Transversely Mounted Blade (e.g., Bulldozer, Etc.) Patents (Class 172/811)
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Patent number: 7401658Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a blade preferable for being mounted on various kinds of work machines, particularly work machines for digging, carrying of soil and leveling, in which increase in a quantity of soil per tractional force is achieved with a simple structure to reduce consumption horsepower and increase fuel consumption efficiency thereby leading to low cost.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Norihisa Matsumoto, Masatake Tamaru
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Publication number: 20080104865Abstract: A universal blade mount is provided for securing or attaching the rearward ends of push tubes of a blade structure to the A-arm suspensions of an ATV. The mount includes a pair of telescoping tubes which enable the mount to be narrowed or widened depending upon the particular ATV being utilized. Further, the telescopic connection of the two tubes enables the accommodation of suspension travel.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2006Publication date: May 8, 2008Inventor: Alan D. Bailey
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Publication number: 20080029317Abstract: The invention relates to a self-propelled robot which is used to handle explosive charges and which is of the type that is remote controlled by means of a control console. The inventive robot can be used to handle explosive devices and charges as well as perform special, dangerous operations. According to the invention, the self-propelled robot (1) comprises movement means which are defined by two lateral caterpillar running gears (2) having adjustable running sides, with an adjustable-length scraper (3) being disposed at the rear thereof. The invention also comprises an articulated arm (4) having a first segment (7) which takes the form of a fork that is actuated by a pair of cylinders (6) and which terminates in a clamp (5).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2005Publication date: February 7, 2008Inventors: Cesar Sallen Rosello, Alfredo Sallen Rosello, Roberto Torres Pueo
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Publication number: 20070261867Abstract: A cutting implement comprises a substrate having a cutting edge, and plurality of hardfacing beads deposited on the substrate transverse to the edge of said substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2007Publication date: November 15, 2007Applicants: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der angewandten Forschung e.V., Lund InternationalInventors: Anja Techel, Joseph Dillon
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Patent number: 7191846Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a blade preferable for being mounted on various kinds of work machines, particularly work machines for digging, carrying of soil and leveling, in which increase in a quantity of soil per tractional force is achieved with a simple structure to reduce consumption horsepower and increase fuel consumption efficiency thereby leading to low cost. A blade comprises a central front face section having a linear first cutting edge at a bottom end thereof, a jointed front face section having a second cutting edge which continues from the first cutting edge and extends backward in an expanding manner at a predetermined angle, and an end front face section having a third cutting edge which continues from the second cutting edge and extended forward in an expanding manner at a predetermined angle.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2004Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Norihisa Matsumoto, Masatake Tamaru
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Patent number: 7159344Abstract: A plow moldboard assembly having multiple ground engaging blades is provided with a plurality of elongate blade receiving slots having an open top and an open bottom and each defined by front and rear walls and two end walls disposed rearward of the rear major face of the moldboard and which extend along the bottom edge of the moldboard. A plurality of ground engaging blades are arranged in side-by-side relationship, each one having front and rear blade faces and upper and lower blade portions. The front face of the lower portion is forwardly offset relative to the front face of the upper rectangular portion such that the upper rectangular portion is received in the slot and held in position by detachable securing means. Damaged blades, which are relatively light in weight can be individually removed from the elongate slot and replaced with an undamaged blade. If desired, the front and rear faces of all of the blades can collectively be reversed thereby extending the life of each blade.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2004Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Inverta Corp.Inventor: Kevin Karhi
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Patent number: 7131221Abstract: A self-adjusting snow plow for use with pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles is disclosed. The snow plow includes a mounting apparatus for attachment to a vehicle and a plow blade having first and second ends, a top, a bottom, a plurality of retention members and a rubber scraper. The mounting apparatus preferably includes a pair of mounting uprights and a hitch tongue which is easily mounted in a hitch receiver which is secured to the front of a vehicle. The retention members are preferably constructed and arranged to at least partially encircle and slideably engage one of the respective mounting uprights and the retention members allow the respective ends of the plow blade to slide upward relative to the mounting upright most proximate to that end of the plow while the other end of the plow remains generally in the same position relative to the mounting upright proximate that end of the plow blade.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2004Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: Agri-Cover, Inc.Inventor: Charles M. Schmeichel
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Patent number: 7048072Abstract: In an excavator, a blade surface for performing an earth removal operation while a blade is set in contact with the ground satisfies the following conditions: A) upward pushing force components Fu that push dirt upward along the blade surface are generated; B) an upper part of the blade surface has a release surface portion in which a forward-upward release force that rolls the dirt pushed upward by Fu forward is generated; C) when downward pressing force components Fd are generated in response to the generated release force, a total downward pressing force ?Fd> a total upward pushing force ?Fu; and D) if each Fu is given a positive value and if each Fd and a reduced amount of each Fu caused when the dirt hits the release surface portion are given negative values, a value of force at an endmost section of the release surface portion is positive.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2005Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takayuki Okunishi, Shintaro Sakitani
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Patent number: 7013983Abstract: A blade mounting structure of a bulldozer capable of increasing visibility of a blade is provided. For this purpose, in the blade mounting structure in which a left and a right portions of a blade (1) and a vehicle main body are connected with a set of left and right straight frames (3, 3) to be swingable up and down and to a left and a right, and the straight frames and the blade are respectively connected by a hydraulic cylinder (4) for tilt drive and a support member (4a) to be swingable up and down and to the left and the right to be constituted to be capable of tilt drive, the blade mounting structure includes an arm (2) for connecting only any one of the straight frames and a substantially central portion of the blade to be swingable up and down and to the left and the right.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2003Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Norihisa Matsumoto, Tatsuo Wada
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Patent number: 6955229Abstract: An implement pitch-yaw system for effectively and efficiently controlling the pitch of an implement. The implement pitch-yaw system includes a first yaw actuator and a second yaw actuator attached between an implement structure pivotally attached to a support structure and a connecting member slidably attached to the support structure, and a pitch actuator attached between the connecting member and the support structure. The extension/retraction of the pitch actuator moves the yaw actuators accordingly thereby creating the desired pitch movement for the implement structure.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Inventor: Ronald J. Hoffart
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Patent number: 6938701Abstract: A blade preferably adopted to work machines for digging, carrying of soil and leveling, which achieves an increase in a quantity of soil per tractional force with a simple structure to reduce consumption horsepower and increase fuel consumption efficiency thereby leading to low cost, has a central front face section (12) having a linear first cutting edge (15) at a bottom end thereof, a jointed front face section (13) having a second cutting edge (16) which continues from the first cutting edge (15) and extends backward at a predetermined angle, and an end front face section (14) having a third cutting edge (17) which continues from the second cutting edge (16) and extended forward at a predetermined angle.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2003Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: Komatsu LimitedInventors: Norihisa Matsumoto, Masatake Tamaru
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Patent number: 6925735Abstract: A bumper assembly for a utility vehicle includes both front bumper structure for protecting the front of the vehicle, and skid plate structure to protect lower components of the vehicle from road or terrain hazards, as an integrated part. The bumper assembly includes a protective front structure extending substantially vertically in front of a front end of the vehicle hood, e.g., in front of the radiator of the utility vehicle. The bumper assembly also includes a protective bottom structure extending substantially horizontally beneath the chassis of the utility vehicle. The bumper assembly includes a front plate useful for locating attachments to the vehicle. An implement attachment arrangement includes an elongated structure pivotally connected at a rear of a chassis of the utility vehicle. The elongated structure is connected at a front end thereof to the bumper assembly via a hydraulic cylinder in order to make vertically adjustable the elevation of the front end of the elongated structure.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2002Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Deere & Co.Inventors: Nicholas Hamm, Steven Paul Dobrot
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Patent number: 6892825Abstract: A rear blade mounting apparatus for a bulldozer. The mounting apparatus generally includes a frame that extends from the rear of the body of the bulldozer, the frame including a pair of extending loader arms pivotally connected to the rear of the tractor, and a blade pivotally mounted on free ends of the loader arms, and hydraulic cylinders, or the like, controlled to cause the blade to be positioned in various desired positions.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2004Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Inventor: Donald G. Hopson
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Patent number: 6874260Abstract: The invention comprises a snow plow system capable of attachment to a vehicle. The snow plow system comprises a front snow plow assembly and a rear snow plow assembly. The front snow plow assembly includes a blade, a frame assembly and an attachment system. The attachment system is capable of attaching the blade to the frame assembly. The rear snow plow assembly includes a frame and a blade attached. The frame of the front snow plow assembly and the frame of the rear snow plow assembly comprise an aluminum material having a temper of at least T4.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2002Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: Covenant Resolutions, Inc.Inventor: Donald Edward Mullett
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Patent number: 6813849Abstract: The moldboard support assembly for a motor grader reinforces the rear face of the moldboard by a series of vertical ribs. Upper and lower slide rails are secured to the ribs at a position outwardly of the rear face of the moldboard. This produces a series of gaps between adjacent ribs and between the rear face of the moldboard and the slide rails. These gaps allow material to clear away from the slide rails and thereby reduce bearing contamination of the slide rails.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2001Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Assignee: Volvo Motor Graders LimitedInventor: Edward McGugan
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Patent number: 6691795Abstract: A grader vehicle has a vehicle body mounted on two drive tracks. A boom is mounted on the front of the vehicle and extends to the front of the body. A third drive track is mounted on the leading end of the boom by a steering mechanism for rotation about an upright steering axis. The three tracks are driven by separate hydraulic motors. The use of a steering, driven track on the boom provides a tractive force pulling the vehicle forwards in the desired direction of travel and positively driving the leading end of the boom in the direction of a turn. The track also provides a degree of packing at the center of the vehicle's path that can not be achieved with a ski gliding on the surface. This is of particular importance when packing ski trails with the vehicle. For grading purposes, the vehicle has a grader blade across the front of the vehicle and a second blade leading the front track.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Tri-Track International Ltd.Inventor: John L'Abbe
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Publication number: 20030188463Abstract: The present invention provides for carbide edge snowplow and grader blades that are durable and fracture resistant. The carbide along the blade edge and blade bottom which contacts the surface being treated is designed to limit the degree of fracture of the carbide. Carbide inserts along the edge and/or bottom are separated from each other by a steel alloy spacer/shim along the width of the blade. The spacer/shim reduces the potential for impact damage cracks that form in a carbide insert from propagating into adjacent inserts along the width of the blade. In one embodiment, the improved blade edge comprises an edge body having a lower edge with a recess and separate slot in the bottom surface of the edge. Within the blade recess and blade slot are positioned carbide block/bar inserts separated by spacer means made from a ductile material.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2002Publication date: October 9, 2003Inventors: Terry A. Manway, Andrew G. Mayer, Daniel C. Statler, Charles P. Baldwin
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Patent number: 6585059Abstract: A mounting assembly for mounting a blade assembly to a motor grader includes an upper and a lower retainer pivotally coupled together. The upper and lower retainers are pivotable about a single axis with respect to each other for grasping the blade assembly therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2001Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: David R. Michael, Jr., Donald R. Mast, Wayne R. Tanner
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Patent number: 6584710Abstract: A skid steer vehicle with sprung suspensions is configured to lock the suspensions whenever the operator manipulates a manual control that generates a signal to move the loader arms or the bucket of the vehicle. The operator control, such as a joystick, sends a signal to an electronic controller indicating that the operator has moved the control and is thereby requesting the loader arms or bucket to move. The electronic controller responds to this signal by moving the loader arms or bucket and simultaneously locking the suspensions.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2001Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: Case CorporationInventors: Hong-Chin Lin, Peter J. Dix, Troy D. Bateman, Brian E. Felsing, Anthony J. Lamela, Daniel B. Shore
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Patent number: 6536141Abstract: A mounting arrangement for a moldboard includes a pair of arms having resilient members which are received within a mounting member. The resilient members enable the arms and the moldboard to pivot about the mounting member in the event that an obstruction is encountered by the moldboard. The mounting arrangement for the moldboard includes a series of holes whereby the orientation of the moldboard to the surface to be plowed may be adjusted.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2002Date of Patent: March 25, 2003Assignee: Cives CorporationInventor: Edward W. Kitchell
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Patent number: 6526678Abstract: Improvements to a grapple bucket which combine to convert the grapples into bulldozing, scraping, and hooking implements that can bulldoze, scoop, tear, and demolish more easily than a simple grapple bucket.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Inventor: John Albert Waddington, Jr.
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Patent number: 6502334Abstract: An attachment for an all terrain vehicle (ATV) which enables the ATV to be used for clearing away snow and other loose granular material, such as sand, earth, and crushed stones. The apparatus includes a blade with a detachable liner, and a frame which fits beneath the ATV and is releasably connected to the outer sides of the ATV by a mounting device. The angle of the blade may be adjusted using a dual-handed lever. The blade may be raised and lowered by the driver while seated at the ATV using a handle which actuates a lever and a cable and pulley apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 1999Date of Patent: January 7, 2003Inventor: Stephen Davies
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Patent number: 6345926Abstract: Spherical mountings are useful for pivotally connecting a push arm of a blade to a track roller frame of a machine. When the blade is removed the bearing assembly must be disassembled and to reconnect the blade to the spherical mounting the bearing assembly needed to shimmed to obtain the correct gap or clearance between the bearing and the spherical mounting. The subject mounting arrangement includes a mounting assembly having a first end portion removeably connected to the push arm of a blade and a second end portion positioned around a spherical assembly and being removeably connected to a bearing assembly of the spherical assembly. This arrangement of components provides for removing the push arm of the blade from the mounting on the track roller frame without removing the bearing assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2000Date of Patent: February 12, 2002Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Randy G. Farnam, Kenneth J. Hoefling, William H. Zimmerman
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Publication number: 20020000324Abstract: The moldboard support assembly for a motor grader reinforces the rear face of the moldboard by a series of vertical ribs. Upper and lower slide rails are secured to the ribs at a position outwardly of the rear face of the moldboard. This produces a series of gaps between adjacent ribs and between the rear face of the moldboard and the slide rails. These gaps allow material to clear away from the slide rails and thereby reduce bearing contamination of the slide rails.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2001Publication date: January 3, 2002Inventor: Edward McGugan
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Patent number: 6219943Abstract: A mounting arrangement for a moldboard includes a pair of arms having resilient members which are received within a mounting member. The resilient members enable the arms and the moldboard to pivot about the mounting member in the event that an obstruction is encountered by the moldboard such as during snow and ice removal.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1998Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Assignee: Cives CorporationInventor: Edward W. Kitchell
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Patent number: 6158525Abstract: The present invention makes it possible to increase the inner width between left and right main frames without increasing the entire width of a vehicle, to reduce the weight, and to improve the productivity. For this purpose, in a main frame structure for construction equipment including a pair of left and right main frames, a cross member connecting the front portions of the pair of left and right main frames and vertically swingably supporting an equalizer bar for coupling a pair of left and right track frames, and lift cylinder supporting elements rotatably supporting one end of a lift cylinder for raising and lowering a working machine frame mounted with a working machine, the pair of left and right main frames (1a, 1b) are respectively composed of a straight plate provided along a longitudinal direction of a vehicle body, and each of the lift cylinder supporting elements is integrally fixed on the outside in a lateral direction of the vehicle body, of the pair of left and right main frames (1a, 1b).Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 1999Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventor: Hirotsugu Inoue
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Patent number: 6105682Abstract: An apparatus for controlling an earthworking implement. The earthworking implement is movably attached to a track-type tractor having a main frame and a track roller frame. The track roller frame is located on a left and a right side of the main frame. The apparatus includes a c-frame attached to inner portions of the track roller frame at positions toward a forward portion of the track-type tractor. The apparatus also includes four independently operable hydraulic cylinders attached to one of the main frame and the c-frame. Each of the hydraulic cylinders has a head end located toward the attachment to the one of the main frame and the c-frame, and a rod end located substantially vertically upwards of the head end. The apparatus also includes an earthworking blade attached to each of the rod ends of the hydraulic cylinders and to the c-frame.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1998Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Roger L. Recker, Bryan G. Lammers
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Patent number: 6041870Abstract: A dozing machine comprises a tractor having a transverse dozing blade mounted at the forward end thereof. Steering changes can made by shifting the lateral centerline of the blade laterally relative to the longitudinal centerline of the tractor. To this end, a linear actuator is connected between the blade or a blade push arm and the tractor. The actuator is extended or retracted to shift the centerline of the blade. The centerline may also be shifted by extending the length of the blade to one side of the tractor centerline. Automated methods and apparatus are disclosed which utilize blade centerline shifting to maintain a desired direction of travel or to automatically achieve any desired path. Also, sideshifting of the blade may be useful for purposes other than steering the tractor.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 1998Date of Patent: March 28, 2000Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: William H. Zimmerman, Thomas C. Meisel
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Patent number: 6035249Abstract: An improved accuracy is ensured for the calculation of the travel distance of a bulldozer by obtaining the accurate vehicle speed and travel direction of the bulldozer. To this end, arrangement is made such that a check is made to determine whether actual tractive force F exerted on the blade exceeds a predetermined shoe slip threshold value F.sub.0 ; switching between vehicle speed detectors (between a Doppler sensor and Sprocket rotating speed detector) is made according to the determination so that suitable one of the vehicle speed detectors detects the vehicle speed of the bulldozer; and the vehicle speed detected by the selected vehicle speed detector is integrated, whereby the travel distance of the bulldozer is calculated.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1997Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Shigeru Yamamoto, Hidekazu Nagase
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Patent number: 5967241Abstract: An ATV lift handle is provided for an all terrain vehicle having a vertically movable blade at the forward end thereof. The vertical movement of the blade is controlled by a lift handle positioned rearwardly thereof and which is pivotally mounted on a lift handle bracket. The lift handle bracket has a locking pin movably mounted thereon which protrudes outwardly and rearwardly therefrom when in its extended locked position. The locking pin is movable from its extended locked position to a retracted non-locking position against the resiliency of a spring operatively connected thereto. When it is desired to lock the blade in its upper non-working position, the lift handle is pivotally moved rearwardly of the protruding locking pin and is placed in engagement therewith to prevent the lift handle from moving forwardly.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1997Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Assignee: Cycle Country Accessories Corp.Inventors: Gary Cross, Glen E. Carlson
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Patent number: 5964301Abstract: A bucket tilt mechanism that allows the lateral tilting of a loader bucket in addition to vertical tilting. The lateral tilting of the bucket is achieved by the actuation of one of two hydraulic cylinders, each of which are attached to a bucket bracket and one of two loader support arms. A pivotal connection between the bucket bracket and a bar extending transversely between the loader support arms, and a central linkage arm which is comprised of three sub-arms, enable the bucket to tilt laterally responsive to the actuation of the hydraulic cylinders about the pivotal connection.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1998Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Inventor: Kenny Ern Glasgow
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Patent number: 5964298Abstract: An integrated earth contouring system uses a postioning system such as a GPS system to track the location of an earthmover on a work site. A display device visible to a driver of the earthmover displays a difference between an existing surface contour and a desired surface contour of the work site. The display device may show a three-dimensional image which rotates or a two-dimensional image having a cursor which rotates to represent the earthmover. A blade sensor tracks the position of the earthmover blade, and the display is updated to show changes in the existing surface contour when the earthmover is moved on the site with the blade height between the height of the existing surface and the height of the desired surface. An orientation sensor on board the earthmover provides the microprocessor with the orientation of the earthmover, and a memory unit is provided to allow storage and retrieval of surface data by the microprocessor.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1994Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignee: GigaNet, Inc.Inventor: Philip Greenspun
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Patent number: 5906243Abstract: A device is provided for clearing a swath within the earth. The device has a frame for mounting the device onto an industrial vehicle. A rotating track is disposed on the frame. At least one reinforcing panel is mounted adjacent an end of the track that protects the end of the track from binding and damage due to obstacles disposed on the swath being cleared. A bottom plate is disposed directly beneath the track, and a ton protecting shield is disposed above the track. When the vehicle moves forward, the bottom plate and the track operate to move a layer of earth from in front of the vehicle to a side of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1998Date of Patent: May 25, 1999Inventor: Glen C. Clausen
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Patent number: 5794709Abstract: A device is provided for clearing a swath within the earth. The device has a frame for mounting the device onto an industrial vehicle. A rotating track is disposed on the frame. At least one reinforcing panel is mounted adjacent an end of the track that protects the end of the track from binding and damage due to obstacles disposed on the swath being cleared. A bottom plate is disposed directly beneath the track, and a top protecting shield is disposed above the track. When the vehicle moves forward, the bottom plate and the track operate to move a layer of earth from in front of the vehicle to a side of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1996Date of Patent: August 18, 1998Inventor: Glen C. Clausen
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Patent number: 5775438Abstract: A front-end mounted earth working apparatus for a vehicle, including a skid steer, forms the subject of this invention. The earth working apparatus has a guide frame portion and grading portion. The guide frame portion is attached to the skid steer by a mounting plate. The mounting plate has a lifting fork extending forward therefrom being substantially horizontal. The grading portion is suspended below the guide frame portion by the lifting fork using a suspension mechanism. The grading portion being substantially parallel to the lifting fork. The grading portion further having front and rear blades attached to side rails. The rear blades being attached below the side rails by being pivotably hinged at one end and selectively secured to a corresponding adjustment plate so that the angle of each rear blade is adjustable.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1997Date of Patent: July 7, 1998Inventors: Richard J. Confoey, Donald W. Akins
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Patent number: 5687800Abstract: An apparatus for retaining a grader blade includes a support bracket, a first upper retainer secured to the support bracket and a second upper retainer secured to the support bracket. The apparatus also includes a first lower retainer secured to the support bracket, the first lower retainer being movable relative to the first upper retainer, and a second lower retainer secured to the support bracket, the second lower retainer being movable relative to the second upper retainer. The apparatus further includes a first adjustment member which contacts the first lower retainer, wherein rotation of the first adjustment member causes movement of the first lower retainer relative to the first upper retainer, and a second adjustment member which contacts the second lower retainer, wherein rotation of the second adjustment member causes movement of the second lower retainer relative to the second upper retainer. A method of retaining a grader blade relative to a support bracket is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1996Date of Patent: November 18, 1997Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: Kevin J. Wilkening
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Patent number: 5682955Abstract: A blade control system includes a directional control valve, a fluid regeneration valve and a selector valve for selectively controlling fluid flow between a pump and first and second hydraulic cylinders and between the cylinders. With the valves positioned at preselected operative positions, pressurized fluid from the pump is directed to the head end chamber of the first cylinder, fluid expelled from the rod end chamber of the first cylinder is diverted to the head end chamber of the second cylinder, and fluid expelled from the rod end chamber of the second cylinder is combined with the fluid being directed to the head end chamber of the first cylinders to provide two stages of fluid regeneration for increasing the extension speed of the cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 1996Date of Patent: November 4, 1997Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Steven L. Groth, Richard A. Arstein, Randall A. Harlow, David P. Smith, Richard J. Skiba
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Patent number: 5669450Abstract: An attachment is disclosed for mounting to the front end of a road construction vehicle having a four bar linkage and an hydraulic actuator. A scarifier attachment includes first and second moldboards arranged in a chevron shape, when viewed from above, with the bottom of the V being in the center and forward most position so that the moldboards are inclined outwardly and rearwardly relative to the centerline of the vehicle. At the bottom of each of the moldboards is a scarifier plate which is removably mounted to its associated moldboard. Reinforcing structure is added to the moldboards for strength. In one embodiment, the reinforcing structure forms a receptacle for receiving a conventional scarifier mount, and in a second embodiment, the attachment is mounted to upper and lower horizontal bars forming an integral part of the hydraulically-actuated linkage.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1995Date of Patent: September 23, 1997Assignee: Martin Equipment of Illinois, Inc.Inventor: George A. Wacaser
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Patent number: 5615745Abstract: An all terrain vehicle having a vertically movable blade at the forward end thereof is described wherein the vertical movement of the blade is controlled by a lift handle positioned rearwardly thereof and which is pivotally mounted on a lift handle bracket. The lift handle has a locking pin mounted thereon which is positioned rearwardly of the rearward end of the lift handle bracket when the blade is in its raised position. When it is desired to lower the blade, the lift handle is pivotally moved with respect to the lift handle bracket to disengage the locking pin with respect to the rear end of a lift handle bracket. A rub block is positioned on the outer surface of the lift handle bracket for engagement with the lift handle to prevent the locking pin from wearing or cutting a groove in the lift handle bracket.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1996Date of Patent: April 1, 1997Assignee: Cycle Country Accessories Corp.Inventor: Gary Cross
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Patent number: 5392864Abstract: Blade assemblies for use with compacting vehicles are normally designed to push the material in front of the blade and to control the height of the material passing thereunder for compaction by the compacting vehicle. With the blade raised to allow trash and/or soil to pass thereunder, the trash and/or soil passing thereunder may cause detrimental wear to the components under the compacting vehicle between the compacting mechanisms. In the subject arrangement, a blade assembly is provided and includes a blade pivotally connected to a frame. The blade has a working edge that permits, during use, level spreading of trash and/or soil when the blade is in a first operative position. When the blade assembly is raised and the blade is pivoted forwardly with respect to the frame, a first portion of the working edge controls the volume of trash and/or soil allowed to pass under the working edge between respective compacting mechanisms of a compacting vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 1994Date of Patent: February 28, 1995Assignee: Balderson Inc.Inventor: Karl E. Lindenmuth
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Patent number: 5343960Abstract: The caterpillar track attachment is provided for a vehicle having a drive shaft and a steering mechanism. The attachment comprises a pair of endless caterpillar tracks for propelling the vehicle, a frame for supporting the vehicle, drive devices to be operatively connected to the drive shaft and engaging the tracks for transmitting motive power from the drive shaft to the tracks, and a hydraulic device to be coupled to the steering mechanism for providing at least one hydraulic fluid outlet controlled by commands from the steering mechanism. The frame has securing devices for connecting the vehicle onto the frame, and a pair of spaced apart elongated side members around which the tracks are respectively mounted. Each of the members has front and rear sets of wheels located substantially at its front and rear extremities for guiding therearound the corresponding track, and straight slides located at its lower portion between the corresponding rear and front sets of wheels for guiding the corresponding track.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1992Date of Patent: September 6, 1994Assignee: Les Equipements IndustrielsInventor: Sylvain Gilbert
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Patent number: 5154241Abstract: A sand trap contouring attachment for a sand trap maintenance machine. A preferred attachment (12) includes a plow blade (30), a pair of blade supports (32) wherein the plow blade (30) is operatively attached to the supports (32) and wherein the supports (32) are pivotally attached to the sand trap maintenance machine (10) frame (18) at pivot points (38). Blade (30) lies at the front of machine (10), pivot point (38) lies at the rear of machine (10), and support arms (32) lie intermediate the blade (30) and pivot points (38). Control member (34) is operatively attached to the supports (32) via links (42) and (44). Control member (34) comprises an operator handle wherein the handle provides an operator gripping surface area right and left of a longitudinal center line of the machine (10). Spring means (36), (37), (39) are operatively connected to the machine (10) and the support arms (32) for biasing the supports (32) and blade (30) away from the ground. Control member (34) is adjustable to two positions.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1991Date of Patent: October 13, 1992Assignee: The Toro CompanyInventors: Robert C. Comer, David J. Scherbring
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Patent number: 4833799Abstract: A high strength light weight synthetic resin snow removal device is adapted for easy connection to small passenger vehicles having tow rings depending therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 1988Date of Patent: May 30, 1989Inventors: Francis A. Harte, Mark E. Fusco
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Patent number: 4821808Abstract: An improved version of applicant's prior bulldozer mold board assemblies is disclosed. Such prior assemblies include a mold board, a reciprocating cutter blade along the lower edge of the mold board, and a resonant beam mounted aft of the mold board.The vibration of the beam results in a reciprocating force at the node, which is undesirable in applicant's prior device. The present invention improves on applicant's former construction by pivotably supporting the mold board so that the mold board is pivotable about a transverse axis. The resonant beam is connected at its central node to the mold board. In this fashion, the reciprocating transverse forces on the node of the resonant beam are transmitted to the pivotably mounted mold board to agitate the material in contact therewith.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 1988Date of Patent: April 18, 1989Assignee: Resonant Technology CompanyInventor: Raymond A. Gurries
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Patent number: 4821436Abstract: A high-performance plow system to be attached to a pickup truck or similar vehicle. The plow blade can be angled across the plowing surface and with respect to the motion of the vehicle up to about 45.degree., it can roll to allow the blade to track changing pitch angles along the plowing surface contours. The blade has two protective mechanisms, the first one being an appropriately-designed rake angle scraper structure, disposed at the bottom edge of the plow blade, the second one being a mechanism which attaches the blade to an A-frame assembly (AFA) by pitch and shear pins. The shear pins break if too tall an object is hit and allow the blade to fall over the object. The pins allow 30 second removal/attachment of blade.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1983Date of Patent: April 18, 1989Inventor: Alexander H. Slocum
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Patent number: 4698150Abstract: There is disclosed herein a beach trash remover which includes a motorized vehicle having a conventional construction type shovel attached to the front thereof. An opening covered by a screen is provided in the center of shovel to allow the beach sand, containing the trash, to drop back onto the beach thereby leaving the trash within the screened opening portion of the shovel. The screen is held on a frame which is coupled to the shovel through shock absorbers and means are provided to provide a vibrating motion to the screened frame to further aid in returning the sand to the beach. A grader may be attached to the back end of the beach trash remover to cover any tire tracks or otherwise smooth the beach.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 1985Date of Patent: October 6, 1987Inventor: Luis Wigoda
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Patent number: 4478289Abstract: An improved subsoil ripping device is disclosed in which ripper teeth are mounted on the sides of a tracked, crawler-type prime mover approximately opposite the center of mass. The frames carrying the ripper mechanisms are most conveniently mounted on the arms of a conventional bulldozer blade. In order to increase resistance to lateral forces acting on the ripper teeth, the frames may be bridged by a rigid arch. Alternatively, they may be braced by a strut acting between the ripper assembly and the tractor frame. If this latter arrangement is used, the ripper assemblies are preferably hinged to the blade arms to permit full normal blade movement. A ripper made according to the present teaching is especially useful when operating on uneven or debris covered ground. It does not tend to rake up debris, and thus does not require time and fuel for clearing the teeth. Because of the location of the teeth, the prime mover is easier to steer and a rip of more uniform depth can be maintained.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1982Date of Patent: October 23, 1984Assignee: Weyerhaeuser CompanyInventor: Clayton L. Enix
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Patent number: 4466491Abstract: Apparatus is provided for moving objects which may be partially buried. The apparatus comprises a hook-like element which may be attached to the side of a vehicle, such as a bulldozer. The hook-like element is pivotally attached so that its orientation is adjustable.A method of moving objects is disclosed where a hook-like element extending from the side of a vehicle engages the objects to be moved.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1982Date of Patent: August 21, 1984Inventor: Douglass G. Tower
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Patent number: 4464852Abstract: An excavator has a dozer blade coupled to transversely spaced first and second fore-and-aft extending drive housings thereof by first and second separate push beams having their respective forward ends universally coupled to the blade. The first push beam has its rear end universally connected to the first drive housing while the rear end of the second push beam is connected to the second drive housing by an angling link which is swingable fore-and-aft so as to cause fore-and-aft movement of the second push beam; a length adjustable jack forms a stabilizer strut which is coupled between the first push beam and the blade so as to maintain the latter in a desired pitch. Individual lift actuators are connected to the push beams for selectively adjusting the latter vertically either together or separately. A side load transfer strut is connected between the forward end of the first push beam and the second drive housing.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1983Date of Patent: August 14, 1984Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Dennis A. Rice
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Patent number: 4286674Abstract: PCT No. PCT/US79/00763 Sec. 371 Date Sept. 24, 1979 Sec. 102(e) Date Sept. 24, 1979 PCT Filed Sept. 24, 1979 PCT Pub. No. W081/00897 PCT Pub. Date Apr. 2, 1981The push arms of a conventional bulldozer assembly are mounted on a track roller frame of a track-type tractor by bearing assemblies, each including a pair of bearing caps. One of the bearing caps is welded to the push arm, thus requiring that it be cut-off upon replacement thereof. In addition, the bearing cap welded to the push arm must be selectively hardened to avoid stress cracking in the heat affected zone of the weld. This invention overcomes the above problems by providing a bearing assembly (16) which includes a pair of separable first and second bearing caps (17, 17') which are secured together and to the push arm by common fasteners (28).Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1979Date of Patent: September 1, 1981Assignee: Caterpillar Tractor Co.Inventors: Charles M. Noble, James A. Olthoff