WO2007118926A1

WO2007118926A1 - Arrangement for handling clippings

Info

Publication number: WO2007118926A1
Application number: PCT/FI2007/000098
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mauno Keski-Luopa
Original assignee: Actioneco Oy
Priority date: 2006-04-13
Filing date: 2007-04-13
Publication date: 2007-10-25
Also published as: FI20060364A0; FI20060364A; EP2009981A4; FI119585B; EP2009981A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an arrangement for handling clippings, fitted in a device (1) for cutting lawn, said device including at least one cutting unit (20; 20a, 20b, 20c) provided with a cutter (202), said cutting unit being arranged at the end (42) of the frame (4), and management and control means (9) as well as a control unit (11) for controlling the device. The arrangement for handling clippings comprises: a chamber (12) for receiving clippings from the cutter (202), said chamber (12) being arranged in connection with the cutting unit (20), a discharge aperture (13) provided in connection with the chamber (12), a transport duct (17), the first end of which is connected to the discharge aperture (13), a blower unit (10) that is fitted in the transport duct (17), and a collecting tank (18) that is fitted in connection with the device frame (4), and (the front end (18a) of which tank) is provided with an inlet aperture (181), to which the other end of the transport duct is connected, which collecting tank can be opened for removing clippings from the collecting tank. According to the invention, the end part (42) of the frame, to which the cutting unit (20) is attached, is formed as two branches (42a, 42b). The space left in between said branches (42a, 42b) is arranged as a cavity (15), in which the collecting tank (18) is fitted so that its front part (18a) is located essentially in the tip portion of the frame end (42) and simultaneously at the front portion of the cavity, and respectively its rear part (18b) is located in the rear portion of the cavity, and the bottom part (180d) of the collecting tank is essentially on the level of the frame bottom part (45). The discharge aperture (182) is arranged in the lower part (18b) of the collecting tank, advantageously in the bottom part (180d), said discharge aperture (182) being provided with a lid (19) that can be opened for removing clippings from the tank. An actuator (191) is fitted in connection with the lid (19) of the discharge aperture (182) of the collecting tank (18) for opening and closing said lid. The actuator (191) and the emptying of the collecting tank are controlled by intermediation of a control unit (11) provided in the device, according to instructions given from management and control means (9).

Description

Arrangement for handling clippings

The invention relates to an arrangement for handling clippings according to claim 1, arranged in connection with a cutting device for lawn, grass, leaves or corresponding vegetation.

The invention also relates to a collecting tank according to claim 23 for collecting clippings.

The invention also relates to a frame for a device for cutting lawn according to claim 33.

The invention also relates to a cutting unit according to claim 35, said cutting unit being designed for a device meant for cutting lawn and provided with a cutter.

In the prior art there is known, from the patent publication US-6,082,086, a mower apparatus provided with a number of reel-type cutting units and a connected arrangement for collecting grass clippings. Said collecting arrangement comprises a space arranged in connection with each cutting unit for receiving clippings from the cutter, a discharge opening provided in said space, a number of first ducts or pipes, the first end of each duct being connected to the discharge opening of one cutter, a duct connecting unit, to which the second ends of the first ducts are connected, a second duct, the first end of which is connected to the duct connecting unit, a blower unit that is arranged in the second duct and a grass catcher, to which the discharge opening of the second duct discharge aperture is connected. Clippings are transported by the air flow created by the blower unit through the ducts from the cutter to the grass catcher.

The grass catcher is arranged in the top part of the body of the mower apparatus, on top of the engine hood behind the driver's seat. The problem is that the grass catcher is arranged at the other end of the vehicle body in relation to the cutting units. Now the ducts must be arranged over the cutters and along the sides of the body to the grass catcher. A fairly high efficiency is required of the blower unit in order to facilitate the transportation of the clippings from the cutting units to the grass catcher in general. In an embodiment of the invention, it is even suggested that for creating the air flow, there would only be used the cutting reels, but this is hardly possible, because the ducts are long and winding. Another problem is that the grass catcher and the ducts take up a lot of space around the device. This hinders the driver from sitting on the seat. In addition, the ducts partly cover the view of the driver, particularly as regards controlling of the cutting units.

The other end of the collecting tank is provided with a lid that can be opened and closed and through which the clippings collected in the container of the grass catcher can be discharged. This is carried out by opening the lid and by turning the container, by means of a hydraulic cylinder, to the discharge position, where the container is opened with its end downwards. The container is emptied as the device is stopped. The problem is the trajectories of the grass catcher require a lot of space around them, which means that the driver must watch out for any persons or buildings that happen to be near by. Yet another problem is that the cutting unit must be driven to particularly reserved clippings discharge location.

The object of the present invention is to eliminate the problems connected to the above described cutting apparatus and to the clippings collecting arrangement connected thereto. Another object of the invention is to realize a novel handling arrangement for grass clippings or clipping waste.

Another object of the invention is to improve the grass container provided in the invention described above. Yet another object of the invention is to realize a novel grass collecting tank that is easily and effectively integrated particularly in an arrangement for handling grass clippings or grass waste provided in a lawn cutting unit.

An object of the invention also is to improve the frame structure of the suggested cutting apparatus. Another object of the invention is to realize a novel frame for a device for cutting lawn, in which the collecting tank can be easily integrated, and which can be applied particularly in an arrangement for handling grass clippings or grass waste provided in a lawn cutting unit.

The invention also relates to improving the operation of a device meant for cutting lawn by providing said device with a cutting unit cleaning device.

The arrangement for handling clippings according to the invention is characterized by what is set forth in claim 1. The independent claims 2 - 22 represent preferred embodiments of the invention.

The arrangement for handling clippings according to the invention is fitted in a device for cutting lawn, which device includes at least one cutting unit provided with a cutter, said cutting unit being arranged at the end of the frame, and management and control means as well as a control unit for managing the device, said arrangement for handling clippings comprising:

- a chamber for receiving clippings from the cutter, said chamber being arranged in connection with the cutting unit,

- a discharge aperture provided in connection with the chamber,

- a transport duct, the first end of which is connected to the discharge aperture,

- a blower unit that is fitted to the transport duct, and

- a collecting tank arranged in connection with the device frame, being at the first end provided with an inlet aperture to which the other end of the transport duct is connected; the collecting tank can be opened for removing clippings from the tank.

According to the invention:

- the end part of the frame, to which the cutting unit is attached, is formed as two branches, and the space left in between said branches is arranged as a cavity, in which the collecting tank is fitted, so that its front part is essentially located at the tip of the frame end, and simultaneously at the front end of the cavity, and respectively its rear part is located in the rear portion of the cavity, and the bottom part of the collecting tank is essentially on the same level- as the bottom part of the frame,

- the discharge aperture is arranged in the lower part of the collecting tank, preferably the bottom part, which discharge aperture is provided with a lid that can be opened for removing clippings from the tank,

- the actuator is fitted in connection with the lid of the discharge aperture of the collecting tank for opening and closing said lid, and

said actuator and the emptying of said collecting tank are controlled by means of a control unit included in the device, according to instructions given from the management and control means.

An advantage of the invention is that the collecting tank is effectively integrated at the end of the device frame, particularly inside the front end of the frame. Now the frame of the lawn cutting apparatus is most advantageously realized in a novel fashion, as a self-supporting structure, and so that in connection with each drive wheel, for instance both front wheels, there are arranged drive motor units with small measures, as is explained for example in the Finnish patent application FI- 20060362 by the same applicant, i.e. "Independently movable device with electric drive".

The collecting tank for collecting clippings according to the invention is characterized by what is set forth in claim 23. The dependent claims 24- 32 represent preferred embodiments of the invention.

A collecting tank for clippings according to the invention is meant to be arranged in connection with the frame of a device for cutting lawn, which frame includes at least one cutter provided with a cutting unit, said collecting tank having an inlet aperture through which clippings are fed in the collecting tank of the cutting unit, which collecting can be opened for removing the clippings from the collecting tank. According to the invention, the discharge aperture for removing clippings from the collecting tank is arranged in the lower part of the collecting tank, preferably in the bottom part that should be arranged essentially on the level of the bottom part of the device frame; the lid is arranged at the discharge aperture, and the actuator is fitted in connection with the lid of the collecting tank discharge aperture for opening and closing said lid.

The frame of a device for cutting lawn according to the invention is characterized by what is set forth in claim 33. The dependent claim 34 represents a preferred embodiment of the invention.

The frame of a device for cutting lawn according to the invention is provided with a collecting tank. The device has at least one cutting unit provided with a cutter. The collecting tank has an inlet aperture through which clippings are fed to the cutting unit collecting tank, which collecting tank can be opened for removing the clippings from the collecting tank. According to the invention the end portion of the frame, to which the cutting unit is attached, is formed as two branches, and the space in between said branches is arranged as a cavity for the collecting tank; the mutually facing sides of said two branches are provided with first fastening elements in which the corresponding second fastening elements of the collecting tank can be matched when fastening the collecting tank, so that the front part of the tank front is located essentially in the tip portion of the frame, and also in the front portion of the cavity, and respectively its rear part is located in the rear portion of the cavity, and the bottom part of the collecting tank is essentially on the level of the bottom part of the frame. It is an advantage of the invention that the collecting tank can be arranged in the vicinity of the cutting unit/units of the lawn cutting apparatus. Now the transport distance of the clippings from the cutting unit to the collecting tank is short, in which case particularly an air flow generated by a blower unit can be effectively used as the transportation agent.

A cutting unit applying a plane-type cutter can also be arranged to generate pressure in the chamber and to operate in a corresponding way as a generator of the air flow, particularly with a high speed of rotation. In that case the cutter rotating on the vertical shaft is realized so that it is either provided with a propeller-like blade, or the cutter is suitably shaped in order to bring sufficient pressure in the chamber receiving the clippings in order to create an air flow from the chamber through the discharge aperture to the exterior.

Another advantage of the invention is that owing to the structure of the collecting tank and to the new, surprising location of the collecting tank, the whole arrangement for handling clippings is simplified, and at the same time its operation is made more effective. Owing to the invention, for example the transport duct is realized as a short duct that is advantageously realized of a flexible connecting pipe.

Among the advantages of the invention, let us also point out that both the collecting tank and the whole arrangement for handling clippings are fitted in a remarkably smaller space than corresponding prior art arrangements, and also so that the parts of the arrangement do neither disturb the principal functions of the lawn cutting apparatus nor obstruct the view nor hinder operations carried out in the immediate vicinity of the cutting device, such as maintenance and repair works.

Another advantage of the invention is that clippings are disposed from the collecting tank without moving the collecting tank itself out of the lawn cutting apparatus. In addition, in the most preferred embodiment of the invention, the clippings are disposed from the collecting tank by opening the discharge aperture lid and by making use of the air flow generated by the blower unit, by which air flow also the transportation of the clippings from the cutting unit/units to the collecting tank is realized. The actuator is fitted in connection with the lid of the collecting tank discharge aperture for opening and closing said lid. The advantage is that the collecting tank can, when desired, be emptied by opening the lid for example at the control devices provided within the reach of the device user and driver, for instance. When emptying the collecting tank, the lawn cutting device can be in motion or it can be stopped in place. It is an advantage of the invention that the emptying of the collecting tank can be realized rapidly to outside the cutting area, whereafter the cutting of the lawn can be immediately continued. It is a remarkable advantage that the collecting tank is located in its own place in the cutting apparatus also when the it is being emptied

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the discharge aperture of the collecting tank is provided with a clippings distribution device. The advantage of this embodiment is that the clippings collected in the collecting tank are disposed therefrom and at the same time effectively distributed directly for example to the peripheral areas of the lawn, thus to fertilize said area without any other procedures. The lawn cutting device is driven in the permitted area forwards (or backwards) with the discharge aperture Hd open and the distribution device running, so that the clippings are distributed from the discharge aperture in an angle of even 180 degrees to the ground underneath the cutting apparatus.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the collecting tank is fastened vertically turnably to the frame. The advantage of this embodiment is that the position of the collecting tank can be changed between the first position, for example a horizontal position, and the second position, for example an inclined position. The latter position means that in this case, the rear part and discharge aperture of the collecting tank are placed lower than collecting tank front part and inlet aperture. In an oblique position, the emptying of the tank is carried out effectively, because gravity in part helps the removal of the clippings through the discharge aperture from the collecting tank, although even in this embodiment, the air flow is used as the principal method of emptying the tank.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the discharge aperture of the cutting unit chamber, the transport duct and the collecting tank are arranged inside a vertical area, where the maximum top level is located at the top part of the cavity, and the bottom level is located at the bottom level of the cutting unit chamber, even when the cutting unit is in the work position. The advantage of this embodiment is that there is restricted the area where said elements of the device must be located in order to optimize the clippings handling device to function effectively and without disturbances.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the blower unit is fitted in the transport duct, in the vicinity of the collecting tank, and most advantageously the blower unit is connected directly to the collecting tank. It is pointed out that by means of the blower device, the air volume flow is clearly increased in comparison with a volume flow produced by one or several cutters alone. A particular advantage in that the blower unit is fitted near the collecting tank is that the transport distance from the blower forwards to the tank is short, and thus the transport operation by air flow is very effective. It is also pointed out that the duct from the blower to the collecting tank is most advantageously realized as a pipe that is short and as straight as possible, in which case the resistance to the air flow caused by the duct is minimized.

The cutting unit according to the invention is characterized by what is set forth in claim 35. The dependent claim 36 represents a preferred embodiment of the invention.

The cutting unit according to the invention is meant for a device for cutting lawn, where the cutting unit includes a cutter. According to the invention, the cutting unit is provided with a cleaning device for cleaning the cutter and the chamber receiving clippings.

An advantage of a cutting unit according to the invention is that it can be kept in operation order by simple procedures. As a consequence of the regular cleaning operations realized by the cleaning device, the cutting unit will not be blocked. The cutting unit functions effectively, and air and clippings there along are transported from the cutting unit forwards to the collecting tank effectively and without unnecessary losses and/or disturbances.

The invention and its further advantages are described in more detail below, with reference to the appended drawing, where

Figure 1 is a perspective illustration of a device for cutting lawn, seen in a side view from an oblique angle from the top, said device being provided with an arrangement for handling clippings;

Figure 2 is a partial top-view cross-section of a device for cutting lawn and an arrangement for handling clippings; for the sake of illustration, the support frame of the cutting unit is left out of the drawing;

Figure 3 shows the device in partial cross-section B - B at the front wheels;

Figure 4 A shows a device for cutting lawn in side view and partial cross-section, particularly the front part of the frame, and an arrangement for handling clippings; Figure 4B shows a preferred embodiment of a collecting tank according to the invention in a lengthwise cross-section;

Figure 4C shows another collecting tank according to the invention in a partial cross-section;

Figure 4D shows a detail of a third collecting tank in a cross-section;

Figure 5 illustrates another device, particularly the front part of the frame, for cutting lawn, and an arrangement for handling clippings seen from the top; for the sake of illustration, the support frame of the cutting unit is left out of the drawing;

Figure 6A is a schematical top- view illustration of a cutting unit, shown on the horizontal level in partial cross-section; and

Figure 6B shows said cutting unit in partial cross-section along the line C - C;

Figures 6C and 6D are schematical top-view illustrations of some cutting units, seen in horizontal cross-section;

Figures 7A and 7B illustrate a cutting unit and a washing device arranged in connection thereof; and

Figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating an arrangement for handling clippings and its control unit.

Like numbers for like parts are used in the drawings.

A light, electric drive device 1 that can be driven is illustrated in Figure 1. The device is primarily meant for maintenance, repair and/or cleaning operations carried out in courtyard areas or the like, but it also is suited for other similar tasks suitable for light-weight machinery. In the example illustrated in the drawings, in connection with the device 1 there are arranged means 2 for cutting lawn, which device shall be dealt with in more detail below. As an example, this device 1 represents a light independently movable machine with electric drive.

The device 1 comprises a frame 4 arranged to be supported by wheels 3 or the like. The device 1 is provided with a number of wheels 3 connected to drive motor units 5 for moving said device. Each drive motor unit 5 is provided with an electric motor 5a. The operation of the drive motor units 5 is adjusted by means of the control unit 11 of the device. The device includes a battery unit 6 with a number of electrically connected batteries for obtaining electric energy for running the drive motor units 5, among others.

The frame 4 of the device 1 is realized as a self-supporting structure. Thus the frame 4 is in itself a rigid unit that maintains its shape without separate support structures. The frame 4 is realized of relatively thin plate-like material, for instance of metal sheet, particularly steel sheet, by injection molding, or alternatively it is realized of carbon fiber or glass fiber reinforced plastic.

In basic shape, the frame 4 is an elongate straight rectangle with a bottom part and top part that are mainly rectangular (or modified therefrom), with side walls and ends that form a fixed framework around the bottom part. Inside the frame 4, there is arranged a space that is divided between different functional units and most advantageously separated in suitable sub-spaces by light and rigid partition walls and/or lids or corresponding casing structures. Now the control unit 11 is arranged in a casing provided in connection with the device frame, or in a corresponding protected control unit space that can be locked. The batteries meant for storing electric energy are collected in a battery unit 6 that is respectively fitted in a battery space.

The frame 4 comprises the basic frame 41 proper, the end parts, i.e. the front and rear part 42, 43 that are fixedly connected thereto, and the top part 44. The basic frame 41 constitutes an elongate basin-like space in the direction of the frame longitudinal axis A - A, which space is open at the top. The basic frame 41 is covered by the top part 44 of the frame. The battery space and the control unit spaces 41a are arranged in the basic frame 41.

The device 1 comprises seat 7 that is fitted on top of the frame 4, particularly in the frame top part 42. The seat 7 is provided for the driver and user of the device 1. In the vicinity of the seat 7 and likewise of the user, there is arranged a control bracket 8 provided with management and control means 9 for adjusting and maintaining the running and functions of the device.

The independently movable device with electric drive 1 is provided with at least three bearing wheels 3; 31, 32, 33, one pair of wheels 31, 32 of which is arranged in the end of the device frame 4, for instance in the front part 42, on the its opposite sides thereof, and one wheel 33 is in relation to said pair of wheels located in the opposite end of the frame, i.e. in the rear part 43. As an alternative, the device includes four wheels 3 that are in pairs arranged in connection with the device frame.

In the embodiment of the invention according to the drawings, the drive motor unit 5; 51, 52 is fitted in connection with both wheels of the pair of wheels 3; 31, 32. The device user controls and adjusts the operation of the drive motor units 5; 51, 52 by means of the control unit 11, by the management and control means 9 arranged in the control bracket 8 of the device.

The drive motor unit 5; 51, 52 comprises an electric motor 5a, the rotary outlet axis whereof is connected to the hub 3a of the wheel 3; 31, 32. The drive motor unit 5; 51, 52 advantageously includes, apart from the electric motor 5a, also a gear 5b, particularly a reduction gear, for dropping the rotation speed of the electric motor to be suitable for the device. In that case the rotary outlet axis of the electric motor is connected to the inlet axis of the reduction gear, and the outlet axis of said gear further to the hub 3a of the wheel 3; 31, 32. Thus the drive motor unit 5; 51, 52 is realized as a solid, compact structure that is arranged in connection with the wheel 3; 31, 32.

The electric motor 5a is realized as a servo motor, preferably an AC servo motor. The drive motor unit 5; 51, 52 is most advantageously formed as a module comprising a servo motor, particularly an AC servo motor and a gear, particularly a rotation speed reduction gear.

When the device 1 is realized as a cutting apparatus for lawn or the like, in the end of the frame 4, in this case in its front part 42, there are arranged means 2 for cutting lawn. Said means comprise a number of cutting units 20, which in the device 1 according to the drawings are three units 20a, 20b, 20c. Said cutting units 20 are preferably arranged adjacently, but partly also in an overlapping fashion and in succession, depending on the size of the device and of the number of the cutting units, so that an area as wide as possible of the lawn is cut in a uniform and even fashion while moving the device forwards.

In this case, the cutting units 20 are fastened to the support frame 21. In the end of the frame of the device 1, particularly in the front part 42, there are arranged fastening elements 14 for the tools, in connection with the cutting units 20 are detachably fastened by intermediation of the support frame 21.

The fastening device 14 is advantageously realized as a framework 140, in which the support frame 21 is attached. The framework 140 includes a first straight rod 141 fitted in the top edge of the front frame part 42, and swivel arms 142; 142a, 142b connected thereto downwardly at right angles. In addition, it is advantageous for the rigidity of the structure that the swivel arms 142 are at the bottom end interconnected by a second straight rod 143. The framework 140 is by the first rod 141 turnably fastened in place in the frame front part 42, particularly to both branches 42a, 42b of the front part. The swivel arms 142; 142a, 142b are provided with fastening lugs 144 or corresponding fastening elements for fastening the support frame 21. The support frame 21 is fastened to the fastening lugs 144 or the like by for example fastening pins or bolts.

In addition, the fastening device 14 includes a lifting/lowering device 22 provided in connection with the frame front part 42 and the framework 140, whereby the framework 140 and the attached support frame 21 together with its cutting units can be turned, in relation to the rod 141, between two extreme positions, the rest and work positions. In the working position, the swivel arms 142; 142a, 142b are advantageously in a position where they point downwards at right angles, whereas in the rest position the swivel arms 142; 142a, 142b are at an angle α with respect to the perpendicular plane formed by the swivel arms in the work position, the lifting/lowering device is advantageously realized by means of one or alternatively two cylinders, particularly electric drive cylinders, said cylinder being arranged in between the frame and the framework, particularly the second rod. The lifting/lowering device 22 is controlled by the management and control means 9. In that case the lawn cutting units 20 are lowered down to the work position for cutting the lawn, and respectively lifted up to the rest position, when the device 1 is driven for example to a lawn that needs cutting or away therefrom.

In the above specification, we have described an advantageous fastening device for fastening the cutting unit detachably to the frame 42; 42a, 42b of the device 1. In connection with such a device 1 suited to be used as a multi-function work machine, there can be connected various tools (for example a brushing unit provided with a brush reel) by means of fastening devices 14, of which one embodiment is introduced here.

The cutting unit 20 (cf. Figures 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D, among others) comprises a cutter 202 for cutting lawn and support elements 203 for supporting the cutting unit against the ground, particularly when cutting the lawn. The cutter 202 and the support elements 203 are arranged in connection with the frame 201. Moreover, the cutting unit 20 is provided with a cutting height adjusting device by which the position of the support elements can be adjusted. In the drawings, the cutting unit 20 is realized by a reel-type cutter 202. The reel- type cutter 202 comprises a cylindrical cutting reel 202a, essentially rotated in relation to the horizontal axis, and a straight counterblade 202b arranged in the immediate vicinity of said cutting reel. The counterblade 202b is fitted underneath the cutting reel 202a. The cutting reel 202a is suitably rotated by a motor, preferably an electric motor 204.

The cutting reel 202a comprises, in a fashion known as such, a number of flat metal blades that are rectangular in cross-section, arranged on the surface area of spiraling cylindrical frames, such as reels, rollers or the like, which blades are arranged to function together with a fixed, straight counterblade 202b and to cut the lawn, grass or similar low vegetation by a an effective, scissor-like rotary cutting motion. The distance of the counterblade 202b, particularly of its cutting blade edge, from the ground defines the cutting height of the grass or the vegetation in general.

In the embodiment according to the drawings, the support elements 203 are realized by means of two support reels 203 a, 203b that are essentially parallel with the cutting reel 202a. The first support reel 203 a is placed, in the transport direction of the cutting unit, in front of it and the second support reel 203b behind it, in which case the cutter 202 remains between the support reels 203a, 203b. The cutting unit

20 is moved, with respect to the cutting reel 202a and counterblade 202b of the cutter 202, in a perpendicular direction F. The cutting unit 20 is supported against the ground by the support reels 203 a, 203b when using the cutting unit 20.

The arrangement for handling clippings according to the invention, as well as the collecting tank according to the invention, is most advantageously arranged in a device 1 for cutting lawn described above, which device includes at least one cutting unit 20 provided with a reel-type cutter 202. As an alternative, the arrangement for handling clippings is fitted in a device for cutting lawn where said device includes at least one cutting unit, provided with a propeller-like cutter rotary on a vertical shaft near the ground surface, i.e. a so-called plane cutter.

Now the arrangement for handling clippings comprises at least the following parts or elements: a chamber 12 for receiving clippings from the cutter 202, in this case particularly from the cutting reel 202a, a discharge aperture 13 in connection with the chamber 12, a transport duct 17 and a collecting tank 18, through which transport duct the clippings are transported from the chamber to the collecting tank.

In addition, the collecting tank 18 can be opened for removing the clippings from the collecting tank. In the specification below, we shall describe in more detail the parts, devices and units connected to the arrangement for handling clippings.

According to the invention, the frame 4 of the device 1 includes a cavity 15 for the collecting tank 18. The cavity 15 is arranged at that end of the frame 4, such as in the drawings the front part 42, where the cutting unit 20 is attached, or in general a fastening device 14 for fastening tools to the frame. Now it is advantageous that the end part 42 of the frame 42 is formed as a fork. Said fork comprises two protuberances or branches 42a, 42b as extensions of both long sides of the frame 4, particularly of the basic frame 41, so that the space left between said branches forms said cavity 15. Most advantageously the inner sides of the branches 42a, 42b and at the same time the sides of the space are essentially straight and in parallel, but other varieties of shape are also possible.

In the device 1 for cutting lawn, the front wheels 31, 32 and their drive motor units 51, 52 are preferably fastened to the front part of the branches 42a, 42b. In length, the drive motor units 51, 52 are relatively short, which means that they do not remarkably narrow the available space between the branches 42a, 42b. The drive motor units 5; 51, 52 are fitted essentially at the hubs 3a of the wheels 3; 31, 32, and through them or through fastening elements connected thereto, the wheels are fastened to the frame 4, particularly to the branches 42a, 42b of the frame front part 42.

At the top portion of the frame front part 42 and simultaneously in between the branches 42a, 42b, there is arranged a lid element 42c. This is most advantageously realized as a perforated plate-like element. By means of the lid element 42c, the branches 42a, 42b are interconnected, and at the same time the cavity 15 is covered. The lid element 42c is arranged to function, in the device according to the drawings, as a foot rest for the user sitting on the seat 7 of the device. In between the branches 42a, 42b of the frame front part 42, in the vicinity of the front edge of the lid element 42c, there also are arranged fastening devices 14 for said tools, such as a fastening framework 14a.

The collecting tank 18 is fitted in the cavity 15 so that its front part 18a is located essentially at the frame end 42, and at the same time at the front end of the cavity 15, and respectively its rear part 18b is located in the rear portion of the cavity 15, as is illustrated for example in Figures 2 and 5. The sides of the collecting tank 18 are fitted in the vicinity of the inner sides of the frame branches 42a, 42b. The collecting tank 18 is provided with fastening elements 16; 16a, that are preferably arranged at its side walls 18Oe, 18Of, by which fastening elements the collecting tank is attached to corresponding fastening elements 16; 16b of the frame

4, particularly of the cavity 15 provided at the frame end 42, which fastening elements are particularly fitted to the inner sides of the branches 42a, 42b of the end forming the cavity.

The inlet aperture 18a of the collecting tank is arranged in the top part 18c of the collecting tank 18, and the discharge aperture 182 is arranged in the bottom part 18d The other end 172 of the transport duct 17 is connected to the tank inlet aperture 181. The discharge aperture 182 of the collecting tank 18 is provided by a lid 19 that can be opened for removing clippings from the tank.

In the basic shape, the collecting tank 18 is preferably a right-angled rectangle that can be modified for example by changing the shape of the front part 18a and/or the rear part 18b.

Advantageously the width s of the collecting tank 18 in the perpendicular direction towards the lengthwise axis A — A of the frame 4 of the device 1 is, at least roughly, as long as the distance between the branches 42a, 42b of the frame end 42. However, the wheels 3; 31, 32 connected to the drive motor units 5; 51, 52 may somewhat restrict the width of the tank 18 in relation to distance of the branches 42a, 42b, as is illustrated in the drawing. When the diameter d of the inlet aperture 181 of the collecting tank 18 is for practical reasons smaller than the width s of the tank 18, the front part 18a of the tank, and particularly the front wall 180a are advantageously arranged to widen from the inlet aperture 181 towards the tank interior. This is advantageous with respect to circulation technique, because air flow is used for transporting the clippings. Another advantage is that the clippings do not easily stick onto the circulation technically designed surfaces, but they proceed smoothly forward with a reasonable air pressure difference of the transport arrangement.

One or several inlet apertures 181; 181a, 181b, 181c are most advantageously arranged in the top part of the tank 18, as is illustrated for example in Figures 3 and

5. However, as an alternative, the inlet aperture 181 can be arranged at the front wall 180a, in the center part of the tank or even in the bottom part, when the tank height h is high. Yet it must be maintained that the tank height also can be selected, for instance depending on the usage application in question, and it can thus represent only part of the height of the whole cavity 15. The height h of the tank 18 can be equal to the frame front part 42; 42a, 42b and at the same time essentially as high as the cavity 15. In that case its top part is located near to the bottom surface of the frame lid element 42c. On the other hand, it is pointed out that the bottom part 18Od of the tank 18 is most advantageously straight and on the level of the frame bottom part 45, but it can also be located somewhat below the bottom surface of the bottom part 45. In that case there must, however, be taken into account that the device must have a given, relatively high ground clearance.

The discharge aperture 182 of the collecting tank 18 is arranged in the bottom part 18d of the tank, most advantageously in the bottom part of the rear wall 180b and/or in the bottom part 180d. The discharge aperture 182 is provided with a lid 19. The discharge aperture 182 is closed by the lid 19, when the device 1 for cutting lawn is used, and clippings are collected in the collecting tank. The lid 182 must be opened, when the collecting tank 18 is full and/or it should be emptied.

In an embodiment of the invention, the bottom part of the rear wall 180b of the collecting tank 18 is inclined, so that the discharge aperture 182 is not positioned vertically, but opens downwardly at an oblique angle, in which case it forms part of the rear wall 180b and the bottom part 180d. The emptying of the collecting tank 18 through a discharge aperture 182 positioned at a n oblique angle is carried out effectively, when the lid 19 is opened. The height of the discharge aperture 182 forms part, preferably 15 - 30%, of the height h of the whole tank. On the other hand, it is advantageous that the width of the discharge aperture 182 is even equal to that of the tank 18, i.e. it is as wide as the width s of the collecting tank.

In an embodiment of the invention, the lid 19 is provided with a mechanical locking device that can be opened and closed manually.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, an actuator 191, advantageously an electric actuator, is fitted in connection with the lid 19 of the discharge aperture 182 of the collecting tank 18 in order open and close said lid. The lid 19 is advantageously hinged turnably at the edge of the discharge aperture 182 edge. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, Figure 4A and 4B, the lid 19 is fastened turnably by one or several hinges 183 at its long top side to the rear wall of the collecting tank 18 located above the discharge aperture 182. The actuator 191 is realized of a suitable actuator, for example an electric motor, such as a spindle motor 191a, and of lever arms 191b that are fitted in between the motor spindle and the lid 19. Now, by turning the spindle motor axis and the spindle, the nut element moves in the spindle, and the lever arms 191b turnably fastened thereto turn the lid suitably open (cf. dotted lines). The actuator 191, particularly a power actuator is arranged outside the rear wall of the collecting tank, as is illustrated in Figure 4B, or it can be immersed in the rear wall and the collecting tank. As an alternative, the actuator, such as an electric motor 191a, particularly a stepper motor, is fitted directly on the hinge axis and connected to the turning element of the hinge 183 that affects the lid 19.

The bottom edge of the lid 19, i.e. the side opposite to the one provided with a hinge, also can be provided with separate electrically operated locking means 193, by which the lid 19 is locked in the closed position, and respectively released therefrom when the lid should be opened for emptying the collecting tank by the actuator 191.

In an embodiment of the invention, the discharge aperture 182 of the collecting tank

18 is arranged in the bottom part 18078d, as is illustrated in Figure 4C. The width of the discharge aperture 182 is most advantageously equal to the width s of the collecting tank. The length of the discharge aperture 182 in relation to the width in the perpendicular direction is for example 25 - 35% of the corresponding- length of the bottom part. The discharge aperture 19 is provided with a lid 19 that is hinged by suitable hinges 183 turnably at the front edge of the discharge aperture 182. Also in this application, the actuator 191, preferably an electric actuator, is fitted in connection with the lid 19 of the discharge aperture 182 of the collecting tank 18 for opening and closing said lid.

The actuator 191 for turning the lid 19 is realized, in the collecting tank illustrated in Figure 4C, for example of a suitable actuator 191c, such as an electric motor, and of power transmission means, such as a roller 19 Id arranged on the rotary axis of an electric motor, and of wire 191e or the like wound on the roller. The wire is brought, via a suitable guide 19 If, from the roller to the free edge of the lid 19 and fastened here at one end. By rotating the actuator 191c in one direction, the wire

19 Ie can be released from the roller 191d for opening the lid 19, and respectively the wire can be coiled on the roller for closing the lid. In addition, it is advantageous to provide the lid 19 by a spring element 194 that is fitted in between the lid 19 and the bottom part 18d of the collecting tank, so that the spring element tends to open the lid, when it is closed. Thus the spring element helps with its spring force the lid 19 to open, when the wire is released from the roller 191d, and respectively the spring element resists by its spring force the closing of the lid 19, when the wire is coiled back on the roller. Let us point out that for a man skilled in the art, it is obvious that the actuator 191 for opening and closing the lid can be realized in many different ways. Instead of an electric motor, the employed actuator can be for instance a hydraulic actuator, such as a hydraulic cylinder or motor, and the employed power transmission means can be known solutions. In the specification above, we have described a few preferred embodiments for realizing the actuator.

The opening and closing of the lid 19 can be controlled by management and control means 9 connected to the actuator 191. The commands "open lid " or "close lid" are sent from the management and control means 9 to the control unit 11 and further to the tools, to which the actuator 191 for controlling the lid 19 belongs, as shall be explained below, in connection with Figure 8. It is pointed out that corresponding commands are advantageously used for controlling possible lid locking means 193 as well.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the discharge aperture 182 of the collecting tank 18 is provided with a clippings distribution device 192. The clippings are unloaded from the collecting tank and distributed evenly out by means of the distribution device 192. The clippings can be distributed at least along an area having the width the discharge aperture 182, and even wider particularly when the device 1 is being moved. The distribution device 192 is advantageously realized as an oscillation or vibration device.

The oscillation device 192 serving as the distributor is realized, as is illustrated by the collecting tank according to Figure 4B, for example by means of a strip 192a that is fitted at the edge of the discharge aperture 182 and fastened by a hinge element at the free, fixed edge of the bottom part along the whole width of the discharge aperture, in connection with which strip there is arranged a suitable actuator 192b for moving the strip. The actuator 192b is realized for example by means of an actuator 192d, such as an electric motor, provided with an eccentric 192c. Now the electric motor or a corresponding actuator 192b is fastened to the fixed bottom part 18d of the collecting tank, and the eccentric is fastened below the strip 192a, in functional contact therewith. When the eccentric 192c is rotated by the actuator 192d, it moves the strip 192a back and forth supported by the hinge fastening and thus oscillates or vibrates it. When the clippings flow out of the discharge aperture 182, the oscillating strip separates the clippings from each other and throws them around in the rhythm of its vibrating motion. As an alternative, the strip 192a forms part of the bottom part 18d of the collecting tank, which bottom part is by a hinge element fastened to a fixed part of the collecting tank bottom, or even to the front part 18a of the collecting tank, particularly to the lower part of the front wall, which movable part can be moved vertically back and forth in the same way as said strip.

The oscillation device serving as the distribution device 192 is realized, as is illustrated by the collecting tank according to Figure 4C, by means of a lid 19 fitted at the discharge aperture 182 and by auxiliary wheels 195 fitted at the free edge thereof. In itself, the lid 19 is now arranged to function as the above described vibrating strip . The advantage is that now there is no need for a separate actuator for realizing the vibrating motion. When the lid 19 is opened by the actuator 191, the auxiliary wheels 195 turn down along with the lid 19. When the collecting tank 18 is arranged at the front end of the frame of the lawn cutting device 1, so that its bottom part 18d is near to ground surface M, in addition to which the lid 19 is, with respect to the proceeding direction A of the device and simultaneously with respect to the longitudinal direction of the collecting tank 18 longer than the ground clearance of the device and the distance of the tank from ground surface, the auxiliary wheels meet the ground surface M and follow its surface forms while moving the device 1 forwards. As a result, the lid 19 vibrates and its position, supported by the hinge 183, varies vertically along with the surface forms.

Let us point out that in the specification above, we have given a few advantageous examples for realizing the distribution device 192, but for a man skilled in the art, it is obvious that the distribution device can also be realized in many other ways without departing from the above explained principles.

The collecting tank 18 is provided with perforations or with one or several holes 28; 19a in order to discharge the air flow used for transporting the clippings from the collecting arrangement and particularly from the collecting tank.

The perforations or the like provided in the collecting tank 18, one or several holes 28, are preferably arranged in the top part 18c of the tank 18, in which case the filling of the collecting tank with clippings does not in any way obstruct the passage of air out of the tank. Now the perforations 28 are most advantageously arranged either in the back wall of the collecting tank, as is illustrated in the embodiments according to Figures 4B and 4D, or alternatively in the lid element 180c. In preferred embodiments of the invention, Figures 4B and 4D, in connection with the perforations 28 provided in the collecting tank 18, there is arranged a shutting element 26, such as a shutting plate or the like, in connection with there is arranged a suitable actuator 27 for moving the shutting plate, so that the perforations are closed and respectively opened. The actuators 27 can advantageously be realized by a suitable actuator 27a, such as an electric motor, and by power transmission elements 27b arranged on the axis thereof, such as a spindle screw and nut. In the application illustrated in Figure 4B, the shutting plate 26 is fastened onto the axis of an electric motor, such as servo motor, serving as the actuator 27, in which case the shutting plate 26 can be turned against the perforations 28, when they are closed, and respectively outwardly from the perforations, when they are s opened. In the application of Figure 4D, the shutting element 26 is moved by the actuator 27, so that it can be pressed against the perforations 28 to the closed position, and respectively pulled out to the open position at a suitable distance from the perforations. When clippings are collected in the collecting tank by means of air flow, the perforations 28 are kept open, and the shutting plate 26 is in the open position. When the collecting tank is being emptied, the discharge aperture 19 is open, and the shutting plate 26 is in the closed position. Now the air flow in part pushes the clippings out of the discharge aperture 19 and thus enhances the emptying of the collecting tank.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lid 19 of the discharge aperture 182 is provided with perforations 19a, through which air (but not clippings) can flow out of the collecting tank. The perforations can be covered by a suitable filter, such as filter cloth or the like. In that case air also flows through the clippings collected in the tank, at least when the tank begins to be filled. Any separate shutting elements are not needed in connection with the perforations.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the collecting tank 18 is provided with a sensor 29 for indicating the degree of filling of the collecting tank. Most advantageously the sensor 29 is arranged to indicate whether the collecting tank is essentially full of clippings or not. The sensor 29 is preferably connected to the detector for example via the control unit 11. The detector is most advantageously installed in connection with the management and control means, so that the device user obtains from the sensor 29 a message on the detector, when the collecting tank is full or at least filling, and it is time to empty the collecting tank. The sensor is for example an optical or a capacitive sensor that is preferably installed in the top part 18b of the collecting tank 18. The detector is for example a signal light or a similar light signal displayed on a screen.

In an embodiment of the invention, the collecting tank 18 is detachably fastened in the cavity 15 provided at the end 42 of the frame 4. In that case the collecting tank 18 can be replaced, when necessary.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the collecting tank 18 is fastened, turnably in the vertical direction, in the cavity 15 provided at the end 42 of the frame 4. Moreover, it is advantageous that the collecting tank is functionally connected to the cutting unit 20 for lifting/lowering the device 20, by which the cutting unit is lifted to the top position and respectively lowered to the low position, which is the work position. Owing to this kind of fastening, the lifting of the cutting unit 20 to the rest position and respectively its lowering to the work position turns the collecting tank 18 from the collecting position, such as the horizontal position (cf. Figure 4), to the discharge position at an oblique angle and respectively back to the collecting position.

In order to facilitate the functions described above, the collecting tank 18 is fastened, at fastening pins (or holes) 16; 16a, arranged on a transversal axis imagined on its opposite sides, at the same locations, i.e. at second fastening elements, to their counterparts 16; 16b arranged on the inner walls of the frame front part branches 42a, 42b., i.e. at the. first fastening elements. The collecting tank 18 remains in balance, because the supporting transport duct 17 is at one end 172 connected to the front part 18a of the inlet aperture 181 of the collecting tank. On the other hand, the front part 18a of the collecting tank 18 can be arranged to rest against one or several such suitable supports 29 that are fitted in between the branches of the frame front part 42; 42a, 42b.

As was already pointed out above, the cutting unit 20 is provided with a chamber 12 for receiving clippings from the cutter 202, particularly from the cutting reel 203a and the discharge aperture 13 arranged in connection with the chamber 12. As can be observed in Figures 6A and 6B, the chamber 12 is arranged behind the cutting reel 203a, when viewed in the cutting unit transport direction F. Alternatively the chamber 12 is arranged in front of the cutting reel 203 a, when viewed in the transport direction F, or even completely or partially above the cutting reel. The chamber 12 designed to be such that it is narrowed and restricted in a wedge-like or cone-like fashion, starting from the front part and proceeding towards the discharge aperture 13. The front part of the chamber 12 extends along the whole cutting reel width. The discharge aperture 13 is most advantageously arranged at the side wall 201 of the cutting unit frame 201 or alternatively at another wall, for example the rear wall 201b, as is illustrated for example in Figures 6A and 6C.

The rear wall 12a of the chamber, or a corresponding wall, is designed so that it conveys the clippings obtained from the rotary cutting reel 203 a and thus from the front part of the chamber 12 as well as the air flow towards the discharge aperture

13. Now the rear wall 12a of the chamber 12 is in cross-section curved in the lengthwise direction of the cutting reel 203 a, or at least at an oblique angle, so that the first edge of the wall is near to one end of the cutting reel, and the second edge is further from the cutting reel, at the edge of the discharge aperture 13; 13a arranged on the side wall 201a (cf. Figure 6A).

The rear wall 12a of the chamber, or a corresponding wall, is alternatively formed of at least two wall elements 12b, 12c, and the first edge of both walls is near to one and respectively to the other end of the cutting reel; and towards the center region of the cutting reel and towards the discharge apertures 13; 13b provided therein, they proceed in a curved fashion or at least at an oblique angle and thus centralize the transportation of the clippings to the discharge aperture 13; 13b (cf. Figure 6D).

In the rear wall 12a of the chamber, or in a corresponding wall, there are alternatively formed two discharge apertures 13; 13c, 13d (cf. Figure 6D) located at a distance from each other. Most advantageously they are arranged near the side walls 201a of the cutting unit frame 201. Now the rear wall 201b of the frame, and particularly the rear wall 12a of the chamber 12, is formed as a triangular element 12c, by which the passage of the clippings and of the air flow is divided into two parts and directed towards the discharge apertures 13; 13c, 13d. In addition, possible rear wall elements provided in between the side walls and the discharge apertures 13c, 13d are also designed to be curved or inclined walls that centralize the air flow in the vicinity of the side walls 201a to the nearby discharge aperture 13c, 13d.

The cutting unit 20 is provided with a cleaning device 120 for cleaning the cutter and the chamber receiving the clippings, as is illustrated in Figures 7 A and 7B. The cleaning device 120 includes a chamber 121 for the washing agent. Said chamber

121 is provided with a connecting duct 123 and nozzles 122, most advantageously small perforations. The chamber 121 is arranged in the cutting unit frame 201, in the vicinity of the cutter 202, so that the nozzles point towards the cutter. In the cleaning situation, the connecting duct 123 is connected to a pressurized medium source, such as the water mains or a washing liquid source. Thereafter the pressurized washing liquid is conducted to a chamber 121, from where is discharged, through the nozzles 122, towards the cutter 202. Now it is advantageous to rotate the cutter by its driving motor, and preferably more rapidly than its regular cutting speed. Thus the cutter 202 distributes the washing liquid sprayed through the nozzles 122 in the whole area of the chamber 12 receiving the clippings and cleans said chamber.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 6A and 7 B, the chamber 121 for the washing agent extends in parallel with the cutting reel 202, 202a serving as the cutter advantageously along the whole cutting length. The nozzles 122 are arranged on the sides of he chamber 121, at a small distance from each other, so that they are distributed along the whole cutting reel area.

The cleaning device is connectable, via its connecting duct 123, also to the pressurized air source. Thus the cutter and the chamber can be cleaned by pressurized air or blown dry after the washing step.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the chamber 12 for receiving clippings of one or several cutters 20; 20a, 20b, 20c is connected at its discharge aperture 13 via the transport duct 17 to the collecting tank 18, as is illustrated in Figure 5. The device 1 includes three cutters 20; 20a, 20b, 20c, and in this case they are connected directly, by their own transport duct elements 17; 171a, 171b, 171c, to the collecting tank 18, to the respective inlet apertures 181; 181a, 181b, 181c arranged in said duct portion. Advantageously the transport duct elements 17; 171a, 171b, 171c are realized of flexible pipe.

The blower unit 10 is fitted in a transport duct 17, as is illustrated in Figures 2 and 4. Moreover, the blower unit 10 is arranged in the vicinity of the collecting tank 18 either directly in connection with the collecting tank 18 and its inlet aperture 181 (as is illustrated in Figure 4B) or alternatively at a small distance therefrom (as can be seen in Figure 4A). The blower unit 10 comprises for example a centrifugal blower device. The suction inlet of the blower unit 10 is connected to the discharge aperture 13 of the chamber 12 of the cutting unit 20 by a first transport duct element 17a, and the outlet is respectively connected either directly or by another transport duct element 17b to the collecting tank 18.

In the application illustrated in Figure 4A, the blower unit 10 is fastened and support against the support frame 21 of the cutting unit 20. The transport duct 17; 17b from the blower unit to the collecting tank is short, for example 30 — 50 cm. It moves between two positions, i.e. high and low positions, when the cutting unit 20 is lifted and lowered by the lifting/lowering device 22. At the same time, the position of the collecting tank is changed, as was already explained above.

When the transport duct elements 17; 171a, 171b, 171c are connected to separate inlet apertures 181; 181a, 181b, 181c arranged in the collecting tank 18, each transport duct element also is provided with a blower unit, or alternatively it is arranged in connection with the inlet apertures 181 of the collecting tank.

In the arrangement according to the invention, the clippings are transported by means of air flow. Part of the air flow is created by means of the cutting reels 202a of one or several cutting units 20; 20a, 20b, 20c, by rotating it. For this purpose, the electric motor 204 of the cutting reel 202a can be adjusted to operate at a high speed of rotation that differs from a normal cutting reel and is clearly higher. In addition, the direction of rotation can be changed to be opposite to the direction applied in the cutting step. The main part of the air flow is created by means of the blower unit 10. By means of the blower unit 10, there is realized an effective transportation of the clippings and a strong air flow from the chamber 12 of the cutting unit 20 via the transport duct 17 to the collecting tank 18.

The blower unit 10 is particularly important when several cutting units 20, for example three units, are attached to the device 1. Most advantageously the transport duct 17 is formed of two parts 17a, 17b. The first part 17a is realized of a number of flexible connecting pipes 171a, 171b, 171c, by means of which one or several discharge apertures 13; 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d of each chamber 12 of the cutting units 20 is connected first to each other by a suitable connecting piece, such as a Y- shaped connecting piece 172, and further by a common connecting pipe 173 to the suction aperture of the blower unit 10. The second part 17b is realized by a duct portion that is connected in between the discharge aperture of the blower unit and the inlet aperture 181 of the collecting tank 18. Said second duct portion 17b can be made of a flexible pipe, but it can also be a rigid, straight pipe, because the blower unit 10 is arranged near the collecting tank 18. As an alternative, the second duct portion 17b can be left out or constricted to a matching sleeve, in which case the discharge aperture of the blower unit 10 is connected directly to the inlet aperture 181 of the collecting tank 18.

Most advantageously the blower unit 10 comprises either one centrifugal blower device or a double centrifugal blower device, in which one actuator uses two blower devices 10a, 10b. Thus there is obtained a sufficiently strong air flow, in the connecting pipes coming from several cutting units.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the blower unit 10 is fitted in the central area of a pattern, such as a triangle, formed by the cutting units 20 in the transport duct 17. Now the device is observed from the top.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the discharge aperture 13, the transport duct 17, the blower unit 10 connected to the transport duct and the collecting tank 18 of the chamber 12 of the cutting unit 20 are located inside such a vertical area, the maximum top level D of which is at the top part of the cavity 15, which at least roughly corresponds to the height of the front wheels 3; 31, 32 height, and the bottom level E corresponds to the bottom level of the chamber 12 of the cutting unit 20, when the cutting unit is in the working position. Mainly the top level D depends on the height h of the collecting tank 18 h, and consequently it can vary. When following this procedure, the height differences in between the difference parts of the collecting arrangement are kept reasonably small, and at the same time the clippings transport distances are maintained short.

The device 1 for cutting lawn includes management and control means 9, apart from controlling the device itself, also the tools 23 connected thereto, such as one or several cutting units 20, and for controlling their functions and in this case also the functions of the clippings collecting arrangement according to the invention. In addition, the device 1 includes a control unit 11, by which the adjustment and control operations proper are realized according to the instructions obtained from the management and control means 9, as well as according to the recorded instructions and adjustment procedures. Advantageously the control unit 11 is realized by a microcontroller or a microprocessor, in connection with there are arranged suitable auxiliary units, such as memory, data transmission, data feed and display units. As regards the management and control means 9, we refer to the Finnish patent application FI-20060365 by the same applicant, "Management and control means and control arrangement for independently movable device with electric drive _^'"

In connection with the device 1, there can advantageously be connected various tools, such as said one or several lawn cutting units 20, one or several brushing units provided with a brush reel, a snow plough or a spike reel. For this purpose, the front part 42 of the frame 4 is provided with a fastening device 14, such as a fastening frame 14a , in connection with the tools provided with corresponding compatible elements are detachably attached.

In connection with the fastening device 14 of the device 1, there is advantageously provided a lifting/lowering device 22 that is controlled by the management and control means 9, by intermediation of the control unit 11 (cf. Figure 8). By using a lifting/lowering key or the like belonging to the management and control means 9, there is given a control command, such as a command to lift, to the control unit 11 , which in turn switches, by intermediation of the relay 24, the voltage, such as the battery voltage V, on the lifting/lowering device 22 for realizing the lifting operation. Respectively the lifting/lowering key is used for canceling said control command and for switching the voltage off through the relay 24 from the lifting/lowering device 22 for realizing the lowering operation. Now for instance the lawn cutting units 20 used as tools can be lowered down to the work position for cutting the lawn, and respectively lifted up in the rest position, when the device 1 is driven for example to an area demanding cutting or away therefrom.

The tools 23 provided in connection with the device 1, such as lawn cutting units 20, are controlled by using the management and control means 9 arranged in the device control bracket 8 by intermediation of the control unit 11. For this purpose, the device 1 is provided with connecting elements 25, such as a connecting box, for the corresponding connecting element, such as a plug, provided in the tool. Through the connecting elements 25, electricity, such as a suitable voltage V, is fed in one or several electric motors of the tools 23. In addition, the sensors or in general measurement equipment provided in connection with the tools 23 for controlling said tools are connected, via control elements, to the control unit 11 of the device 1.

In this case the tools include a blower unit 10 and actuators arranged in connection with the collecting tank 18, such as an electric actuator used for opening and closing the lid 19, and the clippings distribution device according to an embodiment of the invention. The electric motor 204 of the lawn cutting unit 20 is also controlled and adjusted by means of the control unit 11, and particularly the rotation speed of the cutting reel 202a in different tasks (normal cutting function and blower function, where the rotation speed is high). Because the collecting tank 18 is fitted as part of the lawn cutting device 1, it is advantageous that the actuators connected to the collecting tank, such as the actuator meant for the opening and closing of the lid, and alternatively the blower unit 10, are connected directly to the control unit 11 for example through suitable other connecting elements. The invention is not restricted to the above described embodiment only, but many modifications are possible within the scope of the inventive idea defined in the claims.

Claims

1. An arrangement for handling clippings, fitted in a device (1) for cutting lawn, said device including at least one cutting unit (20; 20a, 20b, 20c) provided with a cutter (202), said cutting unit being arranged at the end (42) of the frame (4), and management and control means (9) as well as a control unit (11) for controlling the device,

said arrangement for handling clippings comprising:

- a chamber (12) for receiving clippings from the cutter (202), said chamber (12) being arranged in connection with the cutting unit (20),

- a discharge aperture (13) provided in connection with the chamber (12),

- a transport duct (17), the first end of which is connected to the discharge aperture (13),

- a blower unit (10) that is fitted in the transport duct (17), and

- a collecting tank (18) that is fitted in connection with the device frame (4), and (the front end (18a) of which tank) is provided with an inlet aperture (181), to which the other end of the transport duct is connected, which collecting tank can be opened for removing clippings from the collecting tank,

characterized in that

- the end part (42) of the frame, to which the cutting unit (20) is attached, is formed as two branches (42a, 42b), and the space left in between said branches (42a, 42b) is arranged as a cavity (15), in which the collecting tank (18) is fitted so that its front part (18a) is located essentially in the tip portion of the frame end (42) and simultaneously at the front portion of the cavity, and respectively its rear part (18b) is located in the rear portion of the cavity, and the bottom part (18Od) of the collecting tank is essentially on the level of the frame bottom part (45),

- a discharge aperture (182) is arranged in the lower part (18b) of the collecting tank, advantageously in the bottom part (180d), said discharge aperture (182) being provided with a lid (19) that can be opened for removing clippings from the tank,

- an actuator (191) is fitted in connection with the lid (19) of the discharge aperture (182) of the collecting tank (18) for opening and closing said lid, and the actuator (191) and the emptying of the collecting tank are controlled by intermediation of a control unit (11) provided in the device, according to instructions given from management and control means (9).

2. An arrangement for handling clippings according to claim I₅ characterized in that the collecting tank (18) is provided with perforations or holes (28; 19a).

3. An arrangement for handling clippings according to claim 2, characterized in that the collecting tank perforations (28) are provided with a shutting element, such as a shutting plate (26), with suitable actuator elements (27) in connection with said perforations for moving the shutting plate (26), so that the perforations are closed and respectively opened.

4. An arrangement for handling clippings according to claim 2, characterized in that the lid (19) of the discharge aperture (182) is provided with perforations (19a).

5. An arrangement for handling clippings according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, characterized in that the discharge aperture (182) is provided with a clippings distribution device (192).

6. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the collecting tank (18) is fastened by fastening elements (16a, 16b) at the side walls (180e, 180f) to the cavity (15) arranged at the frame end (42), particularly to the inner sides of the branches (42a, 42b).

7. An arrangement for handling clippings according to claim 6, characterized in that the collecting tank (18) is fastened, turnably in the vertical direction, by suitable fastening pins and recesses (16a, 16b) to the cavity (15) arranged at the end (42) of the frame (4).

8. An arrangement for handling clippings according to claim 6, characterized in that the collecting tank (18) is functionally connected to the lifting/lowering unit of the cutting unit, so that the lifting of the cutting unit (20) to the rest position and respectively its lowering to the work position swivels the collecting tank (18) from the collecting position to the discharge position.

9. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that in shape, the collecting tank (18) is essentially a right- angled rectangle.

10. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the collecting tank (18) is detachably fastened frame to the cavity (15) arranged at the end (42) of the frame (4).

11. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the blower unit (10) is connected directly to the collecting tank (18).

12. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the blower unit (10) comprises a centrifugal blower device.

13. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the blower unit (10) comprises a double centrifugal blower device, where one actuator runs two blower devices (10a, 10b).

14. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the collecting tank (18) is provided with a sensor (29) for indicating the degree of filling of the collecting tank.

15. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a number of cutting units (20; 2Oa₅ 20b, 20c) arranged in succession and in an overlapping fashion; said cutting units include a cutter (202), and are fastened to a support frame (21), that can be lifted to the rest position and lowered to the work position, characterized in that the transport duct (17) is realized of a number of flexible connecting pipes (171), by means of which one or several discharge apertures (13; 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) of each chamber (12) of the cutting unit (20) is connected, suitably by a connecting piece (172), such as Y- shaped connecting piece, to the suction aperture of the blower unit (10).

16. An arrangement for handling clippings according to claim 15, characterized in that the blower unit (10) is fitted in the transport duct (17) in the central area of the pattern, such as a triangle, formed by the cutting units.

17. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chamber (12), discharge aperture (13), transport duct (17) and collecting tank (18) of the cutting unit (20) are arranged within a vertical area, the top level (D) of which is at maximum located in the top part of the cavity (15), and the bottom level (E) forms part of the bottom level of the chamber (12) of the cutting unit (20), when the cutting unit (20) is in the working position.

18. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the discharge aperture (13; 13a) of the cutting unit chamber (12) is arranged at the side wall (201a) of the cutting unit frame.

19. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the discharge aperture (13; 13b; 13c, 13d) of the cutting unit chamber (12) is arranged at the rear wall (201b) of the cutting unit frame. ,

20. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cutting unit chamber (12) is designed in a shape that narrows towards the discharge aperture (13; 13b; 13c, 13d).

21. An arrangement for handling clippings according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cutting unit (20) is provided with a cleaning device (120) for cleaning the cutter (202) and the chamber (12) receiving clippings.

22. An arrangement for handling clippings according to claim 21, characterized in that the cleaning device (120) comprises a chamber (121) for the washing agent, said chamber (121) being provided with a connecting duct (123) and nozzles (122), most advantageously small perforations, and that the chamber (121) is arranged in the cutting unit frame (201), in the vicinity of the cutter (202), so that the nozzles (121) point towards the cutter (202), and that in a cleaning situation, the connecting duct (123) is connected to a pressurized medium source, such as the water mains, a washing liquid source or a pressurized air source.

23. A collecting tank (18) for collecting clippings, to be used in connection with the frame (4) of a device (1) meant for cutting lawn, said device including at least one cutter (202) provided with a cutting unit (20; 20a, 20b, 20c), the collecting tank having an inlet aperture (181), through which clippings are fed from the cutting unit to the collecting tank, which collecting tank can be opened for removing clippings from the collecting tank, characterized in that

- a discharge aperture (182) for removing clippings from the collecting tank is arranged at the lower part (18b) of the collecting tank, preferably in the bottom part (180d) that should be arranged essentially on the level of the bottom part (45) of the device frame (4),

- a lid (19) is arranged at the discharge aperture (182), and - an actuator (191) is fitted in connection with the lid (19) of the discharge aperture (182) of the collecting tank (18) for opening and for closing it.

24. A collecting tank according to claim 23, characterized in that a blower unit (10) is connected to the collecting tank (18).

25. A collecting tank according to claim 24, characterized in that the collecting tank (18) is provided with perforations or holes (28; 19a).

26. A collecting tank according to claim 25, characterized in that the collecting tank perforations (28) are provided with a shutting element, such as a shutting plate (26), in connection with which there are arranged suitable actuators (27) for moving the shutting plate (26), so that the perforations can be closed and respectively opened.

27. A collecting tank according to claim 25, characterized in that the lid (19) of the discharge aperture (182) is provided with perforations (19a).

28. A collecting tank according to claim 23, 24, 25, 26 or 27, characterized in that the discharge aperture (182) is provided with a device (192) for distributing clippings.

29. A collecting tank according to any of the preceding claims 23 - 28, characterized in that the collecting tank (18) is provided with fastening elements (16; 16a) that are most advantageously arranged at its side walls (18Oe, 180f), by with fastening elements the collecting tank can be attached to corresponding fastening elements (16; 16b) of the frame (4), particularly of the cavity (15) of its end (42), said fastening elements being fitted particularly on the side walls of the branches (42a, 42b) of the end forming the cavity.

30. A collecting tank according to claim 29, characterized in that the fastening elements (16) of the collecting tank (18) and the frame (4) are fastening pins and recesses (16a, 16b), by which the collecting tank is attached vertically turnably to the cavity (15) of the end (42) of the frame (4).

31. A collecting tank according to any of the preceding claims 23 - 30, characterized in that in shape, the collecting tank (18) is essentially a right-angled rectangle.

32. A collecting tank according to any of the preceding claims 23 - 31, characterized in that the collecting tank (18) is provided with a sensor (29) for indicating the degree of filling of the collecting tank.

33. A frame (4) for a device (1) for cutting lawn, which device includes at least one cutting unit (20; 20a, 20b, 20c) provided with a cutter (202), and in connection with which frame there is arranged a collecting tank (18) provided with an inlet aperture (181), through inlet which clippings are brought from the cutting unit to the collecting tank, which collecting tank can be opened for removing clippings from the collecting tank, characterized in that the end part (42) of the frame, to which the cutting unit (20) is attached, is formed of two branches (42a, 42b), the space left between said branches is arranged as a cavity (15) for the collecting tank (18), and the mutually facing sides of said two branches are provided with first fastening elements (16; 16b), to which the corresponding second fastening elements (16; 16a) of the collecting tank (18) can be fitted for fastening the collecting tank, so that the front part (18a) of the collecting tank is located essentially in the tip portion of the frame end (42), and simultaneously at the front end of the cavity, and that respectively its rear part (18b) is located in the rear portion of the cavity, and that the bottom part (180d) of the collecting tank is located essentially on the level of the frame bottom part (45).

34. A frame (4) of a device (1) for cutting lawn according to claim 33, characterized in that the fastening elements (16) of the collecting tank (18) and frame (4) are fastening pins and recesses (16a, 16b), by which the collecting tank is attached vertically turnably to the cavity (15) at the end (42) of the frame (4).

35. A cutting unit (20; 20a, 20b, 20c) for a device (1) for cutting lawn, said cutting unit provided with a cutter (202), characterized in that the cutting unit (20) is provided with a cleaning device (120) for cleaning the cutter (202) and the chamber (12) receiving the clippings.

36. A cutting unit according to claim 35, characterized in that the cleaning device (120) comprises a chamber (121) for a washing agent, said chamber (121) being provided with a connecting duct (123) and nozzles (122), most advantageously small perforations, and that the chamber (121) is arranged in the cutting unit frame (201), in the vicinity of the cutter (202), so that the nozzles (121) point towards the cutter (202), and that in a cleaning situation, the connecting duct (123) is connectable to a pressurized medium source, such as the water mains, a washing liquid source or a pressurized air source.