Hopper And Gravity Discharge To Scatterer Receiving Material Peripherally Patents (Class 239/668)
  • Patent number: 9458585
    Abstract: A device for spreading a granular material over a road surface. The device includes a hopper fillable with the granular material and an agitating member configured to discharge the granular material from an outlet of the hopper. A brush is aligned with the outlet of the hopper and includes a plurality of bristles configured to inhibit leakage of the granular material from the outlet of the hopper during stoppage of the agitating member. Also provided are a system in which the spreader device is mounted on a vehicle, and a method of operating the spreader device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: THE TORO COMPANY
    Inventor: Jen Phelps
  • Patent number: 8888026
    Abstract: The cartridge spreader system includes a mobile cartridge spreader with a cartridge station configured to engage a cartridge and includes a locking controller for locking the cartridge securely into the cartridge station. The cartridge station includes an activator mechanism for activating and deactivating an engaged cartridge. The cartridge spreader includes an activation controller for activating and deactivating the cartridge. Activation of the cartridge allows the granular product contained in the cartridge to flow out of the container, through a granular chute on the cartridge station, and onto a granular product launcher which launches or impels the granular product over terrain or other surface. When the cartridge is deactivated, the flow path is sealed stopping the flow of granular product. The cartridge itself includes a fitment that engages with the cartridge station. The cartridge fitment includes an appropriately sized metering gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: OMS Investments, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. Cichy, Paul M. Havlovitz, Mark A. Ochs, Brad Schultz, Jeffrey Kalman, Craig Saunders, Paul Stephens, Bill Rabbitt, June O. Toscano
  • Patent number: 8814012
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes a material spreader mounted to a boom of an excavator for spreading bulk material over an area of interest. The material spreader includes a motor-controlled feeder for metering out the bulk material at a controlled rate. The material spreader further includes a mounting bracket configured to mount to a universal mounting portion of the boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Mt. Carmel Stabilization Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael C. McPherson
  • Patent number: 8800896
    Abstract: A motorized spreader assembly facilitates efficient and expedited spreading of seed or fertilizer over a large area. The assembly includes a trailer having a hitch arm. A first bin having a bottom opening is coupled to the trailer. A first disc having a top surface is coupled to the trailer. The first disc is positioned under the first bin whereby the top surface of the first disc is configured for receiving granular material passing through the bottom opening in the first bin. A plurality of fins is coupled to the top surface of the first disc and configured for propelling the granular material outwardly from the first disc while the first disc is rotated. An engine is coupled to the trailer and operationally coupled to the first disc for rotating the first disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Inventor: Johnny L. Hinton
  • Publication number: 20140117122
    Abstract: A road salt spreader assembly adapted to be mounted to the chassis of a vehicle, and that the granular salt particles can with this device be spreaded in a zone extending on each side of the central line until the zone destined for circulating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventors: René Paré, Pascal Dulac
  • Publication number: 20130193242
    Abstract: A spreader unit for a de-icing substance to clear a road or pedestrian surface, comprises a hopper containing the de-icing substance, a spreader device that receives the de-icing substance from the hopper spreading the latter on the road or pedestrian surface, a carrying device to convey the de-icing substance of the hopper to the spreader device, a rechargeable battery to power the carrying device and an electric mechanical converter for charging the rechargeable battery transforming mechanical power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Enzo Giletta
  • Patent number: 8490897
    Abstract: A granular spreader having a V-shaped hopper for distribution of oil absorbing granules can be used on race track spills. The granular spreader is towed by a vehicle such as a pickup truck during racing intervals. A rotatable scrubber is affixed to the hopper which can be lowered by an electric winch to contact the race track to urge the deposited granules into the spilled liquid. A pair of flexible flaps are affixed to the bottom of the hopper to assist in distribution and to prevent the fine granule particles from being blown away before contacting the spilled liquids. A cart is also provided for storing the granular spreader during periods of non-use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Loren C. Magnus
  • Patent number: 8448882
    Abstract: A spreader assembly used to spread a material held in a hopper onto an associated ground surface may include a spreader mount that: (1) has at least three laterally spaced ground contacting surfaces that support the spreader assembly to a ground surface when the spreader assembly is detached from a vehicle; and, (2) remains attached to the spreader assembly when the spreader assembly is attached to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Meyer Products, LLC
    Inventors: Craig Kemmerling, John Horvat
  • Publication number: 20130099028
    Abstract: A particulate material dispensing apparatus is provided that includes a base, a collapsible hopper attached to a top of the base to hold particulate material, at least one support removably attached to the base that extends in a direction away from the top of the base such that the at least one support engages the collapsible hopper to provide a means to maintain the collapsible hopper in an upright position. The apparatus further includes a dispensing mechanism that when actuated dispenses the particulate material through the base and an impeller rotatably actuated upon actuation of the dispensing mechanism to thereby distribute the particulate material dispensed through the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: EARTHWAY PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventors: Sevrey Richard, Jeffrey D. Kendall
  • Publication number: 20130020417
    Abstract: The cartridge spreader system includes a mobile cartridge spreader with a cartridge station configured to engage a cartridge and includes a locking controller for locking the cartridge securely into the cartridge station. The cartridge station includes an activator mechanism for activating and deactivating an engaged cartridge. The cartridge spreader includes an activation controller for activating and deactivating the cartridge. Activation of the cartridge allows the granular product contained in the cartridge to flow out of the container, through a granular chute on the cartridge station, and onto a granular product launcher which launches or impels the granular product over terrain or other surface. When the cartridge is deactivated, the flow path is sealed stopping the flow of granular product. The cartridge itself includes a fitment that engages with the cartridge station. The cartridge fitment includes an appropriately sized metering gate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: SMG BRANDS, INC.
    Inventor: SMG BRANDS, INC.
  • Publication number: 20120126023
    Abstract: A spreader assembly comprising: a frame having a longitudinal axis; at least two bins mounted to the frame, two of the at least two bins being disposed sequentially along the longitudinal axis and each including a movement imparting assembly oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame and being configured to advance material lengthwise in opposed directions toward adjacent ends of the two bins; and at least one discharge movement imparting assembly mounted to the frame, oriented substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the frame and being configured to receive material conveyed by at least one of the two bin movement imparting assemblies and advance the material towards a lateral end of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Hugues CANTIN, Guy Deschenes
  • Publication number: 20110309170
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved means for spreading solid or liquid agricultural products, ideally suited for use with a tractor or similar vehicle with an external power takeoff shaft. For solid agricultural products, a specially designed hopper is used in conjunction with a cone-shaped, flow control stopper and an outlet agitator for providing a uniform delivery of product onto a rotating impeller. A plurality of gearboxes provide motive distribution of power for the hopper outlet agitation and impeller, while a user-accessible handle controls the control stopper height within the hopper outlet, and thus controlling the flow rate from the hopper. For liquid products, a cylindrical hopper is provided, along with a pump and a plurality of hoses for drawing or recycling the liquid product. A rear-mounted spray rail is provided for dispensing the liquid product, while an accessory connection is provided for a user to manually distribute the product with an attachable spray gun device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventor: Christopher Weeks
  • Patent number: 8074904
    Abstract: A broadcast spreader includes a directional control assembly that defines a pathway for granular material from a hopper through a discharge port and onto a rotating fan. The directional control assembly includes a first plate that is secured to and adapted for slidable movement with respect to the hopper. The first plate defines an opening therethrough that is substantially in registry with but smaller than the discharge port, thus serving to define a pathway for the granular material from the hopper through the discharge port and onto the fan. The directional control assembly further includes a second plate secured to and adapted for slidable movement with respect to the hopper and the first plate. Movement of the second plate relative to the first plate selectively opens or closes the pathway for the granular material from the hopper through the discharge port and onto the fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Brinly-Hardy Company
    Inventor: Patrick Hobbs
  • Publication number: 20110168800
    Abstract: A spreader assembly may include a hopper, a spinner plate and an aperture adjustment mechanism. The aperture adjustment mechanism may include a gate supported to the frame and defining an aperture through which material travels on its way to the spinner plate; and, a motor suitable to adjust the size of the aperture and thereby to control the flow of the material onto the spinner plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Marty Warchola
  • Publication number: 20110147481
    Abstract: A spreader assembly may include a hopper, an auger mechanism, a torque sensor that provides a signal based on a condition of the auger mechanism and, a controller that receives the signal from the torque sensor and determines a fill status of the hopper based on the signal from the torque sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Marty Warchola
  • Patent number: 7607595
    Abstract: An accessory mountable to an ATV includes an extension rack that provides a substantially flat storage bed. A spreader assembly for storing and distributing granular material therefrom is supported in a position below the extension rack. In the preferred embodiment, the extension rack is mounted to the carrier rack of the ATV, and the spreader is mounted to the extension rack such that it is positioned under the extension rack. The extension rack preferably includes a door that provides a passageway to the spreader assembly and also includes side walls that are vertically disposed with respect to the substantially flat storage bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas E. Farmer
  • Patent number: 7540436
    Abstract: A spreader assembly for spreading a material and for mounting in a bed of a truck is disclosed. The assembly includes a hopper and a frame for supporting the hopper in the bed of the truck. The hopper has a length extending between a front end and a rear end sized for placing in the bed of the truck to hold material for spreading and has an outlet spout with an opening for discharging material therefrom. The hopper and the frame are each formed from a thermoplastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventors: Charles J Truan, James Truan, Joshua Scott, Paul Mandrik
  • Publication number: 20090114746
    Abstract: A spreader accessory mountable below the extension rack of an ATV. In another aspect, an improved spreader mechanism that automatically starts and stops the feed of material from a storage container in conjunction with the distribution of material therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas E. Farmer
  • Patent number: 7481384
    Abstract: A spreader assembly for spreading a material and for mounting to a bed of a truck is disclosed. The assembly includes a hopper and a frame having an upper rail for supporting the hopper in the bed of the truck. The frame includes a pair of front and rear posts extending downwardly from the upper rail and an upper rail extending in a cantilevered fashion from the rear posts to support the outlet spout outside the bed of the truck. A quick-release connector releasably engages the frame for preventing longitudinal movement within the bed of the truck. A spinner is rotatably attached and is moveable between an operating position and a storage position. The hopper includes a lower portion having a bottom with a first slanted portion having a first slope and a second slanted portion having a second slope with the first slope being different than the second slope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Trynex Incorporated
    Inventors: Charles J Truan, James Truan, Joshua Scott, Paul Mandrik
  • Patent number: 7472849
    Abstract: A device for an operator sitting in the driver's seat of a vehicle to deposit a quantity of material at a target location on the ground adjacent the passenger side of the vehicle, from a hopper having a discharge aperture and a valve for selectively opening and closing the discharge aperture. The hopper is removably mountable to the passenger side of the vehicle. A discharge tube is operatively associated with the hopper discharge aperture and extends from the hopper, for receiving material from the hopper and discharging the material substantially at ground level adjacent the passenger side of the vehicle. A controller within reach of the driver and operatively associated with the valve permits opening and closing the valve and thereby selectively depositing a controlled quantity of granular material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Inventor: Glenn F. Cusano
  • Patent number: 7216919
    Abstract: A vehicle-mounted, covered container apparatus includes a container member, a telescopic collapsible cover assembly, and container-to-cover attachment means connected between the container member and the telescopic collapsible cover assembly. The container member can be a sander container. In this respect, the vehicle-mounted, covered container apparatus prevents snow and rain from getting inside the sander container and freezing the sand. Preferably, the telescopic collapsible cover assembly is dome-shaped. The telescopic collapsible cover assembly includes a plurality of rigid curved cover units that are dome segments and that are telescopic with respect to each other. In addition, the plurality of curved cover units are in the form of dome segments. Preferably, the container-to-cover attachment means include a pair of hinge pins connecting the first curved unit, the second curved unit, and the third curved unit together to each other and to the container member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventors: Chad L. Stoddard, Edgar L. Stoddard
  • Patent number: 7104478
    Abstract: A material spreading device for spreading material over a targeted area includes a receiving portion for receiving a plurality of bags of material, a hopper assembly and a material moving device. The material spreading device is configured for use on a vehicle. The hopper assembly has a bag holding portion and a material dispensing bin. The bag holding portion receives at least some of the bags and retains the bags at or near the material dispensing bin. The hopper assembly includes at least one opening device for opening the bags such that material within the opened bags is deposited into the material dispensing bin. The material dispensing bin is operable to dispense or broadcast the material over the targeted area. The material moving device is operable to move the bags of material along the receiving portion and toward the hopper assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Rockit Corporation
    Inventors: Cal G Niemela, Philip J Quenzi
  • Patent number: 7044408
    Abstract: The invention relates to a broadcast apparatus of the type used in association with a material transporter and includes two components in the form of a chassis section which carries spinner units and a hopper section for directing material received from the transporter into the spinner units. The two components are constructed for easy attachment to permit ready separation and re-connection whereby hopper sections which direct the material differently into the spinner units can be quickly substituted and further the attachments parts of the two components permit positioning of the components in different relationships. The spinner units have material engaging blades, the positioning of which on the spinner discs can be varied to affect the engagement of the blades with the material. The ability to accomplish a variety of operating parameters enables the broadcast apparatus to evenly distribute on the ground surface materials of a significantly different characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Ty-Crop Investments Ltd.
    Inventor: Jeffery Schoenfeld
  • Patent number: 6978952
    Abstract: An improved spreader assembly adapted to be mounted on a vehicle having a tailgate and a bumper. The improved spreader assembly includes a hopper and a retaining arrangement. The hopper has an upper section and a bottom section. The bottom section has a base surface adapted to at least partially rest on a top surface of the bumper. The retaining arrangement includes a band that fits at least about a portion of a front face of the upper section of the hopper. One end of the band is adapted to connect to the vehicle to maintain at least a portion of a back face of the upper section at least closely adjacent to the tailgate of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: The Louis Berkman Company
    Inventors: James A. Kost, Josh Vyrostek
  • Patent number: 6953163
    Abstract: A spreader assembly for spreading a material and for mounting to a bed of a truck is disclosed. The assembly includes a hopper and a frame having an upper rail for supporting the hopper in the bed of the truck. The frame includes a pair of front and rear posts extending downwardly from the upper rail and an upper rail extending in a cantilevered fashion from the rear posts to support the outlet spout outside the bed of the truck. A quick-release connector releasably engages the frame for preventing longitudinal movement within the bed of the truck. A spinner is rotatably attached and is moveable between an operating position and a storage position. The hopper includes a lower portion having a bottom with a first slanted portion having a first slope and a second slanted portion having a second slope with the first slope being different than the second slope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Trynex, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles J Truan, James Truan, Joshua Scott, Paul Mandrick
  • Patent number: 6851634
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for dispensing chemical material, and in particular, granular, agricultural material, from a moving device driven over terrain to be treated with the material. A metering system for dispersing the material includes on apertured metering disk positioned above a rotatable impeller. The apertured disk meters material from a product container, by gravity feed, onto the impeller below at a rate proportional to the linear speed at which the apparatus is driven to dispense material at a uniform density over the terrain. The metering disk is a component of a product container which is removably mounted to the device. The impeller rotates at a constant speed to disperse the deposited material at a uniform distance from the apparatus, and the position on which the material is deposited on the impeller is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: BASF Akteingesellschaft
    Inventors: Keith F. Woodruff, John H. Thomas
  • Patent number: 6817552
    Abstract: A broadcast spreading top dresser (10) includes a diverter (200) which can be positioned in an upper position for light applications and a lower position for heavy applications, with the diverter (200) extending through a slot (210) in an upper sheet (58) of the spinner assembly (40) and beyond and below the upper sheet (58) in the lower position. The leading edges (204) of the diverter (200) are spaced from the circular disks (154) of the spinners (54) intermediate the radial position that the material is dispensed unto the spinners (54) and the maximum rearward extent of the circular disks (154). The lower edges of the diverter (200) extend at differing distances into the thickness of the propelled top dressing material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Turfco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Kinkead, Thomas E. Isaman, Donavon D. Kotula, Steven Ferguson
  • Patent number: 6783082
    Abstract: A system utilizing a rotary atomizer for applying a liquid based substance to particles. In one example, a motor provides an in-line, direct drive force on a cage atomizer. With some systems, the cage atomizer has a vertical axis of rotation. With some systems, the motor is mounted external to the particle path and supported by a housing structure that provides an angled particle path. With some systems, other types of rotary atomizers may be used such as disk, bowl, or hollow disk rotary atomizers. With some examples of cage atomizers, a first portion of the cage atomizer may include a thread set that screws to a thread set of a second portion to hold a perforated structure in place. With some systems, the thread sets surround the axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: USC, L.L.C.
    Inventors: James H. Renyer, Gregory A. Renyer
  • Publication number: 20040159723
    Abstract: An aggregate spreader having a container, a mounting flange, and a spreading assembly is provided. The container has an aggregate receiving cavity. The mounting flange extends from the container to removably connect the container to a stick of a tractor so that the container is movable by a hydraulic cylinder of the tractor between a spreading position and a loading position. The spreading assembly spreads aggregate disposable in the aggregate receiving cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Jeffrey H. Vernon
  • Publication number: 20040140377
    Abstract: An improved spreader assembly adapted to be mounted on a vehicle having a tailgate and a bumper. The improved spreader assembly includes a hopper and a retaining arrangement. The hopper has an upper section and a bottom section. The bottom section has a base surface adapted to at least partially rest on a top surface of the bumper. The retaining arrangement includes a band that fits at least about a portion of a front face of the upper section of the hopper. One end of the band is adapted to connect to the vehicle to maintain at least a portion of a back face of the upper section at least closely adjacent to the tailgate of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Applicant: The Louis Berkman Company
    Inventors: James A. Kost, Josh Vyrostek
  • Patent number: 6715696
    Abstract: The invention comprises a towable trailer having a first frame and a bin, conveyor, and spinners mounted on a second frame. The bin carries materials which are conveyed by the conveyor to the spinners at the rear of the bin which spin and spread the material on the ground as the trailer is towed along the ground. The trailer is towed by a powered vehicle. A remote control device has an electrical connection to the mechanism on the trailer for operating the conveyor and spinners. The remote control device can be mounted on the trailer and operated or by cable from equipment or mechanism on the trailer to the remote control device, the remote control device may be operated on the control panel of the powered vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Kevin J. Pierce
  • Patent number: 6705552
    Abstract: A mobile spreader is shown for distributing composted materials over a ground surface. The spreader has a hopper for receiving material to be transported and distributed and a ground engaging wheel assembly for supporting the hopper for transport across the ground. A combination mixing and distribution element is rotatably mounted in the interior of the hopper for conveying material received in the hopper interior to an elongated outlet located in a discharge area of the hopper. The combination mixing and distribution element comprises a shaft having a longitudinal axis with a number of discs located at spaced axial distances thereon. The discs are uniformly inclined at an angle in the range of 15-20° relative to line drawn perpendicular the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The discs are separated by one or more tines located on the shaft and also inclined at an angle in the range of 15-20° relative to a line drawn perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventor: T. Daniel Ellsaesser
  • Patent number: 6702208
    Abstract: A hopper spreader apparatus for spreading materials such as salt, sand or seed includes a motor for rotating a spinner for distributing particulate matter delivered to the spinner. The hopper spreader apparatus is adapted for mounting on a skid steer loader unit. In one embodiment, the drive motor is a hydraulic motor which obtains hydraulic power from the hydraulic system of the skid steer loader unit. A flow controller adapts the flow rate provided by the skid steer loader unit to the flow rate for the hydraulic motor. In one embodiment, a check valve limits the operation of the hydraulic motor to one direction. The hopper spreader apparatus includes a quick release mounting adapter for quickly mounting the hopper spreader apparatus to the skid steer loader unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Sno-Way International, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard D. Hadler, Lynn W. Schultz, Terry C. Wendorff
  • Patent number: 6659376
    Abstract: A spreading device for confined application of grain type materials along a well-defined path on a road from a conveyor of a storing tank mounted on a moving vehicle includes a chute member mounted thereon that receives the materials from the conveyor and substantially drops them generally vertically under gravity on the road along the path in proximity and in front of a roller. The latter stops the materials relative to the road and confines, or packs, them on the road. The spreading device is adapted to be mounted on either side of the vehicle, in line with its wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventor: Normand Savard
  • Publication number: 20030098373
    Abstract: A spreader for distributing a material on a surface. In certain embodiments, the spreader may include a disk rotatable about an axis and having an upper surface extending substantially radially from the axis. A driver may operably connect to the disk to provide rotation about the axis. A paddle may secure to the upper surface of the disk and rotate therewith. The paddle may be aligned to rotationally engage particulate material directed thereto and generate a centrifugal acceleration therein. A controller may limit the centrifugal release of the particulate material from the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2002
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventors: Fred P. Smith, Todd Mendenhall
  • Patent number: 6517281
    Abstract: A particulate material spreader includes an adjustable spinner apparatus which is incrementally adjustable forwardly and rearwardly to a plurality of operating positions relative to the discharge end of the material conveyor. The adjustment may be manual or automatic to adjust the drop point of the material onto the spinners, thereby accommodating varying application rates of the particulate material on a field, lawn, road, or other area. The spreader may be operatively connected to a microprocessor to receive data input and sensor feedback for variable rate technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Highway Equipment Company
    Inventor: Matthew W. Rissi
  • Patent number: 6508419
    Abstract: A top dresser (10) includes a spinner assembly (40) removably connected by clips (44) to a cross beam (20) of the frame (12) mounting a hopper (30). The first and second sides (36) of the hopper (30) slope downwardly and inwardly to a conveyor (140) formed by sheeting (70) in the form of an endless belt having a relatively smooth outer surface. The valve (84) for the hydraulic motor (164) of the conveyor (140) is in series downstream of the valve (78) for the hydraulic motors (56) for the spinners (54) of the spinner assembly (40). Thus, it is not possible to mistakenly run the conveyor (140) without the spinners (54) operating. Therefore, the top dresser (10) is able to spread extremely minimal amounts of material evenly and without clumping or bunching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Turfco Manufacturing, Incorporated
    Inventors: George Kinkead, Matthew A. Donner
  • Patent number: 6499679
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for dispensing chemical material, and in particular, granular, agricultural material, from a moving device driven over terrain to be treated with the material. A metering system for dispersing the material includes on apertured metering disk positioned above a rotatable impeller. The apertured disk meters material from a product container, by gravity feed, onto the impeller below at a rate proportional to the linear speed at which the apparatus is driven to dispense material at a uniform density over the terrain. The metering disk is a component of a product container which is removably mounted to the device. The impeller rotates at a constant speed to disperse the deposited material at a uniform distance from the apparatus, and the position on which the material is deposited on the impeller is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Keith F. Woodruff, John H. Thomas
  • Patent number: 6481647
    Abstract: A seed meter and accelerator comprises a stationary housing, a stationary axially extending dispensing rim, a radially extending flange and a rotating disc. The stationary housing is provided with an axially extending metering rim. The meter rim is provided with a metering gap. The stationary axially extending dispensing rim is located radially outward from the metering rim and is provided with a dispensing gap. The radially extending flange extends between the axially extending metering rim and the axially extending dispensing rim. The rotating disc is provided with an inner portion having circumferentially arranged seed pockets and an outer portion having seed dispensing openings. Each seed pocket corresponds to a seed dispensing opening. Passages extend between the seed pockets and the seed dispensing openings. The seed pockets of the inner portion are located adjacent to and radially inward from the metering rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Miles Raymond Keaton, David James Rylander
  • Patent number: 6419418
    Abstract: A spreading apparatus utilizes a number of features to improve material discharge and apparatus maintenance. In one embodiment, the apparatus uses a diverter in the box receiving the material for discharge that directs the material along a converging path and then a non-converging path to avoid material bridging and feed stoppages. The apparatus also employs a double tipping mechanism and a gate assembly, which arranges the gates in the plane of the box floor for improved dumping. The gate opening can have a grid to further control material discharge. The spreader device receiving the discharged material can employ one rotatable disc or double rotatable discs for spreading and a deflector plate directing the material to the discs. The box can be configured to utilize a number of different removable chutes, the removable chutes configured to handle a specific type of material for spreading. A particular chute can be selected to match the material intended for spreading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: Francis V. Smith
  • Publication number: 20020014545
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for dispensing chemical material, and in particular, granular, agricultural material, from a moving device driven over terrain to be treated with the material. A metering system for dispersing the material includes on apertured metering disk positioned above a rotatable impeller. The apertured disk meters material from a product container, by gravity feed, onto the impeller below at a rate proportional to the linear speed at which the apparatus is driven to dispense material at a uniform density over the terrain. The metering disk is a component of a product container which is removably mounted to the device. The impeller rotates at a constant speed to disperse the deposited material at a uniform distance from the apparatus, and the position on which the material is deposited on the impeller is adjustable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Applicant: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventors: Keith F. Woodruff, John H. Thomas
  • Publication number: 20010022325
    Abstract: A bin for a sand spreading vehicle is provided with curved lower sidewalls that deliver sand to a central conveyor. The curvature of the sidewalls lowers the center of gravity of the vehicle for a given load; or permits carriage of a greater load for a given height for the center of gravity of the loaded bin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2000
    Publication date: September 20, 2001
    Inventors: Paul Geroux, Larry Cole, Irwin Plested, Achim Martin, Larry Magill
  • Patent number: 6227454
    Abstract: A device for applying night-visible road markings includes a material hopper, a floor gate, a pair of side runners and a plurality of vertically oriented shutters. When the floor gate is moved away from an outlet extending through a bottom side of the hopper, marking material flows from the hopper, through the outlet and onto the surface of a road. The vertically oriented shutters are positioned between the side runners, which serve as side forms for marking material dispensed onto the road surface, and rearwardly of the hopper outlet. The distance between the bottom edges of the shutters and the road surface determines the amount of marking material that passes thereunder, thereby determining the thickness of the road marking. By positioning the shutters at different relative elevations, road markings of various patterns including markings having varying thicknesses across their width can be produced for increased reflectivity of the road markings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Jackson Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles R. Wolf, Howard Schierling
  • Patent number: 6173917
    Abstract: A granular material spreader is adapted for towing behind a yard tractor. A frame upports an inverted cone which is sized to contain a supply of granular material for distribution. The bin sweep rod is carried adjacent to the inside surface of the cone, and turns a drive spring. The drive spring drives a helix, which rotates about the bin sweep rod, driving the granular material toward the narrow base of the cone. Should the helix become jammed, the drive spring snaps past the helix, rather than risk damage by forcing its movement. A bin sweep drive wheel is also driven by the revolution of the bin sweep. Movement of the wheel against the an upper portion of the outside surface of the cone moves the bin sweep rod and helix in a circular path about the inside surface of the cone. A valve at the base of the cone allows granular material to drop into a housing which defines slots about portions of its perimeter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Inventor: David Whitell
  • Patent number: 6149079
    Abstract: A top dresser (10) includes a spinner assembly (40) removably connected by clips (44) to a cross beam (20) of the frame (12) mounting a hopper (30). The first and second sides (36) of the hopper (30) slope downwardly and inwardly to a conveyor (140) formed by sheeting (70) in the form of an endless belt having a relatively smooth outer surface. The valve (84) for the hydraulic motor (164) of the conveyor (140) is in series downstream of the valve (78) for the hydraulic motors (56) for the spinners (54) of the spinner assembly (40). Thus, it is not possible to mistakenly run the conveyor (140) without the spinners (54) operating. Therefore, the top dresser (10) is able to spread extremely minimal amounts of material evenly and without clumping or bunching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Turfco Manufacturing, Incorporated
    Inventors: George Kinkead, Matthew A. Donner
  • Patent number: 6024033
    Abstract: The seeder apparatus includes a material hopper for dispensing material onto a conveyor to be moved thereby to an entry nip between a rotary brush and the conveyor for propelling the material downwardly at the discharge end. In one embodiment, a metering gate extends vertically in its closed position relative to the conveyor, with the metering gate controlling the rate of dispensation of seed or other material being moved to the entry nip. A shield assembly is provided to minimize the effects of wind on the trajectory of seed or other material being propelled to the ground by the brush and conveyor. In preferred forms, a separate seed hopper is mounted to the top dresser, and in a second embodiment, either seed from the seed hopper and/or dressing material from the top dresser hopper may be moved by the conveyor to the entry nip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Turfco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: John Kinkead, George B. Kinkead, Scott Kinkead, Matthew A. Donner
  • Patent number: 5967426
    Abstract: The invention is a compact, self-contained, portable, electrically powered, knockdown spray application machine/system for spraying liquid material on to surfaces. The spray system comprises a frame with wheels for supporting and transporting the components thereof. The spray system is powered by an electrically activated motor which includes a motor drive shaft disposed about a motor drive shaft axis. Attached to the motor is a gear reducer having a driven end and a drive end wherein the driven end is configured to receive and engage the motor drive shaft. The drive end includes a gear reducer drive shaft that rotates responsive to electrical activation of the motor. Coupled directly to the drive end of the gear reducer is a pump comprising a pump housing. The pump housing is shaped to define a containment chamber for receiving and containing liquid material therein. The pump housing also defines an inlet port for receiving and directing liquid material into the containment chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: David J. McLeod
  • Patent number: 5944233
    Abstract: This invention relates to a novel granular material metering and dispensing system. More particularly, this invention pertains to a novel adjustable-rate apparatus for metering and dispensing granular chemicals, seeds and fertilizers. A metering dispenser for granular materials comprising: (a) a metering assembly for affixing to a resevoir of granular materials; and (b) at least one roller comprised of two opposed, truncated cones rotationally mounted on a metering shaft in the metering assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Alan Bourne
  • Patent number: 5802994
    Abstract: The seeder apparatus includes a first hopper for dispensing seeds onto a conveyor mechanism to be moved thereby to an entry nip between a rotary brush and the conveyor mechanism for propelling the seed downwardly at the discharge end of the frame on which the hopper is mounted. A shield assembly is mounted to the frame discharge end portion to minimize the effects of wind on the trajectory of seed or other material being propelled to the ground by a brush and conveyor mechanism. In one embodiment, a metering gate extends vertically in its closed position relative to the conveyor mechanism, the metering gate controlling the rate of dispensation of seed being moved to the entry nip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: Turfco Manufacturing Incorporated
    Inventors: George B. Kinkead, Vernon J. Worrel, Scott Bjorge, Matthew A. Donner
  • Patent number: 5788163
    Abstract: An insulation material spraying apparatus for using dry material and wet recycle material having, at least two hoppers for separately receiving the materials, at least one auger for receiving the materials for conveyance longitudinally of the auger, an accumulator chamber for receiving the materials and having at least one mixer rotatable about an axis for separately mixing and expanding the volume of the materials, a flow stabilizer to form a mixture of the wet and dry material and a pneumatic transport for receiving and dispensing the mixed insulation material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Homer Glenn Woten
    Inventors: Homer Glenn Woten, Everett S. Williston, Joseph E. Rodriguez