Excavating assembly with pivot fastening system

Abstract

A locking assembly includes a lock body having a bore extending from a top surface to a lateral side surface and a pin configured to be received in the bore. A wear member configured for use with the locking assembly has an upper leg, a passage extending through the upper leg, and a securing base recess formed in an underside of the upper leg. The securing base recess extends laterally between two opposing channels, each channel having a lower surface angled downward toward one another. A securing base configured for use with the locking assembly has a central opening extending through a top surface and bounded at a front side by a locking wall configured to engage a portion of the lock. Opposing first and second wings extend upward and laterally outward away from the central opening and have lower surfaces angled downward toward the central opening.

Description

[0001] priority

[0002] This disclosure claims priority and benefit on the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 329803, filed April 11, 2022, entitled “Excavating Assembly with PivotFastening System,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to a digging assembly including a fastener assembly for securing wear member components to the digging assembly. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a wear member system secured using a releasable fastening system having an improved locking assembly with a pivoting locking component. Background Technology

[0004] Material displacement devices or material displacement base structures (such as excavating buckets and / or the lip attached to excavating buckets on construction, mining, and other earthmoving equipment) typically include replaceable wear components, such as grounding teeth, adapters, wear wheels, guards, etc. These wear components typically come into abrasive contact with the soil or other material being displaced. For example, an excavating tooth assembly forming part of a material displacement device or attached to a base structure (such as an excavating bucket or lip) typically includes a relatively large adapter portion that is properly anchored to the structure of the equipment (e.g., the front bucket lip). Replaceable teeth typically include openings that releasably receive the nose of the adapter, and the teeth are secured to the adapter using a fastening mechanism.

[0005] To reduce wear or damage to the base structure between gear assemblies (which are typically spaced along the edges of the base structure), a guard can be fixed to the base structure between the gear assemblies. The guard can also be positioned along the vertical sides or wings at the edges of the base structure.

[0006] There are many different types of fastening mechanisms for securing the guard to the bucket lip or other base structure. One method of mounting the guard to the bucket is to form a series of holes vertically through the front lip portion of the bucket lip. The corresponding holes are formed vertically through the guard, and with the guard in place on the front lip portion, the corresponding holes align and a wedge is driven through the corresponding holes. However, the aforementioned wedge method for mounting the guard to the digging bucket has disadvantages. For example, the wedge method removes material from the front lip portion by forming a series of holes through the bucket. This can weaken the front lip portion and provide additional surface exposure where wear may occur. Furthermore, these wedge methods may require hammering the wedge into place. The need to hammer the wedge in and out can be challenging and time-consuming.

[0007] Various alternatives to the knock-in fastening mechanism have been proposed for releasably retaining the shroud on the digging bucket. While these alternative fastening mechanisms ideally eliminate the need to knock the wedge in and out of the bucket lip, they typically have various other types of problems, limitations, and disadvantages, including but not limited to complexity of configuration and use or undesirable high costs. In one example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,713,145 to Ruvang, a shroud with a generally C-shaped cross-section is removably attached to the front edge of the digging bucket lip by first placing the front edge of the digging bucket lip inside the wear-resistant shroud, such that the top and bottom legs of the shroud extend along the top and bottom sides of the lip, respectively. Then, after the shroud is positioned on the bucket lip, the rear end portions of the top shroud legs are removably secured to a base structure welded to the top side of the lip using J-bolts inserted into the top legs. The nuts screwed onto the J-bolts at the rear of the top cover legs and facing the welded base structure prevent the installed, worn cover from being removed forward from the bucket lip. While this particular system has proven well-suited to its intended use, there is still room for improvement. For example, the system requires a relatively high frontal projection area for a portion of each cover, which increases the resistance of the cover to penetrating the material being excavated. Furthermore, the portion of the fastening mechanism exposed to the excavated material may suffer undesirable wear.

[0008] Some types of fastening mechanisms include components that can rotate between a locked position and an unlocked position. However, continuous vibration, high shock, and cyclic loading of the housing can cause the fastening mechanism to rotate unintentionally from the locked to the unlocked position. This can lead to excessive wear of the fastening mechanism and / or unintentional release of the housing, or may affect the service life of both the fastening mechanism and the housing.

[0009] Therefore, an improved shield assembly fastening mechanism is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Consistent with some examples, a locking assembly for securing a worn member to a support structure may include a lock body and a pin. The lock body may have a top surface, a first lateral side surface, and a hole extending linearly along an axis intersecting the top surface and the first lateral side surface. The pin may be configured to be received in the hole of the lock body. The pin may include a head, an end, and a shaft extending between the head and the end. The pin may have a retracted configuration and a seated configuration, in which the end is retained within the hole, and in the seated configuration, the shaft extends laterally outward beyond the first lateral side surface from the hole.

[0011] In some examples, the pin can be configured to switch between a retracted configuration and a seated configuration by rotation about an axis. The hole in the lock body may include a first set of threads, and the pin's shaft may have a second set of threads corresponding to the first set. The lock body may have a pin stop mechanism. A portion of the pin stop mechanism may extend into the hole. The pin may have a first notch disposed along the upper portion of the second set of threads. The first notch may be configured to receive this portion of the pin stop mechanism when the pin is in the seated configuration. The pin stop mechanism may include a flexible member and a rigid member fixed to the flexible member. The portion of the pin stop mechanism extending into the hole may include a portion of the rigid member. The pin may have a second notch disposed along the lower portion of the second set of threads. The second notch may be configured to receive this portion of the pin stop mechanism when the pin is in the retracted configuration. Engagement of this portion of the pin stop mechanism with the second notch retains the end of the pin in the hole and prevents rotation of the pin.

[0012] In some examples, a first recess may be formed in the top surface of the lock body, and a hole may lead to the first recess. A second recess may be formed in the lock body and extend between the hole and the first recess. The second recess may be configured to receive a flexible member of the pin stop mechanism. When the pin is in the seated configuration, the head of the pin may be positioned within the first recess.

[0013] In some examples, the lock body includes a second lateral side surface disposed on a side of the lock body opposite to the first lateral side surface, and a bottom surface extending between the first and second lateral side surfaces. The bottom surface may be planar. The first lateral side surface of the lock body may be wider than the second lateral side surface. The lock body may include a toe extending laterally outward from the second lateral side surface. The toe may have an upper surface facing upward and away from the second lateral side surface and a lower surface facing downward and away from the second lateral side surface. A channel may be formed at the junction of the upper surface of the toe and the second lateral side surface, and a apex may be formed at the junction of the upper surface of the toe and the lower surface of the toe. The lock body may include a front surface extending between the first and second lateral side surfaces and a rear surface disposed on a side of the lock body opposite to the front surface. At least a portion of the front surface and at least a portion of the rear surface may be angled outward from the bottom surface to the top surface away from each other. At least a portion of the front surface of the lock body may be angled rearward from the first lateral side surface to the second lateral side surface.

[0014] In some examples, the lock body may have a biasing stop extending outward from the front surface of the lock body. The biasing stop may include a rigid member fixed to a flexible member. The flexible member may be disposed within a cavity formed through the front surface, and the rigid member may extend outward away from the cavity. The lock body may have a protrusion extending outward from the front surface.

[0015] Consistent with some examples, the wear member assembly includes a wear member and a locking assembly. The wear member may include an upper leg extending rearward from a front edge away from the wear member to a rear surface. A passage may extend from the top surface of the upper leg through the upper leg. A support structure recess may be formed in the underside of the upper leg and may extend rearward through the rear surface of the upper leg. The support structure recess may be configured to receive a support structure when the wear member is secured to the excavating device. The passage may extend into the support structure recess. The locking assembly may include a lock body and a pin. The lock body may include a top surface, a first lateral side surface, and a hole extending linearly along an axis intersecting the top surface and the first lateral side surface. The pin may be configured to be received in the hole of the lock body. The pin may have a head, an end, and a shaft extending between the head and the end. The pin may have a retracted configuration and a seated configuration, in which the end is retained within the hole, and in the seated configuration, the shaft extends laterally outward from the hole beyond the first lateral side surface.

[0016] In some examples, the wear member may include a guide channel extending along the wall of the passage, and the lock body may include a protrusion extending outward from the side of the lock body. When the lock body is inserted into the passage from the top surface of the upper leg of the wear member, the protrusion may be configured to travel within the guide channel. The lock body may have a biasing stop extending from the side of the lock body. The biasing stop may include a rigid member fixed to a flexible member. The flexible member may be disposed within a cavity formed in the lock body, and the rigid member may extend outward away from the cavity. The wear member may include a mounting channel formed within the wall of the passage. The mounting channel may taper inward toward the passage in a direction extending from the top surface of the upper leg to a recess in the support structure. When the locking assembly is mounted through the passage, the biasing stop may be configured to travel along the surface of the mounting channel. The wear member may include a notch disposed adjacent to the bottom end of the mounting channel. The notch may be formed deeper in the wall of the passage than the bottom end of the mounting channel. The biasing stop may be configured to engage in the notch when the lock body is mounted.

[0017] In some examples, the dimensions and shape of the lock body and passage can be designed such that the lock body can be installed into the passage in only one orientation around the vertical axis. The central region of the upper leg can have an increased vertical profile relative to the portion of the upper leg on each lateral side of the central region.

[0018] In some examples, the lock body includes a front surface, a bottom surface, and a rear surface. The front surface may taper outward from the bottom surface to the top surface of the lock body. The front surface of the lock body may form an angle of approximately 1-10° with respect to a vertical plane, for example, approximately 2-4°. The lock body may include a second lateral side surface disposed on the side of the lock body opposite to the first lateral side surface, and a bottom surface extending between the first and second lateral side surfaces. The bottom surface may be planar. The first lateral side surface of the lock body may be wider than the second lateral side surface. A first sidewall of the passage may have a width corresponding to the first lateral side surface of the lock body, and a second sidewall of the passage may have a width corresponding to the second lateral side surface of the lock body. The width of the second sidewall of the passage may be smaller than the width of the first lateral side surface of the lock body.

[0019] In some examples, the lock body includes a toe extending laterally outward from a second lateral side surface. The lock body may include a front surface extending between a first lateral side surface and a second lateral side surface, and a rear surface disposed on a side of the lock body opposite to the front surface. At least a portion of the front surface and at least a portion of the rear surface of the lock body may be angled outward from each other from the bottom surface to the top surface of the lock body.

[0020] In some examples, the support structure recess may extend between two opposing channels extending forward from the rear surface of the upper outrigger and may be configured to receive opposing wings of the mounting base. The wear member may be a shroud and may include a lower outrigger extending rearward away from its front edge. The shroud may include a transverse channel formed between the upper and lower outriggers. The transverse channel may be configured to receive a bucket lip. The shroud may include at least one engagement region extending rearward in the transverse channel. The at least one engagement region may be configured to engage the front surface of the bucket lip. In some examples, a portion of the lower outrigger adjacent to, spaced apart from, or in contact with the bottom surface of the lip may form an angle of approximately 10-20°, for example, approximately 15°, relative to the portion of the upper outrigger configured to engage the upper surface of the lip. In some examples, a portion of the lower outrigger adjacent to the bottom surface of the lip may be parallel to the portion of the upper outrigger configured to engage the upper surface of the lip. It is conceivable that the portion of the lower leg adjacent to the bottom surface of the lip can form an angle of approximately 1-35° relative to the portion of the upper leg configured to engage the upper surface of the lip.

[0021] In some examples, when the lock body is seated within the passage of the wear member, the top surface of the lock body can be positioned within the passage, and the bottom surface of the lock body can be substantially flush with the bottom surface of the upper leg of the wear member.

[0022] Consistent with some examples, the wear component for an excavating device may include a front edge, an upper leg extending rearward away from the front edge, a passage extending from the top surface of the wear component through the upper leg, and a mounting base recess formed on the underside of the upper leg and extending through the rear surface of the upper leg. The mounting base recess may extend laterally between two opposing channels extending forward from the rear surface of the upper leg. Each of these two channels may have a lower surface. The lower surfaces of each of the two channels may slope downward toward each other. The mounting base recess may be configured to receive a mounting base that is secured to the lip of the excavating device, wherein wings of the mounting base are received in the two channels. A portion of the bottom surface of the upper leg below each of the two channels may form a planar contact surface configured to engage the lip. In some examples, the portion of the bottom surface of the upper leg forming the planar contact surface may extend along a large portion of the length of the upper leg.

[0023] In some examples, each of the two channels may have a top surface. The top surfaces of each of the two channels may slope downward toward each other. The bottom surface of each of the two channels may slope downward relative to the bottom surface of the upper leg at approximately 10-30°, for example, approximately 18-22°. The two channels may slope longitudinally inward toward each other from their rear surfaces toward their front edges. Each of the two channels may extend forward beyond the front wall of the passageway.

[0024] In some examples, the wear member may include a prying surface extending between the rear surface of the upper leg and the top of the recess in the mounting base. At least one prying surface may extend between the top surface of the wear member and the inner wall of the passage.

[0025] In some examples, the passageway is typically trapezoidal with rounded corners. The guide channel may extend along the wall of the passageway. The guide channel may extend upwards through the top surface and terminate within the passageway at its lower end. The mounting channel may be formed along the front wall of the passageway. The mounting channel may taper inwards towards the rear wall of the passageway in the direction extending from the top surface of the upper leg to the recess of the mounting base. A notch may be provided near the bottom end of the mounting channel. The notch may be formed deeper in the front wall of the passageway than the bottom end of the mounting channel.

[0026] In some examples, at least a portion of the front wall of the passage may be inclined relative to the rear wall of the passage, thereby forming a narrower opening at the bottom of the passage than at the top of the passage. The portion of the front wall may be at an angle of approximately 1-20° relative to the rear wall, for example, approximately 2-16°. This portion of the front wall may also be at an angle of approximately 6° relative to the rear wall.

[0027] In some examples, the portion of the upper outrigger configured to contact the lip edge may form an angle of approximately 10-20° relative to the portion of the lower outrigger configured to be near the lip edge of the wear member. In some examples, this portion of the upper outrigger may be parallel to this portion of the lower outrigger. At least one engagement region may be formed in a transverse channel between the upper and lower outriggers. The at least one engagement region may be configured to engage the front surface of the lip edge. This portion of the lower outrigger may be configured to engage the bottom surface of the lip edge or be adjacent to the lip edge. This portion of the upper outrigger may be configured to contact the upper surface of the lip edge. The engagement region may extend between this portion of the lower outrigger and this portion of the upper outrigger.

[0028] Compared to the lateral portions of the upper outrigger in the central region, the central region of the upper outrigger may have an increased vertical profile. A raised area may be formed in the top surface of the upper outrigger, within the central region. A passage may extend through the raised area.

[0029] Consistent with some examples, the mounting base may include a bottom surface, a top surface, a central opening extending through the top surface, and opposing first and second wings. The central opening may be defined at the front side by a locking wall configured to engage a lock. Each of the first and second wings may extend upward and laterally outward away from the central opening. The first and second wings may have a lower surface sloping downward toward the central opening.

[0030] In some examples, the rear opening may extend through the top and bottom surfaces in an extension that extends from the rear side of the mounting base. The rear opening may be separated from the central opening by lateral walls. The rear wall of the extension may include a prying surface extending between the top surface and the front surface of the rear wall. The lateral walls may include prying surfaces extending between the top surface and the front surface of the lateral walls.

[0031] In some examples, the first and second wings may be tilted at an angle of approximately 1-10° from the front side of the fixed base to the rear side of the fixed base, for example, an angle of approximately 2-8°. The lower surface of each of the first and second wings may be at an angle of approximately 10-30° relative to the bottom surface of the fixed base, for example, an angle of approximately 18-22°.

[0032] In some examples, the mounting base may include opposing first and second sidewalls. Each of the first and second sidewalls may support a corresponding one of the first or second wings. Each of the first and second sidewalls may form a locking recess leading to a central opening. The locking recess may form a laterally inwardly extending overhang.

[0033] In some examples, the locking wall may be inclined relative to the front surface of the fixing base, such that the thickness of the locking wall adjacent to the first wing is less than the thickness of the locking wall adjacent to the second wing. The inner surface of the locking wall facing the central opening may be substantially planar. The inner surface of the locking wall may be inclined outward from the bottom surface toward the top surface relative to the bottom surface of the fixing base.

[0034] Consistent with some examples, the wear member assembly may include a fixed base, a wear member, and a locking assembly. The fixed base may be disposed on a lip and positioned rearward of the leading edge of the lip. The fixed base may include a bottom surface, a top surface, a central opening extending through the top surface, and opposing first and second wings extending upward and laterally outward away from the central opening. The central opening may be defined by a locking wall at the front side and laterally by opposing first and second sidewalls. Each of the first and second sidewalls may include a locking recess. The wear member may include an upper leg, a passage, and a fixed base recess. The upper leg may extend rearwardly away from the leading edge of the wear member to a rear surface. The leading edge may be configured to engage the ground. The passage may extend from the top surface of the upper leg through the upper leg. The fixed base recess may be formed in the underside of the upper leg and may extend rearwardly through the rear surface of the upper leg. The fixed base recess may be configured to receive the fixed base when the wear member is secured to the excavating equipment. The passage may extend into the fixed base recess. The locking assembly may include a lock body and a pin. The lock body may include a top surface, a first lateral side surface, and a hole extending linearly along an axis intersecting the top surface and the first lateral side surface. A pin may be configured to be received in the hole of the lock body. The pin may have a head, an end, and a shaft extending between the head and the end. The pin may have a retracted configuration and a seated configuration, in which the end is retained within the hole, and in the seated configuration, the shaft extends laterally outward beyond the first lateral side surface from the hole.

[0035] In some examples, the locking assembly can be positioned via the top surface of the upper leg of the wear member, such that the lower part of the lock body is disposed in the central opening of the fixed base, while the upper part of the lock body is disposed in the passage of the wear member. When the pin of the locking assembly is in the seated configuration, the locking assembly can be fixed in the fixed base, wherein the end of the pin is disposed in a locking recess in the first sidewall, and the portion of the lock body opposite the first lateral side surface is disposed in a recess in the second sidewall.

[0036] Consistent with some examples, the wear member assembly may include a wear member having an upper leg extending rearward from a front edge away from the wear member to a rear surface. A passage may extend from the top surface through the upper leg. The locking assembly may include a lock body shaped to fit within the passage. The locking assembly may include a top surface and an opposing bottom surface, a portion of the top side surface being wider than a portion of the bottom side surface. The locking assembly may also include a front side surface and an opposing rear side surface extending between the top and bottom surfaces, the front side surface being laterally inclined relative to the rear side surface from a first side of the lock body to a second side of the lock body. A pin may be received in a hole in the lock body. The pin may be extendable from the lock body to prevent the lock body from being removed from the passage.

[0037] In some examples, the pin may include a head, an end, and a shaft extending between the head and the end. The pin may have a retracted configuration and a seated configuration, in which the end is retained within a hole in the lock body, and in the seated configuration, the shaft extends laterally outward beyond a first lateral side surface from the hole. In some examples, the hole may extend linearly along an axis intersecting the top surface and the first lateral side surface.

[0038] Consistent with some examples, the wear component for an excavating device may include a front edge, an upper leg extending rearward away from the front edge, and a passage extending through the upper leg from the top surface of the upper leg. The passage may have a front wall and an opposing rear wall, the front wall sloping from one side of the passage to the opposite side of the passage away from the rear wall. The passage may be shaped as part of receiving a locking assembly.

[0039] In some examples, the front wall may include a guide channel formed therein to receive a portion of the locking assembly. The passage may include a notch shaped to intersect with a portion of the locking assembly, the notch being disposed at the lower portion of the passage and adjacent to the inner surface of the outrigger. The wear member may include a retaining base recess formed in the underside of the upper outrigger and extending through the rear surface of the upper outrigger. The retaining base recess may extend laterally between two opposing channels extending forward from the rear surface of the upper outrigger. Each of the two channels may have a lower surface, wherein the lower surfaces of each of the two channels slope downward toward each other. The retaining base recess may be configured to receive a retaining base secured to the lip of the excavating device, wherein a wing of the retaining base is received in the two channels.

[0040] It should be understood that the foregoing general description, along with the following figures and detailed description, are exemplary and explanatory in nature, intended to provide an understanding of the present disclosure, and not to limit its scope. In this regard, additional aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description and figures. Attached Figure Description

[0041] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a mining system that embodies the principles of this disclosure.

[0043] Figure 2 Through Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the lip guard assembly of the excavation system.

[0044] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an example of a shield according to this disclosure.

[0045] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the protective shield.

[0046] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A rear perspective view of part of the protective shield.

[0047] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A bottom view of the protective shield.

[0048] Figure 7-10 This is a perspective view of an example lock body according to this disclosure.

[0049] Figure 11 yes Figure 7-10 A top view of an example of a lock body.

[0050] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of an example of a pin stop according to this disclosure.

[0051] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of an example of an installed stop according to this disclosure.

[0052] Figure 14 This is a side view of an example of a pin according to this disclosure.

[0053] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of an example of a locking component based on this disclosure.

[0054] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the locking component.

[0055] Figure 17 This is a top view of an example of a fixed base according to this disclosure.

[0056] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 Perspective view of the fixed base.

[0057] Figure 19 yes Figure 17 Cross-sectional view of the fixed base.

[0058] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of an example of a fixed base positioned on the lip of a bucket according to this disclosure.

[0059] Figure 21-23 This is a perspective view of an example of a lip guard assembly according to this disclosure.

[0060] Figure 24-26 This is a cross-sectional view of a locking component installed in a lip guard assembly according to an example of this disclosure.

[0061] Figure 27This is a cross-sectional view of an example of a lip guard assembly according to this disclosure.

[0062] Figures 28-30 This is a cross-sectional view of a disassembled lip guard assembly according to an example of this disclosure.

[0063] Figure 31 An example of a shield according to this disclosure is shown.

[0064] Figures 32A-32B An example of a locking component according to this disclosure is shown.

[0065] Figure 33 An example of a fixed base according to this disclosure is shown.

[0066] These figures will be better understood by referring to the following detailed embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0067] To facilitate understanding of the principles of this disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and they will be described using specific language. However, it should be understood that the scope of this disclosure is not limited. Any changes and further modifications to the described devices, instruments, and methods, as well as any further applications of the principles of this disclosure, are expected by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Furthermore, while this disclosure describes certain elements or features in detail with respect to one or more embodiments or drawings, such identical elements or features are not described at such a high level of detail when they appear in subsequent drawings. It is entirely conceivable that features, components, and / or steps described with respect to one or more embodiments or drawings may be combined with features, components, and / or steps described with respect to other embodiments or drawings of this disclosure. For simplicity, in some cases, the same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings to refer to the same or similar components.

[0068] The directional terms used in this document may refer to directions corresponding to the installed digging assembly, typically based on the surface of the bucket lip. Terms such as “up,” “top,” and “above” may refer to directions extending generally away from the surface of the bucket lip, while terms such as “down,” “bottom,” “below,” or “under” may refer to directions extending generally toward the bucket lip. The term “lateral” may refer to a direction extending along an axis generally parallel to the leading edge of the digging assembly lip or toward the side of the lip. The term “front” may refer to a direction generally facing the leading edge of the lip, while the term “rear” may refer to a direction generally away from the leading edge or toward the bucket where the lip is located.

[0069] This disclosure relates to a digging assembly that may include a fastening system for securing wear-bearing components within the digging assembly. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a lip guard assembly that may include a guard secured to a fixed base using a releasable fastening system having a locking assembly comprising a lock body, a pin positionable within the lock body, and a stop mechanism for securing the lock body within the lip guard assembly and the pin within the lock body. The lock body may be positionable within a portion of the guard and a portion of the fixed base and secured thereto by a snap-fit ​​stop mechanism. The pin may be advanced into the lock body and secured thereto by threads and a snap-fit ​​stop mechanism that provides tactile feedback to the user and / or prevents unintentional loosening or removal of the pin. When so positioned, a portion of the pin may extend into the fixed base or other digging structure such that the pin interferes with removal of the lock body from the fixed base and the guard, and the lock body interferes with removal of the guard from the fixed base. It should be understood that although described in the context of wear components including a protective cover and a support structure with a fixed base, this disclosure is also applicable to securing other wear components to a support structure, such as securing teeth to an adapter, securing intermediate adapters to an adapter, or securing wear wheels to a digging structure.

[0070] Because the locking assembly uses mechanical interference to prevent accidental rotation of the pin, it can withstand vibration, high shock, and cyclic loads while minimizing the possibility of accidental unlocking. Furthermore, some embodiments of the locking assembly can be arranged to produce an audible noise, such as a clicking sound, when various components reach a locked or fixed state. Therefore, users, such as machine operators, can more easily install new guards and replace old ones compared to conventional fastening mechanisms.

[0071] Figure 1 An example of an excavation system 100 according to this disclosure is shown, which includes a bucket lip 102, which may be an integral part of the bucket or a separate component that can be fixed to the bucket by welding or fasteners. The excavation system 100 also includes tooth assemblies 150 located at spaced-apart positions along the leading edge of the bucket lip 102. Between the tooth assemblies 150 are guards 104 secured to the bucket lip 102 using locking assemblies 106. On each side of the bucket lip are vertically extending wings with side guards 105. The side guards may be secured to the bucket lip 102 using the same or similar locking assemblies 106. The excavation system 100 can be found for specific applications in earthmoving equipment. For example, the excavation system 100 can be used in construction, mining, drilling, and other industries.

[0072] Figure 2 Showing the passage Figure 1The cross-section of the excavation system 100, particularly the cross-section through one of the guards 104. A fixing base 108 is fixed to the bucket lip 102. A locking assembly 106 is positioned such that it is partially positioned within the guard 104 and partially positioned within the fixing base 108 to retain the guard 104 on the bucket lip 102. It should be understood that although a guard fixed to the bucket lip has been described, the assembly according to this disclosure may include any type of wear member and a corresponding support structure, the wear member being fixed to the support structure by the locking assembly. The guard 104 may be configured to engage the bottom surface and the top surface of the bucket lip. The angle between the bottom and top surfaces of the bucket lip may be approximately 5-30°, for example, approximately 15° in the example shown. In some examples, the top and bottom surfaces of the bucket lip may be parallel. The portion of the shield 104 configured to engage the bottom and top surfaces of the bucket lip may be planar and may have an orientation within a range of 0-4° on the corresponding top or bottom surface of the bucket lip.

[0073] Figure 3 An example of a shield 104 is shown. The shield 104 has a lateral channel 114 extending across the rear side of the shield and a front edge 116 extending across the front side. The channel 114, formed between the upper outrigger 120 and the lower outrigger 122 of the shield 104, is configured to receive the front edge of the bucket lip. In some examples, the shield may include only one outrigger, for example, only the upper outrigger 120 without a corresponding lower outrigger 122, or vice versa. Figure 2As shown, when installed, the guard 104 spans the leading edge of the bucket lip, with the upper outrigger 120 on the top side of the bucket lip and the lower outrigger 122 on the bottom side. An elongated passage 110, extending along a central axis 111 from the top surface 118 of the guard through the upper outrigger 120 to the passage 114, is enclosed on all radial sides. The passage 110 is configured to receive a locking assembly 106. On the lateral side of the passage 110, a pry surface 112 is formed in the top surface 118. The pry surface 112 extends at an angle between the top surface 118 and the wall forming part of the passage 110. The pry surface 112 is configured to allow a pry bar or other tool to be inserted into the passage 110 to engage the locking assembly for removal. In the illustrated embodiment, the top surface 118 includes a raised area in which the passage 110 is disposed. The raised region includes sloping side surfaces extending from the passage 110 to the side region of the upper leg 120 forming the top surface 118. A portion of one of these sloping side surfaces may form a ridge where it intersects with the pry surface 112, thereby providing a fulcrum for lifting the locking assembly 106 from the passage 110 with a tool. Although illustrated with one pry surface 112, it should be understood that fewer or more pry surfaces 112 may be formed around the passage 110. Furthermore, the pry surfaces 112 may be positioned at any circumferential location around the perimeter of the passage 110, for example, behind or in front of the passage 110.

[0074] Figure 4-6 The rear perspective and bottom perspective show Figure 3The upper support leg 120 has a bottom surface 119 opposite to its top surface 118, although not necessarily parallel to the top surface 118. The upper support leg 120 terminates rearward at a rear surface 126 extending through it. A mounting base recess 121 is formed in the upper support leg 120, extending upward from the bottom surface 119 to the top 133 and forward from the rear surface 126. A pry surface 124 is formed at an angle between the rear surface 126 and the top 133 of the mounting base recess 121. The pry surface 124 can be configured to allow a pry bar or other tool to be inserted into the mounting base recess 121 to engage the mounting base for removal of the cover 104. A channel 128 is formed on either side of the mounting base recess 121, and the channel 128 is configured to receive a corresponding wing of the mounting base. Each of these two channels extends forward from the rear surface 126 in a direction perpendicular to the rear surface, or is slightly inclined toward each other along their longitudinal length to facilitate installation and removal from the mounting base. For example, the channels may be inclined inward about 1-5°, preferably about 2°, relative to the plane of symmetry between them. The top and bottom surfaces forming each channel 128 may be parallel to the bottom surface 119 of the upper leg 120, or may be inclined upward relative to the bottom surface 119 when the channel 128 extends laterally outward. In other words, the lower surface of each channel may be inclined toward the other channel at an angle of about 10-30°, preferably 20°, relative to the horizontal plane. The upper surface of each channel may be inclined in a similar manner. The upper and lower surfaces of each channel may be parallel or oriented at different angles.

[0075] The central region 130 of the top 133 of the mounting base recess 121 extends downward toward the channel 114 in a manner similar to a raised region on the top surface of the opposite side of the upper support leg 120. This region has a vertical profile that increases relative to the area of ​​the cover outside the central region. Within the central region 130 are a pair of channels: a guide channel 135a and a mounting channel 135b. A notch 136 is formed below the mounting channel 135b and is separated from the mounting channel by a ridge having an inclined surface on either side.

[0076] Within the channel 114 are two ribs 132 extending along the top side of the lower outrigger 122. The ribs 132 have a substantially flat top surface that can be configured to engage the bottom surface of the bucket lip, or, when the cover 104 is installed, be adjacent to and spaced apart from the bottom surface of the bucket lip. Each rib extends upward on the front wall of the channel and forms an engagement area 131 at which the cover 104 contacts and rests against the front surface of the bucket lip during use. One or more portions of the bottom surface of the lower outrigger 122 adjacent to the bucket lip (e.g., the top surface of each rib 132) may be parallel to one or more portions of the upper outrigger 120 or may be angled relative to one or more portions of the upper outrigger 120, which are configured to contact the top surface of the bucket lip (e.g., a planar area arranged below a respective channel of the two channels 128). In the example shown, the top surface of the rib 132 forms an angle of approximately 15° relative to the bottom surface of the upper outrigger 120. It should be understood that in some examples, one or more of the joining regions 131 and / or ribs 132 may be omitted.

[0077] Pathway 110 in the lateral direction ( Figure 6 (from one side to the other) and from back / front direction ( Figure 6 The passage 110 has an asymmetrical shape in both the vertical and vertical directions. This double asymmetrical shape of the passage 110 prevents the locking assembly 106 from being installed in the passage 110 in an incorrect orientation. That is, the lock body of the locking assembly having a shape profile corresponding to the passage 110 will only be fitted into the passage in the proper orientation. The passage 110 is defined by a front wall 137 and an opposing rear wall 139. Side walls 140 and opposing side walls 141 are oriented substantially perpendicular to the rear wall 139. Bends extend between adjacent pairs of walls 137, 139, 140, and 141. Each of the bends may have the same radius or may have different radii. Channels 135a, 135b and a notch 136 are formed in the front wall 137. However, it should be understood that one or both of these channels may be omitted or may be formed in different walls of the passage 110. Passage 110 is typically shaped as a trapezoid with rounded corners, wherein sidewalls 140 and 141 are substantially parallel in cross-section along a horizontal plane, rear wall 139 is substantially perpendicular to the sidewalls, and front wall 137 is angled relative to the rear wall. However, passage 110 can have any suitable shape, which can depend in part on the shape of the locking assembly configured for use with the shield. Typically, it is desirable for rear wall 139 to have an orientation and position closely corresponding to the rear surface of the locking assembly for force distribution during loading.

[0078] Figure 7-11A lock body 152 of a locking assembly 106 is shown, configured to be received within a passage 110. The lock body 152 is a rigid material (e.g., steel) block comprising a top surface 154 and an opposing bottom surface 155, which may be parallel or angled to each other. Extending between the top surface 154 and the bottom surface 155 are a front side 158, a rear side 159, and opposing lateral sides 160 and 161. Each of these sides of the lock body 152 is defined by one or more surfaces, which herein may be collectively referred to as the front side, rear side, or lateral side, or the front surface, rear surface, and lateral surface. A protrusion 157 extends outward from the front side 158, forming an extension of the top surface 154. A toe 153 is formed on the lateral side 161, wherein the upper surface of the toe faces upward and away from side 161, and the lower surface faces downward and away from side 161. The junction or intersection of the upper surface of the lateral side 161 and the upper surface of the toe 153 forms a V-shaped channel or groove extending from the anterior side 158 across the lateral side 161 to the posterior side 159. The junction or intersection of the upper surface of the toe 153 and the lower surface of the toe forms a ridge or apex extending from the anterior side 158 across the lateral side 161 to the posterior side 159.

[0079] As the front side 158 and rear side 159 extend from the bottom surface 155 to the top surface 154, they may be parallel or angled away from each other. In the example shown, the front side 158 and rear side 159 are angled outward from the bottom surface 155 at an angle of approximately 3° relative to a vertical plane (e.g., perpendicular to the bottom surface). In some examples, the front side 158 and rear side 159 may be angled outward at different angles to each other and may be angled at approximately 1-15° relative to a vertical plane. One or both of the front and rear sides may be vertical (e.g., perpendicular to the bottom surface 155). The lateral side 160 is wider than the lateral side 161, wherein the front side 158 is angled rearward from the lateral side 160 to the lateral side 161. At least a portion of the front side 158 may be curved or twisted to be pushed toward the lock body 152 along the direction of the lateral side 160 during the loading of the digging system. In some examples, the lateral sides 160 and 161 may have the same width.

[0080] like Figure 16As shown, the lateral side 161 has an angle α relative to the vertical plane. The upper surface of the toe 153 has an angle β relative to the horizontal plane. The lower surface of the toe 153 has an angle γ relative to the horizontal plane. The lateral side 160 has an angle δ relative to the horizontal plane. In the example shown, α is approximately 0-5°, β is approximately 35-60° (preferably approximately 37°), γ is approximately 30-60°, and δ is approximately 30-60°. The geometry of the various sides and surfaces of the lock body 152 reduces the possible orientations in which the lock body 152 can be inserted into the passage 110, thereby simplifying installation and preventing incorrect assembly.

[0081] A recess 151 is formed in the lock body 152 from the top surface 154. A hole 156 extends linearly through the lock body 152 from a planar wall forming a portion of the recess 151 to a lateral side 160. At least a portion of the hole has a thread 166. A stop recess 145 is formed in the lock body 152 within the planar wall and the curved wall forming the recess 151. The stop recess 145 also extends from the upper part of the hole 156. Figure 12 The pin stop 164 shown can be positioned within a stop recess 145 and is radially inwardly biased toward the axis of the hole 156. The pin stop 164 includes a flexible member 168 having a pentagonal shape and a pointed member 170 extending therefrom. The flexible member 168 can be formed of an elastic material (e.g., rubber or polymer) to apply a biasing force to the pointed member 170 when compressed, and the pointed member 170 can be formed of a rigid material (e.g., steel or other metal). The pointed member 170 is partially embedded within the flexible member 168 to bind the two together and extends through an outer surface of the flexible member oriented radially inward toward the axis of the hole 156. The pointed member 170 can be positioned near the upper end of the thread 166, wherein the end of the pointed member extends into the hole 156.

[0082] like Figure 13 The mounting stop 162 shown is partially positioned within a cavity 146 formed in the front side 158 of the lock body 152. The mounting stop 162 includes a flexible member 172 and a rigid member 174. The flexible member 172 may be formed of an elastic material (e.g., rubber or polymer), while the rigid member 174 may be formed of steel or other metal. The rigid member 174 may have a rod or other extension (not shown) that is embedded within the flexible member 172 to attach the rigid member 174 to the flexible member 172. The mounting stop 162 may be positioned such that the flexible member 172 is completely disposed within the cavity 146, and the rigid member 174 is at least partially disposed outside the cavity. The flexible member 172 may have a width dimension smaller than the corresponding width of the cavity 146 to allow the flexible member 172 to be compressed and deformed within the cavity when the rigid member 174 is compressed inward toward the cavity.

[0083] like Figure 11 As shown in the top view, the size and shape of the lock body 152 closely correspond to the passage 110 of the guard. The positions and dimensions of the front side 158, the rear side 159, and the lateral sides 160 and 161 are similar to the front wall 137, the rear wall 139, and the side walls 141 and 140 of the passage 110, respectively.

[0084] Figure 14 A pin 180 of the locking assembly 106 is shown. A head 181 defines the top of the pin 180, an end 190 defines the bottom of the pin, and a shaft 192 extends between the head 181 and the end 190. A portion of the head 181 has a hexagonal outer profile configured to engage with a socket for rotating the pin about its longitudinal central axis during installation or removal. A helical thread 186 corresponding to the thread 166 of the lock body 152 is formed around the outer periphery of the shaft 192. A notch 188a corresponding to the unlocked position of the pin is formed in the lower region of the thread 186 in the shaft 192, and a notch 188b corresponding to the locked position of the pin is formed in the upper region of the thread 186 in the shaft 192. The notches 188 may be formed along a helical path of a channel between adjacent threads. The notches 188 have dimensions and shapes corresponding to the tip 170 of the pin stop 164 of the lock body 152. In the example shown, the pointed part 170 and the notch 188 have a triangular shape. It should be understood that in some examples, the pin stop 164 may be accommodated in the pin 180, and the notch 188 may be formed within the lock body 152. Furthermore, in some examples, one or both notches 188 may be omitted.

[0085] Figure 15-16 A locking assembly 106 in a locking configuration is shown. A pin 180 is threaded into a hole 156 in a lock body 152. The head 181 of the pin is fully disposed within a recess 151 in the lock body 152. The end 190 of the pin 180 extends along a central axis 194 beyond the side 160. A pointed part 170 of a pin stop 164 is located within a locking recess 188b. The engagement of the pin stop 164 with the recess 188b resists rotation of the pin 180 during use, as a considerable rotational force is required to compress the flexible member 168 to remove the pointed part 170 from the recess 188b. Because such rotational forces are unlikely to be applied during typical use of the assembly, the engagement of the pin stop 164 with the recess 188b helps prevent accidental retraction (or unlocking) of the pin 180.

[0086] Figure 17-19A fixed base 108 is shown, to which a shield 104 can be attached using a locking assembly 106. The fixed base 108 has a top side surface 195 and a bottom surface 197, the bottom surface 197 being configured to be secured to the bucket lip. A central opening 196 extends from the top side surface 195 through the fixed base 108 to the bottom surface 197. A rear opening 198 is located behind the central opening 196 and also extends from the surface of the top side surface 195 to the bottom surface 197. A sidewall 200 defines the rear portion of the central opening 196 and separates the central opening 196 from the rear opening 198, although in some examples the rear opening 198 may be formed as part of the central opening 196. The fixed base extends from a front side surface 201 to a rear side surface 202 and from a lateral side surface 203 to a lateral side surface 204. An extension 205 extends rearward from the central portion of the rear side surface 202, forming at least a portion of the rear opening 198.

[0087] The central opening 196 is laterally surrounded by sidewalls 212 and 214. The front side of the central opening 196 is defined by a locking wall 206, at least a portion of which is shaped, sized, and oriented in a manner corresponding to the shape, size, and orientation of the front side 158 of the lock body 152. The sidewalls 212 and 214 are angled outwards away from each other. Recesses 213 (or "locking recesses") are formed in each sidewall 212 and 214, each recess having an overhang 220 whose surface is substantially downward and toward the center of the mounting base. These downward-facing surfaces may be angled at approximately 35-60° (preferably approximately 37°) relative to a horizontal plane (e.g., the bottom surface 197 of the mounting base). The locking wall 206 is angled in one or both of the lateral or vertical directions in a manner similar to (equal to or within 3°) the front side 158 of the lock body 152.

[0088] A prying surface 208 is formed on the sidewall 200, and a prying surface 210 is formed at the rear of the extension 205. The prying surfaces 208 and 210 are angled relative to the top surface of the sidewall 200 and the extension 205 to facilitate access to the central opening 196 and the rear opening 198 using a pry bar or other tools during the removal of the cover 104, and to provide a fulcrum for prying the cover forward.

[0089] The outer surface 219 of each of the sidewalls 212 and 214 may be laterally outward and upward inclined at approximately 45° from the bottom surface 197, although it should be understood that the surface 219 may be vertical or inclined at any suitable angle relative to the bottom surface. The inner surface of each sidewall 212 and 214 extending outward from the central opening 196 may be parallel to the outer surface 219. The outer surface 219 and inner surface of each sidewall extend to a wing 218 formed on each lateral side of the fixed base 108. The wing 218 extends laterally outward and upward away from the central opening 196. The wing 218 is sized and shaped to receive in a channel 128 of the shroud 104 and engage one or more surfaces forming the channel 128. In the longitudinal direction (e.g., from Figure 17 From top to bottom, the wings 218 can be substantially parallel or otherwise angled relative to each other in a manner corresponding to the channel 128. In some examples, the wings 218 are angled outward toward the rear side 202 of the base 108 to facilitate the installation and removal of the cover 104. The bottom surface of each wing 218, which is laterally outward from the outer surfaces 219 of the sidewalls 212 and 214, can be horizontal or can be at an angle of approximately 10-45°, preferably approximately 20°, relative to the bottom surface 197 of the base 108. Angled the wings upward in this way to facilitate welder access to weld the base 108 to the bucket lip around the outer periphery of the bottom surface 197. Figure 19 As can be seen, the vertical profile of the mounting base 108 may include a recess between the wings 218 and above the central opening. This recess may accommodate a lowered central region 130 of the top 133 of the shield 104.

[0090] Figure 20 A mounting base 108 is shown attached to the bucket lip 102. Typically, the mounting base 108 is fixed to the bucket lip 102 by welding (which may be referred to as a "welded base"), although it is conceivable that one or more fastening mechanisms can be used to secure the mounting base 108 for easy removal and replacement. In some examples, the mounting base 108 may be formed as an integral part of the bucket lip or other support structure. As shown, the mounting base 108 is welded to the top surface of the bucket lip 102, which may also be described as the "inside" or "middle" of the bucket. However, it should be understood that the mounting base 108 can be positioned at any suitable location on the bucket lip 102 (including on the bottom side or "outside" of the bucket) to secure worn components in the desired position.

[0091] Figure 21-24 The various stages of assembling the shield assembly are illustrated. Initially, as... Figure 21As shown, the shield 104 can slide rearward onto the fixed base 108. A channel 128 extending forward from the rear surface 126 of the shield receives the wing 218 of the fixed base 108. In an example where the top and bottom surfaces of the bucket lip are not parallel (e.g., the top surface of the lip is angled upward away from the leading edge of the bucket lip), the fixed base 108 is generally parallel to the top surface but not parallel to the bottom surface. In this respect, the wing 218 can be angled upward. As the shield 104 slides onto the fixed base 108, the rib 132 on the lower support leg 122 of the shield 104 can be pulled upward toward or into contact with the bottom surface of the bucket lip. The shield 104 slides rearward until the engagement area 131 on the shield contacts the bucket lip. Figure 22 In this mounting configuration of the shield, the rear surface 126 of the shield is substantially aligned with the rear side surface 202 of the mounting base. The extension 205 of the mounting base (including the rear opening 198) remains exposed behind the rear surface 126 of the shield 104. In this mounting configuration, the passageway 110 of the shield 104 is aligned along a common axis that corresponds to a portion of the central opening 196 of the mounting base 108 for proper mounting of the locking assembly 106. The locking assembly 106 can then be inserted through the passageway 110 and into the mounting base 108 from the top side surface of the shield 104. Figure 23 As shown, the bottom surface of the lock body 152 of the locking assembly 106 is substantially flush with the bottom of the fixed base 108.

[0092] Figure 24-26 A cross-section of the shield assembly is shown when the locking assembly 106 is inserted. Initially, the locking assembly 106 can be assembled during manufacturing by positioning the pin stop 164 into the recess 145. The end 190 of the pin 180 can be inserted from the top surface 154 into the hole 156 in the lock body 152 and partially screwed into the hole 156 along its central axis 194 until the tip 170 of the pin stop 164 engages in the unlocking recess 188a, which provides tactile feedback that the pin 180 is properly engaged. The locking assembly 106 can be... Figure 24This lock body 152 is stored and transported in an unlocked (or "retracted") configuration. In this configuration, the lateral side 161 of the lock body 152 can first be inserted into a fixed base, wherein the protrusion 157 is positioned within a guide channel 135a. The toe 153 can be inserted into a recess 213 and adjacent to the overhang 220 of the sidewall 214. When the lateral side 161 is properly positioned for rotation of the lock body 152, the protrusion 157 can engage the bottom surface defining the end of the guide channel 135a. Then, the other lateral side 160 can be lowered to pivot the lock body 152 to a seated position, wherein the channel at the top of the toe 153 rests on the end of the overhang 220. When the lock body 152 pivots using the overhang 220 as a fulcrum, the mounting stop 162 extending from the front side 158 of the lock body 152 can travel along the surface within the mounting channel 135b. Because the mounting channel 135b is angled such that its lower end is closer to the center of the passage 110 than its upper end, when the locking assembly 106 is inserted, the engagement of the mounting channel 135b with the mounting stop 162 compresses the flexible member of the mounting stop. As the locking assembly 106 approaches its fully seated position, the mounting stop 162 reaches the notch 136 below the mounting channel 135b. Figure 5 It snaps into place, thus providing tactile feedback to confirm that the locking component is correctly seated.

[0093] In such Figure 25 In the seated configuration of the locking assembly 106 shown, the bottom of the lock body 152 rests on the bucket lip. The apex of the toe portion 153 of the lock body 152 is nested in a recess in the side wall 214 of the fixing base 108, wherein the lower surface of the toe portion 153 is aligned with the inner surface of the side wall 214, and the upper surface of the toe portion 153 is aligned with the downward-facing surface of the overhang 220.

[0094] With the lock body fully seated, pin 180 can be rotated to further push the end 190 of pin 180 through the lateral side 160. The tip 170 of pin stop 164 can travel along a channel formed between adjacent threads 186, wherein the flexible member 168 is compressed and deformed, thereby radially biasing the tip 170 toward pin 180. Upon reaching... Figure 26In the locked (or “extended” or “seated”) configuration of the pin 180 in the lock body 152 shown, the flexible member 168 can be at least partially decompressed as the tip 170 slides down along the inclined surface of the recess 188b and engages into place. Engaging the tip 170 into the recess 188b provides the user with tactile feedback confirming that the pin 180 is fully seated. The engagement of the pin stop 164 with the recess 188b also resists rotation of the pin 180 during use, as a considerable rotational force is required to compress the flexible member 168 to remove the tip 170 from the recess 188b. Because such rotational forces are unlikely to be applied during typical use of the assembly, the engagement of the pin stop 164 with the recess 188b helps prevent accidental retraction (or unlocking) of the pin 180. In this fully assembled configuration of the guard assembly (or other wear-bearing component assembly), the end 190 of the pin 180 contacts or nearly contacts the sidewall 212 and the overhang 220. The overhangs 220 on each sidewall 212 and 214 of the fixed base interfere with the vertical lifting or pivoting of the locking assembly 106, so that the locking assembly 106 is fixed in place and cannot be removed from the cover assembly.

[0095] Figure 27 It shows the transverse direction Figure 24-26 The plane passes through the cross-section of the guard assembly, showing the front side 158 of the lock body 152 engaging with the locking wall 206 of the fixed base 108. As will be understood, the interference caused by the lock body 152 prevents the guard 104 from being removed from the bucket lip in response to a force that would otherwise tend to pull the guard forward relative to the bucket lip, for example, when the bucket moves rearward to drag the guard along the ground. Such a load causes the guard 104 to exert a forward force on the rear side of the lock body 152, which in turn transmits the force of its front side to the fixed base 108 via the locking wall 206.

[0096] Although the rear portion or extension 205 of the mounting base 108 may be vertical or substantially vertical, the front surface of the front side 201 of the mounting base 108 forms an angle of approximately 20-50° relative to the bottom surface 197.

[0097] Figures 28-30 The various stages of removing the protective cover are illustrated. Initially, pin 180 is rotated in the opposite direction to the installation direction, causing the end of the pin to retract from below the overhang 220 in the side wall 212 and into the lock body 152, until tactile feedback confirms that the pin stop 164 has engaged in the unlocking recess 188a, thereby effectively returning the locking assembly 106 to its original position. Figure 25 The configuration shown is as follows. Figure 28As shown, the pry bar 225 can then be inserted into the passage 110 of the cover 104 along the pry surface 112. The pry bar 225 can rotate about the pry surface to lift the locking assembly 106 out of the fixed base 108 and the cover 104. With the lock body 152 no longer interfering with the forward movement of the cover 104, the pry bar 225 can be inserted into the rear opening 198 of the fixed base 108, as shown. Figure 29 As shown. The pry surface 210 along the rear wall of extension 205 can be used to pivot the pry bar 225 forward against the pry surface 124 at the rear of the cover 104, thereby causing the cover 104 to slide forward. Once the cover 104 has slid forward sufficiently, the pry surface 208 on the side wall 200 is exposed, allowing the pry bar 225 to be inserted into the central opening 196, as shown. Figure 30 As shown. Again, the pry bar 225 can be pivoted forward to further push the shield 104 away from the fixed base 108.

[0098] Figure 31 An example of a shield 104' is shown. Shield 104' is similar to shield 104, such that some differences will be described with reference only to shield 104'. Compared to shield 104, the front wall 137' of the passage in the upper leg of shield 104' does not include guide channel 135a. Furthermore, a central longitudinal channel or groove is formed in the top 133' of the front wall extending from the pry surface 124' to the fixed base recess 121'. The central channel may be formed by a first central channel 147a and a second central channel 147b.

[0099] Figures 32A-32B An example of locking assembly 106' is shown. Locking assembly 106' is similar to locking assembly 106, such that some differences will be described with reference only to locking assembly 106'. The front side 158' of lock body 152' does not include protrusion 157. Furthermore, the lateral side 160' of lock body 152' includes undercut 199, configured to receive the end of a pry bar or other tool to lift lock body 152' during removal.

[0100] Figure 33 An example of a fixed base 108' is shown. Fixed base 108' is similar to fixed base 108, such that some differences will be described with reference only to fixed base 108'. Sidewall 200' includes a central longitudinal ridge 247a. Pry surface 208' extends upward to the central longitudinal ridge 247a. Similarly, locking wall 206' includes a central longitudinal ridge 247b. In some examples, the central longitudinal ridge 247a may extend higher than the central longitudinal ridge 247b relative to the bottom surface of fixed base 108'. For example, the central longitudinal ridge 247a may extend above or be flush with the top surface of the wing. In some examples, the central longitudinal ridges 247a and 247b may have the same height.

[0101] The shape and size of the central longitudinal ridge 247a can be designed to be received in the first central channel 147a of the shield 104', while the shape and size of the central longitudinal ridge 247b can be designed to be received in the second central channel 147b of the shield 104'. In some examples, the central channels 147a and 147b can have the same depth, and in some examples, the first central channel 247a can have a greater depth into the top 133' than the second central channel 247b.

[0102] The additional height of the locking wall 206' provided by the central ridge 247b, compared to the height of the locking wall 206 of the fixed base 108, can resist the tilting of the lock body 152' in response to forces that tend to pull the guard 104' forward (e.g., drag the bucket lip backward). The additional height can also improve the load distribution over a larger surface area.

[0103] It should be understood that the features of the shield 104′, the fixed base 108′ and the locking assembly 106′ that are not described as being different from the corresponding features of the shield 104, the fixed base 108 and the locking assembly 106 are substantially the same.

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

Claims

1. A locking assembly for securing a worn member to a support structure, comprising: Lock body, the lock body comprising: Top surface; First lateral surface; The second lateral side surface is disposed on the side of the lock body opposite to the first lateral side surface; A bottom surface that extends between the first lateral side surface and the second lateral side surface; A front surface that extends between the first lateral side surface and the second lateral side surface; The rear surface is disposed on the side of the lock body opposite to the front surface; A biasing stop mechanism extending outward from the front surface of the lock body; and A hole, the hole extending linearly along an axis intersecting the top surface and the first lateral side surface; and A pin, configured to be received in a hole in the lock body, the pin comprising: head; end; and A shaft extending between the head and the end, the pin having a retracted configuration and a seated configuration, wherein the end is held within the hole in the retracted configuration, and the shaft extends laterally outward from the hole beyond the first lateral side surface in the seated configuration.

2. The locking component according to claim 1, wherein, The pin is configured to switch between the retracted configuration and the seated configuration by rotating about the axis.

3. The locking component according to claim 2, wherein, The hole in the lock body includes a first set of threads, and the shaft of the pin includes a second set of threads corresponding to the first set of threads.

4. The locking component according to claim 3, wherein, The lock body also includes a pin stop mechanism, a portion of which extends into the hole, and the pin also includes a first notch disposed along the upper portion of the second set of threads, the first notch being configured to receive the portion of the pin stop mechanism when the pin is in the seated configuration.

5. The locking component according to claim 4, wherein, The pin stop mechanism includes a flexible member and a rigid member fixed to the flexible member, and the portion of the pin stop mechanism extending into the hole includes a portion of the rigid member.

6. The locking component according to claim 5, wherein, The pin further includes a second notch disposed along the lower portion of the second set of threads, the second notch being configured to receive the portion of the pin stop mechanism when the pin is in the retracted configuration, wherein engagement of the portion of the pin stop mechanism with the second notch retains the end of the pin in the hole and prevents the pin from rotating.

7. The locking component according to claim 5, wherein, A first recess is formed in the top surface of the lock body, and the hole leads to the first recess.

8. The locking component according to claim 7, wherein, A second recess is formed in the lock body and extends between the hole and the first recess, the second recess being configured to receive a flexible member of the pin stop mechanism.

9. The locking component according to claim 8, wherein, When the pin is in the seated configuration, the head of the pin is positioned within the first recess.

10. The locking component according to claim 1, wherein, The bottom surface is planar.

11. The locking component according to claim 1, wherein, The first lateral side surface of the lock body is wider than the second lateral side surface.

12. The locking component according to claim 1, wherein, The lock body further includes a toe extending laterally outward from the second lateral side surface, the toe having an upper surface facing upward and away from the second lateral side surface and a lower surface facing downward and away from the second lateral side surface.

13. The locking component according to claim 12, wherein, A channel is formed at the junction of the upper surface of the toe and the second lateral surface, and a apex is formed at the junction of the upper surface of the toe and the lower surface of the toe.

14. The locking component according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the front surface and at least a portion of the rear surface are angled outward from the bottom surface to the top surface, away from each other.

15. The locking component according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the front surface of the lock body is angled rearward from the first lateral side surface to the second lateral side surface.

16. The locking component according to claim 1, wherein, The biasing stop mechanism includes a rigid member fixed to a flexible member, the flexible member of the biasing stop mechanism being disposed within a cavity formed through the front surface, and the rigid member of the biasing stop mechanism extending outward away from the cavity.

17. The locking component of claim 16, wherein, The lock body also includes a protrusion extending outward from the front surface.

18. A wear component assembly, comprising: Wear component, the wear component comprising: Upper leg, the upper leg extending rearward from the front edge away from the wear member to the rear surface, the front edge being configured to engage the ground; A laterally oriented pathway extending from the top surface of the upper leg through the upper leg; and A support structure recess, formed on the underside of the upper outrigger and extending rearward through the rear surface of the upper outrigger, the support structure recess being configured to receive the support structure when the wear member is fixed to the excavating equipment, the passage extending into the support structure recess; and Locking component, the locking component comprising: Lock body, the lock body comprising: Top surface; First lateral surface; A biasing stop mechanism extending from the side of the lock body; and A hole, the hole extending linearly along an axis intersecting the top surface and the first lateral side surface; and A pin, configured to be received in a hole in the lock body, the pin comprising: head; end; and A shaft extending between the head and the end, the pin having a retracted configuration and a seated configuration, wherein the end is held within the hole in the retracted configuration, and the shaft extends laterally outward from the hole beyond the first lateral side surface in the seated configuration.

19. The wear component assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The wear member further includes a guide channel extending along the wall of the passage, and the lock body further includes a protrusion extending outward from the side of the lock body, wherein the protrusion is configured to travel within the guide channel when the lock body is inserted into the passage from the top surface of the upper leg of the wear member.

20. The wear component assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The biasing stop mechanism includes a rigid member fixed to a flexible member disposed within a cavity formed in the lock body, and the rigid member extending outward away from the cavity.

21. The wear component assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The wear member also includes a mounting channel formed within the wall of the passage, the mounting channel tapering inward toward the passage in a direction extending from the top surface of the upper leg to the recess of the support structure, the offset stop mechanism being configured to travel along the surface of the mounting channel when the locking assembly is installed through the passage.

22. The wear component assembly according to claim 21, wherein, The wear member also includes a recess located near the bottom end of the mounting channel, the recess being formed deeper in the wall of the passage than the bottom end of the mounting channel, and the offset stop mechanism being configured to engage in the recess when the lock body is installed.

23. The wear component assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The dimensions and shape of the lock body and the passage are set such that the lock body can be installed in the passage only in one orientation around the vertical axis.

24. The wear component assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The central region of the upper leg has an increased vertical profile relative to the portion of the upper leg on each lateral side of the central region.

25. The wear component assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The lock body also includes: Front surface; Bottom surface; and The rear surface, the front surface gradually tapers outward from the bottom surface of the lock body to the top surface.

26. The wear component assembly according to claim 25, wherein, The front surface of the lock body forms an angle of 1-10° with respect to the vertical plane.

27. The wear component assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The lock body also includes: A second lateral side surface is disposed on the side of the lock body opposite to the first lateral side surface; and The bottom surface extends between the first lateral side surface and the second lateral side surface.

28. The wear component assembly according to claim 27, wherein, The bottom surface is planar.

29. The wear component assembly according to claim 27, wherein, The first lateral side surface of the lock body is wider than the second lateral side surface. The first sidewall of the passage has a width corresponding to the first lateral side surface of the lock body, and the second sidewall of the passage has a width corresponding to the second lateral side surface of the lock body. The width of the second sidewall of the passage is smaller than the width of the first lateral side surface of the lock body.

30. The wear component assembly according to claim 27, wherein, The lock body also includes a toe that extends laterally outward from the second side surface.

31. The wear component assembly according to claim 27, wherein, The lock body also includes: A front surface, the front surface extending between the first lateral side surface and the second lateral side surface; and The rear surface is disposed on the side of the lock body opposite to the front surface.

32. The wear component assembly according to claim 31, wherein, At least a portion of the front surface and at least a portion of the rear surface of the lock body are angled outwards from the bottom surface to the top surface of the lock body, away from each other.

33. The wear component assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The support structure recess extends between two opposing channels that extend forward from the rear surface of the upper leg and is configured to receive opposing wings of the fixing base.

34. The wear component assembly according to claim 33, wherein, The wear member is a guard and also includes a lower support leg extending rearward away from the front edge. The guard includes a transverse channel formed between the upper support leg and the lower support leg, the transverse channel being configured to receive the bucket lip.

35. The wear component assembly according to claim 34, wherein, The shield includes at least one engagement region extending rearward in the transverse channel, the at least one engagement region being configured to engage the front surface of the bucket lip.

36. The wear component assembly according to claim 18, wherein, When the lock body is seated within the passage of the wear member, the top surface of the lock body is positioned within the passage, and the bottom surface of the lock body is substantially flush with the bottom surface of the upper leg of the wear member.

37. A wear component for excavating equipment, comprising: Leading edge; Upper support leg, the upper support leg extending rearward away from the front edge; A passageway extending from the top surface of the wear member through the upper leg; and A fixing base recess is formed in the underside of the upper outrigger and extends through the rear surface of the upper outrigger. The fixing base recess extends laterally between two opposing channels extending forward from the rear surface of the upper outrigger, each of the two channels having a lower surface angled downward toward each other. The fixing base recess is configured to receive a fixing base that is fixed to the lip of the excavating device. A wing of the fixing base is received in the two channels. A portion of the bottom surface of the upper outrigger below each of the two channels forms a planar contact surface configured to engage the lip. Each portion of the bottom surface extends along a large portion of the length of the upper outrigger.

38. The wear member according to claim 37, wherein, Each of the two channels includes an upper surface, and the upper surfaces of each of the two channels are angled downward toward each other.

39. The wear member according to claim 37, wherein, The lower surface of each of the two channels forms an angle of 10-30° downward relative to the bottom surface of the upper support leg.

40. The wear member according to claim 37, wherein, The two channels extend longitudinally inward from the rear surface toward the front edge at an angle to each other.

41. The wear member of claim 37, further comprising a prying surface extending between the rear surface of the upper leg and the top of the recess of the fixed base.

42. The wear member of claim 37, further comprising at least one prying surface extending between the top surface of the wear member and the inner wall of the passage.

43. The wear member of claim 37 further includes a central longitudinal channel formed in the top of the recess of the fixing base, the central longitudinal channel being configured to receive a corresponding ridge of the fixing base.

44. The wear member according to claim 43, wherein, The central longitudinal channel includes a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first segment has a greater depth than the second segment.

45. The wear member according to claim 37, wherein, The passageway is generally shaped like a trapezoid with rounded corners.

46. ​​The wear member of claim 37, further comprising a guide channel extending along the wall of the passage, the guide channel extending upward through the top surface and terminating at its lower end within the passage.

47. The wear member of claim 37, further comprising a mounting channel formed along the front wall of the passage, the mounting channel tapering inward toward the rear wall of the passage in a direction extending from the top surface of the upper leg to the recess of the fixing base.

48. The wear member according to claim 47, further comprising a notch provided adjacent to the bottom end of the mounting channel, the notch being formed deeper in the front wall of the passage than the bottom end of the mounting channel.

49. The wear member according to claim 37, wherein, At least a portion of the front wall of the passage is angled relative to the rear wall of the passage, thereby forming a narrower opening at the bottom of the passage than at the top of the passage.

50. The wear member according to claim 49, wherein, The portion of the front wall forms an angle of 1-20° relative to the rear wall.

51. The wear member according to claim 49, wherein, The portion of the front wall forms a 6° angle with respect to the rear wall.

52. The wear member according to claim 37, wherein, The portion of the upper leg that is configured to contact the lip is at an angle of 10-20° relative to a portion of the lower leg of the wear member that is configured to be located near the lip.

53. The wear member according to claim 37, wherein, The portion of the upper leg that is configured to contact the lip is substantially parallel to the portion of the wear member, and the portion of the lower leg that is configured to be located near the lip.

54. The wear member of claim 37, further comprising at least one engagement region formed in a transverse channel between an upper leg and a lower leg of the wear member, the at least one engagement region being configured to engage the front surface of the lip.

55. The wear member according to claim 54, wherein, A portion of the lower leg is configured to be disposed adjacent to the bottom surface of the lip, a portion of the upper leg is configured to engage the upper surface of the lip, and the engagement area extends between the portion of the lower leg and the portion of the upper leg.

56. The wear member according to claim 37, wherein, The central region of the upper leg has an increased vertical profile relative to the portion of the upper leg on each lateral side of the central region.

57. The wear member according to claim 56, wherein, A raised area is formed in the top surface of the upper leg, and in the central region, the passage extends through the raised area.

58. The wear member according to claim 37, wherein, Each of the two channels extends forward beyond the front wall of the passage.

59. A fixed base, comprising: Bottom surface; Top surface; A central opening extending through the top surface, wherein the central opening is defined at the front side by a locking wall configured as part of an engaging lock; and The first and second wings are opposite to each other, each of which extends upward and laterally outward away from the central opening, and the first and second wings have a lower surface angled downward toward the central opening.

60. The fixing base of claim 59, further comprising a rear opening extending through the top surface and the bottom surface in an extension extending from the rear side of the fixing base, the rear opening being separated from the central opening by a lateral wall.

61. The fixed base according to claim 60, wherein, The rear wall of the extension includes a prying surface extending between the top surface of the rear wall and the front surface of the rear wall, and wherein the lateral wall includes a prying surface extending between the top surface of the lateral wall and the front surface of the lateral wall.

62. The fixed base according to claim 59, wherein, The first wing and the second wing are inclined at an angle of 1-10° from the front side of the fixed base toward the rear side of the fixed base.

63. The fixed base according to claim 59, wherein, The lower surface of each of the first wing and the second wing forms an angle of 10-30° with respect to the bottom surface of the fixed base.

64. The fixed base according to claim 59 further includes opposing first and second sidewalls, each of the first and second sidewalls supporting a corresponding one of the first wing or the second wing.

65. The fixed base according to claim 64, wherein, Each of the first sidewall and the second sidewall forms a locking recess leading to the central opening.

66. The fixed base according to claim 65, wherein, The locking recess forms a cantilever that extends laterally inward.

67. The fixed base according to claim 59, wherein, The locking wall is angled relative to the front surface of the fixing base, such that the thickness of the locking wall adjacent to the first wing is less than the thickness of the locking wall adjacent to the second wing.

68. The fixed base according to claim 67, wherein, The inner surface of the locking wall facing the central opening is substantially planar.

69. The fixed base according to claim 68, wherein, The inner surface of the locking wall is angled outward from the bottom surface toward the top surface relative to the bottom surface of the fixing base.

70. The fixed base according to claim 59, further comprising a central longitudinal ridge extending upward from the top surface.

71. The fixed base according to claim 70, wherein, The central longitudinal ridge includes a first segment and a second segment, wherein the height of the first segment is greater than the height of the second segment.

72. A wear component assembly, comprising: A fixing base, wherein the fixing base is disposed on the lip and positioned behind the front edge of the lip, the fixing base comprising: Bottom surface; Top surface; A central opening extending through the top surface, wherein the central opening is defined by a locking wall at the front side and laterally by opposing first and second sidewalls, each of the first and second sidewalls including a locking recess; and The first wing and the second wing are opposite each other, extending upward and laterally outward away from the central opening; Wear component, the wear component comprising: Upper leg, the upper leg extending rearward from the front edge away from the wear member to the rear surface, the front edge being configured to engage the ground; A passageway extending from the top surface of the upper leg through the upper leg; and A mounting base recess, formed in the underside of the upper outrigger and extending rearward through the rear surface of the upper outrigger, is configured to receive a mounting base when the wear member is secured to the excavating equipment; the passage extends into the mounting base recess. Locking component, the locking component comprising: Lock body, the lock body comprising: Top surface; First lateral surface; and A hole, the hole extending linearly along an axis intersecting the top surface and the first lateral side surface of the lock body; and A pin, configured to be received in a hole in the lock body, the pin comprising: head; end; and A shaft extending between the head and the end, the pin having a retracted configuration and a seated configuration, wherein in the retracted configuration the end is retained within the hole, and in the seated configuration the shaft extends laterally outward from the hole beyond the first lateral side surface; The locking assembly can be positioned through the top surface of the upper leg of the wear member, such that the lower portion of the lock body is disposed in the central opening of the fixed base and the upper portion of the lock body is disposed in the passage of the wear member, and wherein, when the pin of the locking assembly is in the seated configuration, the locking assembly is fixed in the fixed base, the end of the pin is disposed in the locking recess of the first sidewall, and the portion of the lock body opposite to the first lateral side surface is disposed in the recess of the second sidewall.

73. A wear component assembly, comprising: Wear component, the wear component comprising: Upper leg, the upper leg extending rearward from the front edge away from the wear member to the rear surface, the front edge being configured to engage the ground; A passageway extending from the top surface of the upper leg through the upper leg; and Locking component, the locking component comprising: A lock body, shaped to be assembled within the passage, the lock body comprising: A top surface and an opposite bottom surface, wherein a portion of the top surface has a width greater than a portion of the bottom surface; A front side and an opposite rear side extending between the top surface and the bottom surface, the front side being angled relative to the rear side along a direction extending laterally from the first side of the lock body to the second side of the lock body; A biasing stop mechanism extending from the side of the lock body; and A pin, configured to be received in a hole in the lock body, the pin being able to extend from the lock body to prevent the lock body from being removed from the passage.

74. The wear component assembly according to claim 73, wherein, The pin includes: head; end; and A shaft extending between the head and the end, the pin having a retracted configuration and a seated configuration, wherein in the retracted configuration the end is retained within the hole of the lock body, and in the seated configuration the shaft extends laterally outward from the hole beyond the first lateral side.

75. The wear component assembly according to claim 73, wherein, The hole extends linearly along an axis that intersects the top surface and the first lateral side surface.

76. A wear component for excavating equipment, comprising: Leading edge; Upper support leg, the upper support leg extending rearward away from the front edge; and A passage extending from the top surface of the upper leg through the upper leg, the passage having a front wall and an opposing rear wall, the front wall being angled away from the rear wall in a direction extending from one lateral side of the passage to the opposing lateral side of the passage, the passage being shaped to receive part of a locking assembly, wherein the passage includes a notch shaped to intersect with a part of the locking assembly, the notch being disposed at a lower portion of the passage and adjacent to the inner surface of the upper leg.

77. The wear member according to claim 76, wherein, The front wall includes a guide channel formed therein to receive a portion of the locking assembly.

78. The wear member of claim 76, comprising a base recess formed in the underside of the upper leg and extending through the rear surface of the upper leg, the base recess extending laterally between two opposing channels extending forward from the rear surface of the upper leg, each of the two channels having a lower surface angled downward toward each other, the base recess configured to receive a base secured to the lip of an excavating device, wherein a wing of the base is received within the two channels.

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