Abstract: A control system with slow-in-turn capabilities for use with a self-propelled, steerable vehicle, such as a lawn mower, is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system slows the vehicle speed when turns are made beyond a predetermined range and the speed is at or above a predetermined level, as determined by a speed control device operatively connected to the speed control structure of a motive device by a speed control linkage. This slowing results in increased traction for achieving tighter turns and also improves dynamic stability. Two different types of rack-and-pinion steering systems capable of being used with the control system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A set of universal fit retaining plates which secure to one or more legs of a ball pitching or skeet throwing machine to help maintain a steady trajectory of the throwing mechanism. The plates are engaged to the ground with protruding devices and secure to the machine leg(s) by means such as a funnel type pocket which can hold the end of a leg in a wedge fit condition. This accommodates a variety of machines with different leg angles, leg end profiles, and leg end materials. The retaining plates help keep the throwing machine in a steady position in a variety of conditions and situations such as hard, dusty ball field surfaces, soft, moist field conditions or when a ball hits the machine.

Abstract: A self-cleaning attachment for a rotary mower has a carrier member (26) supporting a flexible, linear element (25) radially spaced from the rotational axis of the blade at a level above the blade so the element rotates near the underside of the mower housing defining a narrow upper chamber where air pulses are concentrated to maintain the underside of the housing relatively clean of build-up. The carrier may have a plurality of elements in equally spaced relationship, the structure of which is such that the outer tips are supported above the blade when idle, and the inertial mass is low compared to the rotating mass of the blade such that there is relatively little rotational effect as the elements become worn. The attachment is retro-fittable to existing mowers without causing appreciable power loss or degrading the blade stopping capability below ANSI standards for residential lawn mowers.

Abstract: An integrated fuel control unit for gas-operated internal combustion engines that includes a base on which a primary diaphragm is secured to define a primary fuel chamber. A primary fuel orifice is carried by the base, as is a primary control lever that is coupled to the primary diaphragm for controlling flow of fuel through the primary orifice as a function of inlet fuel pressure and engine demand. A secondary diaphragm is also secured to the base to define a secondary fuel chamber. A secondary orifice is carried by the base between the primary and secondary chambers, and a secondary control lever is coupled to the secondary diaphragm for controlling flow of fuel through the secondary orifice as a function of engine demand. A heat exchange section in the body receives engine coolant or engine oil for heat exchange with fuel so as to heat and vaporize the fuel between the primary and secondary chambers.

Abstract: A combined discharge and grass collection mower deck (12) is adapted to have a baffle housing (20) attached at the deck's discharge opening that deflects grass clippings downwardly and outwardly into a diverging, narrow, fan-like pattern without wind rowing, or alternatively, the discharge opening may be closed by a plate (35), and a secondary opening (36) from the top of the deck is attach to a collection system.

Abstract: A self-cleaning attachment for a rotary mower has a carrier member (26) supporting a flexible, linear element (25) radially spaced from the rotational axis of the blade at a level above the blade so the element rotates near the underside of the mower housing defining a narrow upper chamber where air pulses are concentrated to maintain the underside of the housing relatively clean of build-up. The carrier may have a plurality of elements in equally spaced relationship, the structure of which is such that the outer tips are supported above the blade when idle, and the inertial mass is low compared to the rotating mass of the blade such that there is relatively little rotational effect as the elements become worn. The attachment is retro-fittable to existing mowers without causing appreciable power loss or degrading the blade stopping capability below ANSI standards for residential lawn mowers.

Abstract: A combined discharge and grass collection mower deck (12) is adapted to have a baffle housing (20) attached at the deck's discharge opening that deflects grass clippings downwardly and outwardly into a diverging, narrow, fan-like pattern without wind rowing, or alternatively, the discharge opening may be closed by a plate (35), and a secondary opening (36) from the top of the deck is attach to a collection system.

Abstract: A self-propelled utility tractor having articulated steering, a standing operator, a turning radius near the rear wheel on the inside of a full turn, the radius of turn being not substantially longer than the wheel base, independent rear wheel brakes to assist in tight turns, a steering wheel for operating a steering linkage, an engine and transmission, centrally mounted with the engine below the transmission transmitting power by a jack shaft so the out put shaft of the engine extends down to power an attachment. Where the attachment is a mower deck, a rear discharge chute on the tractor deflects the clippings uniformly across the rear to avoid wind rowing. Flexible elements rotate above the mower blade to provide additional mulching and turbulent air flow and self-cleaning of the underside of the deck.