CA2262107A1 - Detachable pulley cover structure - Google Patents
Detachable pulley cover structure Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2262107A1 CA2262107A1 CA 2262107 CA2262107A CA2262107A1 CA 2262107 A1 CA2262107 A1 CA 2262107A1 CA 2262107 CA2262107 CA 2262107 CA 2262107 A CA2262107 A CA 2262107A CA 2262107 A1 CA2262107 A1 CA 2262107A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- deck
- circular member
- openings
- generally
- cover
- 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.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01D—HARVESTING; MOWING
- A01D34/00—Mowers; Mowing apparatus of harvesters
- A01D34/01—Mowers; Mowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus
- A01D34/412—Mowers; Mowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters
- A01D34/63—Mowers; Mowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis
- A01D34/81—Casings; Housings
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01D—HARVESTING; MOWING
- A01D34/00—Mowers; Mowing apparatus of harvesters
- A01D34/01—Mowers; Mowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus
- A01D34/412—Mowers; Mowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters
- A01D34/63—Mowers; Mowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis
- A01D34/76—Driving mechanisms for the cutters
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01D—HARVESTING; MOWING
- A01D2101/00—Lawn-mowers
Abstract
A detachable pulley cover structure is provided for use with a rotary mower.
The structure includes a generally circularly shaped composite cover member adapted to fit flush with the top of a mower deck and shield the pulley drive area, headed pin means fixed to the mower deck are received in slotted openings which are radially spaced about the cover member to permit the cover member to be quickly and easily attached to the deck. An upstanding pin is also attached to the mower deck and receivable in an opening in the cover member. A locking ring is then received in an opening in the upstanding pin to secure the cover member in place on the deck. Several alternate embodiments of the detachable pulley cover structure are disclosed and each provide various deck mounted attaching forms and cover member openings that permit the cover member to be quickly and easily attached or removed without the need for tools. The simple shape and form of the cover member and its attaching structures allow it to be used with a variety of deck configurations and sizes.
The structure includes a generally circularly shaped composite cover member adapted to fit flush with the top of a mower deck and shield the pulley drive area, headed pin means fixed to the mower deck are received in slotted openings which are radially spaced about the cover member to permit the cover member to be quickly and easily attached to the deck. An upstanding pin is also attached to the mower deck and receivable in an opening in the cover member. A locking ring is then received in an opening in the upstanding pin to secure the cover member in place on the deck. Several alternate embodiments of the detachable pulley cover structure are disclosed and each provide various deck mounted attaching forms and cover member openings that permit the cover member to be quickly and easily attached or removed without the need for tools. The simple shape and form of the cover member and its attaching structures allow it to be used with a variety of deck configurations and sizes.
Description
DETACHABLE PULLEY COVER STRUCTURE
Background of the Invention 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to belt powered rotary mower decks used in cutting vegetation and more specifically to a detachable pulley cover structure used to shield the pulley areas of such decks.
Background of the Invention 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to belt powered rotary mower decks used in cutting vegetation and more specifically to a detachable pulley cover structure used to shield the pulley areas of such decks.
2. Description of Related Art Mower decks utilized in cutting grass and similar vegetation typically include a plurality of blades which are driven by a belt drive system carried on the top of the deck.
The belts are entrained around sheaves or pulleys which in turn drive spindles and their respectively attached blades. The belts are usually driven by a PTO powered gear box or a vehicle belt drive.
Since the pulleys and belts are mounted above the mower deck, it is preferable that the pinch points between the pulleys and belt be shielded to minimize the likelihood of inadvertent injury during operation.
These pulley drives and belts require periodic maintenance and/or replacement.
Accordingly, the covers are detachably coupled with the decks. Fastening means, such as bolts with nuts, suitcase latches and similar attaching means have commonly been used to removably secure the covers with the decks.
These covers, which commonly are metal, and the metal fasteners tend to rust since the decks are often used in wet conditions. Accordingly, the fasteners may become difficult to loosen and/or remove, sometimes requiring substantial time, effort and/or use of tools .
Further, suitcase latches can present alignment problems between the latch bracket and hook, stretch to the point that they lose their ability to remain latched or catch on obstacles such as low hanging branches which may inadvertently unlatch them.
Summar~r of the Invention It therefore would be desirable to provide a removable cover for a mower deck and pulley belt drive that is quickly and easily installed or removed.
Further, it would be desirable to provide a cover that would not rust or deteriorate when used in wet conditions.
It would also be desirable to provide a fastening structure for the cover that would permit them to be installed or removed without the use of tools.
It would also be desirable to provide covers and fastening structures that could be used on a variety of decks and belt drive arrangements.
Towards these ends, there is provided a composite or plastic cover that enshrouds the drive pulley and adjacent belt portions of the deck belt drive. Two versions of the cover of the preferred embodiment are provided; one to cover a larger area and another to cover a smaller area. Each cover is generally bowl shaped to extend up and around a pulley and its adjacent belt portions and includes a flange that is attachably secured to the flat surface of the deck. Upstanding headed pins are provided on the deck spaced from the center of the pulley. Enlarged openings in the flanges of the cover permits the heads of the pins to pass through the openings and slots provided adjacent to the openings allow the shafts of the headed pins to slide along the slots and the cover to be shifted laterally or rotated. The heads of the pins then serve to hold the covers in place. A separate upstanding locking pin is attached to the deck and positioned to be received in another opening in the flange of a cover and a ring fastener is received in an opening in the locking pin to quickly lock the cover to the deck.
The larger cover has its slots oriented to permit it to be shifted laterally and the smaller generally circular cover has its slots oriented to permit it to be rotated about a central axis to lock it in place.
With the present invention there is provided a durable belt drive cover that protects the pinch points between the pulley and the belt of the deck and one which is easily and quickly installed or removed without the need for tools. The covers are also adaptable to a variety of decks and belt drives so as to permit them to be more economically manufactured and utilized in a variety of decks.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is an elevated perspective view of a mower deck equipped with the preferred embodiment of the detachable cover structure subject of the present invention.
Figure 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the larger cover illustrated in Figure 1 with a laterally extending slot and a radially extending slot.
Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the smaller cover illustrated in Figure 1 with circumferentially extending slots.
Figure 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the headed pin and slot arrangement used with the larger cover.
Figure 5 is an enlarged perspective view of the upstanding locking pin and fastening ring used to lock the cover in place.
Figure 6 is an enlarged perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a detachable pulley cover structure.
Figure 7 is an enlarged perspective view of another alternate embodiment of a detachable pulley cover structure.
Figure 8 is an enlarged perspective view of yet another alternate embodiment of a detachable pulley cover structure.
Description of the Preferred Embodiment Looking first to Figure 1, there is illustrated a mower of the type upon which the present invention can be utilized. The mower 10 is a multi-spindle unit, including three blades (unshown), carried beneath a deck housing 12. The deck 12 includes anti-scalp gauge wheels 14 at its forward and rearward edges. The blades are attached to spindles 16 mounted on the deck 12. Drive pulleys 18 are coupled with the spindles 16 above the top surface 20 of the deck and a belt 22 is entrained around the pulleys 18 to drive the blades.
The belt 22 in turn is powered through a gearbox 24 that is driven by the PTO
of a vehicle (unshown), adapted to support and carry the deck 12.
The vehicle would carry a frame assembly that would attach to pivotal connections 26 at the front and rear portions of the deck 12. The frame assembly would permit the operator to raise the deck 12 above the ground and also rotate it about an axis through its rearward connection 26 to permit access to the blades and other components beneath the deck 12. The frame assembly would be carried above the belt drive in the areas generally not covered by the circular or cover member 28 provided on the deck 12 and thereby serve to prevent inadvertent access to the belt drive during operation. Accordingly, only the areas closely adjacent to the drive pulleys 18 and belt 22 and which project out from the sides and front of the frame assembly are protected by cover or circular members 28.
Looking also to Figures 2 and 3, it will be seen that two versions of the preferred embodiment of the cover member 28 are provided. The cover member 28 in Figure 2 has a somewhat rectangular configuration and is adapted to enclose the pulley 18 and a portion of the drive belt 22 on the left side of the deck, as viewed in Figure 1. The cover member 28 of Figure 3, takes the form of a disc, is somewhat smaller and also covers the pulley 18 and a portion of the drive belt 22. This cover member 28 is provided at the front and right sides of the deck.
Both types of circular members 28 include a central portion 30 sized to substantially cover a pulley 18. To the central portion 30 of each cover member 28 is attached a generally vertical wall portion 32 that extends downwardly. The wall portion 32 extends around approximately one half of the periphery of each central portion 30 and is attached to generally flat flange portions 34. The cover member 28 opens to one side to allow the drive belt 22 to enter the pulley 18 and exit therefrom. Each cover member 28 also includes a vertically extending opening 36 in its central portion 30 that permits access to a lubrication fitting 38 provided on the spindle 16.
Looking as well to Figures 4 and 5, there is illustrated in greater detail the means for securing the circular member or cover member 28 with the deck 12. This means includes a plurality of spaced apart openings 40 and 42 extending through the flange portions 34 for receiving a plurality of upstanding pin means 44 and 46 carried by and extending upwardly from the deck 12 and locking means 48 for securing the cover member 28 in place.
The openings 40 and 42 are provided in raised ledge surfaces 50 in the flange portions and are generally equally spaced from a center point in the circular member (See Figures 2 and 3). Two types of openings 40 and 42 are provided in the preferred embodiment. The first type 40 includes an enlarged section 52 which is generally circular in shape with an elongated slotted section 54 connected thereto. The second type 42 is simply circular in shape. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, each cover member 28 is provided with two openings 40 having slots 54 and one opening 42 of the circular type.
The upstanding pin means 44 and 46 are fixed to the upper surface 20 of the deck 12 and are also spaced peripherally around the pulley 18 to fit into the openings 40 and 42 in the flange portions 34. One of the pin means 44 takes the form of a shaft portion 56 having a head portion 58 carried at its top. Another of the pin means 46 takes the form of an upstanding stud or leg portion 60 having an opening 62 extending radially through it. Both pin means 44 and 46 are fixed to the deck 12 as by welding or similar means.
The locking means 48 takes the form of a resilient ring 64 provided to be inserted into the radially extending opening 62 in the leg portion 60 to secure the cover member 28 in place. Cotter keys, nuts and threaded studs or similar means could also be used.
To attach the larger cover member 28 illustrated in Figure 2, the enlarged sections 52 of the first openings 40 in the flange portions 34 are positioned above the headed portions 58 of the one pin means 44 and the circular member 28 is lowered to a position flush with the deck 12, then slid laterally to allow the shafts 56 of the one pin means 44 to slide into the elongated slotted sections 54. Then the second opening 42 is positioned over the leg portion 60 to allow it to extend through the second opening 42 in the flange portion 34 and the ring 64 is inserted through the radial opening 62 to secure the circular member 28 with the deck 12.
Looking again to Figure 3, it will be seen that the elongated slotted sections 54 in the circular member 28 extend circumferentially about a center point 66 of the circular member 28 so that when the headed portions 58 of the one pin means 44 are seated in the enlarged sections 52, the circular member 28 would be rotated a few degrees about its center point 62 to move the slotted sections 54 of the circular member 28 along the upstanding shaft 56 of the one pin means 44 and couple it with the deck 12.
Looking now to Figure 6 which illustrates an alternate form of the present invention, there is found a detachable cover member 128 carried on the generally flat upper surface 20 of a rotary mower deck. Numbers similar to those used for the preferred embodiment will be used for this embodiment, but with the one hundred prefix. This cover member 128 includes a central portion 130 sized to substantially cover the pulley with a generally vertical wall portion 132 extending downwardly from the central portion 130. It however does not include the outwardly extending flanges which are attached to the wall portion 32 of the preferred embodiment.
The means for securing the cover member 128 of this alternate embodiment with the upper surface 20 of the deck 12 includes first slotted openings or seats 140 extending through the wall portion 132 of the circular member 128, pin means 144 and 146 carried by and projecting upwardly from the deck surface 20 and a locking or fastening means 148 to secure the circular member 128 with the deck 12. The one pin means 144 is provided in the shape of an "L", which is attached to and projects up from the deck 12. This L-shaped pin means 144 includes a head portion 158 and a shaft or base 156. The head portion 158 can be placed in registry with or be received in the slotted opening 140 of the wall portion 132.
The second one pin means 146 is received in the wall portion 132 of the circular member 128, spaced from the first one pin means 144. This pin or anchor means 146 includes the leg portion 160 which is attached to and projects up from the deck 12. A
locking or fastening means in the form of an opening 162 through the leg portion 160 together with the spring loaded ring 164, which can be passed through the opening 162 in the leg portion 160, serve to secure the circular member 128 with the deck 12 once the head portions 158 of the one pin means 144 have been received in the first openings 140.
Attachment of this circular member 128 simply requires that the first openings 140 in the circular member 128 be placed adjacent the head portions 158 of the one pin means 144 and then the circular member 128 slid along the deck 12 to insert the head portions 158 in the first openings 144. The second opening 142 in the circular or cover member 128 would then be placed around the leg portion 160 and the ring 164 inserted in the radial opening 162. Removal of the cover member 128 simply requires the reverse procedure.
Looking now to Figure 7, there is illustrated yet another alternate embodiment of the present invention. Numbers similar to those used for the preferred embodiment will be used for this embodiment, but with the two hundred prefix. This embodiment also includes a generally circular member 228 having a central portion 230 sized to substantially cover the pulley and a generally vertically and downwardly extending wall portion 232 connected to the central portion 230. The wall portion 232 in this embodiment also includes first and second openings 240 and 242 to receive a pair of the one pin means. Each one pin means 244 takes the shape of an "L" member, having a base 256 and a head portion 258, with the head portion 258 being adapted to be received in the first opening 240. The first openings 240 in the wall portions 232 take the form of slots on opposite sides of the circular member 228.
The other pin means 246 is also an L-shaped member and includes an upstanding leg portion 260 with an outwardly projecting tab 268. This tab 268 is adapted to be received in the second or slotted opening 242 in the wall portion 232 of the circular member 228. The leg portion 260 is provided with a locking means to releasably secure the circular member to the deck 12 once the circular member 228 has been positioned on the deck 12 and the one pin means 244 have been received in the first openings 240. 'The locking means takes the form of a stop 270 carried on the tab 268 of the leg portion 260. As illustrated in Figure 7, the tab 268 is formed to be biased upwardly so that once inserted through the second opening 242 in the wall portion 232, the stop 270 will abut the wall portion 232 and prevent the tab 268 from being slideably moved therefrom. To remove the tab 268 from the second opening 242 in the wall portion 232, the tab 268 would be depressed to permit the stop 270 to pass through the opening 242 and the cover 228 to be slid to allow the second opening 242 to be removed from the other pin means 246. Alternatively, the tab 268 could be formed with a rigid character and the stop 270 formed in a manner or with a material such that it would be biased upwardly to provide the same result.
Looking now to Figure 8, there is provided an additional embodiment of the present invention. Numbers similar to those used for the preferred embodiment will be used for this embodiment, but with the three hundred prefix. The cover or circular member 328 is adapted to be seated on a generally flat mower member, and includes a central portion 330 having a generally vertical wall portion 332 extending downwardly therefrom with an outwardly extending flange portion 334 connected thereto.
For attaching the circular member 328 with the deck 12, there is provided a seat 372 along the surface of the flange portion 334 and a pair of one pin means 344 in the form of L-shaped members attached to the deck 12. Each one pin means 344 includes a head portion 358 carried on a base or shaft 356 with the head portion being adapted to register with the seat 372 while the base 356 slides therealong to position the circular member 330. Another pin means 346 is provided in the form of an upstanding leg portion or anchor means 360, and an opening 342 passes through the flange portion 334 to receive the leg portion 360.
A fastening means in the form of an opening 362 in the leg portion 360 and a ring member 364 serve to secure the cover member 328 in place. To attach this cover member 328 to the deck 12, the edge 372 of the flange portion 334 is inserted beneath the head portions 358 of the pair of one pin means 344 and then the opening 342 in the flange portion 334 is positioned over the leg portion 360 and the ring 364 inserted into the opening 362 in the leg portion 360. Removal simply requires the reverse procedure.
The cover structures preferably are provided with a low profile, that is, they extend just above the pulley and belt, thereby minimizing the amount of space that is needed beneath the rotating frame assembly and the top of the cover. This in turn provides an additional vertical range of motion through which the deck can be moved beneath the rotating frame assembly and a greater depth of cut adjustment for the mower.
The cover structures can be easily installed and/or removed should maintenance be required on the spindles, blades, pulleys and/or belts. As is illustrated in the drawings, the removal of the covers, except the embodiment of Figure 7 which provides a resilient fastening means, simply requires the removal of the ring from the leg portion and lateral or rotational movement of the cover to allow the head portions of the upstanding pins to be removed from the openings, thereby permitting the cover to be lifted from the deck and removed.
With the present invention, there is provided a plastic composite and durable cover which can be easily and quickly installed on a variety of deck configurations.
No tools are required for the installation and/or removal of the covers, thereby minimizing the time and effort that is required for maintenance which may be necessary to the pulleys and/or belts of the deck.
The belts are entrained around sheaves or pulleys which in turn drive spindles and their respectively attached blades. The belts are usually driven by a PTO powered gear box or a vehicle belt drive.
Since the pulleys and belts are mounted above the mower deck, it is preferable that the pinch points between the pulleys and belt be shielded to minimize the likelihood of inadvertent injury during operation.
These pulley drives and belts require periodic maintenance and/or replacement.
Accordingly, the covers are detachably coupled with the decks. Fastening means, such as bolts with nuts, suitcase latches and similar attaching means have commonly been used to removably secure the covers with the decks.
These covers, which commonly are metal, and the metal fasteners tend to rust since the decks are often used in wet conditions. Accordingly, the fasteners may become difficult to loosen and/or remove, sometimes requiring substantial time, effort and/or use of tools .
Further, suitcase latches can present alignment problems between the latch bracket and hook, stretch to the point that they lose their ability to remain latched or catch on obstacles such as low hanging branches which may inadvertently unlatch them.
Summar~r of the Invention It therefore would be desirable to provide a removable cover for a mower deck and pulley belt drive that is quickly and easily installed or removed.
Further, it would be desirable to provide a cover that would not rust or deteriorate when used in wet conditions.
It would also be desirable to provide a fastening structure for the cover that would permit them to be installed or removed without the use of tools.
It would also be desirable to provide covers and fastening structures that could be used on a variety of decks and belt drive arrangements.
Towards these ends, there is provided a composite or plastic cover that enshrouds the drive pulley and adjacent belt portions of the deck belt drive. Two versions of the cover of the preferred embodiment are provided; one to cover a larger area and another to cover a smaller area. Each cover is generally bowl shaped to extend up and around a pulley and its adjacent belt portions and includes a flange that is attachably secured to the flat surface of the deck. Upstanding headed pins are provided on the deck spaced from the center of the pulley. Enlarged openings in the flanges of the cover permits the heads of the pins to pass through the openings and slots provided adjacent to the openings allow the shafts of the headed pins to slide along the slots and the cover to be shifted laterally or rotated. The heads of the pins then serve to hold the covers in place. A separate upstanding locking pin is attached to the deck and positioned to be received in another opening in the flange of a cover and a ring fastener is received in an opening in the locking pin to quickly lock the cover to the deck.
The larger cover has its slots oriented to permit it to be shifted laterally and the smaller generally circular cover has its slots oriented to permit it to be rotated about a central axis to lock it in place.
With the present invention there is provided a durable belt drive cover that protects the pinch points between the pulley and the belt of the deck and one which is easily and quickly installed or removed without the need for tools. The covers are also adaptable to a variety of decks and belt drives so as to permit them to be more economically manufactured and utilized in a variety of decks.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is an elevated perspective view of a mower deck equipped with the preferred embodiment of the detachable cover structure subject of the present invention.
Figure 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the larger cover illustrated in Figure 1 with a laterally extending slot and a radially extending slot.
Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the smaller cover illustrated in Figure 1 with circumferentially extending slots.
Figure 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the headed pin and slot arrangement used with the larger cover.
Figure 5 is an enlarged perspective view of the upstanding locking pin and fastening ring used to lock the cover in place.
Figure 6 is an enlarged perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a detachable pulley cover structure.
Figure 7 is an enlarged perspective view of another alternate embodiment of a detachable pulley cover structure.
Figure 8 is an enlarged perspective view of yet another alternate embodiment of a detachable pulley cover structure.
Description of the Preferred Embodiment Looking first to Figure 1, there is illustrated a mower of the type upon which the present invention can be utilized. The mower 10 is a multi-spindle unit, including three blades (unshown), carried beneath a deck housing 12. The deck 12 includes anti-scalp gauge wheels 14 at its forward and rearward edges. The blades are attached to spindles 16 mounted on the deck 12. Drive pulleys 18 are coupled with the spindles 16 above the top surface 20 of the deck and a belt 22 is entrained around the pulleys 18 to drive the blades.
The belt 22 in turn is powered through a gearbox 24 that is driven by the PTO
of a vehicle (unshown), adapted to support and carry the deck 12.
The vehicle would carry a frame assembly that would attach to pivotal connections 26 at the front and rear portions of the deck 12. The frame assembly would permit the operator to raise the deck 12 above the ground and also rotate it about an axis through its rearward connection 26 to permit access to the blades and other components beneath the deck 12. The frame assembly would be carried above the belt drive in the areas generally not covered by the circular or cover member 28 provided on the deck 12 and thereby serve to prevent inadvertent access to the belt drive during operation. Accordingly, only the areas closely adjacent to the drive pulleys 18 and belt 22 and which project out from the sides and front of the frame assembly are protected by cover or circular members 28.
Looking also to Figures 2 and 3, it will be seen that two versions of the preferred embodiment of the cover member 28 are provided. The cover member 28 in Figure 2 has a somewhat rectangular configuration and is adapted to enclose the pulley 18 and a portion of the drive belt 22 on the left side of the deck, as viewed in Figure 1. The cover member 28 of Figure 3, takes the form of a disc, is somewhat smaller and also covers the pulley 18 and a portion of the drive belt 22. This cover member 28 is provided at the front and right sides of the deck.
Both types of circular members 28 include a central portion 30 sized to substantially cover a pulley 18. To the central portion 30 of each cover member 28 is attached a generally vertical wall portion 32 that extends downwardly. The wall portion 32 extends around approximately one half of the periphery of each central portion 30 and is attached to generally flat flange portions 34. The cover member 28 opens to one side to allow the drive belt 22 to enter the pulley 18 and exit therefrom. Each cover member 28 also includes a vertically extending opening 36 in its central portion 30 that permits access to a lubrication fitting 38 provided on the spindle 16.
Looking as well to Figures 4 and 5, there is illustrated in greater detail the means for securing the circular member or cover member 28 with the deck 12. This means includes a plurality of spaced apart openings 40 and 42 extending through the flange portions 34 for receiving a plurality of upstanding pin means 44 and 46 carried by and extending upwardly from the deck 12 and locking means 48 for securing the cover member 28 in place.
The openings 40 and 42 are provided in raised ledge surfaces 50 in the flange portions and are generally equally spaced from a center point in the circular member (See Figures 2 and 3). Two types of openings 40 and 42 are provided in the preferred embodiment. The first type 40 includes an enlarged section 52 which is generally circular in shape with an elongated slotted section 54 connected thereto. The second type 42 is simply circular in shape. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, each cover member 28 is provided with two openings 40 having slots 54 and one opening 42 of the circular type.
The upstanding pin means 44 and 46 are fixed to the upper surface 20 of the deck 12 and are also spaced peripherally around the pulley 18 to fit into the openings 40 and 42 in the flange portions 34. One of the pin means 44 takes the form of a shaft portion 56 having a head portion 58 carried at its top. Another of the pin means 46 takes the form of an upstanding stud or leg portion 60 having an opening 62 extending radially through it. Both pin means 44 and 46 are fixed to the deck 12 as by welding or similar means.
The locking means 48 takes the form of a resilient ring 64 provided to be inserted into the radially extending opening 62 in the leg portion 60 to secure the cover member 28 in place. Cotter keys, nuts and threaded studs or similar means could also be used.
To attach the larger cover member 28 illustrated in Figure 2, the enlarged sections 52 of the first openings 40 in the flange portions 34 are positioned above the headed portions 58 of the one pin means 44 and the circular member 28 is lowered to a position flush with the deck 12, then slid laterally to allow the shafts 56 of the one pin means 44 to slide into the elongated slotted sections 54. Then the second opening 42 is positioned over the leg portion 60 to allow it to extend through the second opening 42 in the flange portion 34 and the ring 64 is inserted through the radial opening 62 to secure the circular member 28 with the deck 12.
Looking again to Figure 3, it will be seen that the elongated slotted sections 54 in the circular member 28 extend circumferentially about a center point 66 of the circular member 28 so that when the headed portions 58 of the one pin means 44 are seated in the enlarged sections 52, the circular member 28 would be rotated a few degrees about its center point 62 to move the slotted sections 54 of the circular member 28 along the upstanding shaft 56 of the one pin means 44 and couple it with the deck 12.
Looking now to Figure 6 which illustrates an alternate form of the present invention, there is found a detachable cover member 128 carried on the generally flat upper surface 20 of a rotary mower deck. Numbers similar to those used for the preferred embodiment will be used for this embodiment, but with the one hundred prefix. This cover member 128 includes a central portion 130 sized to substantially cover the pulley with a generally vertical wall portion 132 extending downwardly from the central portion 130. It however does not include the outwardly extending flanges which are attached to the wall portion 32 of the preferred embodiment.
The means for securing the cover member 128 of this alternate embodiment with the upper surface 20 of the deck 12 includes first slotted openings or seats 140 extending through the wall portion 132 of the circular member 128, pin means 144 and 146 carried by and projecting upwardly from the deck surface 20 and a locking or fastening means 148 to secure the circular member 128 with the deck 12. The one pin means 144 is provided in the shape of an "L", which is attached to and projects up from the deck 12. This L-shaped pin means 144 includes a head portion 158 and a shaft or base 156. The head portion 158 can be placed in registry with or be received in the slotted opening 140 of the wall portion 132.
The second one pin means 146 is received in the wall portion 132 of the circular member 128, spaced from the first one pin means 144. This pin or anchor means 146 includes the leg portion 160 which is attached to and projects up from the deck 12. A
locking or fastening means in the form of an opening 162 through the leg portion 160 together with the spring loaded ring 164, which can be passed through the opening 162 in the leg portion 160, serve to secure the circular member 128 with the deck 12 once the head portions 158 of the one pin means 144 have been received in the first openings 140.
Attachment of this circular member 128 simply requires that the first openings 140 in the circular member 128 be placed adjacent the head portions 158 of the one pin means 144 and then the circular member 128 slid along the deck 12 to insert the head portions 158 in the first openings 144. The second opening 142 in the circular or cover member 128 would then be placed around the leg portion 160 and the ring 164 inserted in the radial opening 162. Removal of the cover member 128 simply requires the reverse procedure.
Looking now to Figure 7, there is illustrated yet another alternate embodiment of the present invention. Numbers similar to those used for the preferred embodiment will be used for this embodiment, but with the two hundred prefix. This embodiment also includes a generally circular member 228 having a central portion 230 sized to substantially cover the pulley and a generally vertically and downwardly extending wall portion 232 connected to the central portion 230. The wall portion 232 in this embodiment also includes first and second openings 240 and 242 to receive a pair of the one pin means. Each one pin means 244 takes the shape of an "L" member, having a base 256 and a head portion 258, with the head portion 258 being adapted to be received in the first opening 240. The first openings 240 in the wall portions 232 take the form of slots on opposite sides of the circular member 228.
The other pin means 246 is also an L-shaped member and includes an upstanding leg portion 260 with an outwardly projecting tab 268. This tab 268 is adapted to be received in the second or slotted opening 242 in the wall portion 232 of the circular member 228. The leg portion 260 is provided with a locking means to releasably secure the circular member to the deck 12 once the circular member 228 has been positioned on the deck 12 and the one pin means 244 have been received in the first openings 240. 'The locking means takes the form of a stop 270 carried on the tab 268 of the leg portion 260. As illustrated in Figure 7, the tab 268 is formed to be biased upwardly so that once inserted through the second opening 242 in the wall portion 232, the stop 270 will abut the wall portion 232 and prevent the tab 268 from being slideably moved therefrom. To remove the tab 268 from the second opening 242 in the wall portion 232, the tab 268 would be depressed to permit the stop 270 to pass through the opening 242 and the cover 228 to be slid to allow the second opening 242 to be removed from the other pin means 246. Alternatively, the tab 268 could be formed with a rigid character and the stop 270 formed in a manner or with a material such that it would be biased upwardly to provide the same result.
Looking now to Figure 8, there is provided an additional embodiment of the present invention. Numbers similar to those used for the preferred embodiment will be used for this embodiment, but with the three hundred prefix. The cover or circular member 328 is adapted to be seated on a generally flat mower member, and includes a central portion 330 having a generally vertical wall portion 332 extending downwardly therefrom with an outwardly extending flange portion 334 connected thereto.
For attaching the circular member 328 with the deck 12, there is provided a seat 372 along the surface of the flange portion 334 and a pair of one pin means 344 in the form of L-shaped members attached to the deck 12. Each one pin means 344 includes a head portion 358 carried on a base or shaft 356 with the head portion being adapted to register with the seat 372 while the base 356 slides therealong to position the circular member 330. Another pin means 346 is provided in the form of an upstanding leg portion or anchor means 360, and an opening 342 passes through the flange portion 334 to receive the leg portion 360.
A fastening means in the form of an opening 362 in the leg portion 360 and a ring member 364 serve to secure the cover member 328 in place. To attach this cover member 328 to the deck 12, the edge 372 of the flange portion 334 is inserted beneath the head portions 358 of the pair of one pin means 344 and then the opening 342 in the flange portion 334 is positioned over the leg portion 360 and the ring 364 inserted into the opening 362 in the leg portion 360. Removal simply requires the reverse procedure.
The cover structures preferably are provided with a low profile, that is, they extend just above the pulley and belt, thereby minimizing the amount of space that is needed beneath the rotating frame assembly and the top of the cover. This in turn provides an additional vertical range of motion through which the deck can be moved beneath the rotating frame assembly and a greater depth of cut adjustment for the mower.
The cover structures can be easily installed and/or removed should maintenance be required on the spindles, blades, pulleys and/or belts. As is illustrated in the drawings, the removal of the covers, except the embodiment of Figure 7 which provides a resilient fastening means, simply requires the removal of the ring from the leg portion and lateral or rotational movement of the cover to allow the head portions of the upstanding pins to be removed from the openings, thereby permitting the cover to be lifted from the deck and removed.
With the present invention, there is provided a plastic composite and durable cover which can be easily and quickly installed on a variety of deck configurations.
No tools are required for the installation and/or removal of the covers, thereby minimizing the time and effort that is required for maintenance which may be necessary to the pulleys and/or belts of the deck.
Claims (22)
1. Structure for removably attaching a pulley cover member to a generally flat mower member, said structure including pin means including a head portion carried on a base supported by one of said members;
a seat provided on the other member, said seat adapted to permit the head portion to register therewith and the base to slide therealong;
anchor means carried by one of said members;
an opening through the other member which is sized to allow the anchor means to pass therethrough; and fastening means operable with the anchor means to secure the two members together.
a seat provided on the other member, said seat adapted to permit the head portion to register therewith and the base to slide therealong;
anchor means carried by one of said members;
an opening through the other member which is sized to allow the anchor means to pass therethrough; and fastening means operable with the anchor means to secure the two members together.
2. The invention defined in claim 1 wherein the cover member includes a generally circular member having a central portion with a generally vertically extending wall portion attached to the central portion and the pin means is generally L-shaped.
3. The invention defined in claim 2 wherein the circular member includes a flange portion connected to the wall portion, with the seat being provided adjacent the flange portion and the L-shaped pin means being attached to the mower member.
4. The invention defined in claim 2 wherein the L-shaped pin means is fixed to the deck member and the opening is in the wall portion of the cover member.
5. The invention defined in claim 4 wherein the anchor means is an upstanding leg portion fixed to the deck member and adapted to be received in an opening provided in the circular member.
6. A detachable cover means for enclosing the major portion of a pulley carried on a generally flat upper surface of a rotary mower deck, said cover means including a generally circular member having a central portion sized to substantially cover said pulley, a generally vertical wall portion extending downwardly from the central portion;
means for securing the circular member with the upper surface of the deck including first and second spaced apart openings extending through the circular member, a plurality of pin means carried by and projecting upwardly from the deck surface and spaced to be received through the openings in said circular member, at least one of said pin means having a headed portion attached to a base and another of said pin means including a leg portion, and locking means operable with the leg portion to releasably secure the circular member with the deck when the circular member has been positioned on said deck and the pin means received in the opening.
means for securing the circular member with the upper surface of the deck including first and second spaced apart openings extending through the circular member, a plurality of pin means carried by and projecting upwardly from the deck surface and spaced to be received through the openings in said circular member, at least one of said pin means having a headed portion attached to a base and another of said pin means including a leg portion, and locking means operable with the leg portion to releasably secure the circular member with the deck when the circular member has been positioned on said deck and the pin means received in the opening.
7. The invention defined in claim 6 wherein the first and second openings are in the wall portion, the one pin means is generally L-shaped and the locking means includes a stop carried on the leg portion and registrable with the wall portion when the pin means has been received in the openings.
8. A detachable cover means for enclosing the major portion of a pulley carried on a generally flat upper surface of a rotary mower deck, said cover means including a generally circular member having a central portion sized to substantially cover said pulley, a generally vertical wall portion extending downwardly from the central portion;
means for securing the circular member with the upper surface of the deck including first and second openings extending through the circular member, pin means carried by and projecting upwardly from the deck surface, at least one of said pin means having a head portion carried on a base with the head portion adapted to be received in the first opening and another of said pin means including an upstanding leg portion adapted to be received in the second opening, and locking means operable with the leg portion to releasably secure the circular member with the deck when the circular member has been positioned on said deck and the pin means received in the openings.
means for securing the circular member with the upper surface of the deck including first and second openings extending through the circular member, pin means carried by and projecting upwardly from the deck surface, at least one of said pin means having a head portion carried on a base with the head portion adapted to be received in the first opening and another of said pin means including an upstanding leg portion adapted to be received in the second opening, and locking means operable with the leg portion to releasably secure the circular member with the deck when the circular member has been positioned on said deck and the pin means received in the openings.
9. A detachable cover means for enclosing the major portion of a pulley carried on a generally flat upper surface of a rotary mower deck, said cover means including a generally circular member having a central portion sized to substantially cover said pulley, a generally vertical wall portion extending downwardly from the central portion;
means for securing the circular member with the upper surface of the deck including a plurality of spaced apart openings extending through the circular member, at least one of said openings having an elongated section with an enlarged section connected therewith, a plurality of pin means carried by and projecting upwardly from the deck surface and spaced to be received through the openings in said circular member, at least one of said pin means having a headed portion attached to a shaft portion and one of said pin means including a leg portion, and locking means operable with the leg portion to releasably secure the circular member with the deck when the circular member has been positioned on said deck and the pin means received in the openings of the circular member.
means for securing the circular member with the upper surface of the deck including a plurality of spaced apart openings extending through the circular member, at least one of said openings having an elongated section with an enlarged section connected therewith, a plurality of pin means carried by and projecting upwardly from the deck surface and spaced to be received through the openings in said circular member, at least one of said pin means having a headed portion attached to a shaft portion and one of said pin means including a leg portion, and locking means operable with the leg portion to releasably secure the circular member with the deck when the circular member has been positioned on said deck and the pin means received in the openings of the circular member.
10. A detachable cover means for enclosing the major portion of a pulley carried on a generally flat upper surface of a rotary mower deck, said cover means including a generally circular member having a central portion sized to substantially cover said pulley, a generally vertical wall portion extending downwardly from the central portion, and flange portions extending outwardly from the wall portion and being generally flat;
means for securing the circular member with the upper surface of the deck including a plurality of spaced apart openings extending through the flange portions, at least one of said openings having an elongated section with an enlarged section connected therewith, a plurality of pin means carried by and projecting upwardly from the deck surface and spaced to be received through the openings in said flange portions, at least one of said pin means having a headed portion attached to a shaft portion and one of said pin means including a leg portion, and locking means operable with the leg portion to releasably secure the circular member with the deck when the circular member has been positioned on said deck and the pin means received in the openings of the flange portions.
means for securing the circular member with the upper surface of the deck including a plurality of spaced apart openings extending through the flange portions, at least one of said openings having an elongated section with an enlarged section connected therewith, a plurality of pin means carried by and projecting upwardly from the deck surface and spaced to be received through the openings in said flange portions, at least one of said pin means having a headed portion attached to a shaft portion and one of said pin means including a leg portion, and locking means operable with the leg portion to releasably secure the circular member with the deck when the circular member has been positioned on said deck and the pin means received in the openings of the flange portions.
11. The invention defined in claim 10 wherein the deck carries at least two pulleys, each being provided with a cover means having a center point from which the openings are generally equally spaced, one cover means being provided with the elongated section of the one opening extending generally circumferentially about said point and the other cover means being provided with the elongated section of the one opening extending generally radially from said center point.
12. The invention defined in claim 10 wherein the circular member includes a center point from which the openings are generally equally spaced.
13. The invention defined in claim 12 wherein the elongated section of the opening extends generally circumferentially about the center point.
14. The invention defined in claim 10 wherein the flange portions are provided with at least two openings which have an elongated section with an enlarged section connected therewith.
15. The invention defined in claim 14 wherein the circular member includes a center point from which the two openings are generally equally spaced and the elongated sections of the openings extend circumferentially about the center point.
16. The invention defined in claim 10 wherein the locking means includes an opening extending through the leg portion wherein a locking pin can be removably received.
17. The invention defined in claim 16 wherein the locking pin takes the form of a circular ring.
18. The invention defined in claim 10 wherein the headed portion includes a cross sectional segment which is wider than the width of the elongated section.
19. The invention defined in claim 10 wherein the pulley is mounted on a spindle which has a lubrication fitting and the central portion is provided with an opening in its middle to provide access to the lubrication fitting.
20. The invention defined in claim 12 wherein the elongated section of the opening extends generally radially from the center point.
21. The invention defined in claim 20 wherein the flange portions are provided with at least two openings, one having its elongated section extending generally circumferentially about the center point and the other having its elongated section extending generally radially from the center point.
22. The invention defined in claim 21 wherein the locking means includes an opening extending through the leg portion wherein a locking pin can be removably received.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US10582898A | 1998-06-26 | 1998-06-26 | |
| US09/105,828 | 1998-06-26 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2262107A1 true CA2262107A1 (en) | 1999-12-26 |
Family
ID=22308002
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2262107 Abandoned CA2262107A1 (en) | 1998-06-26 | 1999-02-25 | Detachable pulley cover structure |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0966877A1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2262107A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2533200A (en) * | 2014-10-24 | 2016-06-15 | Deere & Co | Mower deck spindle cover |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2905228A1 (en) * | 2006-08-31 | 2008-03-07 | Kiva Soc Par Actions Simplifie | MOBILE VEGETABLE CUTTING EQUIPMENT AND CORRESPONDING CARTER. |
Family Cites Families (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4724660A (en) * | 1986-04-30 | 1988-02-16 | Allied Products Corporation | Mower and drive train mounting assembly |
| US4887420A (en) * | 1988-10-31 | 1989-12-19 | Deere & Company | Modular mower deck with light-weight housing |
| US4930298A (en) * | 1989-03-16 | 1990-06-05 | The Toro Company | Cutting unit cover |
| JP2934992B2 (en) * | 1991-05-20 | 1999-08-16 | ヤンマー農機株式会社 | Lawn mower |
| US5177942A (en) * | 1991-08-15 | 1993-01-12 | The Toro Company | Mower deck with improved belt drive arrangement |
| US5628171A (en) * | 1995-07-24 | 1997-05-13 | The Toro Company | Mulching mower convertible to discharge/collection mode |
| US5775074A (en) * | 1996-08-08 | 1998-07-07 | Walter; Dennis G. | Versatile power mechanism for use with a plurality of outdoor appliances |
| US5836144A (en) * | 1997-01-24 | 1998-11-17 | Deere & Company | Mounting plate for mower deck |
-
1999
- 1999-02-25 CA CA 2262107 patent/CA2262107A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1999-05-31 EP EP99110500A patent/EP0966877A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2533200A (en) * | 2014-10-24 | 2016-06-15 | Deere & Co | Mower deck spindle cover |
| US9699966B2 (en) | 2014-10-24 | 2017-07-11 | Deere & Company | Mower deck spindle cover |
| GB2533200B (en) * | 2014-10-24 | 2021-01-06 | Deere & Co | Mower deck spindle cover |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| EP0966877A1 (en) | 1999-12-29 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |