Chain having pin retaining element and variations thereof

Abstract

Chain assemblies and related methods for the facilitation of installation, repair, and disassembly include clearance fits, instead of interference fits, with other retaining elements. Various types of retaining elements are contemplated, such as retaining rings, snap rings, threaded nuts, or locking mechanisms that may secure the pin in an axial position relative to the outer sidebars during operation. When disassembly is desired, the retaining elements may be removed to allow the pin to be withdrawn without requiring excessive force or specialized extraction tools. Some embodiments can provide outer bushings positioned within the outer sidebars. Other embodiments may provide a locking mechanism including a biasing element that urges a retaining member into engagement with the outer bushing to secure the axial position of the pin. Still other embodiments can provide a detent pin that may be directionally magnetized to allow magnetic actuation by an external magnetic tool.

Description

CHAIN HAVING PIN RETAINING ELEMENT AND VARIATIONS THEREOFCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No.63 / 739,175 filed on December 27, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] Industrial chains are used in a variety of industries including conveyor or elevator systems for mines, processing plants, agricultural plants, recycling plants, refineries, foundries, and so forth. While certain chains may last longer than others, all chains in continual use eventually require repair as components wear on one another during operation. Rather than replacing the entire chain, which would be quite costly, chain links or pins are frequently repaired in the field to bring the conveyor system back into operation.

[0003] However, repairing chains in the field still can be laborious, difficult, cumbersome, and slow. In many instances, the site of repair may be cramped or difficult for the repairperson to access. Still further, tools are often required as part of the repair process and, either based on the size of the tools given the space and conditions of the working space for repair or the availability of the power systems to run the tools, it can be physically and logistically difficult to execute a repair. Downtime can be very costly if a repair cannot be quickly implemented and so there remains a high demand for a robust and efficient system for repairing chains.

[0004] Conventional chain assemblies typically rely on interference fits between pins and sidebars to maintain the structural integrity of the chain during operation. While interference fits provide secure engagement between components, they can complicate disassembly procedures when repair or replacement is desired. The force required to overcome an interference fit during disassembly may necessitate specialized extraction tools and can increase the time and effort 1QB\ 790063.025331100073584.1associated with field repairs. Additionally, the fatigue resistance and wear resistance properties of sidebars may be affected by the stresses associated with interference fit configurations. Accordingly, there remains a demand for chain assembly configurations that allow for simplified disassembly while maintaining structural integrity and performance during operation.SUMMARY

[0005] Such earlier chain repair and chain assembly concepts primarily focused on the assembly and / or repair of a chain. However, they did not address how an already-installed pin could be removed from a sidebar. In particular, once locked together by an interference or press fit, a sizable amount of force would then be necessary to remove such a press-fit pin, often requiring specialized extraction tools that may not be readily available in field repair situations. So, while such earlier work focused on assembly and repair, little to no consideration was made as to how to accommodate disassembly of a pin once in place. Accordingly, there could be significant benefits resulting from improved assemblies and methods that take into consideration not only the assembly or repair of the chain, but that also contemplate improved disassembly. Disclosed herein are chain structures and related methods that can better accommodate installation, repair, and disassembly by providing clearance fits with other retaining elements instead of interference fits. While such structures and methods can be utilized as described herein, it is also contemplated that individualized aspects of these structures and methods could be implemented to improve existing chain structures and repair methods.

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a chain assembly is provided. The chain assembly includes an inner link including a pair of inner sidebars coupled together by a bushing in which the bushing defines a bore and an outer link including a pair of outer sidebars in which each outer sidebar has an opening therethrough. The chain assembly further includes a pin extending through the bore of the bushing and through the openings of the outer sidebars. The pin has a clearance fit with the openings of the outer sidebars. The chain assembly also includes a2QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1retaining element configured to secure the pin in an axial position relative to the outer sidebars. The retaining element is removable to allow the pin to be withdrawn from the chain assembly.

[0007] In some forms, the pin may include a notch and the retaining element may be configured to be received within the notch to secure the pin in the axial position. In some of such forms, the retaining element may be a retaining ring configured to be received within the notch formed on the pin. In some of such forms, the retaining element may be a snap ring configured to be received within the notch formed on the pin. Still further, in some forms, the notch may be formed at each end of the pin and a respective retaining element may be positioned at each end of the pin.

[0008] In some forms, the retaining element may include a nut having internal threads configured to engage with external threads formed on the pin.

[0009] In some forms, the chain assembly may further include an outer bushing positioned within each opening of the outer sidebars. The outer bushing may have an interference fit with the outer sidebar and the pin may have a clearance fit with the outer bushing (that is, for example and more precisely, the radially outward facing surface of the pin may have a clearance fit with a radially inward facing surface of the outer bushing).

[0010] In such forms, the retaining element may include a locking mechanism including a biasing element and a retaining member. The biasing element can urge the retaining member radially outward into engagement with the outer bushing to secure the axial position of the pin. The biasing element may a spring, and the retaining member may be configured to be depressed radially inward against a biasing force of the spring to disengage the retaining member from the outer bushing.

[0011] In additional forms with the outer bushing, the retaining element may include a detent pin and a biasing element in which the outer bushing may include a recess configured to receive the detent pin. The biasing element may urge the detent pin outward into engagement with the3QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1recess to secure the axial position of the pin. The detent pin may be directionally magnetized to allow magnetic actuation of the detent pin by an external magnetic tool.

[0012] According to yet another aspect, a chain assembly is provided including an inner link including a pair of inner sidebars coupled together by an inner bushing and an outer link including a pair of outer sidebars, in which each outer sidebar has an outer bushing disposed therein in which each outer bushing has an interference fit with the respective outer sidebar. The chain assembly further includes a pin extending through the inner bushing and through the outer bushings in which the pin has a clearance fit with the inner bushing and the outer bushings (that is, is not press fit into either and does not have an interference fit therewith). The chain assembly further includes a retaining element configured to secure the pin in an axial position relative to the outer bushings.

[0013] In some forms, the retaining element may include a retaining ring configured to be received within a notch formed on the pin.

[0014] In some forms, the retaining element may include a locking mechanism including a biasing element and a retaining member in which the biasing element may urge the retaining member radially outward into engagement with one of the outer bushings to secure the axial position of the pin. In such forms, the biasing element may include a spring, and the retaining member may be configured to be depressed radially inward against a biasing force of the spring to disengage the retaining member from the outer bushing.

[0015] In some forms, the retaining element may include a detent pin and a biasing element and one of the outer bushings may include a recess configured to receive the detent pin. The biasing element may urge the detent pin outward into engagement with the recess to secure the axial position of the pin. The detent pin may include a magnet to allow magnetic actuation of the detent pin by an external magnetic tool.4QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1

[0016] In some forms, the chain assembly may further include a cutout disposed within the pin adjacent a notch. A fastener may be received within the cutout, and the fastener may include a flange head that works with the retaining element to fix the pin axially in position.

[0017] According to still yet another aspect, yet another chain assembly is provided. The chain assembly includes an inner link including a pair of inner sidebars coupled together by an inner bushing and an outer link including a pair of outer sidebars each including an outer bushing. The chain assembly further includes a pin extending through the inner bushing and the outer bushings in which the pin has a clearance fit with the inner bushings and the outer bushings. The chain assembly has a locking mechanism including a retaining element and a biasing element. The biasing element urges the retaining element into engagement with the outer bushing to secure the pin in an axial position. The retaining element is movable against a force of the biasing element to disengage from the corresponding feature and allow the pin to be withdrawn from the chain assembly.

[0018] In some forms, the biasing element may include a spring, and the retaining element may be pivotally secured to the pin at a pivot point and may be configured to pivot between an engaged position in which the retaining element extends radially outward from the pin into engagement with the outer bushing and a disengaged position in which the retaining element is retracted into a notch formed in the pin.

[0019] The foregoing and other aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will appear from the following description. In the description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which there is shown by way of illustration one or more exemplary versions. These versions do not necessarily represent the full scope of the disclosure.5QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0020] The following drawings are provided to help illustrate various features of non-limiting examples of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or exclude alternative implementations.

[0021] FIG. l is a top, front, and left isometric view of a chain assembly according to a first embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 2 is a top, back, and left isometric view of the chain assembly of FIG. 1.

[0023] FIG. 3 is a top, front, and left isometric view of inner links that are to be assembled in the chain assembly of FIG. 1.

[0024] FIG. 4 is a top, front, and left isometric view of sidebars of an outer link that are to be assembled in the chain assembly of FIG. 1, without depicting the pins or inner chain links.

[0025] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an example chain assembly with retaining rings, according to a second embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an example chain assembly with threaded retaining elements, according to a third embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an example chain assembly with snap ring, according to a fourth embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an example chain assembly with outer bushings and retaining rings, according to a fifth embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an example chain assembly with outer bushings and a secondary securing element, according to a sixth embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an example chain assembly with a spring-loaded tapered locking mechanism, according to a seventh embodiment.6QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1

[0031] FIG. 11 is a detailed view of the locking mechanism of FIG. 10 in a disengaged position.

[0032] FIG. 12A is a detailed view of an example locking mechanism, according to an eighth embodiment in an engaged position.

[0033] FIG. 12B is a detailed view of the locking mechanism of FIG. 12A in a disengaged position.

[0034] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an example chain assembly with a detent pin, according to a ninth embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 14 is an example tool for use with the detent pin of FIG. 13.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Some embodiments of this disclosure provide solutions to these issues by providing improved systems and methods for assembling, repairing, and disassembling chains. For example, some embodiments may provide a chain assembly that includes a pin extending through bushings and outer sidebars, where the pin has a clearance fit with the outer sidebars rather than an interference fit. Retaining elements, such as retaining rings, snap rings, threaded nuts, or locking mechanisms, may secure the pin in an axial position relative to the outer sidebars during operation. When disassembly is desired, the retaining elements may be removed to allow the pin to be withdrawn without requiring excessive force or specialized extraction tools. Some embodiments can provide outer bushings positioned within the outer sidebars, where the outer bushings have an interference fit with the outer sidebars while the pin has a clearance fit with the outer bushings. Other embodiments may provide a locking mechanism including a biasing element that urges a retaining member into engagement with the outer bushing to secure the axial position of the pin. Still other embodiments can provide a detent pin that may be directionally magnetized to allow magnetic actuation by an external magnetic tool, allowing for a simplified disassembly without manual depression of the detent pin. Because the pin has a clearance fit with the outer sidebars or 7QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1outer bushings, the pin may be removed by sliding through the bores without requiring the force necessary to overcome an interference fit, reducing the time and effort associated with field repairs.

[0037] With reference first being had to FIGS. 1 through 4, the general construction of a chain assembly is provided. This description is provided primarily as a foundation for understanding the various embodiments that follow which propose modifications and improvements to such a chain assembly design.

[0038] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 show an isometric view of a chain assembly 100 that has inner links 102, 104, which are coupled together by outer sidebars 174, 176, as part of an outer link which includes outer link parts 170, 172 to form the chain assembly 100. As shown in FIG. 1, the inner link 102 includes inner sidebars 106, 108 separated from each other. The inner sidebars 106, 108 are coupled together by bushings 110, 112 to form the inner link 102. Although the inner sidebars 106, 108 are illustrated as being planar and rectangular with rounded edges, the inner sidebars 106, 108 can be implemented to have different shapes or geometries.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 3, each inner sidebar 106, 108 has openings that can at least partially define a respective bore. For example, the inner sidebar 106 has openings 120, 122, 124 that are directed entirely through the inner sidebar 106, and the inner sidebar 108 has openings 126, 128, 130 that are directed entirely through the inner sidebar 108. Although the inner sidebars 106, 108 are illustrated as having three openings, the inner sidebars 106, 108 can include any number of openings. In some examples, the openings of the inner sidebars 106, 108 can provide a coupling location for the bushings 110, 112. For example, the bushing 110 can be coupled to the inner sidebars 106, 108 by inserting a first end of the bushing 110 through the opening 120 of the inner sidebar 106 and by inserting a second end of the bushing 110 through the opening 126 of the inner sidebar 108. As such, the bushing 110 is coupled to the inner sidebars 106, 108 at the openings 120, 126 (e.g., by an interference fit). Similarly, the bushing 112 can be inserted through a different one of the openings of the inner sidebars 106, 108. For example, as illustrated, the8QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1bushing 112 is inserted through the opening 124 of the inner sidebar 106 and through the opening 130 of the inner sidebar 108 to couple the bushing 112 to the inner sidebars 106, 108.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 3, the bushings 110, 112 define bores 114, 116, which can each provide an access channel through and between the inner sidebars 106, 108. As such, each bore 114, 116 is configured to receive a pin, such as from an adjacent link and / or sidebars, or a portion thereof, to support the formation or repair of a chain. In some examples, such as illustrated in FIG. 1, the bushings 110, 112 can each entirely define their respective bore 114, 116, with the bores 114, 116 being coaxially positioned relative to the openings of the plates 106, 108. For example, the bore 114 is coaxially positioned relative to the openings 120, 126, and the bore 116 is coaxially positioned relative to the openings 124, 130. In other examples, bores of other links or sidebars can be defined by their openings of their sidebars.

[0041] In some examples, the bushings 110, 112 can include respective rollers coaxially received around the bushings 110, 112. In other examples, the bushings 110, 112 can be bushed rollers (such as steel bushed rollers). Regardless of the particular implementation, an interior surface of each bushing 110, 112 can provide a bearing surface that is configured to receive a pin through one of the bushings 110, 112 to easily roll over its interior surface. In some examples, the interior surface may be lubricated, however, in alternative configurations, the interior surface of the bushings 110, 112 may not be lubricated.

[0042] With additional reference being made to FIG. 3, the inner link 104 is structured in a similar manner as the inner link 102, and thus, includes similar features as the inner link 102. For example, the inner link 104 also includes inner sidebars 136, 138, bushings 140, 142, and bores 144, 146. The bushings 140, 142 are each coupled to both inner sidebars 136, 138, and each inner sidebar 136, 138 also includes openings directed entirely therethrough. For example, the inner sidebar 136 includes openings 150, 152, 154, while the inner sidebar 138 includes openings 156, 158, 160. Similarly to the inner link 102, the bushing 140 is inserted through the openings 150, 156 to couple the bushing 140 to the inner sidebars 136, 138 at these openings 150, 156, while the 9QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1bushing 142 is inserted through the openings 154, 160 to couple the bushing 142 to the inner sidebars 136, 138 at openings holes 154, 160. Also like the inner link 102, each of the bushings 140, 142 can have an interior surface that can define a bearing surface that can allow a surface of a pin to roll along.

[0043] Although the chain assembly 100 is illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 as only having inner links 102, 104, it is to be appreciated that the chain assembly 100 has other links that are coupled to and extend from the inner links 102, 104 in both directions in addition to the outer link centrally connecting the two. In other words, while the inner links 102, 104 each have only a single link as illustrated, the chain links 102, 104 can have other numbers of links such as, for example, a series of chain links so as to form a longer chain that, in most instances, will loop onto itself.

[0044] Referring again to FIG. 1 through FIG. 4 in their entirety, the chain assembly 100 also includes the outer link parts 170, 172 as part of the outer link, which are coupled to the inner links 102, 104. As illustrated, the outer links parts 170, 172 can collectively define aligned, albeit spaced, bores for reception of a pin therethrough. In particular, the outer link 170 has bores 182, 184 and the outer link 172 has bores 186, 188, where the bores 182, 186 can collectively define a set of aligned bores and where the bores 184, 188 can collectively define another set of aligned bores. The bores 186, 188 can be substantially larger than the bores 182, 184 so that, for example, a pin inserted through the set of aligned bores can fit through the bores 186, 188 with relative ease, while forming an interference fit with the bores 182, 184 or a close clearance fit in accordance with many of the subsequently described embodiments. In some examples, the outer link parts 170, 172 can be structured similarly to each other (e.g., both having the same shape, such as being rectangular with rounded edges). In other examples, the outer link parts 170, 172 can be structured differently. In some examples, the outer link parts 170, 172 can be structured similarly to the inner links 102, 104, while in other cases, each of the outer link parts 170, 172 can be structured in a different manner as the inner links 102, 104. For example, the outer link part 170 can have a flange10QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1190 that extends away from an outer sidebar 174 of the outer link part 170, which includes the bores 182, 184. Similarly, the outer link part 172 can have a flange 192 that extends away from an outer sidebar 176 of the outer link part 172, which includes the bores 186, 188. In some examples, the flanges 190, 192 can extend away from each other in opposing directions, and each flange 190, 192 can include one or more openings directed therethrough for providing a coupling location (for example, a fastening location) for components to be coupled to the chain assembly 100. For example, each flange 190, 192 can include one or more openings that can facilitate the attachment of conveyor components (such as buckets, trays, and so forth) by inserting fasteners (such as, for example, bolts) of the conveyor component through the one or more respective holes to couple the conveyor component to the chain assembly 100. Although FIG. 2 illustrates that the flanges 190, 192 extend from the respective outer sidebars 174, 176 at an angle that is substantially (that is, deviating by less than 10 percent from) 90 degrees, in other examples, the flanges 190, 192 can be angled relative to the respective outer sidebar 174, 176 at a different angle. In other examples, the flanges 190, 192 can extend from the respective outer sidebars 174, 176 without bending, such that each flange 190, 192 remains coplanar with its respective outer sidebar 174, 176.

[0045] In the chain assembly structure illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 4, each of the set of aligned bores are configured to receive a pin. For example, a pin or pins can be first inserted through the bores 186, 188 of the outer sidebar 176 until a head end 204 of each pin 200 that has a larger cross-section than the bore 186 contacts the outer sidebar 176. These pins and first outer sidebar may be pre-fit together as a subassembly. As described in more detail below, with the pins 200 inserted through the outer sidebar 176, each pin 200 can be further inserted through the inner links 102, 104. For example, the pin 200 is configured to extend entirely through the bore 116 of the inner link 102 and is configured to then extend through the bore 182 of the opposing outer sidebar 174 (that is, a portion of a threaded end 206 of the pin 200 that is opposite the head end 204 of the pin 200 being inserted through the bore 182).11QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1

[0046] With the pin 200 extended through the outer sidebar 176, the inner links 102, 104, and the other outer sidebar 174, a nut 208 can be engaged with the pin 200. As the nut 208 is tightened and advanced along the threaded end 206 of the pin 200 towards the head end 204 of the pin 200, the nut 208 forces the pin 200 through the bore 182 of the outer sidebar 174 to create an interference fit between the pin 200 and the outer sidebar 174 at the bore 182.

[0047] Although the other embodiments disclosed herein will generally differ from this high level chain description in that an interference fit is not formed between the pin and at least one of the outer sidebars, in the version illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 4, as the nut 208 is further tightened, a washer 210 can contact the pin 200. The washer 210 can block further relative movement between the nut 208 and the pin 200, thereby blocking further advancement of the nut 208 along the pin 200 past the washer 210 towards the head end 204 of the pin 200. In this way, the washer 210 can prevent overtightening of the nut 208, which can lead to undesirable locking of the chain joint defined by the inner links 102, 104, the outer link parts 170, 172, and the pin 200 such as from the outer sidebar 174 being forced against the inner sidebars 106, 136, thus preventing rotation of the inner links 102, 104 about the pin 200.

[0048] In some examples, the washer 210 can include a hole that can have a cross-section that is larger than the threaded end 206 of the pin 200 (for example, so that the threaded end 206 can be inserted through the hole of the washer 210), but which is smaller than a body 202 of the pin 200. The washer 210 can block the outer sidebar 174 from moving in a direction towards the head end 204 of the pin 200. In this way, a gap can be maintained between the outer sidebar 174 and the inner sidebar 106 even when the pin 200 contacts the washer 210, which can prevent undesirable locking of the chain links together.

[0049] While the washer 210 has been described as being a discrete component that is separate from the nut 208, in other configurations, the washer 210 can be coupled to the nut 208. In some examples, the nut 208 can be integrally formed with the washer 210. For example, the nut 20812QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1and the washer 210 can be a single monolithic component (that is, formed from a single piece of material).

[0050] The general description of a chain assembly has been provided to provide an exemplary case of general chain construction upon which the following embodiments, which constitute further improvements and new variations on that design. That is to say, the general description is provided so that the reader will have a general understanding of the parts of a chain and how they may be constructed. Hereinafter, various embodiments are provided which involve variations on that general construction.

[0051] Referring now to FIG. 5, an example embodiment of a chain assembly 300 is shown. For example, FIG. 5 illustrates a chain assembly 300 that is otherwise similar to the chain assembly 100. Unless indicated otherwise, the components, functionality, and advantages of the inner sidebars 106, 108, the bushings 110, 112, the outer sidebars 174, 176, and the pin 200 illustrated in FIG. 1 apply similarly to the illustrated example of FIG. 5. Generally speaking, all of the embodiments now further described involve clearance fits - not interference fits - between the pin and the outer sidebars or a least one side of the outer sidebars in the case that the pins are pre-fit as a subassembly with one of the sidebars before the pins are inserted through the inner links.

[0052] As illustrated, the chain assembly 300 includes the pin 200 extending through inner sidebars 106, 108, outer sidebars 174, 176, and the bushing 112. In this example, the outer sidebars 174, 176 provide a wear surface having fatigue resistant properties and wear resistance properties. For example, the inside surface of the outer sidebars 174, 176 at the pitch holes (e.g., bores 182, 186) may be induction hardened to provide a localized grain structure capable of reducing wear due to pin sliding friction. Additionally, the outer sidebar material near the pitch holes may be cold-worked or treated with a metalworking process that results in a deformation of material, impression, or sizing / restriking to provide a region of localized compressive stresses within the material where the cyclic loads are expected to be highest. In other examples, the outer sidebars 174, 176 may be manufactured using drop-forging or die casting processes. These manufacturing 13QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1processes allow the outer sidebars 174, 176 to be formed with variable thickness, which allows material to be strategically distributed to areas of higher stress concentration while reducing material in areas of lower stress, thereby optimizing the strength-to-weight ratio of the outer sidebars 174, 176.

[0053] While a clearance fit will remain between the pin 200 and the outer sidebars 174, 176, in order to axially secure the pin 200 in position relative to the outer sidebars 174, 176 and prevent axial movement during operation, retaining elements 304, 306 (for example, retaining rings) are positioned at outer edges of the pin 200 on both sides of the chain assembly 300. For example, the retaining elements 304, 306 in this example act as a mechanical stop that engages outer ends of the outer sidebars 174, 176 to prevent axial movement of the pin 200. In particular, the retaining elements 304, 306 are configured to bear against the outer surfaces of the outer sidebars 174, 176, thereby constraining the pin 200 from translating in either axial direction along its longitudinal axis during chain operation. This arrangement maintains the structural integrity of the chain assembly 300 by ensuring that the pin 200 remains properly positioned within the bores 182, 186 of the outer sidebars 174, 176 and the bushing 112, even when subjected to the dynamic loads and vibrations encountered during operation.

[0054] To facilitate engagement between the retaining elements 304, 306 and the pin 200, notches 310, 314 are formed on each corresponding end of the pin 200. Each notch 310, 314 is configured as a circumferential groove or recess that extends around the outer surface of the pin 200 at a predetermined axial location. The notches 310, 314 are configured to receive and secure the respective retaining element 304, 306, with the geometry of each notch 310, 314 being complementary to the cross-sectional profile of the corresponding retaining element 304, 306. This engagement between the notches 310, 314 and the retaining elements 304, 306 prevents the retaining elements 304, 306 from sliding along the length of the pin 200 or unintentionally disengaging therefrom during operation of the chain assembly 300. The notches 310, 314 are positioned at axial locations along the pin 200 such that, when the retaining elements 304, 306 are14QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1seated within the notches 310, 314, the retaining elements 304, 306 bear against the outer surfaces of the outer sidebars 174, 176 to constrain axial movement of the pin 200 in both directions along its longitudinal axis, as noted above.

[0055] The chain assembly 300 shown in FIG. 5 also incorporates a clearance fit configuration between the pin 200 and the outer sidebars 174, 176. The clearance fit allows the pin 200 to pass through corresponding bores 182, 186 in the outer sidebars 174, 176 with space between the outer surface of the pin 200 and the inner surface of the bores 182, 186. This clearance fit configuration differs from many conventional chain assemblies that utilize a press fit or interference fit between the pin 200 and the outer sidebars 174, 176. For example, in a press fit configuration, the pin 200 is forced into an opening that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the pin 200, creating a tight frictional engagement that resists relative movement between the outer sidebar and the pin, as noted above. By contrast, the clearance fit configuration of the chain assembly 300 allows the pin 200 to rotate freely within the outer sidebars 174, 176 during operation, which may reduce friction and wear at the interface between the pin 200 and the outer sidebars 174, 176 due to the improved fatigue and wear resistant properties of the sidebars 174, 176, such as those achieved through induction hardening or cold-working as described above. As an alternative to the version specifically shown in FIG. 5, two pins could be press fit into one outer sidebar (perhaps as a prefit subassembly), but other sidebar can have a clearance fit with the other ends of the pin and the retaining elements could be used on that end alone.

[0056] Returning to the dual-sided clearance fit construction, when disassembly is desired, one of the retaining elements 304, 306 may be removed from the corresponding notch 310, 314 of the pin 200. Once the retaining element 304, 306 (in FIG. 5, the retaining ring) is removed, the pin 200 may be removed by sliding the pin 200 through the bores 182, 186 in the outer sidebars 174, 176 and the bushing 112. Because the clearance fit does not create a frictional engagement between the pin 200 and the outer sidebars 174, 176, the pin 200 may be removed without requiring excessive force or specialized extraction tools that would otherwise be necessary to overcome an15QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1interference fit. This simplified disassembly process is particularly advantageous in field repair situations where access to specialized extraction equipment may be limited, where working conditions may be cramped or difficult to navigate, or where minimizing downtime is a priority, as noted above. The clearance fit configuration thus allows for efficient maintenance and repair operations by allowing the pin 200 to be withdrawn from the chain assembly 300 with minimal effort once the retaining elements 304, 306 are disengaged, thereby reducing the time, labor, and equipment requirements associated with chain disassembly compared to conventional interference fit configurations.

[0057] Referring now to FIG. 6, another example embodiment of a chain assembly 400 is shown as a further variation on the embodiment of FIG. 5. Unless indicated otherwise, the components, functionality, and advantages described above with respect to the chain assembly 300 of FIG. 5 apply similarly to the chain assembly 400 of FIG. 6.

[0058] In this example, external threads 404, 408 are formed on both ends of the pin 200. Corresponding retaining elements 412, 416, such as a washer with spanner feature indents or a nut, include internal threads 420, 424 configured to engage with the external threads 404, 408, respectively, of the pin 200. This threaded connection prevents axial movement of the pin 200 during operation and provides a secure engagement that maintains the pin 200 in position relative to the outer sidebars 174, 176. The threaded engagement advantageously allows an operator to adjust the tightness of the retaining elements 412, 416 relative to the pin 200 through rotational movement, allowing the operator to tighten or loosen the connection as needed for a particular application or operating condition. This adjustability provides flexibility during assembly and allows for fine-tuning of the axial positioning of the pin 200 within the chain assembly 400. Furthermore, the threaded configuration allows for straightforward disassembly, as the retaining elements 412, 416 can be rotated in the opposite direction to disengage the threaded connection, thereby releasing the axial constraint on the pin 200 and allowing the pin 200 to be withdrawn16QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1from the chain assembly 400 without requiring specialized extraction tools or excessive force that would otherwise be necessary to overcome an interference fit.

[0059] Similar to the chain assembly 300 of FIG. 5, the chain assembly 400 shown in FIG. 6 incorporates a clearance fit between the pin 200 and the outer sidebars 174, 176, thereby again allowing for free rotation of the pin 200. When disassembly is desired, one of the retaining elements 412, 416 may be rotated to disengage the threaded connection, allowing the pin 200 to be withdrawn from the chain assembly 400. Again, to permit or accommodate this clearance fit, the outer sidebars can be constructed from a material with a fatigue resistant and / or wear resistant properties.

[0060] Referring now to FIG. 7, another example embodiment of a chain assembly 500 is shown, similar to the chain assembly 300 of FIG. 5. In this embodiment, the retaining elements are configured as snap rings 504, 508 received within the notches 310, 314, respectively, that maintains the pin 200 in an axially fixed position relative to the outer sidebars 174, 176. The snap rings 504, 508 are resilient elements that are configured to be compressed or expanded during installation to fit within the circumferential notches 310, 314 formed on the pin 200. In some examples, the snap rings 504, 508 may be generally C-shaped or split-ring elements, while in other examples, the snap rings 504, 508 may be configured as spiral rings, wave rings, or other retaining ring configurations that provide 360-degree coverage within the notches 310, 314. For example, they could include, but not be limited to Smalley Spiralox or WaveRing, Fey rings, etc. that may provide 360 degree coverage. Once seated within the notches 310, 314, the snap rings 504, 508 return to their relaxed state and bear against the outer surfaces of the outer sidebars 174, 176, thereby constraining the pin 200 from translating in either axial direction along its longitudinal axis during chain operation.

[0061] When disassembly is desired, one of the snap rings 504, 508 may be removed from the notches 310, 314 of the pin 200 using standard snap ring pliers or similar tools. Once one of the17QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1snap rings 504, 508 is removed, the pin 200 may be withdrawn from the chain assembly 500 by sliding through the outer sidebars 174, 176 and the bushing 112.

[0062] Again, given the clearance fit between the pin and outer sidebars, the outer sidebar is again to be made with a material fatigue-improving material including ring-coining / compressive process features such as the notch.

[0063] Referring now to FIG. 8, yet another exemplary embodiment of a chain assembly 600 is shown, similar to the chain assembly 300 of FIG. 5. In this example, however, outer bushings 604, 608 are positioned within the outer sidebars 174, 176, respectively, at each end of the assembly 600. The outer bushings 604, 608 are interposed between the outer sidebars 174, 176 and the pin 200, thereby providing an intermediate bearing surface at each end of the chain assembly 600. The outer bushings 604, 608 are configured to have an interference fit with the outer sidebars 174, 176, which secures the outer bushings 604, 608 in position within the outer sidebars 174, 176 and prevents relative movement between the outer bushings 604, 608 and the outer sidebars 174, 176 during operation. This interference fit between the outer bushings 604, 608 and the outer sidebars 174, 176 provides a stable bearing arrangement that maintains structural integrity at the ends of the assembly 600 during operation. As further shown, an inner bushing (for example, bushing 112) is positioned between the inner sidebars 106, 108 and the outer bushings 604, 608.

[0064] The pin 200 extends through the chain assembly 600, passing through the outer bushings 604, 608 at each end and through the inner bushing 112. The pin 200 in this example has a slip or clearance fit with both the inner bushing 112 and the outer bushings 604, 608. This clearance fit allows the pin 200 to rotate freely within the bushings 112, 604, 608 during operation, which may reduce friction and wear at the interface between the pin 200 and the bushings 112, 604, 608. In this way, the chain assembly 600 of FIG. 8 provides a configuration where the outer bushings 604, 608 absorb wear and provide bearing surfaces while maintaining structural integrity18QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1through the interference fit with the outer sidebars 174, 176, and the clearance fit between the pin 200 and the bushings 112, 604, 608 allows for simplified disassembly.

[0065] When disassembly is desired, one of the retaining elements 304, 306 may be removed from the corresponding notches 310, 314 formed on the pin 200. Once the retaining element 304, 306 is removed, the pin 200 may be withdrawn from the assembly 600 by sliding the pin 200 through the outer bushings 604, 608 and the inner bushing 112. Because the clearance fit does not create a frictional engagement between the pin 200 and the bushings 112, 604, 608, the pin 200 may be removed without requiring excessive force or specialized extraction tools. It should be noted that this configuration may result in a wider envelope and higher weight compared to other embodiments described herein due to the additional outer bushings 604, 608 positioned within the outer sidebars 174, 176, although other configurations are possible.

[0066] It is also to be noted that, in comparison to some of the earlier embodiments in FIGS.5-8, the embodiments having the outer bushings would eliminate some of the considerations to be made about the fatigue and wear resistance of the sidebar material, because the bulk of the sidebar is not directly contacting and wearing on the pin, but rather the pin is now contacting and wearing against the bushing. If or when the bushings become too worn, it may be possible to disassemble the outer sidebars and remove and replace the outer bushings in those outer sidebars to recondition and repair that wear surface.

[0067] Referring now to FIG. 9, another exemplary embodiment of a chain assembly 700 is shown, similar to the chain assembly 600 of FIG. 8 in that it again includes outer bushings in the outer sidebars and some amount of clearance between the pin and the outer bushings. In this exemplary embodiment, however, cutouts 704, 708 are further formed within the pin 200 adjacent the notches 310, 314. The cutouts 704, 708 are configured as recessed portions that extend into the pin 200. A fastener 712, 716 is configured to be received within each cutout 704, 708, respectively. The fasteners 712, 716 may be threadably received within the cutouts 704, 708,19QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1although other fastener configurations such as press-fit or snap-fit arrangements are also contemplated.

[0068] Each fastener 712, 716 includes a flange head 720, 724 that serves as a secondary security feature in addition to the retaining elements 304, 306 to fix the pin 200 axially in position. In particular, the flange head 720, 724 works in conjunction with the retaining elements 304, 306 to provide redundant retention of the pin within the chain assembly 700. The flange heads 720, 724 extend radially outward from the fasteners 712, 716 and provide an additional mechanical stop that resists axial movement of the pin 200. This dual -retention configuration enhances the reliability of the chain assembly 700 by ensuring that even if one of the retaining elements 304, 306 were to become dislodged or damaged during operation, the flange heads 720, 724 would continue to maintain the axial position of the pin 200. In this way, the secondary security feature provided by the flange head 720, 724 is configured to reduce the likelihood of unintended disassembly of the pin 200 during operation, which is particularly advantageous in high-vibration environments or applications where the chain assembly 700 is subjected to significant dynamic loading. In other examples, the flange head 720, 724 is configured as a washer that is separate from the fastener 712, 716, although other configurations such as integral flange heads or specialized retention washers are possible.

[0069] When disassembly is desired, one of the flange heads 720, 724 may be removed first by disengaging the corresponding fastener 712, 716 from the cutout 704, 708. This may be accomplished by rotating the fastener 712, 716 to disengage threaded engagement, or by applying an appropriate force to release a press-fit or snap-fit connection, depending on the particular fastener configuration employed. Following removal of the flange head 720, 724, one of the retaining elements 304, 306 on the same side of the pin 200 may then be removed from the corresponding notch 310, 314. Once the retaining element 304, 306 is removed, the pin 200 may be withdrawn from the assembly 700 by sliding the pin 200 through the outer bushings 604, 608 and the inner bushing 112.20QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1

[0070] Referring now to FIG. 10, another example embodiment of a chain assembly 800 is shown, similar to the chain assembly 600 of FIG. 8 (again, having the outer bushings in the outer sidebars and a clearance between the outer surface of the pin and the radially-inward facing surface of the bushings). However, in this exemplary embodiment, the pin 200 includes a tapered locking mechanism 804, 808 having notches 310, 314 configured to receive corresponding retaining elements 812, 816. Each retaining element 812, 816 has a biasing member 820, 824, such as a spring, although other biasing members including elastomeric elements or wave springs are contemplated. The biasing member 820, 824 provides a biasing force that urges the retaining element 812, 816 radially outward toward engagement with the outer surface of the outer bushing 604, 608. In particular, when the retaining elements 812, 816 are urged outward by the biasing members 820, 824, the retaining elements 812, 816 extend beyond the outer cylindrical surface of the pin 200 and into contact with the outer surface of the outer bushings 604, 608, thereby creating a mechanical interlock that resists axial movement of the pin 200. This engagement secures the axial position of the pin 200 relative to the outer bushings 604, 608 and outer sidebars 174, 176, thereby maintaining the pin 200 in an axial position during operation of the chain assembly 800 even when subjected to dynamic loads and vibrations. In this way, the tapered configuration of the locking mechanism 808 allows for alignment and engagement of the retaining elements 812, 816 with the outer bushings 604, 608 during assembly, with the tapered surfaces guiding the retaining elements 812, 816 into proper position as the pin 200 is inserted through the chain assembly 800.

[0071] Turning now to FIG. 11, when disassembly is desired, the retaining elements 812, 816 may be depressed inward against the biasing force of the biasing member 820, 824, as indicated by arrow 828. This inward compression of the biasing member 820, 824 causes the retaining elements 812, 816 to retract from their extended position and disengage from the outer surface of the outer bushings 604, 608, thereby releasing the axial constraint on the pin 200 that was previously maintained by the mechanical interlock between the retaining elements 812, 816 and21QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1the outer bushings 604, 608. With the retaining elements 812, 816 disengaged from the outer bushings 604, 608, the pin 200 is no longer constrained in its axial position and may be withdrawn from the chain assembly 800 by sliding the pin 200 through the outer bushings 604, 608 and the inner bushing 112, as indicated by removal arrows 832.

[0072] Conversely, to install the pin 200, the retaining elements 812, 816 are first depressed inward to compress the biasing members 820, 824, and the pin 200 is then inserted through the outer bushings 604, 608, as indicated by assembly arrows 836. As the pin 200 advances through the assembly 800, the tapered surfaces of the retaining elements 812, 816 guide alignment with the outer bushings 604, 608. In this way, the tapered configuration allows for smooth insertion by permitting the retaining elements 812, 816 to remain retracted as the pin 200 passes through the chain assembly 800 (or may even facilitate the retraction of the pins if that tapered surface engages an edge of the bushing during insertion causing the retaining elements to become retracted over the axial insertion action). Once the pin 200 is fully seated within the chain assembly 800 and the retaining elements 812, 816 are aligned with the corresponding outer surfaces of the outer bushings 604, 608, the biasing members 820, 824 urge the retaining elements 812, 816 radially outward into engagement with the outer bushings 604, 608, thereby axially securing the pin 200 within the chain assembly 800.

[0073] Referring now to FIGS. 12A and 12B, an alternate configuration of the locking mechanism 808 of FIGS. 10 and 11 are shown. In this configuration, the notch 310, 314 formed in the pin 200 does not extend fully circumferentially around the pin 200. Instead, the notch 310, 314 defines a partial recess that accommodates the biasing members 824 within its boundaries. Furthermore, there are two retaining elements 816a, 816b that are pivotally secured to the pin 200 at pivot points 840a, 840b that allow the retaining elements 816a, 816b, respectively, to rotate between an engaged or locking position (FIG. 12A) and a disengaged or clear position (FIG. 12B). The biasing members 820, 824 are operatively connected to the retaining elements 816a, 816b and exert a force that urges the retaining elements 816a, 816b toward the engaged or locking position.22QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1As shown in FIG. 12A, when in the engaged position, the biasing members 820, 824 bias the retaining elements 816a, 816b to extend spirally outward from the pin 200 and into engagement with the outer bushing 604, 608. This spiral extension of the retaining elements 816a, 816b allows for engagement with the outer bushing 604, 608 and secures the axial position of the pin 200 relative to the chain assembly 800 during operation.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 12B, during assembly or disassembly, the retaining elements 816a, 816b are pivoted inward against the force of the biasing members 820, 824, thereby compressing the biasing members 820, 824 and causing the retaining elements 816a, 816b to retract from their spirally extended position into the notch 310, 314. With the retaining elements 816a, 816b retracted into the notch 310, 314, the retaining elements 816a, 816b are disengaged from the outer bushing 604, 608, which allows the pin 200 to be removed from or inserted into the chain assembly 800. In some examples, a specialized tool key may be configured to facilitate retraction of the retaining elements 816a, 816b by engaging with the locking mechanism 808 and compressing the biasing members 820, 824, although other configurations for actuating the locking mechanism 808 are possible.

[0075] Referring now to FIG. 13, another exemplary embodiment of a chain assembly 900 is shown, similar to the chain assembly 600 of FIG. 8 (that is, again having outer bushings as a part of the outer sidebars and having a clearance between the pin and those outer bushings). In this example, the outer bushings 174, 176 include recesses 904, 908 configured to receive a detent pin 912, 916, respectively. Correspondingly, the pin 200 includes cutouts 918, 920 that each accommodates a detent holder 922, 924, the detent pin 912, 916, and a biasing element 928, 932 such as a spring. The detent holder 922, 924 is threadably received within the cutout 918, 920, thereby maintaining the alignment of the detent pin 912, 916 relative to the outer bushing 604, 608 and the pin 200. The biasing element 928, 932 is disposed within the cutout 918, 920 between the detent pin 912, 916 and the pin 200. The biasing element 928, 932 exerts a biasing force on the detent pin 912, 916 that urges the detent pin 912, 916 outward from the cutout 918, 920 and into23QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1engagement with the recess 904, 908 of the outer bushing 174, 176. When the detent pin 912, 916 is seated within the recess 904, 908, the engagement between the detent pin 912, 916 and the recess 904, 908 secures the axial position of the pin 200 relative to the bushings 604, 608 and sidebars 174, 176.

[0076] When disassembly is desired, the detent pins 912, 916 may be depressed inward against the biasing force of the biasing element 928, 932. This inward depression causes the detent pins 912, 916 to retract into the cutout 918, 920 of the pin 200 and disengage from the recesses 904, 908 of the outer bushings 604, 608. With the detent pins 912, 916 retracted and disengaged from the recesses 904, 908, the axial constraint on the pin 200 is released, and the pin 200 may be withdrawn from the chain assembly 900. Conversely, during assembly, the detent pins 912, 916 are first depressed inward and the pin 200 is then inserted through the bushings 112, 604, 608. As the pin 200 advances through the assembly 900, the detent pins 912, 916 remain retracted until the detent pins 912, 916 align with the recesses 904, 908 of the outer bushings 604, 608. Once alignment is achieved, the biasing elements 928, 932 urge the detent pins 912, 916 outward into engagement with the recesses 904, 908, thereby securing the pin 200 in position.

[0077] In this example, the detent pin 912, 916 is directionally magnetized to allow for magnetic actuation of the detent pin 912, 916 (in this case by magnetic repulsion). In particular, the directional magnetization allows the detent pin 912, 916 to respond to an external magnetic field applied in a particular orientation. When a magnetic force that is greater than the biasing force of the biasing element 928, 932 is applied in the appropriate direction, the magnetic force retracts the detent pin 912, 916 into the cutout 918, 920 and disengages the detent pin 912, 916 from the recess 904, 908 of the outer bushing 604, 608.

[0078] Referring now to FIG. 14, an external magnetic tool 940 is shown for use with the detent pin 912, 916 that is magnetized. In this example, the tool 940 includes a magnet 944 having the same magnetic pole orientation as the magnet associated with the detent pin 912, 916. Accordingly, when the magnetic tool 940 is brought into proximity with the detent pin 912, 916,24QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1the magnetic field of the tool 940 interacts with the magnetized detent pin 912, 916. Because the magnetic poles are oriented in the same direction, the magnetic field of the tool 940 repels the magnetized detent pin 912, 916, causing the detent pin 912, 916 to retract inward into the cutout 918, 920 against the biasing force of the biasing element 928, 932 and out of engagement with the recess 904, 908 of the outer bushing 604, 608. With the detent pin 912, 916 disengaged from the recess 904, 908, the pin 200 may be withdrawn from or inserted into the chain assembly 900 without requiring manual depression of the detent pin 912, 916. Once the magnetic tool is removed from proximity with the detent pin 912, 916, the biasing element 928, 932 returns the detent pin 912, 916 to the engaged position.

[0079] In an alternate configuration, the arrangements and orientations of the recesses 904, 908 and the cutouts 918, 920 are reversed, such that the detent pins 912, 916, the detent holders 922, 924, and the biasing elements 928, 932 are received within cutouts 918, 920 of the outer bushings 174, 176. Correspondingly, the recesses 904, 908 in this example are then defined within the pin 200 and are configured to receive the detent pins 912, 916, as similarly discussed above (such that the detent pins in the bushings extend radially inward into the recesses in the pin). In this alternative example, the magnet 944 of the magnetic tool 940 is configured to have an opposite magnetic pole orientation relative to the magnetized detent pin 912, 916. Accordingly, during use, when the tool 940 is positioned in proximity of the detent pin 912, 916 at a position adjacent to the outer bushings 174, 176, the opposing magnetic field of the tool 940 attracts the magnetized detent pin 912, 916 to retract the detent pin 912, 916 inward into the cutouts 918, 920 against the biasing force of the biasing elements 928, 932 and disengage the pin 912, 916 from the recess 904, 908 of the pin 912, 916 and allow the pin 200 to be withdrawn from the assembly 900. Once the magnetic tool 940 is removed from proximity with the detent pin 912, 916, the biasing element 928, 932 returns the detent pin 912, 916 to the engaged position.

[0080] The present disclosure has described one or more preferred embodiments, and it should be appreciated that many equivalents, alternatives, variations, and modifications, aside from those25QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1expressly stated, are possible and within the scope of the invention. For example, it is wholly possible that any of the exemplary embodiments could be utilized on one end only of pin as part of the chain assembly. As mentioned above, the pins could be, for example, press fit into one sidebar and then only the terminal ends of the pin extending away from the sidebar could have the retention elements as disclosed.

[0081] It is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limitinG. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

[0082] As used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, discussion of particular directions is provided by example only, with regard to particular embodiments or relevant illustrations. For example, discussion of “top,” “front,” or “back” features is generally intended as a description only of the orientation of such features relative to a reference frame of a particular example or illustration. Correspondingly, for example, a “top” feature may sometimes be disposed below a “bottom” feature (and so on), in some arrangements or embodiments. Further, references to particular rotational or other movements (e.g., counterclockwise rotation) is generally intended as a description only of movement relative a reference frame of a particular example of illustration.

[0083] Certain operations of methods according to the disclosure, or of systems executing those methods, may be represented schematically in the figures or otherwise discussed herein.26QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1Unless otherwise specified or limited, representation in the figures of particular operations in particular spatial order may not necessarily require those operations to be executed in a particular sequence corresponding to the particular spatial order. Correspondingly, certain operations represented in the figures, or otherwise disclosed herein, can be executed in different orders than are expressly illustrated or described, as appropriate for particular embodiments of the disclosure. Further, in some embodiments, certain operations can be executed in parallel, including by dedicated parallel processing devices, or separate computing devices configured to interoperate as part of a large system.

[0084] In some implementations, devices or systems disclosed herein can be utilized or installed using methods embodying aspects of the disclosure. Correspondingly, description herein of particular features, capabilities, or intended purposes of a device or system is generally intended to inherently include disclosure of a method of using such features for the intended purposes, a method of implementing such capabilities, and a method of installing disclosed (or otherwise known) components to support these purposes or capabilities. Similarly, unless otherwise indicated or limited, discussion herein of any method of manufacturing or using a particular device or system, including installing the device or system, is intended to inherently include disclosure, as embodiments of the disclosure, of the utilized features and implemented capabilities of such device or system.

[0085] As used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, ordinal numbers are used herein for convenience of reference based generally on the order in which particular components are presented for the relevant part of the disclosure. In this regard, for example, designations such as “first,” “second,” etc., generally indicate only the order in which the relevant component is introduced for discussion and generally do not indicate or require a particular spatial arrangement, functional or structural primacy or order.

[0086] As used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, directional terms are used for convenience of reference for discussion of particular figures or examples. For example, references 27QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1to downward (or other) directions or top (or other) positions may be used to discuss aspects of a particular example or figure, but do not necessarily require similar orientation or geometry in all installations or configurations.

[0087] This discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the disclosure. Various modifications to the illustrated examples will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein can be applied to other examples and applications without departing from the principles disclosed herein. Thus, embodiments of the disclosure are not intended to be limited to embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein and the claims below. The following detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Skilled artisans will recognize the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of the disclosure.

[0088] Various features and advantages of the disclosure are set forth in the following claims.28QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1

Claims

CLAIMS1. A chain assembly, comprising:an inner link including a pair of inner sidebars coupled together by a bushing, the bushing defining a bore;an outer link including a pair of outer sidebars, each outer sidebar having an opening therethrough;a pin extending through the bore of the bushing and through the openings of the outer sidebars, wherein the pin has a clearance fit with the openings of the outer sidebars; anda retaining element configured to secure the pin in an axial position relative to the outer sidebars, wherein the retaining element is removable to allow the pin to be withdrawn from the chain assembly.

2. The chain assembly of claim 1, wherein the pin includes a notch, and wherein the retaining element is configured to be received within the notch to secure the pin in the axial position.

3. The chain assembly of claim 2, wherein the retaining element is a retaining ring configured to be received within the notch formed on the pin.

4. The chain assembly of claim 2, wherein the retaining element is a snap ring configured to be received within the notch formed on the pin.

5. The chain assembly of claim 2, wherein the notch is formed at each end of the pin, and wherein a respective retaining element is positioned at each end of the pin.

6. The chain assembly of claim 1, wherein the retaining element includes a nut having internal threads configured to engage with external threads formed on the pin.29QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 17. The chain assembly of claim 1, further comprising an outer bushing positioned within each opening of the outer sidebars, wherein the outer bushing has an interference fit with the outer sidebar, and wherein the pin has a clearance fit with the outer bushing.

8. The chain assembly of claim 7, wherein the retaining element comprises a locking mechanism including a biasing element and a retaining member, wherein the biasing element urges the retaining member radially outward into engagement with the outer bushing to secure the axial position of the pin.

9. The chain assembly of claim 8, wherein the biasing element includes a spring, and wherein the retaining member is configured to be depressed radially inward against a biasing force of the spring to disengage the retaining member from the outer bushing.

10. The chain assembly of claim 7, wherein the retaining element comprises a detent pin and a biasing element, wherein the outer bushing includes a recess configured to receive the detent pin, and wherein the biasing element urges the detent pin outward into engagement with the recess to secure the axial position of the pin.

11. The chain assembly of claim 10, wherein the detent pin is directionally magnetized to allow magnetic actuation of the detent pin by an external magnetic tool.

12. A chain assembly, comprising:an inner link including a pair of inner sidebars coupled together by an inner bushing; an outer link including a pair of outer sidebars, each outer sidebar having an outer bushing disposed therein, wherein each outer bushing has an interference fit with the respective outer sidebar;a pin extending through the inner bushing and through the outer bushings, wherein the pin has a clearance fit with the inner bushing and the outer bushings; anda retaining element configured to secure the pin in an axial position relative to the outer bushings.30QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 113. The chain assembly of claim 12, wherein the retaining element comprises a retaining ring configured to be received within a notch formed on the pin.

14. The chain assembly of claim 12, wherein the retaining element comprises a locking mechanism including a biasing element and a retaining member, wherein the biasing element urges the retaining member radially outward into engagement with one of the outer bushings to secure the axial position of the pin.

15. The chain assembly of claim 14, wherein the biasing element comprises a spring, and wherein the retaining member is configured to be depressed radially inward against a biasing force of the spring to disengage the retaining member from the outer bushing.

16. The chain assembly of claim 12, wherein the retaining element comprises a detent pin and a biasing element, wherein one of the outer bushings includes a recess configured to receive the detent pin, and wherein the biasing element urges the detent pin outward into engagement with the recess to secure the axial position of the pin.

17. The chain assembly of claim 16, wherein the detent pin includes a magnet to allow magnetic actuation of the detent pin by an external magnetic tool.

18. The chain assembly of claim 12, further comprising a cutout disposed within the pin adjacent a notch, and a fastener received within the cutout, and wherein the fastener includes a flange head that works with the retaining element to fix the pin axially in position.

19. A chain assembly, comprising:an inner link including a pair of inner sidebars coupled together by an inner bushing; an outer link including a pair of outer sidebars each including an outer bushing;a pin extending through the inner bushing and the outer bushings, wherein the pin has a clearance fit with the inner bushings and the outer bushings; anda locking mechanism including a retaining element and a biasing element, wherein the biasing element urges the retaining element into engagement with the outer bushing to secure the31QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1pin in an axial position, and wherein the retaining element is movable against a force of the biasing element to disengage from the corresponding feature and allow the pin to be withdrawn from the chain assembly.

20. The chain assembly of claim 19, wherein the biasing element includes a spring, and wherein the retaining element is pivotally secured to the pin at a pivot point and configured to pivot between an engaged position in which the retaining element extends radially outward from the pin into engagement with the outer bushing and a disengaged position in which the retaining element is retracted into a notch formed in the pin.32QB\790063.02533\ 100073584 1

Images