Wear indicator

Abstract

The invention discloses a wear indicator. The wear indicator is supported on a wear surface of a machine component. The wear indicator includes: a first material thickness indicator having a first thickness; a second material thickness indicator located proximate the first material thickness indicator and having a second thickness less than the first thickness; and a third material thickness indicator located proximate the first material thickness indicator and the second material thickness indicator and having a third thickness less than the second thickness. The wear indicator is configured to visually indicate a material thickness of a worn platen via the first material thickness indicator, the second material thickness indicator, and the third material thickness indicator.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 352,124, filed on June 14, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 425,595, filed on November 15, 2022. The entire contents of each of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to wear indicators for mining machines and components thereof. Background Art

[0004] Mining machines, including, for example, haul vehicles, conveyor systems, headstock machines and continuous miners, longwall mining systems, etc., experience wear over time. Operators and technicians may periodically inspect and monitor components to determine the condition and remaining operating life of the components. Summary of the invention

[0005] Some methods for inspecting components present challenges due to inspector access, measurement accuracy, measurement consistency (especially positional consistency), and inspector awareness, among others.

[0006] In one aspect, a wear indicator is supported on a wear surface of a machine component. The wear indicator includes: a first material thickness indicator having a first thickness; a second material thickness indicator located proximate the first material thickness indicator and having a second thickness less than the first thickness; and a third material thickness indicator located proximate the first material thickness indicator and the second material thickness indicator and having a third thickness less than the second thickness. The wear indicator is configured to visually indicate material thickness of the wear platen via the first material thickness indicator, the second material thickness indicator, and the third material thickness indicator.

[0007] In some aspects, a first material thickness indicator is disposed within the indicator housing, a second material thickness indicator is disposed within the indicator housing, and a third material thickness indicator is disposed within the indicator housing.

[0008] In some aspects, the indicator housing includes an upper surface configured to be positioned flush with the wear surface, and wherein the first material thickness indicator is covered by the upper surface prior to experiencing wear.

[0009] In some aspects, the indicator housing includes a bottom surface opposite the upper surface, the bottom surface including a plurality of blind holes configured to receive the first material thickness indicator, the second material thickness indicator, and the third material thickness indicator therein.

[0010] In some aspects, the first material thickness indicator, the second material thickness indicator, and the third material thickness indicator are positioned such that the first thickness, the second thickness, and the third thickness are measured parallel to a wear direction of the wear surface.

[0011] In some aspects, the first thickness corresponds to 75% of the thickness of the wear indicator, such that the first material thickness indicator is configured to visually indicate 25% wear of the wear surface.

[0012] In some aspects, the second thickness corresponds to 50% of the thickness of the wear indicator, such that the second material thickness indicator is configured to visually indicate 50% wear of the wear surface.

[0013] In some aspects, the third thickness corresponds to 25% of the thickness of the wear indicator, such that the third material thickness indicator is configured to visually indicate 75% wear of the wear surface.

[0014] In some aspects, the first material thickness indicator, the second material thickness indicator, and the third material thickness indicator are formed of a material having a different color than the material of the wear surface.

[0015] In some aspects, the first material thickness indicator has a first cross-sectional area as viewed along the wear direction, the second material thickness indicator has a second cross-sectional area as viewed along the wear direction, and the third material thickness indicator has a third cross-sectional area as viewed along the wear direction, and wherein the first cross-sectional area is smaller than the second cross-sectional area and the third cross-sectional area.

[0016] In some aspects, the second cross-sectional area is smaller than the third cross-sectional area.

[0017] In some aspects, the first material thickness indicator, the second material thickness indicator, and the third material thickness indicator are cylindrical.

[0018] In some aspects, the profile of the indicator housing is circular when viewed parallel to the wear direction of the wear indicator.

[0019] In some aspects, the indicator housing includes an upper surface configured to be positioned flush with the wear surface, and wherein the upper surface and the wear surface are curved.

[0020] In another independent aspect, a mining machine includes: a chassis; a wear plate supported by the chassis, the wear plate configured to support material being mined; a mechanism for moving material over the wear plate; and a plurality of wear indicators supported adjacent a surface of the wear plate. The plurality of wear indicators are configured to provide a visual indication of the thickness of the wear plate.

[0021] In some aspects, each of the plurality of wear indicators includes a plurality of material thickness indicators configured to visually indicate 25%, 50%, and 75% wear.

[0022] In some aspects, the plurality of material thickness indicators are formed of a material having a different color than the material of the wear platen.

[0023] In some aspects, each of the plurality of material thickness indicators is disposed within an indicator housing, and wherein the indicator housing and the wear plate are formed of the same material.

[0024] In some aspects, the upper surface of the indicator housing is configured to be flush with the surface of the wear plate so that the indicator housing and the wear plate wear at the same rate.

[0025] In some aspects, a plurality of wear indicators are disposed on the wear platen.

[0026] In some aspects, a plurality of wear indicators are disposed beneath the surface of the wear platen.

[0027] In some aspects, a plurality of wear indicators are positioned within the housing.

[0028] In some aspects, a plurality of wear indicators are positioned within a housing disposed below the surface of the wear platen.

[0029] In yet another independent aspect, a wear indicator for a machine includes: an indicator housing; a first material thickness indicator disposed within the indicator housing, the first annular material thickness indicator having a first thickness; a second annular material thickness indicator disposed within the indicator housing and surrounding the first annular material thickness indicator, the second annular material thickness indicator having a second thickness less than the first thickness; and a third annular material thickness indicator disposed within the indicator housing and surrounding the second annular material thickness indicator, the third annular material thickness indicator having a third thickness less than the second thickness. The wear indicator is configured to visually indicate material thickness via the first annular material thickness indicator, the second annular material thickness indicator, and the third annular material thickness indicator.

[0030] In some aspects, the first annular material thickness indicator and the third annular material thickness indicator have a first color, and wherein the second annular material thickness indicator is formed of a second color different than the first color.

[0031] In some aspects, the first annular material thickness indicator is configured to be exposed from the indicator housing when the indicator housing has experienced 25% wear.

[0032] In some aspects, the second annular material thickness indicator is configured to be exposed from the indicator housing when the indicator housing has experienced 50% wear such that both the first annular material thickness indicator and the second annular material thickness indicator are exposed after 50% wear.

[0033] In some aspects, the third annular material thickness indicator is configured to be exposed from the indicator housing when the indicator housing has experienced 75% wear, such that the first annular material thickness indicator, the second annular material thickness indicator, and the third annular material thickness indicator are exposed after 75% wear.

[0034] In some aspects, the first material thickness indicator is formed of brass.

[0035] In some aspects, the third annular material thickness indicator is formed of brass.

[0036] In some aspects, the second annular material thickness indicator is formed from steel.

[0037] In yet another independent aspect, a wear indicator system is supported on a machine component. The wear indicator system includes a plurality of wear indicators positioned proximate to one another on the machine component, the plurality of wear indicators being secured within a hole of the machine component formed on a surface opposite a wear surface of the machine component. The plurality of wear indicators include: a first wear indicator spaced a first distance from the wear surface, visual exposure of the first wear indicator indicating that the wear surface has completed a first stage of wear; a second wear indicator spaced a second distance greater than the first distance from the wear surface, visual exposure of the second wear indicator indicating that the wear surface has completed a second stage of wear; and a third wear indicator spaced a third distance greater than the second distance from the wear surface, visual exposure of the third wear indicator indicating that the wear surface has completed a third stage of wear.

[0038] In some aspects, the first wear indicator, the second wear indicator, and the third wear indicator are spaced between approximately 0 cm and approximately 5 cm from each other.

[0039] In some aspects, a plurality of wear indicators are grouped within an indicator area having a width of approximately 20 cm.

[0040] In some aspects, the hole includes a plurality of blind holes, wherein each of the plurality of wear indicators is positioned within an associated blind hole of the plurality of blind holes, each blind hole having a different depth corresponding to a height of a respective wear indicator positioned within the blind hole.

[0041] In some aspects, the first stage of wear is approximately 25% of acceptable wear.

[0042] In some aspects, the second stage of wear is approximately 50% of acceptable wear.

[0043] In some aspects, the third stage of wear is approximately 75% of acceptable wear.

[0044] In some aspects, the plurality of wear indicators are secured to the assembly via an interference fit.

[0045] In some aspects, the plurality of wear indicators are secured to the assembly via an adhesive.

[0046] In some aspects, each of the plurality of wear indicators has the same cross-sectional dimensions as the other wear indicators.

[0047] In some aspects, the system further includes a plurality of sets of wear indicators, each set positioned at a different location on the machine component and configured to detect wear at a different location on the machine component.

[0048] In some aspects, when a wear indicator is present at each location, the wear experienced by the machine component is mapped and tracked by continually measuring the wear at each location.

[0049] In some aspects, data from the wear measurements are collected and stored by a processing system and a computer storage device system.

[0050] In some aspects, a camera system includes at least one camera for monitoring a component and a wear indicator to capture data from the wear indicator.

[0051] In some aspects, visual exposure of one indicator in one of the multiple groups indicates 25% wear at the location, visual exposure of two indicators in a group indicates 50% wear at the location, and visual exposure of three indicators in a group indicates 75% wear at the location.

[0052] Other features and aspects will become apparent by consideration of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Figure 1 is a side view of a transport aircraft according to one embodiment.

[0054] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Plan view of a transport aircraft.

[0055] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a wear indicator according to one embodiment.

[0056] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Bottom view of the wear indicator.

[0057] Figure 5A Observed along section 5--5 Figure 4 Cross-sectional view of a wear indicator.

[0058] Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of a wear indicator according to another embodiment, viewed along section 5 - 5 .

[0059] Figure 6 is an exploded bottom perspective view of a wear indicator according to another embodiment.

[0060] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Bottom view of the wear indicator.

[0061] Figure 8 Observed along section 8--8 Figure 7 Cross-sectional view of a wear indicator.

[0062] Fig. 9 is a side view of a wear indicator according to yet another embodiment.

[0063] Fig.10 is a side view of a wear indicator according to yet another embodiment.

[0064] Fig.11 is a side view of a wear indicator according to yet another embodiment.

[0065] Fig.12 is a side view of a wear indicator according to yet another embodiment.

[0066] Fig.13 is a plan view of a transport machine according to another embodiment.

[0067] Fig.14 is a plan view of a conveyor including a wear indicator according to another embodiment.

[0068] Fig.15 is a plan view of a conveyor including a wear indicator according to yet another embodiment.

[0069] Fig.16 is a plan view of a conveyor including a wear indicator according to yet another embodiment.

[0070] Fig.17 is a plan view of a material handling device for a tunneling machine including a wear indicator.

[0071] Fig.18 is a plan view of a material handling device for a tunneling machine including a wear indicator according to another embodiment.

[0072] Fig.19 is a plan view of a material handling device for a tunneling machine including a wear indicator according to yet another embodiment.

[0073] Fig. 20 is a plan view of a material handling device for a tunneling machine including a wear indicator according to yet another embodiment.

[0074] Fig.21 is a plan view of a material handling device for a tunneling machine including a wear indicator according to yet another embodiment.

[0075] Fig. 22 is a plan view of a conveyor for a tunneling machine including a wear indicator.

[0076] Fig.23 is a perspective view of a conveyor for a tunneling machine including a wear indicator according to another embodiment.

[0077] Fig.24 is a perspective view of a flexible conveyor machine including a wear indicator.

[0078] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 Plan view of the flexible conveyor machine.

[0079] Fig.26 Observed along section 26--26 Fig.24 Cross-section of a flexible conveyor machine.

[0080] Fig. 27 Observed along section 27--27 Fig.24 Cross-section of a flexible conveyor machine.

[0081] Fig.28 is a front view of a bulldozer including a blade with a wear indicator.

[0082] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 Perspective view of a part of a bulldozer.

[0083] Fig.30 yes Fig.28 Another perspective view of a portion of a bulldozer.

[0084] Fig.31 are plan and side views of an articulated hauler including a body having a wear indicator.

[0085] Fig.32 yes Fig.31 A perspective view of an articulated hauler with the bed in the raised position.

[0086] Fig.33is a perspective view of a truck including a body having a wear indicator.

[0087] Fig.34 yes Fig.33 Plan view of the truck.

[0088] Fig.35 It is a three-dimensional diagram of a longwall mining system.

[0089] Fig.36 yes Fig.35 Plan view of the longwall mining system.

[0090] Fig.37 yes Fig.35 Side view of a longwall mining system.

[0091] Fig.38 It is a stereogram of the excavation attachment.

[0092] Fig.39 yes Fig.38 Another perspective view of the excavation attachment.

[0093] Before explaining any embodiment in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the following figures in its application. The present disclosure can support other embodiments and be practiced or performed in various ways. In addition, it should be understood that the words and terms used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered restrictive. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounting", "connection", "support" and "coupling" and their variations are widely used and cover direct and indirect mounting, connection, support and coupling. Degree terms such as "substantially", "approximately", "roughly" are understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to refer to a reasonable range outside a given value, such as general tolerances associated with the manufacture, assembly and use of the described embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0094] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A mining machine 10 (e.g., a conveyor such as a shuttle) is shown that is operable to receive collected material. The shuttle may receive cut material from another mining machine. Although the present disclosure refers to a shuttle, it should be understood that the present disclosure may be incorporated into other types of machines, such as a continuous mining machine for cutting material from a mine wall and including a conveyor for transporting the cut material.

[0095] The shuttle 10 is movable and operable to receive, transport, and deliver cut material. In the illustrated embodiment, the shuttle 10 includes a chassis or frame 19, a container or bucket 20, and a traction member (e.g., steerable wheels 22) coupled to the frame 19. In the illustrated embodiment, the bucket 20 of the shuttle 10 includes an open top 24 for receiving material, and also includes a conveyor 26 for moving material along the length of the bucket 20 (e.g., to discharge material from the bucket 20). Over the life of the shuttle 10, the bucket 20 will experience wear. Wear may be caused, among other things, by the material in the bucket 20 rubbing and scraping against the surface of the bucket structure. In one embodiment, the surface of the bucket 20 may experience wear, which degrades the bucket structure in the direction of arrow W. In the illustrated embodiment, one or more visual wear indicators 30 ( Figure 2 ) is positioned on the body 20 to indicate the wear that the body 20 has experienced.

[0096] like Figure 2 , visual wear indicators 30 are disposed on a wear platen 28 within the body 20. The wear platen 28 is located proximate to the conveyor 26 and provides a support surface for material on the body 20. The illustrated embodiment includes twenty-three wear indicators 30 spaced about the wear platen 28. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the number and placement of the wear indicators 30 may vary based on various considerations (e.g., the type of machine, the type and amount of wear experienced by the machine, etc.).

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the plurality of wear indicators 30 is configured to provide a visual indication of the material thickness of the wear platen 28, and therefore provide a visual indication of the remaining useful life of the wear platen 28. Figure 3, each wear indicator 30 includes an indicator housing 34 that supports a material thickness indicator 38. In some embodiments, the wear indicator 30 may be positioned (e.g., embedded) in a surface of the wear platen 28, and the surface of the wear indicator 30 may be flush with the wear platen 28. As the material of the wear platen 28 (and therefore the material of the wear indicator 30) wears away, the material thickness indicator 38 is exposed. In the illustrated embodiment, each wear indicator 30 includes a plurality of material thickness indicators 38a, 38b, 38c to indicate various degrees of wear. For example, the plurality of thickness indicators may be configured to visually indicate that the thickness has been worn away by 25% (38a), 50% (38b), and 75% (38c). However, it should be understood that fewer or more indicators may be used, and / or the indicators may indicate different degrees / percentages of wear (e.g., by modifying the number and size of the material thickness indicators 38 disposed within the indicator housing 34). For example, it may be desirable for the wear indicator 30 to include only one material thickness indicator 38 at 50% wear, or it may be desirable for the wear indicator 30 to include four material thickness indicators 38 at 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% wear.

[0098] refer to Figure 3 5, the indicator housing 34 may be sized and shaped to fit within the aperture 40 of the wear plate 28 ( Figure 5A and Figure 5B When installed in aperture 40, upper surface 42 of indicator housing 34 is flush with wear plate 28, so that indicator housing 34 and wear plate 28 wear at the same rate. In addition, indicator housing 34 may be formed of the same material as wear plate 28 so that it may be secured within aperture 40 by welding. Figure 3 5 depicts one embodiment of a wear indicator 30 that includes a disc-shaped indicator housing 34 that is circular in profile when viewed along the wear direction W. In other embodiments, the indicator housing 34 may have other shapes. For example, the indicator housing 34 may have a rectangular profile. Additionally, the indicator housing 34 may be modified in other ways to facilitate assembly within the wear platen 28.

[0099] like Figure 35, the bottom surface 44 of the indicator housing 34 includes a plurality of blind holes 46 positioned adjacent to each other, and each hole 46 is sized and shaped to accommodate one of the plurality of material thickness indicators 38. In some embodiments, the size of the blind holes 46 is intended to provide an interference fit between the indicator housing 34 and the material thickness indicator 38 to secure the material thickness indicator 38 within the indicator housing 34. The material thickness indicator 38 can be installed in the blind hole 46 using liquid nitrogen to accommodate the interference fit. In other embodiments, the indicator 38 can be press-fit and welded or brazed in place within the blind hole 46. The depth and width of the blind hole 46 correspond to the thickness and width of the material thickness indicator 38 it accommodates. Therefore, the depth of the blind hole 46 is less than the thickness of the indicator housing 34, so that the material thickness indicator 38 is covered by the upper surface 42 before experiencing wear.

[0100] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5 , the three material thickness indicators 38 a, 38 b, and 38 c are cylindrical or pin-shaped. When viewed along the wear direction W, each material thickness indicator 38 a, 38 b, 38 c has a different thickness and cross-sectional area. Specifically, the first material thickness indicator 38 a has a greater thickness than the second thickness indicator 38 b and the third material thickness indicator 38 c. The thickness is measured along the longitudinal axis A ( FIG. 5 ) of the indicator and may be generally parallel to the wear direction W.

[0101] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first material thickness indicator 38a is smaller than the cross-sectional areas of the second material thickness indicator 38b and the third material thickness indicator 38c. Thus, the first material thickness indicator 38a is manufactured as an elongated pin compared to the second material thickness indicator 38b and the third material thickness indicator 38c. The second material thickness indicator 38b has a smaller thickness than the first material thickness indicator 38a and a greater thickness than the third material thickness indicator 38c. Similarly, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second material thickness indicator 38b is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first material thickness indicator 38a and less than the cross-sectional area of ​​the third material thickness indicator 38c. Finally, the third material thickness indicator 38c has a minimum thickness and a maximum cross-sectional area compared to the first material thickness indicator 38a and the second material thickness indicator 38b.

[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, the thickness of the first material thickness indicator 38a is designed so that the first material thickness indicator is first exposed when the upper surface 42 of the indicator housing 34 is worn down to 25% of a specified maximum allowable wear distance (e.g., the specified maximum allowable wear distance may correspond to the total thickness of the indicator housing 34). The thickness of the second material thickness indicator 38b is designed so that the second material thickness indicator is first exposed when the second material thickness indicator is worn down 50% of the indicator housing 34. At this point, both the first material thickness indicator 38a and the second material thickness indicator 38b are exposed. The thickness of the third material thickness indicator 38c is designed so that the third material thickness indicator is first exposed when the third material thickness indicator is worn down 75% of the indicator housing 34. At this point, all three material thickness indicators 38a, 38b, 38c are exposed.

[0103] The material thickness indicator 38 is formed of a material different from that of the indicator housing 34. In some cases, using a different material for the indicator 38 provides a contrast with the rest of the housing 34 and / or the platen 28 to more easily visually distinguish between the indicator housing 34 and each of the plurality of material thickness indicators 38, thereby allowing an operator to identify which of the plurality of material thickness indicators 38, if any, is exposed. For example, the material thickness indicator 38 may be formed of a stainless steel 316 bar, a high strength brass bar (e.g., AS-1567-686 or BS2872-CW724R), a wear putty "Devcon" (e.g., ceramic epoxy WR2), a forged colored ingot having 3 different colors, or other similar materials. As can be seen in Table 1 below, the material thickness indicator 38 of the wear indicator 30 may be formed of various combinations of the materials listed above. Table 1 identifies examples of possible combinations and does not represent an exhaustive list.

[0104] Table 1

[0105]

[0106] In some embodiments, the wear indicator 30 further includes a plug (not shown) to secure each of the plurality of material thickness indicators 38 within its corresponding blind hole 46. The plug can be formed of the same material as the indicator housing 34 and secure the material thickness indicator 38 (e.g., by being welded to the indicator housing 34 and covering the blind hole 46). Figure 5A , but in some embodiments ( Figure 5B ), the material thickness indicator 238 may have a width that varies along the length of the indicator (e.g., tapered). In addition, in some embodiments ( Fig.14), the wear indicator 430 may omit the housing, and the thickness indicator 438 may be supported directly on or within the wear surface. Fig.15 ), the wear indicator 630 may have an elongated housing 640, and the thickness indicator 638 may be arranged in a linear configuration along the length of the housing 640. In other embodiments ( Fig.16 ), the wear indicator 830 may include thickness indicators 838 arranged in a linear configuration and supported directly on or within the wear surface.

[0107] Figures 6 to 8 Another embodiment of a wear indicator 130 is shown. Parts of the wear indicator 130 that are similar to the wear indicator 30 are identified with similar reference numbers increased by 100. Some differences between the wear indicator 30 and the wear indicator 130 are described herein.

[0108] The wear indicator 130 includes a plurality of material thickness indicators 138 arranged as a plurality of concentric annular rings around a central indicator. A first material thickness indicator 138a is disposed in the center of the indicator housing 134. A second annular material thickness indicator 138b surrounds the first material thickness indicator 138a, and a third annular material thickness indicator 138c surrounds the second annular material thickness indicator 138b. In some embodiments, the first material thickness indicator 138a and the third material thickness indicator 138c are formed of the same material, while the second annular material thickness indicator 138b is formed of a different material. In some embodiments, the first material thickness indicator 138a and the third material thickness indicator 138c are formed of brass, and the second annular material thickness indicator 138b is formed of steel. The use of different materials provides visual contrast, which helps an operator identify which of the first, second, or third annular material thickness indicators 138 (if any) is exposed. By way of example, Table 1 above lists various combinations of materials suitable for the wear indicator 130 and the wear indicator 30.

[0109] like Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the indicator housing 34 can take a variety of shapes / contours (e.g., depending on the shape / contour of the wear plate 28). Specifically, Fig. 9 Depicts a wear indicator 30 having a curve or arc positioned on an upper surface 42 of the indicator housing 34. This allows the wear indicator 30 to be applied to a curved wear platen 28 without interrupting the surface of the wear platen 28. In other words, the upper surface 42 of the wear indicator 30 is shaped to correspond to the wear platen 28 so that even if the wear platen 28 is not flat, the upper surface 42 and the wear platen 28 are flush. Figures 9 to 12 As shown in , the thickness indicators 38a, 38b, 38c may be positioned adjacent to a concave or convex surface.

[0110] The above wear indicators 30, 130 have been described in conjunction with the wear platen 28 of the shuttle 10. However, the wear indicators 30, 130 may be applied to other types of machines and components that experience wear. The wear indicators 30, 130 are intended to be fastened within a surface that experiences wear during operation. Specifically, the wear indicators 30, 130 may be positioned to provide a thickness indication at strategic locations on a surface that is being worn.

[0111] like Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 1 , the wear indicators 30 can be positioned on the bucket 20 of the mining machine in different configurations. For example, the bucket 20 may include a pair of wear indicators 30 (e.g., a right wear indicator and a left wear indicator) positioned at four distances along the length of the bucket 20. In other embodiments ( Figure 14 to Figure 16 ), the wear indicators 430, 630, 830 may be positioned on the bucket 20 in a similar manner.

[0112] The wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be incorporated into other mining machines and components, and may be incorporated into machines and components that may operate together and have adjacent, connected and / or complementary operations. Fig.17 , a shovel or material handling device 112 for an excavation machine or continuous miner includes a deck 116 and a conveyor 120 positioned adjacent the rear end of the deck 116. The conveyor 120 may extend along a conveyor axis and be aligned with an opening in the deck 116. The material handling device 112 further includes an arm 124 for directing material on the deck 116 toward the opening and onto the conveyor belt 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the material handling device 112 includes a pair of wear indicators 30 adjacent the opening (e.g., one wear indicator 30 adjacent the left side of the opening and one wear indicator 30 adjacent the right side of the opening). Additionally, the wear indicators 30 may be positioned at intervals along the length of the conveyor 120 (e.g., a right wear indicator and a left wear indicator are positioned adjacent the deck 116, and the right wear indicator and the left wear indicator are located at one end of the conveyor belt 120, adjacent a position opposite the deck 116).

[0113] Various embodiments of the wear indicator 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be incorporated into a mining machine. For example, Fig.18 As shown in FIG. 1 , the wear indicator 30 may be positioned on the platen 116, and the wear indicator 630 may be positioned on the conveyor 120. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. Fig.19 As shown in FIG. 4 , the wear indicator 430 may be positioned on the platen 116, and the wear indicator 630 may be positioned on the conveyor 120. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. Fig. 20As shown in FIG. 4 , the wear indicator 430 may be positioned on the platen 116 and the conveyor 120. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. Fig.21 As shown in FIG. 4 , wear indicator 430 may be positioned on platen 116 and wear indicator 830 may be positioned on conveyor 120. Wear indicators may also be positioned on the sidewalls of conveyor 120. For example, wear indicator 630 ( Fig. 22 ) and / or wear indicator 830 ( Fig.23 ) can be positioned on the side wall.

[0114] like Figure 24 to Figure 27 As shown in , the wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be incorporated into other components, such as a lump breaker frame 312 (e.g., for a flexible conveyor train). Fig.24 , the lump breaker frame 312 includes a platen 320 along which the material is conveyed, and the wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be located at regular intervals along the length of the platen 320. For example, the wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may include a right wear indicator, a left wear indicator, and a center wear indicator located at five locations along the length of the platen 320. In addition, at least some of the wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be located on the lower surface of the platen 320 ( Fig.26 ).

[0115] like Figure 28 to Figure 30 As shown in , the wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be incorporated into other types of machines, such as a bulldozer 512. Fig.31 and Fig.32 , the truck includes a blade 520 for pushing material, and the wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be positioned at intervals along the lower portion of the blade 520. For example, the wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may include one or more right wear indicators 30a, one or more left wear indicators 30b, and one or more center wear indicators 30c. In addition, one or more wear indicators 30 may be positioned on the support member 524 ( Fig.30 ), and / or one or more wear indicators 30 may be positioned on the outer surface of the blade 312.

[0116] like Fig.31 and Fig.32 As shown in , the wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be incorporated into other types of machines, such as a transport truck 712 (e.g., an articulated truck). Fig. 22 and Fig.29As shown in FIG. 7 , a truck 712 includes a bucket 720 for loading materials, and the wear indicators 30 , 230 , 430 , 630 , 830 may be positioned at intervals along a portion of the bucket 720 . Fig.31 and Fig.32 As shown in FIG. 1 , the wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be positioned in a trapezoidal pattern along the inclined surface of the bucket 720. The wear indicators may include a left front wear indicator, a right front wear indicator, a left rear wear indicator, a right rear wear indicator, and a center rear wear indicator. The distance between the left rear wear indicator and the right rear wear indicator may be spaced apart from each other greater than the distance between the right front wear indicator and the left front wear indicator. In other embodiments ( Fig.33 and Fig.34 ), the wear indicator 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be positioned on the truck bed 720 of another type of truck.

[0117] like Figure 35 to Figure 37 As shown in FIG. 1 , the wear indicators 30 , 230 , 430 , 630 , 830 may be incorporated into other types of machines, such as longwall conveyors. Figure 35 to Figure 37 As shown in , the conveyor 912 may include a plurality of interconnected disks 920, and a chain flight (not shown) pushes material along the surface of the disks 920. The wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be positioned at intervals along the length of the conveyor 920 (e.g., at a predetermined distance between the disks 920). Although Figure 35 to Figure 37 The location of the wear indicator 30 is depicted, but it should be understood that the wear indicator 230 , 430 , 630 , or 830 may be positioned in the same or similar location in place of or in combination with the wear indicator 30 .

[0118] like Fig.38 and Fig.39 As shown in , the wear indicators 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be incorporated into other types of machines, such as an excavation attachment 1112 (e.g., a bucket for a rope shovel). Fig.38 and Fig.39, the excavating attachment 1112 may include a bucket body 1116 having a digging edge 1118, a dipper door 1120 pivotally coupled to the dipper door 1120, and a lifting ring 1124 for securing one end of a lifting rope (not shown) relative to the bucket body 1116. The wear indicator 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be positioned at a location on an inner surface (e.g., side surface, lower surface) of the bucket body 1116, on a portion of the digging edge 1118, and / or on the lifting ring 1124. The wear indicator 30, 230, 430, 630, 830 may be positioned on a portion of the dipper door 1120 (e.g., side surface, lower surface). Fig.39 ).

[0119] Although aspects of the disclosure have been described in detail with reference to certain embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects described.

[0120] Various features and advantages of the disclosure are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A wear indicator supported on a wear surface of a machine component, characterized in that The wear indicator comprises: a first material thickness indicator having a first thickness; a second material thickness indicator located adjacent to the first material thickness indicator and having a second thickness less than the first thickness; and a third material thickness indicator, the third material thickness indicator being located adjacent to the first material thickness indicator and the second material thickness indicator and having a third thickness that is less than the second thickness, Wherein the wear indicator is configured to visually indicate a material thickness of the wear surface via the first material thickness indicator, the second material thickness indicator and the third material thickness indicator.

2. The wear indicator according to claim 1, characterized in that The first material thickness indicator is disposed within an indicator housing, the second material thickness indicator is disposed within the indicator housing, and the third material thickness indicator is disposed within the indicator housing.

3. The wear indicator according to claim 2, characterized in that The indicator housing includes an upper surface configured to be positioned flush with the wear surface, and the first material thickness indicator is covered by the upper surface prior to experiencing wear.

4. The wear indicator according to claim 3, characterized in that The indicator housing includes a bottom surface opposite the upper surface, the bottom surface including a plurality of blind holes configured to receive the first material thickness indicator, the second material thickness indicator, and the third material thickness indicator therein.

5. The wear indicator according to claim 1, characterized in that The first, second and third material thickness indicators are positioned such that the first, second and third thicknesses are measured parallel to a wear direction of the wear surface.

6. The wear indicator according to claim 1, characterized in that The first thickness corresponds to 75% of the thickness of the wear indicator, such that the first material thickness indicator is configured to visually indicate 25% wear of the wear surface.

7. The wear indicator according to claim 6, characterized in that The second thickness corresponds to 50% of the thickness of the wear indicator, such that the second material thickness indicator is configured to visually indicate 50% wear of the wear surface.

8. The wear indicator according to claim 7, characterized in that The third thickness corresponds to 25% of the thickness of the wear indicator, such that the third material thickness indicator is configured to visually indicate 75% wear of the wear surface.

9. The wear indicator according to claim 1, characterized in that The first material thickness indicator, the second material thickness indicator, and the third material thickness indicator are formed of a material having a different color than a material of the wear surface.

10. The wear indicator according to claim 1, characterized in that The first material thickness indicator has a first cross-sectional area as viewed along a wear direction, the second material thickness indicator has a second cross-sectional area as viewed along the wear direction, and the third material thickness indicator has a third cross-sectional area as viewed along the wear direction, and wherein the first cross-sectional area is smaller than the second cross-sectional area and the third cross-sectional area.

11. The wear indicator according to claim 10, characterized in that The second cross-sectional area is smaller than the third cross-sectional area.

12. The wear indicator according to claim 11, characterized in that The first material thickness indicator, the second material thickness indicator, and the third material thickness indicator are cylindrical.

13. The wear indicator according to claim 2, characterized in that The contour of the indicator housing is circular when viewed parallel to the wear direction of the wear indicator.

14. The wear indicator according to claim 2, characterized in that The indicator housing includes an upper surface configured to be positioned flush with the wear surface, and the upper surface and the wear surface are curved.

15. A mining machine, characterized in that: The mining machine comprises: Chassis; a wear platen supported by the chassis, the wear platen configured to support material being mined; means for moving the material across the wear platen; and A plurality of wear indicators are supported adjacent a surface of the wear plate, the plurality of wear indicators being configured to provide a visual indication of a thickness of the wear plate.

16. The mining machine according to claim 15, characterized in that Each of the plurality of wear indicators includes a plurality of material thickness indicators configured to visually indicate 25%, 50%, and 75% wear.

17. The mining machine according to claim 15, characterized in that The plurality of material thickness indicators are formed from a material having a different color than the material of the wear platen.

18. The mining machine according to claim 15, characterized in that Each of the plurality of material thickness indicators is mounted within an indicator housing, and the indicator housing and the wear plate are formed of the same material.

19. The mining machine according to claim 15, characterized in that An upper surface of the indicator housing is configured to be flush with the surface of the wear plate such that the indicator housing and the wear plate wear at the same rate.

20. The mining machine according to claim 15, characterized in that The plurality of wear indicators are disposed on the wear platen.

21. The mining machine according to claim 15, characterized in that The plurality of wear indicators are disposed below the surface of the wear platen.

22. The mining machine according to claim 15, characterized in that The plurality of wear indicators are positioned within the housing.

23. The mining machine according to claim 15, characterized in that The plurality of wear indicators are positioned within a housing disposed below the surface of the wear platen.

24. A wear indicator for a machine, characterized in that The wear indicator comprises: Indicator housing; a first annular material thickness indicator disposed within the indicator housing, the first annular material thickness indicator having a first thickness; a second annular material thickness indicator disposed within the indicator housing and surrounding the first annular material thickness indicator, the second annular material thickness indicator having a second thickness less than the first thickness; and a third annular material thickness indicator disposed within the indicator housing and surrounding the second annular material thickness indicator, the third annular material thickness indicator having a third thickness that is less than the second thickness, Wherein the wear indicator is configured to visually indicate material thickness via the first annular material thickness indicator, the second annular material thickness indicator and the third annular material thickness indicator.

25. The wear indicator according to claim 24, characterized in that The first annular material thickness indicator and the third annular material thickness indicator have a first color, and wherein the second annular material thickness indicator is formed of a second color different from the first color.

26. The wear indicator according to claim 24, characterized in that The first annular material thickness indicator is configured to be exposed from the indicator housing when the indicator housing has experienced 25% wear.

27. The wear indicator according to claim 26, characterized in that The second annular material thickness indicator is configured to be exposed from the indicator housing when the indicator housing has experienced 50% wear, such that both the first annular material thickness indicator and the second annular material thickness indicator are exposed after 50% wear.

28. The wear indicator according to claim 27, characterized in that The third annular material thickness indicator is configured to be exposed from the indicator housing when the indicator housing has experienced 75% wear such that the first, second and third annular material thickness indicators are exposed after 75% wear.

29. The wear indicator according to claim 24, characterized in that The first annular material thickness indicator is formed of brass.

30. The wear indicator according to claim 29, characterized in that The third annular material thickness indicator is formed of brass.

31. The wear indicator according to claim 30, characterized in that The second annular material thickness indicator is formed from steel.

32. A wear indicator system supported on a machine component, characterized in that: The wear indicator system comprises: a plurality of wear indicators, the plurality of wear indicators being positioned proximate to one another on a machine component, the plurality of wear indicators being secured within holes of the machine component, the holes being formed on a surface opposite a wear surface of the machine component, the plurality of wear indicators comprising: a first wear indicator spaced a first distance from the wear surface, visual exposure of the first wear indicator indicating that the wear surface has completed a first stage of wear, a second wear indicator spaced apart from the wear surface by a second distance greater than the first distance, visual exposure of the second wear indicator indicating that the wear surface has completed a second stage of wear, and A third wear indicator is spaced apart from the wear surface a third distance greater than the second distance, visual exposure of the third wear indicator indicating that the wear surface has completed a third stage of wear.

33. The wear indicator system of claim 32, wherein: The first, second and third wear indicators are spaced between approximately 0 cm and approximately 5 cm from one another.

34. The wear indicator system of claim 32, wherein: The plurality of wear indicators are arranged in groups within an indication area having a width of approximately 20 cm.

35. The wear indicator system of claim 32, wherein: The hole includes a plurality of blind holes, each of the plurality of wear indicators being positioned within an associated blind hole of the plurality of blind holes, each blind hole having a different depth corresponding to a height of a respective wear indicator positioned within the blind hole.

36. The wear indicator system of claim 32, wherein: This first stage of wear is approximately 25% of acceptable wear.

37. The wear indicator system of claim 32, wherein: The second stage of wear is approximately 50% of the acceptable wear.

38. The wear indicator system of claim 32, wherein: The third stage of wear is approximately 75% of the acceptable wear.

39. The wear indicator system of claim 32, wherein: The plurality of wear indicators are secured to the assembly via an interference fit.

40. The wear indicator system of claim 32, wherein: The plurality of wear indicators are secured to the assembly via an adhesive.

41. The wear indicator system of claim 32, wherein: Each of the plurality of wear indicators has the same cross-sectional dimensions as the other wear indicators.

42. The wear indicator system of claim 32, wherein: The system also includes a plurality of sets of wear indicators, each set positioned at a different location on the machine component and configured to detect wear at a different location on the machine component.

43. The wear indicator system of claim 42, wherein: Visual exposure of one indicator in one of the plurality of groups indicates 25% wear at that location, visual exposure of two indicators in the group indicates 50% wear at that location, and visual exposure of three indicators in the group indicates 75% wear at that location.

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