Material pusher with improved structure

Abstract

A pusher for snow or other material includes a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges. A wiper is secured to the lower edge of the blade. Left and right sidewalls are connected to opposite sides of the blade. The sidewalls are each arranged transverse to the blade and define chain-engaging apertures. Left and right skid-shoe assemblies are connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls and slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared. A plurality of cross-supports are connected to the rear surface of the blade and extending between the left and right sidewalls. A coupler structure is connected to the rear face of the pusher and defines a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the pusher-moving machine.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority from and benefit of the filing date of U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/529,801 filed Dec. 16, 2003 and U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/578,169 filed Jun. 9, 2004.

BACKGROUND

Pusher devices for clearing snow and other materials (e.g., manure, mud, etc.) from a roadway, runway, parking lot or-other surface are well-known and in widespread use. These known devices include a blade that is fixed or foldable and some means for operatively and temporarily securing the blade to a wheel-loader, skid-steer tractor, wheel-loader backhoe, or other machine used to move the pusher.

Known pushers are deficient for a wide variety of reasons. In many cases, the pushers have a structure that is difficult to manufacture, high-weight, and prone to damage during use, with weak spots and stress-concentration zones. Known pushers have not used vertical ribs cut from plates to tie the horizontal structural members together. Known pushers also have not used such vertical ribs to define the coupler portion of the pusher and, instead, have used posts that are merely connected to the pusher without being integrated into the overall structure.

Some pushers use bolts to connect the skid-shoe assemblies to the blade without providing any shear protection for the bolts. Many known pushes include deficient sidewall support gussets that trap material and/or that are not robustly attached to the sidewall and/or blade. Known pushers include coupler portions defined from hollow post structures that are not integrated into the overall structure of the pusher and that decrease visibility.

Known pushers are prone to tip rearward when not in use (e.g., during a decoupling operation) which renders storage unsafe and unsightly and that complicates re-coupling.

Conventional pusher devices also are designed for the wiper to contact and clear the underlying surface even when the pusher is not properly oriented on the surface, which leads to uneven wear of the skid-shoe assemblies without any indication to the operator that the pusher is not properly oriented.

Known folding pushers have been deemed suboptimal for a wide variety of reasons. Some require complex hydraulic systems for the folding and/or locking operations. Others rely on locking mechanisms that are overly complex or that are prone to damage and/or loss of components.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the present development, a pusher includes: a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges; a wiper secured to the lower edge of the blade; left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade, said sidewalls each arranged transverse to the blade; left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared; a plurality of cross-supports connected to the rear surface of the blade and extending between the left and right sidewalls; a coupler structure comprising: (i) a plurality of coupler ribs that are connected to and extend between at least some of the cross-supports; and, (ii) a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine.

In accordance with another aspect of the present development, a fixed-angle pusher for moving material laterally when said pusher is moved forwardly in an operative direction of movement comprises: a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges; a wiper secured to the lower edge of the blade; left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade and arranged parallel to the direction of operative movement, said sidewalls each arranged transverse to the blade, wherein said second sidewall trails said first sidewall with respect to the direction of operative movement, and wherein said first sidewall projects outwardly from said front surface of said blade more than said second sidewall projects outwardly from said front surface of said blade; left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared; a plurality of cross-supports connected to the rear surface of the blade and extending between the left and right sidewalls; a coupler structure comprising: (i) at least one wedge-shaped coupler plate connected to and projecting outwardly from one of said cross-supports; (ii) a plurality of first and second coupler ribs that are connected to said at least one wedge-shaped coupler plate, said first and second coupler ribs defining a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine, wherein a distance between said pick-up location and said blade decreases as a distance between said pick-up location and said second sidewall decreases.

In accordance with another aspect of the present development, a pusher comprises: a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges; a wiper secured to the lower edge of the blade; left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade, said sidewalls each arranged transverse to the blade; left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared; a plurality of cross-supports connected to the rear surface of the blade and extending between the left and right sidewalls; a coupler structure comprising: (i) a plurality of coupler ribs that are connected to and extend between at least two of the cross-supports; and, (ii) a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine, said pick-up location comprising an open slot adapted to receive a bucket lip.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present development, a pusher comprises: a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges; a wiper secured adjacent the lower edge of the blade; left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade, said sidewalls each arranged transverse to the blade; left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared; a coupler structure projecting outwardly from the rear surface of the blade and defining a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine; and, at least one chain-engaging aperture defined in each of the left and right sidewalls, said at least one chain-engaging aperture of each sidewall comprising a first region adapted to receive and allow passage of an associated chain and a second region adapted to engage and retain the associated chain for selectively fixedly securing the pusher to an associated pusher-moving machine.

In accordance with another aspect of the present development, a pusher comprises: a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges; a wiper secured adjacent the lower edge of the blade; left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade; left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared; a coupler structure operatively connected to the blade and defining a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine; and, wherein the left and right sidewalls comprise respective left and right sidewall flanges projecting outwardly therefrom and wherein said left and right skid-shoe assemblies are abutted with the left and right sidewall flanges and are connected to the left and right sidewalls by bolts, respectively, so that at least some impact forces on said left and right skid-shoe assemblies are transferred to said left and right sidewalls through said left and right sidewall flanges, respectively, to protect said bolts from shearing forces.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present development, a pusher comprises: a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges; a wiper secured adjacent the lower edge of the blade; left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade, said sidewalls each arranged transverse to the blade; left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared; a coupler structure operatively connected to the blade and defining a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine; wherein said left and right skid-shoe assemblies each comprise a wear-shoe having a primary portion that slidably supports the blade above a surface to be cleared, and wherein the sidewalls comprise upper edges that are parallel to the primary wear-shoe portions of the left and right skid-shoe assemblies, respectively, to provide a visual indication to an operator as to the orientation of the primary wear-shoe portions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The development comprises various structures and components and arrangements of same, preferred embodiments of which are disclosed with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a rear isometric view of a material pusher formed in accordance with the present development;

FIG. 2 is a front isometric view of the pusher shown in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3 and 4 are respective front and rear elevational views of the pusher shown in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 5 and 6 are respective top and bottom plan views of the pusher shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a right side elevational view of the pusher shown in FIG. 1 (the left side elevational view is substantially identical);

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate operation and use of the chain-engaging apertures;

FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 4 and showing the pusher resting on a surface to be cleaned thereby;

FIG. 9 is a right side elevational view that is similar to FIG. 7 that shows the pusher located in an undesired position that renders the pusher less effective;

FIG. 10 is an exploded isometric view of the left and right skid-shoe assemblies of the pusher of FIG. 1, and shows connection of an adapter bracket to same to allow for use of the skid-shoe assemblies with a popular conventional pusher device;

FIGS. 11A and 11B are rear and front isometric views of a skid-steer version of a pusher formed in accordance with the present development;

FIG. 11C is an isometric view of a pusher including a JRB-style female coupler portion for mating with a JRB-style male coupler portion;

FIG. 12 is a rear isometric view of an offset pusher structured in accordance with the present development;

FIG. 13 is a rear isometric view from above of a folding pusher formed in accordance with the present development, in its opened configuration;

FIG. 14 is a front isometric view of the folding pusher shown in FIG. 13 in its opened configuration;

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of the pusher of FIG. 13 with one blade section in a folded and locked position, and the other blade section in the open and locked position;

FIG. 16, shows the pusher of FIG. 13 in its fully folded and locked configuration;

FIGS. 17 and 18 are enlarged views of the right one of the two fold-locks of the pusher shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 19 shows the left fold-lock;

FIG. 20 shows another folding pusher formed in accordance with the present development;

FIG. 21 is an enlarged view of one of the two open-locks for the pusher of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is an enlarged view of the fold-lock of the pusher shown in FIG. 20;

FIGS. 23-25 show the sidewall gusset structure for the pushers of FIGS. 1-22;

FIGS. 26 and 27 are front and rear isometric views of a fixed-angle pusher formed in accordance with the present development;

FIG. 28 is a top plan view of the fixed-angle pusher of FIGS. 26 and 27.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-7 illustrate a pusher P formed in accordance with the present development. Unless otherwise specified, all components of the pusher P are defined from a suitable metal such as steel and/or various alloys thereof. The pusher comprises a body B and a coupling structure C connected to the body. The body B comprises a main blade portion D having a front or forwardly facing operative pushing surface DF that is preferably concavely curved and an opposite rear or rearward facing surface DR to which the coupling structure C is connected by welding or other means such as bolts or other fasteners. Blade D is formed by one or more curved plates.

First and second (left and right) sidewalls S1,S2 are located at opposite lateral ends of the blade D and project forwardly outward from the front surface DF thereof and also project in the rearward direction outwardly from rear surface DR of blade D. In the illustrated example, the sidewalls S1,S2 are parallel to each other and are vertically oriented, assuming the pusher P is operatively resting on a horizontal surface. The blade also D includes upper and lower edges DU,DL that extend laterally between the sidewalls parallel to each other.

The first and second sidewalls S1,S2 include respective first and second (left and right) removable skid-shoe assemblies H1,H2 that support the pusher P for sliding movement on a surface Z (FIG. 7) to be cleared, such as a parking lot, airport runway, etc., with the lower edge DL of the blade adjacent but not in contact with the surface. A wiper W such as a rubber strip or other durable and resilient means (e.g., a spring-loaded metal blade) is secured adjacent the blade lower edge DL and is intended to contact the surface Z being cleared by the pusher P. In the illustrated embodiment, the wiper W is coextensive with the blade lower edge DL and, thus, extends substantially from sidewall S1 to sidewall S2 to the fullest extent possible as limited by the skid shoes H1,H2. The wiper W is secured using a metal facing strip WS and a plurality of bolts T advanced into the blade D through both the strip WS and wiper W. The wiper W is reversible when worn to lengthen its useful life.

First and second gussets G1,G2 (FIGS. 2, 3) are respectively used to reinforce the connection of the sidewalls S1,S2 to the blade. The gussets are shaped for maximum strength, ease of assembly, weight savings and to prevent accumulation of snow or other material between themselves and the blade D and/or sidewalls S1,S2 as described in further detail below.

The rear surface DR of the blade D is reinforced with a plurality of parallel cross-supports such as a first (top), second (middle) and third (lower) cross-supports X1,X2,X3 (see e.g., FIGS. 1, 8). The first cross-support X1 is shown as a rectangular tube member that is welded to the rear surface DR or blade D adjacent the upper edge DU and coextensive therewith between sidewalls S1,S2. The second cross-support X2 is shown as an L-shaped angle member welded to the rear face DR of blade D between the upper and lower edges DU,DL and that extends continuously to and between the sidewalls S1,S2. The third cross-support X3 is shown as a plate stock member that is located adjacent the blade lower edge DL and that is coextensive therewith between the sidewalls. The cross-supports X1,X2,X3 are preferably parallel with each other and with the upper and lower blade edges DU,DL. The rear surface DR of the blade D is also reinforced with a first set of vertical reinforcement ribs R1 defined from plate steel sections that are welded to and extend vertically between the first and second cross-members X1,X2 for structural integration of the cross-members X1,X2. A second set of vertical reinforcement ribs comprises a plurality vertical ribs R2 defined from plate steel are welded to and extend between the second and third cross-supports X2,X3 and provide additional stiffness to the lower edge DL of the blade D and to tie the cross-members X2,X3 together.

With particular reference now to FIGS. 1 and 7, the coupler structure C of the pusher P is used to connect the pusher P operatively to a wheel-loader, skid-steer tractor, wheel-loader backhoe, or other machine used to move the pusher (pusher-moving machine) and comprises a first (upper) set of coupler ribs comprising a plurality of laterally spaced-apart ribs CR1,CR2,CR3, each defined from a planar section of steel plate, and each connected to and extending vertically between the first (upper) cross-support X1 and the second (middle) cross-support X2. The upper ribs CR1-CR3 are interconnected by a first cross-bar CB1 that is spaced outwardly from the rear surface DR of blade D for added strength. The coupler C further comprises a second (lower) set of coupler ribs comprising a plurality of laterally spaced-apart lower ribs CR1′,CR2′,CR3′, each defined from a planar section of steel plate, and each connected to and extending vertically between the central (middle) cross-support X2 and the third (lower) cross-support X3, and that are preferably in alignment with the upper ribs CR1,CR2,CR3, respectively. These ribs CR1′-CR3′ are interconnected by a cross-bar CB1′ that is spaced outwardly from the rear surface DR of blade D for added strength. The upper ribs CR1-CR3 and lower ribs CR1′-CR3′ are conformed and arranged relative to each other so that a narrow, laterally-extending open slot L (easily seen in FIG. 7) is defined therebetween and provides a pick-up location for connection of the pusher P to an associated pusher-moving machine. In particular, the slot L is adapted to receive the lower lip of a material-handling bucket connected to a front-end loader, backhoe or other pusher-moving machine so that the loader or other machine can be used to move the pusher P slidably across the surface Z to be cleaned, with the forward face DF of blade D oriented forward in the direction of movement and with the rear face DR oriented toward the pusher-moving machine. In the illustrated embodiment, each upper coupler rib CR1,CR2,CR3 is defined as a one-piece construction with the respective lower rib CR1′,CR2′,CR3′ from a single steel plate CR that defines a rib slot LR. The ribs slots LR cooperate to define the slot L when aligned with each other. In such case, each coupler rib plate CR extends between and is connected to at least two and preferably all of the first, second and third cross-supports X1,X2,X3.

Chains are secured between the bucket or other part of the associated pusher-moving machine and the sidewalls S1,S2 by insertion of the chains into one or more of the chain-engaging apertures N1,N2,N3 of sidewalls S1,S2 of pusher. At least some of the coupler rib plates CR define plain apertures N that allow respective chains or chain strands or hooks to pass therethrough to facilitate use of the chains to connect the pusher P to the associated pusher-moving machine. As shown separately in FIGS. 7A,7B, with reference to the chain-engaging aperture N1, each of the chain-engaging apertures N1,N2,N3 is keyhole-shaped and able to capture the links of a chain CN therein in a secure fashion. Each aperture N1,N2,N3 is defined by an enlarged portion KE and a narrowed portion KN. An associated conventional link chain CN is able to move freely through the enlarged portion KE (FIG. 7A), but the chain CN is unable to pass through the narrowed portion KN and, instead, is captured therein by the sidewall S1,S2. Multiple chain-engaging apertures N1,N2,N3 are preferably defined in each sidewall for two purposes: (i) the varied locations allow for adjustment of chain position; and, (ii) damage to one of the chain-engaging apertures N1,N2,N3 simply requires that the chain be moved to another, undamaged chain-engaging aperture. Alternatively, each sidewall S1,S2 can include only a single chain-engaging aperture N1,N2,N3.

With brief reference to FIG. 8, it is preferred that the innermost region of slot L of the coupler C be defined by an insert member L1 that is wear resistant as compared to the material from which ribs CR1-CR3 and CR1′-CR3′ are defined to prevent undue wear from the lip of the bucket that is received into the slot L. Owing to its rib structure, it can be seen that the coupler structure C is integrated into and forms part of the overall structure of the pusher P for added strength. Loads from exerted on the coupler structure C are transferred to and dispersed throughout the pusher structure owing to the connection between the upper and lower coupler ribs CR1-CR3, CR1′-CR3′ and the cross-supports X1,X2 and X2,X3, respectively.

FIGS. 11A and 11B show an alternative embodiment of a pusher 100P that is substantially similar to the pusher P except as otherwise shown and/or described and, as such, the same reference characters are used except for new components. The pusher 100P differs from the pusher P in that it includes a coupler structure 100C that comprises a female coupler portion QC of a male/female quick-coupler as the pick-up location instead of the slot L described above for the coupler structure C of pusher P, where the mating male portion (not shown) is pinned-on or otherwise operatively connected to the pusher-moving machine to which the pusher 100P is to be connected for use. The quick coupler portion QC shown is a conventional female skid-steer quick-coupling portion but can alternatively be defined by any other quick-coupler known in the art. The coupler structure 100C comprises a plurality of vertical ribs CR4,CR5,CR6 each defined from steel plate that extend between and that are connected to all of the cross-supports X1,X2,X3 so as to integrate the coupler structure 100C into the overall structure of pusher 100P for added strength. The quick coupler portion QC is connected to the coupler ribs CR4,CR5,CR6 by welding or by bolts or other fasteners.

FIG. 11C shows an alternative embodiment of a pusher 100P′ that is substantially similar to the pusher P except as otherwise shown and/or described and, as such, the same reference characters are used except for new components. The pusher 100P′ differs from the pusher P in that it includes a coupler structure 100C′ that comprises a female coupler portion QC′ of a male/female quick-coupler as the pick-up location instead of the slot L described above for the coupler structure C of pusher P, where the mating male portion (not shown) is pinned-on or otherwise operatively connected to the pusher-moving machine to which the pusher 100P′ is to be connected for use. The quick coupler portion QC′ shown is a conventional female JRB-style quick-coupling portion. As such, the coupler structure 100C′ and quick coupler portion QC′ thereof comprises first and second parallel vertical coupler ribs J1,J2, each including a hook and an eye, that cooperate to define the well-known JRB-style female coupler portion. Each coupler rib J1,J2 is defined from a single steel plate that extends between and is connected to at least two and, preferably, all of the cross-supports X1,X2,X3 so as to integrate the coupler structure 100C′ into the overall structure of pusher 100P′ for added strength.

FIG. 12 shows an offset pusher 200P that is substantially similar to the pusher P except as otherwise shown and/or described and, as such, the same reference characters are used except for new components. The pusher 200P differs from the pusher P in that it includes a coupler structure 200C that encompasses the coupler structure C (except for the cross-bars CB1,CB1′), including coupler ribs CR1,CR2,CR3 and CR1′,CR2′,CR3′ as described above. The coupler structure 200C further comprises additional coupler ribs CR0,CR0′ and CR4,CR4′ that are identical to the ribs of coupler structure C, but that are located on opposite sides of the coupler structure C. The coupler ribs CR0 and CR4 preferably have the same structure ribs CR1,CR2,CR3 and the ribs CR0′ and CR4′ preferably have the same structure as ribs CR1′,CR2′,CR3′. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper coupler ribs CR0,CR1,CR2,CR3 are defined as respective one-piece constructions with the lower ribs CR0′,CR1′,CR2′,CR3′, each from a single steel plate CR that defines a rib slot LR. The ribs slots LR cooperate to define the slot L when aligned with each other. In such case, each coupler rib plate CR preferably extends between and is connected to at least two and most preferably all of the first, second and third cross-supports X1,X2,X3.

The coupler structure 200C of the pusher 200P comprises three separate coupler structures, each defined by at least three spaced-apart upper coupler ribs CR0,CR1,CR2,CR3 and three corresponding lower coupler ribs CR0′,CR1′,CR2′,CR3′. As shown, the coupler structure comprises: (i) a main coupler structure C; (ii) a left coupler structure LC; and, (iii) a right coupler structure RC; each defining its own pick-up location such as a portion of slot L. Each coupler structure C,LC,RC is adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine. The coupler structure C allows the pusher 200P to be symmetrically coupled to the pusher-moving machine; the coupler structure LC allows the pusher 200P to be coupled to the pusher-moving machine with a right offset relative; and the coupler structure RC allows the pusher 200P to be coupled to the pusher-moving machine with a left offset. The offset coupling is often desired when the pusher 200P must be used to clear snow or other material from beneath an overhang that will not accommodate the pusher-moving machine.

Referring again to the pusher P shown in FIGS. 1-9, the left and right skid-shoe assemblies H1,H2 are identical to each other and can be interchangeably mounted to either sidewall S1,S2 as desired using bolts or other fasteners HB. With reference to the shoe assembly H2 and FIGS. 1 and 7, the shoe assemblies H1,H2 comprise a vertical rib HR and a transverse wear-shoe HS that is welded or otherwise fixedly secured to the rib HR. The wear-shoe HS preferably includes a flat primary (central) portion HS1 that is adapted to abut a surface Z to be cleared. With particular reference now to FIG. 7, the wear-shoe HS comprises upturned ends HS2,HS3 that facilitate sliding movement of the shoe HS over obstacles of surface Z in forward and reverse directions. The vertical rib. HR includes an upper edge HR1 that is preferably parallel to the central portion HS1 of the wear-shoe. The vertical ribs HR of the shoe assemblies H1,H2 are partially overlapped with the sidewalls S1,S2 and fastened thereto by bolts or other fasteners. The sidewalls S1,S2 of the pusher P include respective outwardly projecting flanges SF1,SF2 (see also FIG. 3) that extend parallel to primary wear-shoe portions HS1 and that abut the upper edge HR1 of the shoe assembly rib HR when the skid-shoe assemblies H1,H2 are operatively secured to the sidewalls S1,S2. As such, the bolts HB by which the shoe assemblies H1,H2 are secured to the sidewalls S1,S2 are protected from shearing forces that would otherwise act on the bolts HB as the pusher P moves slidably across the surface Z and impacts obstacles, i.e., forces from the shoe assemblies H1,H2 are transferred to sidewalls S1,S2 through the ribs HR and flanges SF1,SF2, respectively, rather than solely through the bolts HB as could lead to shearing of the bolts. The flanges SF1,SF2 also add strength and stiffness to the sidewalls S1,S2 and, to this end, the flanges SF1,SF2 are preferably defined as rectangular one-piece members that project transversely outward from the sidewalls S1,S2 a greater extent as compared to the extent with which they abut the sidewalls S1,S2, respectively.

With reference to FIGS. 7-9, it is also preferred that the sidewalls S1,S2 each include an upper edge SU that is parallel to the primary portion HS1 of the wear-shoe, i.e., the upper edges SU are horizontal when the pusher P is supported on a horizontal surface Z. As such, for reasons that are important as will become apparent below, the upper edges SU of sidewalls S1,S2 provide a guide to an operator as to the relationship between the central portion HS1 of the wear shoe and the surface Z being cleared.

It is intended that the central portion HS1 of each skid shoe assembly H1,H2 be positioned flat on the surface Z being cleaned as shown in FIG. 7 to minimize wear and to ensure uniform wear of the shoe components HS thereof. With particular reference now to FIGS. 8 and 9, it can be seen that the central portion HS1 of each shoe assembly H1,H2 intersects the upturned rear portion HS3 or otherwise terminates well aft of the lower edge of wiper W in a terminal location HT that is at least vertically aligned with the slot L of the coupler structure C, if not farther rearward. As shown in FIGS. 11A,11B the terminal location HT is rearward of the entire coupling structure 100C. If no upturned surface HS3 is provided, the terminal location HT is simply the rear edge of the surface HS1. In the event an operator improperly orients the pusher P during use by reclining the pusher as shown in FIG. 9, the pusher P pivots relative to the surface Z on the shoe terminal location HT so that the wiper W is lifted away from the surface Z being cleared to prevent effective surface clearing. In such case, an operator will immediately realize that he/she has not properly oriented the pusher P when the wiper W fails to clear the surface Z adequately. Conventional pushers allow the wiper to contact the surface being cleared even when the wear-shoe is not positioned flat on the surface. Furthermore, with a pusher P formed in accordance with the present development, the upper edge SU of each sidewall S1,S2 is parallel to the central portion HS1 of the wear shoe HS and an operator can thus use the upper edge SU as a visual proxy or guide for the position of the central portion HS1 of wear shoe HS. In use, an operator will strive to maintain the upper edges SU of sidewalls S1,S2 parallel to the surface Z being cleared (which is typically in a horizontal orientation when a “flat” horizontal surface is being cleared) which indicates that the central portion HS1 of each wear shoe HS is flat on the surface Z. It is most preferred that the terminal location HT of the wear-shoes HS be spaced sufficiently from and behind the lowermost edge of wiper W so that if the central shoe portion HS1 is inclined even 5 degrees or more relative to surface Z, the wiper W will be lifted away from the surface Z a sufficient amount so that snow or other material being cleared will remain on the surface Z and noticed by an operator. Preferably the terminal location HT is positioned at least twelve inches and as much as fifteen inches or more behind the point where the wiper W contacts the surface Z. This structure and relationship also inhibits rearward tipping movement of the pusher P when a bucket lip is withdrawn from slot L during a decoupling operation. Those of ordinary skill in the art will also recognize from FIGS. 1 and 7 that the shoe assemblies H1,H2 project rearward from the rear surface DR of blade D a significant distance so as to be visible to an operator during use of the pusher as also facilitates proper orientation during use. It is preferred that the overall rearmost tip of the shoe assemblies H1,H2 be located at least twenty inches behind the wiper W for this added visibility by an operator. The structure of the skid-shoe assemblies H1,H2 as just described is complimented by the sidewalls S1,S2 having respective trailing fins TF1,TF2 that begin at a point aligned with the innermost region of coupler slot L and that project rearward away from rear surface DR of pusher blade D to a rearward point that is vertically aligned with the coupler slot L as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7. In this manner, the skid-shoe assemblies H1,H2 and sidewalls S1,S2 approximately correspond in length at the connection thereof.

If desired, the skid shoe assemblies H1,H2 can be used as part of another, conventional pusher as a replacement part by connection respective adapter brackets K1,K2 thereto as shown in FIG. 10. The adapter brackets K1,K2 are identical, mirror images of each other and each comprise an inner plate Ki, an outer plate Ko and a central spacer plate Kc (see adapter bracket K2). The plates Ki,Ko,Kc are welded together so as to define a slot Ks into which the rib HR of the shoe assembly H1,H2 is closely and slidably received. The inner plate Ki is conformed and dimensioned to cooperate with the wear shoe portion HS to define a space that receives a pusher sidewall SW (of a competitive or other pusher and shaped differently from sidewalls S1,S2) as shown in broken lines with minimal clearance. The brackets K1,K2 include elongated mounting holes Km that are easily aligned with holes Kr of the ribs HR so that the bolts Kb are used to fixedly secure the brackets K1,K2 to the ribs HR. The sidewall SW is bolted to the shoe assemblies H1,H2 in the same manner as described above in relation to FIGS. 1-7 (except sidewalls SW do not include the shear-protecting flanges SF1,SF2).

FIGS. 13-19 show a folding pusher P′ and/or components thereof formed in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present development. Except as otherwise shown and/or described, the pusher P′ is identical to the pusher P and, as such, like components share like reference characters. The pusher P′ is defined by dividing the blade D of the non-folding pusher P into three blade sections D1,D2,D3. The first (left) section D1 is bounded by the first sidewall S1 and a first inner wall V1a; the second (center) section D2 is bounded by first and second lateral walls V2a,V2b; and, the third (right) section D3 is bounded by the second sidewall S2 and a second inner wall V1b. The walls V1a and V2a are pivotally interconnected via first hinge HG1, and the walls V1b and V2b are pivotally interconnected via second hinge HG2.

As noted, the blade sections D1,D2,D3 are defined by dividing the blade D of pusher P into three separate sections. As such, each section comprises the relevant portion of the structure of the blade D described above. Thus, for example, the coupler C (or 100C) is connected to the second (central) section D2. Each section D1-D3 comprises an upper edge DU, a lower edge DL, and the first, second and third cross-supports X1,X2,X3, along with ribs R1,R2 as shown. Because the blade sections D1,D2,D3 are defined by dividing the blade D of pusher P as described, the wiper W′ (FIG. 14) varies somewhat from wiper W described above in that it is defined by three separate wipers W1,W2,W3 connected respectively adjacent the lower edges DL of the blade sections D1,D2,D3 using three separate wiper retaining strips WS1,WS2,WS3 and bolts T. The three separate wipers W1,W2,W3 cooperate to define a continuous, substantially uninterrupted wiper W′ that extends from sidewall S1 to sidewall S2 when the pusher P′ is in the opened (unfolded) position as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14.

As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the hinges HG1,H2 are structured and located so that the left and right blade sections D1,D3 pivot forwardly and inward toward each other, in an independent fashion, so that their front faces DF move into opposed facing relation to each other (FIG. 16). During this folding operation, the walls V1a,V2a move from a first position, where they are abutted (or at least closely adjacent) and substantially parallel when the pusher P′ is in the unfolded (opened) operative position, to a second position where they define an obtuse angle having its vertex at hinge HG1 when pusher P′ is folded or closed. Likewise, during the folding operation, the walls V1b,V2b move from a first position, where they are abutted (or at least closely adjacent) and substantially parallel when the pusher P′ is in the unfolded or opened position, to a second position where they define an obtuse angle having its vertex at hinge HG2 when pusher P′ is folded. It is also preferred that the blade sections D1,D3 pivot inwardly toward each other sufficiently so that the sidewalls S1,S2 and shoes H1,H2 thereof move close to or into contact with each other. When one (FIG. 15) or both (FIG. 16) of the blade sections D1,D3 are folded, the pusher P′ has a reduced size as is often deemed desirable for storage or transport or for temporarily reducing its width during use to fit between obstacles.

The pusher P′ comprises first and second fold-locks FL1,FL2 to retain the first and third blade sections D1,D3, respectively, in either their opened or closed positions independently from each other. The structure and operation of the fold-locks FL1,FL2 is easily understood with reference to FIGS. 17-19. The fold-lock mechanisms FL1,FL2 are identical but the components are arranged in a mirror-image fashion.

The fold-lock FL2 is shown in FIGS. 17 and 18. There, it can be seen that the second lateral wall V2b of the central blade section D2 comprises a slot 200. An arcuate lock bar 202 extends through the slot 200. An inner end 202a of the lock bar 202 is secured to a retainer pin 204 that is, in turn, secured to the second lateral wall V2b (or other portion of central blade section D2) by a yoke structure 204y. As indicated by the arrow 210v (FIG. 18), the lock bar 202 is slidably movable on the pin 204 in a vertical fashion within the confines of slot 200 from a lowered (lock) position as shown to a raised unlock position (not shown). The lock bar 202 is preferably held in the lowered (lock) position by gravity but can be spring-biased into the lowered position.

The inner wall V1b of the right blade section D3 defines a T-shaped slot 210 having an upper enlarged portion 210e and a reduced portion 210r. The enlarged portion 210e is dimensioned and conformed so as to slidably accommodate the lock bar 202 when the blade section D3 pivots from the unfolded to the folded position and when the lock bar 202 is in the raised position. The lock bar 202 defines first and second reduced-width neck portions 202n1,202n2 that are dimensioned for close receipt in the reduced portion 210r of the T-shaped slot 210. As shown in FIG. 17, when the inner wall V1b is located adjacent lateral wall V2b of the central section D2 (when section D3 is unfolded), the first neck portion 202n1 of lock bar 202 is aligned with the reduced portion 210r of T-shaped slot 210 and, thus, the lock bar 202 is movable vertically downward into the first neck portion 202n1. When the lock bar 202 is so positioned, the inner wall V1b is captured owing to fact that the lock bar 202 cannot be slidably accommodated through the reduced portion 210r of the T-shaped slot 210. As such, the right blade section D3 is locked in the unfolded position.

To fold the right blade D3 relative to the central blade D2, the lock bar 202 is raised vertically on pin 204 to its unlocked position so that it is moved into the enlarged portion 210e of T-shaped slot 210 of wall V1b where it is slidably accommodated so as to allow pivoting movement of the right blade section D3 via hinge HG2. Upon full folding movement of the blade section D3, the T-shaped slot 210 is moved into alignment with the second neck portion 202n2 of the lock bar 202 so that the lock bar can be lowered vertically with its second neck portion 202n2 received into the reduced-width portion 210r of the T-shaped slot 210. In this case, the wall V1b is unable to move in either direction (toward or away from wall V2b) so as to lock the blade section D3 in its folded position.

The inner end 202a of the lock bar protrudes from yoke structure 204y a distance sufficient to facilitate manual grasping of the inner end 202a by a user for purposes of lifting/lower the lock bar. The outer end 202b of the lock bar 202 defines an enlarged head 202h for the same purpose and, also, the head 202h is unable to pass through the T-shaped slot 210 in wall V1b for any possible vertical position of the lock bar 202 so that the head 202h provides a stop for folding movement of the blade section D3.

With reference to FIGS. 17 and 18, it can be seen that the reduced-width section 210r of T-shaped slot 210 of wall V1b is deeper than the thickness of the lock bar 202 so that the lock bar 202 lies beneath or inward from a shoulder 210s of the T-shaped slot 210 when in the locked position. This arrangement inhibits undesired vertical movement of the lock bar 202 out of the reduced-width section 210r of the T-shaped slot 210 during use of the pusher P′.

As noted, the fold-lock FL1 is structured and operates in a corresponding fashion. As such, corresponding components shown in FIG. 19 are identified with like reference characters, and further discussion of the structure and function of the fold-lock FL1 is not required here for those of ordinary skill in the art. The independent operation of the fold-locks FL1,FL2 is deemed highly desirable in that operator's will sometimes desire to fold, and lock in the folded position, only one of the blade sections D1,D3 without the other.

FIG. 20 shows a folding pusher P″ that is identical to the pusher P′ except as otherwise shown and/or described. The pusher P″ does not include fold-locks FL1,FL2. Instead, the pusher P″ comprises first and second open-locks OL1,OL2 and a single fold-lock FL″. The open-lock OL1 is used to retain the left blade section D1 in its unfolded (opened) position as shown; the open-lock OL2 is used to retain the right blade section D3 in its unfolded (opened) position as shown.

The open-lock OL2 is shown in FIG. 21 and comprises a base LB connected to the second lateral sidewall V2b (or any other suitable portion) of central blade section D2. A pin LP is connected to the base LB and moves between extended and retracted positions. When extended, as shown, the pin LP captures the inner wall V1b of right blade section D3 adjacent the second lateral sidewall V2b to prevent movement of the right blade D3 from its unfolded position to its folded position. Of course, when the pin LP is retracted (moved upward in FIG. 21) it is moved to a position where it no longer captures the inner wall V1b so that folding movement of the right blade section D3 is possible. Preferably, the pin LP is spring-biased to the extended position. The open-lock OL1 is structured and operates in the same fashion as the open-lock OL2 to engage and retain the inner wall V1a of the left blade section D1 in order to hold the left blade section D1 in its unfolded position. In that case, the base LB is connected to the first lateral sidewall V2a or other portion of the central blade section D2, and the pin LP selectively captures the inner wall V1a of the left blade section D1 to prevent folding movement of the blade section D1.

The sidewalls S1,S2 are locked to each other to maintain the pusher P″ in its folded position as desired for storage and/or transport as shown in FIG. 22. When the left and right blade sections D1,D3 of pusher P″ are folded relative to the central blade D2 into opposed facing relation, the tips of sidewalls S1,S2 move adjacent each other, and the fold-lock FL″ is used to secure the sidewalls S1,S2 to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the fold-lock FL″ comprises a tab T1 that projects from first sidewall S1 and that defines an aperture A1. The sidewall S2 comprises at least one tab that has an aperture and, preferably, comprises first and second tabs T2a,T2b having respective aligned apertures A2a,A2b. When the left and right blades D1,D3 are completely folded, the tab T1 is received between the tabs T2a,T2b and the apertures A1,A2a,A2b move into registration with each other. A lock pin KP is then inserted through the aligned apertures A1,A2a,A2b to secure the sidewalls S1,S2 to each other in their folded positions. The pin KP preferably comprises a protruding spring-biased ball KB or the like that inhibits accidental dislodgement of the pin KP.

The pushers P,P′,P″,100P comprise sidewall gussets G1,G2 for strengthening the connection between the sidewalls S1,S2 and blade D or, in the case of the folding pushers P′,P″, between the sidewalls S1,S2 and the respective blade sections D1,D3. Sidewall gussets G1,G2 can vary in size depending upon the size and type and expected application for the pusher.

The gusset G2 is shown in FIGS. 23-25 (the gussets G1,G2 are mirror images of each other and thus have a corresponding structure). It can be seen that the gusset G2 comprises a chisel-shaped body GB, preferably defined as a one-piece construction from a steel plate folded at locations F1,F2 (other portions of the pusher are illustrated in broken lines to emphasize the structure of the gusset). As such, the gusset body GB comprises three main sections: a sloped face GF and first and second triangular sidewalls GS1,GS2 that taper moving outwardly away from the blade front DF. As best seen in FIG. 25, it is preferred that the sidewalls GS1,GS2 be arranged so that their outermost edges GS1e,GS2e lie parallel to each other or diverge away from each other as they extend forwardly away from the blade front surface DF.

It should also be noted that the folding pusher P′ preferably also comprises gussets G3,G4,G5,G6 (FIG. 14) each defined from plate steel. The gussets G3 and G6 are used to strengthen the connections of the left and right blade sections D1,D3 to their inner walls V1a,V1b, respectively; the gussets G4 and G5 are used to strengthen the connections between the central blade D2 and its lateral sidewalls V2a,V2b, respectively.

FIGS. 26-28 show a fixed-angle pusher 300P that is substantially similar to the pusher P except as otherwise shown and/or described and, as such, the same reference characters are used except for new components. The fixed-angle pusher 300P is designed to direct snow or other material being moved laterally as indicated by arrow L when the pusher is moved forwardly in a direction of operative movement as indicated by arrow F. As such, the blade D is angled relative to the direction of movement F, and the sidewall S2′ differs from sidewall S2 described above in that the sidewall S2′ projects outwardly from front surface DF of blade not at all or only the minimal amount required for welding the sidewall S2 to the blade D (sidewall S1 is structured as described above). Substantially all of the sidewall S2′ is located on the opposite side of the blade, i.e., projecting outwardly from rear face DR. Therefore, even if a minimal portion of the sidewall S2′ projects outwardly from front face DF, the sidewall S1 projects outwardly from front face DF much more than sidewall S2′ to allow for snow or other material to overflow the blade D adjacent sidewall S2′. A gusset G2′ extends between the rear face DR of blade D and the sidewall S2′ to reinforce the connection therebetween. As such, the sidewall S1 projects outwardly from front face DF of blade more than sidewall S2′, and sidewall S2′ does not obstruct snow or other material flowing laterally L across front face DF of the blade away from the sidewall S1. The sidewalls S1,S2′ are arranged parallel to each other and, owing to the angled relationship of blade D relative to direction of movement F, the sidewall S2′ trails the sidewall S1 in the direction of movement F.

The pusher 300P comprises a coupler structure C′ that is adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupler structure 300C comprises a plurality of upper (first) ribs 302 and lower (second) ribs 304 that define therebetween a slot 300L adapted for insertion of a bucket lip or other part of the associated pusher-moving machine to thus define a pick-up location. Chains are then used to secure the pusher 300P to the machine, by engagement of the chains in the keyhole-shaped chain-engaging apertures N1,N2,N3 defined in sidewalls S1,S2′.

The blade D is connected to coupler structure 300C at an angle to encourage lateral movement of the snow or other material being pushed. In the illustrated embodiment, this is accomplished by use of at least one and preferably first and second parallel wedge-shaped coupler plates 306a,306b that are welded to an project outwardly from the second cross-support X2. The upper and lower coupler ribs 302,304 are connected respectively to the wedge-shaped coupler plates 306a,306b so that the distance from the slot 300L (or other pick-up location) to the blade D is reduced closer to sidewall S2′ and increased closer to sidewall S1. First braces 308 extend between and interconnect the upper coupler ribs 302 to the first cross-support X1, and second braces 310 extend between and interconnect the lower coupler ribs 304 to the third cross-support X3.

The present development has been described with reference to preferred embodiments. Modifications and alterations will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains, and it is intended that the claims be construed as encompassing all such modifications and alterations to the maximum possible extent according to the following claims as construed literally and/or according to the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. A pusher comprising:

a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges;

a wiper secured to the lower edge of the blade;

left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade, said sidewalls each arranged transverse to the blade;

left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared;

a plurality of cross-supports connected to the rear surface of the blade and extending between the left and right sidewalls;

a coupler structure comprising: (i) a plurality of coupler ribs that are connected to and extend between at least some of the cross-supports; and, (ii) a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine.

2. The pusher as set forth in claim 1, wherein said coupler structure comprises a plurality of coupler ribs that extend between and interconnect at least two of the cross-supports wherein said pick-up location comprises an open slot defined by said coupler ribs, said slot adapted to receive a bucket lip.

3. The pusher as set forth in claim 2, further comprising a plurality of chain-engaging apertures defined in each of the left and right sidewalls, each chain-engaging aperture adapted to receive and selectively retain an associated chain used for retaining the pusher to an associated pusher-moving machine.

4. The pusher as set forth in claim 2, wherein said cross-supports comprise first, second and third cross-supports, and wherein:

said coupler ribs each extend between and interconnect the first and second and third cross-supports.

5. The pusher as set forth in claim 4, wherein:

said first, second and third cross-supports are arranged parallel to each other; and,

said coupler ribs are arranged parallel to each other and perpendicular to said first, second and third cross-supports.

6. The pusher as set forth in claim 4, wherein the coupler ribs are interconnected to each other by a first and second cross-bars each spaced outwardly from the rear surface of the blade, and wherein said first and second cross-bars are located on opposite sides of said open slot.

7. The pusher as set forth in claim 6, wherein the coupler ribs are each defined from planar sections of steel plate.

8. The pusher as set forth in claim 4, further comprising:

a first set of reinforcement ribs each connected to and extending between the first and second cross-supports; and,

a second set of reinforcement ribs each connected to and extending between the second and third cross-supports.

9. The pusher as set forth in claim 1, further comprising:

left and right sidewall gussets connected between the front surface of the blade and the left and right sidewalls, respectively, said sidewall gussets each comprising a chisel-shaped body comprising a sloped face and first and second sidewalls.

10. The pusher as set forth in claim 9, wherein the left and right sidewall gussets are each defined as a one-piece construction from a bent steel plate.

11. The pusher as set forth in claim 1, wherein the left and right sidewalls comprise respective sidewall flanges projecting outwardly therefrom and wherein said left and right skid-shoe assemblies each comprise a rib and a wear-shoe connected to the rib, said ribs of said left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected to and abutted with the sidewall flanges of the left and right sidewalls, respectively.

12. The pusher as set forth in claim 11, wherein the rib of each skid-shoe assembly comprises an upper edge that lies parallel to a primary portion of the wear-shoe connected to the rib, said primary wear-shoe portion adapted to lie flat on and slidably support the blade above a surface being cleared, wherein said sidewall flanges of the left and right sidewalls are abutted with the upper edge of the ribs of the left and right skid-shoe assemblies, respectively.

13. The pusher as set forth in claim 12, wherein, for both the left and right skid-shoe assemblies, the primary wear-shoe portion extends rearwardly outward relative to the rear surface of the blade to a terminal location that is spaced from said wiper sufficiently so that said terminal location is vertically with or outwardly beyond the pick-up location of the coupler structure.

14. The pusher as set forth in claim 13, wherein the terminal location of the wear-shoe of each of the left and right skid-shoe assemblies is spaced at least 12 inches from the wiper.

15. The pusher as set forth in claim 1, wherein said left and right skid-shoe assemblies each comprise a wear-shoe having a primary portion that slidably supports the blade above a surface to be cleared, and wherein the sidewalls comprise upper edges that are parallel to the primary wear-shoe portions of the left and right skid-shoe assemblies, respectively, to provide a visual indication to an operator as to the orientation of the primary wear-shoe portions.

16. The pusher as set forth in claim 1, wherein said blade comprises first, second and third blade sections, said first blade section pivotally connected to a first lateral side of the second blade section and the third blade section pivotally connection to a second lateral side of the second blade section, wherein said left and right sidewalls are connected respectively to the first and third blade sections and said coupler structure is connected to said second blade section.

17. The pusher as set forth in claim 16, further comprising:

a first fold-lock for holding the first blade section in a first or second position relative to the second blade section, wherein said first and second blade sections are aligned with each other in the first position and angled relative to each other in the second position; and,

a second fold-lock for holding the third blade section in a first or second position relative to the second blade section, wherein said second and third blade sections are aligned with each other in the first position and angled relative to each other in the second position.

18. The pusher as set forth in claim 17, wherein:

the first fold-lock comprises a first lock bar connected to the second blade section and movable between raised and lowered positions, said first lock bar, when in said lowered position, engaging and preventing pivoting movement of the first blade section relative to the second blade section, said lock bar allowing pivoting movement of the first blade section relative to the second blade section when in its raised position; and,

the second fold-lock comprises a second lock bar connected to the second blade section and movable between raised and lowered positions, said second lock bar, when in said lowered position, engaging and preventing pivoting movement of the third blade section relative to the second blade section, said lock bar allowing pivoting movement of the third blade section relative to the second blade section when in its raised position.

19. The pusher as set forth in claim 16, further comprising:

first and second open-locks connected to the second blade section and adapted for selectively capturing the first and third blade sections, respectively, when the first and third blade sections are pivoted into alignment with the second blade section; and,

a fold-lock having a first portion connected to the left sidewall and a second portion connected to the right sidewall, wherein said first and second portions of the fold-lock are selectively engageable with each other when said first and third blade sections are pivoted relative to the second blade section into opposed facing relation with each other.

20. The pusher as set forth in claim 1, wherein the plurality of coupler ribs comprise first and second JRB-style coupler ribs that are connected to and extend between at least some of the cross-supports, wherein the first and second JRB-style coupler ribs cooperate to define said pick-up location as a female portion of a JRB-style quick coupler.

21. The pusher as set forth in claim 1, wherein said coupler structure comprises three separate coupler structures and wherein said pick-up location comprises three different pick-up locations defined respectively by said three separate coupler structures, wherein said three separate coupler structures are each defined by at least three of said plurality of coupler ribs

22. A fixed-angle pusher for moving material laterally when said pusher is moved forwardly in an operative direction of movement, said pusher comprising:

a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges;

a wiper secured to the lower edge of the blade;

left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade and arranged parallel to the direction of operative movement, said sidewalls each arranged transverse to the blade, wherein said second sidewall trails said first sidewall with respect to the direction of operative movement, and wherein said first sidewall projects outwardly from said front surface of said blade more than said second sidewall projects outwardly from said front surface of said blade;

left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared;

a plurality of cross-supports connected to the rear surface of the blade and extending between the left and right sidewalls;

a coupler structure comprising: (i) at least one wedge-shaped coupler plate connected to and projecting outwardly from one of said cross-supports; (ii) a plurality of first and second coupler ribs that are connected to said at least one wedge-shaped coupler plate, said first and second coupler ribs defining a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine, wherein a distance between said pick-up location and said blade decreases as a distance between said pick-up location and said second sidewall decreases.

23. The fixed-angle pusher as set forth in claim 22, wherein the left and right sidewalls comprise respective sidewall flanges projecting outwardly therefrom and wherein said left and right skid-shoe assemblies each comprise a rib and a wear-shoe connected to the rib, said ribs of said left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected to and abutted with the sidewall flanges of the left and right sidewalls, respectively.

24. The fixed-angle pusher as set forth in claim 23, wherein the rib of each skid-shoe assembly comprises an upper edge that lies parallel to a primary portion of the wear-shoe connected to the rib, said primary wear-shoe portion adapted to lie flat on and slidably support the blade above a surface being cleared, wherein said sidewall flanges of the left and right sidewalls are abutted with the upper edge of the ribs of the left and right skid-shoe assemblies, respectively.

25. The fixed-angle pusher as set forth in claim 22, further comprising a plurality of chain-engaging apertures defined in each of the left and right sidewalls, each chain-engaging aperture adapted to receive and selectively retain an associated chain used for retaining the pusher to an associated pusher-moving machine.

26. A pusher comprising:

a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges;

a wiper secured to the lower edge of the blade;

left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade, said sidewalls each arranged transverse to the blade;

left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared;

a plurality of cross-supports connected to the rear surface of the blade and extending between the left and right sidewalls;

a coupler structure comprising: (i) a plurality of coupler ribs that are connected to and extend between at least two of the cross-supports; and, (ii) a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine, said pick-up location comprising an open slot adapted to receive a bucket lip.

27. A pusher comprising:

a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges;

a wiper secured adjacent the lower edge of the blade;

left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade, said sidewalls each arranged transverse to the blade;

left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared;

a coupler structure projecting outwardly from the rear surface of the blade and defining a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine; and,

at least one chain-engaging aperture defined in each of the left and right sidewalls, said at least one chain-engaging aperture of each sidewall comprising a first region adapted to receive and allow passage of an associated chain and a second region adapted to engage and retain the associated chain for selectively fixedly securing the pusher to an associated pusher-moving machine.

28. A pusher comprising:

a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges;

a wiper secured adjacent the lower edge of the blade;

left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade;

left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared;

a coupler structure operatively connected to the blade and defining a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine; and,

wherein the left and right sidewalls comprise respective left and right sidewall flanges projecting outwardly therefrom and wherein said left and right skid-shoe assemblies are abutted with the left and right sidewall flanges and are connected to the left and right sidewalls by bolts, respectively, so that at least some impact forces on said left and right skid-shoe assemblies are transferred to said left and right sidewalls through said left and right sidewall flanges, respectively, to protect said bolts from shearing forces.

29. A pusher comprising:

a blade including a front surface for moving material and an opposite rear surface, and upper and lower edges;

a wiper secured adjacent the lower edge of the blade;

left and right sidewalls connected to opposite sides of the blade, said sidewalls each arranged transverse to the blade;

left and right skid-shoe assemblies connected respectively to the left and right sidewalls, said left and right skid-shoe assemblies cooperating with each other to slidably support the blade above a surface to be cleared;

a coupler structure operatively connected to the blade and defining a pick-up location adapted to be engaged by an associated pusher-moving machine for operative connection of the blade to the associated pusher-moving machine;

wherein said left and right skid-shoe assemblies each comprise a wear-shoe having a primary portion that slidably supports the blade above a surface to be cleared, and wherein the sidewalls comprise upper edges that are parallel to the primary wear-shoe portions of the left and right skid-shoe assemblies, respectively, to provide a visual indication to an operator as to the orientation of the primary wear-shoe portions.