least two radii.

[0017] In another example, the insert is mounted on the edge of a excavation. The insert comprises a body and two protruding arms. The front surface of the body of the insert is non-linear along the direction extending between the two arms.

[0018] In another example, a mounting portion of a digging edge for mounting a wear member includes a leading surface having two rearwardly converging inner surfaces and a central surface extending therebetween. The central surface has a curved surface in a direction transverse to the digging edge, the curved surface being defined by at least two distinct radii.

[0019] In another example, a mounting portion of a digging edge for mounting a wear member includes a leading surface having two rearwardly converging inner surfaces and a central surface extending therebetween, wherein the central surface is non-linear in the direction extending between the two arms.

[0020] In another example, the leading surface of the excavation edge includes two protruding arms, each containing an inner surface that abuts against and laterally supports a wear member fixed to the excavation edge. A central bearing surface extends between the two inner surfaces, having a convex configuration curved in a side-to-side direction. The origin defining the radius of the convex configuration is located within or behind a through-hole for receiving a lock that secures the wear member to the excavation edge.

[0021] In another example, the leading surface of the excavation edge includes two protruding arms, each arm including an inner surface that abuts against and laterally supports a wear member fixed to the excavation edge. The inner surfaces converge at an angle in a rearward direction, wherein extensions of the two inner surfaces intersect a through-hole that receives a lock for securing the wear member to the excavation edge.

[0022] In another example, the wear assembly includes an adapter having a pair of rearwardly extending bifurcated legs, each bifurcated leg comprising an inner surface facing the excavation edge. The inner surfaces are connected by a curved portion comprising a central surface extending between the two rearwardly converging surfaces. At least one of the legs may include a rear configuration that contacts a boss for support and / or stabilization.

[0023] In another example, a wear member for a geotechnical device includes: a pair of spaced-apart legs defining a cavity therebetween, wherein each leg extends rearward over a base of the geotechnical device; and a rearward mounting configuration extending at the front portion of the cavity between the legs to abut against a complementary support structure on which the wear member is mounted. The mounting configuration includes a pair of laterally spaced lateral bearing surfaces and a central bearing surface extending between the lateral bearing surfaces. Each of the lateral bearing surfaces is laterally inclined to face outward and rearward.

[0024] In another example, a wear member for a geotechnical device includes: a pair of spaced-apart legs defining a cavity therebetween, wherein each leg extends rearward over a base of the geotechnical device; and a rearward mounting configuration extending at the front portion of the cavity between the legs to abut against a complementary support structure on which the wear member is mounted. The mounting configuration includes a pair of laterally spaced-apart lateral bearing surfaces and a central bearing surface extending between the lateral bearing surfaces. The central bearing surface is curved in a direction from one leg to the other to define an upper curved profile and a lower curved profile, wherein the upper profile has a different radius of curvature than the lower profile.

[0025] In another example, a wear member for a geotechnical device includes: a pair of spaced-apart legs defining a cavity therebetween, wherein each leg extends rearward over a base of the geotechnical device; and a rearward mounting configuration extending at the front portion of the cavity between the legs to abut against a complementary support structure on which the wear member is mounted. The mounting configuration includes a pair of laterally spaced lateral bearing surfaces and a central bearing surface extending between the lateral bearing surfaces, wherein the central bearing surface has a non-linear side-to-side shape between the lateral bearing surfaces.

[0026] In another example, the excavation edge of a geotechnical device includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a leading surface. The leading surface includes a support structure for abutting against a wear member mounted on the excavation edge. The support structure includes two rearwardly converging inner bearing surfaces and a central bearing surface extending between the inner bearing surfaces, wherein the central bearing surface is non-linear in the side-to-side direction extending between the inner bearing surfaces.

[0027] In another example, the excavation edge of a geotechnical device includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a leading surface. The leading surface includes a support structure for abutting a wear member mounted on the excavation edge. The support structure includes two rearwardly converging inner bearing surfaces and a central bearing surface extending between the inner bearing surfaces. The central bearing surface is curved in a direction from the inner surface to the outer surface to define an upper curved profile and a lower curved profile, wherein the upper profile has a different radius of curvature than the lower profile.

[0028] In another example, a digging edge assembly for a geotechnical device includes a digging edge, a wear member, and a retainer. The digging edge includes an inner surface, an outer surface, a leading surface, and a support member adjacent to the leading surface. The support member includes two converging lateral bearing surfaces and a front bearing surface, wherein the lateral bearing surfaces converge toward each other generally upwards in a forward and lateral direction, and the front bearing surface is convex in a side-to-side direction. The wear member includes: a pair of spaced-apart legs defining a cavity therebetween for receiving the digging edge, each leg extending rearwards over the digging edge; and a mounting configuration adjacent to the front of the cavity to abut against the support member. The mounting configuration includes a pair of lateral bearing surfaces abutting against the lateral bearing surfaces and a rear bearing surface abutting against the front bearing surface, the lateral bearing surfaces converging toward each other generally upwards in a rearward and lateral direction, and the rear bearing surface generally upwards in a rearward direction and having a concave configuration. The retainer secures the wear member to the digging edge.

[0029] In another example, an insert for mounting to the excavation edge of a bucket for earthmoving equipment comprises a body and two protruding arms, wherein the front surface of the body is non-linear along a side-to-side direction extending between the two arms.

[0030] These and other aspects will become apparent from the following specific description, which is given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a wear assembly having a portion of the lip edge according to the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line 2-2.

[0033] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Exploded view of the worn components and lip edge.

[0034] Figure 4A yes Figure 1 Top perspective view of an example weld pattern on a portion of the stabilizing system and lip.

[0035] Figure 4B yes Figure 1 A bottom view of an example weld pattern on a portion of the stabilizing system and lip.

[0036] Figure 5A This is a front perspective view of an example insert to be attached to the lip.

[0037] Figure 5B This is the rear perspective view of the insert in Figure 5.

[0038] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a second example of an insert to be attached to the lip.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a top view of the insert attached to the lip.

[0040] Figure 8A yes Figure 5A Cross-sectional view of the insert.

[0041] Figure 8B This is a cross-sectional view of the insert according to the second example of this disclosure.

[0042] Figure 8C It is a cross-section of the insert according to the third example of this disclosure.

[0043] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary wear member according to this disclosure.

[0044] Figure 10 This is a rear perspective view of a wear member according to this disclosure.

[0045] Figure 11 It is along line 11-11 Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the adapter.

[0046] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of another excavated edge.

[0047] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A top view of the excavated edge.

[0048] Figure 14This is a perspective view of another excavated edge.

[0049] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A top view of the excavated edge.

[0050] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of another excavated edge.

[0051] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A top view of the excavated edge.

[0052] Figure 18 This is a perspective view of another excavated edge.

[0053] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A top view of the excavated edge.

[0054] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of another excavated edge.

[0055] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 A top view of the excavated edge. Detailed Implementation

[0056] exist Figure 1-3 In the example, the wear assembly 10 includes a wear member 14 mounted to a support structure or base of a geotechnical device. The support structure disclosed herein (i.e., for supporting the wear member 14) may be a digging edge 12 for a bucket or other equipment. For ease of discussion, the mounting of the adapter 14 to the lip 12 of a bucket is disclosed herein. However, the wear member may be a guard, wing guard, wear plate, etc., and the base may be a digging edge on other equipment such as a dredging cutter head, roller, blade, etc.

[0057] In one example, lip 12 defines the digging edge of the bucket or scoop of a cable shovel and includes a leading surface 16, an inner surface 18, and an outer surface 20. Through holes or pin slots 24 may be provided in lip 12, passing through the inner surface 18 and the outer surface 20, to receive locks for securing wear members to the digging edge. However, the pin slot may be omitted, and different types of locks may be used (e.g., the lock may be positioned behind a boss). The leading surface 16 is shown as a curved surface or a semi-circular shape, but other variations are possible. Although only a small portion of lip 12 is shown in the figure, lip 12 may include a series of through holes 24 for mounting additional bucket teeth to the bucket. Various constructions (not shown) may also be provided between the through holes 24 for mounting guards.

[0058] Wear assembly 10 may include a stabilizing system 15, teeth 11, and a lock 60. In the example shown, the stabilizing system 15 includes bosses 28a, 28b, a pin groove support 90, a front support 22, and a rear member 38, but other configurations including more or fewer components are possible. Wear assembly 10 is mounted on lip 12. Teeth 11 shown include a tip 45, a wear cap 13, and an adapter 14, but other configurations are possible. Lock 60 shown includes a threaded wedge 62 and a pivot 64, as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 7,171,771 (which is incorporated herein by reference), but other locking configurations are possible.

[0059] The stabilization system 15 increases the strength and / or stability of the wear component on the lip, thereby extending the service life of the wear component and / or the lip, and / or reducing the maintenance requirements of the lip.

[0060] exist Figures 4A-4B In the example shown, the front support 22, the pin slot support 90, and the bosses 28a, 28b can be fixed to the bucket lip 12 by welding W. The bosses 28a, 28b are preferably fixed to the lip rearward of and aligned with each through hole 24 for reception within the adapter. However, in addition to or as an alternative to the inner bosses 28a, 28b, bosses can be provided to each side of the through holes 24 to provide support along the outer surface of the adapter. Preferably, for each through hole, the inner boss 28a is fixed to extend along the inner surface 18 of the lip 12, and the outer boss 28b is fixed to extend along the outer surface 20. However, a single boss can be used on the inner surface 18 (or the outer surface 20), or the boss can be omitted. Although the bosses 28a, 28b are preferably welded to the lip, the bosses can be formed as an integral part of the lip or otherwise fixed. The bosses 28a and 28b are preferably cast in an alloy harder than the lip 12 to help reduce the wear rate of the lip 12 and facilitate maintenance, but various alloys with the same or lower hardness can be used.

[0061] Each boss 28a, 28b preferably comprises at least a body 30 and a mating member 30a. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 30 has a T-shaped construction, having a base 32 and a laterally extending flange or track 34. During excavation, the mating member 30a engages the rear end of the adapter leg. The mating member may include, for example, an insert 30b disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,171,771. The underside of the track 34 defines a retaining surface 36, which generally faces upward toward the lip to retain the adapter to the lip and prevent the legs of the adapter 14 from vertically extending. The track is preferably fixed to the mating member 30a for support. The track 34 may have wedge-shaped tenons or other shapes for supporting the adapter legs. Alternatively, the track may be omitted. While the bosses preferably have a one-piece construction, they may be defined by multiple parts.

[0062] The inner surface 18 and outer surface 20 of the lip 12 may also each include a rear member 38 located at the rear end of the bosses 28a, 28b. In the illustrated embodiment, the bosses are welded (or otherwise secured) to the rear member 38 to help the bosses 28a, 28b resist applied loads and rearward displacement of the legs, and thus reduce the risk of adapter breakage. In the illustrated example, the rear member 38 is separate from the bosses 28a, 28b, but in other examples, the bosses and the rear member may be formed as a single piece, or the rear member and / or the bosses may be formed as an integral part of the cast lip.

[0063] The pin slot support 90 can be configured as a pin slot insert, which may have a generally C-shaped construction including a central body 92, an inner flange 94, and / or an outer flange 96 (but other shapes are possible). The inner flange 94 and the outer flange 96 are respectively overlaid on and welded to the inner surface 18 and the outer surface 20 of the lip 12. The rear surface 98 of the central body 92 is preferably arcuate to receive the front side of the wedge 62, but may have other shapes, especially when using different types of wedges or locks. The pin slot support or insert 90 is used to provide a longer and more deformation-resistant bearing surface against which the wedge 62 can abut. The lengths of the flanges 94 and 96 may be the same or varied from each other, and may include plug welds. The flanges 94 and 96 may be a single piece or decomposed into several parts (e.g., the outer flange 96 may be composed of two parts). The flanges 94 and 96 preferably provide additional side support for the adapter, but may be used to support only the pin slot support 90. Flanges 94, 96 may be longer and extend further from the through-hole 24, even extending to the front support 22 or the leading surface 16. By using longer arms (or for other reasons), one or both flanges 94, 96 may be separate components welded to the lip away from the central body 92. Although an insert welded to the lip is shown, the pin slot support may be secured by other components (e.g., bolts) or integrally formed as part of the cast lip. Alternatively, flanges may be provided on each side of the pin slot to provide support against the outer surface of the adapter. One or both flanges may be omitted, and the pin slot support 90 may also be omitted.

[0064] refer to Figures 5A-5B An exemplary front support 22 for a leading surface 16 for excavating an edge is shown. In the example shown, the front support 22 is provided as a front insert 22a, which may have a generally C-shaped configuration containing a central body 23 and arms 25a, 25b with ends 57a, 57b. The central body 23 and arms 25a, 25b provide a front bearing surface 35 and lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b against which an adapter can abut. However, the insert 22a is optional. The front support 22 may be provided by the leading surface 16 forming a lip 12 (or another base) to provide the front bearing surface 35 and lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b.

[0065] The insert 22a is substantially complementary to the recess or cutout 49 on the leading surface 16 of the lip 12, but preferably slightly smaller to allow for the containment of welding material W. Figures 4A-4B The main body 23 includes a rear surface 27, side surfaces 29a and 29b, an inner or top surface 31, an outer or bottom surface 33, and a front bearing surface 35.

[0066] The rear surface 27 may include rounded corners 37a, 37b, but other configurations are also possible. For example, the rear surface 27 may converge from the inner surface 31 and the outer surface 33 to the center of the rear surface 27. At the center, in the example shown, is a weld frame 40, but other configurations are also possible. The weld frame 40 surrounds the rear surface 27, the rounded corners 37a, 37b and along the side surfaces 29a, 29b of the body 23. In the example shown, the length of the weld frame ends at alignment with the leading surface 16 of the lip and does not extend onto the arms 25a, 25b, but other configurations are possible. The weld frame 40 engages the inner surface 42 of the cut 49 of the lip 12. Figures 4A-4B Cutout 49 is a basic rounded rectangle shape, but other constructions are also possible.

[0067] During installation, insert 22c is inserted into the notch 49 of the lip until the welding frame 40 engages the inner surface 42. Welding material W can be applied on both sides of the welding frame 40 between insert 22c and lip 12 to form the front support 22. Figures 4A-4B Subsequently, the adapter 14 is positioned on the support 22. The support 22 can be positioned as follows: Figure 1 The insert is shown to be laterally embedded, flush with the outer surface of the adapter, or extending outward from the adapter. The lock 60 then mates with the through holes 58a, 58b of the adapter and the through hole 24 of the lip 12. Regardless of the insert's form, the protrusions of the arms 25a, 25b may extend further forward or backward than shown. The lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b (with or without insert 22a) may be within, flush with, or extend outward from the remaining lateral extensions of the leading surface 16.

[0068] At the end of its service life, insert 22a can be removed and replaced entirely, just as it was during installation. Other insert configurations are possible, for example, those with... Figure 6 The insert 22' shown is a sheath design. The insert 22' is designed to engage with the leading surface 16 of the lip 12 rather than inside the cutout. The insert 22' includes a curved body 32' that surrounds the leading surface 16 rather than engaging the cutout 49. Figure 6The diagram shows an opening 22a' in the body 32' for receiving a protrusion on the leading surface 16 of the lip. The protrusion may, but does not need to, be engaged by an adapter for additional lateral stabilization. The opening 22a' can be omitted if the protrusion is absent or removed. Furthermore, although the insert 22' is shown with legs 22b', 22c' extending on the inner and outer sides of the lip 12, the insert may not include one or both legs. If both legs are omitted, the insert 22' can be welded to the leading edge of the lip.

[0069] Any insert may also be formed as a separate arm and / or front bearing surface attachment rather than a single component. While insert 22 or 22' is preferred, the lip 12 may be formed directly with lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b and front bearing surface 35 (i.e., without using an insert or attachment).

[0070] exist Figure 1-5B In the illustrated embodiment, the front bearing surface 35 is located between the lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b. The front bearing surface 35 is convex in the side-to-side direction, that is, in the direction extending from the lateral bearing surface 51a to the lateral bearing surface 51b (e.g., along a horizontal plane). The front bearing surface 35 is also convex in the vertical direction extending from the inner surface 20 to the outer surface 18.

[0071] In one example, the lateral curvature of the front bearing surface 35 coincides with the section angle of radius R1 formed from the center or origin within the through hole 24 of the receiving lock 60. Alternatively, the origin of the radius may be behind or in front of the through hole 24. In this example, the lateral (i.e., lateral-to-lateral) shape of the front bearing surface 35 forms a portion of a circle centered on the center of the wedge 62 (or another portion of the through hole), but other configurations are possible. In the example shown, the lateral convex shape of the front bearing surface 35 contrasts with the linear lateral extension of the unsupported portion of the leading surface 16.

[0072] The front bearing surface 35 abuts against the complementary rear bearing surface on the adapter 14. The use of a support 22 with a side-to-side convex front bearing surface 35 helps protect the lip from planing or other wear caused by the adapter 14, and thus reduces lip maintenance and consequently machine downtime. The convex side-to-side shape approximates the natural side-to-side movement experienced by the adapter 14 during use, reducing wear and stress concentration. Although a circular portion is shown, the convex front bearing shape may conform to a curve not defined by a uniform radius of curvature. For example, the lateral convex curvature may be defined by a wider or steeper curvature or a varying curvature. The lateral convex shape may also be formed by linear segments or a combination of linear and curved segments. The front bearing surface 35 may also have other side-to-side shapes, including, for example, linear, concave, V-shaped, parabolic, curved, logarithmic, golden ratio spiral, exponential, other non-single radius constructions, etc.

[0073] Lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b protrude in front of the front bearing surface 35 and optionally in front of the leading surface 16 outside the support member 22 to aid in the installation, stabilization, and support of the adapter 14. However, lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b may be located in... Figure 1-4B The positions shown are in front of or behind the adapter 14. For example, the lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b may be flush with, recessed relative to, or extend in front of the remaining leading surfaces 16. The lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b are located on either side of the adapter 14 to resist side-to-side movement of the adapter and maintain a more stable fit.

[0074] In the example shown, the length L2 of arms 25a and 25b is shown to be approximately equal to the total length L1 of insert 22a. ( Figure 7 However, other configurations are also possible. The length of each lateral bearing surface 51a, 51b (i.e., from the front surface 35 to its front end) can be substantially similar to the length of the lateral bearing surfaces 65a, 65b on the adapter 14 that abut against the lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b. When the insert 22a is used, the arms 25a, 25b are flanges having an inner or top surface 53a, 53b, an outer surface 55a, 55b, and an inner bearing surface 51a, 51b that slopes backward to converge. The same support configuration can be provided when the insert is not used. The top and bottom surfaces 53a, 53b are spaced apart from the adapter 14 during installation and preferably do not abut against the adapter.

[0075] The lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b are preferably planar, but may have other shapes (e.g., curved, convex, concave, etc.). The angle α of the inner bearing surfaces 51a and 51b relative to the longitudinal axis C is between 0 and 60 degrees, and preferably between 5 and 30 degrees (i.e., the included angle β between the lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b is preferably 10-60 degrees). Although the extensions of the inclined lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b are in Figure 7 The center is shown as aligned with radius R1, but this is not necessary. Although the origin of the radius of curvature of the front surface 35 and the intersection of the extensions of the inclined lateral surfaces 51a and 51b are both... Figure 7 All are shown in the through hole 24, but one or both may be moved in front of or behind the indicated position, and one or both may be located in or outside the through hole 24. Lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b engage the adapter 14 to provide lateral stability and resist rearward and side-to-side movement of the adapter 14, thereby increasing the stability of the mounted adapter, reducing stress in the components, and extending the wear life of the adapter 14 and the lip 12. The inclined lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b are oriented to withstand rearward thrust loads, lateral loads, or a combination thereof.

[0076] The front bearing surface 35 may optionally have a non-uniform configuration as it extends vertically from the inner surface 20 to the outer surface 18. This non-uniform configuration can be considered as divided into an upper profile 60 and a lower profile 61. The front surfaces 57a, 57b of the arm and the front bearing surface 35 may optionally share the same or substantially similar vertical curvature, but other configurations are also possible. Since the front surfaces of the arm are preferably non-load-bearing, they can have almost any shape. Furthermore, the vertical profile of the front bearing surface may be a flat surface or defined by a constant radius.

[0077] The curvature of either the vertical or horizontal plane of the front surface of the front edge support 22 provides increased stability and resistance against rearward and lateral loads applied to the bucket teeth, especially to the lower outriggers of the wear members, during use. The rear mating member further stabilizes the bucket teeth by resisting axial loads and reduces stress on the front of the lip.

[0078] Although the tip wears most frequently, the adapter will also wear out and require periodic replacement. Premature wear can occur, for example, due to damage to the lower support legs of the adapter. Modifying the lateral profiles 60, 61 of the front bearing surface 35 and the complementary rear bearing surface 63 can reduce the risk of premature breakage.

[0079] In one example, Figure 8AThe diagram shows a front surface 35 defined by multiple curvatures, such as dual radii R2 and R3, such that the upper profile 60 of the front bearing surface 35 has a smaller radius R2 than the radius R3 of the lower profile 61. In this example, radii R2 and R3 converge at a tangent point T below the centerline A, but a flat or another curved surface could connect the two curves defined by radii R2 and R3. The centerline A bisects the height H of the support 22, which in this example is from the inner surface 31 to the outer surface 33 adjacent to the front surface 35. For the lower profile 61, the larger radius R3, which is higher than radius R2, gives the front bearing surface a longer arc length. This allows the adapter 14 to be inserted more deeply into the lip 12 compared to a conventional lip (e.g., where radii R2 and R3 are equal). This is in Figure 9 As shown in the figure, line B intersects the lower outrigger side surface 67a and the rear bearing surface 63, and begins at the bottom surface and ends at the rear bearing surface 63. Line B' intersects the lower outrigger side surface 67a and the conventional rear bearing surface 63'. Figure 9 The difference in material between the lengths of B and B' is shown, where the length of B is greater than the length of B'. Due to the lack of a wear cover, the bottom leg tends to wear out faster, so this additional insert adds more material (B-B') to give the lower leg 48a greater strength and extend the service life of the adapter 14.

[0080] although Figure 8A The upper and lower contours are shown, each defined by a single radius of curvature, but variations are possible. For example, the upper contour 60 and the lower contour 61 may each be defined by one or more radii of curvature, and one or more flat sections may or may not exist between certain curves (e.g., at the transition between the upper and lower contours). Figure 8A In the example, the upper profile 60 is defined by a tighter curvature and the lower profile 61. In one example, the upper profile 60 is at least partially defined by one or more upper curvature radii, the lower profile is at least partially defined by one or more lower curvature radii, and at least one upper curvature radius is smaller than any of the lower curvature radii.

[0081] refer to Figure 8B , showing with Figure 8A A similar example exists where the radius R2' of the upper contour 60' is smaller than the radius R3' of the lower contour 61', but radii R2' and R3' converge at the point of tangency T' above the centerline A. Radius R3' is smaller than... Figure 8A The radius R3. And Figure 8A The same advantages apply to Figure 8B However, since R3 is greater than R3', this allows adapter 14 to... Figure 8A China and Belgium in Figure 8BMore are inserted in the middle. Like the upper contour 60 and the lower contour 61, the upper contour 60' and the lower contour 61' may each be defined by one or more radii of curvature, and one or more flat segments may or may not exist between certain curves (e.g., at the transition between the upper and lower contours). Figure 8B In the example, the upper profile 60' is defined by a tighter curvature and the lower profile 61'. In one example, the upper profile 60' is at least partially defined by one or more upper curvature radii, the lower profile 61' is at least partially defined by one or more lower curvature radii, and at least one upper curvature radius is smaller than any of the lower curvature radii.

[0082] exist Figures 8A-8B In the example, with Figure 8B Compared to one or more smaller radii R2' (i.e., tighter curves), Figure 8A A larger radius R2 (i.e., a wider curve) allows the adapter 14 to engage more material under load. A larger radius absorbs more impact and reduces localized stress. By reducing stress on the leading surface 16 of the lip 12, the lip 12 tends to last longer and requires less maintenance during its service life. Improved stability also extends the service life of the adapter and / or bucket. Figures 8A-8B The example is more stable under top load. This is because in Figure 8A In the middle, length L2 is longer than L3, and... Figure 8B In the middle, the length L2' of the top surface 31 is longer than the length L3' of the bottom surface 33.

[0083] refer to Figure 8C The opposite case is shown, where the upper contour 60" has a radius R2" larger than the radius R3" of the lower contour 61". A tangent point T" is created where contours 60" and 61" intersect above centerline A, but it can be configured so that the tangent point is above or below centerline A. In this example, radius R2" is greater than radius R3", so the arc length of contour 60" is greater than the arc length of contour 61". Since contours 60" and 61" are offset downwards rather than as Figure 8A and 8B The upper support leg is offset upwards, thus the situation is reversed, causing the upper support leg to embed in the lip 12, thereby allowing more material to reinforce the upper support leg. Alternatively, the wear cover 13 can be lowered while maintaining the strength of the upper support leg to advantageously alter the material flow above the adapter. Figure 8C The example is more stable under bottom load. This is because the length L2" of the top surface 31 is less than the length L3" of the bottom surface 33. The upper profile 60" and the lower profile 61" may each be defined by one or more radii of curvature, and one or more flat sections may or may not exist between certain curves (e.g., at the transition between the upper and lower profiles). Figure 8C In the example, the lower profile 61" is defined by a tighter curvature and the upper profile 60". In one example, the lower profile 61" is at least partially defined by one or more lower curvature radii, the upper profile 60" is at least partially defined by one or more upper curvature radii, and at least one lower curvature radius is smaller than any of the upper curvature radii.

[0084] refer to Figure 9-11 The adapter 14 is a wear component that is mounted to the lip 12 of the bucket. The adapter 14 supports the excavating tips 45 and secures them to the lip. The adapter 14 includes a forward-projecting nose 44 for mounting the tips 45, and a mounting end 46 with forked legs 48a, 48b to straddle the lip 12. By using a sturdy boss and / or other support, the adapter may have only one leg on the inner (or outer) surface of the excavation edge.

[0085] In one example, outriggers 48a and 48b have equal lengths and are each provided with slots 50a and 50b, respectively shaped to receive inner and outer bosses 28a and 28b and / or flanges 94 and 96. The upper outrigger 48a is positioned to engage with the inner surface 18 of the lip 12, and the lower outrigger 48b is positioned to engage with the outer surface 20 of the lip 12. The upper outrigger 48a includes a hole 58a through which a lock 60 can be inserted. The size and shape of the hole 58a can be configured to correspond to a through hole 24 in the bucket lip 12. The hole 58a is positioned such that when the adapter 14 is properly placed on the bucket lip 12, the hole 58a aligns with the through hole 24 to allow the lock 60 to engage therethrough. Figure 3 Similarly, the bottom outrigger 48b includes a hole 58b that aligns with the hole 58a of the top outrigger 48a. Thus, after the adapter 14 is properly positioned in the bucket lip 12, the lock 60 can engage through holes 58a, 58b, 24.

[0086] The outriggers 48a and 48b are connected via a rearwardly bent portion that defines a mounting portion 68 to abut against the support member 22. The rearwardly mounted portion 68 may include two side bearing surfaces 65a and 65b abutting against the lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b of the support member 22, and a rear bearing surface 63 abutting against the front bearing surface 35 between the side bearing surfaces 65a and 65b.

[0087] In one example, the rear bearing surface 63 is concave and, in all possible variations disclosed for the front bearing surface 35, conforms to the front bearing surface in both the side-to-side direction and in the vertical direction (i.e., has the same or similar shape). The angles of the side bearing surfaces 65a, 65b are the same as or similar to the angles of the inner bearing surfaces 51a, 51b of the support member 22, for example, between 0 and 60 degrees, and preferably between 5 and 30 degrees.

[0088] Two side bearing surfaces 65a, 65b may extend to the outer surface of the adapter 14. The two side bearing surfaces 65a, 65b are shown recessed such that they fully engage with the two inner surfaces 51a, 51b of the support 22. When using the insert 22a, the outer surfaces 57a, 57b of the arms 25a, 25b are recessed within each sidewall 67a, 67b in this example, but other configurations are possible (e.g., flush). Optional transition or spacer surfaces may be provided for each side of each side bearing surface 65a, 65b. For example, the side bearing surfaces 65a, 65b may not extend to the outer side of the adapter 14, and spacer surfaces (not shown) may be located between the side bearing surfaces 65a, 65b and the outer side of the adapter.

[0089] The two side bearing surfaces 65a, 65b provide lateral stability to the adapter 14, preventing rotational and side-to-side movement about the longitudinal axis C and helping to control the adapter 14 in its fully installed position. Because the side bearing surfaces 65a, 65b resist rearward, lateral, and rotational movement of the adapter, the adapter tends to resist movement relative to the support 22, which reduces wear and extends the service life of the adapter and support, and consequently, the service life of the lip. In the example shown, the side bearing surfaces 65a, 65b are planar or linear, but other configurations are possible, such as non-linear, curved, convex, concave, etc. The side bearing surfaces 65a, 65b and / or the lateral bearing surfaces 57a, 57b may be continuous in the vertical direction (as shown in the figure), or these bearing surfaces may have gaps (not shown) dividing the surface into upper and lower sections.

[0090] exist Figure 10 In the example shown, slots 50a and 50b are T-shaped to mate with bosses 28a and 28b. The shape and / or length of slots 50a and 50b can vary, as long as the slot shape still receives bosses 28a and 28b to provide the required support against lateral and / or outward pressure on the legs 48. Furthermore, the shape of slots 50a and 50b can vary depending on the shape of the bosses 28a and 28b and the load to be resisted. For example, if no rails are provided on the bosses, the slots can have a generally parallelepiped cross-sectional shape. In another example, if external bosses are used instead of internal bosses 28a and 28b, slots 50a and / or 50b can be omitted.

[0091] In the illustrated example, slots 50a and 50b open into the rear walls 52a and 52b of the legs 48a and 48b, respectively, to receive bosses 28a and 28b in a sliding manner. Each slot 50a and 50b includes a recessed wall 43 spaced apart from and facing the corresponding surfaces 18 and 20 of the lip 12. A narrowing portion 41 is preferably disposed between the recessed wall 43 and the lip 12 to define a retaining surface 47 for receiving and retaining the track 34 in a groove 59 of the slots 50a and 50b. Each slot 50a and 50b preferably extends forward of the rear wall 52 by a distance, for example, greater than the length of the body 30 of the bosses 28a and 28b. In this way, the sidewalls 54 at the front of the slots 50a and 50b are spaced apart from (but may contact) the front walls 56 of the bosses 28a and 28b.

[0092] The rear walls 52a and 52b of the outriggers 48a and 48b are preferably spaced apart from the mating member 30a and the insert 30b respectively when not under load, but the mating insert 30b is used to resist the applied load, for example, when the outriggers are axially displaced under digging load. Figure 2 By aligning the rear wall of the adapter leg with the insert 30b and abutting the front bearing surface 35 against the rear bearing surface 63, the surface area resisting rearward pushing loads is maximized to reduce stress in the wear member 10 and lip 12. In one example, the curvature of the rear bearing surface may not match that of the front bearing surface, but load-bearing capacity may still be allowed (e.g., center engagement or end engagement, etc.). The inner surface 68 of the legs 48a, 48b forms a channel 97 that receives flanges 25a, 25b.

[0093] During assembly, the adapter 14 slides rearward onto the bucket, with one of the outriggers 48a, 48b sliding onto each side of the lip 12, such that the boss 28 is received in the slot 50, and the front bearing surface 35 and the adjacent lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b contact the rear bearing surface 63 and the inclined lateral bearing surfaces 65a, 65b to abut against each other. In other examples, they may be spaced apart and engage only under load. In a preferred configuration, the rear wall 52 engages the rear member 30 only after wear has begun to increase due to bucket use.

[0094] Figure 12 and Figure 13 Another example of the excavation edge 1600 is shown, which can be understood as having a bearing surface similar to that of the support 22 (see example). Figure 4A and 7Compared to the oppositely arranged support members 1602, the bearing surfaces 1606 and 1608 are different. The excavation edge 1600 has a support member 1602, which includes a central protrusion 1604 instead of a recess formed by the front bearing surface 35 and the lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b. The front support member 1602 includes a front bearing surface 1606 and lateral bearing surfaces 1608 and 1610. In this example, the front bearing surface 1606 is concave in the side-to-side direction, but the front bearing surface may be convex in the lateral direction and / or have other variations, such as those described for the front bearing surface 35. The front bearing surface 1606 may also be provided with an upper profile and a lower profile in the same manner as described for the front bearing surface 35, or have a uniform vertical profile. The lateral bearing surfaces 1608 and 1610 converge in the forward direction, while the lateral bearing surfaces 51a and 51b converge in the rearward direction. Lateral bearing surfaces 1608, 1610 may have the same variations as discussed with respect to lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b. Support 1602 may be provided by an insert (not shown), or as in... Figure 12 and 13 The adapter is provided with a configuration along the leading surface of the excavation edge 1600. In this example, the rear and side bearing surfaces of the adapter will align with the front bearing surface 1606 and the side bearing surfaces 1608, 1610 of the excavation edge 1600 to provide similar stability and other benefits as described for the adapter 14 and the support 22.

[0095] Figure 14 and Figure 15 A variation of the digging edge 1600 in the form of a digging edge 1800 is shown. The digging edge 1800 is similar to the digging edge 1600, but the digging edge 1800 includes a forward-facing supporting surface 1802 that is convex in the lateral direction, while the forward-facing supporting surface 1606 is concave in the lateral direction. The front support structure for the digging edge 1800 may be provided by an insert (not shown), or as... Figure 14 and 15 In this example, the adapter's rear and side bearing surfaces will align with the front bearing surface 1802 and side bearing surfaces of the excavation edge 1800 to provide similar stability and other benefits as described for the adapter 14 and support 22.

[0096] Figure 16 and Figure 17Another example of a digging edge 2000 with a front support 2002 is shown. The digging edge 2000 includes a central protrusion 2008, which includes lateral bearing surfaces 2010, 2012. A front bearing surface 2014 is defined by two front bearing segments 2004, 2006 located on each side of the protrusion 2008. The lateral bearing surfaces 2010, 2012 converge in a forward direction. The lateral bearing surfaces 2010, 2012 may have the same variations as described with respect to the lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b. In this example, the front bearing surface 2014 (i.e., comprising each segment 2004, 2006) is curved and convex in the side-to-side direction, but may have the same variations as described with respect to the front bearing surface 35. The front bearing surface 2004 may also have an upper profile and a lower profile in the same manner as described with respect to the front bearing surface 35, or have a uniform vertical profile. Support 2002 may be provided by insert (not shown), or as in Figure 16 and 17 In this example, the rear and side bearing surfaces of the adapter will align with the front bearing surface 2014 and side bearing surfaces 2010, 2012 of the excavation edge 2000 to provide similar stability and other benefits as described for the adapter 14 and support 22.

[0097] Figure 18 and Figure 19 Another example of a digging edge 2200 with a front support 2202 is shown. The digging edge 2200 includes a central recess 2204 containing lateral bearing surfaces 2210, 2212. The front bearing surfaces are defined by two front bearing sections 2206, 2208 located on each side of the recess 2204. The lateral bearing surfaces 2210, 2212 converge in a rearward direction. The lateral bearing surfaces 2210, 2212 may have the same variations as described with respect to the lateral bearing surfaces 51a, 51b. In this example, the front bearing surfaces 2206, 2208 are curved and convex in a side-to-side direction, but may have the same variations as described with respect to the front bearing surface 35. The front bearing surfaces 2206, 2208 may also have upper and lower profiles in the same manner as described with respect to the front bearing surface 35, or have a uniform vertical profile. Support 2202 may be provided by insert (not shown), or as in Figure 18 and 19In this example, the rear and side bearing surfaces of the adapter will align with the front bearing surfaces 2206, 2208 and the side bearing surfaces 2210, 2212 of the excavation edge 2200 to provide similar stability and other benefits as described for the adapter 14 and the support 22.

[0098] Figure 20 and Figure 21 A variation of a digging edge 2200 in the form of a digging edge 2400 having a support member 2404 is shown. The digging edge 2400 is similar to the digging edge 2200, but the digging edge 2400 includes forward-facing support surfaces 2406, 2408 that are concave in the lateral direction, while the forward-facing support surfaces 2206, 2208 are convex in the lateral direction. The forward support member 2404 for the digging edge 2400 may be provided by an insert (not shown), or as... Figure 20 and 21 In this example, the rear and side bearing surfaces of the adapter will align with the front bearing surfaces 2406, 2408 and the side bearing surfaces of the protrusion 2402 to provide similar stability and other benefits as described for the adapter 14 and the support 22.

[0099] Once the adapter is correctly positioned, the lock 60 is inserted into the openings 58a, 58b and the through hole 24. Specifically, the rotating shaft 64 is placed in the openings 58a, 58b and the through hole 24. Then, the wedge 62 is threaded into the rotating shaft 64 by engaging the groove 66 with the ridge section 72 and rotating the wedge about its axis. Figure 3 Continue screwing until wedge 62 is tightened to the set torque level. Although wedge 62 can directly abut against through hole 24 ( Figure 2 The front end 88 of the connector 14 is present, but the pin slot support 90 is preferably welded in place at the front of the through hole 24. However, other locking arrangements may be used. To remove the connector 14, the wedge 62 is rotated to drive it upward, allowing it to rise away from the assembly. The pivot 64 is then removed from the assembly. The connector 14 can then be pulled out from the lip 12.

[0100] The systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein are examples of the application of the principles of this disclosure in practice, and various other examples are possible. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the details of the wear assembly 10 and methods depicted herein and / or in the figures. Various other examples and numerous modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and broader aspects of this disclosure as defined in the claims. Aspects of this disclosure have been described in terms of their illustrative examples. Many other examples, modifications, and variations within the scope and spirit of the appended claims will come to mind upon review of this disclosure. A feature in one example can be used in conjunction with a feature in another example. The combination of the given examples and disclosed features is not intended to be limiting in the sense that they must be used together.

Claims

1. A wear member for a geotechnical device, the wear member comprising at least one leg and a mounting configuration defining a cavity for receiving a base of the geotechnical device, the at least one leg extending rearward over the base, and the mounting configuration approaching a front portion of the cavity to abut against a complementary support on which the base of the wear member is mounted, wherein the mounting configuration comprises a pair of laterally spaced side bearing surfaces each facing rearward and laterally and converging in the rearward direction, and a rear bearing surface extending between the side bearing surfaces, and the rear bearing surface and the side bearing surfaces each abut against a complementary support on which the base of the wear member is mounted, and the side bearing surface extends further forward than the rear bearing surface.

2. The wear member according to claim 1, wherein, The rear bearing surface is curved in a vertical direction away from the at least one leg to define a curved upper profile and a curved lower profile, wherein one of the upper profile or the lower profile has a tighter curvature than the other of the upper profile or the lower profile.

3. The wear member according to claim 2, wherein the upper profile has a tighter curvature than the lower profile.

4. The wear member according to claim 2, wherein the lower profile has a tighter curvature than the upper profile.

5. The wear member of claim 2, wherein at least one of the legs includes a hole for receiving a lock for securing the wear member to the base, and at least a portion of the rear bearing surface conforms to a radius of curvature originating from a position aligned with the hole in the side-to-side direction.

6. The wear member of claim 2, wherein the upper profile is at least partially defined by one or more upper radii of curvature, the lower profile is at least partially defined by one or more lower radii of curvature, and at least one of the upper radii of curvature is smaller than any of the lower radii of curvature.

7. The wear member according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The rear bearing surface is generally rearward-facing and has a non-linear structure in the side-to-side direction.

8. The wear member according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the rear bearing surface is curved in a side-to-side direction.

9. The wear member according to claim 8, wherein the rear bearing surface has a concave structure in the side-to-side direction.

10. The wear member according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one leg includes a hole for receiving a lock for securing the wear member to the base, and at least a portion of the rear bearing surface conforms to a radius of curvature originating from a position aligned with the hole in the side-to-side direction.

11. The wear member according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the rear bearing surface has a convex structure in the side-to-side direction.

12. The wear member according to claim 1, wherein the side bearing surfaces are oriented at an angle of 120 degrees or less to each other.

13. The wear member of claim 12, wherein the angle between the side bearing surfaces is between 10 and 60 degrees.

14. The wear member according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the side bearing surface is planar.

15. The wear member according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the side bearing surface is non-planar.

16. The wear member according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a pair of spaced-apart legs defining the cavity for receiving the base.

17. A digging edge of a geotechnical apparatus, the digging edge including an inner surface, an outer surface, a leading surface, and a support member adjacent to the leading surface to abut against an abrasion member mounted on the digging edge, the support member including two converging lateral bearing surfaces, each facing rearward and laterally, and a forward-facing front bearing surface, wherein the lateral bearing surfaces define a gap extending from the inner surface to the outer surface to receive the abrasion member and a portion of the lateral bearing surfaces converging in the rearward direction, and the front bearing surface is between the lateral bearing surfaces.

18. The excavation edge according to claim 17, wherein, The front bearing surface is curved in a direction from the inner surface to the outer surface to define a curved upper profile and a curved lower profile, wherein one of the upper profile or the lower profile has a tighter curvature than the other of the upper profile or the lower profile.

19. The excavation edge according to claim 17, wherein, The front bearing surface has a non-linear structure in the side-to-side direction.

20. The excavation edge according to any one of claims 17 to 19, comprising a hole for receiving a lock for securing the wear member to the excavation edge, wherein at least a portion of the front bearing surface conforms to a radius of curvature originating from the hole in a side-to-side direction.

21. The excavation edge according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein each of the lateral bearing surfaces is planar.

22. The excavation edge according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein each of the lateral bearing surfaces is non-planar.

23. The excavation edge of claim 18, wherein the upper profile has a tighter curvature than the lower profile.

24. The excavation edge of claim 18, wherein the lower profile has a tighter curvature than the upper profile.

25. A digging edge assembly for a geotechnical apparatus, the digging edge assembly comprising: The excavation edge includes an inner surface, an outer surface, a leading surface, and a support near the leading surface. The support includes two converging lateral bearing surfaces and a front bearing surface, wherein the lateral bearing surfaces converge toward each other to generally face forward and laterally, and the front bearing surface is convex in the side-to-side direction. Wear member according to any one of claims 1 to 16; and A retainer is used to secure the wear member to the excavation edge.

26. A support for the excavation edge of a bucket of a geotechnical equipment, the support comprising two lateral bearing surfaces and a front bearing surface, wherein, The lateral bearing surfaces converge rearward toward each other to generally move forward and laterally, and the front bearing surface extends between the two converging lateral bearing surfaces and is non-linear in the side-to-side direction.

27. The support member according to claim 26, wherein, The front bearing surface has a curved shape in the side-to-side direction between the lateral bearing surfaces.

28. The support according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the front bearing surface is curved in a direction transverse to the side-to-side direction to define an upper curved profile and a lower curved profile, and wherein one of the upper profile or the lower profile has a tighter curvature than the other of the upper profile or the lower profile.

29. The support member according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the support member is formed on the leading surface of the excavation edge.

30. The support member according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the support member is separated from the leading surface of the excavation edge, and the support member is fixed to the leading surface of the excavation edge.

31. The support according to claim 26 or 27, wherein each of the lateral bearing surfaces is planar.

Images