SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GROUND ENGAGEMENT TOOL

Abstract

Tooling systems for a digging attachment include one or more tooth assemblies including a moveable tooth. A working length of the tooth may be adjusted and/or replenished by movement of the tooth in response to wear or damage on the tooth. The tooth assembly includes the tooth and a shroud that is positioned adjacent a lip of the digging attachment. The tooth is moveable within a cavity of the lip relative to the shroud, and through an opening defined in the shroud.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to ground engagement tool (“GET”) systems. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a system and method for controlled movement and positioning of working components (e.g., teeth) of a ground engagement tool.

BACKGROUND

Ground-engaging components (for example, teeth) are typically attached (either directly or via an intermediate adapter) to a leading edge of a digging attachment. Over time, the ground-engaging components experience wear and require servicing and/or replacement, requiring downtime of the machine.

SUMMARY

Embodiments described herein provide a tooling system for a digging attachment (e.g., a dipper for a rope shovel or a mining shovel) that includes one or more tooth assemblies that can reduce wear on ground engagement tools and reduce the frequency of required servicing.

In one independent aspect, a tooth assembly is provided for a digging attachment. The tooth assembly includes: an insert configured to engage the lip, the insert including an insert opening configured to be aligned with a cavity of the lip; a shroud configured to engage with at least one of the lip and the insert, the shroud including a shroud opening aligned with the insert opening; and a tooth configured to be positioned at least partially within the cavity, the tooth extendable through the shroud opening and the insert opening while a portion of the tooth having a working length protrudes beyond the shroud, the tooth moveable in the cavity relative to the shroud and the insert to adjust the working length.

In some aspects, the shroud is removably connectable to at least one of the lip and the insert.

In some aspects, the tooth assembly also includes a tooth control mechanism configured to engage the tooth to control movement of the tooth in the cavity. In some aspects, the tooth control mechanism is a locking mechanism configured to engage the tooth to limit movement of the tooth in the cavity.

In some aspects, the shroud includes a shroud head that protrudes beyond a leading edge of the lip, the shroud opening being defined in the shroud head, the insert includes an insert head positionable between the shroud head and the leading edge, the insert opening being defined in the insert head, and the shroud head has an inner surface configured to engage an outer surface of the insert head. In some aspects, the insert head has a stop surface configured to engage the leading edge of the lip. In some aspects, the shroud has a stop surface configured to engage the leading edge of the lip.

In some aspects, the insert includes a seal positioned in the insert opening to limit ingress of material into the cavity.

In some aspects, the insert is configured to be at least partially insertable in the cavity.

In some aspects, the tooth assembly also includes an actuator operable to move the tooth in the cavity.

In some aspects, a controller electrically connected to the actuator operates the actuator to control movement of the tooth in the cavity. In some aspects, the tooth assembly also includes at least one sensor that senses at least one characteristic of the tooth, the controller receiving data from the at least one sensor and operating the actuator to control movement of the tooth in the cavity in response to the data received from the at least one sensor.

In some aspects, the tooth assembly also includes at least one sensor electrically connected to a controller, the at least one sensor sensing at least one characteristic of the tooth, the controller receiving data from the at least one sensor and, in response to the data received from the at least one sensor, at least one of: controlling movement of the tooth in the cavity; and causing display, on a user display, of an indicator related to a state of the tooth.

In another independent aspect, a tooth assembly is provided for a digging attachment. The tooth assembly includes: a shroud configured to engage with the lip, the shroud including a shroud opening configured to be aligned with a cavity of the lip; and a tooth configured to be positioned at least partially in the cavity, the tooth extendable through the shroud opening while a portion of the tooth having a working length protrudes beyond the shroud, the tooth moveable in the cavity relative to the shroud to adjust the working length.

In some aspects, the shroud is joined to an insert positionable between the shroud and a leading edge of the lip. In some aspects, the insert includes an insert opening aligned with the shroud opening. In some aspects, the tooth assembly also includes a shroud lock configured to removably connect the shroud with at least one of the lip and the insert. In some aspects, the shroud engages the insert. In some aspects, the shroud is made integral with the insert as a one-piece unit.

In some aspects, the tooth assembly also includes a locking mechanism configured to engage the tooth to limit movement of the tooth in the cavity.

In some aspects, the tooth has a total length longer than the working length of the tooth such that a portion of the tooth is in the cavity when the tooth extends the working length beyond the shroud, and the tooth has engagement features positioned on an outer surface of the tooth, the engagement features being configured for engagement with a tooth control mechanism for controlled movement of the tooth in the cavity, the engagement features being positioned on the portion of the tooth in the cavity when the tooth extends the working length beyond the shroud.

In some aspects, the tooth is insertable into the cavity via the shroud opening and removable from the cavity via the shroud opening without removing the shroud from the lip.

In another independent aspect, a tooth is provided for a digging attachment tooling system having a shroud. The tooth includes: a tooth body made of a wear resistant material; and engagement features positioned on an outer surface of the tooth body, each of the engagement features defining a front load surface and a rear load surface, the front load surface and the rear load surface being configured to engage a tooth control mechanism to allow movement of the tooth in a first direction relative to the shroud and limit movement of the tooth in a second direction opposite the first direction relative to the shroud.

In some aspects, the front load surface includes a stop surface and the rear load surface includes a ramp surface.

In some aspects, each of the engagement features includes a groove positioned in the outer surface of the tooth body and having a depth that is shallower than a dimension of the tooth body measured in a direction of the depth.

In some aspects, the tooth body has a substantially prismatic geometry with a substantially constant cross-sectional shape along a length of the tooth.

In some aspects, the tooth body is made of a first wear resistant material, and the tooth further includes a tooth core positioned in the outer tooth body and extending at least a portion of the length of the tooth, the tooth core being made of a second wear resistant material that is dissimilar to the first wear resistant material. In some aspects, the first wear resistant material has a higher ductility and a lower hardness than the second wear resistant material.

In some aspects, the engagement features are positioned at discrete locations on the outer surface of the tooth body delineating incremental lengths of the tooth.

In some aspects, a portion of the tooth body defines a usable length of the tooth, and at least one of the engagement features is positioned on the portion of the tooth body defining the usable length.

Other aspects will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a digging attachment;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of another embodiment of a digging attachment;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a lower portion of the digging attachment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an underside of the lower portion of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the lower portion of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is another perspective view of a side of the lower portion of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is an isolated perspective view of a lip adapter of a lip connected to the lower portion of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a magnified view of a leading edge of the lip of the lower portion of FIG. 2, showing cavities defined in the leading edge;

FIG. 8 is a magnified view and partial section of the lip of the lower portion of FIG. 2, shown from a rear side of the lip;

FIG. 9 is an exploded detail view of a portion of the digging attachment of FIG. 2, showing a tooth assembly with an extendable cutting tooth;

FIG. 10 is a magnified section of the tooth assembly of FIG. 9, in engagement with the lip of the digging attachment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a cutting tooth;

FIG. 12 is a section view of the cutting tooth of FIG. 11, viewed along section 12-12;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a cutting tooth;

FIG. 14 is a top view of the cutting tooth of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a lower portion of the digging attachment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 16 is a magnified view of a lip of the lower portion of FIG. 15, showing a tooth assembly with an extendable cutting tooth;

FIG. 17 is a top section of the tooth assembly engaged with the lip as shown in FIG. 16 as viewed along section 17-17;

FIG. 18 is a side section of the tooth assembly engaged with the lip as shown in FIG. 16 as view along section 18-18;

FIG. 19 is a schematic of one embodiment of a system for monitoring and controlling a cutting tooth;

FIG. 20 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a method of controlling a cutting tooth; and

FIG. 21 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a method of controlling the actuation of a cutting tooth.

Corresponding reference numerals used throughout the drawings indicate corresponding features, elements, and components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any embodiments are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited in its application to the details of the configuration and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are capable of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings.

In addition, it should be understood that embodiments may include hardware, software, and electronic components or modules that, for purposes of discussion, may be illustrated and described as if the majority of the components were implemented solely in hardware. However, one of ordinary skill in the art, and based on a reading of this detailed description, would recognize that, in at least one embodiment, the electronic-based aspects may be implemented in software (for example, stored on non-transitory computer-readable medium) executable by one or more electronic processors, such as a microprocessor and/or application specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”). As such, it should be noted that a plurality of hardware and software based devices, as well as a plurality of different structural components, may be utilized to implement the embodiments. For example, “servers,” “computing devices,” “controllers,” “processors,” and the like, described in the specification can include one or more electronic processors, one or more computer-readable medium modules, one or more input/output interfaces, and various connections (for example, a system bus) connecting the components.

Relative terminology, such as, for example, “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and the like, used in connection with a quantity or condition would be understood by those of ordinary skill to be inclusive of the stated value and has the meaning dictated by the context (for example, the term includes at least the degree of error associated with the measurement accuracy, tolerances (for example, manufacturing, assembly, use, and the like) associated with the particular value, and the like). Such terminology should also be considered as disclosing the range defined by the absolute values of the two endpoints. For example, the expression “from about 2 to about 4” also discloses the range “from 2 to 4.” The relative terminology may refer to plus or minus a percentage (for example, 1%, 5%, 10%, or more) of an indicated value.

Functionality described herein as being performed by one component may be performed by multiple components in a distributed manner. Likewise, functionality performed by multiple components may be consolidated and performed by a single component. Similarly, a component described as performing particular functionality may also perform additional functionality not described herein. For example, a device or structure that is “configured” in a certain way is configured in at least that way but may also be configured in ways that are not explicitly listed.

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of a digging attachment 100 that includes a tooling system 102 with cutting teeth 116 in accordance with the principles of this disclosure. The digging attachment 100 may in some embodiments be suitable for use with a ground engagement tool (GET) system. The digging attachment may be operably supported on a handle or stick of a mining machine. For example, the digging attachment 100 may be a dipper for a rope shovel or a mining shovel. An example of a rope shovel having components to support the digging attachment is shown and described in FIG. 1 and the associated description in U.S. Pat. No. 11,396,739, issued Jul. 26, 2022, which is incorporated by reference herein. In some embodiments, the digging attachment may be a bucket for an excavator, such as a hydraulic excavator. For example, FIG. 1B depicts an embodiment of a digging attachment 100B for an excavator that may be equipped with the tooling system. In some embodiments, the digging attachment may be a bucket for a loader. Although the tooling system 102 is described in this embodiment as installed on the digging attachment 100, the tooling system may be used in any suitable component or tool without departing from the principles of this disclosure. In embodiments, the tooling system can be used in a dipper (e.g., for a rope shovel), an excavator (e.g., a hydraulic excavator), a loader, a bucket wheel, a dragline bucket, or another machine that utilizes teeth for excavating and/or loading material.

In some applications of a GET system, the cutting teeth may be single components (e.g., a casting attached to the leading edge (nose) of an adapter). The cutting teeth make direct contact with material to be excavated (e.g., in a bank of a surface mine). The wear and loading of a cutting tooth influences the overall life and design decisions of the GET system. In certain environments, the usable life of a cutting tooth may be as short as approximately 4 to 8 days. As such, it may be necessary for a technician to intervene with the operation of a machine to inspect, replace, and maintain the leading edge and overall system.

The tooling system 102 is equipped with the cutting teeth 116, at least one cutting tooth 116 being adjustable and able to move outward when worn to replenish a working length L_w (shown in FIG. 4) of the tooth. The adjustable tooth 116 can thereby extend the useful life of the cutting tooth and improves the overall safety and reliability of the GET system. In the illustrated example, the tooth advancement system 102 has multiple adjustable cutting teeth 116. One, some, or all the cutting teeth 116 may be adjustable as described herein. The adjustable cutting teeth 116 of the tooth advancement system 102 may also be independently adjustable, such that the cutting teeth 116 can be adjusted at the same or different intervals. The cutting teeth 116 may also be positioned at or adjust to various working lengths L_w. The individual working lengths L_w of the teeth 116 can be set (e.g., manually or autonomously) based on various considerations, such as production efficiency and conditions of the material contacted by the teeth 116.

Adjustment of the cutting teeth 116 can include extending and/or retracting the cutting teeth 116. Extending a cutting tooth 116 may increases its working length L_w. Retracting a cutting tooth 116 may reduce its working length L_w.

The adjustable cutting teeth 116 can have any arrangement of working lengths L_w, which may vary depending on the application of the system 102 and/or the material being excavated. For example, the adjustable teeth 116 can have the same or different working lengths L_w. In some instances, it may be advantageous to have the teeth 116 positioned at or adjusted to different working lengths L_w. For example, one or some of the teeth 116 may have a reduced working length L_w relative to another one or some of the teeth 116. The teeth 116 having a shorter working length L_w may be preconfigured with a shorter working length L_w and/or may be retracted to a shorter working length L_w. In some embodiments, one or some of the teeth 116 may be entirely retracted to a working length L_w of approximately zero, such that only some of the teeth 116 (e.g., with a relatively longer working length L_w) primarily contact the material and/or experience wear during a given operation. Between one or multiple operations, the working length L_w of the teeth 116 can be adjusted to alternate the teeth that primarily contact the material and/or experience wear. The ability to independently adjust the cutting teeth 116 can also be advantageous since the desired working length L_w and/or wear on the cutting teeth 116 may vary depending on a location of each tooth, the application of the digging attachment 100, and/or the material being excavated.

The tooling system 102 of the present disclosure may significantly reduce machine downtime and personnel involvement associated with part replacement for the digging attachment 100, thereby improving productivity and safety. In addition, the tooling system 102 may include or facilitate the ability to provide, collect, and record data, inventory information, and wear rates, as well as provide information related to system usage and status. In certain embodiments, the tooling system 102 may enable detecting and extending the cutting teeth 116 manually (e.g., via the operator or upon operator input to a controller), autonomously, or in any other suitable way without departing from the principles of this disclosure.

The tooling system 102 may also improve the usability of and minimize costs associated with ground-engaging components. For example, the GET systems of the present disclosure may minimize the effect of wear on ground-engaging components, reducing the downtime associated with servicing worn ground-engaging components and extending the usable life of the ground-engaging components, among other improvements.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the digging attachment 100 has a bottom or lower portion 104 and a lip 106 positioned along a leading end 112 of the lower portion 104. The cutting teeth 116, or teeth, of the tooling system 102 are positioned along a leading edge 108 of the lip 106. Each tooth 116 is part of a tooth assembly 110 that is connectable to the lip 106. Each tooth assembly 110 may facilitate supporting and moving the respective tooth 116 relative to the lip 106. Although each tooth 116 is supported by and part of a tooth assembly 110 in the illustrated example, the tooling system may include cutting teeth that are not part of or associated with a tooth assembly in other embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 2-5, the lip 106 may extend below the lower portion 104 and is shaped to generally complement a shape of the leading end 112 of the lower portion 104. In the illustrated example, the lower portion 104 and the lip 106 are each generally U-shaped. The “U-shape” can include corners having various geometries (e.g., rounded corners, square/angular corners, etc.). The shape of the lower portion 104 and the lip 106 is not limited and may vary depending on the geometry of the digging attachment. In some embodiments, the lip may extend along a lowermost edge of the digging attachment and partially along the side edges of the digging attachment; in other embodiments, the lip may extend along a lowermost edge without extending along the side edges. In some embodiments, the lip may have a linear profile (e.g., extending in a straight line along a lowermost edge of the digging attachment); in other embodiments, the lip may have an arcuate profile.

The tooth assemblies 110 are positioned along at least a portion of the lip 106. In some embodiments, the tooth assemblies 110 may be arranged to complement the shape of the lip 106 (e.g., a U-shape in the illustrated example with rounded or angular corners). In some embodiments, the tooth assemblies may be positioned along a length of the lip; in other embodiments, the tooth assemblies may be positioned along a lower portion of the lip (e.g., in a straight line along a lowermost portion of the lip 106) and not provided in an upper portion of the lip (e.g., at the corners and/or sides of the lip).

In some implementations, the working length L_w of the teeth 116 may vary depending on the position of the respective tooth assembly 110 on the lip 106. For example, tooth assemblies 110 that are positioned proximate a lowermost portion of the lip 106 may include a tooth 116 with a relatively longer working length L_w. Tooth assemblies 110 that are positioned proximate an uppermost portion of the lip 106 (or upper corner of the lip 106) may include a tooth 116 with a relatively shorter working length L_w. The working lengths L_w of the teeth may also gradually reduce in length from the lowermost portion of the lip towards the upper corner of the lip. The tooth assemblies 110 allow easy and efficient adjustment of the teeth 116 to provide any suitable or desired configuration of the working lengths L_w, which can vary depending on, for example, the application of the digging attachment 100 and/or the material being excavated.

The lip 106 includes a lip adapter 114 defining the leading edge 108 of the lip 106 and a lip support 118 positioned between the lip adapter 114 and the leading end 112 of the lower portion 104. The lip adapter 114 and the lip support 118 each have the shape of the lip 106 (e.g., a U-shape in the illustrated example). The lip adapter 114 may be the component of the lip 106 to which the tooth assemblies 110 can be connected. The lip support 118 may provide structural support to the lip 106 and enable the lip 106 to withstand loads when the teeth 116 contact the material being excavated. The lip adapter 114 and the lip support 118 can be separate components, with the lip support 118 securely connected to the lower portion 104 and the lip adapter 114 securely connected to the lip support 118. The secure connections between the lip adapter 114 and the lip support 118 may be made by welding, mechanical attachment, or another suitable means. In some embodiments, the lip adapter and the lip support can be made integral as a one-piece unit.

The lip adapter and/or the lip support may be constructed as a one-piece unit. In other embodiments, the lip adapter and/or the lip support can be a multi-piece unit. For example, the lip adapter and/or the lip support may be formed from multiple linkages (e.g., blocks or segments) that are securely connected together (e.g., by welding, mechanical attachment, or another suitable means). The linkages of the lip adapter can be securely connected to the linkages of the lip support, or the linkages of the lip adapter can be integrated with the linkages of the lip support as a one-piece unit.

As shown in FIG. 3, the lower portion 104 in some examples may include a structural support plate 130 extending generally outward and downward at the leading end 112 of the lower portion 104, on an underside thereof. The structural support plate 130 can engage and connect with the lip support 118 of the lip 106. The lower portion 104 may also include structural fins 120 extending from the structural support plate 130 at least along a bottom of the lower portion 104 and on the underside thereof. The structural fins 120 may engage the structural support plate 130. The structural support plate 130 and the structural fins 120 may cooperatively provide structural support to the lip 106 for withstanding loads. Adjacent structural fins 120 can be spaced apart laterally and define channels therebetween. Housing tubes 122 of the tooth assemblies 110, described below, can be positioned between pairs of the structural fins 120 and may extend at least partially within the channels defined between adjacent pairs of the structural fins 120.

Referring to FIG. 6, the lip adapter 114 includes through holes 124 arranged and positioned to correspond to the locations at which the tooth assemblies 110, or teeth 116, are positioned along the lip 106. The through holes 124 are defined in the leading edge 108 and extend through a rear face 126 of the lip adapter 114. In some embodiments, the through holes 124 may be counter bored, with a recessed stop surface 128 defined in the through hole 124 and facing towards the leading edge 108. The lip adapter 114 also includes a top surface 132 and a bottom surface 134 each extending between the leading edge 108 and the rear face 126. The tooth assemblies 110 may straddle the top surface 132 and bottom surface 134 of the lip adapter 114 when connected to the lip 106 at the leading edge 108.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the lip support 118 includes a top plate 136 and a bottom plate 138 that extend between the rear face 126 of the lip adapter 114 and the structural support plate 130 of the lower portion 104. The top plate 136 and the bottom plate 138 are spaced apart from one another, defining a hollow interior of the lip support 118 that communicates with the through holes 124 of the lip adapter 114. The through holes 124 of the lip adapter 114 and the hollow interior of the lip support 118 cooperate to define cavities 140 of the lip 106. The cavities 140 are sized and shaped to at least partially accommodate the teeth 116, as described below.

In some embodiments, interior compartments may be delineated within the hollow interior of the lip support 118 by side support plates 142 extending between the top plate 136 and the bottom plate 138 at spaced apart intervals. The structural fins 120 may align with at least some of the side support plates 142 of the lip support 118 to provide structural support to the lip 106. The through holes 124 of the lip adapter 114 and the interior compartments of the lip support 118 may align and cooperatively define the cavities 140.

As shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, the structural support plate 130 includes openings 144 that align with the cavities 140 of the lip 106. The cavities 140 may thereby extend from the leading edge 108 of the lip 106 through the structural support plate 130. The openings 144 may provide clearance for the housing tubes 122 (see, e.g., FIG. 3) of the tooth assemblies 110 to extend from within the cavity 140 through the structural support plate 130. The openings 144 may align with the channels defined between adjacent structural fins 120, such that at least some of the housing tubes 122 extending through the openings 144 are accommodated in the structural fin channels.

In some embodiments, the top plate and the bottom plate may each be made integral with the lip adapter as a one-piece unit. In some embodiments, the side support plates may be made integral with the lip adapter as a one-piece unit. In some embodiments, the housing tubes may be made integral with the lip adapter as a one-piece unit. In some embodiments, the lip adapter, the top plate, the bottom plate, the side support plates, the housing tubes and the structural support plate may be made integral as a one-piece unit.

In some embodiments, the housing tubes may be omitted. The cavities of the lip may terminate at the structural support plate. The hollow interior, and/or the interior compartments, of the lip support may accommodate the portion of the teeth extending between the lip adapter and the structural support plate and terminating at or before the structural support plate. In some embodiments, the lip adapter, the top plate, the bottom plate, the side support plates, and the structural support plate may be made integral as a one-piece unit, and the housing tubes may be omitted.

Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 10, each tooth assembly 110 includes a tooth 116 and a shroud 146 that engages the lip 106 proximate the leading edge 108. The tooth 116 is inserted within a respective cavity 140 of the lip 106, and the shroud 146 is positioned adjacent the lip 106 at a location corresponding to the location of the cavity 140. In some embodiments, the shroud 146 may engage the lip 106 proximate the respective cavity 140. The shroud 146 may provide a protective cover for the leading edge 108 of the lip 106, for example, when a working length L_w of the tooth 116 is set to approximately zero and/or when the usable length L_u (see FIG. 12) of the tooth 116 is spent or substantially worn. The shroud 146 defines a shroud opening 148 through which the tooth 116 can extend from within the cavity 140. The shroud 146 is positioned such that the shroud opening 148 is axially aligned with the cavity 140. The working length L_w of each tooth 116 may be measured as the distance that the tooth 116 extends beyond the shroud 146 via the shroud opening 148 to a leading end 150 of the tooth 116. The tooth 116 may also be moveable in the cavity 140 relative to the shroud 146 to adjust and/or replenish the working length L_w. That is, the tooth 116 may move within the cavity 140 while the shroud 146 remains static and engaged with the lip 106. In some embodiments, the shroud may align and/or support the tooth during movement of the tooth within the cavity and through the shroud opening.

In some embodiments, the tooth 116 can be inserted into the respective cavity 140 through the shroud 146 via the shroud opening 148. In some embodiments, the tooth 116 can be inserted into the respective cavity 140 via a through hole 124 of the lip adapter 114. In some embodiments, the tooth 116 can be inserted into the respective cavity via an opening 144 in the structural support plate 130. In some embodiments, the tooth 116 can be inserted into the respective cavity 140 and the shroud 146 can be slid over the tooth 116 via the shroud opening 148.

The shroud 146 in this embodiment is releasably engageable with the lip 106. The shroud 146 may be removed from the lip 106, for example, to service (e.g., repair and/or replace) the shroud 146. The tooth 116 may also be removable from within the cavity 140 of the lip 106, and may be removed from the lip 106 for servicing (e.g., repair and/or replacement). In some embodiments, the shroud 146 and the tooth 116 can be removed from the lip 106 independent of one another. That is, the shroud 146 may be removed from the lip 106 without removing the tooth 116, and/or the tooth 116 may be removed from within the cavity 140 without removing the shroud 146. To remove the tooth 116 from within the cavity 140, the tooth 116 may be moved (e.g., pulled or pushed) outward from the cavity 140 through the shroud opening 148 until the entire length of the tooth 116 is beyond the shroud 146. To remove the shroud 146, the shroud 146 may be released from the lip 106 and slid over the working length L_w of the tooth 116 until the shroud 146 is beyond the leading end 150 of the tooth 116.

In some embodiments, the shroud may be in permanent or nearly permanent engagement with the lip. For example, the shroud may be welded to the lip or may be made integral with the lip.

In some embodiments, the shroud may be positioned adjacent the lip and may not engage the lip. For example, the shroud may be positioned adjacent the lip and may engage an insert of the tooth assembly, such as an insert 182 described below. The shroud may releasably engage the insert. Engagement between the shroud and the insert may fix the shroud relative to the lip.

As shown in FIG. 10, the shroud 146 includes a shroud head 152 that protrudes outward from the leading edge 108 of the lip 106. The shroud head 152 substantially covers the leading edge 108 of the lip 106 and defines an outer surface 160 of the shroud 146 that may contact material to be excavated (e.g., when the tooth 116 has a working length L_w of approximately zero). An outward extent of the shroud head 152 from the leading edge 108 terminates at a nose 154, and the shroud opening 148 is defined in the nose 154 of the shroud head 152. The shroud head 152 also has an inner surface 162 generally oriented towards the cavity 140.

The shroud 146 also includes a first (or upper) jaw member 156 and a second (or lower) jaw member 158, each extending from the shroud head 152. The jaw members 156, 158 straddle the top surface 132 and the bottom surface 134 of the lip adapter 114 and cooperate to engage the lip adapter 114 proximate the leading edge 108. The jaw members 156, 158 also extend over at least a portion of the top surface 132 and the bottom surface 134, respectively, to reduce or eliminate any exposure that the lip 106 may have to the material being contacted by the teeth 116.

The inner surfaces of the jaw members 156, 158 are stepped from the inner surface 162 of the shroud head 152. A stop surface 164 may be defined between the inner surface 162 and each jaw member 156, 158. The stop surfaces 164 of the shroud 146 may face the leading edge 108 of the lip 106. One stop surface 164 may engage the leading edge 108 of the lip 106 proximate the top surface 132, and another stop surface 164 may engage the leading edge 108 of the lip 106 proximate the bottom surface 134. The stop surfaces 164 may cooperate with the jaw members 156, 158 to create a rabbet (or L-shaped) joint 166 at a corner of the lip 106 between the leading edge 108 and the top surface 132 and create a rabbet (or L-shaped) joint 166 at a corner of the lip 106 between the leading edge 108 and the bottom surface 134. In other words, a rabbet joint 166 may be defined between the shroud 146 and the lip 106 at the top surface 132, and a rabbet joint 166 may be defined between the shroud 146 and the lip 106 at the bottom surface 134. The rabbet joints 166 may provide structural stability to the engagement between the shroud 146 and the lip 106. Engagement between the stop surfaces 164 and the leading edge 108 may transfer loads from the shroud 146 to the lip 106.

In some embodiments, the shroud 146 may be removably connected to the lip 106 via a shroud lock 168. In some embodiments, the shroud lock 168 may removably connect the shroud to the insert. The shroud lock 168 can include any suitable locking mechanism that enables removable connection between the shroud 146 and the lip 106. Suitable locking mechanisms include pins, pop locks, keyed locks, switch safety locks, and the like. The shroud lock 168 in this example removably connects the upper jaw 156 of the shroud 146 to the top surface 132 of the lip adapter 114. The shroud lock 168 can be engaged to removably connect the shroud 146 to the lip 106 and limit or prevent movement of the shroud 146 relative to the lip 106. The shroud lock 168 can be disengaged to allow the shroud 146 to be removed from the lip 106, which can be performed independent of removing the tooth 116 as described above. The removable connection between the shroud and the lip can be at any other location that enables the removable connection.

In some embodiments, (e.g. as shown in FIG. 15), one or some of the tooth assemblies 110 may include a shroud without a corresponding tooth. In some embodiments, the shroud without a corresponding tooth may not include a shroud opening in the shroud head. Additionally, the lip may not include a cavity at the location(s) where a shroud that does not include a corresponding tooth engages with and/or is positioned adjacent the lip. The shrouds without corresponding teeth may be arranged in an alternating manner with shrouds 146 including teeth.

Still referring to FIG. 10, a length or portion of the tooth 116 may be at least partially accommodated in the cavity 140 when the tooth extends the working length L_w beyond the shroud 146. In this embodiment, the tooth assembly 110 also includes the housing tube 122 that houses the portion of the tooth 116 within the cavity 140. The housing tube 122 extends within and through the cavity 140, and through the structural support plate 130 to provide more room to accommodate a longer length of the tooth 116. In other embodiments, the housing tube can be omitted and the portion of the tooth 116 retracted from the shroud 146 may be entirely accommodated in the cavity 140. Accordingly, features included and incorporated in the housing tube 122 described herein could be included and incorporated in the cavity 140.

In some embodiments, the tooth 116 may be entirely retractable into the cavity 140 and/or the housing tube 122 to reduce the working length L_w to approximately zero. In other embodiments, the tooth 116 may only be partially retractable into the cavity 140 and/or the housing tube 122 such that, when installed, the tooth 116 has a designated minimum working length L_w.

The housing tube 122, and/or the cavity 140, may house or include a tooth actuator assembly 170 operable to move the tooth 116 in the cavity 140. In this embodiment, each tooth assembly 110 includes a respective tooth actuator assembly 170 to move the tooth 116 in the cavity 140 independent from movement of the other teeth 116. In other embodiments, multiple tooth assemblies 110 could be equipped with the same tooth actuator assembly for moving multiple teeth 116 in unison. In some examples, all the tooth assemblies 110 could be equipped with the same tooth actuator assembly.

The tooth actuator assembly 170 in this example includes a moveable plate 172 disposed in the housing tube 122 and/or the cavity 140. The moveable plate 172 can be removably connected to a tail end 151 of the tooth 116 and/or abuts the tail end 151 of the tooth 116 when the tooth 116 is fully inserted in the cavity 140. The moveable plate 172 is also operably connected to an actuator 174 that moves the moveable plate 172 and the tooth 116 in the cavity 140. The actuator can be driven manually (e.g., via the operator or upon operator input to a controller), autonomously, or in any other suitable way without departing from the principles of this disclosure. In various embodiments, the actuator 174 can be a linear actuator that is electrically and/or hydraulically driven. In other embodiments, the actuator is driven by an operator manually by any suitable means including, but not limited to a crowbar, drill, hammer, lever bar, or rack and pinion. The actuator can be driven using any suitable actuating mechanism.

The tooth actuator assembly 170 may advance or retract the tooth 116 in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, by discrete positions or by incremental lengths. In certain embodiments, tooth 116 may include a plurality of locking positions or lengths within the cavity 140. The locking positions may be delineated by engagement features 178 (e.g., divots, slots, grooves, stops, etc.) on the tooth 116 that engage with a tooth control mechanism 176 within the cavity 140. The tooth control mechanism 176 is operable (e.g., manually, by a controller in response to an operator input, or autonomously) to control movement of the tooth 116 within the cavity between the locking positions or incremental lengths. For example, the tooth control mechanism 176 can be a locking mechanism that engages the tooth 116 at the engagement features 178 to limit or stop movement of the tooth 116, and disengages the tooth 116 to allow movement of the tooth 116 to another position or length. Suitable locking mechanisms include pins, pop locks, keyed locks, switch safety locks, ratcheting mechanisms, and the like. The tooth control mechanism 176 can include a locking mechanism that is actuated manually (e.g., via the operator or upon operator input to a controller), autonomously, or in any other suitable way without departing from the principles of this disclosure. In some embodiments, if the adjustment to the position of tooth 116 is made manually, an operator may also manually unlock the tooth, advance the tooth to a desired position, and lock the tooth in the desired position.

In some embodiments, the tooth control mechanism 176, such as a tooth locking mechanism, cooperates with the engagement features 178 on the tooth 116 to limit or prevent movement of the tooth 116 in response to operational loads. For example, the tooth control mechanism 176 may engage the tooth 116 at an engagement feature 178 to limit or prevent the tooth 116 from moving inwardly to a reduced working length L_w when the tooth 116 contacts material. In this way, the tooth control mechanism 176 and the engagement features 178 can reduce, or eliminate, operational loads experienced by the tooth actuator assembly 170. The tooth actuator assembly 170 thereby may not need to be robust enough to withstand operation loads on the tooth 116, only loads required to move the tooth 116.

In some embodiments, the engagement features 178 can be configured to allow forward movement, or advancement, of the tooth 116 within the cavity 140 while limiting or preventing backward movement, or retraction, of the tooth 116 when the tooth control mechanism 176 engages an engagement feature 178. For example, the engagement features 178 may each include a forward stop surface 196 that limits or prevents retraction of the tooth 116 when engaged with a locking member 199 of the tooth control mechanism 176. The engagement features 178 may also each include a back ramp surface 198 that allows advancement of the tooth 116 past the tooth control mechanism 176 by moving the locking member 199 upwards to a disengaged position. The forward stop surface 196 and the back ramp surface 198 may allow the engagement features 178 to cooperate with a ratcheting mechanism used for the tooth control mechanism 176. In some embodiments, when the tooth 116 is advanced in the cavity 140 and the locking member 199 is engaged with an engagement feature 178, the locking member 199 of the tooth control mechanism 176 may be guided towards a disengaged position by the back ramp surface 198 of the engagement feature 178. As the tooth 116 continues to advance, when a subsequent engagement feature 178 reaches the locking member 199, the locking member 199 may engage the subsequent engagement feature 178. Engagement between the locking member 199 and the subsequent engagement feature 178 may signal to an operator and/or a controller of the tooth actuator assembly 170 to terminate advancement of the tooth 116.

In some embodiments, the engagement features 178 may been formed as depressions (e.g., slots or grooves) in an outer surface of the tooth 116. The depressions may depend into an outer surface of the tooth 116 to a depth that is shallower than a dimension (e.g., thickness or width) of the tooth 116 measured in the depth direction. In other words, the depressions may not be through holes in the tooth 116. Forming the engagement features 178 as depressions may reduce the material loss required to define the engagement features 178, and may enable a portion of the tooth 116 that includes the engagement features 178 to be usable as part of the working length L_w of the tooth 116.

In some embodiments, the tooth control mechanism may be operable to control movement of the tooth 116 via engagement with the engagement features, for example, by advancing or retracting the tooth 116 by engagement with the tooth. In some embodiments, the tooth control mechanism may be used to move the tooth 116 in the cavity 140. In some embodiments, the tooth may be at least partially cylindrical and include a threaded engagement portion, such that rotation of the tooth would allow for finite adjustment of how much of the tooth is exposed.

In some embodiments, as described herein, movement of the tooth 116 can be made in response to a sensed or detected state of the tooth 116. The tooth assembly 110 may include at least one sensor 180 that measures one or more characteristics of the tooth 116. For example, the sensor(s) 180 may include a wear rate or length sensor of the tooth 116 connected in communication with a wear-rate indicator 181 (e.g., a conductive rod or wire) extending the length of the tooth 116. In various embodiments, the sensor(s) 180 may be configured to measure various characteristics including, but not limited to: (1) wear of the tooth 116; (2) mechanical loading of the tooth; (3) change in length of the tooth over a period of time or condition e.g., dig shift, dig conditions, machine settings; (4) change in length of teeth during operation; among others. The sensor(s) 180 may be connected to a controller, such as those described herein, which may alert or notify an operator of the sensed or detected state of the tooth 116 (e.g., via a user display) and/or may control movement of the tooth 116 in response to the sensed or detected state of the tooth 116 (e.g., via the actuator 174 and/or the tooth control mechanism 176).

In the example embodiment, the tooth control mechanism 176 is accommodated by an insert 182 of the tooth assembly 110. The insert 182 may be positioned between the shroud 146 and the tooth 116. In some embodiments, the insert 182 may align and/or support the tooth 116 during movement of the tooth within the cavity 140 and through the shroud opening 148. The insert and the shroud may cooperate to align and/or support the tooth during movement, or one of the insert and the shroud may align and/or support the tooth during movement. In some embodiments, the insert may fix the shroud relative to the lip 106. In some embodiments, the tooth control mechanism may be at a location other than within the insert.

The insert 182 defines an insert opening 184 that aligns with the shroud opening 148 and the cavity 140. The tooth 116 can extend from within the cavity 140 and successively through the insert opening 184 and the shroud opening 148. The insert opening 184 can have a relatively smaller dimension (e.g., cross-sectional area) relative to inner dimension of the cavity 140 and/or the housing tube 122. The dimension of the insert opening 184 may complement the outer dimension (e.g., outer cross-sectional area) of the tooth 116 for aligning and/or supporting the tooth 116 within the cavity 140 and as the tooth 116 moves. The dimension of the shroud opening may also complement the outer dimension of the tooth for aligning and/or supporting the tooth within the cavity and during movement of the tooth. In some embodiments, the insert opening and the shroud opening may have approximately the same dimension such that the shroud and the insert cooperatively align and/or support the tooth in the cavity and during movement of the tooth. In some embodiments, the insert opening may be smaller in dimension than the shroud opening, such that the insert operates to align and/or support the tooth within the cavity and during movement of the tooth. In some embodiments, the shroud opening may be smaller in dimension than the insert opening, such that the shroud operates to align and/or support the tooth within the cavity and during movement of the tooth. In some embodiments, the shroud opening and the insert opening may define a unitary opening and the shroud and the insert may cooperatively align and/or support the tooth within the cavity and during movement of the tooth.

The insert 182 may be securely connected to the housing tube 122 (e.g., by welding, mechanical attachment, or another suitable means). In some embodiments, the insert and the housing tube may be made integral as a one-piece unit. In some embodiments, the housing tube is omitted.

The insert 182 may remain relatively stationary as the tooth 116 moves through the insert opening 184. A seal 186 (e.g., an elastomeric seal or O-ring) may be positioned within the insert opening 184, or at an end of the insert opening 184. The seal 186 may limit or prevent ingress of material (e.g., dirt or other debris) into the cavity 140. In some embodiments, the seal 186 may contact the outer surface of the tooth 116. The seal 186 may operate to remove material (e.g., dirt or other debris) from the tooth 116 as the tooth 116 moves within the insert opening 184. The seal 186 may limit or prevent any disturbance or interference that the material (e.g., dirt or other debris) may cause with working components in the cavity 140 (e.g., with the tooth control mechanism 176).

The insert 182 includes an insert head 188 that protrudes from the leading edge 108 and an insert tail 190 that is inserted within the cavity 140. The insert opening 184 extends through the insert head 188 and the insert tail 190. The insert tail 188 may be sized and shaped to fit within the cavity 140 with relatively small clearance (e.g., via interference or near interference fit). In some embodiments, the tail 190 may abut the recessed stop surface 128 (FIGS. 6 and 7) defined in the through hole 124 of the lip adapter 114. The tail 190 in this example accommodates the tooth control mechanism 176. In some embodiments, the tooth control mechanism may be disposed in in the insert head.

The insert head 188 is positioned between the shroud head 152 and the leading edge 108. The insert head 188 may flare outward from the tail 190 such that the insert 182 has a stop surface 192 facing the leading edge 108. The stop surface 192 may engage the leading edge 108 inboard of the engagement between the stop surfaces 164 of the shroud 146 and the leading edge 108. The stop surface 192 extends inward from an outer surface 194 of the insert 188. The outer surface 194 may complement a shape (e.g., a tapered cylindrical or tapered rectangular shape) of the inner surface 162 of the shroud 146. The inner surface 162 of the shroud 146 may engage the outer surface 194 of the insert 188.

Force exerted on the shroud 146 may be transferred to the leading edge 108, for example, via engagement between the stop surfaces 164 and the leading edge 108. In some embodiments, force exerted on the shroud 146 may be transferred to the insert 182, and indirectly the lip 106, for example, via engagement of the stop surface 192 of the insert 182 and the leading edge 108 and/or engagement between the tail 190 and the recessed stop surface 128 (FIGS. 6 and 7).

The insert 182 may be a relatively permanent or semi-permanent fixture of the tooth assembly 110 that is securely connected to the lip 106, and may be protected from material contact (e.g., during excavation) and wear by the shroud 146. For example, the shroud 146 may provide a protective cover for the insert 182, to reduce or eliminate any exposure that the insert 182 may have to the material being contacted by the teeth 116. The insert 182 may therefore require servicing less frequently than the tooth 116 and/or the shroud 146. In some embodiments, the insert may be securely connected to the lip by welding, mechanical attachment, and the like. In some embodiments, the insert may be securely connected with the lip via an interference or near interference fit of the insert tail 190 in the cavity 140. In some embodiments, the insert may be securely connected to the lip 106 independent of any connection between the shroud and the lip 106. In some embodiments, the shroud and the insert may be connected to the lip 106 via the same attachment means. In some embodiments, the insert may be made integral with the lip, or a linkage of the lip, as a one-piece unit.

The shroud 146 and the tooth 116 may be removable from the lip 106 as described above without removing the insert 182 from the lip 106. The shroud 146 may releasably engage with the insert 182, without any permanent or removable connection being made between the shroud 146 and the insert 182. In some embodiments, the shroud may be removably connected to the insert. For example, the shroud lock may be used to removably connect the shroud to the insert.

In some embodiments, the shroud may be joined to the insert, e.g., via coupling or engaging the shroud with the insert or by making the shroud integral with the insert as a one-piece unit. In some embodiments, the shroud may releasably engage the insert with or without the shroud engaging the lip 106. In some embodiments, the insert may be installed on the lip 106 and the shroud can engage the insert to install and fix the shroud relative to the lip 106. In some embodiments, the shroud lock may removably connect the shroud to the insert in lieu of removably connecting the shroud to the lip 106. In some embodiments, the shroud lock may removably connect the shroud to each of the insert and the lip.

In some embodiments, the shroud and the insert may be made integral as a one-piece unit and the shroud and the insert may be in permanent or nearly permanent engagement with the lip 106. For example, the shroud and the insert may be welded to the lip 106 or may be made integral with the lip 106.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, one embodiment of a tooth that may be used as one or more of the teeth 116 in the tooling system 102 is indicated generally at 200. The tooth 200 has an outer tooth body or casing 202 that substantially defines the geometry and shape of the tooth 200. The outer tooth body 202 extends a total length L_t of the tooth 200 between a leading end 204 and a tail end 206. In this embodiment, the outer tooth body 202 defines a substantially prismatic geometry with a substantially constant cross-sectional shape along a substantial entirety of the total length L_t of the tooth 200.

The prismatic shape of the outer tooth body 202 in this example is a rectangular prism. Other prismatic shapes of the outer tooth body include, but are not limited to, cylindrical (e.g., a circular cylinder, oval cylinder, or oblong cylinder), triangular, square, another polygonal or rectilinear prism, and the like. For example, in some embodiments, the outer tooth body has a cylindrical or rod shape.

The cross-sectional shape of the outer tooth body 202 in this example is rectilinear (e.g., rectangular). Other cross-sectional shapes of the outer tooth body include, but are not limited to, circular, oval, oblong, triangular, square, another polygonal or rectilinear shape, and the like.

The outer tooth body 202 has a usable length L_u, which is measured as a distance extending from the leading end 204 and terminating prior to the tail end 206. In other words, the usable length L_u may be shorter than the total length L_t of the tooth 200. The usable length L_u can be defined as the length of the tooth 200 beyond which the tooth 200 cannot adequately be supported in the tooth assembly 110 when extend to its working length L_w. Additionally, or alternatively, the usable length L_u may be the length of the tooth 200 that can be used, worn, and degraded until the tooth 200 needs to be serviced. The usable length L_u is preferably greater than 50% of the total length L_t, such as between 50% to 99% of the total length L_t.

In this embodiment, the outer tooth body 202 has an angled surface or beveled edge 208 at the leading end 204. The outer tooth body 202 can have such edge features and have “a substantially prismatic geometry with a substantially constant cross-sectional shape” as used herein. For example, a “substantially” prismatic geometry with a substantially constant cross-sectional shape may encompass an outer tooth body that has a prismatic geometry with a substantially constant cross-sectional shape along at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the total length L_t of the outer tooth body 202. Additionally, or alternatively, a “substantially” prismatic geometry with a substantially constant cross-sectional shape may encompass an outer tooth body that has a prismatic geometry with a substantially constant cross-sectional shape along at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the usable length L_u of the outer tooth body 202.

The outer tooth body 202 is made from a wear resistant material having a suitable hardness to enable the tooth 200 to engage the material being excavated and not wear excessively.

The wear resistant material of the outer tooth body 202 may also have a suitable ductility to withstand bending type loads on the tooth 200. The wear resistant material used for the outer tooth body 202 can include any material suitable for use in excavation operations including, but not limited to, nickel, alloy steel, austempered ductile iron, among others.

In some embodiments, the tooth also includes a tooth core 210 positioned (e.g., embedded) in the outer tooth body 202 and extending at least a portion of the total length L_t of the tooth 200. For example, the tooth core 210 may extend from the leading end 204 of the tooth approximately the usable length L_u of the tooth 200. In some embodiments, the tooth core may be shorter or longer than the usable length L_u. The length of the tooth core is preferably shorter than or approximately to the usable length L_u to avoid material waste. The tooth core 210 is made of a wear resistant material that is dissimilar to the wear resistant material of the outer tooth body 202. The dissimilar wear resistant material of the tooth core 210 can be used to adjust the properties of the tooth 200 to improve the usable life and productivity of the tooth 200. For example, the tooth core 210 can have a higher hardness than the outer tooth body 202 to improve the strength and wear resistance of the tooth 200. The higher hardness of the tooth core 210 may reduce the ductility of the tooth core 210, which may be acceptable since the tooth core 210 may be less susceptible to breaking under bending type loads. In some embodiments, the wear resistant material used for the tooth core 210 can include, but is not limited to, a ceramic matrix composite materials and/or tungsten carbide materials, among others. In some embodiments, the tooth core 210 may include embedded particles within the other tooth body 202. In other embodiments, the tooth 200 may be formed from a single material and have a uniform composition.

The outer tooth body 202 may include engagement features 212 positioned on an outer surface of the outer tooth body 202. In the illustrated example, the engagement features 212 are positioned on the top and/or a bottom surface of the outer tooth body 202. In some embodiments, the engagement features 212 may be positioned on a side surface of the outer tooth body 202, or any other suitable position to enable the engagement features 212 to function as described herein.

The engagement features 212 may be used as described above for the engagement features 178 of the tooth 116 (see FIG. 10). For example, the engagement features 212 may be arranged at predefined intervals that delineate discrete locking positions or incremental lengths that the tooth 200 can be advanced or at which movement of the tooth 200 can be stopped via a tooth control mechanism (e.g., the mechanism 176 of FIG. 10). The engagement features 212 are laterally extending slots in this example, but the engagement features can have any shape and configuration. For example, the engagement features can include slots, divots, grooves, stops, or any other type of feature in the outer tooth body that enables engagement with a tooth control mechanism as described herein. In some embodiments, the engagement features can be raised relative to an outer surface of the outer tooth body 202.

In this example, the engagement features 212 are positioned on the outer tooth body 202 along a portion of the outer tooth proximate the tail end 206. The portion of the outer tooth body 202 on which the engagement features 212 are positioned may correspond to the portion of the tooth 200 that is inserted in a cavity of a digging attachment (e.g., a cavity of the digging attachment 100). The engagement features 212 are also not positioned on the outer tooth body 202 along a portion of the outer tooth body proximate the leading end 204. The portion of the outer tooth body 202 on which the engagement features 212 are positioned may correspond to the portion of the tooth 200 that defines the working length L_w of the tooth 200 when installed on the digging attachment. In some examples, the engagement features 212 begin proximate a terminating end of the usable length L_u and continue at intervals towards the tail end 206 of the tooth 200. In some embodiments, the engagement features may be positioned on each portion of the outer tooth body, proximate both the leading end 204 and the tail end 206.

In some embodiments, the engagement features 212 are formed as grooves or other depressions in the outer tooth body 202. As shown in FIG. 12, the engagement features 212 may depend from an outer surface of the tooth body 202 a depth that is shallower than a dimension of the tooth 200 measured in the depth direction. Here, the depth of the engagement features 212 is shallower than a thickness T of the tooth 200. The depth of the engagement features 212 may be such that the engagement features 212 terminate in depth prior to the tooth core 210. In some embodiments, the engagement features may have a depth that is less than 50% of the thickness T of the tooth 200. For example, the engagement features may have a depth that is less than 40%, less than 30%, less than 20%, or less than 10% of the thickness T of the tooth 200.

In some embodiments, the engagement features 212 each have a front load surface 216 and a rear load surface 218. The front load surface 216 and the rear load surface 218 may be configured, e.g., shaped, for engagement with the tooth control mechanism, such as a ratcheting mechanism. In some embodiments, the front load surface 216 and the rear load surface 218 are configured, e.g., shaped, to cooperate with the tooth control mechanism to allow movement of the tooth 200 in a first direction and to limit or prevent movement of the tooth 200 in a second direction opposite the first direction. The first direction may be a forward direction in which the tooth 200 advances to replenish the working length L_w and the second direction may be a backward direction in which the tooth 200 retracts to reduce the working length L_w. In some embodiments, the front load surface 216 may define a stop surface, e.g., a surface orthogonal to the outer surface of the outer tooth body 202. The front load surface 216 may cooperate with the tooth control mechanism to limit or prevent retraction of the tooth 200 within a cavity as described above for the front stop surface 196 of the engagement features 178. In some embodiments, the rear load surface 218 may include a ramping feature (e.g., a sloped surface) that allows advancement of the tooth 200 past the tooth control mechanism as described above for the back ramp surface 198 of the engagement features 178.

The outer tooth body 202 can include the engagement features 212 and have “a substantially constant cross-sectional shape” as used herein. For example, a “substantially” constant cross-sectional shape may encompass an outer tooth body that has substantially the same cross-section along at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the total length L_t of the outer tooth body, and has a cross-sectional shape that temporarily changes at discrete or incremental locations along the total length L_t where the engagement features 212 are positioned. Additionally, or alternatively, a “substantially” constant cross-sectional shape may encompass an outer tooth body that has substantially the same cross-section along at least 50%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the usable length L_u of the outer tooth body, and has a cross-sectional shape that temporarily changes at discrete or incremental locations along the usable length L_u where the engagement features 212 are positioned.

The tooth 200 may also include a wear indicator 214 to indicate a need to adjust the working length L_w of the tooth 200 and/or indicate when the tooth 200 needs replacement. For example, the wear indicator 214 can include a wear-rate indicator (e.g., a conductive rod or wire) that communicates with a wear rate or length sensor. In some embodiments, the wear indicator may be a visual indicator on an outer surface of the outer tooth body that allows an operator to visually discern a need to adjust the working length L_w of the tooth 200 and/or indicate when the tooth 200 needs replacement.

FIGS. 13 and 14 depict another embodiment of a tooth 300 that may be used as one or more of the teeth 116 in the tooling system 102. The tooth 300 have similar features and elements as the tooth 200 of FIGS. 11 and 12. For example, the tooth 300 has an outer tooth body 302 made of a first wear resistant material and a tooth core 310 positioned in the outer tooth body 302 that is made of a second wear resistant material that is dissimilar to the first wear material (e.g., the second wear resistant material has a relatively higher hardness and/or lower ductility). The outer tooth body 302 also defines a substantially prismatic geometry (e.g., rectangular prism) of the tooth 300 with a substantially constant cross-sectional shape along a substantial entirety of a length of the tooth 300. In this example, the edges of the outer tooth body 302 at both a leading end 304 and a tail end 306 of the tooth 300 are substantially flat. Additionally, in this example, engagement features 314 (e.g., grooves) are positioned on sides of the outer tooth body 302. Like the engagement features 214 of the tooth 200 in FIGS. 11 and 12, the engagement features 314 are positioned on an outer surface of the outer tooth body 302 along a first portion of the outer tooth body 302 proximate the tail end 306, and are not positioned on the outer tooth body 302 along a second portion of the outer tooth body 302 proximate the leading end 304. In some embodiments, the engagement features may be positioned on the outer tooth body proximate both the leading end 304 and the tail end 306.

In some embodiments, the engagement features 312 are formed as grooves or other depressions in the outer tooth body 302. As shown in FIG. 14, the engagement features 312 may depend from an outer surface of the tooth body 302 a depth that is shallower than a dimension of the tooth 300 measured in the depth direction. Here, the depth of the engagement features 312 is shallower than a width W of the tooth 300. The depth of the engagement features 313 may such that the engagement features 312 terminate in depth prior to the tooth core 310. In some embodiments, the engagement features 312 may have a depth that is less than 50% of the width W of the tooth 300. For example, the engagement features 312 may have a depth that is less than 40%, less than 30%, less than 20%, or less than 10% of the width W of the tooth 300. In some embodiments, the engagement features may be raised relative to the outer tooth body 302.

In some embodiments, the engagement features 312 each have a front load surface 316 and a rear load surface 318. The front load surface 316 and the rear load surface 318 may be configured, e.g., shaped, for engagement with the tooth control mechanism, such as a ratcheting mechanism. In some embodiments, the front load surface 316 and the rear load surface 318 are configured, e.g., shaped, to cooperate with the tooth control mechanism to allow movement of the tooth 300 in a first direction and to limit or prevent movement of the tooth 300 in a second direction opposite the first direction. The first direction may be a forward direction in which the tooth 300 advances to replenish the working length L_w and the second direction may be a backward direction in which the tooth 300 retracts to reduce the working length L_w. In some embodiments, the front load surface 316 may define a stop surface, e.g., a surface orthogonal to the outer surface of the outer tooth body 302. The front load surface 316 may cooperate with the tooth control mechanism to limit or prevent retraction of the tooth 300 within a cavity as described above for the front stop surface 196 of the engagement features 178. In some embodiments, the rear load surface 318 may include a ramping feature (e.g., a sloped surface) that allows advancement of the tooth 300 past the tooth control mechanism as described above for the back ramp surface 198 of the engagement features 178.

In the example teeth of FIGS. 11-14, the engagement features can be positioned on a top, bottom, and/or side surface of the outer tooth body. In some embodiments, the engagement features may extend around the outer tooth body. For example, the engagement features may be defined on each of the top, bottom, and side surfaces of the outer tooth body. In some embodiments, the tooth may have a circular or rounded cross-sectional shape, and the engagement features may extend circumferentially around the outer tooth body.

Turning now to FIGS. 15 and 16, the lower portion 104 of the digging attachment 100 of FIG. 1 is shown equipped with another embodiment of a lip 406, which may be similar to the lip 106 described above. The lip 406 includes a lip adapter 414 and a lip support 418, which may be similar to the lip adapter 114 and the lip support 118 described above. In this embodiment, the lip adapter 414 and the lip support 418 may be formed from individual or discrete linkages (e.g., blocks or segments). Adjacent linkages of the lip adapter 414 and/or adjacent linkages of the lip support 418 can be securely connected together (e.g., by welding, mechanical attachment, or another suitable means). Each one of the linkages of the lip adapter 414 may correspond to one of the linkages of the lip support 418. The pairs of linkages of the lip adapter and lip support can also be securely connected together, or may be made integral as a one-piece unit. The linkages can vary in shape to form the U-shape (or another shape) of the lip 406 when connected. In some embodiments, the lip adapter and/or the lip support may be constructed as a one-piece unit. In some embodiments, the lip may be constructed as a one-piece unit with the lip adapter made integral with the lip support.

In this embodiment, at least one of the linkage pairs of the lip adapter 414 and the lip support 418 may house a tooth 416 of a tooth assembly 410 within a respective cavity 440. The tooth 416 in this example may be similar to any of the teeth 116, 200, and/or 300 described above. The cavity 440 is cooperatively defined by a linkage of the lip adapter 414 and a linkage of the lip support 418, similar to the cavities 140 described above. One, some, or all the linkage pairs of the lip adapter 414 and the lip support 418 may include a cavity 440 that can house a tooth 416 of a tooth assembly 410. One or some of the linkage pairs may not house a tooth, and may not include a cavity, or may have a cavity that penetrates to a smaller distance than a cavity 440 that houses a tooth.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the tooth assembly 410 of this embodiment may be similar to the tooth assembly 110 described above. More particularly, the tooth assembly 410 includes a shroud 446 that may be similar to the shroud 146 described above and an insert 482 that may be similar to the insert 182 described above. The tooth 416 is extendable through the shroud 446 and the insert 482 as described above. The tooth 416 is also moveable within the cavity 440 to adjust and/or replenish the working length L_w of the tooth. In this embodiment, the lip support 418 is relatively elongate between the lip adapter 414 and the structural support plate 130, and can accommodate a length of the tooth 416 therein such that a housing tube (e.g., the housing tube 122) can be omitted from the tooth assembly 410. The tooth 416 can be moved manually (e.g., via the operator or upon operator input to a controller), autonomously, or in any other suitable way without departing from the principles of this disclosure. Movement of the tooth 416 can be controlled as described above for the tooth 116 of the tooth assembly 110. In this example, an actuator (e.g., the actuator 174) may be used to move the tooth 416, and can be housed in the cavity 440.

The tooth assemblies 110, 410 may provide a number of advantages and benefits that can improve the wear life, material utilization, and performance associated with the tooling assembly and/or the digging attachment. Additionally, or alternatively, the above described embodiments can improve safety by reducing the frequency of component changeouts, outages, inspections, and other servicing operations. Additionally, or alternatively, the above described embodiments can reduce a weight of the tooling assembly and/or the digging attachment and reduce the complexity of manufacturing and assembly.

The tooth assemblies 110, 410 also provide greater flexibility to servicing and changeouts of the components, since the tooth 116, 416 and the shroud 146, 446 of the respective tooth assembly 110, 410 can be serviced (e.g., removed and/or replaced) independent of one another. The tooth assemblies 110, 410 may also allow greater versatility of the working lengths L_w of the teeth 116, 416. For example, the working lengths L_w of the teeth 116, 416 can be adjusted depending on the application of the digging attachment 100, the position of the teeth 116, 416 relative to the lip 106, the material be excavated (e.g., clay or soft material versus rock or other hard material), etc.

The design and configuration of the teeth 116, 200, 300, 416 of the embodiments can also provide additional or alternative benefits. For example, the substantially constant geometry and cross section of the teeth during the useful (wear) life of the tooth may provide better penetration and more machine productivity with consistently longer teeth during use. Each tooth can also be sized to optimize the working length of the tooth and productivity for nearly the full useful life of the tooth. The size (e.g., working length) of the teeth can also be adjusted or varied based on the location of the tooth and amount of wear and the expected useful life of each tooth, such that the changeouts of the teeth can be made at the same time to reduce downtime and outages. The dissimilar materials of the tooth body and the tooth core may allow greater resistance to wear, such that the tooth does not wear excessively. Additionally, the tooth may only wear back to shroud face. The engagement features on the teeth allow for an internal mechanism for controlling movement of the tooth (e.g., locking and/or actuation mechanism) that can be accommodated within the cavity that also houses the tooth. The engagement features on the teeth can be cast, which minimizes or eliminates any post-machining and simplifies the fabrication process for the tooth. The engagement features and the internal mechanism can also cooperate to absorb operational loads, which may reduce the loads experienced by an actuator of the tooth. The engagement features and the internal mechanism may also cooperate to limit or prevent premature or undesired retraction of the tooth during excavation.

Turning now to FIG. 19, a schematic of one embodiment of a tooth control system 500 in accordance with the principles of this disclosure is shown. The tooth control system 500 can be incorporated with, included in, and/or otherwise usable in conjunction with the digging attachment 100, the tooling system 102, and/or the tooth assemblies 110, 410 described above. In the embodiment shown, the control system 500 includes a smart tooth system 502, a sensor system 504, an operator system 506, and a tooth movement system 508. In some embodiments, the system 500 includes fewer, additional, or different components than those shown in FIG. 19 in various configurations and may perform additional functionality than the functionality described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the system 500 may include multiple smart tooth systems 502, sensor systems 504, and/or tooth movement systems 508, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the system 500 may include other components associated with a GET and/or a digging attachment (e.g., the digging attachment 100), such as one or more actuators, motors, pumps, indicators, and the like. In some embodiments, the system 500 does not include a smart tooth system 502 and the steps described herein may be performed manually (e.g., by an operator) without departing from the principles of this disclosure.

In certain embodiments, the smart tooth system 502 includes a controller 510, a memory 512, and an input output (I/O) unit 514. In certain embodiments, the controller 510 may include a processing unit 516, or processor. The processing unit 516 can be, for example, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), or another suitable electronic device. As shown, the memory 512 (for example, one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage mediums), may also include data storage 518 of any suitable type. The processing unit 516, the memory 512, and the I/O unit 514 may communicate to external devices over one or more data connections or buses, or a combination thereof.

The smart tooth system 502 represents one example, and, in some embodiments, smart tooth system includes fewer, additional, or different components in different configurations than shown in FIG. 19. Also, in some embodiments, the smart tooth system may include functionality in addition to the functionality described herein without departing from the principles of this disclosure.

The I/O unit 514 allows the smart tooth system 502 to communicate with devices external to the smart tooth system. For example, the smart tooth system 502 may communicate with sensor system 504, which may include one or more sensors (e.g., the sensor 180 in FIG. 10), the tooth movement system 508, the operator system 506, another component of the GET, digging attachment, the tooling system, and/or the tooth assembly, or a combination thereof. The I/O unit 514 may include ports for receiving a wired connection to an external device (for example, a universal serial bus (“USB”) cable and the like), a transceiver for establishing a wireless connection to an external device (for example, over one or more communication networks, such as the internet, LAN, a WAN, and the like), or any suitable combination thereof without departing from the principles of this disclosure.

In certain embodiments, the sensor system 504 may include sensors that measure various characteristics of the teeth of the tooling system (e.g., teeth 116, 200, 300, and/or 416). Such characteristics may include, but are not limited to: (1) wear of the teeth; (2) mechanical loading of the teeth; (3) change in length of the teeth over a period of time or condition e.g., dig shift, dig conditions, machine settings; and (4) change in length of the teeth during operation of the digging attachment by different operators. In addition the system 500 may—based on information gathered by the sensor system 504 and the smart tooth system 502—determine: (1) changes in weight; (2) optimal length of each tooth at each respective position along a lip of the digging attachment (e.g., the lip 106 and/or the lip 406) for maximum tooth life and digging force; (3) predictive replacement based on scheduled downtimes, repair time and shift changeover; (4) amount of inventory; (5) mine customization based on the type of digging, environmental conditions; and (6) indication that one or more teeth has reached or will soon reach the end of its lifetime and if inventory is low prompt order to avoid downtime delay. Of course, additional characteristics may be measured and determinations made without departing from the principles of this disclosure.

In some embodiments, the smart tooth system 502 may dynamically determine whether a tooth should be extended based on operational conditions of the digging attachment. For example, during operation of the digging attachment, operational loads may increase when the digging attachment encounters certain materials or environmental conditions, which may vary over the course of a shift or other period of time. Based on information received from the sensor system 504, these operational conditions may be taken into account when determining whether to extend the length of a tooth. In certain embodiments, the environmental conditions may make it advantageous to retract the tooth as well, which the tooth movement system 508 may be capable of accommodating without departing from the principles of this disclosure.

The processing unit 516 may access and execute computer-readable instructions (“software”) stored in the memory 512. The software may include firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. In certain embodiments, the software may include instructions and associated data for performing a set of functions, including the methods described herein.

Turning now to FIG. 20, one embodiment of a method 600 that can be implemented by the system 500 is shown. In certain embodiments, the smart tooth system 502 may be operated based on user control (i.e., manually performing a recommended action) or autonomously driven. In the autonomous mode, the sensor system 504 is in communication with the smart tooth system 502 which, in turn, is in communication with the tooth movement system 506. Based upon information received by the smart tooth system 502 from the sensor system 504 at step 602, the smart tooth system 502 sends commands to the tooth movement system 508 to automatically adjust and/or replenish the working length (e.g., the working length L_w in FIGS. 4, 10, 17, and 18) of a tooth (e.g., tooth 116 and/or 416).

In some embodiments, the smart tooth system 502 may dynamically determine whether a tooth should be extended based on operational conditions of the digging attachment (e.g., the digging attachment 100). For example, during operation of the digging attachment, operational loads may increase when the digging attachment encounters certain materials or environmental conditions, which may vary over the course of a shift or other period of time. Based on information received from the sensor system 504, these operational conditions may be taken into account when determining whether to extend the length of a tooth. In certain embodiments, the environmental conditions may make it advantageous to retract the tooth as well, which tooth movement system 508 may be capable of accommodating without departing from the principles of this disclosure.

At step 604, the smart tooth system 502, based on information received from the sensor system 504, senses and/or monitors certain characteristics of the teeth and displays such characteristics on a user display. In certain embodiments, the user display is part of operator system 506, but may also be remotely accessible/monitored without departing from the principles of this disclosure. In certain embodiments, the sensor system 504 may sense a length of the exposed section of the tooth, length of the internal length of the tooth, change in the length of the tooth over a period of time, total hours used, dig cycles, etc. Of course, additional characteristics may be sensed by sensor system 504 without departing from the principles of this disclosure.

In some embodiments, the processing unit 516, based on data received from the sensor system 504, detects and tracks one or more characteristics of a tooth relative to an expected range of criteria. If the data received falls outside the expected range, the processing unit 516 may automatically instruct the tooth movement system 508 to extend the tooth (e.g., by actuating an actuator, such as the actuator 174 in FIG. 10, and/or another tooth control or movement mechanism).

In some embodiments, the processing unit 516 may determine that a warning should be issued that one or more teeth is damaged or in need of replacement. In some embodiments, the processing unit 516 may identify a specific tooth for immediate or imminent replacement and indicate the same to an operator. In certain embodiments, if a tooth is damaged, the processing unit 516 may instruct the tooth movement system 508 to retract the tooth and reduce its working length (e.g., into a cavity 140 and/or 440) to prevent damage to the digging attachment, surrounding teeth, or other components. In some embodiments, the smart tooth system 502 may emit an audible alarm and/or display a visual alarm indicating a dangerous condition or an immediate need to replace a tooth.

At step 606, the smart tooth system 502 may provide a recommendation to the user based on the information received from the sensor system 504. Such recommendations may include: no change, length to increase the exposed tooth section or replacement. Of course additional and/or alternative recommendations may be provided without departing from the principles of this disclosure. At step 608, if the system 500 is being operated based on user control, the user may then enter the command to the tooth movement system 508 to actuate the teeth in manual mode or choose to ignore the recommendation for the time being. If the system 500 is in autonomous mode, the user may not have direct control over the tooth movement system 508, which automatically actuates the teeth based on the recommendation from the smart tooth system 502.

At step 610, the tooth movement system 508 may actuate all the teeth at one time or in unison. In certain other embodiments, the tooth movement system 508 may independently actuate individual teeth at the various desired positions. In certain embodiments, the tooth movement system 508 may be actuated manually, such that a user mechanically actuates the teeth. In addition, due to variations in tooth wear, it may be desirable to adjust the teeth individually and independently.

Finally, at step 612, it may be desired to record the action performed by the system 500. Such information may be stored locally on the smart tooth system 502 in data storage 518 or may be transmitted to a remote storage system. In certain embodiments, the information gathered relating to system performance may be used to provide feedback to the user, the tooth manufacturer, and/or be used for predictive analytic purposes.

Turning now to FIG. 21, another embodiment of a method 700 that can be implemented by the system 500 is shown. At the beginning, end, or at any point during a shift, the teeth (e.g., teeth 116 and/or 416) of a digging attachment (e.g., the digging attachment 100) may be worn. Unlike existing teeth, which may have a usable length of approximately 9 inches, in the embodiments described herein, a tooth (e.g., a tooth 116, 200, 300, and/or 416) may have about 45-46 inches of usable length L_u before it needs to be replaced. Of course, other embodiments may have more or less usable length without departing from the principles of this disclosure. At step 702, an operator or the sensor system 504 determines the wear/state of the tooth. The wear of the tooth may be based on the difference between an initial characteristic of the tooth and a current characteristic of the tooth. An operator may also visually inspect the tooth and determine the adjustment length.

If a tooth needs adjustment, at step 704, a user enters a command into a user interface of the smart tooth system 502. The smart tooth system 502 may include an electronic display, have manual control, or have any other suitable user interface without departing from the principles of this disclosure. The manual control may, for example, be a button, a dial with incremental lengths or a switch/lever, etc. . . . The smart tooth system 502 may also have a setting for advancing all of the teeth simultaneously or independently advancing a respective tooth.

Finally, at steps 706-710, the command is transmitted to the tooth movement system 508, which linearly advances the tooth/teeth to increase the exposed length, thereby decreasing the internal length of the tooth disposed within a cavity (e.g., a cavity 140 and/or 440) and/or a housing tube (e.g., a housing tube 122). The process is then repeated over time as the tooth can extend multiple times thereby achieving an extended lifetime.

In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. For example, those of skill in the art will recognize, according to the principles and concepts disclosed herein, that various combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions of the components discussed above can provide a tooth advancement system incorporating aspects and principles of the present disclosure.

The embodiment(s) described above and illustrated in the figures are presented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitation upon the concepts and principles of the present disclosure. As such, it will be appreciated that variations and modifications to the elements and their configuration and/or arrangement exist within the spirit and scope of one or more independent aspects as described.

Claims

1. A tooth assembly for a digging attachment, the tooth assembly comprising: an insert configured to engage the lip, the insert including an insert opening configured to be aligned with a cavity of the lip;a shroud configured to engage with at least one of the lip and the insert, the shroud including a shroud opening aligned with the insert opening; anda tooth configured to be positioned at least partially within the cavity, the tooth extendable through the shroud opening and the insert opening while a portion of the tooth having a working length protrudes beyond the shroud, the tooth moveable in the cavity relative to the shroud and the insert to adjust the working length.

2. The tooth assembly of claim 1, wherein the shroud is removably connectable to at least one of the lip and the insert.

3. The tooth assembly of claim 1, further comprising a tooth control mechanism configured to engage the tooth to control movement of the tooth in the cavity.

4. The tooth assembly of claim 3, wherein the tooth control mechanism is a locking mechanism configured to engage the tooth to limit movement of the tooth in the cavity.

5. The tooth assembly of claim 1, wherein: the shroud includes a shroud head that protrudes beyond a leading edge of the lip, the shroud opening being defined in the shroud head,the insert includes an insert head positionable between the shroud head and the leading edge, the insert opening being defined in the insert head, andthe shroud head has an inner surface configured to engage an outer surface of the insert head.

6. The tooth assembly of claim 5, wherein the insert head has a stop surface configured to engage the leading edge of the lip.

7. The tooth assembly of claim 1, wherein the insert includes a seal positioned in the insert opening to limit ingress of material into the cavity.

8. The tooth assembly of claim 1, wherein the insert is configured to be at least partially insertable in the cavity.

9. The tooth assembly of claim 1, further comprising an actuator operable to move the tooth in the cavity.

10. The tooth assembly of claim 9, wherein a controller electrically connected to the actuator operates the actuator to control movement of the tooth in the cavity.

11. The tooth assembly of claim 10, further comprising at least one sensor that senses at least one characteristic of the tooth, the controller receiving data from the at least one sensor and operating the actuator to control movement of the tooth in the cavity in response to the data received from the at least one sensor.

12. The tooth assembly of claim 1, further comprising at least one sensor electrically connected to a controller, the at least one sensor sensing at least one characteristic of the tooth, the controller receiving data from the at least one sensor and, in response to the data received from the at least one sensor, at least one of: controlling movement of the tooth in the cavity; andcausing display, on a user display, of an indicator related to a state of the tooth.

13. A tooth assembly for a digging attachment, the tooth assembly comprising: a shroud configured to engage with the lip, the shroud including a shroud opening configured to be aligned with a cavity of the lip; anda tooth configured to be positioned at least partially in the cavity, the tooth extendable through the shroud opening while a portion of the tooth having a working length protrudes beyond the shroud, the tooth moveable in the cavity relative to the shroud to adjust the working length.

14. The tooth assembly of claim 13, wherein the shroud is joined to an insert positionable between the shroud and a leading edge of the lip.

15. The tooth assembly of claim 14, further comprising a shroud lock configured to removably connect the shroud with at least one of the lip and the insert.

16. The tooth assembly of claim 14, wherein the shroud engages the insert.

17. The tooth assembly of claim 13, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to engage the tooth to limit movement of the tooth in the cavity.

18. The tooth assembly of claim 13, wherein: the tooth has a total length longer than the working length of the tooth such that a portion of the tooth is in the cavity when the tooth extends the working length beyond the shroud, and the tooth has engagement features positioned on an outer surface of the tooth, the engagement features being configured for engagement with a tooth control mechanism for controlled movement of the tooth in the cavity, the engagement features being positioned on the portion of the tooth in the cavity when the tooth extends the working length beyond the shroud.

19. The tooth assembly of claim 13, wherein the tooth is insertable into the cavity via the shroud opening and removable from the cavity via the shroud opening without removing the shroud from the lip.

20. A tooth for a digging attachment tooling system having a shroud, the tooth comprising: a tooth body made of a wear resistant material; andengagement features positioned on an outer surface of the tooth body, each of the engagement features defining a front load surface and a rear load surface, the front load surface and the rear load surface being configured to engage a tooth control mechanism to allow movement of the tooth in a first direction relative to the shroud and limit movement of the tooth in a second direction opposite the first direction relative to the shroud.

21. The tooth of claim 20, wherein the front load surface includes a stop surface and the rear load surface includes a ramp surface.

22. The tooth of claim 20, wherein each of the engagement features includes a groove positioned in the outer surface of the tooth body and having a depth that is shallower than a dimension of the tooth body measured in a direction of the depth.

23. The tooth of claim 20, wherein the tooth body has a substantially prismatic geometry with a substantially constant cross-sectional shape along a length of the tooth.

24. The tooth of claim 20, wherein the tooth body is made of a first wear resistant material, and wherein the tooth further includes a tooth core positioned in the outer tooth body and extending at least a portion of the length of the tooth, wherein the tooth core is made of a second wear resistant material that is dissimilar to the first wear resistant material.

25. The tooth of claim 24, wherein the first wear resistant material has a higher ductility and a lower hardness than the second wear resistant material.

26. The tooth of claim 20, wherein the engagement features are positioned at discrete locations on the outer surface of the tooth body delineating incremental lengths of the tooth.

27. The tooth of claim 20, wherein a portion of the tooth body defines a usable length of the tooth, and wherein at least one of the engagement features is positioned on the portion of the tooth body defining the usable length.