U.S. patent application number 11/572975 was filed with the patent office on 2008-08-28 for tooth and adaptor assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to WUNDOWIE FOUNDRY PTY LTD.. Invention is credited to Bruce Armstrong.
Application Number | 20080201997 11/572975 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35786818 |
Filed Date | 2008-08-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080201997 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Armstrong; Bruce |
August 28, 2008 |
Tooth and Adaptor Assembly
Abstract
Abstract A tooth and adaptor assembly (11) for use on
earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising an adaptor (21)
adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component on the
earthmoving machinery. The adaptor (21) comprising a nose (27)
having an at least one sidewall (35) incorporating a first channel
(37) and a second channel (39) angled relative to each other. The
assembly (11) also a tooth (41) adapted to be received on the
adaptor (41) and releasably secured thereto. The tooth comprises a
socket (43) having sidewalls (53). At least one sidewall (53)
incorporates a third channel (55) at an angle complementary to the
second channel (39), such that when assembled the two channels (39,
55) co-operate to define an enclosure (91). An upper wall (49 of
the socket (43) has at least one aperture (57) therethrough, and
which is aligned with the third channel (55). The assembly (11)
further comprises at least one locking mechanism (71) for locking
the tooth (41) to the adaptor (21). The locking mechanism (71)
having at least one projection (77) and adapted to be received
through the aperture (57). During assembly the projection (77)
moves inwardly with respect to the locking mechanism (71) as it
enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism (71) moving towards its
normal extended position when the projection (77) aligns with the
first channel (37) wherein the assembly (11) is in its locked
condition.
Inventors: |
Armstrong; Bruce; (Western
Australia, AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MARGER JOHNSON & MCCOLLOM, P.C.
210 SW MORRISON STREET, SUITE 400
PORTLAND
OR
97204
US
|
Assignee: |
WUNDOWIE FOUNDRY PTY LTD.
Wundowie
AU
|
Family ID: |
35786818 |
Appl. No.: |
11/572975 |
Filed: |
August 2, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
August 2, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/AU05/01154 |
371 Date: |
April 11, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
37/457 ; 37/455;
37/456 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02F 9/2833 20130101;
E02F 9/2825 20130101; E02F 9/2841 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
37/457 ; 37/455;
37/456 |
International
Class: |
E02F 9/28 20060101
E02F009/28 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 2, 2004 |
AU |
2004904285 |
Claims
1. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery,
the assembly comprising: an adaptor adapted to be secured to a
bucket or like component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor
comprising a nose at one end having a front surface, an upper
surface, a lower surface and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a
first channel extending longitudinally, and a second channel
extending between the upper surface of the nose to the lower
surface such that it bisects the first channel; a tooth adapted to
be received over the nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured
thereto, the tooth comprising a socket being defined by an opening,
a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls,
each sidewall incorporates a third channel extending between the
upper wall and bottom wall and being at an angle complementary to
the second channel of the nose, such that when assembled, the
second channel and third channel co-operate to define an enclosure,
each sidewall also has an inwardly projecting elongate protrusion
adapted to be slidingly received in the first channel of the
adaptor nose during assembly, and an inwardly projecting tab
adjacent the opening and in longitudinal alignment with the
elongate protrusion, the third channel separating the elongate
protrusion and tab, the upper wall having two apertures
therethrough, each aperture aligning with the respective third
channel; a locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor,
the locking mechanism being adapted to be received through the
apertures, each locking mechanism having a projection, wherein
during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of
the adaptor such that the inner surface of both the upper wall and
bottom wall of the socket engages the upper surface and lower
surface of the nose, the locking mechanism can then be inserted
into the enclosure, defined by the second channel and third
channel, through the aperture, whereby the projection of the
locking mechanism moves inwardly with respect to the locking
mechanism as it enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism moving
towards its normal extended position when the projection aligns
with the first channel wherein the assembly is in a locked
condition.
2. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the locking mechanism
comprises two pins.
3. The assembly according to claim 2 wherein each pin is adapted to
be received in the respective aperture in the upper wall of the
tooth.
4. The assembly according to claim 2 wherein each pin comprises a
housing and a retaining clip which provides the projection.
5. The assembly according to claim 4 wherein the retaining clip is
bonded to a resiliently flexible material.
6. The assembly according to claim 5 wherein the resiliently
flexible material is received in a recess of the housing.
7. The assembly according to claim 4 wherein the projection extends
beyond the boundary of the housing when the pin is in its normal
extended condition.
8. The assembly according to claim 4 wherein the housing is made
from metal.
9. The assembly according to claim 4 whereby in an assembled
condition, each pin engages a front surface of the second channel
closest to the front of the nose, with a portion of the retaining
clip adjacent the projection engaging a rear face of the second
channel adjacent either side of the first channel.
10. The assembly according to claim 1 whereby in an assembled
condition, the rear surface of the socket and the rear part of the
tooth adjacent the socket opening do not engage the adaptor.
11. The assembly according to claim 2 whereby in an assembled
condition each pin does not protrude beyond the upper wall or
bottom wall of the tooth.
12. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the front face of the
adaptor nose is rectangular in shape.
13. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the nose diverges
outwardly, in a direction rearward of the front face.
14. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the upper surface and
lower surface of the nose are curved.
15. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the first channel of
the adaptor extends from adjacent the front face of the nose
rearwardly.
16. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the first channel is
parallel with the path the tooth travels as the tooth is positioned
upon the adaptor.
17. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the second channel is
substantially perpendicular to the first channel.
18. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the second channel
bisects the first channel.
19. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the second channel
has a wider portion adjacent the upper surface which contracts as
it approaches the first channel.
20. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the portion of the
second channel above the first channel is wider near the upper
surface and has an inwardly raised ramp adjacent the first
channel.
21. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the tooth is a
unitary member and provides the wear member.
22. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the interior surfaces
of the socket complement the surfaces of the nose.
23. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the upper wall and
bottom wall of the tooth have a curved section which protrudes
beyond the sidewalls.
24. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the elongate
protrusion extends between the third channel and the rear surface
of the socket.
25. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the third channel is
substantially perpendicular to the protrusion.
26. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the protrusion is
parallel with the path the tooth travels as the tooth is positioned
upon the adaptor.
27. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the elongate
protrusion extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis
of the tooth.
28. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the third channel has
a uniform cross section along its longitudinal axis.
29. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the tab of the tooth
is offset from the third channel, such that in an assembled
condition a recess is provided by the first channel of the adaptor
defined by a portion of the first channel of the adaptor adjacent
the second channel.
30. The assembly according to claim 29 wherein the projection from
the pin is releasable retained in the recess to hold the pin in
place when the assembly is in an assembled condition.
31. The assembly according to claim 1 wherein the bottom wall of
the tooth incorporates two apertures.
32. The assembly according to claim 31 wherein each aperture in the
bottom wall is aligned with the third channel and is of sufficient
size to allow the respective pin to pass through.
33. The assembly according to claim 31 wherein each aperture in the
bottom wall is of suitable size such that the pins cannot pass
therethrough.
34. A tooth for use on an adaptor of earthmoving machinery, the
tooth being adapted to be received over a nose of the adaptor and
releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising: a socket being
defined by an opening, a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall
and two sidewalls, each sidewall incorporates a channel extending
between the upper wall and bottom wall, an inwardly projecting
elongate protrusion and an inwardly projecting tab adjacent the
opening and in longitudinal alignment with the elongate protrusion,
the channel extending between the elongate protrusion and tab, the
upper wall having two apertures therethrough, each aperture
aligning with the respective channel; the bottom wall having two
apertures in alignment with those in the upper wall wherein during
assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of the
adaptor such that the inner surface of both the upper wall and
bottom wall of the socket engage the nose whereby the adaptor and
each channel of the tooth cooperate to provide an enclosure, a
locking mechanism is then positioned within the enclosure such that
a projection of the locking mechanism is received in a recess
provided by the adaptor, locking the tooth relative to the
adaptor.
35. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery,
the assembly comprising: an adaptor adapted to be secured to a
bucket or like component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor
comprising a nose at one end having a front surface, an upper
surface, a lower surface and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a
first channel extending longitudinally from the front surface, and
a second channel extending between the upper surface of the nose to
the lower surface such that it bisects the first channel; wherein
during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of
the adaptor such that a surface of a socket of the tooth engages
the nose whereby the second channel of the adaptor and the tooth
co-operate to provide an enclosure, a locking mechanism is then
positioned within the enclosure such that a projection of the
locking mechanism is received in a recess defined by the first
channel, locking the tooth relative to the adaptor.
36. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery,
the assembly comprising: an adaptor adapted to be secured to a
bucket or like component on earthmoving machinery, the adaptor
comprising a nose at one end having a front surface, an upper
surface, a lower surface and two sidewalls, at least one sidewall
having a first channel extending longitudinally, and a second
channel extending between the upper surface of the nose to the
lower surface such that it bisects the first channel; a tooth
adapted to be received over the nose of the adaptor, and releasably
secured thereto, the tooth comprising a socket being defined by an
opening, a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two
sidewalls, at least one sidewall, complementary to the at least one
sidewall of the adaptor, incorporates a third channel extending
between the upper wall and bottom wall and being at an angle
complementary to the second channel of the nose, such that when
assembled, the second channel and third channel co-operate to
define an enclosure, the upper wall having at least one aperture
therethrough, the at least one aperture aligning with the third
channel of the sidewall; the at least one sidewall having an
inwardly projecting elongate protrusion adapted to be slidingly
received in the first channel of the adaptor nose during assembly,
and an inwardly projecting tab adjacent the opening and in
longitudinal alignment with the elongate protrusion, the third
channel separating the elongate protrusion and tab, at least one
locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor, the locking
mechanism being adapted to be received through the at least one
aperture, the at least one locking mechanism having at least one
projection, wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly
positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface
of both the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engages the
upper surface and lower surface of the nose whereby the second
channel of the adaptor is in opposed relation to the third channel
of the tooth, the locking mechanism is then positioned through the
aperture into the enclosure, whereupon the application of force,
the projection of the locking mechanism moves inwardly as it enters
the enclosure, the locking mechanism moves towards its normal
condition whereby the projection aligns with the first channel
wherein the assembly is in its locked condition.
37. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery,
the assembly comprising a tooth received on an adaptor, the tooth
being locked onto the adaptor by a locking mechanism, whereby the
locking mechanism comprises at least one pin in locking engagement
with the tooth, and received in an enclosure defined by the tooth
and the adaptor, the enclosure being such that the at least one pin
is protected from the environment and can only be removed via an
aperture in the tooth through which it is received into the
enclosure.
38. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery,
the assembly comprising: an adaptor adapted to be secured to a
bucket or like component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor
comprising a nose at one end having a front surface, an upper
surface, a lower surface and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a
first channel extending longitudinally, and a second channel
extending between the upper surface of the nose to the lower
surface such that it bisects the first channel; a tooth adapted to
be received over the nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured
thereto, the tooth comprising a socket being defined by an opening,
a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls,
each sidewall incorporates a third channel extending between the
upper wall and bottom wall and being at an angle complementary to
the second channel of the nose, such that when assembled, the
second channel and third channel define an enclosure, the upper
wall having two apertures therethrough, each aperture aligning with
the respective third channel on each sidewall; each sidewall has an
inwardly projecting portion adapted to be slidingly received in the
first channel of the adaptor nose during assembly, a locking
mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor, the locking
mechanism being adapted to be received through the apertures, each
locking mechanism having a projection, wherein during assembly the
tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such
that the inner surface of the upper wall and bottom wall of the
socket engages the upper surface and lower surface of the nose
whereby the first channel of the adaptor is in opposed relation to
the third channel of the tooth into the enclosure, the locking
mechanism is then positioned through the aperture, whereupon the
application of force, the projection of the locking mechanism moves
inwardly with respect to the locking mechanism as it enters the
enclosure, the locking mechanism moves towards its normal condition
when the projection aligns with the first channel wherein the
assembly is in its locked condition.
39. The assembly according to claim 38 wherein the portion is in
the form of a tab adjacent the opening of the socket.
40. A tooth for use on an adaptor of earthmoving machinery, the
tooth being adapted to be received over a nose of the adaptor, and
releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising: a socket being
defined by an opening, a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall
and two sidewalls, each sidewall incorporates a channel extending
between the upper wall and bottom wall, the upper wall having two
apertures therethrough, each aperture aligning with the respective
channel on an inner surface of each sidewall; the bottom wall
having two apertures in alignment with those in the upper wall; the
inner surface of each sidewall having an inwardly projecting
portion, wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned
over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface of the
upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engage the nose whereby
the adaptor and each third channel of the tooth co-operate to
provide an enclosure, a locking mechanism is then positioned within
the enclosure such that a projection of the locking mechanism is
received in a recess defined by the adaptor, locking the tooth
relative to the adaptor.
41. The assembly according to claim 40 wherein the portion is in
the form of a tab and is adjacent the opening of the socket.
42. A tooth and adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery,
the assembly comprising: an adaptor adapted to be secured to a
bucket or like component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor
comprising a nose at one end having an upper surface, a lower
surface and two sidewalls, at least one sidewall having a first
channel extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending
between the upper surface and the lower surface such that it
bisects the first channel; a tooth adapted to be received over the
nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured thereto, the tooth
comprising a socket being defined by an upper wall, a bottom wall
and two sidewalls, at least one sidewall incorporates a third
channel extending between the upper wall and bottom wall and being
at an angle complementary to the second channel of the nose, such
that when assembled, the second channel and third channel
co-operate to define an enclosure, the at least one sidewall also
has an inwardly projecting protrusion adapted to be slidingly
received in the first channel of the adaptor nose during assembly,
the upper wall having at least one aperture therethrough, aligned
with the third channel; at least one locking mechanism for locking
the tooth to the adaptor, the locking mechanism being adapted to be
received through the aperture, the at least one locking mechanism
having at least one projection, wherein during assembly the tooth
is slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that the
inner surface of both the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket
engages the upper surface and lower surface of the nose whereby the
second channel of the adaptor is in opposed relation to the third
channel, the locking mechanism can then be inserted into the
enclosure through the aperture, whereby the projection of the
locking mechanism moves inwardly with respect to the locking
mechanism as it enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism moving
towards its normal extended position when the projection aligns
with the first channel wherein the assembly is locked together.
43. (canceled)
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates particularly to the mining and
construction industries and the use of earthmoving and similar
machinery used in those industries. More particularly this
invention relates to the wear components, namely the replaceable
wear teeth on the excavator and the mode in which they are secured
thereto.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Within the mining and construction industries machinery such
as excavators and front end loaders are used to move debris for
various purposes. This machinery is often used in an extremely
abrasive environment resulting in extreme wear on components.
[0003] The machinery often has a bucket having several teeth
extending from its leading edge. These teeth experience substantial
wear and may need to be replaced daily in some environments.
[0004] To reduce downtime in replacing the teeth, various
configurations have been developed which use an adaptor secured to
the bucket of the machine, a tooth releasably retained on the
adaptor and a locking mechanism to retain the tooth to the
adaptor.
[0005] These configurations have been numerous. However, the
configurations put forward to date are not without disadvantages.
For instance, various configurations utilise a pin as the locking
mechanism to secure the tooth to the adaptor. These pins are often
exposed to the same environment the tooth is exposed, requiring
that they be very secure with respect to the assembly so that they
are not accidentally dislodged during use. Typically in order to
meet this requirement, a large force is then required to dislodge
the pin when the tooth is to be removed. Furthermore, the pins
exposure to the environment can result in damage to the pin
rendering it even more difficult to dislodge.
[0006] Other configurations are complex in shape, often having
large areas of metal extending beyond the main body of the tooth.
These shapes can be difficult to cast and may result in the build
up of stresses within the adaptor or tooth during casting, creating
weak points within the components. Also, the extra metal does not
always contribute to extending the wear life of the tooth and hence
adds unnecessary weight to the assembly.
[0007] Also, complementary shapes to those of the tooth also need
to be cast in the adaptor, typically in the form of grooves or
indents. These grooves and indents are typically used to receive
the locking mechanism within, which co-acts with the two
components. The cross section of the adaptor must therefore change
significantly to accommodate these complimentary shapes, resulting
in concentrations of stress during manufacture and service of the
component.
[0008] Some configurations put forward in the past require a hole
passing through the adaptor. This obviously weakens the structure
and induces areas of stress within the component.
[0009] The reference to the abovementioned prior art is for the
purposes of background only and is not, and should not be taken as,
an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art
forms part of the general knowledge.
[0010] It is an object of this invention to provide a tooth and
adaptor assembly which incorporates a locking mechanism which can
be removed from the assembly with minimal force.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention provides a tooth and adaptor assembly
for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising: [0012]
an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component on
earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose at one end
having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower surface and two
sidewalls, each sidewall having a first channel extending
longitudinally, and a second channel extending between the upper
surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it bisects the
first channel; [0013] a tooth adapted to be received over the nose
of the adaptor, and releasably secured thereto, the tooth
comprising [0014] a socket being defined by an opening, a rear
surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls, [0015]
each sidewall incorporates a third channel extending between the
upper wall and bottom wall and being at an angle complementary to
the second channel of the nose, such that when assembled, the
second channel and third channel co-operate to define an enclosure,
each sidewall also has an inwardly projecting elongate protrusion
adapted to be slidingly received in the first channel of the
adaptor nose during assembly, and an inwardly projecting tab
adjacent the opening and in longitudinal alignment with the
elongate protrusion, the third channel separating the elongate
protrusion and tab, [0016] the upper wall having two apertures
therethrough, each aperture aligning with the respective third
channel; [0017] a locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the
adaptor, the locking mechanism being adapted to be received through
the apertures, each locking mechanism having a projection, wherein
during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of
the adaptor such that the inner surface of both the upper wall and
bottom wall of the socket engages the upper surface and lower
surface of the nose, the locking mechanism can then be inserted
into the enclosure defined by the second channel and third channel
through the aperture, whereby the projection of the locking
mechanism moves inwardly with respect to the locking mechanism as
it enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism moving towards its
normal extended position when the projection aligns with the first
channel wherein the assembly is in a locked condition.
[0018] In contrast with the prior art the present invention
provides a configuration which is easy to cast, reducing regions of
high stress. Furthermore, the locking mechanism is fully enclosed,
protecting it from the abrasive surroundings which could damage the
mechanism and make removal extremely difficult.
[0019] As the locking mechanism is fully enclosed in the enclosure,
there is no chance that the mechanism can be unintentionally
dislodged and allow the tooth to be removed from the adaptor, to
expose the adaptor to the environment. As the locking mechanism is
protected, the forces required to retain the locking mechanism are
greatly reduced than prior art configurations, and hence requires
minimal force to remove the locking mechanism, enabling quick
change out time, reducing the amount of downtime of the
machinery.
[0020] Owing to the design of the present invention, the entire
tooth is used as a wear protection element for the adaptor. Hence
there is no additional weight added to the tooth which would not
prolong its life.
[0021] Also, the shape of the tooth allows for easy casting,
reducing areas of increased stress, which may cause failure of the
assembly during service. This is true for the tooth but also for
the adaptor. The simple shape of the nose of the adaptor represents
minimal change to its cross sectional shape and allows the socket
of the tooth to be manufactured such that it is snugly received on
the nose.
[0022] The locking mechanism may comprise two pins.
[0023] Each pin may be adapted to be received in the respective
aperture in the upper wall of the tooth.
[0024] Each pin may comprise a housing and a retaining clip which
provides the projection.
[0025] The retaining clip may be bonded to a resiliently flexible
material.
[0026] The resiliently flexible material may be received in a
recess of the housing.
[0027] The projection may extend beyond the boundary of the housing
when the pin is in its normal condition.
[0028] The housing may be made of metal.
[0029] Preferably, when the tooth and adaptor are in an assembled
condition, each pin engages a front surface of the second channel
closest to the front of the nose, with a portion of the retaining
clip adjacent the projection engaging a rear face of the second
channel adjacent either side of the first channel. When assembled,
neither the rear surface of the socket, nor the rear part of the
tooth adjacent the socket opening engage the adaptor.
[0030] Preferably when in an assembled condition each pin does not
protrude beyond the upper wall or bottom wall of the tooth.
[0031] Preferably the front face of the adaptor nose is rectangular
in shape.
[0032] Preferably the nose diverges outwardly, in a direction
rearward of the front face.
[0033] Preferably the upper surface and lower surface of the nose
are curved.
[0034] Preferably the first channel of the adaptor extends from
adjacent a front face of the nose rearwardly.
[0035] The first channel may be parallel with the path the tooth
travels as the tooth is positioned upon the adaptor.
[0036] Preferably the second channel is substantially perpendicular
to the first channel.
[0037] Preferably the second channel bisects the first channel.
[0038] Preferably the second channel has a wider portion adjacent
the upper surface which contracts as it approaches the first
channel.
[0039] Preferably the portion of the second channel above the first
channel is wider near the upper surface and has a inwardly raised
ramp adjacent the first channel. The additional width of the second
channel allows the pin to be easily positioned within the assembly.
Once in this position, the fitter only needs to tap the pin,
forcing the retaining clip to move inwardly with respect to the
housing of the pin as it engages the ramp. Once the projection
passes the ramp, the resilient nature of the pin urges the
retaining clip outwardly such that the assembly is in the locked
condition.
[0040] Preferably the tooth is a unitary member and provides the
wear member.
[0041] Preferably the interior surfaces of the socket complement
the surfaces of the nose.
[0042] Preferably the upper wall and bottom wall of the tooth have
a curved section which protrudes beyond the sidewalls. The curved
section adds further wear protection to the adaptor.
[0043] Preferably the elongate protrusion extends between the third
channel and the rear surface of the socket.
[0044] Preferably the third channel is substantially perpendicular
to the protrusion.
[0045] The protrusion may be parallel with the path the tooth
travels as the tooth is positioned upon the adaptor.
[0046] Preferably the elongate protrusion extends substantially
parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tooth.
[0047] Preferably the third channel has a uniform cross section
along its longitudinal axis.
[0048] Preferably the tab of the tooth is offset from the third
channel. As a result of the offset, a recess may be provided by the
first channel of the adaptor when the adaptor is received in the
tooth, the recess being defined by a portion of the first channel
of the adaptor adjacent the second channel.
[0049] Preferably the projection from the pin is releasable
retained in the recess to hold the pin in place when the assembly
is in an assembled condition. In this state the assembly is in the
locked condition.
[0050] Preferably the bottom wall of the tooth incorporates two
apertures.
[0051] In one aspect of the invention each aperture in the bottom
wall is aligned with the third channel and is of sufficient size to
allow the respective pin to pass through. With this arrangement,
the assembly can be disassembled by knocking the pin through the
aperture in the bottom wall.
[0052] In another aspect of the invention the apertures in the
bottom wall are of suitable size such that the pins cannot pass
therethrough. To remove each pin, a tool may be inserted through
each aperture of the bottom wall to dislodge the pins, allowing the
pin to be removed through the apertures in the upper wall.
[0053] The present invention further provides a tooth for use on an
adaptor of earthmoving machinery, the tooth being adapted to be
received over a nose of the adaptor and releasably secured thereto,
the tooth comprising: [0054] a socket being defined by an opening,
a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls,
[0055] each sidewall incorporates a channel extending between the
upper wall and bottom wall, an inwardly projecting elongate
protrusion and an inwardly projecting tab adjacent the opening and
in longitudinal alignment with the elongate protrusion, the channel
extending between the elongate protrusion and tab, [0056] the upper
wall having two apertures therethrough, each aperture aligning with
the respective channel; [0057] the bottom wall having two apertures
in alignment with those in the upper wall; wherein during assembly
the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such
that the inner surface of both the upper wall and bottom wall of
the socket engage the nose whereby the adaptor and each channel of
the tooth cooperate to provide an enclosure, a locking mechanism is
then positioned within the enclosure such that a projection of the
locking mechanism is received in a recess provided by the adaptor,
locking the tooth relative to the adaptor.
[0058] The present invention further provides a tooth and adaptor
assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising:
[0059] an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like
component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a
nose at one end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower
surface and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a first channel
extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between
the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it
bisects the first channel; wherein during assembly the tooth is
slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that a
surface of a socket of the tooth engages the nose whereby the
second channel of the adaptor and the tooth co-operate to provide
an enclosure, a locking mechanism is then positioned within the
enclosure such that a projection of the locking mechanism is
received in a recess defined by the first channel, locking the
tooth relative to the adaptor.
[0060] The present invention further provides a tooth and adaptor
assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising:
[0061] an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or like
component on earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising a nose
at one end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower
surface and two sidewalls, at least one sidewall having a first
channel extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending
between the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such
that it bisects the first channel; [0062] a tooth adapted to be
received over the nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured
thereto, the tooth comprising [0063] a socket being defined by an
opening, a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two
sidewalls, at least one sidewall, complementary to the at least one
[0064] sidewall of the adaptor, incorporates a third channel
extending between the upper wall and bottom wall and being at an
angle complementary to the second channel of the nose, such that
when assembled, the second channel and third channel co-operate to
define an enclosure, [0065] the upper wall having at least one
aperture therethrough, the at least one aperture aligning with the
third channel of the sidewall; [0066] the at least one sidewall
having an inwardly projecting elongate protrusion adapted to be
slidingly received in the first channel of the adaptor nose during
assembly, and an inwardly projecting tab adjacent the opening and
in longitudinal alignment with the elongate protrusion, the third
channel separating the elongate protrusion and tab, [0067] at least
one locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor, the
locking mechanism being adapted to be received through the at least
one aperture, the at least one locking mechanism having at least
one projection, wherein during assembly the tooth is slidingly
positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that the inner surface
of both the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket engages the
upper surface and lower surface of the nose whereby the second
channel of the adaptor is in opposed relation to the third channel
of the tooth, the locking mechanism is then positioned through the
aperture into the enclosure, whereupon the application of force,
the projection of the locking mechanism moves inwardly as it enters
the enclosure, the locking mechanism moves towards its normal
condition whereby the projection aligns with the first channel
wherein the assembly is in its locked condition.
[0068] The present invention further provides a tooth and adaptor
assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly comprising
a tooth received on an adaptor, the tooth being locked onto the
adaptor by a locking mechanism, whereby the locking mechanism
comprises at least one pin received in an enclosure defined by the
tooth and the adaptor, the enclosure being such that the at least
one pin is protected from the environment and can only be removed
via an aperture through which it is received into the
enclosure.
[0069] The present invention still further provides a tooth and
adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly
comprising: [0070] an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or
like component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising
a nose at one end having a front surface, an upper surface, a lower
surface and two sidewalls, each sidewall having a first channel
extending longitudinally, and a second channel extending between
the upper surface of the nose to the lower surface such that it
bisects the first channel; [0071] a tooth adapted to be received
over the nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured thereto, the
tooth comprising [0072] a socket being defined by an opening, a
rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two sidewalls,
[0073] each sidewall incorporates a third channel extending between
the upper wall and bottom wall and being at an angle complementary
to the second channel of the nose, such that when assembled, the
second channel and third channel define an enclosure, [0074] the
upper wall having two apertures therethrough, each aperture
aligning with the respective third channel on each sidewall; [0075]
each sidewall has an inwardly projecting portion adapted to be
slidingly received in the first channel of the adaptor nose during
assembly, [0076] a locking mechanism for locking the tooth to the
adaptor, the locking mechanism being adapted to be received through
the apertures, each locking mechanism having a projection, wherein
during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of
the adaptor such that the inner surface of the upper wall and
bottom wall of the socket engages the upper surface and lower
surface of the nose whereby the first channel of the adaptor is in
opposed relation to the third channel of the tooth, the locking
mechanism is then positioned through the aperture into the
enclosure, whereupon the application of force, the projection of
the locking mechanism moves inwardly with respect to the locking
mechanism as it enters the enclosure, the locking mechanism moves
towards its normal condition when the projection aligns with the
first channel wherein the assembly is in its locked condition.
[0077] Preferably the portion is in the form of a tab adjacent the
opening of the socket.
[0078] The present invention further provides a tooth for use on an
adaptor of earthmoving machinery, the tooth being adapted to be
received over a nose of the adaptor, and releasably secured
thereto, the tooth comprising: [0079] a socket being defined by an
opening, a rear surface, an upper wall, a bottom wall and two
sidewalls, [0080] each sidewall incorporates a channel extending
between the upper wall and bottom wall, [0081] the upper wall
having two apertures therethrough, each aperture aligning with the
respective channel on an inner surface of each sidewall; [0082] the
bottom wall having two apertures in alignment with those in the
upper wall; [0083] the inner surface of each sidewall having an
inwardly projecting portion, wherein during assembly the tooth is
slidingly positioned over the nose of the adaptor such that the
inner surface of the upper wall and bottom wall of the socket
engage the nose whereby the adaptor and each third channel of the
tooth co-operate to provide an enclosure, a locking mechanism is
then positioned within the enclosure such that a projection of the
locking mechanism is received in a recess defined by the adaptor,
locking the tooth relative to the adaptor.
[0084] Preferably the portion is in the form of a tab adjacent the
opening of the socket.
[0085] The present invention further yet provides a tooth and
adaptor assembly for use on earthmoving machinery, the assembly
comprising: [0086] an adaptor adapted to be secured to a bucket or
like component on the earthmoving machinery, the adaptor comprising
a nose at one end having an upper surface, a lower surface and two
sidewalls, at least one sidewall having a first channel extending
longitudinally, and a second channel extending between the upper
surface and the lower surface such that it bisects the first
channel; [0087] a tooth adapted to be received over the nose of the
adaptor, and releasably secured thereto, the tooth comprising
[0088] a socket being defined by an upper wall, a bottom wall and
two sidewalls, [0089] at least one sidewall incorporates a third
channel extending between the upper wall and bottom wall and being
at an angle complementary to the second channel of the nose, such
that when assembled, the second channel and third channel
co-operate to define an enclosure, the at least one sidewall also
has an inwardly projecting protrusion adapted to be slidingly
received in the first channel of the adaptor nose during assembly,
[0090] the upper wall having at least one aperture therethrough,
aligned with the third channel; [0091] at least one locking
mechanism for locking the tooth to the adaptor, the locking
mechanism being adapted to be received through the aperture, the at
least one locking mechanism having at least one projection, wherein
during assembly the tooth is slidingly positioned over the nose of
the adaptor such that the inner surface of both the upper wall and
bottom wall of the socket engages the upper surface and lower
surface of the nose whereby the second channel of the adaptor is in
opposed relation to the third channel, the locking mechanism can
then be inserted into the enclosure through the aperture, whereby
the projection of the locking mechanism moves inwardly with respect
to the locking mechanism as it enters the enclosure, the locking
mechanism moving towards its normal extended position when the
projection aligns with the first channel wherein the assembly is
locked together.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0092] The invention will be better understood by reference to the
following description of two embodiments of the invention, as shown
in the accompanying drawings in which:
[0093] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a tooth according to a
first embodiment of the invention;
[0094] FIG. 2 is a cross sectional plan view of FIG. 1;
[0095] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional side view of FIG. 1
[0096] FIG. 4 is a cross sectional perspective view of FIG. 1 from
a rear position;
[0097] FIG. 5 is a cross sectional perspective view of FIG. 1 from
a forward position;
[0098] FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 5 from an elevated
position;
[0099] FIG. 7 is a view similar to FIG. 4 from a lower
position;
[0100] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of section A as shown in FIG.
7;
[0101] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an adaptor according
to an embodiment of the invention;
[0102] FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 9, but only showing the
nose section;
[0103] FIG. 11 is a cross sectional plan view of FIG. 10;
[0104] FIG. 12 is a front view of FIG. 9;
[0105] FIG. 13 is a side view of FIG. 9;
[0106] FIG. 14 is a bottom view of FIG. 9;
[0107] FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of a locking mechanism
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0108] FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of the tooth received on
the nose of the adaptor, with the locking mechanism partially
inserted in an enclosure;
[0109] FIG. 17 is a view similar to FIG. 16 with the locking
mechanism positioned further in the enclosure;
[0110] FIG. 18 is a view similar to FIG. 16 with the assembly in a
locked position.
[0111] FIG. 19 is a view similar to FIG. 16 with the locking
mechanism passing through a bottom aperture;
[0112] FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of a tooth according to a
second embodiment of the invention;
[0113] FIG. 21 is a cross sectional plan view of FIG. 20;
[0114] FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view of the tooth according to
the second embodiment received on the nose of the adaptor, with the
locking mechanism partially inserted in an enclosure; and
[0115] FIG. 23 is a view similar to FIG. 22 with the assembly in a
locked position.
BEST MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0116] Referring to the FIGS. 1 to 19, the invention according to a
first embodiment of the invention comprises a tooth and adaptor
assembly 11 for use on earthmoving or similar machinery. The
assembly 11 comprises an adaptor 21, having a first end 23 adapted
to receive a tooth 41, with a locking mechanism 71 being received
therein to lock the tooth 41 relative to the adaptor 21.
[0117] Shown in FIGS. 9 to 14 is the adaptor 21. The adaptor 21 has
a second end 25 adapted to be secured to a bucket or like component
on the earthmoving machinery (not shown). The configuration of the
second end 25 varies according to its particular application.
[0118] The adaptor 21 comprises a nose 27 at the first end 23. The
nose 27 diverges outwardly in a rearward direction from a front
surface 29. The nose 27 comprises an upper surface 31, a lower
surface 33, both having a curved contour, and two sidewalls 35.
[0119] Each sidewall 35 incorporates a first channel 37 extending
longitudinally along the nose 27 rearward from the front surface
29, and a second channel 39 extending between the upper surface 31
of the nose 27 to the lower surface 33 such that it bisects the
first channel 37 and is substantially perpendicular thereto.
[0120] The portion of the second channel 39 above the first channel
37 comprises a wider portion 41 than the lower part of the second
channel 39, and a ramp 40 adjacent the first channel 37, as best
shown in FIGS. 10 and 13, for reasons which are explained
below.
[0121] Shown in FIGS. 1 to 8, is the tooth 41. The tooth 41 is
adapted to be received over the nose 27 of the adaptor 21, to be
releasably secured thereto. The tooth 41 comprises a socket 43
being defined by an opening 45, a rear surface 47, an upper wall
49, a bottom wall 51 and two sidewalls 53. The shape of the socket
43 complements the surface of the nose 27 to provide a snug fit
when the tooth 41 is received on the adaptor 21.
[0122] Each sidewall 53 incorporates a third channel 55. The third
channel 55 is substantially parallel to the opening 45 such that
when assembled, the second channel 39 of the nose 27 and third
channel 55 co-operate to define an enclosure 91.
[0123] The upper wall 49 has two apertures 57a therethrough. Each
aperture 57a is in alignment with the respective third channel 55
on each sidewall 53.
[0124] The bottom wall 51 also has two apertures 57b. These
apertures 57b are the same size and in alignment with the two
apertures 57a of the upper wall 49.
[0125] Each sidewall 53 also provides an inwardly projecting
elongate protrusion 59 adapted to be slidingly received in the
first channel 37 of the adaptor nose 27 during assembly of the
tooth 41 and adaptor 21. The elongate protrusion 59 extends between
the third channel 55 and the rear surface 47 of the socket 43, and
is substantially perpendicular to the third channel 55.
[0126] The inner surface of each sidewall 53 also provides a tab 61
protruding into the opening 45, and which is in longitudinal
alignment with the elongate protrusion 59. The elongate protrusion
59 and tab 61 are separated by the third channel 55, with the tab
61 being offset from the third channel 55, as best shown in FIGS. 7
and 8.
[0127] Referring to FIG. 15, the locking mechanism 71 comprises two
pins 73 (only one shown), each being adapted to be received through
aperture 57a in the upper wall 49 of the tooth 41, and into the
enclosure 91 during assembly.
[0128] Each pin 73 comprises a metal retaining clip 75 providing a
projection 77. The retaining clip 75 is bonded to a resiliently
flexibly material 79, such as polyurethane.
[0129] The resiliently flexible material 79 is received in a recess
81 of a metal housing 83.
[0130] When the pin 73 is assembled, the projection 77 extends
beyond the boundary of the housing 83 when the pin 73 is in its
normal condition.
[0131] In use, the adaptor 21 is secured to a component of the
earthmoving equipment, such as a bucket, not shown. The adaptor 21
is typically welded to the bucket. The adaptor 21 is protected from
substantial wear by the tooth 41, which is replaced as the tooth
becomes worn or damage. As this is quite regular it is important to
have a tooth 41 which may easily and quickly be removed from the
adaptor 21.
[0132] Referring to FIGS. 16 to 19, when assembling the tooth 41 to
the adaptor 21, the socket 43 of the tooth 41 receives the nose 27
of the adaptor 21 such that the tab 61 and elongate protrusion 59
align with, and are slidingly received in the first channel 37 of
the nose 27. The tooth 41 continues to slide along the nose 27
until the internal surfaces of the upper wall 49 and bottom wall 51
of the socket 43 engage the upper surface 31 and lower surface 33
of the nose 27 respectively, at which point the third channel 55
aligns with the second channel 39 to provide an enclosure 91.
[0133] Due to the offset of the tab 61 from the third channel 55,
when the tooth 41 is received on the adaptor 21, a portion of the
first channel 37 provides a recess 93 between the second channel 39
and the tab 61, for reasons which are detailed below.
[0134] In order to lock the tooth 41 to the adaptor 21, each pin 73
is placed in the enclosure 91 to be releasably retained therein.
Each pin 73 is inserted through each aperture 57a and passes
through the wider portion 41 of the second channel 39 until the
projection 77 of the pin 73 engages the ramp 40, as shown in FIG.
17.
[0135] In order to move past the ramp 40 a relatively small force
is applied to the pin 73. The ramp 40 forces the projection 77
inwardly with respect to the housing 83, allowing the pin 73 to
move further along the enclosure 91.
[0136] As the projection 77 passes over the ramp, 40, the
projection 77 aligns with the recess 93 and is urged outwardly by
the resilient nature of the flexible material 79 until the
projection 77 is received in the recess 93, as best shown in FIG.
18. In this position the rear surface 85 of each pin 73 engages a
wall 38a of the second channel 39, whilst adjacent portions 78 of
the projection 77 engage an opposed wall 38b to wall 38a,
maintaining the tooth 41 in good fitment relative to the adaptor
21.
[0137] When each pin 73 is in position, the bottom and top of the
pin 73 do not protrude beyond the upper and lower peripheries of
the tooth 41, as best shown in FIG. 18.
[0138] When disassembling the tooth from the adaptor, each pin 73
must first be removed. In order to do so, a tool (not shown) is
inserted into the apertures 57a in the upper wall 49. A relatively
small force is then applied to the pin 73 to force the projection
77 inwardly to allow the pin to pass through apertures 57b in the
bottom wall 51 of the tooth 41.
[0139] FIGS. 20 to 23 show a tooth 141 according to a second
embodiment. Like numbering is used on similar components as was
used for describing the tooth according to the first embodiment. In
this embodiment, the configuration of the locking mechanism 71 and
adaptor 21 remain the same as was described in the first
embodiment.
[0140] Similarly to the first embodiment, the tooth 141 of the
second embodiment has two apertures 57 through the upper wall 49.
Each aperture 57 is in alignment with the respective third channel
55 on each sidewall 53.
[0141] The bottom wall 51 also has two apertures 58. These
apertures 58 are smaller in size than the two apertures 57 of the
upper wall 49, and are of suitable size such that the locking
mechanism 71 is prevented from passing therethrough.
[0142] When each pin 73 is in position, the bottom of the pin 73
engages or is adjacent the bottom wall 51 of the tooth 41, whilst
the top of the pin 73 is adjacent or substantially flush with the
outer surface of the upper wall 49 of the tooth 41, as best shown
in FIG. 23.
[0143] When disassembling the tooth 141 from the adaptor 21 each
pin 73 must first be removed. In order to do so, a tool (not shown)
is inserted into the apertures 58 in the bottom wall 51. A
relatively small force is then applied to the pin 73 to force the
projection 77 inwardly as it passes over the ramp 40. Once each pin
73 is removed, the tooth 141 may easily be removed from the adaptor
21.
[0144] The configuration of the present invention protect the pin
73 from the environment and ensures the pins 73 are not knocked out
or damaged during service. Due to this configuration, the fit of
the pins 73 relative to the tooth and adaptor need not be as robust
as if the pins 73 were exposed. Hence the forces required to insert
and remove the pins are relatively small when compared to those of
other available systems.
[0145] Throughout the specification, unless the context requires
otherwise, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or
"comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated
integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other
integer or group of integers.
* * * * *