Patents by Inventor André A. Sheats

André A. Sheats has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 9499204
    Abstract: A suspension system for use with a grounds maintenance vehicle such as a ride-on lawn mower. In one embodiment, the suspension system provide at least a first suspension apparatus positioned between a chassis of the mower and an operator support platform. The first suspension apparatus may include one or more suspension units that may be quickly reconfigured to provide variable suspension characteristics. The system may also include a second suspension apparatus longitudinally spaced-apart from the first suspension apparatus. A pivot member may be provided to assist in reducing or eliminating all but certain degrees of freedom of the platform relative to the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Jackie R. Gust, David J. Scherbring, Jeffrey W. Stern, André A. Sheats
  • Publication number: 20160325784
    Abstract: A suspension system for use with a grounds maintenance vehicle such as a ride-on lawn mower. In one embodiment, the suspension system provide at least a first suspension apparatus positioned between a chassis of the mower and an operator support platform. The first suspension apparatus may include one or more suspension units that may be quickly reconfigured to provide variable suspension characteristics. The system may also include a second suspension apparatus longitudinally spaced-apart from the first suspension apparatus. A pivot member may be provided to assist in reducing or eliminating all but certain degrees of freedom of the platform relative to the chassis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2015
    Publication date: November 10, 2016
    Inventors: Jackie R. Gust, David J. Scherbring, Jeffrey W. Stern, André A. Sheats
  • Patent number: 6393815
    Abstract: A mower comprises a frame having a cutting deck which is tiltable relative to the frame. The cutting deck has a substantially horizontal operating position and a generally upright transport or service position, the cutting deck tilting to move between the horizontal and upright positions. A blower is carried on the frame and a plenum connects the blower and the cutting deck. A grass discharge outlet on the cutting deck is telescopically inserted into the front of the plenum as the cutting deck is moved into its operating position. A guide pin is received in a slot having a V-shaped portion and a straight portion to correct misalignment between the cutting deck and the plenum as the two are telescoped together. The rear of the plenum can be manually attached to or released from the blower inlet without using tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Edric C. Funk, Gerald Damgard, Matthew J. Decker, Andre A. Sheats