SNOWBLOWER DEFLECTOR CONTROL DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS

Abstract

Snowblower deflector control devices, systems, and methods are provided. In one aspect, a snowblower deflector control device can be externally disposed from a machine handle of the snowblower. The control device can include a control member and a guide plate. The control member can include a longitudinal shaft and a projection disposed along the shaft. The guide plate can be adapted to receive a portion of the control member. The guide plate can include a plurality of gates disposed at spaced intervals from a first end to a second end, and the projection of the control member can be lockable within at least one gate of the plurality of gates.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present subject matter generally relates to snowblowers and related methods and, more particularly, to snowblower deflector control devices, systems, and related methods.

BACKGROUND

Snowblowers, also known as snowthrowers, are known to have upright discharge chutes through which a snow stream can be thrown or discharged. It is common for the chute to have a pivotal deflector on top of the chute for adjusting the trajectory of the thrown snow stream. In some aspects, the pivotal motion associated with the deflector can be manually controlled by manually adjusting an integrally formed handle of the deflector. A user must walk around the snowblower and grab the handle to move the deflector to a desired position. Friction between the deflector and chute can retain the deflector in the adjusted position. In other aspects, the pivotal motion associated with the deflector can be controlled by a joystick type control member operable via an electric motor.

Each of these types of control mechanisms has drawbacks. For example, manually controlled systems require the user to be able to reach the handle of the deflector. This requires the user to come around from the usual operating position behind the snowblower to one side in order to be adjacent to the deflector and to be able to reach the handle on the deflector. This can be both physically tiring and inconvenient, particularly where one must redirect the trajectory of the snow stream frequently. More advanced systems which control the deflector via an electric motor can add costs to the design and manufacture of the snowblower and may contain a large number of components that can break or otherwise fail.

Thus, despite the number of snowblowers having controllable deflectors on the market, a simpler, less expensive and durable control mechanism for quickly and easily operating the deflector is needed. The improved control mechanism further includes a novel visual aspect allowing users to actively select and choose discrete increments by which the deflector can be adjusted.

SUMMARY

In accordance with this disclosure, snowblower deflector control devices, systems, and methods are provided. In one aspect, a snowblower deflector control device is provided. The snowblower deflector control device externally disposed from a machine handle of the snowblower. The control device can include a control member and a guide plate. The control member can comprise a longitudinal shaft and a projection disposed along the shaft. The guide plate can be adapted to receive a portion of the control member. The guide plate can comprise a plurality of gates disposed at regularly spaced intervals from a first end to a second end, and the projection of the control member can be lockable within at least one gate of the plurality of gates.

In another aspect, a pivotal snowblower deflector control system is provided. The deflector control system can include a control member, a guide plate adapted to receive a portion of the control member, a deflector hingedly mounted on a snowblower discharge chute, and a linking member coupling a portion of the control member to a portion of the deflector. The guide plate can include a plurality of gates disposed at regularly spaced intervals from a first end to a second end. When the control member is proximate the first end of the guide plate the deflector can be at a first angle with respect to a horizontal axis, and when the control member is proximate the second end of the guide plate the deflector can be at a second angle with respect to the horizontal axis. The first angle can be different than the second angle, such as at a greater or smaller angle with respect to the horizontal axis.

In yet another aspect, a method for controlling or pivoting a snowblower deflector via a snowblower deflector control system is provided. The method can include providing a control member and a guide plate adapted to receive a portion of the control member. The guide plate can comprise a plurality of gates disposed at regularly spaced intervals from a first end to a second end. The method can further include providing a deflector hingedly mounted on a discharge chute and attaching a linking member to a portion each of the control member and the deflector. The method can further include moving the control member between the first end and the second end of the guide plate to raise and lower the deflector.

Although some of the aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein have been stated hereinabove, and which are achieved in whole or in part by the presently disclosed subject matter, other aspects will become evident as the description proceeds when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings as best described hereinbelow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features and advantages of the present subject matter will be more readily understood from the following detailed description which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings that are given merely by way of explanatory and non-limiting example, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a snowblower including a deflector control device and/or system according to an embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter;

FIGS. 2A to 3B are perspective views of snowblower deflectors control devices and/or portions of snowblower deflector control systems according to embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are perspective views of a snowblower deflector control device and/or portions of a snowblower deflector control system according to embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a snowblower deflector control device and/or a portion of a snowblower deflector control system according to an embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter; and

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of a snowblower deflector control device and/or a portion of a snowblower deflector control system according to an embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present subject matter now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some embodiments of the present subject matter are shown. This present subject matter may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present subject matter to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

As illustrated in the various figures, some sizes of structures or portions are exaggerated relative to other structures or portions for illustrative purposes and, thus, are provided to illustrate the general structures of the present subject matter. Furthermore, various aspects of the present subject matter are described with reference to a structure or a portion being formed on other structures, portions, or both. As will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, references to a structure being formed “on” or “above” another structure or portion contemplates that additional structure, portion, or both may intervene. References to a structure or a portion being formed “on” another structure or portion without an intervening structure or portion are described herein as being formed “directly on” the structure or portion. Similarly, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected”, “attached”, or “coupled” to another element, it can be directly connected, attached, or coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly attached”, or “directly coupled” to another element, no intervening elements are present.

Furthermore, relative terms such as “on”, “above”, “upper”, “top”, “lower”, or “bottom” are used herein to describe one structure's or portion's relationship to another structure or portion as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that relative terms such as “on”, “above”, “upper”, “top”, “lower” or “bottom” are intended to encompass different orientations of the package or component in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the package or component in the figures is turned over, structure or portion described as “above” other structures or portions would now be oriented “below” the other structures or portions. Likewise, if the package or component in the figures are rotated along an axis, structure or portion described as “above”, other structures or portions would be oriented “next to” or “left of” the other structures or portions.

Unless the absence of one or more elements is specifically recited, the terms “comprising”, including”, and “having” as used herein should be interpreted as open-ended terms that do not preclude the presence of one or more elements.

The present subject matter provides and/or includes snowblower deflector control devices, systems, and related methods of controlling a pivotal position of a snowblower deflector for adjusting a trajectory of a thrown show stream. In other words, the present subject matter relates to and provides control devices, systems, and methods for pivoting a deflector about a horizontal axis to adjust a trajectory of a thrown snow stream. In one aspect, the control devices and/or systems for pivoting the deflector can provide a lockable control adapted to lock the deflector at a given angle during operation which can comprise mechanical and/or non-frictional locking.

FIG. 1 is one embodiment of a snowblower, generally designated SB comprising a snowblower deflector control system, generally designated 100. Snowblower SB can comprise any general or suitable design, and is not limited in any aspect other than being configured to gather, remove, and/or throw the gathered or removed snow. Snowblower SB can be adapted to incorporate suitable snow removal components for gathering snow from the ground and for throwing the gathered snow in a snow stream away from snowblower SB. The gathered snow stream can be thrown from a generally upright or vertically extending discharge chute C. Chute C can be rotatable about a longitudinal axis (not shown) for changing the direction of the snow stream with respect to snowblower SB.

Deflector control system 100 can comprise one or more deflector control devices including a control device, generally designated 200, a portion of which can be mechanically coupled or linked to a portion of a deflector, generally designated 300 via a linking member, generally designated 400. Control device 200 can be conveniently located on a portion of a machine handle MH proximate the user, thus providing the user with quick and easy access for adjusting the trajectory of thrown snow via moving a control lever or control member 202 of control device 200. In one aspect, a portion of control device 200 can be disposed along one or more external surfaces of machine handle MH. Control member 202 can be moved within various discrete positions within a portion of control device 200 as illustrated in solid and phantom lines. The user can select one of several discrete positions in which to move control member 202 depending on how “open” or “closed” deflector 300 should be (i.e., or at which angle deflector 300 should be pivoted with respect to a horizontal axis). Machine handle MH can comprise two “leg” portions and a generally U-shaped portion disposed therebetween. A user of snowblower SB can stand behind snowblower SB and control, grip, and/or maneuver the blower via the U-shaped portion of machine handle MH.

Deflector 300 can be hingedly mounted to a portion of snowblower chute C. Deflector 300 can be adapted to pivot about a horizontal axis X (FIGS. 2A to 3B), for example, along or about the double sided arrow shown in FIG. 1. Pivoting of deflector 300 about horizontal axis X (FIGS. 2A to 3B) can adjust a trajectory of the snow stream being thrown from chute C. As the deflector pivots away from horizontal axis X (e.g., FIG. 2A, such as when the deflector is raised) the trajectory of thrown snow can be raised. Conversely, as the deflector pivots towards horizontal axis X (e.g., FIG. 2B such as when the deflector is lowered) the trajectory of thrown snow can be correspondingly lowered. Thus, the trajectory of the thrown snow stream can correspond to an angle α (FIGS. 2A to 3B) at which deflector 300 is disposed with respect to horizontal axis X.

Still referring to FIG. 1, linking member 400 can comprise at least a first end coupled to a portion of control device 200 and a second end coupled to a portion of deflector 300. Linking member 400 can provide a mechanical linkage between control device 200 and deflector 300 allowing for physical communication therebetween, such that one or more movements by portions of control device 200 can initiate one or more movements at a portion of deflector 300. Namely, forward pivotal (e.g., clockwise) or rearward pivotal (e.g., counterclockwise) movements applied to control member 202 can induce or initiate downward or upward pivotal movement of deflector, respectively, which can decrease or increase angle α at which deflector 300 is offset from horizontal axis X (FIGS. 2A to 3B).

At least a portion of linking member 400 can be disposed within a housing H of snowblower SB and can extend from housing H proximate a base of chute C. Linking member 400 can comprise a mechanical linkage for initiating and/or activating pivoting of deflector 300. Linking member 400 can also comprise a flexible inner cable 402 disposed in an outer sheath 404. Outer sheath 404 can protect inner cable 402 from wear and tear and/or weathering. Outer sheath 404 can be fixedly disposed between portions of control device 200 and deflector 300, and can allow inner cable 402 to be incrementally adjusted, for example, via pulling back and forth inner cable 402 inside portions of outer sheath 404 to activate a desired snowblower component, such as controlling pivoting of deflector 300. In one aspect, an amount of tension initially maintained within inner cable 402 can be increased or decreased upon pivoting control member 202. When the amount of tension within inner cable 402 increases, deflector 300 can pivot downwardly (FIG. 2B). When the amount of tension within inner cable 402 decreases, deflector 300 can pivot upwardly (FIG. 2A).

Referring now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, deflector control system 100 can further comprise one or more devices such as previously mentioned deflector 300. FIGS. 3A and 3B are further embodiments of deflector devices or deflectors, generally designated 500. FIGS. 2A and 3A illustrate deflectors 300 and 500 in a most “open” position such as when control member 202 (FIG. 1) is in its most rearward position along line R (FIGS. 1, 4A, 4B) with respect to control device 200, or disposed closer in distance towards the U-shaped end portion of machine handle MH (FIG. 1). The most “open” position corresponds to a maximum angle α being disposed between deflector 300 and horizontal axis X. Angle α can, for example, range between approximately 0° (fully closed) and approximately 45° or more. In some aspects, angle α can be more than 45°, such as between approximately 45° and approximately 90°. The maximum angle or a fully open deflector 300 can vary by shape or deflector design. Opening or raising deflector 300 to a fullest extent by a maximum amount produces a highest trajectory of the thrown snow stream.

FIGS. 2B and 3B illustrate deflectors 300 and 500 in a most “closed” position such as when control member 202 (FIG. 1) is in is most forward position along line F (FIGS. 1, 4A, 4B) with respect to control device 200, or disposed closer in distance towards housing H and chute C of snowblower SB. Closing or lowering deflector 300 by pivoting towards horizontal axis X can lower the trajectory of the thrown snow stream. In some aspects, the most “closed” position corresponds to when angle α is between approximately 0° and 5° with respect to horizontal axis X.

As FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate, deflector 300 can be disposed over a portion of chute C and hingedly mounted thereto. Deflector 300 can pivot about hinge 302 as indicated by the double sided arrows, and can increase or decrease angle α from horizontal axis X. The amount by which deflector 300 pivots can be controlled via control device 200 and linking member 400 of system 100 (FIG. 1) as more fully described below. When deflector 300 is fully raised such as in FIG. 2A, the trajectory of the snow stream is maximized. When deflector 300 is fully closed, such as in FIG. 2B, the trajectory of the snow stream is minimized and/or the flow of snow from chute C is prohibited or blocked by a portion of deflector 300.

Linking member 400 can comprise an inner actuation cable coupled to portions of each of control device 200 and deflector 300 (or 500, FIGS. 3A and 3B). Thus, pivotal and/or fore/aft movements (e.g., along lines R and F, FIG. 1) of control member 202 of control device 200 allow a user to increase tension or decrease tension associated with inner cable 402 by a selective amount for inducing pivotal movement of deflector 300. As FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate, outer sheath 404 of linking member 400 can in one aspect be fixedly held at a first bracketed tab portion 304. Flexible inner cable 402 of linking member 400 can be movable within fixed portion of outer sheath 404 and can at least partially extend therefrom. Inner cable 402 can extend to a second bracketed tab portion 306. Inner cable 402 can be fixedly held within a portion of second bracketed tab portion 306. Outer sheath 404 can be fixedly held and remain stationary at first bracketed tab 304 allowing inner cable 402 to flex between portions of first and second bracketed tab portions 304 and 306, respectively, for pivoting portions of deflector 300 about hinge 302. Inner cable 402 can be spaced apart from a portion of hinge 302.

A biasing member 308 can also be fixedly held between portions of each of first and second bracketed tabs 304 and 306. That is, portions of inner cable 402 and biasing member 308 can each attach to portions of second bracket 306. Biasing member 308 can be disposed on one side of deflector 300, and can be at least partially parallel with a portion of inner cable 402. Portions of biasing member 308 can expand and/or retract or contract in response to relative movement of inner cable 402. In addition, biasing member 308 can maintain a level of tension within inner cable 402, which can be increased or decreased in response to moving control member 202 fore/aft and/or clockwise/counterclockwise. In one aspect, biasing member 308 can comprise a tension spring or elastic spring adapted to extend and retract for allowing portions of deflector 300 to pivot about hinge 302 and about portions of chute C.

As biasing member 308 and inner cable 402 are attached to and/or between the same tabs 304 and 306, biasing member 308 can maintain an amount or level of tension across inner cable 402 such that inner cable 402 is not substantially slack. Control member 202 can then be moved forwardly along line F (FIGS. 1, 4A, 4B) and/or pivoted clockwise about a pivot point P (FIG. 4B) to increase the amount of tension on cable 402 which in turn can extend biasing member 308 and pivot deflector 300 downwardly. In further aspects, control member 202 can be moved rearwardly along line R (FIGS. 1, 4A, and 4B) and/or pivoted counterclockwise about pivot point P (FIG. 4B) to decrease or relax an amount of tension within cable 402 and pivot deflector 300 upwardly.

Biasing member 308 can allow deflector 300 to pivot about hinge 302 when tension is applied to inner cable 402 via moving control member 202 (FIG. 1) in a first direction or when tension applied to inner cable 402 relaxes via moving control member 202 in a second direction. That is, as inner cable 402 flexes or pulls in response to forward movement F (FIG. 1) of control member 202 (FIG. 1) in a first direction, inner cable can expand, extend, or stretch biasing member 308 and cause deflector 300 to pivot downwardly (e.g., decrease angle α). Conversely, as tension is decreased in inner cable 402 in response to rearward movement R (FIG. 1) of control member 202 in a second direction, inner cable 402 can retract biasing member 308 and cause deflector 300 to pivot upwardly (e.g., increase angle α).

Still referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, movement of control member 202 (FIG. 1) induces movement of flexible inner cable 402 of linking member 400, which in turn induces movement of biasing member 308. For example, as control member 202 (FIG. 1) of control device 200 moves towards a most forward position (e.g., toward a first end 208′ of a guide plate 208, FIGS. 4A and 4B) a tension becomes applied to inner cable 402 as inner cable 402 is pulled or flexed. This can cause biasing member 308 to expand or extend from a retracted position. Deflector 300 can lower, angle α can decrease, and the trajectory of blown snow stream can be lowered. In a similar respect, moving control member 202 rearwardly (e.g., towards a second end 208″ of guide plate 208, FIG. 4A) relieves tension to flexible inner cable 402 thereby allowing biasing member 308 to relax or retract from an extended position, angle α can be increased, and the trajectory of blown snow stream can be raised. As biasing member 308 moves between extended and retracted positions, deflector 300 can pivot about hinge 302 and a pin or fastening member 310 slideably disposed within portions of a guide slot, generally designated 312 allow deflector 300 to easily open and close. Biasing member 308 can extend and retract as inner cable 402 is pulled or released, respectively, which allows guide slot of deflector 300 to slide about fastening member 310. Angles α can be different when control member 202 is proximate first end 208′ of guide plate than when control member 202 is proximate second end 208″ of guide plate. For example, when control member 202 is proximate first end 208′, angle α is less than an angle α when control member 202 is proximate second end 208″. As described further below, deflector 300 can be locked in any desirable position with respect to chute C such that the trajectory of snow can be maintained when so desired.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a second embodiment of a deflector device or deflector, generally designated 500, of system 100. Deflector 500 can be similar to deflector 300, but can differ in placement or location of a biasing member and/or inner cable 402. FIG. 3A illustrates deflector 500 in a most “open” position such as when control member 202 (FIG. 1) is in its most rearward position along line R (FIGS. 1, 4A, 4B) with respect to control device 200, or disposed closer in distance towards the U-shaped end portion of machine handle MH (FIG. 1). The most “open” position can correspond to a maximum angle α being disposed between deflector 500 and horizontal axis H. Angle α can generally range from approximately 0° (fully closed) to approximately 45° or more. In some aspects, angle α can be more than 45°, such as between approximately 45° and approximately 90°. The maximum angle or a fully open deflector 500 can vary by deflector shape and/or deflector design. Opening or raising deflector 500 to a fullest extent by a maximum amount produces the highest trajectory of a thrown snow stream.

FIG. 3B illustrates deflector 500 in a most “closed” position such as when control member 202 (FIG. 1) is in is most forward position along line F (FIGS. 1, 4A, 4B) with respect to control device 200, or disposed closer in distance towards housing H and chute C of snowblower. Closing or lowering deflector 300 by pivoting towards horizontal axis X can lower the trajectory of the thrown snow stream. In some aspects, the most “closed” position corresponds to when angle α is between approximately 0° and 5° with respect to horizontal axis X.

As FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate, deflector 500 can be disposed over a portion of chute C and hingedly mounted thereto. Deflector 500 can pivot about hinge a 502 as indicated by the double sided arrows, and can increase or decrease in angle α from horizontal axis X. The amount by which deflector 500 pivots can be controlled via control device 200 and linking member 400 of system 100 (FIG. 1) and can be controlled by moving control member 202 within discrete positions of a guide plate 208 (FIGS. 4A/4B). When deflector 500 is fully raised such as in FIG. 3A, the trajectory of the snow stream is maximized. When deflector 500 is fully closed, such as in FIG. 3B, the trajectory of the snow stream is minimized and/or the flow of snow from chute C is prohibited or blocked via a portion of deflector 500. Notably, guide plate 208 comprises a longitudinal body or longitudinal shaft that is longitudinally disposed with respect to a portion of machine handle MH.

The pivoting and/or fore/aft movements (e.g., along lines R and F, FIG. 1) of control member 202 of control device 200 allow a user to selectively increase or decrease tension of cable 402 by various amounts and induce pivotal movement of deflector 500. As FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate, outer sheath 404 of linking member 400 can be fixedly held at a first bracketed tab portion 504. Flexible inner cable 402 of linking member 400 can be movable within fixed portion of outer sheath 404 and can at least partially extend therefrom. Inner cable 402 can extend to a second tab portion 506. Inner cable 402 can be fixedly held within a portion of second tab portion 506. Outer sheath 404 can be fixedly held and remain stationary at first tab 504 allowing inner cable to flex between portions of first and second tab portions 504 and 506, respectively, for pivoting portions of deflector 500 about hinge 502. Inner cable 402 can be spaced apart from hinge 502, and can be spaced apart from and fixedly held at a different portion of deflector 500 than biasing member 508.

Biasing member 508 can be fixedly held between portions of a first hinged projection portion 510 and a hook portion 512. Projection portion 510 can be disposed proximate a center of deflector 500. Portions of biasing member 508 can expand or extend and/or retract or contract in response to relative movement of inner cable 402. In one aspect, biasing member 508 can comprise a tension spring adapted to extend and retract for allowing portions of deflector 500 to pivot about hinge 502 and about portions of chute C.

Biasing member 508 can also maintain an amount of tension across inner cable 402 such that cable 402 does not become substantially slack. Control member 202 can then be moved forwardly along line F (FIGS. 1, 4A, 4B) and/or pivoted clockwise about a pivot point P (FIG. 4B) to increase the amount of tension on cable 402 which in turn can extend biasing member 508 and pivot deflector 500 downwardly. In further aspects, control member 202 can be moved rearwardly along line R (FIGS. 1, 4A, and 4B) and/or pivoted counterclockwise about pivot point P (FIG. 4B) to decrease or relax the amount of tension and pivot deflector 500 upwardly.

Biasing member 508 can allow deflector 500 to pivot about hinge 502 when tension is increased to inner cable 402 via moving control member 202 (FIG. 1) in a first direction or when tension is decreased to inner cable 402 via moving control member 202 in a second, opposite direction. That is, as inner cable 402 flexes or pulls in response to forward movement F (FIG. 1) of control member 202 (FIG. 1) in a first direction, inner cable can expand, extend, or stretch biasing member 508 and cause deflector 500 to pivot downwardly (e.g., decrease angle α). Conversely, as tension is released from inner cable 402 in response to rearward movement R (FIG. 1) of control member 202 in a second direction, inner cable 402 can retract biasing member 508 and cause deflector 500 to pivot upwardly (e.g., increase angle α).

Still referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, movement of control member 202 (FIG. 1) induces movement of flexible inner cable 402 of linking member 400, which in turn induces movement of biasing member 508 of deflector 500. For example, as control member 202 (FIG. 1) of control device 200 moves towards a most forward position (e.g., toward a first end 208′ of a guide plate 208, FIGS. 4A and 4B) tension to inner cable 402 increases as inner cable 402 becomes pulled. This can cause biasing member 508 to extend and/or assume an extended position. Deflector 500 can lower, angle α can decrease, and the trajectory of blown snow stream can be lowered. In a similar manner, moving control member 202 rearwardly (e.g., towards a second end 208″ of guide plate 208, FIG. 4A) decreases tension to flexible inner cable 402 thereby allowing biasing member 508 to relax or retract from the extended position and increase angle α between deflector 500 and horizontal axis X.

As biasing member 500 moves between extended and retracted positions, deflector 500 can pivot about hinge 502. Deflector 500 can be locked in any desirable position with respect to chute C such that the trajectory of snow can be maintained when so desired. Regardless of the specific configuration, biasing members 308 and 508 can be configured to exert a force that biases deflectors 300 and 500, respectively, downwardly over portions of chute C, thereby restricting the ability of deflectors 300 and 500 to pivot about horizontal axis X without movement of control member 202 and/or inner cable 402.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are perspective side views illustrating various aspects and features of control device 200. Referring to FIG. 4A, control device 200 can comprise a movable control member 202. Control member 202 can comprise a grip portion 204 and a guide portion 206. Guide portion 206 can comprise a projection or tab adapted to move within and/or engage portions of guide plate 208. Guide portion 206 can be longitudinally disposed along a longitudinal body portion of control member 202. Guide portion 206 can comprise a projection or tab configured to engage one or more slots of guide plate 208.

Guide plate 208 can comprise a first end 208′ and a second end 208″. First end 208′ can be disposed closer to housing H of snowblower SB. Second end 208″ can be disposed closer to U-shaped portion of machine handle MH, and closer to the user. Moving control member 202 towards first end 208′ can correspond to forward movement along line F with respect to U-shaped portion of machine handle MH (FIG. 1) and with with respect to guide plate 208. Moving control member 202 towards second end 208″ can correspond to rearward movement along line R, back towards U-shaped portion of machine handle MH (FIG. 1) and/or rearward within guide plate 208.

Guide plate 208 can comprise a contoured profile 210 adapted to be positioned at least partially around an external surface of machine handle MH. Guide plate 208 can be adapted to receive a portion of control member 202. In one aspect, guide plate 208 can comprise a plurality of slots generally designated 212 or gates disposed between first end 208′ and second end 208″. The plurality of slots 212 can comprise a plurality of gates disposed at regularly spaced intervals formed between a plurality of regularly spaced and integrally formed retention portions 214 or toothed portions of guide plate 208. Notably, moving control member 202 to adjacent gates or slots 212 between first end 208′ towards second end 208″ can decrease tension on cable 402 (FIG. 2A). This can incrementally retract biasing member 308 (FIG. 2A) and increase angle α (FIG. 2A). Thus, deflector 300 can be incrementally raised upward (e.g., pivot upwardly) to increase the trajectory of the thrown snow.

Conversely, moving control member 202 between gates or slots 212 from second end 208″ towards first end 208′ can pull or increase tension applied to inner cable 402 (FIG. 2B) which in turn can extend biasing member 308. Thus, moving control member 202 between adjacent gates or slots 12 from second end 208″ to first end 208′ (e.g., moving control member 202 forward) can incrementally decrease angle α between a portion of deflector 300 and a horizontal axis X (FIG. 2A), and can incrementally lower deflector 300 (e.g., pivot downwardly) to decrease the trajectory of the thrown snow. Notably, control member 202 can be moved to non-adjacent gates or slots 212 between first and second ends 208′ and 208″, respectively. Moving control member 202 can responsively increase or decrease tension applied to portions of inner cable 402 (FIGS. 2A and 2B). This, in turn, can move biasing member 308 between extended and retracted positions thereby pivoting deflector 300. Notably, control member 202 can be conveniently located and can be operable without needing power from an electric motor.

Guide portion 206 of control member 202 can comprise a protrusion and/or protruding portion or flange adapted to engage at least one slot 212 of the plurality of slots 212. That is, guide portion 206 of control member 202 can be adapted or configured to substantially fit within a portion of at least one slot 212 and become fixedly held adjacent to and/or between at least one retention portion of the plurality of retention portions 214. Guide portion 206 can be fixedly held within at least one slot 212, which can lock inner cable 402 in a fixed position thereby locking the angle α at which deflector is pivoted with respect to discharge chute C and/or horizontal axis X.

Guide plate 208 comprising the plurality of retention portions 214 and slots 212 or gates between retention portions 214 can advantageously be disposed outside and/or external from machine handle MH. This can be advantageous, as it provides a novel visual aspect of deflector control. That is, the user can actively select and choose discrete increments by which deflector 300 can be pivotably adjusted. This aspect can further allow a user to completely open or close deflector 300 by moving control member 202 between extreme ends of guide plate 208 without having to move between each incremental position. A user can visually choose an amount by which to pivot deflector 300 by visually externally disposed gates or slots of control device 200. By locking control member 202 between a selected one of slots 212 or retention portions 214, deflector control system 100 can exert and maintain a uniform force upon biasing member 308 (FIGS. 2A and 2B) that urges and/or locks deflector 300 in a desired position.

The number and/or spacing of slots 212 can be selected to correspond to a number of desired pivotal positions for snowblower deflector 300 (FIGS. 2A and 2B) and a desired angular displacement between adjacent positions. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4A, for example, guide plate 208 can define seven slots 212 so that control member 202 can move between seven discrete positions. Guide plate 208 can be provided with more or less than seven slots 212 as those having skill in the art will recognize that any number of slots 212 can be provided depending on the desired number of pivotal positions for deflector 300 (e.g., between approximately 0° and 90°). Moreover, each retention portion 214 disposed between adjacent slots 212 can comprise a chamfered edge or profile which can provide for easier transition between slots 212. The spacing between adjacent retention portions 214 can be designed to establish substantially similar angular increments. The width of each retention portion 214 can provide for regular, incremental angular displacement along angle α from a completely open to a completely closed position of deflector 300 (FIGS. 2A and 2B).

As FIG. 4A further illustrates, guide plate 208 can be fixedly held to a portion of machine handle MH via one or more attachment members or attachment devices. For example, attachment members can comprise a first bolt 218 and a first nut 228 assembly. Guide plate 208 can also be connected to a portion of control member 202 via at least one other attachment member, for example, a second bolt 220 and a second nut 222 assembly. First and second bolts 218 and 220 can comprise any component and any other type of attachment member is also contemplated herein, as those having skill in the art will recognize that many different types of attachment members can be used to physically couple or attach bodies of material, including, for example, pins, nails, screws, tabs, clips, hooks, rivets, adhesive material, welding, soldering, etc. One or more fastening members 242 can also be provided for attaching one or more portions of guide plate 208 to one or more portions of a guide plate housing 216 as described further below with respect to FIG. 5.

Still referring to FIG. 4A, to control upward and/or downward motion of deflector 300 (FIGS. 2A and 2B), control member 202 can be pushed outwardly (e.g., outward laterally), towards an outside of snowblower SB in a first direction D1. This will release guide portion 206 of control member 202 from a respective slot 212 and/or from between respective retention portions 214 of guide plate 208. Control lever 202 can then be moved forward or rearward (e.g., along lines F or R) and can pivot clockwise or counterclockwise about a pivot point P (FIG. 4B). Control member 202 can be adjusted between one or more discrete positions which pivot or displace control member 300 (FIG. 2A) by a discrete angle(s) or amount(s) by increasing or decreasing an amount of tension applied to inner cable 402.

FIG. 4B is an opposing view of control device 200 in FIG. 4A, without guide plate housing 216 (FIGS. 4A and 5). As FIG. 4B illustrates, guide plate 208 can physically couple or attach to control lever 202 via an attachment member such as a threaded bolt 220 and nut 222 assembly. As the double sided arrow indicates, nut and bolt 220 and 222, respectively, can comprise a pivot point P about which control member 202 can pivot when moved forward and rearward. The forward movement of control member 202 along line F can increase an amount of tension on inner cable 402 by pulling inner cable 402 in a third direction D3. This increased tension can pivot or move deflector 300 downward (FIG. 2B). The rearward movement of control member 202 along line R can decrease and/or relieve or release an amount of tension on inner cable 402 by moving inner cable 402 in a fourth direction D4. Third and fourth directions D3 and D4 can be orthogonal to each of first and second directions D1 and D2 which release control member 202 from a respective gate or slot 212. This reduced tension can relax or retract biasing member 308 and raise deflector 300 (FIG. 2A). Notably, control member 202 can move generally in a first direction along lines R or F and in a second direction comprised of either and/or both directions D1 and/or D2, wherein the foreword/rearward movement along lines R or F is orthogonal to directions D1 and D2.

Accordingly, forward movement of control member 202 along line F pivots a portion of control member 202 clockwise about pivot point P and can increase an amount of tension on inner cable 402 which in turn can lower deflector 300 (FIG. 2B). Conversely, the rearward movement of control member 202 along line R can pivot a portion of control member 202 counterclockwise about pivot point P and can relieve an amount of tension on inner cable 402 and raise deflector 300 (FIG. 2A).

As FIG. 4B further illustrates, linking member 400 can comprise a boot 410 or boot assembly adapted to receive portions of inner cable 402 and outer sheath 404. A portion of boot 410 can be retained within a portion of guide plate 208. An end portion 406 of inner cable 402 can be coupled to a lower portion of control member 202 such that the rearward, forward, and pivoting motions associated with control member 202 can increase or decrease an amount of tension upon inner cable 402 to adjust a position or angle α at which deflector 300 (FIGS. 2A, 2B) is maintained.

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a snowblower deflector control device 200 and linking member 400. Control device 200 can comprise a control member 202 having a grip portion 204. Control member 202 can further comprise a guide portion 206 or tab longitudinally disposed along a longitudinal body of control member 202. Guide portion 206 or tab can selectively engage retention portions 214 of guide plate 208. A plurality of retention portions 214 can be disposed between a first end 208′ and a second end 208″ of guide plate forming a plurality of slots 212 between which guide portion 206 of control member 202 can be fixedly held to lock deflector 300 (FIGS. 2A, 2B) at a certain angle α (FIGS. 2A, 2B) or position with respect to a horizontal axis. Retention portions 214 can be at least partially inclined or tapered to facilitate easier transition of control member 202 from one slot 212 to another adjacent and/or non-adjacent slot 212.

As described earlier, control member 202 can be moved forward along line F and/or rearward along line R to lower or raise deflector 300 (FIGS. 2A, 2B). Control member 202 can be moved between adjacent slots 212 or non-adjacent slots 212. When control member 202 is pivoted forward along line F to a selective one of the plurality of slots 212, a portion of control member 202 can pivot or rotate clockwise about pivot point P (FIG. 4B) and can increase an amount of tension applied to inner cable 402 of linking member 400. This can pivot deflector 300 (FIGS. 2A, 2B) downward by a selective amount. Moving control member rearward along line R can pivot a portion of control member 202 counterclockwise about a pivot point P (FIG. 4B) and decrease an amount of tension applied to inner cable 402 of linking member 400. This can pivot deflector 300 (FIGS. 2A, 2B) upward by a selective amount.

Control device 200 can comprise a guide plate 208 and a guide plate housing 216. Guide plate 208 can be disposed about a portion of a machine handle MH and can be visible to a user, such that the user can select an amount by which to pivotably open or close the deflector. Guide plate 208 can be affixed to a portion of machine handle MH via a first bolt 218 and nut 228. Any other attachment member is contemplated. Guide plate 208 can be affixed to guide plate housing 216 via positioning one or more fastening devices 242 through one or more openings or holes 244 of guide plate 208 and securing fastening devices 242 into openings 246 of guide plate housing 216. Fastening devices 242 can comprise a screw or any other suitable component for physically fastening or attaching bodies of material, such as a pin, nail, bolt, rivet, tape, adhesive, clip, hook, etc.

A lower or end portion of control member 202 can comprise a first opening or aperture 226 by which a portion of control member 202 can be coupled to a portion of guide plate 208. In one aspect, a bolt 220 and a nut 222 can be secured through first aperture 226 of control member 202 and one or more holes 244 of guide plate 208. Any other type of attachment member other than a bolt 220 and nut 222 is contemplated. Notably, a portion of control member 202 can rotate or pivot about bolt 220 and nut 222, such that together, bolt 220 and nut 222 form a pivot point P (FIG. 4B).

Control member 202 can also comprise a second opening or aperture 240 by which a portion of control member 202 can be coupled to an end portion or first end 406 of inner cable 402. First end 406 can comprise a first portion 406A, a second portion 406B, and a third portion 406C which can be threaded and/or disposed about one or more portions of control member 202. For example, second portion 406B of end portion 406 can be threaded through second aperture 240 of control member 202 such that first and third portions 406A and 406C can be disposed about opposing outer surfaces of control member 202. Inner cable 402 can be disposed within a portion of boot 410 and disposed in an outer sheath 404 retained by boot 410. Boot 410 can be retained within a portion of guide plate 208.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of control device 200 along lines 6-6 of FIG. 4A. For illustration purposes, guide plate housing 216 is not shown. As FIG. 6 illustrates, guide plate 208 can be fixedly attached to machine handle MH via an attachment member, such as a first nut 228 and first bolt 218 assembly. Guide plate 208 can further be attached to a portion of control member 202 via a second nut 222 and second bolt 220 assembly. Control member 202 may not be affixed and/or coupled to machine handle MH. Two washers 224 can optionally be disposed between portions of control member 202 and bolt 220 such that control member 202 can move in and out of slots 212 (FIG. 5) via moving between first direction D1 and second direction D2. Moving between first and second directions D1 and D2 can move guide portion 206 or tab between one or more retention portions 214 (FIG. 5) of guide plate 208.

Control member 202 can also be coupled to a portion of inner cable 402. For example, an end portion 406 of flexible inner cable 402 can be disposed about one or more edges or surfaces of control member 202. For example, a lower portion of control member 202 can be disposed between a first portion 406A and a second portion 406C of end portion 406 of inner cable 402.

This written description uses examples to disclose the subject matter, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the subject matter herein. The patentable scope of the subject matter is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A snowblower deflector control device comprising:

a control member comprising a longitudinal shaft and a projection disposed along the shaft; and

a guide plate adapted to receive a portion of the control member, wherein the guide plate comprises a plurality of gates disposed at spaced intervals from a first end to a second end, and wherein the projection of the control member is lockable within at least one gate of the plurality of gates.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the guide plate is disposed along a portion of a machine handle.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the guide plate is disposed along an outer surface of the machine handle.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of gates are disposed at regularly spaced intervals from the first end to the second end.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein a portion of the control member is adapted to move clockwise and counterclockwise about a pivot point for raising and lowering a deflector.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of gates comprises a chamfered edge.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein a linking member is attached to a portion of the guide plate.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein a flexible cable is attached to a portion of the control member.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the control member is adapted to move in at least a first direction and at least a second direction when moving between a first gate and a second gate of the plurality of gates, and wherein the first direction is orthogonal to the second direction.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the control member comprises a grip portion.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the guide plate comprises a contoured inner profile adapted to extend about an outer surface of a machine handle of a snowblower.

12. A snowblower deflector control system comprising:

a control member;

a guide plate adapted to receive a portion of the control member, wherein the guide plate comprises a plurality of gates disposed at regularly spaced intervals from a first end to a second end;

a deflector hingedly mounted on a discharge chute; and

a linking member coupling a portion of the control member to a portion of the deflector;

wherein, when the control member is proximate the first end of the guide plate, the deflector is at a first angle with respect to a horizontal axis, and wherein, when the control member is proximate the second end of the guide plate, the deflector is at a second angle with respect to the horizontal axis, and wherein the first angle is different than the second angle.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the first angle is smaller than the second angle with respect to the horizontal axis.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein the first angle is larger than the second angle with respect to the horizontal axis.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein the control member comprises a longitudinal shaft and a grip portion attached to one end of the longitudinal shaft.

16. The system of claim 12, wherein the control member comprises a projection configured to engage at least one gate of the plurality of gates.

17. The system of claim 12, wherein each of the regularly spaced intervals corresponds to an angular displacement of the deflector with respect to the horizontal axis.

18. The system of claim 12, wherein the guide plate is disposed along a portion of a machine handle of a snowblower.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the guide plate is disposed along an outer surface of the machine handle.

20. The system of claim 12, wherein the linking member comprises a flexible inner cable disposed in an outer sheath.

21. The system of claim 12, wherein the deflector comprises a biasing member.

22. The system of claim 12, wherein the deflector further comprises a curved guide slot.

23. The system of claim 12, wherein the control member is adapted to pivot clockwise and counterclockwise about a pivot point for raising and lowering the deflector.

24. A method of controlling a deflector of a snowblower via a deflector control system, the method comprising:

providing a control member and a guide plate adapted to receive a portion of the control member, wherein the guide plate comprises a plurality of gates disposed at spaced intervals from a first end to a second end;

providing a deflector hingedly mounted on a discharge chute;

attaching a linking member to a portion of the control member to a portion of a deflector; and

moving the control member between the first end and the second end of the guide plate to raise and lower the deflector.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein moving the control member between the first end and the second end of the guide plate comprises moving the control member in a first direction to release the control member from a first gate of the plurality of gates and moving the control member in a second direction to engage a second gate of the plurality of gates.

26. The method of claim 24, wherein moving the control member between the first end and the second end of the guide plate further comprises pivoting the control member in a direction that is orthogonal to the first and second directions.

27. The method of claim 24, wherein the guide plate is disposed along a portion of a machine handle of a snowblower.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the guide plate is disposed along an outer surface of the machine handle.

29. The method of claim 24, wherein moving the control member between the first end and the second end of the guide plate increases or decreases tension applied to the linking member.

30. The method of claim 24, wherein providing a linking member comprises providing a flexible cable within a portion of a fixed outer sheath.

31. The method of claim 24, wherein a pin of the deflector pivots via sliding within a portion of a guide slot.

32. The method of claim 24, comprising moving the control member between at regularly spaced intervals from the first end to the second end.