US20080209771A1 - Chute rotation system and method of operating same - Google Patents
Chute rotation system and method of operating same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080209771A1 US20080209771A1 US11/713,574 US71357407A US2008209771A1 US 20080209771 A1 US20080209771 A1 US 20080209771A1 US 71357407 A US71357407 A US 71357407A US 2008209771 A1 US2008209771 A1 US 2008209771A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- chute
- handle
- axis
- drive
- rotation
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- 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.)
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- 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
- E01H5/00—Removing snow or ice from roads or like surfaces; Grading or roughening snow or ice
- E01H5/04—Apparatus propelled by animal or engine power; Apparatus propelled by hand with driven dislodging or conveying levelling elements, conveying pneumatically for the dislodged material
- E01H5/045—Means per se for conveying or discharging the dislodged material, e.g. rotary impellers, discharge chutes
Definitions
- Snowthrowers generally have upright chutes through which a snow stream is thrown.
- the chute can be rotated on the snowthrower from one side to the other to direct the snow stream as desired.
- this is done by a manually operated crank which turns the chute through a worm or spur gear engaging a toothed ring on the bottom of the chute.
- Many turns of the crank are required to turn the chute completely from one side to the other. This can be tiring and inconvenient to do, particularly where one must redirect the snow stream frequently as when going back and forth on a driveway.
- Most snowthrowers having rotatable chutes also have a pivotal deflector on the top of the chute.
- the angle of inclination of the deflector on the chute controls the trajectory of the snow stream.
- the deflector is usually formed with an integral handle. The user can move the handle to manually move the deflector to an adjusted position. The friction between the deflector and the chute is typically enough to retain the deflector in an adjusted position.
- the invention provides a chute rotation system including a chute, a handle assembly, and a drive assembly.
- the handle assembly includes a handle rotatable about a first axis and a second axis, and a bracket configured to inhibit movement of the handle about the first axis.
- the drive assembly is coupled to the handle assembly and includes a chute drive and a friction brake. The friction brake is configured to prevent movement of the chute, as a result of friction, when the friction brake is engaged with the chute drive.
- the invention provides a method of rotating a chute.
- the method includes disengaging a friction brake, rotating a handle about a first axis, rotating the chute as a result of the rotation of the handle about the first axis, and engaging the friction brake to inhibit rotation of the chute.
- the invention provides a snowthrower including a chute, and a chute rotation system.
- the chute rotation system includes a friction brake configured to maintain a position of the chute when the friction brake is engaged, and a handle configured to disengage the friction brake and rotate the chute when the friction brake is disengaged.
- the invention provides a drive assembly including a chute drive, a transverse gear drivably coupled to the chute drive, and a friction brake configured to prevent movement of the chute, as a result of friction, when the friction brake is engaged with the chute drive.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a snowthrower according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is another perspective view of a snowthrower according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views of a handle assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 4A-4C are top, front, and side views, respectively, of a slotted bracket according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 5A and 5B are front and side views, respectively, of a handle according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 6A-6D are front, right-side, left-side, and top views, respectively, of a positioning bracket according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 7A and 7B are side and front views, respectively, of a shaft linkage and cable bracket according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8A is an exploded view of a drive assembly according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 8B-8F are perspective views of the drive assembly shown in FIG. 8A .
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a gear bracket according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a brake bracket according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 11A-11C are front, side, and top views, respectively, of a transverse gear according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 12A- 12C are front, side, and top views, respectively, of a chute drive according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 13 is a top view of a brake according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a snowthrower 100 according to one embodiment of the invention.
- the snowthrower 100 can include wheels 101 , an engine 102 , and suitable snow removal components 103 for gathering snow from the ground and for throwing the gathered snow in a snow stream away from the snowthrower 100 .
- the snowthrower 100 can be either a single stage snowthrower having a single snow gathering and throwing impeller or a two stage snowthrower having an auger for gathering snow as well as an impeller for throwing the snow gathered by the auger.
- the snowthrower 100 can also include a chute 105 , a pair of handlebars 110 , and a chute rotation system 112 .
- the chute rotation system 112 can include a handle assembly 115 , a hex-shaped shaft 130 , and a drive assembly 135 .
- the chute 105 can be generally upright or vertical for throwing a snow stream.
- the chute 105 can be U-shaped, the bottom of which can be rotatably mounted to a ring (not shown) and can rotate about a generally vertical axis.
- the pair of handlebars 110 can enable an operator to control the snowthrower 100 .
- the handle assembly 115 (as shown in FIG. 2 ) of the chute rotation system 112 can be mounted behind a dashboard 120 (as shown in FIG. 1 ) extending between the handlebars 110 .
- the handle assembly 115 can include a handle 125 which can be used by an operator to rotate the chute 105 about the vertical axis to adjust the direction of the snow stream relative to snowthrower 100 .
- the hex-shaped shaft 130 can couple the handle assembly 115 to the drive assembly 135 and can transfer rotational force from the handle 125 to the chute 105 .
- the drive assembly 135 can be covered by a shroud 140 .
- a pivotal deflector 145 can be positioned on the top of the chute 105 .
- the deflector 145 can also be U-shaped and can be slightly larger than the top of chute 105 so that the top of chute 105 nests within the bottom of deflector 145 .
- the deflector 145 can pivot on the top of chute 105 about a horizontal axis. Pivoting the deflector 145 about a horizontal axis can adjust the trajectory of the snow stream being thrown by chute 105 .
- FIG. 2 illustrates the snowthrower 100 with the dashboard 120 and the shroud 140 , among other components, removed, to more clearly show the relationship of the handle assembly 115 , the shaft 130 , and the drive assembly 135 .
- FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate the handle assembly 115 .
- the handle assembly 115 can include a positioning bracket 150 , a cable bracket 155 , a shaft linkage 160 , a slotted bracket 165 , and the handle 125 .
- the handle assembly 115 can be mounted to the dashboard 120 (as shown in FIG. 1 ) or to a cross bar (not shown) extending between the handlebars 110 (as shown in FIG. 2 ).
- the slotted bracket 165 can mount to the dashboard 120 by suitable fasteners such as nuts and bolts, rivets, welding, etc.
- FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate the slotted bracket 165 .
- the slotted bracket 165 can have a main portion 200 that can be generally semi-circular in shape and can have two mounting arms 205 and 210 extending perpendicular from a first end 215 and a second end 220 , respectively, of the main portion 200 of the slotted bracket 165 .
- the arms 205 and 210 can be in the shape of an “L” with extensions 225 and 230 for attachment to the dashboard 120 (or a dashboard support).
- the slotted bracket 165 can also include a plurality of positioning slots 235 .
- the positioning slots 235 can be evenly spaced around an outer edge of the main portion 200 of the slotted bracket 165 , as shown in FIG. 4B .
- the slotted bracket 165 can also include an aperture 240 centrally positioned in the main portion 200 .
- the aperture 240 can be sized slightly larger than the shaft linkage 160 (as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B ) to receive the shaft linkage 160 and allow the shaft linkage 160 to rotate.
- FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate the handle 125 .
- the handle 125 can include a handle mounting bracket 260 , a handle shaft 265 , and a grip 270 .
- the grip 270 can be manufactured by injection molding or another suitable process.
- the grip 270 can be overmolded directly to the handle shaft 265 or can be formed separately and attached to the handle shaft 265 using a suitable adhesive.
- the grip 270 can be shaped to be comfortably held in an operator's hand and can have a plurality of detents to receive the operator's fingers.
- the grip 270 can be sized to fit an average person's hand when the person is wearing a glove.
- the handle shaft 265 can be solid or hollow.
- the handle shaft 265 can be straight, bent, or curved to position the grip 270 in an easily accessible position for an operator to use.
- the handle mounting bracket 260 can be flat and can include apertures 275 for mounting (e.g., using bolts or rivets) or can be solid for mounting via welding.
- FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate the positioning bracket 150 .
- the positioning bracket 150 can be generally U-shaped and can have a first arm 300 and a second arm 305 .
- the first and second arms 300 and 305 can each have an aperture 310 and 311 , respectively.
- the first arm 300 can also have a biasing aperture 315 , a cable link aperture 320 , and a positioning key 325 .
- the positioning bracket 150 can include a pair of handle mounting apertures 330 , as shown in FIG. 6A .
- the slotted bracket 165 can be mounted in a substantially vertical position between the handlebars 110 of the snowthrower 100 .
- the handle 125 can be mounted to the positioning bracket 150 via bolts 375 .
- the handle 125 can be integrally constructed with the positioning bracket 150 .
- FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate the shaft linkage 160 and the cable bracket 155 .
- the shaft linkage 160 can have a generally round shape and can include a hex-shaped aperture 350 centrally positioned in the shaft linkage 160 and extending through a substantial portion of the shaft linkage 160 .
- the aperture 350 can be shaped to receive the shaft 130 and prevent the shaft 130 from rotating relative to the shaft linkage 160 .
- the shaft 130 and the aperture 350 can be different shapes (e.g., rectangular).
- the hex-shaped aperture 350 can extend through the entire length of the shaft linkage 160 .
- the shaft linkage 160 can also include a hole 355 .
- the hole 355 can be positioned perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the shaft linkage 160 as shown in FIG. 7A .
- the cable bracket 155 can be mounted to the shaft linkage 160 (e.g., by welding), as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B , and can include a U-shaped aperture 360 for receiving a sheath 370 of a cable assembly 372 (as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B ).
- a bolt 380 can pass through the aperture 310 (as shown in FIG. 6B ) of the first arm 300 of the positioning bracket 150 , the hole 355 (as shown in FIG. 7A ) of the shaft linkage 160 , and the aperture 311 (as shown in FIG. 6D ) of the second arm 305 of the positioning bracket 150 .
- the bolt 380 can be secured in position by a nut, a cotter pin, or another fastener.
- the shaft 130 (as shown in FIG. 3A ) can be received in the hex-shaped aperture 350 of the shaft linkage 160 .
- the length of the hex-shaped aperture 350 is sized so that the shaft 130 can slide within the shaft linkage 160 during operation of the chute rotation system 112 .
- the shaft linkage 160 can be rotatably positioned in the aperture 240 of the slotted bracket 165 .
- the shaft linkage 160 , the positioning bracket 150 , the handle 125 , and the cable bracket 155 can be pivotally held in position by the shaft 130 and the hole 240 of the slotted bracket 165 .
- a biasing element 390 e.g., a spring
- the biasing aperture 315 (as shown in FIG. 6B ) of the positioning bracket 150 and a second end of the biasing element 390 can be coupled (although not shown) to the dashboard 120 to bias the positioning bracket 150 pivotally around the bolt 380 so that the slot key 325 (as shown in FIG. 6B ) is received in one of the plurality of slots 235 .
- the handle 125 , the shaft linkage 160 and cable bracket 155 , and the positioning bracket 150 can rotate about a first axis defined by the shaft linkage 160 .
- the handle 125 and the positioning bracket 150 can also rotate about a second axis defined by the bolt 380 .
- FIG. 8A illustrates the drive assembly 135 according to one embodiment of the invention.
- the drive assembly 135 can include a gear bracket 400 , a gear bracket support 402 including a cable brace 455 , and a biasing aperture 460 , a brake bracket 405 , a transverse gear 410 , a chute drive 415 , a frictional brake 418 , the shroud 140 , a shoulder bolt 422 , and a chute coupling 423 .
- FIGS. 8B-8F illustrate various perspective views of embodiments of the drive assembly 135 . For clarity, various elements of the drive assembly 135 have been removed from the views shown in FIGS. 8B-8F .
- FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of the gear bracket 400 .
- the gear bracket 400 can include a chute drive support 420 having a gear aperture 425 , first and second brake pivot arms 430 and 435 having brake pivot apertures 440 , a mounting aperture 450 , and a transverse gear aperture 550 .
- FIG. 10 illustrates the brake bracket 405 .
- the brake bracket 405 can include a pivot arm 470 , a biasing arm 475 , a cross brace 480 , a brake key 485 , a plurality of pivot apertures 490 , a biasing detent 495 , and a cable catch 500 .
- FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate the transverse gear 410 .
- the transverse gear 410 can include a hex-shaped aperture 505 extending through the transverse gear 410 .
- the aperture 505 can be shaped to receive the shaft 130 and prevent the shaft 130 from rotating relative to the transverse gear 410 .
- the shaft 130 and the aperture 505 can be different shapes (e.g., rectangular or round used with a pin).
- the transverse gear 410 can also include a plurality of grooves 510 formed in a semi-circle, as shown in FIG. 11A .
- the transverse gear 410 can also include a bearing 515 .
- the bearing 515 can be sized to be rotatably received in the transverse gear aperture 550 of the gear bracket 400 .
- FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate the chute drive 415 .
- the chute drive 415 can include a disk shaped body 520 , an extension 525 , a connecting plate 530 , and a set of gear teeth 540 provided in a beveled configuration.
- an outer edge 545 of the body 520 can be notched, knurled, or grooved.
- the extension 525 and connecting plate 530 can be a chute coupling 423 separate from the chute drive 415 .
- the shoulder bolt 422 can couple the chute drive 415 to the gear bracket 400 (as shown in FIGS. 8A-8E ).
- FIG. 13 illustrates the frictional brake 418 .
- the brake 418 can include a brake pad 547 and a brake slot 548 .
- a support 560 (as also shown in FIG. 2 ) can extend from a frame of the snowthrower 100 to a position a distance above the frame and rearward of the chute 105 .
- the gear bracket support 402 can mount to the support 560 by one or more bolts 565 .
- the gear bracket support 402 can be welded to the support 560 , integrally formed with the support 560 , or secured by other suitable fasteners.
- a pivot bolt 570 can be inserted through the pivot apertures 490 (as shown in FIG. 10 ) of the brake bracket 405 and the brake pivot apertures 440 (as shown in FIG. 9 ) of the gear bracket 400 .
- the chute drive 415 can be positioned on the gear bracket 400 so that the shoulder bolt 422 is rotatably positioned in the gear aperture 425 (as shown in FIG. 9 ).
- the connecting plate 530 can be connected to a wall of the chute 105 by welding or other suitable means.
- the support 560 , the gear bracket 400 , the gear bracket support 402 , the chute 105 , and the chute drive 415 are positioned so that the gear aperture 425 of the gear bracket 400 and, thus, the shoulder bolt 422 are aligned with a rotational axis of the chute 105 .
- the shaft 130 can be inserted through the hex aperture 505 (as shown in FIG. 11A ) of the transverse gear 410 , and the transverse gear 410 can be positioned so that the grooves 510 of the transverse gear 410 mesh with the teeth 540 (as shown in FIGS. 12A-12C ) of the chute drive 415 .
- a pair of cotter pins 580 or other suitable locking mechanisms can hold the shaft 130 in the hex aperture 505 of the transverse gear 410 .
- the combination of the transverse gear 410 and the chute drive 415 can rotate the axis of rotation from an axis of rotation defined by the shaft 130 to an axis of rotation defined by the chute 105 .
- the axis of rotation can be rotated about 90 degrees.
- the axis of rotation can be rotated more or less than 90 degrees.
- the cable assembly 372 (as shown in FIGS. 3A , 3 B, and 8 A- 8 F) can extend between the handle assembly 115 and the drive assembly 135 .
- the cable assembly 372 can include a cable 605 having a first end 610 (as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B ) and a second end 615 (as shown in FIGS. 8A-8F ).
- the cable 605 can be surrounded by the sheath 370 which can include a first end 620 (as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B ) and a second end 625 (as shown in FIGS. 8A-8F ).
- the first end 610 of the cable 605 can be coupled to the cable link aperture 320 (as shown in FIG. 6B ) of the positioning bracket 150 .
- the first end 620 of the sheath 370 can be secured to the cable bracket 155 in a suitable manner.
- the second end 615 of the cable 605 can be coupled to the cable catch 500 of the brake bracket 405 .
- the second end 625 of the sheath 370 can be secured to the cable brace 455 of the gear bracket support 402 in a suitable manner.
- This construction can allow the cable 605 to move freely within the sheath 370 and can transfer a force applied to the first end 610 of the cable 605 to the second end 615 of the cable 605 .
- the chute rotation system 112 can operate as follows. When the chute 105 is in a desired position, the operator can release the handle 125 . When the handle 125 is released the chute rotation system 112 can be controlled by the biasing element 390 of the positioning bracket 150 and a brake biasing element 650 (e.g., a spring, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8F ) coupled to the brake bracket 405 . The biasing element 390 and the brake spring 650 can work together to maintain the chute 105 in the desired position. The biasing element 390 can pivotally bias the positioning bracket 150 around the bolt 380 so that the positioning key 325 can seat in one of the slots 235 of the slotted bracket 165 .
- a brake biasing element 650 e.g., a spring, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8F
- the cable link aperture 320 can be positioned a relatively short distance (e.g., one inch) from the cable bracket 155 , which can position the first end 610 of the cable 605 a similarly short distance from the first end 620 of the sheath 370 .
- the brake spring 650 can pivotally bias the brake bracket 405 around the pivot aperture 490 so that the cable catch 500 can be positioned a relatively far distance (e.g., two inches) from the cable brace 455 of the gear bracket support 402 .
- the second end 615 of the cable 605 can also be positioned a relatively far distance (e.g., two inches) from the second end 625 of the sheath 370 .
- the brake key 485 (as shown in FIG. 10 ) can bias the frictional brake 418 toward the chute drive 415 .
- the brake pad 547 (as shown in FIG. 13 ) of the frictional brake 418 can be biased to contact the outer edge 545 (as shown in FIG. 12B ) of the chute drive 415 and can apply a braking (i.e., frictional) force to the chute drive 415 .
- the braking force can be of sufficient strength to prevent the chute drive 415 , and thus the chute 105 , from rotating during normal operation of the snowthrower 100 to maintain the position of the chute 105 .
- the operator can grasp the grip 270 of the handle 125 and push the handle 125 in a direction away from the slotted bracket 165 (i.e., forward). In pushing the handle 125 forward, the operator can overcome the bias of the biasing element 390 and the brake spring 650 .
- the forward motion on the handle 125 can pivot the positioning bracket 150 around the bolt 380 (i.e., rotating the handle 125 around the second axis) and can move the cable link aperture 320 and the first end 610 of the cable 605 a distance so that the cable link aperture 320 and the first end 610 of the cable 605 can be positioned a relatively far distance (e.g., two inches) from the cable bracket 155 and the first end 620 of the sheath 370 .
- a relatively far distance e.g., two inches
- the movement of the first end 610 of the cable 605 away from the first end 620 of the sheath 370 can cause the second end 615 of the cable 605 to move a substantially equal distance toward the second end 625 of the sheath 370 .
- This movement of the second end 615 of the cable 605 can pull the cable catch 500 of the brake bracket 405 a substantially equal distance toward the cable brace 455 of the gear bracket support 402 .
- This movement can pivot the brake bracket 405 around the pivot apertures 490 which can, in turn, remove the bias of the brake key 485 from the brake 418 .
- the brake pad 547 no longer provides a braking force to the chute drive 415 and can allow the chute drive 415 , and thus the chute 105 , to rotate.
- the shaft linkage 160 can be coupled to the positioning bracket 150 by the bolt 380 and the shaft linkage 160 can extend through the aperture 240 (as shown in FIG. 4B ) of the slotted bracket 165 .
- the bolt 380 can define the second axis of rotation for the positioning bracket 150 .
- the positioning bracket 150 can be prevented from rotating around the first axis defined by the shaft 130 .
- the operator by pushing the handle 125 forward, in addition to releasing the braking friction on the chute drive 415 , can move the positioning key 325 out of the slot 235 of the slotted bracket 165 . With the braking friction removed and the positioning key 325 removed from the slot 235 , the positioning bracket 150 and the handle 125 can be free to rotate about the first axis defined by the shaft 130 .
- the operator can rotate the handle 125 around the first axis defined by the shaft 130 .
- the rotation of the handle 125 because the handle 125 is coupled to the positioning bracket 150 , can cause the positioning bracket 150 to rotate around the first axis defined by the shaft 130 .
- the shaft linkage 160 is coupled to the positioning bracket 150
- the shaft linkage 160 and thus the cable bracket 155 can also rotate.
- the handle 125 , the positioning bracket 150 , and the cable bracket 155 can rotate in tandem such that the position of the cable link aperture 320 of the positioning bracket 150 , relative to the position of the aperture 360 of the cable bracket 155 remains constant and maintain the positions of the first end 610 and second end 615 of the cable 605 during rotation of the handle 125 around the first axis.
- the shaft linkage 160 can transfer the rotation to the shaft 130 and can cause the shaft 130 to rotate a substantially equivalent rotational distance.
- the shaft 130 can transfer the rotation to the transverse gear 410 (as shown in FIG. 8A ) and can also rotate the transverse gear 410 a substantially equivalent rotational distance.
- the transverse gear 410 can rotate around the first axis defined by the shaft 130 and can drive the chute drive 415 .
- the interaction of the chute drive 415 with the transverse gear 410 can rotate the axis of rotation as described above, and can result in the chute drive 415 rotating on a substantially vertical axis centered in the shoulder bolt 422 .
- the extension 525 and connecting plate 530 (as shown in FIG. 12B ) of the chute drive 415 can also be rotated. This rotation can be transferred to the chute 105 and can result in the chute 105 rotating a distance substantially equivalent to the rotational distance the chute drive 415 travels.
- the ratio of the grooves 510 of the transverse gear 410 to the teeth 540 of the chute drive 415 can be adjusted to achieve a desired rotation of the chute 105 relative to the rotation of the handle 125 .
- the rotation of the chute 105 can be equal to, lesser than, or greater than the rotation of the handle 125 (e.g., 75 degree rotation of the handle 125 can cause the chute 105 to rotate 110 degrees).
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Abstract
A chute rotation system. The chute rotation system includes a chute, a handle assembly, and a drive assembly. The handle assembly includes a handle rotatable about a first axis and a second axis, and a bracket configured to inhibit movement of the handle about the first axis. The drive assembly is coupled to the handle assembly and includes a chute drive, a transverse gear, and a friction brake. The brake is configured to prevent movement of the chute, as a result of friction, when the friction brake is engaged with the chute drive.
Description
- Snowthrowers generally have upright chutes through which a snow stream is thrown. The chute can be rotated on the snowthrower from one side to the other to direct the snow stream as desired. Typically, this is done by a manually operated crank which turns the chute through a worm or spur gear engaging a toothed ring on the bottom of the chute. Many turns of the crank are required to turn the chute completely from one side to the other. This can be tiring and inconvenient to do, particularly where one must redirect the snow stream frequently as when going back and forth on a driveway.
- Most snowthrowers having rotatable chutes also have a pivotal deflector on the top of the chute. The angle of inclination of the deflector on the chute controls the trajectory of the snow stream. The deflector is usually formed with an integral handle. The user can move the handle to manually move the deflector to an adjusted position. The friction between the deflector and the chute is typically enough to retain the deflector in an adjusted position.
- In one embodiment, the invention provides a chute rotation system including a chute, a handle assembly, and a drive assembly. The handle assembly includes a handle rotatable about a first axis and a second axis, and a bracket configured to inhibit movement of the handle about the first axis. The drive assembly is coupled to the handle assembly and includes a chute drive and a friction brake. The friction brake is configured to prevent movement of the chute, as a result of friction, when the friction brake is engaged with the chute drive.
- In another embodiment the invention provides a method of rotating a chute. The method includes disengaging a friction brake, rotating a handle about a first axis, rotating the chute as a result of the rotation of the handle about the first axis, and engaging the friction brake to inhibit rotation of the chute.
- In another embodiment the invention provides a snowthrower including a chute, and a chute rotation system. The chute rotation system includes a friction brake configured to maintain a position of the chute when the friction brake is engaged, and a handle configured to disengage the friction brake and rotate the chute when the friction brake is disengaged.
- In another embodiment the invention provides a drive assembly including a chute drive, a transverse gear drivably coupled to the chute drive, and a friction brake configured to prevent movement of the chute, as a result of friction, when the friction brake is engaged with the chute drive.
- Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a snowthrower according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 is another perspective view of a snowthrower according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views of a handle assembly according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 4A-4C are top, front, and side views, respectively, of a slotted bracket according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 5A and 5B are front and side views, respectively, of a handle according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 6A-6D are front, right-side, left-side, and top views, respectively, of a positioning bracket according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 7A and 7B are side and front views, respectively, of a shaft linkage and cable bracket according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 8A is an exploded view of a drive assembly according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 8B-8F are perspective views of the drive assembly shown inFIG. 8A . -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a gear bracket according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a brake bracket according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 11A-11C are front, side, and top views, respectively, of a transverse gear according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 12A- 12C are front, side, and top views, respectively, of a chute drive according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 13 is a top view of a brake according to one embodiment of the invention. - Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.
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FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate asnowthrower 100 according to one embodiment of the invention. Thesnowthrower 100 can includewheels 101, anengine 102, and suitablesnow removal components 103 for gathering snow from the ground and for throwing the gathered snow in a snow stream away from thesnowthrower 100. Thesnowthrower 100 can be either a single stage snowthrower having a single snow gathering and throwing impeller or a two stage snowthrower having an auger for gathering snow as well as an impeller for throwing the snow gathered by the auger. Thesnowthrower 100 can also include achute 105, a pair ofhandlebars 110, and achute rotation system 112. Thechute rotation system 112 can include ahandle assembly 115, a hex-shaped shaft 130, and adrive assembly 135. - The
chute 105 can be generally upright or vertical for throwing a snow stream. In some embodiments, thechute 105 can be U-shaped, the bottom of which can be rotatably mounted to a ring (not shown) and can rotate about a generally vertical axis. - The pair of
handlebars 110 can enable an operator to control thesnowthrower 100. The handle assembly 115 (as shown inFIG. 2 ) of thechute rotation system 112 can be mounted behind a dashboard 120 (as shown inFIG. 1 ) extending between thehandlebars 110. Thehandle assembly 115 can include ahandle 125 which can be used by an operator to rotate thechute 105 about the vertical axis to adjust the direction of the snow stream relative tosnowthrower 100. The hex-shaped shaft 130 can couple thehandle assembly 115 to thedrive assembly 135 and can transfer rotational force from thehandle 125 to thechute 105. As shown inFIG. 1 , thedrive assembly 135 can be covered by ashroud 140. - A
pivotal deflector 145 can be positioned on the top of thechute 105. In some embodiments, thedeflector 145 can also be U-shaped and can be slightly larger than the top ofchute 105 so that the top ofchute 105 nests within the bottom ofdeflector 145. Thedeflector 145 can pivot on the top ofchute 105 about a horizontal axis. Pivoting thedeflector 145 about a horizontal axis can adjust the trajectory of the snow stream being thrown bychute 105. -
FIG. 2 illustrates thesnowthrower 100 with thedashboard 120 and theshroud 140, among other components, removed, to more clearly show the relationship of thehandle assembly 115, theshaft 130, and thedrive assembly 135. -
FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate thehandle assembly 115. Thehandle assembly 115 can include apositioning bracket 150, acable bracket 155, ashaft linkage 160, a slottedbracket 165, and thehandle 125. - The
handle assembly 115 can be mounted to the dashboard 120 (as shown inFIG. 1 ) or to a cross bar (not shown) extending between the handlebars 110 (as shown inFIG. 2 ). The slottedbracket 165 can mount to thedashboard 120 by suitable fasteners such as nuts and bolts, rivets, welding, etc. -
FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate the slottedbracket 165. The slottedbracket 165 can have amain portion 200 that can be generally semi-circular in shape and can have two mountingarms first end 215 and asecond end 220, respectively, of themain portion 200 of the slottedbracket 165. Thearms extensions bracket 165 can also include a plurality ofpositioning slots 235. The positioningslots 235 can be evenly spaced around an outer edge of themain portion 200 of the slottedbracket 165, as shown inFIG. 4B . The slottedbracket 165 can also include anaperture 240 centrally positioned in themain portion 200. Theaperture 240 can be sized slightly larger than the shaft linkage 160 (as shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B ) to receive theshaft linkage 160 and allow theshaft linkage 160 to rotate. -
FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate thehandle 125. Thehandle 125 can include ahandle mounting bracket 260, ahandle shaft 265, and agrip 270. Thegrip 270 can be manufactured by injection molding or another suitable process. Thegrip 270 can be overmolded directly to thehandle shaft 265 or can be formed separately and attached to thehandle shaft 265 using a suitable adhesive. Thegrip 270 can be shaped to be comfortably held in an operator's hand and can have a plurality of detents to receive the operator's fingers. Thegrip 270 can be sized to fit an average person's hand when the person is wearing a glove. Thehandle shaft 265 can be solid or hollow. Thehandle shaft 265 can be straight, bent, or curved to position thegrip 270 in an easily accessible position for an operator to use. Thehandle mounting bracket 260 can be flat and can includeapertures 275 for mounting (e.g., using bolts or rivets) or can be solid for mounting via welding. -
FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate thepositioning bracket 150. Thepositioning bracket 150 can be generally U-shaped and can have afirst arm 300 and asecond arm 305. The first andsecond arms aperture FIG. 6B , thefirst arm 300 can also have a biasingaperture 315, acable link aperture 320, and apositioning key 325. In embodiments using bolts or rivets to mount thehandle 125 to thepositioning bracket 150, thepositioning bracket 150 can include a pair ofhandle mounting apertures 330, as shown inFIG. 6A . - As shown in
FIG. 3A , the slottedbracket 165 can be mounted in a substantially vertical position between thehandlebars 110 of thesnowthrower 100. In some embodiments, thehandle 125 can be mounted to thepositioning bracket 150 viabolts 375. In other embodiments, thehandle 125 can be integrally constructed with thepositioning bracket 150. -
FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate theshaft linkage 160 and thecable bracket 155. Theshaft linkage 160 can have a generally round shape and can include a hex-shapedaperture 350 centrally positioned in theshaft linkage 160 and extending through a substantial portion of theshaft linkage 160. Theaperture 350 can be shaped to receive theshaft 130 and prevent theshaft 130 from rotating relative to theshaft linkage 160. In other embodiments, theshaft 130 and theaperture 350 can be different shapes (e.g., rectangular). In some embodiments, the hex-shapedaperture 350 can extend through the entire length of theshaft linkage 160. Theshaft linkage 160 can also include ahole 355. Thehole 355 can be positioned perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of theshaft linkage 160 as shown inFIG. 7A . Thecable bracket 155 can be mounted to the shaft linkage 160 (e.g., by welding), as shown inFIGS. 7A and 7B , and can include aU-shaped aperture 360 for receiving asheath 370 of a cable assembly 372 (as shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B ). - In some embodiments, as also shown in
FIG. 3A , abolt 380 can pass through the aperture 310 (as shown inFIG. 6B ) of thefirst arm 300 of thepositioning bracket 150, the hole 355 (as shown inFIG. 7A ) of theshaft linkage 160, and the aperture 311 (as shown inFIG. 6D ) of thesecond arm 305 of thepositioning bracket 150. Thebolt 380 can be secured in position by a nut, a cotter pin, or another fastener. The shaft 130 (as shown inFIG. 3A ) can be received in the hex-shapedaperture 350 of theshaft linkage 160. The length of the hex-shapedaperture 350 is sized so that theshaft 130 can slide within theshaft linkage 160 during operation of thechute rotation system 112. As shown inFIG. 3B , theshaft linkage 160 can be rotatably positioned in theaperture 240 of the slottedbracket 165. - The
shaft linkage 160, thepositioning bracket 150, thehandle 125, and thecable bracket 155 can be pivotally held in position by theshaft 130 and thehole 240 of the slottedbracket 165. As shown inFIG. 3A , one end of a biasing element 390 (e.g., a spring) can be coupled to the biasing aperture 315 (as shown inFIG. 6B ) of thepositioning bracket 150 and a second end of the biasingelement 390 can be coupled (although not shown) to thedashboard 120 to bias thepositioning bracket 150 pivotally around thebolt 380 so that the slot key 325 (as shown inFIG. 6B ) is received in one of the plurality ofslots 235. - With the positioning key 325 disengaged from the
slots 235, thehandle 125, theshaft linkage 160 andcable bracket 155, and thepositioning bracket 150 can rotate about a first axis defined by theshaft linkage 160. Thehandle 125 and thepositioning bracket 150 can also rotate about a second axis defined by thebolt 380. -
FIG. 8A illustrates thedrive assembly 135 according to one embodiment of the invention. Thedrive assembly 135 can include agear bracket 400, agear bracket support 402 including acable brace 455, and a biasingaperture 460, abrake bracket 405, atransverse gear 410, achute drive 415, africtional brake 418, theshroud 140, ashoulder bolt 422, and achute coupling 423.FIGS. 8B-8F illustrate various perspective views of embodiments of thedrive assembly 135. For clarity, various elements of thedrive assembly 135 have been removed from the views shown inFIGS. 8B-8F . -
FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of thegear bracket 400. Thegear bracket 400 can include achute drive support 420 having agear aperture 425, first and secondbrake pivot arms brake pivot apertures 440, a mountingaperture 450, and atransverse gear aperture 550.FIG. 10 illustrates thebrake bracket 405. Thebrake bracket 405 can include apivot arm 470, a biasingarm 475, across brace 480, abrake key 485, a plurality ofpivot apertures 490, abiasing detent 495, and acable catch 500.FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate thetransverse gear 410. Thetransverse gear 410 can include a hex-shapedaperture 505 extending through thetransverse gear 410. Theaperture 505 can be shaped to receive theshaft 130 and prevent theshaft 130 from rotating relative to thetransverse gear 410. In other embodiments, theshaft 130 and theaperture 505 can be different shapes (e.g., rectangular or round used with a pin). Thetransverse gear 410 can also include a plurality ofgrooves 510 formed in a semi-circle, as shown inFIG. 11A . Thetransverse gear 410 can also include abearing 515. The bearing 515 can be sized to be rotatably received in thetransverse gear aperture 550 of thegear bracket 400.FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate thechute drive 415. Thechute drive 415 can include a disk shapedbody 520, anextension 525, a connectingplate 530, and a set ofgear teeth 540 provided in a beveled configuration. In some embodiments, anouter edge 545 of thebody 520 can be notched, knurled, or grooved. Also, in some embodiments (such as shown inFIG. 8A ), theextension 525 and connectingplate 530 can be achute coupling 423 separate from thechute drive 415. Theshoulder bolt 422 can couple thechute drive 415 to the gear bracket 400 (as shown inFIGS. 8A-8E ).FIG. 13 illustrates thefrictional brake 418. Thebrake 418 can include abrake pad 547 and abrake slot 548. - As shown in
FIG. 8A , a support 560 (as also shown inFIG. 2 ) can extend from a frame of thesnowthrower 100 to a position a distance above the frame and rearward of thechute 105. Thegear bracket support 402 can mount to thesupport 560 by one ormore bolts 565. In some embodiments, thegear bracket support 402 can be welded to thesupport 560, integrally formed with thesupport 560, or secured by other suitable fasteners. - As shown in
FIGS. 8A-8F , apivot bolt 570 can be inserted through the pivot apertures 490 (as shown inFIG. 10 ) of thebrake bracket 405 and the brake pivot apertures 440 (as shown inFIG. 9 ) of thegear bracket 400. Thechute drive 415 can be positioned on thegear bracket 400 so that theshoulder bolt 422 is rotatably positioned in the gear aperture 425 (as shown inFIG. 9 ). The connectingplate 530 can be connected to a wall of thechute 105 by welding or other suitable means. Thesupport 560, thegear bracket 400, thegear bracket support 402, thechute 105, and thechute drive 415 are positioned so that thegear aperture 425 of thegear bracket 400 and, thus, theshoulder bolt 422 are aligned with a rotational axis of thechute 105. - The
shaft 130 can be inserted through the hex aperture 505 (as shown inFIG. 11A ) of thetransverse gear 410, and thetransverse gear 410 can be positioned so that thegrooves 510 of thetransverse gear 410 mesh with the teeth 540 (as shown inFIGS. 12A-12C ) of thechute drive 415. As shown inFIGS. 8A-8C , a pair ofcotter pins 580 or other suitable locking mechanisms can hold theshaft 130 in thehex aperture 505 of thetransverse gear 410. - The combination of the
transverse gear 410 and thechute drive 415 can rotate the axis of rotation from an axis of rotation defined by theshaft 130 to an axis of rotation defined by thechute 105. In embodiments where a height of thehandle assembly 115 is substantially equivalent to a height of thedrive assembly 135, the axis of rotation can be rotated about 90 degrees. In embodiments where the height of thehandle assembly 115 is above or below the height of thedrive assembly 135, the axis of rotation can be rotated more or less than 90 degrees. - The cable assembly 372 (as shown in
FIGS. 3A , 3B, and 8A-8F) can extend between thehandle assembly 115 and thedrive assembly 135. Thecable assembly 372 can include acable 605 having a first end 610 (as shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B ) and a second end 615 (as shown inFIGS. 8A-8F ). Thecable 605 can be surrounded by thesheath 370 which can include a first end 620 (as shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B ) and a second end 625 (as shown inFIGS. 8A-8F ). - As shown in
FIG. 3B , on thehandle assembly 115, thefirst end 610 of thecable 605 can be coupled to the cable link aperture 320 (as shown inFIG. 6B ) of thepositioning bracket 150. Thefirst end 620 of thesheath 370 can be secured to thecable bracket 155 in a suitable manner. As shown inFIG. 8B , on thedrive assembly 135, thesecond end 615 of thecable 605 can be coupled to thecable catch 500 of thebrake bracket 405. Thesecond end 625 of thesheath 370 can be secured to thecable brace 455 of thegear bracket support 402 in a suitable manner. This construction can allow thecable 605 to move freely within thesheath 370 and can transfer a force applied to thefirst end 610 of thecable 605 to thesecond end 615 of thecable 605. - As shown in
FIGS. 3A , 3B, and 8A-8F, thechute rotation system 112 can operate as follows. When thechute 105 is in a desired position, the operator can release thehandle 125. When thehandle 125 is released thechute rotation system 112 can be controlled by the biasingelement 390 of thepositioning bracket 150 and a brake biasing element 650 (e.g., a spring, as shown inFIGS. 8A-8F ) coupled to thebrake bracket 405. The biasingelement 390 and thebrake spring 650 can work together to maintain thechute 105 in the desired position. The biasingelement 390 can pivotally bias thepositioning bracket 150 around thebolt 380 so that the positioning key 325 can seat in one of theslots 235 of the slottedbracket 165. In this position, thecable link aperture 320 can be positioned a relatively short distance (e.g., one inch) from thecable bracket 155, which can position thefirst end 610 of the cable 605 a similarly short distance from thefirst end 620 of thesheath 370. At the same time, thebrake spring 650 can pivotally bias thebrake bracket 405 around thepivot aperture 490 so that thecable catch 500 can be positioned a relatively far distance (e.g., two inches) from thecable brace 455 of thegear bracket support 402. In this position, thesecond end 615 of thecable 605 can also be positioned a relatively far distance (e.g., two inches) from thesecond end 625 of thesheath 370. - In this position, the brake key 485 (as shown in
FIG. 10 ) can bias thefrictional brake 418 toward thechute drive 415. The brake pad 547 (as shown inFIG. 13 ) of thefrictional brake 418 can be biased to contact the outer edge 545 (as shown inFIG. 12B ) of thechute drive 415 and can apply a braking (i.e., frictional) force to thechute drive 415. The braking force can be of sufficient strength to prevent thechute drive 415, and thus thechute 105, from rotating during normal operation of thesnowthrower 100 to maintain the position of thechute 105. - When an operator wants to reposition the
chute 105, for example when reversing direction of thesnowthrower 100, the operator can grasp thegrip 270 of thehandle 125 and push thehandle 125 in a direction away from the slotted bracket 165 (i.e., forward). In pushing thehandle 125 forward, the operator can overcome the bias of the biasingelement 390 and thebrake spring 650. The forward motion on thehandle 125 can pivot thepositioning bracket 150 around the bolt 380 (i.e., rotating thehandle 125 around the second axis) and can move thecable link aperture 320 and thefirst end 610 of the cable 605 a distance so that thecable link aperture 320 and thefirst end 610 of thecable 605 can be positioned a relatively far distance (e.g., two inches) from thecable bracket 155 and thefirst end 620 of thesheath 370. - The movement of the
first end 610 of thecable 605 away from thefirst end 620 of thesheath 370 can cause thesecond end 615 of thecable 605 to move a substantially equal distance toward thesecond end 625 of thesheath 370. This movement of thesecond end 615 of thecable 605 can pull thecable catch 500 of the brake bracket 405 a substantially equal distance toward thecable brace 455 of thegear bracket support 402. This movement can pivot thebrake bracket 405 around thepivot apertures 490 which can, in turn, remove the bias of the brake key 485 from thebrake 418. Once the bias is removed from thebrake 418, thebrake pad 547 no longer provides a braking force to thechute drive 415 and can allow thechute drive 415, and thus thechute 105, to rotate. - As shown in
FIG. 3A , theshaft linkage 160 can be coupled to thepositioning bracket 150 by thebolt 380 and theshaft linkage 160 can extend through the aperture 240 (as shown inFIG. 4B ) of the slottedbracket 165. Thebolt 380 can define the second axis of rotation for thepositioning bracket 150. When thepositioning key 325 of thepositioning bracket 150 is seated in one of theslots 235 of the slottedbracket 165, thepositioning bracket 150 can be prevented from rotating around the first axis defined by theshaft 130. The operator, by pushing thehandle 125 forward, in addition to releasing the braking friction on thechute drive 415, can move thepositioning key 325 out of theslot 235 of the slottedbracket 165. With the braking friction removed and thepositioning key 325 removed from theslot 235, thepositioning bracket 150 and thehandle 125 can be free to rotate about the first axis defined by theshaft 130. - The operator can rotate the
handle 125 around the first axis defined by theshaft 130. The rotation of thehandle 125, because thehandle 125 is coupled to thepositioning bracket 150, can cause thepositioning bracket 150 to rotate around the first axis defined by theshaft 130. Because theshaft linkage 160 is coupled to thepositioning bracket 150, theshaft linkage 160, and thus thecable bracket 155 can also rotate. Thehandle 125, thepositioning bracket 150, and thecable bracket 155 can rotate in tandem such that the position of thecable link aperture 320 of thepositioning bracket 150, relative to the position of theaperture 360 of thecable bracket 155 remains constant and maintain the positions of thefirst end 610 andsecond end 615 of thecable 605 during rotation of thehandle 125 around the first axis. Theshaft linkage 160 can transfer the rotation to theshaft 130 and can cause theshaft 130 to rotate a substantially equivalent rotational distance. Likewise, theshaft 130 can transfer the rotation to the transverse gear 410 (as shown inFIG. 8A ) and can also rotate the transverse gear 410 a substantially equivalent rotational distance. - The
transverse gear 410 can rotate around the first axis defined by theshaft 130 and can drive thechute drive 415. The interaction of the chute drive 415 with thetransverse gear 410 can rotate the axis of rotation as described above, and can result in the chute drive 415 rotating on a substantially vertical axis centered in theshoulder bolt 422. As thechute drive 415 is rotationally driven by thetransverse gear 410, theextension 525 and connecting plate 530 (as shown inFIG. 12B ) of thechute drive 415 can also be rotated. This rotation can be transferred to thechute 105 and can result in thechute 105 rotating a distance substantially equivalent to the rotational distance the chute drive 415 travels. - The ratio of the
grooves 510 of thetransverse gear 410 to theteeth 540 of thechute drive 415 can be adjusted to achieve a desired rotation of thechute 105 relative to the rotation of thehandle 125. The rotation of thechute 105 can be equal to, lesser than, or greater than the rotation of the handle 125 (e.g., 75 degree rotation of thehandle 125 can cause thechute 105 to rotate 110 degrees). - The above description is given by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting. For example, the description is of a snowthrower however the invention applies to any device incorporating a rotatable chute (e.g., a hay bailer).
- Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.
Claims (31)
1. A chute rotation system, comprising:
a chute;
a handle assembly including
a handle rotatable about a first axis and a second axis, and
a bracket configured to inhibit movement of the handle about the first axis; and
a drive assembly coupled to the handle assembly, the drive assembly including
a chute drive, and
a friction brake configured to prevent movement of the chute when the friction brake is engaged with the chute drive.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein the first axis is substantially perpendicular to the second axis.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein the handle is prevented from rotating about the first axis until the friction brake is disengaged.
4. The system of claim 1 wherein the chute drive includes beveled teeth.
5. The system of claim 1 wherein the drive assembly includes a transverse gear.
6. The system of claim 5 wherein an axis of rotation is rotated between the transverse gear and the chute drive.
7. The system of claim 6 wherein the rotation of the axis of rotation is about 90 degrees.
8. The system of claim 5 wherein a body of the chute drive is engaged by the friction brake.
9. The system of claim 1 wherein the handle includes a key and the bracket includes a plurality of slots, the plurality of slots configured to receive the key.
10. The system of claim 9 wherein the key is biased toward the plurality of slots.
11. The system of claim 9 wherein the plurality of slots are formed in a semi-circle.
12. The system of claim 1 wherein the handle assembly and the drive assembly are coupled by a cable.
13. The system of claim 12 wherein the cable disengages the friction brake in response to rotation of the handle about the second axis.
14. The system of claim 1 wherein the handle assembly and the drive assembly are coupled by a shaft.
15. The system of 14 wherein the shaft rotates the transverse gear in response to rotation of the handle about the first axis.
16. The system of claim 14 wherein the shaft is coupled to the handle via a shaft linkage, the shaft slidable in the shaft linkage in response to the handle rotating about the second axis.
17. The system of claim 6 wherein the shaft is hexagonally shaped.
18. A method of rotating a chute, the method comprising:
disengaging a friction brake;
rotating a handle about a first axis;
rotating the chute as a result of the rotation of the handle about the first axis;
engaging the friction brake to inhibit rotation of the chute.
19. The method of claim 18 and further comprising, rotating the handle about a second axis to disengage the friction brake.
20. The method of claim 18 and further comprising, rotating, by the handle, a shaft.
21. The method of claim 20 and further comprising, rotating, by the shaft, a transverse gear.
22. The method of claim 21 and further comprising, rotating, by the transverse gear, a chute drive.
23. The method of claim 18 and further comprising, rotating an axis of rotation.
24. The method of claim 23 wherein the axis of rotation is rotated about 90 degrees.
25. A snowthrower, comprising:
a chute; and
a chute rotation system including
a friction brake configured to maintain a position of the chute when the friction brake is engaged, and
a handle configured to disengage the friction brake and rotate the chute when the friction brake is disengaged.
26. The snowthrower of claim 25 , wherein the chute travels a rotational distance greater than the rotational distance traveled by the handle.
27. The snowthrower of claim 25 , and further comprising a drive assembly configured to modify an axis of rotation of the handle to an axis of rotation of the chute.
28. A drive assembly, comprising:
a chute drive,
a transverse gear drivably coupled to the chute drive; and
a friction brake configured to prevent movement of the chute, as a result of friction, when the friction brake is engaged with the chute drive.
29. The drive assembly of claim 28 , wherein the transverse gear and the chute drive are configured to modify an axis of rotation about ninety degrees.
30. The drive assembly of claim 28 , wherein the transverse gear and the chute drive increase a rotational distance traveled by a chute relative to a rotational distance traveled by a handle.
31. The drive assembly of claim 28 , wherein the chute drive is coupled to a chute and the friction brake prevents movement of the chute when the friction brake is engaged with the chute drive.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/713,574 US20080209771A1 (en) | 2007-03-02 | 2007-03-02 | Chute rotation system and method of operating same |
EP08250713.8A EP1964977A3 (en) | 2007-03-02 | 2008-03-03 | Chute rotation system and method of operating same |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/713,574 US20080209771A1 (en) | 2007-03-02 | 2007-03-02 | Chute rotation system and method of operating same |
Publications (1)
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US20080209771A1 true US20080209771A1 (en) | 2008-09-04 |
Family
ID=39494940
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/713,574 Abandoned US20080209771A1 (en) | 2007-03-02 | 2007-03-02 | Chute rotation system and method of operating same |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20080209771A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1964977A3 (en) |
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US20140157633A1 (en) * | 2011-06-20 | 2014-06-12 | Husqvarna Consumer Outdoor Products, N.A., Inc. | Remote Chute Rotation System |
US20140215863A1 (en) * | 2013-02-06 | 2014-08-07 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Snowblower adjustable deflector control devices, systems, and methods |
US8938894B2 (en) | 2012-01-12 | 2015-01-27 | Briggs & Stratton Corporation | Automatically adjustable snowthrower chute |
US9096980B2 (en) | 2012-10-03 | 2015-08-04 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Snowblower chute control devices, systems, and methods |
US9290897B2 (en) | 2014-02-03 | 2016-03-22 | Ariens Company | Snow thrower chute rotation mechanism |
US20160120121A1 (en) * | 2014-11-05 | 2016-05-05 | Rick Chase | Lawnmower Discharge Device |
US9399846B2 (en) * | 2014-11-19 | 2016-07-26 | The Toro Company | Snowthrower and chute rotation control mechanism for use with same |
USD776721S1 (en) | 2015-10-02 | 2017-01-17 | The Toro Company | Snowthrower chute control |
USD777795S1 (en) | 2015-09-15 | 2017-01-31 | The Toro Company | Handle for a ground working implement |
US20170073916A1 (en) * | 2015-09-14 | 2017-03-16 | Briggs & Stratton Corporation | Snow thrower with electronic controls |
USD786940S1 (en) | 2015-09-15 | 2017-05-16 | The Toro Company | Snowthrower power head |
US10428477B2 (en) | 2017-08-09 | 2019-10-01 | Mtd Products Inc | Chute control assembly for a snow thrower |
US20190390424A1 (en) * | 2015-11-30 | 2019-12-26 | Chervon (Hk) Limited | Snow thrower |
USD921053S1 (en) | 2019-12-19 | 2021-06-01 | Exmark Manufacturing Company, Incorporated | Snowthrower |
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US10711418B2 (en) | 2015-09-14 | 2020-07-14 | Briggs & Stratton Corporation | Snow thrower with electronic controls |
US20170073916A1 (en) * | 2015-09-14 | 2017-03-16 | Briggs & Stratton Corporation | Snow thrower with electronic controls |
USD777795S1 (en) | 2015-09-15 | 2017-01-31 | The Toro Company | Handle for a ground working implement |
USD786940S1 (en) | 2015-09-15 | 2017-05-16 | The Toro Company | Snowthrower power head |
USD776721S1 (en) | 2015-10-02 | 2017-01-17 | The Toro Company | Snowthrower chute control |
US20190390424A1 (en) * | 2015-11-30 | 2019-12-26 | Chervon (Hk) Limited | Snow thrower |
US10760230B2 (en) * | 2015-11-30 | 2020-09-01 | Chervon (Hk) Limited | Snow thrower |
US10961676B2 (en) | 2015-11-30 | 2021-03-30 | Chervon (Hk) Limited | Snow thrower |
US11015313B2 (en) | 2015-11-30 | 2021-05-25 | Chervon (Hk) Limited | Snow thrower |
US11913184B2 (en) | 2015-11-30 | 2024-02-27 | Chervon (Hk) Limited | Snow thrower |
US10428477B2 (en) | 2017-08-09 | 2019-10-01 | Mtd Products Inc | Chute control assembly for a snow thrower |
US20230082595A1 (en) | 2017-08-09 | 2023-03-16 | Mtd Products Inc | Chute control assembly for a snow thrower |
US11993903B2 (en) | 2017-08-09 | 2024-05-28 | Mtd Products Inc | Chute control assembly for a snow thrower |
USD921053S1 (en) | 2019-12-19 | 2021-06-01 | Exmark Manufacturing Company, Incorporated | Snowthrower |
USD999258S1 (en) | 2021-12-06 | 2023-09-19 | The Toro Company | Snowthrower housing |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1964977A2 (en) | 2008-09-03 |
EP1964977A3 (en) | 2013-07-10 |
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Owner name: BRIGGS AND STRATTON CORPORATION, WISCONSIN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:JERGER, PETER C.;PENKOSKE, DONALD G.;MAST, JAMES WILLIAM;REEL/FRAME:020587/0609;SIGNING DATES FROM 20070404 TO 20070627 Owner name: BRIGGS AND STRATTON CORPORATION, WISCONSIN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:JERGER, PETER C.;PENKOSKE, DONALD G.;MAST, JAMES WILLIAM;SIGNING DATES FROM 20070404 TO 20070627;REEL/FRAME:020587/0609 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |