CA1293883C - Soil leveling apparatus with improved frame and hitch - Google Patents
Soil leveling apparatus with improved frame and hitchInfo
- Publication number
- CA1293883C CA1293883C CA000615834A CA615834A CA1293883C CA 1293883 C CA1293883 C CA 1293883C CA 000615834 A CA000615834 A CA 000615834A CA 615834 A CA615834 A CA 615834A CA 1293883 C CA1293883 C CA 1293883C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- frame
- soil
- hitch
- ground engaging
- pair
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
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Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/76—Graders, bulldozers, or the like with scraper plates or ploughshare-like elements; Levelling scarifying devices
- E02F3/7622—Scraper equipment with the scraper blade mounted on a frame to be hitched to the tractor by bars, arms, chains or the like, the frame having no ground supporting means of its own, e.g. drag scrapers
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Soil Working Implements (AREA)
Abstract
SOIL LEVELING APPARATUS
WITH IMPROVED FRAME AND HITCH
Abstract of the Disclosure An improved soil leveling apparatus includes a frame, connecting hitch means, and adjustable lost motion linkage secured to the top connection point of the hitch, and an optional scarifier assembly which is supported on a connector pivoted between the legs of the hitch. The scraper member of the frame is of generally inverted J-shaped cross section, and tine subassemblies can be substituted for the teeth on the scarifier assembly.
WITH IMPROVED FRAME AND HITCH
Abstract of the Disclosure An improved soil leveling apparatus includes a frame, connecting hitch means, and adjustable lost motion linkage secured to the top connection point of the hitch, and an optional scarifier assembly which is supported on a connector pivoted between the legs of the hitch. The scraper member of the frame is of generally inverted J-shaped cross section, and tine subassemblies can be substituted for the teeth on the scarifier assembly.
Description
3~ 3 SOIL L:E:VELING APPRATUS
WITH IMPROVED FRAME AND HITCH
The present application has been divided out of Canadian Patent Application Serial No. 535,606 filed April ~7, 1987.
Technical Field The present invention relates generally to a device for attachment to a vehicle for cutting, leveling and otherwise grading the soil or the like. More particularly, this invention concerns a soil leveling apparatus incorporating an improved frame, an improved hitch, an improved scarifier assembly, an optional pulverizer attachment, and other features which provide more versatility and controllability in order to achieve better performance.
Background Art Proper site preparation requires that the ground be graded as necessary for compatibility with planting, sodding, paving or whatever the next and usually final construction or maintenance step may be. Such site preparation typically :
involves first breaking up and loosening the soil as necessary followed by leveling the soil to the desired grade. This may entail the use of different tools, depending upon the soil conditions, and multiple passes over the site which is both time consuming and expensive.
~ 25 In the past, weighted boards and the like were ; dragged behind tractors to smooth and level the surface of the soil. This technique was relatively crude and unsatisfactory ~3~
because it did not allow for controlling the angle or grade of the soil surface, and loose dirt tended to collect in front of the board which would escape around the outer edge leaving ridges which then had to be smoothed manually with rakes or the like.
My prior U.S. Patent No. 3,556,228 shows an apparatus for leveling soil and the like which was adapted to overcome the difficulties associated with the prior art at that time. This device generally consisted of a frame adapted ~or connecting to a three-point hitch on a draft vehicle such as a tractor. The frame consisted of a number of transverse ground engaging members arranged in longitudinally spaced apart relationship. The leading member therein was a member of generally inverted U-shaped cross section to effect cutting, while the other trailing me~bers were of closed, generally rectangular cross section for leveling purposes.
The transverse ground engaging members were interconnected by longitudinal braces in a ladder-like fashion to form a rigid frame. Individual retaining shoes or plates were provided on opposite ends of each ground engaging member to retain loose soil to avoid formation of soil ridges.
This device operated well and was a significant improvement over the prior art at that time, although experience later showed that improvements could be made. The parent hereof, referenced above, discloses such an improved soil leveling apparatus. It has been found, however, that even this device can be improved upon. For example, under some soil conditions it has been found that the effectiveness 3~3~3 of a leading ground engaging member of generally inverted U-shaped cross section can be severely restricted if it should become plugged with soil. In addition, three-point hitches of various types and ages exhibit various degrees of looseness which may not be compatible with different soil conditions.
Some degree of play or looseness at the top link of the three-point hitch is generally desirable because it enables the apparatus to float somewhat on the soil surface without undue gouging; however, too much looseness is undesirable.
Furtherl some conditions may call for soil working relatively less aggressive, but which is desired as a substitute for or in addition to, that type of soil wor]cing provided by the scarifier assembly.
There is, thus, a need for an improved soil leveling apparatus of even greater versatility.
Summary of the Invention The present invention comprises an improved soil leveling apparatus which overcomes the foregoing and other difficulties associated with the prior art. In accordance with the invention, there is provided a soil leveling apparatus having an improved frame, connection means for the hitch, and other features and options which enhance its capability and versatility.
Th~ frame comprises a plurality of transverse ground engaging members, the leading member being a scraper member of generalIy inverted J-shaped cross section in order to avoid soil plugging. The ~rame includes a pair of laterally spaced apart side frame members which are o~ uneven channel-li]ce ~2~ 33 configuration secured to opposite ends of the trailing ground engaging member so as to reduce construction costs while providing the necessary structural rigidity.
The trailing ground engaging members are of generally inverted rounded V-shaped cross section in order to provide a substantially upright surface for pushing the soil in a forward direction, with an inclined surface for lifting the soil in a rearward direction.
The connection means on the frame for securing the apparatus to a three-point hitch is of generally A-shaped configuration, which is also adapted to serve as the support for the adjustable scarifier assembly. This also simplifies construction of the soil leveling apparatus and enhances the structural integrity thereof. An adjustable lost motion linkage is preferably provided at the top end of the connection means for receiving the top link of a three-point hitch in order to provide the degree of play desirable under the particular conditions.
In one embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for leveling soil, comprising: hitch means which is adapted for connection to a tractor or like motive vehicle; frame means which i5 connected to said hitch means and includes at least one portion for engaging the ground; means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means comprising one or more scarifier elements, said frame means further comprising means for guiding said scarifier means in a free-floating relationship relative to an underlying ground surface, said scarifier 3~ 3 guiding means further comprising means for guiding said scarifying means in a pivotal relationship with respect to said frame means; and means for moving said scarifying means about said pivotal guide means, said moving means comprising a piston cylinder assembly which is connected to said hitch means by a lost motion piston cylinder mounting means which permits lost motion between the piston cylinder assembly and said frame means.
In another embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising: a generally rectangular frame including a leading transverse elongate scraper member and a plurality of trailing transverse elongate ground engaging members fixably secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members; hitch means rlgidly secured to said frame for connecting the apparatus to a vehicle; and scarifier means incIuding a plurality of depending movable soil working tools mounted on said frame for movement into and out of engagement with the soil to break up and loosen the soil, said scarifier means comprising a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said ~rame, at least one sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft, the working tools being secured to each sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions, and lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and said soil working tools mounted thereon, said lost motion means comprising a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within ~2~333~3~3 said clevis so as to permit 105t motion.
In another embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising: a generally rectangular frame including a leading transverse elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixsdly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members; the scraper member of said frame having a lower edge, and each ground engaging member being of generally closed tubular construction of inverted generally V-shaped cross section having a lower surface, with the lower edge of the scraper member and the lower surface of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar; the side member of said frame each being of inverted generally J-shaped cross section having an outer leg with a straight lower edge, and an inner leg with a straight lower edge that extends across the ground engaging members; hltch means rigidly secured to said frame for connecting the apparatus to a vehicle; and scarifier means including a plurality of depending pivotal soil working tools mounted on said frame for movement into and out of engagement with the soil to break up and loosen the soil, said scarifier means comprising a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends of the side members of said frame, a sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft, a plurality of depending soil working tools secured to said sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions, and lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement o~ said sleeve and said soil working tools mounted thereon.
3~Z93~33 In yet a further embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for leveling soil, comprising: hitch means which is adapted for connection to a tractor or like motive vehicle, said hitch means being adapted for use with skid steer loaders; frame means which is connected to said hitch means : and in~ludes at least one surface ~or engaging the ground;
means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means including an elongated central portion having at one end a tooth element for engaging the soil; means Eor moving said scarifying means about an axis, said moving means comprising a piston cylinder assembly and a piston cylinder assembly lost motion mounting means comprising a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit free-sliding motion.
Brief Description of Drawings A better understanding of the invention can be had by reference to the following Detailed Description in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings, wherein:
FIGURE l is a perspective view:of an improved soil ~: ~: leve1ing apparatu~ incorporating one embodiment of the invention;
FIGURE 2 1~ a horizontal sectional view taken along lines 2-2 of FIGURE l in the direction of the arrow;
FIGURE 3 is a vertical sectional view taken along lines 3-3 of FIGURE l in the direction of the arrows;
FIGURE 4 is an enlarged detailed view of a :~L2~3~3~3 modification of the scarifier stop assembly;
FIGURE 5 is a view taken along lines 5-5 of FIGURE 3 showing the front side of the adjustable lost motion linkage mounted at the top end of the connection means;
FIGURE 6 i~ a vertical sectional v:iew taken along lines 6-6 of FIGURE 5 in the direction of the arrows;
FIGURE 7 is an enlarge perspective detailed view showing a tine assembly which can be substituted for the teeth of the scarifier assembly in order to provide relatively less aggressive soil working action;
FIGURE 8 i5 a section detailed view showing the tine assembly of FIGURE 7 mounted on the cross-shaft of the scarifier assembly;
FI5U~E 9 is a partial perspective view showing the soil leveling apparatus herein with an optional pivotal pulverizer assembly mounted thereon;
FIGURES 10 and 11 are sectional views taken along lines 10-10 and 11-11, respectively, of FIGURE 9 in the direction of the arrows;
FIGURE 12 is an enlarged perspective detailed view of a modified tine assembly;
FIGURE 13 is an enlarge perspective view of an offset tine that can he used in the tine assembly of FIGURE
12;
FIGURE 14 is a sectional detailed view ~howing the tine assembly of FIGURE 12 mounted on the cross shaft of the scarifier assembly of the embodiment shown in FIGURE l;
FIGURE 15 is a perspective view of improved soil 3~ 3 g leveling apparatus incorporating a further embodiment o~ the nventlon;
FIGURE 16 is a top view of the soil leveling apparatus;
FIGURE 17 is a vertical sectional view taken along lines 17-17 of FIGURE 16 in the direction of the arrows;
: FIGURE 18 is a partial cross sectional diagram showing the relationship between the cylinder and collar of the actuator used in the scarifier assembly;
FIGURE 19 is a partial top view of a modified scarifier assembly;
FIGURE 20 is a vertical cross sectional view taken along lines 20-20 of FIGURE 19 in the directlon of the arrows;
FIGURE 21 is a partial and view of the soil leveling ; 15 apparatus showing the configuration of the side members; and : FIGURE 22:is a diagram showing an alternate construction of the trailing ground engaging members.
Detailed Description Referring now to the Drawings herein, in which like reference numerals designate like or corresponding elements throughout the views, and particularly ~lements throughout the views, and particularly re~erring to FIGURE 1, there is shown a soi} leveling apparatus lO of the invention. The apparatus 10 comprises a frame 12, a hitch or connection means 14 : 25 mounted on the frame for attachment of the apparatus to a suitable draft means, and a scarifier assemhly 16.
As illustrated, the connection means 14 is adapted for use with a three-point hitch; however, it will be 3~
appreciated that the frame 12 of the apparatus 10 can be provided with an alternate connection means for use with a skid-steer vehicle or any other suitable connecting hitch means depending upon the type of draft vehicle with which the apparatus is to be used.
Referring now to FIGURE 1 in conjunction with FIGURES 2 and 3, the frame 12 of the soil leveling apparatus 10 comprises a leading ground engaging member 18 and a plurality of trailing ground engaging members 20. All of the ground engaging members 18 and 20 are oriented transverse to the direction of travel of the apparatus 10. The foxward ground engaging member 18 as best seen in FIGURE 3, is of generally inverted J-shaped cross section and includes braces 22 secured between the divergent front and back walls of the ground engaging member. A blade 24 is secured to the front, relatively longer wall of the ground engaging member 18 for better cutting action and wear resistance. The blade 24 can be welded, bolted or otherwise suitably secured to the forward ground engaging member 18. It will thus be apparent that the rear wall of the forward ground engaging member 18 is relatively shortex than the front wall. This i5 advantageous because it provides rigidity without allowing soil to plug the interiQr of the member, which can occur under certain conditions when an inverted channel section is utilized for the forward ground engaging member. The forward ground engaging member 18 thus functions as a scraper member.
The forward ground engaging member 18 is secured between a pair of side plates 26 which serve as soil retainers 12~P3883 to prevent the soil from flowing outwardly around the apparatus and thus forming ridges. If desired, braces 28 can be secured between the soil retaining plates 28 and the forward ground engaging member 18 for reinforcement.
A plurality of trailing ground engaging memb~rs 20 are located behind the forward ground engaging member 18 for purposes of leveling the soil. Three trailing ground engaging members 20 are shown; however, any suitable number can be utilized. Each trailing ground engaging member 20 includes a wear plate 30 secured to and enclosing the open end of a hollow member 32. The hollow member 32 is preferably o~
generally inverted rounded V-shaped cross section with the forward wall thereo~ being substantially upright in order to push the soil in a forward direction, and the rear wall being inclined to allow the soil to pass over the ground engaging member in the reverse direction.
The trailing ground engaging members 20 are secured between a pair of longitudinal side members 34. Each side member 34 is of general channel-shaped cross section along the portion thereof extending between the trailing ground engaging members 20 with the upper surfaces of the side members sloping downwardly away from the forward ground engaging member 18.
The ends of the trailing ground enga~ing members 20 are thus butted against the outer legs of the side members 34 and are welded at their ends both to the outer leg and to the lower edge of the inner legs of the side members. A longitudinal member 36 is preferably secured across the tops of the trailing ground engaging members 20 ~or additional rigidity.
~3~3 If desired, lugs 37 can be attached to the side members 34 for connection of a drag or the like to the apparatus 10.
The connection means 14 is of generally A-shaped configuration including a pair of legs 38 which are secured at their lower ends to a pair of laterally spaced apart feet or supports 40 secured to the forward ground engaging member 18.
The legs 38, which are inclined forwardly as shown, extend upwardly to a member 42. The connection means 14, as illustrated, is adapted for use with a three-point hitch, the top and bottom links of which are indicated by phantom lines.
The base supports 40 include pivotal connection points 4~ Por attachment to the bottom links o~ a three-point hitch, while the top members 42 is adapted for attachment to the top link of the three-point hitch. A longitudinal brace 46 is preferably connected between the top member 42 of the connection means 14 and the longitudinal member 46 of the frame 12.
Referring to FIGURE 3 in conjunction with FIGURES 5 and 6, the soil leveling apparatus 10 preferably includes a lost motion linkage 48 in the top member 42 of the connecting means 14. The purpose of the lost motion linkage 48 is to provide an adjustable amount o~ controlled play between the top l.ink o~ the three-point hitch on the draft vehicle ~not shown) and the connection means 14 so that some pivotal floating action of the soil leveling apparatus can occur. The lost motion linkage 14 includes a plate 50, which is illustrated as being a section of channel stock, supported for pivotal movement on a pin 52 extending across the top member ~2~38~33 42. Another pivotal connection 54 is provided at the upper end of the plate 50 for attachment to the top link of the three-point hitch on the draft vehicle. A fi.rst stop 56 is secured to the lower end of the plate 50 for cooperation with a cross piece 58 extending across the lower end of the top msmber 420 The lost motion linkage 48 thus includes a fixed stop which limits rearward pivotal motion of the plate 50. An adjustable stop 60 is also provided for limiting forward pivoting of the plate 50. As illustrated, the adjustable stop 60 comprises a number of shims 62 with offset holes therein through which a bolt 64 extends to secure the shims to the inside of the top member 42. It will thus be appreciated that the amount of pivotal motion of the plate 50 can be controlled by loosening the bolt 64 and turning a suitable number of shims upwardly between the lower end of the plate 50 and the back of the top member ~2, as shown in FIGURE 1/ and then tightening the shims in place with the bolt 64 so as to limit the range of fore~aft pivotal movement of the linkage 48~
This is a significant feature. By means of the adjustable lost motion linkage 48, suitable play can be provided between the top link of a three-point hitch and the connection means 14 of the soil leveling apparatus 10.
Referring again to FIGURES 1 through 3, the soil leveling apparatus 10 preferably includes a scarifier assembly 16 which is mounted for adjustable, vertical positioning relativ~ to the frame 12. The scarifier assembly 16 includes a single connector 66 having a pair of sleeves 68 secured at the forward end for receiving a cross shaft 70 extending ~3~
between the base members 40 of the connection means 14. The cross shaft 70 extends through the sleeves 68 of the connectors 66 and through bushed holes in the base members 40, and is retained in place by means of collars 72.
The connector 66, which is preferably formed from a piece of plate bent as shown for rigidity, alsu includes a pair of clamps 74 at the side opposite that of the sleeves 6~.
Clamps 7~ function to secure the pivotal connector 66 to a second, relatively longer cross shaft 76 on which the teeth subassemblies 77 are suspended in side by-side relationship between ~nd caps 75. Each subassembly 77 includes a depending tooth 78 secured at its upper end to a sleeve 79 pivotally supported on the second cross shaft 76. The scarifier teeth 78 can be individually pivoted to the cross shaft 76, or pivotally supported in groups. Bushings 80 are provided in the ends of each sleeve 79. A double acting ~ylinder 81 is connected between the top brace ~6 and a pair of lugs on the connector 66 for controlling the position of the scarifier assembly 16 and thus the extent of penetration into the soil by the teeth 78.
If desired, a pair of diagonal braces 67, as is best seen in FIGURE 2, can be provided on the undsrside of the connector 66 for reinforcement.
Referring momentarily to FIGURE 4, there is shown a modification of the scarifier assembly 16. The scarifier assembly 16 as shown in FIGURES 1 through 3 includes a number of pivotal scarifier tPeth 78 whose rearward pivotal mot.ion is limited by the adjacent trailing ground engaging member 20.
The longitudinal spacing between the forward ground engaging member 18 and the next adjacent ground engaging member 20 is preferably sufficient to allow the scarifier t:eeth 78 to pivot forwardly out of ground engagement when the apparatus 10 is reversed. In some situations, however, it may be desirable to limit pivotal movement of the scarifier teeth 78 by means other than the next adjacent trailing ground engaging mamber 20. For example, the second cross shaft 76 can be notched as shown in FIGURE 4 for cooperation with an inwardly projecting stop 82 provided on the sleeve supporting the tooth. The particular orientation of the notch in the cross shaft 76 and the stop 82 is not critical to the invention; however, in some situations it may be desirable to rotate their position about 150 degrees clockwise from that shown for better load distribution. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosed stop arrangement can be reversed so that a stop member is provided on the cross shaft 76 for cooperation with a notch in the sleeve supporting the scarifier teeth 78~ This is considered fully equivalent.
FI~URES 7 and 8 illustrated another modification of the scarifier assembly 16. Some conditions call for working the soil less aggressiv~ly than the scarifier teeth 78 would provide. In such situations, tine subassemblies 90 can be substituted for the scarifier subassemblies 77 on the cross shaft 76. Each tine subassembly 90 includes a sleeve 92 with a flange 94 and tool bar 96 secured thereto. Bushings g8 of plastic or other suitable construction are preferably provided in opposite ends of the sleeve 92. A plurality of depending ~3~il3 tines 100 are secured to the tool bar 960 As illustrated, the lower ends of the tines 100 diverge outwardly; however, this is not critical to practice of the invention and either straight or curved tines can be utilized as dlesired. Each tine subassembly 90 further includes a stop 102 thereon for cooperation with another stop 104 mounted on the next adjacent trailing ground engaging member 20. Since the tines 100 are generally less rigid than the scarifier teeth 78, the use of such separate stop structure is preferable. If desired, of course, such separate stop structure could also be adapted for use with the scarifier subassemblies 77. Another cylinder 136 is coupled between the frame brace 46 and the forward cross member 122 of the attachment 110 for controlling its pivotal positioning.
Referring now to FIGURES 9, 10 and 11, there is shown~an optional pulverizer attachment 110 which can be mounted on the soil leveling apparatus 10 to provide additional soil working. The attachment 110 includes a pair of arms 112 which are pivoted at their forward ends to brackets 114 secured by bolts 116 to the side members 34 of frame 12. Each bracket 114 includes an inner sleeve 118 on which an outer sleeve 120 of the associated arm is received to deine a pivot. A palr of cross members 122, 124 are secured between the arms 112 for rigidity and bracing. A toothed roller 126 is mounted for rotation between the outer or trailing ends of the arms 112. As is best seen in FIGURE 11, a bushing 128 is provided in each end of the roller 126 for rotation on an inwardly projecting trunion 130 on a plate 132 ~38133 secured by bolts 134 to the associated arm 112. This type of mounting enables the roller 126 to span substantially the entire width of the apparatus 10 so that the apparatus can be operated closely adjacent to buildings, sidewalks, etc.
Although the assembly 110 is illustrated with a toothed roller 126 for pulverizing small dirt clods and the like, it will be appreciated that other devices can be mounted on the attachment. For example, a row of spring fingers or flexible tines can easily be substituted for the toothed roller 126 and carried by the attachment 110.
FIGURES 12 and 14 illustrate a modification of the tine sub-assembly 90 shown in FIGURES 7 and 8. In the subassembly 90, the tines 100 are secured in fixed relationship to the tool bar 96. Although this construction is sufficiently rugged for most applicatlon, the tines can become damaged and require replacement. Since the tine sub-assembly 90 is not particularly well suited to individual replacement of the tines, the tool bar 96 can be replaced with a channel-like member 140 having a plurality of individual tine carriers 142 secured ln laterally spaced apart relationship thereto. Each carrier 142 is of generally cylindrical construction, with a flat upper end and a beveled lower end. Replaceable tines 144 and 146 are individually mounted in the carriers 142. The tines 144 are substantially straight, while the tines 146 are angled and positioned in alternate carriers 142. Each of the tines 144 are 146 includes a threaded upper end extending through the respective carrier 142 and being secured in place by means of a washer ~2~31!31~;~
148 and nut 150. In addition, each of tines 144 and 146 includes an upset portion or raised lug 152 thereon which engages the beveled lower ends of the carrier 1~2 50 as to effect automatic centering when the nuts 150 are tightened.
It will thus be apparent that the tines 144 and 146 can be readily replaced individually.
FIGURE 13 shows another tine 154 having a straight portion and offset leg portion 156 that can be used in the position of the endmost tine in the sub-assembly 90 in order to span the gaps between adjacent tine sub-assembliss and thus effect scarifying over substantially the entire width of the scarifier assembly 16. The offset tine 15~ also includes a raised lug 152 for centering purposes, and an auxiliary stop 15~ is preferably secured to the respective end of the member 140 to reinforce the offset tine against bending and rotation.
Referring now to FIGURES 15-19, there is shown a soil leveling apparatus 200 incorporating a second embodiment.
The soil leveling apparatus 200 of the second embodiment incorporates numerous component parts which are substantially similar to those employed in the apparatus 10 of the first embodiment described herein. Such component parts have been identified with the same reference numerals utilized herein before, but have been differentiated therefrom by means of prime (') notations.
; 25 The primary difference between the soil leveling apparatus 200 of the second embodiment and the apparatus 10 of the first embodiment is centered in the areas of the hitch and the scarifier assembly. The apparatus 10 of the first ~L2~3~
embodiment incorporates a connection means 14 which is adapted for use with a three-point hitch, like that typically used on tractors. The soil leveling apparatus 200 of the second embodiment, however, preferably includes a hitch 202 which is particularly adapted for use with adaptors o~E the type found on skid steer loaders, although either type of hitch can be used.
The hitch 202 comprises a pair of laterally spaced apart side plates zO4 which are interconnected by cross plates 206 and 208 defining a converging recess for receiving the upper edge of the pivotal edge adaptor plate on the loader.
As shown, the cross plate 206 is reinforced by a channel section 210 and an upright post 212. A pair of laterally spaced apart lower mount plates 214 are secured to the front wall of the leading ground engaging member 18l for releasable connec~ion with latches on the lower end of the adaptor plate (not shown) on the loader. An adaptor plate of suitable construction is shown in U.S. Patent No. 3,672,521.
As illustrated, the soil eveling apparatus 200 also includes an optional scarifier assembly 216. The apparatus 200 can be used either with or without the scarifier assembly 216. As shown, the scarifier assembly 216 includes a fixed cross shaft 218 secured between a pair of brackets 220 fixed to the longitudinal side members 34' which are preferably of inverted generally J-shaped cross section as is best seen in FIGURE 21, although side members of any suitable configuration can he used. A sleeve 222 is supported for rotation about the fixed shaft 218, and a plurality of depending scari~ier teeth ~3l~
224 are secured along the sleeve.
The scarifier assembly 216 is actuated by a cylinder 226 coupled between an offset lug 228 securecl to the sleeve 222, and a collar 230 as is best seen in FIGURE 17. The piston end of cylinder 226 is coupled to lug 228, while the cylinder end thereof is slideably received in the collar 230.
The collar 230 is pivoted on a pair o~ trunions secured between a pair of lugs 232 on the post 2120 In the preferred embodiment, a liner 234 of plastic or other suitable low friction material is provided within the collar 230 to ~acilitate slideable movement of the cylinder 226. This construction thus provides a lost motion connection which enables the operator to reverse direction with the scarifying teeth 224 pivoting upward and riding on the ground, but without actuating cylinder 226. When cylinder 22~ is extended, the cylinder end thereof moves within collar 230 into stopped engagement with post brace 212 so that the scarifier teeth 224 are raised completely or partially out of engagement with the soil. When the cylinder 226 is retracted, the scarifier teeth 224 simply return to their lowered positions, under gravity, as the cylinder end slides away from post 212 in the collar 230, thus providing a lost motion connection which enables the teeth to ride up out of engagement with the soil when the unit is reversed without requiring actuation of the cylinder.
It will ba noted that the soil leveling apparatus 200 also incorporates a longitudinal member 361 and a 12~3~l3 longitudinal brace 461 of generally channel-like construction, but more rounded in order to facilitate forming in a simpler, less expensive manner. In all other respects, the soil leveling apparatus 200 is functionally and structurally similar to the apparatus 10.
FIGURES 19 and 20 illustrate a modificakion involving usage of an intermediate bracket 236 supporting the cross sha~t 218 and providing reinforcement against bending.
Usage o* an intermediate support bracket 236, however, requires splitting the sleeve 222 into sleeve sections 222-A
and 222 B, each of which is provided with a pair of lugs 228-A, as best seen in FIGURE 19. In addition, instead of a collar 230, the cylinder 226 has been provided with a clevis 238 which is supported on a pin 240 extending between lugs 232 to provide a lost motion connection.
It will be understood that the positions of collar 230 on clevis 238 could be reversed, i~ desired. Any such reversal is considered fully equivalent.
The trailing ground engaging members 201 can be of closed construction including wearplates 301 secured to and enclosing the open ends of hollow members 321 . In the alternative, however, ground engaging members 242 of open construction as shown in FIGURE 1~ can be utilized. Each open ground engaging member 242 comprises a hollow member 321 , which is preferably of generally inverted rounded V-shaped cross section with the forward wall thereof being substantially upright in order to push the soil in a forward direction, and the rear wall being inclined to allow the soil 31~133 to pass over the ground engaging member in the reverse direction. However, no wearplate 301 is utilized~ and small blades 244 and 246 can be secured to the walls of the hollow member 2321 to improve cu~ting action and wear resistance.
From the foregoing, it will thus be apparent that the present invention comprises an improved soil leveling apparatus having several advantages over the prior art. One significant advantage involves use of an ad~ustable lost motion connection with the connecting means to provide controlled flexibility and some float of the apparatus in order to compensate for various three-point hitches and soil conditions. Another advantage involves the use of a Eorward ground engaging member which is not susceptible to clogging under sticky soil conditions in order to perform a scraping function more effectively. The connecting means also serves as the primary support for the scarifier assembly. Other advantages will be evident to those skilled in the art.
Although particular embodiments of the invention have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the foregoing detailed description, it will be understood that the invention is not limited only to the embodiments disclosed, but is intended to embrace any equivalents, modifications, substitutions and/or rearrangements of elements falling within the scope of the ~25 invention as defined by the following claims~
WITH IMPROVED FRAME AND HITCH
The present application has been divided out of Canadian Patent Application Serial No. 535,606 filed April ~7, 1987.
Technical Field The present invention relates generally to a device for attachment to a vehicle for cutting, leveling and otherwise grading the soil or the like. More particularly, this invention concerns a soil leveling apparatus incorporating an improved frame, an improved hitch, an improved scarifier assembly, an optional pulverizer attachment, and other features which provide more versatility and controllability in order to achieve better performance.
Background Art Proper site preparation requires that the ground be graded as necessary for compatibility with planting, sodding, paving or whatever the next and usually final construction or maintenance step may be. Such site preparation typically :
involves first breaking up and loosening the soil as necessary followed by leveling the soil to the desired grade. This may entail the use of different tools, depending upon the soil conditions, and multiple passes over the site which is both time consuming and expensive.
~ 25 In the past, weighted boards and the like were ; dragged behind tractors to smooth and level the surface of the soil. This technique was relatively crude and unsatisfactory ~3~
because it did not allow for controlling the angle or grade of the soil surface, and loose dirt tended to collect in front of the board which would escape around the outer edge leaving ridges which then had to be smoothed manually with rakes or the like.
My prior U.S. Patent No. 3,556,228 shows an apparatus for leveling soil and the like which was adapted to overcome the difficulties associated with the prior art at that time. This device generally consisted of a frame adapted ~or connecting to a three-point hitch on a draft vehicle such as a tractor. The frame consisted of a number of transverse ground engaging members arranged in longitudinally spaced apart relationship. The leading member therein was a member of generally inverted U-shaped cross section to effect cutting, while the other trailing me~bers were of closed, generally rectangular cross section for leveling purposes.
The transverse ground engaging members were interconnected by longitudinal braces in a ladder-like fashion to form a rigid frame. Individual retaining shoes or plates were provided on opposite ends of each ground engaging member to retain loose soil to avoid formation of soil ridges.
This device operated well and was a significant improvement over the prior art at that time, although experience later showed that improvements could be made. The parent hereof, referenced above, discloses such an improved soil leveling apparatus. It has been found, however, that even this device can be improved upon. For example, under some soil conditions it has been found that the effectiveness 3~3~3 of a leading ground engaging member of generally inverted U-shaped cross section can be severely restricted if it should become plugged with soil. In addition, three-point hitches of various types and ages exhibit various degrees of looseness which may not be compatible with different soil conditions.
Some degree of play or looseness at the top link of the three-point hitch is generally desirable because it enables the apparatus to float somewhat on the soil surface without undue gouging; however, too much looseness is undesirable.
Furtherl some conditions may call for soil working relatively less aggressive, but which is desired as a substitute for or in addition to, that type of soil wor]cing provided by the scarifier assembly.
There is, thus, a need for an improved soil leveling apparatus of even greater versatility.
Summary of the Invention The present invention comprises an improved soil leveling apparatus which overcomes the foregoing and other difficulties associated with the prior art. In accordance with the invention, there is provided a soil leveling apparatus having an improved frame, connection means for the hitch, and other features and options which enhance its capability and versatility.
Th~ frame comprises a plurality of transverse ground engaging members, the leading member being a scraper member of generalIy inverted J-shaped cross section in order to avoid soil plugging. The ~rame includes a pair of laterally spaced apart side frame members which are o~ uneven channel-li]ce ~2~ 33 configuration secured to opposite ends of the trailing ground engaging member so as to reduce construction costs while providing the necessary structural rigidity.
The trailing ground engaging members are of generally inverted rounded V-shaped cross section in order to provide a substantially upright surface for pushing the soil in a forward direction, with an inclined surface for lifting the soil in a rearward direction.
The connection means on the frame for securing the apparatus to a three-point hitch is of generally A-shaped configuration, which is also adapted to serve as the support for the adjustable scarifier assembly. This also simplifies construction of the soil leveling apparatus and enhances the structural integrity thereof. An adjustable lost motion linkage is preferably provided at the top end of the connection means for receiving the top link of a three-point hitch in order to provide the degree of play desirable under the particular conditions.
In one embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for leveling soil, comprising: hitch means which is adapted for connection to a tractor or like motive vehicle; frame means which i5 connected to said hitch means and includes at least one portion for engaging the ground; means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means comprising one or more scarifier elements, said frame means further comprising means for guiding said scarifier means in a free-floating relationship relative to an underlying ground surface, said scarifier 3~ 3 guiding means further comprising means for guiding said scarifying means in a pivotal relationship with respect to said frame means; and means for moving said scarifying means about said pivotal guide means, said moving means comprising a piston cylinder assembly which is connected to said hitch means by a lost motion piston cylinder mounting means which permits lost motion between the piston cylinder assembly and said frame means.
In another embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising: a generally rectangular frame including a leading transverse elongate scraper member and a plurality of trailing transverse elongate ground engaging members fixably secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members; hitch means rlgidly secured to said frame for connecting the apparatus to a vehicle; and scarifier means incIuding a plurality of depending movable soil working tools mounted on said frame for movement into and out of engagement with the soil to break up and loosen the soil, said scarifier means comprising a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said ~rame, at least one sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft, the working tools being secured to each sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions, and lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and said soil working tools mounted thereon, said lost motion means comprising a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within ~2~333~3~3 said clevis so as to permit 105t motion.
In another embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising: a generally rectangular frame including a leading transverse elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixsdly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members; the scraper member of said frame having a lower edge, and each ground engaging member being of generally closed tubular construction of inverted generally V-shaped cross section having a lower surface, with the lower edge of the scraper member and the lower surface of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar; the side member of said frame each being of inverted generally J-shaped cross section having an outer leg with a straight lower edge, and an inner leg with a straight lower edge that extends across the ground engaging members; hltch means rigidly secured to said frame for connecting the apparatus to a vehicle; and scarifier means including a plurality of depending pivotal soil working tools mounted on said frame for movement into and out of engagement with the soil to break up and loosen the soil, said scarifier means comprising a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends of the side members of said frame, a sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft, a plurality of depending soil working tools secured to said sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions, and lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement o~ said sleeve and said soil working tools mounted thereon.
3~Z93~33 In yet a further embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for leveling soil, comprising: hitch means which is adapted for connection to a tractor or like motive vehicle, said hitch means being adapted for use with skid steer loaders; frame means which is connected to said hitch means : and in~ludes at least one surface ~or engaging the ground;
means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means including an elongated central portion having at one end a tooth element for engaging the soil; means Eor moving said scarifying means about an axis, said moving means comprising a piston cylinder assembly and a piston cylinder assembly lost motion mounting means comprising a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit free-sliding motion.
Brief Description of Drawings A better understanding of the invention can be had by reference to the following Detailed Description in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings, wherein:
FIGURE l is a perspective view:of an improved soil ~: ~: leve1ing apparatu~ incorporating one embodiment of the invention;
FIGURE 2 1~ a horizontal sectional view taken along lines 2-2 of FIGURE l in the direction of the arrow;
FIGURE 3 is a vertical sectional view taken along lines 3-3 of FIGURE l in the direction of the arrows;
FIGURE 4 is an enlarged detailed view of a :~L2~3~3~3 modification of the scarifier stop assembly;
FIGURE 5 is a view taken along lines 5-5 of FIGURE 3 showing the front side of the adjustable lost motion linkage mounted at the top end of the connection means;
FIGURE 6 i~ a vertical sectional v:iew taken along lines 6-6 of FIGURE 5 in the direction of the arrows;
FIGURE 7 is an enlarge perspective detailed view showing a tine assembly which can be substituted for the teeth of the scarifier assembly in order to provide relatively less aggressive soil working action;
FIGURE 8 i5 a section detailed view showing the tine assembly of FIGURE 7 mounted on the cross-shaft of the scarifier assembly;
FI5U~E 9 is a partial perspective view showing the soil leveling apparatus herein with an optional pivotal pulverizer assembly mounted thereon;
FIGURES 10 and 11 are sectional views taken along lines 10-10 and 11-11, respectively, of FIGURE 9 in the direction of the arrows;
FIGURE 12 is an enlarged perspective detailed view of a modified tine assembly;
FIGURE 13 is an enlarge perspective view of an offset tine that can he used in the tine assembly of FIGURE
12;
FIGURE 14 is a sectional detailed view ~howing the tine assembly of FIGURE 12 mounted on the cross shaft of the scarifier assembly of the embodiment shown in FIGURE l;
FIGURE 15 is a perspective view of improved soil 3~ 3 g leveling apparatus incorporating a further embodiment o~ the nventlon;
FIGURE 16 is a top view of the soil leveling apparatus;
FIGURE 17 is a vertical sectional view taken along lines 17-17 of FIGURE 16 in the direction of the arrows;
: FIGURE 18 is a partial cross sectional diagram showing the relationship between the cylinder and collar of the actuator used in the scarifier assembly;
FIGURE 19 is a partial top view of a modified scarifier assembly;
FIGURE 20 is a vertical cross sectional view taken along lines 20-20 of FIGURE 19 in the directlon of the arrows;
FIGURE 21 is a partial and view of the soil leveling ; 15 apparatus showing the configuration of the side members; and : FIGURE 22:is a diagram showing an alternate construction of the trailing ground engaging members.
Detailed Description Referring now to the Drawings herein, in which like reference numerals designate like or corresponding elements throughout the views, and particularly ~lements throughout the views, and particularly re~erring to FIGURE 1, there is shown a soi} leveling apparatus lO of the invention. The apparatus 10 comprises a frame 12, a hitch or connection means 14 : 25 mounted on the frame for attachment of the apparatus to a suitable draft means, and a scarifier assemhly 16.
As illustrated, the connection means 14 is adapted for use with a three-point hitch; however, it will be 3~
appreciated that the frame 12 of the apparatus 10 can be provided with an alternate connection means for use with a skid-steer vehicle or any other suitable connecting hitch means depending upon the type of draft vehicle with which the apparatus is to be used.
Referring now to FIGURE 1 in conjunction with FIGURES 2 and 3, the frame 12 of the soil leveling apparatus 10 comprises a leading ground engaging member 18 and a plurality of trailing ground engaging members 20. All of the ground engaging members 18 and 20 are oriented transverse to the direction of travel of the apparatus 10. The foxward ground engaging member 18 as best seen in FIGURE 3, is of generally inverted J-shaped cross section and includes braces 22 secured between the divergent front and back walls of the ground engaging member. A blade 24 is secured to the front, relatively longer wall of the ground engaging member 18 for better cutting action and wear resistance. The blade 24 can be welded, bolted or otherwise suitably secured to the forward ground engaging member 18. It will thus be apparent that the rear wall of the forward ground engaging member 18 is relatively shortex than the front wall. This i5 advantageous because it provides rigidity without allowing soil to plug the interiQr of the member, which can occur under certain conditions when an inverted channel section is utilized for the forward ground engaging member. The forward ground engaging member 18 thus functions as a scraper member.
The forward ground engaging member 18 is secured between a pair of side plates 26 which serve as soil retainers 12~P3883 to prevent the soil from flowing outwardly around the apparatus and thus forming ridges. If desired, braces 28 can be secured between the soil retaining plates 28 and the forward ground engaging member 18 for reinforcement.
A plurality of trailing ground engaging memb~rs 20 are located behind the forward ground engaging member 18 for purposes of leveling the soil. Three trailing ground engaging members 20 are shown; however, any suitable number can be utilized. Each trailing ground engaging member 20 includes a wear plate 30 secured to and enclosing the open end of a hollow member 32. The hollow member 32 is preferably o~
generally inverted rounded V-shaped cross section with the forward wall thereo~ being substantially upright in order to push the soil in a forward direction, and the rear wall being inclined to allow the soil to pass over the ground engaging member in the reverse direction.
The trailing ground engaging members 20 are secured between a pair of longitudinal side members 34. Each side member 34 is of general channel-shaped cross section along the portion thereof extending between the trailing ground engaging members 20 with the upper surfaces of the side members sloping downwardly away from the forward ground engaging member 18.
The ends of the trailing ground enga~ing members 20 are thus butted against the outer legs of the side members 34 and are welded at their ends both to the outer leg and to the lower edge of the inner legs of the side members. A longitudinal member 36 is preferably secured across the tops of the trailing ground engaging members 20 ~or additional rigidity.
~3~3 If desired, lugs 37 can be attached to the side members 34 for connection of a drag or the like to the apparatus 10.
The connection means 14 is of generally A-shaped configuration including a pair of legs 38 which are secured at their lower ends to a pair of laterally spaced apart feet or supports 40 secured to the forward ground engaging member 18.
The legs 38, which are inclined forwardly as shown, extend upwardly to a member 42. The connection means 14, as illustrated, is adapted for use with a three-point hitch, the top and bottom links of which are indicated by phantom lines.
The base supports 40 include pivotal connection points 4~ Por attachment to the bottom links o~ a three-point hitch, while the top members 42 is adapted for attachment to the top link of the three-point hitch. A longitudinal brace 46 is preferably connected between the top member 42 of the connection means 14 and the longitudinal member 46 of the frame 12.
Referring to FIGURE 3 in conjunction with FIGURES 5 and 6, the soil leveling apparatus 10 preferably includes a lost motion linkage 48 in the top member 42 of the connecting means 14. The purpose of the lost motion linkage 48 is to provide an adjustable amount o~ controlled play between the top l.ink o~ the three-point hitch on the draft vehicle ~not shown) and the connection means 14 so that some pivotal floating action of the soil leveling apparatus can occur. The lost motion linkage 14 includes a plate 50, which is illustrated as being a section of channel stock, supported for pivotal movement on a pin 52 extending across the top member ~2~38~33 42. Another pivotal connection 54 is provided at the upper end of the plate 50 for attachment to the top link of the three-point hitch on the draft vehicle. A fi.rst stop 56 is secured to the lower end of the plate 50 for cooperation with a cross piece 58 extending across the lower end of the top msmber 420 The lost motion linkage 48 thus includes a fixed stop which limits rearward pivotal motion of the plate 50. An adjustable stop 60 is also provided for limiting forward pivoting of the plate 50. As illustrated, the adjustable stop 60 comprises a number of shims 62 with offset holes therein through which a bolt 64 extends to secure the shims to the inside of the top member 42. It will thus be appreciated that the amount of pivotal motion of the plate 50 can be controlled by loosening the bolt 64 and turning a suitable number of shims upwardly between the lower end of the plate 50 and the back of the top member ~2, as shown in FIGURE 1/ and then tightening the shims in place with the bolt 64 so as to limit the range of fore~aft pivotal movement of the linkage 48~
This is a significant feature. By means of the adjustable lost motion linkage 48, suitable play can be provided between the top link of a three-point hitch and the connection means 14 of the soil leveling apparatus 10.
Referring again to FIGURES 1 through 3, the soil leveling apparatus 10 preferably includes a scarifier assembly 16 which is mounted for adjustable, vertical positioning relativ~ to the frame 12. The scarifier assembly 16 includes a single connector 66 having a pair of sleeves 68 secured at the forward end for receiving a cross shaft 70 extending ~3~
between the base members 40 of the connection means 14. The cross shaft 70 extends through the sleeves 68 of the connectors 66 and through bushed holes in the base members 40, and is retained in place by means of collars 72.
The connector 66, which is preferably formed from a piece of plate bent as shown for rigidity, alsu includes a pair of clamps 74 at the side opposite that of the sleeves 6~.
Clamps 7~ function to secure the pivotal connector 66 to a second, relatively longer cross shaft 76 on which the teeth subassemblies 77 are suspended in side by-side relationship between ~nd caps 75. Each subassembly 77 includes a depending tooth 78 secured at its upper end to a sleeve 79 pivotally supported on the second cross shaft 76. The scarifier teeth 78 can be individually pivoted to the cross shaft 76, or pivotally supported in groups. Bushings 80 are provided in the ends of each sleeve 79. A double acting ~ylinder 81 is connected between the top brace ~6 and a pair of lugs on the connector 66 for controlling the position of the scarifier assembly 16 and thus the extent of penetration into the soil by the teeth 78.
If desired, a pair of diagonal braces 67, as is best seen in FIGURE 2, can be provided on the undsrside of the connector 66 for reinforcement.
Referring momentarily to FIGURE 4, there is shown a modification of the scarifier assembly 16. The scarifier assembly 16 as shown in FIGURES 1 through 3 includes a number of pivotal scarifier tPeth 78 whose rearward pivotal mot.ion is limited by the adjacent trailing ground engaging member 20.
The longitudinal spacing between the forward ground engaging member 18 and the next adjacent ground engaging member 20 is preferably sufficient to allow the scarifier t:eeth 78 to pivot forwardly out of ground engagement when the apparatus 10 is reversed. In some situations, however, it may be desirable to limit pivotal movement of the scarifier teeth 78 by means other than the next adjacent trailing ground engaging mamber 20. For example, the second cross shaft 76 can be notched as shown in FIGURE 4 for cooperation with an inwardly projecting stop 82 provided on the sleeve supporting the tooth. The particular orientation of the notch in the cross shaft 76 and the stop 82 is not critical to the invention; however, in some situations it may be desirable to rotate their position about 150 degrees clockwise from that shown for better load distribution. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosed stop arrangement can be reversed so that a stop member is provided on the cross shaft 76 for cooperation with a notch in the sleeve supporting the scarifier teeth 78~ This is considered fully equivalent.
FI~URES 7 and 8 illustrated another modification of the scarifier assembly 16. Some conditions call for working the soil less aggressiv~ly than the scarifier teeth 78 would provide. In such situations, tine subassemblies 90 can be substituted for the scarifier subassemblies 77 on the cross shaft 76. Each tine subassembly 90 includes a sleeve 92 with a flange 94 and tool bar 96 secured thereto. Bushings g8 of plastic or other suitable construction are preferably provided in opposite ends of the sleeve 92. A plurality of depending ~3~il3 tines 100 are secured to the tool bar 960 As illustrated, the lower ends of the tines 100 diverge outwardly; however, this is not critical to practice of the invention and either straight or curved tines can be utilized as dlesired. Each tine subassembly 90 further includes a stop 102 thereon for cooperation with another stop 104 mounted on the next adjacent trailing ground engaging member 20. Since the tines 100 are generally less rigid than the scarifier teeth 78, the use of such separate stop structure is preferable. If desired, of course, such separate stop structure could also be adapted for use with the scarifier subassemblies 77. Another cylinder 136 is coupled between the frame brace 46 and the forward cross member 122 of the attachment 110 for controlling its pivotal positioning.
Referring now to FIGURES 9, 10 and 11, there is shown~an optional pulverizer attachment 110 which can be mounted on the soil leveling apparatus 10 to provide additional soil working. The attachment 110 includes a pair of arms 112 which are pivoted at their forward ends to brackets 114 secured by bolts 116 to the side members 34 of frame 12. Each bracket 114 includes an inner sleeve 118 on which an outer sleeve 120 of the associated arm is received to deine a pivot. A palr of cross members 122, 124 are secured between the arms 112 for rigidity and bracing. A toothed roller 126 is mounted for rotation between the outer or trailing ends of the arms 112. As is best seen in FIGURE 11, a bushing 128 is provided in each end of the roller 126 for rotation on an inwardly projecting trunion 130 on a plate 132 ~38133 secured by bolts 134 to the associated arm 112. This type of mounting enables the roller 126 to span substantially the entire width of the apparatus 10 so that the apparatus can be operated closely adjacent to buildings, sidewalks, etc.
Although the assembly 110 is illustrated with a toothed roller 126 for pulverizing small dirt clods and the like, it will be appreciated that other devices can be mounted on the attachment. For example, a row of spring fingers or flexible tines can easily be substituted for the toothed roller 126 and carried by the attachment 110.
FIGURES 12 and 14 illustrate a modification of the tine sub-assembly 90 shown in FIGURES 7 and 8. In the subassembly 90, the tines 100 are secured in fixed relationship to the tool bar 96. Although this construction is sufficiently rugged for most applicatlon, the tines can become damaged and require replacement. Since the tine sub-assembly 90 is not particularly well suited to individual replacement of the tines, the tool bar 96 can be replaced with a channel-like member 140 having a plurality of individual tine carriers 142 secured ln laterally spaced apart relationship thereto. Each carrier 142 is of generally cylindrical construction, with a flat upper end and a beveled lower end. Replaceable tines 144 and 146 are individually mounted in the carriers 142. The tines 144 are substantially straight, while the tines 146 are angled and positioned in alternate carriers 142. Each of the tines 144 are 146 includes a threaded upper end extending through the respective carrier 142 and being secured in place by means of a washer ~2~31!31~;~
148 and nut 150. In addition, each of tines 144 and 146 includes an upset portion or raised lug 152 thereon which engages the beveled lower ends of the carrier 1~2 50 as to effect automatic centering when the nuts 150 are tightened.
It will thus be apparent that the tines 144 and 146 can be readily replaced individually.
FIGURE 13 shows another tine 154 having a straight portion and offset leg portion 156 that can be used in the position of the endmost tine in the sub-assembly 90 in order to span the gaps between adjacent tine sub-assembliss and thus effect scarifying over substantially the entire width of the scarifier assembly 16. The offset tine 15~ also includes a raised lug 152 for centering purposes, and an auxiliary stop 15~ is preferably secured to the respective end of the member 140 to reinforce the offset tine against bending and rotation.
Referring now to FIGURES 15-19, there is shown a soil leveling apparatus 200 incorporating a second embodiment.
The soil leveling apparatus 200 of the second embodiment incorporates numerous component parts which are substantially similar to those employed in the apparatus 10 of the first embodiment described herein. Such component parts have been identified with the same reference numerals utilized herein before, but have been differentiated therefrom by means of prime (') notations.
; 25 The primary difference between the soil leveling apparatus 200 of the second embodiment and the apparatus 10 of the first embodiment is centered in the areas of the hitch and the scarifier assembly. The apparatus 10 of the first ~L2~3~
embodiment incorporates a connection means 14 which is adapted for use with a three-point hitch, like that typically used on tractors. The soil leveling apparatus 200 of the second embodiment, however, preferably includes a hitch 202 which is particularly adapted for use with adaptors o~E the type found on skid steer loaders, although either type of hitch can be used.
The hitch 202 comprises a pair of laterally spaced apart side plates zO4 which are interconnected by cross plates 206 and 208 defining a converging recess for receiving the upper edge of the pivotal edge adaptor plate on the loader.
As shown, the cross plate 206 is reinforced by a channel section 210 and an upright post 212. A pair of laterally spaced apart lower mount plates 214 are secured to the front wall of the leading ground engaging member 18l for releasable connec~ion with latches on the lower end of the adaptor plate (not shown) on the loader. An adaptor plate of suitable construction is shown in U.S. Patent No. 3,672,521.
As illustrated, the soil eveling apparatus 200 also includes an optional scarifier assembly 216. The apparatus 200 can be used either with or without the scarifier assembly 216. As shown, the scarifier assembly 216 includes a fixed cross shaft 218 secured between a pair of brackets 220 fixed to the longitudinal side members 34' which are preferably of inverted generally J-shaped cross section as is best seen in FIGURE 21, although side members of any suitable configuration can he used. A sleeve 222 is supported for rotation about the fixed shaft 218, and a plurality of depending scari~ier teeth ~3l~
224 are secured along the sleeve.
The scarifier assembly 216 is actuated by a cylinder 226 coupled between an offset lug 228 securecl to the sleeve 222, and a collar 230 as is best seen in FIGURE 17. The piston end of cylinder 226 is coupled to lug 228, while the cylinder end thereof is slideably received in the collar 230.
The collar 230 is pivoted on a pair o~ trunions secured between a pair of lugs 232 on the post 2120 In the preferred embodiment, a liner 234 of plastic or other suitable low friction material is provided within the collar 230 to ~acilitate slideable movement of the cylinder 226. This construction thus provides a lost motion connection which enables the operator to reverse direction with the scarifying teeth 224 pivoting upward and riding on the ground, but without actuating cylinder 226. When cylinder 22~ is extended, the cylinder end thereof moves within collar 230 into stopped engagement with post brace 212 so that the scarifier teeth 224 are raised completely or partially out of engagement with the soil. When the cylinder 226 is retracted, the scarifier teeth 224 simply return to their lowered positions, under gravity, as the cylinder end slides away from post 212 in the collar 230, thus providing a lost motion connection which enables the teeth to ride up out of engagement with the soil when the unit is reversed without requiring actuation of the cylinder.
It will ba noted that the soil leveling apparatus 200 also incorporates a longitudinal member 361 and a 12~3~l3 longitudinal brace 461 of generally channel-like construction, but more rounded in order to facilitate forming in a simpler, less expensive manner. In all other respects, the soil leveling apparatus 200 is functionally and structurally similar to the apparatus 10.
FIGURES 19 and 20 illustrate a modificakion involving usage of an intermediate bracket 236 supporting the cross sha~t 218 and providing reinforcement against bending.
Usage o* an intermediate support bracket 236, however, requires splitting the sleeve 222 into sleeve sections 222-A
and 222 B, each of which is provided with a pair of lugs 228-A, as best seen in FIGURE 19. In addition, instead of a collar 230, the cylinder 226 has been provided with a clevis 238 which is supported on a pin 240 extending between lugs 232 to provide a lost motion connection.
It will be understood that the positions of collar 230 on clevis 238 could be reversed, i~ desired. Any such reversal is considered fully equivalent.
The trailing ground engaging members 201 can be of closed construction including wearplates 301 secured to and enclosing the open ends of hollow members 321 . In the alternative, however, ground engaging members 242 of open construction as shown in FIGURE 1~ can be utilized. Each open ground engaging member 242 comprises a hollow member 321 , which is preferably of generally inverted rounded V-shaped cross section with the forward wall thereof being substantially upright in order to push the soil in a forward direction, and the rear wall being inclined to allow the soil 31~133 to pass over the ground engaging member in the reverse direction. However, no wearplate 301 is utilized~ and small blades 244 and 246 can be secured to the walls of the hollow member 2321 to improve cu~ting action and wear resistance.
From the foregoing, it will thus be apparent that the present invention comprises an improved soil leveling apparatus having several advantages over the prior art. One significant advantage involves use of an ad~ustable lost motion connection with the connecting means to provide controlled flexibility and some float of the apparatus in order to compensate for various three-point hitches and soil conditions. Another advantage involves the use of a Eorward ground engaging member which is not susceptible to clogging under sticky soil conditions in order to perform a scraping function more effectively. The connecting means also serves as the primary support for the scarifier assembly. Other advantages will be evident to those skilled in the art.
Although particular embodiments of the invention have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the foregoing detailed description, it will be understood that the invention is not limited only to the embodiments disclosed, but is intended to embrace any equivalents, modifications, substitutions and/or rearrangements of elements falling within the scope of the ~25 invention as defined by the following claims~
Claims
Claims:
1. An apparatus for leveling soil, comprising:
hitch means which is adapted for connection to a tractor or like motive vehicle;
frame means which is connected to said hitch means and includes at least one portion for engaging the ground:
means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means comprising one or more scarifier elements, said frame means further comprising means for guiding said scarifier means in a free-floating relationship relative to an underlying ground surface, said scarifier guiding means further comprising means for guiding said scarifying means in a pivotal relationship with respect to said frame means; and means for moving said scarifying means about said pivotal guide means, said moving means comprising a piston cylinder assembly which is connected to said hitch means by a lost motion piston cylinder mounting means which permits lost motion between the piston cylinder assembly and said frame means.
2. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said piston cylinder assembly mounting means comprises a lost motion connection including a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit free-sliding motion.
3. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a leading transverse elongate scraper member and a plurality of trailing transverse elongate ground engaging members fixably secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
hitch means rigidly secured to said frame for connecting the apparatus to a vehicle; and scarifier means including a plurality of depending movable soil working tools mounted on said frame for movement into and out of engagement with the soil to break up and loosen the soil, said scarifier means comprising a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said frame, at least one sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft, the working tools being secured to each sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions, and lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and said soil working tools mounted thereon, said lost motion means comprising a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit lost motion.
4. An apparatus according to claim 3, further including a trailing attachment comprising:
a pair of longitudinal arms, each arm pivoted at one end to the associated side member of said frame; and soil finishing means mounted between the other end of said arms for pivotal movement into and out of ground engagement.
5. An apparatus according to claim 3, further including means connected between said hitch and said arms for selectively actuating the attachment between raised and lowered positions.
6. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a leading transverse elongate scraper member And at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
the scraper member of said frame having a lower edge, and each ground engaging member being of generally closed tubular construction of inverted generally V-shaped cross section having a lower surface, with the lower edge of the scraper member and the lower surface of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
the side member of said frame each being of inverted generally J-shaped cross section having an outer leg with a straight lower edge, and an inner leg with a straight lower edge that extends across the ground engaging members;
hitch means rigidly secured to said frame for connecting the apparatus to a vehicle; and scarifier means including a plurality of depending pivotal soil working tools mounted on said frame for movement into and out of engagement with the soil to break up and loosen the soil, said scarifier means comprising a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said frame, a sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft, a plurality of depending soil working tools secured to said sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions, and lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and said soil working tools mounted thereon.
7. An apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said hitch means comprises a three-point hitch having a top connection point and a two-spaced apart bottom connection points, and further comprising adjustable lost motion linkage means mounted on the top connection points of said hitch means.
8. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
the scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including a lower surface, the leading edge of the scraper and the lower surfaces of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
a hitch mounted on said frame for releasable connection to a draft means, said hitch including a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points and a top connection point located in spaced relationship between and above the bottom connection points;
a scarifier means comprising a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said frame, a sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft, a plurality of depending soil working tools secured to said sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions relative to the ground, and means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and said soil working tools between raised and lowered positions, said means for selectively effecting comprising a piston cylinder assembly which includes a lost motion connection having a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit free-sliding motion.
9. An apparatus for leveling soil, comprising:
hitch means which is adapted for connection to a tractor or like motive vehicle, said hitch means being adapted for use with skid steer loaders;
frame means which is connected to said hitch means and includes at least one surface for engaging the ground;
means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means including an elongated central portion having at one end a tooth element for engaging the soil;
means for moving said scarifying means about an axis, said moving means comprising a piston cylinder assembly and a piston cylinder assembly lost motion mounting means comprising a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit free-sliding motion.
10. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein said hitch means further comprises a pair of laterally spaced side plates, and a spaced pair of cross plates connected to said side plates so as to define a converging recess which is adapted for receiving an upper edge of the pivotal edge adaptor plate on a loader.
11. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
the scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including a lower surface, the leading edge of the scraper member and the lower surface of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
hitch means adapted for use with skid steer loaders, said hitch means comprising a pair of laterally spaced apart side plates, and a spaced pair of cross plates connected to said side plates so as to define a converging recess which is adapted for receiving an upper edge of a pivotal edge adaptor plate on a loader;
soil finishing means pivoted to said frame for movement into and out of ground engagement: and means connected to said frame means for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means including an elongated central portion having at one end a tooth element for engaging the soil, and means for moving said scarifying means about an axis, said moving means comprising a cylinder and means coupled between said frame and said scarifying means defining a lost motion connection, whereby reversal of the apparatus enables said scarifying means to pivot out of ground engagement without actuating said cylinder.
12. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising, a generally rectangular frame including a transverse elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members, wherein the side members of the frame are each of generally channel-shaped cross section having an outer leg with a lower edge that is substantially parallel with the lower edge of the scraper member and the lower surfaces of the ground engaging members, and an inwardly spaced inner leg which is secured to the ground engaging members;
the scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including a lower edge with the leading edge of the scraper member and the lower edges of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
hitch means adapted for use with skid steer loaders, said hitch means comprising a pair of laterally spaced apart side plates, and a spaced pair of cross plates connected to said side plates so as to define a converging recess which is adapted for receiving an upper edge of the pivotal edge adaptor plate on a loader;
means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means including an elongated central portion having at one end a tooth element for engaging the soil; and means for moving said scarifying means about an axis, said moving means comprising a cylinder and means coupled between said frame and said scarifying means defining a slot motion connection, whereby reversal of the apparatus enables said scarifying means to pivot out of ground engagement without actuating said cylinder.
13. An apparatus according to claim 12, further including wear plates secured across the lower edges of the legs of said ground engaging members.
14. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
the scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including a lower surface, the leading edge of the scraper member and the lower surface of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar a hitch mounted on said frame for releasable connection to a draft means, said hitch including a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points and a top connection point located in spaced relationship between and above the bottom connection points;
a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said frame;
a sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft;
a plurality of depending soil working tools secured to said sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered position relative to the ground.
15. An apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and said soil working tools between raised and lowered positions, said lost motion means comprising a piston cylinder assembly, a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit free-sliding motion therebetween.
16. An apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising a pair of opposing raised brackets secured to the side member of said frame, said shaft being supported between said brackets.
17. An apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising stop means associated with said sleeve for limiting pivotal movement of said soil working tools.
18. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
a scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including a lower surface, the leading edge of the scraper and the lower surfaces of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
hitch means adapted for use with skid steer loaders, said hitch means comprising a pair of laterally spaced apart side plates and a spaced pair of cross plates connected to said side plates so as to define a converging recess which is adapted for receiving an upper edge of a pivotal edge adaptor plate on a loader;
a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said frame;
a sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft;
a plurality of depending soil working tools secured to said sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions; and lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and soil working tools mounted thereon between raised and lowered positions.
1. An apparatus for leveling soil, comprising:
hitch means which is adapted for connection to a tractor or like motive vehicle;
frame means which is connected to said hitch means and includes at least one portion for engaging the ground:
means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means comprising one or more scarifier elements, said frame means further comprising means for guiding said scarifier means in a free-floating relationship relative to an underlying ground surface, said scarifier guiding means further comprising means for guiding said scarifying means in a pivotal relationship with respect to said frame means; and means for moving said scarifying means about said pivotal guide means, said moving means comprising a piston cylinder assembly which is connected to said hitch means by a lost motion piston cylinder mounting means which permits lost motion between the piston cylinder assembly and said frame means.
2. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said piston cylinder assembly mounting means comprises a lost motion connection including a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit free-sliding motion.
3. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a leading transverse elongate scraper member and a plurality of trailing transverse elongate ground engaging members fixably secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
hitch means rigidly secured to said frame for connecting the apparatus to a vehicle; and scarifier means including a plurality of depending movable soil working tools mounted on said frame for movement into and out of engagement with the soil to break up and loosen the soil, said scarifier means comprising a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said frame, at least one sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft, the working tools being secured to each sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions, and lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and said soil working tools mounted thereon, said lost motion means comprising a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit lost motion.
4. An apparatus according to claim 3, further including a trailing attachment comprising:
a pair of longitudinal arms, each arm pivoted at one end to the associated side member of said frame; and soil finishing means mounted between the other end of said arms for pivotal movement into and out of ground engagement.
5. An apparatus according to claim 3, further including means connected between said hitch and said arms for selectively actuating the attachment between raised and lowered positions.
6. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a leading transverse elongate scraper member And at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
the scraper member of said frame having a lower edge, and each ground engaging member being of generally closed tubular construction of inverted generally V-shaped cross section having a lower surface, with the lower edge of the scraper member and the lower surface of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
the side member of said frame each being of inverted generally J-shaped cross section having an outer leg with a straight lower edge, and an inner leg with a straight lower edge that extends across the ground engaging members;
hitch means rigidly secured to said frame for connecting the apparatus to a vehicle; and scarifier means including a plurality of depending pivotal soil working tools mounted on said frame for movement into and out of engagement with the soil to break up and loosen the soil, said scarifier means comprising a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said frame, a sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft, a plurality of depending soil working tools secured to said sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions, and lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and said soil working tools mounted thereon.
7. An apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said hitch means comprises a three-point hitch having a top connection point and a two-spaced apart bottom connection points, and further comprising adjustable lost motion linkage means mounted on the top connection points of said hitch means.
8. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
the scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including a lower surface, the leading edge of the scraper and the lower surfaces of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
a hitch mounted on said frame for releasable connection to a draft means, said hitch including a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points and a top connection point located in spaced relationship between and above the bottom connection points;
a scarifier means comprising a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said frame, a sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft, a plurality of depending soil working tools secured to said sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions relative to the ground, and means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and said soil working tools between raised and lowered positions, said means for selectively effecting comprising a piston cylinder assembly which includes a lost motion connection having a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit free-sliding motion.
9. An apparatus for leveling soil, comprising:
hitch means which is adapted for connection to a tractor or like motive vehicle, said hitch means being adapted for use with skid steer loaders;
frame means which is connected to said hitch means and includes at least one surface for engaging the ground;
means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means including an elongated central portion having at one end a tooth element for engaging the soil;
means for moving said scarifying means about an axis, said moving means comprising a piston cylinder assembly and a piston cylinder assembly lost motion mounting means comprising a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit free-sliding motion.
10. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein said hitch means further comprises a pair of laterally spaced side plates, and a spaced pair of cross plates connected to said side plates so as to define a converging recess which is adapted for receiving an upper edge of the pivotal edge adaptor plate on a loader.
11. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
the scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including a lower surface, the leading edge of the scraper member and the lower surface of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
hitch means adapted for use with skid steer loaders, said hitch means comprising a pair of laterally spaced apart side plates, and a spaced pair of cross plates connected to said side plates so as to define a converging recess which is adapted for receiving an upper edge of a pivotal edge adaptor plate on a loader;
soil finishing means pivoted to said frame for movement into and out of ground engagement: and means connected to said frame means for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means including an elongated central portion having at one end a tooth element for engaging the soil, and means for moving said scarifying means about an axis, said moving means comprising a cylinder and means coupled between said frame and said scarifying means defining a lost motion connection, whereby reversal of the apparatus enables said scarifying means to pivot out of ground engagement without actuating said cylinder.
12. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising, a generally rectangular frame including a transverse elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members, wherein the side members of the frame are each of generally channel-shaped cross section having an outer leg with a lower edge that is substantially parallel with the lower edge of the scraper member and the lower surfaces of the ground engaging members, and an inwardly spaced inner leg which is secured to the ground engaging members;
the scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including a lower edge with the leading edge of the scraper member and the lower edges of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
hitch means adapted for use with skid steer loaders, said hitch means comprising a pair of laterally spaced apart side plates, and a spaced pair of cross plates connected to said side plates so as to define a converging recess which is adapted for receiving an upper edge of the pivotal edge adaptor plate on a loader;
means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, said scarifying means including an elongated central portion having at one end a tooth element for engaging the soil; and means for moving said scarifying means about an axis, said moving means comprising a cylinder and means coupled between said frame and said scarifying means defining a slot motion connection, whereby reversal of the apparatus enables said scarifying means to pivot out of ground engagement without actuating said cylinder.
13. An apparatus according to claim 12, further including wear plates secured across the lower edges of the legs of said ground engaging members.
14. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
the scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including a lower surface, the leading edge of the scraper member and the lower surface of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar a hitch mounted on said frame for releasable connection to a draft means, said hitch including a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points and a top connection point located in spaced relationship between and above the bottom connection points;
a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said frame;
a sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft;
a plurality of depending soil working tools secured to said sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered position relative to the ground.
15. An apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and said soil working tools between raised and lowered positions, said lost motion means comprising a piston cylinder assembly, a clevis which is connected to said piston cylinder assembly, and a pin which is connected to said frame means and is mounted within said clevis so as to permit free-sliding motion therebetween.
16. An apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising a pair of opposing raised brackets secured to the side member of said frame, said shaft being supported between said brackets.
17. An apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising stop means associated with said sleeve for limiting pivotal movement of said soil working tools.
18. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
a scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including a lower surface, the leading edge of the scraper and the lower surfaces of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
hitch means adapted for use with skid steer loaders, said hitch means comprising a pair of laterally spaced apart side plates and a spaced pair of cross plates connected to said side plates so as to define a converging recess which is adapted for receiving an upper edge of a pivotal edge adaptor plate on a loader;
a transverse shaft supported at opposite ends on the side members of said frame;
a sleeve mounted for rotation about said shaft;
a plurality of depending soil working tools secured to said sleeve for pivotal movement between raised and lowered positions; and lost motion means for selectively effecting pivotal movement of said sleeve and soil working tools mounted thereon between raised and lowered positions.
Applications Claiming Priority (6)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US06/224,458 US4448258A (en) | 1981-01-12 | 1981-01-12 | Soil leveling apparatus |
| US224,458 | 1981-01-12 | ||
| US570,347 | 1984-01-13 | ||
| US06/570,347 US4585075A (en) | 1981-01-12 | 1984-01-13 | Soil leveling apparatus with improved frame and hitch |
| US85681886A | 1986-04-28 | 1986-04-28 | |
| US856,818 | 1986-04-28 |
Related Parent Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000535606A Division CA1293635C (en) | 1986-04-28 | 1987-04-27 | Soil leveling apparatus with improved frame and hitch |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1293883C true CA1293883C (en) | 1992-01-07 |
Family
ID=27397354
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000615834A Expired - Lifetime CA1293883C (en) | 1981-01-12 | 1990-08-16 | Soil leveling apparatus with improved frame and hitch |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1293883C (en) |
-
1990
- 1990-08-16 CA CA000615834A patent/CA1293883C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKLA | Lapsed |