Patent Description:
Earth-working machines, such as, for example, excavators, wheel loaders, hydraulic mining shovels, cable shovels, bucket wheels, bulldozers, and draglines, are generally used for digging or ripping into the earth or rock and/or moving loosened work material from one place to another at a worksite. These earth-working machines include various earth-working implements, such as a bucket or a blade, for excavating or moving the work material. These implements may be subjected to extreme wear from the abrasion and impacts experienced during the earth-working applications.

To protect these implements against wear, and thereby prolong the useful life of the implements, various ground engaging tools, such as teeth, edge protectors, and other wear members, may be provided to the earth-working implements in the areas where the most damaging abrasions and impacts occur. These ground engaging tools are removably attached to the implements using customized retainer systems, so that worn or damaged ground engaging tools may be readily removed and replaced with new ground engaging tools. Vibrations or loads on the implements or the ground engaging tools may cause a movement or a rotation of the ground engaging tools. This movement or rotation may cause a ground engaging tool to rotate to an unlocked position, resulting in the ground engaging tool coming unattached from the customized retainer system and the implements.

<CIT> discloses a retainer sleeve for use with a lock in a ground engaging tool with a lock cavity, the lock having an outer surface and a detent recess. The retainer sleeve includes a skirt extending part way around a retainer axis, forming an inner surface shaped to rotatably receive the outer surface of the lock. The skirt includes a first plate, a second plate located proximate to the first plate, and a center bend circumferentially extending between the first plate and second plate with respect to the retainer axis. The retainer sleeve further includes a first leg joined to the first plate, extending away from the retainer axis, and formed to mate with the lock cavity of the ground engaging tool. The retainer sleeve further includes a second leg joined to the second plate, extending away from the retainer axis, and formed to mate with the lock cavity of the ground engaging tool.

The retainer sleeve of the present disclosure solves one or more of the problems set forth above and/or other problems in the art.

In some implementations, a retainer sleeve for use with a lock in a ground engaging tool with a lock cavity includes a body including an at least partially annular configuration defining a retainer axis, the body including: an inner surface configured to rotatably receive an outer surface of the lock; a plurality of plates circumferentially joined together with respect to the retainer axis, wherein a first plate of the plurality of plates includes a first leg joined to the first plate extending away from the retainer axis and configured to contact the lock cavity; and an anti-rotation feature, disposed on the first plate, extending inward from the inner surface toward the retainer axis, the anti-rotation feature including a locking surface configured to contact a lock skirt of the lock, the locking surface disposed at a first angle with respect to a bottom end of the first plate.

In some implementations, a retainer sleeve for use with a lock in a ground engaging tool includes a plurality of plates joined together to form an annular shape around a retainer axis; an anti-rotation feature, disposed on an inner surface of a first plate of the plurality of plates, extending inward toward the retainer axis, the anti-rotation feature including a locking surface configured to prevent a rotation of the lock relative to the retainer axis, wherein the locking surface is disposed at a first angle relative to a bottom end of the first plate and the locking surface is substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the first plate; and a detent projection extending from a side of a second plate of the plurality of plates configured to engage a detent recess of the lock to releasably hold the lock.

In some implementations, a retainer system for a ground engaging tool includes a lock including: a head portion having a tool interface; a lock skirt extending from the head portion and including an outer surface, the lock skirt including an angled surface; and a retainer sleeve including: a body including an at least partially annular configuration around a retainer axis; an anti-rotation feature, disposed on an inner surface of the body, extending inward toward the retainer axis, the anti-rotation feature including a locking surface configured to contact the angled surface of the lock skirt, wherein the locking surface is disposed at a first angle relative to a bottom end of the body, wherein the first angle substantially corresponds to the angled surface; and a plurality of legs extending from a top end of the body away from the retainer axis, wherein at least two legs of the plurality of legs have different lengths.

This disclosure relates to a retainer sleeve, which is applicable to any machine that includes a removable ground engaging tool. For example, the machine may be an excavator, a backhoe loader, a wheel loader, a hydraulic mining shovel, a cable shovel, a skid steer loader, a tractor, a bucket wheel, a bulldozer, and/or a dragline, among other examples.

<FIG> is a perspective view of a loader bucket having a plurality of ground engaging tools described herein. <FIG> illustrates an excavator bucket assembly <NUM> as an exemplary implement of an earth-working machine. The excavator bucket assembly <NUM> includes a bucket <NUM> used for excavating work material in a known manner. The bucket <NUM> may include a variety of ground engaging tools. For example, the bucket <NUM> may include a plurality of tooth assemblies <NUM>, as ground engaging tools, attached to a base edge <NUM> of the bucket <NUM>. The tooth assemblies <NUM> may be secured to the bucket <NUM> employing retainer systems described herein. While various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in connection with a particular ground engaging tool (e.g., tooth assembly <NUM>), retainer systems and retainer sleeves described herein may be applied to, or used in connection with, any other type of ground engaging tools or components. Further, one or more features described in connection with one embodiment may be implemented in any of the other disclosed embodiments unless otherwise specifically noted.

Other examples may differ from what was described in connection with <FIG>.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view of a tooth assembly <NUM> described herein. The tooth assembly <NUM> may include an adapter <NUM> configured to engage the base edge <NUM> of the bucket <NUM> or other suitable support structure of an implement. The tooth assembly <NUM> may also include a ground-engaging tip, or tip, <NUM> formed to be removably attached to the adapter <NUM>. The tooth assembly <NUM> may further include a retainer system <NUM> formed to secure the tip <NUM> to the adapter <NUM>. The tip <NUM> endures the majority of the impact and abrasion caused by engagement with work material and wears down more quickly and breaks more frequently than the adapter <NUM>. Consequently, multiple tips <NUM> may be attached to the adapter <NUM>, worn down, and replaced before the adapter <NUM> itself needs to be replaced. As described in more detail herein, various exemplary embodiments of the retainer system <NUM>, consistent with the present disclosure, may facilitate attachment of ground engaging tools and tips <NUM> to and from the adapter <NUM> attached to an implement.

The adapter <NUM> may include a first mounting leg <NUM> and a second mounting leg <NUM> defining a recess <NUM> therebetween for receiving the base edge <NUM>. The adapter <NUM> may be secured in place on the base edge <NUM> by attaching the first mounting leg <NUM> and the second mounting leg <NUM> to the base edge <NUM> using any suitable connection method. For example, the mounting legs <NUM> and <NUM> and the base edge <NUM> may have corresponding apertures (not shown) through which any suitable fasteners such as bolts or rivets may be inserted to hold the adapter <NUM> in place. Additionally, or alternatively, the mounting legs <NUM> and <NUM> may be welded to the corresponding top and bottom surfaces of the base edge <NUM>. Any other connection method and/or configuration known in the art may be used. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, an adapter <NUM> may be configured to use any of the retainer systems <NUM> described herein to secure the adapter <NUM> to a ground engaging tip <NUM>.

The adapter <NUM> may include a nose <NUM> extending in a forward direction. Nose <NUM> may be configured to be received in a mounting cavity <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) of tip <NUM>. Nose <NUM> may be configured to support the tip <NUM> during use of the bucket <NUM> and to facilitate retention of the tip <NUM> on the nose <NUM> when bearing the load of the work material.

The nose <NUM> may include an integral post <NUM> extending from each lateral side <NUM> and <NUM>. The post <NUM> may have various shapes and sizes. In one exemplary embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, the post <NUM> may have a frustoconical shape. As described in more detail herein, the posts <NUM> may cooperate with the retainer system <NUM> to secure the tip <NUM> to the adapter <NUM>.

The tip <NUM> may have various outer shapes. For example, the tip <NUM> may generally taper as it extends forward. An upper surface <NUM> of the tip <NUM> may slope downward as it extends forward, and a lower surface <NUM> of the tip <NUM> may extend generally upward as it extends forward. Alternatively, the lower surface <NUM> may extend generally straight or downward as it extends forward. At a forward end of the tip <NUM>, the tip <NUM> may have a wedge-shaped edge <NUM>.

The tip <NUM> may be secured to the adapter <NUM> via the retainer system <NUM>. The retainer system <NUM> may include a lock <NUM> and a retainer sleeve <NUM>. The tip <NUM> and/or the adapter <NUM> may have various configurations for accommodating the lock <NUM> and the retainer sleeve <NUM> therein. For example, the tip <NUM> may include a lock cavity <NUM> in lateral sides <NUM> (or in each lateral side <NUM> of the tip <NUM>) for housing the lock <NUM> and retainer sleeve <NUM>. The lock <NUM> and the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be seated within the lock cavity <NUM> when assembled to the tip <NUM>. The tip <NUM> may also include a lock bulge <NUM> extending outward of each lock cavity <NUM>. The lock cavity <NUM> may include a shoulder <NUM> extending adjacent the circumferential outer ends of the lock cavity <NUM>. While the exemplary embodiment shown in <FIG> has the lock cavity <NUM> and the lock bulge <NUM> on each lateral side <NUM> of the tip <NUM>, the tip <NUM> may have different numbers and/or arrangements of lock cavities <NUM> and lock bulges <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross section of a portion of the tip of the tooth assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>, with a lock <NUM> and a retainer sleeve <NUM> positioned in a lock cavity <NUM> of the tip <NUM> described herein. The tip <NUM> may define the mounting cavity <NUM> inside the tip <NUM> having a complementary configuration relative to the nose <NUM> of the adapter <NUM>. The tip <NUM> and/or the adapter <NUM> may have various configurations for accommodating the lock <NUM> and the retainer sleeve <NUM> therein. For example, the lock <NUM> and the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be seated within the lock cavity <NUM> when assembled to the tip <NUM>.

The lock <NUM> and the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be configured to fit within an inner surface <NUM> of the lock cavity <NUM> in a manner allowing the lock <NUM> to rotate at least partially around a lock rotation axis <NUM> (not shown in <FIG>) relative to the retainer sleeve <NUM>. The retainer sleeve <NUM> may sit directly against the inner surface <NUM> of the lock cavity <NUM>, and the lock <NUM> may sit against an inner surface <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) of the retainer sleeve <NUM>. On a rear side of the lock cavity <NUM>, the lock cavity <NUM> may open into a side slot <NUM> that extends rearward from the lock cavity <NUM> along an inner surface <NUM> of the lateral side <NUM>. The side slot <NUM> may have a cross-section configured to allow passage of at least a portion of the post <NUM> of the adapter <NUM> being inserted from the rear end of the tip <NUM>.

<FIG> is a top perspective view of the lock <NUM> of the retainer system <NUM> described herein. The lock <NUM> may include a lock skirt <NUM> with an outer surface <NUM> that may extend circumferentially around and concentric with the lock rotation axis <NUM>. The lock skirt <NUM> may be substantially cylindrically shaped or conically shaped. The lock skirt <NUM> may have a detent recess <NUM> that may extend radially inward from the outer surface <NUM> of the lock skirt <NUM>. The detent recesses <NUM> may include a concave surface, such as a constant-radius curved surface, extending radially inward from the outer surface <NUM>.

The lock <NUM> may include a head portion <NUM> attached to the lock skirt <NUM> adjacent to an end of the lock skirt <NUM>. The head portion <NUM> may include a wall <NUM> extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to the lock rotation axis <NUM> and across the end of the lock skirt <NUM> adjacent to the head portion <NUM>. The head portion <NUM> may include a projection <NUM> extending from the wall <NUM> away from the lock skirt <NUM> along the lock rotation axis <NUM>. The projection <NUM> may include a substantially cylindrical outer surface <NUM> extending around most of the lock rotation axis <NUM> and a lock tab <NUM> extending radially outward relative to the lock rotation axis <NUM>. The lock <NUM> may include a tool interface <NUM> in the head portion <NUM> to facilitate rotating the lock <NUM> about the lock rotation axis <NUM>. The tool interface <NUM> may include any type of features formed to be engaged by a tool for applying torque to the lock <NUM> about the lock rotation axis <NUM>. The lock cavity <NUM> may provide an access opening for a tool to engage the tool interface <NUM>.

<FIG> is a bottom perspective view of the lock <NUM> described herein. The lock <NUM> may be configured to receive at least part of the post <NUM> of the adapter <NUM>. The lock <NUM> may include a lock slot <NUM> extending into the lock skirt <NUM>. The lock slot <NUM> may have an open end <NUM> between two circumferential ends of the lock skirt <NUM> and a closed end <NUM> adjacent to a middle portion of the lock skirt <NUM>. The lock slot <NUM> may have a size and shape such that the lock skirt <NUM> is configured to receive the post <NUM>. An inner surface <NUM> of the lock skirt <NUM> may be sloped so as to mate with the post <NUM> adjacent to the closed end <NUM> of the lock slot <NUM>.

In some implementations, the wall <NUM> may fully enclose the side of the lock slot <NUM> adjacent to the head portion <NUM>. The side of the head portion <NUM> opposite the lock slot <NUM> may include the projection <NUM> extending from the wall <NUM>. The lock tab <NUM> may extend transverse relative to the direction that the lock slot <NUM> extends from the open end <NUM> to the closed end <NUM>. In some implementations, at least one of (or both of) the circumferential ends of the lock skirt <NUM> may be angled with respect to a surface <NUM> of the lock slot <NUM>. For example, a circumferential end of the lock skirt <NUM> may extend from the surface <NUM> at an angle <NUM>. For example, the inner surface <NUM> of the lock skirt <NUM> may be sloped at the angle <NUM> (e.g., so as to mate with the post <NUM>). The angle <NUM> may be from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees.

<FIG> is a front perspective view of the retainer sleeve <NUM> described herein. Several of the elements shown are commonly shared elements and to improve the clarity and readability some of the reference numbers are not shown here and in other figures. The retainer sleeve <NUM> may have an at least partially annular configuration, defining a retainer axis <NUM>. For example, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be generally "C" shaped. The retainer sleeve <NUM> may include a body <NUM> extending along the entire "C" which may be circumferentially around, and concentric with, the retainer axis <NUM>. Therefore, the body <NUM> may extend circumferentially around and concentric with the lock rotation axis <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) when the retainer sleeve <NUM> is assembled with the lock <NUM> in the lock cavity <NUM>. The body <NUM> may form an annular shape, or a continuous "C" shape, that extends part way around the retainer axis <NUM>. The body <NUM> may extend <NUM> degrees or more around the retainer axis <NUM>. In some examples, the body <NUM> may extend approximately the same angular degree around the retainer axis <NUM> as the inner surface <NUM> of the lock cavity <NUM> extends around the lock rotation axis <NUM>. The body <NUM> may be configured to receive the lock <NUM>.

The body <NUM> may include a plurality of plates, such a first plate 608a, a second plate 608b, a third plate 608c, a fourth plate 608d, and a fifth plate 608e. In one implementation, there may be five plates 608a-e. However, in other implementations, there may be one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or more plates. Each plate of the plurality of plates 608a-e may be substantially parallel to the retainer axis <NUM>. Alternatively, each plate of the plurality of plates 608a-e may be angled toward the retainer axis <NUM> or away from the retainer axis <NUM>. The plurality of plates 608a-e may form the inner surface <NUM> (shown pointing to the third plate 608c) or form a portion of the inner surface <NUM>. Each of the plurality of plates 608a-e may have a flat shape and may be generally rectangular. Alternatively, each of the plurality of plates 608a-e may have a curved shape. Each of the plurality of plates 608a-e may include lower recesses and upper recesses to form a rectangle with concave curves at the corners of the rectangle (e.g., to provide stress relief during the manufacture and forming process of the retainer sleeve <NUM>).

A plate (shown with the fourth plate 608d in <FIG>) may include a first side <NUM>, a second side <NUM>, a top end <NUM>, and a bottom end <NUM> that form the sides of a generally rectangular shape of the fourth plate 608d. The descriptions directed at the first side <NUM>, the second side <NUM>, the top end <NUM>, and the bottom end <NUM> for the fourth plate 608d may be similarly used for the descriptions of a first side <NUM>, a second side <NUM>, a top end <NUM>, and a bottom end <NUM> for the first plate 608a, second plate 608b, third plate 608c, and/or fifth plate 608e.

The plurality of plates 608a-e may be joined together (e.g., circumferentially joined together) in an at least partially annular configuration (e.g., the plurality of plurality of plates 608a-e may be joined together to be generally "C" shaped). For example, the first side <NUM> of the second plate 608b may extend from the second side <NUM> of the first plate 608a. The plurality of plates 608a-e may each be joined by a center bend <NUM> (only shown between the fourth plate 608d and the fifth plate 608e for clarity). The center bend <NUM> may circumferentially extended between at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e to another of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The center bend <NUM> may be generally curved and extend generally parallel with the plurality of plates 608a-e and the retainer axis <NUM>. The center bend(s) <NUM> may join the plurality of plates 608a-e together to form a substantially solid and/or continuous body <NUM> (e.g., in an at least partially annular configuration about the retainer axis <NUM>).

The retainer sleeve <NUM> may include an anti-rotation feature <NUM>. The anti-rotation feature may be disposed on the body <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM>. For example, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be disposed on a first plate of the plurality of plates 608a-e (shown as the fourth plate 608d in <FIG>). For example, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be disposed on a plate, of the plurality of plates 608a-e, that is adjacent to two plates of the plurality of plates 608a-e. In other words, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be disposed on any plate 608b-d (e.g., but not the first plate 608a or the fifth plate 608e). Alternatively, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be disposed on the first plate 608a or the fifth plate 608e. The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may extend inward from the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> toward the retainer axis <NUM>. While only one anti-rotation feature <NUM> is depicted and described herein, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may include multiple anti-rotation features <NUM>.

The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may include a locking surface <NUM>. The locking surface <NUM> may be configured to contact the lock skirt <NUM> of the lock <NUM> (e.g., if the lock <NUM> rotates about the lock rotation axis <NUM> when the retainer sleeve <NUM> is assembled with the lock <NUM> in the lock cavity <NUM>, as described in more detail elsewhere herein). The locking surface <NUM> may be a substantially flat surface (e.g., to prevent the lock <NUM> from rotating past the anti-rotation feature <NUM> about the lock rotation axis <NUM>). Alternatively, the locking surface <NUM> may be an at least partially curved surface. The locking surface may be substantially perpendicular to the inner surface <NUM> of the body <NUM> (e.g., and the fourth plate 608d). For example, the locking surface <NUM> may be a substantially flat surface and/or may be substantially perpendicular to the inner surface <NUM> to ensure that the lock <NUM> is unable to rotate past the anti-rotation feature <NUM> about the lock rotation axis <NUM> without a significant amount of force or torque being applied to the lock <NUM>. The locking surface <NUM> may face a radial end <NUM> of the body <NUM>.

The locking surface <NUM> may be disposed at a first angle <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) relative to the bottom end <NUM> of the fourth plate 608d. The locking surface <NUM> may be radially disposed at a second angle <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) with respect to the radial end <NUM> of the body <NUM> and the retainer axis <NUM>. A size of the second angle <NUM> may substantially correspond to an amount of rotation that would cause the lock <NUM>, when rotated about the lock rotation axis <NUM>, to move into an unlocked position. In other words, the size of the second angle <NUM> may be less than the amount of rotation that would cause the lock <NUM>, when rotated about the lock rotation axis <NUM>, to move into an unlocked position.

The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may include a shell <NUM>. The shell <NUM> may define a body of the anti-rotation feature <NUM>. The shell <NUM> may define a cavity <NUM> (e.g., a cave) between the shell <NUM> and the inner surface <NUM>. A thickness of the shell <NUM> may substantially correspond to a thickness of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The locking surface <NUM> may include a first aperture <NUM> to the cavity <NUM>. Alternatively, the locking surface <NUM> may be a solid surface. The locking surface <NUM> may have different shapes and/or geometries. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the locking surface may include a first curve and a second curve extending away from the inner surface <NUM>. The first curve and the second curve may have the same radius or may have different radii. The first curve and the second curve may join with a flat edge to form the shape of the locking surface <NUM>. Alternatively, the locking surface <NUM> may not have any curves (e.g., may have a rectangular shape or a square shape).

The shell <NUM> of the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may have different shapes and/or geometries. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the shell <NUM> may slope from the locking surface <NUM> to the inner surface <NUM>. In some examples, the shell <NUM> may include at least one curved edge <NUM> and at least one flat edge <NUM>. The curved edge <NUM> may include one or more bends. In some examples, as shown in <FIG>, the curved edge <NUM> may include two bends. The curved edge <NUM> may include bends and have the same radius and/or bends having different radii. The locking surface <NUM> may define the flat edge <NUM>. For example, the shell <NUM> may have a substantially "D" shape. Other shapes and geometries of the shell <NUM> are possible. For example, the shell <NUM> may not have any curved edges <NUM> and may be rectangular in shape.

The body <NUM> may include one or more detent projections 640a and 640b for engaging corresponding detent recesses <NUM> of the lock <NUM>. The body <NUM> may include detent projections 640a and 640b extending circumferentially from the first plate 608a and the fifth plate 608e. Detent projections 640a and 640b may be located at various positions on the retainer sleeve <NUM>. For example, detent projections 640a and 640b may be spaced approximately <NUM> degrees from one another around the retainer axis <NUM> at opposite ends of the "C" shaped retainer sleeve <NUM>.

Detent projections 640a and 640b may have various shapes. In one exemplary embodiment, each detent projection 640a and 640b may include a detent first portion <NUM>, a detent second portion <NUM>, and a detent third portion <NUM> (only shown on detent projection 640a in <FIG> for clarity). Alternatively, the detent projections 640a and 640b may have a single portion with a curvature of a constant radius. The detent first portion <NUM> may extend from the first plate 608a or the fifth plate 608e and have a concave shape relative to the retainer axis <NUM>. Alternatively, the detent first portion <NUM> may be straight, have a convex shape or may have a varying curvature with multiple radii. The detent second portion <NUM> may extend from the detent first portion <NUM> and have a convex shape relative to the retainer axis <NUM>. Alternatively, the detent second portion <NUM> may be straight and have a concave surface or may have a varying curvature with multiple radii. The detent third portion <NUM> may extend from the detent second portion <NUM>, opposite from the detent first portion <NUM>. The detent third portion <NUM> may have a concave surface or convex surface with respect to the retainer axis <NUM> and have a constant curvature or varying curvature. The detent projections 640a and 640b may include detent ends <NUM> that are spaced from each other at the circumferential opposite ends of the body <NUM> and are at ends of the detent third portions <NUM>.

The retainer sleeve <NUM> may include a first bend <NUM> (only shown with fifth plate 608e for clarity) extending from each of the bottom ends <NUM> of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The first bend <NUM> may flexibly extend inward and be generally transverse from at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e with respect to the retainer axis <NUM>. The first bend <NUM> may be shaped to transition from being oriented generally parallel with at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e to being generally transverse to at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e.

The retainer sleeve <NUM> may include a central tab <NUM> (only shown proximate to the third plate 608c for clarity) extending from at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The central tab <NUM> may extend from the first bend <NUM>. The central tab <NUM> may extend generally parallel from first bend <NUM> inward toward the retainer axis <NUM>. The central tab <NUM> may have a "D" shape with the straight side joined to the first bend <NUM> or the bottom end <NUM> of at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e and the curved side located opposite of the straight side. The retainer sleeve <NUM> may include multiple central tabs <NUM>.

The retainer sleeve <NUM> may include an end tab <NUM> (only shown proximate to fifth plate 608e for clarity) or multiple end tabs <NUM> disposed proximate to one of the detent ends <NUM> and extending from the first bend <NUM>. The end tab <NUM> may extend from the bottom end <NUM> of at least one of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The end tab <NUM> may extend generally parallel from first bend <NUM> inward toward the retainer axis <NUM>. The end tabs <NUM> may include protrusions <NUM> that may extend generally parallel and circumferentially away from the central tabs <NUM>. The protrusions <NUM> may provide additional engagement with the lock skirt <NUM> of the lock <NUM> while the lock <NUM> is in a locked position. The central tabs <NUM> may be positioned circumferentially between the end tabs <NUM>.

The retainer sleeve <NUM> may include a plurality of legs 658a-e. For example, the plurality of legs 658a-e may include a first leg 658a, a second leg 658b, a third leg 658c, a fourth leg 658d, and a fifth leg 658e. For example, each leg 658a-e may extend from a plate of the plurality of plates 608a-e. The legs 658a-e are described in more detail in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>.

<FIG> is a rear perspective view of the retainer sleeve <NUM> described herein. As shown in <FIG>, each of the legs 658a-e may include a second bend <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may include five legs. Alternatively, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may include two, three, four, six, seven, or more legs 658a-e. A number of legs 658a-e may correspond to a number of the plurality of plates 608a-e.

Each of the legs 658a-e may include outer surfaces <NUM> which collectively form a segmented frustoconical surface generally configured into a segmented "C" shape (or a segmented annular configuration). The legs 658a-e may be formed for engagement in the lock cavity <NUM> of the tip <NUM>. The legs 658a-e may be flexibly joined to the body <NUM> such that the retainer sleeve <NUM> is compressible for insertion into the lock cavity <NUM> and expandable when the retainer sleeve <NUM> is assembled inside the lock cavity <NUM>.

The first leg 658a, the third leg 658c, and the fifth leg 658e may include a second bend <NUM>, a first extension <NUM>, a third bend <NUM>, and a second extension <NUM>. Each leg 658a-e may be similarly shaped, with the differences in shape related to a third bend <NUM> and the second extension <NUM> being included on one or more of the legs, such as the first leg 658a, the third leg 658c, and/or the fifth leg 658e (e.g., and not included on one or more other legs). For example, every other leg of the legs 658a-e may include a third bend <NUM> and a second extension <NUM>. Alternatively, each of (or none of) the legs 658a-e may include a third bend <NUM> and a second extension <NUM>. For example, legs 658a-e that include the second extension <NUM> may have a different length than a leg 658a-e that does not include the second extension <NUM>.

The third bend <NUM> may flexibly extend from the first extension <NUM>. The third bend <NUM> may transition from oriented outwards to oriented inwards, with respect to the retainer axis <NUM>. The third bend <NUM> may have a constant radius that may be from <NUM> millimeters (mm) to <NUM>. The third bend <NUM> may transition from the first extension <NUM> to the second extension <NUM> at an angle. The angle may be from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees with respect to the first extension <NUM>. The second extension <NUM> may extend downward and inward from the third bend <NUM> with respect to the retainer axis <NUM>. The second extension <NUM> may extend from the first extension <NUM> opposite from the first plate 608a. The first extension <NUM> may taper from wider proximate the third bend <NUM> or first plate 608a to narrower proximate an end of second extension <NUM>.

The body <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM> may include a second aperture <NUM>. For example, the fourth plate 608d may include the second aperture <NUM>. In other words, the plate of the plurality of plates 608a-e that includes the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may include the second aperture <NUM>. The second aperture <NUM> may define a second opening to the cavity <NUM> defined by the shell <NUM> of the anti-rotation feature <NUM>. A shape of the second aperture <NUM> may correspond to a shape of the shell <NUM> of the anti-rotation feature <NUM>. For example, the second aperture <NUM> may have a substantially "D" shape, with a flat edge and a curved edge. Alternatively, the second aperture <NUM> may not have any curved edges (e.g., may be rectangular in shape). For example, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be a louver formed from the fourth plate 608d, such that the first aperture <NUM> and the second aperture <NUM> provide openings to the cavity <NUM> defined by the shell <NUM> of the anti-rotation feature <NUM>. In some examples, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be a punch from the fourth plate 608d. The first aperture <NUM> and the second aperture <NUM> may define a passage or hole through the fourth plate 608d.

<FIG> is a top view of the retainer sleeve <NUM> described herein. As shown in <FIG>, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may have a substantially annular shape around the retainer axis <NUM>. For example, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may form a "C" shape around the retainer axis <NUM>. The retainer sleeve <NUM> may form the substantially annular shape via the center bend(s) <NUM> that join the plurality of plates 608a-e together.

The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be radially disposed at the second angle <NUM> with respect to the radial end <NUM> (e.g., and/or a detent projection 640a or 640b) of the body <NUM> and the retainer axis <NUM>. For example, the locking surface <NUM> (e.g., a front radial edge of the locking surface <NUM>) may be disposed at the second angle <NUM> with respect to the radial end <NUM> (e.g., and/or a detent projection 640a or 640b) of the body <NUM> and the retainer axis <NUM>. A size of the second angle <NUM> may substantially correspond to an amount of rotation that would cause the lock <NUM>, when rotated about the lock rotation axis <NUM>, to move into an unlocked position. In other words, the size of the second angle <NUM> may be less than the amount of rotation that would cause the lock <NUM>, when rotated about the lock rotation axis <NUM>, to move into an unlocked position. For example, the second angle <NUM> may be from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees.

<FIG> is a cross section view of the central tab <NUM>, the fourth plate 608d, and the fourth leg 658d described herein. The second leg 658b may be shaped similar to the fourth leg 658d, and the similar features described in connection with the fourth leg 658d may be used for the features of the second leg 658b.

The first bend <NUM> may transition from the central tab <NUM> to the bottom end <NUM> of the fourth plate 608d at a third angle <NUM>. The third angle <NUM> may be from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees from the fourth plate 608d. The second bend <NUM> may flexibly extend from the top end <NUM> of the fourth plate 608d, opposite the first bend <NUM>. The second bend <NUM> may extend outward with respect to the retainer axis <NUM>. The second bend <NUM> may be formed with a constant radius that may be from <NUM> to <NUM>. The second bend <NUM> may transition from the fourth plate 608d to the first extension <NUM> at a fourth angle <NUM>. The fourth angle <NUM> may be from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees from the fourth plate 608d.

The first extension <NUM> may extend away from the second bend <NUM> or the fourth plate 608d and outward from the second bend <NUM> or the fourth plate 608d with respect to the retainer axis <NUM>. The first extension <NUM> may taper from wider proximate the second bend <NUM> or the fourth plate 608d to narrower opposite the fourth plate 608d or proximate an end of the first extension <NUM>. For example, the taper may be from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees. The first extension <NUM> may have a curvature of constant radius, such as a radius from <NUM> to <NUM>. The first extension <NUM> may have a concave curvature with respect to the fourth plate 608d. In another example, the first extension <NUM> may be straight or have a varying curvature.

As shown in <FIG>, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may extend from the fourth plate 608d (or the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM>) toward the retainer axis <NUM>. For example, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may extend from <NUM> to <NUM> from the fourth plate 608d (or the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM>).

<FIG> is a front view of the fourth plate 608d with the anti-rotation feature <NUM> described herein. <FIG> shows a cutaway front view of the retainer sleeve <NUM>, showing only the fourth plate 608d and a portion of the fifth plate 608e for clarity.

The locking surface <NUM> of the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be disposed at the first angle <NUM> relative to the bottom end <NUM> of the fourth plate 608d. The first angle <NUM> may be from <NUM> degrees to <NUM> degrees. In some implementations, the first angle <NUM> may be approximately <NUM> degrees. The first angle <NUM> may substantially correspond to the angle <NUM> of the lock skirt <NUM> of the lock <NUM>. For example, the first angle <NUM> and the angle <NUM> may be supplementary angles (such that a sum of the first angle <NUM> and the angle <NUM> is approximately <NUM> degrees). This may enable an increased locking surface area when the locking surface <NUM> contacts a circumferential end of the lock skirt <NUM> (e.g., a surface area of the locking surface <NUM> that contacts the circumferential end of the lock skirt <NUM> may be larger because the first angle <NUM> and the angle <NUM> are approximately supplementary angles). Alternatively, the first angle <NUM> may be larger than <NUM> degrees. For example, the locking surface <NUM> of the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be substantially perpendicular to the bottom end <NUM> of the fourth plate 608d.

The shell <NUM> of the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may include one or more curved edges <NUM>. The one or more curved edges <NUM> may have a constant radius or may have varying radii. The one or more curved edges <NUM> may have a constant radius from <NUM> to <NUM>. The shell <NUM> may have a depth <NUM> and a width <NUM>. The depth <NUM> may be from <NUM> to <NUM>. The width <NUM> may define a length of the locking surface <NUM>. The width <NUM> may be from <NUM> to <NUM>. The depth <NUM> and/or the width <NUM> may be a function, or may depend on, a size of the retainer sleeve <NUM> and/or a size of the lock <NUM>.

The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be disposed at a first distance <NUM> from the bottom end <NUM> of the fourth plate 608d. The first distance <NUM> may be from <NUM> to <NUM>. The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be disposed approximately in the center of the fourth plate 608d with respect to the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM>. For example, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be disposed at a second distance <NUM> from the second side <NUM> of the fourth plate 608d. The second distance <NUM> may be from <NUM> to <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross section view of the fourth plate 608d with the anti-rotation feature <NUM> described herein. For example, the cross section view of the fourth plate may be from a plane A-A shown in <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG>, the locking surface <NUM> of the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be substantially flat and/or perpendicular to the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM>. As a result, the anti-rotation feature may be configured to prevent a rotation of the lock <NUM> with respect to the lock rotation axis <NUM> because the lock <NUM> may rotate past the anti-rotation feature <NUM> only if the anti-rotation feature <NUM> fails (e.g., the flat and/or perpendicular locking surface <NUM> may not allow the lock <NUM> to rotate past the anti-rotation feature <NUM> unless enough torque is applied to the lock <NUM> to cause the anti-rotation feature <NUM> to fail).

The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be a louver or a punch from the fourth plate 608d. For example, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may include the first aperture <NUM> in the locking surface <NUM> and the second aperture <NUM> in the body <NUM> and/or in the fourth plate 608d of the retainer sleeve <NUM>. The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may define an opening or a passage through the fourth plate 608d (e.g., from a back side of the fourth plate 608d to the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM>). The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may include the shell <NUM> that defines the cavity <NUM>. The shell <NUM> and/or the locking surface <NUM> may extend away from the inner surface <NUM> towards the retainer axis <NUM>. For example, the shell <NUM> and/or the locking surface <NUM> may extend from <NUM> to <NUM> away from the inner surface <NUM>.

The shell <NUM> may have a thickness that substantially corresponds to a thickness of the fourth plate 608d. For example, the shell <NUM> may extend from the fourth plate 608d. For example, the shell <NUM> may extend from the inner surface <NUM> of the fourth plate 608d to the locking surface <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the shell <NUM> may be sloped. For example, the shell <NUM> may include at least one bend. As shown in <FIG>, the shell <NUM> may include a fourth bend <NUM> and a fifth bend <NUM>. The fourth bend <NUM> may extend from the fourth plate 608d. The fourth bend <NUM> may be a convex bend with respect to the retainer axis <NUM>. The fourth bend <NUM> may have a constant radius that may be from <NUM> to <NUM>. The fifth bend <NUM> may extend from the fourth bend <NUM> to the locking surface <NUM> (or to a flat section of the shell <NUM>). The fourth bend <NUM> may be a concave bend with respect to the retainer axis <NUM>. The fourth bend <NUM> may have a constant radius that may be from <NUM> to <NUM>. Alternatively, the shell <NUM> may include a single bend or no bends. For example, the shell <NUM> may be rectangular in shape, rather than sloping or curved in shape.

<FIG> is a top view of an assembly of the lock <NUM> and the retainer sleeve <NUM> described herein. <FIG> depicts the lock <NUM> in a locked position. The body <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM> may include a continuous inner surface <NUM> facing toward the retainer axis <NUM>. The inner surface <NUM> may be formed by the plurality of plates 608a-e and center bend(s) <NUM>. The lock <NUM> may be configured to mate with the inner surface <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the lock <NUM> may include a lock skirt <NUM> with an outer surface <NUM> having substantially the same profile as the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM>. The outer surface <NUM> may be concentric with and/or extend circumferentially around the lock rotation axis <NUM>. The lock skirt <NUM> and the outer surface <NUM> may extend only partway around the lock rotation axis <NUM>. The lock <NUM> may be configured within the retainer sleeve <NUM> with the outer surface <NUM> of the lock <NUM> mated to the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM>. When the lock <NUM> is positioned within the retainer sleeve <NUM>, the lock rotation axis <NUM> may coincide with the retainer axis <NUM>.

The lock <NUM> may include the one or more detent recesses <NUM> configured to engage corresponding detent projections 640a and 640b of the retainer sleeve <NUM> to releasably hold the lock <NUM> in predetermined rotational positions about the lock rotation axis <NUM> (e.g., in the locked position). The detent recesses <NUM> may have a shape configured to mate with the detent projections 640a and 640b. Accordingly, the lock <NUM> may be positioned in the retainer sleeve <NUM> with the outer surface <NUM> mated against the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM> and with the detent projections 640a and 640b extending into the detent recesses <NUM>. The retainer sleeve <NUM> may be configured to deflect so as to allow the detent projections 640a and 640b to engage and/or disengage the detent recesses <NUM>. For example, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be constructed at least partially of a flexible material, including, but not limited to, a plastic material or an elastomeric material. In some implementations, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be constructed entirely of such a flexible material. Additionally, or alternatively, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be constructed of self-lubricating material that may either exude or shed lubricating substance. As another example, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be made of metal, such as steel. The retainer sleeve <NUM> made of such material may exhibit low friction while maintaining dimensional stability.

<FIG> is a cross section view of the assembly of the lock <NUM> and the retainer sleeve <NUM> described herein. <FIG> depicts the lock <NUM> in a rotated position. The lock <NUM> may be installed with the retainer sleeve <NUM> in the lock cavity <NUM> with the outer surface <NUM> of lock <NUM> mated to the central tab(s) <NUM>, the end tab(s) <NUM>, and the inner surface <NUM>. When the lock <NUM> is disposed in this position, the open end <NUM> of the lock slot <NUM> may face rearward, as shown in <FIG>. This position allows sliding insertion and removal of the post <NUM> into and out of the lock slot <NUM> through the open end <NUM>. Accordingly, this position of the lock <NUM> may be referred to as an unlocked position.

To lock the post <NUM> inside the lock slot <NUM>, the lock <NUM> may be rotated with respect to the lock rotation axis <NUM> to a locked position. In the locked position, the portion of lock skirt <NUM> adjacent to the closed end <NUM> may preclude sliding movement of the post <NUM> relative to the lock slot <NUM>, thereby preventing sliding movement of the tip <NUM> relative to the adapter <NUM>.

The anti-rotation feature <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be configured to allow the lock <NUM> to be rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position. For example, because the shell <NUM> of the anti-rotation feature <NUM> is sloped or curved, the lock <NUM> may be rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position when sufficient torque is applied to the lock <NUM>. However, the anti-rotation feature <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be configured to block the lock <NUM> from being rotated from the locked position to the unlocked position. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the locking surface <NUM> may prevent a rotation of the lock <NUM> past the anti-rotation feature <NUM>. For example, because the locking surface <NUM> is substantially flat and/or perpendicular to the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM>, the lock <NUM> may be prevented or blocked from rotating past the anti-rotation feature <NUM> about the lock rotation axis <NUM>. For example, in some cases, vibrations or force may cause the detent projections 640a, 640b, and/or detent recesses <NUM> to deflect and disengage from one another. When detent projections 640a, 640b and detent recesses <NUM> are disengaged from one another, the outer surface <NUM> of the lock skirt <NUM> may slide along the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM> as the lock <NUM> rotates around the lock rotation axis <NUM>. The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may block such rotation of the lock <NUM> to prevent the lock <NUM> from inadvertently rotating into the unlocked position.

<FIG> is a cross section view of an assembly of the tip <NUM>, the lock <NUM>, and the retainer sleeve <NUM> described herein. The retainer sleeve <NUM> may be formed to mate with the inner surface <NUM> of the lock cavity <NUM>. For example, the retainer sleeve <NUM> may include the legs 658a-e forming a frustoconical shape configured to mate with a corresponding frustoconical portion of the inner surface <NUM> in the lock cavity <NUM>. Therefore, the legs 658a-e may be configured to hold the retainer sleeve <NUM> and/or the lock <NUM> within the lock cavity <NUM>.

The retainer system <NUM> and ground engaging tools described herein may be applicable to various earth-working machines, such as, for example, excavators, wheel loaders, hydraulic mining shovels, cable shovels, bucket wheels, bulldozers, and draglines. When installed, the retainer system <NUM> and ground engaging tools described herein may protect various implements associated with the earth-working machines against wear in the areas where the most damaging abrasions and impacts occur and, thereby, prolong the useful life of the implements.

Some implementations described herein enable a secure and reliable attachment of ground engaging tools to various earth-working implements. For example, the retainer system <NUM> may include the lock <NUM> and the retainer sleeve <NUM>. To attach the tip <NUM> to the adapter <NUM>, the lock <NUM> and the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be assembled into the lock cavity <NUM>. The lock cavity <NUM> opens into the side slot <NUM> that extends rearward, which allows passage of the post <NUM> of the adapter <NUM>. Once post <NUM> is inserted inside the lock slot <NUM>, the lock <NUM> may rotated about the lock rotation axis <NUM> to a locked position. In this position, the portion of the lock skirt <NUM> adjacent to the closed end <NUM> may preclude sliding of the post <NUM> into or out of the lock slot <NUM>, thereby preventing sliding movement of the tip <NUM> relative to the adapter <NUM>. In the locked position, detent recesses <NUM> of the lock <NUM> may engage detent projections 640a and 640b of the retainer sleeve <NUM>, which may releasably hold lock <NUM> in the locked position.

The anti-rotation feature <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM> may allow the lock <NUM> to be rotated from the unlocked position to the locked position. For example, the sloped shell <NUM> of the anti-rotation feature <NUM> may allow for the lock <NUM> to be rotated over and/or past the anti-rotation feature <NUM> and into the locked position. The anti-rotation feature <NUM> may be configured to prevent a rotation of the lock <NUM> about the lock rotation axis <NUM> from the locked position to the unlocked position. For example, because the detent projections 640a, 640b may releasably hold the lock <NUM> in position, the lock <NUM> may become disengaged from the detent projections 640a, 640b and may rotate about the lock rotation axis <NUM> (e.g., due to vibrations or another force that is not indented to rotate the lock <NUM> from the locked position). The locking surface <NUM> may be configured to contact a circumferential end of the lock skirt <NUM> to prevent or block a rotation of the lock <NUM>.

For example, the locking surface <NUM> may be a substantially flat surface and/or the locking surface <NUM> may be substantially perpendicular to the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM>. As a result, the locking surface <NUM>, when the circumferential end of the lock skirt <NUM> contacts the locking surface <NUM>, may prevent a rotation of the lock <NUM>. Moreover, the locking surface <NUM> may be disposed at the first angle <NUM> that substantially corresponds to the angle <NUM> of the circumferential end of the lock skirt <NUM>. As a result, when the circumferential end of the lock skirt <NUM> contacts the locking surface <NUM>, there may be increased surface area of contact between the circumferential end of the lock skirt <NUM> and the locking surface <NUM>. This increased surface area may provide an increased locking force, improving the ability of the anti-rotation feature <NUM> to prevent the rotation of the lock <NUM> about the lock rotation axis <NUM>. For example, to detach the tip <NUM> from the adapter <NUM>, sufficient torque may need to be applied to the lock <NUM> to cause the anti-rotation feature <NUM> to fail. In other words, the lock <NUM> may not be able to inadvertently rotate past the anti-rotation feature <NUM> into an unlocked position. This improves the ability of the retainer system <NUM>, the lock <NUM> and/or the retainer sleeve <NUM> to ensure that the tip <NUM> remains attached to the adapter <NUM>.

The legs 658a-e of the retainer sleeve <NUM> may be configured to mate with the inner surface <NUM> of the lock cavity <NUM> of the tip <NUM>. The lock <NUM> may be configured to mate with the inner surface <NUM> of the retainer sleeve <NUM>. The first bend <NUM>, the second bend <NUM>, the first extension <NUM>, the second extension <NUM>, and third bend <NUM> are configured to provide flexibility and a spring-like effect to the body <NUM>. The legs 658a-e may help accommodate variances in the lock <NUM> and lock cavity <NUM> dimensions. The legs 658a-e may be configured to produce a compressive force against the lock cavity <NUM> to hold the lock <NUM> in place. For example, the first bend(s) <NUM> may be configured, when flexed, to encourage the plurality of plates 608a-e to induce a compressive force against the outer surface <NUM>. The second bend(s) <NUM> may be configured, when flexed, to induce a compressive force against the inner surface <NUM> of the lock cavity <NUM> to keep the retainer sleeve <NUM> centered about the lock rotation axis <NUM>. The third bend <NUM> may be configured to, when flexed, to induce a compressive force against the inner surface <NUM> of the lock cavity <NUM> to prevent the retainer sleeve <NUM> and the lock <NUM> from shifting positions or falling out during use.

Claim 1:
A retainer sleeve (<NUM>) for use with a lock (<NUM>) in a ground engaging tool with a lock cavity (<NUM>), comprising:
a body (<NUM>) including an at least partially annular configuration defining a retainer axis (<NUM>), the body (<NUM>) including:
an inner surface (<NUM>) configured to rotatably receive an outer surface (<NUM>) of the lock (<NUM>); and
a plurality of plates (608a-e) circumferentially joined together with respect to the retainer axis (<NUM>), wherein a first plate (608d) of the plurality of plates includes a first leg (658d) joined to the first plate (608d) extending away from the retainer axis (<NUM>) and configured to contact the lock cavity (<NUM>); a
characterised by an anti-rotation feature (<NUM>), disposed on the first plate (608d), extending inward from the inner surface (<NUM>) toward the retainer axis (<NUM>), the anti-rotation feature (<NUM>) including a locking surface (<NUM>), the locking surface (<NUM>) disposed at a first angle (<NUM>) with respect to a bottom end (<NUM>) of the first plate (608d).