Replaceable wear plate

Abstract

A wear member (500, 500a) includes a body defining an exterior (508, 508a) having an outer perimeter (510, 510a), an interior aperture (502) having at least a partially interior polygonal perimeter (504), and at least one fastener receiving hole (512, 512a) extending from the exterior (508, 508a) to the interior aperture (502). The exterior (508, 508a) is free of any large openings to limit the risk of material packing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a wear member, and more specifically to a wear member that can be attached to a mounting base. Background Technology

[0002] Many earthmoving machines, such as loaders, excavators, hydraulic mining shovels, cable shovels, bucket wheels, and dragline excavators, include tools used for moving materials (e.g., for digging materials out of soil). These tools are often subjected to extreme wear from the abrasion and impacts experienced while moving materials. To mitigate wear, replaceable wear-resistant components are fitted to the tools and engage with the material being moved.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 5,937,549 ('549 Patent) to Bender et al. describes an attachment system for detachably mounting a wear member to a parent member. According to the '549 Patent, the attachment system includes a mounting base welded to a single surface of the parent member. The attachment system also includes a wear member that is mechanically attached to the single surface of the parent member by sliding the wear member onto the mounting base and engaging a mating engagement element. Once the wear member has slid onto the mounting base, the '549 Patent describes using a removable retainer to hold the wear member in place. The wear member can be replaced by removing the retainer and sliding the wear member away from the base, thereby disengaging the mating engagement element.

[0004] The attachment system of '549 patent can provide certain benefits in some applications. However, it may have certain disadvantages. For example, using the attachment system of '549 patent in applications where it is necessary to mitigate wear on multiple non-parallel (e.g., perpendicular) surfaces of a tool can be difficult and / or expensive. The disclosed embodiments can help address this and other problems.

[0005] Furthermore, wear components can be placed on different parts of the work tool (e.g., buckets, shovels, etc.). The amount and type of wear experienced on external wear components can differ from those experienced on internal wear components. For example, internal wear components placed inside a bucket or shovel may experience more severe wear or may be subject to material blockage that makes removal of wear components from the installation system difficult.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 6,041,529A discloses a wear channel assembly attached to the surface of an excavator bucket and used to protect a portion of the surface from wear during bucket use. The assembly includes a base member, a wear channel member, a pair of bolts, and a pair of tapered lock nuts. The base member is welded to the surface and has a pair of undercuts that securely hold the head portion of the bolts, wherein the bolt body is transverse to the surface and protrudes outward beyond the outer side of the base member. The wear channel member is mounted on the base member by moving it toward the base member in a direction transverse to the surface, such that the outwardly protruding bolt body portion enters and retracts into a pair of openings formed by the wear member, and also such that protrusions on the base member are complementaryly received within recesses formed in the wear channel member. Finally, the tapered lock nuts are screwed onto the bolt bodies retracted into the openings of the wear channel member to releasably retain the wear channel member on the base member. The interlock between the base member protrusion and the wear channel member recess prevents operating loads applied to the assembly from causing the wear channel member to move parallel to the protected surface relative to the base member, thereby preventing the bolts from being sheared by such operating loads.

[0007] However, the operating load is applied to the protrusions of the base component, making it susceptible to shear or other damage. Therefore, a more robust system is ensured. Summary of the Invention

[0008] A wear component mounting system according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a mounting base including at least a portion of an outer polygonal periphery, an internal weld receiving orifice, and at least one dovetail groove. The wear component mounting system may further include: a wear component defining an orifice having at least a portion of an inner polygonal periphery configured to mate with at least a portion of an outer polygonal periphery of the mounting base; and at least one dovetail fastening sub-assembly including a dovetail member comprising a body configured to at least partially complementary fill the at least one dovetail groove. A fastener receiving orifice extends through the body, which defines a circular portion and a non-circular portion.

[0009] The wear member according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a body defining an exterior having an outer periphery, an interior aperture having at least a partial internal polygonal periphery, and at least one fastener receiving aperture extending from the exterior to the interior aperture.

[0010] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a dovetail fastener assembly may include a dovetail member comprising a body having at least a partially pyramidal configuration defining a fastener receiving orifice extending through the body, the fastener receiving orifice defining a rotating surface and a non-rotating surface.

[0011] The mounting plate according to embodiments of this disclosure may include a plate body defining a plate length, a plate width, and a plate thickness less than the plate length and plate width. The plate body may further define an inner dovetail groove, an outer dovetail groove, a T-groove communicating with and partially forming the inner dovetail groove, and an elongated groove disposed between the T-groove and the outer dovetail groove in a direction parallel to the plate length. A pair of pry slots may be disposed on either side of the outer dovetail groove in a direction parallel to the plate width, and the elongated pry slot may be disposed near the inner dovetail groove in a direction parallel to the plate length. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Several embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, and serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. In the drawings:

[0013] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of multiple exemplary disclosed wear component systems mounted on a tool;

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Enlarged perspective view of several wear-resistant component systems;

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A perspective view of one of the wear components in the system;

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of an exemplary disclosed mounting base for a wear component system;

[0017] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Another perspective view of the mounting base from a different angle;

[0018] Figure 6 yes Figures 4 to 5 Top view of the mounting base;

[0019] Figure 7 yes Figures 4 to 6 A bottom view of the mounting base;

[0020] Figure 8 yes Figures 4 to 7 Rear view of the mounting base;

[0021] Figure 9 yes Figures 4 to 8 Front view of the mounting base;

[0022] Figure 10 yes Figures 4 to 9 Right side view of the mounting base;

[0023] Figure 11 yes Figures 4 to 10 Left side view of the mounting base;

[0024] Figure 12 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 Another exemplary disclosed front view of the mounting base of one of the wear component systems;

[0025] Figure 13 yes Figure 3 An exemplary perspective view of a wear component system disclosed herein;

[0026] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Another perspective view of the worn component from a different angle;

[0027] Figure 15 yes Figures 13 to 14 A top view of the worn component;

[0028] Figure 16 yes Figures 13 to 15 A bottom view of the worn component;

[0029] Figure 17 yes Figures 13 to 16 Rear view of the worn component;

[0030] Figure 18 yes Figures 13 to 17 Front view of the worn component;

[0031] Figure 19 yes Figures 13 to 18 The right side view of the worn component;

[0032] Figure 20 yes Figures 13 to 19 Left side view of the worn component;

[0033] Figure 21 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of an exemplary retainer disclosed in a wear component system;

[0034] Figure 22 yes Figure 3 An exemplary disclosed perspective view of a wear component system;

[0035] Figure 23 , Figure 24 and Figure 25 yes Figure 3 Side views of the wear component system in various assembly states;

[0036] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of another exemplary disclosed wear component system;

[0037] Figure 27 yes Figure 26 An exemplary disclosed perspective view of the mounting base for a wear component system; and

[0038] Figure 28 yes Figure 26 An exemplary perspective view of a wear component system is disclosed.

[0039] Figure 29 The illustration depicts a machine that can use a working tool such as a bucket, the working tool having wear components, wear component systems, and mounting bases configured according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 30 It is a perspective view of a working tool in the form of a bucket, having a plurality of wear members attached to its internal bottom surface according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 31 This is an exploded assembly diagram of a wear member system (also referred to as a wear member mounting assembly) including a mounting base assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 32 It includes a pair of dovetail fastener assemblies. Figure 31 Exploded assembly diagram of the mounting base assembly.

[0043] Figure 33 yes Figure 32 A perspective view of a dovetail fastener assembly, which includes a dovetail member, bolts (e.g., M20 bolts), and nuts.

[0044] Figure 34 yes Figure 33 A top view of the dovetail component.

[0045] Figure 35 yes Figure 31 A top view of the assembled wear component system shown.

[0046] Figure 36 yes Figure 35 A bottom view of the wear component system.

[0047] Figure 37 It is along Figure 35 The line 37-37 was cut off Figure 35 Cross-sectional view of the wear component system.

[0048] Figure 38 It is along Figure 35 The line cut off at 38-38 Figure 35 Cross-sectional view of the wear component system.

[0049] Figure 39 This is a top view of another embodiment of the assembled wear component system shown (e.g., compared to...). Figure 35 The design shown is a smaller version, and an M16 bolt can be used instead of an M20 bolt.

[0050] Figure 40 yes Figure 39 A bottom view of the wear component system.

[0051] Figure 41 It is along Figure 39 The line 41-41 is cut off Figure 39 Cross-sectional view of the wear component system.

[0052] Figure 42 It is along Figure 39 The line 42-42 was cut off Figure 39 Cross-sectional view of the wear component system.

[0053] Figure 43 Is Figures 39 to 42 A perspective view of the dovetail fastener assembly (which can be made of M16 bolts) used in the wear component system.

[0054] Figure 44 yes Figure 43 A top view of the dovetail component.

[0055] Figure 45 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the fastening joint that can be used in the various embodiments discussed herein.

[0056] Figure 46 yes Figure 36 A perspective view of the bottom orientation of the worn component, in which the mounting plate and dovetail fastener assembly have been removed, revealing the structure of its bottom recess. Detailed Implementation

[0057] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of this disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to denote the same or similar parts. In some cases, reference numerals will be indicated in this specification, and the drawings will show reference numerals followed by letters, such as 100a, 100b, etc. It should be understood that the use of letters immediately following the reference numerals indicates that these features have similar shapes and similar functions, as is often the case when the geometry is mirrored about a plane of symmetry. For ease of explanation in this specification, letters are generally not included herein but may be shown in the drawings to indicate repetition of features discussed within this written specification.

[0058] Figures 1 to 2 An exemplary wear component system 14 that can be attached to tool 12 is illustrated. For example, tool 12 may be a bucket (such as...) Figure 1 The tool 12 can be used to move materials (e.g., to excavate materials from soil). A wear component system 14 can be attached to the heels 15, 17 of the tool 12 and can mitigate wear caused by abrasion and impact on the heels 15, 17 during material movement.

[0059] See Figure 3 Each wear component system 14 may include a mounting base 22, a wear component 16, a retainer 24, and a plug 26. The mounting base 22 may be configured to attach (e.g., fixedly) to a first surface 18 and a second surface 20 of the tool 12 (see reference). Figures 1 to 2 The wear member 16 can be configured to be removably coupled to the tool 12 via the mounting base 22. The retainer 24 can be configured to retain the wear member 16 coupled to the mounting base 22 when in the mounted position, and the plug 26 can be configured to protect the retainer 24.

[0060] Figures 4 to 11 An exemplary mounting base 22 is illustrated from multiple angles. As shown, the mounting base 22 may include a generally flat first base portion 28 extending in a longitudinal direction 30. The mounting base 22 may also include a generally flat second base portion 44 extending from the first base portion 28 in a direction generally perpendicular to the first base portion 28 (as shown in the vertical direction 46).

[0061] The first base portion 28 may be generally rectangular and may have an inward surface 32 configured to be attached to the tool 12. The first base portion 28 may also have an outward surface 34 opposite to the inward surface 32. In addition, the first base portion may have a pair of opposing sides 36, 38 extending generally parallel to the longitudinal direction 30. The first base portion may also have a pair of opposing ends (first end 40 and second end 42) extending in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 30 (as shown in the latitude direction 57).

[0062] See Figures 4 to 7 The first base portion 28 may define a first opening 60, which may be configured to receive a portion of the wear member 16 and the retainer 24 (see reference). Figure 3A first opening 60 may extend vertically 46 from the outward surface 34 through the first base portion 28 to the inward surface 32. The first opening 60 may be completely surrounded by the first base portion 28. The first opening 60 may include a notch-shaped portion 64 for receiving a portion of the wear member 16, and a generally rectangular portion 62 adjacent to the notch-shaped portion 64 for receiving the retainer 24. It is conceivable that the portion 62 of the first opening 60 may use other shapes. For example, the portion 62 may be square, circular, elliptical, trapezoidal, or other shapes. Regardless of its shape, the portion 62 may generally be positioned along the longitudinal direction 30 of the first base portion 28 at its center. The notch-shaped portion 64 may be positioned between the rectangular portion 62 and the first end 40.

[0063] The rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60 may have a surface 66 facing the notch-shaped portion 64, and a pair of opposing ends 68, 70 extending parallel to the longitudinal direction 30. The opposing ends 68, 70 may include a pair of opposing flanges 72, 74 extending inwardly toward each other from the lower regions of the adjacent outwardly facing surfaces 34. The opposing flanges 72, 74 may be configured to facilitate retention of the retainer 24 when it is mounted in the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60.

[0064] As used herein, "notch" is intended to cover an opening having a generally flat bottom surface and angled, generally flat side surfaces connecting the bottom surface. Alternatively, the side surfaces may have a degree of curvature, if desired. The notch portion 64 of the first opening 60 may be defined by opposing angled surfaces 76, 78 that converge toward each other as they extend from the inward surface 32 to the outward surface 34. As a result of this convergence, the perimeter 77 of the portion 64 defined by surfaces 76, 78 at the inward surface 32 may be larger than the perimeter 75 of the portion 64 defined by surfaces 76, 78 at the outward surface 34. As shown, surfaces 76, 78 may be symmetrical about the vertical direction 46. For example, the two surfaces 76, 78 may extend at an angle β of approximately 45 degrees relative to the vertical direction 46. Alternatively, the two surfaces 76, 78 may extend at another angle relative to the vertical direction 46. Alternatively, surfaces 76 and 78 may be asymmetrical about the vertical direction 46 and may extend at different angles relative to the vertical direction 46. Furthermore, when viewed along the axis of the first base portion 28, which is substantially perpendicular to the second base portion 44, the notch-shaped portion 64 may be substantially isosceles trapezoidal. The angled surfaces 76 and 78 may at least partially define the peripheries 77 and 75 of the notch-shaped portion 64 at the inward surface 32 and the outward surface 34, respectively. The notch-shaped portion 64 of the first opening 60 may be configured such that the periphery of the notch-shaped portion 64 is smaller at the outward surface 34 than at the inward surface 32.

[0065] like Figures 4 to 11 As shown, the first base portion 28 may further include a plurality of loading pads 86 configured to contact the tool 12 and the abrasion member 16. The loading pads 86 may be configured to transfer loads from the abrasion member 16 to the mounting base 22 and the tool 12 in directions generally perpendicular to the flat first base portion 28, generally perpendicular to the flat second base portion 44, and generally parallel to the flat first base portion 28 and the flat second base portion 44. The loading pads 86 may include protrusions of the first base portion 28. The protrusions may be formed by raised portions surrounding the surface of the first base portion 28. The protrusions may be generally flat-topped, as the raised portions of the surface of the first base portion 28 may extend to a generally flat outer surface. The outer surface of the loading pads 86 may form raised portions of an inward surface 32, an outward surface 34, side surfaces 36, 38, and a second end 42, depending on their corresponding (e.g., generally parallel) surfaces. For example, the outer surface of the loading pads 86, which is generally parallel to the inward surface 32, may form part of the inward surface 32, and may be referred to herein as the inward surface 32. Loading pads 86 may be positioned at a corner of the first base portion 28 and may be configured to substantially surround at least a portion of the corner of the first base portion 28. Loading pads 86 may protrude from their corresponding surfaces, for example, at a distance between about 0.5 mm and about 4 mm. Loading pads 86 that protrude from and form part of the inward surface 32 may be configured to contact the first surface 18. Loading pads 86 that protrude from the outward surfaces 34, sides 36, 38, and second end 42 may be configured to contact the wear member 16 when it is engaged with the mounting base 22 (e.g., in the mounting position).

[0066] The second base portion 44 may extend from the second end 42 of the first base portion 28. The second base portion 44 may have an inward surface 48 configured to be attached to the tool 12. The second base portion 44 may also have an outward surface 50 opposite to the inward surface 48. In addition, the second base portion 44 may also have a pair of opposing sides 52, 54 extending from the first base portion 28. The second base portion 44 may also have a pair of opposing ends (lower end 56 and upper end 58) extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 30.

[0067] The second base portion 44 may have a protrusion 59 extending from its upper end 58 in a direction generally parallel to the first base portion 28. The first base portion 28, the second base portion 44, and the protrusion 59 may form a generally L-shaped mounting base, such as... Figure 11 As depicted, the edges and corners of the mounting base 22 can be rounded or circular to reduce stress, such as... Figures 4 to 11 What is depicted.

[0068] In some embodiments, the mounting base 22 can be welded to the tool 12. To facilitate this welding, a welding opening 80 can be formed in the base 22 to receive welding material, and the respective first end 40 and upper end 58 of the base portions 28, 44 can include chamfered surfaces to receive welding material. For example, the welding opening 80 can be generally elliptical and can be formed in the first base portion 28 between the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60 and the second end 42. Alternatively, the welding opening 80 can be of other shapes, or can be formed in the second base portion 44 or another portion of the first base portion 28. In yet another alternative, the welding opening can be formed in both the first base portion 28 and the second base portion 44.

[0069] At the first end 40, the first base portion 28 may have a first chamfered surface 82 configured to receive welding material for attaching the first base portion 28 to the first surface 18 of the tool 12. When the inward surface 32 is attached to the tool 12, the first chamfered surface 82 may extend away from the end of the inward surface 32 away from the tool 12. The first chamfered surface 82 may extend along the first end 40 less than the full length of the first end 40.

[0070] At the upper end portion 58, the second base portion 44 may have a second chamfered surface 84 configured to receive welding material for attaching the second base portion 44 to the second surface 20 of the tool 12. When attached to the tool 12 via the inward surface 48, the second chamfered surface 84 may extend away from the end of the inward surface 48. As shown, the second chamfered surface 84 may be positioned at the end of the protrusion 59. The second chamfered surface 84 may extend along the upper end portion 58 less than the full length of the upper end portion 58. The combination of the welding opening 80, the first chamfered surface 82, and the second chamfered surface 84 allows the mounting base 22 to be welded to the tool 12 at three locations.

[0071] refer to Figures 4 to 5 and Figures 8 to 9 The sides 52, 54 of the second base portion 44 can be configured to extend from the sides 36, 38 of the first base portion 28. The sides 52, 54 can also be configured to converge toward each other as they extend away from the first base portion 28. As shown, the sides 52, 54 can be symmetrical about the vertical direction 46. For example, the two sides 52, 54 can extend at an angle α of approximately 3 degrees relative to the vertical direction 46. In other words, the second base portion 44 can be narrower at its upper end 58 along the latitudinal direction 57 than at its lower end 56. The transitions from the inner surface 32 to the sides 52, 54 at the second end 42 and lower end 56 can be rounded to reduce stress, such as... Figures 4 to 5 and Figures 8 to 9 What is depicted.

[0072] According to one embodiment, such as Figures 4 to 11 As shown, and preferably as Figure 9 As shown, the inner surface 32 of the first base portion 28, which includes the outer surface of the loading pad 86 forming part of the inner surface 32, can be a concave surface having a radius of curvature. The radius of curvature of the inner surface 32, which includes the outer surface of the loading pad 86 forming part of the inner surface 32, can approximately correspond to the radius of curvature of the first surface 18 at the heel portions 15, 17 of the tool 12. The corresponding radii of curvature of the two surfaces can facilitate a flush fit between the outer surface of the loading pad 86 forming part of the inner surface 32 and the first surface 18. The concave surface 32 can have a radius of curvature between about 400 mm and about 800 mm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature can be between about 500 mm and about 700 mm. For example, the radius of curvature can be about 600 mm. It is conceivable that other radii of curvature can be utilized. In another embodiment, such as Figure 12 As shown, the inward surface 32 of the first base portion 28 can be substantially flat. A mounting base 22 with a flat inward surface 32 can be used for the first surface 18 of the tool 12, wherein the first surface 18 is correspondingly flat to facilitate a flush fit. Except for the different radii of curvature of the inward surfaces 32, Figure 12 The mounting base 22 shown may be in other respects with Figures 4 to 11 The mounting base 22 shown is the same.

[0073] The mounting base 22 can vary in size to accommodate tools 12 of various sizes. Although the size of the mounting base 22 can vary, the proportions of the different dimensions can remain approximately the same, regardless of changes in the overall size of the mounting base 22 and the corresponding wear component system 14. (See reference) Figure 8 The ratio of the maximum width 146 of the first base portion 28 to the maximum width 148 of the second base portion 44 at the upper end 58 in a direction parallel to the first base portion 28 and the second base portion 44 can be between about 1.5 and about 2.5. In some embodiments, this ratio can be between about 1.75 and about 2.25. For example, the ratio can be about 2. This range of ratios can be advantageous because having a second base portion 44 smaller than the first base portion 28 can reduce the weight and cost of the mounting base 22. However, the second base portion 44 must be large enough to maintain the overall structural integrity of the mounting base 22.

[0074] refer to Figure 10The ratio of the maximum length 150 of the first base portion 28 in a direction generally perpendicular to the second base portion 44 to the maximum height 152 of the second base portion 44 in a direction generally perpendicular to the first base portion 28 can be between about 1.5 and about 2.0. In some embodiments, this ratio can be between about 1.7 and about 1.8. In some other embodiments, this ratio can be between about 1.75 and about 1.78. For example, the ratio can be about 1.77. This range of ratios can be advantageous because it provides a mounting base 22 of a suitable size relative to the size of the tool 12, without being too large and heavy to make the installation and replacement of the wear member 16 problematic.

[0075] refer to Figure 9 The ratio of the width 154 of the first chamfered surface 82 to the width 156 of the second chamfered surface 84 in a direction parallel to both the first base portion 28 and the second base portion 44 can be between about 2.0 and about 3.0. In some embodiments, this ratio can be between about 2.25 and about 2.75. For example, the ratio can be about 2.5. To ensure that the mounting base 22 is adequately secured to the tool 12, maximizing the length of the chamfered surfaces may be beneficial.

[0076] Figures 13 to 20 An exemplary wear member 16 is illustrated from multiple angles. As shown, the wear member 16 may include a generally flat first wear member portion 88 extending in a longitudinal direction 30. The wear member 16 may also include a generally flat second wear member portion 90 extending from the first wear member portion 88 in a direction generally perpendicular to the first wear member portion 88.

[0077] The first wear member portion 88 may be generally rectangular and may have a first inward surface 89. The first wear member portion 88 may also have a wear surface 94 opposite to the inward surface 89. As shown, the thickness of the first wear member portion 88 in a direction parallel to the extending direction of the second wear member portion 90 may decrease as the first wear member portion 88 extends from the second wear member portion 90. The first wear member portion 88 may define a second opening 102, which may be configured for passage through the retainer 24 (reference). Figure 3 The second opening 102 may extend vertically 46 from the wear surface 94, through the first wear member portion 88, and reach the inward surface 89. Additionally, the second opening 102 may be generally rectangular.

[0078] like Figures 13 to 14 and Figures 16 to 17As shown, the wear surface 94 may be convex and have a radius of curvature. The radius of curvature of the wear surface 94 may approximately correspond to the radius of curvature of the first surface 18 at the heel portions 15, 17 of the tool 12. The convex wear surface 94 may have a radius of curvature between about 500 mm and about 800 mm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature may be between about 600 mm and about 700 mm. In some other embodiments, the radius of curvature may be between about 650 mm and about 660 mm. For example, the radius of curvature may be about 655 mm.

[0079] The second wear member portion 90 may be generally rectangular and may have a second inward surface 91 adjacent to a first inward surface 89 of the first wear member portion 88. The first inward surface 89 and the second inward surface 91 of the wear member 16 may define a receiving recess 96 configured to receive the mounting base 22. The receiving recess 96 may be a generally rectangular cavity within the first wear member portion 88 and the second wear member portion 90. As shown, the width of the receiving recess 96 may be less than the width of the wear member 16. The first wear member portion 88 may include a portion of the receiving recess 96 configured to receive the first base portion 28, while the second wear member portion 90 may include a portion of the receiving recess 96 configured to receive the second base portion 44. A portion of the receiving recess 96 defined by the first wear member portion 88 may be open at a first end 92 opposite to the second wear member portion 90. In other words, viewed in the longitudinal direction, the receiving recess 96 may be open at the first end 92 of the first wear member portion 88.

[0080] A first inward surface 89 of the first wear member portion 88 may define a protrusion 104 adjacent to the second opening 102, the protrusion 104 being configured to removably engage the wear member 16 to the mounting base 22 when attached to the tool 12. The protrusion 104 may be positioned between the second opening 102 and a first end 92 of the wear member 16. The protrusion 104 may have opposing engagement surfaces 106, 108 that are separated from each other as they extend away from the first inward surface 89 within the receiving recess 96 to the upper surface 112 of the protrusion 104. Figure 18As shown, the mating surfaces 106, 108 can be symmetrical about the vertical direction 46. For example, the mating surfaces 106, 108 can extend away from the first inward surface 89 at an angle θ (e.g., about 45 degrees) relative to the vertical direction 46. When viewed along the axis of the first wear member portion 88, which is generally perpendicular to the second wear member portion 90, the protrusion 104 can be generally isosceles trapezoidal. As shown, the joint between each mating surface 106, 108 and the first inward surface 89 can be rounded to reduce stress within the protrusion 104 and the first wear member portion 88. Other joints, edges, and corners of the wear member 16 can also be rounded or rounded to reduce stress, such as... Figures 13 to 20 What is depicted.

[0081] The protrusion 104 may also have a front surface 114 and a rear surface 116 extending from the first inward surface 89 to the upper surface 112. The front surface 114 and the rear surface 116 may be substantially perpendicular to the first inward surface 89. The protrusion 104 may be configured to form a dovetail joint with the notch-shaped portion 64 of the first opening 60. Additionally, the protrusion 104 may be configured such that the height of the protrusion 104 is less than the depth of the receiving recess 96, thereby allowing the protrusion 104 to be completely positioned within the receiving recess 96. In other words, the protrusion 104 may be configured such that no portion of the protrusion 104 extends beyond the boundary of the receiving recess 96.

[0082] refer to Figures 13 to 14 and Figures 17 to 18 The second wear member portion 90 may have opposing side surfaces 98, 100 extending from the first wear member portion 88. As the side surfaces 98, 100 extend from the first wear member portion 88, they are initially separated from each other and then pivot and converge toward each other. Figure 17 As shown, the converging portions of side surfaces 98 and 100 may extend at an angle λ relative to the vertical direction 46. The angle λ may be between approximately 15 degrees and approximately 18 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle λ may be between approximately 16 degrees and approximately 17 degrees. For example, the angle λ may be approximately 16.75 degrees. It is also contemplated that in other embodiments, other angles λ may be used, or that side surfaces 98 and 100 may be parallel.

[0083] The wear member 16 may also define one or more wear indicators 118. The wear indicators may be configured to provide indication of when the wear member 16 should be replaced with a new one. This indication of when the wear member 16 should be replaced may be, for example, when a sufficient portion of the material of the wear member 16 has been worn away, thus exposing the mounting base 22 through one or more of the wear indicators 118. In other words, when the mounting base 22 becomes visible through the wear member 16 at the location of a wear indicator 118, this can serve as an indication that the wear member 16 should be replaced.

[0084] The first wear member portion 88 may define a wear indicator 118 on an inward surface 89 formed within a receiving recess 96 between a rectangular second opening 102 and a second end 120. The wear indicator 118 may include a recess recessed from the first inward surface 89 away from the receiving recess 96 into the first wear member portion 88. The second wear member portion 90 may also define a wear indicator 118 formed on a second inward surface 91 in a central region of the second wear member portion 90. The wear indicator 118 formed on the second inward surface 91 may include a recess recessed into the second inward surface 91 away from the receiving recess 96. By recessing the wear indicator 118 away from the receiving recess 96, an indication that the wear member 16 should be replaced can appear before any wear occurs on the mounting base 22. The depth to which the wear indicator 118 is recessed from the first inward surface 89 within the receiving recess 96 may be between about 1 mm and about 5 mm. In other embodiments, the depth may be between about 2 mm and about 4 mm. For example, the depth may be about 3 mm.

[0085] like Figure 13 , Figure 15 and Figure 18 As shown, the wear indicator 118 defined by the wear member 16 can be an "X"-shaped recess. It is conceivable that other recess shapes can be used. It is also conceivable that an additional wear indicator 118 can be formed in the wear member 16. For example, as... Figure 15 As shown, the first wear member portion 88 may also define a circular recessed wear indicator 118, which is positioned between the rectangular second opening 102 and the first end portion 92, located on both sides of the receiving recess 96. In yet another example, as Figure 13 and Figure 18 As shown, the second wear member portion 90 may further define additional wear indicators 118, which are defined outside the receiving recess 96. These additional wear indicators can be any of a variety of shapes, such as square, circular, triangular, quadrilateral, or other shapes. These wear indicators 118 formed outside the receiving recess 96 may have a greater recess depth than the other wear indicators 118.

[0086] refer to Figures 13 to 15 The wear member 16 may further include a plurality of loading pads 124 configured to contact the mounting base 22. The loading pads 124 may be configured to transfer load from the wear member 16 to the mounting base 22 in directions substantially perpendicular to the first wear member portion 88, substantially perpendicular to the second wear member portion 90, and substantially parallel to the first wear member portion 88 and the second wear member portion 90. The loading pads 124 may include protrusions within a receiving recess 96. The protrusions may be formed by raised portions of the surface of the receiving recess 96. The surface of the receiving recess 96 may include a first inward surface 89, sidewalls 126, 128, and a second inward surface 91. The protrusions may be substantially flat-topped. The loading pads 124 may be positioned at corners of the receiving recess 96. The loading pads 124 may be configured to correspond to and contact the loading pads 86 of the mounting base 22. All loading pads 124 protruding from the first inward surface 89 may be substantially horizontal. All loading pads 124 protruding from the second inward surface 91 may be substantially horizontal. All the loading pads 124 that protrude on each individual sidewall 126, 128 can be substantially horizontal.

[0087] like Figure 13 and Figure 18 As depicted, the second wear member portion 90 may also have one or more loading surfaces 130 formed by the sidewalls of the receiving recess 96. The loading surfaces 130 may extend outward from a second inward surface 91 parallel to the first wear member portion 88, across a portion of the receiving recess 96 defined by the first wear member portion 88. The loading surfaces 130 are configured to contact the loading pad 86 of the first base portion 28 and the upper end portion 58 of the second base portion 44 when the mounting base 22 is engaged with the wear member 16. The loading surfaces 130 may be configured to transfer loads onto the mounting base 22 perpendicular to the first wear member portion 88.

[0088] like Figure 3 As shown, the wear member 16 may be wider than the mounting base 22 along the latitudinal direction 57, longer than the mounting base 22 along the longitudinal direction 30, and taller than the mounting base 22 along the vertical direction 46. In other words, the wear member 16 may be configured such that when... Figure 3 When connected in the installation positions shown, the wear member 16 can substantially surround the mounting base 22.

[0089] The wear member 16 can vary in size, thus enabling it to fit tools 12 of various sizes. Although the size of the wear member 16 can vary, the ratios of the various dimensions can remain approximately the same, regardless of the overall size of the wear member 16 and the corresponding wear member system 14.

[0090] refer to Figure 17 The ratio of the maximum width 160 of the first wear member portion 88 to the maximum width 162 of the second wear member portion 90 at the upper end 121 in a direction parallel to the first wear member portion 88 and the second wear member portion 90 can be between about 1 and about 2. In some embodiments, this ratio can be between about 1.25 and about 1.75. In some other embodiments, this ratio can be between about 1.5 and about 1.6. For example, this ratio can be about 1.55. The width ratio can be related to the angle λ of the converging side surfaces 98, 100 of the second wear member portion 90. Due to the converging side and width ratio, the wear member system 14 can be mounted closer to each other along the heel of the tool, without... Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the interference problem.

[0091] refer to Figure 19 The ratio of the maximum length 164 of the first wear member portion 88 in a direction generally perpendicular to the second wear member portion 90 to the maximum height 166 of the second wear member portion 90 in a direction generally perpendicular to the first wear member portion 88 can be between about 1.15 and about 1.5. In some embodiments, this ratio can be between about 1.3 and about 1.35. For example, the ratio can be about 1.32. This ratio can be related to the corresponding maximum length and maximum height ratio of the mounting base 22. This range of ratios can be advantageous because they can provide a wear member 16 of a suitable size relative to the size of the tool 12, without being too large and heavy to make the installation and replacement of the wear member 16 problematic.

[0092] The dimensions of the mounting base 22 relative to the wear member 16 can also remain approximately the same, independent of changes in the overall size of the wear member system 14. For example, refer to Figure 8 and Figure 17 The ratio of the width 160 of the first wear member portion to the width 146 of the first base portion 28 can be between about 1.15 and about 1.5. In some embodiments, this ratio can be between about 1.3 and about 1.35, for example, about 1.32. (See again) Figure 8 and Figure 17 The ratio of the width 162 of the second wear member portion 90 to the width 148 of the second base portion 44 can be between about 1.55 and about 1.8. In some embodiments, this ratio can be between about 1.65 and about 1.70, for example, about 1.68. (Reference) Figure 10 and Figure 19The ratio of the length 164 of the first wear member portion 88 to the length 150 of the first base portion 28 can be between about 1.0 and about 1.4. In some embodiments, this ratio can be between about 1.1 and about 1.3, for example, about 1.20. These ratios of the wear member 16 to the mounting base 22 can be advantageous to ensure that the sizes of both the mounting base 22 and the wear member 16 are appropriate based on the size of the tool 12. Additionally, these ratios can provide an appropriate amount of material around the mounting base 22, allowing the expected lifespan of the wear member 16 to be sufficiently long.

[0093] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 21 The retainer 24 may have a generally flat rectangular body portion 132, which may be adapted to be placed within the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60. The retainer 24 may be configured such that, when mounted within the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60, it can hold the wear member 16 in a mounted position on the mounting base 22. The body may be made of steel or any suitable substantially incompressible material. The retainer 24 may also be provided with a spring portion 134 along the body 132, which may be adapted to give the body 132 sufficient elasticity from one end to the other to allow the length of the body 132 to be compressed when a compressive force is applied to the ends, but sufficient rigidity from side to side to allow the retainer 24 to withstand compressive loads applied to the sides without causing any significant deformation. It is contemplated that other retainer designs may be used to maintain the mounted position of the wear member 16. For example, the first opening 60 and the retainer 24 may include shapes other than rectangular.

[0094] Figure 22 An embodiment of the plug 26 is shown. The plug 26 may have a flat bottom 136 and a plurality of protrusions 138 whose shape corresponds to the spring portion 134 of the retainer 24, thereby allowing the protrusions 138 of the plug 26 to be inserted into the spring portion 134 of the retainer 24. The plug 26 prevents clay material from getting stuck in the spring portion 134 when inserted into the retainer 24. Without the plug 26, clay material may get stuck in the spring portion 134, thereby limiting the compression of the spring portion 134 and making it difficult to remove the retainer 24.

[0095] Another embodiment of the wear component system is in Figures 26 to 28As shown in the diagram. The wear component system 14' can be substantially similar to the wear component system 14. For example, the wear component system 14' may include a wear component 16', a mounting base 22', a retainer 24, and a plug 26. The mounting base 22' may be configured to attach (e.g., fixedly) to a first surface 18 and a second surface 20 of the tool 12. The wear component 16' may be configured to be removably coupled to the mounting base 22'. The retainer 24 may be configured to retain the wear component 16 coupled to the mounting base 22, and the plug 26 may be configured to protect the retainer 24.

[0096] like Figures 26 to 28 As shown, mounting base 22' can be similar to mounting base 22 in many respects. However, there are significant differences between the embodiments. For example, the second base portion 44' of mounting base 22' may be approximately the same width as the first base portion 28' at the second end 42', while the second base portion 44' is narrower than the first base portion 28 at the second end 42. Due to the increased width of the second base portion 44' relative to the first base portion 28, the width of the second chamfered surface 84' can also be increased. The shape of the receiving recess 96' defined by the wear member 16' can be correspondingly shaped to receive the wider second base portion 44' of mounting base 22'.

[0097] Another difference between the embodiments includes, for example, how the second base portion 44' may define a tab opening 168 configured to receive a tab 170 defined by the wear member 16'. The wear member 16 and the mounting base 22 have neither a tab opening 168 nor a tab 170. Figure 26 As shown, the tab opening 168 can be configured to receive the tab 170 through the second base portion 44'. The surface of the tab 170 can be configured to contact the corresponding surface of the tab opening 168 when the wear member 16' is engaged with the mounting base 22'. The surfaces of the tab opening 168 and the tab 170 can be configured to function similarly to the loading surface 130 of the wear member system 14. In other words, the tab 170 can be configured to transfer the load applied to the wear member 16' to the mounting base 22' via the tab opening 168. The load transferred by the tab opening 168 and the tab 170 can be applied to the wear member 16' and the mounting base 22' along the vertical direction 46 and the latitudinal direction 57.

[0098] Another example of the difference between wear member systems 14 and 14' includes the difference between wear indicator 118 of wear member 16 and wear indicator 118' of wear member 16'. Wear member 16' may include a circular wear indicator 118' formed along the sidewall of receiving recess 96', whereas wear indicator 118, as described herein, may be circular and "X" shaped and positioned within receiving recess 96. Additional minor differences between wear member systems 14 and 14' can be identified from the figures.

[0099] Industrial applicability

[0100] The disclosed wear member system can be applied to any tool having a heel with a generally perpendicular first and second surface. The wear member system can have various advantages over prior art wear member systems. For example, they can be removed and / or installed relatively easily, regardless of tool size. Additionally, the first and second surfaces of the tool can be protected using a single mounting base and wear member system. Another advantage can be based on the applicability of multiple surface wear indicators, which can provide indication of when the wear member should be replaced.

[0101] The wear member 16 and the mounting base 22 provide a quick and simple system for installing the wear member 16 onto and removing the wear member 16 from the mounting base 22. The installation and removal of the wear member 16 can be accomplished without special tools, requiring only a common pry bar. Figures 23 to 25 The mounting wear member 16 and mounting base 22 are depicted in various assembled states. As described herein, the mounting base 22 can be attached to the tool 12 via welding. The mounting base 22 can be welded to the tool 12 at a first position 140 and a second position 142 along the first surface 18 and at a third position 144 along the second surface 20. Once the mounting base 22 is attached to the tool 12, the wear member 16 can be coupled to the mounting base 22 by movement of the wear member 16 in a first direction toward the mounting base 22, such as... Figure 23 As indicated by arrow 172. The protrusion 104 of the wear member 16 should be substantially aligned with the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60 in order to allow the protrusion 104 to be inserted into the first opening 60.

[0102] like Figure 24As shown, the wear member 16 can first be positioned on the mounting base 22 in an offset position, in which the protrusion 104 can be inserted into the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60 on the left side of the notch 64. Then, the wear member 16 can slide to the right in the second direction indicated by arrow 174 to the mounting position. As the wear member 16 slides to the right, the protrusion 104 can move from the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60 into the notch 64, thereby causing the mating surfaces 106, 108 of the protrusion 104 to engage with the angled surfaces 76, 78 of the notch 64 to form an interlocking relationship. The engagement of the mating surfaces 106, 108 and the angled surfaces 76, 78 can form a dovetail joint.

[0103] In the installation position, the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60 can be aligned with the rectangular second opening 102, allowing the retainer 24 to be inserted into the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60 via the wear member 16, as shown below. Figure 25 As shown. The retainer 24 can be inserted into the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60 in a third-direction upward direction, as indicated by arrow 176. A pry bar can be inserted at the other end of the retainer 24 by positioning one end of the retainer 24 in the first opening 60 below one of the flanges 72, 74. By applying reasonable force to the retainer 24 with a screwdriver, the retainer 24 can be sufficiently compressed in length to allow the free end of the retainer 24 to move completely through the other flange and seat retainer 24 within the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60. When installed, the retainer 24 prevents the wear member 16 from moving relative to the mounting base 22 in the longitudinal direction 30. The retainer 24 prevents movement by maintaining the position of the protrusion 104 within the recessed portion 64 of the first opening 60. After the retainer 24 is installed, the plug 26 can also be installed by inserting it through the rectangular second opening 102 in the wear member 16.

[0104] By performing the steps described above in reverse order, the wear member 16 can be detached from the mounting base 22. For example, the first plug 26 (if installed) can be removed. Next, the retainer 24 can be removed, and the wear member 16 can then be slid to the left until the protrusion 104 aligns with the rectangular portion 62 of the first opening 60. Once the protrusion 104 is aligned, the wear member 16 can be dropped from the mounting base 22. A new wear member 16 can then be installed.

[0105] Another advantage of the wear member system 14 is its versatility. The wear member system 14 can protect a portion of the first surface 18 and the second surface 20 of the tool 12 at the heel 15 or 17 using only a single wear member 16. In contrast, a single-surface wear member typically requires two separate mounting bases and wear members, one for the first surface 18 and one for the second surface 20, to protect each heel of the tool. Therefore, by protecting both surfaces with one wear member and one mounting base, the wear member system 14 can reduce installation time and cost.

[0106] Another advantage of the wear member system 14 and the wear member 16 is that one or more wear indicators 118 can provide indication of when the wear member 16 should be replaced. In some applications, the wear member 16 may experience different amounts of wear depending on the surface of the wear member 16. Therefore, it may be advantageous to form the wear indicators 118 on multiple surfaces and in multiple locations on the wear member 16 to provide wear indication at multiple locations. In some applications, it may be advantageous to periodically rotate the wear member 16 on the tool 12 to achieve uniform wear of the wear member 16 and increase the service life of each wear member.

[0107] refer to Figure 29 and Figure 30 The diagram illustrates a machine 200 having a body 202 (which may include a turntable 208) (e.g., an electric rope shovel with a bucket, as described in any of the embodiments discussed herein), the body 202 having a track system including a first track chain 204a and a second track chain 204b positioned on opposite sides of the body 202. The machine 200 is shown in the context of an electric rope shovel and includes an operator's cab 206, a boom 210, a lower end 212 of the boom 210 (also referred to as a boom mount), an upper end 214 of the boom 210 (also referred to as a boom tip), a tension cable 216, a frame tensioning member 218, a frame compression member 220, pulleys 222 rotatably mounted on the upper end 214 of the boom 210, a bucket 300, a bucket door 302 pivotally connected to the bucket 300, a hoisting rope 228, a winch drum (not shown), and a bucket handle 230. An electric motor controls the winch drum, causing the boom and bucket to descend or rise, and the bucket handle to move up and down relative to the boom.

[0108] Tracks 204a and 204b are part of a machine underframe 232 that is conventionally connected to the chassis 202. Each of tracks 204a and 204b includes a plurality of track plates joined together to form an annular ring extending about a plurality of rotatable elements. In a typical design, an idler pulley 234 and a drive sprocket 236 are associated with each of tracks 204a and 204b and mounted to a track track roller carrier 238. A plurality of track track rollers 240 may also be mounted to the roller carrier 238 and associated with each of tracks 204a and 204b to support the machine 200 and guide tracks 204a and 204b in a desired path, as further described herein. One or more carrier track rollers 242 (or track sliders) may also be associated with each of tracks 204a and 204b to support and guide the track opposite the track rollers 240 during operation.

[0109] The unique design of tracks 204a and 204b, and the integrated track and underframe system as part of them, is envisioned to enable machine 200 to operate in certain environments such as oil sand. While this document emphasizes use in environments with electric rope shovels and buckets, it should be understood that machine 200 can include different types of machines. For example, this document envisions tracked tractors or even half-tracked machines. Furthermore, machine 200 can consist of conveyors or other types of machines, where the tracks are used for purposes other than ground engagement elements. Additionally, the machine can be some type of hydraulic shovel, bulldozer, excavator, backhoe excavator, etc.

[0110] The bucket 300 is suspended from the boom 210 by a lifting rope 228. The lifting rope 228 is wound around a pulley 222 and attached to the bucket 300 at a lifting ring 244. The lifting rope 228 is anchored to a winch drum (not shown). The winch drum is driven by at least one electric motor (not shown) coupled with a drive unit (not shown). As the winch drum rotates, the lifting rope 228 is released to lower the bucket 300 or pulled in to raise the bucket 300. The bucket handle 230 is also connected to the bucket 300. The bucket handle 230 is slidably supported in a saddle block 246, which is pivotally mounted to the boom 210 at a transport shaft (not clearly shown). The bucket handle 230 includes a rack and pinion thereon that engage with a drive pinion (not shown) mounted in the saddle block 246. The drive pinion is driven by an electric motor and a transmission unit (not shown) to extend or retract the bucket handle 230 relative to the saddle block 246.

[0111] A power source (not shown) is installed on the vehicle body 202 to power a lifting electric motor (not shown) for driving the lifting drum, one or more shovel electric motors (not shown) for driving the shovel drive unit, and one or more oscillating electric motors (not shown) for rotating the turntable 208. In some cases, a single electric motor powers all moving parts of the shovel. Each of the shovel motors, lifting motors, and oscillating motors is driven by its own motor controller, or alternatively, in response to control signals from a controller (not clearly shown).

[0112] Track chains 204a and 204b are considered well-suited for operation in harsh foot conditions. For this purpose, track chains 204a and 204b can be “high ground pressure” tracks, each having sufficiently durable track components to support the relatively large weight of machine 200. Each track plate component has a coverage area defined partially by a front edge and a rear edge, and also partially by an outer edge and an inner edge. Each track plate component may also include a ground contact area equal to its coverage area, or smaller than its coverage area only to the extent that adjacent track plates overlap each other or due to gaps provided on the bottom surface of the track plate component. Other configurations of the track plates and track chain assemblies are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0113] As can be imagined, both external and internal wear components can experience abrasion and clogging. Therefore, other embodiments that can limit abrasion and clogging in harsh abrasive environments such as oil sands will now be discussed. However, it should be understood that these embodiments are equally applicable to other environments and applications.

[0114] Such embodiments may have a bolt-fastened wear member (also referred to as a cover) with a dovetail fastener assembly, which replaces the dovetail on the wear member as described earlier herein, allowing the wear member to fit into the same mounting base portion. This cover can be lowered directly onto the top of the base. Then, contrary to the previous embodiments discussed herein, the cover uses all four sides of the base to bear the load, where the wear member uses only three sides of the base to bear the load, while the spring retainer bears the load on the fourth side. The wear member can eliminate the large openings disclosed herein that could allow clogging to occur. Figure 30 This shows multiple wear components mounted on the bottom plate inside the bucket and a wear component mounting system.

[0115] Now go to Figures 31 to 43 As can be seen, wear component mounting systems 400, 400a are constructed according to two different embodiments of this disclosure (e.g., system 400 may be larger than system 400a). Such wear component mounting systems 400, 400a may include a mounting base 700 (e.g., see...). Figure 32The mounting base 700 includes at least a portion of an outer polygonal periphery 702 (other shapes of the periphery are possible, including arcuate), an internal welded receiving aperture 704 (e.g., it may have an elongated elliptical groove shape or a racetrack shape, but other configurations, locations, and multiple apertures are possible), and at least one dovetail groove 706, 706a (which may open or enlarge on the bottom surface 712). Wear members 500, 500a may be provided (e.g., see...). Figure 31 and Figure 40 The wear member 500, 500a is configured to attach to the mounting base 700 by placing it on the mounting base rather than sliding it onto the mounting base.

[0116] For this purpose, the wear members 500, 500a may define an aperture 502 having at least a partial internal polygonal periphery 504 on their lower surfaces 506, 506a (see, for example, see...). Figure 36 and Figure 40 (This could be a blind orifice that extends only to the bottom surface to help reduce clogging), and the at least partially inner polygonal periphery 504 is configured to mate with at least a partially outer polygonal periphery 702 of the mounting base 700. Other configurations of these peripheries are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0117] Wear component mounting systems 500, 500a may also include at least one dovetail fastener sub-assembly 600, 600a (see, for example, see...). Figure 31 , Figure 32 , Figure 33 , Figure 34 , Figure 43 , Figure 44 (One sub-component 600a may be smaller than another sub-component 600, etc.) The dovetail fastening sub-components 600, 600a include dovetail members 602, 602a having at least one dovetail groove 706, 706a configured to at least partially and complementaryly fill the mounting base 700 and defining a body with fastener receiving openings 604, 604a extending through the body, the body having circular portions 606, 606a and non-circular portions 608, 608a. In some of the embodiments shown, the circular portions 606, 606a include cylindrical clearance holes 610, 610a (610a having a diameter of approximately 18.0 mm for receiving M16 bolts, and 610 having a diameter of approximately 22.0 mm for receiving M20 bolts), while the non-circular portions 608, 608a may include a plurality of flat surfaces 612, 612a angled relative to each other. More specifically, these flat surfaces may accommodate the hexagonal heads of bolts to prevent them from rotating during assembly, etc.

[0118] See Figure 37 and Figure 41 At least one dovetail groove 706, 706a includes a pair of angled sidewalls 708, and the body of the dovetail members 602, 602a may include a pair of inclined surfaces 614, 614a that mate with (i.e., may contact or nearly contact) the angled sidewalls 708. A gap of 2.0 mm may be provided, but is not required. That is, the design may be line-to-line, or may provide preload, etc. The shape of these features does not have to be flat, but may be arcuate, such as when using a pin-rounded dovetail or a partially pin-rounded dovetail. Similarly, a T-slot dovetail with a right-angled surface, etc., may be used.

[0119] See again Figure 32 The mounting base may include a top surface 710 and a bottom surface 712 (so named because this surface is closest to the mounting surface of the working tool). At least one dovetail groove 706 may be provided within at least a portion of the outer polygonal periphery 702 and communicate with a T-slot extending through the top surface 710 and bottom surface 712 of the mounting base 700. In other embodiments of this disclosure, the T-slot 712 may be omitted. Another dovetail groove 706a may extend through the top surface 710 and bottom surface 712, and also extend to at least a portion of the outer polygonal periphery 702. This may not be the case in other embodiments of this disclosure. For example, the dovetail groove may be omitted, or both grooves may be provided facing inwards towards the mounting base 700, etc.

[0120] Figure 33 and Figure 43 The dovetail members 602, 602a are shown to include rectangular pads 616, 616a extending upward from a pair of inclined surfaces 614, 614a, forming top surfaces 618, 618a. Furthermore, the pair of inclined surfaces 614, 614a can extend to bottom surfaces 620, 620a. Circular portions 606, 606a of fastener receiving orifices 604, 604a extend from the top surfaces 618, 618a, while non-circular portions 608, 608a of fastener receiving orifices 604, 604a extend from the bottom surfaces 620, 620a to the circular portions 606, 606a. Specifically, the circular portions 606, 606a may include cylindrical clearance holes 610, 610a, while the non-circular portions 608, 608a may include a plurality of flat surfaces 612, 612a angled relative to each other. For example, these surfaces may be configured to mate with the hexagonal or square heads of bolts. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0121] In this art, wear component mounting systems 400, 400a are typically assembled by first attaching a mounting base 700 to the surface of a working tool (e.g., via welding). Then, dovetail fastening sub-assemblies 600, 600a are placed into dovetail grooves. If the dovetail groove includes a T-slot, the sub-assembly is inserted downwards into the T-slot and slid until it reaches the dovetail groove. If the dovetail groove is peripheral, the sub-assembly simply slides into the dovetail groove. Next, wear components 500, 500a are placed downwards onto the mounting base, allowing fasteners to pass through their countersunk holes 526, 526a. Nuts 636, 636a are then tightened to secure the wear component.

[0122] If the dovetail fastener assembly is not supplied in the assembled state, it must be assembled first. Simply insert the fastener through the bottom surface of the dovetail member until its head reaches the countersunk hole with a flat surface.

[0123] In fact, according to any embodiment discussed herein, wear components, mounting bases, dovetail fastener subassemblies, wear component mounting systems, and / or any of their components can be sold, manufactured, purchased, etc., in the aftermarket or original equipment market. That is, according to the embodiments described herein, the machine can be sold with the bucket and / or wear component mounting system, etc., or the machine can be modified, repaired, or refurbished to use any of the embodiments discussed herein. Similarly, any bucket or other working tool can be modified or repaired using any embodiment of this disclosure.

[0124] For example, such as Figure 31 and Figures 36 to 42 As shown, wear components 500, 500a that can be provided as replacement parts may include a body defining an outer periphery 508, 508a having an outer periphery 510, 510a, an inner aperture 502 having at least a partial inner polygonal periphery 504, and at least one fastener receiving hole 512, 512a extending from the outer periphery 508a to the inner aperture 502.

[0125] like Figure 36 and Figure 40 As best shown, at least a portion of the periphery of the internal polygon is formed by a series of mating pads 514, which are formed having an orifice depth 516 (see also...). Figure 38 and Figure 42 A rectangular configuration with an orifice width of 518 and an orifice length of 520 (the pad may be positioned at the corner of the rectangular configuration and may protrude approximately 25.0 mm). In some embodiments of this disclosure, the ratio of the orifice width 518 to the orifice length 520 may range from 0.75 to 0.90. Other ratios are possible for smaller and larger applications, etc.

[0126] More specifically, the orifice length 520 can range from 155.0 mm to 235.0 mm, the orifice width 518 can range from 118.0 mm to 200.0 mm, and the orifice depth 516 can range from 18.0 mm to 29.0 mm. Other size ranges are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure. A pair of mating pads 514 are provided with pry grooves 522 (see also) along a direction parallel to the orifice length, comprising angled pry surfaces 524. Figure 36 and Figure 42 )separate.

[0127] Continue to refer to Figure 36 and Figure 42 The fastener receiving holes 512, 512a may take the form of countersunk holes 526, 526a, which define a larger diameter portion defining a larger diameter 528, 528a and a smaller diameter portion defining a smaller diameter 530, 530a. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the ratio of the larger diameter 528, 528a to the smaller diameter 530, 530a can range from 2.0 to 2.75. When present, the countersunk hole can be more easily cleaned using the head of the fastener present in it, thus facilitating disassembly. This may not be the case in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0128] Now for reference Figure 38 The fastener receiving hole 512 defines a diameter (e.g., a large diameter 528) spaced apart from the outer periphery 510 by a minimum distance 532. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the ratio of the minimum distance 532 to the diameter 528 can range from 0.77 to 0.92. This ratio can balance the cleaning benefits discussed above with the structural integrity of the wear member. In some applications where cleaning or structural integrity is not required (such as when using suitable durable materials), this ratio may not be necessary.

[0129] like Figure 35 , Figure 36 , Figure 39 and Figure 40 As best shown, the outer peripheries 510, 510a may define upwardly inclined portions 534, 534a, a pair of side recesses 536, 536a, and a bottom recess 538. The lifting rings 540, 540a may be disposed in each of the pair of side recesses 536, 536a. Furthermore, the outer peripheries 510, 510a define first protrusions 542, 542a between the upwardly inclined portions 534, 534a and the lifting rings 540, 540a, and second protrusions 544, 544a between the bottom recess 538 and the lifting rings 540, 540a. Additionally, the wear member includes a bottom surface (or lower surface 506, 506a, see below). Figure 36 and Figure 40The bottom surface is defined by first cavities 546, 546a on the bottom surface at the first protrusions 542, 542a, and second cavities 548, 548a on the bottom surface at the second protrusions 544, 544a. These cavities can extrude excess material, which can reduce costs and help prevent problems associated with the casting process, including voids, porosity, sinking, etc.

[0130] Furthermore, the entire outer perimeter is not a pure rectangle or square, which helps the wear member to hold material, promotes bucket filling, and reduces the likelihood of material below the wear member getting stuck in the attachment structure. This provides more effective wear protection than wear members with simple shapes known in the prior art.

[0131] It should be noted that, Figure 38 and Figure 42 The cross section can also represent the plane of symmetry of the worn component. Therefore, various features such as those just discussed can be mirror images of these planes, but not necessarily.

[0132] See Figure 35 and Figure 39 It is understood that the outer perimeters 510, 510a define a width 550 and lengths 552, 552a. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the ratio of width 550 to lengths 552, 552a can range from 1.05 to 1.32. In this case, the length can range from 275.0 mm to 350.0 mm, the width can range from 360.0 mm to 370.0 mm, and the body can define a thickness 554 ranging from 70.0 mm to 80.0 mm (see...). Figure 38 In other embodiments of this disclosure, other ratios and size ranges are possible.

[0133] In the assembled state, a 1.0 mm gap can be provided between the mounting plate and the side of the hole in the wear component, and a 5.0 mm gap can be provided near the front of the component (the area near the bottom notch 538). These gaps are adjustable.

[0134] Go to Figure 33 , Figure 34 , Figure 43 and Figure 44The dovetail fastener subassemblies 600, 600a, which may be provided as alternatives or modifications in the art, may include dovetail members 602, 602a, which include a body having at least a partially pyramidal configuration (e.g., inclined surfaces 614, 614a having flat side surfaces 624, 624a, etc.) defining fastener receiving orifices 604, 604a extending through the body, the fastener receiving orifices 604, 604a defining rotating surfaces 626, 626a and non-rotating surfaces 628, 628a.

[0135] The subassembly may also include bolts 630 and 630a having heads 632 and 632a and shafts 634 and 634a. The heads 632 and 632a mate with non-rotating surfaces 628 and 628a, while the shafts 634 and 634a mate with rotating surfaces 626 and 626a. As a result, the bolts can pass through the dovetail members, exposing their externally threaded free ends. Nuts 636 and 636a can be screwed onto the shafts, which remain stationary due to the mating of the heads with the non-rotating surfaces. Examples of bolts that can be used include M16 bolts, M20 bolts, etc.

[0136] Figure 37 and Figure 45 A general example of bolted connections during assembly is provided. Washers (638, 638a) are also provided. The inventors have identified... Figure 45 The stress distribution of 640 is acceptable for at least some applications.

[0137] exist Figure 32 The image shows a mounting plate 700a that can be provided in the field as a replacement or modification. The mounting plate 700a may include a plate body that defines a plate length 716, a plate width 718, and a plate thickness 720 that is less than the plate length 716 and the plate width 718.

[0138] The plate body may also define an internal dovetail groove (e.g., see 706), an external dovetail groove (e.g., see 706a), a T-shaped groove 714 that communicates with the internal dovetail groove and partially forms the internal dovetail groove, and an elongated groove 722 disposed between the T-shaped groove 714 and the external dovetail groove in a direction parallel to the plate length 718.

[0139] A pair of pry slots 722 may be provided on either side of the outer dovetail groove (e.g., see 706a) in a direction parallel to the width 716 of the plate, and an elongated pry slot 726 may be provided near the inner dovetail groove (e.g., see 706) in a direction parallel to the length 718 of the plate.

[0140] Figure 46The base plate 503, illustrated with a bottom orifice 502, may not be continuous or flat, but may have multiple surfaces at different heights. For example, the base plate 503 may include a series of mounting pads 556 (e.g., four of which are positioned at each corner of the orifice 502), a pair of shallow recesses 558 (e.g., which may have a depth of 30.0 mm or less) disposed between a pair of mounting pads, each recess surrounding a fastener receiving orifice or hole, and a large gap recess 560 (e.g., which may have a depth greater than 30.0 mm) in the middle of the orifice 502, which separates one set of mounting pads and recesses from another set. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0141] Although this arrangement is illustrated in conjunction with an electric cable shovel, the arrangement disclosed herein is universally applicable to a wide variety of other types of machines that typically employ tracked systems rather than wheels. The term "machine" can refer to any machine that performs some type of operation associated with an industry such as mining or construction, or any other industry known in the art. For example, the machine could be an excavator, wheel loader, cable shovel, or dragline excavator, etc. Furthermore, one or more implements can be attached to the machine. Such implements can be used for a variety of tasks, including, for example, lifting and loading.

[0142] As used herein, the articles “a” and “an” are intended to include one or more items and are interchangeable with “one or more”. The term “an” or similar language is used when referring to only one item. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms “has,” “have,” “having,” “with,” etc., are intended to be open-ended terms. Additionally, the phrase “based on” is intended to mean “at least partially based on” unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0143] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments of the devices and assembly methods discussed herein without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. Other embodiments of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the practice of the specification and the various embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the construction and function of some devices may differ from those already described herein, and certain steps of any method may be omitted, performed in a different order than specifically mentioned, or in some cases performed simultaneously or as sub-steps. Furthermore, variations or modifications can be made to certain aspects or features of the various embodiments to produce further embodiments, and features and aspects of various embodiments may be added to or substitute for other features or aspects of other embodiments to provide even further embodiments.

[0144] Therefore, the description and examples are to be considered exemplary only, wherein the true scope and spirit of the invention are indicated by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A wear component (500, 500a), comprising: The subject, the subject being defined The exterior (508, 508a) has an outer periphery (510, 510a); An internal aperture (502) having at least a partial internal polygonal periphery (504); and At least one fastener receiving hole (512, 512a) extending from the outside (508, 508a) to the inside opening (502). The outer periphery (510, 510a) defines an upwardly inclined portion (534, 534a), a pair of side recesses (536, 536a), and a bottom recess (538). The internal aperture (502) includes: a base plate (503) having a series of mounting pads (556), a pair of shallow recesses (558) disposed between a pair of the series of mounting pads (556) and surrounding the at least one fastener receiving hole (512, 512a), and a large gap recess (560) disposed in the middle portion of the internal aperture (502).

2. The wear member (500, 500a) according to claim 1, wherein the at least part of the internal polygonal periphery (504) is formed by a series of mating pads (514) forming a rectangular configuration having an orifice depth (516), an orifice width (518) and an orifice length (520), and the ratio of the orifice width (518) to the orifice length (520) ranges from 0.75 to 0.

90.

3. The wear member (500, 500a) according to claim 2, wherein the orifice length (520) ranges from 155.0 mm to 235.0 mm, the orifice width (518) ranges from 118.0 mm to 200.0 mm, and the orifice depth (516) ranges from 18.0 mm to 29.0 mm, and a pair of the series of mating pads (514) are separated along a direction parallel to the orifice length (520) by a pry groove (522) including an angled pry surface (524).

4. The wear member (500, 500a) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one fastener receiving hole (512, 512a) is a countersunk hole (526, 526a), the countersunk hole (526, 526a) defining a larger diameter portion and a smaller diameter portion, the larger diameter portion defining a large diameter (528, 528a), the smaller diameter portion defining a small diameter (530, 530a), and the ratio of the large diameter (528, 528a) to the small diameter (530, 530a) ranges from 2.0 to 2.

5.

5. The wear member (500, 500a) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one fastener receiving hole (512, 512a) defines a diameter (528, 528a) spaced apart from the outer periphery (510, 510a) by a minimum distance (532), and the ratio of the minimum distance (532) to the diameter (528, 528a) ranges from 0.77 to 0.

92.

6. The wear member (500, 500a) according to claim 1, further comprising a lifting ring (540, 540a) disposed in each of the pair of side recesses (536, 536a), wherein the outer periphery (510, 510a) defines a first protrusion (542, 542a) between the upper inclined portion (534, 534a) and the lifting ring (540, 540a), and the bottom recess (538) and the lifting ring (540, 540a) The second protrusion (544, 544a) between the first protrusion (542, 542a) and the wear member (500, 500a) includes a bottom surface (506, 506a) defining a first cavity (546, 546a) on the bottom surface (506, 506a) at the first protrusion (542, 542a) and a second cavity (548, 548a) on the bottom surface at the second protrusion (544, 544a).

7. The wear member (500, 500a) according to claim 1, wherein the outer periphery (510, 510a) defines a width (550) and a length (552, 552a), and the ratio of the width (550) to the length (552a) ranges from 1.05 to 1.32.

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