Tip and Adapter Connection System

Abstract

Tip and Adapter Connection System A lock assembly for attaching a wear member (200) to a base (300) includes a retaining block (400) having a spring (600) attached to the retaining block (400) that fits into an opening in the base (300). A lock pin (500) fits into an opening (220) of the wear member (200) and an opening (308) of the retaining block (400) to hold the wear member (200) to the base (300). The lock pin (500) engages a spring (600) that prevents unintentional rotation of the lock pin (500) such that the lock pin (500) is locked in the opening (220) of the wear member (200) to prevent its unintentional removal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a holding mechanism for attaching a tip to an adapter of a working tool assembly, such as a bucket assembly used by civil engineering, mining, construction machinery, etc. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a holding mechanism that uses a spring attached to a holding block that interacts with a lock pin to hold the tip to the adapter.

Background Art

[0002] Machines such as wheel loaders and excavators employ a working tool assembly including a bucket assembly, a rake, pliers, etc. with teeth or tips attached to assist in working on materials such as soil, rock, sand, etc. For example, the teeth or tips can be attached to the bucket assembly to help the bucket assembly penetrate the ground and facilitate scooping up soil into the bucket or the like. The adapter is usually attached to the working end (e.g., the bottom end, side end, etc.) of the bucket or other working tool, and different types of teeth or tips can be attached to the working tool. Also, the tips and teeth are provided with a holding mechanism used to selectively hold the tip on the adapter or to be able to remove the tip from the adapter, so that they can be easily replaced when worn.

[0003] U.S. Patent Application No. 5,435,084 discloses a wear member including an excavation tooth assembly having a base nose, a replaceable tooth tip attached to the base nose, and a pin for fixing the tip to the nose. The pin has a lock head eccentric to the pin and a pad-shaped elastic member disposed between the head and the tooth tip. When the lock head is rotated, the elastic member is compressed, thereby biasing the tooth tip in a direction to maintain the tooth tip at the nose contact position.

[0004] As will be apparent hereinafter, the '084 patent does not provide resistance to the rotation of the locking pin. Therefore, there is a need to develop a holding mechanism that reduces the risk of the locking pin rotating unexpectedly and releasing the lock of the holding mechanism, thereby increasing the risk of tip loss.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] An assembly of a tip and an adapter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a tip having a body that defines an assembly direction, a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the assembly direction, and a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the assembly direction. The body of the tip may include a front working portion disposed along the assembly direction and having a closed end, and a rear mounting portion disposed along the assembly direction and having an open end. The rear mounting portion may define an outer surface, an adapter nose receiving pocket extending longitudinally from the open end, a retaining mechanism receiving opening communicating with the adapter nose receiving pocket and the outer surface, and a first ledge defining a first transverse undercut within the retaining mechanism receiving opening. The assembly may also include an adapter having a body including a nose portion configured to fit within the adapter nose receiving pocket of the tip. The body of the adapter may include an outer surface defining a polygonal retaining block receiving opening.

[0006] A wear member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a body that defines a longitudinal axis, a vertical axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a transverse axis perpendicular to the vertical axis and the longitudinal axis. The body of the wear member may also include a front wear portion disposed along the longitudinal axis and a rear mounting portion disposed along the longitudinal axis and including an open end. The rear mounting portion may define an outer surface, an adapter nose receiving pocket extending longitudinally from the open end, a retaining mechanism receiving opening extending from the outer surface through the body to the adapter nose receiving pocket, and a first ledge defining a first transverse undercut within the retaining mechanism receiving opening.

[0007] An adapter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a body having a nose portion with an outer surface that defines a polygonal holding block receiving opening having a bottom sheet surface, and a round pin receiving opening extending from the bottom sheet surface.

[0008] A base according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a nose portion having an outer surface that, together with a bottom sheet surface spaced apart from the outer surface, at least partially defines a non-circular holding block receiving opening, the nose portion, and a round pin receiving opening extending from the bottom sheet surface, and may include a body.

[0009] A holding mechanism according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a pin having a drive portion and a spring engagement portion, the drive portion having a polygonal opening and a rotating surface defining a rotation axis, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction, and the spring engagement portion having a circumferential surface having at least one recess disposed on the circumferential surface.

[0010] A holding mechanism according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a holding block having an outer circumference with a non-rotating surface, a pin receiving opening defining an inner surface offset inwardly from the non-rotating surface, and a spring receiving opening extending from the non-rotating surface to the inner surface.

[0011] A lock assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a spring including a top plateau member, a first wavy side member extending from the top plateau member, a second wavy side member extending from the top plateau member, a first mounting flange extending from the first wavy side member, and a second plateau member extending from the second wavy side member.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Next, embodiments of the present disclosure will be referred to in detail, and examples thereof are shown in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. In some cases, the reference numbers are shown in this specification, and the drawings show the reference numbers in a form such that an English letter follows, for example, 100a, 100b, or in a form such that a prime symbol follows, for example, 100’, 100’’. It should be understood that using a letter or prime immediately after a reference number indicates that these features have similar shapes and similar functions, as is often seen when, for example, a geometric shape surrounds a plane mirror image. For ease of explanation in this specification, letters or primes are often not included in this specification, but may be shown in the drawings to indicate duplication of features described within this specification.

[0014] Here, a tool assembly that uses a tip or any type of wear member that may use a lock assembly constructed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described. Generally, the lock assembly is provided to attach a wear member, such as a tip, to a base, such as an adapter having a holding block, with the spring fitted into an opening of the base and attached to the holding block. A lock pin that fits into the opening of the wear member and the opening of the holding block to hold the wear member on the base is also provided. The lock pin engages with a spring that prevents unintended rotation of the lock pin so that the lock pin is locked in the opening of the wear member and prevents its unintended removal.

[0015] Starting with FIG. 1, an example of a work tool assembly 100 may take the form of a bucket assembly 100' that is used by a wheel loader and includes a housing 101 that defines an opening 102 that communicates with a substantially closed interior. As shown in FIG. 1, starting from the rear of the bucket assembly 100, the bucket assembly 100 includes a curved shell profile 104 attached to the rear wall 106 at the upper end of the shell 104. The other end of the shell is attached to the bottom plate 108 of the assembly 100. A top plate 110 is attached to the upper end of the rear wall 106. The top plate 110 transitions to an outflow guard 112 that is designed to pour material into the interior of the bucket and prevent the material from spilling out of the bucket. Reinforcing ribs 118 are provided that are attached to the top plate 110 and the outflow guard 112 to reinforce the strength. Two substantially flat end plates 114 are attached to the side edges of the outflow guard 112, the top plate 110, the rear wall 106, the bottom plate 108, and the shell 104.

[0016] A side edge assembly 115 is attached to each end plate 114, and 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 central adapters 118 attached to the base edge 117, and a plurality of tips 200 (also referred to as tools, teeth, wear members, etc.) each attached to one of the plurality of center adapters 118. Also, two corner adapters 120 are connected to the base edge and side edges 122 of the bucket assembly 100'. The tips 200 may be attached to the corner adapters 120.

[0017] Furthermore, a plurality of base edge protectors 124 are also provided, each of the base edge protectors 124 being located between the center adapters 120 and between the center adapter 120 and the corner adapter 120. A side edge protector 126 is also provided that is attached adjacent to the side edge 122 of the corner adapter 120.

[0018] It should be understood that the working tool assembly may take other forms than the bucket assembly including a rake assembly, a shear assembly, etc. In addition, buckets of different configurations intended to be used with an excavator may use various embodiments such as the tip, the retaining mechanism, the adapter, the spring, the spring retaining block, the retaining block with a spring assembly, the adapter sub-assembly, and the assembly of the tip and the adapter discussed herein.

[0019] An assembly of a tip and an adapter constructed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to FIGS. 2-4, 6, and 14-22.

[0020] Starting with FIGS. 2-4, the tip adapter assembly 150 may include a tip 200 (more generally, a wear member 200a which may be in different forms including an edge protector, a shroud, a cutting edge, a compression pad, etc. and may also be referred to as such) having a body that defines an assembly direction 202, a vertical axis 204 perpendicular to the assembly direction 202, and a horizontal axis 206 perpendicular to the vertical axis 204 and the assembly direction 202.

[0021] The body of the tip 200 may include a front working portion 208 disposed along the assembly direction 202 with a closed end 210, and a rear mounting portion 212 disposed along the assembly direction 202 with an open end 214.

[0022] The rear mounting portion 212 may define an outer surface 216 and an adapter nose receiving pocket 218 extending along the assembly direction 202 from the open end 214. A retaining mechanism receiving opening 220 communicates with the adapter nose receiving pocket 218 and the outer surface 216. A first ledge 222 may be disposed in this opening and define a first lateral undercut 224 (plural possible) (see also FIG. 6) for receiving a part of the retaining mechanism in a manner discussed later herein.

[0023] Referring now to FIGS. 2-6, the assembly 150 may further include an adapter 300 (or more generally, a base 300a) having a body that includes a nose portion 302 configured to fit within an adapter nose receiving pocket 218 at the tip 200. The body of the adapter 300 (or more specifically, the nose portion 302) includes an outer surface 304 that defines a polygonal retaining block receiving opening 306 and a round pin receiving opening 308 that communicates with the polygonal retaining block receiving opening 306.

[0024] More specifically, as best shown in FIG. 6, the adapter 300 may have a polygonal retaining block receiving opening 306 that at least partially forms a countersunk hole 310 having a round pin receiving opening 308 at its bottom. The round pin receiving opening is a blind hole and is at least partially conical, although in other embodiments of the present disclosure, this need not be the case. For example, the opening may be a through hole extending through the nose of the adapter, or may have another shape such as a square with a gap between the wall of the opening that allows the lock pin 500 to rotate and the like.

[0025] Looking at FIG. 5, the polygonal retaining block receiving opening 308 may define an outer perimeter 311 having an octagonal configuration. More specifically, the octagonal configuration includes a first side 312 (or face), a second side 312a (or face) parallel to the first side 312, a third side 314 (or face) perpendicular to the first side 312, and a fourth side 314a (or face) perpendicular to the second side 312a.

[0026] Also, a first inclined surface 315 that is inclined with respect to the first side 312, a second inclined surface 316 that is inclined with respect to the second side 312a, a third inclined surface 316a that is inclined with respect to the third side 314, and a fourth inclined surface 316b that is inclined with respect to the fourth side 314a. As shown in FIG. 5, the first inclined surface 315 is configured differently from the second inclined surface 316, the third inclined surface 316a, and the fourth inclined surface 316b. For example, the first inclined surface 315 has a large surface area and different angles. This feature may provide a safeguard so that the holding block 400 (so called because it holds the spring 600), as well as the angular posture of the spring 600, is correct.

[0027] Referring to both FIGS. 5 and 10, the holding block 400 also has sides and surfaces (at least partially) of a matching or complementary shape for fitting into the opening. More specifically, the holding block has a first side 412 that fits with its counterpart (i.e., 312, etc.) of the opening, as well as a second side 412a, a third side 414a, and a fourth side 414a.

[0028] These surfaces fit or contact their counterpart surfaces for at least two reasons. First, this contact may assist in applying a slight pressure between the holding block and the adapter to help lock the holding block into the opening of the adapter to facilitate assembly. For this purpose, the two sets of surfaces (both those of the holding block and those of the opening of the adapter) may be drafted or tapered by 0.5 degrees or more (see FIGS. 6 and 11) so that the holding block may be removed from the adapter if it is necessary to replace the block or the spring. Second, this contact helps to prevent an undesired stop or rotation of the holding block or spring in use when the locking pin is rotated.

[0029] Furthermore, as can be understood by concurrently examining FIGS. 5 and 10, the retaining block 400 includes a first inclined surface 415 that provides a gap spaced apart from its mating part of the opening (i.e., such as 315), as well as a second inclined surface 416, and third inclined surfaces 416a and 416b (spaced apart from their mating parts). As a result, when the retaining block is disposed in the polygonal retaining block receiving opening, the retaining block contacts the first side, the second side, the third side, and the fourth side, but does not contact the first inclined surface, the second inclined surface, the third inclined surface, and the fourth inclined surface for various reasons including that a corner relief is provided.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 9, the retaining block 400 defines a central pin receiving opening 402 and a spring receiving opening 404 that extends from the central pin receiving opening 402 toward the exterior or outer periphery of the retaining block 400. The spring 600 may be disposed in the central pin receiving opening 402 and the spring receiving opening 404 after assembly (see FIG. 10). The lock pin 500 may be disposed in the central pin receiving opening 402 (e.g., see FIG. 22), and the lock pin 500 may define a notch 502 for receiving the spring 600.

[0031] In FIG. 4, it can be seen that the tip 200 may further include a first ejector ramp 226 that extends circumferentially away from the first tab receiving slot 228 and toward the exterior of the first ledge 222. The first ledge 222 may extend circumferentially from the first stopper 230 to the first tab receiving slot 228 that is circumferentially spaced apart from the first stopper 230 (see FIG. 21). This slot 228 may be exposed to the exterior of a wear member (e.g., the tip 200) defined by a second ledge 232 (also see FIG. 22) that is axially inwardly spaced from the first ledge 222 toward the adapter nose receiving pocket 228. The nose receiving pocket may be defined by an inner surface lacking a groove. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, this may not be the case.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, the lock pin 500 may include a first tab 504 disposed laterally in a first undercut 224 adjacent circumferentially to a first stopper 230, and a second tab 506 spaced circumferentially apart from the first tab 504 and disposed axially adjacent to a second ledge 232 in a first tab receiving slot 228. Also, the lock pin 500 defines a notch 502 spaced axially (along the axis of rotation 238) from the first tab 502 and a second tab 506 leading to an adapter nose receiving pocket 218 of the tip 200. This notch also faces radially opposite a ramp surface of the lock pin described later herein.

[0033] As can be seen well from FIGS. 23 - 25, the lock pin 500 includes a cylindrical surface 508 on which the first tab 504 and the second tab 506 extend radially. The lock pin 500 includes a conical surface 510 that defines the notch 502. The second tab 506 may be disposed closer axially to the outer surface of the wear member than the first tab 504, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21.

[0034] During assembly, the lock pin 500 is inserted into the retaining mechanism receiving opening 220 of the tip 200 as shown in FIG. 14 until the first tab 504 of the lock pin 500 enters the first tab receiving slot 228 at the tip, and may contact the second tab 232 as shown in FIG. 17. Thereafter, the lock pin 500 is rotated clockwise until the first tab 504 is hidden or caught near the bottom of the undercut 224 of the first ledge 222, as shown in FIG. 19.

[0035] When rotation occurs, the lamp surface 512 of the lock pin 500 (see also FIG. 23) further axially pulls the lock pin 500 into the central pin receiving opening 402 of the holding block 400 and the round pin receiving opening 308 of the adapter 300. At this time, the second tab 506 moves to the first tab receiving slot 228. Also, due to the rotation, the spring 600 engages with the flat surface 514 of the notch 502 of the lock pin 500, holding the lock pin 500 in the locked configuration (see FIG. 22). Note that the first stopper 230 prevents the lock pin from over-rotating clockwise. At this time, the lock pin 500 cannot be axially removed due to the engagement of the first tab in the undercut formed by the first ledge, and the tip cannot be removed from the adapter unless the pin is rotated sufficiently counterclockwise.

[0036] At this time, with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4, the worn member 200a, which may be provided as a replacement or for on-site modification, will be described.

[0037] The worn member 200a may have a body that defines a longitudinal axis (which may be the same as, for example, the assembly direction 202), a vertical axis 204 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a transverse axis 206 perpendicular to the vertical axis 204 and the longitudinal axis.

[0038] The body may include a front working portion 208a disposed along the longitudinal axis (assembly direction 202) and a rear mounting portion 212 disposed along the longitudinal axis with an open end 214.

[0039] The rear mounting portion 212 may have an outer surface 216 from which the adapter nose receiving pocket 218 extends longitudinally from the open end 214, and a holding mechanism receiving opening 220 that extends from the outer surface 216 through the body to the adapter nose receiving pocket 218. The first ledge 222 (also referred to as a rib) may define a first horizontal undercut 224 in the holding mechanism receiving opening 220 in the manner previously described herein.

[0040] In FIG. 14, the retention mechanism receiving opening 220 may define a rotation axis 238, a rotation surface (see, e.g., 234, which may be cylindrical or slightly conical), and a circumferential direction 236. As can be seen well from FIGS. 4 and 21, the first ledge 222 may extend circumferentially from the first stopper 230 to a first tab receiving slot 228 (also called a tab entry slot, e.g., for being exposed outside the wear member) that is circumferentially spaced apart from the first stopper 230. The first tab receiving slot 228 may also be axially defined or limited by a second ledge 232 that axially spaces inwardly from the first ledge 222 toward an adapter nose receiving pocket 218 (see also FIG. 22) (which may also be called a base projection receiving pocket).

[0041] In FIGS. 15 and 17, a first ejector ramp 242 may be provided that extends circumferentially outwardly away from the first tab receiving slot 228 on the side opposite the first ledge 222. When the user desires to remove the wear member, the user may rotate the lock pin 500 until the second tab 506 of the lock pin 500 slides up an ejector ramp 226 that may provide a leverage force to assist in slightly disengaging the wear member from the adapter or base, while also axially pushing or applying force to move the lock pin away from the retaining block 400 and spring 600.

[0042] And the lock pin 500 can be removed from the assembly, and the first tab 504 is not caught by an undercut formed by the first ledge, but is circumferentially disposed within the first tab receiving slot 228 that is axially adjacent to the second ledge 22a, thus enabling the tip or other wear member to be removed from the adapter or base. This ejector ramp feature may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] As previously described herein with reference to FIG. 21, the lock pin 500 may include a first tab 504 (which may also be referred to as a first wing) disposed in a lateral or axial direction at the first lateral undercut 224, circumferentially adjacent to the tip or the first stopper 230 of the wear member, in the locked configuration. At the same time, a second tab 506 (which may also be referred to as a second wing) is circumferentially spaced apart from the first tab, disposed axially or laterally adjacent to the second ledge 222a of the first tab receiving slot 228.

[0044] As can be seen well from FIG. 22, the lock pin 500 may define a notch 502 or other spring engagement feature (such as a slot or simply a flat surface, etc., which may also be acceptable) axially spaced from the first tab 504 and the second tab 506 towards the adapter nose receiving pocket 218 of the tip 200 or other wear members. The lock pin 500 may include a cylindrical surface 508 in which the first tab 504 and the second tab 506 extend radially (i.e., this surface has a draft of less than 2.0 degrees or no draft at all).

[0045] On the other hand, the lock pin 500 may also include a conical surface 510 that defines the notch 502 (i.e., this surface has a draft of 2.0 degrees or more), which may assist in removing the lock pin from the assembly. As can be seen from FIG. 21, the second tab 506 may be disposed axially closer to the outer surface of the wear member 200a than the first tab 504.

[0046] Unlike some conventional designs, the inner surface of the adapter nose receiving pocket lacks a groove for receiving an adapter or a retaining protrusion of the base, etc. Similarly, its outer surface may lack ears for receiving an opening and a retaining mechanism that may be disposed inside. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, this may not be the case.

[0047] At this time, with regard to the adapter 300 (which may also be called the base 300a) that may be used as a replacement or modification in the art, the description will continue with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0048] The adapter 300 may include a main body having a nose portion 302 with an outer surface (see the outer surface 304 in FIG. 4) that defines a polygonal retaining block receiving opening 306 together with the bottom sheet surface 318, and (see FIG. 6) a round pin receiving opening 308 extending from the bottom sheet surface 318 (which may be flat).

[0049] As previously described herein, the main body may lack protrusions or protrusion portions extending from the outer surface or outer face, or at least those that are not close to or directly adjacent to the opening (do not form the boundary of the opening). More specifically, the main body may lack protrusions or any protrusion portions extending from the outer surface adjacent to the round retaining mechanism receiving opening 306, making the design easier to manufacture and reducing complexity.

[0050] As further described hereinbefore and as can be clearly seen from FIG. 5, the polygonal retaining block receiving opening 306 is asymmetric about a plane 320 containing the axis of rotation 332, and the round pin receiving opening 308 may be radially offset from the outer periphery 311 of the outer periphery of the polygonal retaining block receiving opening 306 by a minimum dimension 322 (see FIG. 6) in the same plane as the bottom sheet surface 318.

[0051] Regarding some embodiments of the present disclosure, as can be seen from FIG. 6, this minimum dimension 322 may be in the range of 0.0 mm to 25.0 mm, or 10.0 mm. Also, the round pin receiving opening 308 may define a maximum diameter 326 that is in the range of 4.0 mm to 40.0 mm, or 10.0 mm to 50.0 mm. Further, the polygonal retaining block receiving opening 306 may define a first axial depth 328 in the range of 15.0 mm to 60.0 mm, or 20.0 mm to 150.0 mm, while the round pin receiving opening 308 defines a second axial depth 330 (which may be in the range of 3.0 mm to 25.0 mm, or 10.0 mm to 50.0 mm) that is shallower than the first axial depth. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other size ranges are possible.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 22, the round pin receiving opening 308 may define a rotation axis 332, and the polygonal retaining block receiving opening 306 may be centered about the rotation axis 332. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, this may not be the case. The counterbore 310 includes a non-rotating surface (i.e., the outer periphery 311 of the polygonal retaining block receiving opening, which may include one or more flat surfaces or one or more valleys) and a rotating surface 338 (which may be cylindrical or conical, for example) that extends below the non-rotating surface. The rotating surface 338 defines a radial direction 340, and the rotating surface is offset radially inward from the non-rotating surface.

[0053] Returning to FIG. 3, the adapter 300 may also include an attachment portion 333 extending from a nose portion 302 (or a throat portion 334) that may include one or more legs 336, 336a or straps. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other methods of attaching the adapter or base to a work tool such as a bucket may be used.

[0054] In other words, the base 300a according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a nose portion 302 having an outer surface (e.g., outer surface 304), the outer surface defining at least partially a non-circular retaining block receiving opening (e.g., see 306 in FIG. 5) together with a bottom sheet surface 318 (see FIG. 6) spaced apart from the outer surface, the nose portion 302, and a round pin receiving opening (e.g., see 308) extending from the bottom sheet surface 318. More specifically, the circular pin receiving opening extends from the bottom sheet surface to the bottom end 342. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, this may not be the case.

[0055] Next, various embodiments of a retaining mechanism 160 or a lock assembly that may include a lock pin, a retaining block, and a spring will be described.

[0056] Starting from FIGS. 23 to 25, the lock pin 500 of the retaining mechanism may include a drive portion 516 and a spring engagement portion 518 extending axially from the drive portion. The drive portion 516 may include a polygonal opening 520 and a rotating surface (e.g., a cylindrical surface 508 or a conical surface) defining a rotation axis 522, a radial direction 524, and a circumferential direction 526. The spring engagement portion 518 may include a circumferential surface 528 having at least one recess (e.g., see notch 502) disposed on the circumferential surface 528.

[0057] The polygonal opening 520 may be separated from the recess by a predetermined axial distance 530 (see FIG. 22). Also, a first side tab (e.g., see the first tab 504) may extend radially and circumferentially from the drive portion 516 that is at least partially axially aligned with the polygonal opening 520. Specifically, the lock pin defines a first axial end 532, the polygonal opening 520 extends from the first axial end 532, while the first side tab (see the first tab 504) may be axially disposed at a distance 534 from the first axial end 532.

[0058] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 23, the first side tab defines a circumferential extent 536, a radial dimension 538, and an axial thickness 540 that is less than at least one or both of the circumferential extent 536 and the radial dimension 538. A second side tab (see, e.g., second tab 506 whose dimensional ratios may be similar to those of the first side tab) may extend radially from the lock pin 500 and be disposed at the first axial end 532.

[0059] The lock pin 500 may also include a ramp surface 512 (which may be on the side opposite the notch 502 radially) that extends circumferentially and axially from the first side tab 504 to the second side tab 506 to assist in securing the pin in use, as previously described herein. The lock pin 500 may also define a second axial end 542, as can be seen well from FIGS. 24 and 25, and may further include a blend 544, such as a radius connecting the circumferential surface 528 to the second axial end 542. This blend 544 may assist in facilitating the installation of the lock pin 500 and the compression of the spring 600 during installation. Therefore, a bevel portion 545 that extends circumferentially from the blend and axially from the circumferential surface may also be provided. In some embodiments, the bevel portion may include a conical surface that is drafted (has a larger draft angle) more than the conical surface 510 that extends over the entire circumference of the pin. In such a case, the blend may be made smaller or omitted.

[0060] As previously described herein, the peripheral surface 528 may be drafted (which may be less than the draft of the bevel portion), and the chisel notch 546 (e.g., forming the chisel edge 548) as shown in FIG. 23 may be circumferentially disposed between the first side tab and the second side tab. This feature may assist in disassembling the packed material during counterclockwise rotation of the lock pin, but may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure. The bevel portion 545 may be at least partially circumferentially aligned with the first side tab or the second side tab, as shown in FIG. 25. Also, the bevel portion may be circumferentially offset from the recess on the peripheral surface by a predetermined amount, e.g., 60.0 degrees to 120.0 degrees (e.g., about 90.0 degrees as shown in FIG. 25).

[0061] In FIGS. 7 - 11, the retaining block 400 has an outer periphery 406 having a non - rotating surface (e.g., a faceted surface as shown in FIG. 10 including the first side 412, the second side 412a, the third side 414, the fourth side 414a, etc.), and a pin receiving opening (e.g., a central pin receiving opening 402) that defines an inner surface 418 offset inwardly (e.g., radially inwardly) from the non - rotating surface. The inner surface may be smooth as shown, but in other embodiments, it may be threaded to enable the use of a fastener as a tool for inserting and removing the block from the adapter. Also, the inner surface 418 may be formed or drafted in a tapered shape at an angle greater (e.g., 2.0 degrees or more compared to less than 2.0 degrees) than the non - rotating surface. The additional draft may assist in enabling the lock pin to be disengaged from the retaining block without disengaging the retaining block from the adapter.

[0062] Also, the spring receiving opening 404 may extend from the non - rotating surface to the inner surface. The spring receiving opening 404 may have a T - shape. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other shapes are possible for the spring receiving opening.

[0063] Furthermore, as can be seen from FIG. 10, a spring 600 having a pair of mounting flanges 602, 602a may be attached to the holding block 400. At least one of the pair of mounting flanges 602, 602a may be brazed to one of the pair of spring mounting surfaces 420, 420a. When attached, the spring 600 may extend into the pin receiving opening (e.g., see 402) through the inner surface 418 of the pin receiving opening via the spring receiving opening (e.g., through the central groove 421 straddled by the spring mounting surface). In the brazing process, a pair of protrusions or indentations, described later, may help to cause capillary action and provide a strong bond between the spring and the holding block.

[0064] As can be clearly seen from FIG. 11, the non-rotating surface includes an overhang 422 axially adjacent to the spring receiving opening 404 having a draft angle (e.g., 5.0 degrees or more) larger (e.g., less than 2.0 degrees) than the rest of the non-rotating surface. This overhang may help to prevent the filling of material into the spring receiving opening. Also, since the overhang is adjacent to the pry slot 344 of the adapter, the holding block can be pried from the adapter with a pry bar or other tool (see FIG. 4). This feature may be omitted in other embodiments of the present invention.

[0065] Next, referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the spring 600 may include an apex plateau member 604 (so called because this member forms the farthest part of the spring with respect to the mounting flanges 602, 602a), a first wavy side member 606 extending from the apex plateau member, a second wavy side member 606a extending from the apex plateau surface, a first mounting flange 602 extending from the first wavy side member 606, and a second mounting flange 602a extending from the second wavy side member 606a. These flanges may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0066] The first mounting flange 602 may include a first mounting surface 608 having a first protrusion 610 (e.g., a domed or hollow dome with a shell), and the second mounting flange 602a may include a second mounting surface 608a having a second protrusion 610a. It should be noted that these protrusions, as viewed from the back as shown in FIG. 7, appear as depressions. The mounting surfaces may be parallel to each other and / or have the same extent as shown, and may also be parallel to the apex plateau member (e.g., its contact surface 618 is so called because this surface contacts the locking pin). In other embodiments of the present disclosure, this may not be the case.

[0067] In FIG. 13, it can be seen that the first corrugated side member 606 may include a first peak 612 adjacent to the apex plateau member 604 and a first valley 614 adjacent to the first mounting flange 602. That is, the first peak is closer to the top plateau member compared to the first mounting flange or the like. The spring defines one or more symmetry planes 616, 616a (in other embodiments, this may not be the case). In other embodiments of the present disclosure, other configurations are possible. The spring may be manufactured from spring steel and formed by punching and bending using a progressive die or the like.

[0068] It should be noted that, although it is repeated, the dimensions, angles, surface areas, and / or configurations of various features, including those not specifically mentioned in this specification, may be changed as desired or necessary. Although not specifically described, blends such as fillets are shown connecting various surfaces. It should be understood that these may be omitted in other embodiments and may be ignored when reading this specification unless specifically stated.

Industrial Applicability

[0069] In practice, a machine, a work tool assembly, a tip, a wear member, an adapter, a base member, an adapter assembly, a tip and adapter assembly, a retention mechanism, and / or any combination of these various assemblies and components can be manufactured, purchased, or sold for field modification of a machine or work tool assembly in an aftermarket environment, or alternatively obtained in an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) environment by manufacturing, purchasing, selling, or other means.

[0070] Any of the above components may be manufactured from any suitable material including iron, gray iron, spring steel, plastic, rubber, foam, etc.

[0071] A retainer assembly for the tip of a ground engaging tool (GET) or other wear member is disclosed. The retainer assembly may comprise a taper pin and a retaining block with a spring disposed therein. The retaining block may be disposed within an adapter pocket and may have a flat contact surface configured to engage the adapter pocket, thereby maximizing the contact area and reducing adapter wear. During operation, the tip slides relative to the adapter and the taper pin is inserted into a slot or opening in the tip and retaining block. The taper pin is then rotated clockwise to lock the tip and adapter together. Further, the taper pin interacts with the spring in the retaining block and is configured to provide an anti-rotation function. Thereafter, the pin is rotated in the reverse direction to engage the ramp feature of the tip (or vice versa) to project the pin from the tip of the GET. When the pin is removed, the tip may be removed from the adapter.

[0072] The spring may have a punch formed therein that enables strengthening of the joint by capillary action when brazing to the block. Symmetrical bends in side legs such as at the rear may assist in achieving linear motion during spring compression. The flat front face of the spring interacts with the pin to create resistance to rotation of the pin.

[0073] The pin may have a square drive hole for rotating the pin from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration, or vice versa. A flat surface (which may be inserted into the notch) assists in interacting with the spring to create resistance to rotation of the pin. The rounding at the bottom of the pin helps relieve stress, and the taper at the bottom of the pin helps eject the pin when it rotates.

[0074] When the pin rotates to the locked position, the tip or other wear member may provide tactile, visual, and / or auditory feedback to the user that it is locked to the adapter or base. Tactile feedback may be the feeling that the spring snaps into place at the notched location of the pin and / or the feeling that a first tap hits the tip stopper. Visual feedback may be that a first tab becomes invisible. Auditory feedback may be a "click" sound when the spring snaps into the notch.

[0075] In some embodiments, the block and spring are provided with a spring already attached to the block. Also, the threads or ramp features of the pin and tip are in the vicinity or outside of the assembly, allowing for easy cleaning or removal of packed material that could interfere with the function of the retention mechanism of some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0076] It is understood that the foregoing description provides examples of the disclosed assemblies and techniques. However, it is envisioned that other implementations of the disclosure may differ in detail from the foregoing examples. All references to the disclosure or its examples are intended to refer to the specific examples being described at that time and are not intended to imply a more general limitation with respect to the scope of the disclosure. All distinctions or expressions of disdain for specific features are intended to indicate a lack of preference for those features and are not intended to completely exclude those features from the scope of the disclosure, unless otherwise specified.

[0077] For example, the embodiments of the tip adapter assembly 150a and the holding mechanism 160a disclosed in FIGS. 26 to 52 are configured to be the same as or identical to those disclosed in FIGS. 1 to 23, except for the following differences or variations.

[0078] As shown in FIGS. 30, 38, and 41, the polygonal holding block receiving opening 306a of the adapter 300b lacks a bottom pin receiving opening (see 308 in FIG. 6), and the wear member 200b or the tip has a holding mechanism receiving opening 220a that lacks a thread or other undercut as previously described herein (see also FIG. 27).

[0079] As can be clearly seen from FIGS. 29 and 30, this embodiment includes a pry slot 344 that extends from a side that may communicate with an associated feature of the polygonal holding block receiving opening 306a (see the side slot 424 of the holding block 400a as clearly seen from FIGS. 31 and 35). These features may be utilized to assist in prying the holding block out of the adapter as needed, such as for maintenance. The holding block may also have an overhang that aids in removal, in addition to or instead of the side slot. Any one of these prying features may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0080] Unlike what was previously described herein, the holding block 400a shown in FIGS. 34, 35, and 38 may define a threaded pin receiving opening 426 having a radial direction 428, a circumferential direction 430, and a rotation axis 432. A spring receiving notch 434 may be disposed in the threaded pin receiving opening 426.

[0081] Spring C 700 may be disposed in the threaded pin receiving opening 426 and the spring receiving notch 434. Also, a threaded lock pin 800 may be disposed in the threaded pin receiving opening 426 and may define a spring receiving groove 802 that houses spring C 700 as shown in FIGS. 32, 33, and 38.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 38 and 39, the C-spring 700 may define an inner diameter 702, while the spring receiving groove 802 may define an outer diameter 804 that is larger than the inner diameter 702. This may provide circumferential friction between the C-spring and the threaded lock pin, reducing the possibility of unwanted rotation when the threaded lock pin is fully inserted into and rotated within the retaining block.

[0083] Also, the spring receiving notch 434 may define a C-shape having a first circumferential end face 436 and a second circumferential end face 436a that are slightly spaced apart from each other and from the circumferential ends of the C-spring, forming a slight gap 439. Also, the outer circumferential surface 438 of the C-shape of the notch is radially spaced apart from the C-spring 700, forming a gap 440 therebetween. These gaps 439, 440 may allow the C-spring to bend outwardly when the pin passes through the C-spring and the retaining block as shown in FIGS. 49 - 51, while restricting the circumferential rotation of the C-spring.

[0084] Next, turning to FIGS. 32 and 33, the threaded lock pin 800 of the retaining mechanism 160a may include a drive portion 806, a threaded portion 808, and a spring engagement portion 810. More specifically, the drive portion may include a rotating surface 812 (e.g., an outer circumferential surface such as a cylindrical surface, a conical surface, etc.) that defines a radial direction 814, a circumferential direction 816, and a rotation axis 818. The drive portion 806 may be axially spaced apart from the threaded portion 808, and the threaded portion 808 may be axially spaced apart from the spring engagement portion 810.

[0085] In a particular embodiment of the present disclosure, the threaded portion 808 comprises a male thread 820 such as a lead screw thread or other type of thread that extends 180 degrees or less about the rotation axis 818. This may not only enable the thread to function properly, but also facilitate the manufacture of the thread via a casting process.

[0086] Further, the drive part may define a polygonal surface 821 (which may be an inner flat surface) configured to be driven by a wrench or the like. The drive part 806 may define a drive part diameter 822, while the spring engagement part 810 defines a spring engagement part diameter 824 that is smaller than the drive part diameter 822. For example, the diameter of the pin may flare outwardly at a location between the axial ends of the pin (see 826). The flare and the difference in diameter may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0087] Specifically, the drive part 806 may be disposed at the first axial end 830 of the pin, while the spring engagement part 810 may be disposed at the second axial end 832 of the pin. As a result, the threaded part 808 may be disposed axially between the drive part and the spring engagement part.

[0088] Also, the spring engagement part 810 may include a circumferential surface 828 that extends axially from the spring engagement part 810 to the drive part 806. Also, the circumferential surface 828 may be drafted as previously described herein to assist in releasing between the retaining block and the pin during disassembly or non-disassembly.

[0089] As previously described herein, the spring engagement part 810 may define a spring receiving groove 802 that is axially spaced apart from the first axial end 830. The first retracting surface 834 may extend from the first axial end 830 to the spring receiving groove 802, while the second retracting surface 836 may extend from the first retracting surface 838 to the spring receiving groove 802. The first retracting surface 834 may be configured to assist in expanding the C-spring 700 during rotation and insertion, while the second retracting surface 836 may be configured to assist in the reverse process of pin extraction. These retracting surfaces may be configured to make it easier to insert the pin rather than to extract the pin from the C-spring. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, this may not be the case.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 34 and 35, the threaded retaining block 400a includes an outer periphery 406a having a non-rotating surface (e.g., a flat surface such as 412), a pin receiving opening (e.g., a threaded pin receiving opening 426) that defines an inner surface 442 offset inwardly from the non-rotating surface, and a spring receiving notch 434 disposed within or communicating with the pin receiving opening.

[0091] The threaded pin receiving opening 426 may define an internal thread 444 such as a lead screw thread as shown, or some other type of thread. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 34, 35, and 52, the internal thread 444 extends from a first axial end 446 toward a second axial end 448 and terminates short of the second axial end 448, while the spring receiving notch 434 is axially adjacent to the second axial end 448 and axially spaced from the internal thread 444.

[0092] This embodiment of the threaded retaining block lacks an overhang because the C-spring 700 is disposed inside the block to protect it naturally.

[0093] Next, referring to FIGS. 36 and 37, the C-spring 700 may include a pin engaging inner peripheral surface 704 that defines a radial direction 706, a circumferential direction 708, and a pin insertion axis 710 (which may coincide with the rotation axis when inserted into the retaining block). The first circumferential end face 712 and the second circumferential end face 712a may assist in defining the C-shape of the spring. The first axial recessed surface 714 may extend axially from the pin engaging inner peripheral surface 704 to the outer peripheral surface 716 and circumferentially from the first circumferential end face 712 to the second circumferential end face 712a.

[0094] Also, the C-spring 700 may define a first axial end 718 and a second axial end 720. The first axial recessed surface 714 may be disposed at the first axial end 718, while the acute angled corner 722 (i.e., without a recessed surface) is disposed between the pin engaging inner peripheral surface 704 and the annular axial end face 724 at the second axial end 720.

[0095] The C spring 700 may also define a spring circumferential range 726 measured from the first circumferential end face 712 to the second circumferential end face 712a, which is less than 360.0 degrees and greater than 180.0 degrees. More specifically, the spring circumferential range 726 may be in a range less than 270.0 degrees and greater than 180.0 degrees (for example, about 260.0 degrees). Also, the C spring 700 may define an axial thickness 728 from the first axial end 718 to the second axial end 720, and the axial thickness 728 is in the range of 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm in some embodiments of the present disclosure. These dimensions may provide the size, strength, spring constant, and flexibility required for specific embodiments of the present disclosure. The ratio of any one of these dimensions may be in the range of 20% from the median value of the dimension range. These ratios may also allow the design to be expanded or reduced according to the application.

[0096] One of the differences between the embodiments of FIGS. 26 to 52 and the previous embodiments is that all complex geometric features have been replaced from the tip or adapter with small parts that are blocks, springs, and pins. This may simplify the casting of large tips and adapters to make them easier to manufacture and reduce costs.

[0097] Although the embodiments described in this specification show a single-sided lock arrangement, a double-sided lock arrangement is also considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0098] The circumferential spring clip mentioned in this specification may be in the lock groove and may receive a slight tension to minimize the "loosening" feeling to the system.

[0099] The lock pin(s) described in this specification may, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, be recessed flush with respect to the tip or wear member to protect the pin(s) from wear. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, this may not be the case.

[0100] Any one or more spring clips mentioned in this specification may be installed on the holding block at the factory, similar to snap rings. Using a snap ring, the clip can be radially retracted inward to reduce its outer diameter, placed in the groove of the holding block, and then the pliers can be released to expand the spring clip into the receiving groove of the block. The end user may only need to insert the block & spring / clip as a complete assembly into the adapter.

[0101] The lock pin in a later embodiment may reach the bottom of the adapter to inform the user that the system is locked. Also, there may be audible clicks and vibrations when the spring clip drops into the groove of the lock pin.

[0102] In various embodiments of the present disclosure, the assembly process may include manufacturing the holding block / spring assembly at the supplier or factory. The clip / spring is compressed inward with a snap ring tool and then linearly positioned in the appropriate corresponding groove on the block. When the snap ring tool is released, the spring clip expands radially outward into the groove of the block. The clip / spring and the block are then a self - contained assembly.

[0103] The adapter, base or working tool may have a simple octagonal hole with a small draft for casting. The second step of assembly, which is the first step for the end user, may be to insert the block and / or spring assembly into the hole on the adapter. Thereafter, the GET may slide fully over the adapter nose or working tool and the block / clip spring assembly. Next, the retaining pin may be inserted into the hole of the GET until the threads on the retaining pin engage the threads on the block. Thereafter, a standard tool can be inserted into the square drive to rotate the pin 45 - 360 degrees (depending on design / use). As the pin rotates, it screws deeper into the block. As the pin moves inwards, it eventually engages the spring clip and spreads it radially outwards. After the required rotation, the threads or the bottom of the pin achieve a physical stop. At the same time, the spring clip is "snapped" into the retaining groove of the retaining pin. The user may know that the system is locked by hearing and feeling a click and a physical stop. Once locked, the GET is ready for use. Disassembly is simply the reverse of assembly. The block and spring / clip are intended for reuse. However, if necessary, the block and / or adapter have a pry function to facilitate removal.

[0104] As used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with "one or more." When only one item is intended, the term "one" or similar terms are used. Also, the terms "has," "have," "having," "with," etc., as used herein are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "at least in part based on" unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0105] The recitation of a range of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value that falls within the range and each separate value is incorporated herein as if it were individually recited herein, provided there is no contrary indication in this specification.

[0106] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, various modifications and changes can be made to the embodiments of the apparatus and assembly method described herein without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. Considering the specifications and practices of the various embodiments disclosed herein, other embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, a part of a device having a configuration and function different from those described herein may omit a step of any method, be executed in an order different from that specifically described, and in some cases, be executed simultaneously or in sub-steps. Further, variations or modifications can be made to specific aspects or features of the various embodiments to create further embodiments, and the features and aspects of the various embodiments can be added to or replaced with other features or aspects of other embodiments to provide further embodiments.

[0107] Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Further, all possible combinations of all variations of the above elements are included in this disclosure unless otherwise specifically recited herein or clearly inconsistent with the context.

Claims

1. An assembly (150) of a tip and an adapter, comprising a tip (200) having a body defining an assembly direction (202), a longitudinal axis (204) perpendicular to the assembly direction (202), and a transverse axis (206) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (204) and the assembly direction (202), the body comprising a front working portion (208) disposed along the assembly direction (202) and having a closed end (210), and a rear mounting portion (212) disposed along the assembly direction (202) and having an open end (214), wherein the rear mounting portion (212) comprises an outer surface (216), an adapter nose receiving pocket (218) extending longitudinally from the open end (214), and a retaining mechanism receiving opening (220) communicating with the adapter nose receiving pocket (218) and the outer surface (216), and a first ledge (222) defining a first transverse undercut (224) within the retaining mechanism receiving opening (220); and an adapter (300) having a body comprising a nose portion (302) configured to fit within the adapter nose receiving pocket (218) of the tip (200), the body having an outer surface (304) defining a receiving opening (306) for a polygonal retaining block (400); an assembly (150) of a tip and an adapter.

2. The assembly (150) of a tip and an adapter according to claim 1, wherein the polygonal retaining block receiving opening (306) at least partially forms a counterbore (310) having a bottom pin receiving opening (308).

3. The assembly (150) of a tip and an adapter according to claim 2, wherein the bottom pin receiving opening (308) is a blind hole and is at least partially circular.

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

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

6. The octagonal configuration includes a first inclined surface (315) inclined with respect to the first side (312), a second inclined surface (316) inclined with respect to the second side (312a), a third inclined surface (316a) inclined with respect to the third side (314), and a fourth inclined surface (316b) inclined with respect to the fourth side (314a). The assembly (150) of the tip and the adapter according to claim 5.

7. The first inclined surface (315) is configured differently from the second inclined surface (316), the third inclined surface (316a), and the fourth inclined surface (316b). The assembly (150) of the tip and the adapter according to claim 6.

8. The holding block (400) contacts the first side (312), the second side (312a), the third side (314), and the fourth side (314a), but does not contact the first inclined surface (315), the second inclined surface (316), the third inclined surface (316a), and the fourth inclined surface (316b). The assembly (150) of the tip and the adapter according to claim 7, further including the holding block (400) disposed within the polygonal holding block receiving opening (306).

9. The holding block (400) defines a central pin receiving opening (220) and a spring receiving opening (404) extending outward from the central pin receiving opening (220) to the outside of the holding block (400). The assembly (150) of the tip and the adapter according to claim 8.

10. The assembly (150) of the tip and the adapter according to claim 9, further including a spring (600) disposed in the central pin receiving opening (220) and the spring receiving opening (404), and a pin (500) disposed in the central pin receiving opening (220) and defining a notch (502) for receiving the spring (600).

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