Abstract: Self-propelled sod harvesting apparatus for cutting sod from a field into strips and stacking the sod on pallets. The apparatus includes a magazine storage area for pallets, a pallet loading area, and mechanism for transferring a pallet from the storage area to the loading area. A conveyor carries each cut sod strip to a platform and causes the sod to be rolled, and a stacking mechanism is used to collect rolls from the platform and stack them on the pallet. When the pallet is loaded it is discharged onto the ground and a fresh pallet is transferred from the storage area to the loading area. Only one person is required to operate the apparatus.

Abstract: Auger conveyor apparatus is described which is adapted to convey bulk material. The conveyor includes a plurality of axially aligned and connected segments which are coupled in such a manner that one segment drives an adjacent segment after limited rotation relative to the adjacent segment. The connected segments are self-supporting, and incoming bulk material has access to the apparatus essentially along its full length. The apparatus may be used in a variety of applications including, among others, bottom unloading devices for storage structures.

Abstract: Apparatus is described for bottom unloading of storage structures (e.g., farm silos and the like). The apparatus includes a pivotable sweep arm which may include either a rotatable auger or an endless chain. Unique ratchet advancement mechanism at the inner end of the sweep arm pivots the sweep arm. A planetary gear mechanism is adapted to transmit rotational energy provided by the power source to the sweep arm. An improved tooth is described for penetrating and dislodging bulk material in a storage structure.