Mounted On Surface Contacting Support Or Guide Patents (Class 37/270)
  • Patent number: 6941685
    Abstract: A snowplow assembly comprises a lift frame and A-frame operably pivotally connected together and an actuator operably connected between the lift frame and A-frame for effecting relative pivotal movement between the lift frame and A-frame. A plow blade includes a blade frame. The blade frame includes a tube of circular cross section which is operably pivotally connected to the A-frame. The tube is pivotally received by a quadrant, which is operably connected to the A-frame. A resilient element is operable between the blade frame and A-frame normally biasing a lower edge of the plow blade forwardly. The resilient element is an elastomeric loop. The pivotal connection of the plow blade to the A-frame in combination with the resilient element provides a trip function of the plow blade. The plow blade is a composite. The circular tube of the blade frame provides torsional stiffness to the composite blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Douglas Dynamics, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Michael Goy, Scott Kluck, Andre LeBlond
  • Publication number: 20040006898
    Abstract: An improved snow plow for use with light and medium duty trucks is disclosed which has a frame which uses an in-line design to eliminate the presence of rotational or torsional force in the frame members of the snow plow, which design provides an improved degree of ground clearance as well. The snow plow frame design supports the swing frame from both the top and the bottom thereof, while also providing an increased level of rigidity and structural integrity. The snow plow frame and the swing frame are thus both located in the same horizontal axis, so that the predominant line of force through each is from the front of the snow plow to the back.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventors: Timothy G. Koch, Lynn W. Schultz, Terry C. Wendorff
  • Publication number: 20030093927
    Abstract: In combination a mount frame adapted to be attached to a vehicle and a snowplow assembly. The mount frame comprises a pair of detachable receivers which receive a pair of horns extending rearwardly from the snowplow assembly. The snowplow assembly comprises an A-frame, a trunnion and a lift frame. A blade is attached to the front of the A-frame. A pair of spaced stand assemblies, each including a latching mechanism, support the snowplow assembly when the mount frame is separated from the snowplow assembly. The latching mechanisms secure the snowplow assembly to the mount frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Applicant: Douglas Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: David N. Bloxdorf, Chad T. Barker, James R. Doornek, Steven L. Klug, Steven P. Radomski
  • Patent number: 6560904
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pusher apparatus for moving materials on a ground surface and a method for manufacturing such pushers using a bifurcated process that enables customization of the pusher for use with a plurality of agricultural tractor configurations. The bifurcated process includes prefabrication of a blade assembly with at least a blade, channel supports and vertical side walls, followed by a subsequent process for completing the apparatus by mounting one of at least two alternative attachment mechanisms to the rear of the blade assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Pro-Tech Welding and Fabrication, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Guggino
  • Publication number: 20020152648
    Abstract: Hitch mount for hydraulically driven snow blades or other accessories that includes a receiver plate for mounting to the vehicle chassis and a one piece plow assembly and lift frame readily removably coupled to the receiver plate, the plow assembly preferably including a blade trip frame and a snow blade removably coupled to the trip frame. A optional power operated jack can be used to raise or lower the lift frame relative to the vehicle chassis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Marc D. Curtis
  • Patent number: 6453582
    Abstract: A snowplow apparatus as adapted to attach to a vehicle having a ball hitch assembly. The snowplow apparatus has a blade assembly connected to an elongated drawbar. A frictionally activated elevating mechanism is operatively connected to the drawbar and moves between a vertical and non-vertical orientation depending upon whether elevation of the blade or contact with the blade and the ground is desired, respectively. A further aspect relates to a lateral stabilization device associated with the opposite end of the drawbar, such stabilization device coming into contact with static members operatively associated with a hitch ball such that lateral movement of the drawbar is substantially precluded due to the contact between the stabilization members and the static elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Richard E. Fulton, III
  • Patent number: 6425196
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for use on large areas such as parking lots and airport runways to remove snow and other debris or material therefrom. The apparatus includes at least two blades pivotally connected to one another, and mounting receptacle or bracket having a series of pairs of posts extending from the rear thereof to facilitate operational attachment to a loader or similar construction equipment. The present invention further includes improvements to enable the segmenting and automatic folding of the pusher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Pro-Tech Welding and Fabrication, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Weagley, Michael J. Guggino, John W. Singer
  • Patent number: 6354024
    Abstract: A snowplow blade mount assembly mountable on a vehicle that includes a frame mount assembly which is affixed to a frame of the vehicle and a support assembly that connects to the frame mount assembly. The support assembly is designed to connect to a lift mount assembly and a blade mount assembly. The support assembly enables the blade mount assembly and/or lift mount assembly to be conveniently connected and disconnected from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: The Louis Berkman Company
    Inventors: James A. Kost, Robert L. Potak
  • Patent number: 6336281
    Abstract: A snowplow apparatus as adapted to attach to a vehicle having a ball hitch assembly. The snowplow apparatus has a blade assembly connected to an elongated drawbar. A frictionally activated elevating mechanism is operatively connected to the drawbar and moves between a vertical and non-vertical orientation depending upon whether elevation of the blade or contact with the blade and the ground is desired, respectively. A further aspect relates to a lateral stabilization device associated with the opposite end of the drawbar, such stabilization device coming into contact with static members operatively associated with a hitch ball such that lateral movement of the drawbar is substantially precluded due to the contact between the stabilization members and the static elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Inventor: Richard E. Fulton, III
  • Publication number: 20010047600
    Abstract: A plow support assembly provides support of a plow assembly when the plow assembly is disconnected from a vehicle. The support assembly includes a support foot and is operable to move the support foot to a lowered, support position whereby the support foot engages the ground or support surface. The support assembly includes a control device which is operable to limit the downward movement of the support foot in response to a signal indicative of the support foot engaging the support surface, such that movement of the support foot is stopped once the support foot contacts a support surface or ground. The signal may be provided by a switch which is operable to communicate the signal in response to detection of a threshold position of the support foot, engagement of the support foot with the support surface, or a threshold hydraulic fluid pressure within the actuator, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventors: Philip J. Quenzi, Cal G. Niemela
  • Publication number: 20010045029
    Abstract: This invention is in the field of snow removal. More particularly, the invention provides a snowplow blade and an attachment apparatus to be secured to the front of a contractors type wheelbarrow and operated manually. Snow removal is facilitated by the ability to add ballast to the wheelbarrow, which preserves momentum, and by the unique design.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Richard Eustis Fulton
  • Publication number: 20010029685
    Abstract: A snow shoveling apparatus includes a handle mounted to an intermediate portion of a base of a mobile frame such that the handle can undergo pivotal movement between selected vertical angles relative to the base, a tool mounted to a front end of the base such that the tool can undergo pivotal movement between selected horizontal angles relative to the base, a handle angle adjustment mechanism adapted to undergo relative reciprocal movement between latched and unlatched positions so as to allow changing of the vertical angle of the handle relative to the base when the mechanism is in the unlatched position and to hold the handle at a selected one of the vertical angles relative to the base when the mechanism is in the latched position, and a tool angle adjustment mechanism adapted to undergo relative pivotal movement between latched and unlatched positions as to allow changing of the horizontal angle of the tool relative to the base when the mechanism is in the unlatched position and to hold the tool at a sele
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Inventor: John D. Hendrick
  • Publication number: 20010023546
    Abstract: A snowplow apparatus as adapted to attach to a vehicle having a ball hitch assembly. The snowplow apparatus has a blade assembly connected to an elongated drawbar. A frictionally activated elevating mechanism is operatively connected to the drawbar and moves between a vertical and non-vertical orientation depending upon whether elevation of the blade or contact with the blade and the ground is desired, respectively. A further aspect relates to a lateral stabilization device associated with the opposite end of the drawbar, such stabilization device coming into contact with static members operatively associated with a hitch ball such that lateral movement of the drawbar is substantially precluded due to the contact between the stabilization members and the static elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Publication date: September 27, 2001
    Inventor: Richard E. Fulton
  • Patent number: 6269556
    Abstract: The invention relates to a holder for connecting a blade (7) to the lower edge (6) of a snow-clearing device, such that the blade is given an acute, cutting angle to the base and can be folded backwards, thereby avoiding damage when running into an obstacle, and automatically resume its cutting angle after passing the obstacle. The holder comprises a trilateral hollow beam (1), the three sides of the beam forming respectively: a first fixing element (3) which is adapted to be fixed to the lower edge (6) of the snow-clearing device; a second fixing element (4) which is adapted to engage the back of the blade (7), and a support element (5) connecting the other two elements (3, 4). At least the second fixing element (4) and the support element (5) are made of an elastic polymer material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: AB Mähler & Söner
    Inventor: Gösta Källqvist
  • Patent number: 6240662
    Abstract: A guard attachment for removably mounting to a plow blade having a blade edge. The guard attachment includes a guard member having an arcuate surface which is adapted to shield the blade of the plow such that the guard member may be brought into sliding engagement with the surface to be plowed without catching or snagging obstructions on the surface. Furthermore, the guard member includes a fastening mechanism which removably mounts the guard member to the plow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Jeff Borowiak
  • Patent number: 6112438
    Abstract: A snow plow includes a central blade and left and right end blades pivotally connected to the ends of the central blade for movement between open positions in line with the central blade, and folded positions forward of the central blade. The rear of the central blade includes a horizontal slot for removable insertion of a loader bucket to lift and drive the plow. Side walls extend forward from the outer end of each end blade, each side wall including a removable wear shoe for sliding contact on a ground surface. The end blades are lockable in both their open and folded positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Pro-Tech Welding & Fabrication, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael P. Weagley
  • Patent number: 6102131
    Abstract: A quick connect dozer frame assembly is disclosed. The frame has a plurality of attaching points which interconnect with complementary latching members on an associated tractor for quickly connecting the dozer frame thereto. For conventional framed, rear wheel drive tractors, the dozer frame extends beneath the tractor to engage a rearwardly located tractor frame member. Where the tractor is an articulated frame vehicle, the dozer frame engages latching members on side plates mounted on the tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Leon-Ram Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Leon Ambrose Malinowski
  • Patent number: 6094846
    Abstract: A single wheel caster apparatus is disclosed for supporting a plow. The apparatus includes a wheel and an axle, the axle extending through the wheel such that the wheel is rotatably supported by the axle. Additionally, a first and a second fork are provided with each fork having a proximal and a distal end. A head which defines a plurality of detents is rigidly secured to a cross member and extends therefrom in a direction away from the wheel. A tube has a first and second extremity and defines a bore for the reception therein of the head. The tube defines a first radial passageway which is disposed in the vicinity of the detents. A flexible tubular lining is disposed within the bore of the tube. A first member is slidably disposed within the first passageway with the first member being disposed adjacent to the lining such that the lining is located between the first member and one of the detents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Monroe Truck Equipment Inc.
    Inventor: Richard L. Feller
  • Patent number: 5967241
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Cycle Country Accessories Corp.
    Inventors: Gary Cross, Glen E. Carlson
  • Patent number: 5950336
    Abstract: A removable V-plow system for a vehicle includes both a push bar and an idler bar that are positioned and sized so that the vertical orientation of the plow blades with respect to the vehicle chassis remains fixed as the plow blades are raised and lowered. Raising and lowering of the plow blades is accomplished automatically by an operator-controlled actuator mechanism accessible to the driver of the vehicle that provides power to an electric actuator to raise and lower the plow. By maintaining a fixed orientation for the plow blades with respect to the vehicle chassis, down pressure can be evenly distributed along the bottom cutting edge of the V-plow onto the ground surface even when the plow is in a forward V, reverse V, or diagonal configuration. The plow includes a simplified trip mechanism, and a mounting system that facilitates convenient mounting and dismounting of the plow from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Liebl
  • Patent number: 5906060
    Abstract: An improved manually pushed snow shovel in which the user's natural pushing force acts to alleviate stalling friction. A version of a manually pushed snow shovel having features of this invention comprises a blade with a leading edge, a handle attached to the blade, and at least one, although two are preferred, ski runner(s) attached to the blade. The ski runner(s) are attached such that when in the shovel is in use, the leading edge of the blade is at or behind the portion of bottoms of the ski runner(s) normally in contact with the ground. This ensures that the shovel pivot point or point of downward vertical force from the snow load is forward of the leading edge relative to forward movement of the shovel. As such, the user's natural forward pushing on the handle and hence indirectly to the blade results in the leading edge moving upwards away from the ground upon encountering increased friction due to heavy snow or rough ground surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Inventor: Robert Tonry
  • Patent number: 5806213
    Abstract: A snowplow (20) adapted for being attached to or detached from a vehicle (22) having a frame (24). The snowplow includes a mount frame (26) for connection to the vehicle frame, a support frame (32), a lift assembly (38) and a blade assembly. The blade assembly of the invention includes a blade (30), a blade cutting edge (31) and a wheel support assembly (56). The support frame includes a forward end (33) for supporting the blade and a rearward end (36) for connection to the vehicle. When detached from the vehicle as a single unit, the resultant weight on the rearward end of the support frame may be supported on a ground surface (46) by a jack stand (48).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Douglas Dynamics, L.L.C.
    Inventors: James R. Doornek, Gerald E. Lutzke
  • Patent number: 5806214
    Abstract: A snowplow (20) adapted for being attached or detached from a vehicle (22) having a frame (24). The snowplow includes a mount frame (26) for connection to the vehicle frame, a support frame (32), a lift assembly (38) and a blade assembly. The blade assembly includes a blade (30), a blade cutting edge (31) and a wheel support assembly (56). The support frame includes a forward end (33) for supporting the blade and a rearward end (36) for connection to the vehicle. When detached from the vehicle as a single unit, the resultant weight on the rearward end of the support frame is supported on a ground surface (46) by a jack stand (48). The wheel support assembly is mounted adjacent to or slightly ahead of a center of gravity (58).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Douglas Dynamics, L.L.C.
    Inventors: John R. Behrens, James R. Doornek, Gerald E. Lutzke
  • Patent number: 5775012
    Abstract: A hitch adjustable rear blade hitched to the back of a tractor for earth grading operations. The blade having an elongated cylindrical skid releasably mounted to the back of the blade adjacent the leading edge of the blade and a pair of spaced apart stabilizer springs adjustably mounted to the front of the blade holding the blade in tensional position. A front blade having the elongated cylindrical skid releasably mounted is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: William L. Hockensmith
  • Patent number: 5729919
    Abstract: The present invention comprises one or more anti-drift stabilizers mounted on the leading edge of a snow plow's blade. These stabilizers are mounted at an angle that is in the same direction as the angle of the snowplow in relation to the plow truck. As snow or other media is channeled to one side of a plow blade it exerts a force in the opposite direction thus tending to cause a plow to want to knife or drift in a direction opposite where the snow or other media is being deposited by the blade. As snow or other media passes over the surfaces of the stabilizers it exerts pressure that is opposite to, and counteracts the knifing action created at the emptying end of the plow by the accumulation of snow. The result of this is that the plow can be operated safely without the need to make constant corrections for the knifing and without the added danger of the inattentive operator being pulled from the roadway or into oncoming traffic and causing property damage or personal injury.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Inventor: Gerald Pearl DeBoer
  • Patent number: 5671553
    Abstract: An apparatus for grading soil or dirt adjacent to a curb, gutter, or other structure. The apparatus includes a blade portion, a handle portion, and a guide which may be attached to the handle or blade portions. The guide can be positionally adjusted relative to the blade portion to set the depth of penetration of the blade into soil. The guide is placed along the curb or gutter when the apparatus is used, with the guide controlling the depth of the blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Inventor: Glenn E. Burkhart
  • Patent number: 5638617
    Abstract: Snowplow equipment is described which is adapted to be mounted to a road vehicle wherein composite materials are used in the construction of all load bearing structural components of the equipment. Each component is lightweight and has inherent damping characteristics to reduce the transmission of road surface vibrations to the vehicle and to reduce power consumption. Essentially, each component is formed of a sandwich construction of wood and of laminates of glass fibers and resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: Her Majesty the Queen in right of Canada, as represented by the Ministry of Transport of the Government of Quebec
    Inventors: Germain Belanger, Pierre Lariviere
  • Patent number: 5636458
    Abstract: A new curb shoe for a plow blade for extending the wear time of plow blades. The inventive device includes a curb shoe mountable to a plow blade. A shaft guard attached to a mounting mountable to a plow blade. The shaft guard is welded to the mounting and includes fastener holes in the mounting allowing a fastener locking end to pass through the mounting and the plow blade with a fastener head to index in a fastener hole groove. The fastener locking end is locked in position, binding the mounting to the plow blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventor: Roy S. Drake
  • Patent number: 5615814
    Abstract: An equipment carrier assembly for mounting to a snowplow mounting bracket includes at least one and preferably a pair of carrier stands each including a lower platform for supporting equipment thereon and an upright mast mounted to and extending upwardly from the lower platform for attaching equipment thereto, a lower shaft latching mechanism attached on and extending between the lower platforms of the carrier stands for mounting the carrier stand to the snowplow mounting bracket, and upper slide locking mechanisms on the upright masts of the carrier stands for securing the carrier stands to the snowplow mounting bracket. The carrier stands of the assembly may be intercoupled to one another by components attached to and extending respectively between the lower platforms and upper masts of the carrier stands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Inventor: George A. Dechant
  • Patent number: 5615745
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Assignee: Cycle Country Accessories Corp.
    Inventor: Gary Cross
  • Patent number: 5568694
    Abstract: A quick hitch-unhitch attachment for mounting a snow working implement on a vehicle, comprising a vehicle mount attachment (VMA) frame secured to the vehicle, has a pair of spaced sockets which are positioned below and behind the vehicle bumper when mounted on the vehicle. A first pair of reaction bearing surfaces are aligned with and to the rear of the spaced sockets and a transverse latch bar means extends transversely of the sockets. An intermediate support frame has a rearward end with a pair of latching arms extending in a rearward direction and in general alignment with the sockets, respectively. Each latching arm has a further reaction bearing surface for bearing against respective ones of the first pair of reaction bearing surfaces. A support frame has a forward end attached to the snow working implement and a rearward end pivotally connected to the intermediate frame for rotation about a horizontal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Assignee: M. J. Electric, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence Capra, Philip J. Quenzi
  • Patent number: 5408765
    Abstract: Removal and mounting apparatus for a snowplow assembly wherein wheel assemblies are removably clamped to the blade lower edge so that the plow assembly may be easily manually wheeled about and maneuvered for positioning during removal and mounting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Inventor: Charles A. Lozensky
  • Patent number: 5329708
    Abstract: A hinged snow plow for an off-road vehicle is provided wherein a cowling is pivotally secured to the free end of an adapter. The adapter attaches to a tubular mounting means of a universal nature. The tubular mounting means which is modified, depending upon the off-road vehicle to which the snow plow is to be mounted. The combination of the adapter and tubular frame make the snow plow mountable to almost any off-road vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Inventors: Michael J. Segorski, Arnold R. Sirtola
  • Patent number: 5309654
    Abstract: A new and improved combined snow pusher, ice chopper, and broom apparatus for clearing a surface includes a handle which is supported by a support and which projects upward from the top of the support at a first acute angle with respect to the support. Bristles are supported by the support, and the bristles project downward from the bottom of the support by a first distance. A panel element is supported by the support at the front of the support. The panel element is connected directly to the support, and the bottom end of the panel element projects downward past the bottom of the support by a second distance. The second distance is less than the first distance, whereby the portion of the panel element which extends below the support element protects the interface between the bristles and the support, whereby the panel element does not contact the surface to be cleared. The bottom end of the panel element includes a sharp lower edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Inventor: Johnny L. Mathis
  • Patent number: 5271169
    Abstract: The device includes a blade and a handle whereby the device may be used as a conventional snow pusher. Skis or skids below the blade support the blade at an angle relative to the ground, and may raise the blade 5 cm or so off the ground surface, so that the blade does not snag the ground during pushing. Left and right struts support the skis from the blade. The struts are collapsible, and when collapsed the skis lie tucked away against the back of the blade, whereby the device may be used as a shovel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1993
    Inventor: Krzysztof J. Konsztowicz
  • Patent number: 5251390
    Abstract: A snowplow consisting of two hinged plates is removably mountable on the front or back frame or bumper of an automobile. The mounting and the plates are adapted to slope the plates at 270.degree.-240.degree. of each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Inventor: Michael Wong
  • Patent number: 5245771
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a road transportable, adjustable or non-adjusta width trailable plow which is adapted to be pulled by a tow vehicle, a four bar linkage interconnects the plow with the tow vehicle allowing the plow to yaw with respect to the vehicle while limiting motion in the pitch plane to parallel displacement, the horizontal links in the four bar linkage are telescopic and spring biased to allow for surge between the tow vehicle and the load and a frame portion securable to the tow vehicle is gimballed with the hitch on an axis parallel to the links for allowing the plow to roll with respect to the tow vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Michael R. Walsh
  • Patent number: 5191729
    Abstract: Safety apparatus for use in a moldboard assembly having a plurality of horizontally aligned trip blade units pivotally supported in the bottom of the moldboard frame so that the units move independently between a downwardly extended operative position and a rearwardly extended, fully tripped position. A biasing mechanism urges each unit into the operative position with a predetermined amount of force. A control mechanism further regulates the biasing force exerted on each unit so that the biasing force first increases as the unit moves out of the operative position and then decreases as the unit continues to move into the fully tripped position. The force exerted on each unit when in the fully tripped position is considerably less than that used to hold the unit in the operative position thereby preventing the assembly from lifting as it moves over an obstacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1993
    Assignee: Frink America, Inc.
    Inventor: Jan H. Verseef
  • Patent number: 5185946
    Abstract: A plow assembly useful for moving material from surfaces such as roadways in various selectable discharge directions includes a moldboard assembly and pivotable frame. The moldboard assembly is capable of being oriented in a right side discharge or a left side discharge in response to pivoting movement of the pivotable frame. A tripping mechanism is included to prevent damage of the plow assembly from obstacles located on the plowing surface. A cutting edge of the plow assembly is secured to the moldboard assembly by a wedge mechanism thus allowing quick cutting edge replacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventor: Eugene A. Farrell
  • Patent number: 5142801
    Abstract: The framework engages to a canister type push frame of a plow and extends upwardly therefrom, and forwardly therefrom along a rear surface of a plow blade centered along the length of the plow blade. The framework includes centered chain engaging structure which is forward of a forward tilt pivot point for the plow blade and includes structure for engaging the canister type actuator for the plow blade as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1992
    Assignee: Monroe Truck Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard L. Feller
  • Patent number: 5140763
    Abstract: A secondary snow removal structure is attached to the back of a primary snow removal device. The secondary structure includes a plurality of individual fingers positioned and arranged to extend below the level of the lower edge of the primary snow removal device for engagement with the surface being cleaned. A separate spring biasing means is provided for each finger for independently extending each finger to follow uneven portions of the surface being cleaned and thereby loosen and remove residual snow and ice compacted and left by the primary device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Inventor: Charles W. Nichols, IV
  • Patent number: 5136795
    Abstract: A snow plow assembly has a frame with a rear portion adapted for attachment to a motor vehicle and a blade assembly adapted for rotation about a vertical axis with respect to the front portion of the frame. Two ends of a chain are attached to the blade assembly on either side of the vertical axis. The middle section of the chain can slide in a track (e.g. an arcuate tube) attached to the frame. The yaw angle of the blade is adjustably controlled by sliding the chain with respect to the track. Means are also provided for adjustably securing the chain to the track after the desired angle for the blade has been obtained. In addition, the blade assembly can include means for permitting rotation of said blade about a horizontal axis. In this embodiment, two lever arms extend upward from the blade assembly on opposite sides of the vertical axis. The upper end of each lever arm is attached to one end of the chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Inventor: Ivanhoe Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 5127175
    Abstract: A swivel design for a wear shoe is described which provides support to apparatus cantilevered from a vehicle. This effectively reduces wear to the contacting surface by distributing the wear more evenly. To accomplish this objective the wear shoe is mounted to the supported structure by a swivel joint which allows full freedom of movement. During use the wear shoe tilts and rotates on the swivel to maintain the wear surface of the shoe in facing relation to the road surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Inventor: Mitch Atkinson
  • Patent number: 5125174
    Abstract: A detachable snowplow blade lift assembly including a mount frame permanently connected to the vehicle frame. A snowplow assembly including an A-frame and a snowplow blade mounted on the A-frame is pivotally connected to the mount frame. A lift frame assembly including a lift actuator mechanism for raising and lowering the A-frame and snowplow blade is pivotally connected to the A-frame for rotation about a pivot axis. The snowplow blade lift assembly also includes a mounting arrangement for releasably connecting the A-frame and lift frame as a unit to the vehicle for pivotable movement of the A-frame relative to the vehicle and to the lift frame about the pivot axis. The A-frame mount affording pivotal movement of the A-frame and the lift frame about a common pivot axis provides a snowplow blade lift assembly which can be attachhed to, and detached from, the mounting frame as a unit and which has the capacity to stack snow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Assignee: Douglas Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary E. Watson, James P. Doornek, Thomas P. Fechter
  • Patent number: 5121562
    Abstract: The framework engages to a push blade of a plow assembly and extends upwardly and forwardly therefrom along a rear surface of a plow blade of the assembly, terminating at a position forward of a forward tilt pivot point for the plow blade. A chain is engaged to a center point of a horizontal cross beam of the framework which engages forward ends of a pair of upwardly and forwardly extending side beams of the framework, the framework being centered relative to the lateral extent of the plow blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Assignee: Monroe Truck Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Feller
  • Patent number: 5050322
    Abstract: Snowplow apparatus is provided having a blade assembly and elongated tongue secured at one end to the blade assembly and having a connector device at the other end for detachably securing of the tongue to a single-point hitch assembly of an automotive vehicle whereby the tongue may oscillate in a vertical plane about its point of attachment. A stabilizing mechanism secured to the tongue in axially spaced relationship to the connector device detachably connects with the vehicle to prevent oscillation of the tongue about its point of attachment to the hitch assembly of the vehicle in a horizontal plane. The blade assembly is provided with lift units automatically operable upon traversing movement of the blade assembly over a ground surface to be cleared of snow accumulation to lower the blade assembly into plowing relationship when moved in a direction effective for plowing and to lift the blade assembly a distance above the ground and support it for transport when moved in an opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1991
    Inventor: David A. Burkard
  • Patent number: 4991324
    Abstract: A manual snow removal device is disclosed having horizontally adjustably engageable component working surfaces allowing it to clear a wide or narrow swath depending on the operator capabilities, snow depth or weight and whether a sidewalk or drive way is being cleared. Handles, which can be pivoted or extended, are affixed to the device to facilitate manual use. Trailing dolly wheels are also contemplated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Inventors: Mark K. Fine, Michael L. Holben
  • Patent number: 4907358
    Abstract: A snowblade assembly is disclosed which is mechanically mounted to a motor vehicle in substantially the same manner as the original bumper and which has a snowblade which is moveable between a forwardly extending pointed position and a generally planar position. The snowblade is attached to the vehicle by a four bar linkage assembly having tubular telescoping portions therein and which is partially contained within box housing members. A pair of springs are also used to normally bias the snowblade in a perpendicular position relative to the traversed ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1990
    Assignee: Detroit Innovative Products
    Inventor: Thomas S. Moore
  • Patent number: RE37628
    Abstract: A hinged snow plow for an off-road vehicle is provided wherein a cowling is pivotally secured to the free end of an adapter. The adapter attaches to a tubular mounting means of a universal nature. The tubular mounting means which is modified, depending upon the off-road vehicle to which the snow plow is to be mounted. The combination of the adapter and tubular frame make the snow plow mountable to almost any off-road vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventors: Michael J. Segorski, Arnold R. Sirtola
  • Patent number: RE35700
    Abstract: A detachable snowplow blade lift assembly including a .?.mount.!. .Iadd.mounting .Iaddend.frame permanently connected to the vehicle frame. A snowplow assembly including an A-frame and a snowplow blade mounted on the A-frame is pivotally connected to the .?.mount.!. .Iadd.mounting .Iaddend.frame. A lift frame assembly including a lift actuator mechanism for raising and lowering the A-frame and snowplow blade is pivotally connected to the A-frame for rotation about a pivot axis. The snowplow blade lift assembly also includes a mounting arrangement for releasably connecting the A-frame and lift frame as a unit to the vehicle for pivotable movement of the A-frame relative to the vehicle and to the lift frame about the pivot axis. The A-frame mount affording pivotal movement of the A-frame and the lift frame about a common pivot axis provides a snowplow blade lift assembly which can be attached to, and detached from, the mounting frame as a unit and which has the capacity to stack snow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Douglas Dynamics, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Gary E. Watson, James R. Doornek, Thomas P. Fechter