Dipper Latch Bumper Absorbs Impact to Reduce Wear
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mining shovel dipper door latch mechanisms experience high impact loads and vibrations during operation, leading to frequent maintenance needs due to debris entry and wear, which reduces their operational lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A dipper assembly with a latchkeeper mechanism that includes a bumper assembly with a cap and core, which absorbs the impact of the dipper door closure, reducing vibrations and wear, and features a design that shields the latch pin from debris, eliminating the need for additional protective structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the door is allowed to slam shut during closing operation, then the door closes quickly and securely, but large impact loads and vibrations are generated causing component wear and frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
A rubber bumper is positioned between the door and the latch mechanism housing to absorb impact energy before it reaches the latch components. This cushioning element is installed in advance and prevents direct metal-to-metal contact during door closure, thereby reducing vibrations and extending component life while maintaining quick closing operation
2Ease of operation
If the latch mechanism housing is open to allow door operation, then the door can be easily opened and closed, but rocks and debris can enter the housing causing contamination and wear
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible rubber flap is positioned within the housing opening to act as a protective barrier. This flap allows the door to pass through during normal operation while preventing rocks and debris from entering the housing interior. The flexible nature of the flap ensures it does not interfere with door movement but effectively blocks contaminants
3Reliability
If additional protective structures are added to shield the latch pin from debris, then the latch mechanism is better protected, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rubber bumper and flexible flap are designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: the bumper cushions impact forces, the flap blocks debris entry, and both elements work together to protect the latch mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate protective structures for each hazard, maintaining reliability while avoiding increased complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces wear on dipper components, extends maintenance intervals, and improves operational efficiency by absorbing closure forces and shielding the latch mechanism from debris, while allowing for adjustable door alignment and reduced metal-on-metal contact.
Implementation Method 1
The stop member is extendable relative to the end surface... absorbs the impact of the dipper door closure, reducing vibrations and wear
Data Source
AI summary
A dipper assembly includes a body defining an outer surface and an opening, a door pivotably coupled to the body, and a latch mechanism releasably securing the door relative to the body. The door is pivotable between a closed position in which the door is positioned adjacent the opening and an open position in which the door is positioned away from the opening. The latch mechanism includes a latchkeeper and a latch member engaging the latchkeeper. The latch member is coupled to one of the body and the door and the latchkeeper is coupled to the other of the body and the door. The latchkeeper includes an end surface and a stop member coupled to the end surface. The stop member engages the one of the body and the door when the door is in the closed position. The stop member is extendable relative to the end surface.