U.S. patent application number 14/681948 was filed with the patent office on 2015-10-15 for rigging pin assembly and components and method of installation thereof.
The applicant listed for this patent is ESCO Corporation. Invention is credited to Stephen J. Sester.
Application Number | 20150292180 14/681948 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54264638 |
Filed Date | 2015-10-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150292180 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sester; Stephen J. |
October 15, 2015 |
Rigging Pin Assembly and Components and Method of Installation
Thereof
Abstract
A pin assembly with a guide extending from one end of the pin
eases installation of the pin into the openings of components to be
pivotally secured together. The lead can provide an engagement
point for pulling the pin assembly into the opening of a component.
The lead passes into the openings of components to be joined
together aligns the component openings with an increasing diameter
of the lead as the lead passes into and through apertures in the
components to urge them into alignment. The pin assembly reduces
the need for an operator to align the components manually.
Inventors: |
Sester; Stephen J.;
(Scappoose, OR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ESCO Corporation |
Portland |
OR |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
54264638 |
Appl. No.: |
14/681948 |
Filed: |
April 8, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61977449 |
Apr 9, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
37/399 ;
29/525.08; 403/317 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02F 3/58 20130101; E02F
9/006 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E02F 9/00 20060101
E02F009/00; E02F 3/58 20060101 E02F003/58 |
Claims
1. A pin assembly for securing components for excavating equipment
together for pivotal movement, the components each having an
aperture, the pin assembly comprising: a pin including (i) a
central portion including a cylindrical exterior having a first
thickness defined as the diameter of the cylindrical exterior, and
opposite ends, and (ii) an end portion at a first end of the
central portion including a connecting portion and a flange coupled
together, the connecting portion extending outward from said first
end of the main portion and having a second thickness that is less
than the first thickness, and the flange being spaced outward of
the central portion and having a third thickness that is less than
the first thickness and greater than the second thickness, wherein
the flange and the central portion define a groove about the
connecting portion; and a retainer to secure the pin within aligned
apertures of the components, the retainers including first and
second members, at least one fastener to join the first and second
members in the form of a ring, the first and second members
including an inner portion to seat in the groove and an outer
portion defining a recess radially outward of the inner portion to
receive and hold the flange.
2. The pin assembly of claim 1 where an end portion at the second
end of the central portion includes an integral collar of greater
diameter than the aperture that limits axial movement of the pin in
the aperture.
3. A rigging pin assembly for pivotally connecting components
together for a digging machine, each of the components including
apertures, the pin assembly comprising a pin including a central
portion to be received into the apertures and a pair of opposite
ends, and a lead including a proximal end secured to one of the
ends of the pin and a distal end projecting axially outward of the
pin, the distal end being narrower than the proximal end to ease
installation of the pin into the apertures.
4. The pin assembly of claim 3 wherein the lead gradually narrows
from the proximate end to the distal end to guide the apertures
into alignment to receive the pin.
5. The pin assembly of claim 3 wherein the lead includes a coupling
for securing a pull line to advance the lead and the pin through
the apertures.
6. The pin assembly of claim 3 wherein (i) the central portion has
an exterior surface with a first diameter defining a first
thickness, (ii) at least one end of the pin includes a flange with
a second thickness that is less than the first thickness and a
groove between the flange and the central portion, and (iii) the
lead engages the groove and the flange to secure to the pin.
7. The pin assembly of claim 6 wherein the lead includes two
half-bodies that are secured over the flange, and a sleeve received
over the half-bodies to prevent separation of the half-bodies.
8. The pin assembly of claim 3 including a retainer securable to
the end of the pin in place of the lead to prevent reverse movement
of the pin through the apertures.
9. The pin assembly of claim 8 wherein the retainer extends
radially outward farther than the central portion of the pin to
oppose one of the components and limit axial movement of the
pin.
10. The pin assembly of claim 8 wherein a second retainer is
secured to the opposite end of the pin to oppose one of the
components and limit axial movement of the pin.
11. An elongate ferrule to be mounted to a pin for joining
components together for excavating equipment, the ferrule
comprises: first and second separable sections that together define
a ferrule body with a cavity that receives and retains a flange on
the end of the pin; a tapered sleeve that receives a tapered
surface of the ferrule body and limits separation of the ferrule
sections; and a retainer to limit separation of the sleeve and the
body.
12. A collar for limiting axial movement of a pin installed in a
component for excavating equipment, the collar comprises a first
collar portion with mating surfaces, and a second collar portion
with mating surfaces, where the first collar portion assembles to
the second collar portion at the mating surfaces to define a
stepped opening with a first inside diameter corresponding to a
recess of the pin and an adjacent larger diameter corresponding to
a flange of the pin where the collar includes holes that receive
fasteners in the first and second collar portions to maintain
contact between the mating surfaces of the first and second collar
portions.
13. The collar of claim 12 where surfaces of the collar portions
facing away from the component are curved to shed cables passing
over the component.
14. A method for pivotally joining first and second components of
digging machines, the method comprising securing a tapered lead
having a wide end and a narrow end to an end of a pin with the wide
end proximate the pin, inserting the narrow end of the lead into an
aperture of one of the components, and advancing the lead and the
pin behind the lead into and through the apertures in both the
first and second components so the pin is in an installed position
in each of the apertures.
15. The method of claim 14 where advancing the pin to the installed
position advances the lead beyond the apertures.
16. The method of claim 14 where the increasing diameter of the
lead aligns the component openings as the lead passes into the
openings.
17. The method of claim 14 comprising securing the wide end of the
lead over a reduced end of the pin.
18. The method of claim 17 comprising securing the wide end of the
lead into a groove formed at an end of the pin.
19. The method of claim 14 comprising removing the lead when the
pin is in the installed position and securing a collar to the pin
where the lead was secured to prevent reverse movement of the pin
through the apertures.
20. The method of claim 19 comprising securing a second collar to
the opposite end of the pin to hold the pin in the apertures.
21. The method of claim 20 comprising receiving the collars in
recesses about each of the apertures when secured to the pin.
22. The method of claim 14 where urging the pin into the openings
includes pulling on the lead.
23. The method of claim 14 where the lead includes a cavity that
receives the end of the pin.
24. The method of claim 23 where the cavity includes a rail that is
received in a groove at the end of the pin.
25. A rigging assembly comprising: a plurality of components for
excavating equipment, each of the components including apertures; a
pin including a central portion to be received into the apertures
and a pair of opposite ends; and a lead including a proximal end
secured to one of the ends of the pin and a distal end projecting
axially outward of the pin, the distal end being narrower than the
proximal end to ease installation of the pin into the
apertures.
26. The rigging assembly of claim 25 wherein the lead gradually
narrows from the proximate end to the distal end to guide the
apertures into alignment to receive the pin.
27. The rigging assembly of claim 25 wherein the lead includes a
coupling for securing a pull line to advance the lead and the pin
through the apertures.
28. The rigging assembly of claim 25 wherein (i) the central
portion has an exterior surface with a first diameter defining a
first thickness, (ii) at least one end of the pin includes a flange
with a second thickness that is less than the first thickness and a
groove between the flange and the central portion, and (iii) the
lead engages the groove and the flange to secure to the pin.
29. The rigging assembly of claim 25 including a retainer securable
to the end of the pin in place of the lead to prevent reverse
movement of the pin through the apertures.
30. The rigging assembly of claim 25 including retainer secured to
the opposite end of the pin to oppose one of the components and
limit axial movement of the pin.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to pins used in rigging for
excavating equipment to join components that rotate about the pin
axis relative to each other.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Mechanical pins are commonly used to join components that
rotate in relation to each other. A pin passes through an opening
of each of the components and is retained by, for example, a
retainer on the pin or in the opening. The openings and the pin
surface form bearing surfaces as the components pivot. The relative
movement of the joined components wears on the pin and erodes the
surface. After a certain amount of wear, the pin and/or the
components have to be replaced. In aggressive environments, the
pins and the components wear quickly and require frequent
replacement.
[0003] Mining equipment uses pins extensively to join very large
components used in highly abrasive environments. As one example,
such pins are commonly used in rigging for dragline operations. The
rigging handles extreme loads in pulling the bucket to collect
blasted earthen material and then lifting the filled bucket.
Moreover, particulates from rock and ore (termed fines) infiltrate
any available gap and act as abrasives that erode bearing surfaces
and exposed surfaces until the components are unserviceable. The
service life for some ground engaging tools can be as short as 36
hours. Replacing these components can be time consuming and
generally takes the equipment out of service for the duration of
the refurbishment.
[0004] Handling these heavy components requires hoists, cranes and
lifts and the procedures can be hazardous to the operators. To
install a pin to the components, the component openings are first
aligned by lifting, positioning and holding the components in the
correct position. Force is then applied to the pin and the
components to more precisely align the openings while
simultaneously urging the pin into the openings. The end of the pin
is generally blunt and of the same diameter as the openings making
alignment and insertion difficult. The pin is pushed into the
opening while the components are manually aligned to allow the pin
to pass through. Generally an operator using a sledge hammer makes
the final alignment of the large components. Extensive positioning
and alignment of the heavy components puts the operators at risk of
injury and generally requires a great deal of downtime for the
equipment.
[0005] Removing the pin again requires supporting each of the
attached components separately to remove the load from the pin so
that it does not bind in the opening and pounding on the end of the
pin to dislodge and extract the pin from the component openings.
Mining operations often run 24 hours a day and downtime required
for this kind of maintenance can have a significant effect on
profitability.
SUMMARY
[0006] Mining equipment operates in high load and extremely
abrasive environments with dust and debris that penetrate every
crevice. Even components that are not intended to contact the
earthen materials are affected by the sand and dust generated
during processing. As a result, the components are heavy,
cumbersome and high abrasion resistant.
[0007] The pin assembly of the present invention reduces the
handling of the components, the time required for installing and
removing pins from equipment, and the downtime required for
maintenance. The pin assembly can thus provide greater productivity
for mining or other related operations. The pin assembly also
improves safety by reducing hazards to the operator(s) installing
the pin in the components. The pin assembly provides for reduced
wear of the components during operation. The pin assembly protects
the end of the pin from wear and limits the risk of cables passing
over the assembly from catching. Although discussed in terms of
mining equipment for the purpose of illustration, this assembly can
be used in other heavy duty equipment where pins are installed in
openings of components.
[0008] An inventive concept of the present invention pertains to a
method for pivotally joining first and second components each
having an aperture for use in excavating equipment. The method
comprises the steps of securing a tapered lead having a wide end
and a narrow end to an end of a pin with the wide end proximate the
pin. The narrow end of the lead is inserted into one of the
apertures and the lead and the pin behind the lead are advanced
into and through the apertures so the pin is in an installed
position in each of the apertures.
[0009] Another inventive concept of the invention is a rigging pin
assembly for securing components for excavating equipment or
digging machines together for pivotal movement. The pin assembly
comprises a pin with a central portion including a cylindrical
exterior having a first thickness defined as the diameter of the
cylindrical exterior and an end portion. The end portion includes a
connecting portion and a flange coupled together extending outward
from the main portion and has a second thickness that is less than
the first thickness. The flange is spaced outward of the central
portion and has a third thickness that is less than the first
thickness and greater than the second thickness. The flange and the
central portion define a groove about the connecting portion. The
pin assembly also includes a retainer to secure the pin within
aligned apertures of the components. The retainer includes first
and second members and at least one fastener to join the first and
second members in the form of a ring. The first and second members
include an inner portion to seat in the groove and an outer portion
defining a recess radially outward of the inner portion to receive
and hold the flange
[0010] Another inventive concept of the invention is a pin assembly
for pivotally connecting components together for excavating
equipment where each of the components include an aperture. The pin
assembly comprises a pin including a central portion to be received
into the apertures and a pair of opposite ends, and a lead
including a proximal end secured to one of the ends of the pin and
a distal end projecting axially outward of the pin. The distal end
is narrower than the proximal end to ease installation of the pin
into the apertures.
[0011] In one other inventive concept of the present invention, a
ferrule for mounting to a pin for joining components together for
excavating equipment. The ferrule comprises first and second
separable sections that together define a ferrule body with a
cavity that receives and retains a flange on the end of the pin, a
tapered sleeve that receives a tapered surface of the ferrule body
and limits separation of the ferrule sections and a retainer to
limit separation of the sleeve and the body.
[0012] In another concept of the present invention, a collar for
limiting axial movement of a pin installed in a component comprises
a first collar portion with mating surfaces and a second collar
portion with mating surfaces. The first portion assembles to the
second portion at the mating surfaces to define a stepped opening
with a first inside diameter corresponding to a recess of the pin
and an adjacent larger diameter corresponding to a flange of the
pin.
[0013] Another inventive concept of the present invention pertains
to a rigging assembly comprising a plurality of components for
excavating equipment where each of the components includes
apertures. The rigging assembly includes a pin with a central
portion to be received into the apertures and a pair of opposite
ends and a lead including a proximal end secured to one of the ends
of the pin and a distal end projecting axially outward of the pin.
The distal end of the lead is narrower than the proximal end to
ease installation of the pin into the apertures.
[0014] Another inventive concept of the present invention pertains
to a lead for installing a pin in an opening of a component. The
lead includes an elongate body that converges extending from a
rearward end to a forward end with a rearward opening cavity. The
cavity includes a circumferential ridge with a first diameter and a
cavity portion forward of the ridge with a diameter greater than
the ridge diameter to receive a flange of a pin.
[0015] Another inventive concept of the present invention pertains
to a coupling pin where at least one end includes a groove and
flange. This pin construction can facilitate easier and quicker
assembly with and disassembly from the components, and/or improved
retention of the pin in the assembly.
[0016] In an embodiment of the present invention that achieves each
of the desired benefits, a flange of reduced size than the
component supporting portion of the pin is formed at one end of the
pin, though other constructions are possible. With this
construction, the pin can be guided and pulled through the
components to be connected for an easy and quick assembly process
with less risk to the operator. This construction also facilitates
the use of an improved, easy-to-use and quick to release or engage
retainers to secure the pin in the assembly.
[0017] Another inventive concept of the present invention pertains
to an assembly and/or process where the pin is pulled through the
various holes in the components to be connected together, and/or
pulled through the various holes to remove the pin from the
components. The ability to pull the pin through the components can
ease and speed the process, reduce handling of components, and
eliminate (or at least reduce) the need for a hammer. As a result,
a process can be achieved that takes less time and exposes the
operator to fewer hazards during assembly.
[0018] In an embodiment of the present invention that achieves each
of the desired benefits, a guide is secured to one end of the pin
that provides a tapered leading profile to facilitate easier
insertion into the holes, and component alignment as the pin passes
into the holes of the components. Although other arrangements are
possible, one preferred means is to secure the guide to a flange
and groove construction on the end of the pin.
[0019] Another innovation of the present invention pertains to an
improved retainer for retaining the pin in the assembly that is
easy and quick to secure and release for easier inspection and
removal of the pins in an assembly, and/or reduce the risk of
cables catching on the assemblies.
[0020] In an embodiment that achieves each of the desired benefits,
the retainer is formed by a pair of complementary cap members that
couple to the ends of the pin to prevent axial movement of the pin,
are secured together and/or to the pin by fastener(s) that are
easily accessed and operated, and form a smooth exterior surface
that lessens the risk of catching passing cables. Though other
constructions are possible, one preferred arrangement includes a
pair of identical generally U-shaped cap members secured together
about a flange and groove construction at the end of the pin. The
exteriors of the cap members is smooth and rounded to avoid
catching passing cables.
[0021] The different inventive concepts can be used independently
without the other inventive concepts in a pin assembly to achieve
one or more of the various benefits of the present invention. This
application primarily discloses one preferred embodiment to achieve
all the desired benefits. For example, in one preferred embodiment,
a pin assembly includes a pin with a center portion, a groove
portion extending from each end of the center portion and a flange
extending from the groove portion. The pin assembly in an
installation configuration further includes a ferrule assembly with
a ferrule body that engages the flange at a proximal end. The
ferrule assembly converges extending away from the pin along a
longitudinal axis of the pin to a distal end. The pin portions and
the ferrule assembly extend along the longitudinal axis. The pin
assembly with the ferrule and pin are pulled through openings of
components to be joined.
[0022] In some embodiments the elongate ferrule body comprises two
portions that on assembly define a cavity to receive and engage the
flange. The assembled ferrule then receives a tapered sleeve that
conforms to the tapered surface of the ferrule body and limits
transverse movement of the ferrule portions. When axial movement of
the sleeve is limited by a retainer through the narrow end of the
ferrule, the ferrule is secured to the end of the pin by the flange
engaged in the cavity of the ferrule assembly. Other configurations
of the ferrule are possible that secure the tapered ferrule to the
pin and the flange.
[0023] The pin assembly in an operational configuration can also
include one or more collars that engage the flange and groove to
limit axial movement of the pin during equipment operations. The
collars are received in the groove of the pin and contact the outer
circumferential face of the flange.
[0024] In another aspect of the invention a method for installing a
pin assembly in an opening of a component comprises providing a pin
with a center portion, a groove portion extending from the center
portion and a flange extending from the groove portion along the
longitudinal axis. A tapered ferrule is then attached to the flange
of the pin. The ferrule is a smaller diameter than the pin and
converges extending axially from the pin. The ferrule includes a
cavity that receives the flange. The cavity also includes a rail
that is received in the groove of the pin. Pulling on the ferrule
and/or pushing on the trailing end urges the pin into the component
opening. The increasing diameter of the ferrule aligns the
component openings as the pin is installed.
[0025] In another aspect of the invention a collar for retaining a
pin in the opening of a component comprises a first collar portion
with an inside bearing face, an arcuate outer face and two mating
surfaces and a second collar portion with an inside bearing face,
an arcuate outer face and two mating surfaces. The first portion
assembled to the second portion are joined at the mating surfaces
to define a stepped opening with a first inside diameter
corresponding to a recess of the pin and a second larger diameter
adjacent to and outside the first diameter corresponding to a
flange of the pin. The collar can include a pair of holes that each
pass through both portions of the split body and through the mating
faces. Each hole receives a retainer that secures the portions of
the split collar together. The mating faces of the collar portions
include corresponding recesses and protrusions. When assembled
together the protrusions received in the recesses limit sliding of
the mating faces in relation to each other.
[0026] In another aspect of the invention a pin includes a center
portion with a major diameter, a groove portion with a minor
diameter extending from each end of the center portion and a flange
with a median diameter extending from the groove portion. The pin
can be installed to components by engaging and applying tension at
the flange to pull the pin into an opening of the component.
[0027] In another aspect of the invention an adapter for installing
a pin in an opening of a component comprises an elongate body
generally round in cross section that converges extending from a
proximal end to a distal end. A cavity that opens at the proximal
end of the body includes a circumferential ridge with a first
diameter and a cavity portion forward of the ridge with a diameter
greater than the ridge diameter. The adapter is assembled to a
flange of a pin. Pulling the adapter and pin into the opening of
the components urges the components into alignment as the
progressively larger diameter of the tapered body passes into the
openings of the components.
LIST OF FIGURES
[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of rigging for a dragline
bucket.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an upper hoist assembly of
the rigging of FIG. 1.
[0030] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of components of a pin assembly
used for installation and extraction of a pin.
[0031] FIG. 4 is a side view of a pin with the ferrule assembly
extending from the end of the pin.
[0032] FIG. 4A is a section of a pin with sleeve retainer.
[0033] FIG. 5A is a front view of a collar of the inventive pin
assembly.
[0034] FIG. 5B is a side view of the collar of FIG. 5A.
[0035] FIG. 5C is an exploded view of the collar of FIG. 5A.
[0036] FIG. 6 is an alternative embodiment of a ferrule engaging
the pin flange.
[0037] FIG. 7 is another alternative embodiment of a ferrule
engaging the pin flange.
[0038] FIG. 8A is another alternative embodiment of a ferrule
engaging the pin flange.
[0039] FIG. 8B is another view of the ferrule of FIG. 8A with a
cable securing the ferrule to the pin flange.
[0040] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of the pin assembly being
installed into the opening formed by two components being
joined.
[0041] FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the pin assembly of FIG. 9A
in the opening of the two joined components.
[0042] FIG. 9C is a perspective view of the pin assembly of FIG. 4A
in the opening of the two joined components.
[0043] FIG. 10 is a cross section view of the operational pin
assembly joining two components.
[0044] FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a component with a fixed
pin assembly for joining two components.
[0045] FIG. 11B is a perspective view of two components joined with
a fixed pin assembly.
[0046] FIG. 12 is a cross section of a pin assembly with an
integral collar.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE
INVENTION
[0047] Mining operations employ heavy equipment, some of which
include coupling pins. As one example, dragline operations require
large and heavy rigging to move and hoist drag buckets used in open
pit mines. The rigging uses pins extensively to hold many of the
components together. In operation, these pins are exposed to
abrasive particles that infiltrate any gap in the assemblies. These
particles combined with the extreme loads seen by the pins limit
the service life of the components by eroding exposed and mating
surfaces until the components are not serviceable. Refurbishing the
rigging requires handling parts weighing tons and aligning
combinations of parts to accommodate the assembly and disassembly
of the pins from the components. Handling these large parts can be
dangerous for the operators and can take the equipment out of
service for long periods. Although dragline operations are
disclosed herein as an example for the present invention, the
invention can be used to pivotally secure components for other
excavating machines such as cable shovels. In all such uses, the
components will be herein considered to be rigging or rigging pin
assemblies regardless of the excavating machine in which they are
used.
[0048] FIG. 1 shows a dragline bucket system 10 used in open pit
mining operations with rigging for moving the bucket. The rigging
handles extreme loads in pulling the bucket to collect blasted
earthen material and then lifting the filled bucket. The bucket 12
is pulled forward through drag links 14 and drag chain 16 attached
to hitch 18 on the front of the bucket. Teeth on the lower lip
initially gather the earthen materials into the bucket.
[0049] Once filled, the bucket is lifted by cables through upper
hoist rigging assembly 20 connected to the bucket by upper hoist
chains 22 and lower hoist chains 24 to trunnions 26 of the bucket.
Once lifted off the ground the bucket can be repositioned to a dump
site for spoiling material. When tension is released on the drag
link, the dump cable 28 passing through the dump block 30 releases
allowing the bucket to rotate about the trunnion point well back of
the center of gravity and tip forward so that the earthen materials
are dumped from the bucket. The connections between the cables,
chains and the bucket include one or several pins to secure the
components to adjacent components.
[0050] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the upper hoist rigging
assembly 20 that includes several rigid components joined to
chains, cables and other components to illustrate the use of pin
assemblies. The hoist sockets 32 are connected to a spreader bar 34
through upper links 36. Spreader bar 34 is connected to the dump
blocks 30 by dump links 38 and to hoist chain 22 by Y-links 40. The
assembly shown includes twelve pin assemblies 50' with pins and
collars joining the components. The components vary in size and
weight, but the dump block can weigh several thousand pounds and
the pins and links of the chain can each weigh several hundred
pounds.
[0051] A pin assembly that provides more efficient installation and
extraction of the pin is generally shown in FIGS. 3-12. The pin
assembly may have an installation configuration 50 and an
operational configuration 50'. In a preferred construction, the pin
assembly 50 includes a pin 52, a retainers 54, and a guide or lead
56. In a preferred embodiment, the guide is a ferrule assembly, and
the retainers or collars or caps.
[0052] In the preferred embodiment, the pin is elongate with a
longitudinal axis L, a center portion 52A with a major diameter and
a major length and a circumferential groove portion 52B with a
minor diameter smaller than the major diameter. Outboard of the
groove is a flange 52C with a median diameter at a circumferential
surface larger than the groove portion and smaller than the center
portion. The flange is preferably larger than the groove and
smaller than the component-supporting portion of the pin but need
not be circular. The flange could also have the same size as the
component-supporting portion of the pin and provide other means or
clearances for connecting the guide and/or retention collar. In
such cases, the groove could be replaced with other cavity
arrangements to effect attachment of a lead and retainer.
[0053] Retention collar 54 is preferably two portions 54A and 54B
with stepped openings 54C and 54D that correspond to the
circumferences of the groove 52B and the flange 52C of the pin, but
other arrangements are possible. The inner step opening 54C is
received in the groove of the pin. The outer step 54D of the
opening contacts the outer circumference of the flange. An outer
facing surface 54I of the collar can be arcuate extending away from
the flange to allow any cables that slide along the surface to pass
over the collar without catching as could happen with a protruding
square edge. An inner bearing surface 54J of the collar faces the
component. The collar limits axial movement of the pin in the
opening of the component receiving the pin.
[0054] Mating surfaces 54K and 54L of the collar portions include
corresponding protrusions 54G and recesses 54H. The collar portions
assemble with protrusions 54G in recesses 54H to form the collar as
a ring and defining the stepped opening. Recessed bores or holes
54E extend through the body of the collar and through the mating
surfaces. The bores accept retainers 54F which hold the two
portions together. The recesses and protrusions when mated limit
shear movement between the faces and resist shearing forces applied
to the assembled collar. This allows a smaller retainer to be used
to hold the collar portions together. Smooth mating surfaces would
subject the retainer to all of the shear movement at the mating
surfaces and would require a larger retainer than would be required
with the mating protrusions and recesses. This could be done as an
alternative.
[0055] When assembled to pin 52, the surface defining opening 54C
of the collar is received in groove 52B and the surface defining
outer opening 54D contacts the circumferential surface of the
flange. The collar is preferably sized to cover a large portion or
the entire outer circumference of the flange but other arrangements
are possible. The collar in the preferred embodiment protects and
limits erosion of the flange during operation.
[0056] To install or remove the pin from the component, the lead 56
is attached to one end of the pin 52. In a preferred embodiment,
the lead is a ferrule assembly that includes two portions 56A and
56B that assemble to define a ferrule body 56E. The ferrule
portions joined together further define a cavity 56C at a proximal
end of the ferrule that engages flange 52C of the pin with a
protruding rail 56D in the wall of the cavity which is received by
groove 52B. The cavity has a reduced diameter at the rail 56D.
Forward of the rail the cavity has a larger diameter corresponding
to the flange of the pin. The balance of the cavity generally
extends forward for compatibility with the casting process, but the
cavity in some cases may not extend forward beyond the flange area.
While the ferrule assembly is preferably composed of cast
components, the parts could be fabricated in other ways. The
ferrule exterior surface converges extending away from the pin to a
distal end.
[0057] The assembled ferrule body receives a sleeve 57 with an
inside channel that converges extending from a proximal opening to
a distal opening. The channel generally conforms to the tapered
exterior surface of the assembled ferrule. The sleeve assembled to
the ferrule body limits transverse displacement of the ferrule
portions to secure them together. The distal end of the ferrule can
extend beyond the sleeve 57.
[0058] The ferrule distal end includes an engagement feature 62.
The engagement feature at the distal end provides an attachment
point for supporting and drawing on the pin. The engagement feature
can include an opening 58 passing transversely through the ferrule
portions. A component such as a shackle 60 can be installed through
the opening. The shackle when installed to the engagement point can
be larger than the diameter of the distal opening of the sleeve to
limit axial movement of the sleeve and to simultaneously provide an
attachment point. The shackle limits movement of the sleeve and
provides an engagement point for a cable or sling.
[0059] Other attachment point arrangements can be used that perform
a similar function. The sleeve retainer and engagement feature can
be separate components and the ferrule distal end can have multiple
openings. Alternatively, a sleeve retainer 57' as shown in FIG. 4A
can be a cap with a transverse pin or bolt through opening 58
without an engagement feature. The cap limits axial movement of the
sleeve off the ferrule. Where a sleeve retainer 5T is installed to
the distal end of the ferrule without an engagement feature, the
pin can be installed to the opening of the component by pushing on
the back end of the pin.
[0060] The guide or ferrule 56 could also be secured to the pin
without the provision of a groove and flange on the pin. As an
example only, the guide could be secured in a threaded bore in the
end of the pin. Guide 56 could also have numerous differences than
the preferred embodiment disclosed above.
[0061] Previously when refurbishing rigging, to install a pin to
join components, the component openings are first closely aligned
by lifting and positioning the components with cranes and lifts to
align the pins and the openings. Force is then applied to the
components to more precisely align the openings while urging the
pin forward into the openings from the back end. The forward end of
the pin is the same diameter as the openings so there is no
purchase for pulling on the pin.
[0062] In the preferred construction of the present invention, the
flange of the pin is of a smaller diameter than the major diameter
of the pin. When assembled to the pin with the flange retained in
the cavity of the guide or ferrule, the diameter of the ferrule
assembly is less than the major diameter of the pin. To assemble
the pin with the ferrule assembly to the components, the first
component 64 and the second component 62 to be joined by the pin
are positioned to align the openings 62A and 64A of both
components. The narrow distal end of the guide or ferrule assembly
is positioned in the opening of the first component.
[0063] A cable or other line or implement can be connected to the
engagement point of the guide. Tension applied to the cable draws
the pin into the aligned openings as shown in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B.
The other end of the pin may be supported by a crane or lift
equipment to generally align the pin with the openings. Previously,
the force to adjust and position the components and the pin was
typically applied using a sledge hammer. With the ferrule assembled
to the pin, as the pin is drawn into the opening the increasing
diameter of the guide urges the components into alignment. This
automatic alignment reduces the physical effort required by the
operators to align the components and pin.
[0064] Alternatively, a sleeve retainer 57' can be installed to the
distal end of the guide without a shackle providing a smooth
surface for entry to the openings. The pin is installed to the
opening of the component primarily by pushing the back end of the
pin. The tapered adapter again acts to align the components as it
passes into the openings.
[0065] With the pin fully installed in the opening defined by
aligned openings or component surfaces 62A and 64A, the guide 56
can be replaced by a collar 54 assembled to the pin. In a preferred
embodiment the component 64 generally includes an outward facing
surface 64B proximate the end of the installed pin. The outward
facing surface can include a recessed portion 64D proximate to the
opening with a bearing surface 64C for receiving the collar. When
installed, the groove 52B of the pin can be proximate the bearing
surface and entirely outside of the opening on both sides of the
component. The bearing surface 64C defining the recess 64D of the
component 64 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis of the opening and is sized to allow the two portions of the
collar to be positioned against the bearing surface and to move
transversely into the groove without rotation of the collar portion
that could wedge the collar portion in the groove on installation.
The bearing surface 54J of the installed collar faces the bearing
surface 64C of the component. Alternatively, the outside surface of
the component can be generally smooth without recesses.
[0066] The outer surface of the component together with a
curved'outer face 54I of the collar in the recess provides an outer
surface of the assembly with smooth continuous contours that allow
a cable to slide over the surface without catching. The smooth
surface also limits erosion of the surface that occurs with exposed
sharp or blunt surfaces.
[0067] The area of the flange can be less than 80% of the center
portion of the pin and the area of pin at the groove can be less
than 70% of the center portion. In a preferred embodiment the cross
sectional area of the flange transverse to the longitudinal axis
can is between 80% and 60% of the area of the center portion of the
pin and the area of pin at the groove can be between 70% and 50% of
the area of the center portion. Other ranges of relative dimensions
are possible. The pin is preferably symmetrical from end to end,
but the pin can have different configurations on each end.
[0068] In a preferred embodiment the width of the flange is one
inch (2.54 cm) and the width of the groove is two inches (5.08 cm),
but the groove and/or the flange can have larger or smaller widths.
The length of the pin center portion is generally defined by the
length of the openings of the component assembly the pin is to be
installed in. The grooves preferably are just outside of the
component openings but they could be located fully or partially
within the openings if desired. If the grooves are spaced too far
from the openings, the pin risks having too much play moving
longitudinally in the openings during certain operations and the
flange and the collars may then extend farther from the components
than necessary. If the grooves are not spaced from the opening
adequately, it may be more difficult to install the collars into
the grooves in certain arrangements. Nevertheless, the invention is
not limited to the position of the grooves relative to the openings
or components, or to even having grooves in the pin. The above
discussion is intended to describe the preferred construction of
the pin.
[0069] The guide can have other configurations that perform a
similar function and still fall within the scope of this
disclosure. In an alternative embodiment ferrule assembly 100
includes ferrule body portions that are not symmetrical. First
ferrule portion 100A is much larger than second ferrule portion
100E as shown in FIG. 6. First portion 100A at the proximal end
forming the cavity is open on one side to receive the flange of the
pin. The first and second portions 100A and B define the cavity
100D with a rail 100E in the cavity portion that is received by the
pin groove. The second portion is attached to the first portion on
receiving the flange to form cavity 100D to securely grip the
flange. Bores and retainers similar to those shown in FIG. 5 for
the collar can be used to secure the portions together.
[0070] In another alternative embodiment, ferrule assembly 110
includes a ferrule portion 110A with a rearward opening cavity 110B
to receive the pin flange and an adapter. Two portions of an
adapter 110C and 110D similar to collar 54 are assembled around the
pin flange. The inside surface of the adapter includes a rail 110E
received by the groove of the pin adjacent the flange as shown in
FIG. 7. The outside surface of the adapter includes threads. Each
half of the adapter has threaded portions 110F that when joined
together form a continuous thread around the entire circumference
of the adapter (though it could be a non-continuous thread such as
a bayonet type mount as sometimes used to mount a camera lens). The
ferrule has corresponding threads 110G on the inside surface of the
ferrule cavity. The adapter can be threadedly attached to the
threads of the cavity as the ferrule cavity receives the flange.
Assembled to the pin, the ferrule assembly is securely mounted to
the flange and the end of the pin. Although not shown, the ferrule
or guide 110A could be provided with flats or holes for the
attachment of a tool for turning the ferrule.
[0071] Another alternative configuration of the pin assembly is
shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. A ferrule 120 of the pin assembly
includes ferrule halves 120A and 120B that are assembled around
flange 52C of pin 52. The ferrule can include a cavity 120F for
accepting flange 52C similar to that shown in FIG. 4. A groove 120C
extends around the circumference of the ferrule at the proximal
end. With the ferrule halves assembled to the flange of the pin, a
cable 120D with a latching means 120E is assembled to groove 120C.
Engaging the latching means applies tension to the cable and pulls
the two body portions of the ferrule together to retain the ferrule
on the flange. A retainer such as a shackle 160 through openings at
the distal end of the ferrule or a sleeve retainer can further
secure the ferrule halves together. Once the pin is installed to a
component, disengaging the latching means releases the cable
allowing the ferrule halves to release from the pin. A collar 54
can then be installed to the pin in place of the ferrule. In each
of these alternative embodiments a sleeve is not assembled to the
ferrule. But a sleeve may be used in some embodiments.
[0072] The pin assembly in the installation configuration can
include a collar installed on the trailing end of the pin as the
pin is installed into the component openings. Alternatively the pin
can be installed with only the ferrule assembly and without any
collar assembled to the pin. Once the pin is installed with the
ferrule in the openings, one or both collars are attached to the
pin to limit axial movement of the pin during operation.
[0073] The pin assemblies in the operational configuration with
collars on each end of the pin as shown to this point are free to
rotate within the component openings. In some applications it is
preferred that the pin be fixed to rotate with one of the joined
components while the second component rotates freely about the pin.
A fixed pin assembly 160 is shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B. The fixed
pin assembly includes a pin 152 with a circumferential groove 152B
and a flange 152C. Flange 152C includes flats 168 on the
circumferential edge. Flange 152C can be of smaller diameter than
the body of the pin similar to the previous embodiments and accept
a ferrule about the flange and groove.
[0074] Alternatively, the flange can be of similar diameter to the
body of the pin. The ferrule can engage only the flats 168 of the
flange and the groove 152B to extend from the end of the pin with a
diameter less than the body of the pin. The pin assembly can then
be installed to a component as previously described by pulling on
the flange to advance it into the opening while the ferrule engages
the pin flange at the flats.
[0075] Collar 154 comprises two halves 154A and 154B with an
outside surface that includes opposing flat ends 172 on each half.
Joined together the collar halves define a stepped opening. The
stepped opening includes a round portion 154C with a diameter
corresponding to groove 152B and a second stepped opening 154D
coaxial with the first opening that corresponds to the flange 152C.
Opening 154D includes a round portion and a flat portion 170 that
correspond to flats 168 of the flange 152C. The collar can
incorporate features similar to FIG. 5 including protrusions and
recesses 154G and H on the mating surfaces of the collar portions
and openings 154E passing through the mating surfaces that accept
retainers 154F to secure the collar portions together.
[0076] Fixed pin assembly 160 is installed to join a component 164
to component 162. Component 164 includes bearing surfaces defining
opening 164A and a longitudinal axis 164L. Outer surface 164B
includes a recess 164D with a bearing surface 164C. The recess
includes flat walls 174 that correspond to the flats 172 of the
collar.
[0077] The pin is assembled to the component assembly in a similar
manner as previously described. With the pin in an installed
position in the openings of the components, the grooves are
proximate the recess of the outward surfaces on opposite sides of
the component. Collar 154 is assembled to the pin by positioning
the first collar portion in the recess with the flats 172 adjacent
the flat walls 174 of the recess. The collar portion translates or
slides so the opening portion 154C sits in groove 152B of the pin
and the flats 170 of the second collar opening are adjacent the
flats 168 of the pin flange. The second collar portion is similarly
installed to the groove and flange.
[0078] Retainers 154F in holes 154E secure the portions together.
Rotation of the collar in the recess and in relation to the
component 164 is limited by the corresponding flats of the recess
bearing on the corresponding flats of the collar. Rotation of the
pin in relation to the collar and to component 164 is limited by
the flats of the pin flange bearing on the flats of the collar
opening. Component 162 is free to rotate about the pin 152.
[0079] Again, the pin assembly in the operational configuration is
typically symmetrical on each end of the pin, but can include
different collar configurations on each end. In an alternative
example, one end of the pin and the component can include a collar
similar to FIG. 5 and the other end of the pin can include a fixed
collar as shown in FIG. 11. Further the component 64 can be
configured to accept either a collar similar to FIG. 5 or a fixed
collar so that either configuration of collar can be
interchangeably installed on a component.
[0080] This is one example of a fixed pin assembly and other
configurations are possible. The flats of the collar outside
surface and the flats in the collar opening are perpendicular in
this example, but they could be parallel. There could be more or
fewer corresponding orienting or coupling surfaces than the number
of flats shown. The orienting surfaces could be a different shape
than those shown. The ferrule and collar opening could be square in
cross section or could be oblong. The flats of the pin could be in
the recess rather than on the flange and a corresponding flat can
be on the corresponding inner step of the opening of the collar.
Any arrangement of disclosed features that performs a similar
function as that shown will fall within the scope of this
disclosure.
[0081] In an alternative embodiment, an integral collar can be
included on one end of the pin. FIG. 12 shows a pin assembly 200
with an integral collar 210 on one end and a flange 252C on the
other end of a pin 252. The integral collar 210 is a portion of the
pin with a diameter greater than the opening of the component. The
collar can be a ring or plate welded to the end of the pin or can
be cast or machined as part of the pin, typically before
installation of the pin. The pin and integral collar can be
installed in the same manner previously described using a ferrule
assembly attached to the flanged end of the pin. Once installed to
the opening of the component, the ferrule is removed and a collar
54 similar to the collar shown in FIG. 5 is attached to the pin to
replace the ferrule.
[0082] The ferrule assembly is advantageous in that it allows the
components to initially be only generally aligned. Passage of the
ferrule assembly into the openings further aligns the openings. The
ferrule assembly also provides for tension to be applied to the pin
where, without the flange and/or the ferrule assembly, there is no
effective way to engage the forward end of the pin and the pin has
to be pushed into the opening. The pin system is also advantageous
in that the collars can be stocked for standard pin diameters to be
installed without welding. The pins are easily cut from standard
bar stock and the groove and flange can be machined with standard
equipment and skills. Orders for the pin assemblies can be filled
close to the mining operation where they are required reducing time
required for order fulfillment.
[0083] Previous rigging components sometimes used retainers such as
collars that were inserted into cavities in the arm of the
component to engage and retain the pin flush in the component
rather than the retainer engaging the pin outside the component.
This requires more complicated casting for the component to form
cavities in the bodies and the cavities are subject to clogging
with fines. The present invention does not require complex
component castings and can be retrofit to almost any existing
component configuration that includes a through aperture.
[0084] It is believed that the disclosure set forth herein
encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility.
While a lead for a pin has been disclosed in its preferred form,
the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated
herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous
variations are possible. While different configurations have been
described to achieve a specific functionality combinations of these
configurations may be used and still fall within the scope of this
disclosure. Where the description recites "a" or "a first" element
or the equivalent thereof, such description includes one or more
such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such
elements. Further, ordinal indicators, such as first, second or
third, for identified elements are used to distinguish between the
elements, and do not indicate a required or limited number of such
elements, and do not indicate a particular position or order of
such elements unless otherwise specifically stated.
* * * * *