Adapter and tip coupling system

Abstract

A locking assembly (202a) for attaching a wear member (200b) to a base (300b) includes a threaded retaining block (400a) having a C-spring (700) attached to the retaining block (400a) that fits into a bore (306a) of the base (300b). A threaded locking pin (800) fits into the hole (220a) of the wear member and the threaded hole (426) of the retaining block (400a), retaining the wear member (200b) on the base (300b). The threaded locking pin (800) engages the C-spring (700) that prevents unexpected rotation of the threaded locking pin (800) such that the threaded locking pin is trapped in the bore (220a) of the wear member (200b) against unexpected removal thereof.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a retention mechanism employed on a work tool assembly, such as a bucket assembly used in earthmoving, mining, construction equipment, etc., for attaching a tip to an adapter of the work tool assembly. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a retention mechanism that uses a spring attached to a retention block that interacts with a locking pin to retain the tip on the adapter. Background Art

[0002] Machines such as wheel loaders, excavators, and the like employ work tool assemblies including bucket assemblies, rakes, shears, and the like that have teeth or tips attached thereto to assist in performing work on materials such as dirt, rocks, sand, and the like. For example, teeth or tips may be attached to a bucket assembly to assist the bucket assembly in penetrating the ground to facilitate shoveling dirt into the bucket. Adapters are typically attached to the working edge (e.g., base edge, side edge, etc.) of a bucket or other work tool so that different types of teeth or tips may be attached to the work tool. Moreover, by providing a retaining mechanism for selectively maintaining the tip on the adapter or allowing the tip to be removed from the adapter, the tip or teeth may be easily replaced when worn.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 5,435,084 discloses an excavating tooth assembly having a base nose, a replaceable tooth tip mounted on the base nose, and a pin securing the tip to the nose. The pin includes a locking head eccentric to the pin and a cushion-like elastic member placed between the head and the tooth tip. The locking head is rotated so that the elastic member is compressed to drive the tooth tip in a direction that keeps the tip in a nose contact position.

[0004] As can be seen, the '084 patent provides no resistance to rotation of the locking pin. Accordingly, there is a need to develop a retention mechanism that is less prone to accidental rotation of the locking pin. Accidental rotation of the locking pin may result in unintended unlocking of the retention mechanism, thereby increasing the risk of loss of the tip. Summary of the invention

[0005] A tip and adapter assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a tip including a body defining an assembly direction, a vertical axis perpendicular to the assembly direction, and a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical axis and the assembly direction. The body of the tip may include a forward working portion disposed along the assembly direction and including a closed end, and a rear attachment portion disposed along the assembly direction and including an open end. The rear attachment portion may define an exterior surface, an adapter nose receiving recess extending longitudinally from the open end, a retaining mechanism receiving aperture communicating with the adapter nose receiving recess and the exterior surface, and a first flange defining a first transverse undercut in the retaining mechanism receiving aperture. The assembly may also include an adapter including a body including a nose portion configured to fit within the adapter nose receiving recess of the tip. The body of the adapter may include an exterior surface defining a polygonal retaining block receiving aperture.

[0006] A wear assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a body defining a longitudinal axis, a vertical axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical axis and the longitudinal axis. The body of the wear component may also include a forward wear portion disposed along the longitudinal axis and a rear attachment portion disposed along the longitudinal axis, including an open end. The rear attachment portion may define an exterior surface, an adapter nose receiving recess extending longitudinally from the open end, a retaining mechanism receiving hole extending from the exterior surface through the body to the adapter nose receiving hole, and a retaining mechanism receiving hole that does not include threads or other undercuts.

[0007] An adapter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a body comprising: a nose portion having an outer side surface defining a polygonal retaining block receiving hole having a base surface; and a prying die slot extending from one side of the polygonal retaining block receiving hole.

[0008] A retaining mechanism according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a pin, the pin including a drive portion, a threaded portion, and a spring engagement portion, wherein the drive portion includes a revolving surface that defines a radial direction, a circumferential direction, and a rotation axis. In addition, the drive portion may be axially spaced apart from the threaded portion, and the threaded portion may be axially spaced apart from the spring engagement portion.

[0009] A retaining mechanism according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a threaded retaining block including an outer perimeter having a non-revolving surface, a pin receiving hole defining an inner surface offset inwardly from the non-revolving surface, and a spring receiving recess disposed in the pin receiving hole.

[0010] A locking assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a C-shaped spring including a pin-engaging inner circumferential surface defining a radial direction, a circumferential direction, and a pin insertion axis, a first circumferential end surface, a second circumferential end surface, and a first axial lead-in surface extending axially from the pin-engaging inner circumferential surface and circumferentially from the first circumferential end surface to the second circumferential end surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a work tool assembly, such as a bucket assembly, that utilizes a tip, an adapter, and a retaining mechanism (also referred to as a locking assembly) having components configured in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2 It uses a locking component Figure 1 A perspective view of the tip and adapter assembly, with Figure 1 The work tool components of FIG. 1 are shown separated.

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Exploded assembly view of the tip and adapter assembly and locking assembly.

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 , showing the block and spring portions of the locking assembly inserted into corresponding holes in the nose portion of the adapter. The tip is also shown inserted over the nose of the adapter.

[0015] Figure 5 Is set in Figure 4 An enlarged side view of the block and spring in the hole of the nose portion of the adapter.

[0016] Figure 6 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating the insertion of the locking pin into the adapter after the tip is inserted over the nose of the adapter. Figure 4 blocks, tips and adapters.

[0017] Figure 7 are shown separately Figure 5 A perspective view of the block and spring.

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A perspective view of the block and spring depicting the spring protruding into the center hole of the block.

[0019] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 Exploded assembly view of a block and spring in cross section.

[0020] Fig.10 After assembly Fig. 9Cross-sectional view of the block and spring.

[0021] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 0026] Figure 2 is a side view of the block, more clearly illustrating the flared portion of the perimeter of the block.

[0022] Fig.12 are shown separately Figures 7 to 10 Perspective view of a spring.

[0023] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 Side view of the spring.

[0024] Fig.14 The pin of the illustrated locking assembly is inserted into the hole of the tip and the hole of the block. The bevel of the pin is aligned with the spring circumference of the block to begin compressing the spring.

[0025] Fig.15 Shown after axial insertion begins and spring compression begins Fig.14 The pin.

[0026] Fig.16 Illustrated Fig.15 The bevel of the pin begins to compress the spring.

[0027] Fig.17 Depicts the complete axial insertion. Fig.16 The pin.

[0028] Fig.18 Shows Fig.17 The spring is further compressed by the tapered draft angle of the pin.

[0029] Fig.19 Shown in locked configuration Fig.18 The pin has been fully rotated clockwise.

[0030] Fig. 20 The example is shown in its locked position Fig.19 The spring has fallen into its side recess.

[0031] Fig.21 Depicts the tip after contacting the stopper surface of a fully locked tip. Fig. 20 The pin of the wing.

[0032] Fig. 22 is a side cross-sectional view of the spring showing the notch engaging the pin, and a tab disposed in an axial or lateral undercut at the tip, preventing the pin from being removed without intentionally rotating the pin in a counterclockwise direction.

[0033] Fig.23 yes Fig. 22 A front perspective view of a pin showing its polygonal drive hole.

[0034] Fig.24 yes Fig.23 A rear perspective view of the pin of , showing the relative circumferential timing of its bevel angle with respect to its flanking tabs.

[0035] Fig.25 Shows Fig.24 of the pin, revealing the relative circumferential timing of the bevel angle of the pin with respect to the side notch.

[0036] Fig.26 is a perspective view of a tip and adapter assembly employing a retention mechanism including a threaded locking pin and a threaded retention block according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Fig. 27 yes Fig.26 A perspective view of the tip of the tip adapter assembly of the invention with the adapter and retaining mechanism removed. Unlike previous embodiments of the present disclosure, the retaining mechanism receiving hole is not threaded. Instead, the hole is configured to receive a circular portion of a locking pin.

[0038] Fig.28 yes Fig.26 An alternative perspective view of the tip and retention mechanism with the adapter removed to more clearly show the retention block.

[0039] Fig.29 yes Fig.26 A perspective view of the adapter and retention mechanism of the XT-5000 with the tip removed for enhanced clarity. The pry die slot for removing the threaded retaining block and the rounded portion of the threaded locking pin can be seen.

[0040] Fig.30 yes Fig.29 A perspective view of an adapter with the retaining mechanism removed to more clearly illustrate the retaining block receiving hole and the pry die slot of the adapter.

[0041] Fig.31 are shown separately Fig.29 The side pry notches shown can be used with the pry slots of the adapter to remove the threaded retaining block from the adapter.

[0042] Fig.32 Shows Fig.31 The retaining mechanism has a threaded locking pin and C-shaped spring, without a threaded retaining block.

[0043] Fig.33 yes Fig.32 A rear perspective view of the C-shaped spring and threaded locking pin, more fully showing the threads of the pin.

[0044] Fig.34 are shown separately Fig.31 A perspective view of the threaded retention mechanism of the block. The C-shaped spring is shown mounted in the recess of the block.

[0045] Fig.35 yes Fig.34 An alternative perspective view of the threaded retaining block with the C-spring removed.

[0046] Fig.36 are shown separately Fig.34 A top perspective view of a C-shaped spring.

[0047] Fig.37 yes Fig.36 Bottom perspective view of a C-shaped spring.

[0048] Fig.38 is along Fig.26 A cross-sectional view of the tip and adapter assembly and the retaining mechanism of the figure taken along line 38-38. The threaded locking pin is shown fully in the locked configuration.

[0049] Fig.39 is along Fig.26 A cross-sectional view of the tip and adapter assembly and retention mechanism of the figure taken along line 39-39. The C-spring shown is located in a recess in the threaded retention block, engaging the circumference of the threaded locking pin, providing frictional resistance to accidental rotation.

[0050] Fig.40 Demonstrates the implementation Fig.39 The assembly process begins with the assembly configuration shown. The C-shaped spring is compressed and then inserted into the recess of the threaded retaining block.

[0051] Fig.41 Depicted is a threaded retaining block inserted into a recess of an adapter.

[0052] Fig.42 Depicts being slid to Fig.41 The tip on the nose of the adapter.

[0053] Fig.43 Shown is a threaded locking pin inserted into the holes of the tip and retaining block.

[0054] Fig.44 The threaded locking pin is shown contacting the threads of the retaining block prior to rotation.

[0055] Fig.45 Shown is rotated 45 degrees Fig.44 Threaded locking pin.

[0056] Fig.46 The threaded locking pin is shown after being rotated 180 degrees.

[0057] Fig.47 The locked configuration is shown after being rotated 225 degrees. Fig.42 The C-shaped spring is now located in the groove near the end of the threaded locking pin.

[0058] Fig.48 The retention mechanism with the threaded locking pin is shown removed from the adapter and tip after being inserted into the hole of the retention block and then rotated 45 degrees.

[0059] Fig.49 Further rotation (90 degrees) is illustrated, the threaded pin is further pulled axially into the hole of the retaining block, so that the C-shaped spring begins to expand. Specifically, the lead-in surface near the end of the threaded pin has begun to engage the C-shaped spring, causing it to expand.

[0060] Fig.50 It is shown that after the threaded locking pin has been rotated 135 degrees, the extension of the C-spring is almost complete.

[0061] Fig.51 Shown is the threaded locking pin after being rotated 180 degrees. The C-spring is fully extended.

[0062] Fig.52 Depicted is the threaded locking pin after being rotated 225 degrees. The threaded locking pin is fully pulled into the hole of the retaining block, and the C-shaped spring falls into the spring retaining hole provided near the end of the threaded locking pin. The C-shaped spring now contacts the groove surface, providing circumferential friction that resists accidental rotation of the threaded locking pin. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the accompanying drawings to represent the same or similar parts. In some cases, a reference numeral will be indicated in this specification and the accompanying drawings will show the reference numeral followed by a letter, such as 100a, 100b, or a superscript indicator such as 100', 100", etc. It should be understood that the use of a letter or superscript immediately following the reference numeral indicates that these features are of similar shape and have similar functions, such as is often the case when geometric shapes are mirrored about a plane of symmetry. For ease of explanation in this specification, letters or prime numbers will not generally be included herein but may be shown in the accompanying drawings to indicate repetition of features discussed in this written specification.

[0064] A work tool assembly using a tip or any type of wear member according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed, which work tool assembly may employ a constructed locking assembly. Generally speaking, a locking assembly for attaching a wear member such as a tip to a base such as an adapter is provided, the locking assembly comprising a retaining block having a spring attached to the retaining block, the spring being fitted into a hole in the base. A locking pin is also provided, which fits into the hole in the wear member and the hole in the retaining block, thereby retaining the wear member on the base. The locking pin engages a spring that prevents the locking pin from accidentally rotating, causing the locking pin to be trapped in the hole in the wear member, preventing the locking pin from being accidentally removed.

[0065] from Figure 1 Initially, an example of a work tool assembly 100 may take the form of a bucket assembly 100' that may be used with a wheel loader and includes a housing 101 defining an opening 102 that communicates with a generally enclosed interior. Figure 1 Beginning at the rear of the illustrated bucket assembly 100, the bucket assembly 100 includes a curved shell profile 104 that is attached to a rear wall 106 at the top end of the shell 104. The other end of the shell is attached to a bottom plate 108 of the assembly 100. A top plate 110 is attached to the top end of the rear wall 106. The top plate 110 transitions to a spill guard 112 that is designed to convey material into the interior of the bucket and prevent material from spilling out of the bucket. Ribs 118 are provided attached to the top plate 110 and the spill guard 112 to provide enhanced strength. Two substantially flat end plates 114 are attached to the spill guard 112, the top plate 110, the rear wall 106, the bottom plate 108, and the side edges of the shell 104.

[0066] A side edge assembly 115 is attached to each end plate 114, while a front edge assembly 116 is attached to the front edge of the bottom plate 108 of the bucket assembly 100. The front edge assembly 116 includes a base edge 117 attached to the bottom plate 108, a plurality of center adapters 118 attached to the base edge 117, and a plurality of tips 200 (which may also be referred to as tools, teeth, wear members, etc.), wherein each of the plurality of tips 200 is attached to one of the plurality of center adapters 118. Furthermore, two corner adapters 120 are also attached to the base edge and the side edge 122 of the bucket assembly 100'. The tips 200 may also be attached to the corner adapters 120.

[0067] Furthermore, a plurality of base edge protectors 124 are provided, each of which is located between the center adapters 120 and between the center adapter 120 and the corner adapters 120. Side edge protectors 126 attached to the side edges 122 proximate the corner adapters 120 are also provided.

[0068] It should be understood that the work tool assembly may take other forms besides a bucket assembly, including a rake assembly, a shear assembly, etc. In addition, differently configured buckets intended for use with excavators may also use various embodiments of tips, retaining mechanisms, adapters, springs, spring retaining blocks, retaining blocks with spring subassemblies, adapter subassemblies, and tip and adapter assemblies, etc., as will be discussed herein.

[0069] Now refer to Figures 2 to 4 , Figure 6 and Figures 14 to 22 , describing a tip and adapter assembly constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] from Figures 2 to 4 Initially, the tip and adapter assembly 150 may include a tip 200 (which may be more generally referred to as a wear-resistant component 200a, which may take different forms, including edge protectors, shields, cutting edges, pressure pads, etc.), which includes a body that defines an assembly direction 202, a vertical axis 204 perpendicular to the assembly direction 202, and a lateral axis 206 perpendicular to the vertical axis 204 and the assembly direction 202.

[0071] The body of the tip 200 may include a forward working portion 208 disposed along the assembly direction 202 including a closed end 210 and a rear attachment portion 212 disposed along the assembly direction 202 including an open end 214 .

[0072] The rear attachment portion 212 can define an exterior surface 216 and an adapter nose receiving recess 218 extending from the open end 214 in the assembly direction 202. A retaining mechanism receiving aperture 220 communicates with the adapter nose receiving recess 218 and the exterior surface 216. A first flange 222 can be disposed in the aperture, which defines a first lateral undercut 224 (see also FIG. Figure 6 ) for receiving a portion of a retaining mechanism in a manner to be discussed later in this document.

[0073] Reference now Figures 2 to 6 , the assembly 150 may also include an adapter 300 (or may be more generally referred to as a base 300a) that includes a body including a nose portion 302 that is configured to fit within the adapter nose receiving recess 218 of the tip 200. The body (or more specifically, the nose portion 302) of the adapter 300 includes an outer surface 304 that defines a polygonal retaining block receiving aperture 306 and a circular pin receiving aperture 308 that communicates with the polygonal retaining block receiving aperture 306.

[0074] More specifically, if Figure 6As most clearly shown, the adapter 300 may have a polygonal retaining block receiving hole 306 that is at least partially formed as a counterbore 310 having a circular pin receiving hole 308 at its bottom. The circular pin receiving hole is blind and at least partially tapered, but this may not be the case in other embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the hole may be a through hole extending through the nose of the adapter, or may have another shape such as a square, provided that there is clearance between the locking pin 500 and the wall of the hole to allow the locking pin 500 to rotate, etc.

[0075] Focus Figure 5 , the polygonal retaining block receiving hole 306 may define a perimeter 311 having an octagonal configuration. More specifically, the octagonal configuration includes a first side 312 (or surface), a second side 312a (or surface) parallel to the first side 312, a third side 314 (or surface) perpendicular to the first side 312, and a fourth side 314a (or surface) perpendicular to the second side 312a.

[0076] In addition, the first angled surface 315 is inclined relative to the first side 312, the second angled surface 316 is inclined relative to the second side 312a, the third angled surface 316a is inclined relative to the third side 314, and the fourth angled surface 316b is inclined relative to the fourth side 314a. Figure 5 As shown, the first angled surface 315 is configured differently than the second angled surface 316, the third angled surface 316a, and the fourth angled surface 316b. For example, the first angled surface 315 has more surface area and is at a different angle. This feature can provide a foolproof function so that the angle orientation of the retaining block 400 (so called because it holds the spring 600 in place) and the spring 600 is correct.

[0077] refer to Figure 5 and Fig.10 Both, the retaining block 400 also has matching or complementary sides and surfaces in shape to (at least partially) fit in the hole. More specifically, the retaining block has a first side 412 that cooperates with a corresponding portion of the hole (i.e., 312, etc.), as well as a second side 412a, a third side 414a, and a fourth side 414a.

[0078] These surfaces will mate or contact their counterparts for at least two reasons. First, this contact can help provide a slight press fit between the retaining block and the adapter to help hold the retaining block in the bore of the adapter for ease of assembly. To this end, both sets of surfaces (the surfaces of the retaining block and the surfaces of the bore of the adapter) are cut or tapered by 0.5 degrees (see Figure 6 and Fig.11) or greater, so that when the retaining block or spring needs to be replaced, the retaining block can be removed from the adapter. Second, the contact helps prevent the retaining block or spring in use from accidentally tilting or rotating when the locking pin is rotated.

[0079] In addition, by Figure 5 and Fig.10 Viewed together, retaining block 400 includes first angled surface 415 and second angled surface 416, third angled surface 416a and fourth angled surface 416b (also spaced from their corresponding portions), the first angled surface being spaced from corresponding portions of the hole (i.e., 315, and so on) to provide clearance. Thus, when disposed in the polygonal retaining block receiving hole, the retaining block contacts the first side, the second side, the third side and the fourth side, but for various reasons (including to provide an angular relief groove), the retaining block does not contact the first angled surface, the second angled surface, the third angled surface and the fourth angled surface.

[0080] look Fig. 9 , the retaining block 400 defines a center pin receiving hole 402 and a spring receiving hole 404 extending from the center pin receiving hole 402 toward the exterior or perimeter of the retaining block 400. After assembly, the spring 600 can be disposed in the center pin receiving hole 402 and the spring receiving hole 404 (see Fig.10 ). The locking pin 500 may be disposed in the center pin receiving hole 402 (see, for example, Fig. 22 ), and the locking pin 500 may define a recess 502 for receiving the spring 600.

[0081] exist Figure 4 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the tip 200 may further include a first ejector ramp 226 that extends circumferentially from the first tab receiving slot 228 to the exterior of the first flange 222. The first flange 222 may extend circumferentially from the first stop 230 to the first tab receiving slot 228 that is circumferentially spaced from the first stop 230 (see FIG. 1 ). Fig.21 The slot 228 may be exposed to the exterior of a wear-resistant member (eg, tip 200) defined by a second flange 232 (see also Fig. 22 ), the second flange is axially spaced inwardly from the first flange 222 toward the adapter nose receiving recess 228. The nose receiving recess may be defined by an inner surface that does not include a groove. This may not be the case in other embodiments of the present invention.

[0082] look Fig.21 and Fig. 22, the locking pin 500 may include a first fin 504 disposed circumferentially adjacent to the first stop 230 and laterally disposed in the first lateral undercut 224, and a second fin 506 disposed circumferentially distal to the first fin 504 and axially adjacent to the second flange 232 in the first fin receiving slot 228. In addition, the locking pin 500 defines a notch 502 that is axially (along the rotational axis 238) spaced apart from the first fin 504 and the second fin 506 toward the adapter nose receiving recess 218 of the tip 200. The notch is also diametrically opposite to the ramp surface of the locking pin, as will be discussed later herein.

[0083] like Figure 23 to Figure 25 As best seen in FIG. 5 , the locking pin 500 includes a cylindrical surface 508 from which the first fin 504 and the second fin 506 radially extend. The locking pin 500 includes a conical surface 510 defining the recess 502. The second fin 506 may be disposed axially closer to the outer surface of the wear-resistant member than the first fin 504, such as Fig. 20 and Fig.21 shown.

[0084] During assembly, the locking pin 500 may be inserted into the retaining mechanism receiving hole 220 of the tip 200, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 As shown, until the first fin 504 of the locking pin 500 is located in the first fin receiving slot 228 at the tip and contacts the second flange 232, as shown in FIG. Fig.17 Then the locking pin 500 is rotated clockwise until the first wing 504 is hidden under the first flange 222 or is caught in its undercut 224, as shown. Fig.19 shown.

[0085] When the rotation occurs, the ramp surface 512 (see also Fig.23 ) pulls the locking pin 500 axially further into the central pin receiving hole 402 of the retaining block 400 and the circular pin receiving hole 308 of the adapter 300. At this point, the second tab 506 moves into the first tab receiving slot 228. In addition, the rotation causes the spring 600 to engage the flat surface 514 of the notch 502 of the locking pin 500, retaining the locking pin 500 in the locked configuration (see Fig. 22 ). It should be noted that the first stop 230 prevents the locking pin from rotating too far in the clockwise direction. Now, since the first tab is trapped in the undercut formed by the first flange, the locking pin 500 cannot be removed axially, and the tip cannot be removed from the adapter unless the pin is rotated sufficiently in the counterclockwise direction.

[0086] Now refer to Figures 2 to 4 Discussion is given of a wear member 200a that may be provided as a replacement part or retrofit in the field.

[0087] The wear resistant component 200a may have a body defining a longitudinal axis (eg, may be the same as the assembly direction 202 ), a vertical axis 204 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a transverse axis 206 perpendicular to the vertical axis 204 and the longitudinal axis.

[0088] The body may include a forward wear portion 208a disposed along the longitudinal axis (see assembly orientation 202 ) and a rear attachment portion 212 disposed along the longitudinal axis including an open end 214 .

[0089] The rear attachment portion 212 may have an exterior surface 216 having an adapter nose receiving recess 218 extending longitudinally from the open end 214 and a retention mechanism receiving aperture 220 extending through the body from the exterior surface 216 to the adapter nose receiving recess 218. A first flange 222 (which may also be referred to as a rib) may define a first transverse undercut 224 in the retention mechanism receiving aperture 220 in the manner previously described herein.

[0090] exist Fig.14 In the embodiment, the retaining mechanism receiving hole 220 can define a rotation axis 238, a revolving surface (e.g., see 234, which can be cylindrical or slightly conical, etc.), and a circumferential direction 236. Figure 4 and Fig.21 As best seen in the drawings, the first flange 222 can extend circumferentially from the first stop 230 to a first fin receiving slot 228 (e.g., can also be referred to as a fin inlet slot because it is exposed to the exterior of the wear member), which is circumferentially spaced from the first stop 230. The first fin receiving slot 228 is also axially defined or bounded by a second flange 232, which is axially spaced from the first flange 222 inwardly toward the adapter nose receiving recess 218 (see also FIG. Fig. 22 ) (may also be referred to as the base protrusion receiving recess).

[0091] exist Fig.15 and Fig.17 In the embodiment of the present invention, a first ejector ramp 242 may be provided, which extends circumferentially from the first tab receiving slot 228 opposite the first flange 222 to the exterior thereof. Once the user wishes to remove the wear member, the user may rotate the locking pin 500 until its second tab 506 slides upwardly on the ejector ramp 226, which provides a prying force that helps to slightly loosen the wear member from the adapter or base, while also ejecting or forcing the locking pin axially away from the retaining block 400 and the spring 600.

[0092] The locking pin 500 can then be removed from the assembly, allowing the tip or other wear member to be removed from the adapter or base, since the first tab 504 is no longer captured in the undercut formed by the first flange, but is circumferentially disposed in the first tab receiving slot 228 axially adjacent the second flange 22a. The ejector ramp feature may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0093] As previously referenced Fig.21 As mentioned, the locking pin 500 may include a first tab 504 (also referred to as a first wing) that is circumferentially disposed adjacent to the first stop 230 of the tip or wear member and is laterally or axially disposed in the first lateral undercut 224 when in the locked configuration. At the same time, a second tab 506 (also referred to as a second wing) is circumferentially spaced from the first tab and is disposed axially or laterally adjacent to the second flange 222a of the first tab receiving slot 228.

[0094] As in Fig. 22 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the locking pin 500 may define a notch 502 or other spring engagement feature (e.g., which may be a slot or simply a flat surface, etc.) axially spaced from the first and second tabs 504, 506 toward the adapter nose receiving pocket 218 of the tip 200 or other wear member. The locking pin 500 may include a cylindrical surface 508 (i.e., a surface having a draft angle of less than 2.0 degrees or no draft angle at all) from which the first and second tabs 504, 506 extend radially.

[0095] In another aspect, the locking pin 500 may further include a conical surface 510 (ie, the surface has a draft angle of 2.0 degrees or greater) defining the recess 502. This facilitates loosening and removal of the locking pin from the assembly. Fig.21 As shown, the second fin 506 may be disposed axially closer to the outer surface of the wear-resistant component 200 a than the first fin 504 .

[0096] Unlike some prior designs, the inner surface of the adapter nose receiving recess does not contain a groove for receiving a retention tab or the like of the adapter or base. Likewise, its outer surface may not contain ears for receiving a hole and a retention mechanism disposed therein. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0097] Now we will continue to refer to Figures 2 to 4 Adapter 300 (also referred to as base 300a) is described as being usable as a replacement part or retrofit in the field.

[0098] The adapter 300 may include a body having an outer surface 304 (see, e.g., Figure 4The nose portion 302 has an outer surface 304 in the figure, which defines a polygonal retaining block receiving hole 306 having a base surface 318 (see Figure 6 ) and a circular pin receiving hole 308, which extends from a base surface 318 (which can be flat).

[0099] As previously mentioned, the body may not include a lug or any protrusion extending from the outer surface or the outer surface, or at least may not include a lug or any protrusion close to or adjacent to the hole (not forming the boundary of the hole). More specifically, the body may not include a lug or any protrusion extending from the outer surface adjacent to the circular retaining mechanism receiving hole 306, making the design easier to manufacture and reducing complexity.

[0100] As mentioned earlier in this article and in Figure 5 As best seen in FIG. 3 , the polygonal retaining block receiving aperture 306 may be asymmetrical about a plane 320 containing the axis of rotation 332, and the circular pin receiving aperture 308 may be radially offset in a plane with a minimum dimension 322 (see FIG. 3 ). Figure 6 ), which plane extends from the perimeter 311 of the polygonal retaining block receiving hole 306 and the base surface 318 within the same range.

[0101] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, Figure 6 As shown, the minimum dimension 322 may range from 0.0 mm to 25.0 mm or 10.0 mm to 75.0 mm. In addition, the circular pin receiving hole 308 may define a maximum diameter 326 ranging from 4.0 mm to 40.0 mm or 10.0 mm to 50.0 mm. In addition, the polygonal retaining block receiving hole 306 may define a first axial depth 328 ranging from 15.0 mm to 60.0 mm or 20.0 mm to 150.0 mm, while the circular pin receiving hole 308 defines a second axial depth 330 (which may range from 3.0 mm to 25.0 mm or 10.0 mm to 50.0 mm) less than the first axial depth. In other embodiments of the present invention, other size ranges are possible.

[0102] look Fig. 22 , the circular pin receiving hole 308 may define an axis of rotation 332, and the polygonal retaining block receiving hole 306 may be located at the center of the axis of rotation 332. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure. The countersunk hole 310 includes a non-revolutionary surface (i.e., a perimeter 311 of the polygonal retaining block receiving hole, the non-revolutionary surface may include one or more planar surfaces, or one or more recesses), and a revolutionary surface 338 (e.g., may be a cylindrical surface or a conical surface) extending below the non-revolutionary surface. The revolutionary surface 338 defines a radial direction 340, and the revolutionary surface is radially inwardly offset from the non-revolutionary surface.

[0103] Re-reference Figure 3 , the adapter 300 may also include an attachment portion 333 extending from the nose portion 302 (or throat portion 334), which may include one or two legs 336, 336a or straps. Other methods of attaching the adapter or base to a work tool (such as a bucket) may be used in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0104] In other words, the base 300a according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a body including a nose portion 302 and an annular pin receiving aperture (e.g., see 308), the nose portion having an outer side surface (e.g., outer surface 304) defining an at least partially non-annular retaining block receiving aperture at the outer side surface (e.g., see Figure 5 306), the retaining block receiving hole has a base surface 318 (see Figure 6 ), the base surface is spaced apart from the outer side surface, and the annular pin receiving hole extends from the base surface 318. More specifically, the annular pin receiving hole extends from the base surface to the bottom end 342. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0105] Next, various embodiments of the retaining mechanism 160 or locking assembly will be discussed, which may include a locking pin, a retaining block, and a spring.

[0106] from Figure 23 to Figure 25 Initially, the locking pin 500 of the retention mechanism may include a drive portion 516 and a spring engagement portion 518 extending axially from the drive portion. The drive portion 516 may include a polygonal hole 520 and a surface of revolution (e.g., a cylindrical surface 508 or a conical surface) defining an axis of rotation 522, a radial direction 524, and a circumferential direction 526. The spring engagement portion 518 may include a circumferential surface 528 having at least one recess (e.g., see notch 502) disposed thereon.

[0107] The polygonal hole 520 may be spaced apart from the recess by a predetermined axial distance 530 (see Fig. 22 ). In addition, a first winglet (e.g., see first winglet 504) can extend radially and circumferentially from the drive portion 516 at least partially axially aligned with the polygonal hole 520. Specifically, the locking pin defines a first axial end 532, the polygonal hole 520 extends from the first axial end 532, and the first winglet (e.g., see first winglet 504) can be disposed axially away from the first axial end 532 by a first axial distance 534.

[0108] In addition, if Fig.23As shown, the first side wing piece defines a circumferential extension 536, a radial dimension 538, and an axial thickness 540 that is less than at least one or both of the circumferential extension 536 and the radial dimension 538. A second side wing piece (e.g., see second wing piece 506, which may have dimension ratios similar to those of the first side wing piece) may extend radially from the locking pin 500 and may be disposed at the first axial end 532.

[0109] The locking pin 500 may also include a ramp surface 512 (which may be located on diametrically opposite sides of the recess 502) that extends circumferentially and axially from the first wing piece 504 to the second wing piece 506 to help position the pin during use as previously described. In addition, the locking pin 500 may define a second axial end 542, such as at Fig.24 and Fig.25 544, and may also include a transition zone 544, such as a fillet connecting the circumferential surface 528 to the second axial end 542. This transition zone 544 may help assist in the installation of the locking pin 500 and the compression of the spring 600 during installation. To this end, a beveled portion 545 may also be provided, extending circumferentially from the transition zone and axially from the circumferential surface. In some embodiments, the beveled portion may include a conical surface that is more inclined (higher draft angle) than the conical surface 510 that extends completely circumferentially around the pin. In such cases, the transition zone may be smaller or even eliminated.

[0110] As previously described, the peripheral surface 528 is provided with a draft angle (which may be less than the draft angle of the bevel portion), and as Fig.23 The depicted chiseled notch 546 (e.g., forming a chiseled edge 548) can be disposed circumferentially between the first and second side wing pieces. This feature can help break up the filler material during counterclockwise rotation of the locking pin, but can be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure. The beveled portion 545 can be at least partially aligned circumferentially with the first or second side wing piece, such as Fig.25 In addition, the beveled portion may be axially out of sync with the depression on the circumferential surface by a predetermined amount, such as 60.0 degrees to 120.0 degrees (e.g., approximately 90.0 degrees, as shown in FIG. Fig.25 ).

[0111] exist Figures 7 to 11 In the embodiment, the retaining block 400 includes an outer perimeter 406 having a non-revolving surface (e.g., such as Fig.10The faceted surfaces shown, including first side 412, second side 412a, third side 414, fourth side 414a, etc.), a pin receiving hole (e.g., center pin receiving hole 402), which defines an inner surface 418 that is offset inwardly (e.g., radially inwardly) from the non-rotating surface. As shown, the inner surface can be smooth, but in other embodiments can be threaded to allow a fastener to be used as a tool to insert or remove the block from the adapter. In addition, the inner surface 418 can be tapered or provided with a draft angle at a greater angle than the non-rotating surface (e.g., 2.0 degrees or more compared to less than 2.0 degrees). The added draft angle can help allow the locking pin to loosen from the retaining block without loosening the retaining block from the adapter.

[0112] In addition, the spring receiving hole 404 may extend from the non-revolving surface to the inner surface. The spring receiving hole 404 may include a T-shape. For the spring receiving hole, in other embodiments of the present disclosure, other shapes are possible.

[0113] In addition, if Fig.10 As shown, a spring 600 having a pair of attachment flanges 602, 602a can be attached to a retaining block 400. At least one of the pair of attachment flanges 602, 602a can be brazed to one of the pair of spring attachment surfaces 420, 420a. Once attached, the spring 600 can extend through the spring receiving hole (e.g., through the central groove 421 spanned by the spring attachment surface) into the pin receiving hole (e.g., see 402), through the inner surface 418 of the pin receiving hole. During the brazing process, a pair of protrusions or dimples to be discussed can help provide capillary action to provide a secure joint between the spring and the retaining block.

[0114] As in Fig.11 As best seen in the figure, the non-revolving surface includes a flared portion 422 disposed axially adjacent to the spring receiving hole 404, which has a greater draft angle (e.g., 5.0 degrees or greater) than the remainder of the non-revolving surface (e.g., less than 2.0 degrees). The flared portion can help prevent material from filling the spring receiving hole. Additionally, the flared portion can allow a pry bar or other tool to assist in prying the retaining block out of the adapter because the retaining block is adjacent to the prying slot 344 of the adapter (see Figure 4 ). This feature may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0115] Follow now Fig.12 and Fig.13, the spring 600 may include a top platform member 604 (so called because it forms the farthest portion of the spring relative to the attachment flanges 602, 602a), a first undulating side member 606 extending from the top platform member, a second undulating side member 606a extending from the top platform surface, and a first attachment flange 602 extending from the first undulating side member 606 and a second attachment flange 602 extending from the second undulating side member 606a. These flanges may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0116] The first attachment flange 602 may include a first attachment surface 608 having a first protrusion 610 (e.g., a peeled or hollow dome), and the second attachment flange 602a has a second attachment surface 608a with a second protrusion 610a. It should be noted that when viewed from the back, these protrusions look like dimples, such as Figure 7 As shown, the attachment surfaces may be parallel to each other and / or extend over the same range, and may also be parallel to the top platform member (e.g., its contact surface 618, so called because it rests on the locking pin). This may not be the case in other embodiments of the invention.

[0117] exist Fig.13 6, the first undulating side member 606 may include a first protrusion 612 adjacent to the top platform member 604 and a first recess 614 adjacent to the first attachment flange 602. That is, the first protrusion is closer to the top platform member than the first attachment flange, etc. The spring defines one or more planes of symmetry 616, 616a (which may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure). In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other configurations are possible. The spring may be made of spring steel and formed, for example, by stamping and folding, such as by a progressive die.

[0118] In addition, it should be noted that any size, angle, surface area and / or configuration of the various features may be changed as desired or needed, including those sizes, angles, surface areas and / or configurations not specifically mentioned herein. Although not specifically discussed, blending such as fillets is shown to connect various surfaces. These may be omitted in other embodiments, and it should be understood that their presence may sometimes be ignored when reading this specification unless specifically mentioned.

[0119] Industrial Applicability

[0120] Indeed, machines, work tool assemblies, tips, wear members, adapters, bases, adapter assemblies, tip and adapter assemblies, springs, locking pins, retaining blocks, retaining mechanisms and / or any combination of these various components and parts may be manufactured, purchased, or sold for retrofitting machines or work tool assemblies in the field in an aftermarket environment, or alternatively, may be manufactured, purchased, sold, or otherwise obtained in an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) environment.

[0121] Any of the above components may be made of any suitable material, including iron, gray cast iron, steel, spring steel, plastic, rubber, foam, etc.

[0122] A retainer assembly for a tip of a ground engaging tool (GET) or other wear-resistant component is disclosed. The retainer assembly may include a tapered pin and a retaining block including a spring disposed therein. The retaining block may be disposed within a recess in an adapter mouth and may include a flat contact surface configured to engage with the adapter recess, thereby maximizing the contact area and reducing adapter wear. In operation, the tip is slid onto the adapter and the tapered pin is inserted into a slot or opening in the tip and the retaining block. Next, the tapered pin is rotated clockwise, thereby locking the tip and the adapter. In addition, the tapered pin is configured to interact with the spring of the retaining block, thereby providing an anti-rotation feature. The pin is then rotated in the opposite direction so that the bevel feature of the tip engages with the pin (or vice versa), thereby ejecting the pin from the tip of the GET. After the pin is removed, the tip can be removed from the adapter.

[0123] The spring may have formed a punch that allows capillary action when brazed to the block, thereby achieving a strong joint. Symmetrical bends in the side legs, such as at their rear, can help provide linear motion during compression of the spring. The flat front surface of the spring interacts with the pin to create resistance to rotation of the pin.

[0124] The pin may have a square drive hole for rotating the pin from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration, or vice versa. The flat surface (which may be recessed into a notch) may interact with the spring to help create resistance to rotation of the pin. The rounding of the bottom of the pin may help reduce stress, while the taper of the bottom of the pin may help the pin pop out when the pin is rotated.

[0125] When the pin is rotated to the locked position, the user may get tactile, visual and / or audible feedback that the tip or other wear member is locked to the adapter or base. The tactile feedback may be the feeling of the spring snapping into place in the notch of the pin and / or the first wing hitting a stop of the tip. The visual feedback may be that the first wing can no longer be seen. The audible feedback may be a "click" sound when the spring snaps into the notch.

[0126] In some embodiments, the block and spring will be arranged with the spring already attached to the block. In addition, the threaded or beveled features of the pin and tip are close to or located outside the assembly, allowing for easier cleaning or removal of filler material that may interfere with the function of the retaining mechanism of some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0127] It should be understood that the foregoing description provides examples of the disclosed components and techniques. However, it is contemplated that other embodiments of the present disclosure may differ in detail from the foregoing examples. All references to the present disclosure or examples thereof are intended to refer to the specific examples discussed at that point and are not intended to imply any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure more generally. All distinctive and derogatory language regarding certain features is intended to not include a preference for these features, but unless otherwise indicated, does not completely exclude them from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0128] For example, Figure 26 to Figure 52 The embodiment of the tip and adapter assembly 150a and the retaining mechanism 160a disclosed in Figures 1 to 23 The disclosed embodiments are similar or identical.

[0129] like Fig.30 , Fig.38 and Fig.41 As shown, the polygonal retaining block receiving hole 306a of the adapter 300b does not include a bottom pin receiving hole (see Figure 6 308 in, and the wear-resistant member 200b or tip has a retaining mechanism receiving hole 220a, which retaining mechanism receiving hole does not contain threads or other undercuts (see also Fig. 27 ), as described earlier in this article.

[0130] like Fig.29 and Fig.30 As best seen in FIG. 1 , this embodiment includes a prying die slot 344 extending from one side of the polygonal retaining block receiving aperture 306a that can communicate with an associated feature (see side slot 424 of retaining block 400a, as shown in FIG. 1 ). Fig.31 and Fig.35 ). These features can be used to help pry the retaining block out of the adapter if maintenance, etc., is required. The retaining block can also have a flared portion in addition to or instead of the side slots to aid in removal. Any of these features can be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0131] Different from what has been described above, Fig.34 , Fig.35 and Fig.38 The illustrated retaining block 400a may define a threaded pin receiving aperture 426 having a radial direction 428, a circumferential direction 430, and an axis of rotation 432. A spring receiving recess 434 may be disposed in the threaded pin receiving aperture 426.

[0132] The C-shaped spring 700 can be disposed in the threaded pin receiving hole 426 and the spring receiving recess 434. In addition, the threaded locking pin 800 can be disposed in the threaded pin receiving hole 426, defining a spring receiving groove 802 for receiving the C-shaped spring 700, such as Fig.32 , Fig.33 and Fig.38 shown.

[0133] look Fig.38 and Fig.39 , the C-shaped spring 700 can define an inner diameter 702, and the spring receiving groove 802 can define an outer diameter 804 that is larger than the inner diameter 702. This can provide circumferential friction between the C-shaped spring and the threaded locking pin, thereby reducing the possibility of accidental rotation when the threaded locking pin is fully inserted and rotated into the retaining block.

[0134] In addition, the spring receiving recess 434 can define a C-shape having a first circumferential end surface 436 and a second circumferential end surface 436a that are spaced apart from each other and slightly from the circumferential end of the C-shaped spring, thereby creating a slight gap 439. In addition, the outer circumferential surface 438 of the C-shape of the recess is radially spaced apart from the C-shaped spring 700, thereby providing a gap 440 therebetween. These gaps 439, 440 can allow the C-shaped spring to flex outwardly as the pin passes through the C-shaped spring and the retaining block, as shown in FIG. Figures 49 to 51 As shown, the circumferential rotation of the C-shaped spring is also restricted.

[0135] Now go to Fig.32 and Fig.33 , the threaded locking pin 800 of the retaining mechanism 160a may include a drive portion 806, a threaded portion 808, and a spring engagement portion 810. More specifically, the drive portion may include a revolving surface 812 (e.g., an outer circumferential surface, such as a cylindrical surface, a conical surface, etc.) defining a radial direction 814, a circumferential direction 816, and a rotation axis 818. The drive portion 806 may be axially spaced from the threaded portion 808, and the threaded portion 808 may be axially spaced from the spring engagement portion 810.

[0136] In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the threaded portion 808 includes male threads 820, such as lead screw threads, or other types of threads extending 180 degrees or less around the axis of rotation 818. This may allow the threads to function properly, but are easily manufactured via a casting process.

[0137] In addition, the driving portion may define a polygonal surface 821 (which may be an internally flat surface) that is configured to be driven by a wrench or the like. The driving portion 806 may define a driving portion diameter 822, while the spring engaging portion 810 defines a spring engaging portion diameter 824 that is smaller than the driving portion diameter 822. For example, the diameter of the pin may be axially expanded outward at a location between the ends of the pin (see 826). The flaring and diameter difference may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0138] More specifically, the drive portion 806 can be disposed at a first axial end 830 of the pin, and the spring engagement portion 810 can be disposed at a second axial end 832 of the pin. Thus, the threaded portion 808 can be disposed axially between the drive portion and the spring engagement portion.

[0139] In addition, the spring engagement portion 810 may include a circumferential surface 828 extending axially from the spring engagement portion 810 to the drive portion 806. In addition, the circumferential surface 828 may be provided with a draft angle, as previously explained to help loosen between the retaining block and the pin during disassembly, or vice versa.

[0140] As previously mentioned, the spring engagement portion 810 may define a spring receiving groove 802 or recess that is axially spaced from the first axial end 830. The first lead-in surface 834 may extend from the first axial end 830 to the spring receiving groove 802, while the second lead-in surface 836 may extend from the first lead-in surface 838 to the spring receiving groove 802. The first lead-in surface 834 may be configured to help deploy the C-shaped spring 700 during rotation and insertion, while the second lead-in surface 836 may be configured to help perform the reverse process of removing the pin. These lead-in surfaces may be configured to make it easier to insert the pin than to remove the pin from the C-shaped spring. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0141] look Fig.34 and Fig.35 The threaded retaining block 400a includes an outer perimeter 406a having a non-rotating surface (e.g., a flat surface such as 412), a pin receiving hole (e.g., a threaded pin receiving hole 426) defining an inner surface 442 offset inwardly from the non-rotating surface, and a spring receiving recess 434 disposed in or connected to the pin receiving hole.

[0142] The threaded pin receiving hole 426 may define a female thread 444, such as a lead screw thread as shown or some other type of thread. Fig.34 , Fig.35 and Fig.52As can be most clearly seen in the figure, the female thread 444 extends from the first axial end 446 toward the second axial end 448, terminating before reaching the second axial end 448, and the spring receiving recess 434 is axially arranged to be adjacent to the second axial end 448 while also axially spaced apart from the female thread 444.

[0143] This embodiment of the thread retaining block does not include a flared portion because the C-shaped spring 700 is disposed within the interior of the block so that it is naturally protected.

[0144] Follow now Fig.36 and Fig.37 , the C-shaped spring 700 may include a pin-engaging inner circumferential surface 704 that defines a radial direction 706, a circumferential direction 708, and a pin insertion axis 710 (which may coincide with the axis of rotation once the pin is inserted into the retaining block). A first circumferential end surface 712 and a second circumferential end surface 712a may help define the C-shape of the spring. A first axial lead-in surface 714 may extend axially from the pin-engaging inner circumferential surface 704 to an outer circumferential surface 716, and circumferentially from the first circumferential end surface 712 to the second circumferential end surface 712a.

[0145] In addition, the C-shaped spring 700 can define a first axial end 718 and a second axial end 720. The first axial lead-in surface 714 can be disposed at the first axial end 718, while a sharp corner 722 (i.e., no lead-in surface) is disposed at the second axial end 720 between the pin engagement inner circumferential surface 704 and the annular axial end surface 724.

[0146] The C-shaped spring 700 may also define a spring circumferential extension range 726 of less than 360.0 degrees but greater than 180.0 degrees measured from the first circumferential end surface 712 to the second circumferential end surface 712a. More specifically, the spring circumferential extension range 726 may range from less than 270.0 degrees but greater than 180.0 degrees (e.g., approximately 260.0 degrees). In addition, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the C-shaped spring 700 may define an axial thickness 728 ranging from 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm measured from the first axial end 718 to the second axial end 720. For certain embodiments of the present disclosure, these dimensions may provide the necessary size, strength, spring constant, and elasticity. The ratio range of any of these dimensions may be 20% different from the median of the size range. These ratios may allow the design to be increased or decreased depending on the application.

[0147] Figure 26 to Figure 52 One of the differences between the embodiment of and earlier embodiments is that all complex geometric features have been relocated from the tip or adapter into smaller components (blocks, springs, pins). This can make the large tip and adapter castings simpler, thereby facilitating manufacturing and reducing costs.

[0148] Although the embodiments described herein show a single-sided locking arrangement, a double-sided locking arrangement is contemplated to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0149] Even in the locking groove, the circumferential spring clips described herein may be under slight tension to minimize the "loose" feel of the system.

[0150] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the locking pins described herein may be flush-fitted relative to the tip or wear member to help protect the pin from wear. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0151] The spring clip of any of the embodiments discussed herein may be installed in a retaining block at the factory, similar to a snap ring. Snap ring pliers may be used to retract the spring clip radially inward to place it in a groove in the retaining block, then the snap ring pliers are released and the spring clip expands into its receiving groove in the block. The end user may only need to insert the block and spring / clip as a complete assembly into the adapter.

[0152] The locking pin for subsequent embodiments may bottom out in the adapter to provide the user with a sense that the system is locked. A click and vibration may also be heard when the spring clip drops into the groove of the locking pin.

[0153] For various embodiments of the present disclosure, the assembly process may include a retaining block / spring assembly step established at the supplier or at the factory. A snap ring tool will be used to compress the clip / spring inwardly and then align it with the appropriate corresponding groove on the block. When the snap ring tool is released, the spring clip will expand radially outward into the groove in the block. The clip / spring and block are now a separate assembly.

[0154] The adapter, base, or work tool may have a simple octagonal hole with a small draft angle for casting. The second step of assembly (but the first step for the end user) may be to insert the block and clip / spring assembly into the hole on the adapter. The GET can then be completely slid over the adapter nose or work tool and block and clamp the spring assembly. Next, the retaining pin can be inserted into the hole in the GET until the threads on the retaining pin engage with the threads on the block. A standard tool can then be inserted into a square drive to rotate the pin from 45 degrees to 360 degrees (depending on the design / application). As the pin rotates, it will penetrate deeper into the block. As the pin moves inward, it will eventually engage with the spring clip and expand radially outward. After the desired rotation, the threads of the pin or the bottom of the pin will reach a physical stop. At the same time, the spring clip will "snap" into the retaining groove on the retainer pin. The user may hear and feel a click and feel a physical stop to know that the system is locked. Once locked, the GET is ready for use. Uninstallation is the exact opposite of the installation process. The block and spring / clip are intended to be reused. However, there is a pry-out feature on the block and / or adapter to facilitate removal if necessary.

[0155] As used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended to include one or more items and are used interchangeably with "one or more." Where only one item is intended, the term "one" or similar language is used. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms "having," "having," "having," "with," and the like are intended to be open-ended terms. Furthermore, unless expressly stated otherwise, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based, at least in part, on."

[0156] Recitation of ranges of values ​​herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

[0157] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the embodiments of the apparatus and assembly methods discussed herein without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. Other embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the specification and practice of the various embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the construction and function of some apparatus may be different from that described herein, and certain steps of any method may be omitted, performed in an order different from that specifically mentioned, or in some cases performed simultaneously or in sub-steps. In addition, certain aspects or features of the various embodiments may be changed or modified to produce further embodiments, and features and aspects of the various embodiments may be added to or substituted for other features or aspects of other embodiments in order to provide yet further embodiments.

[0158] Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Additionally, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

1. A tip and adapter assembly (150a), the tip and adapter assembly comprising: A tip (200b) comprising a body defining an assembly direction (202), a vertical axis (204) perpendicular to the assembly direction (202), and a transverse axis (206) perpendicular to the vertical axis (204) and the assembly direction (202), the body comprising: a forward working portion (208) disposed along the assembly direction (202) and including a closed end (210); and a rear attachment portion (212) disposed along the assembly direction (202) and including an open end (214); wherein the rear attachment portion (212) defines external surface(216); an adapter nose receiving recess (218) extending longitudinally from the open end (214); and a retention mechanism receiving aperture (220a) in communication with the adapter nose receiving recess (218) and the exterior surface (216); and An adapter (300b) comprising a body including a nose portion (302) configured to fit within the adapter nose receiving recess (218) of the tip (200b), the body including an outer surface (304) defining a polygonal retaining block receiving aperture (306a).

2. The tip and adapter assembly (150a) of claim 1, wherein the polygonal retaining block receiving aperture (306a) does not include a bottom pin receiving aperture.

3. The tip and adapter assembly (150a) of claim 1, wherein the adapter (300b) further comprises a pry die slot (344) extending from one side of the polygonal retaining block receiving aperture (306a).

4. The tip and adapter assembly (150) of claim 1, wherein the polygonal retaining block receiving aperture (306a) defines a perimeter (311) having an octagonal configuration.

5. A tip and adapter assembly (150) according to claim 4, wherein the octagonal configuration includes a first side (312), a second side (312a) parallel to the first side (312), a third side (314) perpendicular to the first side (312), and a fourth side (314a) perpendicular to the second side (312a).

6. A tip and adapter assembly (150) according to claim 5, wherein the octagonal configuration includes a first angled surface (315) inclined relative to the first side (312), a second angled surface (316) inclined relative to the second side (312a), a third angled surface (316a) inclined relative to the third side (314), and a fourth angled surface (316b) inclined relative to the fourth side (314a).

7. A tip and adapter assembly (150) according to claim 6, wherein the first angled surface (315) is configured to be different from the second angled surface (316), the third angled surface (316a) and the fourth angled surface (316b).

8. The tip and adapter assembly (150a) of claim 7, further comprising a retaining block (400a), wherein the retaining block is disposed in the polygonal retaining block receiving hole (306a) such that the retaining block (400a) contacts the first side (312), the second side (312a), the third side (314) and the fourth side (314a), but does not contact the first angled surface (315), the second angled surface (316), the third angled surface (316a) and the fourth angled surface (316b).

9. A tip and adapter assembly (150a) according to claim 8, wherein the retaining block (400a) defines a threaded pin receiving hole (426) having a radial direction (428), a circumferential direction (430) and a rotation axis (432) and a spring receiving recess (434) disposed in the threaded pin receiving hole (426).

10. The tip and adapter assembly (150) according to claim 9 further comprises a C-shaped spring (700) and a threaded pin (800), wherein the C-shaped spring is disposed in the threaded pin receiving hole (426) and the spring receiving recess (434), and the threaded pin is disposed in the threaded pin receiving hole (426) to define a spring receiving groove (802) for receiving the C-shaped spring (700).

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