Abstract: A lawn mower may include a blade housing configured to house at least one blade, an engine operably coupled to the blade housing and configured to selectively rotate the at least one blade, a handle bracket assembly operably coupled to the blade housing, a handle assembly operably coupled to the handle bracket assembly, a door operably pivot about a first pivot axis and a collector operably coupled to the handle bracket assembly and configured to coupled to the handle bracket assembly and configured to pivot about a second pivot axis between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the collector is configured to receive clippings generated responsive to operation of the at least one blade. In the second position, the collector is configured to dump the clippings from the collector. The door is biased against the collector to maintain a portion of the collector substantially at the second pivot axis as the collector pivots between the first position and the second position.

Abstract: A grass collector is provided with a grass collector body which includes a storage space for storing grass clippings formed inside the grass collector body and a communication air passage having a first end connected to a rear part of the storage space to allow the storage space and the outside to communicate with each other; a duct which has a first end connected to a front part of the grass collector body and guides grass clippings to the grass collector body; and a dustproof net provided in the communication air passage.

Abstract: A lawn waste collection system is designed to be removably coupled to a side-discharge, riding lawn mower in order to assist in the collection of leaves, The collection system includes an oversized collection bag for retaining a large quantity of lawn waste, an adapter kit for connecting the collection bag to the mower, and a shield coupled to the mower for supporting and protecting the collection bag. The adapter kit includes a multi-sectioned chute, which establishes a discharge communication path between the mower and the collection bag, and a frame for retaining the chute, collection bag, and shield.

Abstract: A system comprises a first housing configured to enable grass to extend into the first housing. A grass cutting unit is housed within the first housing. A discharge chute is joined to a rear portion of the first housing for directing grass cuttings away from the first housing. A bag unit is configured for collecting the grass cuttings from the discharge chute. A second housing is joined to a rear portion of the first housing and positioned below the discharge chute. A rake device is housed within the second housing. The rake device comprises rake tines being configured for rotating below the second housing bottom for transferring debris to the bag unit. A handle unit is joined to the second housing. The handle unit is configured for enabling an operator to control operations of the system. A plurality of wheels is joined to the first housing and the second housing.

Abstract: A grass cutting device operable to sever at least a portion of a blade of grass wherein the grass cutting device utilizes stationary blades and is slidably traversed across a lawn. The grass cutting device further includes a bin having a plurality of walls configured to receive and store grass clippings therein. Operably coupled to the bin proximate the front wall is a clipping guide member. The clipping guide member functions to transfer grass clippings from the blade assembly into the bin. The blade assembly is mounted to the clipping guide member distal to the bin. The blade assembly further includes a plurality of triangular shaped blades with alternately intermediate dividers. The dividers function to partition a section of grass of a lawn into a smaller portion as the section of grass enters the blade assembly in order to facilitate severing of at least a portion of the blades of grass when contacted by the plurality of blades.

Abstract: The present application relates to selective harvesting of agricultural objects, such as asparagus spears. One described example relates to a harvester that includes at least one set of independently controllable cutter arm assemblies that rotate about a common axis to harvest individual asparagus spears.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are provided for removing dust particles from air circulating within a mowing machine, such as a lawn mowing machine, including a housing, a handle attached to the housing, a prime mover attached to the housing, and a grassbag employing a cyclonic separator. A grassbag apparatus can be provided that can include a grass clippings chamber for collecting blades of grass that have been cut and a dust collection chamber for removing and collecting dust-filled air from the air circulating within the lawn mowing machine. The dust collection chamber can include a cyclonic separator and a dust collection receptacle, wherein the cyclonic separator can be configured to remove dust particles from air circulating within the grassbag apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus for picking mushrooms including a carriage, at least one picking head arranged to move back and forth horizontally, and a suction pad apparatus configured to grip mushrooms for picking. A movable camera or scanner may be arranged to image an area in which the mushrooms grow. A first member may be coupled to the picking head and arranged to move back and forth horizontally for moving the suction pad apparatus horizontally. A controlled parallelogram mechanism may lift and lower the suction pad apparatus and couple the suction pad apparatus to the first member, and which may be arranged to maintain a position of the suction pad apparatus irrespective of a height on which the suction pad apparatus is positioned.

Abstract: A mower tractor includes a vehicle body supported by a plurality of wheels; an engine mounted to the vehicle body; a mower suspended from the vehicle body; at least one grass collector bag for collecting grass cut by the mower; a grass collector bag holder supporting said at least one grass collector bag at a position on one side with respect to the engine; and a stopper portion for abutting against the grass collector bag so as to prevent the grass collector bag supported by the grass collector bag holder from moving toward the vehicle body.

Abstract: A grass collector adapted to be attached to a rear of a riding-type mower for receiving cut grass from a mower unit through a duct, the grass collector comprises a front container section having a rearwardly facing opening and adapted to be attached to the riding-type mower, the front container section carrying a first bottom plate having a substantially horizontal position; and a rear container section supported pivotably about a pivot point located in a rear upper region of the front container section and pivotable between a first position wherein the rear container section substantially covers the opening of the front container section and a second position pivoted from the first position to allow cut grass to fall, the rear container section having a second bottom plate having a substantially horizontal position.

Abstract: A discharge chute assembly for a turf mower having a resilient deflector and a frame connecting the deflector to a mower deck proximate to a side discharge outlet. The frame includes one or more extension elements which engage the deflector. In one embodiment the extension elements are captured within pockets defined within the deflector. The pivoting frame mass facilitates a quick recovery to a guarded condition after the deflector rises in contact with an obstruction. Additionally, the frame mass allows the deflector to maintain an upright, unguarded orientation without additional biasing forces which is useful, for example, during a machine loading operation.

Abstract: In a control system of a lawn mower having an internal combustion engine controlled to a desired engine speed by a throttle actuator, a blade connected to the engine to be driven to cut grass, an engine output is estimated based on a detected throttle position and the desired engine speed, and when the estimated engine output exceeds a prescribed value, the grass bag is determined to be full of cut grass. With this, a full grass bag can be detected and the operator informed without providing a dedicated sensor.

Abstract: A mowing machine chute cleaner apparatus and method including a housing and at least one rotatable blade positioned at least partially within the housing for cutting grass. The mowing machine includes a discharge chute for discharge of cut grass, wherein the discharge chute defining an exit opening, and the mowing machine includes a cover flap attached to the grass mowing machine and being movable from a closed position covering the discharge chute exit opening to an open position wherein the discharge chute exit opening is uncovered by the cover flap. The mowing machine also includes a movable clearing flap attached to the grass mowing machine which can be moved in a clearing motion through at least a portion of the discharge chute by movement of the cover flap to at least partially clear cut grass from the discharge chute.

Abstract: A grass and leaf collection sled for riding lawn mowers. The sled vastly increases the total volume of grass, leaves, and other lawn residue that can be picked up and transported to a disposal site. The sled is easily assembled, simple to load and unload, and is easily stored after use. The sled enables collection of a large volume of lawn refuse without relying upon additional mechanical devices to complicate the operation of the lawnmower.

Abstract: A speed control system and method of assembling such a system for a power equipment vehicle such as a lawn mower. The speed control system comprises a speed control bail that pivots with respect to the vehicle handle bar, a pivot rod, and a cover. In order to increase the speed of the vehicle the operator pushes the speed control bail in the forward direction and in order to decrease the speed of the vehicle the operator pulls the bail in the backward direction. Assembly of the system on to the vehicle handle bar does not require the use of hand held or power tools thereby reducing manufacturing time and ultimately reducing production costs.

Abstract: A lawn care device comprises a main frame having at least two wheels attached thereto for engaging an associated underlying surface. A mower deck is operatively connected to the main frame. A power means is operatively mounted to the main frame. A non-mower deck implement operatively connects to the main frame. The non-mower deck implement is adapted to follow the contour of the underlying surface. More specifically, the non-mower deck implement is a ground following implement or a floating implement.

Abstract: A rear discharge mower is provided. The mower includes a frame, a drive wheel having a drive axle and a mower deck supported by the frame. The mower also includes a discharge chute used in transporting cut vegetation from the mower deck to a grass bag. A drive system includes a gear reduction device and is used in driving the drive wheel. The gear reduction device is positioned in line with the drive axle. The inventive arrangement of this rear discharge mower provides for a direct chute having a large cross-sectional area and yet including a gear reduction device that is in line.

Abstract: A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

Abstract: Machine for cutting grass comprising a plate located in the front part of the machine, a storage container located between the axes of rotation of the front wheels and rear wheels of the machine and connected to the plate by a duct, the machine comprising a device for moving the container to cause the outward movement and overturning thereof so as to unload the cut grass in the longitudinal direction and toward the rear of the machine.

Abstract: An axle driving unit having a housing (21,22) for supporting a first axle (17) for mounting thereon a first driving wheel (3L), and a longer second axle (18) for mounting thereon a second driving wheel (3R). The axle driving unit is eccentrically mounted on a body frame (1) in proximity to the first driving wheel (3L). A speed change transmission (T) is disposed in an enlarged region of the housing that extends substantially perpendicularly with respect to the axles (17,18). The axle driving unit can thus be easily disposed to the side of a chute (6) of a rear-discharge type lawn tractor.

Abstract: A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

Abstract: A rake compactor and helical paddle wheel system for an aquatic harvester, the rake compactor of which includes a carriage or trolley movably and horizontally mounted by means of rollers on rails above the deck of the aquatic harvester and characterized by a dual endless chain drive system for selectively moving the trolley forwardly and rearwardly above the deck and a rake pivoted to the trolley for engaging, loading, compacting and unloading aquatic growth harvested by the aquatic harvester and deposited on the harvester deck. Dual, independently driven, helical paddle wheels serve to drive and maneuver the aquatic harvester.

Abstract: A lawnmower includes a grass collector bin connected to a rotary blade by a chute. Mounted on the chute is a pressure-sensitive detector which senses when the bin is full, on the basis of a given pressure increase in the chute. The detector includes a microswitch having a sensing arm which contacts a center portion of an elastic membrane. The membrane communicates with the chute such that the center portion of the membrane is deflected in response to a given pressure increase in the chute, in order to actuate the switch. The membrane includes a bellows portion for increasing the distance by which the membrane can be deflected in response to the given pressure increase.

Abstract: A leaf clipping collector including a bottom wall made of rigid plastic and having an out edge defining a generally circular periphery, a generally vertically extending sidewall rigidly fixed relative to the bottom wall, the sidewall having a lower edge integrally formed with the outer edge of the bottom wall and having an upper edge an opening, the sidewall having extending therethrough a pair of slots, and a strap extending through the pair of slots and having opposite ends.

Abstract: A grass catching attachment for use with a rotary lawn mower is disclosed. The attachment includes a flexible bag which has been adapted to expand the capacity of a rigid, grass catching receptacle frequently employed by commercial landscapers during mowing operations. The bag is fabricated from a number of specially shaped panels of durable fabric sewn together to form an elongated envelope having a generally curved configuration. The top and bottom panels of the bag include a narrowed and rearwardmost terminus positioned outside a rearward projection of either of the top or bottom panel's front edge thus allowing the distal end of the bag to be suspended directly beneath at least one of the mower handlebars. A rigid frame having a peripheral channel for engagement with brackets extending from the grass catching receptacle as well as for the receipt of a drawstring sewn into the flexible bag is provided for joining the bag and the rigid receptacle.

Abstract: An indicator mechanism for visually displaying the full condition of a lawn mower grass collection bag, specially adapted for use on a riding lawn mower having a rear mounted bag. The indicator mechanism comprises a housing mounted to the discharge chute leading from the mower cutting deck to the collection bag, in a position visible to the driver during normal cutting operation of the mower. The housing includes a compartment in communication with the interior of the discharge duct through a suitable opening. An indicating member is hingedly disposed within the housing and is movable between a lowered position and a raised position in response to pressure variations caused by changes in the air flow within the duct. When the collection bag becomes full, high pressure within the duct forces the indicating member to its raised position, where it is visible to the driver through a window formed in the side of the housing.

Abstract: A grass-bagging apparatus for use with a lawn mower. The apparatus includes a chute with a disposable bag disposed therearound. An attaching frame is used to fasten the chute to the mower and retain the bag thereon. Grass and other cuttings discharged from the lawn mower are directed in the bag through the chute. After the bag is filled, the chute may be removed from the bag while leaving the cuttings in the bag. The filled bag may then be closed for disposal and a new bag positioned on the chute. A protective screen may be provided between the plastic bag and the operator in the event that objects discharged from the mower penetrate the material of the bag.

Abstract: A lawn mower includes a blade support with a recess formed in the bottom side thereof and an outlet portion. A blade is mounted rotatably within the recess. A grass collecting unit has an inlet portion communicated with the outlet portion of the recess so as to collect grass that was cut from a lawn with the use of the blade. Several ventilation holes are formed through a wall of the grass collecting unit so as to reduce air pressure inside the grass collecting unit. The grass collecting unit has a positioning hole formed through the top wall thereof. A grass indicating unit includes a body member disposed in the positioning hole and capable of being pushed upward relative to the top wall of the grass collecting unit by virtue of air pressure inside the grass collecting unit, and a positioning assembly mounted securely on the body member so as to prevent removal of the body member from the top wall of the grass collecting unit.

Abstract: A system for cultivating and harvesting bean sprouts includes an enclosed container having a door movable between open and closed positions for excluding external light from the interior of the container when the door is in a closed position. A plurality of bean sprout support elements, each of the elements defining an open mesh screen for supporting beans and bean sprouts growing from the beans, are removably stacked within the container in vertical, spaced apart relationship with each other. A cultivating fluid is circulated within the container and over and around the beans and bean sprouts. The bean sprouts are harvested by positioning the bean sprout support elements onto conveyor elements which cause the support elements and bean sprouts to be passed over serving elements which separate fine roots and chaff from the bean sprouts, and the bean sprouts are collected for later use.

Abstract: A cutting apparatus with an overhead grass catcher includes a housing (10) for discharging grass clippings at a high pneumatically volumetric flow through a discharge duct (14). A conduit (22) diverts the flow of grass clippings at an angle of greater than 90.degree. with respect to the cutting surface of the mower. The grass clippings are discharged through a discharge port (24) into a grass catcher (30). The grass catcher (30) is disposed on a support (25) that is disposed over the central axis of the mower. The support (25) is anchored onto the handle (16) of the mower. An opening is disposed on a flange (38) with a flexible gasket (40) operable to fit over the discharge duct (24). The opposite end of the grass catcher (30) is securely fitted within an end cap (28), which end cap (28) is fixedly attached to the opposite end of the support (25) from the handle (16). The handle (16) can therefore be tilted up to disengage the opening in the grass catcher (30) from the discharge port (24).

Abstract: A portable device for trimming hedges, shrubs and trees, cutting grass etc. in which an integral clippings collector is provided. The device features a hedge trimmer consisting of reciprocating blades, a generally cylindrical rotatable brush juxtaposed with the hedge trimmer, and a baffle so disposed in relation to the hedge trimmer and brush that severed portions of the vegetation are directed to an enclosure in which the severed portions are collected. In a preferred embodiment the enclosure may be periodically emptied of accumulated vegetation by pivoting a panel portion of the enclosure about one edge thereof.

Abstract: Two embodiments, a towed embodiment and a self-propelled embodiment, of a compost machine for shredding, mixing and aerating decomposable and non-decomposable waste material deposited in strips on large sites are disclosed. Both embodiments of the compost machine of this invention include a frame-suspension member, a rotary member, a plurality of replaceable teeth carried by the rotary member, a folding protective shield system, a pair of hydraulic motors and a prime mover. In both embodiments the hydraulic motors are mounted inside the rotary member, one at each end and are driven by the prime mover through a shock-protective coupling arrangement.