Tip and adapter locking assembly

Abstract

A retaining mechanism (400a) includes a retainer (404a) having a skirt (416) with a revolution surface (474) having an axis of rotation (230). The skirt (416) extends 180.0 degrees or less about the axis of rotation (230), forming a through slot (422). A drive portion (423) extends axially from the skirt (416).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a retaining 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 retaining mechanism that uses a spring to keep a retainer of the retaining mechanism in a locked or unlocked configuration. 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. In addition, by providing a retaining mechanism for selectively retaining 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. 11,142,894 B2 discloses a tip and adapter assembly including a spring-loaded retainer having a lug receiving portion defining a first maximum outer dimension and a lug receiving slot extending partially through the lug receiving portion to form a first side wall, a second side wall, and a gripping surface connecting the first side wall to the second side wall. The drive portion of the retainer defines a second maximum outer dimension and is first disposed on an outer side of the lug receiving portion, proximate to the first side wall or the second side wall.

[0004] However, the spring clip of the '894 patent is more complicated to manufacture than desired and requires the presence of a lug on the adapter, thereby increasing cost. Summary of the invention

[0005] The retaining mechanism according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may include a retaining member, the retaining member including a skirt, the skirt including a revolution surface having a rotation axis and defining a circumferential direction. The skirt (e.g., the bottom portion of the skirt) may extend 180.0 degrees or less around the rotation axis to form a through slot. The driving portion may extend axially from the skirt (e.g., from the top portion of the skirt).

[0006] A retaining mechanism according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure may include a retainer spring including a folded body having a flat locking engagement portion, a first side undulation portion, and a second side undulation portion.

[0007] The retaining mechanism according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure may include a retainer spring having a folded body including a top flat portion, a first side wavy portion extending from the top flat portion, and a second side wavy portion extending from the top flat portion. The folded body may define two different symmetry planes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a work tool assembly, such as a bucket assembly, utilizing a tip, adapter, and retaining mechanism having components configured in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the tip and adapter assembly, with Figure 1 The work tool components of FIG. 1 are shown separated.

[0010] Figure 3 is similar to Figure 2 2. A view of the tip and adapter assembly of the present invention is shown, but only the front portion of the adapter is depicted, and the retention mechanism and its components in the unlocked configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown in hidden lines. Figure 2 A single flange is shown, while Figure 3 Two flanges (top and bottom) are shown.

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Front view of the tip and adapter assembly and retention mechanism.

[0012] Figure 5 are shown separately Figure 3 and Figure 4 A rear perspective view of the tip of the device reveals the cavity that houses the retaining mechanism.

[0013] Figure 6 are shown separately Figure 3 and Figure 4 A front perspective view of an adapter or base showing a recess that receives a portion of the retention mechanism when in a locked configuration.

[0014] Figure 7 is a front perspective view of the retention mechanism removed from the tip and adapter assembly.

[0015] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A rear perspective view of the retaining mechanism of FIG. 1 more clearly shows the optional pore filler.

[0016] Fig. 9 is a side cross-sectional view showing the retention mechanism of the tip and adapter assembly in a locked configuration.

[0017] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 A rear cross-sectional view of the tip and adapter assembly showing the retention mechanism in a locked configuration.

[0018] Fig.11 yes Fig. 9 A top cross-sectional view of a tip and adapter assembly with the retaining mechanism in a locked configuration.

[0019] Fig.12 yes Fig. 9 A side cross-sectional view of a tip and adapter assembly wherein the retaining mechanism is shown in an unlocked configuration.

[0020] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A rear cross-sectional view of the tip and adapter assembly of FIG. 1 , wherein the retaining mechanism is shown in an unlocked configuration.

[0021] Fig.14 yes Fig.12 A top cross-sectional view of the tip and adapter assembly with the retaining mechanism in an unlocked configuration.

[0022] Fig.15 is a front view of a tip and adapter assembly according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, with the retaining mechanism in an unlocked configuration.

[0023] Fig.16 It is in unlocked configuration Fig.15 A bottom cross-sectional view of a tip and adapter assembly and retaining mechanism of is shown, illustrating another embodiment of an optional pore filler.

[0024] Fig.17 It is in unlocked configuration Fig.15 An internal side cross-sectional view of the tip and adapter assembly and retention mechanism.

[0025] Fig.18 Shows the removed Fig.17 Adapter showing the retainer being held in the unlocked configuration by a spring clip.

[0026] Fig.19 Shows Fig.18 The tip of the device with the retainer and spring clip removed more clearly depicts the pocket in which the retaining mechanism is retained.

[0027] Fig. 20 yes Fig.15 Front view of the tip and adapter assembly with the retaining mechanism shown in a locked configuration.

[0028] Fig.21 is in locked configuration Fig. 20A bottom cross-sectional view of the tip and adapter assembly and retaining mechanism.

[0029] Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 Internal side cross-sectional view of the tip and adapter assembly and retention mechanism. Angled or wavy material ejection surfaces are visible.

[0030] Fig.23 Shows Fig. 22 The retention mechanism and tip with the adapter removed showing the spring clip holding the retainer in the locked configuration.

[0031] Fig.24 is a side view of a tip and retention mechanism constructed in accordance with a third embodiment of the present disclosure. The retention mechanism is shown in a locked configuration.

[0032] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 Front view of the tip and holding mechanism.

[0033] Fig.26 It is available with Fig.24 A rear view of the tip used with the tip and retaining mechanism.

[0034] Fig. 27 are shown separately Fig.24 A perspective view of the tip of the , revealing the crescent-shaped locking hole.

[0035] Fig.28 are shown separately Fig.24 A front perspective view of the retaining mechanism.

[0036] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 Rear perspective view of the retaining mechanism.

[0037] Fig.30 are shown separately Fig.29 A perspective view of the spring clip of the retention mechanism.

[0038] Fig.31 yes Fig.30 Top view of the spring clip.

[0039] Fig.32 yes Fig.31 A top cross-sectional view of a spring clip.

[0040] Fig.33 yes Fig.32 A side cross-sectional view of a spring clip.

[0041] Fig.34 is shown assembled in a locked configuration Figure 24 to Figure 29 A side cross-sectional view of the retaining mechanism, tip and adapter.

[0042] Fig.35 is shown assembled in a locked configuration Figure 24 to Figure 29 Rear cross-sectional view of the retaining mechanism, tip and adapter.

[0043] Fig.36 is shown assembled in a locked configuration Figure 24 to Figure 29 A top cross-sectional view of the retaining mechanism, tip and adapter.

[0044] Fig.37 is shown assembled in a locked configuration Figure 24 to Figure 29 A side cross-sectional view of the retaining mechanism, tip and adapter.

[0045] Fig.38 is shown assembled in an unlocked configuration Figure 24 to Figure 29 Rear cross-sectional view of the retaining mechanism, tip and adapter.

[0046] Fig.39 is shown in unlocked configuration Fig.24 Perspective view of the tip and holding mechanism.

[0047] Fig.40 is in locked configuration Figure 24 to Figure 29 A bottom cross-sectional view of the tip and adapter assembly and retaining mechanism.

[0048] Fig.41 yes Fig.40 An enlarged detail view of the tip of the Fig.30 The spring clip is similar to the spring clip.

[0049] Fig.42 Shows Fig.41 The recess at the tip where the spring clip is removed.

[0050] Fig.43 According to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure (the spring is clamped in Fig.41 A side view of a tip and retaining mechanism of a (shown in FIG. 4 ) structure. The retaining mechanism is shown in a locked configuration.

[0051] Fig.44 are shown separately Fig.43 Rear perspective view of the retaining mechanism.

[0052] Fig.45 are shown separately Fig.44 A perspective view of the spring clip of the retention mechanism.

[0053] Fig.46 yes Fig.45 Top view of the spring clip.

[0054] Fig.47 yes Fig.46 A side cross-sectional view of a spring clip.

[0055] Fig.48 is shown assembled in a locked configuration Fig.26 , Fig.44 and Fig.45 A side cross-sectional view of the retaining mechanism, tip and adapter.

[0056] Fig.49 is shown assembled in a locked configuration Fig.48 Rear cross-sectional view of the retaining mechanism, tip and adapter.

[0057] Fig.50 yes Fig.48 An alternative cross-sectional view of the tip of , showing the spring clip seated in a recess in the tip.

[0058] Fig.51 is a side view of a tip and retention mechanism constructed in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. The retention mechanism is shown in a locked configuration.

[0059] Fig.52 are shown separately Fig.43 Rear perspective view of the retaining mechanism.

[0060] Fig.53 are shown separately Fig.52 A perspective view of the spring clip of the retention mechanism.

[0061] Fig.54 yes Fig.53 Top view of the spring clip.

[0062] Fig.55 is shown assembled in a locked configuration Fig.51 A side cross-sectional view of the retaining mechanism, tip and adapter.

[0063] Fig.56 yes Fig.55 An alternative cross-sectional view of the tip of , showing the spring clip seated in a recess in the tip.

[0064] Fig.57 Shows Fig.51 The recess of the tip of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with the spring clip removed shows that the recess is configured to Fig.42 The recesses are slightly different.

[0065] Fig.58 is a perspective view of a tip and adapter assembly configured to Figures 1 to 57 The associated tip and adapter assemblies are similar or identical, but the locking assembly has a lock with a shallower notch and the spring is modified to be simpler. The locking assembly is shown in an unlocked configuration.

[0066] Fig.59 Shows Fig.58 and the removed tip of the adapter assembly to more clearly illustrate the locking assembly in the unlocked configuration.

[0067] Fig.60 Shown rotated 100 degrees to a locked configuration Fig.59 locking components.

[0068] Fig.61 is in locked configuration Fig.60 A perspective view of a tip and adapter assembly with a locking assembly.

[0069] Fig.62 is shown separated from the tip and adapter assembly Fig.60 A perspective view of the locking assembly.

[0070] Fig.63 yes Fig.62 An alternative perspective view of the locking assembly of FIG. 1 more clearly shows the notch of the lock.

[0071] Fig.64 are shown separately Fig.62 and Fig.63 Perspective view of a spring.

[0072] Fig.65 yes Fig.64 An alternative perspective view of the spring.

[0073] Fig.66 yes Fig.65 Front view of the spring. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] 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 drawings to indicate the same or similar parts. In some cases, a reference numeral will be indicated in this specification and the 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 the features are of similar shape and have similar functions, such as is often the case when the 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 drawings to indicate repetition of features discussed in this written specification. For example, multiple versions or mirrored versions of features including a locking assembly may be provided on either side of the adapter, base, tip, or wear-resistant member. These features may be connected by laterally extending through holes, etc.

[0075] Work tool assemblies utilizing tips, wear members, adapters, bases, retaining mechanisms, locks, spring clips, etc., in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed.

[0076] from Figure 1 Initially, the 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 communicating 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.

[0077] 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 300, 300a attached to the base edge 117, and a plurality of tips 200, 200a (which may also be referred to as tools, wear members, teeth, etc.), wherein each of the plurality of tips 200 is attached to a center adapter of the plurality of center adapters 119. 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, 200a may also be attached to the corner adapters 120, which may be similarly configured with features to be discussed.

[0078] 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 are also provided, which are attached to the side edges 122 proximate the corner adapters 120.

[0079] 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, variously configured buckets intended for use with excavators may also use various embodiments of tips, retaining mechanisms, adapters, springs, spring-loaded retainers, tip assemblies, tip and adapter assemblies, etc., as will be discussed herein.

[0080] look Figure 5 , Fig. 9 , Fig.11 , Fig.17 , Fig.19 , Fig. 20 and Fig.23 , a tip 200, 200a constructed in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a rear attachment portion 202, 202a having an open end 204, 204a, an outer surface 206, 206a, and an inner surface 208, 208a extending from the open end 204, 204a. The rear attachment portion 202, 202a may define a lock receiving hole 210, 210a and a first spring clip receiving hole 212, 212a in communication with the lock receiving hole 210, 210a. The first spring clip receiving hole 212, 212a may include a first cavity 214, 214a having a first rib 216 (see Fig.11 and Fig.14 ). Fig.11 and Fig.14 As best seen in FIG. 2 , the first rib 216 can divide the first cavity 214 into an inner portion 218 and an outer portion 220. In some embodiments, the rib can be at the very edge of the first cavity, etc.

[0081] Now refer to the figure Figure 5 , Fig.10 , Fig.19 and Fig.23 The first spring clip receiving hole 212, 212a may include a second cavity 222, 222a, which includes a planar surface 224, 224a (for support) that is spaced apart from the first cavity and faces the lock receiving hole 210, 210a and is open toward the lock receiving hole.

[0082] exist Fig. 9 2, the first spring clip receiving hole 212 includes a third cavity 226, which includes a second rib 228 that divides the third cavity 226 into an inner portion and an outer portion, similar to the first rib 216. As shown, the second cavity 222 can be interposed between the first cavity 214 and the third cavity 226. The function of the first cavity and the second cavity can be to hold the spring clip in place, while the second cavity provides support for a spring arm or stop that engages the lock to hold the spring arm or stop in place to prevent accidental rotation about the rotation axis 230 of the lock receiving hole.

[0083] look Fig.10 and Fig.11 The lock receiving aperture 210 may include a tab receiving portion 232 disposed adjacent the outer surface 206 , and a skirt receiving portion 234 disposed (eg, axially) between the tab receiving portion 232 and the inner surface 208 .

[0084] More specifically, the tab receiving portion 232 and the skirt receiving portion 234 may overlap circumferentially (see circumferential direction 236 about the axis of rotation 230). Additionally, the first cavity 214a, the second cavity 222, and the third cavity 226 do not overlap circumferentially (e.g., may be circumferentially located on opposite sides) with the tab receiving portion 232 or the skirt receiving portion 234. This may not be the case in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0085] Focus Figure 5 , the inner surface 208 may further define a skirt inlet slot 238 and a skirt retaining slot 240 in communication with the skirt inlet slot 238. More specifically, the skirt retaining slot 240 may extend primarily circumferentially from the skirt inlet slot 238, which extends primarily axially. Due to this structure, the lock may be axially placed to align the skirt with the skirt inlet slot until the lock contacts an annular shelf surface 241, which is axially disposed between the tab receiving portion of the lock receiving hole and the skirt retaining slot. The lock may then be rotated so that the skirt is axially caught below the skirt retaining slot, retaining the lock axially in the lock receiving hole.

[0086] Therefore, the tip 200 may be referred to below. Figure 5 The rear attachment portion 200 of the tip may have a lock receiving bore 210 defining a rotational axis 230 extending axially from the inner surface 208 to the outer surface 206, the lock receiving bore may include an inner axial skirt receiving slot (e.g., see skirt inlet slot 238), an intermediate axial skirt retaining slot extending from the inner axial skirt receiving slot about the rotational axis 230 (e.g., see skirt retaining slot 240), and an outer axial tab receiving slot (e.g., see tab receiving portion 234) defining a first stop 242 and a second stop 244 spaced apart from the first stop 242 about the rotational axis 230.

[0087] As in Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As seen in FIG. 2 , the interior surface 208 may also include a spring retaining hole (eg, see 212 ), and a spring 402 as part of the retaining mechanism 400 may be disposed in the spring retaining hole, while a lock 404 may be disposed in the lock receiving hole 210 .

[0088] Watch together Figure 5 , Fig.10 and Fig.11, the intermediate axial skirt retaining slot (e.g., see skirt retaining slot 240) can define a conical surface 248 centered on the rotation axis 230. Other surfaces, such as cylindrical surfaces, can be used in other embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, the intermediate axial skirt receiving slot can define a shelf surface 250 that faces axially toward the exterior of the tip 200. This forms an undercut that holds the lock axially to the tip.

[0089] In addition, Figure 5 and Fig.16 , the rear open end 204, 204a can define a stepped perimeter 252 having a flange 253. The flange 253 can face vertically downward to mate with a mating feature of the adapter to help resist upward loads on the tip.

[0090] The tips 200, 200a may be more generally characterized as wear resistant components, such as when a protruding tip or the like is omitted.

[0091] Reference now Figure 5 and Fig.29 The rear attachment portions 202, 202a of these wear members may define lock receiving holes 210, 210a and first spring clip receiving holes 212, 212a communicating with the lock receiving holes 210, 210a. In addition, a skirt receiving hole (e.g., see 234) and a skirt retaining slot 240 extending from the skirt receiving hole may be provided.

[0092] More specifically in Figure 5 , the lock receiving aperture 210 can define a rotational axis 230 and a circumferential direction 236. The first spring clip receiving aperture 212 can be circumferentially spaced from the skirt receiving aperture (eg, see 234) and the skirt retaining slot 240.

[0093] Additionally, the skirt retention slot 240 may be defined by a circumferentially extending flange 254, and the skirt receiving aperture may be defined by an axially extending planar surface 256 and a circumferentially extending surface 258. As previously mentioned herein, the skirt retention slot 240 may include a conical side surface (e.g., see conical surface 248).

[0094] The lock receiving aperture 210 may also include a tab receiving slot (e.g., see tab receiving portion 232) defined by a first circumferential stop (e.g., see first stop 242) and a second circumferential stop (e.g., see second stop 244). Figure 5As can be seen in FIG. 2 , a first circumferential stop (see 242) can be axially disposed below the circumferentially extending flange 254 of the skirt retaining slot 240, while a second circumferential stop (see 244) is axially disposed below the skirt receiving aperture (see 234). Due to this structure, the lock can be rotated between a trapped position in the tip (but in an unlocked configuration) and an untrapped position in the tip (but in a locked configuration), thereby allowing the lock to be installed or removed before attaching the lock to the adapter without the possibility of the lock falling out of the tip.

[0095] Now refer to Figure 6 and Fig.21 An adapter that can be used with the tip / wear member mentioned above is described. Such an adapter 300, 300a can include a nose portion (e.g., a protruding portion 302, 302a) that includes a crescent-shaped hole 304, 304a. The crescent-shaped hole 304 can define an arcuate surface 306 (e.g., a concave conical surface or a concave cylindrical surface) having an axis of rotation 308 (see Figure 6 ), and the arcuate surface 306 extends about 180.0 degrees around the rotation axis 308, but this is not necessarily the case. Figure 6 The crescent-shaped hole 306 in the adapter is disposed near the top of the adapter 300. This may not be the case in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0096] Still refer to Figure 6 , the nose portion (e.g., the protruding portion 302) may include an octagonal perimeter 310. This may not be the case in other embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, a lower step 312 may be provided behind the nose portion (e.g., the protruding portion 302). The lower step 312 may include an upwardly facing shelf surface 314 that supports the matching shape of the tip / wear member to support the upward load on the tip / wear member, as previously described. A similar upper step 313 may be provided that matches a similar feature on the tip / wear member.

[0097] exist Fig.10 In the embodiment of the present invention, the crescent-shaped hole 304 may define an undercut 314 along the cone axis 316 (which may extend in the same range as the rotation axis 230). In other embodiments of the present invention, such undercuts may be omitted. Fig.10 , Fig.11 and Fig.13 As can be seen in the figure, a pore filler 406 may be provided which is complementary in shape to the crescent-shaped hole and is configured to be rotatably attached to the adapter. If so, then when the lock is rotated, the pore filler will also be rotated. If the pore filler is instead attached to the lock, the pore filler may be made of rubber or elastomer, thereby allowing the pore filler to be compressed when the tip or wear member is inserted over the adapter or base member.

[0098] Now refer to Fig.17 A base or adapter 300a is described that can be provided as a replacement part or retrofit in the field. The base or adapter may include a protrusion 302a that includes a partially polygonal hole 318. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the partially polygonal hole 318 may face upward. More specifically, as Fig.17 As shown, the partially polygonal hole has a partially square shape or a partially rectangular shape. A pore filler 406a configured to be attached to the partially polygonal hole may be provided. The pore filler 406a may have a hole including a side arcuate surface 408, a bottom flat surface 410, and a side flat surface 412. For other embodiments of the present disclosure, other configurations are also possible.

[0099] like Fig. 22 As shown, a retainer having a tapered skirt 416a and a wavy or angled ejector surface 414 extending from the tapered skirt 416a may be provided. This feature helps to expel dirt, mud or other materials that may penetrate the retaining mechanism during use.

[0100] look Fig.21 and Fig. 22 , the adapter 300a may include both a lower step 312 disposed behind the nose portion 302a and an upwardly facing shelf surface 320. In addition, the nose portion may define a retainer skirt receiving aperture 322. In some embodiments, the retainer skirt receiving aperture 322 includes a crescent shape. In other embodiments, the retainer skirt receiving aperture includes a polygonal shape 324 to receive the pore filler 406a. An undercut 326 may be provided to help retain the pore filler 406a. The pore filler may be omitted entirely in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0101] Now, the retaining mechanism and associated components that may be provided as a replacement part or retrofit in the field will be discussed.

[0102] from Figure 7 and 8 Initially, such a retaining mechanism 400 may include a retaining member 404a including a skirt 416 having a conical surface 418 having a conical axis 420 (which may be the same as the axis of rotation as shown, or other surfaces of revolution such as a cylindrical surface may be provided). The skirt 416 (e.g., a lower portion of the skirt) may extend less than 180.0 degrees around the conical axis, forming a through slot 422. A drive portion 423 may also extend from the skirt 416.

[0103] More specifically, the through slot 422 of the retainer may include a straight surface 424 (which may extend from the back of the retainer) and an angled surface 426 extending from the straight surface 424 to the bottom of the through slot 422. Fig. 22In the embodiment of the present invention, the skirt 416a may further include an angled or contoured material ejection surface 428 at least partially adjacent the perimeter of the through slot.

[0104] exist Figure 7 and Fig.18 As can be seen in the figure, the periphery of the skirt 416, 416a can define a first stop hole 430 and a second stop hole 432, the second stop hole being spaced apart from the first stop hole 430 around the axis of rotation (e.g., the cone axis 420). These stops are designed to cooperate with a protruding stop feature 434 (such as a spring arm 434a of a spring 402, 402a) to keep the retainer in a locked configuration or an unlocked configuration unless intentionally rotated. For example, the first stop hole can be spaced 90.0 degrees from the second stop hole around the axis of rotation. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other angular ranges are possible.

[0105] Focus Figure 7 , the gap filler 406 can be set in the through slot and can be made of metal, rubber or elastomer, etc. The gap filler 406 can rotate in the cavity 306. When the tip, lock and spring fall off together, the gap filler can remain in the cavity 306. If you look at 304, there is a slight taper, which keeps the gap filler in place axially. It is simply held vertically in place by gravity.

[0106] Typically, the user may first install the pore filler 406 in the cavity 306. The user may then slide the tip / lock / spring assembly over the adapter. Next, the user may rotate the lock 90 degrees, and the pore filler may be pushed by the lock, rotating with the lock. When the user unlocks the lock by rotating the lock 90 degrees back to the unlocked position, the pore filler resumes its original installed position. Then, when the tip / lock / spring is slid off the adapter, the pore filler remains in place in the cavity 306.

[0107] While the void filler 406 is shown as extending over 180.0 degrees about the axis of rotation, it is contemplated that its circumferential extension may be less, while the circumferential extension of the skirt may be greater.

[0108] Continue to refer Figure 7 , the pore filler 406 may include a straight surface 438 and an angled surface 440 that is complementary in shape to the straight surface 424, and the angled surface 426 of the through slot (see Figure 8 ).

[0109] exist Fig.21 In , the pore filler 406a includes an outer angled surface 442 (eg, an outer conical surface) that is configured to fit into a corresponding surface of the adapter. Fig. 22In the embodiment of the present invention, a polygonal perimeter of a hole (eg, see 318) is provided in the adapter for receiving a pore filler 406a. The pore filler 406a may include an inner arcuate surface 444 and an inner planar surface 446. Other configurations are also possible.

[0110] Re-reference Figure 7 , the drive portion 423 may include a circular outer perimeter 448, a drive hole 450 including a polygonal inner perimeter 452, and a fin 454 extending from the circular outer perimeter 448. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other configurations are possible for the drive portion.

[0111] Next, refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 Various embodiments of a retainer spring for a retaining mechanism are described.

[0112] The retainer spring (e.g., see 402) can include a folded body (which can be manufactured using a progressive stamping die process, a bending machine, etc.) that includes a protruding stopper portion (e.g., see 434) extending from a first window 456 of the folded body and a first retaining portion 458. More specifically, the protruding stopper portion can include a convex curved flange 435 extending from an edge of the first window (see also Fig. 9 ).

[0113] exist Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the embodiment, the first retaining portion 458 may include a second window 460 including a U-shaped portion 462 extending from an edge of the second window 460 and an angled flange portion 462 extending from the other edge of the second window 460. A second retaining portion 466 configured identically to the first retaining portion 458 may be provided, and a protruding stopper portion (e.g., 434) is provided between the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion.

[0114] Alternatively, as in Fig.18 As can be seen in the figure, the first retention portion 458a may include an angled flange portion 464a extending from the edge of the window without the U-shaped portion. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other configurations are also possible for the first retention portion.

[0115] refer to Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig.17 , the retaining mechanism may include a retainer 400 defining a skirt 416, 416a having an aperture (e.g., which may take the form of a through slot 422), and at least two stop holes 430, 432. In addition, an aperture filler 406, 406a configured to fill the aperture of the skirt and a retainer spring 402, 402a (see also Fig.18), the retainer spring includes at least one protruding stop (eg, see 434, 434a) configured to engage two stop holes simultaneously or separately, as shown.

[0116] In some embodiments, the pore filler 406 can be configured to attach to or fit into the through slot of the skirt 416 (see Figure 7 and Figure 8 ).

[0117] In other embodiments, the adapter 300a may define a cavity (eg, see 318), and the pore filler 406a may be configured to attach to the adapter 300a (eg, see Fig.21 and Fig. 22 ). In such cases, the cavity may define an undercut 326, and the pore filler 406a may be complementary in shape to fill the undercut 326. Fig. 22 As best seen in FIG. 4 , the cavity may include straight side edges 328 and a straight bottom edge 330. The void filler 406 may be configured to mate with the cavity and include a pry die slot 468 on its bottom side.

[0118] In either case, the pore filler 406, 406a may include plastic, elastomer, rubber material or any suitable resilient but durable material. The spring may be made of metal (e.g., spring steel) that is bent from a flat pattern into a desired final shape via a progressive stamping die process, a bending machine or similar manufacturing technique.

[0119] Watch now Fig.28 and Fig.29 , another lock 404a constructed similarly or identically to the previous embodiments discussed herein may be described as having the following additional or different features.

[0120] The skirt 416b may extend 180.0 degrees or less about its axis of rotation 470, forming a through slot 472. The surface of revolution 474 is a conical surface or a cylindrical surface (e.g., if the draft angle of the casting is ignored, the surface of revolution may be described as a cylindrical surface), and the lock / retainer through slot 472 is defined by a straight surface 476 (or a flat surface) extending from a floor 478 of the through slot 472. The surface 476 may extend from a first circumferential end 480 of the skirt 416b to a second circumferential end 482 of the skirt.

[0121] The first stop 484 may be spaced 80.0 to 100.0 degrees apart from the second stop aperture 486 about the axis of rotation 470 (see angle 488). Other angular ranges are possible in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0122] In addition, these stop holes are shown as through slots 490, which have an arcuate profile (eg, Fig.23 etc.) or a rectangular profile 491. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other profile shapes are possible.

[0123] As in Fig.29 and Fig.36 As best seen in the Figure 4A and Figure 4B , gussets 492 (or angled ribs) may extend from bottom plate 478 to flat surface 476. The gussets help reduce stress between surface 478 and surface 476. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure. This feature may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0124] Next, a retainer spring configured similarly or identically to the previous embodiments described herein (see, e.g., Figures 7 to 10 ) may be described as having the following additional or different features.

[0125] look Figures 28 to 33 , the retainer spring 500 may have a retainer (or lock) engaging flange 502 extending from the folded body below the second window 504 and located on the opposite side of the folded body from the side on which the angled flange 506 extends (see Fig.33 ). More specifically, the angled flange 506 extends in a first direction 508 , and the retainer engaging flange 502 extends in a second direction 510 that is oblique relative to the first direction 508 .

[0126] The retainer engaging flange 502 may include a straight portion 512 that is configured to engage a corresponding surface of the lock / retainer 404a (see Fig.29 and Fig.33 ) to hold the lock in place in the tip 200b. The angled flange 506 may press against the surface of the tip 200b (see Fig.34 and Fig.40 ) to provide a spring force to push the protruding stop portion 514 of the spring, thereby engaging the recessed stop of the lock (see 484).

[0127] Watch now Figure 43 to Figure 47 Another embodiment of the retaining spring 600 may include: a folding body having a middle protruding stop portion 602 formed by a corrugated portion 604 of the folding body; and a first retaining portion 606, the first retaining portion including a first angled flange 608 extending from a top edge 610 of the folding body on one side of the middle stop portion 602; and a second retaining portion 612 extending from a top edge 610 of the folding body on the other side of the middle protruding stop portion 602 including a second angled flange 614.

[0128] In addition, a first side flange 616 may extend from a first side of the folded body, and a second side flange 618 may extend from a second side of the folded body. These flanges may provide a circumferential contact surface with the tip (see Fig.48 ), and the angled flange provides spring preload as described herein. The first side flange is at a first angle 621 (see Fig.46 ) extends from the folding body, the first angle range is 45.0 degrees to 135.0 degrees (or more specifically, in some embodiments the range may be 70.0 degrees to 80.0 degrees), and the second side flange extends at an angle range similar to the first angle.

[0129] As in Fig.47 and Fig.50 As best seen in FIG. 6 , the first side flange 616 includes a first bottom chamfered edge 620 , and the second side flange 618 includes a second bottom chamfered edge 622 .

[0130] Continue to refer Figure 43 to Figure 47 , a first retainer engaging flange 624 extends from the folded body from the bottom edge 626 on one side of the middle protruding stop portion 602, and a second retainer engaging flange 628 extends from the folded body from the bottom edge 626 on the other side of the middle protruding stop portion 602.

[0131] As in Fig.45 and Fig.46 As best seen in the figure, the first retainer engaging flange 624 includes a first outer chamfered edge 630, and the second retainer engaging flange 628 may include a second outer chamfered edge 632. These features may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure. The folding body defines a symmetry plane 634 (see FIG. 1 ) passing through the midpoint or centroid of the folding body. Fig.46 ).

[0132] Figure 51 to Figure 56 Yet another embodiment of a retainer spring is illustrated in. The spring 700 comprises a folded body having a middle protruding stopper portion 702 formed by a corrugated portion 704 of the folded body, a first U-shaped portion 706 disposed at one side of the folded body, and a second U-shaped portion 708 disposed at the other side of the folded body.

[0133] Focus Fig.54 , the first U-shaped portion 706 includes a first straight portion 710 that defines a first free end 712 of the retainer spring. A second straight portion 714 extends from the corrugated portion 704, forming an opposite side of the U-shaped portion. The first straight portion forms an angle 716 with the second straight portion 714 of the present disclosure ranging from -45.0 degrees to 45.0 degrees (0 degrees to 15.0 degrees in some embodiments). Other ranges are possible in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0134] In addition, the folded body defines a vertical symmetry plane 718 passing through the center of mass 720 of the folded body and a horizontal symmetry plane 722 passing through the center of mass of the folded body (see also Fig.54 ). This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0135] Watch now Fig.24 , Fig.25 and Fig. 27 , an adapter 800 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may be constructed as previously described herein, but may further define an angled slot 802 having an angled floor 804 extending from a crescent-shaped aperture 806 toward a rear portion of the adapter 800 .

[0136] Now go to Fig.26 , a tip 900 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a rear attachment portion 902 having an open end 904, an outer surface 906, and an inner surface 908 extending from the open end 904. A lock receiving hole 910 may be provided in the rear attachment portion 902 including a lock drive receiving portion 912 and a skirt receiving portion 914. An annular ridge 916 may be provided that defines a rotation axis 918 and a circumferential direction 920. The annular ridge 916 may separate the lock drive receiving portion 912 from the skirt receiving portion 914.

[0137] In addition, a first spring clip receiving hole 922 in communication with the lock receiving hole 910 may be provided. The first spring clip receiving hole 922 (see, e.g., Fig.42 ) may include a first recess 924 and a second recess 926 separated by a rib 928.

[0138] As reference Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Fig.26 As will be appreciated, the annular ridge 916 may define a circumferentially extending stop tab receiving slot 930 extending 180.0 degrees or less about the rotational axis 918. More specifically, the circumferentially extending stop tab receiving slot may extend between 45.0 degrees and 135.0 degrees (80.0 degrees and 110.0 degrees in some embodiments) about the rotational axis 918 to match the angles between the recessed stops of the lock as previously described.

[0139] Also like Fig.26 As shown, a raised portion 932 may be provided that is disposed near the top of the tip 900 between the lock receiving aperture 910 and the open end 904 .

[0140] exist Fig.42 and Fig.57In the first spring clip receiving hole 922, the tip may have a rib 928, 928a, which defines a rib circumferential extension 936, 936a and an overall circumferential extension 938, 938a. In certain embodiments, the ratio of the overall circumferential extension 938, 938a to the rib circumferential extension 936, 936a may range from 2.0 to 10.0 (3.85 to 7.15 in some embodiments of the present disclosure).

[0141] exist Fig.42 In the embodiment, a pair of gap openings 940 are circumferentially arranged adjacent to the rib 928, which communicates with the first recess 924 and the second recess 926. In addition, the first recess 924 and the second recess 926 have an inclined bottom plate 942 so that the depth of the first recess and the second recess decreases near the outer surface 906 (see Fig.48 ).

[0142] If you can refer to Figure 2 , Fig.26 and Fig. 27 It is understood that when assembled, the tip and adapter assembly may have an adapter 800 including a nose portion including a crescent-shaped aperture 806 as previously described, defining an angled slot 802 having an angled floor 804 extending from the crescent-shaped aperture 806 toward the rear of the adapter 800. The angled slot 802 may be configured to receive the boss 932 of the tip 900, and the crescent-shaped aperture 806 may be aligned with and communicate with the skirt receiving portion 914 of the lock receiving aperture 910. A spring and lock may also be assembled in the tip.

[0143] The various embodiments of the adapter are shown as center adapters, but it is contemplated that the embodiments discussed herein may also be configured as corner adapters, or may have a rear attachment portion that does not include legs, etc.

[0144] 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.

[0145] Industrial Applicability

[0146] Indeed, machines, work tool assemblies, tips, adapters, tip assemblies, tip and adapter assemblies, springs, locks or retainers, pore fillers, bases, wear members, 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.

[0147] Any of the above components may be made of any suitable material, including iron, gray cast iron, steel, spring steel, plastic, rubber, foam, etc.

[0148] Figures 3 to 15 The embodiments in can be assembled as follows. First, the pore filler is attached to the adapter / base in the manner previously described herein. For example, the pore filler can be attached to the adapter / base in a rotatable manner. Second, the spring is retained on the tip / wear member via its angled flange, etc., with the spring arm facing the lock receiving hole. Third, the retainer is then inserted into the lock receiving hole of the tip / wear member so that its skirt passes through the skirt entrance slot and bottoms out on the annular shelf surface, as described above, and then rotated so that the skirt reaches below the flange of the skirt retention slot. At about the same time, the spring arm engages the stop of the retainer, keeping the retainer in an unlocked but trapped state. The tip / wear member can then be slid onto the adapter / base until it is seated in the correct position. Then, when the spring arm engages another stop of the retainer, the rotation of the retainer will cause the retainer to be placed in a locked position and remain in this position without accidental rotation. During this rotation, the pore filler rotates with the retainer. Disassembly can be achieved by reversing one or more of these steps.

[0149] Figures 16 to 24 The embodiments in can be assembled as follows. If a pore filler is used, the pore filler is first attached to the adapter / base in a fixed manner as shown in the drawings or in a rotating manner as described elsewhere herein. If the pore filler is fixed in place, the pore filler can have a hole for receiving the skirt of the retainer when the retainer is rotated into the locked position. In addition, the spring and retainer are attached to the tip / wear member as described in reference to Figures 3 to 15 The locking state and the unlocking state are achieved by rotating the retaining member. Disassembly is achieved by reversing one or more of these steps.

[0150] Figure 24 to Figure 57Embodiments of the invention may be assembled by first inserting the lock into the lock receiving hole of the tip and then inserting the spring to hold the lock in place. The tip may then be inserted over the adapter and the lock rotated to the locked position. Disassembly may be accomplished by reversing one or more of these steps. In some embodiments, the spring may be inserted before the lock. In other embodiments, the spring may be inserted after the lock (e.g., when the spring has a lock retaining flange).

[0151] Figure 58 to Figure 66 In addition to the following differences or changes, it can be constructed to Figures 1 to 57 Other embodiments that are similar or identical to the disclosed embodiments.In general, the adapter and tip of the tip and adapter assembly 150 may be constructed as previously discussed herein.

[0152] However, the retaining mechanism 400a has a lock 1000 having a skirt 1002 that does not include an angled or contoured material ejection surface that at least partially abuts the perimeter of the through slot 1004. In addition, the retaining hole is configured differently than the retaining hole shown in the previous figures. Fig.63 As shown, the first stop hole 1006 and the second stop hole 1006a define a radial stop depth 1008 ranging from 0.0 millimeters (mm) to 5.0 millimeters (mm) and a stop width 1010 ranging from 5.0 millimeters (mm) to 35.0 millimeters (mm).

[0153] In addition, if the Fig.66 As best seen in FIG. 2 , retainer spring 2000 can have a folded body having a flat lock engagement portion 2002 , a first side undulation portion 2004 , and a second side undulation portion 2004a .

[0154] Focus Fig.66 The first side undulating portion 2004 (also referred to as the first side wavy portion) may include a first convex portion 2006 adjacent to the flat locking engagement portion 2002 (also referred to as the top flat portion) and a first concave portion 2008 adjacent to the first end portion 2010 of the folding body.

[0155] Similarly, the second side undulating portion 2004a (also referred to as the second side wavy portion) may include a second convex portion 2006a adjacent to the flat lock engagement portion 2002 and a second concave portion 2008a adjacent to the second end 2010a of the folded body. These undulating or wavy sides allow the spring to compress as the lock rotates.

[0156] The ends 2010, 2010a are shown as being formed by bottom angled portions 2012, 2012a. However, in other embodiments, it is contemplated that the ends may be formed by attachment flanges that are parallel to the flat locking engagement portion. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other configurations are possible.

[0157] refer to Fig.65 and Fig.66 , the folding body may define two different symmetry planes 2014, 2014a which may be perpendicular to each other. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, there may be only one symmetry plane or no symmetry plane.

[0158] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first side wavy portion (see 2004) may include a first top angled portion 2016 leading from the top flat portion (see 2002) to the first protrusion 2006 and a second intermediate angled portion 2020 leading from the first protrusion 2006 to the first recess 2008, and a first acute angle 2022 ranging from 30.0 degrees to 60.0 degrees is formed between the first top angled portion and the second intermediate angled portion.

[0159] Furthermore, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first bottom angled portion 2012 (also referred to as the third angled portion) may form a second acute angle 2024 with the second intermediate angled portion 2020, and the second acute angle also ranges from 30.0 degrees to 60.0 degrees.

[0160] In addition, if Fig.66 As shown, the first end 2010 may be spaced a predetermined distance 2029 inwardly from the first tangent line 2026 to the first protrusion 2006 perpendicular to the top flat portion (in some embodiments, the distance may range from 0.25 mm to 20.0 mm). This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the first end may coincide with the tangent line.

[0161] In addition, in various embodiments of the present disclosure, the first side wavy portion and the second side wavy portion may be separated by a minimum distance 2028, the minimum distance ranging from 0.0 mm to 10.0 mm, or 1.0 mm to 25.0 mm. The first convex portion may define a first radius of curvature 2030, and the first concave portion 2008 may define a second radius of curvature 2032 greater than the first radius of curvature 2030. The first top angled portion 2016 defines a first length 2034, and the second middle angled portion 2020 defines a second length 2036 greater than the first length 2034. In addition, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the folding body may define a thickness 2038 ranging from 0.0 mm to 10.0 mm. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the folding body may define a maximum height 2039 measured vertically from the top flat portion to the first end of the folding body, the maximum height ranging from 5.0 mm to 50.0 mm.

[0162] Any size range may be modified depending on the scale of the design. In such cases, the ratio of any dimension to any other dimension may still fall within 20% of the median of the size range.

[0163] It can be seen that the stops of these embodiments are more like shallow flats than deep round or hexagonal cutouts. Shallow flats can provide less stress concentration.

[0164] In addition, the spring can be easier to manufacture and can be more stable when installed. The design can also provide a smaller opening in the center where filler material can be received and dampen the spring function. The spring can also have better flexibility to facilitate installation and reduce locking and unlocking forces.

[0165] It should be understood that the foregoing description provides examples of 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 language regarding distinction and disparagement of certain features is intended to lack preference for those features, but unless otherwise indicated, does not completely exclude them from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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 already 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 the 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.

[0168] 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 this disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

1. A holding mechanism (400a), comprising: A retaining member (404a), the retaining member comprising a skirt (416) including a surface of revolution (474) having an axis of rotation (230) and defining a circumferential direction (236), the skirt (416) extending 180.0 degrees or less around the axis of rotation (230) to form a through slot (422); and A drive portion (423) extends axially from the skirt (416).

2. The retaining member mechanism (400a) according to claim 1, wherein the revolving surface (474) is a conical surface (418) or a cylindrical surface, and the through slot (422) of the retaining member (404a) includes a straight surface (424) extending from a bottom plate (478) of the through slot (422) to a first circumferential end (480) of the skirt (416) and to a second circumferential end (482) of the skirt (416).

3. The retention mechanism (400a) of claim 1, wherein the skirt (416) further comprises an angled or contoured material ejection surface (428) at least partially adjacent the perimeter of the through slot (422).

4. The retaining mechanism (400a) of claim 1, wherein the skirt (416) defines a first stop hole (430) and a second stop hole (432), the second stop hole being spaced apart from the first stop hole (430) about the rotation axis (230).

5. The retaining mechanism (400a) according to claim 4, wherein the first stop hole (430) is spaced 45.0 degrees to 135.0 degrees from the second stop hole (432) around the rotation axis (230), and the first stop hole (430) is a through groove (422) having an arc-shaped or rectangular profile (491).

6. The retaining mechanism (400a) of claim 5, wherein the first stop hole (430) defines a radial stop depth ranging from 0.0 mm to 5.0 mm and a stop width ranging from 5.0 mm to 35.0 mm.

7. The retention mechanism (400a) of claim 2, further comprising a gusset (492) extending from the base plate (478) to the flat surface (424).

8. A holding mechanism (400a), comprising: A retainer spring (2000), the retainer spring comprising a folding body having a flat locking engagement portion (2002); The first side undulating section (2004); and The second side undulating portion (2004a).

9. The retaining mechanism (400a) according to claim 8, wherein the first side undulation portion (2004) includes a first protrusion (2006) adjacent to the flat locking engagement portion (2002) and a first recess (2008) adjacent to the first end (2010) of the folding body.

10. The retaining mechanism (400a) according to claim 9, wherein the second side undulation portion (2004a) includes a second protrusion (2006a) adjacent to the flat locking engagement portion (2002) and a second recess (2008a) adjacent to the second end (2010a) of the folding body.

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