Overlapping Cutting Edge Tip Geometry for Load Sharing and Wear

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cutting edge tip systems for work implement assemblies, such as bucket assemblies, do not adequately support thrust and side loads, and lack flexibility in adapter spacing, leading to unsatisfactory longevity and performance in various applications.

Innovation Solution

The proposed overlapping cutting edge tip system (OCETS) features an attachment portion with an adapter receiving void, lateral and vertical directions, and a forwardly extending working portion, with lateral end portions and transitional surfaces that allow for robust support and variable adapter spacing, enhancing durability and adaptability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a center cutting edge tip provides vertical overlap between adjacent cutting edges, then vertical support at the joint is improved, but thrust loads and side loads are not effectively shared

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevertical support at jointVSAvoidload sharing capability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The cutting edge tip design transitions from single-direction (vertical) overlap to multi-dimensional overlap by incorporating both vertical and horizontal overlapping portions. The vertical overlapping portion provides vertical support while the horizontal overlapping portion enables load sharing in horizontal directions, effectively addressing thrust and side loads through dimensional expansion of the overlap geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If a center cutting edge tip system provides horizontal overlap, then load distribution is improved, but variable spacing between adapters cannot be accommodated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload distributionVSAvoidadapter spacing flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs adjustable adapter spacing mechanisms that allow the horizontal overlap configuration to adapt to different spacing requirements. The dynamic adjustment capability enables the same horizontal overlap design to maintain effective load distribution across variable adapter positions, combining structural reliability with operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If cutting edge tips are designed for specific applications, then performance in that application is improved, but longevity across multiple applications is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication-specific performanceVSAvoidtip longevity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The cutting edge tip design incorporates both vertical and horizontal overlapping portions that can effectively handle multiple load types including thrust loads, side loads, and vertical loads. This multi-functional geometry allows the same tip design to perform well across various applications such as grading, cleaning, and foundation work, extending tip longevity while maintaining application-specific performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4347957B1Overlapping cutting edge tip system
Publication Date: 2025.11.12 CATERPILLAR INC
  • EP4347957B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4347957B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4347957B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A cutting edge tip (400) includes an attachment portion (402) defining an adapter receiving void (404). A working portion (411) extends forwardly from the attachment portion (402). A first lateral end portion (414) is disposed along the lateral direction (408), the first lateral end portion (414) defining a first lateral end surface (416) that jogs laterally. Also, a second lateral end portion (418) is disposed along the lateral direction (408) opposite of the first lateral end portion (414). The second lateral end portion (418) also defines a second lateral end surface (420) that jogs laterally.