CA2474117A1 - Surface cleaning apparatus and vehicle - Google Patents
Surface cleaning apparatus and vehicle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2474117A1 CA2474117A1 CA 2474117 CA2474117A CA2474117A1 CA 2474117 A1 CA2474117 A1 CA 2474117A1 CA 2474117 CA2474117 CA 2474117 CA 2474117 A CA2474117 A CA 2474117A CA 2474117 A1 CA2474117 A1 CA 2474117A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- surface cleaning
- broom
- debris
- type tractor
- utility type
- 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
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01H—STREET CLEANING; CLEANING OF PERMANENT WAYS; CLEANING BEACHES; DISPERSING OR PREVENTING FOG IN GENERAL CLEANING STREET OR RAILWAY FURNITURE OR TUNNEL WALLS
- E01H1/00—Removing undesirable matter from roads or like surfaces, with or without moistening of the surface
- E01H1/02—Brushing apparatus, e.g. with auxiliary instruments for mechanically loosening dirt
- E01H1/04—Brushing apparatus, e.g. with auxiliary instruments for mechanically loosening dirt taking- up the sweepings, e.g. for collecting, for loading
- E01H1/042—Brushing apparatus, e.g. with auxiliary instruments for mechanically loosening dirt taking- up the sweepings, e.g. for collecting, for loading the loading means being an endless belt or an auger
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01H—STREET CLEANING; CLEANING OF PERMANENT WAYS; CLEANING BEACHES; DISPERSING OR PREVENTING FOG IN GENERAL CLEANING STREET OR RAILWAY FURNITURE OR TUNNEL WALLS
- E01H1/00—Removing undesirable matter from roads or like surfaces, with or without moistening of the surface
- E01H1/02—Brushing apparatus, e.g. with auxiliary instruments for mechanically loosening dirt
- E01H1/04—Brushing apparatus, e.g. with auxiliary instruments for mechanically loosening dirt taking- up the sweepings, e.g. for collecting, for loading
Abstract
A surface cleaning apparatus for use with a utility type tractor having at least one gutter broom comprises a debris receiving hopper, a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation, and debris elevator to receive debris from the surface cleaning broom and to transport the debris to the debris receiving hopper. There is a mounting mechanism for mounting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the debris elevator onto a utility type tractor in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis, and such that the surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of the at least one gutter broom, to thereby permit the surface cleaning broom to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by the at least one gutter broom. An actuation mechanism laterally shifts the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the debris elevator.
Description
FIE?~D OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicles, and more particularly to surface cleaning apparatus for use with a utility type tractor and surface cleaning vehicles including a utility type tractor.
OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicles, and more particularly to surface cleaning apparatus for use with a utility type tractor and surface cleaning vehicles including a utility type tractor.
OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The removal of dirt and debris from streets, parking lots, airport runways, and other similar paved surfaces, through the use of various types of surface cleaning vehicles has been known for many years., Conventional surface cleaning vehicles comprise a surface cleaning system, such as a sweeping broom, a re--circulating air type head, or a vacuum air type head, either_ permanently mounted on a truck frame or built from the "ground up"
as an integral unit.
[0003 Truck type surface cleaning vehicles are currently the mare popular type of surface cleaning vehicles largely due to their overall performance; however, such truck type surface cleaning vehicles can only perform one overall function.
[0004] In contrast, with tractor type surface cleaning vehicles, the actual surface cleaning equipment is temporarily removably connected to or mounted onto the tractor, as required.
In this manner, the tractor can be used for many different functions in a municipal environment, or other environment, and are therefore very versatile. Further, an additional useful feature of tractor type surface cleaning vehicles is that tractors have a very tight turning radius, perhaps about nine or ten feet, which is about half the turning radius of a truck, thus allowing them to navigate around relatively sharp corners.
[0005] In a utility type tractor that is used for sweeping, right and left gutter brooms are disposed either adjacent the front end of the tractor or between the front and rear wheels of the tractor. The right and left gutter brooms sweep dirt and debris into a central path for subsequent pickup by the surface cleaning broom. The surface cleaning broom and the debris hopper of the utility type tractor are connected in trailing relation to the utility type tractor in any one of a variety of ways, such as by the tow bar or the trailer hitch. Irrespective of how they are connected to the utility type tractor, the surface cleaning means and especially the debris hopper typically extend several feet behind the rear of the utility type tractor.
[0006] In use, when the tractor turns, t:he path of the dirt and debris left by the .right and left gutter brooms, curves proportionally to the radius of the turn of the tractor.
Accordingly, since the surface cleaning means which trails the gutter brooms by several feet, it cannot properly track the path of the debris swept by the right and left gutter brooms when the tractor turns more sharply than a threshold radius. In the event that the tractor turns more sharply than a threshold radius, the curvature of the path of dirt and debris left by the gutter brooms is essentially at least partially '°outside" the width of the surface cleaning means. Accordingly, a corresponding portion of the path of dirt and debris is not picked up by the surface cleaning means and remains on the surface as a trail behind the tractor, which is completely unacceptable.
[000?] Further, due i~o size of the debris hopper behind the tractor, when the utility type tractor turns, the debris hopper projects outwardly significantly beyond the path of the tractor.
In an urban environment, especially in a city, the surface cleaning means and the debris hopper would typically hit objects on a sidewalk such as light posts, newspaper boxes, pedestrians, cars on the road, and so an. Obviously, this situation is quite dangerous and completely unacceptable.
as an integral unit.
[0003 Truck type surface cleaning vehicles are currently the mare popular type of surface cleaning vehicles largely due to their overall performance; however, such truck type surface cleaning vehicles can only perform one overall function.
[0004] In contrast, with tractor type surface cleaning vehicles, the actual surface cleaning equipment is temporarily removably connected to or mounted onto the tractor, as required.
In this manner, the tractor can be used for many different functions in a municipal environment, or other environment, and are therefore very versatile. Further, an additional useful feature of tractor type surface cleaning vehicles is that tractors have a very tight turning radius, perhaps about nine or ten feet, which is about half the turning radius of a truck, thus allowing them to navigate around relatively sharp corners.
[0005] In a utility type tractor that is used for sweeping, right and left gutter brooms are disposed either adjacent the front end of the tractor or between the front and rear wheels of the tractor. The right and left gutter brooms sweep dirt and debris into a central path for subsequent pickup by the surface cleaning broom. The surface cleaning broom and the debris hopper of the utility type tractor are connected in trailing relation to the utility type tractor in any one of a variety of ways, such as by the tow bar or the trailer hitch. Irrespective of how they are connected to the utility type tractor, the surface cleaning means and especially the debris hopper typically extend several feet behind the rear of the utility type tractor.
[0006] In use, when the tractor turns, t:he path of the dirt and debris left by the .right and left gutter brooms, curves proportionally to the radius of the turn of the tractor.
Accordingly, since the surface cleaning means which trails the gutter brooms by several feet, it cannot properly track the path of the debris swept by the right and left gutter brooms when the tractor turns more sharply than a threshold radius. In the event that the tractor turns more sharply than a threshold radius, the curvature of the path of dirt and debris left by the gutter brooms is essentially at least partially '°outside" the width of the surface cleaning means. Accordingly, a corresponding portion of the path of dirt and debris is not picked up by the surface cleaning means and remains on the surface as a trail behind the tractor, which is completely unacceptable.
[000?] Further, due i~o size of the debris hopper behind the tractor, when the utility type tractor turns, the debris hopper projects outwardly significantly beyond the path of the tractor.
In an urban environment, especially in a city, the surface cleaning means and the debris hopper would typically hit objects on a sidewalk such as light posts, newspaper boxes, pedestrians, cars on the road, and so an. Obviously, this situation is quite dangerous and completely unacceptable.
- 3 ..__ _.._. __...._ ._._ _ . ._... _..._... _ ..
[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a surface cleaning apparatus for use with a utility type tractor, which surface cleaning apparatus tracks the path of the dirt and debris swept by the gutter brooms, even in tight radius turns.
[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide a surface cleaning apparatus for use with a utility type tractor, which surface cleaning apparatus is laterally shiftable so as to not project beyond the path of the utility type tractor during turns.
[00010) It is an object of the present invention to provide a surface cleaning vehicle including a utility type tractor, which surface cleaning vehicle has a surface cleaning apparatus that tracks the path of the dirt and debris swept by the gutter brooms, even in tight radius turns.
[00011' It is an object of the present invention to provide a surface cleaning vehicle including a utility type tractor, which surface cleaning Vehicle has a surface cleaning apparatus that is laterally shiftable so as to not proj ect beyond the path of the utility type tractor during turns.
[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a surface cleaning apparatus for use with a utility type tractor, which surface cleaning apparatus tracks the path of the dirt and debris swept by the gutter brooms, even in tight radius turns.
[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide a surface cleaning apparatus for use with a utility type tractor, which surface cleaning apparatus is laterally shiftable so as to not project beyond the path of the utility type tractor during turns.
[00010) It is an object of the present invention to provide a surface cleaning vehicle including a utility type tractor, which surface cleaning vehicle has a surface cleaning apparatus that tracks the path of the dirt and debris swept by the gutter brooms, even in tight radius turns.
[00011' It is an object of the present invention to provide a surface cleaning vehicle including a utility type tractor, which surface cleaning Vehicle has a surface cleaning apparatus that is laterally shiftable so as to not proj ect beyond the path of the utility type tractor during turns.
- 4 -c SUL~ARY OF THE INVENTION
100012] In accordance with one aspect of_ the present invention there is disclosed a novel surface cleaning apparatus for operative mounting on a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends, and having at least one gutter broom operatively mounted thereon. The surface cleaning apparatus comprises a debris receiving hopper, a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation, and elevator means for receiving debris from the surface cleaning broom and fox transporting the debris to the debris receiving hopper. There is a mounting means for mounting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means onto a utility type tractor rearwardly of the utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with :respect to the longitudinal axis, and such that the surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of the at least one gutter broom. There is also a shift actuation means for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means, to thereby permit the surface cleaning broom to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by the at least one gutter broom.
[00013] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel surface cleaning vehicle _ comprising a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends, and having at least one gutter broom operatively mounted thereon, a debris receiving hopper, a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation, and elevator means for receiving debris from the surface cleaning broom and for transporting the debris to the debris receiving hopper. There is a mounting means for mounting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means onto the utility type tractor rearwardly of the utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis, and such that the surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of the at least one gutter broom. There is also a shift actuation means for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means, to thereby permit the surface cleaning broom to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by the at least one gutter broom.
[00014 In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel surface cleaning apparatus for operative mounting on a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends. The surface cleaning apparatus comprises a debris receiving hopper, a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation, and elevator means for receiving debris from the surface cleaning broom and for transporting the debris to the debris receiving hopper.
There is a mounting means for mounting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means onto a utility type tractor rearwardly of the utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis, and such that the surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of the utility type tractor. There is also a shift actuation means for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means.
[00015] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel surface cleaning vehicle comprising a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends, a debris receiving hopper, a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation, and elevator means for receiving debris from the surface cleaning broom and for transporting the debris to the debris receiving hopper. There is a mounting means for mounting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means onto the utility type tractor rearwardly of the utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis, and such that the surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of the utility type tractor.
i There is also a shift actuation means for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means.
[00016 Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed descriptian and the appended claims with reverence to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described hereinbelow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF TEE DRAWINGS
[00017, The novel ~=eatures which are believed to be characteristic of the surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicle, according to the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives ane advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, _ g _ and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:
[00018, Figure 1 is a side elevational view of the preferred embodiment of the surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicle according to the present invention;
[OOOI9J Figure 2 is a top view of the preferred embodiment surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicle of Figure 1;
[00020] Figure 3 is a side elevational view of the preferred embodiment surface clearing apparatus of F~_gure 1;
[00021] Figure 4 is a top plan view of the preferred embodiment surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 3;
[00022] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 3, with some components shown in dashed lining;
[00023] Figure 6 is a perspective view similar to Figure 5, but with a part removed far the sake of clarity;
_ g _ [00024] Figure 7 is a sectional end elevational view taken along section line 7- 7 of Figure 4;
[00025] Figure 8 is a side elevational view of the components of Figure 5;
[00026] Figure 9 is a top plan view of the components of Figure
100012] In accordance with one aspect of_ the present invention there is disclosed a novel surface cleaning apparatus for operative mounting on a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends, and having at least one gutter broom operatively mounted thereon. The surface cleaning apparatus comprises a debris receiving hopper, a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation, and elevator means for receiving debris from the surface cleaning broom and fox transporting the debris to the debris receiving hopper. There is a mounting means for mounting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means onto a utility type tractor rearwardly of the utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with :respect to the longitudinal axis, and such that the surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of the at least one gutter broom. There is also a shift actuation means for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means, to thereby permit the surface cleaning broom to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by the at least one gutter broom.
[00013] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel surface cleaning vehicle _ comprising a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends, and having at least one gutter broom operatively mounted thereon, a debris receiving hopper, a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation, and elevator means for receiving debris from the surface cleaning broom and for transporting the debris to the debris receiving hopper. There is a mounting means for mounting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means onto the utility type tractor rearwardly of the utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis, and such that the surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of the at least one gutter broom. There is also a shift actuation means for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means, to thereby permit the surface cleaning broom to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by the at least one gutter broom.
[00014 In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel surface cleaning apparatus for operative mounting on a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends. The surface cleaning apparatus comprises a debris receiving hopper, a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation, and elevator means for receiving debris from the surface cleaning broom and for transporting the debris to the debris receiving hopper.
There is a mounting means for mounting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means onto a utility type tractor rearwardly of the utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis, and such that the surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of the utility type tractor. There is also a shift actuation means for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means.
[00015] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel surface cleaning vehicle comprising a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends, a debris receiving hopper, a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation, and elevator means for receiving debris from the surface cleaning broom and for transporting the debris to the debris receiving hopper. There is a mounting means for mounting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means onto the utility type tractor rearwardly of the utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis, and such that the surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of the utility type tractor.
i There is also a shift actuation means for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper, the surface cleaning broom and the elevator means.
[00016 Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed descriptian and the appended claims with reverence to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described hereinbelow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF TEE DRAWINGS
[00017, The novel ~=eatures which are believed to be characteristic of the surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicle, according to the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives ane advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, _ g _ and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:
[00018, Figure 1 is a side elevational view of the preferred embodiment of the surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicle according to the present invention;
[OOOI9J Figure 2 is a top view of the preferred embodiment surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicle of Figure 1;
[00020] Figure 3 is a side elevational view of the preferred embodiment surface clearing apparatus of F~_gure 1;
[00021] Figure 4 is a top plan view of the preferred embodiment surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 3;
[00022] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the surface cleaning apparatus of Figure 3, with some components shown in dashed lining;
[00023] Figure 6 is a perspective view similar to Figure 5, but with a part removed far the sake of clarity;
_ g _ [00024] Figure 7 is a sectional end elevational view taken along section line 7- 7 of Figure 4;
[00025] Figure 8 is a side elevational view of the components of Figure 5;
[00026] Figure 9 is a top plan view of the components of Figure
5;
[00027] Figure 10 is a top plan view similar to Figure 4, but showing the surface cleaning apparatus shifted to the right;
[00028] Figure 11 is a top plan view similar. to Figure 4, but showing the surface cleaning apparatus shifted to the left; and, [00029] Figure 12 is a side elevational view of an alternative embodiment of the surface cleaning apparata.zs and surface cleaning vehicle according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED AND AI9TERNATIVE E1~ODIMENTS
[00030] Referring to Figures 1 through 12 of the drawings, it will be noted that Figures 1 through 11 illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicle of the present invention, and Figure 12 illustrates a second preferred embodiment of the surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicle of the present invention.
[00031] Reference will now be made to Figure 1 through 11, which show the preferred embodiment utility type surface cleaning vehicle, as indicated by the general reference numeral 20, and the preferred embodiment surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, as indicated by the general reference numeral 22. The surface cleaning vehicle 20 includes a unitary frame -- or in other words non-articulating -- utility type tractor, as indicated by the general reference numeral_ 30, having a frame 31 defining a longitudinal axis "A" extending between its front end 31f and its back end 31b.
[00032] An internal combustion engine 35 is mounted within an engine housing 36 forming part of the frame 31 of the unitary frame utility type tractor 30. A transmission 40 is connected in driven relation to the internal combustion engine 35, with the robust housing 42 of the transmission 40 forming part of the frame 31 of the utility type tractor 30. A rear differential 44 is connected in driven relation to the transmission 40 and also farms part of the frame 31 of the tractor 30. Alternatively, the unitary frame utility type tractor 30 could be hydraulically driven. A power take-off mechanism 45 is operatively mounted on the utility type tractor 30. More specifically, the power take-off mechanism 45 is connected in driven relation to the internal combustion engine 35.
A three-point hitch 46 and a towbar 48 are mounted on the frame 3.L
of the tractor 30. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the surface cleaning apparatus 22 is mounted on the utility type tractor 30 by means of the three-point hitch 46. Alternatively, the surface cleaning apparatus 22 may be mounted on the utility type tractor 30 by means of the towbar 48.
[00033] The utility type tractor also has a conventional steering mechanism including a steering wheel 29 linked to the front wheels 331,33r by a steering linkage (not shown).
[00034] The utility type tractor 30 could also have a hydraulically actuated mounting mechanism (not specifically shown) for mounting a plough, or other implement thereon, forwardly of the utility type tractor 30,.
[00035] At least one gutter broom, as indicated by the general reference numeral 32, is operatively mounted on the tractor 30. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, a left gutter broom 321 and a right gutter broom 32r are each mounted on the tractor 30 for :, _...,..<.. ,.,", ._,v.,.~ w....~_" . ,. cime.,x. vwun, .....NW., a.rtb.N,xPS.»-pb..~.4~;4.:"kkY&i~?-..yy,~q,~»g'rs;NH:~:a.xc.gyaao.swamp.~,aaa~,m*yw.~.eaavrnvv~--..w~>.... ~~.._.--..-...,...-..,....,_. ~...___.._..v,......~,...~.,.._.. ..."....-.,..~.~.,...,..,......~..m,.....,.,..,wv...,..",.,.."..,R
s rotation about generally vertical left "L°' and right °'R"
gutter broom axes, respectively. Preferably, the left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r are disc-type brushes and are selectively moveable between a lowered surface cleaning position, as can be seen in Figure 2, and a raised position, which is not specifically illustrated. In the lowered surface cleaning position, the left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r are positioned such that the left "L" and right "R°' gutter broom axes, respectively, are slanted slightly off vertical so that the front portion of each of the left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r contacts a surface 22 being cleaned. The left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r are preferably mounted rearwardly of the left 331 and right 33r steerable front wheels and forwardly of the left 341 and right 34r driven rear wheels so as to not interfere with any of the wheels 331,33r,341,34r.
[00036] Very briefly, the surface cleaning apparatus 22 comprises a debris receiving hopper 50, a surface cleaning broom 56, an elevator means 60, a mounting means ~70 for mounting the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 onto the utility type tractor 30, and a shift actuation means 100. The surface cleaning vehicle 20 comprises the utility type tractor 30, the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56, the elevator means 60, the mounting means 70, and the shift actuation means 100. The surface cleaning vehicle 20 and the surface cleaning apparatus 22 will now be described in greater detail.
[00037] The surface cleaning apparatus 22 is for operative mounting on the utility type tractor 30 and comprises the debris receiving hopper 50 that carries about two to three cubic meters of debris. The debris receiving hopper 50 is mounted onto a structural frame 41 that extends rearwardly from the mounting means 70, as will be discussed in greater detail subsequently. Wheel means are mounted on the structural frame 41 for rolling contact with the surface being cleaned. Preferably, the wheel means comprises a plurality of caster assemblies 52, specifically three caster assemblies 52 in the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, each caster assembly 52 secured to the frame 41 for free pivotal movement of the caster wheel 54 about a substantially horizontal axis "H" and for free pivotal movement of the overall caster assembly 52 about a substantially vertical axis. In this manner, selective lateral movement of the debris receiving hopper 50 with respect to the longitudinal axis "A" of the utiJ_ity type tractor 30 is readily accommodated. Further, the debris receiving hopper 50 is pivotally mounted so as to permit tipping rearwardly for the purpose of dumping debris therefrom.
[00038] As discussed above, the surface cleaning apparatus 22 is mounted on the utility type tractor 30 by means of the three-point hitch 46, or alternatively may incorporate the towbar 48.
[00039] The cylindrically-shaped rotating surface cleaning broom 56 has a substantially horizontal axis of rotation "R°' oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis °'A" of the utility type tractor 30. The cylindrically-shaped rotating surface cleaning broom 56 rotates in the direction as indicated by arrow "B" in Figure 1 to propel debris into the mouth 62 of the elevator means 60.
[00040] The elevator means &0 comprises a mechanical debris elevator 60 disposed immediately forwardly of the surface cleaning broom 56 and extends upwardly to a height approximately that of the top of the debris receiving hopper 50. The mechanical debris elevator 60 is for receiving debris from the surface cleaning broom 56 - specifically off the deflector flap 49 into the mouth 62 of the mechanical debris elevator 60, as indicated by arrow '°C" in Figure 1 -- and for transporting the debris upwardly to the debris receiving hopper 50, as indicated by arrow "D" in Figure 1.
[00041] The mechanical. debris elevator 60 is disposed rearwardly of the utility type tractor 30 and forwardl.y of the sweeping broom 56, and is also disposed laterally across the longitudinal axis '°L"
of the surface cleaning vehicle 20, such that the debris accepting mouth 62 is disposed immediately forwardly of the rotating sweeping broom 56. In this manner, the mechanical debris elevator 60 is mounted on the surface cleaning vehicle 20 to receive and retain the forwardly propelled stream of debris and to deposit the received and retained debris into the hopper 50. More specifically, debris that is propelled forwardly by the rotating sweeping broom 56 is deflected off the deflector flap 49 and into the debris accepting mouth 62, whereat it is received by elevator paddles 61 that lift the debris and deposit it into the hopper 50.
Alternatively, types of other mechanical debris elevating or lifting means could be used.
[00042, The mounting means 70 is for mounting the debris receiving hopper 50, the: surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 onto the utility type tractor 30. The debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 are mounted rearward_Ly of the utility type tractor 30.
Accordingly, the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 are disposed rearwardly of the utility type tractor 30 and therefore disposed rearwardly of the left and right gutter brooms 321,32r. In this manner, the surface cleaning broom 56 is positionable over the path of debris created by the left and right gutter brooms 321,32r.
[00043] The mounting means 70 also mounts the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 onto the utility type tractor 30 in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis "A". In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the mounting means comprises a slide mechanism 72 having a stationary portion, as indicated by the general reference numeral 74, and a laterally movable portion, as indicated by the general reference numeral 76, operatively interconnected in laterally sliding engagement with the stationary portion 74.
[00044] The stationary portion 74 comprises a vertically disposed horizontally elongate rectangular mounting plate 80 having an upper angled mounting lug 81 and right and left lower angled mounting lugs 82r,821. The horizontally elongate rectangular mounting plane 80 is mounted onto the three arms of the three-paint hitch 46 by means of suitable 'threaded fasteners 83 engaged in co-operating apertures in the upper and lower angled mounting lugs 81,82r,821.
There are also six spacer arms secured to the horizontally elongate rectangular mounting plate 80, preferably by means of welding.
These six spacer arms include a left upper spacer arm 841~ a right upper spacer arm 84r, a central upper spacer arm 84c, a left lower spacer arm 861, a right lower spacer arm 86r, and a central lower spacer arm 86c. The left upper spacer arm 841, the right upper spacer arm 84r, and the central upper spacer arm 84c, together support an upper horizontal shift-support rail 87. The upper horizontal shift-support. rail 87 is secured at its ends to the left and right upper spacer arms 841,84r by means of suitable threaded fasteners 88, and is retained at its center by a collar 84a welded to the central upper spacer arm 84c. Similarly, the left lower spacer arm 861, the right lower spacer arm 86:r, and the central lower spacer arm 86c, together support a =Lower horizontal shift-support rail 89. The lower horizontal shift-support rail 89 is secured at its ends to the left and right lower spacer arms 861,86r by means of suitable threaded fasteners 88, and is retained at its center by a collar 86a welded to the central lower spacer arm 86c.
[0045] The laterally movable portion 76 comprises a left shift panel 901 and a right shift panel 90r each mounted in sliding relation on the upper and lower horizontal shift-support rails..
The left shift panel 90:L has an upper mounting collar 911 and a lower mounting collar 921 connected together by a spanning plate portion 941. Similarly, the right shift panel 90r has an upper mounting collar 91r and. a lower mounting collar 92r connected s together by a spanning plate portion 94r. The two upper mounting collars 911,91r surround the upper horizontal shift-support rail 87 and the two lower mounting collars 921,92r surround the lower horizontal shift-support rail 89. The left shift panel 901 is laterally shiftable between the left upper and lower spacer arms 841,861 and the central upper and lower spacer arms 84c,86c.
Similarly, the right shift panel 94r is laterally shiftable between the right upper and lower spacer arms 84r, 86r and the central upper and lower spacer arms 84c,86c.
[00046] The laterally movable portion 76 also comprises .a horizontally elongate rectangular carriage plate 95 secured to the right and left shift panels 901,90r by means of welding, or alternatively by means of suitable threaded fasteners.
Accordingly, the right and left shift panels 901, 90r move laterally in unison. Additionally, the right and left shift panels 901,90:r could be interconnected by means of a horizontal arm or the like.
[00047] As can be best seen in Figure 3, the structural frame 41 is welded to the horizontally elongate rectangular carriage plate 95 and extends rearwardly therefrom. The mechanical debris elevator 60 is mounted onto the horizontally elongate rectangular_ carriage plate 95 and the structural frame 41 by means of welding, or alternatively by means of suitable threaded fasteners. The debris receiving hopper 50 is mounted onto the structural frame 41, by means of welding, or alternatively by means of suitable threaded fasteners. Further, the surface cleaning broom 56 is removably mounted to the structural frame 41 by means of conventional broom mounting arms (not shown). Accordingly, the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 are mounted onto the laterally movable portion 76.
[00048) In the above described manner, the laterally movable portion 76 is mounted on the stationary portion 74 for lateral sliding movement between a central position, as is best seen in Figure 4, a right-shifted position, as is best seen in Figure 10, and a left-shifted po:>ition, as is best seen in Figure 11.
Further, the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 are mounted onto a utility type tractor 30 rearwardly of the utility type tractor 30, in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis "A".
[00049] The shift actuation means 100 is for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60, with respect to the longitudinal axis '°A°' as the utility type tractor 30 moves forwardly, especially when the utility type tractor 30 moves forwardly along a curved path. In this manner, the surface cleaning broom 56 can be laterally shifted to track the path of debris created by the left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r, to thereby permit the surface cleaning broom 56 to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by the left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r.
Further, such lateral shifting helps preclude the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 from hitting objects a=Long a sweeping path, especially along a curved sweeping path.
[00050] The shift actuation means 100 comprises a hydraulically actuated cylinder 102 operatively interconnected between the stationary portion 74 and the movable portion 76 of the slide mechanism 72. More specifically, the main cylinder body 104 of the hydraulically actuated cylinder 102 is secured to the horizontally elongate rectangular mounting plate 80 typically by suitable threaded fasteners (not shown). The piston rod 106 of the hydraulically actuated cylinder 102 is secured. to the left shift panel 901 typically by <~ suitable threaded fastener (not shown).
A piston 107 within the main cylinder body 1.04 is selectively hydraulcally actuated by means of first and second hydraulic lines 108,109 connected in fluid communication to the cylinder body of the hydraulically actuated cylinder 102. Receipt of hydraulic fluid from the first hydraulic line 108 causes the piston 107 to move towards the right-shifted position. Similarly, receipt of hydraulic fluid from the second hydraulic line 109 causes the piston 107 to move towards the left-shifted position.
[00051, In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the surface cleaning apparatus 22 further comprises steering responsive control means, as indicated by the general reference numeral 110, operatively interconnecting the steering mechanism of the utility type tractor 30 and the shift actuation means 100, to thereby permit controlled lateral shifting of the surface cleaning broom 56 in response to the utility type tractor 30 being steered. More specifically, the steering responsive control means 110 comprises a linear proportional senor 112 mounted onto the steering mechaniskm at the front of the ut;_lity type tractor 30 so as to sense the degree of steering of the steering mechanism, as controlled by the steering wheel 29. The linear proportional senor 112 is electrically connected to a hydraulic valve 114 having a first hydraulic output 116 and a second hydraulic, output 118. The first hydraulic line 108 is connected in fluid communication to the first hydraulic output 116 and the second hydraulic line 109 is connected in fluid communication to the second hydraulic output 118.
[00052 When the steering wheel 29 is turned to the right, the linear proportional senor 112 senses the amount of movement of _ _. _ ___ f steering mechanism and provides a linearly proportional signal to the hydraulic valve 114. The hydraulic valve 114 causes hydraulic fluid to be pumped through the first hydraulic line 108, thus causing the piston 107 :in the hydraulically actuated cylinder 102 to move towards its right-shifted position. ~>imilarly, when th.e steering wheel 29 is turned to the left the linear proportional senor 112 senses the amount of movement of steering mechanism anal provides a linearly proportional signal to the hydraulic valve 114.
The hydraulic valve 114 causes hydraulic fluid to be pumped through the second hydraulic line 109, thus causing the piston 107 in the hydraulically actuated cylinder 102 to move towards its left-shifted position.
[00053] Reference will now be made to Figure 12, which shows an alternative embodiment of the surface cleaning vehicle 220 and surface cleaning apparatus 222 of the present invention. This alternative embodiment surface cleaning vehicle 220 and surface cleaning apparatus 222 is almost identical to the preferred embodiment surface cleaning vehicle 20 and surface cleaning apparatus 22 except that there are no gutter brooms. The maunting means 270 is still for mounting the debris receiving hopper 250, the surface cleaning broom 256 and the elevator means 260 onto the utility type tractor 230 in laterally shiftable relation, as described above with reference to the preferred embodiment surface cleaning vehicle 20 and surface cleaning apparatus 22. The shift actuation means 200 is still for is for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper 250, the surface cleaning broom 256 and the elevator means 260, with respect to the longitudinal axis '°A" as the utility type tractor 230 moves forwardly, especially when the utility type tractor 230 moves forwardly along a curved path. Such lateral shifting permits proper tracking cf a sweeping path by th.e surface cleaning broom 256, such as along a curb. Further, such lateral shifting helps preclude the debris receiving hopper 250, the surface cleaning broom 256 and the elevator means 260 from hitting objects along a sweeping path, especially along a curved sweeping path.
[00054] As can be understood from the above description and from the accompanying drawings, the present invention provides a surface cleaning apparatus for use with a utility type tractor, which surface cleaning apparatus tracks the path of the dirt and debris swept by the gutter brooms, even in tight radius turns, and which surface cleaning apparatus is laterally shiftable so as to not project beyond the path of the utility type tractor during turns, all of which features are unknown in the prior art.
[00055, Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. Furt:her~ other modifications and alterations rnay be used in the design and manufacture of the apparatus of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the accompanying claims.
[00027] Figure 10 is a top plan view similar to Figure 4, but showing the surface cleaning apparatus shifted to the right;
[00028] Figure 11 is a top plan view similar. to Figure 4, but showing the surface cleaning apparatus shifted to the left; and, [00029] Figure 12 is a side elevational view of an alternative embodiment of the surface cleaning apparata.zs and surface cleaning vehicle according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED AND AI9TERNATIVE E1~ODIMENTS
[00030] Referring to Figures 1 through 12 of the drawings, it will be noted that Figures 1 through 11 illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicle of the present invention, and Figure 12 illustrates a second preferred embodiment of the surface cleaning apparatus and surface cleaning vehicle of the present invention.
[00031] Reference will now be made to Figure 1 through 11, which show the preferred embodiment utility type surface cleaning vehicle, as indicated by the general reference numeral 20, and the preferred embodiment surface cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, as indicated by the general reference numeral 22. The surface cleaning vehicle 20 includes a unitary frame -- or in other words non-articulating -- utility type tractor, as indicated by the general reference numeral_ 30, having a frame 31 defining a longitudinal axis "A" extending between its front end 31f and its back end 31b.
[00032] An internal combustion engine 35 is mounted within an engine housing 36 forming part of the frame 31 of the unitary frame utility type tractor 30. A transmission 40 is connected in driven relation to the internal combustion engine 35, with the robust housing 42 of the transmission 40 forming part of the frame 31 of the utility type tractor 30. A rear differential 44 is connected in driven relation to the transmission 40 and also farms part of the frame 31 of the tractor 30. Alternatively, the unitary frame utility type tractor 30 could be hydraulically driven. A power take-off mechanism 45 is operatively mounted on the utility type tractor 30. More specifically, the power take-off mechanism 45 is connected in driven relation to the internal combustion engine 35.
A three-point hitch 46 and a towbar 48 are mounted on the frame 3.L
of the tractor 30. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the surface cleaning apparatus 22 is mounted on the utility type tractor 30 by means of the three-point hitch 46. Alternatively, the surface cleaning apparatus 22 may be mounted on the utility type tractor 30 by means of the towbar 48.
[00033] The utility type tractor also has a conventional steering mechanism including a steering wheel 29 linked to the front wheels 331,33r by a steering linkage (not shown).
[00034] The utility type tractor 30 could also have a hydraulically actuated mounting mechanism (not specifically shown) for mounting a plough, or other implement thereon, forwardly of the utility type tractor 30,.
[00035] At least one gutter broom, as indicated by the general reference numeral 32, is operatively mounted on the tractor 30. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, a left gutter broom 321 and a right gutter broom 32r are each mounted on the tractor 30 for :, _...,..<.. ,.,", ._,v.,.~ w....~_" . ,. cime.,x. vwun, .....NW., a.rtb.N,xPS.»-pb..~.4~;4.:"kkY&i~?-..yy,~q,~»g'rs;NH:~:a.xc.gyaao.swamp.~,aaa~,m*yw.~.eaavrnvv~--..w~>.... ~~.._.--..-...,...-..,....,_. ~...___.._..v,......~,...~.,.._.. ..."....-.,..~.~.,...,..,......~..m,.....,.,..,wv...,..",.,.."..,R
s rotation about generally vertical left "L°' and right °'R"
gutter broom axes, respectively. Preferably, the left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r are disc-type brushes and are selectively moveable between a lowered surface cleaning position, as can be seen in Figure 2, and a raised position, which is not specifically illustrated. In the lowered surface cleaning position, the left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r are positioned such that the left "L" and right "R°' gutter broom axes, respectively, are slanted slightly off vertical so that the front portion of each of the left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r contacts a surface 22 being cleaned. The left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r are preferably mounted rearwardly of the left 331 and right 33r steerable front wheels and forwardly of the left 341 and right 34r driven rear wheels so as to not interfere with any of the wheels 331,33r,341,34r.
[00036] Very briefly, the surface cleaning apparatus 22 comprises a debris receiving hopper 50, a surface cleaning broom 56, an elevator means 60, a mounting means ~70 for mounting the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 onto the utility type tractor 30, and a shift actuation means 100. The surface cleaning vehicle 20 comprises the utility type tractor 30, the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56, the elevator means 60, the mounting means 70, and the shift actuation means 100. The surface cleaning vehicle 20 and the surface cleaning apparatus 22 will now be described in greater detail.
[00037] The surface cleaning apparatus 22 is for operative mounting on the utility type tractor 30 and comprises the debris receiving hopper 50 that carries about two to three cubic meters of debris. The debris receiving hopper 50 is mounted onto a structural frame 41 that extends rearwardly from the mounting means 70, as will be discussed in greater detail subsequently. Wheel means are mounted on the structural frame 41 for rolling contact with the surface being cleaned. Preferably, the wheel means comprises a plurality of caster assemblies 52, specifically three caster assemblies 52 in the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, each caster assembly 52 secured to the frame 41 for free pivotal movement of the caster wheel 54 about a substantially horizontal axis "H" and for free pivotal movement of the overall caster assembly 52 about a substantially vertical axis. In this manner, selective lateral movement of the debris receiving hopper 50 with respect to the longitudinal axis "A" of the utiJ_ity type tractor 30 is readily accommodated. Further, the debris receiving hopper 50 is pivotally mounted so as to permit tipping rearwardly for the purpose of dumping debris therefrom.
[00038] As discussed above, the surface cleaning apparatus 22 is mounted on the utility type tractor 30 by means of the three-point hitch 46, or alternatively may incorporate the towbar 48.
[00039] The cylindrically-shaped rotating surface cleaning broom 56 has a substantially horizontal axis of rotation "R°' oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis °'A" of the utility type tractor 30. The cylindrically-shaped rotating surface cleaning broom 56 rotates in the direction as indicated by arrow "B" in Figure 1 to propel debris into the mouth 62 of the elevator means 60.
[00040] The elevator means &0 comprises a mechanical debris elevator 60 disposed immediately forwardly of the surface cleaning broom 56 and extends upwardly to a height approximately that of the top of the debris receiving hopper 50. The mechanical debris elevator 60 is for receiving debris from the surface cleaning broom 56 - specifically off the deflector flap 49 into the mouth 62 of the mechanical debris elevator 60, as indicated by arrow '°C" in Figure 1 -- and for transporting the debris upwardly to the debris receiving hopper 50, as indicated by arrow "D" in Figure 1.
[00041] The mechanical. debris elevator 60 is disposed rearwardly of the utility type tractor 30 and forwardl.y of the sweeping broom 56, and is also disposed laterally across the longitudinal axis '°L"
of the surface cleaning vehicle 20, such that the debris accepting mouth 62 is disposed immediately forwardly of the rotating sweeping broom 56. In this manner, the mechanical debris elevator 60 is mounted on the surface cleaning vehicle 20 to receive and retain the forwardly propelled stream of debris and to deposit the received and retained debris into the hopper 50. More specifically, debris that is propelled forwardly by the rotating sweeping broom 56 is deflected off the deflector flap 49 and into the debris accepting mouth 62, whereat it is received by elevator paddles 61 that lift the debris and deposit it into the hopper 50.
Alternatively, types of other mechanical debris elevating or lifting means could be used.
[00042, The mounting means 70 is for mounting the debris receiving hopper 50, the: surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 onto the utility type tractor 30. The debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 are mounted rearward_Ly of the utility type tractor 30.
Accordingly, the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 are disposed rearwardly of the utility type tractor 30 and therefore disposed rearwardly of the left and right gutter brooms 321,32r. In this manner, the surface cleaning broom 56 is positionable over the path of debris created by the left and right gutter brooms 321,32r.
[00043] The mounting means 70 also mounts the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 onto the utility type tractor 30 in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis "A". In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the mounting means comprises a slide mechanism 72 having a stationary portion, as indicated by the general reference numeral 74, and a laterally movable portion, as indicated by the general reference numeral 76, operatively interconnected in laterally sliding engagement with the stationary portion 74.
[00044] The stationary portion 74 comprises a vertically disposed horizontally elongate rectangular mounting plate 80 having an upper angled mounting lug 81 and right and left lower angled mounting lugs 82r,821. The horizontally elongate rectangular mounting plane 80 is mounted onto the three arms of the three-paint hitch 46 by means of suitable 'threaded fasteners 83 engaged in co-operating apertures in the upper and lower angled mounting lugs 81,82r,821.
There are also six spacer arms secured to the horizontally elongate rectangular mounting plate 80, preferably by means of welding.
These six spacer arms include a left upper spacer arm 841~ a right upper spacer arm 84r, a central upper spacer arm 84c, a left lower spacer arm 861, a right lower spacer arm 86r, and a central lower spacer arm 86c. The left upper spacer arm 841, the right upper spacer arm 84r, and the central upper spacer arm 84c, together support an upper horizontal shift-support rail 87. The upper horizontal shift-support. rail 87 is secured at its ends to the left and right upper spacer arms 841,84r by means of suitable threaded fasteners 88, and is retained at its center by a collar 84a welded to the central upper spacer arm 84c. Similarly, the left lower spacer arm 861, the right lower spacer arm 86:r, and the central lower spacer arm 86c, together support a =Lower horizontal shift-support rail 89. The lower horizontal shift-support rail 89 is secured at its ends to the left and right lower spacer arms 861,86r by means of suitable threaded fasteners 88, and is retained at its center by a collar 86a welded to the central lower spacer arm 86c.
[0045] The laterally movable portion 76 comprises a left shift panel 901 and a right shift panel 90r each mounted in sliding relation on the upper and lower horizontal shift-support rails..
The left shift panel 90:L has an upper mounting collar 911 and a lower mounting collar 921 connected together by a spanning plate portion 941. Similarly, the right shift panel 90r has an upper mounting collar 91r and. a lower mounting collar 92r connected s together by a spanning plate portion 94r. The two upper mounting collars 911,91r surround the upper horizontal shift-support rail 87 and the two lower mounting collars 921,92r surround the lower horizontal shift-support rail 89. The left shift panel 901 is laterally shiftable between the left upper and lower spacer arms 841,861 and the central upper and lower spacer arms 84c,86c.
Similarly, the right shift panel 94r is laterally shiftable between the right upper and lower spacer arms 84r, 86r and the central upper and lower spacer arms 84c,86c.
[00046] The laterally movable portion 76 also comprises .a horizontally elongate rectangular carriage plate 95 secured to the right and left shift panels 901,90r by means of welding, or alternatively by means of suitable threaded fasteners.
Accordingly, the right and left shift panels 901, 90r move laterally in unison. Additionally, the right and left shift panels 901,90:r could be interconnected by means of a horizontal arm or the like.
[00047] As can be best seen in Figure 3, the structural frame 41 is welded to the horizontally elongate rectangular carriage plate 95 and extends rearwardly therefrom. The mechanical debris elevator 60 is mounted onto the horizontally elongate rectangular_ carriage plate 95 and the structural frame 41 by means of welding, or alternatively by means of suitable threaded fasteners. The debris receiving hopper 50 is mounted onto the structural frame 41, by means of welding, or alternatively by means of suitable threaded fasteners. Further, the surface cleaning broom 56 is removably mounted to the structural frame 41 by means of conventional broom mounting arms (not shown). Accordingly, the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 are mounted onto the laterally movable portion 76.
[00048) In the above described manner, the laterally movable portion 76 is mounted on the stationary portion 74 for lateral sliding movement between a central position, as is best seen in Figure 4, a right-shifted position, as is best seen in Figure 10, and a left-shifted po:>ition, as is best seen in Figure 11.
Further, the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 are mounted onto a utility type tractor 30 rearwardly of the utility type tractor 30, in laterally shiftable relation with respect to the longitudinal axis "A".
[00049] The shift actuation means 100 is for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60, with respect to the longitudinal axis '°A°' as the utility type tractor 30 moves forwardly, especially when the utility type tractor 30 moves forwardly along a curved path. In this manner, the surface cleaning broom 56 can be laterally shifted to track the path of debris created by the left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r, to thereby permit the surface cleaning broom 56 to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by the left gutter broom 321 and the right gutter broom 32r.
Further, such lateral shifting helps preclude the debris receiving hopper 50, the surface cleaning broom 56 and the elevator means 60 from hitting objects a=Long a sweeping path, especially along a curved sweeping path.
[00050] The shift actuation means 100 comprises a hydraulically actuated cylinder 102 operatively interconnected between the stationary portion 74 and the movable portion 76 of the slide mechanism 72. More specifically, the main cylinder body 104 of the hydraulically actuated cylinder 102 is secured to the horizontally elongate rectangular mounting plate 80 typically by suitable threaded fasteners (not shown). The piston rod 106 of the hydraulically actuated cylinder 102 is secured. to the left shift panel 901 typically by <~ suitable threaded fastener (not shown).
A piston 107 within the main cylinder body 1.04 is selectively hydraulcally actuated by means of first and second hydraulic lines 108,109 connected in fluid communication to the cylinder body of the hydraulically actuated cylinder 102. Receipt of hydraulic fluid from the first hydraulic line 108 causes the piston 107 to move towards the right-shifted position. Similarly, receipt of hydraulic fluid from the second hydraulic line 109 causes the piston 107 to move towards the left-shifted position.
[00051, In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the surface cleaning apparatus 22 further comprises steering responsive control means, as indicated by the general reference numeral 110, operatively interconnecting the steering mechanism of the utility type tractor 30 and the shift actuation means 100, to thereby permit controlled lateral shifting of the surface cleaning broom 56 in response to the utility type tractor 30 being steered. More specifically, the steering responsive control means 110 comprises a linear proportional senor 112 mounted onto the steering mechaniskm at the front of the ut;_lity type tractor 30 so as to sense the degree of steering of the steering mechanism, as controlled by the steering wheel 29. The linear proportional senor 112 is electrically connected to a hydraulic valve 114 having a first hydraulic output 116 and a second hydraulic, output 118. The first hydraulic line 108 is connected in fluid communication to the first hydraulic output 116 and the second hydraulic line 109 is connected in fluid communication to the second hydraulic output 118.
[00052 When the steering wheel 29 is turned to the right, the linear proportional senor 112 senses the amount of movement of _ _. _ ___ f steering mechanism and provides a linearly proportional signal to the hydraulic valve 114. The hydraulic valve 114 causes hydraulic fluid to be pumped through the first hydraulic line 108, thus causing the piston 107 :in the hydraulically actuated cylinder 102 to move towards its right-shifted position. ~>imilarly, when th.e steering wheel 29 is turned to the left the linear proportional senor 112 senses the amount of movement of steering mechanism anal provides a linearly proportional signal to the hydraulic valve 114.
The hydraulic valve 114 causes hydraulic fluid to be pumped through the second hydraulic line 109, thus causing the piston 107 in the hydraulically actuated cylinder 102 to move towards its left-shifted position.
[00053] Reference will now be made to Figure 12, which shows an alternative embodiment of the surface cleaning vehicle 220 and surface cleaning apparatus 222 of the present invention. This alternative embodiment surface cleaning vehicle 220 and surface cleaning apparatus 222 is almost identical to the preferred embodiment surface cleaning vehicle 20 and surface cleaning apparatus 22 except that there are no gutter brooms. The maunting means 270 is still for mounting the debris receiving hopper 250, the surface cleaning broom 256 and the elevator means 260 onto the utility type tractor 230 in laterally shiftable relation, as described above with reference to the preferred embodiment surface cleaning vehicle 20 and surface cleaning apparatus 22. The shift actuation means 200 is still for is for laterally shifting the debris receiving hopper 250, the surface cleaning broom 256 and the elevator means 260, with respect to the longitudinal axis '°A" as the utility type tractor 230 moves forwardly, especially when the utility type tractor 230 moves forwardly along a curved path. Such lateral shifting permits proper tracking cf a sweeping path by th.e surface cleaning broom 256, such as along a curb. Further, such lateral shifting helps preclude the debris receiving hopper 250, the surface cleaning broom 256 and the elevator means 260 from hitting objects along a sweeping path, especially along a curved sweeping path.
[00054] As can be understood from the above description and from the accompanying drawings, the present invention provides a surface cleaning apparatus for use with a utility type tractor, which surface cleaning apparatus tracks the path of the dirt and debris swept by the gutter brooms, even in tight radius turns, and which surface cleaning apparatus is laterally shiftable so as to not project beyond the path of the utility type tractor during turns, all of which features are unknown in the prior art.
[00055, Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. Furt:her~ other modifications and alterations rnay be used in the design and manufacture of the apparatus of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the accompanying claims.
Claims (28)
1. A surface cleaning apparatus for operative mounting on a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends, and having at least one gutter broom operatively mounted thereon, said surface cleaning apparatus comprising:
a debris receiving hopper;
a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation;
elevator means for receiving debris from said surface cleaning broom and for transporting said debris to said debris receiving hopper;
mounting means for mounting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means onto a utility type tractor rearwardly of said utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to said longitudinal axis, and such that said surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of said at least one gutter broom; and, shift actuation means for laterally shifting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means, to thereby permit said surface cleaning broom to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by said at least one gutter broom.
a debris receiving hopper;
a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation;
elevator means for receiving debris from said surface cleaning broom and for transporting said debris to said debris receiving hopper;
mounting means for mounting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means onto a utility type tractor rearwardly of said utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to said longitudinal axis, and such that said surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of said at least one gutter broom; and, shift actuation means for laterally shifting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means, to thereby permit said surface cleaning broom to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by said at least one gutter broom.
2. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, wherein said mounting means comprise a slide mechanism.
3. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 2, wherein said slide mechanism has a stationary portion mountable on said utility type tractor and a laterally movable portion operatively interconnected in laterally sliding engagement with said stationary portion.
4. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 1, wherein said shift actuation means comprises a hydraulically actuated cylinder operatively interconnected between said stationary portion and said movable portion of said slide mechanism.
5. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 1, further comprising steering responsive control means operatively interconnecting the steering mechanism of said utility type tractor and said shift actuation means, to thereby permit controlled lateral shifting of said surface cleaning broom in response to said utility type tractor being steered.
6. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 1, further comprising wheel means mounted on said debris receiving hopper for rolling contact with a surface being cleaned.
7. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 6, wherein said wheel means comprises casters.
8. A surface cleaning vehicle comprising:
a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends, and having at least one gutter broom operatively mounted thereon;
a debris receiving hopper;
a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation;
elevator means for receiving debris from said surface cleaning broom and for transporting said debris to said debris receiving hopper;
mounting means for mounting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means onto said utility type tractor rearwardly of said utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to said longitudinal axis, and such that said surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of said at least one gutter broom; and, shift actuation means for laterally shifting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means, to thereby permit said surface cleaning broom to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by said at least one gutter broom.
a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends, and having at least one gutter broom operatively mounted thereon;
a debris receiving hopper;
a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation;
elevator means for receiving debris from said surface cleaning broom and for transporting said debris to said debris receiving hopper;
mounting means for mounting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means onto said utility type tractor rearwardly of said utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to said longitudinal axis, and such that said surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of said at least one gutter broom; and, shift actuation means for laterally shifting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means, to thereby permit said surface cleaning broom to remove debris from a surface being cleaned as swept by said at least one gutter broom.
9. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 8, wherein said mounting means comprises a slide mechanism.
10. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 9, wherein said slide mechanism has a stationary portion mountable on said utility type tractor and a laterally movable portion operatively interconnected in laterally sliding engagement with said stationary portion.
11. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 8, wherein said actuation means comprises a hydraulically actuated cylinder operatively interconnected between said stationary portion and said movable portion of said slide mechanism.
12. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 8, further comprising steering responsive control means operatively interconnecting the steering mechanism of said utility type tractor and said shift actuation means, to thereby permit controlled lateral shifting of said surface cleaning broom in response to said utility type tractor being steered.
13. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 8, further comprising wheel means mounted on said surface cleaning apparatus for rolling contact with a surface being cleaned.
14. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 13, wherein said wheel means comprises casters.
15. A surface cleaning apparatus for operative mounting on a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends, said surface cleaning apparatus comprising:
a debris receiving hopper;
a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation;
elevator means for receiving debris from said surface cleaning broom and for transporting said debris to said debris receiving hopper;
mounting means for mounting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means onto a utility type tractor rearwardly of said utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to said longitudinal axis, and such that said surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of said utility type tractor; and, shift actuation means for laterally shifting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means.
a debris receiving hopper;
a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation;
elevator means for receiving debris from said surface cleaning broom and for transporting said debris to said debris receiving hopper;
mounting means for mounting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means onto a utility type tractor rearwardly of said utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to said longitudinal axis, and such that said surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of said utility type tractor; and, shift actuation means for laterally shifting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means.
16. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 15, wherein said mounting means comprises a slide mechanism.
27. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 16, wherein said slide mechanism has a stationary portion mountable on said utility type tractor and a laterally movable portion operatively interconnected in laterally sliding engagement with said stationary portion.
18. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 15, wherein said shift actuation means comprises a hydraulically actuated cylinder operatively interconnected between said stationary portion and said movable portion of said slide mechanism.
19. The surface cleaning apparatus of claim 15, further comprising steering responsive control means operatively interconnecting the steering mechanism of said utility type tractor and said shift actuation means, to thereby permit controlled lateral shifting of said surface cleaning broom in response to said utility type tractor being steered.
20. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 15, further comprising wheel means mounted on said debris receiving hopper for rolling contact with a surface being cleaned.
21. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 20, wherein said wheel means comprises casters.
22. A surface cleaning vehicle comprising:
a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends;
a debris receiving hopper;
a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation;
elevator means for receiving debris from said surface cleaning broom and for transporting said debris to said debris receiving hopper;
mounting means for mounting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means onto said utility type tractor rearwardly of said utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to said longitudinal axis, and such that said surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of said utility type tractor; and, shift actuation means for laterally shifting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means.
a utility type tractor defining a longitudinal axis extending between its front and back ends;
a debris receiving hopper;
a surface cleaning broom having a horizontal axis of rotation;
elevator means for receiving debris from said surface cleaning broom and for transporting said debris to said debris receiving hopper;
mounting means for mounting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means onto said utility type tractor rearwardly of said utility type tractor and in laterally shiftable relation with respect to said longitudinal axis, and such that said surface cleaning broom is disposed rearwardly of said utility type tractor; and, shift actuation means for laterally shifting said debris receiving hopper, said surface cleaning broom and said elevator means.
23. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 22, wherein said mounting means comprises a slide mechanism.
24. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 23, wherein said slide mechanism has a stationary portion mountable on said utility type tractor and a laterally movable portion operatively interconnected in laterally sliding engagement with said stationary portion.
25. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 22, wherein said actuation means comprises a hydraulically actuated cylinder operatively interconnected between said stationary portion and said movable portion of said slide mechanism.
26. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 22, further comprising steering responsive control means operatively interconnecting the steering mechanism of said utility type tractor and said shift actuation means, to thereby permit controlled lateral shifting of said surface cleaning broom in response to said utility type tractor being steered.
27. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 22, further comprising wheel means mounted on said surface cleaning apparatus for rolling contact with a surface being cleaned.
28. The surface cleaning vehicle of claim 27, wherein said wheel means comprises casters.
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2474117 CA2474117A1 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2004-07-15 | Surface cleaning apparatus and vehicle |
| PCT/CA2005/001116 WO2006005194A2 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2005-07-15 | Surface cleaning apparatus and vehicle |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2474117 CA2474117A1 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2004-07-15 | Surface cleaning apparatus and vehicle |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2474117A1 true CA2474117A1 (en) | 2006-01-15 |
Family
ID=35636980
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2474117 Abandoned CA2474117A1 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2004-07-15 | Surface cleaning apparatus and vehicle |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2474117A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2006005194A2 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN112502074A (en) * | 2020-11-25 | 2021-03-16 | 王畅 | Splicing type highway fence cleaning device convenient to transport and move |
-
2004
- 2004-07-15 CA CA 2474117 patent/CA2474117A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2005
- 2005-07-15 WO PCT/CA2005/001116 patent/WO2006005194A2/en active Application Filing
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN112502074A (en) * | 2020-11-25 | 2021-03-16 | 王畅 | Splicing type highway fence cleaning device convenient to transport and move |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO2006005194A2 (en) | 2006-01-19 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |