Vehicle Mount Including Power Lift Patents (Class 37/235)
  • Patent number: 10647557
    Abstract: A control device configured to control a winch assembly having a supporting structure has a guide, which engages a cable extending along a path in a sliding manner, and is configured to follow the movements of the cable crosswise to the path; a first control chain activated by movements of the guide in a first direction crosswise to the path; and a second control chain activated by movements of the guide in a second direction crosswise to the first direction and the path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: PRINOTH S.p.A.
    Inventors: Mirko Insam, Martin Runggaldier
  • Publication number: 20150107136
    Abstract: A snow plow includes a control unit for raising an auger housing to a predetermined upper limit angle when travel device is reversing, and an acceleration sensor for detecting acceleration produced in the auger housing. The control unit determines an angle of inclination of the auger housing on the basis of the acceleration. When the travel device starts moving forward after having temporarily moved in reverse, the control unit sets an intermediate lowering target angle of inclination, which is in the lowering path of the auger housing from the upper limit angle to a pre-reversing angle of inclination, in accordance with the forward acceleration; lowers the auger housing at a given lowering speed from the upper limit angle to the intermediate lowering target angle of inclination; and lowers the auger housing at a gradually decreasing lowering speed from the intermediate lowering target angle of inclination to the pre-reversing angle of inclination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Jun Fukano, Tsutomu Mizoroke, Shinsaku Nakayama
  • Publication number: 20150059217
    Abstract: The invention includes a snow plow blade made of a composite material. The invention also includes a snow plow system that incorporates a snow plow blade made of a composite material and that further includes a mounting area for a lift mechanism and threadable metal inserts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: David HANSEN
  • Patent number: 8798872
    Abstract: In a rotation control device for rotating a rotation motor at speed in accordance with a boom raising operation amount, at the time of a combined operation for simultaneously performing a rotation action and a boom raising action, a limitation value of rotation torque in accordance with the boom raising operation amount is determined by rotation torque limitation value setting means of a controller, the limitation value serving as a rotation torque limitation value is sent to rotation speed control means, and a command value of the rotation torque is torque-limited by rotation torque limiting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayuki Kagoshima, Masayuki Komiyama
  • Patent number: 8776406
    Abstract: A reversible wing plow including a hitch, a moldboard and a moldboard shifting mechanism. The hitch is coupleable to the rear of a prime mover. The moldboard is operably coupled to the hitch proximate an inboard end and rotatable about a first horizontal axis that extends outwardly from the hitch generally parallel to a direction of forward movement of the prime mover. The moldboard shifting mechanism includes first and second linear actuators, both of which are coupled to the hitch at one end and coupled to opposing sides of a rotation crank plate on the other end. The crank plate is further operably coupled to the moldboard, whereby the moldboard is rotatably shiftable to the driver or passenger side of the prime mover, or to a vertically oriented transport position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Frederick Stephan
  • Patent number: 8769847
    Abstract: A support frame assembly for supporting a plow, or another front-mounted implement, on a small vehicle such as an all-terrain vehicle (“ATV”) is provided. The frame assembly comprises a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion is typically raised with respect to the rear portion, allowing the plow to be pivotally attached to the front of the frame assembly at a higher location. The rear portion comprises a locking mechanism allowing the frame assembly to be easily mounted to the underside of the vehicle. A releasing mechanism, operatively connected to the locking mechanism, allows for the easy removal of the frame assembly from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Soucy International Inc.
    Inventors: Alexandre Coulombe, Normand Roy, Marc-Andre Patry, Vincent Morin, Jeremie Aubin-Marchand, Erick Bienvenue
  • Patent number: 8763280
    Abstract: At least one arm, adapted to connect to a vehicle implement, is pivotally connected to one of front and rear portions of a frame of a motorized vehicle. The at least one arm is pivotable between a first position and a second position vertically higher than the first position. A lock, disposed on at least one of the at least one arm and the frame, locks the at least one arm in the second position. When in the first position, the at least one arm is in a position for connection with the vehicle implement. When in the second position, the at least one arm is in a stowed position. The at least one arm has a shape at least partially generally complementary with a portion of a corresponding one of a front portion and a rear portion of the vehicle. A vehicle implement assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Fournier, Benoit Marleau, Patrick Bernard
  • Patent number: 8689898
    Abstract: A multi-use attachment device that is easily attached to and removed from an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or a utility-terrain vehicle (UTV) comprises a lift frame including an inner lift frame, an outer lift frame, a first pivotal axis and a second pivotal axis, and is configured to pivot about the first pivotal axis with a first electrical device, and has a second electrical device mounted on the lift frame to pivot the outer lift frame with respect to the inner lift frame. One end of the multi-use attachment is attached to the ATV/UTV, and the other end is attached to an implement such as a loader bucket, a pallet fork, or a plow blade. Some embodiments of the multi-use attachment use tension devices both for pivoting the lift frame about the first pivotal axis and for pivoting the outer lift frame with respect to the inner lift frame about the second pivotal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Brian Anthony Benesch
  • Patent number: 8656615
    Abstract: A motorized vehicle includes a vehicle implement pivotally connected to one of a front portion and a rear portion of a frame of the vehicle by at least one arm. The vehicle implement is pivotable between a first position and a second position vertically higher than the first position. In the first position, the vehicle implement is disposed forward of the front portion when connected to the front portion, and disposed rearward of the rear portion when connected to the rear portion. In the second position, the vehicle implement is disposed at least partially vertically above the corresponding one of the front and rear portions, and overlaps at least partially longitudinally with the corresponding one of the front and rear portions. The at least one arm is at least partially generally congruent with a portion of the corresponding one of the front and rear portions of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Fournier, Sandy Scullion, Eric Charlebois, Annie Leclerc
  • Patent number: 8655556
    Abstract: A blade control system of the present invention includes a determining part which is configured to determine whether or not a distance between a designed surface and a cutting edge of a blade is less than or equal to a threshold to be determined based on a speed, and a lift cylinder controlling part which is configured to supply hydraulic oil to a lift cylinder for starting elevation of the blade when the determining part determines that the distance is less than or equal to the threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Hayashi, Kenjiro Shimada, Kenji Okamoto
  • Patent number: 8649944
    Abstract: A blade system of the present invention includes: a blade angle calculating part configured to calculate sum of a forwardly tilting angle of a vehicle body with respect to a reference surface and a blade lifting angle of a lift frame with respect to a reference position; a difference angle calculating part configured to calculate a difference angle by subtracting a predetermined angle from the sum of the forwardly tilting angle and the blade lifting angle; an opening ratio setting part configured to set an opening ratio of a proportional control valve based on the difference angle; and a lift controlling part configured to control the proportional control valve in accordance with the opening ratio set by the opening ratio setting part until a predetermined period of time is elapsed after onset of dozing by a blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Hayashi, Kenjiro Shimada, Kenji Okamoto
  • Publication number: 20130111785
    Abstract: A snow removal system includes a tool having a blade and a boom. The boom includes a first end portion connected to the blade and a second end portion configured to be releasably, pivotally mounted to a loader arm of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Corbin Fehr
  • Patent number: 8185276
    Abstract: A control system and method for operating a snow plow is disclosed which utilizes a programmable, wireless remote control for providing fully functional operation of a snow plow blade mounted on a vehicle. The system includes a remote control that can be used to operate both a snow plow and a spreader, with the system being configurable to work with any of a variety of different snow plows. The remote control may be programmed to perform a series of functions that can be sequentially performed by pressing a single button on the remote control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Sno-Way International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark D. Buckbee, Mike M. Stevens, Michael L. Schultz
  • Publication number: 20120030974
    Abstract: A snow groomer, equipped with a winch assembly to aid handling of the snow groomer on steep slopes, has a frame; a user interface; a control unit; and the winch assembly, which has a support structure fixed or connected to the frame, a drum that rotates with respect to the support structure about an axis, a cable fixed or connected at one end to the drum and wound about the drum, an actuator assembly for rotating the drum about the axis, and a sensor for determining the position of the drum about the axis; the control unit being configured to control the cable as a function of the position of the drum and the geometry of the drum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: ROLIC INVEST S.AR.L.
    Inventor: Martin Runggaldier
  • Patent number: 7997015
    Abstract: A universal front and rear equipment mount for an ATV includes a telescoping central frame member with telescoping front and rear mounting arms extending therefrom for connection to independent axle structures of the ATV, front and rear angled hitch brackets, each with upturned tabs having aligned holes to receive a hitch pin, and front and rear angled pulley brackets having pulleys mounted thereon for routing a winch cable of a winch mounted either on the front or rear of the vehicle or on the front or rear pulley brackets. An implement can be hitched either to the front or rear hitch bracket, and the implement can be raised or lowered by use of the winch, which has its cable routed over selected pulleys and connected to a hitch tongue or other part of the implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Cole Taylor Bank
    Inventors: Luc Belzile, J. Edward Melin
  • Patent number: 7963052
    Abstract: A snow plow including a quick connect/disconnect hitch. The snow plow includes a hitch frame nose assembly configured to couple to a vehicle. The hitch frame nose assembly includes a chassis coupler secured at each end of a hitch frame tube with each chassis coupler including a traverse pin. A plow frame is included with the plow frame having a front portion and a rear portion. A plow blade is coupled to the front portion of the plow frame. A lift bar assembly is coupled to the rear portion of the plow frame. A lift bar assembly includes a pair of notched members with each notch member aligned with a corresponding chassis coupler of the hitch frame nose assembly. Each of the notched members is configured to engage the traverse pin in each of the chassis couplers, wherein the snow plow is pivotally coupled to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Sno-Way International, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy G. Koch, Kevin J. Kuechler, Mark D. Buckbee, Daniel M. Brunner
  • Publication number: 20110016755
    Abstract: A lift bar is disclosed for mounting on the forward end of an off-road vehicle such as a snowmobile, ATV, UTV, riding mower or garden tractor. The lift bar extends forwardly from the suspension of the vehicle and provides a way for tying off the winch or other actuator of the plow so that the plow may be raised and lowered relative to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Curt J. Hill
  • Patent number: 7849614
    Abstract: A universal front and rear equipment mount for an ATV includes a telescoping central frame member with telescoping front and rear mounting arms extending therefrom for connection to independent axle structures of the ATV, front and rear angled hitch brackets, each with upturned tabs having aligned holes to receive a hitch pin, and front and rear angled pulley brackets having pulleys mounted thereon for routing a winch cable of a winch mounted either on the front or rear of the vehicle or on the front or rear pulley brackets. An implement can be hitched either to the front or rear hitch bracket, and the implement can be raised or lowered by use of the winch, which has its cable routed over selected pulleys and connected to a hitch tongue or other part of the implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Swisher Acquisition, Inc.
    Inventors: Luc Belzile, J. Edward Melin
  • Patent number: 7841110
    Abstract: A snow plow including a quick connect/disconnect hitch. The snow plow includes a hitch frame nose assembly configured to couple to a vehicle. The hitch frame nose assembly includes a chassis coupler secured at each end of a hitch frame tube with each chassis coupler including a traverse pin. A plow frame is included with the plow frame having a front portion and a rear portion. A plow blade is coupled to the front portion of the plow frame. A lift bar assembly is coupled to the rear portion of the plow frame. A lift bar assembly includes a pair of notched members with each notch member aligned with a corresponding chassis coupler of the hitch frame nose assembly. Each of the notched members is configured to engage the traverse pin in each of the chassis couplers, wherein the snow plow is pivotally coupled to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Sno-Way International, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy G. Koch, Kevin J. Kuechler, Mark D. Buckbee, Daniel M. Brunner
  • Publication number: 20100101119
    Abstract: A secondary lift mechanism configured for quick attachment to an existing snowplow assembly. A secondary lift mechanism is intended as a backup lift mechanism in the event the primary lift mechanism of a snowplow assembly fails. The secondary lift mechanism (the secondary snowplow lift mechanism) is attachable to the lift arm of any of a variety of snowplow assemblies without the use of tools. A novel mounting plate allows the secondary snowplow lift mechanism to be quickly ad easily attached to a variety of lift arm configurations common to various snowplow assemblies. the secondary snowplow lift mechanism restores vertical control of the moldboard when the primary lift mechanism has failed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventor: Andrew Roberts
  • Publication number: 20090307938
    Abstract: A snow plow including a quick connect/disconnect hitch. The snow plow includes a hitch frame nose assembly configured to couple to a vehicle. The hitch frame nose assembly includes a chassis coupler secured at each end of a hitch frame tube with each chassis coupler including a traverse pin. A plow frame is included with the plow frame having a front portion and a rear portion. A plow blade is coupled to the front portion of the plow frame. A lift bar assembly is coupled to the rear portion of the plow frame. A lift bar assembly includes a pair of notched members with each notch member aligned with a corresponding chassis coupler of the hitch frame nose assembly. Each of the notched members is configured to engage the traverse pin in each of the chassis couplers, wherein the snow plow is pivotally coupled to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventors: Timothy G. Koch, Kevin J. Kuechler, Mark D. Buckbee, Daniel M. Brunner
  • Patent number: 7526883
    Abstract: A plow hitch assembly comprising a hitch frame, a lift frame pivotally connected to the back end of the hitch frame, and a back end effector for mounting to a vehicle. The back end effector has an associated latching device and a distinctly actuated device for locking the latch. A stop surface is situated on the latch, and a selectively displaceable lock block supported by the lift frame, abuts the stop surface to prevent rotation of the latch. Each of two uniformly rectangular mounting arms extends from the back of the lift frame, preferably with a leading end having a pair of vertically oriented rollers at the corners. Each guide has a rectangular main channel conforming in cross section with the arm when the arm is fully inserted into the channel and an entry that is larger in cross sectional area than the front of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: SP Fabricators, LLC
    Inventors: Charles S. Musso, Jr., Tom W. Musso, Brian Weaver
  • Patent number: 7302765
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting a mechanized implement to an all-terrain vehicle having an undercarriage with a front axle and a rear axle includes a unitary frame having a base connected to the unitary frame and a swingable portion. The mechanized implement includes an auxiliary power source separate from the power means of the all-terrain vehicle. The unitary frame includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion connectable to the undercarriage proximate the front axle and the second portion connectable to the undercarriage proximate the rear axle. The base supports the auxiliary power source and is positioned proximate the second portion of the frame. The swingable portion includes a first end pivotally attached to the frame and a second end mateable with the mechanized implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Quick Attach Attachments, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristopher J Jorgenson, Shane R Voxland
  • Patent number: 7103995
    Abstract: Jack for raising and lowering a working implement such as hydraulically driven snow blades or other utilitarian accessories. Actuation of the jack allows for proper vertical alignment of the lift assembly for engagement to a vehicle chassis. Once engaged, the jack can be actuated into an inoperative position until the lift assembly is to be removed from the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Curtis Industries Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Marc D. Curtis
  • Patent number: 6964121
    Abstract: Hitch mount assembly for snow blades or other accessories or implements for off-road vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles. The assembly includes a receiver for mounting to the vehicle chassis and an implement assembly readily removably coupled to the receiver. The configuration of the receiver and implement assembly allows for self-alignment during the mounting operation. A switching mechanism and actuator also can be used to pivot the working implement remotely. The mount assembly can be attached to the vehicle with a powered winch or manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Curtis International, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary Harris
  • Patent number: 6957505
    Abstract: A blade attachment for an off-road vehicle such as an ATV is provided. A mounting frame is pivotally connected at its rearward end to the ATV rearwardly of the forward end thereof. A hinge plate is pivotally mounted, about a vertical axis, to the forward end of the mounting frame and has the blade of this invention mounted thereon to enable the blade to be pivoted left, right, or positioned in a straight position. The blade is locked in its various positions by a blade position lever. The blade position lever is automatically moved to its unlocked position when the blade is moved upwardly to a predetermined position and is automatically moved towards its locked position when the blade is moved downwardly to a predetermined height. A winch is operatively connected, in a slip clutch fashion, to the hinge plate to enable the blade to be pivotally moved, about a vertical axis, between its various angular positions, when the blade position lever is in its unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Cycle Country Accessories Corporation
    Inventor: Chadron D. Moffitt
  • Patent number: 6843002
    Abstract: A blade attachment for an off-road vehicle such as an ATV is provided. A mounting frame is pivotally connected at its rearward end to the ATV rearwardly of the forward end thereof. A hinge plate is pivotally mounted, about a vertical axis, to the forward end of the mounting frame and has the blade of this invention mounted thereon to enable the blade to be pivoted left, right, or positioned in a straight position. The blade is locked in its various positions by a blade position lever. A linkage is mounted on the forward end of the push tube assembly which is operatively connected to the blade position lever for moving the blade position lever between its locked and unlocked positions. The blade position lever is automatically moved to its unlocked position upon the linkage engaging the underside of the ATV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Cycle Country Accessories Corporation
    Inventor: Chadron D. Moffitt
  • Patent number: 6799936
    Abstract: A utility vehicle having a front loader bucket includes shaped towers and shaped boom arms connected to the towers, and a sloped hood and a shaped fuel tank which all increase the operator's view of the bucket, wheels; axle and ground for close control of the utility vehicle bucket with respect to external structures and surfaces. The towers extend substantially vertically from the utility vehicle chassis to a mid-location wherein the towers are offset inwardly to top ends thereof. The boom arms are connected to the top ends of the towers, extend forwardly, and are offset outwardly to a mid-location of the boom arms wherein the boom arms then extend forwardly to be connected to the bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: David Laverne Sprinkle
  • Patent number: 6792704
    Abstract: This invention relates to using the expansion force of an air spring, coupled between a snowplow vehicle and the attached snowplow, so that contact between ground engaging components of the snowplow and the road can be controlled, either automatically or manually. The air spring is held in alignment as it expands longitudinally, by an apparatus using guides and struts. Longitudinal alignment is important, as bending of the air spring causes loss of force. Attachment points of the apparatus are drawn together, as the air spring expands. The longitudinal expansion force of the air spring can be transmitted directly to a chain or cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventor: Andrew Harold Johnson
  • Patent number: 6594924
    Abstract: Hitch mount for hydraulically driven snow blades or other accessories that includes a mount assembly for mounting to the vehicle and a hitch mount assembly readily removably coupled to the mount assembly. The mount assembly is shaped to form a trapezoidal wedge to receive and align the hitch. One or more latches can be used to engage a bar mounted on the vehicle to further secure the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Curtis International, Inc.
    Inventor: Marc D. Curtis
  • Patent number: 6381880
    Abstract: Hitch mount for power driven snow blades or other accessories. The hitch mount includes a receiver plate (11) for mounting to the vehicle chassis and a one piece plow assembly and lift frame (10) readily removably coupled to the receiver plate (11), the plow assembly preferably including a blade trip frame (70) and a snow blade removably coupled to the trip frame (70). An optional power operated jack (300, 310) can be used to raise or lower the lift frame relative to the vehicle chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Curtis International, Inc.
    Inventor: Marc D. Curtis
  • Patent number: 6334269
    Abstract: An actuator for raising and lowering a blade mounted to a vehicle. A winch assembly is mounted to the blade and is powered by the vehicle battery. The motor has a low amperage draw and has a gear reduction unit to provide mechanical advantage. The cable extending from the winch is arranged to have a double pull to provide an additional mechanical advantage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Warn Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry L. Dilks
  • Patent number: 6269557
    Abstract: A manually adjustable snowplow apparatus for mounting to an all terrain vehicle comprises a blade assembly pivotally mounted to a frame member of the ATV and adapted for relative up and down movement. The snowplow apparatus further includes a vertical plate mounted to the ATV and forming a plurality of spaced apart notches. A handle is pivotally attached to the plate and includes a rod that selectably mates with one of the notches. A cord extends between the handle and the blade assembly such that a forward or rearward movement of the handle decreases or increases, respectively, the height of the blade assembly above a ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Inventor: Phillip K. Henks
  • Publication number: 20010007182
    Abstract: Hitch mount for hydraulically driven snow blades or other accessories that includes a receiver plate for mounting to the vehicle chassis and a one piece plow assembly and lift frame readily removably coupled to the receiver plate, the plow assembly preferably including a blade trip frame and a snow blade removably coupled to the trip frame. A optional power operated jack can be used to raise or lower the lift frame relative to the vehicle chassis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: July 12, 2001
    Inventor: Marc D. Curtis
  • Patent number: 6240659
    Abstract: Control system for a jack for raising and lowering a lift assembly for hydraulically driven snow blades or other utilitarian accessories. Actuation of the jack allows for proper vertical alignment of the lift assembly for engagement to a vehicle chassis. Once engaged, the jack can be actuated into an inoperative position until the lift assembly is to be removed from the chassis. The control system includes several safety features that prevent the jack from being deployed when the snow blade is raised, and that automatically retract the jack when the snow blade is raised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Curtis International, Inc.
    Inventors: Marc D. Curtis, Gary Harris
  • Patent number: 6209231
    Abstract: Hitch mount for hydraulically driven snow blades or other accessories that includes a receiver plate for mounting to the vehicle chassis and a one piece plow assembly and lift frame readily removably coupled to the receiver plate, the plow assembly preferably including a blade trip frame and a snow blade removably coupled to the trip frame. A optional power operated jack can be used to raise or lower the lift frame relative to the vehicle chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Curtis International, Inc.
    Inventor: Marc D. Curtis
  • Patent number: 6151808
    Abstract: Jack for raising and lowering a lift assembly for hydraulically driven snow blades or other utilitarian accessories. Actuation of the jack allows for proper vertical alignment of the lift assembly for engagement to a vehicle chassis. Once engaged, the jack can be actuated into an inoperative position until the lift assembly is to be removed from the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Curtis International, Inc.
    Inventor: Marc D. Curtis
  • Patent number: 6145222
    Abstract: Hitch mount for hydraulically driven snow blades or other accessories that includes a receiver plate for mounting to the vehicle chassis and a one piece plow assembly and lift frame readily removably coupled to the receiver plate, the plow assembly preferably including a blade trip frame and a snow blade removably coupled to the trip frame. A optional power operated jack can be used to raise or lower the lift frame relative to the vehicle chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Curtis International, Inc.
    Inventor: Marc D. Curtis
  • Patent number: 6088937
    Abstract: A vehicle plow suspension system designed for use with a large object such as a plow blade is disclosed. The suspension system is disposed between and connected to the plow blade and its associated positioning means, and comprises an expansion spring coaxially mounted about a two-way shock absorber in a sealed housing. The suspension system operates to attenuate both the relative movement between the plow blade and its associated vehicle, and the resultant forces thereby transmitted from the plow blade to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventors: James Anthony DiClementi, Robert Daniel DiClementi, Linda Rose DiClementi
  • Patent number: 5909960
    Abstract: A universal mounting assembly for a light duty snow plow using a lower triangular frame, an upper triangular frame and a pair of spaced-apart rearwardly directed tubular members for attaching the lower triangular frame to a vehicle. The mounting assembly can be secured to a vehicle using a quick release mechanism regardless of the vehicles ground clearance. Additionally, the plow can be used in any one of a plurality of predetermined positions with the bottom edge of the snow plow blade remaining substantially flat against the surface to be plowed. An electric winch that is supplied power from the battery of the vehicle to which the snow plow is mounted, is used to raise and lower the snow plow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Inventors: Willem Jager, Roland Peter Barth, Craig Shoemaker
  • Patent number: 5806214
    Abstract: A snowplow (20) adapted for being attached or detached from a vehicle (22) having a frame (24). The snowplow includes a mount frame (26) for connection to the vehicle frame, a support frame (32), a lift assembly (38) and a blade assembly. The blade assembly includes a blade (30), a blade cutting edge (31) and a wheel support assembly (56). The support frame includes a forward end (33) for supporting the blade and a rearward end (36) for connection to the vehicle. When detached from the vehicle as a single unit, the resultant weight on the rearward end of the support frame is supported on a ground surface (46) by a jack stand (48). The wheel support assembly is mounted adjacent to or slightly ahead of a center of gravity (58).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Douglas Dynamics, L.L.C.
    Inventors: John R. Behrens, James R. Doornek, Gerald E. Lutzke
  • Patent number: 5778567
    Abstract: A universal mounting assembly for a light duty snow plow using a lower triangular frame, an upper triangular frame and a pair of spaced-apart rearwardly directed tubular members for attaching the lower triangular frame to a vehicle. The mounting assembly can be secured to a vehicle using a quick release mechanism regardless of the vehicles ground clearance. Additionally, the plow can be used in any one of a plurality of predetermined positions with the bottom edge of the snow plow blade remaining substantially flat against the surface to be plowed. An electric winch that is supplied power from the battery of the vehicle to which the snow plow is mounted, is used to raise and lower the snow plow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Snowbear Corporation
    Inventors: Willem Jager, Roland Peter Barth, Craig Shoemaker
  • Patent number: 5524368
    Abstract: A snow plowing system utilizing a wireless radio remote control to control a snow plow mounted to the front of a vehicle. The plowing system comprises a snow plow blade, mounting mechanism connected to the vehicle for mounting the snow plow blade to the vehicle, the snow plow blade being connected to the mounting mechanism, a transmitter for transmitting a signal through a receiver to actuate, a mechanism for controlling the snow plow blade, and the receiver being connected to the mechanism for controlling the snow plow blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Assignee: Sno-Way International, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Struck, Lynn W. Schultz, Terry Wendorff
  • Patent number: 5485690
    Abstract: A lightweight snowplow configured of a number of small components, each easily lifted, moved, assembled, dis-assembled and stored by an average individual. The snowplow is especially suitable for use with small vehicles such as small trucks, utility vehicles and cars. The snowplow features novel alternate arrangements for operational lifting, stopping and lowering of the snowplow and a quick-hitch/release mechanism for easy plow attachment purposes. Finally, the mounting structure to which the plow is attached and detached is designed so as to be able to fit most small utility vehicles with two fore and aft frame chassis members and a frame mounted metal bumper without need for welding or special custom fit-up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventor: James P. MacQueen
  • Patent number: 5435082
    Abstract: An apparatus, for stabilizing a plowing implement mounted on a motor vehicle, comprising a rigid stabilizer member having first and second opposed ends. One end of the stabilizer member supports an attachment device for attaching the stabilizer member to a plowing frame secured to a motor vehicle. The attachment device allows pivoting motion of the stabilizer member relative to the plowing frame. The second end of the stabilizer member has an abutment surface for abutting against a pivotable portion of the plowing implement when the plowing implement is raised into travel position. The stabilizer member is pivotable into an inoperative position where complete freedom of movement of the plow is achieved and an operative position by a control mechanism. When the stabilizer member is in its operative position, the abutment surface abuts against a pivotable portion of the plowing implement to minimize undesired bouncing of the plowing implement while the vehicle is traveling on a roadway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Inventors: Eugene R. Frenette, Henry E. Frenette, Dana E. Frenette
  • Patent number: 5346018
    Abstract: An inventive three-point hitch assembly that attaches to the front end of a truck or pickup and supports at three points a plurality of implements or tools. It has a belt-driven power take-off for rotary tools that is controlled by an electric clutch and driven by a pulley attached below the truck engine pulley. A hydraulic lift cylinder raises and lowers the hitch and implement or tool, which by the hitch parallelogram form maintains the implements in a vertical orientation. The lift cylinder hydraulic pressure is supplied by connections to the truck power steering system via electrically controlled solenoid valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Inventor: Rick L. Koster
  • Patent number: 5205058
    Abstract: A roadbed maintenance device includes a first frame adapted for attachment to the front end of a vehicle, and a second frame to which a moldboard is joined. The first frame and the second frame are pivotably joined by a parallelogram linkage, so that the second frame can be pivoted between a lowered position in which the lower edge of the moldboard touches the roadway, and a raised position in which the lower edge of the moldboard does not touch the roadway. The pivoting movement is preferably accomplished by biasing the second frame toward the raised position, and applying a force to accomplish pivoting toward the lowered position. The pivoting force is provided by a gas-actuated cylinder linked to the second frame, using a compressed gas source on the vehicle. The moldboard is desirably made of molded rubber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Inventors: A. Gregory Allen, Frank T. Samarzea
  • Patent number: 5191729
    Abstract: Safety apparatus for use in a moldboard assembly having a plurality of horizontally aligned trip blade units pivotally supported in the bottom of the moldboard frame so that the units move independently between a downwardly extended operative position and a rearwardly extended, fully tripped position. A biasing mechanism urges each unit into the operative position with a predetermined amount of force. A control mechanism further regulates the biasing force exerted on each unit so that the biasing force first increases as the unit moves out of the operative position and then decreases as the unit continues to move into the fully tripped position. The force exerted on each unit when in the fully tripped position is considerably less than that used to hold the unit in the operative position thereby preventing the assembly from lifting as it moves over an obstacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1993
    Assignee: Frink America, Inc.
    Inventor: Jan H. Verseef
  • Patent number: RE38665
    Abstract: A snow plowing system utilizing a wireless radio remote control to control a snow plow mounted to the front of a vehicle. The plowing system comprises a snow plow blade, mounting mechanism connected to the vehicle for mounting the snow plow blade to the vehicle, the snow plow blade being connected to the mounting mechanism, a transmitter for transmitting a signal through a receiver to actuate, a mechanism for controlling the snow plow blade, and the receiver being connected to the mechanism for controlling the snow plow blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Sno-Way International, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Struck, Lynn W. Schultz, Terry C. Wendorff
  • Patent number: RE35700
    Abstract: A detachable snowplow blade lift assembly including a .?.mount.!. .Iadd.mounting .Iaddend.frame permanently connected to the vehicle frame. A snowplow assembly including an A-frame and a snowplow blade mounted on the A-frame is pivotally connected to the .?.mount.!. .Iadd.mounting .Iaddend.frame. A lift frame assembly including a lift actuator mechanism for raising and lowering the A-frame and snowplow blade is pivotally connected to the A-frame for rotation about a pivot axis. The snowplow blade lift assembly also includes a mounting arrangement for releasably connecting the A-frame and lift frame as a unit to the vehicle for pivotable movement of the A-frame relative to the vehicle and to the lift frame about the pivot axis. The A-frame mount affording pivotal movement of the A-frame and the lift frame about a common pivot axis provides a snowplow blade lift assembly which can be attached to, and detached from, the mounting frame as a unit and which has the capacity to stack snow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Douglas Dynamics, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Gary E. Watson, James R. Doornek, Thomas P. Fechter