Abstract: The brush cutter (10) includes a rearwardly positioned tractor (11) and a forwardly positioned cutter assembly (12). The outboard rectilinear cutting blades (49 and 51) rotate in their forward arcs toward each other and toward the longitudinal plane (28), so as to urge the cut vegetation inwardly toward the adjacent blades for mulching. The leading skirt (31) of the cutter deck (30) is positioned forwardly of the blades so as to engage and bend the taller brush and young trees in the direction of movement of the brush cutter before the lower portions of the vegetation are cut, thereby inducing the vegetation to fall in the path of the brush cutter, so that it is overrun by the brush cutter and mulched.

Abstract: A power-driven lawnmower having a main chassis supporting an operator, a pair of forward drive wheels, and a steering wheel utilizes a floating mower deck which covers or houses at least one driven mower blade. The deck is connected to the main chassis by a pair of arms terminating in ball joints affixed to the mower deck which is supported on ground engaging wheels such that the mower deck follows the contour of the ground. A flexible drive belt is connected to a constant power take off element on the main chassis and to the drive mechanism on the deck such that belt is entrained over a constant distance due to the connection of the arms to the chassis and the mower deck.

Abstract: A lawn mower including a liquid-cooled engine having a radiator grille positioned over the radiator thereof. The radiator grille includes a perforated screen member having a series of alternating grooves and ridges formed therein which run downwardly and rearwardly from the forward end of the screen member. The design of the screen member and the radiator grille permit the perforated screen member to self-clean and also provides a convenient means by which the screen member may be manually cleaned, if necessary.

Abstract: The present invention provides a riding lawn mower comprising: two pairs of ground engaging wheels 2, 2 and 3, 3 disposed at front and rear portions of a vehicle frame 5; a cutter blade 9 supported by the vehicle frame 5; a drive source 7 mounted on the vehicle frame 5 and having an output shaft 8 extending downwardly; a transmission 20 including i) a casing 21; ii) an input shaft 22 substantially vertically supported by the casing 21, and iii) a pair of axles 4, 4 extending substantially horizontally in opposite directions, the pair of axles supporting each one of the two pairs of ground engaging wheels, the transmission 20 being arranged below the drive source 7 and having the input shaft 22 coupled substantially coaxially with the output shaft 8 of the drive source 7 non-rotatably relative thereto; and power transmitting members 10 and 11 for the cutter blade 9, the power transmitting members 10 and 11 being provided to rotate with the output shaft 8.

Abstract: A zero turning radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero radius turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned near this turning point or axis so that the standing occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero radius turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds. The low center of gravity created by the position of the riding platform for the standing operator also results in the mower having improved traction and being less likely to pop "wheelies" upon acceleration.

Abstract: A zero-turning-radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing-occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing-occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero-radius-turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned at this turning point so that the standing-occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero-radius-turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds.

Abstract: A riding mower or other like four-wheel vehicle has the two front wheels mounted off the cantilever end of a subframe which is pivotably attached to the underside of the main frame of the vehicle by two spaced part pivots lying along the vehicle length axis. A cutter deck is suspended from the main frame beneath the subframe. The subframe construction resists bending forces, due to front-to-back and vertical forces on the dropped-down front wheels, when they encounter obstacles or depressions. The main frame is made of steel tubing, and provides a generally rectangular space just forward of the driver's seat, suitable for placement of the driver's feet. Preferably, the subframe also has a generally rectangular opening, nominally aligned with the main frame opening, to also accommodate the driver's feet. The elevation of the driver's seat can thus be desirably lowered, to maintain a low center of gravity.

Abstract: A control system is used with an associated mower having a cutting blade, a drive shaft for rotating the cutting blade, first and second drive wheels, and a power train for driving the first and second drive wheels. The control system has an electric clutch for selectively coupling the cutting blade to the drive shaft, first and second handles for independently driving the first and second drive wheels, first and second switches selectively switchable between first and second positions, a relay for electrically connecting the first and second switches to the electric clutch and control rods for mechanically connecting the first and second handles to the first and second switches. First and second handles are placeable into reverse positions. This causing first and second bell cranks to rotate about a control shaft which lifts first and second control rods. When the control rods are lifted, first and second switches are switched and power is disconnected to the electric clutch.

Abstract: A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

Abstract: A zero-turning-radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing-occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing-occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero-radius-turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned at this turning point so that the standing-occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero-radius-turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds.

Abstract: An ensilage harvester is equipped with a blower including a rotor equipped with paddles for conveying crop along a housing wall surrounding the rotor. The paddles include cutting edges that reach close to the wall so as to cut crop that may enter the rotor between a paddle and the wall as the paddle is approaching the wall with the result that the crop captured between the wall and the cutting edges is cut thereby preventing crop from becoming jammed in the intervening gap and causing friction losses.

Abstract: A pull-type harvesting machine is adapted for laterally offset attachment to a tractor. The machine has a frame and a harvesting head supported by the frame including a cutting apparatus for cutting crops as the machine is towed across a field, and a gear box operably connected with the cutting apparatus. A pull tongue is pivotally coupled to the frame about a first vertical axis for varying the position of the machine relative to the tractor. A mechanical drive line extends along and is rotatably supported by the pull tongue for supplying driving power to the cutting apparatus through the gear box. The gear box is pivotally mounted on the header about a second vertical axis spaced from the first vertical axis. The drive line includes a fixed position portion and a telescoping portion supported at fore and aft ends by the tongue and the gear box, respectively.

Abstract: Mounting structure attaching a cotton harvester to a tractor includes a pair of rear subframe support members that attach one to a side directly to the tractor and are designed for the specific tractor to which the harvester will be mounted. A second group of parts of standard design includes frame members with two rear support posts that align with the rear frame support members. A self-aligning pocket on the lower end of each of the posts and a pair of tapered bushings rigidly fixed to each post above the pocket releasibly secure the rear support posts to the rear frame support members. The rear support posts carry rear mounted harvesting units. Another group of parts provides front harvester support with a post design which is easily and quickly attachable to and removable from the tractor frame. Screw-type jack stands lift the harvester from attaching points on the tractor and allow the tractor to be driven out from under the harvester basket.

Abstract: A power transmitting structure for a mid-mount mower having a mower unit disposed in a middle region of a vehicle body. The power transmitting structure includes an engine disposed adjacent front wheels, axle shafts for rotating drive wheels, a stepless transmission operatively connected to the axle shafts, and a power branching device. The power branching device includes a branch input shaft connected to the engine through an engine power transmitting device extending longitudinally of the vehicle body, a first branch output operatively connected to the stepless transmission, and a second branch output operatively connected to the mower unit. The first branch output is a pulley connected to an input pulley of the stepless transmission through a belt to transmit power to the input pulley. The power branching device is disposed independently of and spaced from the stepless transmission. The mower unit is suspended below the engine power transmitting device between the engine and the power branching device.

Abstract: A machine for cutting and chopping corn and similar stalk-like harvested crops independently of rows includes drawing-in and cutting drums which are overlapped on the upper side in the region of their rotational sector by cover plates which interact each with a divider point for the harvested crops to be cut. The divider point extends in the driving direction. The outer edge of the cover plates in the region adjoining the respective divider point has an arching counter to the driving direction. The arching exposes the driving teeth of the associated drawing-in and cutting drum and forms an opening for the entry of the harvested crop between the driving teeth. This opening can optionally be closed by means of a blocking element depending on the nature of the crops being harvested.

Abstract: A lawn mower is powered by two vertical shaft engines mounted on the chassis and equispaced about the longitudinal axis of the chassis. A vertical drive shaft is rotatably mounted on the longitudinal axis of the chassis. The outputs of both vertical shaft engines are transmitted through belts and pulleys to the vertical drive shaft, which is rotated by the combined outputs of both vertical shaft engines. Other pulleys are secured to the vertical drive shaft and connected through belting to pulleys which rotate grass-cutting blades and to pulleys which operate motors turning the driving wheels to propel the lawn mower.

Abstract: A cutting device is provided with a power unit and a cutting unit connected at a single pivot point. The cutting unit preferably includes a cutting deck with multiple cutting blades spaced from the point of pivot connection. The cutting unit is preferably mounted on a frame supported by swivel casters. The power unit containing an internal combustion engine or other power source is preferably mounted on drive wheels.

Abstract: A zero turning radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero radius turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned near this turning point or axis so that the standing occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero radius turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds. The low center of gravity created by the position of the riding platform for the standing operator also results in the mower having improved traction and being less likely to pop "wheelies" upon acceleration.

Abstract: A powered lawn mower having a frame, an engine mounted to the frame, a set of front wheels and rear wheels connected to the frame, a drive for transmitting rotational power from the engine to the rear wheels, and grass cutting blades associated with the frame, and powered by the engine. A platform is positioned behind the rear wheels, and is capable of supporting an operator while the lawn mower is operating. The platform and the other parts are connected to the frame in such a way and positioned so that the addition of the operator in a stand-up or riding position moves the center of gravity by no more than twenty-five percent of the wheelbase of the mower. The rear wheel set may be positioned up or down but is not swingable.

Abstract: Riding mower apparatus which combines a rider controlled motor drive for area mowing, a battery power source carried by the riding mower, and a trimmer carried by the riding mower to be powered by the battery power source and located to be detachable from the riding mower and maneuverable by the rider to trim around stationary objects in the area.

Abstract: A rear suspension device for a ride-on mower includes a pivoting assembly coupled to the frame of the ride-on mower by a torsion bar which has a transversely extending back portion that can be trapped between projections on the rear portion of the frame of the mower and a front surface of the pivoting assembly. Portions of the torsion bar extend substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the ride-on mower and have ends that extend through apertures in torsion bar brackets that are coupled to the pivoting assembly. The suspension device is capable of transferring weight from one portion of the ride-on mower to another portion of the ride-on mower, thereby enhancing stability.

Abstract: A riding mower is provided with a first frame element pivotably connected near a forward end to a second frame element and connected at a rearward end to the second frame element by spring means. The connecting members provide a suspension system for the mower in order to decouple the vertical movement of the first frame element from the second frame element and thereby soften the ride. A pivot bar located near the forward end of the first frame element is pivotably received at its ends near opposite side walls of the second frame element. The suspension system includes two springs which operate in the vertical gap between first and second frame elements at the rear of the apparatus.

Abstract: A riding mower is provided with a grass collection bag located in the vertical space between the riding seat and the rotating blade. The seat is mounted on an exterior surface of a hood which encloses the bag during a grass cutting operation. The hood is moveable to permit access to the bag. The bag is equipped with a handle for easy removal from the mower body. The contents of the bag are emptied through the bottom of the bag. An air flow indicator signals an operator as to the need to empty the bag. A view window in the enclosing hood allows the operator to observe the indicator.

Abstract: A zero-turning-radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing-occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing-occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero-radius-turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned at this turning point so that the standing-occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero-radius-turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds.

Abstract: An interactive braking system for an electric mower is comprised of an directional control that is connected to a cam follower that, in turn, engages a brake lever. A linkage system connects the brake lever to a brake caliper assembly which is operable to engage a disc connected to an input shaft of a transaxle of a riding mower. The interactive braking system is designed to allow the operator to optimize control of the mower during slow speed operation, for example, when traversing the crown of a green or going down a hill. During these conditions, the directional control can be articulated to a slow speed position thus proportionally engaging the brake assembly. Increased braking force is realized the closer the directional control approaches the neutral position, i.e., zero throttle. The interactive braking system provides for enhanced control of the mower during slow speed operation of both forward and rearward movement of the mower.

Abstract: An apparatus in combination with or attachable to a self-propelled vehicle such as a lawn mower for transporting the operator therebehind. The apparatus includes a first arm pivotally connected to the lawn mower and adapted to pivot about a first generally horizontally disposed axis of rotation. A support platform is pivotally connected to the other end of the arm about a second axis of rotation which is also horizontally disposed and which is parallel to the first axis of rotation. A spring member is provided and biases the first arm upwardly for placing the apparatus in a retracted storage position. The apparatus is selectively placeable in an extended in use position during which the operator stands on the support platform and rides behind the self-propelled lawn mower. The support platform includes a sliding plate for sliding on the ground and reducing frictional forces when the operator is standing on the support platform.

Abstract: An improvement in a walk-behind, self-propelled lawn mower including a mower deck having an upper deck surface, a deck rear end and deck rear edge, several mower wheels, a mower engine, a pair of handle bars extending upward from the mower deck at the rear of the mower deck and steering controls includes a plate member for supporting a mower operator during mower use, a hinge pivotally connecting the plate member to the rear end of the mower deck, plate member abutment structure for stopping the plate member from pivoting to a position substantially below the plane of the mower deck. The hinge preferably includes a first hinge pin receiving element secured to the upper surface of the deck and spaced apart from the rear edge of the mower deck, and a second hinge pin receiving element secured to the plate member, and where the plate member abutment structure includes a portion of the mower deck between the first hinge pin receiving element and the rear edge.

Abstract: A zero-turning-radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing-occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing-occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero-radius-turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned at this turning point so that the standing-occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero-radius-turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds.

Abstract: An apparatus in combination with or attachable to a self-propelled vehicle such as a lawn mower for transporting the operator therebehind. The apparatus includes a first arm pivotally connected to the lawn mower, a second arm pivotally connected to the first arm and a support platform pivotally connected to the second arm. The apparatus is spring loaded for biasing the first and second arms and the support platform in a retracted storage position during which the operator can walk behind the lawn mower. The apparatus is selectively extendable to an in use ride behind position during which the operator may stand on the support platform and ride behind the self-propelled lawn mower. The support platform includes a sliding plate for sliding on the ground and reducing frictional forces when the operator is standing on the support platform.

Abstract: A zero-turning-radius power lawn mower for operation by a standing-occupant includes first and second independently driven and controlled rear drive wheels mounted on separate drive axles. A riding platform for supporting the standing-occupant or operator is located between the first and second rear drive wheels. The rear drive wheels are independently driveable in both the forward and reverse directions at variable speeds so as to allow for substantially zero-radius-turning of the mower about a central turning point. The riding platform is positioned at this turning point so that the standing-occupant remains substantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during approximate zero-radius-turning of the mower thereby allowing the mower to take such turns at higher speeds.

Abstract: A transversely-mounted grass cutter mower combination with a vehicle is provided which is adapted to be activated to move laterally to the right or to the left with respect to its mounting to the vehicle and/or to move vertically up or down with respect to its mounting to the vehicle. The mounting is a suspending mounting system including transversely-mounted tracks which are pivotally-secured by a parallelogram linkage to the longitudinal chassis of the vehicle. The tracks include a first powered operator for moving the transversely-mounted tracks through an infinite number of vertical locations between an upper limit and a lower limit. Rollers are provided on the suspended mounting system which are rollingly operatively associated with the transversely-mounted track which is mounted on the mower housing. A second powered operator is provided for moving the mower housing an infinite number of lateral locations between a left lateral limit and a right lateral limit, by means of appropriate linkages.

Abstract: A mower unit includes a plurality of blade mechanisms each having a blade and a blade shaft fixed to the blade for supporting the blade, pulleys and a belt for transmitting drive among the blade mechanisms, a plate-like support frame for interconnecting the blade mechanisms through intermediate members, a mower deck, and vibration proofing rubber elements disposed between the mower deck and the blade mechanisms.

Abstract: A machine for cutting grass and the like of the type comprising a frame (1a) to which are made integral an operating engine (2), a driving seat (3), means (4) for steering the machine and a front grass-cutting plate (60), characterized in that such grass-cutting plate (60) comprises at least one or more pairs of cutting blades (61) made to rotate via means (2a, 63, 66, 67, 61a) of transmission of the drive from engine (2) and a guard (62) for protecting such cutting blades, which is extended toward the middle part of the machine by a duct (63) capable of engaging a cut-grass collecting container (9) located centrally with respect to the axes of rotation of front wheels (7) and rear wheel (8) of the machine and located in the lower position grazing the ground as shown in FIG. 3 , the action of pushing the cut grass toward such container being exerted by the pressure generated by the rotation of cutting blades (61 ).

Abstract: An improved vehicle frame and cutter assembly lifting mechanism for a riding lawn mower. The frame includes a pair of oppositely opposed support rails extending along a substantial portion of the vehicle frame, a rear support member fixedly secured to the rear end of each of the support rails, a front support member fixedly secured to the front end of each of the support rails, a rear motor deck rotatably connected to the rear support member, a front wheel assembly connected to the front support member, a rear wheel assembly connected to said rear motor deck, an articulating pantograph type lifting mechanism for supporting a mower cutter assembly, and an actuator connected to the articulating pantograph type lifting mechanism for extending and retracting the mower cutter assembly between a cutting position proximate ground level and a fully retracted position.

Abstract: A supporting frame for a mower attachment of the rotary or flail type to provide for quick attachment of the mower to and detachment of the mower from a road grader or similar prime mover. The mower is designed for mowing roadside ditches, and the supporting frame mounts the mower so it can float and still be easily raised and lowered by the operator when necessary for transport.

Abstract: A mowing machine with a self propelled carriage for riding with steering front and powered rear wheels with a mowing cutter structure with three mower decks transversely distributed and suspended from the carriage between front and rear wheels, each deck with a vertical spindle carrying a cutter blade. The center deck is suspended from the carriage for vertical lift and adjustment with an outboard deck supported by hinges on each of its sides for up and down pivoting to follow ground contour, for individual power tilting for brush trimming, clearing of obstacles, and to narrow the plan form for transport. A transverse rear axle has a differential with a forwardly extending housing carrying, in series, a carriage drive speed change transmission, a carriage drive clutch, an input drive gear driven from an overhead engine, a mower control clutch, and a triple power head with three gear connected projecting power take-off shafts.

Abstract: A transformer unit mountable above the cutting deck of a mid-size, walk behind rotary mower, effectively converts the mower into a riding mower. The transformer unit is configured so as to allow an operator to be seated above the cutting deck, while still being able to comfortably control the mower by means of the original operator control handle, which is relocated by the transformer unit to the front end of the mower. The transformer unit comprises a support frame which is affixed to a cutting deck support structure. The support frame includes a vertically tiltable floor unit that extends over the top of cutting deck. An auxiliary operator control handle attachment fixture is mounted to the forward end of the support frame adjacent to the front end of the mower and is configured to engage and support the operator control handle, such that the operator control handle extends above the cutting deck adjacent to a position where the operator is to be situated.

Abstract: An apparatus or system for delivering a pesticide spray to a predetermined area, which includes a container for the pesticide to be delivered; a spraying portion, further including a substantially circular rotating member positioned on a central rotating axis; an upper circular shield positioned above and extending beyond the outer perimeter edge of the rotating member; a nozzle for injecting a quantity of pesticide onto the rotating member; a splash guard on the circular shield for directing the spray from the edge of the rotating member to the area of weeds below the shield covering the rotating member; and a powered device for moving the spraying member along the weeds to be sprayed, and for delivering the quantity of pesticide to the weeds. The apparatus may further include a rotating blade for cutting the weeds as the spray of pesticide is delivered beneath the circular shield.

Abstract: An attachment apparatus for a cutter head is provided which includes a pair of brackets located on the cutter head having holes located therein. A pair of pins are located at one side of a pair of cutter annexes which enable the annexes to be fitted onto the cutter head. The annexes each include a frame with a pair of wheels. The annexes are able to pivot about the axis of the pins.

Abstract: A horizontally extending plate-like member having a power source, transaxle and belt arrangement coupled thereto. The member mounts the power source, transaxle, and belt arrangement to a vehicle frame, and establishes a lever arm between first and second coupling means for transferring relatively small concentrated loads to the vehicle frame. The power source, transaxle, belt arrangement and member can be removed from the vehicle frame for service as a single unit or module.

Abstract: A self-propelled compost windrow turning and aerating machine includes a longitudinally extending vehicle main frame supported on a pair of front wheels and a rear castered wheel. An upper longitudinally extending subframe is swingably supported from the rear end of the main frame to raise and lower the front end of the subframe relative to the main frame. A blower housing mounted on the subframe has a material admitting opening leading to a rotary fan provided in the housing, the blower housing having a discharge opening with a spout for directing material blown out of the housing. Material debridging and feeding mechanism supported on the subframe in advance of the blower housing removes material from a compost windrow and delivers it to the material admitting opening, and an engine drive system powers the front wheels, the fan, and the material debridging and feeding mechanism.

Abstract: A transformer unit mountable above the cutting deck of a mid-size, walk behind rotary mower, converts the mower into a riding mower. The transformer unit allows an operator to sit above the cutting deck and use the original operator control handle, which is relocated to the front end of the mower. The transformer unit comprises a support frame affixed to a cutting deck support structure. The support frame includes a vertically tiltable floor unit that extends over the top of cutting deck. An auxiliary operator control handle attachment fixture is mounted to the forward end of the support frame adjacent to the front end of the mower. A set of auxiliary control links is retained by the support frame for reconnecting control elements of the repositioned operator control handle with mower drive and steering components. An operator seat fixture is mounted to a rear end of the tiltable floor unit of the support frame.

Abstract: An agricultural machine such as a mower conditioner includes a cutterbar carried by a header that is suspended from a frame. The cutterbar has a plurality of individual cutting units with two end cutting units located adjacent opposed sides of the frame and intermediate cutting units disposed between the end cutting units. Each cutting unit consists of blades pivotally mounted on a rotor. A tongue adapted for connection to a tractor is pivotally connected to the frame intermediate the opposed sides thereof. Input drive shafts deliver power from a power-take-off shaft on the tractor to a pair of generally vertical output drive shafts via a bevel gearbox and a spur gearbox. The generally vertical output drive shafts are connected to two of the intermediate cutting units, and generally horizontal output drive shafts connect these two intermediate cutting units to the other intermediate cutting units and to the end cutting units.

Abstract: An agricultural machine such as a mower conditioner includes a cutterbar carried by a header that is suspended from a frame. The cutterbar has a plurality of individual cutting units with two end cutting units located adjacent opposed sides of the frame and intermediate cutting units disposed between the end cutting units. Each cutting unit consists of blades pivotally mounted on a rotor. A tongue adapted for connection to a tractor is pivotally connected to the frame intermediate the opposed sides thereof. Input drive shafts deliver power from a power-take-off shaft on the tractor to a generally vertical output drive shaft via a bevel gearbox. The generally vertical output dirve shaft is connected to one of the intermediate cutting units, and generally horizontal output drive shafts connect this one intermediate cutting unit to the other intermediate cutting units and to the end cutting units.

Abstract: A mower vehicle includes a vehicle frame and single front and rear driven wheels. First and second blade housings are pivotally connected to each other along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle frame and are attached to first and second side frames, respectively. Each side frame is pivotally attached to the vehicle frame near the rear thereof with a hydraulically retractable and extendable cylinder assembly urging each side frame downward or upward in response to changes automatically sensed in the slope of the terrain. Ground engaging outrigger wheels attached to each side frame contact the terrain and the vehicle frame is thus maintained in a generally upright position.

Abstract: Harvested agricultural produce is distributed and temporarily stored in an elongated, low-profile bin mounted and supported above a frame so as to substantially center the weight of the produce over the frame. The bin has an input and an output end and is capable of movement between a receiving position in which produce is loaded into the bin and an unloading position in which produce in the bin is transferred out. In moving into the unloading position, the bin is translated in a longitudinal direction from the input end to the output end, and the output end of the bin becomes elevated. Means are provided to support the bin over the frame in the receiving and unloading positions, and to drive the bin therebetween. A conveyor belt in the floor of the bin shifts produce within the bin and unloads produce into a transport carrier.

Abstract: A hay conditioning unit includes drier units which utilize microwave energy to dry hay as that hay moves through a housing on a conveyor belt. Various temperature and moisture sensors are located along the path of the hay to sense the temperature and moisture of the hay so that hay can be discharged from the unit to have a precisely controlled moisture and protein level. Other controls are included to permit such state conditions to be controlled in a desired manner, and further controls are included to permit manually overriding the automatic process controls.

Abstract: A power transmission and steering apparatus for vehicles includes an engine coupled for rotating a pair of coaxial, spaced-apart driver wheels formed of a low durometer plastic material. A pair of discs are positioned in an opposed, spaced apart relation and adjacent to the peripheries of the driver wheels and one being on each of the opposite sides thereof. The discs are each coupled to a different one of the vehicle drive wheels, and each disc is mounted for rotation on a pivotable shaft. Independent control levers are coupled to each disc for independently tilting the same into engagement with a selected one of the driver wheels for rotation in one direction upon engagement with a first drive wheel and for rotation in the opposite direction upon engagement with the other driver wheel, the speed of rotation being controlled by the pressure between the disc and the driver wheel.

Abstract: A lift arm assembly (30, 32) for a commercial riding mower includes pivotal lift arms (36, 38, 40, 120), each of which is biased downwardly by an adjustable spring arrangement for better control and contact between the underlying turf and the cutting reels supported on the outer ends of the lift arms.

Abstract: A lift arm assembly (30, 32) for a commercial riding mower includes pivotal lift arms (36, 38, 40, 120), each of which is biased downwardly by an adjustable spring arrangement for better control and contact between the underlying turf and the cutting reels supported on the outer ends of the lift arms.