.~ Rolling cutter bit or rolling cutter bit element {26}
376
.~.~ Nonsymmetrical bit (e.g., nontracking)
DEFINITION
Classification: 175/376
(under subclass 331) Apparatus in which the external physical form or shape of the bit is such that the bit has (1) no more than one plane of bilateral symmetry passing through a line coinciding with the longitudinal axis of the drive shaft for the bit and (2) no radial symmetry about an axis coinciding with the longitudinal axis of the drive shaft for the bit.
(1) Note. For the purposes of this subclass an element has bilateral symmetry when each part thereof lying on one side of a plane passing there through has a corresponding part lying on the opposite side of the plane at an equal distance from the plane and on a line through the parts and perpendicular to the plane. An element has radial symmetry when it can be divided into a plurality of segments radially about the axis of symmetry each of which has the same shape and size and the sum of the radial angles of all the segments equal 360 degrees.
(2) Note. Patents in which the claims would meet the terms of the definition of this subclass because only a portion of a specifically described bit has been claimed are excluded if the entire bit as described would not meet the terms of the definition. Such patents have been classified on other features.
(3) Note. The external form of the bit is considered to include the configuration and location of rolling cutter elements, cutting edges, fluid or cuttings conveying ports or
the shape of the bit head, however, a lug or recess or opening for the purpose of connecting the parts of the bit or the bit to the drive shaft are not included, such as, for example, an opening for a single set screw or a flat on the bit head to be received in a socket. Also, the internal shape of fluid, cuttings or core conveying passages are not included. Also, not included is structure where the sole nonsymmetrical feature of the bit resides in the shape or position of teeth or cutting edges on the individual rolling cutters, if all the rolling cutters are identical in shape and size and are symmetrically arranged on the bit head.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
341, for a nonsymmetrical rolling cutter bit in which the cutter edges on one roller cutter intermesh with the cutting edges of an adjacent roller cutter. 378, for a rolling cutter element, per se, with irregular tooth rows.
