retainer and corresponding wear member

Abstract

A retainer (900) includes a drive portion (902) defining a drive portion outer diameter and a lug-receiving portion having a skirt (904) defining a lug-receiving slot (914) extending partially through the lug-receiving portion forming a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a catch surface connecting the first sidewall to the second sidewall. The skirt (904) also defines a skirt outer diameter that is greater than the drive portion outer diameter. Further, the drive portion (902) has a hook-shaped protrusion (908) extending from the drive portion (902) and spaced apart from the skirt (904) by a minimum distance.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a retention mechanism employed on a work implement assembly, such as a bucket assembly, construction equipment, and the like used in earthmoving, mining, and the like, for attaching a tip to an adapter of the work implement assembly. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a retention mechanism that uses a retention sleeve to maintain the retention of the retention in a locked or unlocked configuration. BACKGROUND

[0002] Machines, such as wheel loaders, excavators, and the like, employ work implement assemblies, including bucket assemblies, rakes, shears, and the like, that have teeth or tips attached to them to assist in performing work on materials, such as dirt, rock, sand, and the like. For example, teeth or tips can be attached to a bucket assembly to assist the bucket assembly in penetrating the ground, facilitating the scooping of dirt into the bucket, and the like. An adapter is typically attached to the working edge (e.g., base edge, side edge, and the like) of the bucket or other work implement so that different types of teeth or tips can be attached to the work implement. Moreover, by providing a retention mechanism for selectively maintaining a tip on the adapter or allowing the tip to be removed from the adapter, the tips or teeth can be easily replaced when worn.

[0003] These retention mechanisms can include a plastic retention sleeve that maintains a retention in the tip. The retention sleeve can also have features that maintain the retention in a locked or unlocked position to allow for replacement of the tip. The retention sleeve operates under a variety of conditions and methods of operation. In extreme conditions and methods of operation, a more robust sleeve can be required. Moreover, depending on the desired retention, the retention can tip over such that the retention mechanism jams or otherwise ceases to work.

[0004] Such a retention mechanism is shown in U.S. Patent No. 7,762,015, which includes a retention having a tab that rotates 180 degrees from a locked position to an unlocked position in which the tip can be removed from the adapter, and the like. This process can be reversed after a new or repaired tip is reattached to the adapter. During the locking and unlocking of the retention, the retention can undesirably pop up or tip over.

[0005] Similarly, U.S. Patent No. 10,024,036 discloses a wear member for a wear assembly, the wear member including a lock configured to secure the wear member to a base, wherein the lock has two engagement positions, namely: (a) a first position that secures the lock to the wear member, and (b) a second position that secures the wear member to the base. The locks are also configured to un-latch and remove from the wear member in two stages, namely, first retracting a latching mechanism, and subsequently rotating the lock itself to remove from the wear member. However, this patent does not provide a retention sleeve, nor does it teach how to prevent tipping of the lock when using such a sleeve.

[0006] Accordingly, it is desirable to have a retention mechanism with one or more anti-tilt features for use with a retainer sleeve. SUMMARY

[0007] A retainer according to embodiments of the disclosure can include a drive portion defining a drive portion outer diameter, and a lug-receiving portion defining a lug-receiving slot extending partially through the lug-receiving portion forming a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a catch surface connecting the first sidewall to the second sidewall. A skirt can at least partially define the first sidewall, the second sidewall, and the catch surface. The skirt can further define a skirt outer diameter that is greater than the drive portion outer diameter. Further, the drive portion can include a hook-shaped protrusion extending from the drive portion and spaced apart from the skirt by a minimum distance.

[0008] A wear member according to embodiments of the disclosure can include a body including a forwardly closed portion and a rearwardly open portion defining a cavity, an exterior surface, an interior surface defining the cavity, and a retention mechanism-receiving bore including an interior portion defined by the interior surface, an exterior portion defined by the exterior surface, and a ring separating the interior portion from the exterior portion.

[0009] A wear member assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure can include a wear member having a body including a forwardly closed portion, a rearwardly open portion defining a cavity, an exterior surface, an interior surface defining the cavity. A retention mechanism-receiving bore can also be provided including an interior portion defined by the interior surface, an exterior portion defined by the exterior surface, and a ring separating the interior portion from the exterior portion. A retainer sleeve including a body defining at least a partial annular configuration defining an axis of rotation, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction can also be provided. The retainer sleeve can include a radially inner annular surface defining a radially inner bore, and the retainer sleeve can be disposed in the interior portion of the retention mechanism-receiving bore with the ring radially overhanging the body of the retainer sleeve and extending circumferentially through an angle greater than 190.0 degrees. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a work implement assembly, such as a bucket assembly, using a tip, adapter, and retention mechanism having components configured according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a tip and adapter subassembly of Figure 1 shown separately from the work implement assembly of

[0012] Figure 3 is Figure 2side cross-sectional view of the tip without the adapter, showing a retaining mechanism and components thereof according to embodiments of the present disclosure in a locked configuration, including a retainer and a retainer sleeve having anti-rotation and retention features.

[0013] Figure 4 is Figure 2 a side view of the tip showing the retainer rotated from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

[0014] Figure 5 is Figure 2 a partial rear cross-sectional view illustrating a retaining mechanism and components thereof according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, including a retainer and a retainer sleeve having anti-rotation and retention features, assembled into a retaining mechanism receiving hole of a tip. The retainer is shown in the unlocked configuration.

[0015] Figure 6 is Figures 3 to 5 a top-oriented perspective view of the retainer and retainer sleeve assembly employed in

[0016] Figure 7 is a bottom-oriented perspective view of the retainer sleeve of Figure 6 shown separately.

[0017] Figure 8 is Figure 6 a front view of the retainer and retainer sleeve assembly of Figure 9 with section lines of

[0018] Figure 9 is a top cross-sectional view of the retainer and retainer sleeve assembly of Figure 8 taken along line 9-9 thereof.

[0019] Figure 10 is Figure 6 a front view of the retainer and retainer sleeve assembly of Figure 11 with section lines of

[0020] Figure 11 is a bottom cross-sectional view of the retainer and retainer sleeve assembly of Figure 10 taken along line 11-11 thereof.

[0021] Figure 12 is a side view of the tip without the adapter, showing another embodiment of a retaining mechanism according to various principles of the present disclosure, including a retainer and a retainer sleeve having an external rib. The retaining mechanism is shown in the locked configuration.

[0022] Figure 13is Figure 12 a top sectional view of the tip and retention mechanism showing the retention engaging the first anti-rotation feature.

[0023] Figure 14 is a rear view of the retention sleeve of Figure 12

[0024] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the retention sleeve of Figure 14 showing a notch on its outer peripheral surface configured to allow the retention sleeve to move radially outward in the local domain of the first anti-rotation feature during retention rotation.

[0025] Figure 16 is an alternative perspective view of the retention sleeve of Figure 15 showing the presence of anti-rotation features similar or identical to those present in Figures 3 to 11

[0026] Figure 17 is a side view of a wear member assembly in the form of a tip including a retention mechanism having anti-tipping features disposed in its pocket, according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. The anti-tipping features include a ring in the pocket of the tip having a void for receiving a hook-shaped protrusion of a retention (or lock) during assembly.

[0027] Figure 18 is an enlarged view of the retention mechanism of Figure 17 shown in the locked position.

[0028] Figure 19 shows the retention mechanism of Figure 18 rotated to the unlocked position.

[0029] Figure 20 is a sectional view of the wear member assembly of Figure 17 taken along its line 20-20, illustrating the retention held in the pocket of the tip via the retention sleeve.

[0030] Figure 21 is an internal perspective view of the wear assembly of Figure 20 with the retention removed for clarity.

[0031] Figure 22 is an exploded assembly view illustrating the insertion of the retention into the retention sleeve of Figure 21 During this assembly step, the hook-shaped protrusion passes through the void of the ring of the pocket to result in the wear member assembly of Figure 20

[0032] Figure 23 is an exploded assembly view of the wear member assembly of Figure 18 ​​​An external perspective view of a wear assembly, with the retainer sleeve and retainer removed. The ramp of the lower ring portion of the ring of pockets of the tip is clearly shown.

[0033] Figure 24 The retainer is shown separately Figures 17 to 20 and Figure 22 A perspective view of the retainer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same or like reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. In some instances, reference numbers will be indicated in the description with a letter following the reference number, such as 100a, 100b or a prime indicator such as 100', 100" and the like. It will be understood that the use of a letter or prime following a reference number indicates that these features have similar shapes and have similar functions, such as is often the case when geometric shapes are mirrored about a plane of symmetry. For ease of illustration in the present description, the letter or prime is not included herein, but can be shown in the drawings to indicate a repetition of a feature discussed in the present written description.

[0035] A work implement assembly using a tip in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed.

[0036] Beginning with Figure 1 The work implement assembly 100 can take the form of a bucket assembly 100' that can be used by a wheel loader and includes a housing 101 that defines an opening 102 in communication with a generally enclosed interior. Beginning with the rear of the bucket assembly 100 as shown in Figure 1 The bucket assembly 100 includes a curved housing profile 104 that is attached to a rear wall 106 at a top end of the housing 104. The other end of the housing is attached to a bottom plate 108 of the assembly 100. A top plate 110 is attached to a top end of the rear wall 106. The top plate 110 transitions to a spill guard 112 that is designed to deliver material into the interior of the bucket and prevent material from spilling out of the bucket. A reinforcing rib 119 is provided that is attached to the top plate 110 and the spill guard 112 to provide a reinforced strength. Two substantially flat end plates 114 are attached to the side edges of the spill guard 112, the top plate 110, the rear wall 106, the bottom plate 108, and the housing 104.

[0037] A side edge assembly 115 is attached to each end plate 114, while a front edge assembly 116 is attached to the front edge of the base plate 108 of the bucket assembly 100. The front edge assembly 116 includes a base edge 117 attached to the base plate 108, a plurality of center adapters 118 attached to the base edge 117, and a plurality of tips 200 (also referred to as tools, tines, etc.), with each of the plurality of tips 200 attached to one of the plurality of center adapters 118. Also, two corner adapters 120 are attached to the base edge and side edges 122 of the bucket assembly 100'. Tips 200 can also be attached to the corner adapters 120.

[0038] Furthermore, a plurality of base edge guards 124 are provided, with each of the base edge guards 124 located between the center adapters 120 and between the center adapters 120 and the corner adapters 120. A side edge guard 126 is also provided, which is attached to the side edge 122 proximate the corner adapters 120.

[0039] It should be appreciated that work implement assemblies can take other forms than a bucket assembly, including a rake assembly, a shear assembly, etc. Furthermore, different configured buckets intended for use by excavators can also use various embodiments of tips, retention mechanisms, adapters, springs, spring-loaded retainers, tip assemblies, and tip and adapter assemblies, etc., as will be discussed herein.

[0040] In Figures 2 to 5 the tip 200 can include a body 202 defining a longitudinal axis 204, a vertical axis 206 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 204, and a lateral axis 208 perpendicular to the vertical axis 206 and the longitudinal axis 204. The body 202 can include a forward working portion 210 including a closed end 212 disposed along the longitudinal axis 204, and an aft attachment portion 214 including an open end 216 disposed along the longitudinal axis 204.

[0041] The aft attachment portion 214 defines an exterior surface 218, an adapter nose receiving pocket 220 extending longitudinally from the open end 216, and a retention mechanism receiving bore 222 in communication with the adapter nose receiving pocket 220 and the exterior surface 218. An adapter nose lug receiving groove 224 can extend longitudinally from the open end 216 to the retention mechanism receiving bore 222. At least a retainer sleeve receiving slot 226 can be in communication with the retention mechanism receiving bore 222 and the adapter nose receiving pocket 220.

[0042] Reference is now made to Figures 3 to 6A retainer and retainer sleeve assembly 300 according to embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed. The assembly 300 can include a retainer 302 including a drive portion 304 and a lug-receiving portion 306 defining a lug-receiving slot 308 extending partially through the lug-receiving portion 306 forming a first sidewall 310, a second sidewall 312, and a catch surface 314 connecting the first sidewall 310 to the second sidewall 312. A skirt 316 at least partially defines the first sidewall 310, the second sidewall 312, and the catch surface 314, which terminates at an oblique face 318 intersecting the first sidewall 310 (best shown in Figure 3 and Figure 6 ). In other embodiments of the present disclosure, another oblique face proximate the second sidewall 312 can be provided, but need not be.

[0043] In Figure 3 , the profile of a lug 128 being clamped by the retainer and retainer sleeve assembly 300 is shown. It will be appreciated that the retainer 302 is oriented as shown in Figure 5 when the tip 200 is inserted on the nose of the adapter. The lug 128 first passes through the adapter nose lug-receiving groove 224 and then into the lug-receiving slot 308 until it is surrounded on three sides by the first sidewall 310, the second sidewall 312, and the catch surface 314. The retainer 302 is then rotated 180 degrees until the lug 128 is clamped on all sides by the retainer 300 and the retainer sleeve 400 as shown in Figure 3 . The tip is now retained on the adapter. The process can be reversed to remove the tip from the adapter.

[0044] With reference still to Figures 3 to 6 , the retainer sleeve 400 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed in more detail. The retainer sleeve 400 can include a body 402 including an at least partially annular configuration (e.g., at least partially cylindrical, at least partially conical, etc.) defining a rotational axis 404, a radial direction 402, and a circumferential direction 406 (best shown in Figure 6 ). The rotational axis 404 is referred to as such for either or both of two reasons. First, at least some of the geometry of the retainer sleeve 400 (and, by implication, the retainer 302) can be modeled by rotating cross-sectional geometry about the rotational axis 404. Second, the retainer 302 can be configured to rotate about this rotational axis 404. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] As Figure 6 and Figure 7As best seen, the radially inner annular surface 410 can define a radially inner bore 413 and can include a first anti-rotation feature 412 extending radially inward from the radially inner annular surface 410. The first anti-rotation feature 412 can include a ramped ledge 414 having a locking surface 416 (see also Figure 7 ), which is at least partially complementarily shaped to engage the ramped face 318 of the skirt 316 of the retainer 302. The locking surface 416 can be planar, slightly arcuate, etc.

[0046] Focusing Figure 7 The retainer sleeve 400 can also include a stop feature including a rib 418 extending radially inward from the radially inner annular surface 410. The rib 418 can be circumferentially spaced a predetermined distance 420 from the first anti-rotation feature 412. The predetermined distance 420 is measured as an arc length from the rib 418 to the first anti-rotation feature 412 (e.g., to the locking surface) at the intersection of the lip 422 and the radially inner annular surface 410. In various embodiments, the rib 418 can have a cylindrical, conical, or other arcuate configuration. In other embodiments, it can have a pointed shape, polygonal shape, etc. in a plane parallel to the radial direction 406.

[0047] The body 402 can be formed by molding a polyurethane material (e.g., thermoplastic injection molding, casting, curing, etc.). When molded, a gap 424 (see Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 9 and Figure 11 ) can be provided in the design that provides a more uniform wall thickness to help prevent the formation of gaps, pits, porosity, etc. in the body 402 resulting from the manufacturing process. The material, structure, or both of the body 402 can contribute to the resiliency of the body 402 such that the body 402 can be deformed and spring back. This is desirable when locking and unlocking the retainer 302 and when inserting the retainer sleeve 400 into the retainer sleeve-receiving slot 226 (see Figure 5 ) of the tip 200.

[0048] To this end, a pair of radially angled outer surfaces 426, 426' form different draft angles 428, 428' (see Figure 5 ) with a direction parallel to the rotational axis 404 in a plane containing the radial direction 406 and the rotational axis 404. These draft angles 428, 428' can be tailored such that it is easier to insert the retainer sleeve 400 into the slot 226 than it is to remove it. This helps to maintain the retainer sleeve 400 in the slot 226, which in turn helps to maintain the retainer 302 in the tip 200.

[0049] In Figure 6 andFigure 7 In particular, the retainer sleeve 400 defines a first circumferential end 430 disposed along the circumferential direction 408, a second circumferential end 430' disposed along the circumferential direction 408. The rib 418 can be disposed proximate the first circumferential end 430. A second rib 418' can be disposed proximate the second circumferential end 430', although this is not necessarily the case (see Figure 9 and Figure 11 ). In various embodiments of the present disclosure, the second rib 418' can be configured similarly, identically, or differently than the other rib 418. It should also be noted that only one anti-rotation feature is shown proximate the first circumferential end, but it is contemplated that another anti-rotation feature can be provided proximate the second circumferential end, configured similarly, identically, or differently than the first anti-rotation feature in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0050] Still referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the lip 422 extends radially and circumferentially past the rib 418 and the first anti-rotation feature 412, completely overhanging the rib 418 and the first anti-rotation feature 412. This can not be the case in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] More particularly, the lip 422 extends from the first circumferential end 430 to the second circumferential end 430', defining a lip arc length 432 measured from the first circumferential end 430 to the second circumferential end 430' at the intersection of the radially inner annular surface 410 and the lip 422.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the ratio of the lip arc length 432 to the predetermined distance 420 can range from 12.0 to 16.0, and the predetermined distance 420 can range from 3.0 mm to 9.0 mm.

[0053] Likewise, the first anti-rotation feature 412 can define a maximum circumferential dimension 434 measured as an arc length at the intersection of the radially inner annular surface 410 and the lip 422. The ratio of the lip arc length 432 to the maximum circumferential dimension 434 can range from 3.5 to 4.5, and the maximum circumferential dimension can range from 15.0 mm to 45.0 mm.

[0054] Any of these ranges of ratios or dimensions can be different than specifically mentioned in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0055] Next, the retainer sleeve 400 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, which can be supplied as a replacement component, will be discussed.

[0056] Looking Figure 7The retainer sleeve can have a body 402 that includes an at least partially annular configuration (as previously described herein) that defines a rotational axis 404, a radial direction 406, and a circumferential direction 408. A radially inner annular surface 410 can define a radially inner bore 413. A first anti-rotation feature 412 can extend radially inwardly from the radially inner annular surface 410, which includes a ramped ledge 414 having a locking surface 416 that at least partially faces the circumferential direction 408 and forms an oblique angle 436 in a plane perpendicular to the radial direction 406 with a direction parallel to the rotational axis 404, along the direction parallel to the rotational axis 404.

[0057] In certain embodiments, the oblique angle 436 can range from 50 degrees to 80 degrees, and can at least partially match an angle of the ramped face 318 of the retainer 302 (see Figure 6 ) as previously described herein. Further, the body 402 can include at least one of the following: plastic, rubber, elastomer, mesh (e.g., having gaps), and foam. This can help to make the body 402 resilient, such that the body 402 can deform and spring back during assembly, locking, and unlocking, as previously described herein.

[0058] With continued reference to Figure 7 , the first anti-rotation feature 412 can further include a cam surface 438 (also referred to as a first transition surface) that extends radially inwardly and circumferentially from the locking surface 416. A ramp 440 can also be provided that extends circumferentially from the cam surface 438 to the radially inner annular surface 412. Due to the configuration of the locking surface 416, the cam surface 438, and the ramp 440, the cam surface 438 can have a triangular shape (e.g., a triangular perimeter 438a), and the ramp 440 can include an arcuate surface 442. Other configurations of these features are possible in other embodiments of the present disclosure. The functions of these different features of the first anti-rotation feature 412 will be discussed later herein.

[0059] Looking at Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the at least partially annular configuration of the body 402 defines an angular range 444 about the rotational axis 404, a first axial end 446 disposed along the rotational axis 404, and a second axial end 448 disposed along the rotational axis 404. The body 402 can have a lip 422 disposed at the first axial end 446 that extends along the entire angular range 444. This can not be the case in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0060] As described previously herein, the lip 422 can extend radially through the first anti-rotation feature 412. Further, the first anti-rotation feature 412 can extend axially away from the lip 422 toward the second axial end 448, defining a maximum axial dimension 450 of the first anti-rotation feature 412. Similarly, the first anti-rotation feature 412 also defines a maximum radial dimension 452 measured radially from the radially inner annular surface 410 to a radially terminal end of the first anti-rotation feature 412. Further, the radially inner bore 413 can define an inner diameter 454 (see Figure 11 ), and a radially inner bore axial depth 456 (see Figure 7 ) measured axially from the lip 422 to the second axial end 448.

[0061] In certain embodiments, a ratio of the radially inner bore axial depth 456 of the radially inner bore 413 to the maximum axial dimension 450 of the first anti-rotation feature 412 can range from 1.5 to 2.5, and a ratio of the inner diameter 454 of the radially inner bore 413 to the maximum radial dimension 452 of the first anti-rotation feature can range from 10.0 to 15.0. In such embodiments, the maximum axial dimension 450 can range from 7.0 mm to 16.0 mm, and the maximum radial dimension 452 can range from 2.0 mm to 5.0 mm.

[0062] Another retainer sleeve 400 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure can be described with reference to Figure 7 as follows.

[0063] The retainer sleeve 400 can include a body 402 comprising at least a partial annular configuration defining an axis of rotation 404, a radial direction 406, a circumferential direction 408, a first axial end 446 disposed along the axis of rotation 404, and a second axial end 448 disposed along the axis of rotation 404.

[0064] The radially inner annular surface 412 can define a radially inner bore 413, a detent feature comprising a rib 418 extending radially inwardly from the radially inner annular surface 412. The rib 418 can define a rib radial height 458 (see also Figure 9 ), and a lip 422 disposed at the first axial end 446 that extends radially and circumferentially through the rib 418. The rib 418 can extend axially from the lip 422 toward the second axial end 448, defining a rib axial length 460. Further, the radially inner annular surface 410 can define an inner diameter 454' (see Figure 11 ), and a radially inner bore axial depth 456, as just mentioned herein above.

[0065] In certain embodiments, the ratio of the radially inner bore axial depth 456 to the web axial length 460 can range from 1.5 to 1.0, and the ratio of the inner diameter 454' to the web radial height 458 can range from 22.0 to 30.0. In such embodiments, the web axial length 460 can range from 15.0 mm to 32.0 mm, and the web radial height 458 can range from 1.0 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0066] Further, the body 402 can comprise at least one of the following: plastic, rubber, elastomer, a mesh structure (e.g., a honeycomb structure), and a foam, making the body 402 an elastic body.

[0067] Next, consider Figures 12 to 16 Another embodiment of a retainer and retainer sleeve assembly 500 will be discussed. It should be noted that this assembly and its components can be similarly or identically configured as the previously referenced Figures 3 to 11 assemblies and components thereof discussed herein, except for the possible following distinctions. The body 602 of the retainer sleeve 600 can comprise an outer peripheral surface 662 and an array of a plurality of outer webs 664 extending radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface 662, and can define a notch 666 radially aligned with the first anti-rotation feature 612.

[0068] In some embodiments, as best seen in Figure 15 , at least one of the plurality of outer webs 664' can be disposed axially above the notch 666 and axially terminate short of the notch 666. This notch 666 can be shaped to allow the retainer sleeve 600 to move radially outwardly in the local area of the first anti-rotation feature 612 during assembly when locking or unlocking the retainer in the pocket (also referred to herein as a retention mechanism receiving aperture) of the tip. The outer web 664' can provide some stiffness to the retainer sleeve 600 in the vicinity of the first anti-rotation feature 612 during the locking and unlocking operations by reducing the amount of spacing 518 between the retainer sleeve 600 and the wall of the pocket (see Figure 13 ). This can be helpful when the pocket is oversized, or the like.

[0069] As best seen in Figure 14 , at least one of the plurality of outer webs 664 can be disposed proximate the first circumferential end 630 and / or the second circumferential end 630'. In this case, the at least one outer web 664 disposed proximate the first circumferential end 630 and / or the second circumferential end 630' can extend from the first axial end 646 to the second axial end 648 (i.e., at least 90% of the axial height of the retainer sleeve as best seen in Figure 13 ). This can not be the case in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0070] Continuing with referenceFigure 13 At least one of the plurality of outer ribs 664 defines a contact surface 676 that diverges from the pair of angled surfaces 626, 626' resulting in a V-shaped configuration with an apex 668 that can or can not be truncated or reduced in size. In some embodiments, the V-shaped configuration of the outer ribs 664 can be divided into an upper portion and a lower portion by providing a gap between the upper portion and the lower portion, if desired.

[0071] Now focusing on Figures 14 to 16 A retainer sleeve 600 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described, which can provide as a replacement component. As noted herein, the outer peripheral surface 662 can define a notch 666 that is at least partially radially aligned with the first anti-rotation feature 612. It should be noted that the outer peripheral surface 662 can be configured differently than shown. As such, the outer peripheral surface 662 can constitute a single cylindrical surface, a single conical surface, etc. In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the notch 666 can have a radial notch depth 670 (see Figure 14 ) and a circumferential notch width 672 ranging from 1.0 mm to 5.0 mm. The outer ribs 664 can be disposed on each circumferential side 674 of the notch 666 (e.g., across the notch), but need not be. In other words, at least one of the plurality of outer ribs 664 can be disposed circumferentially proximate to the notch. This notch can be omitted entirely in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0072] The at least one outer rib 664' can extend from the outer peripheral surface that is axially disposed above the notch 666. The array of the plurality of outer ribs 664 can be circumferentially arranged about the rotational axis 604. One or both of the outer ribs 664, 664' can be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0073] When such outer ribs 664 are provided, one outer rib 664 can be disposed proximate to the first circumferential end 630, while another outer rib 664 can be disposed proximate to the second circumferential end 630'. This can not be the case in other embodiments of the present disclosure. Further, at least one of the plurality of outer ribs 664 can be radially aligned with the inner rib 618 that functions as a stop feature. This can not be the case in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0074] As noted earlier herein, the outer peripheral surface 662 can include a pair of angled surfaces 626, 626' and at least one of the plurality of outer ribs 664 includes a contact surface 676 that diverges from at least one of the pair of angled surfaces 626, 626' by a divergence distance 678 (see Figure 13). At least one of the plurality of outer ribs 664 includes a V-shaped configuration in a plane containing the rotational axis 604 and the radial direction 606. At least one of the plurality of outer ribs 664 extends from the first axial end 646 to the second axial end 648, but need not necessarily do so. Further, in some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of outer ribs 664 defines a rib thickness 680 (the smallest dimension measured in a direction perpendicular to the radial direction 606, see Figure 14 ).

[0075] Further, it should be noted that any of the ranges, dimensions, angles, surface areas, and / or configurations of various features can vary as desired or needed, including those not specifically mentioned herein. Although not specifically discussed, fillets such as rounded corners are shown to connect various surfaces. These can be omitted in other embodiments, and it should be understood that their presence can sometimes be ignored in reading this specification, unless specifically mentioned otherwise.

[0076] Industrial Utility

[0077] Indeed, the machine, work implement assembly, tip assembly or wear member assembly, tip and adapter assembly, retainer sleeve, retainer and retainer sleeve assembly, and / or any combination of these various assemblies and components can be manufactured, purchased, or sold for field retrofitting of a machine or work implement assembly in an aftermarket environment, or alternatively, can be manufactured, purchased, sold, or otherwise obtained in an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) environment.

[0078] Any of the above components can be made of any suitable material, including iron, gray cast iron, steel, plastic, rubber, foam, etc.

[0079] The features of the retainer sleeve and retainer as previously described herein can operate as follows to facilitate a secure locked configuration and a less secure unlocked configuration.

[0080] First, (with reference to Figure 5 It is best understood that the retainer 302 and the retainer sleeve 400 snap into the retainer sleeve receiving slot 226 and the retaining mechanism receiving bore 222. The retainer sleeve 400 is configured such that it has sufficient resiliency to deform locally and / or as a whole such that it can snap into the retainer sleeve receiving slot 226 and has sufficient rigidity to stay therein. The lip 422 of the retainer sleeve 400 axially maintains the retainer 302 in place. The lip 422 extends completely around the perimeter of the retainer sleeve 400 to provide secure axial retention of the retainer 302 in the retaining mechanism receiving bore 222.

[0081] As by way of Figure 3 , Figure 6、 Figure 7 、 Figure 9 and Figure 11 It can be appreciated that the detent feature of the rib 418 provides a slight retention force to maintain the retainer 302 in the locked and / or unlocked position. This slight retention force can be easily overcome by inserting a tool into the drive portion 304 of the retainer 302. The first anti-rotation feature 412 provides a more robust retention force than the detent feature. Thus, one skilled in the art can refer to the first anti-rotation feature 412 as the primary means for preventing rotation of the retainer 302, while the detent feature can be referred to as the secondary means for preventing rotation of the retainer 302 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

[0082] As best understood with reference to Figure 7 The first anti-rotation feature 412 includes a ramp 440 having a greater circumferential extent than the cam surface 438, and a locking surface 416. Thus, the force required to rotate the retainer 302 from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration is less than the force required to unlock the retainer 302.

[0083] More specifically, when the ramp 440 contacts the skirt 316 of the retainer 302, the wedging or camming effect provided by the ramp 440 more easily expands the retainer sleeve 400 into the spacing (part of 226) found between the tip 202 and the retainer sleeve 400 (and provides a local deformation) than when the process is reversed to achieve the unlocked configuration.

[0084] The ramped angle 436 of the locking surface 416 provides less wedging or camming effect to expand the retainer sleeve 400 as the retainer 302 is rotated from the locked position to the unlocked position. If sufficient force is applied, the skirt 316 of the retainer 302 eventually contacts the cam surface 438, which primarily deflects the first anti-rotation feature 412 radially outward into the gap 424. The retainer 302 can then be more easily rotated to achieve the unlocked configuration. Thus, the likelihood of undesirable rotation of the retainer 302 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration is reduced.

[0085] In some applications, the pocket for receiving the retaining mechanism can be over-sized. In such cases, the retainer sleeve 600 shown and described herein with reference to Figures 12 to 16 may be employed. To this end, the number and size of the outer ribs can be adapted to provide a suitable amount of stiffness to the sleeve, while also removing some or all of the draft or spacing between the walls of the pocket and the retainer sleeve. In some applications where the pocket is small, the outer ribs can be deformable to fit into the pocket. The outer ribs can also provide a centering function in the pocket or the like.

[0086] In the same or other applications, it can be desirable to provide a notch to allow the retainer sleeve to locally flex in the pocket near the tip of the first anti-rotation feature during rotation of the retainer.

[0087] As noted earlier herein, it can be desirable to have embodiments that are less prone to tipping or standing up the retainer in the pocket of the tip or other wear member. Figures 17 to 24 Such embodiments are shown, but are not limited thereto. It should be understood that Figures 17 to 24 Any of the embodiments and features thereof shown in FIGS. 1-3 can be added to or substituted for the features of the embodiments previously discussed herein, and vice versa. All of the embodiments discussed herein can be produced using similar or identical materials and manufacturing processes.

[0088] Looking Figures 17 to 21 A wear member assembly 700 configured in this manner can include a wear member 800 itself having a body including a forwardly closed portion 802, a rearwardly open portion 804 defining a cavity 806, an exterior surface 808, and an interior surface 810 defining the cavity 806. The wear member can take any suitable shape and form, and include a tip or other working tool member that can be attached to a working implement such as a shovel to perform work on a working material such as ground. Alternatively or additionally, the wear member can take the form of a shroud, base edge protector, or any other member intended to protect a working implement from wear but not necessarily perform work on a working material such as ground. As such, the cavity of the rearwardly open portion can have a closed perimeter or can be a laterally through-going slot, etc.

[0089] The wear member 800 can also define a retainer mechanism receiving hole 812 including an interior portion 814 (see Figure 20 ) defined by the interior surface 810, an exterior portion 816 defined by the exterior surface 808. A ring 818 (also referred to as a “rib,” “crosspiece,” etc.) at least partially separates the interior portion 814 from the exterior portion 816.

[0090] As Figure 20 and Figure 21 As best seen in FIGS. 1-3, a retainer sleeve 702 can be provided configured in a manner consistent with any of the embodiments of the retainer sleeve discussed herein. As such, the retainer sleeve 702 can include a body having an at least partially annular configuration defining a rotational axis 704 (so called because the shape allows the retainer to be rotated as previously described herein), a radial direction 706, and a circumferential direction 708.

[0091] In particular, the annular configuration can be defined at least in part by a radially inner annular surface 710 (e.g., a conical surface, a cylindrical surface, a polygonal surface, etc.) that defines a radially inner bore 712. The retainer sleeve 702 can be disposed in an inner portion 814 of the retention mechanism receiving bore 812, with the ring 818 radially overhanging the body of the retention sleeve 702. The ring 818 can extend circumferentially about the axis of rotation 704 through an angle 820 of greater than 190.0 degrees (see Figure 18 ). More particularly, the angle 820 can be greater than 270.0 degrees, or can range from 345.0 degrees to 355.0 degrees (with a nominal value of 350.0 degrees). These features and angles can differ in other embodiments of the present disclosure. When present, the additional guide for the retainer can thus be provided by the added ring that helps prevent the retainer from tipping over or standing up in use.

[0092] In Figure 21 , it can be seen that the ring 818 defines a through-slot 822 that communicates with the inner portion 814 and the outer portion 816 (see Figures 17 to 20 ) of the retention mechanism receiving bore 812. As can be seen in Figure 21 , the through-slot 822 extends radially outwardly without reaching the radially inner annular surface 710 of the retainer sleeve 702. This can not be the case in other embodiments of the present disclosure. Further, the through-slot 822 can at least partially define a polygonal perimeter 824 (e.g., a rectangular perimeter, etc.) projected onto a plane that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation 704. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments of the present disclosure. As can be seen in Figure 20 , the ring 818 can define an inner diameter 826 that is concentric with the radially inner annular surface 710 of the retainer sleeve 702.

[0093] Referring now to Figure 18 and Figure 19 , the through-slot 822 can communicate with a hook-protrusion receiving slot 828 of the outer portion 816 of the retention mechanism receiving bore 812. The hook-protrusion receiving slot 828 can be circumferentially bounded by a first stop surface 830 and a second stop surface 832 (so-called because rotation of the retainer 900 is limited by these surfaces when the hook-protrusion 908 abuts the first and second stop surfaces 830, 832). The through-slot 822 can be circumferentially spaced apart from the first stop surface 830, with the ring portion 818a disposed between the first stop surface 830 and the through-slot 822. This feature can be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0094] Further, a ramp 833 can be located on the ring portion 818a facing the exterior surface 816, which extends circumferentially from the through slot 822 toward the first stop surface 830. This ramp can help seat the retainer and retainer sleeve axially outward as the retainer is rotated. This ramp can be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure. In additional embodiments, this ramp can be circumferentially located between the through slot and the second stop surface, among others.

[0095] Figure 20 The interior portion 814 depicting the retainer mechanism receiving bore 812 includes a pair of radially angled surfaces 834, 834a that form an obtuse angle 836 with respect to one another, creating an undercut along the axis of rotation 704. This feature helps maintain the retainer and retainer sleeve in place in the manner previously discussed herein. To this end, the retainer sleeve includes a pair of radially outer surfaces that are complementarily shaped to the radially angled surfaces of the interior portion of the retainer mechanism receiving bore.

[0096] Further, a lug receiving groove 837 (also seen in Figure 21 ) can extend from the interior portion 814 of the retainer mechanism receiving bore 812 to the exterior surface in the manner previously discussed herein for receiving the lug of the adapter during assembly. These features can be variously configured or omitted entirely in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0097] With continued reference to Figure 20 , the retainer 900 can be part of the assembly 700. The retainer 900 can have a drive portion 902 that extends axially through the ring 818 of the wear member 800 toward the exterior surface 808. The retainer 900 can also include a skirt 904 that is axially inserted between the ring 818 of the wear member 800 and the lip 714 of the retainer sleeve 702. The ring 818 of the wear member 800 can be configured to axially contact the skirt 904 at a top annular face 906 thereof.

[0098] Looking at Figures 17 to 19 , Figure 22 and Figure 24 , it can be seen that the retainer 900 also includes a hook-shaped protrusion 908 that extends radially from the drive portion 902, creating a channel 910 (seen in Figure 24 ) that extends circumferentially between the hook-shaped protrusion 908 and the skirt 904.

[0099] In Figure 22During the assembly illustrated, the retainer 900 snaps into the retainer sleeve 702, with the hook-shaped protrusion 908 aligned with the through slot 822 of the ring 818 of the wear member 800. Once the hook-shaped protrusion has axially passed through the through slot, the retainer 900 can rotate together with the ring 818 of the wear member 800, which is radially disposed in the channel 910, as if... Figures 18 to 20 These are understood together. Now, thanks to the added guides described earlier in this article, the retaining mechanism (e.g., the retainer) is less likely to tip over or stand upright.

[0100] Focus Figure 24 The retainer 900, which is available as a replacement part, will now be described in more detail.

[0101] The retainer 900 may include a drive portion 902 and a lug receiving portion 912, the drive portion 902 defining a drive portion outer diameter OD902, and the lug receiving portion 912 defining a lug receiving slot 914 that extends partially through the lug receiving portion 912, forming a first sidewall 916, a second sidewall 918, and a retaining surface 920 connecting the first sidewall 916 to the second sidewall 918 (see...). Figure 20 ).

[0102] More specifically, a skirt 904 is provided that at least partially defines the first sidewall 916, the second sidewall 918, and the retaining surface 920. The skirt 904 may define a skirt outer diameter OD904 larger than the outer diameter OD902 of the drive portion (see...). Figure 24 This may not be the case in other embodiments of this disclosure. Similarly, the hook-shaped protrusion 908 may extend radially from the drive portion 902 and may be spaced apart from the skirt portion 904 by a minimum distance 922 (see...). Figure 24 (e.g., at least 1.0 mm) to form channel 910. In other words, the hook-shaped protrusion 908 may define a hook-shaped axial thickness T908 greater than or equal to the minimum distance 922. Other configurations and dimensions are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0103] The drive portion 902 may include a drive portion arcuate surface 924 (e.g., it may be conical, cylindrical, etc.), which defines a rotation axis (once such as...). Figure 20 As shown in the assembly, it can coincide with 704), in the radial direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation (once as shown). Figure 20 As shown in the assembly, it can coincide with 706) and the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation (once as shown) Figure 18 The assembly shown can overlap with 708. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0104] exist Figure 20 andFigure 24 In the middle, the skirt portion 904 may also have a skirt-shaped arched surface 926 centered on the axis of rotation. Figure 24 In the middle, the hook-shaped protrusion 908 defines a hook-shaped radial end 928, which is radially spaced from the axis of rotation by a radial dimension 930 less than half of the outer diameter OD904 of the skirt (radial dimension 930 is equal to the radial dimension 932 of the skirt).

[0105] exist Figure 24 As can be seen, the skirt portion defines a first stop recess 934, which is axially disposed below the hook-shaped protrusion 908. This may not be the case in other embodiments of this disclosure. As shown, the first stop recess 934 may take the form of a first groove 936 that extends axially through the skirt portion 904 on the skirt's arcuate surface 926 (but not necessarily). Moreover, in various embodiments of this disclosure, the skirt portion 904 may define a second groove 936a that extends axially through the skirt portion 904 on the skirt's arcuate surface 926 and is circumferentially spaced from the first groove 936 by an angle range 938 from 160.0 degrees to 200.0 degrees. Again, this may not be the case in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0106] The hook-shaped protrusion 908 can be complementaryly formed with the through slot of the wear member. Therefore, as Figure 19 and Figure 24 As shown, the hook-shaped protrusion 908 may include: a first straight surface 940 extending from the arcuate surface 924 of the drive portion; a second straight surface 942 extending from the arcuate surface 924 of the drive portion; and a third straight surface 944 tangent to the circumferential direction and connecting the first straight surface 940 to the second straight surface 942, forming a hook-shaped radial end 928.

[0107] like Figure 24 As can be seen, a flat bottom surface 946 extends from the arcuate surface 924 of the drive portion, connecting the first straight surface 940, the second straight surface 942, and the third straight surface 944 together. Therefore, this arrangement defines a channel 910 for receiving the ring of the wear member, and a polygonal periphery that matches the periphery of the through slot of the ring of the wear member. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0108] Now from Figures 17 to 19 and Figure 23 Further details of the wear component 800, which can be provided as a replacement part, will now be discussed.

[0109] Such a wear member 800 can include a body including a forward closed portion 802, a rear open portion 804 defining a cavity 806, an exterior surface 808, and an interior surface 810 defining the cavity 806, as previously described herein.

[0110] The body of the wear member 800 can also define a retention mechanism receiving bore 812 including an interior portion 814 defined by the interior surface 810, an exterior portion 816 defined by the exterior surface 816, and a ring 818 separating or partitioning the interior portion 814 from the exterior portion 816.

[0111] Focus Figure 23 The exterior portion 816 of the retention mechanism receiving bore 812 can include a drive portion receiving bore 838 (so called because it mates with a drive portion of the retainer) having an arcuate surface 840 (which can be cylindrical, conical, polynomial, etc.) defining a first outer diameter D840. The hook protrusion receiving slot 828 can define a second outer diameter D828 that is greater than the first outer diameter D840. The ring 818 can extend radially inwardly from the second outer diameter D828 to form a bottom of the hook protrusion receiving slot 828. In some embodiments of the disclosure, a first circumferential stop surface (see 830, for example) is circumferentially spaced apart from a second circumferential stop surface (see 830, for example) by a predetermined angle 842 ranging from 160.0 degrees to 200.0 degrees. In other embodiments of the disclosure, other configurations and dimensions are possible.

[0112] As previously described herein, the ring 818 defines a through slot 822 that is in communication with the interior portion 814 and the exterior portion 816 of the retention mechanism receiving bore 812.

[0113] Further, the ring 818 can define an inner diameter 826 that is concentric with (and can coextend as shown) the first outer diameter D840 and is less than the second outer diameter D828. The second outer diameter D828 can be concentric with the inner diameter 826, and the through slot 822 can be circumferentially spaced apart from a first circumferential stop surface (see 830, for example), with a ring portion 818a disposed between the first circumferential stop surface and the through slot 822. This can not be the case in other embodiments of the disclosure. When present, the remainder of the ring 818 can extend circumferentially from the through slot 822 to another stop surface (see 832, for example).

[0114] The ramp 833 on the inner portion 814 of the retaining mechanism receiving bore 812 can face axially outwardly toward the outer surface 816 of the wear member 800. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ramp 833 can extend circumferentially from the through slot 822 toward the first circumferential stop surface (see, e.g., 830), the ramp 833 stopping short of the first circumferential stop surface.

[0115] Moreover, the inner portion 814 of the retaining mechanism receiving bore 812 can include a pair of radially angled surfaces 834, 834a that are angled relative to one another, forming an undercut along the axis of rotation 704. Other retention methods for maintaining the retaining mechanism in the wear member can be employed in other embodiments of the present disclosure. As Figure 24 As seen in FIG. 8, the lug receiving groove 837 previously mentioned herein can extend from the inner portion of the retaining mechanism receiving bore toward the outer surface of the wear member.

[0116] It is to be understood that the foregoing description provides examples of the disclosed components and techniques. However, it is contemplated that other implementations of the present disclosure can depart from the foregoing examples in some respects. All references to the disclosure or examples thereof are intended to refer to the particular example discussed where such discussion is present, and are not intended to more generally recite any aspect of the disclosure unless expressly indicated otherwise. All language of distinction and disparagement with respect to certain features is intended to indicate a lack of preference for such features, but is not intended to completely exclude such features from the scope of the present disclosure unless otherwise indicated.

[0117] Unless otherwise indicated herein, recitation of a numerical range herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate numerical value falling within the range, and each separate value is incorporated in the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

[0118] As used herein, the articles “a” and “an” are intended to include one or more items, and can be used interchangeably with “one or more.” Where only one item is intended, the term “one” or similar language is used. Also, as used herein, the terms “has,” “have,” “having,” “with” and the like are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to mean “based, at least in part, on” unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0119] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments of devices and assembly methods discussed herein without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. Other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of various embodiments disclosed herein. For example, some devices can be constructed and function differently than has been described herein, and certain steps of any method can be omitted, performed in a different order than specifically mentioned, or in some cases performed simultaneously or in sub-steps. In addition, changes or modifications can be made to certain aspects or features of various embodiments to yield further embodiments, and features and aspects of various embodiments can be added to or substituted for other features or aspects of other embodiments in order to provide yet further embodiments.

[0120] Accordingly, the disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, unless specifically stated otherwise herein, or in the cited information otherwise apparent to one of ordinary skill, the present disclosure includes any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof.

Claims

1. A retainer (900), comprising: Drive portion (902), said drive portion (902) defining drive portion outer diameter (OD902), and Lug receiving portion (912), said lug receiving portion (912) defines A lug receiving slot (914) extends partially through the lug receiving portion (912) to form a first sidewall (916), a second sidewall (918), and a retaining surface (920) connecting the first sidewall (916) to the second sidewall (918), and includes... Skirt (904), the skirt (904) at least partially defining the first sidewall (916), the second sidewall (918) and the retaining surface (920), the skirt (904) defining a skirt outer diameter (OD904) greater than the outer diameter (OD902) of the drive portion. The drive portion (902) further includes a hook-shaped protrusion (908) that extends radially from the drive portion (902) and is spaced apart from the skirt portion (904) by a minimum distance (922).

2. The retainer (900) according to claim 1, wherein the drive portion (902) includes a drive portion arcuate surface (924) defining a rotation axis (704), a radial direction (706) perpendicular to the rotation axis (704) and a circumferential direction (708) about the rotation axis (704), and the skirt (904) includes a skirt arcuate surface (926) centered on the rotation axis (704).

3. The retainer (900) according to claim 2, wherein the hook-shaped protrusion (908) defines a hook-shaped radial end (928), the hook-shaped radial end (928) being radially spaced from the axis of rotation (704) by a radial dimension (930) less than half of the outer diameter of the skirt (OD904).

4. The retainer (900) according to claim 2, wherein the minimum distance (922) is measured axially and is at least 1.0 mm, the hook-shaped protrusion (908) defines a hook-shaped axial thickness (T908), and the hook-shaped axial thickness (T908) is greater than or equal to the minimum distance (922).

5. The retainer (900) according to claim 2, wherein the skirt (904) defines a first stop recess (934), the first stop recess (934) being axially disposed below the hook-shaped protrusion (908), and The hook-shaped protrusion (908) includes: A first straight surface (940) extends from the arcuate surface (924) of the drive portion; A second straight surface (942) extends from the arcuate surface (924) of the drive portion; a third straight surface (944) is tangent to the circumferential direction (708) and connects the first straight surface (940) to the second straight surface (942); and a flat bottom surface (946) extends from the arcuate surface (924) of the drive portion and connects the first straight surface (940), the second straight surface (942) and the third straight surface (944) together.

6. A wear member (800), comprising: The main body, the main body includes The forward-closed portion (802) and the rear opening portion (804) of the defining cavity (806); external surface(808); The internal surface (810) of the cavity (806) is defined; and The retaining mechanism receiving hole (812) includes an inner portion (814) defined by the inner surface (810), an outer portion (816) defined by the outer surface (808), and a ring (818) separating the inner portion (814) from the outer portion (816). The ring (818) defines a through slot (822) that communicates with the inner portion (814) and the outer portion (816) of the retaining mechanism receiving hole (812).

7. The wear member (800) according to claim 6, wherein the outer portion (816) includes a drive portion receiving hole (838) having an arcuate surface (840) and a hook-shaped protrusion receiving slot (828), the arcuate surface (840) defining a first outer diameter (D840), a radial direction (706), a rotation axis (704), and a circumferential direction (708), the hook-shaped protrusion receiving slot (828) defining a second outer diameter (D828) greater than the first outer diameter (D840), and the ring (818) extending radially inward from the second outer diameter (D828), a first circumferential stop surface (830), and a second circumferential stop surface (832), the second circumferential stop surface (832) being circumferentially spaced from the first circumferential stop surface (830) by a predetermined angle (842), the predetermined angle (842) ranging from 160.0 degrees to 200.0 degrees.

8. The wear member (800) according to claim 7, wherein the ring (818) defines an inner diameter (826) concentric with the first outer diameter (D840) and smaller than the second outer diameter (D828), the second outer diameter (D828) being concentric with the inner diameter (826), and the through slot (822) being circumferentially spaced from the first circumferential stop surface (830), wherein the ring portion (818a) is disposed between the first circumferential stop surface (830) and the through slot (822).

9. The wear member (800) according to claim 8 further includes a ramp (833) on the ring (818) facing the outer surface (808), the ramp (833) extending circumferentially from the through slot (822) toward the first circumferential stop surface (830), the inner portion (814) of the retaining mechanism receiving hole (812) including a pair of radially angled surfaces (830, 832) and a lug receiving groove (837), the pair of radially angled surfaces (830, 832) forming an undercut along the axis of rotation (704), the lug receiving groove (837) extending from the inner portion of the retaining mechanism receiving hole (812) to the outer surface (808).

Images