U.S. patent application number 13/444589 was filed with the patent office on 2013-10-17 for assembly for an excavating apparatus with flexible reinforcement collar.
This patent application is currently assigned to Trinity Industries, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Sherlock K. Pippins. Invention is credited to Sherlock K. Pippins.
Application Number | 20130269221 13/444589 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49323783 |
Filed Date | 2013-10-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130269221 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pippins; Sherlock K. |
October 17, 2013 |
Assembly for an Excavating Apparatus with Flexible Reinforcement
Collar
Abstract
A tooth assembly for excavating equipment may include an adapter
having first and second tapered surfaces and first and second
sides, the first and second tapered surfaces defining an opening at
a first end of the adapter. The tooth assembly may also include a
tooth horn having first and second tapered surfaces, the adapter
configured to be removably coupled to the tooth horn at the first
end of the adapter, the first and second tapered surfaces of the
tooth horn abutting the first and second surfaces of the adapter in
a coupled position. The first side of the tooth horn may be adapted
to receive a removable insert. A retaining pin may be configured to
be removably fastened to the removable insert, the retaining pin
removably securing the adapter to the tooth horn. The retaining pin
may include a flexible reinforcement collar.
Inventors: |
Pippins; Sherlock K.;
(Dallas, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Pippins; Sherlock K. |
Dallas |
TX |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Trinity Industries, Inc.
Dallas
TX
|
Family ID: |
49323783 |
Appl. No.: |
13/444589 |
Filed: |
April 11, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
37/456 ;
37/455 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02F 9/2825 20130101;
E02F 9/285 20130101; E02F 9/2833 20130101; E02F 9/2875
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
37/456 ;
37/455 |
International
Class: |
E02F 9/28 20060101
E02F009/28 |
Claims
1. A tooth assembly, comprising: an adapter having first and second
tapered surfaces, and first and second sides, the first and second
tapered surfaces converging toward a first end of the adapter; a
tooth point coupled with the adapter at the first end, the tooth
point having a contact edge opposite the first end of the adapter;
a second end of the adapter adapted to be removably coupled with a
tooth horn; the first side of the adapter including an internal
cavity extending at least partially through the first side, the
internal cavity adapted to receive a removable insert, the cavity
having a complementary shape to the removable insert; and a
retaining pin operable to be removably fastened to the removable
insert, the retaining pin removably securing the tooth point to the
adapter, the retaining pin comprising a flexible reinforcement
collar.
2. The tooth assembly of claim 1, wherein a side of the tooth point
defines at least one opening configured to receive the retainer
pin, the side of the tooth point configured to secure the removable
insert within the cavity of the adapter, and wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar abuts at least a portion of the at least one
opening of the tooth point when the retaining pin is in an
installed configuration.
3. The tooth assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar comprises an annular ring fastened to a head
of the retaining pin.
4. The tooth assembly of claim 3, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar at least partially comprises neoprene.
5. The tooth assembly of claim 3, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar maintains the adapter and the tooth point in a
snug alignment relative to each other in an installed
configuration.
6. The tooth assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar is operable to at least partially absorb shock
between the adapter and the tooth point.
7. A tooth assembly, comprising: an adapter having first and second
tapered surfaces, and first and second sides, the first and second
tapered surfaces defining an opening at a first end of the adapter;
a tooth horn having first and second tapered surfaces, the adapter
configured to be removably coupled to the tooth horn at the first
end of the adapter, the first and second tapered surfaces of the
tooth horn abutting the first and second surfaces of the adapter in
a coupled position; the first side of the tooth horn including an
internal cavity extending at least partially through the first
side, the internal cavity adapted to receive a removable insert,
the cavity having a shape complementary to the removable insert;
and a retaining pin operable to be removably fastened to the
removable insert, the retaining pin removably securing the adapter
to the tooth horn, the retaining pin comprising a flexible
reinforcement collar.
8. The tooth assembly of claim 7, wherein a side of the adapter
defines at least one opening configured to receive the retainer
pin, the side of the adapter configured to secure the removable
insert within the cavity of the tooth horn, and wherein the
flexible reinforcement collar abuts at least a portion of the at
least one opening of the adapter when the retaining pin is in an
installed configuration.
9. The tooth assembly of claim 7, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar comprises an annular ring fastened to a head
of the retaining pin.
10. The tooth assembly of claim 9, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar at least partially comprises neoprene.
11. The tooth assembly of claim 9, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar retains the adapter and the tooth horn in a
snug alignment relative to each other in an installed
configuration.
12. The tooth assembly of claim 7, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar is operable to absorb shock between the
adapter and the tooth horn.
13. A retaining pin for a tooth assembly comprising: an elongated
threaded portion operable to be fastened to a threaded portion of a
removable insert; a head portion, wherein the head portion is at
least partially tapered and configured to abut a cooperatively
shaped tapered portion of a removable insert, the removable insert
operable to be positioned in a cavity of a replaceable machine
component in an installed configuration; and a flexible
reinforcement collar coupled to the head portion.
14. The retaining pin of claim 13, wherein the retaining pin is
configured to removably secure a first component of the tooth
assembly to a second component of the tooth assembly.
15. The tooth assembly of claim 13, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar comprises an annular ring fastened to the head
portion of the retaining pin.
16. The tooth assembly of claim 13, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar at least partially comprises neoprene.
17. The tooth assembly of claim 13, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar retains a first component of the tooth
assembly and a second component of the tooth assembly in a snug
alignment relative to each other in an installed configuration.
18. The tooth assembly of claim 13, wherein the flexible
reinforcement collar is operable to absorb shock between a first
component of the tooth assembly and a second component of the tooth
assembly.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to replaceable machine parts that are
exposed to high wear and repeated shock loading, and in particular
to an assembly for an excavating apparatus with a flexible
reinforcement collar.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Digging and leveling apparatus such as draglines, backhoes,
front-end loaders and the like often use replaceable tooth
assemblies which are mounted on the tooth horns to provide
sacrificial parts that are exposed to the repeated shock loading
and high wear occasioned by the digging operation. In such systems,
each tooth assembly typically includes a wedge-shaped adapter which
mounts directly on the tooth horn of the bucket, shovel or
alternative digging or scraping mechanism of the equipment. A
wedge-shaped tooth point is frontally seated on and rigidly pinned
to the adapter for engaging the material to be excavated.
SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] In accordance with particular embodiments of the present
disclosure, the disadvantages and problems associated with tool
assemblies for an excavating apparatus have been substantially
reduced or eliminated.
[0004] In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure,
a tooth assembly, comprises an adapter having first and second
tapered surfaces and first and second sides, the first and second
tapered surfaces converging toward a first end of the adapter. The
tooth assembly further comprises a tooth point coupled with the
adapter at the first end, the tooth point having a contact edge
opposite the first end of the adapter. The second end of the
adapter is adapted to be removably coupled with a tooth horn. In
particular embodiments, the first side of the adapter includes an
internal cavity extending at least partially through the first
side, the internal cavity adapted to receive a removable insert,
the cavity having a complementary shape to the removable insert. A
retaining pin is operable to be removably fastened to the removable
insert, the retaining pin removably securing the tooth point to the
adapter, the retaining pin comprising a flexible reinforcement
collar.
[0005] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
disclosure, a tooth assembly, comprises an adapter having first and
second tapered surfaces, and first and second sides, the first and
second tapered surfaces defining an opening at a first end of the
adapter. The tooth assembly further comprises a tooth horn having
first and second tapered surfaces, the adapter configured to be
removably coupled to the tooth horn at the first end of the
adapter, and the first and second tapered surfaces of the tooth
horn abutting the first and second surfaces of the adapter in a
coupled position. The first side of the tooth horn includes an
internal cavity extending at least partially through the first
side, the internal cavity adapted to receive a removable insert,
and the cavity having a shape complementary to the removable
insert. The tooth assembly further comprises a retaining pin
operable to be removably fastened to the removable insert, the
retaining pin removably securing the adapter to the tooth horn, and
the retaining pin comprising a flexible reinforcement collar.
[0006] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present
disclosure, a retaining pin for a tooth assembly comprises an
elongated threaded portion operable to be fastened to a threaded
portion of a removable insert. The retaining pin further comprises
a head portion, wherein the head portion is at least partially
tapered and configured to abut a cooperatively shaped tapered
portion of a removable insert, and the removable insert is operable
to be positioned in a cavity of a replaceable machine component in
an installed configuration. The retaining pin further comprises a
flexible reinforcement collar coupled to the head portion.
[0007] Embodiments or the present disclosure are particularly
suited to accomplish quicker and easier replacement of teeth used
for excavating equipment such as draglines, bucket wheels, but also
is applicable to other types of equipment having sacrificial parts
subject to high wear. Additionally, quicker changeovers for
sacrificial parts of machines, especially digging and excavating
equipment may be provided utilizing embodiments of the present
disclosure. Reduced wear and tear for components of the equipment
may be provided by a retaining pin in accordance with embodiments
of the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure
and its advantages, reference is now made to the following
description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
in which:
[0009] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of the
tooth assembly of this disclosure mounted on a conventional tooth
horn of a bucket or shovel of an excavating apparatus;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the tooth assembly
illustrated in FIG. 1 assembled on the conventional tooth horn;
[0011] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the adapter and tooth point
elements of the tooth assembly illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 in a
second preferred embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an insert element of the
tooth assembly illustrated in FIGS. 1-3;
[0013] FIG. 5 is a partial sectional view of the adapter, tooth
point and insert elements of the tooth assembly in assembled
configuration as illustrated in FIG. 2;
[0014] FIG. 6 is a side view of the tooth assembly showing the
locations where specific tolerances are provided according to one
embodiment of the disclosure;
[0015] FIG. 7 is a top view of the tooth assembly also showing the
locations where specific tolerances are provided according to one
embodiment of the disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the improved insert and pin
using spring-loaded ball bearings;
[0017] FIG. 9 is a sectional view of an alternate embodiment of the
improved pin utilizing springs;
[0018] FIG. 10 is a detail showing one possible arrangement of a
bar-type hook recessed into the head of a retaining pin;
[0019] FIG. 11 illustrates an extraction tool that can be used to
remove the improved retaining pin of the disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 12 is a sectional view of a second arrangement of the
improved insert in which the pin is non-rotatable;
[0021] FIGS. 13A and 13B are isometric exploded views of excavation
tool components that may be coupled using a pin assembly according
to a particular embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a pin assembly in accordance
with particular embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 15 is a side view of a ripper shank coupled with a
removable tooth, and shroud, in accordance with a particular
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0024] FIG. 16 is a side view of a retaining pin with flexible
reinforcement collar in accordance with particular embodiments of
the present disclosure; and
[0025] FIG. 17 is a top view of a retaining pin with flexible
reinforcement collar in accordance with particular embodiments of
the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] The attachment system of the present disclosure is described
further herein with particular reference to the attachment of
replaceable teeth to excavating equipment, and more particularly to
the assembly disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,337,495 and 6,052,927,
the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.
Particular embodiments of the present disclosure are also
applicable to and may be used with other machines using replaceable
parts. Examples of such machines include down-hole drills and
related tools, conveyor belt parts, center wear shrouds and wing
shrouds on dragline buckets, track shoes for tracked vehicles,
machine gun and artillery breech parts and the like.
[0027] FIGS. 1 and 2 disclose embodiments in which a tooth assembly
(generally illustrated by reference numeral 1) is mounted on a
conventional tooth horn 2 of a bucket or shovel of a conventional
excavator or other machine using replaceable parts. Tooth assembly
1 includes wedge-shaped adapter 3, fitted with removable tooth
point 15, which includes contact edge 18. Tooth point 15 is mounted
on adapter 3 by using one or more tooth point retainer pins 33,
which each extend through tooth point retainer pin opening 14 in
tooth point side wall 17 of tooth point 15. Retainer pins 33 are
threaded in an insert 41, seated in opposite sides of the adapter
3. In a preferred embodiment, tooth assembly 1 further includes a
transversely-mounted top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36, both
of which are also bolted to adapter 3 by means of side plate bolts
32. In some embodiments, adapter 3 includes wedge-shaped adapter
base 4 which tapers from base plate 4a to nose ridge 12,
terminating adapter nose 11. Base plate lock opening 5 is provided
in base plate 4a of adapter base 4 for receiving spool 38 and
companion wedge 39, and mounting adapter 3 on tooth horn 2 in
conventional fashion. Some embodiments include a pair of
transverse, vertically-oriented, spaced stabilizing slots 6 in the
sides of adapter base 4. Spaced, parallel top rib slots 7 are also
provided transversely in the top tapered face of base plate 4a of
adapter base 4 and in some embodiments, top rib slots 7 are
T-shaped, as illustrated in the drawings. Similarly, a pair of
spaced, T-shaped bottom rib slots 8 are provided in the bottom
tapered surface or face of the adapter base plate 4a in the same
relative position as top rib slots 7. It is understood that top rib
slots 7 and bottom rib slots 8 may alternatively be shaped in a
"dove-tail" or other locking configuration.
[0028] As further illustrated in FIG. 1, top wear cap 22 and bottom
wear cap 36 are designed to slidably mount transversely on the
adapter base 4 of adapter 3. Top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36
are each characterized by identical cap plates 23 and corresponding
side plates 26 and are therefore, in certain embodiments,
interchangeable. Cap plate 23 of top wear cap 22 further includes
cap plate opening 24, which registers with base plate lock opening
5 located in adapter 3, to provide access to spool 38 and wedge 39
for readily tensioning wedge 39 if necessary, as illustrated in
FIG. 1. Cap plate ribs 25, which may be T-shaped, are transversely
located in the bottom surface of cap plate 23 of top wear cap 22
and are designed to register with top rib slots 7 provided in
adapter 3. Similarly, additional cap plate ribs 25 are provided in
spaced relationship in a top surface of cap plate 23 of bottom wear
cap 36 for registering with corresponding spaced parallel bottom
rib slots 8, located in a bottom face of adapter 3. A side plate
retainer pin opening 30 is provided in each of side plates 26 of
top wear cap 22 and wear cap 36 for receiving side plate bolts 32,
respectively, in order to lock top wear cap 22 on the top and one
side of adapter 3 and bottom wear cap 36 on the bottom and opposite
side of adapter 3. As further illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, adapter
3 is fitted with an adapter recess 10 on one side to facilitate
recessing of side plate 26 of bottom wear cap 36 and extension of
the corresponding cap plate ribs 25, located in the bottom surface
of cap plate 23 of top wear cap 22, into corresponding side plate
slots 28, provided in the extending end of side plate 26 of bottom
wear cap 36. Similarly, projecting cap plate ribs 25, located in
cap plate 23 of bottom wear cap 36, project in registration with
corresponding side plate slots 28, located in the extending end of
side plate 26 of top wear cap 22 when top wear cap 22 and bottom
wear cap 36 are assembled and interlocked on the adapter 3, as
illustrated in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, a side plate recess 29
is provided in side plate 26 of each of top wear cap 22 and bottom
wear cap 36 and surrounds a corresponding side plate retainer pin
opening 30, to accommodate a head of side plate bolts 32 in
countersunk, recessed relationship. Furthermore, spaced side plate
lugs 31 are provided in side plate 26 of top wear cap 22 and bottom
wear cap 36 for registering with the corresponding spaced
stabilizing slots 6, located in the sides of adapter 3,
respectively. Accordingly, it will be appreciated by those skilled
in the art that when the top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36 are
mounted on adapter 3 from opposite sides, with respective cap plate
ribs 25 engaging corresponding top rib slots 7 and bottom rib slots
8 located in the beveled top and bottom faces of adapter base 4a,
respectively, top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36 are
interlocked as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. Furthermore, insertion
of side plate bolts 32 through respective side plate retainer pin
openings 30 in side plates 26 of top wear cap 22 and bottom wear
cap 36, respectively, and threading of the side plate bolts 32 in
the respective threaded openings 13 located in sides of adapter 3,
locks top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36 securely on adapter 3,
with side plate lugs 31 engaging the corresponding stabilizing
slots 6 located in adapter 3. Top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap
36 are thus prevented from disengaging adapter 3 without removing
side plate bolts 32.
[0029] Moreover, the heads of the side plate bolts 32 are securely
recessed inside respective side plate recesses 29, provided in the
side plates 26, to minimize the possibility of shearing side plate
retainer pins 32 from tooth assembly 1.
[0030] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, each of side
plate bolts 32 is provided with retainer pin shoulder 32a located
beneath the head thereof. In some embodiments, the heads of the
respective side plate bolts 32 are spaced from the recess shoulder
29a of each side plate recess 29. This spacing facilitates limited
movement of the top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36 with respect
to the adapter 3 as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,172,501 and serves
as a stress-relieving function to minimize damage to tooth assembly
1 by operation of the excavation or other equipment upon which
tooth assembly 1 is mounted.
[0031] Referring now to FIGS. 1-7, tooth point 15 is removably
attached to adapter 3 by means of two tapered inserts 41, each
inserted in a correspondingly-shaped insert cavity 47, provided in
wedge-shaped tooth point side walls 17 of adapter 3. Each insert 41
includes an insert bore 45, extending through a tapered, rounded
insert body 44 which terminates in an insert shoulder 42, having a
straight shoulder edge 43. The respective oppositely-disposed
insert cavities 47 are tapered and shaped to define a cavity
shoulder 48, which engages insert shoulder 42, and a body curvature
49, which engages insert body 44. Accordingly, insert cavities 47
removably receive inserts 41 and prevent inserts 41 from rotating
when pressure is applied to tooth point retainer pins 33, which
secure tooth point 15 on adapter 3. In some embodiments, that
include the retainer pins illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, lockwasher
35 may be omitted from the overall structure of the present
disclosure. Additionally, embodiments that include the retainer
pins illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, insert 41 may not require an
insert shoulder that is shaped to prevent rotation. Although FIG. 1
illustrates insert 41 as having a tapered and rounded shape,
particular embodiments of the present disclosure may include insert
41 and corresponding insert cavity 47 of various forms, including,
but not limited to square, circular, and/or star-shaped.
[0032] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, tooth point 15 is designed
to mount frontally on adapter nose 11 of adapter 3 by matching
tooth point retainer pin openings 14, located in the opposite tooth
point side walls 17 of tooth point 15, with the corresponding
insert bores 45 provided in inserts 41. Each tooth point retainer
pin 33 is then registered with a corresponding tooth point retainer
pin opening 14 and the shank of each tooth point retainer pin 33 is
inserted into the corresponding insert bore 45 located in insert 41
to removably secure tooth point 15 on adapter 3. When tooth point
15 is so positioned on adapter 3, tooth point edge 15a is located
in close proximity to corresponding edges of cap plates 23 and side
plates 26 of top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36, respectively,
as illustrated in FIG. 2. However, working gap 37 is maintained
between tooth point edge 15a of tooth point 15 and one or more
front edges of top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36,
respectively, to facilitate movement of tooth point 15 with respect
to top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36 with respect to adapter
3. As illustrated in FIG. 5, since the diameter of tooth point
retainer pin opening 14 is smaller than the external dimensions of
inserts 41 at insert shoulder 42, inserts 41 cannot exit the
respective insert cavities 47 through tooth point retainer pin
openings 14. However, inserts 41 can be easily removed from insert
cavities 47 when tooth point 15 is removed from the adapter 3.
[0033] Accordingly, in some embodiments, tooth point 15 is afforded
a range of movement on adapter nose 11 due to a space between the
heads of tooth point retainer pins 33 and the periphery of tooth
point retainer pin openings 14 and working gap 37 to relieve
digging stresses.
[0034] It will be appreciated from a consideration of the drawings
that embodiments of the present disclosure exhibit multiple
favorable structural characteristics not found in conventional
assemblies. The interlocking relationship between top wear cap 22
and bottom wear cap 36, along with the transverse, slidable
mounting of these structural members and the removable mounting of
tooth point 15 on adapter 3 facilitate an extremely strong,
versatile wear-resistant assembly. Furthermore, recessing of
respective side plate bolts 32 and tooth point retainer pins 33, as
well as side plates 26 of top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36
provided in opposite sides of the adapter 3 facilitate excavation
and leveling of all types of material without fear of shearing the
respective side plate bolts 32 and tooth point retainer pins 33.
Moreover, use and replacement of top wear cap 22, bottom wear cap
36 and tooth point 15 independently or in concert, is quickly and
easily facilitated in an optimum manner by simply removing side
plate bolts 32 and tooth point retainer pins 33, sliding top wear
cap 22, bottom wear cap 36 and tooth point 15 from adapter 3 and
replacing these members by reversing this procedure. Shock and
impact resistance of tooth assembly 1 is facilitated by mounting
top wear cap 22 and bottom wear cap 36 and tooth point 15 in a
non-rigid, but secure relationship on adapter 3 to facilitate a
selected minimum movement of top wear cap 22, bottom wear cap 36
and tooth point 15 with respect to adapter 3 during operation. Use
of inserts 41 to mount tooth point 15 on the adapter 3 facilitates
quick and easy removal and replacement of tooth point 15 without
risk of cross-threading a tooth point bolt directly into tapped
holes provided in the adapter 3. Such tapped holes are subject to
various types of damage and inserts 41 are capable of easy
replacement to avoid this problem. In particular embodiments, tooth
assembly 1 is mounted on each tooth horn 2 of a bucket or shovel of
an excavating apparatus in a conventional manner, utilizing spool
38 and wedge 39. It should be appreciated that alternative means
for mounting tooth assembly 1 to a tooth horn of such equipment may
also be implemented without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present disclosure.
[0035] FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate the specific tolerances in
accordance with particular embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 6 shows an example preferred embodiment of the present
disclosure as applied to tooth point 15. As shown in FIG. 6, tooth
point 15 is shown attached to adapter 3, held loosely in place by
insert 41. The approximate direction of the heaviest shock load is
shown at reference numeral 100. Providing the following clearances
between the sacrificial part (the removable tooth point 15, in this
example) and the adapter 3 upon which it is mounted will
effectively and surprisingly increase the life of the sacrificial
part:
[0036] Horizontal clearance at reference numeral 101 in approximate
direction of shock: about 1/8 inch to about 1/4 inch.
[0037] Vertical clearance at reference numeral 102 normal to
approximate direction of shock: about 1/32 inch to about 3/16 inch;
preferably about 1/16 inch to about 1/8 inch.
[0038] Horizontal clearance at reference numeral 103 normal to
approximate direction of shock: about 1/32 inch to about 1/16 inch.
In certain embodiments, if larger clearances are used, teeth will
tend to move forward and contact the bolts, causing failure by
bending or fracture; whereas if smaller clearances are used there
will be interference from the castings, notably between adapter 3
and tooth point 15.
[0039] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure
in which tooth point retainer pin 202 is not threaded, and is
fitted with cavity 205 containing at least one spring-loaded ball
bearing 203 and spring mechanism 204. Spring mechanism 204 urges
ball bearing 203 radially outwardly as far as permitted by hole 206
in the shank of insert pin 202. Insert 200 includes internal slot
or depression 201 suitable for accommodating one or more ball
bearings 203. When retainer pin 202 is inserted into the cavity of
insert 200, ball bearings 206 retract until they reach the internal
slot 201, at which point spring mechanism 206 forces ball bearings
203 radially outward into the slot 201, securing retainer pin 202
in insert 200. This operation may be accomplished manually without
need for tools. To remove retainer pin 202, a pair of pliers may be
used, or if retainer pin 202 is designed to be flush or recessed,
an extractor tool (not shown) suitable for engaging hook 207 on
retainer pin 202 may be used to remove retainer pin 202.
Preferably, hook 207 is arranged as shown in FIG. 10, with the hook
formed as a bar recessed in cavity 226 in the head of the retaining
pin to protect it from dirt and wear. FIG. 11 shows extraction tool
220 comprising shaft 223 on which a sliding weight 221 moves
longitudinally. The distal end of the shaft includes recess 224
suitable for engaging the hook or bar 207 that is recessed into the
retaining pin shown in FIG. 10. A stop 222 near the proximal end of
the extraction tool permits the sliding weight to act as a slide
hammer to dislodge retaining pin 202. In some embodiments, proximal
end 225 of extraction tool 220 is pointed for use in cleaning out
cavity 226 before engaging bar 207 with recess 224 near the distal
end of the shaft of the extraction tool. As a result, tooth
retention is achieved without need for threading and unthreading a
bolt.
[0040] FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure
in which one or more springs 213 set into cavities 214 are used to
retain retainer pin 212 in insert 210 by engaging slots 211.
[0041] FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure
in which retainer pin 226 is fitted with one or more cavities 227a
and 227b containing at least one spring-loaded ball bearing or pin
and a spring mechanism which urges the ball bearing or pin radially
outwardly as far as permitted by hole 227a and/or 227b in the shank
of insert pin 202. The corresponding insert 228 includes one or
more internal depressions 229 suitable for accommodating the one or
more ball bearings or pins 203. When retainer pin 226 is inserted
into the cavity of insert 228, the ball bearings or pins retract
until they reach the internal depressions 229, at which point the
spring mechanism forces the ball bearings or pins radially outward
into the depressions 229a or 229b, securing the retainer pin 226 in
insert 228. In addition, it has been found that it is desirable to
prevent rotation of retainer pin 226 in insert 228 because during
use, if the retainer pin rotates, it may cause the ball bearings or
pins to work back into their slots, permitting the retainer pin to
come free of the insert. Accordingly, the embodiment of FIG. 12
includes a non-rotation device 230, which preferably may comprise
cap 230 with a transversely-extending ridge 231 that mates with a
transversely-extending slot 232 in the base of retainer pin 226
when retainer pin 226 is fully seated in insert 228. It will be
recognized that other arrangements of non-rotation devices are
possible, so long as the goal of preventing rotation of the
retainer pin relative to the insert is accomplished.
[0042] It will be understood that the arrangements of springs or
ball bearings and slots illustrated in FIGS. 9, 10 and 12 can be
reversed if desired, so that the spring or springs are placed in
the adapter and the mating slot is in the retainer pin. In
addition, the insert can be eliminated altogether by machining an
aperture and slot directly into adapter nose 11 in insert cavity
49.
[0043] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate a particular embodiment of
tooth assembly 1 that includes adapter 3 removably coupled to tooth
horn 2 using pin assembly 334. Although FIGS. 13A and 13B show pin
assembly 334 coupling adapter 3 to tooth horn 2, it should be
understood that pin assembly 334 may be used to couple other
excavation equipment components found on a bucket, shovel or other
excavating machine. Pin assembly 334 may be used to couple any
combination of such excavation components.
[0044] During excavation and/or mining operations, adapter 3 is
subject to significant wear and tear. Extreme shock loading is
experienced as removable adapter 3 impacts adjacent earth, rocks,
and other abrasive material. Therefore, it is desirable to make
adapter 3 readily replaceable with a new or reconditioned component
of similar or identical configuration. Otherwise, tooth horn 2, or
buckets, shovels or other excavation equipment would need to be
replaced more frequently, increasing equipment and labor costs
associated therewith. By providing a removable adapter 3 at a
location upon tooth horn 2 that would otherwise experience the most
wear, the service life of such equipment is prolonged by replacing
selected parts associated with the excavation equipment.
[0045] In order to prevent excessive wear of tooth horn 2, for
example, adapter 3 is coupled with and at least partially conceals
and/or protects tooth horn 2 from abrasive materials during
excavation. Adapter 3 includes first and second tapered surfaces
336 and 338 and first and second sides 340 and 342. First and
second sides 340 and 342 may be generally parallel to one another.
First and second tapered surfaces 336 and 338 and first and second
sides 340 and 342 cooperate to define an opening 344 at first end
345. Opening 344 converges toward a second end 346 of adapter 3.
Opening 344 is configured to at least partially receive tooth horn
2. Accordingly, opening 344 generally corresponds to the shape of
tooth horn 2 such that adapter 3 may be slidably mounted on tooth
horn 2 and held in place using pin assembly 334.
[0046] As discussed above, tooth horn 2 is configured to be
received in opening 344. In particular embodiments, tooth horn 2
may include first and second tapered surfaces 348 and 350 that
correspond generally with first and second tapered surfaces 336 and
338 of adapter 3. Accordingly, first and second tapered surfaces
348 and 350 may converge toward a first end 356 of tooth horn 2.
Tooth horn 2 also includes first and second sides 352 and 354 that
may be generally parallel to one another. When adapter 3 and tooth
horn 2 are coupled, first and second sides 352 and 354 of tooth
horn 2 may be disposed adjacent to first and second sides 340 and
342 of adapter 3.
[0047] The configuration of adapter 3 and tooth horn 2 may vary
significantly within the teachings of the present disclosure. For
example, although adapter 3 is described as having first and second
tapered surfaces 336 and 338, other embodiments may include only
one tapered side. Alternatively, adapter 3 may not have any tapered
sides. Furthermore, although adapter 3 is described as having first
and second sides 340 and 342 that are generally parallel to one
another, in other embodiments one or both of first and second sides
340 and 342 may be tapered such that first and second sides 340 and
342 may not be parallel to one another. Such alterations may also
be made to tooth horn 2 within the teachings of the present
disclosure. In general, the configurations of the excavation
components are selected to receive and provide protection from
excessive wear caused during excavation operations.
[0048] In particular embodiments, tooth horn 2 also includes pin
bore 358 that originates at first side 352 of tooth horn 2 and
extends at least partially through tooth horn 2. In the illustrated
embodiment, pin bore 358 extends through tooth horn 2 from first
side 352 to second side 354. Pin bore 358 is configured to at least
partially receive pin assembly 334 through first end 352 and/or
second end 354. Pin bore 358 and pin assembly 334 cooperate to
provide for the simplified installation and/or removal of adapter 3
from tooth horn 2. Accordingly, adapter 3 may be installed, removed
or replaced by an operator in the field, quickly and easily.
Additionally, the configuration of pin bore 358 and pin assembly
334 prevent shifting of adapter 3, with respect to tooth horn 2
during use.
[0049] Pin assembly 334 includes an elongate insert 360. Insert 360
is configured to be at least partially received within pin bore
358. Accordingly, the shape and size of pin bore 358 corresponds
generally to the shape and size of insert 360. The configurations
of pin bore 358 and insert 360 may vary significantly within the
teachings of the present disclosure. In particular embodiments,
insert 360 may be of a geometric shape that includes a number of
sides 370 of equal width 372. Because the shape of pin bore 358
corresponds with the shape of insert 360, pin bore 358 may also be
of a geometric shape that includes a number of sides of equal
width. In particular embodiments insert 360 and pin bore 358 may
each be of a shape having between three and eight sides 370. In the
particular embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B, insert 360
and pin bore 358 each have six sides 370. In other words, the
shapes of insert 360 and corresponding pin bore 358 are hexagonal.
The illustrated shape, however, is for example purposes only. It is
generally recognized that insert 360 and pin bore 358 may be of any
suitable geometric shape. Accordingly, some alternative example
embodiments for insert 360 are described in more detail with regard
to FIGS. 14 and 15.
[0050] In some embodiments, pin assembly 334 also includes one or
more plugs 362 configured to cooperate with a plug bore 364. Plug
bore 364 extends at least partially through insert 360 and is
configured to at least partially receive one or more plugs 362
therein. In the illustrated embodiment, plug bore 364 extends
entirely through insert 360 from a first end 366 to a second end
368. Accordingly, plug bore 364 is configured to receive a first
plug 362a at first end 366 and a second plug 362b at a second end
368. It is recognized, however, that plug bore 364 need not extend
entirely through insert 360. Where plug bore 364 does not extend
entirely through insert 360, a single plug 362 may be used.
[0051] Because plugs 362 are received in plug bore 364 of insert
360, the shape of plugs 362 corresponds generally to the shape of
plug bore 364. Thus, where plug bore 364 is substantially
cylindrical, plugs 362 are also substantially cylindrical. In the
illustrated example, plugs 362 include a generally cylindrical,
tapered surface 374 that corresponds to a tapered surface 376 of
insert 360. Tightening of a plug 362 forces tapered surface 374 of
plug 362 along tapered surface of insert 360 to at least partially
prevent overtightening of plug 362 beyond an installed position.
The configuration of plugs 362 and corresponding plug bore 364 may
vary significantly, however, within the teachings of the present
disclosure.
[0052] In operation, plugs 362 and insert 360 cooperate to couple
adapter 3 to tooth horn 2 in the installed position. As such, sides
346 and 348 of adapter 3 include respective openings 378 and 380,
which are configured to at least partially receive a portion of
plugs 362. The respective positions of openings 378 and 380 upon
sides 346 and 348 are selected to align with first and second ends
364 and 366 of plug bore 358, respectively. In other words, when
adapter 3 is properly positioned upon tooth horn 2, plug bore 358
and openings 378 and 380 are aligned such that an imaginary central
longitudinal axis I extends through openings 378 and 380 and insert
360. In the installed position, plugs 362 are inserted through
openings 378 and 380 and into at least a portion of plug bore 358
to couple adapter 3 to tooth horn 2. In the correct installed
position, plugs 362 may be recessed from sides 340 and 342 of
adapter 3 by approximately 0.125 to 1.000 inches. In particular
embodiments, plugs 362 may be recessed from sides 340 and 342 of
adapter 3 from 0.25 to 0.5 inches.
[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, plugs 362 each include a head
382. Head 382 may be outfitted with a groove 384 to enable the
removal and replacement of plugs 362 through openings 378 and 380.
As will be described in further detail with regard to FIG. 15, each
plug 362 may include one or more threaded surfaces that engage with
insert 360 and/or adapter 3. Plugs 362 operate to seal plug bore
364 and protect it from ambient environment, fluids, and debris
that may be encountered during use of the excavation equipment.
Plugs 362 also allow for the easily decoupling of adapter 3 and
tooth horn 2 in the field. In order to decouple adapter 3 and tooth
horn 2, plugs 362 having threads may be rotated and removed from
plug bore 364 using head 382 and a suitable tool.
[0054] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 13A, tooth assembly 1
includes an elastomeric member 357 that is generally positioned
between adapter 3 and tooth horn 2, when tooth assembly 1 is in the
assembled position. When installed, elastomeric member 357 provides
an interface between the interior portion of adapter 3 and first
end 356 of tooth horn 2. Elastomeric member 357 may eliminate or
alleviate "slack" between adapter 3 and tooth horn 2. This
alleviates or eliminates metal to metal contact between first end
356 of tooth horn 2 and adapter 3, that can lead to premature wear
of such components.
[0055] Elastomeric member 357 may be provided in one of a number of
different materials, including rubber, plastic, or other deformable
materials that generally exhibit memory. In other words, such
material may be compressed and yet return to its initial shape.
Elastomeric member 357 may be coupled with, or be integral with
adapter 3 and/or tooth horn 2, in order to simplify installation.
For example, elastomeric member 357 may be coupled with the
interior portion of adapter 3 (e.g., using an adhesive material).
Thus, when tooth horn 2 is coupled with adapter 3 using insert 360,
the holes of these components may be configured such that
elastomeric member 357 will be at least slightly compressed to
remove any slack between such components.
[0056] FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of pin assembly 334 that
includes a substantially cylindrical insert 360 having a
non-rotation tab 304. As described above, insert 360 is configured
to be at least partially received within pin bore 358 of tooth horn
2. Accordingly, where insert 360 is substantially cylindrical and
includes non-rotation tab 304, the shape and size of pin bore 358
is also substantially cylindrical and includes a recess that
corresponds to non-rotation tab 304.
[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, non-rotation tab 304 extends
the full length of insert 360 from a first end 306 of insert 360 to
a second end 308 of insert 360. However, non-rotation tab 304 need
not extend the entire length of insert 360. Non-rotation tab 304
may originate at first end 306 and extend some suitable distance
toward second end 308 without reaching second end 308. Non-rotation
tab 304 operates to eliminate the rotation of insert 360 in the
installed position in plug bore 358. Non-rotation tab 304 also
operates to provide strength to pin assembly 334.
[0058] Pin assembly 334 also includes a plug bore 310 that is
configured to cooperate with one or more plugs 362. Plug bore 310
and plugs 362 may be configured similarly to plug bore 364 and
plugs 362, respectively, as described above with regard to FIGS.
13A and 13B. For example, plugs 362 may include a generally
cylindrical, tapered surface 314 that corresponds to a tapered
surface 316 of insert 302. Tightening of a plug 362 into plug bore
310 forces tapered surface 314 of plug 312 along tapered surface
316 of insert 360 to at least partially prevent overtightening of
plug 362 beyond an installed position.
[0059] The teachings of the present disclosure may be used for
coupling various excavation, earth moving, and/or mining equipment
components. In general, any removable and/or replaceable component
will benefit from the fastening and component cooperation
techniques disclosed herein. More specifically, removable adapters
may be coupled with tooth horns of buckets, shovels, or practically
any heavy equipment components in accordance with embodiments of
the present disclosure. Similarly, ripper shanks may be coupled
with various removable components provided to protect the ripper
shank and/or prolong the life of the ripper shank. Another example
of excavation equipment incorporating aspects of the present
disclosure is described with regard to FIG. 15.
[0060] FIG. 15 illustrates a shroud 400 coupled with a shank 402 of
an excavating machine part. Shank 402 may be referred to as a
"ripper shank." For the purposes of this specification, a shank is
a type of adapter that may be coupled with various excavation
equipment components, and may receive one or more removable teeth.
Shroud 400 provides protection to shank 402 when the excavating
machine is in use. The excavating machine may be a dragline used in
mining operations or any other machine used for excavating
purposes. Shroud 400 is coupled with shank 402 using pin assembly
404, which may be similar in configuration to the pin assemblies
described above with regard to FIGS. 13A-14. Accordingly, fastening
components similar to the pin assemblies described herein may be
used to couple shroud 400 with shank 402. Similarly, such pin
assemblies may be used to couple shank 402 with the excavation
equipment component.
[0061] Pin assemblies 404 may be inserted through openings 406,
into an internal bore through shank 402, and extend at least
partially into openings 406 formed in shroud 400. A plug like those
described above, may be used to secure pin assembly 404 within
shroud 400, to prevent lateral movement of pin assemblies 404.
Removable tooth 408 is also coupled with shank 400 using pin
assembly 404. For purposes of this specification, shroud 400 may be
considered a removable tooth, which protects one end of shank 402.
As discussed above, the teachings of the present disclosure may be
used to removably couple practically any components. Removable
tooth 408, shank 402, and shroud 400 are described and shown
herein, for illustrative purposes.
[0062] Shroud 400 and tooth 408 are used to protect shank 402 from
the abrasive environment encountered during excavation.
Accordingly, shroud 400 is placed at a location upon shank 402
where significant wear and tear is anticipated. By providing a
removable shroud 400 and removable tooth 408, wear and degradation
of shank 402 is reduced, thereby increasing its overall service
life.
[0063] FIG. 16 illustrates a retaining pin or plug 362a
(hereinafter referred to as "retaining pin 362a") with a flexible
reinforcement collar 390 used in accordance with particular
embodiments of the present disclosure to secure adapter 3 to tooth
horn 2 (as described above with respect to FIGS. 13A-15) and/or to
secure tooth point 15 to adapter 3 (as described above with respect
to FIGS. 1-12). In particular embodiments, retaining pin 362a is
received in plug bore 364 of insert 360 in lieu of plug 362, and/or
insert bore 45 of insert 41 in lieu of retainer pin 33. The shape
of retaining pin 362a generally corresponds to the shape of the
particular bore into which it is inserted. Thus, in embodiments in
which plug bore 364 and/or insert bore 45 is substantially
cylindrical, retaining pin 362a is substantially cylindrical. In
the illustrated example, retaining pin 362a includes a generally
cylindrical, tapered surface 374a that corresponds to a tapered
surface 376 of insert 360. Tightening of retaining pin 362a forces
tapered surface 374a of retaining pin 362a along tapered surface
376 of insert 360 to at least partially prevent overtightening of
retaining pin 362a beyond an installed position. The configuration
of retaining pin 362a and corresponding plug bore 364 may vary
significantly, however, within the teachings of the present
disclosure.
[0064] In some embodiments, a clearance or gap may exist between a
head of fasteners (such as, for example, plug 362 and/or retainer
pins 33) and a bore or slot into which those fasteners are
inserted. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1-4, in an installed
configuration, a gap may exist between retainer pin 33 and retainer
pin opening 14. Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 13A-15, a gap may
exist between the head of plug 362 and plug bore 364. In particular
embodiments, a gap of between approximately 1/16 inch and
approximately 1/8 inch may exist between retainer pin 33 and
retainer pin opening 14 and/or between plug 362 and plug bore 364
in an installed configuration. As excavation equipment or other
machinery is used, this gap or space may allow adapter 3 to vibrate
on tooth horn 2 or tooth point 15 to vibrate on adapter 3 leading
to excessive wear on and damage to components. To reduce or
eliminate wear caused by or associated with movement or vibration
of components, particular embodiments of the present disclosure may
include a flexible reinforcement collar 390 secured to retaining
pin 362a. Collar 390 may be appropriately sized to at least
partially fill the gap between components proximate to retaining
pin 362a. In some embodiments, collar 390 is an annular ring
securely fastened to and wrapped entirely around head 382a. In
other embodiments, collar 390 may be partially wrapped around head
382a. For example, collar 390 may include two or more segments that
are separated from each other and securely fastened to head 382a.
Collar 390 may be formed from any resilient and flexible material
suitable to absorb shock, vibration and/or movement between adapter
3 and tooth horn 2 and/or adapter 3 and tooth point 15. As a
result, retaining pin 362a provides or facilitates a secure and
snug fit between adapter 3 and tooth horn 2 and/or between tooth
point 15 and adapter 3 in an installed configuration. Additionally,
retaining pin 362a maintains adapter 3 on tooth horn 2 in a snug
fit without the risk of bending, shearing, or breaking plug 362
and/or retainer pin 33. In particular embodiments, collar 390 is
formed from a 50 durometer neoprene or other synthetic rubber
material, and may be securely fastened to retaining pin 362a using
vulcanization, adhesives, and/or any other suitable fastening
device, method or process. In general, collar 390 may be formed
from any appropriate material having any suitable hardness
sufficient to reduce and absorb shock between components described
herein. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a range of movement of
tooth point 15 on adapter nose 11 due to a space between the heads
of tooth point retainer pins 33 and the periphery of tooth point
retainer pin openings 14 and/or between the heads of plugs 362 and
openings 378 and 380 is reduced or eliminated. Retaining pin 362a,
in accordance with particular embodiments of the present
disclosure, may reduce wear associated with components of
excavating equipment or other machinery. In some embodiments,
retaining pin 362a may substantially reduce or eliminate wear
between mating surfaces, such as for example, between first side
340 and first side 352 and between second side 342 and second side
354 as illustrated in FIG. 13A. As a result, retaining pin 362a may
substantial extend the lifetime tooth point 15, adapter 3, tooth
horn 2 and/or other replaceable parts of excavating equipment or
other machinery. In some embodiments, collar 390 includes tapered
surface 391 that is tapered toward the interior of a bore or slot
into which retaining pin 362a is inserted. For example, retaining
pin 362 may have a greater height relative to head 382a at trailing
edge 392 and a lesser height relative to head 382a at leading edge
393. Trailing edge 392 and leading edge 393 form edges of tapered
surface 391. Although FIG. 16 illustrates an embodiment of
retaining pin 362a in which tapered surface 391 has a particular
angle and length, particular embodiments may include a tapered
surface 391 of any suitable angle and/or length. Additionally,
trailing edge 392 and leading edge 391 may be configured to have
any suitable height. In some embodiments, trailing edge 392 and
leading edge 391 have the same height, thereby resulting in a
tapered surface 391 that is flat relative to or parallel with a
surface of head 382a.
[0065] FIG. 17 illustrates top surface 394 of retaining pin 362a.
As shown in FIG. 17, head 382a may be outfitted with groove 384a to
enable the insertion and removal of retaining pin 362a into insert
360 (as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B and/or insert 41 (as shown in
FIGS. 1-4) utilizing an appropriately configured tool or implement.
As discussed above, retaining pin 362a may be externally threaded
to allow retaining pin 362a to fasten to an internally threaded
bore or slot, such as insert 360 and/or insert 41. Groove 384a
allows a user to insert or remove retaining pin 362a via clockwise
or counterclockwise rotational movement in a conventional
manner.
[0066] Although the present disclosure has been described with
several embodiments, numerous changes, variations, alterations,
transformations, and modifications may be suggested to one skilled
in the art, and it is intended that the present disclosure
encompass such changes, variations, alterations, transformations,
and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended
claims.
* * * * *