Abstract: A slat disconnect sensor includes a base. First and second arms are spaced apart from one another and are operatively supported by the base. At least one of the first and second arms have an end mounted to the base and is rotatable relative thereto at a pivot between connect and disconnect conditions. A mechanical link includes first and second link portions respectively secured to the first and second arms. The link interconnects the first and second arms and includes a weakened area providing a frangible connection in the connect condition and is configured to break at the frangible connection in the disconnect condition. A fuse includes first and second fuse portions operatively mounted to the first and second arms. The fuse is interconnected between the first and second arms providing continuity in the connected condition, and continuity is broken between the first and second portions in the disconnect condition.

Abstract: A slat disconnect sensor includes a base. First and second arms are spaced apart from one another and are operatively supported by the base. At least one of the first and second arms have an end mounted to the base and is rotatable relative thereto at a pivot between connect and disconnect conditions. A mechanical link includes first and second link portions respectively secured to the first and second arms. The link interconnects the first and second arms and includes a weakened area providing a frangible connection in the connect condition and is configured to break at the frangible connection in the disconnect condition. A fuse includes first and second fuse portions operatively mounted to the first and second arms. The fuse is interconnected between the first and second arms providing continuity in the connected condition, and continuity is broken between the first and second portions in the disconnect condition.

Abstract: A powered machine for moving along the ground surface and producing a succession of holes therein to aerate the soil. The present aerator includes a pair of ground-penetrating members that are moved alternately to engage, penetrate, and disengage the ground's surface. They are moved both vertically and horizontally to "walk" the aerator in a forward path. Each ground-penetrating member is moved through an elliptical circuit in a vertical plane parallel with the forward path. The penetrating members are retained in substantially upright orientation throughout the complete circuit. They are tipped slightly as they engage and leave engagement with the ground to form a uniform upwardly open hole as the aerator is propelled forwardly.

Abstract: A latching mechanism is described for removably mounting a handlebar to a lawn and yard implement. Also described is a powered lawn and yard implement for removing trash or like material from a lawn or yard and discharging the material into a wheeled pushcart. The implement includes a wheel supported housing to which the wheeled pushcart is releasably connected. A chute assembly directs trash from the housing into an upwardly open bin of the pushcart. The pushcart includes an elongated support roller and a pushbar assembly that facilitate independent movement of the pushcart assembly when detached from the housing. The housing includes a latching mechanism that may be operated from one side of the housing to secure or release the pushcart relative to the housing. Also associated with the latching mechanism is a deflector assembly that operates in response to operation of the latching assembly to open or close the discharge chute leading to the open bin.

Abstract: A powered lawn and yard implement for removing trash or like material from a lawn or yard and discharging the material into a wheeled pushcart. The implement includes a wheel supported housing to which the wheeled pushcart is releasably connected. A chute assembly directs trash from the housing into an upwardly open bin of the pushcart. The pushcart includes an elongated support roller and a pushbar assembly that facilitate independent movement of the pushcart assembly when detached from the housing. The housing includes a latching mechanism that may be operated from one side of the housing to secure or release the pushcart relative to the housing. Also associated with the latching mechanism is a deflector assembly that operates in response to operation of the latching assembly to open or close the discharge chute leading to the open bin. When the pushcart is detached from the housing, the deflector mechanism is located in position to prevent discharge of material through the chute.