Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods for sensing wear in machines designed to reduce or break-down material. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for sensing wear of reducing elements used by excavation machines such as surface excavation machines.

Relatively hard materials are often processed for mining and construction. The variety of materials include rock, concrete, asphalt, coal and a vareity of other types of earth formations. A number of different methods for reducing the size of these hard materials have been developed. One traditional material size reduction method has been to drill relatively small holes in the material which are then packed with an explosive that is ignited resulting in a rapid and cost effective method of size reduction. However, there are a variety of disadvantages to this technique including the inherent risk of injuries, the production of undesireable noise, vibrations, and dust, and the fact that this process is difficult to utilize in situations where space is limited or where there is a potential risk of causing other gases to ignite.

Due to the above-described disadvantages associated with blasting techniques, alternative methods have been developed for reducing relatively hard materials. The main alternative has been the use of reducing machines having rotary reducing components that move rigid and specialized reducing elements through paths of travel. The reducing components can include rotating drums that move the reducing elements through circular paths of travel. Such drums are typically attached to their correspondng machines so that the positions and orientations of the drum can be controlled to bring the reducing elements into contact with the material being reduced. Alternative reducing components can include boom-mounted chains that carry reducing elements. The chains are typically driven/rotated about their corresponding booms. The reducing elements are mounted to and move along the paths of travel defined by the chains. In use, the booms are moved (e. , through a pivoting motion) to positions where the reducing elements are brought into contact with the material being reduced.

An example machine of the type described above is disclosed at <CIT>. The disclosed machine is a surface excavation machine used for applications such as surface mining, demolishing roads, terrain leveling, and prepping sites for new construction or reconstruction by removing one or more layers of material. Surface excavation machines of this type provide an economical alternative to blasting and hammering and provide the advantage of generating a consistent output material after a single pass. This can reduce the need for primary crushers, large loaders, large haul trucks and the associated permits to transport materials to crushers.

The reducing elements of reducing machines have been developed to withstand the impact loads and abrasion associated with material reduction activities. Reducing elements can be constructed in a variety of shapes and sizes and have been labeled with various terms including cutters, chisels, picks, teeth etc. Typical reducing elements include leading impact points or edges and bases. The bases are constructed to fit into mouting structures that are integrated with drums or chains used to carry the reducing elements during material reducing applications. The harsh environment associated with material reducing applications virtually guarantees that the reducing elements will wear down over time. Thus the reducing elements are designed to be replaceable, while the mounting structures are not intended to be replaced frequently. For example, when a given reducing element becomes worn, it is removed from its corresponding mounting structure and replaced with a new, unworn reducing element.

Often, the tips or edges of the reducing elements have a harder construction (e.g., a solid carbide construction) than the bases of the reducing elements. When using new reducing elements to reduce material, the leading points or edges are exposed to the majority of the impacts and abrasion action. However, once the leading tips or edges becomes worn, the bases are exposed to more impacts and abrasive action. A variety of potential problems can arise when this occurs, including that the bases is less efficient at breaking the material causing inefficient operation. This inefficiency can result in generation of sparks and/or excessive heat which can lead to a risk of explosions, as may occur in a coal mining application where methane gas can be present. Additionally, the bases will typically wear relatively quickly as compared to the leading points or tips. This is significant because the bases prevent the reducing element mounting structures from being exposed to wear. Thus, once the leading edges or points of the reducing elements are worn away, the machines can only be operated for a relatively short period of time before the bases wear away resulting in a situation where the mounting structures of the drums or chains are contacting the material being reduced. Once reducing elements are worn to this point, there is a risk of causing damage to the mounting structures of the drums or chains. The mountings structures are not intended to be repaired easily, so the resulting potential damage can be difficult and costly to repair.

As a result of these issues, there are significant benefits to replacing reducing elements before the wear has progressed to an unacceptable point. Systems have been designed to monitor the condition of cutters to allow operators to interrupt operation and replace cutters at appropriate times. Example systems for monitoring reducing element wear are disclosed in <CIT>; <CIT>; and <CIT>. While wear sensing systems exist, improvements are needed in this area.

Material reducing machines including wear sensing are disclosed in <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT> and <CIT>.

In particular, <CIT> discloses sensor loops that may include inductive elements. <CIT> discloses a material reducing machine according to the preamble of claim <NUM>.

The present invention provides for a material reducing machine having the features of claim <NUM>. Aspects of the present disclosure relate to improved methods for sensing (e.g., detecting, measuring, monitoring, tracking, etc.) the wear state of a reducing element (i.e., a cutter, a pick, a chisel, a blade, a tooth, etc.) of a material reducing machine. According to the invention, the material reducing machine is a surface excavation machine used for mining, surface mining, terrain leveling, road milling, or other applications.

A variety of additional aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. These aspects can relate to individual features and to combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad concepts upon which the embodiments disclosed herein are based.

The present disclosure relates generally to sensing systems for sensing reducing element wear in a material reducing machine. In one example, the material reducing machine includes a rotary component such as a drum or chain that carries the reducing elements. In certain examples, the reducing element wear sensing system provides an indication of the level of reducing element wear such that an operator can readily recognize when one or more of the reducing elements are in need of replacement. In certain examples, the level of reducing element wear can be displayed graphically or numerically to provide a qualitative indication of the specific level of wear for each reducing element. In other examples, the system can provide an indication when as worn beyond a predetermined level such that replacement is recommended.

Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to reducing element wear sensing systems that use sensors to provide general data regarding the wear state of a given reducing element. For example, in certain examples, sensors in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure provide data regarding the general wear state of a given reducing element without determining or measuring the position of a specific geometric point or profile of the reducing element. The sensors can sense general physical characteristics (e.g., volume, mass, surface area, etc.) of the reducing elements without measuring the position of a given point on a given reducing element. Sensors of this type can be used effectively in harsh environments such as those encountered by material reducing machines (e.g., surface excavation machines, trenchers, rock wheels, horizontal grinders, tub grinders or other material reduction machines). In certain examples, sensing systems in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can be used to assess reducing element wear of a reducing machine while the reducing machine is conducting reducing operations. Thus, sensing systems in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can provide real-time wear information regarding the reducing elements of a reducing machine while the reducing machine is being operated. In certain examples, sensors of the sensing system are mounted in a sensing position and need not be moved from the sensing system to a stowed position when the reducing machine is used to reduce material. According to the invention, reducing element wear systems used in systems in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure include inductive sensors.

Other aspects of the present disclosure relate to reducing element wear sensing systems that utilize various compensation, calibration or filtering techniques to process sensed data. In certain examples, sensing systems in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can compensate for factors such as temperature and reducing element speed. In other systems in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, sensors are placed in close proximity to one another and also in close proximity to multiple different reducing elements. For such applications, various strategies can be utilized to provide usable wear data regarding individual reducing elements. For example, filtering strategies can be utilized to filter out data corresponding to reducing elements not intended to be sensed by a given sensor. In certain examples, at least one sensor is provided for each reducing element. In certain examples, at least one sensor is provided for each reducing path defined by one or more reducing elements of a reducing machine. In certain examples, sensors are positioned in close proximity to one another and operating strategies are utilized to reduce or minimize interference between adjacent sensors. For example, sensors can be selectively activated and deactivated to minimize interference between adjacent sensors. The sensors can also be operated in sets so that multiple sensors can be activated at once without having adjacent sensors activated concurrently. In certain examples, a center to center spacing of the sensors is smaller than an effective sensing distance of the sensors. In certain examples, a spacing between reducing paths of the reducing elements of the material reducing machine is smaller than an effective sensing distance of the sensors used to sense wear of the reducing elements.

In certain examples, systems in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can include structure for protecting the sensors of the sensing system during material reducing operations. For example, breaker bars or other blocking structures can be provided for preventing material from damaging the sensors. In certain examples, the breaker bars can be positioned closer to a reducing circle or cylinder of the material reducing machine than the sensors. In certain examples, the sensors can also be protected by a rugged, protective housing that covers the sensors but does not interfere with the sensors' ability to sense the reducing elements. In certain examples, the sensors can sense the reducing elements through the protective housings. In certain examples, protective housings are made of a dielectric material such as plastic and the sensors are inductive sensors.

In certain examples of the present disclosure, inductive wear sensors are used. In certain examples, the inductive wear sensors can have operating ranges of at least <NUM> when used with a standard target as defined by the sensor manufacturer. In certain examples, wear systems in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can use inductive sensors having effective sensing distances less than <NUM>. In certain examples, the inductive sensors have effective operating distances greater than <NUM>.

Other aspects of the present disclosure relate to a wear sensing system including a multi-level wear sensor protection system. The multi-level wear sensor protection system includes a first level of protection, a second level of protection, and a third level of protection. In certain examples, the first level of protection includes an initial barrier layer including a plurality of sheet segments made of a polycarbonate material. The second level of protection includes a side-by-side arrangement of trays positioned behind the initial barrier layer. The trays can be configured to absorb impacts that are transmitted through the initial barrier layer to prevent the impacts from impacting upon the sensors. The third level of protection includes a relief structure for accommodating impacts that are transmitted through both the initial barrier layer and the trays. In one example, the relief structure can be positioned behind the trays for accommodating movement of the trays in response to an impact that passes through the initial barrier layer and the trays.

<FIG> illustrates a surface excavation machine <NUM> that can utilize a reducing element wear sensing system in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. The surface excavation machine <NUM> includes a tractor <NUM> having a main chassis <NUM> (i.e., a mainframe) including a front end <NUM> and a rear end <NUM>. The main chassis <NUM> is supported on a ground drive system (i.e., a propulsion system) that preferably includes a plurality of propulsion structures such as wheels or tracks <NUM> for propelling the machine <NUM> over the ground. An operator cab <NUM> is positioned at a top side of the main chassis <NUM>. An excavation tool <NUM> is mounted at the rear end <NUM> of the main chassis <NUM>. The excavation tool <NUM> includes an excavation drum <NUM> that is rotatably driven (e.g., by hydraulic motors) about a drum axis <NUM>. The excavation drum <NUM> carries a plurality of reducing elements <NUM> suitable for cutting rock. The excavation drum <NUM> can be mounted to a boom that can be pivoted between a lowered excavating position (see <FIG>) and a raised transport position (not shown). A shroud <NUM> at least partially surrounds/encloses the excavation drum <NUM>.

As shown at <FIG>, the reducing elements <NUM> are depicted as teeth having leading tips <NUM> supported on bases <NUM>. In certain examples, the leading tips <NUM> can be harder than the bases <NUM>. For example, leading tips <NUM> can be solid, carbide inserts while the bases <NUM> can be hardened steel. In certain examples, the reducing elements <NUM> are removably mounted to the excavation drum <NUM>. For example, the reducing elements <NUM> can be fastened within mounting structures such as pockets <NUM> integrated with the excavation drum <NUM>.

In use of the surface excavation machine <NUM>, the surface excavation machine <NUM> is moved to an excavation site while the excavation tool <NUM> is in the transport position. When it is desired to excavate at the excavation site, the excavation tool <NUM> is lowered from the transport position to the excavation position (see <FIG>). While in the excavation position, the excavation drum <NUM> is rotated in a direction <NUM> about the axis <NUM> such that the excavation drum <NUM> uses a down-cut motion to remove a desired thickness T of material. As the excavation machine <NUM> moves in a forward direction <NUM>, excavated material passes under the drum <NUM> and is left behind the surface excavation machine <NUM>. During the excavation process, the tracks <NUM> propel the surface excavation machine <NUM> in the forward direction <NUM> thereby causing a top layer of material having a thickness T to be excavated. It will be appreciated that example excavation applications for which the surface excavation machine <NUM> can be used to include surface mining, road milling, terrain leveling, construction preparation and other activities. In other examples, the drum can be configured to excavate using an up-cut motion.

Referring to <FIG>, the leading tips <NUM> of the reducing elements <NUM> define a reducing boundary B (e.g., reducing circle or cylinder) of the excavation tool <NUM>. The reducing boundary B corresponds to the generally cylindrical boundary transcribed by the leading tips <NUM> of the reducing elements <NUM> as the drum <NUM> is rotated about the drum axis <NUM>. The reducing boundary B can have a reducing diameter D. The leading tips <NUM> of the reducing elements <NUM> also define reducing paths of the excavation tool <NUM>. A reducing path is the path that the tip of a reducing element follows/defines when the drum is rotated. Each reducing path coincides with a reducing path plane that is perpendicular to the drum axis <NUM> and that passes through the leading tip <NUM> of the reducing element <NUM> that defines the reducing path. Example reducing path planes P1, P2, P3 and P4 for four different reducing paths are depicted at <FIG>. The paths correspond to four different reducing elements <NUM>. As shown at <FIG>, a sensor array <NUM> can be provided within the shroud <NUM> near the reducing boundary B. In certain examples, a reducing path can be defined by a single reducing element <NUM> and a corresponding sensor of the sensor array <NUM> can be aligned with the reducing path so as to be capable of sensing the reducing element <NUM> when the reducing element <NUM> passes by the sensor as the reducing element <NUM> is rotated about the reducing boundary B by the drum <NUM>. In certain examples, each reducing path of the excavation tool <NUM> can have a corresponding separate sensor. In other examples, two or more reducing elements <NUM> can be provided along a given reducing path.

Referring to <FIG>, the reducing path planes P1, P2, P3 and P4 respectively coincide with reducing paths of reducing elements T1, T2, T3 and T4. The sensor array <NUM> can include separate sensors <NUM> corresponding to each of the reducing paths. The sensors <NUM> can have effective sensing distances Y that are longer than a path spacing PS between the reducing path planes. The sensors <NUM> can be arranged in multiple rows (e.g., three rows R1, R2 and R3) that extend along the axis of rotation <NUM> of the drum. The sensors <NUM> can be spaced a spacing distance Z from the reducing boundary B. The spacing distance Z is less than the effective sensing distance Y. The effective sensing distance Y can be larger than the path spacing PS defined between the reducing path planes. The sensors <NUM> of adjacent rows can be staggered relative to one another in an orientation that extends along the axis of rotation <NUM>. In an example embodiment, adjacent reducing paths are not assigned to sensors in the same row. For example, as shown at <FIG>, reducing path plane P1 aligns with sensor S1 of the first row R1, reducing path plane P2 aligns with sensor S2 of the second row R2, reducing path plane P3 aligns with sensor S3 of the third row R3 and sensor S4 aligns with sensor S4 of the first row R1. This pattern can repeat. In this way, the sensors <NUM> of the array can be arranged to have center-to-center sensor spacings measured along the axis of rotation <NUM> that match the path spacings PS. The effective sensing distances Y of the sensors <NUM> can be larger than the sensor spacings SS.

In certain examples, the reducing elements <NUM> each have a metal construction and the sensors <NUM> are inductive sensors. In use, the sensors <NUM> can generate alternating electromagnetic fields through which the reducing elements <NUM> pass as the reducing elements <NUM> are rotated about the axis of rotation <NUM> by the drum <NUM>. Because the reducing elements <NUM> each have a metallic construction, when the reducing elements <NUM> pass through the electromagnetic fields of the sensors <NUM>, eddy currents form on the surface of the reducing elements <NUM>. The amount of energy that is transferred by this phenomenon is directly dependent upon the surface area of the reducing element <NUM> passing through the field. The amount of energy transferred from the magnetic field can be sensed by the inductive sensor and is represented by a decrease in electric current at the inductive sensor. Since the amount of energy transferred is dependent upon the size of the object passing through the magnetic field, the amount of current reduction sensed by the sensor as a reducing element passes through the magnetic field is representative of the size of the reducing element. As a reducing element wears during use, the surface area of the reducing element <NUM> passing through the magnetic field of its corresponding sensor is reduced such that less energy is transferred to the reducing element as the reducing element passes through the magnetic field. Since less energy is transferred to the reducing element, a smaller reduction in current is sensed by the inductive sensor. Thus, by monitoring the magnitude of current reduction sensed by the sensor as the reducing element passes through the magnetic field, it is possible to monitor the wear state of the reducing element corresponding to the sensor.

Referring to <FIG>, the surface excavation machine <NUM> can include a wear sensing system <NUM> in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. The wear sensing system <NUM> can include a hanger arrangement <NUM> for mounting sensor modules <NUM> to the surface excavation machine <NUM>. In the depicted example, the sensor modules <NUM> are mounted at an interior surface <NUM> of the shroud <NUM> that at least partially surrounds the drum <NUM>. The hanger arrangement <NUM> includes a plurality of rails <NUM> (e.g., tracks) having lengths that extend along the drum axis <NUM>. The rails <NUM> define channels <NUM> in which a row of sensor modules <NUM> are received. As shown at <FIG>, the sensor modules <NUM> can be arranged in an array having three parallel rows of Rl, R2 and R3 of sensor modules <NUM>. The rows R1, R2 and R3 correspond to channels C1, C2 and C3 defined by the rails <NUM> of the hanger arrangement <NUM>. The sensor modules <NUM> can be coupled (e.g., pinned or otherwise fastened) together and can be loaded into the hanger arrangement <NUM> by sliding the rows of sensor modules <NUM> longitudinally into the channels C1, C2 and C3. It will be appreciated that openings can be provided in end walls of the shroud <NUM> for allowing the sensor modules <NUM> to be inserted into the channels C1, C2 and C3. During the insertion and removal process, the rows R1, R2 and R3 of sensor module <NUM> are slid along the channel C1, C2, C3 in an orientation that extends along the drum axis <NUM>. When mounted in the channels, the sensor modules <NUM> of adjacent rows can be staggered relative to one another.

The wear sensing system <NUM> can also include blocking structure for preventing debris of substantial size from impacting the sensor modules <NUM>. As shown at <FIG>, material breaking structures are attached to the interior surface <NUM> of the shroud <NUM> at a location upstream from the sensor module <NUM>. In certain examples, the material breaking structures are positioned at a spacing S1 from the reducing boundary B defined by the reducing elements <NUM> and the sensor modules <NUM> are positioned at a spacing S2 from the reducing boundary B defined by the reducing elements <NUM>. The spacing S2 is larger than the spacing S1. In certain examples, the spacing S2 is at least <NUM>%, <NUM>% or <NUM>% larger than the spacing S1. In certain examples, the spacing S2 is at least <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM>th of an inch) or at least <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM>th of an inch) or at least <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM>th of an inch) larger than the spacing S1. In certain examples, the spacing S2 is about <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM>th of an inch) and the spacing S1 is about <NUM> (one inch).

Referring still to <FIG>, the breaking structure can include a plurality of breaker bar structures mounted to the interior side of the shroud <NUM>. For example, <FIG> shows a breaker bar arrangement including first and second breaker bar structures <NUM>. Each of the breaker bar structures <NUM> has a length that extends along the drum axis <NUM>. The breaker bar structures <NUM> each include three breaker bar sections 84A, 84B and 84C that are aligned with one another to form the length of the breaker bar structure <NUM>. Each of the breaker bar sections 84A, 84B and 84C includes a mounting bar <NUM> secured to the shroud <NUM> by reinforcing gussets <NUM>. Each of the breaker bar sections 84A, 84B and 84C also includes an impact bar <NUM> fastened to the mounting bar <NUM>. The impact bars <NUM> are positioned the spacing S1 from the reducing diameters D and are adapted to be impacted by material carried by the reducing elements <NUM> over the top side of the drum <NUM> during material reducing operations. As the material is impacted by the impact bars <NUM>, the material is reduced in size such that the material is sufficiently small so as to not extend outwardly from the drum <NUM> a distance greater than the spacing S1. In this way, the material is prevented from significantly impacting the sensor modules <NUM>. In certain examples, the impact bars <NUM> are secured to the mounting bars <NUM> by fasteners so that the impact bars can be readily removed and replaced as the impact bars <NUM> wear. As shown at <FIG>, the two breaker bar structures <NUM> are spaced relative to one another about the circumference of the drum <NUM> such that one of the breaker bars structures <NUM> is positioned downstream of the other of the breaker bar structures <NUM>. In this way, material is initially impacted by the upstream breaker bar <NUM> and then is subsequently impacted by the downstream breaker bar structure <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate one of the sensor modules <NUM>. The sensor module <NUM> is configured to hold two of the sensors <NUM>. Each of the sensors <NUM> can include a separate magnetic coil <NUM> (see <FIG>). The sensor module <NUM> includes structure for housing and protecting the magnetic coils. For example, the sensor module <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> including first and second chambers or sections <NUM>, <NUM> for housing the coils <NUM> of the inductive sensors <NUM>. The housing <NUM> is preferably made of a dielectric material through which magnetic fields generated by the coils <NUM> of the sensors <NUM> can be readily transmitted. In certain examples, housing <NUM> is made of a hard plastic material that provides impact protection to the
sensors <NUM> while concurrently allowing magnetic fields generated by the sensors <NUM> to pass through the housing <NUM>. As shown at <FIG>, the housing <NUM> includes flanges <NUM> for engaging the rails <NUM> of the hanger arrangement <NUM> to retain the sensor modules <NUM> within the channels C1-C3. Electrical contacts and wiring can be provided on a back side <NUM> of the sensor module <NUM> for allowing the sensor module to be electrically connected to a control system having suitable control circuitry for controlling operation of the sensors <NUM>. A metal backing plate <NUM> can be mounted at a back side of the housing <NUM>. When the sensor module <NUM> is mounted within the hanger arrangement <NUM>, a front face <NUM> of the housing <NUM> is positioned the spacing S2 from the reducing boundary B defined by the reducing elements <NUM>. The sensors <NUM> are positioned slightly farther from the reducing boundary B than the front face <NUM>. For example, the coils <NUM> of the sensor <NUM> can be positioned a distance from the reducing boundary B that is equal to the spacing S2 plus the thickness of the front wall of the housing <NUM>. In certain examples, the front wall of the housing has a thickness of about <NUM>/<NUM> of an inch and the sensors <NUM> are spaced about <NUM> inches from the reducing boundary B. It will be appreciated that in other examples, different spacings can be utilized depending upon the type of sensor used, the material being processed and the configuration of the reducing machine.

It will be appreciated that the magnitude of the signal sensed by an inductive sensor is dependent upon the size of the target passing through the magnetic field of the sensor and/or the closeness of the target to the inductive sensor. <FIG> is a graph showing an output curve <NUM> of an inductive sensor at room temperature for a standard target. The output curve <NUM> of the graph of <FIG> shows the sensor output as a standard target is placed at different spacings directly in front of the sensor thereby causing the sensor to generate different outputs. When the standard target is outside the effective sensing range of the sensor, the inductive sensor output has a maximum value shown by line <NUM>. As the standard target is moved progressively closer to the inductive sensor, the inductive sensor output gradually reduces in magnitude.

The impedance of the coil of the inductive sensor <NUM> changes with temperature. Thus, changes in temperature modify the output curve of the inductive sensor. For example, as shown at <FIG>, the output curves of the inductive sensor move to the left and have steeper slopes as the temperature decreases. As shown at <FIG>, line <NUM> corresponds to a temperature of <NUM>° C (<NUM>° F), line <NUM> corresponds to a temperature of <NUM>° C (<NUM>° F) and line <NUM> corresponds to a temperature of <NUM>° C (<NUM>° F). The curves <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> show outputs of a sensor when detecting a standard target at different distances for the different temperatures mentioned above.

The difference in inductive sensor output between a worn reducing element and a new reducing element can be small enough that temperature variations have a meaningful impact when assessing wear levels. Therefore, aspects of the present disclosure relate to using algorithms, look up tables or other means for compensating for temperature variations when monitoring reducing element wear. In certain examples, temperature sensors can be provided at the inductive sensor coils to provide an indication of the temperatures of the inductive sensor coils. In other examples, ambient temperature or another temperature associated with the reducing machine can be used to approximate the temperature of the coils of the inductive sensors.

<FIG> shows an output curve <NUM> representing the output of an inductive sensor when sensing a reducing element at different distances from the inductive sensor. For the graph of <FIG>, the reducing element is not offset from the inductive sensor (i.e., the coil of the inductive sensor and the reducing element are both aligned along a common plane corresponding to a reducing path of the reducing element). The reducing element used to provide the data of the graph of <FIG> has a smaller area than the standard target used to provide the data of <FIG>. Thus, the sensor output curve <NUM> depicted at the graph of <FIG> has a steeper slope than the slope of the curve <NUM> depicted at <FIG>.

In certain examples of the present disclosure, the coils of the inductive sensors can be placed at a center-to-center spacing measured along the axis of rotation <NUM> of the drum <NUM> that is smaller than the effective sensing distances of the inductive sensors and is also smaller than the widths of the magnetic fields generated by the inductive sensors. Thus, an inductive sensor aligned with a given reducing path can sense a reducing element corresponding to the reducing path, but also can sense reducing elements corresponding to adjacent reducing paths. As shown at <FIG>, the slope of the output curve generated by the inductive sensor decreases as the lateral offset distance of the reducing element increases. For example, curve <NUM> shows the output response of an inductive sensor when a standard target is positioned at different distances from the inductive sensor while the standard target has zero lateral offset from the inductive sensor. In contrast,
output curve <NUM> shows the output for the inductive sensor when the same target is positioned at the same outward distances as the output curve <NUM> but at a <NUM> inch lateral offset from the inductive sensor. The curves between the output curves <NUM>, <NUM> show the effect of laterally offsetting the target from the inductive sensor.

<FIG> shows three sensor output curves <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>. The sensor outputs for generating the curve <NUM> were generated by positioning a standard target at different distances from the inductive sensor while maintaining zero lateral offset. The inductive sensor outputs corresponding to the curve <NUM> were generated by positioning a reducing element <NUM> (see <FIG>) at different distances from the inductive sensor while maintaining a lateral offset of zero. The inductive sensor outputs corresponding to the curve <NUM> were generated by positioning a reducing element <NUM> (<FIG>) at different outward spacings from the inductive sensor while maintaining a lateral offset of zero. Since the reducing element <NUM> is thicker than the reducing element <NUM>, the curve <NUM> has a less steep slope than the curve <NUM>. <FIG> also illustrates a technique for assessing reducing element wear using the output from the inductive sensor. For example, with respect to the tooth <NUM>, line <NUM> represents a baseline value for the tooth <NUM> when the tooth is new. This baseline value can be stored in memory of a control system (e.g., a computer, a processor, or other electronic device) and used to control operation of the wear sensing system. Line <NUM> is representative of an output of the inductive sensor when the tooth <NUM> becomes worn. In one example, the tooth <NUM> wears about ½ an inch between the line <NUM> and the line <NUM>. In use, when the output value generated by the inductive sensor reaches the line <NUM>, the operator can be notified that the corresponding tooth <NUM> should be replaced. Line <NUM> corresponds to an output from the inductive sensor when the reducing element <NUM> is new. Line <NUM> corresponds to an output from the inductive sensor when the reducing element <NUM> has worn to a state where the reducing element <NUM> should be replaced. Once again, a controller of the reducing element wear sensing system can monitor the outputs of the inductive sensor corresponding to the tooth <NUM> and can alert an operator that the tooth <NUM> should be replaced once the output of the inductive sensor reaches the line <NUM>. As indicated above, the outputs of the inductive sensor can be modified by algorithms, look up tables or other means to compensate for factors such as temperature and speed. In this regard, it is noted that the speed at which the reducing element is traveling when the reducing element passes through the alternating magnetic field of the inductive sensor can also affect the output of the sensor. For example, as the rotational speed of the drum is increased without changes an outward spacing between the inductive sensor and the reducing element being sensed, the change in current sensed by the sensor as the reducing element passes through the magnetic field is reduced. To overcome this factor, an algorithm can be used to modify the output of the inductive sensor to compensate for the rotational speed of the drum.

<FIG> shows a reducing element <NUM> interfering with the magnetic field of a sensor <NUM> and therefore being detected by the sensor <NUM>. The reducing element <NUM> is shown at an outward spacing distance d1 and a lateral spacing distance of zero. <FIG> shows an output of the inductive sensor with the reducing element at the position of <FIG> shows the reducing element <NUM> laterally offset from the sensor <NUM> by a lateral spacing distance d2. The reducing element <NUM> is also offset from the inductive sensor <NUM> by the outward spacing distance d2. The outward spacing distance d1 is the same at <FIG> shows an output of the inductive sensor <NUM> with the reducing element <NUM> in the position of <FIG>. A comparison of <FIG> shows that an output signal <NUM> generated by the sensor <NUM> when the reducing element <NUM> is directly in line with the inductive sensor <NUM> has a larger variance as compared to a non-sensing reading <NUM> of the sensor <NUM> than a corresponding output signal <NUM> generated by the inductive sensor <NUM> when the reducing element <NUM> is positioned at the same outward spacing distance d1 but also at a lateral spacing distance d2. The graph of <FIG> also demonstrates that inductive sensors <NUM> are capable of sensing reducing elements that are laterally offset from the sensors but still within the magnetic field of the sensor.

As shown at <FIG>, reducing elements that are laterally offset from a given inductive sensor <NUM> can be detected by the inductive sensor <NUM> as the reducing elements move past the sensor <NUM>. In certain examples of the present disclosure, the cutting paths defined by the reducing elements <NUM> can be sufficiently close together that one of the inductive sensors <NUM> can detect the reducing elements corresponding to three or more of the reducing paths. For example, <FIG> shows an initial, unfiltered sensor output profile for the inductive sensor <NUM> for one rotation of the drum <NUM>. As the drum <NUM> rotates, the inductive sensor <NUM> senses the reducing element <NUM> that is aligned with the inductive sensor <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> also senses the reducing element <NUM> corresponding to the reducing path that is offset to the left of the inductive sensor <NUM> and the reducing element <NUM> that corresponds to the reducing path offset to the right of the sensor <NUM>. Because the left and right reducing elements are laterally offset from the sensor <NUM>, signal readings 450B and 450C corresponding to such reducing elements have a smaller variance in magnitude as compared to a reading 450A corresponding to the aligned reducing element. As indicated at <FIG>, rotational positions Ωa, Ωb and Ωc of the center, left and right reducing elements are determined and saved in memory. During a filtering process, the magnitudes of the readings 450A, 450B and 450C are compared and the reading 450A with the greatest variance from zero is selected. The rotational position Ωa of the highest reading 450A is saved in memory. The readings 450B and 450C can then be filtered out as shown at <FIG>. Thereafter, the control system will only look for inductive sensor reading values corresponding to the aligned reducing element at the rotational position Ωa. If the system does not detect a reducing element at the rotational position Ωa, then the operator can be notified that the aligned reducing element is missing. As the reducing element wears, the magnitude of the signal reading 450A at rotational position Ωa will change. A certain magnitude of change of the signal reading 450A as compared to a base-line signal reading value (e.g., the reading when the reducing element was new) is indicative of the reducing element being worn to a point where the reducing element 42A should be replaced. At this point, the operator can be notified that the reducing element 42A should be changed.

In certain examples, the inductive sensors <NUM> are positioned sufficiently close to one another that the magnetic fields of adjacent sensors <NUM> overlap one another. Thus, if all the sensors <NUM> were operated simultaneously, the magnetic fields of adjacent sensors could interfere with one another. To prevent this type of magnetic interference, in certain examples, all of the sensors <NUM> are not operated at the same time. For example, in one example, each of the sensors <NUM> can be individually operated such that readings are individually taken with respect to each of the reducing paths. In such an example, the controller can use a control protocol that repeatedly cycles through the sensors with each sensor being individually actuated for at least one rotation of the drum <NUM>. In other embodiments, steps or groups of the sensors <NUM> can be simultaneously actuated and the control system can cycle through the groups of sensors <NUM>. In certain examples, the sensors of each group can be selected based on the relative positioning of the sensors and the positioning of their corresponding magnetic fields. Specifically, the sensors of any given set are selected so that the magnetic fields of the sensors within the set do not interfere with one another.

<FIG> relate to a system having multiple sets of sensors <NUM> that are sequentially energized in de-energized. As shown at <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, only a portion of the length and the circumference of the drum <NUM> are depicted in a laid-flat view. For example, only about <NUM>° of the circumference of the drum is depicted and only ¼ of the length of the drum is depicted. The depicted portion of the drum includes reducing elements A1, B1, C1, A2, B2, C2, A3, B3, and C3. The sensing system includes a first set of sensors A, a second set of sensors B and a third set of sensors C that all interface with a controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> controls the operational speed of the drum <NUM> via a hydraulic motor <NUM> and a gear box <NUM>. The controller also controls operation of the inductive sensor sets A, B and C. For example, during a first sensing phase, the inductive sensors corresponding to set A are activated and the inductive sensors corresponding to sets B and C are deactivated. With the sensors of set A activated and the sensors of sets B and C deactivated, near readings are taken for the reducing elements A1, A2 and A3 as shown at <FIG> and no readings are taken for the reducing elements corresponding to sets B and C. As shown at <FIG>, specific reading values (e.g., input <NUM> from inductive sensors) and rotational positions (input <NUM>) for each of the reducing elements A1, A2 and A3 are identified by the controller. During the first phase of sensing, the sensors of set A sense the wear level of the reducing elements A1, A2 and A3 as the drum rotates through one or more rotations.

After the first phase of sensing, the controller implements a second phase of sensing in which sensor sets A and C are de-energized, and sensor set B is energized (<FIG>). The controller takes wear readings (e.g., input <NUM> from the inductive sensors of set B) for reducing elements B1, B2 and B3 as shown at <FIG>. The input <NUM> values correspond to the wear levels of reducing elements B1, B2 and B3. The controller can have pre-saved information relating to the rotational positions of the reducing elements B1, B2 and B3. Additionally, the controller can compare sensed wear level values generated by the sensor set B corresponding to each of the reducing elementsB1, B2 and B3 and can compare such values to base level wear values of the reducing elements B1, B2 and B3. The base level wear values can correspond to values established when the reducing elements B1, B2 and B3 were initially installed on the drum <NUM>. In comparing the sensed wear level values generated by the sensor set B for each of the reducing elements B1, B2 and B3 to their corresponding baseline wear levels, the controller can use algorithms or other means to compensate for variations associated with temperature, the rotational speed of the drum or other factors. Once wear readings for the reducing elements for B1, B2 and B3 have been established, the controller can stop the second phase of sensing and move to a third phase of sensing.

<FIG> shows the system in a third phase of sensing. In the third phase of sensing, the sensor sets A and B are de-energized, and the sensor set C is energized. With the sensor set C energized, the controller can access input <NUM> values from the sensors of set C relating to the wear levels of the reducing elements C1, C2 and C3 (see <FIG>). Typically, the wear level values are generated by the sensor set C as the drum is rotated. The sensed wear level values of the reducing elements C1, C2 and C3 can be compared to base-line wear level values for the reducing elements C1, C2 and C3. The base-line wear level values for the reducing elements C1, C2 and C3 can be established by the system when the reducing elements C1, C2 and C3 are initially installed on the drum <NUM>. If the sensed wear level values indicated by input <NUM> deviate from the base-line wear level values by a predetermined amount, the system can indicate that replacement of one or more of the reducing elements C1, C2 and C3 is recommended or required.

It will be appreciated that certain readings taken by inductive sensors in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure are general in nature and do not identify the position of a specific geometric point on any of the reducing elements. Instead, the readings taken by the sensors provide a general indication of the overall surface area of a given reducing element that passes through the magnetic field of the sensor corresponding to the reducing element. The reading can vary depending upon the size and shape of the reducing element. In this regard, different wear patterns on the reducing element can yield similar readings. For example, similar yield readings may be yielded if portions of the base wear away while the tip remains intact or if the tip is removed and the base remains fully intact. Advantageously, sensing systems in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure provide a good indication of general wear while concurrently not using precise optical technology that is not compatible with use during normal operation of the reducing machine. Thus, sensing systems in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can be used while their corresponding material reducing machines are being used to reduce materials and do not require material reduction operations to be stopped to allow for wear sensing. Additionally, sensing configurations in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure have rugged constructions that can remain in a sensing position during material reduction operations and are not required to be moved to a stowed position during material reduction operations.

In practice of aspects of the present disclosure, a reducing element is initially installed on a drum or chain. The drum and/or chain is then rotated and a base-line wear reading is taken with respect to the installed reducing element. The base-line wear reading can be taken using a sensor such as an inductive sensor. At the time the base-line wear reading is taken, a temperature value (e.g., a temperature representative of the coil temperature) and a rotational speed of the drum or chain are identified. The base-line wear reading as well as the temperature value and the rotational speed value can be saved in memory. The machine can then be operated to perform material reduction operations. While performing material reduction operations, a real-time wear reading can be taken with respect to the reducing element using the sensor. Real-time temperature and rotational speed readings can also be taken. Once the real-time readings have been taken, the real-time wear reading and the base-line wear reading can be compared to assess a wear level of the reducing element and to determine whether the reducing element has worn to the point where the reducing element is recommended or required to be replaced. In comparing the real-time wear reading to the base-line wear reading, the controller can make adjustments to the real-time wear level value and/or the base-line wear level value to compensate for any differences that may exist between the base-line temperature value and the real-time temperature value and/or between the base-line rotational speed and the real-time rotation speed. If the base-line and real-time wear readings differ by a predetermined amount after compensation, the controller can provide an indication to an operator that replacement of the reducing element is recommended or required.

At initial installation of the reducing element, the controller can determine a rotational position of the reducing element and filter out readings corresponding to reducing elements not desired to be sensed for the particular sensing operation being performed. When the controller takes the real-time wear reading, the controller looks for a reading from the sensor at the pre-identified rotational position of the chain or drum that corresponds to the reducing element in question. If no reading is detected at the pre-identified rotational position, the controller recognizes that the reducing element is missing and provides an indication to the operator that the reducing element is missing and repair or replacement is needed.

<FIG> and <FIG> show another surface excavation machine <NUM> suitable for using a reducing element wear sensing system of a type described herein. As compared to utilizing a drum, the surface excavation machine <NUM> includes reducing elements <NUM> carried by a chain <NUM>. The chain <NUM> is driven by a gear <NUM>. By monitoring the speed and rotation of the gear, and by knowing the circumferential length of the chain <NUM>, it is possible to monitor the rotational position of the chain <NUM> during use. In certain examples, the rotational position of the chain can be identified by sensing reducing elements arranged in a non-repeating configuration along a given reducing path. A non-repeating configuration is a configuration that does not repeat over the course of one full rotation of the chain. The simplest non-repeating configuration is a single reducing element corresponding to one sensor and/or one reducing path. By detecting the presence of the single reducing element and monitoring the speed and rotation of the chain <NUM>, the controller can establish a position of the reducing element on the chain and can determine the rotational position of all the other reducing elements on the chain. Another example of a non-repeating pattern includes two reducing elements monitored on the same reducing path that are not uniformly spaced about the perimeter of the chain.

<FIG> and <FIG> show another example of a wear sensing system <NUM> in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. The wear sensing system <NUM> can include a multi-level wear sensor protection system <NUM>. The wear sensor protection system <NUM> is configured to protect wear sensors <NUM> (see <FIG>) from damage under the most extreme conditions. The multi-level wear sensor protection system <NUM> is also configured to allow the wear sensors <NUM> to provide sensing functionality during milling operations. Thus, the wear sensing system <NUM> can provide continuous tooth wear monitoring without requiring interruptions in milling operations for assessing tooth wear. The multi-level wear sensor protection system <NUM> includes a first level of protection, a second level of protection, and a third level of protection. The first level of protection is illustrated and described in more detail in <FIG>.

The first level of protection can be in the form of an initial barrier layer <NUM> (e.g., initial shield layer). In one example, the initial barrier layer <NUM> surrounds the reducing drum (not shown) and is positioned between the reducing drum and the wear sensors <NUM>. In one example, the initial barrier layer <NUM> curves at least partially around the reducing drum. In one example, the initial barrier layer <NUM> can have a radius of curvature centered on the axis of rotation of the reducing drum. In certain examples, the initial barrier layer <NUM> can have a sheet-like construction including a plurality of sheet segments <NUM> secured to the machine frame <NUM> in a side-by-side arrangement. In certain examples, the initial barrier layer <NUM> can include a material such as polycarbonate. In <FIG>, the initial barrier layer <NUM> is shown with portions of the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> removed.

Referring to <FIG>, one of the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> is depicted. In the depicted example, the sheet segment <NUM> includes a main segment body <NUM> having an upper end <NUM> and a lower end <NUM>. In certain examples, the upper and lower ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the main segment body <NUM> can respectively be secured with upper and lower fittings <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., fixtures). The upper fitting <NUM> can include fastener openings <NUM> for receiving fasteners (not shown) used to secure the sheet segment <NUM> to the machine frame <NUM> (see <FIG>). The lower fittings <NUM> can each include a first tab <NUM> and a second tab <NUM> that fit within corresponding tab receptacles <NUM> (see <FIG>).

In certain examples, the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> can include openings <NUM> (see <FIG>) at the upper and lower ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the main segment body <NUM>. The plurality of sheet segments <NUM> can be secured to the fittings <NUM>, <NUM> using fastening bands <NUM> that include apertures (not shown) that align or correspond with the openings <NUM> of the plurality of sheet segments <NUM>. In one example, the fastening bands <NUM> are attached to the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> using fasteners <NUM> ( e.g., rivets, cap screw, pins, ties, adhesive, etc.) to secure the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> to the upper and lower fittings <NUM>, <NUM> respectively.

The initial barrier layer <NUM> can have a robust construction. In certain examples, the initial barrier layer <NUM> can be easily replaced and has a relatively low cost. In certain examples, each of the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> can be installed by sliding the sheet-like structure downwardly about the rotor along a guide track until the first and second tabs <NUM>, <NUM> fit within the corresponding tab receptacles <NUM> secured to the machine frame <NUM>. Thereafter, fasteners can be used to secure the upper ends <NUM> of the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> to the machine frame <NUM>.

In certain examples, the upper ends <NUM> of the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> are at a location that is easily accessed by an operator. To remove one of the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> for replacement, the fasteners at the upper ends <NUM> of each of the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> are removed and the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> are slid upwardly to disengage the first and second tabs <NUM>, <NUM> from the tab receptacles <NUM> and to slide the plurality of sheet segments <NUM> out from around the reducing component.

Referring to <FIG>, the multi-level wear sensor protection system <NUM> can also include a second level of protection in the form of trays <NUM> (e.g., housings) <NUM> in which the wear sensors <NUM> are mounted. In certain examples, the trays <NUM> are mounted behind the initial barrier layer <NUM> and are configured to absorb impacts that are transmitted through the initial barrier layer <NUM> to prevent the impacts from impacting upon the wear sensors <NUM> contained within the trays <NUM>. In certain examples, the trays <NUM> include a wear resistant material such as polycarbonate. The trays <NUM> help provide impact protection to the wear sensors <NUM> while concurrently allowing magnetic fields generated by the wear sensors <NUM> to pass through the trays <NUM>. The second level of protection is illustrated and described in more detail in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, details of the trays <NUM> are illustrated. The trays <NUM> can be configured to hold the wear sensors <NUM> such that the wear sensors <NUM> are open- faced within in the trays <NUM> (i.e., the trays do not cover the major outer faces of the sensors). <FIG> is an enlarged view of a portion of the second level of protection shown in <FIG>. In the depicted example, several trays <NUM> are shown in a side-by-side arrangement. In one example, the trays <NUM> can be mounted together along a plate <NUM>. The plate <NUM> can be arranged and configured to slide a plurality of the trays <NUM> and wear sensors <NUM> as a unit into channels <NUM>. As depicted, the channels <NUM> are constructed to be parallel to one another.

In certain examples, rails <NUM> can be attached to the plates <NUM>. The rails <NUM> can have lengths that extend along the drum axis. The rails <NUM> can be secured (e.g., welded, coupled) to the plate <NUM> opposite to that of the trays <NUM>. The plate <NUM> can be slid longitudinally into the channels <NUM> that extend along the drum axis.

Referring to <FIG>, an array of trays <NUM> is depicted along the plate <NUM>. The plate is shown attached to the rails <NUM>. In certain examples, the plate <NUM> can be inserted in channels <NUM> from a right side of the machine. It will be appreciated that the plate <NUM> including the array of trays <NUM> can also be inserted into channels <NUM> from a left side of the machine.

Referring to <FIG>, a side view of the array of trays <NUM> positioned along the plate <NUM> is shown. <FIG> shows a cross-sectional view of the array of trays <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the third level of protection is depicted. The third level of protection includes an impact absorption structure <NUM> (e.g., relief structure) for accommodating impacts that are transmitted through both the initial barrier layer <NUM> (see <FIG>) and the trays <NUM>. In the depicted example, electrical contacts and wiring <NUM> are shown on a back side of the wear sensor <NUM> (see <FIG>) for allowing the wear sensor <NUM> to be electrically connected to a control system having suitable control circuitry for controlling operation of the wear sensor <NUM>. A metal plate <NUM> can be mounted to the impact absorption structure <NUM> adjacent to a back side of the wear sensor <NUM>. The impact absorption structure <NUM> is illustrated and described in more detail in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, an example of the impact absorption structure <NUM> is illustrated. The impact absorption structure <NUM> includes a base <NUM> that can be attached to the plate <NUM> (see <FIG>). The base <NUM> can define a plurality of apertures <NUM> for receiving fasteners (not shown) to couple the impact absorption structure <NUM> to the plate <NUM>. In certain examples, the base <NUM> of the impact absorption structure <NUM> can define a center opening <NUM>. The center opening <NUM> can be configured to receive a grommet <NUM> (see <FIG>). In certain examples, the impact absorption structure <NUM> can be arranged and configured to bend and flex about legs <NUM> upon impact.

Referring to <FIG>, a side perspective view of the third level of protection is shown. <FIG> is an enlarged view of a portion of <FIG>. In <FIG>, the impact absorption structure <NUM> (e.g., relief structure) can be positioned behind the trays <NUM> to help accommodate movement of the trays <NUM> in response to an impact that passes through the initial barrier layer <NUM> (see <FIG>) and upon the trays <NUM>. The legs <NUM> of the impact absorption structure <NUM> are configured to bend upon impact.

In some examples, the impact absorption structure <NUM> can include a structure that in-elastically deforms in response to an impact. In such situations, the impact absorption structure <NUM> will remain bent upon impact. It will be appreciated that such structures would likely require fixing or replacement more often than a resilient structure. In other examples, the impact absorption structure <NUM> can be made of a plastic material for providing flexibility upon impact such that the impact absorption structure <NUM> does not remain bent upon impact. In certain examples, the impact absorption structure <NUM> can include an elastic /resilient structure that biases the trays <NUM> toward a sensing position and allows the trays <NUM> to move away from a reducing component in response to an impact. After impact, such resilient impact absorption structures <NUM> can bias the impacted trays <NUM> back toward their corresponding sensing positions. The third level of protection is illustrated and described in more detail in <FIG>.

Referring still to <FIG>, the legs <NUM> of the impact absorption structure <NUM> can be coupled to the trays <NUM> to secure the trays <NUM> along the plate <NUM>. The plate <NUM> having the impact absorption structure <NUM> mounted thereon is shown positioned within the channel <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a bottom view of the multi-layer wear sensor protection system <NUM> is shown. Details of the construction of the multi-layer wear sensor protection system is illustrated and described in more detail in <FIG>.

In <FIG>, an enlarged view of a portion of <FIG> is shown. The construction of the multi-level wear sensor protection system <NUM> allows for a unit of trays <NUM> secured to the impact absorption structure <NUM> to be inserted into the channels <NUM> from either a left or right side of the machine by the plate <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG> and <FIG>, the plate <NUM> can slide into the channels <NUM> on top of ledges <NUM>. In certain examples, the ledges <NUM> can be welded to elongated members <NUM> that extend longitudinally along the drum axis. In one example, the rails <NUM> (see <FIG>) located within the channels <NUM> can receive wedges <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a side view of the multi-layer wear sensor protection system <NUM> is shown. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the multi-layer wear sensor protection system <NUM> illustrating the array of trays <NUM> in the channel <NUM> along the drum axis. <FIG> is an enlarged view of a portion of <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the wedges <NUM> can include a tapered end <NUM>. In one example, the wedges <NUM> can be inserted along the rails <NUM> (see <FIG>) from the left and/or right sides of the machine. Thus, the rails <NUM> can guide the wedges <NUM> during insertion. The wedges <NUM> can be inserted such that the tapered end <NUM> of the wedges <NUM> engage a ramp surface <NUM> in a center portion of the channel <NUM> when fully inserted.

In one example, the wedges <NUM> provide downward force to the plate <NUM> to clamp down on the trays <NUM> to provide stability and keep the plate <NUM> in place. For example, the plates <NUM> are clamped against the ledges <NUM>. In certain examples, the wedges <NUM> can be coupled to L-shaped brackets <NUM> to keep the wedges <NUM> in position. In one example, the wedges <NUM> can be bolted to the L- shaped brackets <NUM>. The L-shaped bracket <NUM> can be attached to the main bracket <NUM> (see <FIG>) and can be moved relative to the main frame via fasteners to control the position of the outer ends (i.e., the non-tapered ends) of the wedges <NUM> to ensure the plate <NUM> is firmly clamped against the ledges/shoulders <NUM> of the channels <NUM> along its entire length.

Claim 1:
A surface excavation machine including wear sensing, the surface excavation machine including:
a rotatable reducing structure (<NUM>) having an axis of rotation (<NUM>) and including a drum (<NUM>; <NUM>) and a plurality of reducing elements (<NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; Al, Bl, C1, A2, B2, C2, A3, B3, C3; <NUM>) carried by the drum (<NUM>; <NUM>) and spaced about the circumference of the drum, the drum (<NUM>; <NUM>) being at least partially covered by a shroud (<NUM>) disposed radially outward from the drum;
a wear sensing system (<NUM>; <NUM>) including a sensor (<NUM>) mounted inside the shroud (<NUM>) adjacent to the rotatable reducing structure (<NUM>), the sensor being an inductive sensor, wherein the sensor (<NUM>) senses a general wear state of at least one of the reducing elements (<NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; Al, Bl, C1, A2, B2, C2, A3, B3, C3; <NUM>) by sensing a general physical characteristic of the reducing element (<NUM>; <NUM>, <NUM>; Al, Bl, C1, A2, B2, C2, A3, B3, C3; <NUM>) when the surface excavation machine is performing a reducing operation without measuring a position of a specific point on the rotatable reducing structure (<NUM>);
the machine being characterized by further comprising a breaker structure (<NUM>) positioned within the shroud (<NUM>) upstream from the sensor (<NUM>) to prevent material from damaging the sensor, the breaker structure (<NUM>) being spaced a first radial distance from the axis of rotation (<NUM>) of the rotatable reducing structure (<NUM>) and the sensor (<NUM>) being spaced a second radial distance from the axis of rotation (<NUM>) of the rotatable reducing structure (<NUM>), the second radial distance being longer than the first radial distance.