Patent Description:
Machines such as wheel loaders, excavators, and the like employ work implement assemblies including bucket assemblies, rakes, shears, etc. that have teeth or tips attached to them to help perform work on a material such as dirt, rock, sand, etc. For example, teeth or tips may be attached to a bucket assembly to help the bucket assembly to penetrate the ground, facilitating the scooping of the dirt into a bucket. Adapters are often attached to the work edges (e.g. the base edge, the side edge, etc.) of the bucket or other work implement so that different styles of teeth or tips may be attached to the work implement. Also, the tips or teeth may be replaced easily when worn by providing an adapter that is attached to the work implement.

Many such adapters are mechanically attached to the working edge of the work implement. However, current adapters do not always meet customer requirements for longevity or durability.

<CIT>, <CIT>,<CIT>, <CIT>,<CIT>, and <CIT> assigned to the Applicant of the present application describe a corner adapter, a center adapter, a corner adapter cover, a center adapter cover, and a notched base edge that are suitable for certain applications such as buckets used in the earth moving, mining, and construction industries, and the like.

However, continuous improvement including providing a more robust corner adapter and its attachment to the base edge of a bucket or other work implement is warranted for other work applications. Moreover, adapter covers that are less expensive to manufacture are desirable.

A base edge of a work implement assembly according to the present disclosure comprises a body including a working edge defining a lateral direction and a direction of assembly perpendicular to the lateral direction, the body further defining a first lateral end and a second lateral end, a plurality of vertical mounting mechanism receiving apertures, a plurality of center notches extending from the working edge, and a first end notch disposed proximate to the first lateral end and a second end notch disposed proximate to the second lateral end, the first end notch and the second end notch extending from the working edge. Each of the plurality of center notches and the first and the second end notches includes a different configuration. The first and the second end notch define a notch depth along direction of assembly, and the first and the second end notches further includes a straight middle portion straddled laterally by a first arcuate corner portion and a second arcuate corner portion, the straight middle portion defining a lateral straight middle portion width, and the notch depth ranges from <NUM> multiplied by the lateral straight middle portion width to <NUM> multiplied by the lateral straight middle portion width.

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In some cases, a reference number will be indicated in this specification and the drawings will show the reference number followed by a letter for example, 100a, 100b or a prime indicator such as <NUM>', <NUM>" etc. It is to be understood that the use of letters or primes immediately after a reference number indicates that these features are similarly shaped and have similar function such as is often the case when geometry is mirrored about a plane of symmetry. For ease of explanation in this specification, letters or primes will often not be included herein but may be shown in the drawings to indicate duplications of features discussed within this written specification.

A work implement assembly using center adapters, corner adapters, load sharing blocks, center adapter covers, corner adapter covers, and notched base edges according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed.

Starting with <FIG>, the work implement assembly <NUM> may take the form of a bucket assembly <NUM>' that includes an enclosure <NUM> that defines an opening <NUM> that communicates with a generally enclosed interior. Starting from the rear of the bucket assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, the bucket assembly <NUM> includes a curved shell profile <NUM>, which is attached to a rear wall <NUM> at the top end of the shell <NUM>. The other end of the shell is attached to the bottom plate <NUM> of the assembly <NUM>. A top plate <NUM> is attached to the top end of the rear wall <NUM>. The top plate <NUM> transitions to a spill guard <NUM> that is designed to funnel material into the interior of the bucket and prevent material from spilling out of the bucket. Reinforcing ribs <NUM> are provided that are attached to the top plate <NUM> and the spill guard <NUM>, providing reinforcement for strength. Two substantially flat end plates <NUM> are attached to the side edges of the spill guard <NUM>, top plate <NUM>, rear wall <NUM>, bottom plate <NUM> and shell <NUM>.

A side edge assembly <NUM> is attached to each end plate <NUM> while a front edge assembly <NUM> is attached to the front edge of the bottom plate <NUM> of the bucket assembly <NUM>. The front edge assembly <NUM> includes a base edge <NUM>, a plurality of center adapters <NUM> attached to the base edge <NUM>, a plurality of tools <NUM> with each one of the plurality of tools <NUM> being attached to one of the plurality of center adapters <NUM>, and a plurality of center adapter covers <NUM>' with a single one of the plurality of center adapter covers <NUM>' being interposed between one of the plurality of center adapters <NUM> and one of the plurality of tools <NUM>. Also, two corner adapters <NUM> are also attached to the base edge <NUM> and the side edges <NUM> of the bucket assembly <NUM>'. A single corner adapter cover <NUM>, <NUM>' is interposed between each one of the corner adapters <NUM> and a tool <NUM>. A plurality of base edge protectors <NUM> are also provided with each one of the base edge protectors <NUM> positioned between center adapters <NUM> and between a center adapter <NUM> and a corner adapter <NUM>. A side edge protector <NUM> is also provided that is attached to the side edge <NUM> proximate to a corner adapter <NUM> and a corner adapter cover <NUM>'.

It is to be understood the work implement assembly may take other forms other than a bucket assembly including rake assemblies, shear assemblies, etc. Also, any of the embodiments of the adapters, center adapters, corner adapters, adapter covers, corner adapter covers, center adapter covers, load sharing blocks, and base edges as will be described hereinafter in more detail may be used in any suitable work implement assembly including those depicted in <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a center adapter <NUM> that may be used for attaching a tool <NUM> to a work implement assembly <NUM> (see <FIG>) using a mounting mechanism <NUM> (see <FIG>) will now be discussed in more detail. The center adapter <NUM> comprises a body <NUM> that may include a nose portion <NUM> that is configured to facilitate the attachment of a tool <NUM>. The body <NUM> may further include a first leg <NUM> that includes a first leg side surface <NUM>, a second leg <NUM> that includes a second leg side surface <NUM>, and a throat portion <NUM> that connects the legs <NUM>, <NUM> and nose portion <NUM> together. At least one of the first leg <NUM> and the second leg <NUM> defines an aperture <NUM> that is configured to receive a mounting mechanism <NUM> (see <FIG>).

As best seen in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the body <NUM> may define a pocket <NUM> that defines an abutment surface <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> may be located on the first leg side surface <NUM> or the second leg side surface <NUM> and the pocket <NUM> may define a pocket height H216, a pocket width W216 (see <FIG>), and a pocket depth D216 (see <FIG>).

Looking at <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the first and the second legs <NUM>, <NUM> and the throat portion <NUM> define a slot <NUM> that includes a closed end <NUM> and an open end <NUM>. The slot <NUM> may define a direction of assembly <NUM> onto a work implement assembly 100a. The first leg <NUM> may include a sloped portion <NUM> disposed adjacent the closed end <NUM> along the direction of assembly <NUM>. The sloped portion <NUM> may form a first oblique angle <NUM> with the direction of assembly <NUM>, partially defining the slot <NUM> (see <FIG>). The sloped portion <NUM> defines a sloped portion surface normal <NUM> facing downwardly and along the direction of assembly <NUM>. The first oblique angle <NUM> may range from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees. Thus, the slot <NUM> may be configured to accommodate a chamfered or beveled base edge. Other configurations of the slot are possible in other embodiments including those forming different angles or those configured to accommodate squared-off base edges, etc..

Looking at <FIG>, the pocket <NUM> may be configured with an opening facing <NUM> toward the direction of assembly <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> may include a bottom pocket surface <NUM> that faces in a direction <NUM> not parallel to the direction of assembly <NUM> (e.g. substantially perpendicular). Hence, an overhanging ledge <NUM> is provided that may protect a load sharing block <NUM> from wear as material passes over the center adapter <NUM>. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments.

In <FIG>, <FIG>, it can be seen that the abutment surface <NUM> is configured to mate with a load sharing block <NUM> and may take the form of an arcuate surface <NUM>. Focusing on <FIG>, the arcuate surface <NUM> may include an elliptical surface <NUM> defining a minor axis <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM> and a major axis <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>. The major axis may be aligned with the direction of assembly. In some embodiments, the arcuate surface <NUM> is divided into a plurality of differently configured surfaces. For example, the arcuate surface <NUM> may also include a radial surface <NUM> defining a radius of curvature <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>. The radial surface <NUM> may be disposed between the first leg side surface <NUM> and the elliptical surface <NUM>. The interface with the load sharing block <NUM> may create a wedge effect (represented by dotted lines in <FIG>) as the center adapter <NUM> is pushed toward the base edge <NUM>. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments.

Referring now to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the slot <NUM> may also define a lateral direction <NUM> that is perpendicular to the direction of assembly <NUM>. The throat portion <NUM> may further comprise a first throat side surface <NUM> disposed along the lateral direction <NUM> and a second throat side surface <NUM> disposed on the opposite side of the throat portion <NUM> along the lateral direction <NUM>. The throat portion <NUM> may further comprise a protrusion <NUM> disposed at the closed end <NUM> of the slot <NUM>. The protrusion <NUM> may extend along the direction of assembly <NUM> and along the lateral direction <NUM> proximate to the first throat side surface <NUM> and proximate to the second throat side surface <NUM>.

Focusing on <FIG>, the protrusion <NUM> may define a protrusion height H244 along the direction of assembly <NUM> and may also include a flat middle portion <NUM> straddled laterally by a first arcuate portion <NUM> and a second arcuate portion <NUM>. The flat middle portion <NUM> may define a lateral width W258. The protrusion height H244 may range from <NUM> multiplied by the lateral width W258 to <NUM> multiplied by the lateral width W258. The protrusion <NUM> may be complimentarily configured as the corresponding center notch <NUM> of the base edge <NUM> (e.g. designed line to line). Other configurations are possible.

The first arcuate portion <NUM> may define a midpoint <NUM> and a midpoint tangent <NUM> that forms a first obtuse angle <NUM> with the flat middle portion <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees (e.g. approximately <NUM> degrees). The first arcuate portion <NUM> may also define an end point <NUM> and an end point tangent <NUM> that forms a second obtuse angle <NUM> with the midpoint tangent <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees (e.g. approximately <NUM> degrees). Again, other configurations are possible. The sloped portion and the protrusion may be configured in order to help to maximize the contact area with the base edge, helping to provide stability for the adapter.

Now, an adapter <NUM> according to another embodiment of the present disclosure will be described that may take the form of a center adapter, such as shown in <FIG>, or a corner adapter, etc. With reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the adapter <NUM> may comprise a body <NUM> that includes a nose portion <NUM> that is configured to facilitate the attachment of a tool <NUM>, a first leg <NUM> that includes a first leg side surface <NUM>, a second leg <NUM> that includes a second leg side surface <NUM>, a throat portion <NUM> that connects the legs <NUM>, <NUM> and nose portion <NUM> together. At least one of the first leg <NUM> and the second leg <NUM> may define an aperture <NUM> that is configured to receive a mounting mechanism <NUM>.

The body <NUM> may also define a pocket <NUM> that defines an abutment surface <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> may be located on a side surface <NUM>, <NUM> of at least one of the first leg <NUM> and the second leg <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> may be configured in a manner as previously described herein.

The first and the second legs <NUM>, <NUM> and the throat portion <NUM> may define a slot <NUM> that includes a closed end <NUM> and an open end <NUM>. The slot <NUM> may define a direction of assembly <NUM> onto a work implement assembly 100a, a lateral direction <NUM> that is perpendicular to the direction of assembly <NUM>, and a vertical direction <NUM> that is perpendicular to the direction of assembly <NUM> and the lateral direction <NUM>. The throat portion <NUM> may further comprise a first throat side surface <NUM> disposed along the lateral direction <NUM> and a second throat side surface <NUM> disposed on the opposite side of the throat portion <NUM> along the lateral direction <NUM>. The first throat side surface <NUM> may define a first adapter cover receiving recess <NUM> including a first vertical surface <NUM>. A first key <NUM> may extend laterally from the first vertical surface <NUM>. The first key <NUM> may provide stability and support to an adapter cover that is inserted onto the adapter.

Similarly, the second throat side surface <NUM> may define a second adapter cover receiving recess <NUM> including a second vertical surface <NUM>. A second key <NUM> may extend laterally from the second vertical surface <NUM>.

The body <NUM> includes a top surface <NUM> that may extend from the nose portion <NUM> over the throat portion <NUM> to the first leg <NUM>. The throat portion <NUM> may further include a first sidewall <NUM> extending from the first throat side surface <NUM>, partially defining the first adapter cover receiving recess <NUM>. The first key <NUM> may be spaced away from the first sidewall <NUM> and may also be spaced away from the top surface <NUM>.

Looking at <FIG>, the first sidewall <NUM> may include a front lead-in portion <NUM> disposed proximate the nose portion <NUM> along the direction of assembly <NUM>. The front lead-in portion <NUM> may form a lead-in acute angle <NUM> with the direction of assembly <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees. Also, the first sidewall <NUM> further comprises a rear abutment portion <NUM> disposed along the direction of assembly <NUM> and a transitional portion <NUM> connecting the rear abutment portion <NUM> to the front lead-in portion <NUM>. The rear abutment portion <NUM> including a rear abutment vertical surface <NUM>. The transitional portion <NUM> may include a serpentine shape. Other configurations for these various features are possible in other embodiments.

The first key <NUM> may include a first key top surface <NUM> and a first key bottom surface <NUM>. The first key top surface <NUM> and the first key bottom surface <NUM> may be tapered along the direction of assembly <NUM>, being configured to facilitate the attachment of an adapter cover to the adapter <NUM> (e.g. a center adapter cover <NUM>.

Next, a work implement assembly <NUM> will be discussed in reference to <FIG>. The work implement assembly 100a may comprise a notched base edge 700a defining a center notch <NUM>, and a center adapter <NUM> configured to be attached to the notched base edge 700a. The center adapter <NUM> has a body <NUM> that includes a nose portion <NUM> that is configured to facilitate the attachment of a tool <NUM> using a mounting mechanism 126a such as sold under the TRADENAME of CAPSURE sold by the assignee of the present application. The mounting mechanism 126a may be used to attach the tool <NUM> to a lug <NUM> located on the nose portion <NUM>.

The body <NUM> may also have a first leg <NUM> that includes a first leg side surface, a second leg <NUM> that includes a second leg side surface <NUM>, a throat portion <NUM> that connects the legs <NUM>, <NUM> and nose portion <NUM> together. At least one of the first leg <NUM> and the second leg <NUM> defines an aperture <NUM> that is configured to receive a mounting mechanism <NUM>.

The first and the second legs <NUM>, <NUM> and the throat portion <NUM> define a slot <NUM> that includes a closed end <NUM> and an open end <NUM>. The slot <NUM> may also define a direction of assembly <NUM> onto the work implement assembly 100a and a lateral direction <NUM> that is perpendicular to the direction of assembly <NUM>. The throat portion <NUM> further comprises a first throat side surface <NUM> disposed along the lateral direction <NUM> and a second throat side surface <NUM> disposed on the opposite side of the throat portion <NUM> along the lateral direction <NUM>. The throat portion <NUM> further comprises a protrusion <NUM> disposed at the closed end <NUM> of the slot <NUM>. The protrusion <NUM> may extend along the direction of assembly <NUM> and along the lateral direction <NUM> proximate to the first throat side surface <NUM> and proximate to the second throat side surface <NUM>.

Focusing on <FIG>, the protrusion <NUM> may define a protrusion height H244 along the direction of assembly <NUM>. The protrusion <NUM> may have a flat middle portion <NUM> straddled laterally by a first arcuate portion <NUM> and a second arcuate portion <NUM>. The flat middle portion <NUM> may also define a lateral width W258. The protrusion height H244 may range from <NUM> multiplied by the lateral width W258 to <NUM> multiplied by the lateral width W258.

The first arcuate portion <NUM> defines a midpoint <NUM> and a midpoint tangent <NUM> that forms a first obtuse angle <NUM> with the flat middle portion <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees (e.g. approximately <NUM> degrees). Likewise, the first arcuate portion <NUM> may also define an end point <NUM> and an end point tangent <NUM> that forms a second obtuse angle <NUM> with the midpoint tangent <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees (e.g. approximately <NUM> degrees). The center notch <NUM> of the notched base edge 700a is complimentarily configured to the protrusion <NUM>, making contact with the protrusion <NUM> (e.g. designed line to line).

Looking at <FIG>, the notched base edge 700a may include a front portion <NUM> including a top beveled surface <NUM>. The first leg <NUM> includes a sloped portion <NUM> disposed adjacent the closed end <NUM> along the direction of assembly <NUM>. The sloped portion <NUM> may form a first oblique angle <NUM> with the direction of assembly <NUM>, partially defining the slot <NUM>. The first oblique angle <NUM> may range from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees. The sloped portion <NUM> may contact the top beveled surface <NUM>. The interface between the adapter and the base edge may provide the maximum amount of contact area to reduce adapter stress in up and down loads and the arcuate portions may reduce the stress in the base edge. The components may be "pre-seated" or designed line-to-line, which may aid in providing adapter support in loading by helping to distribute the load.

As shown in <FIG>, the work implement assembly 100a may also have a load sharing block <NUM> that is attached to the notched base edge 700a that has an arcuate reinforcement surface <NUM>. The work implement assembly 100a may also have a vertical mounting mechanism <NUM>' disposed in the aperture <NUM> of the at least one of the first leg <NUM> and the second leg <NUM>.

The body <NUM> of the center adapter <NUM> defines a pocket <NUM> disposed on the first leg side surface <NUM> that defines an abutment surface <NUM> that is complimentarily configured as the arcuate reinforcement surface <NUM>, making contact with the arcuate reinforcement surface <NUM> (e.g. designed line to line). The load sharing block <NUM> may be spaced laterally away from the first leg side surface <NUM> a lateral predetermined distance <NUM>.

Various embodiments of a load sharing block <NUM>, mentioned earlier herein, and their associated features will now be discussed in further detail with reference to <FIG>. The load sharing block <NUM> may comprise a body <NUM> including a flat outer surface <NUM> defining a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. A first arcuate outer portion <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> of the flat outer surface <NUM>, and a second arcuate outer portion <NUM> extending from the second end <NUM> of the flat outer surface <NUM>. The first arcuate outer portion <NUM> terminates at a first free end <NUM> and includes a first elliptical outer surface <NUM> extending from the first free end <NUM>.

Moreover, as best seen in <FIG>, the first arcuate outer portion <NUM> may further includes a first radial surface <NUM> disposed between the first elliptical outer surface <NUM> and the flat outer surface <NUM>. The first elliptical outer surface <NUM> may define a minor axis <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM> and a major axis <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>. The first radial surface <NUM> may define a radius of curvature <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>.

The body <NUM> may further include a flat inner surface <NUM> offset inwardly a predetermined thickness <NUM> from the flat outer surface <NUM>. In like fashion, a first arcuate inner portion <NUM> may be offset inwardly the same predetermined thickness <NUM> from the first arcuate outer portion <NUM>.

The body <NUM> may also define a vertical direction <NUM> (see also <FIG>) perpendicular to the predetermined thickness <NUM> and a height <NUM> measured along the vertical direction <NUM>. The height <NUM> may range from <NUM> multiplied by the predetermined thickness <NUM> to <NUM> multiplied by the predetermined thickness <NUM>.

Furthermore, the body <NUM> may define a midpoint <NUM> of the flat outer surface <NUM> and a plane of symmetry <NUM> passing through the midpoint <NUM>. The body <NUM> may also include a top surface <NUM> disposed along the vertical direction <NUM> that forms a right angle <NUM> with the flat outer surface <NUM> and the first elliptical outer surface <NUM>. The body <NUM> may further include a bottom surface <NUM> and a beveled surface <NUM> leading from the bottom surface <NUM> to the first arcuate inner portion <NUM> and the flat inner surface <NUM>. The beveled surface <NUM> may form an obtuse bevel angle <NUM> with the bottom surface <NUM> at the first free end <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees.

The beveled feature may allow a bead of weld to be used to attach the load sharing block to the base edge while the symmetry of the load sharing block may allow it to be used on opposite sides of an adapter. The configurations of these various features of the load sharing block may be altered to be different or may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

Another embodiment of a load sharing block <NUM> will now be discussed with continued reference to <FIG>. Such a load sharing block <NUM> may comprise a body <NUM> that includes a flat outer surface <NUM> defining a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>, a first arcuate outer portion <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> of the flat outer surface <NUM>, and a second arcuate outer portion <NUM> extending from the second end <NUM> of the flat outer surface <NUM>.

Focusing on <FIG>, a flat inner surface <NUM> may be offset inwardly a predetermined thickness <NUM> from the flat outer surface <NUM>. A first arcuate inner portion <NUM> may be offset inwardly the same predetermined thickness <NUM> from the first arcuate outer portion <NUM>. Also, a second arcuate inner portion <NUM>' may be offset inwardly the same predetermined thickness <NUM> from the second arcuate outer portion <NUM>.

The first arcuate outer portion <NUM> may terminate at a first free end <NUM> and may include a first elliptical outer surface <NUM> extending from the first free end <NUM> toward the flat outer surface <NUM>. The second arcuate outer portion <NUM> may also terminate at a second free end <NUM>' and may include a second elliptical outer surface <NUM>' extending from the second free end <NUM>' toward the flat outer surface <NUM>.

The first arcuate outer portion <NUM> may further include a first radial surface <NUM> disposed between the first elliptical outer surface <NUM> and the flat outer surface <NUM>. The second arcuate outer portion <NUM> may further include a second radial surface <NUM>' disposed between the second elliptical outer surface <NUM>' and the flat outer surface <NUM>.

The second elliptical outer surface <NUM>' may be symmetrically configured to the first elliptical outer surface <NUM>, and both the first elliptical outer surface <NUM> and the second elliptical outer surface <NUM>' may define a minor axis <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM> and a major axis <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>. The second radial surface <NUM>' may be symmetrically configured to the first radial surface <NUM>, and both the first radial surface <NUM> and the second radial surface <NUM>' may define a radius of curvature <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>.

The body <NUM> may also define a vertical direction <NUM> that is perpendicular to the predetermined thickness <NUM> and a height <NUM> measured along the vertical direction <NUM>. The height <NUM> may range from <NUM> multiplied by the predetermined thickness <NUM> to <NUM> multiplied by the predetermined thickness <NUM>.

The body <NUM> may include a top surface <NUM> disposed along the vertical direction <NUM> that forms a right angle <NUM> with the flat outer surface <NUM> and the first elliptical outer surface <NUM>. The body <NUM> may further include a bottom surface <NUM> and a beveled surface <NUM> leading from the bottom surface <NUM> to the first arcuate inner portion <NUM> and the flat inner surface <NUM>.

Referring back to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, a work implement assembly <NUM> utilizing a load sharing block <NUM> and a center adapter <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be characterized as follows. The work implement assembly 100b may comprise a base edge <NUM>, and a center adapter <NUM> configured to be attached to the base edge <NUM>. The center adapter <NUM> may include a body <NUM> having a nose portion <NUM> that is configured to facilitate the attachment of a tool <NUM>, a first leg <NUM> that includes a pair of first leg opposing side surfaces <NUM>', a second leg <NUM> that includes a pair of second leg opposing side surfaces <NUM>', a throat portion <NUM> that connects the legs <NUM>, <NUM> and nose portion <NUM>.

At least one of the first leg <NUM> and the second leg <NUM> may define an aperture <NUM> that is configured to receive a mounting mechanism <NUM>. The body <NUM> may define a first top pocket 216a that defines a first top pocket arcuate abutment surface 218a disposed adjacent one of the pair of first leg opposing side surfaces <NUM>'. The first and the second legs <NUM>, <NUM> and the throat portion <NUM> may define a slot <NUM> that includes a closed end <NUM> and an open end <NUM>. The slot <NUM> defines a direction of assembly <NUM> onto the work implement assembly <NUM>, a lateral direction <NUM> that is perpendicular to the direction of assembly <NUM>, and a vertical direction <NUM> that is perpendicular to the lateral direction <NUM> and the direction of assembly <NUM>. The work implement assembly 100b may also comprise a first load sharing block 400a including a first arcuate reinforcement surface 402a engaging the first top pocket arcuate abutment surface 218a.

In like fashion, the body <NUM> further comprises a second top pocket 216b that defines a second top pocket arcuate abutment surface 218b disposed adjacent the other of the pair of first leg opposing side surfaces <NUM>'. The work implement assembly 100b may also have a second load sharing block 400b that also includes a second arcuate reinforcement surface 402b engaging the second top pocket arcuate abutment surface 218b.

Looking at <FIG>, the first and the second load sharing blocks 400a, 400b are configured to create a wedge profile <NUM> for the center adapter <NUM> to be pulled into, providing support for lateral loads as well as vertical loads. Also, the first load sharing block 400a may be spaced laterally away from the one of the pair of the first leg opposing side surfaces <NUM> and the second load sharing block 400b may be spaced laterally away from the other of the pair of the first leg opposing side surfaces <NUM>'.

The work implement assembly <NUM> may further comprise a vertical mounting mechanism <NUM>' disposed in the aperture <NUM> of the at least one of the first leg <NUM> and the second leg <NUM>. The first arcuate reinforcement surface <NUM> may comprise an elliptical surface 418a and a radial surface <NUM>.

The elliptical surface 418a may define a minor axis <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>, and a major axis <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>. The radial surface <NUM> may define a radius of curvature <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>.

The aforementioned geometry and features of the load sharing block <NUM> have the following functions. An elliptical load sharing block profile may maximize the contact area and may reduce the risk of the material of the load sharing block mushrooming, which may cause interference between the load sharing block and the adapter, making installation or removal of the load sharing block more difficult. The arcuate load sharing block profile may match the profile of the adapter in some embodiments. The gap between the load sharing block and the adapter may help to limit interference when installing or removing the load sharing block away from the adapter. Any of these functions may be omitted or may be present in various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Next, a corner adapter <NUM> according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will be discussed with reference to <FIG>, and <NUM> thru <NUM>. The corner adapter <NUM> may be configured to allow a tool <NUM> to be attached to a work implement assembly <NUM> using a mounting mechanism <NUM>. Looking at <FIG>, the corner adapter <NUM> may comprise a body <NUM> that defines a vertical direction <NUM> and a horizontal direction <NUM>. The body <NUM> may include a nose portion <NUM> that is configured to facilitate the attachment of a tool <NUM> (e.g. via lug <NUM> that is used with a mounting mechanism 126a such as that sold under the TRADENAME of CAPSURE by the assignee of the present invention, see <FIG> and <FIG>).

Focusing now on <FIG>, the body <NUM> may also have a first bifurcated leg <NUM> that includes a pair of first leg side surfaces <NUM>. The first bifurcated leg <NUM> may define a vertical slot <NUM> splitting the first bifurcated leg <NUM> into a first fork portion <NUM> and a second fork portion <NUM>. The body <NUM> may also have a second leg <NUM> that includes a pair of second leg side surfaces <NUM>, a throat portion <NUM> that connects the legs <NUM>, <NUM> and nose portion <NUM> together. At least one of the first fork portion <NUM> and the second fork portion <NUM> defines an aperture <NUM> that is configured to receive a mounting mechanism <NUM> (e.g. the mounting mechanism <NUM> may take the form a horizontal mounting mechanism <NUM>", see <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>).

With continued reference to <FIG>, the first and the second legs <NUM>, <NUM> and the throat portion <NUM> define a horizontal slot <NUM> that includes a closed end <NUM> and an open end <NUM>. The horizontal slot <NUM> may define a direction of assembly <NUM> onto a work implement assembly <NUM>. The first bifurcated leg <NUM> may include a first sloped portion <NUM> disposed in the vertical slot <NUM>. The first sloped portion <NUM> may form a first acute angle <NUM> (see also <FIG>) with the direction of assembly <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees (e.g. approximately <NUM> degrees). The first sloped portion <NUM> may define a first sloped portion surface normal <NUM> that points upwardly and toward the direction of assembly <NUM>. Put another way, the first acute angle <NUM> faces toward the direction of assembly <NUM> in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

As shown in <FIG>, the horizontal slot <NUM> defines a lateral direction <NUM> that is perpendicular to the direction of assembly <NUM>. The throat portion <NUM> further comprises a first throat side surface <NUM> (see <FIG>) disposed along the lateral direction <NUM> and a second throat side surface <NUM> disposed on the opposite side of the throat portion <NUM> along the lateral direction <NUM>. The throat portion <NUM> further comprises a projection <NUM> (see <FIG>) disposed at the closed end <NUM> of the horizontal slot <NUM>. The projection <NUM> extends along the direction of assembly <NUM> and along the lateral direction <NUM> proximate to the first throat side surface <NUM> and proximate to the second throat side surface <NUM>. The first bifurcated leg <NUM> may define a key receiving slot <NUM> that is disposed forward of the aperture <NUM> along the horizontal direction <NUM>, the key receiving slot <NUM> being disposed on at least one of the pair of the first leg side surfaces <NUM>, and defining an open end <NUM> facing along the horizontal direction <NUM> toward the nose portion <NUM> (e.g. a direction opposite of the direction of assembly <NUM>). The key receiving slot <NUM> may also be disposed at least partially vertically over the horizontal slot <NUM> in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Also, the horizontal slot <NUM> defines a strap gap vertical height <NUM>, and the projection <NUM> includes a flat middle portion <NUM> straddled laterally by a first arcuate portion <NUM> and a second arcuate portion <NUM> (see also <FIG>). The flat middle portion <NUM> may also define a lateral middle portion width <NUM>, and a lateral middle portion vertical height <NUM> (see <FIG>). The lateral middle portion vertical height <NUM> ranges from <NUM> to <NUM> multiplied by the strap gap vertical height <NUM> in some embodiments of the present disclosure. The horizontal slot <NUM> may define a top clearance portion <NUM>, and a minimum thickness <NUM> of throat portion <NUM> that is measured between the top clearance portion <NUM> and an outer throat surface <NUM> in a plane containing the horizontal direction and the vertical direction (e.g. the plane of view in <FIG>) ranges from <NUM> to <NUM> multiplied by the strap gap vertical height <NUM> in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

In <FIG>, the first arcuate portion <NUM> may define a midpoint <NUM> and a midpoint tangent <NUM> that forms a first obtuse angle <NUM> with the flat middle portion <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees (e.g. approximately <NUM> degrees). Likewise, the first arcuate portion <NUM> may also define an end point <NUM> and an end point tangent <NUM> that forms a second obtuse angle <NUM> with the midpoint tangent <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees (e.g. approximately <NUM> degrees). As can be seen, the structure shown in <FIG> is different than that of <FIG>. Other configurations of the features of <FIG> and <FIG> are possible in other embodiments of the present disclosure than what is explicitly shown and described herein.

Returning to <FIG>, at least one of the first fork portion <NUM> and the second fork portion <NUM> may include a lifting strap <NUM> that extends vertically upwardly from either or both of these fork portions. As alluded to earlier herein, one of the pair of first leg side surfaces <NUM> may define a first key receiving slot <NUM> defining an open end <NUM> that is disposed proximate the nose portion <NUM> and extending along the direction of assembly <NUM> and terminating in a rear abutment surface <NUM>. Also, a top flared wall <NUM> and a bottom flared wall <NUM> that partially defines the first key receiving slot <NUM> are provided. The top flared wall <NUM> and the bottom flared wall <NUM> are configured to facilitate the attachment of a corner adapter cover <NUM> (see <FIG>).

As best seen in <FIG>, the body <NUM> may define a vertical plane <NUM> of symmetry. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

Now, an adapter <NUM> according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure will be discussed with reference to <FIG>. It should be noted that the adapter <NUM> may take the form of a center adapter or a corner adapter.

Looking at <FIG>, the adapter <NUM> may be constructed as previously described herein with the following features. The first and the second legs (e.g. <NUM>, <NUM>) as well as the throat portion <NUM> may include an upper surface <NUM> and a lower surface <NUM> that at least partially define a slot (e.g. <NUM>) that includes a closed end <NUM> and an open end <NUM>. The slot may define a direction of assembly <NUM> onto a work implement, a lateral direction <NUM> that is perpendicular to the direction of assembly <NUM>, and a vertical direction <NUM> that is perpendicular to the direction of assembly <NUM> and the lateral direction <NUM>. The slot may define a projection <NUM> at the closed end <NUM> of the slot that includes a flat middle portion <NUM> straddled laterally by a first arcuate portion <NUM>, and a second arcuate portion <NUM>. The flat middle portion <NUM> may define a lateral middle portion width <NUM> (see <FIG>), and a projection protruding distance <NUM> measured along the direction of assembly from the closed end <NUM> of the slot to the flat middle portion <NUM>, and the projection protruding distance <NUM> may range from <NUM> to <NUM> multiplied by the lateral middle portion width <NUM>.

Furthermore, the body <NUM> defines an arcuate boundary surface <NUM> (see <FIG>) that extends from the closed end <NUM> to the at least one of the upper surface <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM>. The upper surface <NUM> may be a horizontal surface <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM> may be a horizontal surface <NUM>. This may not be the case in other embodiments.

As shown in <FIG>, the slot may define a bottom clearance portion <NUM> proximate to the closed end. This portion <NUM> may define a bottom clearance portion vertical height <NUM> measured from the lower surface <NUM> to a lower extremity of the bottom clearance portion <NUM>. The bottom clearance portion vertical height <NUM> may range from <NUM> to <NUM> multiplied by the middle portion vertical height <NUM> in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring again to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, a work implement assembly <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described. As best seen in <FIG>, the work implement assembly <NUM> may comprise a base edge <NUM>, a corner adapter <NUM> attached to the base edge <NUM> making contact with the base edge <NUM>. The corner adapter <NUM> may include a body <NUM> that defines a vertical direction <NUM>, a horizontal direction <NUM>, and a vertical plane <NUM> (see <FIG>) passing through the body <NUM>. The body <NUM> may have a nose portion <NUM> that is configured to facilitate the attachment of a tool <NUM>.

Now, a base edge <NUM> according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will be discussed in reference to <FIG>. The base edge <NUM> has a body <NUM> including a working edge <NUM> defining a lateral direction <NUM> and a direction of assembly <NUM> (so called as this is the direction an adapter or a tool is attached to the base edge) perpendicular to the lateral direction <NUM>. The body <NUM> further defines a first lateral end <NUM>, a second lateral end <NUM>, a plurality of vertical mounting mechanism receiving apertures <NUM>, a plurality of center notches <NUM> (so called since the center notches are spaced away from the lateral ends), extending from the working edge <NUM>, and a first end notch <NUM> disposed proximate to the first lateral end <NUM>, and a second end notch <NUM>' disposed proximate to the second lateral end <NUM>. The first end notch <NUM> and the second end notch <NUM>' extend from the working edge <NUM>.

Each of the plurality of center notches <NUM> and the first and the second end notches <NUM>, <NUM>' include a different configuration. For example, the first end notch <NUM> and the second end notch <NUM>' define a notch depth <NUM> along direction of assembly <NUM> (see <FIG>) that is greater than the corresponding dimension of the center notches <NUM>. That is to say, the end notch depth <NUM> is greater that a center notch depth <NUM>' (see <FIG>). Each of the plurality of center notches <NUM> and the first and the second end notches <NUM>, <NUM>' further include a straight middle portion <NUM> straddled laterally by a first arcuate corner portion <NUM> and a second arcuate corner portion <NUM>' (see <FIG> and <FIG>). In <FIG>, the straight middle portion <NUM> defines a lateral straight middle portion width W726, and the notch depth <NUM> of the end notches may range from <NUM> multiplied by the lateral straight middle portion W726 width to <NUM> multiplied by the lateral straight middle portion width W726.

The first arcuate corner portion <NUM> may define an arc midpoint <NUM> and an arc midpoint tangent <NUM> that forms a first angle <NUM> with the straight middle portion <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees (e.g. approximately <NUM> degrees). The first arcuate corner portion <NUM> may also define an arc end point <NUM> and an arc end point tangent <NUM> that forms a second angle <NUM> with the arc midpoint tangent <NUM> ranging from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees (e.g. approximately <NUM> degrees).

Looking at <FIG> and <FIG>, the body may also include a chamfer surface <NUM>" extending from the working edge <NUM> that at least partially bounds each of the plurality of center notches <NUM> and each of the first end notch <NUM> and the second end notch <NUM>'.

In addition, the working edge <NUM> may be divided into a plurality of zones <NUM> disposed along the lateral direction <NUM> and offset from each other along the direction of assembly <NUM>. The plurality of zones <NUM> may include a center zone 744a including three of the plurality of center notches <NUM> that are linearly laterally aligned.

The plurality of zones <NUM> may also include a first end zone 744b that includes the first end notch <NUM> that is spaced away from the first lateral end a first end distance <NUM> that may range from <NUM> to <NUM> (see <FIG>). The plurality of zones <NUM> also includes a first intermediate zone 744c disposed laterally between the center zone 744a and the first end zone 744b, and a second intermediate zone 744d disposed laterally between the first intermediate zone 744c and the first end zone 744b. The first intermediate zone 744c may be offset along the direction of assembly <NUM> a first offset distance <NUM> and the second intermediate zone 744d may be offset from the center zone 744a a second offset distance <NUM>. The first end zone 744b may be offset from the center zone 744a a third offset distance <NUM>. The third offset distance <NUM> may be greater than the second offset distance <NUM>, and the second offset distance <NUM> may be greater than the first offset distance <NUM>. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

Moreover, the plurality of zones <NUM> includes a plurality of angled zones 744e. One of the plurality of angled zones 744e may be disposed between the center zone 744a and the first intermediate zone 744c. Another one of the plurality of angled zones 744e may be disposed between the first intermediate zone 744c and the second intermediate zone 744d. A third one of the plurality of angled zones 744e may be disposed between the second intermediate zone 744d and the first end zone 744b. The center zone 744a may define a center zone midpoint <NUM> and the body <NUM> may define a plane of symmetry <NUM> (see <FIG>) passing through the center zone midpoint <NUM>. This may not the base for other embodiments.

With continued reference to <FIG>, it should be noted that the straight middle portion <NUM> of the first end notch <NUM> and the second end notch <NUM>', the first arcuate corner portion <NUM> of the first end notch <NUM> and the second end notch <NUM>', and the second arcuate corner portion <NUM>' of the first end notch <NUM> and the second end notch <NUM>', may have the same configuration as the straight middle portion <NUM> of the center notches <NUM>, the first arcuate portion <NUM> of the center notches <NUM>, and the second arcuate portion <NUM>' of the center notches <NUM> in some embodiments. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, the center zone 744a may include three of the plurality of center notches <NUM> that are laterally linearly aligned with each other, while the other zones may only have one center notch <NUM>. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

In <FIG>, a work implement assembly <NUM> such as a bucket assembly <NUM>' may use a base edge <NUM> similar to those just described. More specifically, the work implement assembly <NUM> may comprise a notched base edge 700a defining a notch <NUM> (see <FIG>), and a corner stabilizer <NUM> that overhangs the first end notch and/or the second end notch (see also <FIG>). This corner stabilizer <NUM> may engage the first sloped portion <NUM> of the corner adapter <NUM> as shown in <FIG> such that the corner stabilizer helps prevent the corner adapter from lifting up vertically during digging operations, etc..

Turning now to <FIG>, and <FIG>, various embodiments of an adapter cover <NUM>, which may take the form of a center adapter cover <NUM>', or a corner adapter cover, will now be discussed in detail.

Focusing on <FIG>, an adapter cover <NUM> may comprise a shell body <NUM> including an exterior surface <NUM> and an interior surface <NUM>. As best seen in <FIG>, the shell body <NUM> may define a vertical direction <NUM>, a horizontal direction <NUM>, and a vertical plane <NUM>. The vertical plane <NUM> may define a plane of symmetry <NUM>' for the adapter cover <NUM> but not necessarily so.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the shell body <NUM> may further comprise a front face portion <NUM> defining a thru-hole <NUM> configured to allow a nose portion <NUM> of an adapter <NUM> to pass horizontally through the thru-hole <NUM> past the interior surface <NUM> and then past the exterior surface <NUM>.

Also, the shell body <NUM> may have a single top leg <NUM> extending horizontally from the front face portion <NUM> that defines an adapter key receiving recess <NUM> on the interior surface <NUM>, and that has a top leg side portion <NUM> defining a concave arcuate portion <NUM> extending rearward from the front face portion <NUM>, and a convex arcuate portion <NUM> extending horizontally from the concave arcuate portion <NUM>, terminating in a vertical rear surface <NUM>. The adapter key receiving recess <NUM> may extend to the vertical rear surface <NUM> and may define a vertical opening dimension <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM> and a horizontal recess depth <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM> (see <FIG>).

As best seen in <FIG>, the thru-hole <NUM> may define a partial trapezoidal perimeter <NUM> with a bottom vertical open end <NUM> defining a bottom lateral opening dimension <NUM>, and a top vertical closed end <NUM> defining a top closed end lateral dimension <NUM> that is greater than the bottom lateral opening dimension <NUM>. This may not be the case for other embodiments of the present disclosure.

In addition, a tool adapter lifting strap receiving notch <NUM> may extend horizontally through the vertical rear surface <NUM>, and vertically through the single top leg <NUM>. Moreover, a lifting strap <NUM> may be disposed horizontally in front of the tool adapter lifting strap receiving notch <NUM> that extends vertically upwardly from the single top leg <NUM>.

<FIG> shows that the single top leg <NUM> may terminate along the horizontal direction (or plane) in a U-shaped portion <NUM> and may further comprise a chamfer <NUM> extending horizontally from the rear U-shaped portion <NUM> toward the front face portion <NUM>.

Any of the features or dimension just mentioned may be differently configured in other embodiments of the present disclosure or may be omitted, etc..

With continued reference to <FIG>, another embodiment of an adapter cover <NUM> will also be described. The adapter cover <NUM> may comprise a shell body <NUM> that includes an exterior surface <NUM> and an interior surface <NUM>. The shell body <NUM> may also define a vertical direction <NUM>, a horizontal direction <NUM>, and a vertical plane <NUM> (may take the form of a plane of symmetry <NUM>').

The shell body <NUM> may also have a top leg <NUM> extending horizontally from the front face portion <NUM>, and a bottom leg <NUM> extending horizontally from the front face portion <NUM>. The top leg <NUM> may define an adapter key receiving recess <NUM> on the interior surface <NUM> and a top leg side portion <NUM> that defines a concave arcuate portion <NUM> extending rearward from the front face portion <NUM>. A convex arcuate portion <NUM> may extend horizontally from the concave arcuate portion <NUM>, terminating in a vertical rear surface <NUM>. Other configurations are possible in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

<FIG> illustrate a work implement assembly <NUM> that may use a center adapter cover <NUM>' such as that shown in <FIG>. The work implement assembly <NUM> may comprise a base edge <NUM>, and a center adapter <NUM> attached to the base edge <NUM>.

As best seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, the center adapter <NUM> may include a body <NUM> that has a nose portion <NUM> that is configured to facilitate the attachment of a tool <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), a first leg <NUM> that includes a pair of first leg opposing side surfaces <NUM>', a second leg <NUM> that includes a pair of second leg opposing side surfaces <NUM>', and a throat portion <NUM> that connects the legs <NUM>, <NUM> and nose portion <NUM> together.

With continued reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, at least one of the first leg <NUM> and the second leg <NUM> defines an aperture <NUM> that is configured to receive a mounting mechanism <NUM>. The body <NUM> may define a first top pocket 216a that defines a first top pocket arcuate abutment surface 218a disposed adjacent one of the pair of first leg opposing side surfaces <NUM>'. Also, the first and the second legs <NUM>, <NUM> and the throat portion <NUM> define a slot <NUM> that includes a closed end <NUM> and an open end <NUM>. The slot <NUM> may define a direction of assembly <NUM> onto a work implement assembly 100e. The body <NUM> may define a top center adapter cover receiving recess <NUM>'.

Focusing now on <FIG>, the work implement assembly <NUM> may further include a center adapter cover <NUM>' includes a shell body <NUM> with an exterior surface <NUM> and an interior surface <NUM>. The shell body <NUM> may also define a vertical direction <NUM>, a horizontal direction <NUM>, and a vertical plane <NUM> (may be a plane of symmetry <NUM>'). The shell body may also have a front face portion <NUM> defining a thru-hole <NUM> configured to allow the nose portion <NUM> of the center adapter <NUM> to pass horizontally through the thru-hole <NUM> past the interior surface <NUM> and then past the exterior surface <NUM>. In addition, a top leg <NUM> may extend horizontally from the front face portion <NUM>, and a bottom leg <NUM> may also extend horizontally from the front face portion <NUM>.

The center adapter cover <NUM>' may be sandwiched between the tool <NUM> and the center adapter <NUM>. The top leg <NUM> of the center adapter cover <NUM>' may be resting at least partially in the top center adapter cover receiving recess <NUM>' of the center adapter <NUM>. The center adapter <NUM> may include a top surface <NUM> and the top leg <NUM> of the center adapter cover <NUM>' may rise vertically above the center adapter <NUM> while the bottom leg <NUM> of the center adapter cover <NUM>' may extend vertically below the center adapter <NUM>. This may help to protect the adapter as material passes over and underneath the cover (see material flow path <NUM> in <FIG>).

To that end, the tool <NUM> may define a tool top surface <NUM> and the center adapter cover <NUM>' may define a cover top surface <NUM> that blends with the tool top surface <NUM>. The tool <NUM> may also defines a tool bottom surface. Other configurations for these various features are possible in other embodiments.

Other features will now be described that may allow material to flow along the material flow path <NUM>, etc. over the adapter and cover. For example, the front face portion <NUM> may include a front radial surface <NUM> interposed between the tool top surface <NUM> and the cover top surface <NUM>. Hence, these features may be configured to provide a material flow path <NUM> along the tool top surface <NUM> over the cover top surface <NUM>. Moreover, the front face portion <NUM> of the center adapter cover <NUM>' defines a front face portion perimeter <NUM> and the front radial surface <NUM> may extend completely along the front face portion perimeter <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Other features may be provided that allow a reversal of the flow of material. For example, the top leg <NUM> of the center adapter cover <NUM>' defines a top rear chamfer <NUM> that is angled from the cover top surface <NUM> toward the first leg <NUM> of the center adapter <NUM>.

Referring back to <FIG>, and <FIG>, yet another embodiment of an adapter cover may be seen that may take the form of a center adapter cover or a corner adapter cover. Focusing on <FIG>, the adapter cover <NUM> may comprise a shell body <NUM> including an exterior surface <NUM> and an interior surface <NUM>. The shell body <NUM> may also define a vertical direction <NUM>, a horizontal direction <NUM>, and a vertical plane <NUM> (may be a plane of symmetry <NUM>' but not necessarily so, see <FIG>). The shell body <NUM> may also comprise a front face portion <NUM> defining a thru-hole <NUM> configured to allow a nose portion <NUM> of an adapter <NUM> to pass horizontally through the thru-hole <NUM> past the interior surface <NUM> and then past the exterior surface <NUM>. A top single leg <NUM> may be provided extending horizontally from the front face portion <NUM> and defining an adapter cover key <NUM> on the interior surface <NUM>. Also, a top leg side portion <NUM> (see <FIG>) may be provided defining a concave arcuate portion <NUM> extending rearward from the front face portion <NUM>. A convex arcuate portion <NUM> may extend horizontally from the concave arcuate portion <NUM>, terminating in a vertical rear surface <NUM>.

Looking at <FIG>, the adapter cover key <NUM> may be spaced away from the vertical rear surface <NUM> and may define a vertical adapter key dimension <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>, a horizontal key height <NUM> ranging from <NUM> to <NUM>, and a lateral key width <NUM>. A ratio of the horizontal key height <NUM> to the vertical adapter key dimension <NUM> may range from <NUM> to <NUM>. Other dimensions and ratios are possible in other embodiments. For the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the horizontal key height exceeds the vertical adapter key dimension, and the vertical adapter key dimension exceeds the lateral key width.

As depicted in <FIG>, the thru-hole <NUM> may define a trapezoidal perimeter <NUM> with a right side edge <NUM>, a left side edge <NUM>, and a top edge <NUM>. The thru-hole <NUM> may also define a bottom open end <NUM> with a bottom open end lateral width 1036w that ranges from <NUM> to <NUM> of the total width W <NUM> of the adapter cover in some embodiments of the present disclosure.

The top leg <NUM> may terminate along the horizontal direction <NUM> (or plane) in a U-shaped portion <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>). The top leg <NUM> may further comprise a chamfer <NUM> extending horizontally from the rear U-shaped portion <NUM> toward the front face portion <NUM>.

The top single leg may take the form of a top bifurcated leg <NUM> extending horizontally from the front face portion <NUM>. The top bifurcated leg <NUM> may include a shelf <NUM> spanning horizontally along the front face portion <NUM>, and define a top vertical slot <NUM> splitting the top bifurcated leg <NUM> into a right fork portion <NUM> and a left fork portion <NUM>.

The top bifurcated leg <NUM> may include a V-shaped pad <NUM> disposed on top of the shelf <NUM>, and the right fork portion <NUM> and the left fork portion <NUM> may extend from the shelf <NUM>. Also, the top bifurcated leg <NUM> may further define a cutout <NUM> extending horizontally on top of the V-shaped pad <NUM> and through the V-shaped pad <NUM>.

<FIG> depict a work implement assembly <NUM> according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. The work implement assembly <NUM> may comprise a base edge <NUM>, a corner adapter cover <NUM> including a shell body <NUM> including an exterior surface <NUM> and an interior surface <NUM> (see <FIG>).

In <FIG>, the corner adapter <NUM> may be attached to the base edge <NUM>. A tool <NUM> may be attached to the nose portion <NUM> in a manner as previously described herein. In <FIG>, the work implement assembly <NUM> may also include a side edge <NUM>. The corner adapter cover <NUM> may be sandwiched between the tool <NUM> and the corner adapter <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the corner adapter <NUM> may include a top surface <NUM> and the top bifurcated leg <NUM> of the corner adapter cover <NUM> may rise vertically above the center adapter <NUM>. The side edge <NUM> may be disposed in the top vertical slot <NUM> of the corner adapter cover <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>) and in the vertical slot <NUM> of the corner adapter <NUM> (see <FIG>).

With continued reference to <FIG>, the tool <NUM> may define a tool top surface <NUM> and the corner adapter cover <NUM> may define a corner adapter cover top surface <NUM> that at least partially blends with the tool top surface <NUM>. Furthermore, the tool <NUM> may define a tool bottom surface <NUM>.

The front face portion <NUM> of the corner adapter cover <NUM> may include a front radial surface <NUM> interposed between the tool top surface <NUM> and the corner adapter cover top surface <NUM>, being configured to provide a flow path along the tool top surface <NUM> over the corner adapter cover top surface <NUM>.

For a similar purpose, the front face portion <NUM> of the corner adapter cover <NUM> may define a front face portion perimeter <NUM>. The front radial surface <NUM> may extend completely along the front face portion perimeter <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Other streamlining features may be provided. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the top bifurcated leg <NUM> may further define a cutout <NUM> extending horizontally on top of the V-shaped pad <NUM> and through the V-shaped pad <NUM>. The work implement assembly 100f may further comprise a side edge protector <NUM> attached to the side edge <NUM> that includes a V-shaped front portion <NUM> seated in the cutout <NUM>. The V-shaped front portion <NUM> may define a top vertex <NUM> while the V-shaped pad <NUM> may define a bottom vertex <NUM> that is positioned proximate to the top vertex <NUM>. These features may allow material to flow more easily into and along the side of the work implement assembly 100f. Other configurations for these various features are possible and these various features may be omitted in other embodiments of the present disclosure.

Again, it should be noted that any of the dimensions, angles, surface areas and/or configurations of various features may be varied as desired or needed including those not specifically mentioned herein. Although not specifically discussed, blends such as fillets are shown to connect the various surfaces. These may be omitted in other embodiments and it is to be understood that their presence may be ignored sometimes when reading the present specification unless specifically mentioned.

In practice, a machine, a work implement assembly, a center adapter, a corner adapter, a load sharing block, center adapter cover, corner adapter cover, and/or a base edge may be manufactured, bought, or sold to retrofit a machine or a work implement assembly in the field in an aftermarket context, or alternatively, may be manufactured, bought, sold or otherwise obtained in an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) context.

Any of the aforementioned components may be made from any suitable material including iron, grey-cast iron, steel, etc..

It will be appreciated that the foregoing description provides examples of the disclosed assembly and technique. However, it is contemplated that other implementations of the disclosure may differ in detail from the foregoing examples. All references to the disclosure or examples thereof are intended to reference the particular example being discussed at that point and are not intended to imply any limitation as to the scope of the disclosure more generally. All language of distinction and disparagement with respect to certain features is intended to indicate a lack of preference for those features, but not to exclude such from the scope of the disclosure entirely unless otherwise indicated.

Claim 1:
A base edge (<NUM>) of a work implement assembly comprising:
a body (<NUM>) including a working edge (<NUM>) defining a lateral direction (<NUM>) and a direction of assembly (<NUM>) perpendicular to the lateral direction (<NUM>), the body (<NUM>) further defining
a first lateral end (<NUM>) and a second lateral end (<NUM>);
a plurality of vertical mounting mechanism receiving apertures (<NUM>);
a plurality of center notches (<NUM>) extending from the working edge (<NUM>); and
a first end notch (<NUM>) disposed proximate to the first lateral end (<NUM>) and a second end notch (<NUM>') disposed proximate to the second lateral end (<NUM>), the first end notch (<NUM>) and the second end notch (<NUM>') extending from the working edge (<NUM>);
characterised in that each of the plurality of center notches (<NUM>) and the first and the second end notches (<NUM>, <NUM>') includes a different configuration, the first and the second end notch (<NUM>, <NUM>') defining a notch depth (<NUM>) along direction of assembly (<NUM>), and the first and the second end notches (<NUM>, <NUM>') further includes a straight middle portion (<NUM>) straddled laterally by a first arcuate corner portion (<NUM>) and a second arcuate corner portion (<NUM>'), the straight middle portion (<NUM>) defining a lateral straight middle portion width (W726), and the notch depth (<NUM>) ranges from <NUM> multiplied by the lateral straight middle portion width (W726) to <NUM> multiplied by the lateral straight middle portion width (W726).