US20040055852A1 - Fold-over chute safety device - Google Patents
Fold-over chute safety device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20040055852A1 US20040055852A1 US10/253,978 US25397802A US2004055852A1 US 20040055852 A1 US20040055852 A1 US 20040055852A1 US 25397802 A US25397802 A US 25397802A US 2004055852 A1 US2004055852 A1 US 2004055852A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- blocking member
- chute section
- chute
- plate
- mounting flange
- 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.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B28—WORKING CEMENT, CLAY, OR STONE
- B28C—PREPARING CLAY; PRODUCING MIXTURES CONTAINING CLAY OR CEMENTITIOUS MATERIAL, e.g. PLASTER
- B28C5/00—Apparatus or methods for producing mixtures of cement with other substances, e.g. slurries, mortars, porous or fibrous compositions
- B28C5/42—Apparatus specially adapted for being mounted on vehicles with provision for mixing during transport
- B28C5/4203—Details; Accessories
- B28C5/4234—Charge or discharge systems therefor
- B28C5/4244—Discharging; Concrete conveyor means, chutes or spouts therefor
- B28C5/4248—Discharging; Concrete conveyor means, chutes or spouts therefor using chutes
- B28C5/4251—Discharging; Concrete conveyor means, chutes or spouts therefor using chutes telescopic or foldable chutes
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a safety device for a foldable two-section chute system of a concrete mixing truck.
- the present invention relates to a blocking member positionable between adjacent ends of two chute sections when the chute system is transitioning from a folded position to an unfolded position.
- FIG. 1 depicts a typical concrete mixing truck 10 used to transport, mix, and pour concrete.
- the concrete mixing truck 10 comprises a rotatable drum 12 connected to the frame of the truck 10 .
- the rotatable drum 12 has an outlet 14 directed towards a two-section chute system 16 comprised of a first chute section 18 and a second chute section 20 .
- the first chute section 18 has a first end 22 and a second end 24 .
- the first end 22 of the first chute section 18 is pivotally connected to the concrete mixing truck 10 .
- the second end 24 of the first chute section 18 is connected to a hydraulic cylinder 26 that is attached to the frame of the truck 10 .
- the second chute section 20 has a first end 28 opposing the second end 24 of the first chute section 18 .
- the first chute section 18 and the second chute section 20 are attached by a pivotal connection 30 located at top edges 32 , 34 of chute sections 18 , 20 , respectively, adjacent to the second end 24 of the first chute section 18 and the first end 28 of the second chute section 20 .
- the two chute sections 18 , 20 are traditionally capable of being in either a folded position or an unfolded position.
- the chute sections 18 , 20 are placed in the folded position with the second chute section 20 resting on top of the first chute section 18 as shown in FIG. 1.
- the second chute section 20 is rotated about the pivotal connection 30 until the second end 24 of the first chute section 18 and the first end 28 of the second chute section 20 make contact.
- the hydraulic cylinder 26 aligns the unfolded two-section chute system 16 with the desired location for pouring concrete. Concrete in the rotatable drum 12 is moved through the outlet 14 onto the chute system 16 .
- the spacing device of the present invention prevents unintended contact between two pivotally attached chute sections of a concrete mixing truck, where the first chute section comprises an annular flange adjacent to a second end of the first chute section and the second chute section comprises an arcuate edge configured to contact the annular flange of the first chute section.
- the spacing device comprises a mounting flange connected adjacent to the second end of the first chute section and a blocking member connected to the mounting flange.
- the blocking member comprises a contact surface that is spaced from the annular flange and positioned to contact a portion of the arcuate edge of the second chute section when the blocking member is in a blocking position.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a concrete mixing truck with a two-section chute system known in the art.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a two-section chute system in a folded position showing the spacing device of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is a side view of a two-section chute system in a partially open position showing the spacing device of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is an enlarged side view of a two-section chute system showing the spacing device of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of an end portion of a first chute section with the spacing device of the present invention in a blocking position.
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of opposing portions of the first and second chute sections with the spacing device of the present invention in a non-blocking position.
- FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the front facing side of the spacing device of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of an end portion of the first chute section with a second embodiment of the spacing device of the present invention in a blocking position.
- FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the two-section chute system 16 shown in FIG. 1.
- the first chute section 18 is comprised of an elongated arcuate wall 38 that terminates in an arcuate edge 40 at second end 24 .
- the arcuate wall 38 of the first chute section 18 has a diameter D1 at the second end 24 adjacent to the pivotal connection 30 .
- An annular flange 42 is connected to an outer surface 44 of the arcuate wall 38 adjacent to the arcuate edge 40 of the first chute section 18 .
- the second chute section 20 is comprised of an elongated arcuate wall 46 that terminates in an annular, arcuate edge 48 at the first end 28 .
- the arcuate wall 46 of the second chute section 20 has a diameter D2 at the first end 28 adjacent to the pivotal connection 30 .
- the diameter D2 of the second chute section 20 is slightly greater than the diameter D1 of the first chute section 18 .
- the pivotal connection 30 is formed by a hinge 50 that connects the top edge 32 of the first chute section 18 to the top edge 34 of the second chute section 20 near the arcuate edges 40 , 48 .
- the second chute section 20 is rotated about the hinge 50 . Because the diameter D2 of the arcuate wall 46 of the second chute section 20 is greater than the diameter D1 of the arcuate wall 38 of the first chute section 18 , an inner surface portion 52 of the second chute section 20 overlaps the outer surface portion 44 of the first chute section 18 when the chute sections 18 , 20 are in a fully unfolded position. In the unfolded position, arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 engages annular flange 42 of the first chute section 18 .
- a spacing device 36 is connected to the chute system 16 .
- the spacing device 36 is mounted to the annular flange 42 of the first chute section 18 near the hinge 50 .
- the spacing device 36 is comprised of a blocking member 54 with a contact surface 56 that is spaced rearwardly from the annular flange 42 of the first chute section 18 .
- the contact surface 56 of the blocking member 54 is positioned to make contact with a portion of the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 when the spacing device 36 is in a blocking position.
- the chute sections 18 , 20 , hinge 50 , and spacing device 36 each are formed from a heavy metal material.
- FIGS. 3 and 4 are side views of the spacing device 36 in the blocking position.
- spacing device 36 is located on first chute section 18 so as to prevent second chute section 20 from fully unfolding.
- spacing device 36 engages arcuate edge 48 of second chute section 20 at a point spaced from annular flange 42 .
- the spacing device 36 is positioned between the annular flange 42 of the first chute section 18 and the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 .
- the contact surface 56 of blocking member 54 is axially aligned with a portion of the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 , preventing engagement between the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 and the annular flange 42 of the first chute section 18 .
- the angle formed by the spacing device 36 while in the blocking position is a function of the angle of the contact surface 56 and is selected to create a gap G of sufficient size to prevent harmful contact of second chute section 20 against a person's extremities.
- Spacing device 36 is urged towards the blocking position by a biasing means, which in one embodiment comprises an elongated coil spring 58 .
- a biasing means which in one embodiment comprises an elongated coil spring 58 .
- the elongated coil spring 58 has a first end 60 and a second end 62 .
- the first end 60 of the coil spring 58 is connected to the second end 24 of the first chute section 18 .
- the second end 62 of the coil spring 58 is connected to the blocking member 54 .
- the first and second ends 60 , 62 of the coil spring 58 are connected to the second end 24 of the first chute section 18 and the blocking member 54 , respectively, by eye-bolts 64 , 66 .
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the second end 24 of the first chute section 18 with blocking member 54 in the blocking position.
- the blocking member 54 comprises first and second plates 68 , 70 .
- the first plate 68 has a first end 72 and a second end 74 , and a first edge 76 and a second edge 78 .
- the first plate 68 is pivotally attached to a mounting flange 80 by a pivotal connection 82 .
- a handle 84 is connected to the first edge 76 of the first plate 68 .
- the handle 84 extends in the same plane as the first plate 68 and away from the arcuate wall 38 of the first chute section 18 .
- a protrusion 86 is connected to the second edge 78 of the first plate 68 at second end 74 .
- the protrusion 86 extends in the same plane as the first plate 68 and towards the arcuate wall 38 of the first chute section 18 .
- FIG. 5 shows the inner sidelong portion of blocking member 54 .
- the protrusion 86 of the first plate 68 contacts the arcuate wall 38 of the first chute section 18 and helps align the contact surface 56 of the blocking member 54 with the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 when the spacing device 36 is in the blocking position.
- protrusion 86 is positioned to engage the outer surface 44 of the arcuate wall 38 of the first chute section 18 , adjacent to the annular flange 42 .
- protrusion 86 at the second end 74 of the second edge 78 of the first plate 68
- the protrusion 86 can be located at other areas along the second edge 78 of the first plate 68 without departing from the intended scope of the invention, as will be evident to those skilled in the art.
- the length of protrusion 86 is designed to space the blocking member 54 at a distance from the arcuate wall 38 of the first chute section 18 such that the contact surface 56 of the blocking member 54 is axially aligned with the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 .
- the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 will engage the contact surface 56 of the blocking member 54 , preventing unintentional abutment of the first and second chute sections 18 , 20 .
- the second plate 70 has a first end 88 and a second end 90 , and a first edge 92 and a second edge 94 .
- the first edge 92 of the second plate 70 is connected transversely to the first plate 68 , such as by welding, adjacent to the second edge 78 of the first plate 68 , forming a right angle between the first plate 68 and the second plate 70 .
- the second edge 94 of the second plate 70 comprises the angled contact surface 56 of the blocking member 54 .
- Both first and second plates 68 , 70 are formed from a metal, such as ASTM A 36 plate steel having a wall thickness of about 0.375 inches.
- blocking member 54 has a height of about 4.50 inches, with contact surface 56 sloping at an angle of about 20 degrees relative to first plate 68 .
- the maximum width of second plate 70 relative to first plate 68 is about 2.50 inches.
- the pivotal connection 82 connects the blocking member 54 to the mounting flange 80 .
- FIG. 5 depicts the pivotal connection 82 of the blocking member 54 to the mounting flange 80 at the first end 72 of the first plate 68
- the pivotal connection 82 can be located at other areas of the first plate 68 without departing from the intended scope of the invention, as will be evident to those skilled in the art.
- the pivotal connection 82 allows the blocking member 54 to shift between the blocking and non-blocking positions.
- the pivotal connection 82 of the blocking member 54 to the mounting flange 80 is formed by a nut and bolt connection 96 .
- the blocking member 54 of the present invention is comprised of first and second plates 68 , 70
- the blocking member 54 may be comprised of a solid block of material with the pivotal connection 82 of the blocking member 54 to the mounting flange 80 located at an aperture extending through the entire length of the block.
- the blocking member 54 may be comprised of a solid block of material with the pivotal connection of the blocking member 54 to the mounting flange 80 located at a mortise section of the blocking member 54 .
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of blocking member 54 that has been pivoted out of the blocking position.
- the mounting flange 80 of spacing device 36 connects the blocking member 54 to the first chute section 18 .
- the mounting flange 80 is connected to the first chute section 18 adjacent to the arcuate edge 40 of the first chute section 18 and near the top edge 32 of the first chute section 18 .
- the mounting flange 80 is connected to the annular flange 42 of the first chute section 18 proximate to the top edge 32 of the first chute section 18 .
- the mounting flange 80 is formed from a metal, such as plate steel, like first and second plates 68 , 70 .
- Blocking member 54 is pivoted from the blocking position to the non-blocking position by pulling on the handle 84 to pivot blocking member 54 until the contact surface 56 no longer engages the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 .
- the inner surface portion 52 of the arcuate wall 46 of the second chute section 20 is allowed to overlap the outer surface 44 of the arcuate wall 38 of the first chute section 18 , allowing the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 to engage the annular flange 42 of the first chute section 18 .
- FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the front facing side of spacing device 36 in a non-blocking position.
- the blocking member 54 is pivoted away from the arcuate wall 38 of the first chute section 18 about the nut and bolt connection 96 .
- the elongated coil spring 58 is stressed.
- the second chute section 20 completes the gravitational rotation about the hinge 50 and the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 engages the annular flange 42 of the first chute section 18 .
- the pivotal connection 82 of the blocking member 54 to the annular flange 42 offers an easy and reliable operation of spacing device 36 . In the event concrete slurry contacts the pivotal connection 82 , it is still able to reliably align blocking member 54 with the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 .
- the constant pivoting motion of the blocking member 54 between the non-blocking and blocking positions loosens and clears concrete fines or other foreign matter contacting spacing device 36 .
- Protrusion 86 provides a visual means for confirming that blocking member 54 has been fully returned to the blocking position and that it is ready for spacing the chute sections 18 , 20 in a subsequent unfolding process.
- FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the second end 24 of the first chute section 18 with blocking member 54 in the blocking position.
- the first and second plates 68 , 70 , pivotal connection 82 and protrusion 86 of FIG. 8 are identical to the first and second plates 68 , 70 , pivotal connection 82 and protrusion 86 described in FIG. 5.
- a weighted arm 98 replaces handle 84 and elongated coil spring 58 of the embodiment of FIG. 5.
- the weighted arm 98 has a first end 100 and a second end 102 .
- the first end 100 of weighted arm 98 is connected to a lower corner 101 at the second end 74 of the first plate 68 .
- the weighted arm 98 extends at a predetermined angle in the same plane as the first plate 68 and away from the arcuate wall 38 of the first chute section 18 .
- the weighted arm 98 extends at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees from the first edge 76 of the first plate. In one preferred embodiment, weighted arm extends at an angle of about 135 degrees relative to the first edge 76 of the first plate 68 .
- the second end 102 of weighted arm 98 is bulbous and comprises a sufficient weight to return the blocking member 54 to the blocking position by gravity.
- the weighted arm 98 is 5.00 inches in length and has a weight of about 0.90 pounds with a center of gravity about 3.50 inches from the point of attachment of the first end 100 to the blocking member 54 .
- Arm 98 is made of a metal material.
- the weighted arm 98 of blocking member 54 offers a simple and reliable means of urging the blocking member 54 to the blocking position. In the event concrete slurry contacts the spacing device 36 , the weighted arm 98 is still able to reliably align blocking member 54 with the arcuate edge 48 of the second chute section 20 .
- the weighted arm 98 relies on gravity alone to pivot the blocking member 54 about the pivotal connection 82 of the blocking member 54 to the mounting flange 80 back to the blocking position.
- the constant pivoting motion of the blocking member 54 between the non-blocking and blocking positions loosens and clears concrete fines or other foreign matter from contacting spacing device 36 .
- protrusion 86 provides a visual means for confirming that blocking member 54 has been fully returned to the blocking position.
- a spacing device of the present invention includes a blocking member that is pivotally attached to a flange mounted adjacent to an end of a first chute section.
- the blocking member provides a contact surface that engages an arcuate edge of a second pivotally attached chute section when the blocking member is in a blocking position and the second chute section is being unfolded.
- the contact surface of the blocking member spaces the opposing ends of the chute sections at a predetermined angle, preventing unintentional or uncontrolled contact between the first and second chute sections.
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a safety device for a foldable two-section chute system of a concrete mixing truck. In particular, the present invention relates to a blocking member positionable between adjacent ends of two chute sections when the chute system is transitioning from a folded position to an unfolded position.
- Concrete mixing trucks are a common sight on the roads and at construction sites. FIG. 1 depicts a typical
concrete mixing truck 10 used to transport, mix, and pour concrete. Theconcrete mixing truck 10 comprises arotatable drum 12 connected to the frame of thetruck 10. Therotatable drum 12 has anoutlet 14 directed towards a two-section chute system 16 comprised of afirst chute section 18 and asecond chute section 20. Thefirst chute section 18 has afirst end 22 and asecond end 24. Thefirst end 22 of thefirst chute section 18 is pivotally connected to theconcrete mixing truck 10. Thesecond end 24 of thefirst chute section 18 is connected to ahydraulic cylinder 26 that is attached to the frame of thetruck 10. Thesecond chute section 20 has afirst end 28 opposing thesecond end 24 of thefirst chute section 18. Thefirst chute section 18 and thesecond chute section 20 are attached by apivotal connection 30 located attop edges chute sections second end 24 of thefirst chute section 18 and thefirst end 28 of thesecond chute section 20. - The two
chute sections chute sections second chute section 20 resting on top of thefirst chute section 18 as shown in FIG. 1. When the concrete is ready for pouring, thesecond chute section 20 is rotated about thepivotal connection 30 until thesecond end 24 of thefirst chute section 18 and thefirst end 28 of thesecond chute section 20 make contact. Thehydraulic cylinder 26 aligns the unfolded two-section chute system 16 with the desired location for pouring concrete. Concrete in therotatable drum 12 is moved through theoutlet 14 onto thechute system 16. - One of the problems related to the two-section chute system of concrete mixing trucks occurs when the second chute section is in the process of unfolding. To move from the folded position to the unfolded position, the second chute section is initially manually rotated to an angle sufficient to allow the second chute section to continue rotating by gravity into the final unfolded position. The two-section chute system is in the final unfolded position when the opposing end of the second chute section abuts the opposing end of the first chute section and the second chute section is forced to stop its rotation. The weight of the second chute section, combined with the momentum of the second chute section from the gravitational rotation, can cause injury to a person working alongside a concrete mixing truck in the event the person has a body part located between the opposing edges of the two chute sections. If a person is unaware that the second chute section is being unfolded, the person may not be able to remove the body part from the contact area of the two chute sections in time to avoid injury. It is thus desirable to improve the safety of two-section chute systems.
- The spacing device of the present invention prevents unintended contact between two pivotally attached chute sections of a concrete mixing truck, where the first chute section comprises an annular flange adjacent to a second end of the first chute section and the second chute section comprises an arcuate edge configured to contact the annular flange of the first chute section. The spacing device comprises a mounting flange connected adjacent to the second end of the first chute section and a blocking member connected to the mounting flange. The blocking member comprises a contact surface that is spaced from the annular flange and positioned to contact a portion of the arcuate edge of the second chute section when the blocking member is in a blocking position.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a concrete mixing truck with a two-section chute system known in the art.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a two-section chute system in a folded position showing the spacing device of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is a side view of a two-section chute system in a partially open position showing the spacing device of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is an enlarged side view of a two-section chute system showing the spacing device of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of an end portion of a first chute section with the spacing device of the present invention in a blocking position.
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of opposing portions of the first and second chute sections with the spacing device of the present invention in a non-blocking position.
- FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the front facing side of the spacing device of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of an end portion of the first chute section with a second embodiment of the spacing device of the present invention in a blocking position.
- While the above-identified drawing figures set forth preferred embodiments of the invention, other embodiments are also contemplated, as noted in the discussion. In all cases, this disclosure presents the present invention by way of representation and not limitation. It should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art which fall within the scope and spirit of the principles of this invention. It should be specifically noted that the figures have not been drawn to scale, as it has been necessary to enlarge certain portions for clarity.
- To better illustrate the
spacing device 36 of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the two-section chute system 16 shown in FIG. 1. Thefirst chute section 18 is comprised of an elongatedarcuate wall 38 that terminates in anarcuate edge 40 atsecond end 24. Thearcuate wall 38 of thefirst chute section 18 has a diameter D1 at thesecond end 24 adjacent to thepivotal connection 30. Anannular flange 42 is connected to anouter surface 44 of thearcuate wall 38 adjacent to thearcuate edge 40 of thefirst chute section 18. Thesecond chute section 20 is comprised of an elongatedarcuate wall 46 that terminates in an annular,arcuate edge 48 at thefirst end 28. Thearcuate wall 46 of thesecond chute section 20 has a diameter D2 at thefirst end 28 adjacent to thepivotal connection 30. The diameter D2 of thesecond chute section 20 is slightly greater than the diameter D1 of thefirst chute section 18. - The
pivotal connection 30 is formed by ahinge 50 that connects thetop edge 32 of thefirst chute section 18 to thetop edge 34 of thesecond chute section 20 near thearcuate edges second chute section 20 is rotated about thehinge 50. Because the diameter D2 of thearcuate wall 46 of thesecond chute section 20 is greater than the diameter D1 of thearcuate wall 38 of thefirst chute section 18, aninner surface portion 52 of thesecond chute section 20 overlaps theouter surface portion 44 of thefirst chute section 18 when thechute sections arcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20 engagesannular flange 42 of thefirst chute section 18. - To prevent the
arcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20 from uncontrollably coming into contact with theannular flange 42 of thefirst chute section 18 during the unfolding process, aspacing device 36 is connected to thechute system 16. In one embodiment, thespacing device 36 is mounted to theannular flange 42 of thefirst chute section 18 near thehinge 50. Thespacing device 36 is comprised of a blockingmember 54 with acontact surface 56 that is spaced rearwardly from theannular flange 42 of thefirst chute section 18. Thecontact surface 56 of the blockingmember 54 is positioned to make contact with a portion of thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20 when thespacing device 36 is in a blocking position. Thechute sections hinge 50, andspacing device 36 each are formed from a heavy metal material. - FIGS. 3 and 4 are side views of the
spacing device 36 in the blocking position. As shown in FIG. 3,spacing device 36 is located onfirst chute section 18 so as to preventsecond chute section 20 from fully unfolding. Thus,spacing device 36 engagesarcuate edge 48 ofsecond chute section 20 at a point spaced fromannular flange 42. As shown in greater detail in FIG. 4, thespacing device 36 is positioned between theannular flange 42 of thefirst chute section 18 and thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20. As thesecond chute section 20 unfolds about thehinge 50, thecontact surface 56 of blockingmember 54 is axially aligned with a portion of thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20, preventing engagement between thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20 and theannular flange 42 of thefirst chute section 18. The angle formed by thespacing device 36 while in the blocking position is a function of the angle of thecontact surface 56 and is selected to create a gap G of sufficient size to prevent harmful contact ofsecond chute section 20 against a person's extremities. -
Spacing device 36 is urged towards the blocking position by a biasing means, which in one embodiment comprises anelongated coil spring 58. Other biasing structures can be used without departing from the intended scope of the invention, as will be evident to those skilled in the art. Theelongated coil spring 58 has a first end 60 and asecond end 62. The first end 60 of thecoil spring 58 is connected to thesecond end 24 of thefirst chute section 18. Thesecond end 62 of thecoil spring 58 is connected to the blockingmember 54. By way of a non-limiting example, the first and second ends 60, 62 of thecoil spring 58 are connected to thesecond end 24 of thefirst chute section 18 and the blockingmember 54, respectively, by eye-bolts - FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the
second end 24 of thefirst chute section 18 with blockingmember 54 in the blocking position. In one preferred embodiment, the blockingmember 54 comprises first andsecond plates first plate 68 has afirst end 72 and asecond end 74, and afirst edge 76 and asecond edge 78. Thefirst plate 68 is pivotally attached to a mountingflange 80 by apivotal connection 82. Ahandle 84 is connected to thefirst edge 76 of thefirst plate 68. Thehandle 84 extends in the same plane as thefirst plate 68 and away from thearcuate wall 38 of thefirst chute section 18. Aprotrusion 86 is connected to thesecond edge 78 of thefirst plate 68 atsecond end 74. Theprotrusion 86 extends in the same plane as thefirst plate 68 and towards thearcuate wall 38 of thefirst chute section 18. - The phantom illustration of FIG. 5 shows the inner sidelong portion of blocking
member 54. Theprotrusion 86 of thefirst plate 68 contacts thearcuate wall 38 of thefirst chute section 18 and helps align thecontact surface 56 of the blockingmember 54 with thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20 when thespacing device 36 is in the blocking position. When in the blocking position,protrusion 86 is positioned to engage theouter surface 44 of thearcuate wall 38 of thefirst chute section 18, adjacent to theannular flange 42. Although FIG. 5 depicts theprotrusion 86 at thesecond end 74 of thesecond edge 78 of thefirst plate 68, theprotrusion 86 can be located at other areas along thesecond edge 78 of thefirst plate 68 without departing from the intended scope of the invention, as will be evident to those skilled in the art. The length ofprotrusion 86 is designed to space the blockingmember 54 at a distance from thearcuate wall 38 of thefirst chute section 18 such that thecontact surface 56 of the blockingmember 54 is axially aligned with thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20. Thus, when thesecond chute section 20 is unfolding, thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20 will engage thecontact surface 56 of the blockingmember 54, preventing unintentional abutment of the first andsecond chute sections - The
second plate 70 has afirst end 88 and asecond end 90, and afirst edge 92 and asecond edge 94. Thefirst edge 92 of thesecond plate 70 is connected transversely to thefirst plate 68, such as by welding, adjacent to thesecond edge 78 of thefirst plate 68, forming a right angle between thefirst plate 68 and thesecond plate 70. Thesecond edge 94 of thesecond plate 70 comprises theangled contact surface 56 of the blockingmember 54. Both first andsecond plates embodiment blocking member 54 has a height of about 4.50 inches, withcontact surface 56 sloping at an angle of about 20 degrees relative tofirst plate 68. For this preferred embodiment, the maximum width ofsecond plate 70 relative tofirst plate 68 is about 2.50 inches. - The
pivotal connection 82 connects the blockingmember 54 to the mountingflange 80. Although FIG. 5 depicts thepivotal connection 82 of the blockingmember 54 to the mountingflange 80 at thefirst end 72 of thefirst plate 68, thepivotal connection 82 can be located at other areas of thefirst plate 68 without departing from the intended scope of the invention, as will be evident to those skilled in the art. Thepivotal connection 82 allows the blockingmember 54 to shift between the blocking and non-blocking positions. By way of a non-limiting example, thepivotal connection 82 of the blockingmember 54 to the mountingflange 80 is formed by a nut and bolt connection 96. - While the blocking
member 54 of the present invention is comprised of first andsecond plates member 54 can take without departing from the intended scope of the invention, as will be evident to those skilled in the art. By way of a non-limiting example, the blockingmember 54 may be comprised of a solid block of material with thepivotal connection 82 of the blockingmember 54 to the mountingflange 80 located at an aperture extending through the entire length of the block. Alternatively, the blockingmember 54 may be comprised of a solid block of material with the pivotal connection of the blockingmember 54 to the mountingflange 80 located at a mortise section of the blockingmember 54. - FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of blocking
member 54 that has been pivoted out of the blocking position. The mountingflange 80 ofspacing device 36 connects the blockingmember 54 to thefirst chute section 18. The mountingflange 80 is connected to thefirst chute section 18 adjacent to thearcuate edge 40 of thefirst chute section 18 and near thetop edge 32 of thefirst chute section 18. In one preferred embodiment, the mountingflange 80 is connected to theannular flange 42 of thefirst chute section 18 proximate to thetop edge 32 of thefirst chute section 18. The mountingflange 80 is formed from a metal, such as plate steel, like first andsecond plates - Blocking
member 54 is pivoted from the blocking position to the non-blocking position by pulling on thehandle 84 to pivot blockingmember 54 until thecontact surface 56 no longer engages thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20. As a result, theinner surface portion 52 of thearcuate wall 46 of thesecond chute section 20 is allowed to overlap theouter surface 44 of thearcuate wall 38 of thefirst chute section 18, allowing thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20 to engage theannular flange 42 of thefirst chute section 18. - FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the front facing side of
spacing device 36 in a non-blocking position. When it is confirmed that no body extremities are located between the first andsecond chute sections member 54 is pivoted away from thearcuate wall 38 of thefirst chute section 18 about the nut and bolt connection 96. As the blockingmember 54 is pivoted away from thefirst chute section 18, theelongated coil spring 58 is stressed. With thespacing device 36 in the non-blocking position, thesecond chute section 20 completes the gravitational rotation about thehinge 50 and thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20 engages theannular flange 42 of thefirst chute section 18. When the two-section chute system 16 is in the fully unfolded position, theprotrusion 86 of thefirst plate 68 rests against thefirst end 28 of thesecond chute section 20. When thesecond chute section 20 is rotated back abouthinge 50 to the folded position, blockingmember 54 is urged back to the blocking position byelongated coil spring 58. - The
pivotal connection 82 of the blockingmember 54 to theannular flange 42 offers an easy and reliable operation ofspacing device 36. In the event concrete slurry contacts thepivotal connection 82, it is still able to reliably align blockingmember 54 with thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20. The constant pivoting motion of the blockingmember 54 between the non-blocking and blocking positions loosens and clears concrete fines or other foreign matter contactingspacing device 36.Protrusion 86 provides a visual means for confirming that blockingmember 54 has been fully returned to the blocking position and that it is ready for spacing thechute sections - FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the
second end 24 of thefirst chute section 18 with blockingmember 54 in the blocking position. The first andsecond plates pivotal connection 82 andprotrusion 86 of FIG. 8 are identical to the first andsecond plates pivotal connection 82 andprotrusion 86 described in FIG. 5. According to the embodiment of FIG. 8, aweighted arm 98 replaceshandle 84 andelongated coil spring 58 of the embodiment of FIG. 5. Theweighted arm 98 has a first end 100 and asecond end 102. The first end 100 ofweighted arm 98 is connected to alower corner 101 at thesecond end 74 of thefirst plate 68. Theweighted arm 98 extends at a predetermined angle in the same plane as thefirst plate 68 and away from thearcuate wall 38 of thefirst chute section 18. Theweighted arm 98 extends at an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees from thefirst edge 76 of the first plate. In one preferred embodiment, weighted arm extends at an angle of about 135 degrees relative to thefirst edge 76 of thefirst plate 68. - The
second end 102 ofweighted arm 98 is bulbous and comprises a sufficient weight to return the blockingmember 54 to the blocking position by gravity. In a preferred embodiment, theweighted arm 98 is 5.00 inches in length and has a weight of about 0.90 pounds with a center of gravity about 3.50 inches from the point of attachment of the first end 100 to the blockingmember 54.Arm 98 is made of a metal material. - The
weighted arm 98 of blockingmember 54 offers a simple and reliable means of urging the blockingmember 54 to the blocking position. In the event concrete slurry contacts thespacing device 36, theweighted arm 98 is still able to reliably align blockingmember 54 with thearcuate edge 48 of thesecond chute section 20. Theweighted arm 98 relies on gravity alone to pivot the blockingmember 54 about thepivotal connection 82 of the blockingmember 54 to the mountingflange 80 back to the blocking position. As previously mentioned in FIG. 7, the constant pivoting motion of the blockingmember 54 between the non-blocking and blocking positions loosens and clears concrete fines or other foreign matter from contactingspacing device 36. Thespacing device 36 of FIG. 8 does not rely on any other movable members to return the blockingmember 54 to the blocking position. After the blockingmember 54 has been pivoted aboutpivotal connection 82,protrusion 86 provides a visual means for confirming that blockingmember 54 has been fully returned to the blocking position. - A spacing device of the present invention includes a blocking member that is pivotally attached to a flange mounted adjacent to an end of a first chute section. The blocking member provides a contact surface that engages an arcuate edge of a second pivotally attached chute section when the blocking member is in a blocking position and the second chute section is being unfolded. The contact surface of the blocking member spaces the opposing ends of the chute sections at a predetermined angle, preventing unintentional or uncontrolled contact between the first and second chute sections. When it is confirmed that it is safe to allow the arcuate edge of the second chute section to fully engage the first chute section, the blocking member is pivoted from the blocking position, thereby allowing the second chute section to complete the unfolding process.
- Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (33)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/253,978 US6719118B1 (en) | 2002-09-24 | 2002-09-24 | Fold-over chute safety device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/253,978 US6719118B1 (en) | 2002-09-24 | 2002-09-24 | Fold-over chute safety device |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20040055852A1 true US20040055852A1 (en) | 2004-03-25 |
US6719118B1 US6719118B1 (en) | 2004-04-13 |
Family
ID=31993260
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/253,978 Expired - Lifetime US6719118B1 (en) | 2002-09-24 | 2002-09-24 | Fold-over chute safety device |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US6719118B1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20080277242A1 (en) * | 2007-05-13 | 2008-11-13 | Thomas John Bruzenak | Composite Cement Truck Discharge Chute |
US20080277241A1 (en) * | 2007-05-13 | 2008-11-13 | Thomas John Bruzenak | Chute Connection / Protection Assembly |
US8051970B2 (en) * | 2009-07-14 | 2011-11-08 | Mcneilus Truck And Manufacturing, Inc. | Swinging chute linkage assembly |
CN103216518A (en) * | 2013-04-26 | 2013-07-24 | 四川华通特种工程塑料研究中心有限公司 | Movable connecting piece for connecting lower hopper |
US10703569B2 (en) | 2018-05-15 | 2020-07-07 | Con-Tech Manufacturing, Inc. | Power fold and swing chute assembly |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1946222A (en) * | 1932-05-20 | 1934-02-06 | Jaeger Machine Co | Discharge chute for mixers |
US3053367A (en) * | 1959-05-11 | 1962-09-11 | Machinery Company Const | Connecting means for movable concrete chute sections |
US3456769A (en) * | 1967-04-10 | 1969-07-22 | Challenge Cook Bros Inc | Transit mixer discharge chute |
US4498568A (en) * | 1982-03-29 | 1985-02-12 | Mcneilus Truck & Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Swinging chute linkage assemblies |
Family Cites Families (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2488292A (en) | 1946-01-30 | 1949-11-15 | Chain Belt Co | Chute support for concrete mixers |
GB731010A (en) | 1952-04-10 | 1955-06-01 | Consolidation Bergbau Ag | Improvements in or relating to waste-stowing shoots |
US3542179A (en) | 1968-11-21 | 1970-11-24 | Challenge Cook Bros Inc | Safety guard for hinged chutes |
US4919249A (en) | 1989-04-17 | 1990-04-24 | Rexworks Inc. | Multiple section chute restrictor |
US5660260A (en) | 1996-07-05 | 1997-08-26 | Bareiss; Raymond E. | Foldable chute with personnel protection feature |
-
2002
- 2002-09-24 US US10/253,978 patent/US6719118B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1946222A (en) * | 1932-05-20 | 1934-02-06 | Jaeger Machine Co | Discharge chute for mixers |
US3053367A (en) * | 1959-05-11 | 1962-09-11 | Machinery Company Const | Connecting means for movable concrete chute sections |
US3456769A (en) * | 1967-04-10 | 1969-07-22 | Challenge Cook Bros Inc | Transit mixer discharge chute |
US4498568A (en) * | 1982-03-29 | 1985-02-12 | Mcneilus Truck & Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Swinging chute linkage assemblies |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6719118B1 (en) | 2004-04-13 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
JPS6056660A (en) | Car constraining tool | |
US5547210A (en) | Trailer hitch | |
US6719118B1 (en) | Fold-over chute safety device | |
US5343583A (en) | Runoff guard and dock leveler locking apparatus | |
US6190109B1 (en) | Restraining member with recessed shank for a vehicle restraint | |
US6868953B1 (en) | Concrete chute apparatus | |
AU2002329948B2 (en) | Vehicle Mounted Crash Attenuator | |
CA2932771C (en) | Mounting system for vehicle underride | |
AU2002329948A1 (en) | Vehicle Mounted Crash Attenuator | |
USRE33154E (en) | Vehicle restraint | |
US10399785B1 (en) | Compact portable conveyor | |
US6464426B1 (en) | Vehicle dispensing system | |
US5244338A (en) | Gravity-steered grapple | |
US5531518A (en) | Attachment for dispensing chute and/or splash guard | |
US4919249A (en) | Multiple section chute restrictor | |
US5660260A (en) | Foldable chute with personnel protection feature | |
US10875482B2 (en) | Mounting system for vehicle underride | |
US20160215474A1 (en) | Assembly of buffers, roadway device and corresponding usage | |
EP0873834A1 (en) | Apparatus for automatically sealing an articulated chute | |
KR102315209B1 (en) | A dump truck with vehicle loading functions | |
US4118817A (en) | Telescopic tow guard for a dock board | |
US6350051B1 (en) | Hopper assembly for a cement truck | |
WO2019232017A1 (en) | Compact portable conveyor | |
US5992800A (en) | Railroad crossing arm breakaway connector | |
US11781274B2 (en) | Roadblock for temporary installation to block traffic and/or as a security precaution |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SCHWING AMERICA, INC., MINNESOTA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:EULL, THOMAS E.;SCHUMACHER, CHARLES P.;REEL/FRAME:013335/0604 Effective date: 20020924 |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
CC | Certificate of correction | ||
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, MINNESOTA Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:SCHWING AMERICA, INC.;REEL/FRAME:022694/0626 Effective date: 20090215 Owner name: WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,MINNESOTA Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:SCHWING AMERICA, INC.;REEL/FRAME:022694/0626 Effective date: 20090215 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS ADMINIST Free format text: RELEASE AND TERMINATION AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:SCHWING AMERICA, INC.;REEL/FRAME:024697/0254 Effective date: 20100714 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: DEUTSCHE BANK AG, STUTTGART, AS SECURITY TRUSTEE, Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT SUPPLEMENT;ASSIGNOR:SCHWING AMERICA, INC.;REEL/FRAME:024733/0085 Effective date: 20100714 |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 12 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WINGSPIRE CAPITAL LLC, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, GEORGIA Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:SCHWING AMERICA, INC.;SCHWING PROPERTIES, INC.;SCHWING BIOSET TECHNOLOGIES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:054491/0746 Effective date: 20201130 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SCHWING AMERICA, INC., MINNESOTA Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:DEUTSCHE BANK AG, STUTTGART, GERMANY;REEL/FRAME:055133/0755 Effective date: 20210203 |