Combined Patents (Class 172/438)
  • Patent number: 11944033
    Abstract: An attachment with cutting discs for use with a prime mover to cut ground material comprises a frame with forward and rear ends, a mounting portion at the rear end which is configured for coupling to a pivotal mounting member of the prime mover which is carried at forward ends of pivotal arms of the prime mover that can be raised or lowered, and a cutting portion at the forward end of the frame comprising a single transversely extending row of cutting discs arranged to cut the ground material in a forward working direction of movement of the prime mover. The single row of cutting discs is spaced from the mounting portion at a prescribed distance of about 4.5-5.5 feet such that cantilever action of the row of discs about the mounting member provides effective cutting action. The attachment includes shields covering the cutting discs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Inventor: Corrie Halischuk
  • Patent number: 11768578
    Abstract: In some embodiments, an electronic device present user interfaces for initializing a remote locator object. In some embodiments, an electronic device presents notifications when a remote locator object is separated from the user. In some embodiments, an electronic device presents notifications when an unknown remote locator object is tracking the user. In some embodiments, an electronic device presents a user interface for a short distance locator user interface for finding a remote locator object. In some embodiments, an electronic device presents user interfaces for finding a remote locator object using a map user interface or using a short distance locator user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Arian Behzadi, Gemma A. Roper, Marcel Van Os, Per Haakan Linus Persson, Pedro Mari, Stuart J. Wood, Jean-Francois M. Albouze
  • Patent number: 11518295
    Abstract: A work machine extending in a fore-aft direction includes a frame, a ground-engaging mechanism, a boom assembly to the frame, and a traction assist apparatus. The ground-engaging mechanism is configured to support the frame on a surface. The traction assist apparatus is coupled to the boom assembly. The traction assist apparatus has an attachment point for securing a tether.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Richard J Lawler, Bryon P Neumann
  • Patent number: 10481048
    Abstract: A soil sampling collection system is disclosed. In one embodiment, a soil sampling collection system comprises a blade mounted on the front of the utility vehicle. The utility vehicle is powered to move through a designated area and configured to automatically collect soil samples as the system moves through the designated area. The blade is configured to move up and down via power hydraulics. A blade guard is mounted to the blade. A soil collection reservoir mounted on or near the back of the blade guard. A conveyor is mounted in between the soil collection reservoir and the front of the vehicle. The conveyor comprises a plurality of soil bags or cups configured to receive individual soil samples from the soil collection reservoir. A method for collecting soil samples is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Inventor: Michael Shane Giles
  • Patent number: 9816251
    Abstract: Provided is a cab which can improve the workability of ripping. The cab includes an operator's seat placed in the cab and a right armrest placed rightward of the operator's seat in the cab. A front end portion of the operator's seat is tilted rightward with respect to a front-rear direction (the direction of X) of the cab as seen in a plan view. The right armrest includes a front region including a front end of the right armrest and a rear region including a rear end of the right armrest. The rear region includes a portion placed at a shorter distance from a midline bisecting the operator's seat as seen in a plan view, than a distance between the front region and the midline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventor: Akira Sasakawa
  • Patent number: 9538710
    Abstract: A system is disclosed that can be used in precision farming to apply crop product to a field. The system includes a remote terminal connected with a network. The remote terminal includes a scanning application configured to allow the remote terminal to scan a unique product identifier associated with a crop product to be applied to a field. A server is connected with the remote terminal via the network. A transmission application is associated with the remote terminal that is configured to transmit the unique product identifier to the server. A lookup application associated with the server is configured to query a crop product database to retrieve one or more crop product data properties associated with the crop product. A prescription map generation application is configured to generate a prescription map for the field as a function of the one or more crop product data properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Inventor: Tony W Covely
  • Patent number: 9381661
    Abstract: A corrosion protected knife and anvil system is disclosed. A source of lubricating fluid is provided to a lubricating fluid distribution mechanism, coupled to both a knife blade and a salt bridge and an associated sacrificial anode. The sacrificial anode is consumed in order to protect corrosion on a rotating knife blade, which intermittently contacts both an associated anvil in order to cut material used in making disposable products, and the source of lubricating fluid. A knife holder holds a knife which is corrosion protected by an impressed current anode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: Curt G. Joa, Inc.
    Inventors: Sudeep Ingole, Lloyd Kreif
  • Patent number: 8924152
    Abstract: A system is provided for monitoring system and operational parameters on one or more pieces of machinery or equipment. The system can monitor the pieces of machinery or equipment in real time, i.e., the time delay between the taking of a measurement on a piece of equipment and its subsequent display in the system is within accepted standards, e.g., from about 1 second to about 1 minute depending on the type of measurement or data set being monitored. The system can also permit the tracking of the pieces of machinery or equipment and can enable the transfer, i.e., the sending and/or receiving, of information between the system and the pieces of machinery or equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: AgJunction LLC
    Inventors: Aaron Dale Hunt, Jeffrey Allen Dearborn
  • Publication number: 20140151076
    Abstract: An apparatus to move in-tow at least one farm implement. The apparatus is an elongated rectangular member that has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. A movement transfer mechanism is connected between the elongated rectangular member's first end and the farm implement. The apparatus has a first wheel mounted on one side of the elongated rectangular member's first end and a second wheel mounted on the other side of the elongated rectangular member's first end. A third wheel is mounted adjacent to the second end of the elongated rectangular member. The wheels may, if desired, be ground engaging wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventor: Walter W. DEAN
  • Publication number: 20140138109
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming a water storage material from a biomass input material using supercritical or subcritical fluid processing, the water storage material capable of absorbing a liquid and releasing the liquid. The apparatus utilizes supercritical fluid processing, subcritical fluid processing, charring, or a combination thereof. The apparatus includes a controller configured to control the apparatus. The apparatus further including a processing station configured to hold the biomass input material, and to use the biomass input material for processing into the water storage material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: Elwha LLC
    Inventors: William D. Duncan, Roderick A. Hyde, Jordin T. Kare, Tony S. Pan, Lowell L. Wood, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140123885
    Abstract: An add-on tillage system is adapted to be mounted on an agricultural device to enhance tilling ability. The add-on tillage system includes a tilling unit with a common tool bar having attached thereto a first set of a plurality of tilling tines or coulters adapted to produce deep grooves in a tilled field. Means are provided for adjusting spacing between the tines or coulters, tilling tines or coulters up and down as a group being loaded by spring force, compressed air pistons or hydraulically actuated rams. A first mount is adapted to receive a tongue with hydraulic operations for mounting to a tractor. A second mount is adapted to receive a tongue with hydraulic mount to an agricultural device adapted to be pulled by the tractor. The add-on tillage system tills surface soil for a clean appearance, providing improved rain/irrigation water absorption, eliminating water run-off and erosion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventor: John D. Nance
  • Publication number: 20140096984
    Abstract: Disclosed is a synthetic athletic field grooming apparatus configured to be pulled by a vehicle to maintain the synthetic athletic field. The apparatus comprises a frame having a coupling mechanism for mounting the apparatus to the vehicle. At least one broom channel is coupled to the frame rearward of the coupling mechanism, and forward and aft rows of brushes are attached to the broom channel. The aft row of brushes is spaced apart from and rearward of the forward row of brushes to allow infill of the synthetic athletic field to flick upward from the forward row while containing the infill for re-agitation from the aft row. The coupling mechanism and the frame allow an attached vehicle to control a downward pressure forcing the rows of brushes into contact with the synthetic athletic field with a desired force. Also disclosed is a method of grooming a synthetic athletic field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Kromer Co. LLC
    Inventors: Troy D. Thunstrom, Nathan G. Bergquist, Alan L. Hentges, Brian C. Bergquist, Ronald C. Ponath, Ingo V. Werner
  • Publication number: 20140076593
    Abstract: The present invention is a ground preparation apparatus for use in maintaining substantially uniformly soft and smooth soil while providing a movable roping target. The apparatus is usefully in avoiding the need to separately maintain ground to be used in roping practice while at the same time providing a moving roping target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventor: Korey K. Whitaker
  • Publication number: 20130284470
    Abstract: An assembly of a mounting component (1) for operating a linkage on an agricultural vehicle and a reservoir (10) for storing at least one fluid, wherein the mounting component is a unitary body having an internal cavity adapted to receive the reservoir. Suitably the reservoir is removable from the component and provides a reserve for hydraulic oil, windscreen cleaning fluid, or pressurised air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: AGCO International GmbH
    Inventor: Andreas Kaemmerer
  • Publication number: 20130233581
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ground shaping machine, particularly an agricultural machine, comprising a frame (3), at least one roller (11) fitted with a flexible tire (13), a first bearing (37) and a second bearing (37) whereby the roller (11) can rotate about a substantially horizontal axis (XX) in the working position, the first bearing (37) and the second bearing (37) being positioned one at each end of the roller (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: OTICO
    Inventor: Carlo VALIER
  • Publication number: 20120298021
    Abstract: An apparatus (30) for applying matter to a field is disclosed. The apparatus (30) comprises a macerator (54) for macerating the matter, at least one ground-engaging tool (42) for tilling the field, and an outlet (47) from which the macerated matter is able to be extruded into or onto the tilled field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Wayne Frederick Laurence Philips
  • Publication number: 20120138320
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining the wear of a force-loaded linkage of an earthwork device, wherein the instantaneous load on the linkage is measured during operation of the earthwork device and used to perform a calculation of the service life.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: Tracto-Technik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Elmar Koch, Sebastian Fischer
  • Patent number: 7975631
    Abstract: The invention relates to a combine agricultural machine (1) comprising a planting device (3), in particular a potato planting device, provided with at least one storage container (10), an extraction device associated thereto, a setting plow (7) and an downstream mounted end damming device (4). A loosening tool (2) for preparing a seedbed is arranged upstream of the planting device (3) in a travelling direction and one or several wheels (18) for disintegrating soil and supporting the machine are mounted upstream of said loosening tool (2) in said travelling direction. The invention also relates to a method for mechanically planting seeds comprising a stage for preparing the seedbed, a sowing stage and a final damming stage which are simultaneously carried out by means of tools mounted on the agricultural machine (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventor: Andreas Heiss, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110061881
    Abstract: An implement that conditions the ground surface as it is moved there over aerating the soil and distributing fertilizer and/or seeds thereon. The implement has a pair of aerator rollers mounted on a frame that can be towed by a tractor or constructed so as to be self-propelled if so desired. The aerator rollers project below the frame for rolling engagement with the ground and are located one behind the other in tandem relation relative to the direction of travel of the implement during use thereof. Each aerator roller has a plurality of formations defining teeth that penetrate the ground surface. The formations on each aerator roller are spaced apart from one another circumferentially around and longitudinally along the roller associated therewith and such formations on one aerator roller are offset from those on the other roller permitting overlap of the same. The aerator rollers are interconnected in drive and driven relation to rotate in a predetermined ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventor: K. Kent Barger
  • Publication number: 20100270043
    Abstract: A tillage shank assembly has one or more substance delivery tubes supported along the back edge of the generally upright shank of the assembly. A pair of side plates on opposite sides of the shank have rear margins that project rearwardly beyond the rear edge of the shank to define a protective gap within which the tubes are disposed. Laterally extending projections on the tubes are received within selected ones of a vertical series of holes in the side plates, depending upon the desired depth for the tubes. By temporarily removing a bolt that attaches the tops of the side plates to the shank, the side plates may be separated sufficiently to permit the projections of the tubes to be withdrawn from their current holes and reinserted into other holes to change their vertical locations. Replacing the bolt and tightening it down returns the side plates to their working positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicant: KRAUSE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Thomas W. Ankenman
  • Publication number: 20100199898
    Abstract: A farm implement includes a chassis, a wheeled section, a tool section, and a fifth wheel coupling device for receiving and coupling with a complimentary coupling pin on a semi-trailer. A fifth wheel coupling system includes a fifth wheel coupling plate having a slot designed to receive a coupling pin of a semi-trailer, a latching mechanism designed to latch onto the coupling pin of the semi-trailer, and a coupling device interface designed to connect the fifth wheel coupling plate and latching device to a farm implement. A method of connecting a semi-trailer to a farm implement having a fifth wheel coupling device includes aligning and connecting a coupling pin of the semi-trailer with a coupling device of a farm implement. A farm implement includes a coupling device designed to connect with a complimentary coupling device of a trailer having a storage tank with a capacity greater than 1,000 gallons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: THURSTON MANUFACTURING COMPANY
    Inventor: Layton W. Jensen
  • Patent number: 7575065
    Abstract: A hand-held metal detector and soil excavation device useful for locating and retrieving metallic objects concealed in soil or other materials. The device includes a housing with a hand-grip portion and an elongated probe portion. There is an excavation tool connected to the housing that is useful for moving soil to locate metallic objects that are sought. The device also includes a metal detector circuit located within the housing, that operates to generate an alert signal when the probe portion is moved into proximity of metallic objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Garrett Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Podhrasky
  • Patent number: 6997633
    Abstract: A power tool coupling system for coupling two boom members of a split-boom power tool. The coupling system includes a first section and a second section. The first section is adapted to be fixedly attached to an end of a first one of the boom members. The first section includes an aperture for receiving a locating member on a second one of the boom members. The second section is movably connected to the first section. The second section is adapted to depress the locating member, while the locating member is located in the aperture of the first section, when the second section is moved from a first to a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Homelite Technologies, Ltd.
    Inventors: Benjamin J. Thomas, Ernest W. Spangler, III, Kenneth M. Brazell, Taku Ohi, Elton L. Watson, Ronald C. McCurry
  • Patent number: 6843325
    Abstract: An operator actuated electro-mechanical drag mat lift assembly that mounts on the rear of existing lawn equipment that provides a platform for mounting lawn care products requiring deployment for use The Banko Manufacturing International design allows the lawn equipment operator the ability to deploy the assembly while remaining seated with just the flip of a switch. Other manufacturers' designs have failed to consolidate the elements necessary into a comprehensive semi-automated concept. In addition, the innovative drag mat design, when used with the lift assembly, provides an effective method of distributing both dry and damp grass clippings improving turf appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Richard John Banko
  • Publication number: 20030056962
    Abstract: Banko Manufacturing International has developed an operator actuated electro-mechanical drag mat lift assembly that mounts on the rear of existing lawn equipment that provides a platform for mounting lawn care products requiring deployment for use. Our design differs from other deployment systems in that the Banko Manufacturing International design allows the lawn equipment operator the ability to deploy the assembly while remaining seated with just the flip of a switch. Other manufacturers' designs have failed to consolidate the elements necessary into a comprehensive semi-automated concept. In addition, the innovative drag mat design, when used with the lift assembly, provides an effective method of distributing both dry and damp grass clippings improving turf appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Richard John Banko
  • Patent number: 6009956
    Abstract: An apparatus for distributing fluid onto a hydrometallurgy leach field consists of individual modules having structure for operatively coupling the modules to one another to form the apparatus. Each module, which alone can form a fluid distribution apparatus, includes a frame and an elongated reel assembly on which a plurality of individual distributors, such as perforated hoses, are carried at axially spaced positions along the elongated reel assembly. A fluid supply conduit carries fluid from a fixed fluid supply line through the elongate reel assembly to each of the hoses carried on the elongated reel assembly and to an adjacent module. The frame is supported at its ends by frame translating mechanisms, preferably endless track crawler units, which serve to selectively move the apparatus forward and rearward. Adjacent modules are coupled at respective ends thereof to a common frame translating mechanism, thus coupling the adjacent modules to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: Ingo Krieg
  • Patent number: 5689905
    Abstract: A working machine of a hydraulic shovel which enables easy attaching and detaching of a chisel and affords smooth breaker work even in the vicinity of a wall, while enhancing chisel penetration and correspondingly improving the efficiency of the work. To this end, a bucket hinge pin (6d) is provided on one end of each of a pair of bucket brackets (6b) at a position offset from the axis of a breaker-incorporating arm (4b) toward the bucket cylinder (7), and, while the bucket (6) is in the tilted position, the chisel (10) is attached so as to extend through a space between the bucket hinge pin (6d) and the bucket link pin (8b) which is provided on the other ends of the bucket brackets (6b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuhiro Ibusuki
  • Patent number: 5653293
    Abstract: A portable wire puller designed to be operated from a motor vehicle having a hydraulic system. The wire puller utilizes a spool mounted on an axle which is made up of two rods which can be easily connected to and disconnected from one another, so that it is simple and easy to change spools quickly without dismantling the entire apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Inventor: George E. Ellis
  • Patent number: 5573071
    Abstract: Apparatus for cultivating soil and sowing and bedding seed and/or fertilizer on steep slopes. A tractor comprises a chassis which is supported for movement along a path over terrain by endless tracks. The tracks have lateral widths which are optimum relatively to the overall width of the tractor to enable operation of the apparatus over steep grades. A scraper blade is carried on the front end of the chassis, and a seed/fertilizer broadcaster is mounted on the scraper blade. A harrow for working and bedding soil is mounted on the rear end of the chassis. The tractor can be configured in different modes with the scraper and/or the harrow in either up or down positions while the broadcaster is either turned on or off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: Golden Sunlight Mines, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald J. Wilson, Troy C. Smith
  • Patent number: 5479731
    Abstract: A tree harvester which is intended to be fitted to a crane arm or the like for the purpose of uprooting trees. In order to supplement the ground preparation that is automatically achieved adjacent the exposed soils areas left in the ground subsequent to pulling out a tree by its roots, it is proposed in accordance with the invention, among other things, that the tree harvester is provided with a soil scraping or cultivating unit intended to be brought into engagement with and moved along the ground so as to prepare the ground for forest regeneration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Inventor: Lars Widegren
  • Patent number: 5450910
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for a snow thrower which has a motor, a wheeled support for the motor, an auger, and a support for the auger. The apparatus converts the snow thrower to a lawn care apparatus. The apparatus includes a pair of lock assemblies connected to the auger support on opposite sides of the auger, support, a rollable lawn care assembly, and a pair of strut members connected at opposite ends of the rollable lawn care assembly. The strut members are adapted to connect with the lock assemblies on the auger support. Each of the lock assemblies includes a base plate attached to the auger support. A first bracket member is attached to the base plate and receives a portion of one of the strut members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Inventor: Harold J. Strzyzewski
  • Patent number: 5431232
    Abstract: A cultivator is equipped with detachable harrows or detachable packers. When the cultivator is used for direct seeding, narrow openers cut through the earth, and seed pneumatically transported from an air seeder, is placed immediately behind the openers. Thereafter a series of packers, mounted to the rear of the cultivator, pack the seed. Spring tensioned support arms support the packers or harrows. Through various adjustments, these support arms can generate packing pressures from 0.5 psi to 3.5 psi, depending upon soil conditions. The same implement with the narrow openers and packers removed can be equipped with sweeps and mounted harrows to act as a general soil preparation device. When the harrows are mounted for field operation the adjustable spring tensioned support arms are adjusted to relax downward pressure. The unit as a whole, therefore, serves as a seeding or general tillage device, saving the operator extensive capital costs in farm machinery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Assignee: F. P. Bourgault Industries Cultivator Division Ltd.
    Inventor: Jason R. Kirsch
  • Patent number: 5236051
    Abstract: An agricultural implement for automatically taking up plastic sheeting and drip tape onto cylindrical drums. In the preferred embodiment, the device is designed to be mounted onto the back of a tractor or the like by means of a three point hitch. The device includes a frame having a first take-up means for receiving the plastic sheeting, a drive means connected to a first cylindrical drum and powered by the tractor, and a by-pass valve located between the drive means and the tractor for controlling the speed of the first take-up means. The first take-up means includes a spiral roller for preventing the plastic sheeting from bunching up. The present invention also includes a second take-up means for receiving the drip tape onto a second cylindrical drum. The second take-up means is preferably powered off of the first drive means. A control means is located between the second take-up means and the drive means for controlling the speed at which the drip tape roll is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Assignees: Alan G. Sawyer, Ralph L. Roberson
    Inventors: Alan G. Sawyer, Ralph L. Roberson
  • Patent number: 5224700
    Abstract: A pitch-mark repair tool used for repairing pitch-marks made on greens when playing golf is provided with a timing device which allows specific time periods applicable to a game of golf, such as the five-minute rule, to be measured objectively and simply with the specific advantage of being a non-disturbing yet readily usable piece of equipment which is required in general to be carried by all golfers. The repair tool timing device has operating buttons which are on the pitch-mark repair tool and which can be recessed and of such a size and shape that unintentional activation of the timing device is prevented when using the tool purely to repair a pitch-mark.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Inventor: Carl-Erik M. Rosen
  • Patent number: 5149087
    Abstract: The present invention entails a utility golf accessory in the form of an elongated rod having a handle on one end and a ground penetrating fork on the other end. The ground penetrating fork functions to repair ball marks and divots. Pivotally connected to the handle end of the elongated rod is a hook which functions to support one or more golf clubs that are unattended. In particular, the elongated rod can be anchored in the ground and one or more golf handles from golf clubs can be leaned against the hook such that the golf club handles are supported in an inclined fashion adjacent the ground penetrating ground accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Inventor: James W. Thompson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5116162
    Abstract: A pavement maintenance machine has a side mounted root cutter for cutting subsurface tree roots along the edge of a slab of pavement and a rear mounted pavement milling mechanism for removing an elevated corner of the upheaved slab to eliminate the "toe stubber" hazard created by the corner. The root cutter has a shield which automatically raises and lowers relative to the cutter blade to maintain a certain spacing between the ground and the shield irrespective of the depth of cut of the blade and which automatically covers the blade when the blade is lifted away from the ground. The milling mechanism is anchored to the pavement with the weight of the machine and by a vacuum contact shoe. Once anchored, the milling cutter is fed transversely across the fault to be ground by a guideway and cable/pulley system which amplifies the range of transverse motion the cutter is capable of traversing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: B-J Development
    Inventor: Albert G. Burhite
  • Patent number: 4989676
    Abstract: An improved sweeper system for use with a grass mowing machine for use in the care of golf course greens in which the lawn mowing machine has at least one mower assembly, the sweeper system including a sweeper structural support affixed to and extending from the mower assembly, an elongated broom having a horizontal head portion and bristles downwardly extending therefrom, an elongated structural head member affixed to the broom head portion, a cylindrical vertical shaft extending upwardly from the structural head member, a bearing trunnion affixed to the structural support member adjacent the outer end the shaft being rotatably received in the bearing trunnion and a plurality of spacers received on the shaft above the trunnions so that the elevation of the brush is adjustable and elastomeric members extending from the sweeper system to the structural head member on either side of the structural support, the broom following behind the mower assembly to sweep the golf green as it is mowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1991
    Inventor: Billy G. Rogers
  • Patent number: 4974350
    Abstract: A dozer blade/scoop unit comprising a dozer blade, a mounting mechanism on the blade adapted to affix the same to the elevator arms of a dozer, a scoop having a floor and side walls, cooperating hinge mechanisms on the blade and on the scoop pivotally connecting the same, and a lever mechanism on the scoop adapted for connection to a pivot power mechanism whereby operation of the power mechanism will pivot the scoop on the blade to selectively position the floor of the scoop with respect to the blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Inventor: Juan E. Puckett
  • Patent number: 4730680
    Abstract: The hoe is formed from a tempered steel blade substantially, triangular when viewed in front elevation and secured at right angles to one end of the handle. The guard or sheath is formed from plastic or sheet metal, to protect the relatively sharp edges of the blade and to prevent injury to people when not in use. The guard, which is detachable, includes a pocket for receiving the sharp edges of the blade and flexible tabs detachably engaging over the edge of the blade to detachably retain the guard in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1988
    Inventor: Harry Indzeoski
  • Patent number: 4593766
    Abstract: A crawler tractor with a dozer blade and fitted with accessories to loosen the ground in the strafing pit area of an Air Force gunnery range and simultaneously remove from the ground rocks the size of a man's fist and larger and spent projectiles. The tractor is provided with an electromagnet positioned ahead of the dozer blade. Positioned to the rear of the tractor, and pivotally attached to its frame by drawbars, is a chisel bar with a plurality of chisel blades. Just ahead of the chisel bar is a rock rake having a spine from which extend a plurality of forwardly projecting tines. The rake is supported with its tines at such an angle that their tips barely scrape the surface of the earth. Ahead of the rock rake, there is a drag consisting of a section of railroad rail suspended from the drawbars of the chisel assembly at a height sufficient to just scrape the surface of the ground during operation of the tractor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1986
    Inventor: Gordon G. Gossard
  • Patent number: 4546601
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in lawn and garden maintenance, in which a chassis having a pair of axially aligned and independently operable drive wheels carries a central reel mower mounted with the rotational axis of the mower and the drive wheels lying in the same vertical plane. A pair of outer reel mowers may be mounted on the chassis on each side of the path of the central reel mower. A cultivator mounted on a chassis with a pair of axially aligned drive wheels has the frame of the cultivator projecting laterally and aligned with the axis of the drive wheels, the frame of the cultivator being preferably extensible. A lawn trimmer swivelly mountable vertically on a motor driven chassis comprises an articulated arm with a trimming device mounted on the free end of the arm, the arm comprising two pivotally joined parallelogram units and a handle for manipulation of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1985
    Inventor: Jens B. Skovhoj
  • Patent number: 4533001
    Abstract: A multiple fixture is provided for aiding in affixing replacement spoons to worn teeth of a rotary hoe wheel. The fixture comprises a circular hub from which extends a plurality of generally equally-spaced, radially-disposed arms. The number of arms equal the number of teeth on the worn hoe wheel. Mounting members or plates are carried by the arms and replacement spoons are positioned and clamped thereon. The rotary hoe wheel is then aligned with the fixture hub and connected thereto with the replacement spoons positioned in contact with the worn end portions of the hoe teeth and welded to them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1985
    Inventors: Jack A. Tulen, James L. Tulen
  • Patent number: 4416335
    Abstract: A ground-clearing and mound-building device is provided that can be towed along the ground to move material on the surface to one side, expose the surface of the ground, and build mounds on the cleared ground for planting and forest regeneration, having a scarifier means mounted for rotation about its central axis, circular in cross-section, and having a peripheral surface that digs into the ground during rotation thereof when in contact with the ground under pressure, arranged to be brought into contact with the ground at any selected contact pressure; with control of at least one of the selected contact pressure and the selected rotation rate to dig, loosen, and displace a surface layer of the ground and push such loosened ground into mounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1983
    Assignee: Mo och Domsjo Aktiebolag
    Inventors: Stig-Gunnar Lofgren, Bo G. Ekeborg
  • Patent number: 4356734
    Abstract: There is disclosed a soil sampling device having a sampling unit arranged on a disc which can be rotated around a quasi-horizontal axle on the arm of a frame attached to a vehicle. Also on the arm is a sample removing unit which removes the sample from the sampling unit and places it in a sample collection box. The invention provides a means to carry out soil sampling quickly, reproducibly and automatically and obtain an authentic picture of the properties of the investigated soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1982
    Assignee: Dalmandi Allami Gazdasag
    Inventor: Jozsef Ivancsics
  • Patent number: 4353424
    Abstract: A vehicle for removing slash from steep logging slopes includes an anti-skid propulsion system characterized by a power winch for reeling in an uphill-anchored cable and a pair of crawler tracks driven in synchronization with the winch. The vehicle has an articulating tail boom for working against the cable to assist in maneuvering the vehicle along the slope and stabilizing the vehicle during slash gathering operations. A knuckle boom which is extendable from the vehicle for gathering slash within a relatively large area around the vehicle and preparing the soil for planting. A slide mechanism is disposed at the end of the knuckle boom for selectively varying the overall length of the boom. The slide mechanism includes a pair of claws which can be operated as a grapple for gathering slash or as a rake for scarifying the forest soil. The slide mechanism can be tilted for optimum orientation of the claws during raking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1980
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1982
    Inventors: Ray B. Schenck, Wilhelm Schmidt
  • Patent number: 4306407
    Abstract: A lawn care device is provided which essentially consists of support beams or rotary cutter blades which are mounted onto the vertically disposed drive shaft of conventional lawn motors. The support beams are provided with receiving means, support-like bars, trunnions and the like, for pivotably mounting work tools thereon. The work tools are moved into an operating position by the forces resulting from the rotation of the support beam and are pivoted to a non-operative position when engaging an obstacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1981
    Assignee: Firma RUX KG
    Inventor: Jurgen Dambroth
  • Patent number: 4058068
    Abstract: A cultivator or rotary harrow has soil working members rotatable about upwardly extending shafts journalled in a frame portion that extends transverse to the direction of travel. The front of the frame is supported by a coupling attached to a prime mover and the rear of the implement is supported by two ground wheels. One wheel is located at each lateral side of the frame portion at the rear thereof and a bracket is pivoted to the frame with rearwardly extending arms connected to the wheel axle mountings. An extensible connecting member interconnects the axle mountings to the frame above the bracket so that the wheels can be vertically displaced by shortening or lengthening the connecting members. A sowing mechanism, including a feed box, is mounted to the rear of the soil working members with delivery tubes leading to shoes. A flow control mechanism is driven by a transmission from the wheel mountings and the shoes can be raised or lowered by a linkage and control lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1975
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1977
    Assignee: C. van der Lely N. V.
    Inventors: Ary van der Lely, Cornelis Johannes Gerardus Bom
  • Patent number: 4003438
    Abstract: A cultivator or harrow has two groups of tined soil working members in a row that are driven to rotate about upwardly extending shafts. Each group is located on an opposite side of a frame portion center from the other. Between each soil working member, a driving shaft is positioned and pinion gears housed in the frame portion to turn all the shafts of one group in the same direction, but opposite to that of the driving shafts and the other group. The driving shafts can be fitted with additional soil working members and those soil working members on upwardly extending shafts can be replaced with smaller supports so that adjacent soil working members rotate in opposite directions. Alternatively, the smaller supports can be fitted with extension structures and two groups of soil working members are again formed. A dispensing mechanism can be mounted on the frame portion to deliver material between a rear supporting roller and the tines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1975
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1977
    Inventor: Cornelis van der Lely
  • Patent number: 3956835
    Abstract: A log skidder comprises a bulldozer assembly mounted on either the forward or rearward end thereof and a cable guide mechanism, including a fairlead and roller, mounted on a blade of the bulldozer assembly for receiving and guiding a cable therethrough. A winch assembly for paying-out or paying-in the cable is mounted on the log skidder, adjacent to the blade. In one embodiment, the push arms of the bulldozer assembly are universally mounted on the log skidder for selective movement towards the forward or rearward end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1975
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1976
    Assignee: Caterpillar Tractor Co.
    Inventor: Robert E. Evenson
  • Patent number: 3946681
    Abstract: An earth working apparatus for use in agricultural pre-planting operations includes a first frame having laterally spaced ground engaging wheels and a second frame having a leading edge thereof pivotally mounted on the first frame adjacent a leading edge thereof and movable between a storage position and a working position. The second frame has a mower thereon for cutting vegetation extending above a ground surface and a first plurality of sweeps for opening a plurality of laterally spaced furrows to receive gaseous fertilizer therein and a second plurality of sweeps to close the furrows after introducing the gaseous fertilizer thereinto. The first plurality of sweeps each have a flow passage thereon for flow of gaseous fertilizer into the respective furrows from a storage and supply tank mounted on the first frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1974
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1976
    Inventor: Merton E. Sylvester