Michael J Schramm

US Patent:

44445180, Apr 24, 1984

Filed:

Apr 23, 1982

Appl. No.:

6/371360

Inventors:

Michael E. Schramm - El Toro CA
Edward Vezirian - Irvine CA

Assignee:

Smith International, Inc. - Newport Beach CA

International Classification:

F16C 4302
E21B 1022

US Classification:

384 96

Abstract:

A rock bit cone retention means is disclosed which primarily utilizes a series of segmented rings. The segmented rings are inserted into a relatively deep annular channel formed transverse to the axis of either a journal or a cone of a rock bit leg assembly. The complementary channel, shallow in depth, is formed in either the journal or the cone. The cone, when properly positioned on the journal, closes out the channel formed in both the cone and the journal. Upon assembly, the segments are urged within the deep groove or channel in the journal or the cone such that each of the segments do not protrude beyond the bearing surface as the cone is passed over an end of the journal. Means are provided adjacent the cone retention segment to accept a spring biasing means to urge each segment away from the bottom of the deep groove in the journal or cone. When the cone is placed over the journal, each of the segments, when they register with the complementary groove in the journal, snap into place, thus substantially locking the cone on the journal.

US Patent:

45069972, Mar 26, 1985

Filed:

Nov 21, 1983

Appl. No.:

6/553595

Inventors:

Michael E. Schramm - El Toro CA
Edward Vezirian - Irvine CA

Assignee:

Smith International, Inc. - Newport Beach CA

International Classification:

F16C 4302
E21B 1022

US Classification:

384 96

Abstract:

A rock bit cone retention means is disclosed which primarily utilizes a series of segmented rings. The segmented rings are inserted into a relatively deep annular channel formed transverse to the axis of either a journal or a cone of a rock bit leg assembly. The complementary channel, shallow in depth, is formed in either the journal or the cone. The cone, when properly positioned on the journal, closes out the channel formed in both the cone and the journal. Upon assembly, the segments are urged within the deep groove or channel in the journal or the cone such that each of the segments do not protrude beyond the bearing surface as the cone is passed over an end of the journal. Means are provided adjacent the cone retention segment to accept a spring biasing means to urge each segment away from the bottom of the deep groove in the journal or cone. When the cone is placed over the journal, each of the segments, when they register with the complementary groove in the journal, snap into place, thus substantially locking the cone on the journal.