Retrofitted excavator tooth attachment.

(54) Title: TOOTHED UNION ADAPTED FOR EXCAVATOR.

(54) Title: RETROFITTED EXCAVATOR TOOTH ATTACHMENT.

(57) Summary

The present invention relates to an excavator tooth for use in a tip of an excavator adapter, the tooth characterized in that it comprises: a tip receiving socket linked by opposite side walls; At least one of the side walls has an insert receiving recess formed therein, and first and second generally flat insert engaging interconnecting surfaces formed therein, the first interconnecting surface resisting rotation of the tooth over a longitudinal axis of the tooth in a first direction, and the second interconnecting surface resists rotation of the tooth about the longitudinal axis in a second direction opposite to the first direction, wherein each of the first and second interconnecting surfaces is inclined with respect to a lateral axis of the tooth perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

(57) Abstract

An excavator implement attachment system can inelude a tooth having a pocket formed therein, an insert received in a recess formed in an adapter nose and a threaded fastener which releasably secures the tooth on the nose, the fastener having a helical thread formed thereon which is eccentric relative to a fastener body. A tooth can include a pocket with at least one side wall which has an insert-receiving recess and generally planar insert-engaging interface surfaces formed therein, with one interface surface resisting rotation of the tooth about a longitudinal axis in one direction, and another interface surface resisting rotation of the tooth about the longitudinal axis in an opposite direction. An excavator tooth can inelude a pocket bounded by opposing side walls, with at least one of the side walls having an insert-receiving recess internally formed thereon, whereby the recess receives an insert installed in an adapter nose.

I Μ ΡI ί> · *

PATENT TITLE No. 347992

Headlines):

BLACK CAT BLADES LTD.

D micilio:

5604 59th Street, T6B 3C3, Edmonton, Alberta, CANADA

Denomination:

TOOTHED UNION ADAPTED FOR EXCAVATOR.

Classification:

CIP:

CPC:

E02F9 / 28

E02F9 / 28

Inventor (s)

JOHN A. RUVANG

REQUEST

Number:

MX / a / 2016/011355

Divisional d

<img file="MX347992B_D0001.tif" />

Entity Number. 344452

International Presentation Date of October 2010

PRIORITY

Country:

US

Date:

October 2009

<img file="MX347992B_D0002.tif" />

Number:

12/608,803

Validity: Twenty years

Expiration Date: October 28, 2030

Issue Date: May 22, 2017

The reference patent is granted based on articles 1, 2 “section V, βΆβοάόη III, and 59 of the Industrial Property Law.

In accordance with article 23 of the "Industrial Property Law", this patent will be subject to the date of filing the application and will be subject to! pay you fee

<img file="MX347992B_D0003.tif" />

e twenty years non-extendable, counted to rights ?;

Whoever signs this title does so based on the provisions of articles 6 ° fractions III and 7 ° bis 2 of the Industrial Property Law (Official Gazette of the Federation (D.OF.) 06/27/1991, amended 08/02/1994, 10/25/1996, 12/28/1987, 05/17/1999, 01/26/2004, 06/16/2005, 01/25/2006, 05/06/2009.06 / 01/2010, W06 / 2010, 06/28/2010, 01/27/2012 and 04/09/2012); items 1^or, 3rd fraction V mass a), 4^or and 12th sections I and III of the Regulations of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (OO.F 12/14/1999, amended on 01707/2002, 07/15/2004, 07/28/2004 and 09/07/2007) ; items 1^or, 3°, 4°, 5^or fraction V subsection a), 16 sections l and III and 30 of the Organic Statute of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF 12/27/1999, amended on 10/10/2002 07/29/3604, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007), 1 '3' and 5 “subsection a) of the Agreement that delegates powers to the Directors Deputy Generals, Coordinator, Divisional Directors, Heads of Regional Offices, Divisional Deputy Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property .. (D.OF. 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007) '

This document is signed with an advanced electronic signature (FIEL), based on articles 7 BIS 2 of the Industrial Property Law; 3 of its Regulations, and 1 section III, 2 section V, 26 BIS and 26 TER of the Agreement establishing the guidelines for the use of the Payment and Electronic Services Portal (PASE) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, in the procedures indicated.

<td>DIVISIONAL PATENT DIRECTOR NAHANNY CANAL REYES 0 Original Chain:</td>

<td>fiSSESM Tributarial 1695 || MX / 2017/40935 | MX / a / 2016/011355 | Patent title PCT | 1220 (RRGO | Page (s) 1 | e0b8i6ZLYXg0HqEXej + zBrvB85Y =</td>

<td>Digital stamp: TcrLo / 1OFVQ8zvZMOOrCMmyWyNNWDHRiHgbHBvqsoFS + HC9YpttFGQ0Uj5Ufh7M309QUPipylhWycUAnPAS4lkZ9IM HsJaEjríSlHr: A5ld4UOMw + EkF5JsJPCTo7OtySDVqTG3lyoFTrtn / rKeKMIBEavHappLIHGZÍUi / U7LgT5EI4yKhciyusTNMfyfQes mNagld6sZsZÍNM1ygnY + ASc11V0p3QRPqxnyDApib7G7kvwoEkbxft6kwW88uDhYLs23DFUX7CzxAeZvyyw9ecbZdX kx3KRJOfxM8Clk8 / bHbxkY77oScRqOfZ9A7IP3QWRQOFDKY7FF4WCRQOFK9A7Y77oScRqOfC9A7Y77oScRqOf6By7ePgA</td>

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MX / 2017/40935

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OF THE MtfWEDAP

INDUSTRIAL

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TOOTHED UNION ADAPTED FOR EXCAVATOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

This description generally refers to equipment used and operations performed in conjunction with excavation and, in an example described below, more particularly provides an excavator adapted toothed joint.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Excavator implements, such as bulldozers, trenchers, etc., are commonly provided with one or more teeth loosely secured to the implements for convenient replacement as teeth wear out. In the past, such digging teeth were secured to the tips in adapters placed on the flanges of implements, with various shapes of bolts, wedges, etc., being used to loosely join the teeth.

The first tie bolts are installed and removed by hammer impact, which was later and widely recognized as unsafe and inconvenient, leading to the development of non-impact joining methods. Unfortunately, most of these non-impact bonding systems are ineditably complex, expensive, and inconvenient to use.

<img file="MX347992B_D0005.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTE muican nt la nopitiA · inoustumi use and / or unsuitable for the hostile environment of an excavation operation.

Therefore, it will be appreciated that advances are needed in excavator tooth joint technique. Such advancements could include the provision of an improved attachment system that can be adapted to existing adapter tips, or that can be provided for newly designed adapter tips.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following description, an excavator tooth and attachment system are provided that solve at least one problem in the art. An example is described below in which an excavator tooth is secured to an adapter tip using a unique bonding system. In another example, the attachment system can be adapted to an existing adapter tip.

In one aspect, this disclosure provides the art with a bonding system for an excavator implement that may include an excavator tooth having a tip receiving socket formed therein, an insert received in a recess formed in an adapter tip. and a threaded fastener that releasably secures the tooth at the tip. The bra may have a

<img file="MX347992B_D0006.tif" />

IMPI

IMMoFIIDad helical fastener thread formed therein that is eccentric with respect to a fastener body.

In another aspect, an excavator tooth for use in a tip of an excavator adapter may include a tip receiving socket linked by opposite side walls, and at least one of the side walls has an insert receiving recess and generally flat insert mating interconnecting surfaces formed therein. One interconnecting surface can resist rotation of the tooth about a longitudinal axis of the tooth in one direction, and another interconnecting surface can resist rotation of the tooth about the longitudinal axis in an opposite direction.

In yet another aspect, an excavator tooth may include a tip receiving socket linked by opposing side walls, with at least one of the side walls having an insert receiving recess internally formed therein. The recess can receive an insert installed in an adapter tip.

These and other features, advantages, and benefits will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art or upon careful consideration of the detailed description of representative examples below and the accompanying figures, in which elements

<img file="MX347992B_D0007.tif" />

Similar IMPI instituto mexican · Of LA MOHIBA »INDUTTTUA1 are indicated in the various figures using the same reference numbers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of an excavator implement depicting the principles of the present disclosure.

FIGURE 2 is a top plan view of an excavator tooth, adapter tip and holder, each of which represents the principles of the present disclosure and may be used in the implement of FIGURE 1.

FIGURE 3 is a side view of an excavator tooth, adapter tip, and fastener of FIGURE 2.

FIGURE 4 is a cross-sectional view of the tooth and adapter tip taken along line 4-4 of FIGURE 8.

FIGURE 5 is a cross-sectional view of the tooth and adapter tip, taken along line 5-5 of FIGURE 2 and FIGURE 6.

FIGURE 6 is a cross-sectional view of the tooth and tip, taken along line 6-6 of FIGURE 3.

FIGURE 7 is a cross-sectional view of the tooth and a top plan view of the tip therein.

FIGURE 8 is a cross-sectional view of the tooth

<img file="MX347992B_D0008.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUI * MEXICANO BE LA MOHEDA n INDUSTRIAL and a side view of the tip in it.

FIGURE 9 is a top silver view of the tip.

FIGURE 10 is a side view of the tip.

FIGURE 11 is a top silver view of another configuration of the tip.

FIGURE 12 is a cross-sectional view of the tip configuration of FIGURE 11 in a complementary shaped tooth configuration.

FIGURE 13, FIGURE 14, FIGURE 15 and FIGURE 16 are views of a bonding system for the adapter tooth and tip.

FIGURE 17, FIGURE 18, FIGURE 19, FIGURE 20 and FIGURE 21 are views of another configuration of the bonding system.

FIGURE 22, FIGURE 23, FIGURE 24, FIGURE 25 and FIGURE 26 are views of yet another configuration of the bonding system.

FIGURE 27, FIGURE 28 and FIGURE 29 are views of a further configuration of the bonding system.

FIGURE 30 and FIGURE 31 are elevation and cross-sectional views of a prior art adapter tip.

FIGURE 32, FIGURE 33 and FIGURE 34 are elevation, plan and side views of an insert that can ₆

INSTITUTO MEXICAN · • E LA η · ΠΕ · Α · IN RUSTRE Al *!

be used with the adapter tip of FIGURE 30 and the

FIGURE 31.

FIGURE 35 is an elevation view of the insert installed in the adapter tip.

FIGURE 36 and FIGURE 37 are elevation and plan views of the installation of a tooth in the adapter tip.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION ,

Representatively illustrated in FIGURE 1 is an excavator implement 10 that embodies the principles of this disclosure. The implement 10 is depicted in FIGURE 1 as including a blade 12 having a lower material engaging rim 14. Mounted along the flange 14 are separate adapters 16. The adapters 16 allow the excavator teeth 18 to be mounted along the flange 14, so that the implement 10 is more efficient in crushing and scooping up material with the shovel 12.

At this point, it should be noted that implement 10 as depicted in FIGURE 1 is only one example of a wide variety of implements that may incorporate the principles of this description more fully described below. Other types of implements, such as trenchers, etc., you can use the principles in this description.

ΐΝΓΠτυτο Mexican • t LA nOPIEBA · INDUSTRIAL

In fact, most excavation equipment that uses replaceable excavator teeth can benefit from the principles in this description.

Multiple configurations of adapters 16 and teeth 18 are depicted in the figures and are described below for purposes of illustration and example so that one of ordinary skill in the art can appreciate how to make and use the principles of this description, and the advantages of it. However, it should be clearly understood that the principles of this disclosure are by no means limited to the specific configurations of the adapters 16, teeth 18, and associated components described herein. In fact, the principles of this description can be applied to a wide variety of excavator tooth, adapter and bonding system configurations.

Referring now further to FIGURE 2, a top plan view of mated portions of an adapter 16 and tooth 18 are representatively illustrated. FIGURE 2 also depicts a bonding system 20 that is used to loosely secure tooth 18 to adapter 16.

In FIGURE 2 it can be seen that a male tip 22 of the adapter 16 is received within a receptacle 24

ΙΜΡΙ ^ 5

INSTITUTO MEXICAN ·

OF THE FXOMEDAD 4 female industrial formed in a posterior end of the tooth 18. Releasably securing the tooth 18 at the tip 22, a fastener 26 is installed in the openings 28 formed through the opposite side walls 30 of the tooth. Fastener 26 also extends through another opening 32 formed laterally through tip 22.

Each of these components is described more fully below, along with the benefits derived from their unique construction and operation. Among these advantages are the safe, reliable, economical, robust, and convenient bonding of tooth 18 to adapter tip 22 using bonding system 20, as well as the fully stabilized complementary coupling between tooth and adapter tip that beneficially reduces wear between these components.

Referring now further to FIGURE 3, a side view of attachment system 20 is representatively illustrated. In this view, it can be seen that the tooth socket 24 is linked by an upper wall 34, a lower wall 36 and an end wall 38, as well as by side walls 30 described above.

Tooth 18 and adapter tip 22 are aligned along a longitudinal axis 40 of the tooth. The fastener 26 is aligned with a lateral axis 42 that extends transversely "ΙΝΓΠΤΙΠΌ MEX1CAN

BE LA NtOriEBAD

INBUST1UAL (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 40). Another axis 44 is orthogonal to a plane defined by the other two axes 40, 42, and intersects the upper and lower walls 34, 36.

Note that although axes 40, 42 are depicted in the figures as being horizontally oriented, and axis 44 is depicted as being vertically oriented, the axes could be oriented in either direction when tooth 18 meets adapter tip 22, and when implement 10 is used in excavation operations. Thus, the orientations of the axes 40, 42, 44 shown in the figures are for the convenience of description, illustration and example only.

Referring now further to FIGURE 4, a cross-sectional view of adapter 16 and tooth 18 are representatively illustrated. In this view, various additional features of the bonding system 20 can be seen more clearly.

Opening 32 has helical threads 46 at each opposite end thereof. Note that the threads 46 are not coaxial with the openings 28, 32, but are instead eccentric with respect to the openings. Preferably, the threads 46 are tangential to one side of the opening 32 (as more fully described below), and are discontinuous, since each of the threads ends without

<img file="MX347992B_D0009.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO • t LA noriEDA · INDUSTRIAL connect with the thread at the other end of the opening.

The two threads 46 allow the fastener 26 to be installed from either end of the openings 28, 32. The ends of the threads 46 in the opening 32 prevent the fastener 26 from being installed too far into the opening. The eccentric position of the threads 46 with respect to the openings 28, 32 allows a fastener body 26 to make full contact with the openings in the installation thereby providing increased surface area and reduced wear, as more fully described. then.

The openings 28 are also not coaxial with the opening 32. In addition to the benefits discussed above, the eccentric placement of the openings 28, 32 also provides for automatic, intuitive alignment of the fastener 26 with the openings on installation, as described below. more fully in the above.

The recesses 48 (used for an example of a locking device 82 described below) are depicted in FIGURE 4 as being formed in the tip portion 22 adjacent the opening 32 and the threads 46. Various devices for locking the fastener 26 on tooth 18 and adapter tip 22 are described more fully below.

IMPIAS

I 1 INSTITUTO MEXICANO · 1 LA MONEDA »™ 1N» USTUAL

Referring now further to FIGURE 5, another cross-sectional view of tooth 18 and adapter tip 22 are representatively illustrated. In this view it can be seen that tooth 18 butts point 22 primarily at a flat interconnecting surface 50 formed in end wall 38. Surface 50 is oriented orthogonal to longitudinal axis 40 of tooth 18 and thus provides substantial resistance to force 52 applied to tooth along longitudinal axis.

Furthermore, inclined flat interconnecting surfaces 53 are provided which, in addition to resisting longitudinal force 52, also function to center and stabilize tooth 18 with respect to longitudinal axis 40. Surfaces 53 are preferably inclined with respect to axes longitudinal and orthogonal 40, 44, but they are parallel to the lateral axis 42 of tooth 18.

Referring now further to FIGURE 6, another cross-sectional view of tooth 18 and adapter tip 22 are representatively illustrated. In this view, it can be seen that the additional inclined interconnecting surfaces are used in the attachment system 20 to resist various other forces applied to the tooth 18, and to stabilize the tooth on the adapter tip 22.

On the flat interconnecting surfaces 54, 56 formed in the upper walls and

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

BE LA MBFIEEAB INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX347992B_D0010.tif" />

Lower 34, 36 resist forces 58 applied to the tooth along axis 44 and function to center and stabilize tooth 18 on adapter tip 22 in response to these forces. The flat interconnecting surfaces 60, 62 formed on the side walls 30 resist forces 64 applied to the tooth 18 along the axis 42 and function to center and stabilize the tooth on the adapter tip 22 in response to these forces.

In addition, surfaces 54, 62 function to resist rotation of tooth 18 about adapter tip 22 due to torque 66 applied to tooth about longitudinal axis 40. Similarly, surfaces

56, 60 function to resist rotation of tooth 18 on adapter tip 22 due to oppositely directed torque 68 applied around axis 40.

Preferably, each of the interconnecting surfaces 54, 56, 60, 62 is inclined relative to each of the axes 40, 42, 44 for improved stabilization of the tooth 18 on the adapter tip 22. However, the surfaces 54, 56, 60, 62 could be oriented in another way, without departing from the principles of this description. Furthermore, since the tooth socket 24 is substantially and complementary in shape with respect to the tip

ΙΝΤΗΤΙΓΓ »MEXICANO Df LA Ρ * ΘΝΕΟΛΓ INBUST1UAL adapter 22, the tip has interconnecting surfaces formed thereon, which are shaped and oriented similarly as surfaces 50, 53, 54, 56, 60, 62 and other surfaces of interconnection described herein.

The interconnecting surfaces 60, 62 combine to form a convex portion of the receptacle 24, thereby increasing the lateral thickness of the side walls 30. This is advantageous to provide a sufficient contact surface area between the openings 28 and each end. of bra 26, as more fully described in the following.

Referring now further to FIGURE 7, another cross-sectional view of tooth 18 on adapter tip 22 is representatively illustrated. In this view it can be seen that additional flat interconnecting surfaces 70 are formed on adjacent end wall 38 and on opposite sides of surface 50.

Surfaces 70 resist longitudinal force 52, and also function to center and stabilize tooth 18 with respect to longitudinal axis 40 in response to the force. The surfaces 70 are preferably inclined with respect to the longitudinal and lateral axes 40, 42, but are parallel to the orthogonal axis 44 of the tooth 18. In the examples shown in₁₄ IMPl ^

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

OF THE MtPIEtAD

INDUSTRIAL Figures, surfaces 53, 70 between intersect surface 50 at a generally rectangular periphery, thereof due to the orientations of these surfaces, but other configurations may be used, if desired.

Referring now further to FIGURE 8, another cross-sectional view of tooth 18 on adapter tip 22 is representatively illustrated. In this view, it can be seen that the upper and lower walls 34, 36 have planar interconnecting surfaces 72, 74 formed thereon that resist forces 58 applied to the tooth along axis 44.

Surfaces 72, 74 are preferably longitudinally spaced from each other along each of the upper and lower walls 34, 36, and are preferably parallel to each other. Surfaces 72, 74 are also preferably displaced relative to one another in a direction perpendicular to the surfaces. Surfaces 72, 74 could be inclined in a certain way relative to each other, if desired, but preferably such relative inclination is minimal.

Surfaces 72, 74 are preferably inclined somewhat relative to longitudinal axis 40 and orthogonal axis 44, but are parallel to lateral axis 42. Surfaces 72, 74 could be parallel to longitudinal axis

<img file="MX347992B_D0011.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUT · MEXICAN DE LA HtOHEBA »INBUSTUAL

40, if desired.

Surfaces 72 function to resist rotation of tooth 18 about adapter tip 22 due to torque 76 applied to tooth on lateral axis 42. Similarly, surfaces 74 function to resist rotation of tooth 18 about adapter tip 22 due to oppositely directed torque 78 applied around shaft 42.

Referring now further to FIGURE 9 and

FIGURE 10, respective top and side views of adapter tip 22 are representatively illustrated, in addition to the remainder of attachment system 20. In these views, the interconnecting surfaces described above as being formed in the socket of tooth 24 are indicated on adapter tip 22 to demonstrate how surfaces on the tip and on the socket cooperate to form a complementary shaped bonding and stabilization system.

Referring now further to FIGURE 11 and

FIGURE 12, Another configuration of tooth 18 and adapter tip 22 are representatively illustrated. In this configuration, the interconnecting surfaces 54, 56 on the upper and lower walls 34, 36 are separated by another inclined flat surface 80. Otherwise, the

<img file="MX347992B_D0012.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUI · MEXICAN

BE THE INDUSTRIAL MEDIA configuration of FIGURE 11 and FIGURE 12 is substantially similar to the configuration of FIGURE 2, FIGURE 3, FIGURE 4, FIGURE 5, FIGURE 6, FIGURE 7, FIGURE 8, FIGURE 9 and FIGURE 10 and works essentially the same way. This demonstrates that the various configurations of the bonding system 20 can be used in accordance with the principles of this description.

Referring now further to FIGURE 13, the

FIGURE 14, FIGURE 15 and FIGURE 16, the attachment system 20 is representatively illustrated, along with components of a locking device 82 to prevent inadvertent removal of the fastener 2 6 from the adapter tip 22 and tooth 18. FIGURE 13 depicts the locking device 82 installed on the adapter tip 22 and tooth 18 assembled, FIGURE 14 and FIGURE 15 depicts the specially constructed fastener 26, and FIGURE 16 depicts a locking member 84 of the locking device.

Fastener 26 as depicted in FIGURE 14 has an elongated body 86, with a helical thread 88 formed near one end of the body. Thread 88 is eccentric with respect to body 86 so that the thread is tangential with a lateral side of the body.

Body 86 is generally cylindrical in shape, but

<img file="MX347992B_D0013.tif" />

₁₇ IMPI

INSTITUTE MEX1CAN

BE LA MOHEDA ·

INDUSTRIAL may taper in a certain way (e.g., taper inward of threaded end 88 toward unthreaded end by approximately one degree on one side), in order to facilitate removal of fastener 26 from opening 32 in adapter tip 22. Contact surfaces 90 are provided at each end of body 86 to contact opening 28 on each side of tooth 18 (as shown in FIGURE 13), and an intermediate portion of the body provides a contact surface 92 that makes contact with opening 32 in adapter tip 22.

When the fastener 26 is installed, the body 86 is inserted through the opening 28 in one side of the tooth 18, and into the opening 32 in the adapter tip 22. The fastener 26 is rotated until the thread 88 is aligned with opening 28.

Note that thread 88 is offset eccentrically with respect to body 86 of fastener 26 by the same amount that aperture 28 is offset eccentrically relative to aperture 32, and thread 88 is somewhat smaller in diameter. than aperture 28. Thus, it is intuitive for an operator to align thread 88 with aperture 28 once body 86 has been inserted into aperture 32 of adapter tip 22.

With thread 88 inserted into opening 28, thread 88 ₁₈ IMPI ^

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

BF THE PROHEDITY O ^^ 3i INBUSTWAL will also align for easy engagement with the respective one of the threads 46 on the adapter tip 22. The fastener 26 is then rotated 180 degrees (or another amount of rotation, such as 90 degrees, if desired, depending on the depth of the thread 4 6 in the adapter tip 22).

At this point, with the contact surfaces 90 engaging the openings 28, the contact surface 92 cupped in the opening 32, and the threads 46, 88 engaged with each other, the tooth 18 is secured on the adapter tip 22. The locking device 82 can then be used to prevent accidental unscrewing of fastener 26.

Note that a receptacle 94 is provided at one end of fastener 26 for use of a suitable tool to rotate the fastener when screwed or unscrewed into the attachment system 20. The locking device 82 utilizes this receptacle 94, along with a slot. 96 extending laterally between the receptacle and the outer surface of the body 86, to retain the locking member 84.

As depicted in FIGURE 16, locking member 84 is complementary to receptacle 94 and slot 96 on one side 98 of the locking member, and has a lobe 100 extending outwardly from

<img file="MX347992B_D0014.tif" />

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

DE LA H'ÁOEBAO industrial an opposite side. Lobe 100 has an outer curvature that matches that of opening 28 such that when fastener 26 is properly screwed into opening 32 and side 98 of locking member 84 inserts 5 into socket 94 and slot 96 , the lobe will cooperatively engage opening 28 to thereby prevent unscrewing of the fastener.

Preferably, the locking member 84 is formed of an elastic material, such as a suitably durable elastomer. The end of the locking member 98 and the lobe 100 are preferably sized for an interference fit in the respective socket 94 and the opening 28, thereby to avoid inadvertent disengagement of the locking member from the fastener 26 and the tooth 18.

In the locking device 82 of FIGURE 13, FIGURE 14, FIGURE 15 and FIGURE 16, the locking member 84 engages the opening 28 to prevent accidental unscrewing of the fastener 26. However, other types of locking devices 20 lock can be used, if desired.

Referring now further to FIGURE 17, the

FIGURE 18, FIGURE 19, FIGURE 20 and FIGURE 21, another configuration of the locking device 82 is representatively illustrated. In this configuration, the member of

<img file="MX347992B_D0015.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA MOHEDAL) INDUSTRIAL lock 84 engages fastener 26 and a slot 102 formed in adapter tip 22 adjacent opening 32 to prevent inadvertent unscrewing of fastener.

Locking member 84 as depicted in FIGURE 20 and FIGURE 21 includes an elongated key 104 that inserts into aligned slot 96 in fastener 26 and slot 102 in adapter tip 22 after the fastener has been screwed in. properly on the adapter tip. Slot 96 in fastener 26 is adequately elongated for this purpose, as depicted in FIGURE 18 and FIGURE 19. Again, the locking member 84 is preferably formed of an elastic material and preferably interferes with the fastener 26 and the grooves 96, 102 to prevent inadvertent removal.

Referring now further to FIGURE 22, the

FIGURE 23, FIGURE 24, FIGURE 25 and FIGURE 26, another configuration of locking device 82 is representatively illustrated. In this configuration, locking member 84 is in the form of a cylindrical rod that is retained in adapter tip 22 between recess 48 and opening 32 (recess 48 is seen more clearly in FIGURE 4 and FIGURE 8).

Locking member 84 is elastically biased toward opening 32 by a biasing device 106

INSTITUTE MEX1CAN positioned in recess 48. Deflection device 106 is preferably formed of elastomeric material, although other types of deflection devices (such as springs, etc.) could be used, if desired.

A retainer 108 is formed on the thread 88 of the fastener 26, as shown in FIGURE 23. When the fastener 26 is rotated to screw the fastener into the adapter tip 22, the thread 88 moves the locking member 84 toward the recess. 48, thereby compressing the diverter device 106. When the fastener 26 has been properly screwed onto the adapter tip 22, the retainer 108 will align with the locking member 84, and the locking member 84 will be deflected by the biasing device 106 in engagement with the retainer, thereby avoiding inadvertent unscrewing of the fastener.

This sequence is depicted in FIGURE 24, FIGURE 25, and FIGURE 26. FIGURE 24 depicts the arrangement of fastener 26, locking member 84, and biasing device 106 when the fastener is inserted into aperture 32 and thread. 88 lines up with opening 28, just before threading the fastener into adapter tip 22.

FIGURE 25 depicts the arrangement of the fastener 26, the locking member 84, and the biasing device 106 when the fastener has been rotated 90 degrees, whereby

<img file="MX347992B_D0016.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUI »MEXICANO DE LA PROHEDA · INDUSTRIAL partially threads the fastener onto the adapter tip 22.

Note that locking member 84 has moved by thread 88 (due to its eccentric position with respect to body 86) toward biasing device 106, thereby compressing the biasing device.

FIGURE 26 depicts the arrangement of the fastener 26, locking member 84, and biasing device 106 when the fastener has been rotated 180 degrees, thereby fully screwing the fastener onto the adapter tip 22. Notice that the fastener member lock 84 is now engaged with retainer 108, and such engagement is elastically held by biasing device 106. Unscrewing the fastener 26 may require re-compressing the biasing device 106, which may be conveniently accomplished when desired, but may not be inadvertent.

Referring now further to FIGURE 27, FIGURE 28, and FIGURE 29, another configuration of attachment system 20 is representatively illustrated. Attachment system 20 is shown without fastener 26 and locking device 82 for illustrative clarity, although the exemplary attachment system of FIGURE 27, FIGURE 28, and FIGURE 29 is configured to utilize a fastener and locking device from the type illustrated in FIGURE 22, FIGURE 23, the ,, IMPI ^

3 MEJtiCAN institute

BE LA MúFIEO * »UNBUSTUAL

FIGURE 24, FIGURE 25 and FIGURE 26 and described above.

The configuration of FIGURE 27, FIGURE 28, and FIGURE 29 differ at least significantly from the configuration of FIGURE 22, FIGURE 23,

FIGURE 24, FIGURE 25 and FIGURE 26, since the openings in the side walls 30 of the configuration of the

FIGURE 27, FIGURE 28 and FIGURE 29 have thread engagement portions 110 formed therein. The thread engagement portions 110 are depicted in the figures as a partial thread or helical ramp that extends only partially and circumferentially around the interior of the opening 28. However, other types of thread engagement structures may be used, if required. want.

Thread engaging portions 110 function to engage thread 88 in fastener 26 as the fastener is unscrewed from opening 32 in tip 22. Thread 88 engages one of portions 110 and, when the fastener is rotated in the direction of Counterclockwise (as depicted in the figures), the threaded or ramping configuration of the thread engaging portion causes the fastener 26 to continue retraction of the opening 32. This provides a removal ₂₄ IMPI ^

INSTITUTO MEXICAN oclan γιε · a »INDUSTRIAL most convenient fastener 26 of openings 28, 30.

Note that the thread engaging portions 110 are eccentric with respect to the opening 32 in the tip 22. Furthermore, although thread engaging portions 110 are formed in each of the openings 28 in each of the side walls 30 as depicted in the figures, the principles of this description could be practiced with only one opening 28 formed through one of the side walls 30, in which case only a thread engagement portion 110 can be used.

Referring now further to FIGURE 30 and FIGURE 31, a portion of a prior art adapter 114 is representatively illustrated. Adapter 114 includes a tip 116 which, unfortunately, previously did not have the advantages of the tip / tooth bonding and stabilization system 20 described above for adapter tip 22 and tooth 18. However, it is possible to use the principles described below to obtain some or all of these advantages for the adapter 114 of FIGURE 30 and FIGURE 31.

Adapter 114 includes a laterally extending fastener receiving opening 118. In a side part, a cylindrical recess 120 is formed in the tip 116.

In the past, such a recess had been used to contain a

ΙΝΓΠΤΙΙΤΟ MEXICAN Μ LA ntOMWAS industiual retainer to prevent inadvertent disengagement of a fastener installed in opening 118.

Referring now further to FIGURE 32, FIGURE 33 and FIGURE 34, an insert 122 depicting the principles of this disclosure is representatively illustrated. Insert 122 includes a cylindrical projection 124 which is dimensioned to fit complementarily into recess 120 in adapter tip 116.

In addition, insert 122 includes many of the features described above for adapter 16. For example, insert 122 includes opening 28, eccentrically offset thread 46, recess 48, and interconnecting surfaces 60, 62. These elements may provide some or all of the above-described advantages to adapter tip 116 (eg, improved tip / tooth stabilization and improved attachment of a tooth to the tip.

Referring now further to FIGURE 35, insert 122 is representatively illustrated as 20 installed in adapter tip 116. Additionally, locking device 82 is shown as being installed in insert 122. Note, however, that others Locking devices (including any of the locking devices described above) can be used

<img file="MX347992B_D0017.tif" />

IMPI

ΙΝΓΓΠΤΙΤΟ MEXICANO OE LA nOFIEDAP INOL / STRIA in accordance with the principles of this description.

Opening 32 in insert 122 is preferably concentric with opening 118 in adapter tip 116. Note, however, that thread 46 is eccentric with respect to each of the openings 32, 118 similar to the way in which the threads are eccentric with respect to opening 32 in adapter tip 22 described above.

Referring now further to FIGURE 36 and FIGURE 37, the installation of the excavator tooth 126 on the adapter tip 116 is representatively illustrated. Tooth 126 has a socket 128 formed therein that is complementary to adapter tip 116 with insert 122 installed therein.

Thus, tooth receptacle 128 has interconnecting surfaces 130, 132 formed therein that complement surfaces 60, 62 at insert 122. Engagement between these respective surfaces 60 and 130, and 62 and 132, they provide improved stabilization between tooth 126 and adapter tip 116, for example, by resisting torque applied in each of the opposite directions to the tooth on its longitudinal axis 40.

Tooth 126 also has aperture 28 and portion

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7 ιντππγγο Mexican

OF PROPERTY iNeusnuAi of thread engagement 110 formed on one side thereof to receive fastener 26. Thread engagement portion 110 assists in removing fastener 26 from adapter 114 and tooth 126 as described above. Although the thread engagement portion 110 is depicted in FIGURE 36 and FIGURE 37 as being formed on only one side of the tooth 126, in other examples the thread engagement portion could be formed on both sides of the tooth, thereby allowing as the tooth is reversed in the adapter tip 116.

Fastener 26 can be installed on tooth 126 and adapter 114 as described above for adapter 116 and tooth 118, after tip 116 is received in socket 128. Locking device 82 will prevent inadvertent disengagement of fastener 26 of tooth 126 and adapter 114.

It will now be more fully appreciated that the attachment system 20, excavator teeth 18, 126, adapter tip 22, and insert 122 described above provide various improvements to the excavator tooth installation, securing, and removal technique. . Fastener 26 and locking device 82 releasably secure teeth 18, 126 on respective adapter tips 22, 116 in a manner that is desirably simple, secure, efficient, convenient, and reliable.

<img file="MX347992B_D0018.tif" />

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY

The foregoing description provides the art with a attachment system 20 for an excavator implement 10. The system 20 may include an excavator tooth 126 having a tip receiving socket 128 formed therein, an insert 122 received in a recess. 120 formed in an adapter tip 116, and a threaded fastener 26 that releasably secures tooth 126 on tip 116. Fastener 26 may have a helical fastener thread formed therein that is eccentric with respect to a body 86 of fastener 26.

Insert 122 may have a threaded fastener receiving opening 32 formed therein, with at least one fastener receiving thread 46 formed in insert 122 that is eccentric with respect to opening 32.

The fastener thread 88 may extend outwardly from the body 86, with the fastener thread 88 on a side portion of the body 86 being tangential with an outer surface of the body 86.

The tooth 126 may have fastener receiving openings 28 formed through the opposite side walls 136 of the socket 128. The fastener body 86 may engage the fastener or tooth 28 receiving openings on opposite sides of the thread 88 when the

<img file="MX347992B_D0019.tif" />

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

DC LA ΗΚΒΗΕΒΑΒ INDUSTRIAL clamp 26 secures tooth 126 on adapter tip

116.

The insert 122 may have a fastener receiving opening 32 formed therein, with the insert fastener receiving opening 32 being eccentric with respect to the fastener receiving openings of tooth 28, such that the fastener thread 88 It is partial to the fastener receiving opening of tooth 28 when the fastener body 86 is coaxial with the insertion fastener receiving opening 32.

At least one of the tooth fastener receiving openings 28 may include a thread engagement portion 110 that engages the thread of the fastener 88 when the fastener 26 is unscrewed from the insert fastener receiving opening 32.

System 20 may also include a locking device 82 that engages fastener 26 and insert 122, whereby locking device 82 prevents rotation of fastener 26 relative to insert 122.

The insert 122 may include inclined interconnecting surfaces 60, 62 that complement the interconnection surfaces 130, 132 formed in tooth 126, whereby the coupling between the insert interconnecting surfaces 60, 62 and the

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MEXICAN INJTtTUTD

OF THE «OFFIETY

INDUSTRIAL ^MRespective tooth interconnecting surfaces 130, 132 stabilize tooth 126 on adapter tip 116.

Also described above is an excavator tooth 126 for use in a tip 116 of an excavator adapter 114. The tooth 126 may include a tip receiving socket 128 linked by opposing side walls 136, with at least one of the side walls 136 having an insert receiving recess 134 formed therein, and generally insert mating interconnecting surfaces planes 130, 132 formed therein, an interconnecting surface 130 that resists rotation of tooth 126 about a longitudinal axis 40 of tooth 126 in one direction, and another interface surface 132 that resists rotation of tooth 126 about longitudinal axis 40 in an opposite direction.

Each of the interconnecting surfaces 130, 132 can be inclined with respect to a lateral axis of tooth 126 perpendicular to longitudinal axis 40.

A tooth fastener receiving opening 28 formed through at least one of the side walls 136 may include a thread engagement portion 110 that engages a fastener thread 88 as a fastener 26 is unscrewed from a fastener receiving opening. insert bra 32.

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INSTITUTE MEX1CAN

BE LA FROFltDAB

<img file="MX347992B_D0020.tif" />

, , , _and , , _and INBUynUAL __

The foregoing description also describes an excavator tooth 126 for use in a tip 116 of an excavator adapter 114. The tooth 126 may include a tip receiving socket 128 linked by opposing side walls 136, with at least one of the walls. sides 136 having an insert receiving recess 134 formed internally therein, whereby the recess 134 receives an insert 122 installed in the adapter tip 116.

At least one of the side walls 136 may have a fastener receiving opening 28 formed therethrough perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 40 of tooth 126, with the fastener receiving opening of tooth 28 including an engaging portion of thread 110 which engages a thread of fastener 88 as fastener 26 is unscrewed from a receiving opening of insert fastener 32.

The thread engagement portion 110 may include a threaded portion of the tooth holder receiving opening 28. The thread engagement portion 110 may include a ramping portion of the tooth holder receiving opening 28. The Thread engagement 110 may be eccentric with respect to the insert fastener receiving opening 32.

The insert receiving recess 134 may have ₃₂ IMPI ^ ° INSTITUTO MEXJCAN

Μ THE ΜΟΤΙΙΟΑΓ

INBUSHUAL * generally flat tip mating interconnecting surfaces 130, 132 formed therein, with an interconnecting surface 130 resisting rotation of tooth 126 about a longitudinal axis 40 of tooth 126 in one direction, and another interconnecting surface 132 resisting rotation of tooth 126 about longitudinal axis 40 in an opposite direction. Each of the interconnecting surfaces 130, 132 can be inclined with respect to a lateral axis 42 of the tooth 126 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 10 40.

It will be understood that the various examples described above can be used in various orientations, such as tilted, inverted, horizontal, vertical, etc., and in various configurations, without departing from the principles of the present disclosure. The embodiments illustrated in the figures are represented and described only as examples of useful applications of the principles of the description, which are not limited to any specific details of these embodiments.

Of course, a person skilled in the art, with careful consideration of the above description of representative embodiments, can readily appreciate that many modifications, additions, substitutions, deletions, and other changes can be made these.

<img file="MX347992B_D0021.tif" />

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA MON AGAD INDUSTRIAL specific modalities, and such changes are within the scope of the principles of this description. Accordingly, the above detailed description will be clearly understood as being given by way of illustration and example only, the spirit and scope of the present invention is limited only by the appended claims and their equivalents.

<img file="MX347992B_D0022.tif" />