EA043340B1 - LOCKING BLOCK FOR WEAR UNIT - Google Patents

Description

Field of technology

The invention relates to excavator wear assemblies, locking blocks used in such wear assemblies, and components of such excavator wear assemblies and locking blocks. The invention is applicable to surface earth moving equipment and is described in this context. However, it should be appreciated that the invention can also be applied in other areas, for example, in water-based earthmoving equipment, in installations such as dredgers, and therefore is not limited to this area of application.

State of the art

Wear elements are installed on the cutting edge of various parts of earthmoving equipment, such as the buckets of front-end loaders. Each excavator wear assembly consists of several parts, usually a wear element, a support structure and a lock. Typically, the support structure is mounted on the excavation equipment and the wear member is slipped onto the support system and held in place by a lock. In some cases, one or more intermediate elements may also be installed between the wear element and the supporting structure. For ease of understanding, it should be understood that unless the context otherwise requires, the term support structure as used herein is intended to refer to both the support structure mounted on the earth moving equipment and the intermediate member(s), if any, or combinations of supporting structure with intermediate element/elements.

The excavator wear assembly is made of several parts in order to avoid the need to discard the entire wear element if only parts of it are worn out, in particular, the ground-engaging part of the excavator wear assembly (i.e., the wear element).

Various types of locks, wear elements and support structures are known. However, it is always desirable to develop new gear earthmoving units and parts for them.

It should be understood that if any prior art is mentioned in this document, it does not indicate that such prior art is part of the public knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Disclosure of the Invention

The invention relates to improved excavator wear assemblies, locking blocks used in such wear assemblies, and components of such excavator wear and locking blocks used on earthmoving equipment.

In general, the invention relates to locking blocks and excavator wear units. In some embodiments, the wear element is attached to a support structure mounted on the bucket lip or other cutting edge. The support structure may be part of the adapter or may be integral with the cutting edge. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the invention can be applied to gear digging units in which the wear element is attached to an intermediate element (which may also be called a support structure or adapter), which in turn is attached to a nose forming part of the cutting edge , or to the nose of an additional support structure mounted on the cutting edge. In the invention, locking blocks are used to secure a wear member to a supporting structure, however, the locking blocks disclosed herein can also be used to secure to each other any other members that are part of excavator wear assemblies.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a locking block for attaching a wear member to a support structure, comprising a locking pin having an axis and comprising first and second parts spaced apart along the axis of the pin and connected to each other by a connection that allows the transmission of torque. moment from at least one of the first or second pin parts to the other of the first or second pin parts, and cause axial movement of one of the pin parts relative to the other pin part in a direction along the axis of the pin;

wherein the connection is made in the form of complementary connecting elements that engage with each other and extend in the direction along the axis of the pin.

Preferably, the connection comprising cooperating connecting elements reduces the contact pressure during relative axial movement and transmission of torque. This helps reduce the likelihood of jamming.

In some embodiments, the closure block may further comprise a housing with an internal passage extending along a longitudinal axis between the first and second ends. The pin may be configured to be located within the housing, with at least one portion of the pin being rotatable about a longitudinal axis within the housing. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the housing is non-cylindrical to prevent rotation of the housing about its longitudinal axis relative to the excavator assembly when the housing is installed in a suitably shaped channel in the excavator assembly.

In some embodiments, the connecting elements of the first and second parts of the pin may be offset relative to each other at an angle about the axis of the pin. Connecting elements

- 1 043340 of the first part of the pin can be offset at an angle relative to the connecting elements of the second part of the pin, such that they are able to engage with each other. In some embodiments, one or each part of the pin may include two connecting elements offset from each other at an angle of approximately 180°.

In some embodiments, the locking block may further comprise a transducer mechanism that allows axial movement of the pin parts relative to each other as at least one of the pin parts rotates. In some embodiments, the first pin portion and the second pin portion may rotate simultaneously. During operation, the connection ensures simultaneous rotation of the first and second parts of the pin. The converter mechanism may comprise at least one cam-push mechanism. The at least one cam may include a cam surface formed around at least one of the pin portions and at least one follower mounted on the housing and remaining in contact with the cam surface as the at least one pin portion rotates to provide relative axial movement pin parts. Each of the first and second pin portions may include a cam-push mechanism. In some embodiments, the cam surface includes a helical portion. The screw section has a pitch corresponding to the number of turns of the pin parts to ensure the required axial movement of these pin parts. Changing the pitch of the screw section can lead to a change in the axial movement. In alternative embodiments, the cam surface may include a threaded device or J-slot capable of allowing longitudinal movement of the pin portions.

In some embodiments, the pin portions may be axially movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In one embodiment, in the extended position, the locking block secures the wear element to the supporting structure. In the retracted position, the wear element can be detached from the supporting structure. In the extended position, the end of at least one of the pin parts may protrude beyond at least one of the ends of the housing. In the extended position, the corresponding ends of the pin parts can both protrude beyond the ends of the housing. In the retracted position, at least one of the pin portions of the pin may be located within the housing. In the retracted position, both pin parts are located inside the housing.

In one possible embodiment, the locking block further comprises at least one latch for fixing at least one of the parts of the pin in a predetermined axial position. The predetermined position may be a position between the extended and retracted positions or beyond the extended position relative to the ends of the housing. The lock may include a holder and a locking member that, in a locked position, can engage with the holder to hold the pin portions in a predetermined axial position. In a predetermined position, the holder locks the locking element in the locked position. The holder may include a bias device that is biased to a locked position, and the locking element forms part of at least one follower, the bias device being mounted along a portion of the cam surface such that when at least one portion of the pin rotates, the at least one follower maintains contact with cam surface and moves the biasing device against its biasing force so that the stopper can move to the locked position, and in the locked position, the holder can engage the locking element to hold the pin parts in position. It will be understood that, in an alternative embodiment, the locking element may include a biasing device while the holder is configured to hold the locking element in a locked position.

In some embodiments, the biasing device may be made of an elastic material that compresses, allowing the pusher to pass by or be biased into a locked position. In some embodiments, the bias device may comprise a spring, such as a compression spring or leaf spring.

In one possible embodiment, the specified position is the extended position.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a locking block for securing a wear member to a support structure, comprising a locking pin having an axis and comprising first and second parts spaced apart along the axis of the pin and connected to each other by a torque-transmitting connection. from at least one of the first or second pin portions to the other of the first or second pin portions, and allowing one of the pin portions to be axially moved relative to the other pin portion in a direction along the axis of the pin; and a transducer mechanism allowing axial movement of the pin parts during rotation of at least one of the pin parts, wherein during operation the connection causes simultaneous rotation of the first and second pin parts.

In some embodiments, the locking block may further comprise a housing with an internal channel extending along the longitudinal axis between the first and second ends, wherein the locking

- 2 043340 the pin is installed in the housing with the possibility of rotation. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the housing is non-cylindrical to prevent rotation of the housing about its longitudinal axis relative to the excavator assembly when the housing is installed in a suitably shaped channel in the excavator assembly.

In some embodiments, the converter mechanism may include at least one cam-push mechanism. In some embodiments, the at least one cam includes a cam surface formed around at least one of the pin portions, and at least one follower mounted on the housing and remaining in contact with the cam surface during rotation of the at least one pin portion, providing relative axial movement of the pin parts. In one possible embodiment, each of the first and second pin portions may include a cam-push mechanism. In some embodiments, the cam surface includes a helical portion, which is advantageous because the helical configuration reduces the number of turns of the pin portions. In alternative embodiments, the cam surface may include a threaded device, a J-slot, or a ratchet mechanism capable of providing longitudinal movement of the pin portions.

In some embodiments, the pin portions may be axially movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In some embodiments, both parts of the pin rotate simultaneously to the extended position. In the extended position, the end of at least one of the pin parts may protrude beyond at least one of the ends of the housing. In the extended position, both corresponding ends of the pin parts can protrude beyond the ends of the housing. In the retracted position, at least one of the pin portions may be located within the housing. In the retracted position, both pin parts can be located inside the housing.

In some embodiments, the locking block further includes at least one locking mechanism for locking the pin parts in a predetermined position. The lock may include a holder and a locking element, configured to engage with the holder in a locked position, while the pin portion is held in a predetermined position.

The holder may include a biasing device biased to a locked position, and the locking element forms part of at least one follower, the biasing device being mounted along a portion of the cam surface such that when at least one portion of the pin rotates, the at least one follower remains in contact with the cam surface and moves the biasing device against its biasing force so that the stopper can move to the locked position, and in the locked position, the holder engages the locking element to hold the pin parts in position.

In some embodiments, the specified position is the extended position. In some embodiments, the target position is a specific position between the extended and retracted positions. In some embodiments, in a predetermined position, the ends of the pin portions protrude beyond the extended position.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided an excavator wear assembly for attaching a wear element to a support structure, comprising a support structure having a nose portion configured to receive a wear element in a seat;

a locking cavity made in the supporting structure and adapted to accommodate a locking block;

a locking block including a locking pin having an axis and comprising first and second parts spaced apart along the axis of the pin and connected to each other by a connection capable of transmitting torque from at least one of the first or second parts of the pin to another of the first or second parts of the pin, and allowing axial movement of one of the parts of the pin relative to the other part of the pin in a direction along the axis of the pin; wherein the connection is made in the form of complementary connecting elements that engage with each other and extend in the direction along the axis of the pin;

the relative axial movement of the pin parts in the direction along the axis of the pin is adapted to secure the wear element to the supporting structure.

In some embodiments, the locking block further comprises a housing configured to be placed in a locking cavity of the support structure and comprising an internal channel extending along a longitudinal axis between the first and second ends; wherein the pin may be located within the housing and at least one of the pin portions may be rotatable within the housing. In some embodiments, the housing includes an outer surface that is non-cylindrical to prevent rotation of the housing about its longitudinal axis relative to the excavator wear assembly when the housing is installed in a suitably shaped channel in the excavator assembly.

In some embodiments, the pin portions may be axially movable between an extended position and a retracted position.

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In some embodiments, the excavator wear assembly may further comprise a wear element. Such a wear element may comprise at least one retaining surface, wherein when the wear element is mounted on the support structure, the retaining surface is aligned with a locking cavity of the support structure such that when the pin is in an extended position, the wear element is attached to the support structure, and when the pin is in in the retracted position, the wear element can be detached from the supporting structure.

When the wear member is mounted on the support structure and when the pin is in the extended position, the end of at least one portion of the pin projects outwardly relative to at least one of the ends of the housing and engages at least one wear member retaining surface to secure the wear member. element to the supporting structure.

When the pin is in the extended position, both respective ends of the pin portions project beyond the ends of the housing and are capable of engaging the respective retaining surfaces of the wear member.

When the pin is in the retracted position, at least one portion of the pin is located within the housing and is not engaged with at least one retaining surface of the wear member to allow the wear member to be detached from the support structure. When the pin is in the retracted position, both portions of the pin may be located within the housing and may not engage the respective wear member retaining surfaces.

In some embodiments, the locking block further comprises a transducer mechanism that allows axial movement of the pin portions during rotation of at least one of the pin portions, wherein during operation the connection allows simultaneous rotation of the first and second pin portions. In some embodiments, the converter mechanism includes at least one cam-push mechanism.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided an excavator wear assembly for attaching a wear member to a support structure to a cutting edge, the excavator wear assembly comprising a support structure having a nose portion configured to receive a wear member seat;

a locking cavity made in the supporting structure and adapted to accommodate a locking block;

a locking block including a locking pin having an axis and comprising first and second pin parts spaced apart along the axis of the pin and connected to each other by a connection capable of transmitting torque from at least one of the first or second parts a pin to another of the first or second pin parts, and allowing one of the pin parts to axially move relative to the other pin part in a direction along the axis of the pin; and a converter mechanism that provides axial movement of the pin parts as at least one of the pin parts rotates, wherein during operation the connection allows for simultaneous rotation of the first and second pin parts, wherein the relative axial movement of the pin parts in a direction along the axis of the pin is adapted to attach the wear element to supporting structure.

In some embodiments, the locking block further comprises a housing configured to be placed in a locking cavity of the support structure and comprising an internal channel extending along a longitudinal axis between the first and second ends; wherein the pin may be located within the housing and at least one of the pin portions may be rotatable within the housing. In some embodiments, the housing includes an outer surface that is non-cylindrical to prevent rotation of the housing about its longitudinal axis relative to the excavator wear unit.

In some embodiments, the pin portions may be axially movable between an extended position and a retracted position.

In some embodiments, the excavator wear assembly further comprises a wear element comprising at least one retaining surface, wherein when the wear element is mounted on the support structure, the retaining surface is aligned with a locking cavity of the support structure such that when the pin is in an extended position, the wear element is attached to the support structure, and when the pin is in the retracted position, the wear element can be disconnected from the support structure.

When the wear member is mounted on the support structure, and when the pin is in an extended position, the end of at least one portion of the pin may extend beyond at least one of the ends of the housing and is capable of engaging at least one retaining surface of the wear member for attachment. wear element to the supporting structure.

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When the pin is in the extended position, both respective ends of the pin portions may extend beyond the ends of the housing and are capable of engaging the respective retaining surfaces of the wear member.

When the pin is in the retracted position, at least one portion of the pin is located within the housing and is not engaged with at least one wear member retaining surface to allow the wear member to be detached from the support structure. When the pin is in the retracted position, both parts of the pin are inside the housing and engage with the corresponding retaining surfaces of the wear element.

In some embodiments, the locking block connection may be made in the form of complementary elements that engage with each other and extend in the direction along the axis of the pin.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a locking block for securing a wear member to a support structure is disclosed, comprising: a locking pin; a housing having an internal channel in which a locking pin is located so that it can be moved within the housing to a predetermined position; and at least one latch for holding the pin in a predetermined position, comprising a holder and a locking element capable of engaging with the holder when the pin is moved to a predetermined position, wherein the locking element is a C-shaped element having opposing tabs that are elastically deformable when engaged with the holder.

In some embodiments, the C-shaped member is located in the pin and the holder is located in the housing.

In some embodiments, the locking pin is rotated within the housing around the axis of the pin to a predetermined position. In some embodiments, rotation of the pin results in axial movement of the pin. In this configuration, the locking block may further include a transducer mechanism that provides relative axial movement of the pin as it rotates.

In some embodiments, the converter mechanism includes at least one cam-push mechanism. In a specific embodiment, the at least one cam includes a cam surface formed around a pin and at least one follower mounted on the housing and remaining in contact with the cam surface as the at least one locking pin rotates to provide relative axial movement of the pin.

In some embodiments, the holder forms part of at least one follower, wherein a locking element is mounted along a portion of the cam surface such that, during rotation of the pin, the at least one follower maintains contact with the cam surface and moves the tabs of the C-shaped element against their biasing force to allow the C-shaped element to pass by or come into contact with the holder so that the pin can move to a predetermined position, after which the C-shaped element, under the action of a biasing force, can move back to its original locked position, and in the locked position the holder engages engages with the C-shaped member to hold the pin in position.

In some embodiments, the C-shaped element is in the form of a spring clip. In a particular embodiment, the C-shaped element may be located and secured in the recess of the pin.

In some embodiments of the fifth aspect, the target position is the extended position of the pin.

In some embodiments, the locking pin has an axis and may include first and second portions spaced apart along the axis of the pin and connected to each other by a connection capable of transmitting torque from at least one of the first or second portions of the pin to the other from the first or second parts of the pin, and providing the possibility of axial movement of the parts of the pin relative to each other in the direction along the axis of the pin.

The lock block or excavator wear assembly according to any of the above aspects of the invention may further comprise a drive device located at one end of at least one of the pin portions and adapted to allow rotation of the pin.

The following is a detailed description of certain non-limiting examples of embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief description of drawings

In fig. 1 excavator wear unit according to an embodiment, perspective view;

in fig. 2 - locking block according to an embodiment in a disassembled state for the excavator wear unit according to FIG. 1, isometric view;

in fig. 3a - locking block according to FIG. 2 in a retracted position, isometric view;

in fig. 3b - locking block according to FIG. 3a, side view;

in fig. 3c - locking block according to FIG. 3b, sectional view along the B-B plane;

in fig. 3d - locking block according to Fig. 3b, sectional view along plane D-D;

- 5 043340 in Fig. 3e - locking block according to FIG. 3b, sectional view along the L-L plane;

in fig. 4a - locking block according to FIG. 3 in extended position, isometric view;

in fig. 4b - locking block according to FIG. 4a, side view;

in fig. 4c - locking block according to FIG. 4b, sectional view along plane AA;

in fig. 4d locking block according to FIG. 4b, sectional view along plane E-E;

in fig. 5a - excavator wear unit according to FIG. 1 with part of the wear element removed and including the locking block of FIG. 2 in a retracted position, isometric view;

in fig. 5b - excavator wear unit according to FIG. 5a, isometric view;

in fig. 5c - area F of the locking block according to FIG. 5b, isometric view on an enlarged scale;

in fig. 6a - excavator wear unit according to FIG. 1 with part of the wear element removed and including the locking block of FIG. 2 in extended position, isometric view;

in fig. 6b - excavator wear unit according to FIG. 6a, perspective view;

in fig. 6c - area K of the locking block according to FIG. 6b is an enlarged perspective view;

in fig. 6d - excavator wear unit according to FIG. 6a, sectional view along the G-G plane;

in fig. 7 - locking block according to the second embodiment in a retracted position with the body shown in dotted lines, isometric view;

in fig. 8 - pin part of the locking block according to FIG. 7, isometric view;

in fig. 9 - locking block according to FIG. 7 in extended position, isometric view;

in fig. 10 is an exploded isometric view of a third embodiment of a locking block for an excavator wear unit;

in fig. 11a - locking block according to FIG. 10 in retracted position, side view;

in fig. 11b - locking block, sectional view along plane B-B in FIG. 11a;

in fig. 12a - locking block according to FIG. 10 in extended position, side view;

in fig. 12b - locking block according to FIG. 12a, sectional view along plane AA;

in fig. 13 - locking block according to the fourth embodiment in a disassembled state for an excavator wear unit, isometric view;

in fig. 14 - locking block according to FIG. 13 in a retracted position, isometric view;

in fig. 15 - locking block according to FIG. 13 in extended position, side view;

in fig. 16 - locking block according to FIG. 15, sectional view.

Carrying out the invention

In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this detailed description. The illustrative embodiments discussed in the detailed description of the invention, presented in the accompanying drawings and claimed in the claims are not limiting. Other embodiments may be used and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Of course, all aspects of the invention generally described herein and illustrated by the accompanying drawings may be used, interchanged, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are within the scope of the invention.

In general, the invention relates to excavator wear units for earthmoving equipment. The exemplary embodiment illustrates an excavator wear assembly comprising a wear element mounted on the nose of a support structure attached to a bucket lip or other cutting edge. The nose portion may be part of the supporting structure or may be integral with the cutting edge. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments of the invention may be applied to excavator wear assemblies in which the wear element is attached to an intermediate element (which may also be referred to as a support structure), which in turn is attached to a toe forming part of the cutting edge, or to the toe of an additional toothed element mounted on the cutting edge. In excavator wear units according to the invention, a lock is used to lock the wear member to the toe of a support structure or to a toe that is part of a cutting edge. Similarly, in excavator wear assemblies containing an intermediate member, locks are used to secure the tip to the intermediate member and the intermediate member to a toe formed with the cutting edge, or to secure the toothed member to the cutting edge.

In fig. 1-6 show an excavator wear assembly 10 including a wear member 12, a support structure 14, and a lock block 16. The wear member 12 includes a seat 18 and the support structure 14 includes a nose portion 20. As shown in FIG. 1, before installing the wear member 12 on the support structure 14, a locking block 16 is inserted into a lock cavity 22 formed in the support structure 14. The seat 18 of the wear member 12 is configured to accommodate the nose portion 20 of the support structure 14 when the wear member 12 and the support the structure 14 are connected to each other, as shown in Fig. 5 and 6. In the present embodiment, the support structure 14 is attached to the cutting edge of the earthmoving equipment, and the wear element 12 includes a wear surface and an edge that carries out the digging process.

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As shown in FIG. 2, 3 and 4, the locking block 16 is designed and configured to secure a wear member 12 to the support structure 14. The locking block 16 includes a locking pin 24 that extends along its axis and includes a first pin portion 26 and a second pin portion 28 disposed at each other. behind each other along the axis of the pin. The pin portions 26, 28 are connected to each other by a connection 30 that allows torque to be transmitted from at least one pin portion to the other pin portion.

The connection 30 also allows one of the pin portions 26, 28 to move relative to the other pin portion in a direction along the pin axis.

The connection 30 includes complementary connecting elements 32 that engage with each other and extend in the direction along the axis of the pin. The connecting elements 32 of the first pin part are offset at an angle relative to the connecting elements 32 of the second pin part so that they engage with each other. In the embodiment under consideration, the connecting elements 32 are made in the form of fingers or strips, offset relative to each other at an angle relative to the axis of the pin. Together, the connecting elements 32 form a connection 30 having the shape of a cylinder. The first pin portion 26 contains two connecting members 32 spaced apart from each other at an angle of approximately 180°. As a result, these two connecting elements 32 are located opposite each other. It will be appreciated that various other coupling element configurations are also possible, which may include more than two coupling elements on each pin portion.

Each connecting member 32 extends from first edge 34 to second edge 36 and includes radially extending inclined side surfaces 38. These side surfaces 38 engage with each other and serve to transmit torque from one part of the pin to another part of the pin. Depending on the direction of the applied torque, the side surfaces 38 coming into contact with each other change. A torque is applied to the end 42 of one of the pin portions, which then rotates about the axis of the pin in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. This configuration ensures that forces are dissipated along the side surfaces to prevent pin parts from jamming during rotation.

In the embodiment under consideration, at the end 42 of the first part of the pin, a drive device 40 is made in the form of a hexagonal socket so that the operator, if necessary, can rotate the locking pin 24. Rotation is carried out by the operator using a tool of the appropriate shape inserted into the socket 40. When inserting the locking pin 24 into the locking cavity 22, the hex socket 40 remains open and accessible at the end of the locking block 16. This provides easy access to the drive device, i.e. socket 40, as well as the possibility of removing the locking pin 24 from the locking cavity 22 if necessary.

The locking block also includes a body 44. The body 44 includes a body 45 that includes a hollow channel 46 extending in a longitudinal direction from the first end 48 to the second end 50. The lock pin 24 can be received into the body 44. The hollow channel 46 of the body 45 has a cylindrical shape that allows the pin parts to rotate within the channel 46. The body 44 may be located in a locking cavity 22 formed in the support structure 14, and the locking pin 24 may be received inside the body 44. The external shape of the body 45 is circular, so that the body 44 does not rotates relative to the support structure 14. For example, in the exemplary embodiment, the body 45 has an elongated top surface that prevents the body from rotating relative to the support structure 14. The body 44 also includes a gate 52 located around the second end 50. The gate 52 extends laterally relative to the longitudinal axis, and therefore the housing 44 can be inserted and removed from only one side of the support structure 14. The support structure lock cavity 22 has an oblong shape at one end to tilt a recess 54 also formed in the support structure and extending around one end of the lock cavity 22. The concave curved surface forms an elongated recess 54 in the support structure, and the gate 52 includes a flange 56 having a convex shape corresponding to the shape of the concave curved surface of the recessed cavity of the support structure, whereby when the housing 44 is inserted into the support structure 14, said concave and convex surfaces engage each other with a friend. The aforementioned curved surfaces help reduce wear on the body and support structure 14. The shape of the collar 52 is also oblong and follows the shape of the outer surface of the body 45. In alternative embodiments, the outer surface of the body can be any other non-circular shape, such as oval, hexagonal, etc. .

The pin portions 26, 28 are movable axially between the retracted (FIGS. 3 and 5) and extended (FIGS. 4 and 6) positions. In the extended position, at least one of the pin portions 26, 28 protrudes beyond the boundaries of at least one end of the housing 44. In the present embodiment, in the extended position, both pin parts 26, 28 protrude beyond the boundaries of the ends 48, 50 of the housing 44. In the retracted position both ends 48, 50 are flush with the ends or recessed into the ends of the housing 44.

As best shown in FIG. 4, when parts 26, 28 of the pin in the extended position protrude beyond the boundaries of the ends 48, 50 of the housing, an internal cavity is formed between the connecting elements 32

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60. An internal cavity 60 is formed between the connecting elements 32, the ends of the pin parts 26, 28 and the corresponding ends 48, 50 of the body 44. A seal 76 is installed between the body 44 and the pin parts 26, 28. In particular, the seal 76 abuts the flange at the proximal ends connecting elements, due to which the seal 76 is held in the required position relative to the pin parts 26, 28. The seal 76 prevents dirt and other materials present during digging operations from entering the lock pin block 16, particularly the internal cavity 60. This reduces the risk of the lock pin block 16 jamming during operation. In the retracted position, the connecting members 32 engage with each other to form a cylinder.

When at least one of the pin portions is rotated, the converter mechanism causes one of the pin portions 26, 28 to move axially relative to the other pin portion 26, 28 between the extended and retracted positions. In the exemplary embodiment, the first pin portion 26 is rotated, and then the first pin portion 26 and the second pin portion 28 are rotated together. The converter mechanism includes at least one cam-push mechanism, but multiple cam-push mechanisms may be provided. For example, in the exemplary embodiment, each pin portion 26, 28 includes a cam 62 and follower 64 mechanism. In alternative embodiments, the cam 62 and follower 64 mechanism may be replaced by corresponding threads or a J-slot capable of allowing longitudinal movement of the pin portions.

Each cam 62 includes a cam surface 66 in the form of a helical portion extending along the surface of the pin portion 26, 28 in a spiral manner relative to the axis of the locking pin 24. The helical portion is in the form of a groove 66. Each pin portion 26, 28 extends from the outer end 42 to the end 43 located within the housing 44. On each pin portion 26, 28, a helical groove 66 extends through an approximately 360° rotation from the outer end 42 to the inner end 43 and terminates in at least one latch 69 for engaging the pusher 64 when the locking pin 24 is in in its extended position. The pitch of the helical groove changes in such a way that each proximal end of the groove runs radially with a pitch close to zero, and between the ends of the groove its pitch increases by a certain amount. The pitch of the groove 66 affects the axial movement of the pin parts 26, 28. The grooves 66 of both pin parts 26, 28 are identical so that when positioned in the housing 44, the grooves 66 are mirror images of each other. In alternative embodiments, the cam surfaces may occupy a larger or smaller portion of the surface of the corresponding pin portion, may extend at a different pitch across the surface of the pin portion, and may have different shapes. Different cam surfaces will affect the relative axial displacement of the pin parts. In addition, the cam surfaces do not have to be identical.

The follower 64 is configured as a protrusion extending radially from the housing 44 into the channel 46. The follower 64 is configured to engage the cam surface by rotating the pin portion between the extended and retracted positions. The pusher 64 is configured to fit into the groove 66 of the corresponding part 26, 28 of the pin.

In fig. 2, 3 and 4 show a first embodiment of at least one lock 69. At least one lock 69 holds the pin portions 26, 28 in a predetermined axial position. In the embodiment under consideration, the predetermined axial position coincides with the extended position. The latch 69 includes a holder and a locking element located, respectively, on the body 44 and on the corresponding part 26, 28 of the pin. Thus, each locking block includes two locking elements 69. In the locked position, the locking element can engage the holder to hold the pin parts in a predetermined axial position. In the present embodiment, the holder is designed as the end of a pusher 64. The locking element is a biasing device 70, which is located relative to the holder. In the embodiment under consideration, the end of the holder contains a recess, and the locking element fits into this recess, holding the pin parts in a given axial position. In alternative embodiments, the end of the holder may extend past the locking element and is held in position behind the locking element to hold the pin parts in a predetermined axial position.

The displacement device 70 includes a rigid element 72 and an elastic element 74. The rigid element has the shape of a hemispherical protrusion 72 that fits into a recess in the end of the holder. Its shape allows it to move along the groove of pin parts 26, 28. The rigid member 72 fits into the helical groove 66 and engages the pusher 64, allowing the pusher 64 to pass by as the pin portions 26, 28 rotate. The resilient member 74 of the biasing device 70 forces the device 70 to follow the path of the groove 66.

In the present embodiment, the elastic element 74 consists of concentric layers of elastomeric material located under the rigid element 72 in the hole. When the pusher 64 engages the rigid element 72, the elastic element 74 is compressed. When compressed, the elastic member 74 may expand toward the wall defining the opening. In alternative va

- 8 043340 The elastic element can be replaced by any elastic material, for example, a spring, which can also be compressed in a given hole. During operation, the biasing device 70 is biased so as to enter the passage 62 (either the cam surface or the screw portion) of the pusher 64 as the pin portions 26, 28 rotate. When turning the pin parts 26, 28, the pusher moves along the groove past the holder to the locked position and holds the pin parts in position. The pusher 64 engages the bias device 70 to move the bias device 70 against its bias as it moves along the groove while engaging the cam surface. After the pusher 64 passes the biasing device, it is in a locked position. In the locked position, the biasing device 70 returns to its biased position. In the offset position, the offset device 70 engages the holder to hold the pin parts in position. In the embodiment under consideration, the specified position is the extended position.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the stopper may comprise a displacing device rather than a holder. In yet another alternative embodiment, the stopper can be made in the form of a locking device containing a pressable projection. Such a device includes a resilient element that cooperates with a recess in the groove to hold the device in a locked position.

In fig. 5 and 6 show an excavator wear assembly 10 containing a lock block 16 in the retracted and extended positions, respectively. During operation, before installing the wear element 12 on the support block 14, the locking block 16 is inserted into the lock cavity 22 of the support block 14. The wear element 12 includes a slot 18 into which the nose part 20 of the support block fits. In fig. 5a, 5b and 5c show a wear member 12 fitted onto a support block 14 containing a lock block 16 in a retracted position. The wear element 12 and the support structure 14 extend along the longitudinal axis of the block. The locking block 16 is held in a lateral position in the locking cavity 22 relative to the axis of the wear element block 12 and the support structure 14.

The wear element 12 includes tabs extending from the cutting edge on both sides of the socket. Each ear contains an opening 78 which, during operation, coincides with the locking cavity 22 of the support block. As a result, the tool can reach the end 42 of the locking pin 24 to move the locking pin 24 from the retracted to the extended position or vice versa.

In fig. 6 shows the locking pin 24 in the extended position. In the extended position, the locking pin 24 can interact with the wall 90 defining the hole 78 to retain the wear member 12 on the support structure 14. The interaction of the locking pin 24 with a portion of the wall 90 of the wear member 12 holds the locking pin 24 in tight engagement with the locking cavity 22, in in particular, in tight engagement with the locking device. As best shown in FIG. 6d, the locking pin 24 includes a support surface 80 that engages the wall 90 of the hole 78. Additionally, the ends of the pin 24 are tapered to facilitate retraction when surrounded by small particles.

Often, after use of wear member 12, support structure 14, or lock block 16, wear is observed on the respective surfaces of these members. When the pin 24 is in the fully extended position, the taper at the ends of the pin 24, the angle of the wall 90 of the hole 78 of the wear element 12, the elasticity of at least one retainer, and the connection 30 containing cooperating connecting elements that are capable of withstanding relative axial movement can tension the wear element. element 12 onto supporting structure 14.

In fig. 7-9 show a second embodiment of a locking block and a second embodiment of at least one latch. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals.

With regard to the locking block 116, the main difference is that the bias device is located around the connection 30. In the exemplary embodiment, the bias device is in the form of a spring 180. In FIG. 7a this spring is shown in a compressed state, and when the lock block 116 is in the extended position, the spring is in its natural non-operating position. As such, when the pin portions 26, 28 are in the extended position, the spring 180 assists the at least one latch to hold the pin portions 26, 28 in the extended position. The spring force can be overcome manually by applying pressure to the tool while moving the pin portions 26, 28 to the retracted position.

With respect to at least one latch 169, a second embodiment is shown in FIG. 7-9. More specifically, the latch 169 includes the holder described in the first and second embodiments of the locking element 170. The locking element 170 is in the form of a steel spring device, which, as in the first embodiment, is also biased for insertion into the groove 66. Steel spring device 170 extends from one end to the other end 182. At both ends 182 there is a hook that engages a shoulder 184 cut into the wall of the groove 66. The hooks 182 hold the steel spring device in position. The steel spring device also includes a boss 186 that projects into the groove 66 to engage the holder (or pusher 64) as the holder passes the steel spring device 170. There is a gap between the boss 186 and the wall of the groove 66. When the holder engages the steel spring device 170, the steel spring device is compressed such that the boss 186 is pushed into the gap 188 (against the wall) under the action of a pressing force. At the same time, the ends 182 of the steel spring device 170 flex and momentarily disengage from the beads 184.

The boss 186 may also hold the holder in a locked position and the locking pin 24 in an extended position.

The steel spring device 170 may not only be located in the wall of the groove 66. In an alternative embodiment, the steel spring device may be located in the groove 66 along the cam surface to engage the holder.

In fig. 10-12b show a third embodiment of the lock block 216. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals. The main difference between the first embodiment of the lock block 16 and the third embodiment of the lock block 216 is the connection 230. The connection 230 operates in the same way as the connection 30 of the first embodiment, but includes a design change that will be described in more detail below.

As noted above, connection 230 includes complementary connecting elements 290, 292 that engage each other and extend in the pin axis direction.

The connecting elements 290, 292 engage with each other in a manner similar to that of a tongue and groove joint. When engaged with each other, the connecting elements 290, 292 form a connection 230 having the shape of a cylinder.

The first pin portion 26 contains two connecting members 290 (forming parts of the connection 230) spaced apart from each other at an angle of approximately 180°. Between the connecting members 290 there is a groove or channel 294 into which the connecting members 292 of the second pin portion 28 fit. The channel 294 extends from the second end 236 to the first end 234 and branches into two channels 295 in the pin axis direction, between which the joint portion is located. Each of the branched channels 295 is shallower than the channel 294 and is formed by side walls 297 and a bottom wall 298 that are shaped to receive the connecting members 292 of the second pin portion.

The second pin portion 28 contains two coupling members 292 (forming part of the coupling 230) that are shaped to match the shape of the groove 294 and which fit tightly into it during operation. Likewise, the connecting elements 292 are also offset from each other at an angle of approximately 180°. In this embodiment, the connecting elements 292 are U-shaped (resembling the letter U) and include two parallel walls 296. The aforementioned U-shaped walls 296 fit into the branched channels 295 and can abut the side walls 297 when the lock block is retracted.

In particular, the supporting surfaces in this case are not beveled supporting surfaces, as in the first embodiment, but parallel surfaces 296. This configuration in the third embodiment ensures that the connecting elements 290, 292 are in closer contact with each other inside the channel 294. This avoids jamming of the pin parts during their rotation and axial movement relative to each other.

A third embodiment of tongue and groove connection 230 is also shown in FIG. 7-9 for the second embodiment. In fig. 8 clearly shows channel 294 leading into branched channels.

In fig. 11a and 11b show the lock block in the retracted position. In fig. 12a and 12b show the lock block in the extended position. The locking block according to the third embodiment is intended for use in the wear unit shown in FIG. 1, as well as 5a-6c.

In fig. 13-16 show a fourth embodiment of a lock block 316 and a third embodiment of at least one latch 369. The same elements are designated by the same reference numerals. The main difference with this embodiment is the design of at least one latch 369.

At least one latch 369 includes a holder similar to the latch of other embodiments, a connection 230, as in the third embodiment, and a locking element 370, as in the third embodiment. The locking element 370 is made in the form of a device of spring material, preferably spring steel, which is biased to be inserted into the groove 66. The steel spring device 370 is made in the form of a C-shaped spring clip. The C-shaped spring clip fits into a similarly shaped recess 390 in the groove 66. The C-shaped spring clip includes two tabs 382 offset from each other in a natural or original position. In the initial position, there is a gap 388 between each of the tabs 382 and the wall of the recess at the top thereof. As the spring clip passes the holder, the tabs 382 are moved away from each other. When the holder interacts with the C-shaped spring bracket 370, the steel spring device expands so that the tabs 382 move towards each of the walls and take up space in the gaps 388.

Tabs 382 hold the holder in the locked position and the locking pin 24 in the extended position. Thus, the tabs 382 of the spring clip 370 block the groove 66 until

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Claims (20)

a threshold force will be reached on the part of the holder interacting with the tabs 382, pushing the tabs 382 apart from each other. Then, once the force threshold is reached, the holder can move and advance behind the C-shaped spring clip so that the locking block can move into the retracted position. In the claims below, as well as in the description of the invention above, unless the context otherwise requires due to language or implied meaning, the term contains, as well as its derivatives such as containing, contained, etc., is used in in an inclusive sense, i.e. to indicate the presence of the specified distinctive features, but not to exclude the presence or possibility of adding additional features in various embodiments of the present invention. CLAIM 1. A locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) for securing the wear element to the supporting structure, comprising a locking pin (24) having an axis and containing a first part (20) and a second part (28) located at a distance from each other along the axis of the pin and connected to each other by means of a connection (30, 230) that allows torque to be transmitted from at least one of the first or second parts (26, 28) of the pin to the other of the second or first parts (28, 26) of the pin , and ensure axial movement of one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin relative to the other part (28, 26) of the pin in the direction along the axis of the pin; characterized in that the connection (30, 230) is made in the form of complementary connecting elements (23, 232, 292) that engage with each other and extend in the direction along the axis of the pin. 2. Locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) according to claim 1, further comprising a housing (44) having an internal channel (46) running along the longitudinal axis between the first and second ends (34, 36); wherein the pin (24) is configured to be placed inside the housing (44), and at least one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin is capable of rotating around the longitudinal axis inside the housing (44). 3. Locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) according to claim 1 or 2, in which the connecting elements (32, 232, 292) of the first and second parts (26, 28) of the pin are offset relative to each other at an angle around the axis of the pin , and the connecting elements (32, 232, 292) of the first part (26) of the pin are offset at an angle relative to the connecting elements (32, 232, 292) of the second part of the pin, so that they are capable of engaging each other to form a connection (30, 230). 4. Locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) according to any one of claims 1-3, additionally containing a converter mechanism (62, 64) providing axial movement of the parts (26, 28) of the pin relative to each other during rotation at least at least one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin. 5. Locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) according to claim 4, characterized in that the connection (30, 230) ensures simultaneous rotation of the first and second parts (26, 28) of the pin. 6. Locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the converter mechanism contains a mechanism with at least one cam (62) and a pusher (64). 7. The locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) according to claim 6 depending on claim 2, characterized in that said at least one cam (62) has a cam surface formed around at least one of the parts ( 26, 28) of the pin, said at least one pusher (64) is mounted on the housing and is maintained in contact with the cam surface during rotation of said at least one part (26, 28) of the pin, providing relative axial movement of the parts (26, 28) ) pin. 8. Locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the parts (26, 28) of the pin are designed to be axially movable between an extended position and a retracted position, while in the extended position the end of at least one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin protrudes beyond at least one of the ends of the housing (44), and in the retracted position, said at least one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin is located inside the housing (44). 9. Locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) according to claim 8, further comprising at least one lock (69, 169, 369) for fixing at least one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin in a given axial position . 10. Locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) according to claim 9, characterized in that the lock (69, 169, 369) contains a holder (64) and a locking element (70) configured to engage with the holder (64 ) in a locked position to hold said at least one part (26, 28) of the pin in a predetermined axial position. 11. The locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) according to claim 10, characterized in that the predetermined position is the extended position. 12. Locking block (316) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the locking element (70) is a C-shaped element (370) having opposing tabs that are elastically deformable when engaged with the holder (64). - 11 043340 13. Locking block (316) according to claim 12, characterized in that the C-shaped element is located in the pin and the holder (64) is located in the housing (44). 14. The locking block (316) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the holder forms part of the said at least one pusher (64), while the locking element (70) is installed along part of the cam surface (66) so that While the pin (24) is rotating, said at least one follower (64) maintains contact with the cam surface (66) and moves the C-shaped element's tabs (370) against their biasing force to allow the C-shaped element to pass the holder or enter into contact with the holder so that the pin (24) can move to a predetermined position, after which the C-shaped element (370) under the action of its biasing force can move back to its original locked position, and in the locked position the holder engages with the C- a shaped element (370) to hold the locking pin (24) in position. 15. Excavator wear unit (10) for attaching the wear element (12) to the support structure (14), containing the support structure (14) having a nose part (20) configured to be placed in the socket (18) of the wear element (12) ; a locking cavity (22) made in the support structure (14) and adapted to accommodate a locking block (16, 116, 216, 316); locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) including a locking pin (24) having an axis and containing a first part (26) and a second part (28) spaced apart along the axis of the pin and connected to each other another by means of a connection (30, 230) that allows torque to be transmitted from at least one of the first or second pin parts (26, 28) to the other of the second or first pin parts (28, 26), and to allow axial movement of the parts the pin relative to each other in the direction along the axis of the pin; characterized in that the connection (30, 230) is made in the form of complementary connecting elements (32, 232) that engage with each other and extend in the direction along the axis of the pin, and the axial movement of one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin relative to the other parts (28, 26) of the pin in the direction along the axis of the pin are adapted to ensure fastening of the wear element (12) to the supporting structure (14). 16. Excavator wear unit according to claim 15, characterized in that the locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) additionally contains a housing (44) configured to be placed in the locking cavity (22) of the supporting structure and having an internal channel (26 ), passing along the longitudinal axis between the first and second ends (34, 36); wherein the pin (24) is configured to be placed inside the housing (44), and at least one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin is capable of rotating inside the housing (44). 17. Excavator wear unit according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the pin parts (26, 28) are axially movable between an extended position and a retracted position. 18. Excavator wear unit according to any one of claims 15 to 17, further comprising a wear element (12) comprising at least one retaining surface, and when the wear element is mounted on the support structure (14), the retaining surface is aligned with the locking cavity ( 22) the support structure (14), so that when the pin (24) is in the extended position, the wear element (12) is attached to the support structure (14), and when the pin (24) is in the retracted position, the wear element (12) capable of being detached from the supporting structure (14). 19. Excavator wear unit according to claim 18, characterized in that the end of at least one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin protrudes beyond at least one of the ends of the housing (44) and is capable of engaging with said at least one a wear member retaining surface (12) for attaching the wear member (12) to the support structure, when the wear member (12) is mounted on the support structure (14) and the pin (24) is in an extended position, and said at least one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin is located inside the housing (44) and is not engaged with the specified at least one holding surface of the wear element (12) to allow the wear element (12) to be detached from the supporting structure (14) when the pin (24) is in a retracted position. 20. Excavator wear unit according to any one of claims 15-19, characterized in that the locking block (16, 116, 216, 316) additionally contains a converter mechanism (62, 64) that ensures axial movement of the pin parts (26, 28) in the time of rotation of at least one of the parts (26, 28) of the pin, while during operation the connection (30, 230) ensures simultaneous rotation of the first and second parts (26, 28) of the pin. -