JP2024513499A - wear assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A wear member for attachment to a mining edge of a bucket includes a forward end and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the forward end. Each leg includes an inner surface facing the mining edge, a rear wall, and a lock opening for receiving the lock therethrough. At least one of the bifurcated legs includes a front section, a rear section, and a coupling mechanism. The rear portion defines a stabilization area with a front facing side wall in front of the rear wall. [Selection diagram] Figure 1

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD This invention relates to wear assemblies, and in particular to wear assemblies for attachment of wear members to a bucket or other digging edge of an excavator.

It is common to secure wear members in the form of teeth and shrouds along the mining edge of a bucket or other shovel to protect the front lip from premature wear. Teeth project forward of the lip to facilitate penetration and break up the ground collected in the bucket. The shroud is attached to the lip between the teeth. As will be appreciated, wear parts, especially teeth, are often used in harsh working conditions, where they are subjected to very heavy loads and high wear.

Drilling teeth are generally composed of multiple parts including, for example, adapters, points, and locks. The adapter has a rear mounting end configured to attach to the front lip of the bucket and a forwardly projecting nose for attaching points. The point is a tapered member provided with a forward civil penetration end and a rearwardly opening socket that receives the nose of the adapter. The lock is the part of the wear assembly that secures the point to the adapter. Although the points wear most often, adapters are also subject to wear and require periodic replacement.

Adapters have been developed that attach mechanically to the bucket lip to allow for field replacement. The most common are known as Whisler style adapters (as shown, for example, in US Pat. No. 4,267,653 to Hahn and US Pat. No. 6,986,216 to Emrich and Briscoe). In these arrangements, the rear mounting end of the adapter includes a pair of bifurcated legs that straddle the bucket lip. Each leg of the adapter includes an opening that is aligned with a through hole or keyway formed in the lip of the bucket. A multi-part lock, including a spool and a wedge, is inserted into the aligned opening and through-hole to secure the adapter in place.

In one embodiment of the invention, a wear member is provided that is securely attached to the mining edge of earthmoving equipment (eg, a bucket lip) by a mechanical mechanism that facilitates simple attachment and removal.

According to another embodiment of the invention, a wear member is provided for attachment to a mining edge, the mining edge defining a keyway therethrough. The wear member includes a front end, bifurcated legs extending rearwardly from the front end each including an inner surface facing the mining edge, a rear wall, and a lock opening receiving the lock therethrough. At least one of the bifurcated legs further includes a front portion, a rear portion recessed relative to the front portion, and a coupling mechanism. The anterior portion defines a rearwardly facing sidewall adjacent the posterior portion. The rear portion defines a stabilization area with a front facing side wall in front of the rear wall.

Optionally, one or both of the bifurcated legs may include a rear engagement structure.

Optionally, each leg includes a further front-facing sidewall forming a support surface, partially defining a locking opening, and located at a rearward end.

Optionally, the front section defines a rearwardly facing sidewall adjacent the rear section.

Optionally, the rear engagement structure comprises a slot that opens at the rear wall and inner surface of the leg and extends longitudinally to receive a boss on the mining edge, the boss resisting lateral forces. The bosses on the mining edge extend toward the interior sidewalls but may not actually touch during normal operation. In effect, the internal sidewall may act primarily as a clearance surface rather than an abutment surface. Alternatively, the interior sidewall may be configured to abut a boss on the mining edge during normal operation.

Optionally, the rear engagement structure comprises opposing external sides of the legs to be received and surrounded by complementary surfaces of the retention feature on the mining edge for resisting longitudinal and lateral forces. .

Optionally, one of the lock openings extends longitudinally between the front and rear walls and receives the lock therethrough, into which another part of the lock is inserted. Allowing part of the lock to move longitudinally.

Optionally, the rear portion defines a ledge on each opposing longitudinal side of the lock opening.

Optionally, at least one of the bifurcated legs includes an upper leg.

Optionally, at least one of the bifurcated legs includes a lower leg.

Optionally, the other of the bifurcated legs also includes a anterior portion and a posterior portion recessed relative to the anterior portion.

Optionally, the front portion is located between the front end and the lock opening.

Optionally, the rear portion is recessed relative to the outer surface of the front portion.

Optionally, the rear portion at least partially surrounds the lock opening.

Optionally, the coupling formation comprises a retaining surface on the front for engaging a complementary coupling portion on the wear cap, thereby preventing the wear cap from moving away from the wear member. be done.

Optionally, the wear cap comprises a protrusion for receiving within the recess of the wear member, so that rearward movement of the wear cap is prevented.

Optionally, the rear stabilization area comprises a pair of recesses located on opposite sides of the lock opening.

Optionally, each recess comprises a front facing side wall and a longitudinal wall extending from the front facing side wall and tapering towards the front. The longitudinal walls need not be tapered in either direction.

Optionally, the recess further comprises a pair of upwardly facing ledges, each ledge defined by a longitudinal side of the leg, one of the front facing side walls, and one of the longitudinal walls. .

Optionally, one or both ledges taper from the front-facing sidewall toward the front end such that the width of one or both ledges decreases toward the front end. The ledges may not be tapered in either direction or may be tapered toward the rear end such that the width of one or both ledges decreases toward the rear end.

Optionally, the wear member has a forwardly projecting nose for attaching another component.

Optionally, the wear member is selected from the group consisting of an adapter, a tip, and a shroud.

Optionally, a front facing support wall on the wear member engages a back surface of the lock received through the lock opening.

In another embodiment, a wear member for attachment to a mining edge includes a forward end and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the forward end. Each leg including the mining edge and the inner surface facing the back wall. At least one of the legs has a lock opening therein for receiving a lock. At least one of the legs includes a front portion and a rear portion recessed relative to the front portion. The front portion includes a rear facing sidewall adjacent the rear portion and faces a retractable wear cap within the recessed rear portion. The rear portion includes at least one front facing side wall forward of the rear wall that is adapted to engage the wear cap at the rear and resist rearward movement of the wear cap.

In another embodiment, a wear member for attachment to a mining edge includes a forward end and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the forward end. At least one of the legs defines a lock opening therein for receiving a lock, and a pair of recesses on each side of the lock opening, each recess defining a rear portion of the wear cap on the at least one leg. Includes front-facing walls to withstand movement.

In another embodiment, a wear member for earthmoving equipment includes a pair of legs defining a cavity therebetween for receiving a base of the equipment. Each of the legs includes an inner surface facing the base, an opposite outer surface facing away from the base, and a through hole opening into the inner surface and the outer surface. Each leg aperture has a rear end defined by an end surface extending away from the base, the end surface of one leg extending from the inner surface to the outer surface and the end surface of the other leg extending from the inner surface to the outer surface. The section surface extends from the inner surface to a step near the outer surface.

In another embodiment, a wear member for earthmoving equipment includes at least one leg having a base-facing inner surface, an outer surface, a front end, and a rear end, the rear end of the leg having a wear cap. Includes a mounting recess on the exterior surface for mounting.

According to another embodiment of the invention, a wear member is provided for attachment to a mining edge of a bucket, the wear member having a front end, a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the front end, and a wear cap thereon. at least one of the legs defining a recessed shelf for receiving and a lock opening therein for receiving a lock.

The wear member may include a shroud.

According to another embodiment of the invention, a wear assembly is provided for attachment to a mining edge of a bucket, the mining edge defining a keyway therethrough. A wear assembly is defined by a wear member according to the above embodiments, and any desired optional features of the above paragraphs, a rear wear cap attached to the rear of the wear member, a lock comprising a cooperating spool, and the wear member. , with a wedge attached to the locking opening that retains the rear wear cap on the wear member.

Optionally, the wear cap is attached to the recessed rear portion of the wear member and defines a longitudinally extending opening in alignment with the lock opening and the contoured lower engagement surface.

Optionally, the contoured lower engagement surface includes a front coupling feature, an engagement wing, and a rear boss feature.

Optionally, the front coupling feature includes a protrusion extending beyond the upper wear surface opposite the contoured lower engagement surface operable to engage a complementary recess on the front of the wear member. Department.

Optionally, the front coupling mechanism comprises a recess operable to engage a complementary projection on the front of the wear member.

Optionally, each of the engagement wings has a rearward facing wall for abutting a corresponding front facing sidewall located rearwardly on the wear member and a corresponding upwardly facing wall defined by the wear member. and a downwardly facing surface aligned with the ledge.

Optionally, each of the engagement wings tapers toward the front of the wear member.

Optionally, the rear boss mechanism includes a rear facing wall for alignment with a front facing side wall defining a locking opening on the wear member.

Optionally, the rear boss mechanism extends towards the lock opening such that the spool is located under a corresponding projecting arm of the spool to prevent movement of the rear wear cap in an upward direction. Further comprising a movable tongue.

In another embodiment, a wear assembly for earthmoving equipment includes a wear member operable to couple to a mining edge of the earthmoving equipment, a wear cap configured to mount over the wear member, and a wear member operable to couple the wear member to the mining edge. and a lock for securing the wear cap to the wear member.

In another embodiment, a wear assembly for attachment to a mining edge includes a wear member including a forward end and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the forward end. Each leg includes a mining edge and an inner surface facing the rear wall. At least one of the legs has a lock opening therein for receiving a lock. A wear cap is mounted on the wear member. A lock is within the lock opening to retain the wear cap on the wear member and the wear member on the mining edge.

In another embodiment, a wear assembly for attachment to a mining edge includes a wear member including a forward end and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the forward end. Each of the legs includes an inner surface facing the mining edge, an outer surface opposite the inner surface, and a rear wall. At least one of the legs includes a recess in the outer surface and at least one of the legs has a lock opening therein for receiving a lock. A wear cap is mounted in a recess on the wear member. A lock is within the lock opening to retain the wear member on the mining edge.

In another embodiment, a wear assembly for earthmoving equipment includes a wear member operable to couple to a mining edge of a bucket or other shovel, a wear cap configured to mount over the wear member, and a wear member operable to couple to a mining edge of a bucket or other shovel. A lock is provided for securing to the mining edge and for securing the wear cap to the wear member.

In another embodiment, a wear assembly for earthmoving equipment includes a wear member having a pair of legs defining a cavity therebetween for receiving a base of the equipment. Each of the legs includes an inner surface facing the base, an opposite outer surface facing away from the base, and a through-hole opening in the inner and outer surfaces generally aligned with the keyway of the base. Each leg hole has a rear end defined by an end surface extending away from the base. A lock for securing the wear member to the base includes a spool and a wedge. The spool does not include an arm on each end of the spool to contact the step surface between the end surface and the outer surface of each of the legs, and to withstand forward movement of each leg during use. , having a rearwardly facing support surface that contacts the end surface within the bore.

In another embodiment, a wear assembly for earthmoving equipment includes a wear member having at least one leg with an inner surface facing a base of the equipment, and a wedge and a spool for securing the wear member to the base of the equipment. the wedge includes two threaded tapered sections and a cylindrical section between the tapered sections.

According to another embodiment of the invention, a wear cap for use with a wear member as part of a wear assembly, the rear wear cap defining an upper wear surface and a contoured lower portion opposite the upper wear surface. an engagement surface and a longitudinally extending opening extending through the upper wear surface and the lower engagement surface, the contoured lower engagement surface connecting the front coupling mechanism and the engagement wing. and a rear boss mechanism.

Optionally, the front coupling mechanism includes a protrusion that extends beyond the upper wear surface and is operable to engage a complementary formation on the wear member.

Optionally, the front coupling mechanism comprises a recess operable to engage a complementary projection on the wear member.

Optionally, the front coupling mechanism is generally centered on the front of the rear wear cap.

Optionally, each of the engagement wings comprises a rear facing wall for abutting a corresponding front facing side wall located rearwardly on the wear member.

Optionally, each of the engagement wings tapers in mutually orthogonal directions toward the front of the wear member.

Optionally, the rear boss mechanism includes a rear facing wall for alignment with a front facing side wall that partially defines a locking opening on the wear member.

Optionally, the rear boss mechanism further comprises a tongue extending toward the locking opening and operable to position the spool under a corresponding protruding arm of the spool to prevent the wear cap from moving in an upward direction.

In another embodiment, a wear cap for use with a wear member attached to a mining edge of a bucket includes an upper wear surface, a lower surface opposite the upper wear surface for engaging the wear member, an upper wear surface and a lower surface for engaging the wear member. an opening through the surface, a front coupling formation that engages the wear member to retain the wear cap on the wear member, and a rear boss that engages a lock to retain the wear cap on the wear member.

In another embodiment, a wear cap for use with a wear member to protect a rear portion thereof, the wear cap comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, a locking opening through the top surface and the bottom surface, a front coupling portion; A wear cap that engages the wear member and thereby retains the wear cap thereon.

In another embodiment, a wear cap for use with a wear member attached to a mining edge includes an upper wear surface, a lower surface opposite the upper wear surface that engages the wear member, and a wear cap extending inwardly from the upper wear surface. each including a rear facing support wall that engages a complementary front facing side wall on the wear member.

In another embodiment, a wear cap for use with a wear member to protect a rear portion thereof, the wear cap having an upper surface, a contoured lower engagement surface, and a longitudinal length extending through the upper and lower engagement surfaces. A wear cap defining an opening extending in the direction, the contoured lower engagement surface including a front coupling formation for engaging the wear member and thereby retaining the wear cap to the wear member.

According to another embodiment, a wear cap is provided for use with a wear member to protect a rear portion thereof, the wear cap having a top surface, a contoured bottom engagement surface, and a top surface extending through the top and bottom engagement surfaces. The contoured lower engagement surface defines a longitudinally extending opening that includes a front coupling mechanism.

Optionally, the contoured lower engagement surface further includes engagement wings and a rear boss feature.

According to another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a wear assembly comprising a wear member for attachment to a mining edge of a bucket, the mining edge having a keyway therethrough, and a rear wear cap mechanically attached to the wear member. Define. The wear member includes a forward end and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the forward end. Each leg includes an inner surface facing the mining edge, a rear wall, and a lock opening for receiving a lock therethrough. At least one of the bifurcated legs further includes a front portion, a rear portion recessed relative to the front portion, and a coupling mechanism. The rear portion defines a stabilization area with a front facing side wall in front of the rear wall. The wear cap has a longitudinally extending opening extending therethrough and in alignment with the lock opening, a front coupling mechanism operable to engage the coupling mechanism; With engagement wings operable to engage the stabilizing region, the wear cap may be mechanically attached to the wear member by a lock used to secure the wear member to the mining edge.

In another embodiment, a wear assembly for civil engineering equipment includes a wear member having at least one leg with an inner surface facing a base of the equipment, a wear cap that covers at least a portion of the wear member, and a wear cap that covers the wear member. and a lock for securing the wear member to the base.

In another embodiment, a wear assembly for earthmoving equipment has a pair of legs, each leg covering at least a portion of one of the pair of legs, the wear member having an inner surface facing the base of the equipment. A first wear cap, a second wear cap covering at least a portion of the other of the pair of legs, and a lock for securing at least one of the wear caps to the wear member and the wear member to the base.

Another embodiment of the invention includes a wear member operable to securely couple to a mining edge of a bucket or other excavator, a component mounted on the wear member, and securing the wear member to the mining edge. A wear assembly is provided that also includes a lock securing the component to the wear member.

Optionally, the lock includes a multi-part lock. A multi-part lock can include multiple separate components that can be coupled and uncoupled. Alternatively, a multi-part lock may include multiple components that are coupled together but movable relative to each other to increase or decrease one or more external dimensions of the multi-part lock.

Optionally, the wear member includes an adapter.

Optionally, the adapter may define an aperture therethrough for alignment with the aperture defined by the mining edge, and a lock may be installed within the adapter and the mining edge opening.

Optionally, the component attached to the adapter includes a wear cap, such as a rear wear cap.

Optionally, the wear member includes a shroud.

Optionally, the component mounted on the shroud includes a wear cap.

Optionally, the component can surround an aperture defined by the wear member.

According to another embodiment of the invention, a spool is provided for use with separable components removably secured together, the separable components defining a locking opening for receiving the spool. and the spool has an elongated body extending along the body axis from the head portion to the leg portion, having (i) a recess defined by a front surface thereof, (ii) a contoured surface on a rear surface thereof; iii) a pair of arms extending away from the body axis on the rear surface at the head portion; and (iv) a pair of shoulders extending between the front surface and the rear surface at or near the head portion. Be prepared.

Optionally, the contoured surface on the rear surface includes an angled support located below one of the pair of arms and a support surface on the leg portion for engaging the mining edge.

Optionally, the contoured surface on the rear surface includes a back head surface for engaging the wear member.

Optionally, the leg portion is substantially free of protrusions prior to its full insertion so that the spool can be inserted into the lock opening without the leg portion catching on the mining edge or wear member.

Optionally, the leg portion is located on the rear surface at the opposite end of the head portion for engaging a complementary recess in the wear member or at least partially defined by the wear member. It includes an arm extending away from the body axis.

Optionally, a recess on the front surface defines a cutout thread for engaging a complementary recess thread on the wedge.

Optionally, the front recess defines a recess thread for engaging a complementary cutout thread on the wedge.

Optionally, the recess on the front surface defines an outer surface that is generally parallel to the body axis as the recess extends toward the bottom of the leg portion. Alternatively, the recess on the front surface is such that when the recess extends toward the bottom of the leg portion, (i) is generally parallel to the body axis for a portion of its length; and (ii) its defining an outer surface that is inclined toward the body axis for a portion of the length and optionally (iii) generally parallel to the body axis for a portion of the length.

Optionally, the lower portion defines a limit stop extending away from the body axis and protruding into the recess to prevent the wedge from protruding beyond the limit stop.

Optionally, the support surface slopes away from the body axis when extending to the insertion end of the spool.

Optionally, a pair of shoulders are formed on either side of the lower arm of the pair of arms and on or above the lower arm.

In another embodiment, a spool for use in removably securing a wear member to a base for earthmoving equipment, the wear member and the base cooperatively defining a locking opening for receiving the spool. and the spool comprises an elongated body extending along a body axis. The body includes a head, legs extending from the head, a front surface, a rear surface, and a pair of arms having a head at an end and extending away from the body axis on the rear surface.

According to another embodiment of the invention, a wedge is provided for use in removably securing separable components together, the separable components having a locking opening for receiving the wedge. defining, the wedge includes an upper frustoconical portion, a lower frustoconical portion, and a central cylindrical portion between the upper frustoconical portion and the lower frustoconical portion, the upper frustoconical portion and the lower frustoconical portion having external threads; Define.

Optionally, the diameter of the central cylindrical portion matches the diameter of the bottom of the upper frustoconical portion and the diameter of the top of the lower frustoconical portion.

Optionally, the external thread includes a recessed cutting thread therein.

Optionally, the frustoconical portions have the same external taper angle.

Optionally, the cylindrical portion is unthreaded and untapered.

Optionally, relatively wide helical-shaped land segments are formed between adjacent spiral groove segments of the external thread.

Optionally, the helical-shaped land segment contacts a second support surface opposite one separable component to contact the other separable component, thereby interfacing the wedge with the component. defining a first support surface that resists loads between.

In another embodiment, a wedge for use in removably securing a wear member to a base for earthmoving equipment, the wear member and the base cooperatively defining a locking opening for receiving the wedge. and the wedge includes an upper frustoconical portion, a lower frustoconical portion, and a central cylindrical portion between the upper frustoconical portion and the lower frustoconical portion, and at least one of the upper frustoconical portion and the lower frustoconical portion. is a wedge, containing a screw.

These and other embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a wear assembly attached to a lip, according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective partial cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the wear assembly and lip portion of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a side view of the wear assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. 5 is a front view of the wear assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the wear assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the wear assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 8 is a simplified side partial cross-sectional view (without any cross-hatching) corresponding to the view shown in FIG. 2; 9A and 9B are simplified views of a portion (lip boss) of the wear assembly of FIG. 1; Same as above. 10 is a front perspective view of a portion (keyway insert) of the wear assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 11 is a plan view from above of the keyway insert of FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a front view of the keyway insert of FIG. 10. 13 is a front perspective view from above of a wear member (in the form of an adapter) forming part of the wear assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 14 is a side view of the adapter of FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is a top view of the adapter of FIG. 13. 16 is a bottom rear perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 13; FIG. FIG. 17 is a rear view of the adapter of FIG. 13. FIG. 18 is a front view of the adapter of FIG. 13. FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 13. 20 is a front perspective view from above of another portion of the wear assembly of FIG. 1 (rear wear cap); FIG. 21 is a side view of the rear wear cap of FIG. 20; FIG. 22 is a plan view of the rear wear cap of FIG. 20; FIG. 23 is a bottom view of the rear wear cap of FIG. 20; FIG. 24 is a front view of the rear wear cap of FIG. 20; FIG. 25 is a rear view of the wear member of FIG. 20. FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view from above of another portion of the wear assembly of FIG. 1 (the spool of the multi-part lock); FIG. FIG. 27 is a front perspective view from above of the spool of FIG. 26. FIG. 28 is a front view of the spool of FIG. 26. FIG. 29 is a rear view of the spool of FIG. 26. FIG. 30 is a rear perspective view from below the spool of FIG. 26; FIG. 31 is a side view of the spool of FIG. 26. FIG. 32 is a plan view from below the spool of FIG. 26. FIG. 33 is a top plan view of the spool of FIG. 26. 34 is a front view of another portion of the wear assembly of FIG. 1 (a wedge for use with a spool of a multi-part lock); FIG. 35 is a side view of the wedge of FIG. 34 coupled to the spool of FIG. 26; FIG. 36 is a top plan view of the wedge of FIG. 34 coupled to the spool of FIG. 26; FIG. 37 is a side view of the wedge of FIG. 34 coupled to the spool of FIG. 26 and the keyway insert of FIG. 10; FIG. 38 is an enlarged view of a portion of the partial cross-sectional view of the wear assembly shown in FIG. 8 prior to installation of the rear wear cap of FIG. 20 and insertion of the wedge of FIG. 34; 39 is a view similar to FIG. 38, but during installation of the rear wear cap of FIG. 20 and before insertion of the wedge of FIG. 34; 40 is a view similar to FIGS. 38 and 39, but after installation of the rear wear cap of FIG. 20 and before insertion of the wedge of FIG. 34; FIG. 41 is a simplified side view of the enlarged section of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 8 (illustrated by circle A) after installation of the rear wear cap of FIG. 20 and insertion of the wedge of FIG. 34; FIG. FIG. 42 is a front view of a stepped spool as an alternative to the spools of FIGS. 26-33. 43 is a front perspective view from above of the stepped spool of FIG. 42; FIG. FIG. 44 is a rear perspective view of a stepped keyway insert as an alternative to the keyway insert of FIGS. 10-12. FIG. 45 is a front view of a stepped wedge as an alternative to the wedge of FIG. 34; 46 is a front exploded perspective view from above of the stepped spool of FIG. 43, the stepped wedge of FIG. 45, and the stepped keyway insert of FIG. 44; FIG. 47 is a rear exploded perspective view from above of the stepped spool of FIG. 43, the stepped wedge of FIG. 45, and the stepped keyway insert of FIG. 44; FIG. 48 is a side view of the stepped wedge of FIG. 45 coupled to the stepped spool of FIG. 43 and the stepped keyway insert of FIG. 44; FIG. FIG. 49 is an exploded perspective view of the wear assembly near the lip portion, according to yet another embodiment of the invention. FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the wear assembly of FIG. 49 attached to a lip portion. 51 is a front perspective view of a portion (shroud) of the wear assembly of FIG. 49; FIG. FIG. 52 is a top plan view of the shroud of FIG. 51. FIG. 53 is a front view of the shroud of FIG. 51. 54 is a front perspective view of another portion (wear cap) of the wear assembly of FIG. 49; FIG. 55 is a top plan view of the wear cap of FIG. 54; FIG. FIG. 56 is a front view of the wear cap of FIG. 54. 57 is a front perspective view of another portion (multi-part lock) of the wear assembly of FIG. 49; FIG. FIG. 58 is a plan view from above of the multi-part lock of FIG. 57. FIG. 59 is a front view of the multi-part lock of FIG. 57. FIG. 60 is an exploded front perspective view of the multi-part lock of FIG. 57. 61 is a top plan view of the wear assembly and lip portion of FIG. 50; FIG. 62 is a front cross-sectional view taken along line 62-62 of FIG. 61. 63 is a simplified, enlarged front cross-sectional view taken along line 62-62 of FIG. 61 during insertion of the multi-part lock of FIG. 57. FIG.

Reference is first made to FIGS. 1-8, which illustrate a wear assembly 10 and various parts thereof, according to embodiments of the invention. The figures have been simplified and some figures have reduced detail for ease of understanding and to avoid cluttering the view.

In the example of FIGS. 1-8, the wear assembly 10 is mounted on the lip 12 of the bucket. Nevertheless, the wear assembly may be attached to other mining edges and/or other earthmoving equipment.

In FIG. 1, three mutually orthogonal axes are illustrated. These axes are the longitudinal (anterior and posterior) axis (labeled LONG), the lateral (lateral) axis (labeled LAT), and the aerial (i.e. up-down) axis (labeled LAT). (labeled LEV). As used herein, front and back are generally used relative to the longitudinal axis shown in FIG. Similarly, up and down are used to identify directions along the aerial axis, such as when the lip is oriented as in FIG.

Wear assembly 10 includes a wear member 14 (in this embodiment in the form of an adapter) that mounts on lip 12 and a point or tip 16 that mounts on the front end of adapter 14 . Wear assembly 10 further includes an optional front wear cap 20, an optional rear wear cap 22, and a lock 24 that secures adapter 14 to lip 12 when rear wear cap 22 is used. 22 is fixed to the adapter 14. Although one example of a wear assembly is shown, teeth with other designs may be used. By way of example, intermediate adapters may be provided and other types of locks may be used.

For ease of discussion, the attachment of adapter 14 to bucket lip 12 is disclosed herein. Nevertheless, in other embodiments the wear member 14 may be a shroud, a wing shroud, a solid point, a wear plate, etc., and the support structure may be a shroud, a wing shroud, a solid point, a wear plate, etc. It may be the mining edge of the equipment.

In this embodiment, lip 12 defines the mining edge of a cable shovel bucket or dipper and includes a leading surface 30, an inner surface 32, and an outer surface 34. A through hole or keyway 36 (best seen in FIG. 3) is provided in lip 12 passing through inner surface 32 and outer surface 34.

Although leading surface 30 is shown as a curved surface (or semicircle) corresponding to a portion of adapter 14, other configurations are possible. Leading surface 30 may define a projection or recess for engaging a complementary recess or projection of adapter 14 (respectively).

Although only a small portion of lip 12 is shown in the drawings, lip 12 may include a series of through holes 36 for attaching other teeth to the bucket. Various structures (not shown) may also be provided between the through holes 36 for attaching the shroud. Different shapes and configurations of keyway 36 are also possible. The mining edge may also include a wing shroud extending upwardly from the lip along the leading edge of the bucket sidewall and optionally provided with features of the adapter or shroud embodiments disclosed herein.

Lip 12 further includes a stabilization system 40. In the illustrated embodiment, stabilization system 40 includes an upper support or boss 42a, a lower support or boss 42b, and a keyway insert 44, but may include more or less components and those illustrated. Other configurations are possible that include components having different shapes. Any or all of these components can be omitted.

Stabilization system 40 increases the strength and/or stability of wear member 14 on lip 12, resulting in a longer life of wear member 14 and/or lip 12, and/or reduced maintenance requirements for lip 12.

In the illustrated embodiment, upper boss 42a, lower boss 42b, and keyway insert 44 are secured to bucket lip 12 via welds (labeled "W" in FIGS. 1-8). .

In other embodiments, the stabilization system may include other components. In one such example, one or more bosses or supports may be provided on the leading surface 30 of the lip 12.

In the illustrated embodiment, the bosses 42a, 42b are secured to the lip 12 behind and in alignment with the through hole 36. Upper boss 42a is preferably fixed to extend along the inner surface 32 of lip 12, and lower boss 42b is preferably fixed to extend along outer surface 34 of each through hole 36. Nevertheless, a single boss may be used on the inner surface 32 (or outer surface 34), or the boss may alternatively be omitted. One or more bosses may alternatively or additionally be secured to the lip between the leading surface 30 and the through hole 36. Instead of (or in addition to) the central boss received on the adapter legs 86a, 86b, a plurality of spaced bosses or supports may be provided for placement on the outside of each adapter leg on one or both sides of the lip. .

The bosses 42a, 42b are preferably welded to the lip 12, but may be formed as an integral part of the lip 12 or otherwise secured thereto. The bosses 42a, 42b are preferably cast from a harder alloy than the lip 12 to aid in reducing the wear rate of the lip 12 and in maintaining the lip 12, although various alloys having the same or lower hardness may be used.

In this embodiment, the bosses 42a, 42b are identical but are attached to opposite surfaces 32, 34 of the lip 12 such that they are mirror images of each other; in other embodiments, the lower bosses are If the upper boss is used, it may have a different configuration than the upper boss.

9A and 9B, each boss 42a, 42b is illustrated with a body 50 receivable within a slot of the adapter and a rear member 62 at the rear of the adapter.

In the illustrated embodiment, body 50 defines a central base 52 and a flange or rail 54 extending laterally along each side of the central base, thereby providing a T-shaped configuration. The rear member 62 abuts the rear end of the adapter 14 during mining, i.e., includes one or more abutments to withstand the applied loads and rearward shifting of the adapter legs, reducing the risk of adapter breakage. ment surface 56 . In Figures 1, 3, 4 and 8, welds are illustrated and labeled "W". Each boss 42 may be similar to the boss described in US Pat. No. 6,986,216, although variations of the design illustrated therein may be used.

Abutment surface 56 may include one or more inserts 58 for additional stiffness and/or other desirable properties.

The inside of the rail 54 defines a retaining surface 60 that generally faces the lip 12 to retain the adapter 14 to the lip 12 and accommodates the vertical extension of the adapter legs. Preferably, the rail 54 is secured to the abutment surface 56 for support. Rails 54 may have dovetails or other shapes to support adapter legs. Alternatively, the rails may be omitted or replaced with alternative supports.

Although the bosses 42a, 42b have a unitary construction in this embodiment, they may be defined by multiple pieces that are connected together or separately secured to the lip. Additionally, body 50 and/or back member 62 may be used without the other. Although in the illustrated example, rear member 62 is formed as part of its respective boss 42a, 42b, in other examples, bosses 42a, 42b and rear member 62 are formed as separate parts or are cast or manufactured. All can be formed as part of the lip 12 which can be formed by.

Reference is now also made to FIGS. 10-12, which show keyway insert 44 in more detail.

As best seen in FIG. 10, the keyway insert 44 has a generally C-shaped configuration having a central body 70, an inner arm 72, and an outer arm 74 extending therefrom.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the arms 72, 74 extends along its respective arm 72, 74 and defines a recess 72b, 74b on each side thereof to accommodate welding material (as shown in FIG. 3). It includes central protrusions 72a, 74a for housing therein. Inner arm 72 and outer arm 74 overlay and are welded to inner and outer surfaces 32 and 34, respectively, of lip 12. Other configurations and/or fixed arrangements are also possible.

The back side 76 of the central body 70 is arcuate to receive the front side of the wedge (described below). Back surface 76 is preferably unthreaded, but may optionally include threads to engage a wedge instead of (or in addition to) spool 180. Other shapes of the back surface are also possible, such as a non-arcuate concave shape or a flat surface (especially if other types of wedges are used, such as wedges driven by hammers or bolts, for example).

The keyway insert 44 may have a different shape than that described. For example, shapes similar to those shown in US Pat. No. 6,986,216 may be used, or alternative shapes may be used.

The keyway insert 44 serves to provide a longer, more deformation resistant support surface that the wedge can bear compared to using the lip 12 alone without the keyway 44. Arms 72, 74 may be the same or different lengths and may include plug welds. Arms 72, 74 may be of unitary construction or may be constructed from several components (eg, outer arm 74 may be constructed from two components). Arms 72 , 74 may be longer and may extend further from through hole 36 to leading surface 30 . Due to the use of longer arms (or for other reasons), one or both arms 72, 74 may be separate components welded to the lip 12 away from the central body 70.

Arms 72, 74 optionally provide additional lateral support to adapter 14, but can be used simply to support keyway insert 44.

13-19, adapter 14 will now be described. Adapter 14 supports point 16 and secures it to lip 12.

Adapter 14 has a front end 80 and a rear end 82. Forward end 80 includes a forwardly projecting nose 84 for attaching civil engineering penetration point 16 . A pair of bifurcated legs 86a,b extend rearward in the longitudinal direction from the front end 80 and straddle the lip 12. Upper leg 86a is positioned to engage inner surface 32 of lip 12, and lower leg 86b is positioned to engage outer surface 34 of lip 12.

Each leg 86a, 86b includes an inner surface 88a, 88b facing lip 12 and defines a rear wall 90a, 90b. In this embodiment, legs 86a, 86b are of equal (or approximately equal) length (in other embodiments, legs 86a, 86b may have different lengths). Slots 92a, 92b are optionally provided in each of legs 86a, 86b to open in rear walls 90a, 90b and inner surfaces 88a, 88b to receive respective bosses 42a, 42b.

Internal sidewalls 94a, 94b project into slots 92a, 92b from interior surface 95 (ie, toward lip 12) and optionally close the front surface of slots 92a, 92b. The slots are sized and shaped to receive the flanges 54 of the upper (inner) and lower (outer) bosses 42a, 42b, respectively. That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the sides of the slots 92a, 92b are provided with grooves for receiving the rails on the sides of the bosses 42a, 42b. Each of the inner sidewalls 94a, 94b is axially spaced from a respective boss 42a, 42b, but may alternatively abut the boss to provide resistance to thrust loads. Each slot 92a, 92b cooperates with a received boss 42a, 42b to provide support for the respective adapter leg and resist shifting of the leg in the lateral and/or upward/downward directions.

Each of the legs 86a, 86b includes a pair of opposing sides 96a, 96b extending longitudinally from near the nose 84 to the rear walls 90a, 90b. The legs 86a, 86b are connected through a central portion 140 that extends rearwardly from the front end 80 and has a rearwardly facing support surface 142. The front portion 144 of the sides 96a, 96b connects the legs 86a, 86b. The pair of opposing sides 96a, 96b are restrained by one or more supports (not shown) welded or otherwise secured onto the lip 12 adjacent each side 96a, 96b. Good too. These external supports (not shown) may replace internal supports 42a, 42b and/or 72,74.

Support surface 142 abuts lip leading surface 30 when adapter 14 is mounted thereon. In the illustrated embodiment, support surface 142 is curved to complement curved leading surface 30 . It will be appreciated that various designs of the leading surface on lip 12 and complementary support surface 142 on adapter 14 are possible. The above is given merely as an example. For example, leading surface 30 may define a protrusion or recess for engaging a complementary recess or protrusion (respectively) on adapter 14 . As another example, leading surface 30 and support surface 142 may each have an angular or non-uniform curve.

Lower leg 86b defines an outer lower surface 98 that extends from the rear of nose 84 to rear end 82.

Upper leg 86a extends from the rear of nose 84 to rear end 82 and defines an outer upper surface 100 having a front section 102 and a rear section 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 104 is recessed relative to the front portion 102, but this need not be the case. The rear portion 104 has an outer surface 105. The anterior portion 102 defines a rearwardly facing sidewall 106 (best seen in FIG. 19) adjacent the posterior portion 104 and defines the anterior portion of the recessed posterior portion 104.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rearwardly facing sidewall 106 has a generally C-shape when viewed from above and defines a central portion 107a that is generally parallel to the upper leg rear wall 90a and side portions 107b; 107b extends from central portion 107a toward its respective upper opposing side portion 96a and upper leg rear wall 90a. Other configurations of rearwardly facing sidewalls 106 are also possible.

Upper leg 86a (in this embodiment, rear portion 104) defines a locking opening 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking opening 112 is elongated and includes a narrowed front section 110 and a narrowed rear section 114 (best seen in FIGS. 15 and 19), although other shapes are possible. In this embodiment, the locking opening 112 is located at the rear, but it may be present at both the front and the rear, or only at the front.

The rearwardly facing sidewall 106 includes a projection 117 defining a retaining surface 118 on its underside. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 117 is one of the narrow front sections 110. Retaining surface 118 functions as a coupling formation for retaining wear cap 22 to wear member 14 .

In this embodiment, retaining surface 118 covers coupling portion 163 on wear cap 22 (described in more detail below). In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling portion 163 is formed on the forwardly extending tongue 163, although other embodiments are possible. For example, the protrusion 117 may be formed as a tongue having a retaining surface 118 for covering the upwardly facing surface of the rear wear cap 22. A plurality of retention surfaces 118 may be provided on the adapter to retain the wear cap on the adapter. The retaining surface 118 may be located at other locations than at the front end of the wear cap.

The retention surface 118 can optionally be biased (eg, by an elastomer) to retract during installation of the wear cap and return to the retention position when the wear cap is positioned in the installation position. Alternatively, the wear cap may include a biased coupling portion that retracts during installation and returns to a retention position below a retention surface on the adapter when the wear cap is in the installation position. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention surface 118 cooperates with a lock to retain the wear cap 22 to the wear member 14 (described below), and the retention surface 118 retains the wear cap without the use of a lock. be able to.

Step portion 125 of adapter 14 defines a shelf 120 that is recessed from rear exterior surface 105. Shelf 120 defines a concave front-facing surface 122 that forms a support surface, and other shapes are possible. A shelf 120 extends forwardly into the lock opening 108. A front-facing central sidewall 124 extends from the shelf 120 to the rear exterior surface 105. The space defined by shelf 120 and sidewall 124 receives coupling portion 163 of wear cap 22 .

The lower portion of the longitudinally extending lock opening 112 defines a pair of optional ledges 126 (best seen in FIGS. 13 and 15) with respective concave ledges on opposite longitudinal sides thereof. It extends from the front-facing surface 122 toward the narrowed front portion 110 . As discussed in more detail below, ledge 126 prevents spool 180 of lock 24 from falling through lock opening 112.

A central portion of lock opening 112 is similarly dimensioned and aligned with lock opening 128 defined by through hole 36 in lip 12 and lower leg 86b, as described in more detail below. Allowing lock 24 to fit through it.

The lower leg lock opening 128 is partially defined by a side wall 129 (forming a support surface) located at the rear end (best seen in Figure 13). The sidewall 129 extends from the inner surface 95 of the lower leg to the outer lower surface 98 of the lower leg, although other arrangements are possible. For example, support surface 129 may extend only partially through lock opening 128. In another example, the lock opening may be closed at its lower end.

Upper rear portion 104 defines a stabilizing formation 130 near rear end 82 that includes a front-facing support wall 132 to resist rearward movement of wear cap 22 . In the illustrated embodiment, the stabilizing formation includes a pair of indentations 130, each recessed relative to its respective upper opposing side 96a and rear outer surface 105. As best seen in FIGS. 13 and 14, each recess 130 includes (i) a front-facing support wall 132; (ii) rising from the front-facing support wall 132 toward the front portion 102 and a rear outer surface of the recess 130; 105 , and (iii) a longitudinal wall 136 extending between the curved upwardly facing surface 134 and the rear exterior surface 105 and tapering toward the front section 102 . It becomes like this. Each recess 130 is located behind the front portion 102 and in front of the upper leg rear wall 90a.

In other embodiments, the indentation 130 may have a different shape or a different location, or the stabilizing formation may include a protrusion rather than a recess. In other embodiments, the rear portion 104 may not be recessed relative to the front portion 102. In other embodiments, the front facing support wall may be provided in other ways. In one example, front facing sidewall 124 can resist rearward movement of wear cap 22. In another example, a front-facing sidewall may be provided at the rear end of wear cap 22 (not shown).

In the illustrated embodiment, the grooves 131 extend along each of the outer surfaces of the top surface 100 of the adapter leg 86a between the rear wall 90a and the respective recess 130 to receive the sidewall 171 of the wear cap 22 and Withstands side loads on the cap. Alternatively, groove 131 may be omitted such that sidewall 171 extends along side 96a of leg 86a. Support for the wear cap 22 to withstand side loads may be provided in other ways.

In the illustrated embodiment, the wear cap 22 is moved upwardly by the retaining surface 118 of the wear member 14 at the forward portion of the wear cap 22 and by the retaining surface 194 of the lock 24 at the rearward portion of the wear cap (described below). captured and retained. Wear cap 22 is preferably not rigidly held to the wear member by retaining surfaces 118, 194.

Wear cap 22 will now be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 20-25. Wear cap 22 is formed from steel or other hard material, preferably harder than the material comprising adapter 14. Wear cap 22 may optionally be formed as a composite member with an outer wear-resistant surface.

Rear wear cap 22 is configured to mount on rear portion 104 of adapter 14 to provide protection against abrasion, but instead of or on rear portion 104, such as on front portion 102 and/or lower leg 86b. In addition to on 104, it can be mounted in other locations. In the illustrated embodiment, the top wear surface 150 of the wear cap is aligned with or recessed from the front outer surface to minimize additional loading and/or wear on the wear cap 22. Nevertheless, the rear portion 104 may not be recessed. For example, the rear portion may have the same extension as the front portion 102 (or raised above the front portion) with the wear cap set on the adapter leg 86a.

The rear wear cap 22 is preferably generally C-shaped, extending along the side of the leg 86a over the top and opposite sidewall 171 of the adapter leg 86a, and having a central wear panel for fitting into the groove 131. It has a shape configuration. The bottom end of sidewall 171 is preferably spaced from adapter 14, but may alternatively engage the adapter. Sidewalls 171 may be omitted and lateral support provided otherwise, such as by the sides of the wear cap. In the illustrated embodiment, the wear cap 22 includes an upper wear surface 150, a contoured lower engagement surface 152 facing the leg 86a, an opening 154 through the upper wear surface 150 and the lower engagement surface 152, a front coupling portion 156, engagement wings 158, and rear coupling portion 160 (best seen in Figure 25). In other embodiments, wear cap 22 may have a different configuration.

In this embodiment, the front coupling portion 156 has a front facing protrusion or tongue 163 on its lower portion that extends beyond the upper wear surface 150 in front of the front facing wall 161. A wall 161 is provided. Coupling portion 156 is configured to engage a complementary coupling formation (eg, protrusion 117) on adapter 14. The protrusion 156 may be located generally centrally on the rear wear cap 22 (when viewed from above or below, ie, generally laterally centered).

In other embodiments, protrusion 156 may be divided into two or more forward protrusions. In other embodiments, the front coupling portion may include a recess operable to engage a complementary projection on the adapter. In other embodiments, the coupling portion may be part of the wear surface 150 from which the retaining surface 118 extends.

Each of the engagement wings 158 extends downwardly from the sidewall 171 and is complementary received in a respective recess 130 on the adapter 14 . Each engagement wing 158 includes a rear facing support wall 162 abutting a corresponding front facing support wall 132 to resist rearward movement of the wear cap. Each engagement wing 158 also includes a downwardly facing surface 164 opposite the corresponding upwardly facing surface 134. In the illustrated embodiment, downwardly facing surface 164 is spaced apart from upwardly facing surface 134, but may contact. Each of the engagement wings 158 extends laterally (towards each side 136 ) and upwardly (toward the upper wear surface 150 of the rear wear cap 22 ) as the engagement wing 158 extends toward the front wall 168 . Taper both sides. Other shapes are also possible. Alternatively, engagement wings 158 may be recesses in sidewall 171 that receive complementary protrusions on the adapter.

In the illustrated embodiment, the upper wear surface 150 extends from a rear wall 166 that extends the entire width of the wear cap 22 to a front wall having a generally C-shaped configuration that is complementary to the C-shaped profile of the rearwardly facing side walls 106. 168. That is, the front wall 168 includes a narrowed central portion 169a and side portions 169b that extend from opposite sides 171 of the wear cap 22 to a narrowed central portion 169a. Front wall 168 has a complementary shape to rearwardly facing side wall 106. However, the leading and trailing edges of wear cap 22 may have other shapes.

In the illustrated embodiment, rear coupling portion 160 extends downwardly from upper wear surface 150 and includes a boss that rests on or opposes shelf 120 . Boss 160 has a forwardly extending tongue 172 retained by lock 24 and a generally central, rearwardly facing wall 170 opposite front facing central side wall 124 (FIGS. 8 and 40). I understand very well). The tongue 172 is configured to sit beneath a corresponding retaining surface 194 of the lock 24 such that the lock resists movement of the wear cap 22 in an upward direction away from the wear member (hereinafter referred to as (explained in more detail in ).

Rear wear cap 22 further includes a front-facing wall 174 extending from the top surface of tongue 172 to upper wear surface 150 .

Rear boss mechanism 160 further includes side walls 176 extending from opposite sides of rearwardly facing wall 170 to a forwardly facing tongue 172 .

In the illustrated embodiment, lock 24 includes a spool 180 and a wedge 240. Reference is now made to FIGS. 26-33, which show a portion of multi-part lock 24, ie spool 180, in more detail.

Spool 180 includes an elongate body 182 defining a body axis 184 and having a head 186 and legs 188 extending generally from the head along body axis 184 . When viewed from the front or rear, body axis 184 aligns with vertical axis 185 (the aerial axis in FIG. 1), but when viewed from either side, body axis 184 aligns with the front of head 186. The bottom ends of legs 188 are offset from vertical axis 185 by a small angle. The small angle may be between 2 degrees and 10 degrees from vertical. Other offset angles are possible (larger or smaller) or the body axis may be vertical (i.e., no apparent offset).

The head 186 optionally projects laterally beyond the legs 188 (labeled "LAT" in FIG. 28 (showing the front side of the spool 180) and FIG. 29 (showing the back side of the spool 180). ), forming a pair of shoulders 190, each having similar dimensions (and preferably complementary formations) to each of the ledges 126 of the adapter 14. In other embodiments, the surfaces of the shoulders 190 may not be complementary to the surfaces of the respective expansion slot ledges 126. Different configurations are also possible. Shoulder 190 may also be omitted.

Spool 180 preferably includes two arms 192, 196 for capturing a portion of wear cap 22 and a portion of wear member 14. Nevertheless, one retaining surface 194, such as one upper arm 192, can be used to retain the wear cap. For example, if a retaining surface 194 is formed within a recess in the spool to receive a portion of the wear cap, or if the wear cap is retained by another retaining surface on the adapter without the cooperation of a lock. , either arm may be omitted.

In the illustrated embodiment, the wear cap is retained on the wear member by at least one retention surface 118 on the wear member and at least one retention surface 194 on the lock. Nevertheless, the wear cap may be retained by at least one retaining surface only on the adapter or by at least one retaining surface only on the lock.

In the illustrated embodiment, the head 186 defines an upper arm 192 at its upper portion. Upper arm 192 extends longitudinally (labeled "LONG" in FIG. 31) posteriorly. The rear end 195 of the upper arm 192 is shown as having a convex profile when viewed from above or below, but may have any shape. The upper arm 192 defines a retaining surface 194 on its lower portion to cover the tongue 172 and retain the wear cap 22 on the adapter 14 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the leg 188 defines a lower arm 196 at its upper portion. Nevertheless, arms 196 may be provided on head 186. Lower arm 196 extends in the same longitudinal direction as upper arm 192 and has a convex end surface 199 when viewed from above or below, but may have any shape. Lower arm 196 defines an engagement surface 198 on an upper portion thereof. Retention surface 194 and engagement surface 198 are optionally parallel to each other and of similar dimensions. Lower arm engagement surface 198 is approximately the same height as shoulder 190 . Lower arm 196 also defines an angled lower surface 200 opposite lip 12 in this embodiment. Regardless of the particular shape, the spool arms 192, 196 receive and capture the tongue 172 of the wear cap 22 and the step portion 125 of the adapter 14. In embodiments that do not use a rear wear cap, the step portion 125 of the adapter can fill the space between the upper arm 192 and lower arm 196 of the spool 180. In such an arrangement, the step portion may be enlarged and/or the gap between the spool arms may be reduced. Other arrangements without a rear wear cap include, for example, a spacer used in place of the wear cap, a gap existing between the step portion and one or both spool arms, removal of one or more spool arms, etc. And it is possible.

Upper arm 192 and lower arm 196 preferably extend generally perpendicular to vertical axis 185, although other extensions are possible.

Head 186 defines a back surface 201 that has a slightly convex profile (other shapes such as planar are possible) and extends between upper arm 192 and lower arm 196. When mounted on adapter 14 , back surface 201 engages step portion 125 of adapter 14 and resists forward movement of adapter 14 from lip 12 . The back surface 201 also opposes the front end of the tongue 172 of the rear wear cap 22 (best seen in FIGS. 8 and 40). The underside 201 of the spool 180 is preferably spaced apart from the tongue 172, but may be contacted.

Side faces 202 of legs 188 extend generally parallel to body axis 184 (and vertical axis 185) the length of legs 188.

The underside 204 (best seen in FIG. 29) of the leg 188 extends from the body axis 184 (vertical to longitudinal offset). In this embodiment, both the central section 206 and the lower section 208 of the back surface 204 define slightly convex surfaces, although other surface contours are possible. Lower section 208 defines a support surface 210 for contacting lower leg 86b.

In the illustrated embodiment, support surface 210 slopes rearwardly from the bottom of central section 206 to foot 212 of spool 180 and is generally parallel to vertical axis 185.

In this embodiment, the head 186 and legs 188 have a unitary (unitary) construction, but in other embodiments they may be separate parts connected together. Other shapes for spool 180 are also possible.

A front surface 214 of spool 180 extends generally parallel to body axis 184 (which is longitudinally offset from vertical axis 185) from a top 216 of spool 180 to a beveled portion 218 near the bottom of leg 188. is preferred. Beveled portion 218 slopes rearward and extends to foot 212 at the bottom of leg 188.

The junction of bevel portion 218 and foot 212 is on or near body axis 184 (in other embodiments, this may not be the case).

In the illustrated embodiment, the front surface 214 defines an arcuate concave recess 220 that extends from the top 216 toward the beginning of the beveled portion 218 and then partially beyond the beginning of the beveled portion 218. A cutout thread 222 formed from spaced helical ridges is provided on the arcuate recess 220 extending from the bottom of the head 186 above the beveled portion 218, although other thread formations are also possible. It is possible. An optional thread stop 224 is provided at the bottom of the cutout thread 222 to prevent the wedge (described in more detail below) from being screwed past the stop 224. Front surface 214 may have other configurations to supplement other types of wedges or other drivers.

In this embodiment, middle section 206 and lower section 208 of leg 188 are free of any lateral or longitudinal projections. This includes a longitudinally extending opening 154 in the rear wear cap 22, a locking opening 112 in the upper adapter leg 86a, a through hole 36 in the lip 12, and a lower adapter leg 86b, as described in more detail below. This has the advantage that the legs 188 can be easily inserted into the lock openings 128 of the device. Additionally, wear cap 22 may be installed after insertion of spool 180, as described below.

However, in other embodiments, it may be desirable to add a lower arm (not shown) either at or near the bottom of central section 206 or near the top of lower section 208. This lower arm may help resist forces on the adapter 14 by engaging (coupling) with features defined by the outer surface 34 of the lip 12 or the lower leg 86b of the adapter.

Reference is now also made to FIGS. 34-38, which specifically show other parts of 24 of this embodiment, namely wedge 240, in more detail.

The wedge 240 comprises a cylindrical portion 246 having an exterior taper angle 248, which in this embodiment is approximately 3 degrees relative to the vertical axis 185 (although smaller or larger taper angles are possible). The taper angle 248 is illustrated in FIG. 34 using a vertical dashed line 252.

The cylindrical portion 246 defines an external thread 254 recessed therein (in the form of a helical groove with a relatively wide pitch), although other thread formations may be used.

A relatively wide helical land segment 256 is formed between adjacent spiral groove segments of the scoring screw 254.

In one embodiment, the pitch of the threads 254 on the wedge 240 is approximately 1 inch (25 mm) and the width of the threads is approximately 1/8 of an inch (3 mm), but the pitch and width are You can choose from a range of appropriate values. Threads 254 are preferably formed with curved corners to create a robust thread that is less susceptible to peening or other damage. The upper (or rear) end 258 of the wedge 240 defines a rotational formation 260 recessed therein to facilitate engagement with a tool, such as a wrench, for turning the wedge 240. In the preferred embodiment, formation 260 is a square socket, but other arrangements may be used.

Taper angle 248 may be selected to provide a desired take-up of adapter 14 on a support structure, such as lip 12, for example. For example, increasing the taper angle 248 increases the speed at which the adapter 14 moves into a set position on the support structure, but at the expense of clamping force (i.e., more torque is required to turn the wedge 240). Conversely, if the taper angle 248 is decreased, the speed at which the adapter 14 moves to the set position on the support structure is decreased, but the clamping force is reduced. Taper angle 248 may be designed to suit a particular task. In most cases, the retention force of the lock 24 is expected to be approximately the same unless the wedge 240 is formed with a diameter that is too small at the forward (or lower) end 262 to provide sufficient strength.

As best seen in FIG. 37, a wedge 240 is shown received within a recess of keyway insert 44 and within recess 220 of spool 180 and screwed into threads 222 on the spool. Land segments 256 (between adjacent portions of threads 248) provide a large surface area for pressing against both the back surface 76 of keyway insert 44 and the front surface 214 of spool 180. The relatively large land segment 256 allows the lock 24 (including the spool 180 and the wedge 240) to withstand large loads with an acceptable level of stress and without the need to thread the walls of the keyway 36 of the lip 12. enable. The relatively wide pitch of threads 254 also allows wedge 240 to move quickly in and out of spool 180.

The installation of the wear assembly 10 will now be described with particular reference to FIGS. 38-40, during and after the installation of the rear wear cap 22, and before and after the installation of the rear wear cap 22. 2 shows a small portion of the wear assembly 10 in an enlarged view. FIG. 41 shows a portion of the wear assembly 10 of FIG. 8 in enlarged detail after the lock 24 is fully installed.

To attach the adapter 14, the upper leg 86a is mounted above the inner surface 32 such that the slot 92a surrounds the flange 54 of the upper boss 42a, the slot 92a of the upper leg slidingly engages the upper boss 42a, and With the lower leg 86b below the outer surface 34, the adapter 14 is slid rearwardly onto the lip 12. Similarly, the slot 92b in the lower leg slidingly engages the lower boss 42b such that the slot 92b surrounds the flange 54 of the lower boss 42b.

When so installed, the adapter 14 is positioned on the lip 12 and the upper leg lock opening 112 is aligned with the lip through hole (or keyway) 36 and the lower leg lock opening 128.

When the adapter 14 is properly positioned, the spool 180 is inserted into the lock opening 112, the lip through hole (or keyway) 36, and the lower leg lock opening 128 (with the foot 212 and bevel portion 218 as leading surfaces). . At this point, the shoulder 190 of the spool 180 rests on the expanded ledge 126 of the adapter 14, thereby preventing the spool 180 from falling through the upper leg lock opening 112.

Moving the spool 180 forward (in the direction of arrow C in FIG. 39) moves the wear cap 22 downward (in the direction of arrow B in FIG. 38) and pivots the front coupling structure 156 downward. , the wear cap 22 may be mounted on the adapter 14 by engaging the underside of the retaining surface 118 of the adapter 14 . The rear wall 166 of the wear cap 22 can then be lowered toward the adapter 14 such that the contoured lower engagement surface 152 of the wear cap 22 is disposed over the rear portion 104 of the top surface 100. In particular, the forward-facing tongue 172 is positioned on or above the shelf 120 of the adapter 14 and the wear panel of the wear cap is positioned on the outer surface 105 of the rear portion 104 and on the rear-facing wall of the engagement wing 158. 162 faces the support wall 132 facing the front of the recess 130 of the adapter 14 .

The downwardly facing surface 164 of the engagement wing 158 is located proximate to the upwardly facing ledge 134 of the adapter 14, but may remain spaced apart. The rear facing wall 170 of the wear cap 22 is also proximate to the front facing central side wall 124, but may remain spaced apart.

Spool 180 may then be moved rearwardly (in the direction of arrow D in FIG. 40) so that (i) upper arm 192 and lower arm 196 have tongue 172 of wear cap 22 and adapter between them; 14 so that the retaining surface 194 of the upper arm 192 slides over and remains on the forward facing tongue 172 (of the rear boss mechanism 160) of the rear wear cap 22 ( ii) the back surface 201 of the head of the spool 180 abuts the front-facing surface 122 of the step portion 125 of the adapter 14; (iii) the engagement surface 198 of the lower arm 196 contacts the bottom of the step portion 125 of the adapter 14; and (iv) the bearing surface 210 of the spool leg 188 abuts or comes into close proximity to the forward-facing portion of the lower leg 86b that defines the locking opening 128.

It may be preferable to install wear cap 22 before inserting spool 180. In such a case, the spool 180 is inserted through the longitudinally extending opening 154 of the wear cap 22, the lock opening 112, the lip through hole (or keyway) 36, and the lower leg lock opening 128. The remaining arrangement of the parts is the same whether spool 180 is inserted before or after wear cap 22 is installed.

Wedge 240 is inserted through opening 154 in wear cap 22 . A wrench (or other convenient tool) engages rotating formation 260 to rotate wedge 240 such that threads 254 on the wedge engage complementary threads 222 on spool 180. used for. As the leading end 262 of the wedge 240 moves toward the threaded stop 224, the wedge 240 biases the spool 180 rearwardly. The wedge 240 is screwed into the back side 201 of the spool 180 pressed against the front wall 122 of the step portion 125 of the adapter 14, and the back side 201 of the spool 180 pressed against the wall facing the front of the lock opening of the lower leg 86b. 210, and continues until the torque is tightened to the set level. Nevertheless, when assembled, one of backsides 201 or 210 may remain spaced from its complementary support surface on the adapter, and when the adapter is loaded, and/or It is possible that contact may occur when wear occurs.

As best seen in FIG. 41, insertion of the wedge 240 ensures that the rear wear cap 22 is retained on the adapter 14 while simultaneously ensuring that the adapter 14 is retained on the mining edge 12. That is, tongue 163 is located under retaining surface 118 on adapter 14, and tongue 172 is located under retaining surface 194 on lock 24 (i.e., arm 192 of spool 180) to remove the adapter from the adapter. Resist upward movement of the retainer away (along the aerial axis). Because the wear cap is preferably not rigidly held in place, the wear cap may bounce somewhat between the wear member and the locking surface that includes the wear cap.

In the illustrated embodiment, lateral forces on the wear cap are borne primarily by the inner surface of the arm 171 that bears against the vertical wall of the groove 131 of the adapter.

To remove adapter 14, wedge 240 is rotated counterclockwise to move wedge 240 upwardly so that it can be lifted from wear assembly 10. Spool 180 is then moved forward such that upper arm 192 and lower arm 196 disengage from tongue 172 of rear wear cap 22 and upper leg 86a of adapter 14 (in the direction of arrow C in FIG. ). The rear wear cap 22 can then be pivoted upwardly and removed from the wear assembly 10 in a process reversed to that described with reference to FIGS. 38-40.

Spool 180 can then be removed from wear assembly 10 and adapter 14 can be pulled out of lip 12.

The front wear cap 20, when used, can be installed and removed in a conventional manner.

An alternative embodiment of lock 324 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 42-48.

FIG. 42 is a front view of a stepped spool 280 as an alternative to spool 180. The main difference between spool 180 and stepped spool 280 is that when arcuate recess 320 extends toward lower section 208 of leg 188, stepped spool 280 has a a first portion 320a extending generally parallel to body axis 184 for a portion thereof; (ii) a second portion 320b inclined toward body axis 184 for a portion of its length; (iii) a second portion 320b extending generally parallel to body axis 184 for a portion thereof; has an arcuate recess 320 on the front surface with a third portion 320c extending generally parallel to the main body axis 184. In contrast, arcuate recess 220 on spool 180 is generally parallel to body axis 184 along its length.

In embodiments where a stepped spool 280 is used, it is preferred to have a stepped keyway insert 344, as shown in FIG.

The primary difference between the keyway insert 44 and the stepped keyway insert 344 is that the stepped keyway insert 344 (i) has a groove extending generally parallel to the body axis 184 for a portion of its length; (ii) a second portion 376b that is inclined toward the body axis 184 for a portion of its length; and (iii) a second portion 376b that extends generally parallel to the body axis 184 for a portion of its length. It has a back surface 376 including a third portion 376c located therein. In contrast, keyway insert backside 76 is generally parallel to body axis 184 along its length.

The stepped spool 280 and stepped keyway insert 344 are preferably used with a stepped wedge 340, as shown in FIG.

The main differences between the wedge 240 and the stepped wedge 340 are that the stepped wedge 340 has an upper frustoconical portion 342, a lower frustoconical portion 344, and an upper frustoconical portion 342 and a lower frustoconical portion 344. A central cylindrical (or other shaped) portion 346 is provided. The diameter of central cylindrical portion 346 matches the diameter of the bottom of upper frustoconical portion 342 and the top of lower frustoconical portion 344 . The frustoconical portions 342, 344 have the same external taper angle 348, which in this embodiment is approximately 5 degrees relative to the vertical axis 185 (although smaller or larger taper angles are also possible). be. Taper angle 348 is illustrated in FIG. 45 using vertical dashed line 352.

In a similar manner to wedge 240, external cutting screw 254 (in the form of a helical groove with a relatively wide pitch in this example) extends substantially the entire length of stepped wedge 340, but , other types of threads may also be used. The threads continue from the upper frustoconical portion 342 across the cylindrical portion 346 (also referred to as the step portion) and then along the lower frustoconical portion 344. However, in other embodiments, cylindrical portion 346 may be unthreaded. In another embodiment, only one of the frustoconical portions of the wedge may be threaded. In another embodiment, the central portion does not contact spool 280 and/or front support 344. Having a cylindrical portion 346 allows for a wider taper (larger taper angle 348) to the frusto-conical portion without reducing the diameter of the wedge 340, which could lead to an increased risk of the wedge 340 cracking during use. 342, 344 are allowed.

When lock 324 is assembled, as shown in FIG. 376a. Similarly, the lower frustoconical portion 344 of the wedge 340 aligns with both the third portion 320c of the spool 280 (on the rear side) and the third portion 376c of the stepped keyway insert 344 (on the front side). The central cylindrical portion 346 of the wedge 340 aligns with both the second portion 320b of the spool 280 (on the rear surface) and the second portion 376b of the stepped keyway insert 344 (on the front surface).

Providing a wedge with complementary stepped components allows for more take-up and/or more secure retention of adapter 14 to lip 12.

Locks 24, 324 have several advantages. For example, locks 24, 324 directly hold two components (wear member 14 and rear wear cap 22), and prior art locks directly hold one of the wear member or the wear cap. The locks 24, 324 provide retention in two orthogonal directions: retaining the wear member 14 to the rear mining edge 12 and retaining the wear cap 22 from moving up from the wear member 14.

The locks 24, 324 are only required to hold the rear portion of the wear cap 22 vertically downward; all other loads are directed to the stabilizing surface. The locks 24, 324 are isolated from the load placed on the rear wear cap 22. Failure of the rear wear cap 22 does not compromise the primary function of the locks 24, 324 for securing the adapter 14 to the lip 12.

The method of installation for embodiments of the present disclosure is to pivot (or rotate) the wear cap 22 into position (as opposed to prior art wear caps that require straight installation, i.e. via a groove on the adapter). (compared to a worn cap rail that is moved). The rear wear cap 22 is removed in a direction perpendicular to the material flow (vertically up), which causes the rear wear cap 22 to rotate/swivel and slide over the adapter 14 (and between or on the rails). means pulled straight away from any fine aggregate above).

Locks 24, 324 hold rear wear cap 22 in a direction perpendicular to material flow. The multi-part lock 24, 324 has a stabilizing mechanism that prevents excessive movement of any portion of the lock 24, 324 if the rear wear cap 22 is lost.

Other advantages of this embodiment relate to the spools 180, 280. Spools 180, 280 require only an arm at the top of the spool. Engagement of the adapter leg 86b is limited to aft longitudinal forces (onto the bucket) and forward movement of the adapter leg 86b. Spools 180, 280 have features (eg, shoulders 190) that prevent them from falling through adapter 14 during installation and removal. Spool 180 is held in a manner that allows it to slide longitudinally forward, thereby releasing rear wear cap 22.

The locks 24, 324 are installed and removed only from the top surface of the lip 12 and do not fall to the underside of the bucket. This improves the safety of personnel during the installation and especially the removal of the adapter 14. The convenient sliding of the spools 180, 280 after removal of the wedges 240, 340 allows the rear wear cap 22 to be changed without removing the spools 180, 280. A vertical retention mechanism is provided only on the upper leg 86a of the adapter. It is not necessary to push the bottom of the spool 180, 280 rearward to disengage the adapter 14. There are fewer system components and a simpler installation and removal process compared to having a dedicated lock for the rear wear cap 22. Locks 24, 324 may be available in multiple GET configurations (eg, with or without rear wear cap 22).

Other locking arrangements than those described above may be used. For example, a similar design of wedge and spool arrangement as shown in US Pat. No. 6,986,216 may be used, or alternative designs may be used. Wedges driven by hammers, bolts, or other arrangements may be used in place of threaded wedges and spools. Wedges or other locks without spools may also be used. A lock may include one or more components.

The design of the embodiments described above has various manufacturing advantages, including, for example, reduced mating requirements for adapter lock combinations. The mating area is localized by the upper leg 86a of the adapter 14 (rather than both the upper leg 86a and the lower leg 86b). The spool fit does not extend to the adapter legs 86a, 86b. The simplified lower leg 86b design provides more options for manufacturing.

The design of wedge 340 has a significantly increased take-up/taper angle enabled by the step between the tapered portions. This step allows for a large taper angle while maintaining acceptable diameters at both the top and bottom of the wedge 340. By tapering only the surfaces that contact other components (keyway insert 344 and spool 280), the total height range and strength of lock 324 can be maximized. The take-up may be double that of the prior art wedge.

Another embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to FIGS. 49-63, which illustrate a wear assembly 410 mounted on a conventional lip 412 of a bucket (not shown). In this embodiment, the lip 412 is of a type that does not define an opening through which the wear member connects to the lip 412. Lip 412 includes a series of spaced apart bases 417 (only one is shown in FIG. 49), with each base 417 typically provided between adjacent noses for supporting teeth. It will be done. Each base 417 is configured to receive a wear member 412 thereon. In this embodiment, wear member 412 is a shroud.

Wear assembly 410 includes a shroud 414, a wear cap 422, and a lock 424 for retaining shroud 414 to mining edge 412 while simultaneously retaining wear cap 422 to shroud 414.

A shroud 414 protects the bucket lip 412 and directs earth-like material into the bucket. Wear cap 422 protects the upper leg of shroud 414 and, in the illustrated embodiment, around the lock opening and lock.

In this embodiment, base 417 is a cast part of lip 412, but in other embodiments it can be attached by welding or mechanical attachment. In any event, each shroud 414 is positioned over a base 417 on the leading edge of lip 412.

The base 417 is more rigid than the rest of the lip 412 to withstand the wear caused by the shroud 414 during operation, for example, if the base is welded to the lip (or may have a hard wear coating thereon). Harder wear materials may be provided. Nevertheless, other parts of lip 412 are not necessarily softer than base 417.

Each base 417 includes a front surface 419 , a top surface 421 , a side surface 423 , and an upright boss 425 centrally located generally between the sides 423 and projecting above the top surface 421 . Boss 425 has a back surface 427 against which lock 424 abuts when holding shroud 414 in place. Base 417 and shroud 414 have complementary surfaces that allow for a stable and secure coupling to each other.

In the illustrated embodiment, the front face 419 defines a slightly convex curved shape that curves about two generally perpendicular axes, although other configurations are possible. In particular, the front surface 419 is generally curved about a vertical axis such that it curves rearwardly as it approaches each side 423 and generally curves about a horizontal axis such that it also curves rearwardly as it approaches the top surface 421; The lower surface (not visible in the drawing) is opposite the upper surface 421. However, other boss designs and configurations are possible.

Shroud 414 includes a front facing wear portion 429 and an aft facing mounting portion 431. Shroud 414 includes a pair of spaced legs 433, 435 that define a cavity 437 therebetween and meet at a central portion 439 (best seen in FIGS. 49 and 50). Cavity 437 is open generally along the sides such that legs 433, 435 straddle sides 423 of base 417 on lip 412 when shroud 414 is installed thereon.

Shroud 414 defines a recess 441 on upper leg 433 in an upper central position that receives wear cap 422 in this embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, recess 441 is closer to trailing edge 443 of upper leg 433 than leading edge 445, although other arrangements are possible. Trailing edge 443 extends substantially across the entire width of upper leg 433. Wear cap 422 may be held loosely within the recess, but the front, rear, and/or side walls of recess 441 may resist forward, backward, and/or lateral movement of the wear cap relative to the wear member. is preferred.

The upper leg 433 defines a wear cap shelf 447 (best seen in FIG. 49) that is within the wear cap opening 441 but is recessed relative to the wear cap opening 441. Shelf 447 is located at a depth that sets wear cap 422 flush with the outer surface of upper leg 433 when mounted on shelf 447 . Nevertheless, the wear cap may protrude therefrom or be recessed against the outer surface of the upper leg 433.

Shelf 447 defines a lock opening 449 that includes a boss opening portion 449a and a lock opening portion 449b. Boss opening portion 449a is positioned over and dimensioned to surround boss 425 of base 417. To match the shape of boss 425 (tapering toward the front face 419 of lip 412), boss opening portion 449a has a sidewall 451 that tapers toward the front of shroud 414. Lock aperture portion 449b extends laterally beyond boss aperture portion 449a and has generally parallel sidewalls 453, lock aperture portion 449b is dimensioned to receive lock 424 (detailed in more detail below). (as explained in ).

A raised protruding surface 455 is generally centered on the outer surface of the upper leg 433 and extends from the wear cap opening 441 to the shroud leading edge 445, with a raised portion 457 extending longitudinally. This raised protruding surface 455 provides additional protection against wear of the shroud 414 during use.

Wear cap shelf 447 has a generally flat upper surface 458 and a convex lower surface 459 below parallel sidewalls 453 (best seen in FIG. 63). Other shapes may also be used.

Wear cap 422 will now be described in more detail with particular reference to FIGS. 54-56.

The wear cap 422 has a generally flat lower side 461 (best seen in FIG. 56), a contoured upper surface 463 that defines a sloped surface 465 on its opposite lateral side, and a sloped surface between the sloped surface 465. 467, each rising from its respective sloped surface 465 to a longitudinally extending central ridge 469. However, the wear cap may have a different shape.

In the illustrated embodiment, the contoured upper surface 463 is similar to the raised protruding surface 455 such that the contoured upper surface 463 is a continuation of the raised protruding surface 455 when the upper wear cap 422 is installed in the wear cap opening 441. It has the shape of

Wear cap 422 also defines a locking aperture 471 that extends from top surface 463 to bottom side 461. Locking aperture 471 is generally slot-shaped and is generally centrally located on top wear cap 422 and extends laterally across contoured top surface 463 . Other shapes are also possible.

A pair of longitudinally extending projections 473 (best seen in FIG. 55) are located below opposing lateral sides of locking aperture 471 and extend into the area defined by locking aperture 471. In this embodiment, the longitudinally extending protrusion 473 has a convex upper surface 474 (best seen in Figure 63), although other shapes are possible. These longitudinally extending projections 473 define a coupling portion that is engaged by lock 424, as described in more detail below.

Lock 424 will now be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 57-63, which illustrate various views. Lock 424 is essentially identical to the lock described with reference to FIGS. 6-15 of U.S. Pat. Describe it. However, other embodiments may use different designs of locks. As can be seen in FIGS. 57-63, lock 424 includes separable parts or components, but is typically in the form of an integral unit during use.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lock 424 is arranged about a transverse axis 485 (best seen in FIG. 60) between a locked state (see FIGS. 59 and 62) and an unlocked state (see FIG. 63). It includes two bodies or components 481, 483 that are pivotally connected together for movement. The bodies may be movably adjusted in other ways, such as by shifting linearly relative to each other instead of pivoting.

Relative pivoting or hinge of the two components 481, 483 may be achieved by a hinge mechanism 487. In the illustrated example, hinge mechanism 487 includes an integral post 489 that projects from interior surface 491 of first component 481 . The inner surface 493 of the second component 483 includes a complementary hole (not shown) sized to receive the post 489, thereby providing for limited movement about the lateral axis 485. , pivotally coupling the first and second components 481, 483 within the assembly. However, other embodiments may use different hinge mechanisms.

In this embodiment, the pivot axis 485 is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the wear member 414 (see FIG. 49) and perpendicular to the inner (or contact) surfaces 491, 493. The pivot connection may have other configurations. For example, the hinge mechanism 487 may have other structures, including forming each component with a hole for receiving a pivot pin secured in place by, for example, a retaining ring or the like.

Each component 481 , 483 has a frustoconical channel 495 , 497 such that when the components 481 , 483 are aligned they join to form a frustoconical channel 499 for receiving the threaded pin 501 . Define half of Other types of retainers can be used to secure the lock bodies 481, 483 in their expanded positions.

One or optionally both frustoconical channels may define threads (cutouts or notches) for engaging complementary threads (cutouts or cuts) of threaded pin 501. In other embodiments, neither the frustoconical channel nor the pin may be threaded. Other shapes of channels and pins are also possible. The channels may also be partially threaded or discontinuously threaded.

A hex socket 503 or other tool engagement formation is provided on the top of the threaded pin 501 for turning the threaded pin 501. When threaded pin 501 is screwed into frustoconical channel 499, components 481, 483 are locked in place (as shown in FIG. 59).

When threaded pin 501 is removed, components 481, 483 are unlocked and can pivot about axis 485 from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration, and the length of lock 424 is locked. shorter than in position.

In other embodiments, pin 501 may take many different forms and be received in other openings in one or both components.

The lock 424 has first and second end walls 511, 513 on its opposite lateral sides.

Each end wall 511, 513 has a pair of lobes or arms 515, 517 spaced apart from each other and having generally convex outer surfaces. A concave end wall surface 519 is defined between the upper 515 and lower 517 lobes on each end wall 511, 513. One arm 515 on each end 511 , 513 includes a retention surface 594 that covers the respective protrusion 473 on the wear cap 422 to resist upward movement of the wear cap away from the wear member 414 .

Upper lobe or arm 515 defines a downwardly facing retaining surface 594 (similar in some respects to retaining surface 194 of upper arm 192 of spools 180 and 280). Similarly, lower lobe or arm 517 defines an upwardly facing engagement surface 598 (similar in some respects to engagement surface 198 of lower arm 196 of spools 180 and 280). The downwardly facing retaining surface 594 is designed to complement (and sit directly above) the convex top surface 474 of the longitudinally extending shelf 473 of the upper wear cap 422 . Similarly, upwardly facing engagement surface 598 is designed to complement (and lie directly below) convex lower surface 459 of wear cap shelf 447 of wear member 414 .

In other embodiments, the downwardly facing retaining surface 594 and the top surface of the longitudinally extending protrusion 473 may have different contours than those described above.

Lock 424 includes a mechanism to assist in its removal using a removal tool 601 of the type described in US Pat. No. 10,612,214.

To install the wear assembly 410, when the shroud is delivered and/or stored with the lock in place, the lock is first removed. When the wear assembly has an unlocked position (eg, as disclosed in US Pat. No. 10,612,214), lock 424 is left behind or moved to a higher position. Alternatively, the lock can be supplied separately and installed as required.

The shroud 414 is aligned with the base 417 and positioned above the base such that the sidewalls of the boss opening portion 451 surround the lateral sides of the boss 425 , and the coupling opening 449 is positioned in an area immediately aft of the boss 425 . Match. The wear cap 422 is then positioned within the wear cap opening 441 until the underside 461 of the wear cap 422 is placed on the wear cap shelf 447. Optionally, the shroud may be installed over the lip with the wear cap already in place.

With the lock 424 pivoted to the unlocked position, the lock is inserted through the lock opening 471 of the upper wear cap 422 into the position shown in FIG. 63 behind the boss 425 (shown in phantom in FIG. 63 for ease of understanding). be done. Lock 424 then pivots to the locked position (shown in FIGS. 61 and 62). During this pivoting movement, the concave end wall surfaces 519 of each end 511, 513 of the lock 424 engage the convex lower surface 459 of the lock opening side wall 453 and the convex upper surface 474 of the longitudinally extending shelf 473. and rotate around them. The flat underside 461 of the wear cap 422 and the flat top surface 458 of the shelf 447 on the shroud 414 contact each other or provide a close fit if a mating pad is used. As a result, lock 424 provides a strong and secure mechanical mechanism to withstand heavy loads and to prevent release of wear cap 422 from wear member 414 or release of wear member 414 from mining edge 412.

The upper and lower lobes or arms 515, 517 prevent the upper wear cap 422 from moving in the air axis (eg, vertically upward), but allow the wear cap 422 to be held loosely. Lower legs 435 prevent shroud 414 from moving in an air axis (eg, vertically upward), but grooves and rails (not shown) may also be provided in the boss and shroud. Boss 425 and lock 424 prevent shroud 414 from moving forward in a manner similar to conventional lips and locks.

Removal of wear assembly 410 from lip 412 is performed in the reverse order as described above, optionally using removal tool 601 to unlock lock 424.

It will now be appreciated that the embodiments described above have the advantage that one lock 424 simultaneously secures the wear cap 422 to the shroud 414 and the shroud 414 to the lip 412.

Other locking arrangements than those described above may be used.

The systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein are practical applications of the principles of this disclosure, and a wide variety of other implementations are possible. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the details of wear assembly 10, 410 and the methods described herein and/or depicted in the drawings. Various other embodiments and many modifications may be made without departing from the scope and broader aspects of the disclosure as defined in the claims. For example, an adapter similar to adapter 14 may be used without wear caps 22 or with a pair of rear wear caps 22 attached to multiple locations on each or both legs 86a, 86b. can be done. Other embodiments may use a spool with a rearward arm (similar to the design shown in US Pat. No. 6,986,216, or similar to the design used in conventional Whisler-type designs). In other embodiments, the lock may include multiple components that are held together as a single unit, but the components are movable relative to the others. Aspects of the present disclosure have been described with respect to illustrative examples thereof. Numerous other embodiments, modifications, and variations within the scope of the appended claims will occur to those skilled in the art from a review of this disclosure. Features of one example can be used with features of another example. The given examples and combinations of features disclosed are not intended to be limiting in the sense that they must be used together. Relative directional terms, such as inside, inside, outside, upward, are provided for ease of understanding and are intended to limit any orientation that the part labeled thereby may face in use. I haven't.

Claims (60)

A wear member for attachment to a mining edge of civil engineering work equipment, the wear member comprising:
a front end;
bifurcated legs extending rearwardly from the forward end, each of the legs including an inner surface facing the mining edge and a rear wall, at least one of the legs for receiving a lock therein; a bifurcated leg having a locking opening;
At least one of the legs includes a front portion and a rear portion recessed relative to the front portion, the front portion facing a rear portion adjacent the rear portion opposite a wear cap receivable in the recessed rear portion. a wear member, the rear portion comprising at least one front facing side wall forward of the rear wall adapted to engage a wear cap on the rear portion and to resist rearward movement of the wear cap. The wear member of claim 1, wherein the rear portion at least partially surrounds the lock opening. 3. The wear member of claim 1 or 2, wherein the rear portion includes two of the front facing side walls defined by recesses located on opposite sides of the lock opening. A wear member for attachment to a mining edge of civil engineering work equipment, the wear member comprising:
a front end;
bifurcated legs extending rearwardly from the forward end, each of the legs including an inner surface facing the mining edge and the rear wall, at least one of the legs for receiving a lock therein; a bifurcated leg defining a lock opening;
a pair of recesses on each side of the lock opening, each recess including a front facing wall for resisting rearward movement of the wear cap on the at least one leg; A wear member. 5. The wear of claim 3 or 4, wherein each of the recesses includes a laterally facing longitudinal wall and an outwardly facing ledge each extending forwardly from the respective front facing side wall. Element. 6. The wear member of claim 5, wherein each of the ledges is sloped to extend from a lower end of one of the front facing walls to an outer surface of the rear portion. 7. A wear member as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein each of the ledges tapers such that the width of each of the ledges decreases towards the forward end. 8. At least one of the legs includes the front part and a rear part recessed relative to the front part, and the locking opening and the recess are included in the rear part. Wear parts. one of the legs faces generally in the same direction as the inner surface of the one leg and is adapted to cover a portion of the wear cap to resist movement of the wear cap away from the wear member; A wear member according to any preceding claim, comprising at least one retaining surface. A wear member according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the legs includes an engagement structure that interacts with at least one support on the mining edge. the engagement structure opens in the inner wall and the rear wall of the at least one leg to receive the at least one support on the mining edge to withstand lateral forces on the wear member; 11. The wear member of claim 10, comprising a slot. 10. The engagement structure includes an externally facing side of the at least one leg that is received and restrained by a plurality of the at least one supports for resisting lateral forces on the wear member. Wear parts described in . the rear portion includes an axial groove proximate each side wall of the at least one leg, each groove receiving a portion of the wear cap to withstand lateral forces on the wear cap; A wear member according to any preceding claim, extending axially between the locking opening and the rear wall. A wear member according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the legs includes a locking opening for receiving the lock. A wear member according to any of claims 1 to 14, which is an adapter or a shroud. A wear assembly for attachment to a mining edge of earth-moving equipment, said wear assembly comprising a wear member according to any of claims 1 to 15, a wear cap mounted on said wear member, and said wear member. a wear assembly comprising a lock in the lock opening for retaining the wear cap on the wear cap and the wear member on the mining edge. A wear assembly for civil engineering equipment, the
a wear member operable to couple to a mining edge of the earthmoving equipment;
a wear cap configured to mount on the wear member;
a lock securing the wear member to the mining edge and securing the wear cap to the wear member. The wear member includes a front end and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the front end, each leg including an inner surface facing the mining edge, an outer surface opposite the inner surface, and a rear wall. 18. The wear assembly of claim 17, wherein at least one of the legs has a lock opening therein for receiving a lock. A wear assembly for attachment to a mining edge of earthmoving equipment, the wear assembly comprising:
a wear member including a front end and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the front end, each of the legs having a front end, a rear rear portion aft of the front end, an inner surface facing the mining edge, and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the front end; and a rear wall, at least one of the legs having a lock opening therein for receiving a lock;
a wear cap mounted on the wear member to cover at least the outer surface of one of the legs of the rear portion proximate the rear end;
a lock in the lock opening for retaining the wear member on the mining edge. 20. The wear assembly of claim 19, wherein the lock in the lock opening retains the wear cap on the wear member and the wear member on the mining edge. A wear assembly according to any of claims 17 to 20, wherein the wear member includes a recess in the outer surface in which the wear cap is received. A wear assembly for attachment to a mining edge of earthmoving equipment, the wear assembly comprising:
a wear member including a front end and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the front end, each of the legs including an inner surface facing the mining edge, an outer surface opposite the inner surface, and a rear wall; , at least one of the legs includes a recess in the outer surface, and at least one of the legs has a locking opening therein for receiving a lock;
a wear cap mounted within the recess on the wear member;
a lock in the lock opening for retaining the wear member on the mining edge. 23. The wear assembly of claim 22, wherein the lock also retains the wear cap to the wear member. 17. The wear cap includes a top portion that covers the top surface of one of the legs and a pair of side walls that cover opposite sides of the one leg to withstand side loads on the wear cap. The wear assembly according to any one of items 1 to 23. at least one rear portion, wherein the wear member includes at least one front-facing sidewall, and the wear cap engages the at least one front-facing sidewall to resist rearward movement of the wear cap. A wear assembly according to any of claims 17 to 24, comprising a support surface facing towards. the wear member includes a recess on each side of the lock opening, each recess including one of the front facing sidewalls, and the wear cap having a protrusion that fits into each of the recesses; 26. The wear assembly of claim 25, wherein each of the protrusions includes one rearwardly facing support surface. at least the wear member faces generally in the same direction as the inner surface of the leg having the wear cap and is adapted to cover a portion of the wear cap to resist movement of the wear cap away from the wear member. A wear assembly according to any of claims 17 to 26, comprising one retaining surface. at least the lock faces generally in the same direction as the inner surface of the leg with the wear cap and is adapted to cover a portion of the wear cap to resist movement of the wear cap away from the wear member. A wear assembly according to any of claims 17 to 27, comprising one retaining surface. A wear assembly according to any of claims 17 to 28, wherein the lock includes a pair of arms capturing a portion of the wear cap and a portion of the wear member therebetween. A wear assembly according to any of claims 17 to 29, wherein the wear cap includes an aperture aligned with the lock aperture. A wear assembly according to any of claims 17 to 30, wherein the lock includes a spool and a wedge. A wear assembly according to any of claims 17 to 31, wherein the wear member is an adapter having a nose for point support. A wear assembly according to any of claims 17 to 31, wherein the wear member is a shroud. A wear cap for use with a wear member mounted on a mining edge of earthmoving equipment, the wear cap having an upper wear surface, a lower surface opposite the upper wear surface for engagement with the wear member. , a front coupling formation for engaging the wear member, and a rear coupling formation for engaging the lock, the front and rear coupling formations connecting the wear cap to the wear member. A wear cap that holds onto the component. 35. The wear cap of claim 34, including engagement wings that cover sides of the wear member and extend inwardly from the upper wear surface to withstand lateral loads. 36. The wear cap of claim 35, wherein each engagement wing includes a rear facing support wall for engaging a front facing sidewall on the wear member. 37. A wear cap according to claim 35 or 36, wherein each of the engagement wings tapers in mutually orthogonal directions towards the front of the wear member. 38. The front coupling formation of claims 34-37, wherein the front coupling formation includes a protrusion extending forwardly beyond the upper wear surface and operable to engage a complementary formation on a wear member. Wear cap as described in either. the rear coupling formation extends toward the opening and is located beneath a corresponding portion of the lock within the opening to prevent movement of the wear cap in an outward direction; A wear cap according to any of claims 34 to 38, comprising a tongue operable to do so. A wear cap according to any of claims 34 to 39, including an opening through the upper wear surface and the lower surface for receiving a lock. A wear cap for use with a wear member mounted on a mining edge of earthmoving equipment, the wear cap comprising: a top portion covering a top portion of the wear member; and a side portion of the wear member; engagement wings extending on the inner and opposing sides of said upper part to withstand lateral forces, each engagement wing having a complementary engagement wing on said wear member to withstand rearward forces on said wear cap; a wear cap including a rear facing support wall that engages a front facing side wall; 5. Each of the engagement wings has an axial extension and includes a protrusion along only a portion of the axial extension, and the rearward facing support wall is on the protrusion. 41. The wear cap according to No. 41. 43. A wear cap as claimed in claim 41 or 42, including a plurality of axially spaced forwardly projecting tongues for retaining the wear cap to the wear member. A wear assembly for civil engineering equipment, the
a wear member for attachment to a mining edge, the wear member including a front end and a bifurcated leg extending rearwardly from the front end, each leg having an inner surface facing the mining edge, a rear wall; and a wear member, including a lock opening;
A wear cap according to any one of claims 34 to 43;
a lock for securing the wear cap to the wear member and securing the wear member to the mining edge. A spool for use in removably securing a wear member to a base for earth-moving equipment, the wear member and the base cooperatively defining a locking opening for receiving the spool; The spool is an elongated body extending along a body axis, the body having a body including a head at one end of the body, legs extending from the head, a front surface, a rear surface, and the head at an end. A spool comprising a pair of arms extending away from the body axis on the rear surface. 46. The spool of claim 45, wherein the head includes a pair of shoulders extending between the front surface and the rear surface. 47. The spool of claim 46, wherein the pair of shoulders are formed on opposite sides of the arms, proximate the legs of the pair of arms, and on the arms or above the arms. A spool according to any of claims 45 to 47, wherein the rear surface includes a support surface between the arms for engaging the wear member. Claim: The leg portion is substantially free of any protrusions, such that the leg portion can be inserted into the lock opening without catching on a mining edge or wear member during installation of the spool. The spool according to any one of items 45 to 48. A spool according to any of claims 45 to 49, including a recess defined in the front surface, the recess defining a thread for engaging a complementary thread on a wedge. A spool according to any of claims 45 to 50, wherein the lower section of the leg portion defines a stop projecting into the recess to prevent the wedge from protruding beyond the limit stop. 52. A lock for securing a wear member to a base for earth-moving equipment, the lock comprising a spool according to any of claims 45 to 51 and a lock opening along the front surface of the spool. A lock with a wedge. A wedge for use in removably securing a wear member to a base for earth-moving equipment, the wear member and the base cooperatively defining a locking opening for receiving the wedge; the wedge comprises an upper frustoconical portion, a lower frustoconical portion, and a central portion between the upper frustoconical portion and the lower frustoconical portion, at least one of the upper frustoconical portion and the lower frustoconical portion; A wedge containing a thread. 54. The wedge of claim 53, wherein the diameter of the central portion matches the diameter of the bottom of the upper frustoconical portion and the diameter of the top of the lower frustoconical portion. 55. A wedge according to any of claims 53 or 54, wherein the frustoconical portions have the same external taper angle. 56. A wedge according to any of claims 53 to 55, wherein each of the upper frustoconical portion and the lower frustoconical portion is threaded. A wedge according to any of claims 53 to 56, wherein the central portion is unthreaded and non-tapered. 59. A wedge according to any of claims 53 to 58, wherein each of the threads is defined by a relatively wide helically shaped land segment formed between adjacent spiral groove segments. 59. A lock for securing a wear member to a base for civil engineering work equipment, wherein the lock is received in a spool having a recess on one side and in the recess extending into and out of the lock opening. A lock comprising a wedge as described in any of the above. A lock for fixing a wear member to a base for civil engineering work equipment, the lock comprising a spool according to any one of claims 45 to 51 and a wedge according to any one of claims 53 to 58. ,rock.

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