CA2305829A1 - Tree transplanting apparatus - Google Patents
Tree transplanting apparatus Download PDFInfo
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- CA2305829A1 CA2305829A1 CA 2305829 CA2305829A CA2305829A1 CA 2305829 A1 CA2305829 A1 CA 2305829A1 CA 2305829 CA2305829 CA 2305829 CA 2305829 A CA2305829 A CA 2305829A CA 2305829 A1 CA2305829 A1 CA 2305829A1
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Abstract
A tree transplanting apparatus wherein a set of digging spades are mounted on a turret assembly which restrains the motion of the spades to that of an arc. The turrets and the mating enclosures of the spades are arc shaped and the interface is fitted with sliding liners to assure a long life with a low friction sliding surface. Reaction forces encountered in normal transplanting operations are transmitted over a large area in order to reduce wear and bending movements applied to the turrets are substantially reduced. Because of the large surface areas of engagement, wear of mating parts is substantially reduced.
Description
TREE TRANSPLANTING APPARATUS
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to apparatus for transplanting trees where it is desired to retain a large ball of earth about the root system of the tree which is being transplanted during a moving process.
"Tree spades" (the term usually applied to such apparatus) have been used in various forms for moving various size trees for some considerable length of time.
Tree spades have evolved from small devices which utilized a gear and rack system to provide individual blade motion to the modern high powered hydraulically driven blade system which is capable of moving io fairly large trees. The basic system component of tree spades is a robust framework wherein the framework is provided with a pair of hinges to permit parts of the framework to pivot to an "open" position to allow the framework to surround a tree. The framework must be capable of being closed and locked in the closed position by a locking mechanism so that is the framework is able to completely surround and envelop the tree to be moved.
The framework surrounding the tree must provide support for a system of spade turrets (2, 3 or 4 usually) which are guides which constrain the motion of the individual digging blades of the tree spade to a predetermined path.
The turrets of prior art tree spades may cause the individual blades to move in a linear path, or for optimum root ball size, some manufactures provide for motion of curved blades follow an arc path.
Actuation of spade blades on most modern equipment is provided by hydraulic means, thus the basic framework must provide suitable mounting assemblies for hydraulic cylinders which motivate the individual blades of the tree spade. It will be seen that the basic io framework is subjected to substantial forces, first in forcing the individual blades into the earth surrounding the tree, which usually requires that some tree roots be severed during the digging process, and ultimately the framework must provide the capability of lifting and tilting the whole tree plus the root ball onto a suitable vehicle for moving the tree captive in the ~ s spade apparatus. Sometimes the tree spade is used only to lift the tree to a height sufF~cient to "clear" the ground so that the root ball of the tree may be placed in a wire basket system lined with burlap so that the tree may be placed on another moving conveyance for later transport to a new location.
ao Some of the problems facing tree spade manufacturers are as follows:
The most desirable spade operation is one which develops a large root ball during the digging operation for a tree undergoing transplanting.
This surely implies that individual spade blades must be formed to have curvature in two axes i.e. a radius to produce a concave surface about the s tree root parallel to the surface of the ground, and a radius in the vertical plane which permits the blade to move in an arc shaped path to produce an optimized size of the root ball produced by the spade.
The "throat" of the tree spade should be as large as possible (this is the opening provided by the robust framework which pivots about the io tree being transplanted) to enable the tree spade to be moved into and execute a digging operation without damaging the tree trunk or lower branches during the subsequent transplanting or root ball wrapping operation.
The maximum size of a transplanting apparatus is usually is controlled by the public regulatory bodies such as the Department of Transport etc. which limit the width of vehicular tragic which may move on public highways, thus manufacturers of tree spades continually seek blade configurations and blade movement which will produce the largest possible root ball while maintaining the spade width within the limits 2o imposed by the highway authorities.
PERTINENT PRIOR ART
U. S. Patent 5 459 952 issued October 24. 1995 This patent describes a three or four bladed tree spade device in which hydraulic actuating cylinders are mounted either inboard (see Figure 4) or outboard (see Figure 4A) of each spade member. In either instance the hydraulic actuating cylinder is "hidden" from view by the thrust tube which defines the linear travel of the blade.
This patent describes the use of a sliding blade assembly, which moves up and down on the enclosed stationary thrust tube. Usually a low io fi-iction plastic lining is located in the sliding surface. This patent has a particular advantage in the elimination of any mechanical rotating parts at the spade sleeve-thrust tube interface of the tree spade. The low friction plastic lining provides a low maintenance type of operation.
is U.S. Patent 5 600 904 issued February 11. 1997 This patent describes a tree spade wherein individual blade of the tree spade move in a linear fashion but wherein each spade blade may be impact driven to penetrate rocks and tree roots.
w 5 EHO 99135 U.S. Patent 5 845 691 issued January 23. 1996 This patent describes a lightweight apparatus for relocation of small trees and shrubs etc. wherein the blades are made to execute linear motion as in the previous patents.
s U.S. Patent S 459 952 U.S. Patent 4 341 025 U.S. Patent 3 713 234 U.S. Patent 4 286 398 U.S~. Patent 5 081 941 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a tree io transplanting apparatus which may be mounted on a suitable vehicle in which the individual spade blades are confined to movement in an arc shaped path during a digging operation. The digging blades are formed to have a curved surface, which may have differing radii of curvature in the horizontal and vertical planes.
is The tree transplanting apparatus utilizes a robust frame, which is provided with a pair of pivots so that the frame may be "opened" to receive a tree truck therein, and a locking mechanism which provides for integrity of the frame during a transplanting operation. Because of the peculiar construction of the instant apparatus, the opening provided 2o within the closed robust frame tends to be somewhat larger than prior art models, thus less damage tends to occur to a tree undergoing a transplanting operation than with prior art apparatus.
In the instant invention, the curved motion executed by the spade blade results from the presence of a plurality of turret towers, which arise from and are secured to the robust frame. The individual towers are curved to extend upwardly and outwardly from the robust frame a predetermined distance (depending on the size and design of the tree transplanter apparatus). Each individual turret comprises a hollow steel member preferably having a rectangular cross section.
io Each individual spade of the transplanting apparatus is provided with a sleeve as part of the spade structure which is mounted on a curved turret tower so as to be received in a sliding fit; that is the individual blades are provided with an arc shaped enclosure of rectangular cross section which matches the curvature of the turret tower on which it is is mounted. The curved sleeve is provided with a lining of a low friction material (preferably low friction plastic) to reduce losses during a digging operation. The sleeve portion of the individual structure may extend a respectable length along each turret to reduce the bending moment applied to the sliding sleeve which occurs during a digging operation.
Zo In certain instances, the lining material in the spade sleeves which embraces each turret may be mounted in the sleeve-turret interface so as to be adjustable so that it may be "shimmed" into intimate contact with the surface of the turret towers as normal wear takes place.
The blades of the instant apparatus are manufactured by cold forming so as to have an improved ultimate strength to enable each blade s to resist the bending and twisting forces commonly encountered (in prior art apparatus) during a transplanting operation under difficult soil conditions.
The hydraulic cylinders, which activate the individual spade blades, may be mounted at various locations on the frame on which the io turret towers are mounted.
FIGURE 1 shows an illustration of a portion of prior art tree transplanting apparatus.
FIGURE 2 shows a perspective view of the frame and turret tower assembly of the instant invention.
is FIGURE 3 is an exploded perspective view of the spade assembly of this invention.
FIGURE 4 is a cross sectional view of the spade sleeve-turret tower mating assembly shown in FIGURE 3.
FIGURE 5 shows a frame mounted cylinder actuator for a tree 2o spade apparatus.
FIGURE 6 shows a turret tower mounting of a cylinder actuator for a tree spade apparatus.
FIGURE 7 shows the mounting arrangement for single cylinder actuator for a single spade blade of this invention.
s FIGURE 8 shows the mounting arrangement for a dual cylinder spade blade actuator apparatus of this invention.
FIGURE 9 is a partial perspective cross sectional view of a U
shaped cross section turret which may be used with this invention.
FIGURE 10 is a sectional view of FIGURE 9 showing various io altenlate cylinder mounting arrangements.
FIGURE 11 is a sectional view of an alternate turret-sleeve mounting arrangement.
FIGURE 12 shows a simplified sectional view of the sleeve-turret arrangement shown in FIGURES 2 and 3 but also including the alternate l.s locations for the actuating cylinders for apparatus of this invention.
FIGURE 13 shows a sectional view of a dual turret-sleeve arrangement of this invention.
FIGURE 14 shows a sectional view of a modification arrangement applied to a prior art transplanting apparatus which permits application of 2o this invention to existing tree spade apparatus.
FIGURE 15 shows a sectional view for a turret sleeve arrangement which is the inverse of the scheme shown in FIGURE 12.
FIGURE 16 is a sectional view of a double "angle iron" turret arrangement and the enclosure therefore.
s DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Figure 1 shows a portion of a prior art curved turret type tree spade 10. Here a hollow turret 12 is shown mounted on a frame 14. An actuating hydraulic cylinder 16 is attached to a pair of brace plates 18 and io the piston actuating rod 20 is attached to blade frame 22. Blade frame 22 is attached to car 24, which is captive inside the hollow turret 12. Turret 12 is provided with a slot 28 which extends the entire length of the turret 12 to permit the blade frame 22 which is attached to car 24 to move up and down the length of the turret 12. This causes the attached blade 30 to is move up and down too. Car 24 has 4 wheels 26.
In operation, the spade blade 30 raised and lowered by means of actuating cylinder 16 which moves blade frame 22 up and down in slot 26. Car wheels 26 are confined within appropriate tracks formed in turret 12 so that spade blade 30 moves in an arc as defined by the track ao confinement of turret 12.
1o EHO 99135 There are some important features to note about the prior art apparatus of Figure 1. The thrust axis of the hydraulic cylinder can never coincide with the line of travel of the car 24 because of the topological problems presented by this construction; consequently during any operation where the hydraulic cylinder is applying force to the blade frame 22, a bending moment will be present on the car 24 within turret 12. Over an extended period of time, wear of the track within the turret can occur and wheels 26 may become misshapened so that car 24 does not follow the path of a perfect arc, and as those skilled in the art of io operating this type of transplanting apparatus are aware, if the arc traversed by the car 24 does not match the curvature of spade blade 30, considerable jamming and wedging of the car 24 in turret 12 results. This leads to a most unsatisfactory type of motion of spade blades 30. If the wear is serious enough the slot 28 may become enlarged or widened by is the substantial bending forces applied to the car which may tend to "wedge" in the turret 12.
It is to overcome some of the problems of the prior art that this invention is directed. Figure 2 shows a transplanting apparatus 100 having a rectangularly shaped base 102 comprising two L shaped leg 2o members 104 and 106 and U shaped leg member 108. Leg members 104 and 106 are hinged at breaks 110 and 112 in frame 102 where hinges such as 114 and 116 are mounted. Leg members 104 and 106 and 108 are preferably of rectangular cross section to provide required robustness to the frame 102. Four turrets 118, 120, 122 and 124 are welded to the corners of the frame 102. Frame 20 opens at 126 where lock 128 is s provided to allow opening and locking frame 102 in a closed position.
The frame is shown open in phantom where leg 104 is swung around hinge 116 to show the open position of member 104.
A mounting device 130 is provided on member 108 to permit quick attachment of the tree spade to a primary vehicle. A cylinder mount 132 io is provided at each corner of frame 102 to permit the attachment of the spade blade actuating cylinders (not shown). An actuating hydraulic cylinder 134 is shown in phantom for moving leg 104 to the open position.
The turret members 118, 120, 122 and 124 are preferably steel is tubes which are hollow and of rectangular cross section. The wall thickness of the tubes 118-124 is dependent upon the size of the apparatus but a wall thickness of 3/8 -'/2 inch is preferable.
The turrets 118-124 are precisely shaped to be an arc of predetermined radius. Turrets 118-124 may be fabricated to the desired 2o shape or they may be formed into an arc by a rolling process.
Fitted on to each turrets 118-124 is a spade assembly 150 as shown in Figure 2. Spade 150 comprises a spoon 152 having a compound curved surface; that is spoon 152 is curved in both the vertical and horizontal planes. The curvature of spoon 152 in vertical plane must s match exactly the curvature of the turrets 118-124 for the assembled apparatus to function properly. Spoon 152 is integrally attached to stem 154.
Stem 154 comprises sides 156, 158 and an outside backing member 160 (not shown in Figure 3) to form a trough 162. A closure member 164 io completes the stem enclosure. The sides 156, 158 of stem 154 are provided with a pair of curved flanges 166, 168 to which closure member 164 is securely fastened.
Closure member 164 is supplied with a plurality of bridging reinforcing members 170 which are preferably fastened to flanges 166, is 168 at threaded holes such as 172. The sides 156, 158 and rear 160 form a curved trough 162 which is lined with low friction runners 174, 176, 178 (not shown in Figure 3). These runners are preferably strips of a plastic material (although liners of aluminum bronze or mica will function as well), which exhibit low friction resistance to sliding motion 2o at the surfaces thereof. A fourth runner 180 fits against the inside surface of the turret to which it is attached.
In this instance, spade 150 is to be fitted to one of the turrets, say 118, and at this time front closure member 164 is absent from trough 162 formed in the stem 154 of spade assembly 1 S0. Plastic liners 174, 176, 178 are in place in trough 162 and the spade assembly 150 is mounted on s the turret (118).
Closure member 164 and liner 180 are mounted on stem 154 so that the turret 118 is completely encased by the four plastic (in this instance) runners 174, 176, 178 and 180. The closure member 164 is adjustably held against the flanges 166, 168 by bolts through bridging io members 170. Shims may be provided at the flange-bridging interface to allow for precise clearances between the runners 178, 180 and turret 118.
Similarly, adjusting bolts 184 are provided in sides 156 and 158 to shim runners 174, 176, against the sides of turret 118.
It is absolutely essential that the path of the sliding stem on the is stationary turret be matched to the curvature of spoon 152 thus the shims and other runner adjustment provide a method for a good precise fit of stem 154 to turret 118 so that precise execution of the arc shaped locus may occur.
A cylinder bracket 190 is secured to the top of stem 154 for 2o receiving a piston rod of an actuating cylinder to move spoon 152 up and down on turret 118.
Bracket 190 is provided with a pair of flanges 192, 194 having mounting holes for receiving pin 196 therein.
Figure 4 shows the cross section of the turret 118 - stem 154 interface of Figures 2 and 3. Plastic liners 174, 176, 178 and 180 are s shown in place between the turret 118 and stem walls 156, 158, 160 and 164. Side adjustment is by means of bolts 184 to move liners 174 and 176 to and away from turret 118 for adjustment of side clearance of spade assembly 150.
Bolts 200 and nuts 202 are provided in flanges 166, 168 and io bridging members 170 to pull the two assemblies together. Shims are provided at interface 204 of bridging members 170 and flanges 166 and 168 to permit a precise fit between turret 118 and runners 178 and 180.
This assures a precise fit for the travel of the spoon 152 in the radial direction (in and out) during operation of the assembly.
is In some instances, the rear wall 160 may be made to be removable just as closure member 164 has been shown for alternate construction of the stem assembly. Of course in this alternative construction closure member 164 would now be an integral part of walls 156 and 158.
Figure 5 shows spade assembly utilizing a most common mounting Zo arrangement for the actuating hydraulic cylinders. In this instance, spade assembly 152 is mounted on turret 118 by stem 154. Cylinder 210 is mounted on bracket 132 (which as attached to frame 106). Piston stem 212 is fastened to pin 196 in bracket 190 to move spade assembly up and down on turret 118.
s Figure 6 shows a top mounting of the cylinder 220 if turret height is not important. Here an elongated turret 218 extends to a height sufficient to permit the top bracket 224 to be mounted thereon. Cylinder 220 now moves up and down with spade 152 and piston rod 222 remains stationary.
io Figure 7 shows an alternate form of the invention which utilizes a spade assembly 300 in which an arc shaped turret 318 (which is of U
shaped cross section) is fitted with sleeve 354. The scheme for the insertion of the linings in the turret 318 - sleeve 354 interface will be shown in a later drawing. Figure 7 shows a conventional mounting of is cylinder 310 on frame 306 and where the mounting of piston rod 312 will be very similar to the mounting of a piston rod 212 to pin holder 192 in Figure 3. Bracket 392 in Figure 7 performs a similar function to bracket 190 of Figure 5.
Figure 8, however, shows an assembly 400 in which a turret 418 Zo (of U shaped cross section) is mounted on frame 406. A pair of pistons 410 are pivoted in brackets 432 mounted on frame 406. Sleeve 454 is equipped with brackets 490 on each side of sleeve 454 which receive the piston rods 412 of the pistons 410.
This method of mounting the actuating hydraulic cylinders 410 s reduces the bending moment applied to sleeve 454 during a transplanting operation when compared to prior art mounting schemes such as shown in Figures 1 and 7.
Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a portion of an assembly 300 in which a turret 318 (of U shaped cross section) is shown having a spade io 352 mounted thereon. Sleeve 354 is attached to spade 354 by welding etc. and surrounds the 3 exterior surfaces of the U shaped turret 318. A
set of linings 360, 362 and 364 are mounted within sleeve 354. As previously the linings 360, 362 and 364 move with sleeve 354 and a method of adjusting the clearances of the sleeve-lining-turret interfaces is such as shown in Figures 3 and 4 may be incorporated into the assembly 300. A second U shaped channel 370 shown in dashed lines is welded to spade 352 and is provided with a liner member 372 to mate with the inner curved surface of turret 318.
Figure 10 is a sectional view of the apparatus of Figure 9. The Zo placement of liner 372 is shown clearly in this figure. The placement of the actuating cylinders 410 is important in reducing the bending moment on sliding sleeve 354. However a single cylinder such as 490 will function to move sleeve 354 and attached blade 352 up and down as well.
If the throat of U shaped channel is made large enough a single s piston placed within the interior of channel 370 and blade 352 will function to motivate blade 352.
Figure 11 shows a cross section of an assembly 500 which shows an alternative embodiment of the invention. Here an open channel turret 518 is shown surrounded by sleeve 554 which is welded to spade blade io 552. An inner channel member 570 is also welded to spade 552 so as to move in concert with outer sleeve 554. Between channel 570 and turret 518 is a set of low friction linings 560, 562 and 564. A fourth liner member 572 is installed between the front exterior surface 580 of turret 518 and inside surface 582 of sleeve 554.
is The actuating cylinders 510 may be mounted on the opposite sides of sleeve 554 or, as shown at 590, for single cylinder mounting. If the interior space within channel 570 and blade 552 is made large enough an actuating cylinder may be mounted within this space.
Figure 12 shows an embodiment of the invention which is very 2o similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 2, 3 and 4 except assembly 1g EHO 99135 600 may be fitted with a pair of actuating cylinders. A curved turret 618 of rectangular cross section is surrounded by a lining assembly 660 which may be a composite of up to 4 separate lining members or a formed sleeve which is installed in outer sleeve 654 (which is welded to spade 652). The encapsulation of turret 618 is completed by means of plate 680 (curved to match turret curvature) which is bolted to sides 654 of the sleeve.
Cylinders 610 are mounted on either side of sleeve 654 or if a single cylinder is being used, the mounting will be at 690 as shown io previously in Figures 2 and 3.
Figure 13 shows an assembly 700 wherein a pair of spaced curved turrets 718 are attached to the corners of a frame such as 102 as shown in Figure 2. Turrets 718 are engaged by a set of low friction lining members 760 and 762 which may be single formed members or composites such as is shown in Figures 3 and 4. Angle members 770 are bolted to curved channel 772 (which may be formed from a single channel or comprise a series of U shaped braces) which are welded to spade 752, and a pair of angle members 774 are bolted to angles 770. In this manner spade 752 is constrained to travel in path defined by turrets 718 because of the enclosure provided by members 770 and 774 about turrets 718. A
cylinder 790 may be mounted between the twin turrets 718 as shown.
Figure 14 shows an assembly 800 which is applicable to the remanufacture of prior art tree spades in which it is desired to delete the car within the slotted turrets such as shown in Figure 1. Turrets such as 12 are first cut along their length (with an arc shaped cut) to produce the U shaped cross section as shown by reference numerals 810, 812, 814.
Flanges 816, 818 are welded to sides 812 and 814 as shown. A open box inner sleeve member 820 (curved to match turret 814 curvature) is io welded to spade 852 and rides in lining members 822, 824 and 826. A
pair of curved guide members 830 and 832 are welded to the sides of sleeve member 820 as shown. Curved angle members 834 and 836 are bolted to members 830 and 832 as shown. Lining members 840 and 842 are inserted between flanges 816 and 818 and members 834 and 836 as is shown. Cylinder 890 now is located in the open box spade sleeve 820 (which is impossible to do in the prior art Figure 1 ).
Figure 15 shows a spade-turret construction which is the inverse of that shown in Figure 12. Here the turret 918 and sliding sleeve 954 are mounted outbound of spade 952. This construction is especially useful in 2o small size tree spades where the size of the frame is of no consequence 2o EHO 99135 (in large models, transport regulatory bodies impose strict limits on the size of equipment allowed on highways). Thus the frame such as 102 in Figure 2 would lie outside the spade blades in this arrangement. In Figure 15 the curved spade blade 952 is welded to side plates 954.
s Curved plate 956 is welded to plates 954. Sleeve 960 is enclosed on three sides by plates 954 and 956. Plate 980 is bolted to plates 954 by means of bolts 982. Cylinders such as 910 may be mounted on either side of the turret sleeve assembly or a single cylinder such as 990 may be mounted as shown.
io Figure 16 shows a guide system 1000 for a spade 1052 which utilizes angle members for the majority of the construction. A pair of curved supports 1002 and 1004 are welded to the blade 1052. An assembly comprising two angle members 1006 and 1008 which have been formed in the shape of an arc are bolted to blade support members i s 1002 and 1004. A "backbone" member 1010 which is curved to match the arc shape of angles 1006 and 1008 is welded to 1006 and 1008 as shown. A second pair of arc shaped angle members 1016 and 1018 are bolted to backbone member 1010. Cover plates 1012 and 1014 are bolted to angle members 1006 and 1008 respectively. A pair of angle turrets 20 1022 and 1024 are captivated by angles 1006, 1012, 1016 and 1008, 1014 and 1018 respectively which are supplied with liners 1026 and 1028 to provide the low friction interface between the turrets and surrounding structure. A single cylinder 1090 is shown partially nested in the guide system 1000.
All of the systems shown in Figures 10 through 16 show cross sectional view guide systems for tree transplanter spades having an arc shaped surface of constant radius in the vertical direction so as to move their associate spade blades in the path of an arc. The curvature of each blade in a horizontal plane will be arc shaped of a variable radius.
It is absolutely essential the curvature of the turrets match the io curvature of the blades in the vertical plane in order to perform the most efficient digging operation.
To reduce the bending moment on sleeves surrounding the turrets during a digging operation, each piston rod should ideally be applying downward force on the sleeve at the mid point of the turret and sleeve is such as shown in Figure 8. (In Figure 1 piston rod 20 is somewhat displaced from the mid point of turret 12.) On large transplanting machines, the adjustment of clearances between the sleeves and turrets by adjustment of the lining members is deemed to be a necessary item to assure coincidence of the loci executed by the sleeve on the turret and the associated blade; that is the spade blade and the turret must follow the same arc.
Because the turrets such as those shown in Figure 2 are rectangular in cross section and sleeves such as 154 in Figure 2 extend for a substantial length along the turrets, the forces required to keep the spade blade in its constrained path are distributed over a very large surface area thus causing a minimal amount of wear on the lining members.
This invention purposely utilizes hollow steel tubular members as a basis of the construction of a robust piece of transplanting equipment. In io most instances, the preferred cross sectional shape of the spade frame such as 102 in Figure 2 and the upstanding turrets is rectangular; in some instances the turret members may have a square cross section. The shape of turrets 118-124 is especially important for the successful operation of the assembled equipment. The curve in members 118-124 is in the shape is of an arc having a specific radius. Note that no longitudinal slots are required in the turrets 118-124 to provide for access to the interior of the turrets for controlling the motion of spades 30 as may be found in some prior art transplanting apparatus. The turrets 118-124, when cold formed of a suitable selected grade of steel, make excellent risers for mounting 2o the sliding stems such as 154 of spades 152. The rectangular cross section is ideal to prevent twisting of the spade and stem on the turret during subsequent transplanting operations.
The elongated liners (which may be formed from plastic or other suitable metallic material and which may or may not be self lubricating) surrounding the turrets, tend to distribute the concentration of reaction forces and bending movement forces placed on the mating areas of the sleeves and turrets to thus assure a long wearing implement which is quite resistant to deformation. Adjustment of clearance between the liners (plastic) and the turret is swift and simple.
io Cold forming of the spoon shaped spade adds additional robustness to each spade blade and thus to the overall transplanting apparatus.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that in some instances the elaborate shimming apparatus shown in Figure 3 may not be required. That is especially true in the manufacture of small spade is apparatus. All that is really required is that the liners (preferably plastic) are properly fitted to each turret to eliminate slop and are securely mounted on the inside surface of the enclosure defined by the spade stem.
While, no doubt, additional forms for executing the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art, however applicant wishes to 20 limit the protection of this invention to the ambit of the following claims.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to apparatus for transplanting trees where it is desired to retain a large ball of earth about the root system of the tree which is being transplanted during a moving process.
"Tree spades" (the term usually applied to such apparatus) have been used in various forms for moving various size trees for some considerable length of time.
Tree spades have evolved from small devices which utilized a gear and rack system to provide individual blade motion to the modern high powered hydraulically driven blade system which is capable of moving io fairly large trees. The basic system component of tree spades is a robust framework wherein the framework is provided with a pair of hinges to permit parts of the framework to pivot to an "open" position to allow the framework to surround a tree. The framework must be capable of being closed and locked in the closed position by a locking mechanism so that is the framework is able to completely surround and envelop the tree to be moved.
The framework surrounding the tree must provide support for a system of spade turrets (2, 3 or 4 usually) which are guides which constrain the motion of the individual digging blades of the tree spade to a predetermined path.
The turrets of prior art tree spades may cause the individual blades to move in a linear path, or for optimum root ball size, some manufactures provide for motion of curved blades follow an arc path.
Actuation of spade blades on most modern equipment is provided by hydraulic means, thus the basic framework must provide suitable mounting assemblies for hydraulic cylinders which motivate the individual blades of the tree spade. It will be seen that the basic io framework is subjected to substantial forces, first in forcing the individual blades into the earth surrounding the tree, which usually requires that some tree roots be severed during the digging process, and ultimately the framework must provide the capability of lifting and tilting the whole tree plus the root ball onto a suitable vehicle for moving the tree captive in the ~ s spade apparatus. Sometimes the tree spade is used only to lift the tree to a height sufF~cient to "clear" the ground so that the root ball of the tree may be placed in a wire basket system lined with burlap so that the tree may be placed on another moving conveyance for later transport to a new location.
ao Some of the problems facing tree spade manufacturers are as follows:
The most desirable spade operation is one which develops a large root ball during the digging operation for a tree undergoing transplanting.
This surely implies that individual spade blades must be formed to have curvature in two axes i.e. a radius to produce a concave surface about the s tree root parallel to the surface of the ground, and a radius in the vertical plane which permits the blade to move in an arc shaped path to produce an optimized size of the root ball produced by the spade.
The "throat" of the tree spade should be as large as possible (this is the opening provided by the robust framework which pivots about the io tree being transplanted) to enable the tree spade to be moved into and execute a digging operation without damaging the tree trunk or lower branches during the subsequent transplanting or root ball wrapping operation.
The maximum size of a transplanting apparatus is usually is controlled by the public regulatory bodies such as the Department of Transport etc. which limit the width of vehicular tragic which may move on public highways, thus manufacturers of tree spades continually seek blade configurations and blade movement which will produce the largest possible root ball while maintaining the spade width within the limits 2o imposed by the highway authorities.
PERTINENT PRIOR ART
U. S. Patent 5 459 952 issued October 24. 1995 This patent describes a three or four bladed tree spade device in which hydraulic actuating cylinders are mounted either inboard (see Figure 4) or outboard (see Figure 4A) of each spade member. In either instance the hydraulic actuating cylinder is "hidden" from view by the thrust tube which defines the linear travel of the blade.
This patent describes the use of a sliding blade assembly, which moves up and down on the enclosed stationary thrust tube. Usually a low io fi-iction plastic lining is located in the sliding surface. This patent has a particular advantage in the elimination of any mechanical rotating parts at the spade sleeve-thrust tube interface of the tree spade. The low friction plastic lining provides a low maintenance type of operation.
is U.S. Patent 5 600 904 issued February 11. 1997 This patent describes a tree spade wherein individual blade of the tree spade move in a linear fashion but wherein each spade blade may be impact driven to penetrate rocks and tree roots.
w 5 EHO 99135 U.S. Patent 5 845 691 issued January 23. 1996 This patent describes a lightweight apparatus for relocation of small trees and shrubs etc. wherein the blades are made to execute linear motion as in the previous patents.
s U.S. Patent S 459 952 U.S. Patent 4 341 025 U.S. Patent 3 713 234 U.S. Patent 4 286 398 U.S~. Patent 5 081 941 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a tree io transplanting apparatus which may be mounted on a suitable vehicle in which the individual spade blades are confined to movement in an arc shaped path during a digging operation. The digging blades are formed to have a curved surface, which may have differing radii of curvature in the horizontal and vertical planes.
is The tree transplanting apparatus utilizes a robust frame, which is provided with a pair of pivots so that the frame may be "opened" to receive a tree truck therein, and a locking mechanism which provides for integrity of the frame during a transplanting operation. Because of the peculiar construction of the instant apparatus, the opening provided 2o within the closed robust frame tends to be somewhat larger than prior art models, thus less damage tends to occur to a tree undergoing a transplanting operation than with prior art apparatus.
In the instant invention, the curved motion executed by the spade blade results from the presence of a plurality of turret towers, which arise from and are secured to the robust frame. The individual towers are curved to extend upwardly and outwardly from the robust frame a predetermined distance (depending on the size and design of the tree transplanter apparatus). Each individual turret comprises a hollow steel member preferably having a rectangular cross section.
io Each individual spade of the transplanting apparatus is provided with a sleeve as part of the spade structure which is mounted on a curved turret tower so as to be received in a sliding fit; that is the individual blades are provided with an arc shaped enclosure of rectangular cross section which matches the curvature of the turret tower on which it is is mounted. The curved sleeve is provided with a lining of a low friction material (preferably low friction plastic) to reduce losses during a digging operation. The sleeve portion of the individual structure may extend a respectable length along each turret to reduce the bending moment applied to the sliding sleeve which occurs during a digging operation.
Zo In certain instances, the lining material in the spade sleeves which embraces each turret may be mounted in the sleeve-turret interface so as to be adjustable so that it may be "shimmed" into intimate contact with the surface of the turret towers as normal wear takes place.
The blades of the instant apparatus are manufactured by cold forming so as to have an improved ultimate strength to enable each blade s to resist the bending and twisting forces commonly encountered (in prior art apparatus) during a transplanting operation under difficult soil conditions.
The hydraulic cylinders, which activate the individual spade blades, may be mounted at various locations on the frame on which the io turret towers are mounted.
FIGURE 1 shows an illustration of a portion of prior art tree transplanting apparatus.
FIGURE 2 shows a perspective view of the frame and turret tower assembly of the instant invention.
is FIGURE 3 is an exploded perspective view of the spade assembly of this invention.
FIGURE 4 is a cross sectional view of the spade sleeve-turret tower mating assembly shown in FIGURE 3.
FIGURE 5 shows a frame mounted cylinder actuator for a tree 2o spade apparatus.
FIGURE 6 shows a turret tower mounting of a cylinder actuator for a tree spade apparatus.
FIGURE 7 shows the mounting arrangement for single cylinder actuator for a single spade blade of this invention.
s FIGURE 8 shows the mounting arrangement for a dual cylinder spade blade actuator apparatus of this invention.
FIGURE 9 is a partial perspective cross sectional view of a U
shaped cross section turret which may be used with this invention.
FIGURE 10 is a sectional view of FIGURE 9 showing various io altenlate cylinder mounting arrangements.
FIGURE 11 is a sectional view of an alternate turret-sleeve mounting arrangement.
FIGURE 12 shows a simplified sectional view of the sleeve-turret arrangement shown in FIGURES 2 and 3 but also including the alternate l.s locations for the actuating cylinders for apparatus of this invention.
FIGURE 13 shows a sectional view of a dual turret-sleeve arrangement of this invention.
FIGURE 14 shows a sectional view of a modification arrangement applied to a prior art transplanting apparatus which permits application of 2o this invention to existing tree spade apparatus.
FIGURE 15 shows a sectional view for a turret sleeve arrangement which is the inverse of the scheme shown in FIGURE 12.
FIGURE 16 is a sectional view of a double "angle iron" turret arrangement and the enclosure therefore.
s DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Figure 1 shows a portion of a prior art curved turret type tree spade 10. Here a hollow turret 12 is shown mounted on a frame 14. An actuating hydraulic cylinder 16 is attached to a pair of brace plates 18 and io the piston actuating rod 20 is attached to blade frame 22. Blade frame 22 is attached to car 24, which is captive inside the hollow turret 12. Turret 12 is provided with a slot 28 which extends the entire length of the turret 12 to permit the blade frame 22 which is attached to car 24 to move up and down the length of the turret 12. This causes the attached blade 30 to is move up and down too. Car 24 has 4 wheels 26.
In operation, the spade blade 30 raised and lowered by means of actuating cylinder 16 which moves blade frame 22 up and down in slot 26. Car wheels 26 are confined within appropriate tracks formed in turret 12 so that spade blade 30 moves in an arc as defined by the track ao confinement of turret 12.
1o EHO 99135 There are some important features to note about the prior art apparatus of Figure 1. The thrust axis of the hydraulic cylinder can never coincide with the line of travel of the car 24 because of the topological problems presented by this construction; consequently during any operation where the hydraulic cylinder is applying force to the blade frame 22, a bending moment will be present on the car 24 within turret 12. Over an extended period of time, wear of the track within the turret can occur and wheels 26 may become misshapened so that car 24 does not follow the path of a perfect arc, and as those skilled in the art of io operating this type of transplanting apparatus are aware, if the arc traversed by the car 24 does not match the curvature of spade blade 30, considerable jamming and wedging of the car 24 in turret 12 results. This leads to a most unsatisfactory type of motion of spade blades 30. If the wear is serious enough the slot 28 may become enlarged or widened by is the substantial bending forces applied to the car which may tend to "wedge" in the turret 12.
It is to overcome some of the problems of the prior art that this invention is directed. Figure 2 shows a transplanting apparatus 100 having a rectangularly shaped base 102 comprising two L shaped leg 2o members 104 and 106 and U shaped leg member 108. Leg members 104 and 106 are hinged at breaks 110 and 112 in frame 102 where hinges such as 114 and 116 are mounted. Leg members 104 and 106 and 108 are preferably of rectangular cross section to provide required robustness to the frame 102. Four turrets 118, 120, 122 and 124 are welded to the corners of the frame 102. Frame 20 opens at 126 where lock 128 is s provided to allow opening and locking frame 102 in a closed position.
The frame is shown open in phantom where leg 104 is swung around hinge 116 to show the open position of member 104.
A mounting device 130 is provided on member 108 to permit quick attachment of the tree spade to a primary vehicle. A cylinder mount 132 io is provided at each corner of frame 102 to permit the attachment of the spade blade actuating cylinders (not shown). An actuating hydraulic cylinder 134 is shown in phantom for moving leg 104 to the open position.
The turret members 118, 120, 122 and 124 are preferably steel is tubes which are hollow and of rectangular cross section. The wall thickness of the tubes 118-124 is dependent upon the size of the apparatus but a wall thickness of 3/8 -'/2 inch is preferable.
The turrets 118-124 are precisely shaped to be an arc of predetermined radius. Turrets 118-124 may be fabricated to the desired 2o shape or they may be formed into an arc by a rolling process.
Fitted on to each turrets 118-124 is a spade assembly 150 as shown in Figure 2. Spade 150 comprises a spoon 152 having a compound curved surface; that is spoon 152 is curved in both the vertical and horizontal planes. The curvature of spoon 152 in vertical plane must s match exactly the curvature of the turrets 118-124 for the assembled apparatus to function properly. Spoon 152 is integrally attached to stem 154.
Stem 154 comprises sides 156, 158 and an outside backing member 160 (not shown in Figure 3) to form a trough 162. A closure member 164 io completes the stem enclosure. The sides 156, 158 of stem 154 are provided with a pair of curved flanges 166, 168 to which closure member 164 is securely fastened.
Closure member 164 is supplied with a plurality of bridging reinforcing members 170 which are preferably fastened to flanges 166, is 168 at threaded holes such as 172. The sides 156, 158 and rear 160 form a curved trough 162 which is lined with low friction runners 174, 176, 178 (not shown in Figure 3). These runners are preferably strips of a plastic material (although liners of aluminum bronze or mica will function as well), which exhibit low friction resistance to sliding motion 2o at the surfaces thereof. A fourth runner 180 fits against the inside surface of the turret to which it is attached.
In this instance, spade 150 is to be fitted to one of the turrets, say 118, and at this time front closure member 164 is absent from trough 162 formed in the stem 154 of spade assembly 1 S0. Plastic liners 174, 176, 178 are in place in trough 162 and the spade assembly 150 is mounted on s the turret (118).
Closure member 164 and liner 180 are mounted on stem 154 so that the turret 118 is completely encased by the four plastic (in this instance) runners 174, 176, 178 and 180. The closure member 164 is adjustably held against the flanges 166, 168 by bolts through bridging io members 170. Shims may be provided at the flange-bridging interface to allow for precise clearances between the runners 178, 180 and turret 118.
Similarly, adjusting bolts 184 are provided in sides 156 and 158 to shim runners 174, 176, against the sides of turret 118.
It is absolutely essential that the path of the sliding stem on the is stationary turret be matched to the curvature of spoon 152 thus the shims and other runner adjustment provide a method for a good precise fit of stem 154 to turret 118 so that precise execution of the arc shaped locus may occur.
A cylinder bracket 190 is secured to the top of stem 154 for 2o receiving a piston rod of an actuating cylinder to move spoon 152 up and down on turret 118.
Bracket 190 is provided with a pair of flanges 192, 194 having mounting holes for receiving pin 196 therein.
Figure 4 shows the cross section of the turret 118 - stem 154 interface of Figures 2 and 3. Plastic liners 174, 176, 178 and 180 are s shown in place between the turret 118 and stem walls 156, 158, 160 and 164. Side adjustment is by means of bolts 184 to move liners 174 and 176 to and away from turret 118 for adjustment of side clearance of spade assembly 150.
Bolts 200 and nuts 202 are provided in flanges 166, 168 and io bridging members 170 to pull the two assemblies together. Shims are provided at interface 204 of bridging members 170 and flanges 166 and 168 to permit a precise fit between turret 118 and runners 178 and 180.
This assures a precise fit for the travel of the spoon 152 in the radial direction (in and out) during operation of the assembly.
is In some instances, the rear wall 160 may be made to be removable just as closure member 164 has been shown for alternate construction of the stem assembly. Of course in this alternative construction closure member 164 would now be an integral part of walls 156 and 158.
Figure 5 shows spade assembly utilizing a most common mounting Zo arrangement for the actuating hydraulic cylinders. In this instance, spade assembly 152 is mounted on turret 118 by stem 154. Cylinder 210 is mounted on bracket 132 (which as attached to frame 106). Piston stem 212 is fastened to pin 196 in bracket 190 to move spade assembly up and down on turret 118.
s Figure 6 shows a top mounting of the cylinder 220 if turret height is not important. Here an elongated turret 218 extends to a height sufficient to permit the top bracket 224 to be mounted thereon. Cylinder 220 now moves up and down with spade 152 and piston rod 222 remains stationary.
io Figure 7 shows an alternate form of the invention which utilizes a spade assembly 300 in which an arc shaped turret 318 (which is of U
shaped cross section) is fitted with sleeve 354. The scheme for the insertion of the linings in the turret 318 - sleeve 354 interface will be shown in a later drawing. Figure 7 shows a conventional mounting of is cylinder 310 on frame 306 and where the mounting of piston rod 312 will be very similar to the mounting of a piston rod 212 to pin holder 192 in Figure 3. Bracket 392 in Figure 7 performs a similar function to bracket 190 of Figure 5.
Figure 8, however, shows an assembly 400 in which a turret 418 Zo (of U shaped cross section) is mounted on frame 406. A pair of pistons 410 are pivoted in brackets 432 mounted on frame 406. Sleeve 454 is equipped with brackets 490 on each side of sleeve 454 which receive the piston rods 412 of the pistons 410.
This method of mounting the actuating hydraulic cylinders 410 s reduces the bending moment applied to sleeve 454 during a transplanting operation when compared to prior art mounting schemes such as shown in Figures 1 and 7.
Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a portion of an assembly 300 in which a turret 318 (of U shaped cross section) is shown having a spade io 352 mounted thereon. Sleeve 354 is attached to spade 354 by welding etc. and surrounds the 3 exterior surfaces of the U shaped turret 318. A
set of linings 360, 362 and 364 are mounted within sleeve 354. As previously the linings 360, 362 and 364 move with sleeve 354 and a method of adjusting the clearances of the sleeve-lining-turret interfaces is such as shown in Figures 3 and 4 may be incorporated into the assembly 300. A second U shaped channel 370 shown in dashed lines is welded to spade 352 and is provided with a liner member 372 to mate with the inner curved surface of turret 318.
Figure 10 is a sectional view of the apparatus of Figure 9. The Zo placement of liner 372 is shown clearly in this figure. The placement of the actuating cylinders 410 is important in reducing the bending moment on sliding sleeve 354. However a single cylinder such as 490 will function to move sleeve 354 and attached blade 352 up and down as well.
If the throat of U shaped channel is made large enough a single s piston placed within the interior of channel 370 and blade 352 will function to motivate blade 352.
Figure 11 shows a cross section of an assembly 500 which shows an alternative embodiment of the invention. Here an open channel turret 518 is shown surrounded by sleeve 554 which is welded to spade blade io 552. An inner channel member 570 is also welded to spade 552 so as to move in concert with outer sleeve 554. Between channel 570 and turret 518 is a set of low friction linings 560, 562 and 564. A fourth liner member 572 is installed between the front exterior surface 580 of turret 518 and inside surface 582 of sleeve 554.
is The actuating cylinders 510 may be mounted on the opposite sides of sleeve 554 or, as shown at 590, for single cylinder mounting. If the interior space within channel 570 and blade 552 is made large enough an actuating cylinder may be mounted within this space.
Figure 12 shows an embodiment of the invention which is very 2o similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 2, 3 and 4 except assembly 1g EHO 99135 600 may be fitted with a pair of actuating cylinders. A curved turret 618 of rectangular cross section is surrounded by a lining assembly 660 which may be a composite of up to 4 separate lining members or a formed sleeve which is installed in outer sleeve 654 (which is welded to spade 652). The encapsulation of turret 618 is completed by means of plate 680 (curved to match turret curvature) which is bolted to sides 654 of the sleeve.
Cylinders 610 are mounted on either side of sleeve 654 or if a single cylinder is being used, the mounting will be at 690 as shown io previously in Figures 2 and 3.
Figure 13 shows an assembly 700 wherein a pair of spaced curved turrets 718 are attached to the corners of a frame such as 102 as shown in Figure 2. Turrets 718 are engaged by a set of low friction lining members 760 and 762 which may be single formed members or composites such as is shown in Figures 3 and 4. Angle members 770 are bolted to curved channel 772 (which may be formed from a single channel or comprise a series of U shaped braces) which are welded to spade 752, and a pair of angle members 774 are bolted to angles 770. In this manner spade 752 is constrained to travel in path defined by turrets 718 because of the enclosure provided by members 770 and 774 about turrets 718. A
cylinder 790 may be mounted between the twin turrets 718 as shown.
Figure 14 shows an assembly 800 which is applicable to the remanufacture of prior art tree spades in which it is desired to delete the car within the slotted turrets such as shown in Figure 1. Turrets such as 12 are first cut along their length (with an arc shaped cut) to produce the U shaped cross section as shown by reference numerals 810, 812, 814.
Flanges 816, 818 are welded to sides 812 and 814 as shown. A open box inner sleeve member 820 (curved to match turret 814 curvature) is io welded to spade 852 and rides in lining members 822, 824 and 826. A
pair of curved guide members 830 and 832 are welded to the sides of sleeve member 820 as shown. Curved angle members 834 and 836 are bolted to members 830 and 832 as shown. Lining members 840 and 842 are inserted between flanges 816 and 818 and members 834 and 836 as is shown. Cylinder 890 now is located in the open box spade sleeve 820 (which is impossible to do in the prior art Figure 1 ).
Figure 15 shows a spade-turret construction which is the inverse of that shown in Figure 12. Here the turret 918 and sliding sleeve 954 are mounted outbound of spade 952. This construction is especially useful in 2o small size tree spades where the size of the frame is of no consequence 2o EHO 99135 (in large models, transport regulatory bodies impose strict limits on the size of equipment allowed on highways). Thus the frame such as 102 in Figure 2 would lie outside the spade blades in this arrangement. In Figure 15 the curved spade blade 952 is welded to side plates 954.
s Curved plate 956 is welded to plates 954. Sleeve 960 is enclosed on three sides by plates 954 and 956. Plate 980 is bolted to plates 954 by means of bolts 982. Cylinders such as 910 may be mounted on either side of the turret sleeve assembly or a single cylinder such as 990 may be mounted as shown.
io Figure 16 shows a guide system 1000 for a spade 1052 which utilizes angle members for the majority of the construction. A pair of curved supports 1002 and 1004 are welded to the blade 1052. An assembly comprising two angle members 1006 and 1008 which have been formed in the shape of an arc are bolted to blade support members i s 1002 and 1004. A "backbone" member 1010 which is curved to match the arc shape of angles 1006 and 1008 is welded to 1006 and 1008 as shown. A second pair of arc shaped angle members 1016 and 1018 are bolted to backbone member 1010. Cover plates 1012 and 1014 are bolted to angle members 1006 and 1008 respectively. A pair of angle turrets 20 1022 and 1024 are captivated by angles 1006, 1012, 1016 and 1008, 1014 and 1018 respectively which are supplied with liners 1026 and 1028 to provide the low friction interface between the turrets and surrounding structure. A single cylinder 1090 is shown partially nested in the guide system 1000.
All of the systems shown in Figures 10 through 16 show cross sectional view guide systems for tree transplanter spades having an arc shaped surface of constant radius in the vertical direction so as to move their associate spade blades in the path of an arc. The curvature of each blade in a horizontal plane will be arc shaped of a variable radius.
It is absolutely essential the curvature of the turrets match the io curvature of the blades in the vertical plane in order to perform the most efficient digging operation.
To reduce the bending moment on sleeves surrounding the turrets during a digging operation, each piston rod should ideally be applying downward force on the sleeve at the mid point of the turret and sleeve is such as shown in Figure 8. (In Figure 1 piston rod 20 is somewhat displaced from the mid point of turret 12.) On large transplanting machines, the adjustment of clearances between the sleeves and turrets by adjustment of the lining members is deemed to be a necessary item to assure coincidence of the loci executed by the sleeve on the turret and the associated blade; that is the spade blade and the turret must follow the same arc.
Because the turrets such as those shown in Figure 2 are rectangular in cross section and sleeves such as 154 in Figure 2 extend for a substantial length along the turrets, the forces required to keep the spade blade in its constrained path are distributed over a very large surface area thus causing a minimal amount of wear on the lining members.
This invention purposely utilizes hollow steel tubular members as a basis of the construction of a robust piece of transplanting equipment. In io most instances, the preferred cross sectional shape of the spade frame such as 102 in Figure 2 and the upstanding turrets is rectangular; in some instances the turret members may have a square cross section. The shape of turrets 118-124 is especially important for the successful operation of the assembled equipment. The curve in members 118-124 is in the shape is of an arc having a specific radius. Note that no longitudinal slots are required in the turrets 118-124 to provide for access to the interior of the turrets for controlling the motion of spades 30 as may be found in some prior art transplanting apparatus. The turrets 118-124, when cold formed of a suitable selected grade of steel, make excellent risers for mounting 2o the sliding stems such as 154 of spades 152. The rectangular cross section is ideal to prevent twisting of the spade and stem on the turret during subsequent transplanting operations.
The elongated liners (which may be formed from plastic or other suitable metallic material and which may or may not be self lubricating) surrounding the turrets, tend to distribute the concentration of reaction forces and bending movement forces placed on the mating areas of the sleeves and turrets to thus assure a long wearing implement which is quite resistant to deformation. Adjustment of clearance between the liners (plastic) and the turret is swift and simple.
io Cold forming of the spoon shaped spade adds additional robustness to each spade blade and thus to the overall transplanting apparatus.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that in some instances the elaborate shimming apparatus shown in Figure 3 may not be required. That is especially true in the manufacture of small spade is apparatus. All that is really required is that the liners (preferably plastic) are properly fitted to each turret to eliminate slop and are securely mounted on the inside surface of the enclosure defined by the spade stem.
While, no doubt, additional forms for executing the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art, however applicant wishes to 20 limit the protection of this invention to the ambit of the following claims.
Claims (12)
1. A frame for a tree transplanting apparatus comprising a horizontal base defining an openable enclosure for surrounding a tree, at least two upstanding slotless turrets mounted on said base for mounting spade assemblies thereon, said turrets being of constant rectangular cross section and formed in the shape of an arc along their length.
2. A tree transplanting apparatus having a horizontal base defining an openable enclosure for surrounding a tree, at least two identically shaped upstanding turrets mounted on said base extending upwardly in a predetermined manner, each turret being formed in the shape of an arc, each turret having a cooperating spade blade mounted thereon to embrace said turret in a sliding manner such that each blade is constrained to move up and down on each turret in the path of said arc.
3. A tree transplanting apparatus as claimed in claim 2 wherein each turret is of a hollow rectangular cross section and each cooperating spade blade has a turret engaging portion which surrounds each turret in a sliding manner.
4. A tree transplanting apparatus as defined in claim 2 wherein each turret is of L shaped cross section and is formed into an arc shape.
5. A tree transplanting apparatus as claimed in claim 2 wherein each turret is of an open box construction.
6. A tree transplanting apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein plastic liners are positioned at the interface of said turret said turret engaging portion of said spade blade.
7. A tree transplanting apparatus as claimed in claim 6 wherein adjustable means is provided at said turret engaging portion to adjust the plastic liners at said interface.
8. A tree transplanting apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein each spade comprises a stem portion and a spoon portion, each stem portion including an enclosure for surrounding and sliding on said turret, and wherein hydraulic cylinder actuating means is mounted between said base and said stem portion to move said spoon up and down on said turret.
9. A tree transplanting apparatus as claimed in claim 8 wherein said hydraulic cylinder actuating means comprises two hydraulic cylinders mounted on opposing sides of said enclosure.
10. A tree transplanting apparatus comprising a horizontal base defining an openable enclosure for surrounding a tree, arc shaped turret means mounted at predetermined locations on said base extending upwardly from said base, tree spade means mounted on said turret means to permit said tree spade means to engage said turret means in a constrained sliding manner to confine movement of tree spade means to said arc.
11. A tree transplanting apparatus as claimed in claim 10 wherein said arc shaped turret means comprises a turret of hollow rectangular cross section, and said tree spade means includes an enclosure to mate with said turret.
12. A tree transplanting apparatus as claimed in claim 10 wherein turret means comprises a pair of twin turrets mounted on said base in such a manner as to permit each turret engaging means on said spade blade means to slidably engage both twin turrets at the same time, and hydraulic cylinder actuating means mounted on said base and extending between said pairs of turrets for engaging said turret engaging means to move said spade blade means up and down on said turret means.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US12937999P | 1999-04-15 | 1999-04-15 | |
| US60/129379 | 1999-04-15 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2305829A1 true CA2305829A1 (en) | 2000-10-15 |
Family
ID=22439675
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2305829 Abandoned CA2305829A1 (en) | 1999-04-15 | 2000-04-13 | Tree transplanting apparatus |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2305829A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN116584206A (en) * | 2023-07-06 | 2023-08-15 | 厦门恒旗建设有限公司 | Excavating equipment for nursery stock planting |
-
2000
- 2000-04-13 CA CA 2305829 patent/CA2305829A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN116584206A (en) * | 2023-07-06 | 2023-08-15 | 厦门恒旗建设有限公司 | Excavating equipment for nursery stock planting |
| CN116584206B (en) * | 2023-07-06 | 2023-09-22 | 厦门恒旗建设有限公司 | Excavating equipment for nursery stock planting |
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