CA1326355C - Soil leveling apparatus with improved frame and hitch - Google Patents
Soil leveling apparatus with improved frame and hitchInfo
- Publication number
- CA1326355C CA1326355C CA 471983 CA471983A CA1326355C CA 1326355 C CA1326355 C CA 1326355C CA 471983 CA471983 CA 471983 CA 471983 A CA471983 A CA 471983A CA 1326355 C CA1326355 C CA 1326355C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- soil
- frame
- hitch
- pivotal
- ground engaging
- 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 - Fee Related
Links
- 239000002689 soil Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 132
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000010298 pulverizing process Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000007667 floating Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000007790 scraping Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000009499 grossing Methods 0.000 claims 4
- 238000005188 flotation Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 4
- 241001236644 Lavinia Species 0.000 description 2
- 230000006872 improvement Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000002787 reinforcement Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000035515 penetration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008707 rearrangement Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003245 working effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Landscapes
- 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
Soil leveling apparatus with improved frame and hitch Technical Field The present invention relates generally to a device for attachment to a vehicle for cutting, leveling and other-wise grading 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, sod-ding, paving or whatever the next and usually final con-struction 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, depend-ing upon the soil conditions, and multiple passes over the site which is both time consuming and expensive.
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 unsatis-factory because it did not allow for controlling the angle or grade of the soil surface, and loose dirt tended to 25 collect in front of the board which would ~............... . ..
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escape around the outer edges 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 5 adapted to overcome the difficulties associated with the prior art at that time. This device generally con-sisted of a frame adapted for connection to a three-point hitch on a draft vehicle such as a tractor. The frame consisted of a number of transverse ground lO engaging members arranged in longitudinally spaced apart relationship. The leadinq member therein was a member of generally inverted U-shaped cross section to effect cutting, while the other trailing members were of closed, generally rectangular cross section for lS leveling purposes. The transverse ground engaging mem-bers 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 20 soil to avoid.fo~tion of soil ridges. `-s This device operated well and was a signifi-cant improvement over the prior art at that time, although experience later showed that improvements could be made. The patent referenced above, 25 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 of a leading ground engaging menlber of generally inverted U-shaped 30 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 35 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 D
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gouging, however, too much looseness is undesirable.
Further, 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 ~orking 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, con-nection means for the hitch, and other features and options which enhance its capability and versatility.
The frame comprises a plurality of transverse ground engaging members, the leading member being a scraper member of generally inverted J-shaped cross section in order to avoid soil plugging. The frame includes a pair of laterally spaced apart side frame members which are of uneven channel-like 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 adjustible scarifier assembly.
This also simplifies construction of the soil leveling ... . ~ . , .
apparatus and enhances the structural integrity thereof. An adjustable lost motion linkage is prefexably 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: frame means which includes at least one portion for engaging the ground; hitch means comprising a three point hitch with a top connection point and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points;
lost motion connection mounted pivotal about a transverse axis through the said top connection point of the three point hitch; means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil.
In another embodiment there is provided an adjustahle lost motion connection for mounting between the top link of a three-point hitch and an attachment, which comprises: an outer section secured to the attachment, said outer section having top and bottom ends and comprising spaced apart side plates; an inner section extending into the top end of said outer section between said side plates of said outer section, said inner section having opposite ends; means for supporting said inner section for pivotal movement relative to said outer section about a transverse axis; means for connecting the top link of the three-point hitch to one end of said inner seation; and adjustable stop means for limiting pivotal movement of said one end of said inner section.
In yet a further embodiment there is provided an apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising: a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and one or more trailing transverse elongate ground engaging members fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship; the scraper member having a leading lower edge and each ground engaging member including at least one lower surface, with the leading edge of the scraper member and the lower surfaces of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar; a hitch mounted on said frame for .
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~ 1 326355 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; and a lost motion linkage mounted on the top connection point of said hitch;
said lost motion linkage including: at least one plate mounted for pivotal movement about the top connection point of said hitch, said plate having an upper end; a pivotal connection point at the upper end of said plate; and a stop for limiting pivotal movement of the upper end of said plate toward the draft means, wherein said stop is adjustable to adjust the amount of pivotal motion that is allowed for said upper end of said plate toward the draft means.
In another embodiment there is provided an apparatus for working soil, comprising: a frame means including at least one forward ground engaging member longitudinally spaced apart from at least one rearward ground engaging member; a three-point hitch means attached to said frame means at or adjacent the forward ground engaging member, said three-point hitch means including a top connection point and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points, said three-point hitch means having at said top connection point a lost mction linkage which is freely pivotal about a transverse axis on the three-point hitch means during normal operation of the frame means such that the forward ground engaging member can be vertically raised and lowered without vertical movement of the rearward ground engaging member by a vertical lifting movement of the bottom connection points; and a stop for engaging the lost motion linkage after a predetermined vertical movement of the bottom connection points such that further upward motion of the bottom connection points will raise the entire frame means from the ground through the action of all three connection points, wherein said stop is adjustable to change the amount of predetermined vertical movement allowed before the lost motion linkage means is engaged.
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- 4b - 1 326355 The present invention also provides a method of leveling soil comprising: passing a leading scraper member over the soil, vertically lowering said leading scraper member to cut the soil, vertically raising said leading scraper member to release the soil; said leading scraper member being attached to a frame means, said frame means being attached to a three-point hitch through a pivotal lost motion linkage;
leveling the soil with a trailing ground engaging member, said trailing ground engaging member remaining vertically stationary relative to vertical movement of said leading scraper member; and vertical movement of said leading scraper member relative to non-vertical movement of said trailing ground engaging member is achieved by means of the lost motion linkage.
Brief Descri~tion 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 1 is a perspective view of an improved soil .
leveling apparatus of the invention;
FIGURE 2 is 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 I in the direction of the arrows;
FIGURE a is an enlarged detailed view of a 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 is vertical sectional view taken along lines 6-6 of FIGURE 5 in the direction of the arrows;
FIGURE 7 is an enlarged 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;
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.iP 1 326355 - 4c -FIGVRE 8 is a sectional detailed view the tine assembly of FIGURE 7 mounted on the cross-shaft of the scarifier assembly;
FIGVRE 9 is a partial perspective view showing the soil leveling apparatus herein with an optional T
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~ 1 326355 pivotal pulverizer assembly mounted thereon and, 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.
Detailed Description Referring now to the Drawings herein, in which like reference numerals designate like or corresponding elements throughout the views, and particularly referring to FIGURE
1, there is shown a soil leveling apparatus 10 of the invention. The apparatus 10 comprises a frame 12, a hitch or connection means 14 mounted on the frame for attachment of the apparatus to a suitable draft means, and a scarifier assembly 16.
As illustrated, the connection means 14 is adapted for use with a three-point hitch, however, it will be appreciated that the frame 12 of the apparatus 10 can be provided with a connection means like that shown in the parent application 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.
~ eferring now to FIGURE 1 in conjunction with FIGURES 2 and 3, the frame 12 of the soil leveling appara-tus 10 comprises a leading ground engaging member 18 and a plurality of trailing ground engaging members 20. All of the ground engaging members L8 and 20 are oriented trans-verse to the direction of travel of the apparatus 10. The forward ground engaging member 18, as is 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 :: i ~ . .
~ 1 326355 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 shorter than the front wall. This is advan-tageous because it provides rigidity without allowing soil to plug the interior 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 sidç plates 26 which serve as soil retainers to prevent the soil from flowing out-wardly around the apparatus and thus forming ridges.
If desired, braces 28 can be secured between the soil retaining plates 26 and the forward ground e~gaging member 18 for reinforcement.
A plurality of trailing ground engaging mem-bers 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 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 to pass over the ground engaging member in the reverse direc-tion.
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 ..., ' ,.
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trailing ground engaging members 20 with the upper sur-faces of the side members sloping downwardly away from the forward ground engaging member 18. The ends of the trailing ground engaging 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 for additional rigidity. 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 Jto 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 44 for attachment to the bottom links of a three-point hitch, while the top member 42 is adapted for attach-ment 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 pre-ferably 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 of controlled play between the top link of the three-point hitch on the draft vehicle and the connec-tion means 14 so that some pivotal floating action of the soil leveling apparatus can occur. The lost motion . . ~
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~` 1 326355 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 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
first stop 56 is secured to the lower end of the plate for cooperation with a cross piece 58 extending ac~oss the lower end of the top member 42. The lost motion linkage 4~ thus includes a fixed stop which limits rearward pivotal motion of the plate 50. And adjustable stop 60 is also provided for limiting for-ward 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 1006ening 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 42, 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 comprises a significant feature of the present invention. 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 connectiQn ~eans 1~ of the soi' 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 relative to the frame 12. The scarifier assen~ly 16 includes a single connector 66 having a pair of sleeves 68 secured at the forward end for receiving a cross shaft 70 e.Ytending between the base members 40 of the connection means 14. The cross shaft 70 extends through the sleeves 68 of the connec-~ ` 1 326355 g tors 66 and through bushed holes in the base members40, and is retained in place be means of collars 72.
The connector 66, which is preferably formed from a piece of plate bent as shown for rigidity, also includes a pair of clamps 74 at the side opposite that of the sleeves 68. Clamps 74 function to secure the pivotal connector 66 to a second, relativel~ longer cross shaft 76 on which the teeth subassemblies 77 are suspended in side-by-side relationship between end caps..
Each subassembly 77 includes a depending tooth 78 secured at its upper end to a sleeve 79 pivotally sup-ported 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 cylinder 81 is connected between the top brace 46 and a pair of lugs on the connector 66 for controlling the position of the scarifier assembay 16 and thus the extent of penetration into the soil by the teeth 78.
If desired, a pair of diagonal braces ~7, as is best seen in FIGURE 2, can be provided on the under-side 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 teeth 78 whose rearward pivotal motion 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 pre-ferably sufficient to allow the scarifier teeth 78 to pivot forwardly out of ground engagement when the apparatus 10 is reversed. In some situations, however, it may be de~irable to limit pivotal movement of the scarifier teeth 78 by means other than the next adja-cent trailing ground engaging member 20. For example, ~ ' a "
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. . : -` 1 326355 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 inven-tion, 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.
FIGURES 7 and 8 illustrate another modifica-tion of the scarifier assembly 16. Some conditions call for working the soil less aggressively than the scarifier teeth 78 would provide. In such situations, tine subassemblies 90 can be substituted fo~ 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 98 of plastic or other suitable construction are preferably provided in opposite ends of the sleeve 92. A plura-lity of depending tines 100 are secured to the tool bar 96. 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 desired. 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 S 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 define a pivot. A pair 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 pro-jecting trunion 130 on a plate 132 secured by bol~s 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 apparàtus can be operated closely adjacent to buildings, sidewalks, etc.
Although the assembly 110 is illustrated with a toothed roller 126 for pulverizing small dirt clots 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 substi-tuted for the toothed roller 126 and carried by the attachment 110.
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 adjustable lost motion connection with the con-necting means to provide controlled flexibility and some float of the apparatus in order to compensate for various three-point hitches and soil conditions.
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- ~, ;-12-Another advantage involves the use of a forward 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 inven-ti,on 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 invention as defined by the following claims.
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Background Art Proper site preparation requires that the ground be graded as necessary for compatibility with planting, sod-ding, paving or whatever the next and usually final con-struction 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, depend-ing upon the soil conditions, and multiple passes over the site which is both time consuming and expensive.
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 unsatis-factory because it did not allow for controlling the angle or grade of the soil surface, and loose dirt tended to 25 collect in front of the board which would ~............... . ..
~:, . . , i.. . : . .: .
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- :. . : . .
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escape around the outer edges 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 5 adapted to overcome the difficulties associated with the prior art at that time. This device generally con-sisted of a frame adapted for connection to a three-point hitch on a draft vehicle such as a tractor. The frame consisted of a number of transverse ground lO engaging members arranged in longitudinally spaced apart relationship. The leadinq member therein was a member of generally inverted U-shaped cross section to effect cutting, while the other trailing members were of closed, generally rectangular cross section for lS leveling purposes. The transverse ground engaging mem-bers 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 20 soil to avoid.fo~tion of soil ridges. `-s This device operated well and was a signifi-cant improvement over the prior art at that time, although experience later showed that improvements could be made. The patent referenced above, 25 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 of a leading ground engaging menlber of generally inverted U-shaped 30 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 35 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 D
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gouging, however, too much looseness is undesirable.
Further, 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 ~orking 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, con-nection means for the hitch, and other features and options which enhance its capability and versatility.
The frame comprises a plurality of transverse ground engaging members, the leading member being a scraper member of generally inverted J-shaped cross section in order to avoid soil plugging. The frame includes a pair of laterally spaced apart side frame members which are of uneven channel-like 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 adjustible scarifier assembly.
This also simplifies construction of the soil leveling ... . ~ . , .
apparatus and enhances the structural integrity thereof. An adjustable lost motion linkage is prefexably 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: frame means which includes at least one portion for engaging the ground; hitch means comprising a three point hitch with a top connection point and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points;
lost motion connection mounted pivotal about a transverse axis through the said top connection point of the three point hitch; means connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil.
In another embodiment there is provided an adjustahle lost motion connection for mounting between the top link of a three-point hitch and an attachment, which comprises: an outer section secured to the attachment, said outer section having top and bottom ends and comprising spaced apart side plates; an inner section extending into the top end of said outer section between said side plates of said outer section, said inner section having opposite ends; means for supporting said inner section for pivotal movement relative to said outer section about a transverse axis; means for connecting the top link of the three-point hitch to one end of said inner seation; and adjustable stop means for limiting pivotal movement of said one end of said inner section.
In yet a further embodiment there is provided an apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising: a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and one or more trailing transverse elongate ground engaging members fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship; the scraper member having a leading lower edge and each ground engaging member including at least one lower surface, with the leading edge of the scraper member and the lower surfaces of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar; a hitch mounted on said frame for .
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~ 1 326355 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; and a lost motion linkage mounted on the top connection point of said hitch;
said lost motion linkage including: at least one plate mounted for pivotal movement about the top connection point of said hitch, said plate having an upper end; a pivotal connection point at the upper end of said plate; and a stop for limiting pivotal movement of the upper end of said plate toward the draft means, wherein said stop is adjustable to adjust the amount of pivotal motion that is allowed for said upper end of said plate toward the draft means.
In another embodiment there is provided an apparatus for working soil, comprising: a frame means including at least one forward ground engaging member longitudinally spaced apart from at least one rearward ground engaging member; a three-point hitch means attached to said frame means at or adjacent the forward ground engaging member, said three-point hitch means including a top connection point and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points, said three-point hitch means having at said top connection point a lost mction linkage which is freely pivotal about a transverse axis on the three-point hitch means during normal operation of the frame means such that the forward ground engaging member can be vertically raised and lowered without vertical movement of the rearward ground engaging member by a vertical lifting movement of the bottom connection points; and a stop for engaging the lost motion linkage after a predetermined vertical movement of the bottom connection points such that further upward motion of the bottom connection points will raise the entire frame means from the ground through the action of all three connection points, wherein said stop is adjustable to change the amount of predetermined vertical movement allowed before the lost motion linkage means is engaged.
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- 4b - 1 326355 The present invention also provides a method of leveling soil comprising: passing a leading scraper member over the soil, vertically lowering said leading scraper member to cut the soil, vertically raising said leading scraper member to release the soil; said leading scraper member being attached to a frame means, said frame means being attached to a three-point hitch through a pivotal lost motion linkage;
leveling the soil with a trailing ground engaging member, said trailing ground engaging member remaining vertically stationary relative to vertical movement of said leading scraper member; and vertical movement of said leading scraper member relative to non-vertical movement of said trailing ground engaging member is achieved by means of the lost motion linkage.
Brief Descri~tion 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 1 is a perspective view of an improved soil .
leveling apparatus of the invention;
FIGURE 2 is 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 I in the direction of the arrows;
FIGURE a is an enlarged detailed view of a 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 is vertical sectional view taken along lines 6-6 of FIGURE 5 in the direction of the arrows;
FIGURE 7 is an enlarged 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;
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.iP 1 326355 - 4c -FIGVRE 8 is a sectional detailed view the tine assembly of FIGURE 7 mounted on the cross-shaft of the scarifier assembly;
FIGVRE 9 is a partial perspective view showing the soil leveling apparatus herein with an optional T
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~ 1 326355 pivotal pulverizer assembly mounted thereon and, 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.
Detailed Description Referring now to the Drawings herein, in which like reference numerals designate like or corresponding elements throughout the views, and particularly referring to FIGURE
1, there is shown a soil leveling apparatus 10 of the invention. The apparatus 10 comprises a frame 12, a hitch or connection means 14 mounted on the frame for attachment of the apparatus to a suitable draft means, and a scarifier assembly 16.
As illustrated, the connection means 14 is adapted for use with a three-point hitch, however, it will be appreciated that the frame 12 of the apparatus 10 can be provided with a connection means like that shown in the parent application 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.
~ eferring now to FIGURE 1 in conjunction with FIGURES 2 and 3, the frame 12 of the soil leveling appara-tus 10 comprises a leading ground engaging member 18 and a plurality of trailing ground engaging members 20. All of the ground engaging members L8 and 20 are oriented trans-verse to the direction of travel of the apparatus 10. The forward ground engaging member 18, as is 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 :: i ~ . .
~ 1 326355 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 shorter than the front wall. This is advan-tageous because it provides rigidity without allowing soil to plug the interior 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 sidç plates 26 which serve as soil retainers to prevent the soil from flowing out-wardly around the apparatus and thus forming ridges.
If desired, braces 28 can be secured between the soil retaining plates 26 and the forward ground e~gaging member 18 for reinforcement.
A plurality of trailing ground engaging mem-bers 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 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 to pass over the ground engaging member in the reverse direc-tion.
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 ..., ' ,.
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trailing ground engaging members 20 with the upper sur-faces of the side members sloping downwardly away from the forward ground engaging member 18. The ends of the trailing ground engaging 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 for additional rigidity. 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 Jto 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 44 for attachment to the bottom links of a three-point hitch, while the top member 42 is adapted for attach-ment 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 pre-ferably 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 of controlled play between the top link of the three-point hitch on the draft vehicle and the connec-tion means 14 so that some pivotal floating action of the soil leveling apparatus can occur. The lost motion . . ~
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~` 1 326355 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 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
first stop 56 is secured to the lower end of the plate for cooperation with a cross piece 58 extending ac~oss the lower end of the top member 42. The lost motion linkage 4~ thus includes a fixed stop which limits rearward pivotal motion of the plate 50. And adjustable stop 60 is also provided for limiting for-ward 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 1006ening 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 42, 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 comprises a significant feature of the present invention. 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 connectiQn ~eans 1~ of the soi' 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 relative to the frame 12. The scarifier assen~ly 16 includes a single connector 66 having a pair of sleeves 68 secured at the forward end for receiving a cross shaft 70 e.Ytending between the base members 40 of the connection means 14. The cross shaft 70 extends through the sleeves 68 of the connec-~ ` 1 326355 g tors 66 and through bushed holes in the base members40, and is retained in place be means of collars 72.
The connector 66, which is preferably formed from a piece of plate bent as shown for rigidity, also includes a pair of clamps 74 at the side opposite that of the sleeves 68. Clamps 74 function to secure the pivotal connector 66 to a second, relativel~ longer cross shaft 76 on which the teeth subassemblies 77 are suspended in side-by-side relationship between end caps..
Each subassembly 77 includes a depending tooth 78 secured at its upper end to a sleeve 79 pivotally sup-ported 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 cylinder 81 is connected between the top brace 46 and a pair of lugs on the connector 66 for controlling the position of the scarifier assembay 16 and thus the extent of penetration into the soil by the teeth 78.
If desired, a pair of diagonal braces ~7, as is best seen in FIGURE 2, can be provided on the under-side 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 teeth 78 whose rearward pivotal motion 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 pre-ferably sufficient to allow the scarifier teeth 78 to pivot forwardly out of ground engagement when the apparatus 10 is reversed. In some situations, however, it may be de~irable to limit pivotal movement of the scarifier teeth 78 by means other than the next adja-cent trailing ground engaging member 20. For example, ~ ' a "
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. . : -` 1 326355 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 inven-tion, 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.
FIGURES 7 and 8 illustrate another modifica-tion of the scarifier assembly 16. Some conditions call for working the soil less aggressively than the scarifier teeth 78 would provide. In such situations, tine subassemblies 90 can be substituted fo~ 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 98 of plastic or other suitable construction are preferably provided in opposite ends of the sleeve 92. A plura-lity of depending tines 100 are secured to the tool bar 96. 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 desired. 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 S 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 define a pivot. A pair 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 pro-jecting trunion 130 on a plate 132 secured by bol~s 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 apparàtus can be operated closely adjacent to buildings, sidewalks, etc.
Although the assembly 110 is illustrated with a toothed roller 126 for pulverizing small dirt clots 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 substi-tuted for the toothed roller 126 and carried by the attachment 110.
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 adjustable lost motion connection with the con-necting means to provide controlled flexibility and some float of the apparatus in order to compensate for various three-point hitches and soil conditions.
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- ~, ;-12-Another advantage involves the use of a forward 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 inven-ti,on 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 invention as defined by the following claims.
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Claims (52)
1. An adjustable lost motion connection for mounting between the top link of a three-point hitch and an attachment, which comprises:
an outer section secured to the attachment, said outer section having top and bottom ends and comprising spaced apart side plates;
an inner section extending into the top end of said outer section between said side plates of said outer section, said inner section having opposite ends;
means for supporting said inner section for pivotal movement relative to said outer section about a transverse axis;
means for connecting the top link of the three-point hitch to one end of said inner section; and adjustable stop means for limiting pivotal movement of said one end of said inner section.
an outer section secured to the attachment, said outer section having top and bottom ends and comprising spaced apart side plates;
an inner section extending into the top end of said outer section between said side plates of said outer section, said inner section having opposite ends;
means for supporting said inner section for pivotal movement relative to said outer section about a transverse axis;
means for connecting the top link of the three-point hitch to one end of said inner section; and adjustable stop means for limiting pivotal movement of said one end of said inner section.
2. An adjustable lost motion connection as recited in claim 1, wherein the said one end of said inner section is in a predetermined relationship above the transverse axis; and the said pivoted movement is in a direction toward the three-point hitch.
3. An adjustable lost motion connection for mounting between the top link of a three-point hitch and an attachment, which comprises:
an outer channel section secured to the attachment said outer channel section having top and bottom ends;
an inner channel section extending into the top end of said outer channel section, said inner channel section having opposite ends;
means for supporting said inner channel section for pivotal movement relative to said outer channel section about a transverse axis;
means for connecting the top link of the three-point hitch to one end of said inner channel section in predeter-mined spaced relationship above the transverse axis; and adjustable stop means for limiting pivotal movement of said one end of said inner channel section in a direction toward the three-point hitch.
an outer channel section secured to the attachment said outer channel section having top and bottom ends;
an inner channel section extending into the top end of said outer channel section, said inner channel section having opposite ends;
means for supporting said inner channel section for pivotal movement relative to said outer channel section about a transverse axis;
means for connecting the top link of the three-point hitch to one end of said inner channel section in predeter-mined spaced relationship above the transverse axis; and adjustable stop means for limiting pivotal movement of said one end of said inner channel section in a direction toward the three-point hitch.
4. An adjustable lost motion connection as recited in claim 3, further including a fixed stop on said outer channel section for limiting pivotal movement of the one end of said inner channel section in a direction away from the three-point hitch.
5. An adjustable lost motion connection as recited in claim 3, wherein the adjustable stop means comprises a plurality of shims which may be interposed between the inner and outer channel sections in a first position such that the shims are effective to stop pivotal movement of said one end of said inner channel section in a direction toward the three-point hitch, wherein the number of shims interposed between the inner and outer channel sections can be selectively varied to adjust the degree of pivoting allowed for said one end of said inner channel section in a direction toward the three-point hitch.
6. An adjustable lost motion connection as recited in claim 5, wherein the shims are rotatably carried on a support member for individual rotation thereon, wherein the shims may be selectively individually rotated from said first position to a second clearance position in which the shims are not effective to stop pivotal movement of said one end of said inner channel section in a direction toward the three-point hitch, whereby the user can adjust the stop means by selecting a desired number of shims to be rotated into said first position.
7. An adjustable lost motion connection as recited in claim 6, wherein the support member on which the shims are carried is secured to the outer channel section.
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 together in mutually spaced apart relationship;
the scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including at least one lower surface, with the leading edge of the scraper member 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; and lost motion linkage means mounted on the top connection point of said hitch for limiting free pivotal movement of the apparatus away from the draft means about a transverse axis defined by the bottom connection points, wherein the lost motion linkage means comprises:
a pivotal member at the top connection point of said hitch; and stop means operable between said hitch and said pivotal member for engaging said pivotal member after a predetermined amount of rotation of said member to limit the lost motion allowed by the pivotal member to a predetermined amount, and wherein said stop means is adjustable to selectively vary the amount of lost motion which is allowed before the stop means prevents further rotation by the pivotal member.
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and at least one trailing transverse elongate ground engaging member fixedly secured together in mutually spaced apart relationship;
the scraper member including a leading lower edge, and each ground engaging member including at least one lower surface, with the leading edge of the scraper member 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; and lost motion linkage means mounted on the top connection point of said hitch for limiting free pivotal movement of the apparatus away from the draft means about a transverse axis defined by the bottom connection points, wherein the lost motion linkage means comprises:
a pivotal member at the top connection point of said hitch; and stop means operable between said hitch and said pivotal member for engaging said pivotal member after a predetermined amount of rotation of said member to limit the lost motion allowed by the pivotal member to a predetermined amount, and wherein said stop means is adjustable to selectively vary the amount of lost motion which is allowed before the stop means prevents further rotation by the pivotal member.
9. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 8, further including means connected to said frame which is adapted for scarifying ground soil.
10. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 9, wherein said scarifying means comprises:
a scarifier assembly mounted for vertical movement on said frame; and means for adjusting the vertical positioning of said scarifier assembly.
a scarifier assembly mounted for vertical movement on said frame; and means for adjusting the vertical positioning of said scarifier assembly.
11. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 9, wherein said scarifying means comprises:
a scarifier assembly mounted for pivotal movement on said frame means; and means for selectively adjusting said scarifier assembly from a position of soil engagement to a position of soil disengagement.
a scarifier assembly mounted for pivotal movement on said frame means; and means for selectively adjusting said scarifier assembly from a position of soil engagement to a position of soil disengagement.
12. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 11, wherein said scarifying means comprises at least one tooth element for engaging the soil.
13. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 8, wherein the lost motion linkage means also limits free pivotal movement of the apparatus toward the draft means about a transverse axis defined by the bottom connection points.
14. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and one or more trailing transverse elongate ground engaging members fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship;
the scraper member having a leading lower edge and each ground engaging member including at least one lower surface, with the leading edge of the scraper member 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; and a lost motion linkage mounted on the top connection point of said hitch;
said lost motion linkage including:
at least one plate mounted for pivotal movement about the top connection point of said hitch, said plate having an upper end;
a pivotal connection point at the upper end of said plate; and a stop for limiting pivotal movement of the upper end of said plate toward the draft means, wherein said stop is adjustable to adjust the amount of pivotal motion that is allowed for said upper end of said plate toward the draft means.
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and one or more trailing transverse elongate ground engaging members fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship;
the scraper member having a leading lower edge and each ground engaging member including at least one lower surface, with the leading edge of the scraper member 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; and a lost motion linkage mounted on the top connection point of said hitch;
said lost motion linkage including:
at least one plate mounted for pivotal movement about the top connection point of said hitch, said plate having an upper end;
a pivotal connection point at the upper end of said plate; and a stop for limiting pivotal movement of the upper end of said plate toward the draft means, wherein said stop is adjustable to adjust the amount of pivotal motion that is allowed for said upper end of said plate toward the draft means.
15. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 14, further including a stop on said hitch for limiting pivotal movement of the upper end of said plate away from the draft means.
16. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 14, wherein the adjustable stop is rotatable to adjust the amount of pivotal motion that is allowed for said upper end of said plate.
17. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 16, wherein the adjustable stop comprises a plurality of shims which may be interposed between the hitch and the plate in a first position such that the shims engage against the plate after predetermined rotation of the plate has occurred, wherein the shims are rotatably carried on a support member for individual rotation thereon, wherein the shims may be selectively individually rotated from said first position to a second clearance position in which the shims are not located to engage the plate, whereby the user can adjust the stop means by rotating a desired number of shims from said first position to said clearance position.
18. An apparatus for leveling soil and the like, comprising:
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and one or more trailing transverse elongate ground engaging members fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
the scraper member of said frame having a leading lower edge and each ground engaging member including at least one lower surface, with the leading edge of the scraper member and the lower surfaces of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
the side members of said frame each being of generally channel-shaped cross section having an outer leg with a straight lower edge which 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 extends across the ground engaging members;
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; and an adjustable lost motion linkage mounted on the top connection point of said hitch.
a generally rectangular frame including a transverse, elongate scraper member and one or more trailing transverse elongate ground engaging members fixedly secured in mutually spaced apart relationship between a pair of longitudinal side members;
the scraper member of said frame having a leading lower edge and each ground engaging member including at least one lower surface, with the leading edge of the scraper member and the lower surfaces of the ground engaging members being substantially coplanar;
the side members of said frame each being of generally channel-shaped cross section having an outer leg with a straight lower edge which 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 extends across the ground engaging members;
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; and an adjustable lost motion linkage mounted on the top connection point of said hitch.
19. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 18, wherein the inner leg has a straight lower edge which is secured to the ground engaging members.
20. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 19, wherein the lost motion linkage has means for limiting free pivotal movement of the apparatus away from the draft means about a transverse axis defined by the bottom connection points.
21. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 20, wherein the lost motion linkage also limits free pivotal movement of the apparatus toward the draft means about a transverse axis defined by the bottom connection points.
22. An apparatus for working soil, comprising:
a frame means including at least one forward ground engaging member longitudinally spaced apart from at least one rearward ground engaging member;
a three-point hitch means attached to said frame means at or adjacent the forward ground engaging member, said three-point hitch means including a top connection point and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points, said three-point hitch means having at said top connection point a lost motion linkage which is freely pivotal about a transverse axis on the three point hitch means during normal operation of the frame means such that the forward ground engaging member can be vertically raised and lowered without vertical movement of the rearward ground engaging member by a vertical lifting movement of the bottom connection points: and a stop for engaging the lost motion linkage after a predetermined vertical movement of the bottom connection points such that further upward motion of the bottom connection points will raise the entire frame means from the ground through the action of all three connection points, wherein said stop is adjustable to change the amount of predetermined vertical movement allowed before the lost motion linkage means is engaged.
a frame means including at least one forward ground engaging member longitudinally spaced apart from at least one rearward ground engaging member;
a three-point hitch means attached to said frame means at or adjacent the forward ground engaging member, said three-point hitch means including a top connection point and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points, said three-point hitch means having at said top connection point a lost motion linkage which is freely pivotal about a transverse axis on the three point hitch means during normal operation of the frame means such that the forward ground engaging member can be vertically raised and lowered without vertical movement of the rearward ground engaging member by a vertical lifting movement of the bottom connection points: and a stop for engaging the lost motion linkage after a predetermined vertical movement of the bottom connection points such that further upward motion of the bottom connection points will raise the entire frame means from the ground through the action of all three connection points, wherein said stop is adjustable to change the amount of predetermined vertical movement allowed before the lost motion linkage means is engaged.
23. An apparatus for working soil according to claim 22, wherein said forward ground engaging member comprises a scraper member with an edge and said rearward ground engaging member comprises a surface for leveling soil.
24. An apparatus for working soil according to claim 22, further including a second stop for limiting pivotal motion of the lost motion linkage in the other direction.
25. An apparatus for working soil according to claim 22, wherein said forward ground engaging member comprises a scarifying means for loosening the soil.
26. An apparatus for working soil according to claim 25, wherein said rearward ground engaging member comprises a surface to smooth the soil.
27. An apparatus for working soil according to claim 25, wherein said rearward ground engaging member comprises a roller to pulverize the soil.
28. An apparatus for working soil according to claim 25, wherein said rearward ground engaging member comprises a surface to smooth the soil and a roller to pulverize the soil.
29. An apparatus for working soil according to claim 28, wherein a leading scraper member is attached to said frame means.
30. An apparatus for working soil according to claim 22, wherein said forward ground engaging member comprises a scraper member with an edge for moving and leveling soil.
31. An apparatus for working soil according to claim 30, wherein said rearward ground engaging member comprises a roller for pulverizing the soil.
32. An apparatus for working soil according to claim 30, said rearward ground engaging member comprises a surface for smoothing the soil and a roller for pulverizing the soil.
33. An apparatus for working soil adapted for connection to a draft vehicle having a three-point lift mechanism including two lower lift arms and a central upper arm, comprising:
a frame means including at least one transverse ground engaging member for working soil;
a three-point hitch means attached to said frame means at or adjacent the front of the frame, said three-point hitch means including a top connection point for the upper arm and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points for the lower lift arms, said three-point hitch means having a lost motion linkage at the top connection point, said linkage comprising a member which is freely pivotal about a transverse axis on the three-point hitch means during normal operation of the frame means, wherein the top connection point for the upper arm is located on the member spaced from the transverse pivotal axis of the member such that upward movement of the lower lift arms will cause the member to pivot about its transverse pivotal axis; and stop means acting between the hitch means and the member for allowing only a predetermined amount of rotation of the member about the transverse pivotal axis as the lower arms move upwardly such that further upward motion of the lower arms will raise the entire frame means off the ground by allowing the upper arm to act in concert with the lower arms in raising the frame means, wherein said stop means is adjustable to change the amount of predetermined rotation allowed for the member before the stop means is effective to stop such rotation to thereafter lift the frame means off the ground.
a frame means including at least one transverse ground engaging member for working soil;
a three-point hitch means attached to said frame means at or adjacent the front of the frame, said three-point hitch means including a top connection point for the upper arm and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points for the lower lift arms, said three-point hitch means having a lost motion linkage at the top connection point, said linkage comprising a member which is freely pivotal about a transverse axis on the three-point hitch means during normal operation of the frame means, wherein the top connection point for the upper arm is located on the member spaced from the transverse pivotal axis of the member such that upward movement of the lower lift arms will cause the member to pivot about its transverse pivotal axis; and stop means acting between the hitch means and the member for allowing only a predetermined amount of rotation of the member about the transverse pivotal axis as the lower arms move upwardly such that further upward motion of the lower arms will raise the entire frame means off the ground by allowing the upper arm to act in concert with the lower arms in raising the frame means, wherein said stop means is adjustable to change the amount of predetermined rotation allowed for the member before the stop means is effective to stop such rotation to thereafter lift the frame means off the ground.
34. The soil working apparatus of claim 33, wherein the stop means provides a predetermined distance between the pivotal member and a stop surface to allow the member to rotate over its predetermined amount of rotation before the member engages the stop surface, and wherein the predetermined distance between the pivotal member and the stop surface is adjustable to adjust the amount of predetermined rotation that is allowed for the pivotal member.
35. The soil working apparatus of claim 34, wherein the stop means is rotatable to effect the variation in the predetermined distance between the stop surface and the pivotal member.
36. The soil working apparatus of claim 34, wherein the adjustable stop means comprises a plurality of shims which may be interposed between the hitch means and the pivotal member in a first position such that the shims engage against the pivotal member after the predetermined rotation of the pivotal member has occurred, wherein the shims are rotatably carried on a support member for individual rotation thereon, wherein the shims may be selectively individually rotated from said first position to a second clearance position in which the shims are not located to engage the pivotal member, whereby the user can adjust the stop means by rotating a desired number of shims from said first position to said clearance position.
37. An apparatus for working soil adapted for connection to a draft vehicle having a three-point lift mechanism including two lower lift arms and a central upper arm, comprising:
frame means which comprises a forward portion and a rearward portion, the frame means having a scraper member mounted in the forward portion of the frame means for loosening ground soil and at least one ground engaging member mounted in the rearward portion of the frame means, the ground engaging member having at least one element in engagement with the ground for leveling any ground soil that has been loosened by the scraper member;
a smoothing roller rotatably coupled to the rearward portion of the frame means and trailing behind the frame means for smoothing soil;
three-point hitch means located in the forward portion of said frame adjacent the scraper member, said three-point hitch means including a top connection point for the upper arm and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points for the lower lift arms, said three-point hitch means having a lost motion linkage at the top connection point, said linkage comprising a member which is freely pivotal about a transverse axis on the three-point hitch means during normal operation of the frame means, wherein the top connection point for the upper arm is located on the member spaced from the transverse pivotal axis of the member such that upward movement of the lower lift arms will cause the member to pivot about its transverse pivotal axis; and stop means carried on the hitch means and acting between the hitch means and the member for allowing only a predetermined amount of rotation of the member about the transverse pivotal axis as the lower arms move upwardly such that further upward motion of the lower arms will raise the entire frame means off the ground by allowing the upper arm to act in concert with the lower arms in raising the frame means wherein the user can use the lower lift arms to lift the forward portion of the frame up off the ground while leaving the rearward portion of the frame in engagement with the ground to adjust the effects of the scraper member, the ground engaging member and the smoothing roller on the ground during a soil leveling operation without having the entire frame means be lifted from the ground, such lifting of the entire frame means occurring only after the stop means engages the pivotal member of the lost motion linkage during upward motion of the lower lift arms.
frame means which comprises a forward portion and a rearward portion, the frame means having a scraper member mounted in the forward portion of the frame means for loosening ground soil and at least one ground engaging member mounted in the rearward portion of the frame means, the ground engaging member having at least one element in engagement with the ground for leveling any ground soil that has been loosened by the scraper member;
a smoothing roller rotatably coupled to the rearward portion of the frame means and trailing behind the frame means for smoothing soil;
three-point hitch means located in the forward portion of said frame adjacent the scraper member, said three-point hitch means including a top connection point for the upper arm and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points for the lower lift arms, said three-point hitch means having a lost motion linkage at the top connection point, said linkage comprising a member which is freely pivotal about a transverse axis on the three-point hitch means during normal operation of the frame means, wherein the top connection point for the upper arm is located on the member spaced from the transverse pivotal axis of the member such that upward movement of the lower lift arms will cause the member to pivot about its transverse pivotal axis; and stop means carried on the hitch means and acting between the hitch means and the member for allowing only a predetermined amount of rotation of the member about the transverse pivotal axis as the lower arms move upwardly such that further upward motion of the lower arms will raise the entire frame means off the ground by allowing the upper arm to act in concert with the lower arms in raising the frame means wherein the user can use the lower lift arms to lift the forward portion of the frame up off the ground while leaving the rearward portion of the frame in engagement with the ground to adjust the effects of the scraper member, the ground engaging member and the smoothing roller on the ground during a soil leveling operation without having the entire frame means be lifted from the ground, such lifting of the entire frame means occurring only after the stop means engages the pivotal member of the lost motion linkage during upward motion of the lower lift arms.
38. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 37, wherein means are connected to said frame means which is adapted for scarifying ground soil, wherein said scarifying means comprises at least one tooth element for engaging the soil, and wherein said scarifying means is located on the frame means behind the scraper member but in front of the ground engaging member.
39. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 38, wherein said scarifying means comprises:
a scarifier assembly mounted for vertical movement on said frame; and means for adjusting the vertical positioning of said scarifier assembly.
a scarifier assembly mounted for vertical movement on said frame; and means for adjusting the vertical positioning of said scarifier assembly.
40. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 38, wherein said scarifying means comprises:
a scarifier assembly mounted for pivotal movement on said frame; and means for selectively adjusting said scarifier assembly from a position of soil engagement to a position of soil disengagement.
a scarifier assembly mounted for pivotal movement on said frame; and means for selectively adjusting said scarifier assembly from a position of soil engagement to a position of soil disengagement.
41. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 38, wherein said scarifying means comprises a plurality of tine members, said tine members each extending in a non-parallel relationship with respect to at least one adjacent tine member, whereby ground soil is less likely to become lodged in between.
42. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 37, wherein said frame means comprises at least one longitudinally extending member, and a plurality of elongate ground-engaging members which are connected to said longitudinal member and extend in a direction which is substantially transverse to the axis of said longitudinal member.
43. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 42, wherein said at least one longitudinally extending member comprises a pair of longitudinal side members, whereby scarified soil is kept substantially contained within said frame means.
44. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 37, wherein said scraper member includes a downwardly extending portion having a leading lower edge which is adapted for engaging the ground surface in a scraping type relationship.
45. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 43, wherein said scraper member is constructed of a channel-shaped element which, in cross section, has an open bottom, and wherein said downwardly extending element comprises one leg of said channel element.
46. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 45, wherein said channel element has an inverted J-shaped cross section.
47. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 37, wherein said frame means further comprises means for guiding said scarifying means in a free floating relationship relative to an underlying ground surface, whereby said scarifying means will engage the underlying ground surface with a constant scarifying force.
48. The soil leveling apparatus of claim 36, wherein said at least one ground engaging member of the frame means comprises a transverse member having a horizontal surface adapted to bear against the ground and to level the ground.
49. An apparatus for working soil adapted for connection to draft vehicle having a three-point lift mechanism including two lower lift arms and a central upper arm, comprising:
a frame means including at least one transverse ground engaging member for working soil;
a three-point hitch means attached to said frame means at or adjacent the front of the frame, said three-point hitch means including a top connection point for the upper arm and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points for the lower lift arms, said three-point hitch means having a lost motion linkage at the top connection point, said linkage comprising a member which is freely pivotal about a transverse axis on the three-point hitch means during normal operation of the frame means, wherein the top connection point for the upper arm is located on the member spaced from the transverse pivotal axis of the member such that upward movement of the lower lift arms will cause the member to pivot about its transverse pivotal axis; and first stop means acting between the hitch means and the member for allowing only a predetermined amount of rotation of the member in a first direction about the transverse pivotal axis as the lower arms move upwardly such that further upward motion of the lower arms will raise the entire frame means off the ground by allowing the upper arm to act in concert with the lower arms in raising the frame means, the predetermined amount of rotation that is allowed by the first stop means allowing the frame means a limited amount of flotation relative to the ground as the frame means pivots in a first direction about the bottom connection points; and second stop means acting between the hitch means and the member for allowing only a predetermined amount of rotation of the member in a second direction about the transverse pivotal axis to allow the frame means a limited amount of flotation relative to the ground as the frame means pivots in a second direction about the bottom connection points which second direction is opposed to the first direction of frame means rotation.
a frame means including at least one transverse ground engaging member for working soil;
a three-point hitch means attached to said frame means at or adjacent the front of the frame, said three-point hitch means including a top connection point for the upper arm and a pair of laterally spaced apart bottom connection points for the lower lift arms, said three-point hitch means having a lost motion linkage at the top connection point, said linkage comprising a member which is freely pivotal about a transverse axis on the three-point hitch means during normal operation of the frame means, wherein the top connection point for the upper arm is located on the member spaced from the transverse pivotal axis of the member such that upward movement of the lower lift arms will cause the member to pivot about its transverse pivotal axis; and first stop means acting between the hitch means and the member for allowing only a predetermined amount of rotation of the member in a first direction about the transverse pivotal axis as the lower arms move upwardly such that further upward motion of the lower arms will raise the entire frame means off the ground by allowing the upper arm to act in concert with the lower arms in raising the frame means, the predetermined amount of rotation that is allowed by the first stop means allowing the frame means a limited amount of flotation relative to the ground as the frame means pivots in a first direction about the bottom connection points; and second stop means acting between the hitch means and the member for allowing only a predetermined amount of rotation of the member in a second direction about the transverse pivotal axis to allow the frame means a limited amount of flotation relative to the ground as the frame means pivots in a second direction about the bottom connection points which second direction is opposed to the first direction of frame means rotation.
50. The apparatus of claim 49, wherein the first and second stop means comprise stop members fixed on the hitch means and adapted to engage against the pivotal member after a relatively small amount of rotation in the first and second directions of frame means rotation about the bottom connection points, whereby the frame means is prevented from dropping too sharply away from the draft vehicle or from jackknifing towards the draft vehicle.
51. The apparatus of claim 50, wherein the first stop means is adjustable on the hitch means to adjust the distance between the first stop means and the pivotal member to adjust the amount of rotation allowed for the frame means in its first direction of rotation about the bottom connection points.
52. A method of leveling soil comprising:
passing a leading scraper member over the soil, vertically lowering said leading scraper member to cut the soil, vertically raising said leading scraper member to release the soil;
said leading scraper member being attached to a frame means, said frame means being attached to a three-point hitch through a pivotal lost motion linkage;
leveling the soil with a trailing ground engaging member, said trailing ground engaging member remaining vertically stationary relative to vertical movement of said leading scraper member; and vertical movement of said leading scraper member relative to non-vertical movement of said trailing ground engaging member is achieved by means of the lost motion linkage.
passing a leading scraper member over the soil, vertically lowering said leading scraper member to cut the soil, vertically raising said leading scraper member to release the soil;
said leading scraper member being attached to a frame means, said frame means being attached to a three-point hitch through a pivotal lost motion linkage;
leveling the soil with a trailing ground engaging member, said trailing ground engaging member remaining vertically stationary relative to vertical movement of said leading scraper member; and vertical movement of said leading scraper member relative to non-vertical movement of said trailing ground engaging member is achieved by means of the lost motion linkage.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000616669A CA1338029C (en) | 1984-01-13 | 1990-09-20 | Towed soil leveling system with rear pivoted pulverizing roller |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US570,347 | 1984-01-13 | ||
| US06/570,347 US4585075A (en) | 1981-01-12 | 1984-01-13 | Soil leveling apparatus with improved frame and hitch |
Related Child Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000616669A Division CA1338029C (en) | 1984-01-13 | 1990-09-20 | Towed soil leveling system with rear pivoted pulverizing roller |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1326355C true CA1326355C (en) | 1994-01-25 |
Family
ID=24279302
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 471983 Expired - Fee Related CA1326355C (en) | 1984-01-13 | 1985-01-11 | Soil leveling apparatus with improved frame and hitch |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1326355C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN117988313A (en) * | 2024-04-07 | 2024-05-07 | 赣州凯瑞实业有限公司 | Foundation leveling equipment for constructional engineering |
-
1985
- 1985-01-11 CA CA 471983 patent/CA1326355C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN117988313A (en) * | 2024-04-07 | 2024-05-07 | 赣州凯瑞实业有限公司 | Foundation leveling equipment for constructional engineering |
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| MKLA | Lapsed |