Segmented Retainer Sleeve for Wear-Resistant Tool Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retainer systems for ground engaging tools on earth-working machines face challenges in securely attaching and detaching tools under harsh conditions, such as high temperatures and abrasive environments, while also being prone to wear and requiring frequent replacements.
Innovation Solution
A retainer sleeve with an accordion-like structure and resiliently cantilevered lock detent arms, made from high-temperature steel alloy, that is compressible for insertion and expandable for secure seating within a lock cavity, allowing for easy attachment and detachment of ground engaging tools while providing durability and resistance to wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional retainer systems are used to attach ground engaging tools, then the tools can be removably attached to implements, but the system is prone to wear and requires frequent replacements under harsh conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer sleeve is designed with a resilient body that can elastically deform during installation and operation. The sleeve compresses during installation to fit into the cavity, then expands to engage the locking member securely. This dynamic elasticity allows the retainer to absorb stresses and maintain reliable attachment while resisting wear over extended periods
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer system combines different material properties: the retainer sleeve is made of resilient material capable of elastic deformation, while the locking member provides rigid mechanical engagement. This composite approach integrates the flexibility needed for installation with the strength required for durable operation under harsh conditions
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is used to prevent tool detachment under load, then attachment reliability improves, but the complexity of the retainer system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer sleeve and locking member are integrated into a unified system where the resilient sleeve itself provides both the mounting structure and the locking mechanism. The locking member engages with the sleeve's internal features, combining retention and locking functions into a single compact assembly that reduces overall system complexity while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer system is divided into distinct functional components: the retainer sleeve that provides resilient retention, the locking member that secures the tool, and the detent mechanism that prevents accidental release. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated system
3Strength
If the retainer sleeve is made rigid for durability, then wear resistance improves, but the ease of installation and detachment decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer sleeve is designed with resilient material properties that allow it to dynamically respond to installation forces. During installation, the sleeve compresses elastically to fit into the cavity, then expands to engage the locking member securely. This dynamic elasticity enables easy installation while maintaining the strength and wear resistance of a rigid structure during operation
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 enhances the secure and reliable attachment and detachment of ground engaging tools, extends tool life by reducing wear, and accommodates harsh operating conditions, including high temperatures, by providing a flexible yet durable metal retainer sleeve and lock system.
Implementation Method 1
a retainer sleeve with an accordion-like structure and resiliently cantilevered lock detent arms, made from high-temperature steel alloy, that is compressible for insertion and expandable for secure seating within a lock cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A retainer sleeve configured for use in a retainer system for a ground engaging tool includes a plurality of plate-like sections, each section being flexibly joined with an adjacent section along either a radially inner edge or a portion of a radially outer edge. The radially inner edges of the plurality of sections form part of a segmented inner surface configured for engagement with an outer surface of a locking member of the retainer system. The inner surface extends partially around a central axis of the retainer sleeve to form a substantially C-shaped retainer sleeve having opposite circumferential ends that are spaced from each other. The radially outer edges of the plurality of sections form part of a segmented, frustoconical outer surface configured for engagement in an internal lock cavity of a ground engaging tool tip.