Boltless Cutting Edge Retention Lock for Safer Blade Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for attaching cutting edges to bulldozers and similar equipment require mechanics to torque multiple bolts, which can be hazardous due to the high force needed and the risk of the cutting edges falling, necessitating a safer and more efficient attachment method.
Innovation Solution
A boltless retention system using a lock, retainer, and pin configuration that allows for easy attachment and detachment of cutting edges by rotating a square driver, eliminating the need for torqueing bolts and ensuring secure retention without the risk of falling edges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple bolts are used to attach cutting edges, then the attachment is secure, but the operation becomes complex and hazardous requiring mechanics to work under the blade with high force
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into distinct functional components: a retainer that holds the cutting edge, a lock that secures the retainer to the blade, and a drive mechanism that operates the lock. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, eliminating the need for multiple bolts while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock acts as an intermediary mechanism between the drive portion (operated from above the blade) and the retainer (holding the cutting edge). By rotating the lock, the wing engages with the pin to secure the retainer, providing a safe intermediate step that transfers the securing action without requiring direct manipulation of multiple bolts under the blade.
2Ease of repair
If high force is applied to remove bolts, then the cutting edges can be detached, but the cutting edges may fall to the ground creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system uses dynamic control through rotational motion of the lock rather than static bolt tension. The lock can be rotated to engaged or disengaged positions, providing controlled detachment. When removing cutting edges, the mechanic rotates the lock from the engaged to disengaged position, maintaining control over the cutting edge throughout the process and preventing uncontrolled falling.
Solution Approach 2:
Before complete detachment, the lock mechanism allows for preliminary positioning where the cutting edge is held securely during the entire removal process. The retainer and lock work together to maintain secure holding until the final disengagement step, ensuring the cutting edge does not fall unexpectedly during the detachment operation.
3Ease of operation
If a boltless retention system is used, then the operation is simplified and safer, but the mechanism must achieve secure retention without traditional fasteners
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system uses a nested structure where the retainer is received within the lock, and the wing of the lock engages with the pin. The retainer fits into the lock body, and the locking portion of the lock engages with the pin that protrudes from the retainer. This nested arrangement achieves secure retention through interlocking geometric features rather than traditional fasteners, simplifying operation while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A retaining system includes a lock including a drive portion that defines an axis of rotation, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction, and further includes a locking portion including an outer peripheral surface. A wing extends radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface, while the locking portion is connected to the drive portion by a wall. A rib extends axially from the wall toward the drive portion forming an annular cavity, defining at least one detent receiving aperture that is disposed in the annular cavity.