WO2010019058A2

WO2010019058A2 - Mouldboard improvements for grading equipment

Info

Publication number: WO2010019058A2
Application number: PCT/NZ2009/000168
Authority: WO
Inventors: Daniel Poharama
Original assignee: Nzlvr Consulting Limited
Priority date: 2008-08-11
Filing date: 2009-08-11
Publication date: 2010-02-18
Also published as: WO2010019058A3; AU2009280370A1; NZ591680A

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a modified mouldboard and attachment means for use on grading apparatus. The mouldboard (1) is modified to posses two opposing blade edges (3, 4), and connects to the grading apparatus a connection point (5) allowing rotation by 150° or more about a substantially horizontal axis, and by virtue of inclination control means connected to an inclination attachment point (8). This arrangement allows the top (3) and lower (4) edges to be alternated lowermost to make ground contact. A rotary joint, present on most grading apparatus, allows the mouldboard (1) to be rotated about a substantially vertical axis to allow the front of the mouldboard (1) to face forwardly, as required, regardless of which edge (3, 4) is lowermost.

Description

MOULDBOARD IMPROVEMENTS FOR GRADING EQUIPMENT

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention is directed to apparatus for improving the functionality of mould- boards (moldboards) for graders and similar equipment. Improvements focus on the rotation of mouldboards with different profiles as an alternative to operator replacement of mouldboards when a different profile is required.

BACKGROUND DESCRIPTION

The present invention is directed to mouldboards, a piece of equipment typically used on graders and similar vehicles. While such techniques are used on different vehicles for a variety of applications including road construction, unsealed road maintenance, site levelling, snow ploughing (and grit spreading), and ballast spreading (railroad) etc., for simplicity the present specification will focus on the well known grader used in unsealed road maintenance. The principles and requirements for other applications, such as listed above, are similar and it is thus envisaged that the skilled reader and/or worker will be able to understand the principles described herein and apply them to their own particular use or application.

In road maintenance, graders are often used at several times for spreading base-course layers, intermediate layers, and final top layers. Road maintenance varies, particularly according to local practice and problems as well as the type of road surface, though a main function of the grader essentially remains the same - to level aggregate material to a desired level and profile. In practice they may also be used for other roles, such as to break up and blend the existing material on unsealed road surfaces.

In practice, the levelling (and other applications) is achieved by the use of a mouldboard - the large, typically concave, blade seen in the middle of graders. The quality of the finish achieved by grading is dependent primarily on two factors - the skill of the operator, and using the correct mould-board edge profile. For instance, unsealed road maintenance and drain profiling generally requires a straight lower edge on the mouldboard while surface grooming would typically use a mouldboard with a toothed lower edge. Other mouldboard profiles may be used for obtaining various finishes or for various applications. In practice, an operator will often need to use more than one mouldboard blade profile. For light surface levelling on an unsealed road in reasonable condition, a straight edge blade will be used. Drain clearing and profiling will also often use of a straight edge blade, such blades being less prone to fouling (compared to toothed (comb) blades) by vegetation. Straight edges are also ideal for quality grooming work.

In contrast a toothed blade is preferred in some instances. For instance, in road maintenance, the toothed or irregular lower edge is needed for removing surface defects or breaking up the top surface to the bottom of the pot-hole or corrugation prior to spreading new aggregate (optional) and re-levelling. The toothed blade is also preferred for re- blending new aggregate with the existing unsealed road surface, and is also suitable for performing an acceptable final grooming when used in the foregoing situations. Best practice also suggests that a toothed blade is better for surface re-levelling (even on a road in good condition) if it is damp, though if wet weather is imminent then either a smooth blade will be used, or grading deferred - a toothed blade can open up the top structure of the road allowing water erosion if heavy rain follows soon after grading.

Hence, it can be seen that achieving a good result requires using the best blade for the situation. Failing to use the correct blade profile can result in inferior results and reduced roading durability, the consequence being the need for more frequent maintenance or more substantial roading repairs in the near future. Hence, in an ideal world the operator would use the correct mouldboard profile for the job. Unfortunately, as spare mouldboards are kept back at the depot, the operator must make a note to return to the work area with the correct mouldboard, or to complete the job when next in the area with the correct mouldboard. The consequence is that this does not always happen, or that there are significant delays before the operator returns. During this time accelerated roading degradation may occur due to scheduled road maintenance being delayed, or sometimes being overlooked. One must also consider the added fuel and operator costs for a grader to return to an area - this can be quite considerable when covering a large network of country roads.

In the real world either certain maintenance is delayed or forgotten (as mentioned above) or the operator decides to use the lesser preferred mouldboard for the task at hand. The result is often an inferior finish. Even if replacement mouldboards were transported (also difficult due to size and weight) to a temporary staging area in the vicinity of where a grader is working, it cannot always be guaranteed that the correct mouldboard will always be used. For an operator to select the correct blade profile, they must remove the existing mouldboard and fit a different mould-board altogether. Mouldboard blades are not typically changed except when in need of repair, and would be time consuming to replace. In practice, an operator would have a separate mouldboard for each type of blade they require, though most unsealed road maintenance operators will tend to have only a straight edge (smooth) blade mouldboard, and a toothed (combed) mouldboard.

The problem of operators not changing mouldboards arises partly out of the size and weight of the mouldboard. Due to the rigours of their use, they are typically well constructed using quite a bit of steel - many designs have additional steel reinforcing ribs in their design, and some use special toughened or armoured blades, all of which adds to the weight. Accordingly it will typically take two relatively strong and able bodied people around two hours to change a mouldboard. The consequence is that often the mouldboard is not changed except when necessary to do so for a large job requiring that type of blade.

Consider the situation of a single grader operator working on unsealed country back roads. They may be required to deal with a mixture of 'good condition' roading sections, heavily corrugated or pot-holed sections, and some roadside drain re-profiling or clearing. These tasks dictate that both smooth and toothed blade mouldboards be used, for best practice. However there is usually no-one to assist with changing the mouldboard. Given also the time taken to change a mouldboard, they may be lucky to complete more than a couple of sections a day. In reality there may also be pressure to finish a great deal more sections per day. The result is often that a grader operator will either use just one blade type to do all jobs, or jump between sections that day using the correct mouldboard. At the end of the day the mouldboard would (ideally) be changed at the depot. The next day the operator would return and visit the previously skipped sections using the mouldboard with the correct blade. The problems which arise are that sometimes sections are missed and not re-visited, or that traffic using the road in the meantime has caused additional problems when only preparatory work has been performed. Problems of co-ordinating other road work crew also arise. Depositing new aggregate onto the road surface for re- blending is best performed only when the grader has a toothed blade, though the aggregate vehicles may not be available on the days the grader has the correct blade. Depositing the aggregate on the road prior to the grader returning with the correct blade is not ideal if traffic is using the road in the meantime - the aggregate may be spread by the traffic, or washed away if heavy rain occurs before the grader can return.

Hence, trying to achieve a 'best practice' quality job can be extremely difficult due to logistical problems such as discussed. The consequence is often a compromise on job quality, or significantly increased costs associated with revisiting partially completed areas, operator downtime while mouldboards are changed, and possible road deterioration due to delays.

Hence there is a real problem regarding the incorrect use of mouldboards, which stems primarily from the difficulty (and time) for operators to select and use the correct mouldboard profile as required.

Accordingly there is a need to provide an improved apparatus making it easier for operators to select different mouldboard blade profiles on apparatus which use mouldboards.

Accordingly, it is also an object of the present invention to consider addressing the above problems.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an improved attachment method for a mouldboard to a vehicle, allowing the more ready accessibility of different mouldboard blade edges to the vehicle operator.

At the very least it is an object of the present invention to provide the public with a useful alternative choice.

Aspects of the present invention will be described by way of example only and with reference to the ensuing description.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

For the purposes of this specification and any claims, the term "grading operation" shall include (but not be restricted to) any one or more of: levelling a ground surface, contouring or profiling a ground surface, spreading loose or aggregate material, breaking up and/or lifting a ground surface; and wherein ground surface means the general region on which the grading apparatus is working. Grading apparatus may include a vehicle typically known as a grader, a vehicle used for spreading, levelling and/or profiling ground contours in road construction or site levelling, a vehicle used in spreading levelling and/or profiling ballast for railroad use, and a vehicle used for clearing snow - for example.

In this specification we shall, for simplicity, refer to the mouldboard as being the typical plough-like assembly attached to a vehicle for grading operations. The mouldboard has a body of at least one long edge (traditionally) has a blade adapted for a grading type operation. This blade may be integral or replaceable in respect of the present invention. The applicant is aware that sometimes the mouldboard itself is referred to as a plough or a blade in the art and field. However, the term 'blade' when used herein (unless otherwise indicated) shall refer to the edge portion of the mouldboard which makes contact with the ground/work surface during a grading operation. Also, where the term 'point' is used in relation to 'connection point' or 'pivot point' (or the like) we intend to include mechanical equivalents - for instance a more complicated arrangement comprising multiple actual points of connection may substitute for a single connection point.

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, said mouldboard comprising a body with separated first and second opposing edges, said first and second opposing edges either or both comprising a grading edge suitable for a grading operation, or provision for the attachment of one or more grading edge components to adapt said opposing edge for a grading operation; the body including mouldboard attachment means, including a pivotable connection portion, allowing connection of the mouldboard to said grading apparatus.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said mouldboard attachment means comprises at least one pivotable connection portion positioned between, and substantially equidistant from, said first and second opposing edges.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said pivotable connection portion allows for pivoting of said mouldboard about an edge conversion axis which is either or both of substantially parallel to either or both of said first and second opposing edges, or substantially parallel to a line bisecting said first and second opposing edges.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said mouldboard body has a leading face and a rearward face, and in which said pivotable connection portion is positioned rear of said rearward face of the body.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which the mouldboard includes an inclination control pivot portion, to which a device for controlling the inclination of the mouldboard, in relation to said edge conversion axis, is either connected or attachable.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said device for controlling the inclination of the mouldboard comprises at least one of: a hydraulic ram, a ratcheting arm, or an arm whose length can be varied and locked into place.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which the alternate end of said device for controlling the inclination of the mouldboard is attachable to said grading apparatus or a component associated therewith.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said inclination control pivot portion is positioned rearwardly of said pivotable connection portion.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said inclination control pivot portion is substantially equidistant from said first and second opposing edges.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which the grading edges of either or both of said first and second opposing edges are selected from a group of grading edges comprising: a straight edge, a combed edge, a toothed edge, a sharpened edge, a variegated edge, a corrugated edge, a rippled edge, an edge with hardened teeth, and an edge with rotating attachments.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which the grading edges of either or both of said first and second opposing edges comprise one or more powered components.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which a powered component comprises a member of the group consisting of: rotating grinding wheels, rotating scarifiers, teeth whose angle changes and which angle may be about a substantially vertical axis.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said powered components are powered by a hydraulic and/or electric feed from the grading apparatus.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which a leading face of the body is concave.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which the body of the mouldboard, when viewed in plan is one of: substantially straight, curved, or 'V-shaped.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which the mouldboard attachment means is adapted to connect to a standard connection fitting used on grading apparatus.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus for use with a mouldboard, substantially as described above, said mouldboard attachment apparatus comprising:

- a body portion for attachment to grading apparatus; - at least one pivot mounting point for attachment to a pivotable connection portion on said mouldboard, and

- inclination control means connectable to an inclination control pivot portion provided on said mouldboard.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said inclination control means comprises a hydraulically powered arm.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said inclination control means allows for rotation of said mouldboard, about a substantially horizontal axis, by at least 150°.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said pivot mounting point is on a moveable mounting portion in which either of both of the position and elevation thereof can be altered with respect to the body portion of said mouldboard attachment apparatus.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above, in which the position and/or elevation of said moveable mounting portion can be altered by means of a hydraulically powered mechanism.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above, in which the mouldboard attachment apparatus is mountable to said grading apparatus at a point allowing rotation of an attached mouldboard, of commensurate size for the particular grading apparatus, about a substantially vertical axis and through a rotational arc of at least 150°.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above, in which rotation of the attached mouldboard by at least 360° is provided for. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above, which includes a rotating joint allowing for said rotation of said attached mouldboard.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above, in which a rotary hydraulic joint is utilised for rotation of the attached mouldboard.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above, in which rotation of the attached mouldboard by at least 180° is provided for by said rotating joint.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above, in which continuous rotation of the attached mouldboard is provided for.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a modified mouldboard assembly for use on grading apparatus, said assembly comprising a mouldboard, substantially as described above, in combination with mouldboard attachment apparatus, substantially as described above; said apparatus being further characterised in that said mouldboard can be rotated by powered means through an arc of at least 150° about a said edge conversion axis.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a modified mouldboard assembly, substantially as described above, in which rotation through an arc of at least 200° is provided for.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a modified mouldboard assembly, substantially as described above, in which the modified mouldboard assembly includes a rotational joint for rotation of the mouldboard, about a substantially vertical axis, by at least 180°.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided grading apparatus comprising a mouldboard substantially as described above.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided grading apparatus comprising mouldboard attachment apparatus substantially as described above. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided grading apparatus, substantially as described above, in which said grading apparatus comprises a vehicle comprising one or more of: a vehicle typically known as a grader, a vehicle used for spreading, levelling and/or profiling ground contours in road construction or site levelling, a vehicle used in spreading levelling and/or profiling ballast for railroad use, and a vehicle used for clearing snow.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for modifying grading apparatus comprising the attachment of a mouldboard to grading apparatus; the grading apparatus being attached via a rotating joint allowing rotation of the mouldboard about a substantially vertical axis by an angle of at 180° or more; the mouldboard being attached by a pivotable connection allowing rotation of the mouldboard about a substantially horizontal axis through an angle of 150° or more.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method, substantially as described above, in which the said rotations of the mouldboard are controllable by a user of the grading apparatus.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method, substantially as described above, in which the rotations of the mouldboard are effected by hydraulically powered components.

The present invention comprises a number of individually novel inventive components capable of interacting to provide a novel and useful inventive solution. The inventive solution, which we shall address first, addresses the physical and time-related difficulties of changing existing mouldboards so that operators can use the correct mouldboard for a particular application.

In its simplest form the solution comprises the use of a hitherto unknown multiple edged mouldboard. Mouldboards typically have two long opposing edges which, in typical usage, are a top edge and a bottom edge. Only the bottom edge is suitable for grading operations, and the design of the mouldboard mount precludes its use in any other orientation than at the bottom of the mouldboard. In the present invention, both the top and bottom opposing edges (the first longitudinal edge and the second longitudinal edge - longitudinal referring to the fact that they are oriented in a general longitudinal direction with respect to the length of the mouldboard) of the mouldboard are profiled and constructed to be suitable for grading operations. Typically each longitudinal opposing edge has a profile suitable for a different type of grading operation. A number of different combinations of edge profiles may be employed on different embodiments of a double edged mouldboard of the present invention, allowing users to select a mouldboard with a profile combination best suiting their needs. It is envisaged that for road construction work, a toothed (comb-like edge) profile in combination with a straight edge profile would be a useful and versatile combination. Other combinations are, of course, possible.

Hence, part of the inventive solution comprises a mouldboard having at least two edge profiles for the operator of grading apparatus to choose from.

In practice a mouldboard might have two integrated blade edges, though in a preferred embodiment a grading edge comprises replaceable blade components. This not only allows for repair, but also for mouldboards to be manufactured or modified more readily with different combinations of blades on opposing faces. This also allows a user to adapt or upgrade their mouldboard blades over time or as needed.

For the solution to be effected in a useful manner, provision needs to be made for either of the two edges of the mouldboard to be deployed according to the desire of the operator of grading apparatus with which the mouldboard is associated. The preferred embodiment of the invention utilises a rotational movement, and more specifically about an edge conversion axis which will be described further below. In order for this to be effected, provision for the mouldboard to undergo at least partial rotation about this substantially horizontal axis is necessary. This need can be accommodated by providing pivotable attachment or connection means on the mouldboard (typically on the back face thereof) to allow connection to other components of the various embodiments of the invention, so as to allow mouldboard pivoting/rotation.

As rotation is generally powered (though can be manual in some embodiments), there is typically also provided an inclination control pivot portion to which powered control means for fixing and changing the rotational position of the mouldboard (about the edge conversion axis) can be effected.

Effectively the pivotable connection about the edge conversion axis allows for a mouldboard, attached to grading apparatus, to be rotated from a forward facing direction and downwardly through to a rearward facing direction. This involves rotation about the substantially horizontal edge conversion axis, and is best illustrated in figures Ia through Ie.

Use may be made of an existing rotatable mouldboard mount on typical graders which allow a traditional mouldboard to be rotated, typically by at least 180°, about a substantially vertical axis. Hence, while the rotational operations of the preceding paragraph swap the top blade edge to the bottom, the mouldboard is now facing in the wrong direction (for forward travel of the grader). Hence the rotating mouldboard mount on existing graders can be used to rotate and face the mouldboard forwardly (as required), or modified to do so. This operation is best shown in figures Ie through Ig.

While there are different methods of attachment, particularly when considering different types of grading apparatus, a double edged mouldboard is typically, and most preferably, used in conjunction with mouldboard attachment apparatus. Such apparatus generally affixes to the grading apparatus. It may be designed to retrofit to existing connection points on the grading apparatus. On a typical road-use grader, the mouldboard attachment apparatus may attach to the rotating attachment platform so that the already provided rotational joint (for rotating a mouldboard about a substantially vertical axis) can be utilised. However, a rotational joint can be provided on some embodiments of mouldboard attachment apparatus to replace that already provided on most modern graders for road construction use.

The mouldboard attachment apparatus will typically include at least an attachment point for the inclination control apparatus. Such apparatus will typically be hydraulically powered, and may comprise a hydraulic arm/ram - typically a double acting ram or a pair of opposing rams, though various other implementations are possible. The inclination control apparatus may be controllable from within the cab or operator control area of the grading apparatus. The mouldboard attachment apparatus will typically also include at least one pivot mounting point for attachment to a pivotable connection portion on said mouldboard, enabling the double edged mouldboard to pivot about the edge conversion axis.

Thus far, the double edged mouldboard in combination with the mouldboard attachment apparatus provides a modified mouldboard assembly that can be mounted on grading apparatus and wherein the mouldboard can be in a first orientation where a first longitudinal edge is lowermost for performing a grading action on the ground (e.g. figure Ia), and wherein the mouldboard can be rotated/pivoted in an arc about the edge conversion axis so that said second longitudinal edge becomes lowermost to the ground (e.g. figure Ie). Ideally this rotation is powered, but can be mechanically driven. Most usefully, the mouldboard can also be rotated about a substantially vertical axis so as to face substantially forwardly, or rearwardly, according to how the operator of the grading apparatus wishes to use it. Use can be made of an existing rotating joint on standard grading apparatus (typically used so that the mouldboard facing direction can be altered so that the grader can work in either a forward or reverse direction) though such a joint (preferably with driving means (typically hydraulic)) can be provided on the mouldboard attachment apparatus.

Such a combination, used on grading apparatus, typically improves the versatility of the apparatus in operation. Changing mouldboard profiles can merely mean effecting a couple of hydraulically powered mouldboard rotational operations from the cab, rather than the several hours for disconnecting one mouldboard and replacing it with another. This represents a potentially realisable advantage in terms of productivity, reduced operator injury, and job quality.

Referring back to the mouldboard, typical designs will reflect existing mouldboard design characteristics - mainly so operators do not have to re-learn different characteristics for quite different designs. Hence, most mouldboards will typically be substantially rectangular when viewed from the front. They will also be typically concave when viewed from the side, as per current practice. From above (or below) the longitudinal edges will typically be straight. However other designs can be implemented. For instance, the longitudinal edges need not be straight when viewed from above or below - they might be

'V shaped (like a snow plough), curved, or adopt other configurations. Longitudinal edges need not be straight when viewed from the front, but maybe curved, dished, tapered, corrugated, sawtooth, or another configuration in general appearance. Hence, the front viewed shape of the mouldboard need not be generally rectangular, but may be parallelogram, trapezoid, polygonal, or other geometric shapes (comprising straight and/or curved edge sections). A large variety of user choice thus exists for mouldboard design.

As mentioned before, a variety of longitudinal edge profiles may also be utilised on different embodiments, allowing a great versatility of applications - some possible profile designs including: a straight edge, a combed edge, a toothed edge, a sharpened edge, a variegated edge, a corrugated edge, a rippled edge, an edge with hardened teeth, and an edge with rotating attachments. Edge profiles may also comprise removable and replaceable/substitutable elements or sections - useful for speeding repair or modifying existing equipment for specific applications.

Powered components may be present on a blade edge. These may be powered by a hydraulic, electrical, or other connection from the grading apparatus. These powered components may comprise one or more of: rotating grinding wheels, rotating scarifiers, teeth whose angle changes and which angle may be about a substantially vertical axis

The edge conversion axis, previously mentioned, is typically (in use on grading apparatus) substantially parallel to the ground plane. With reference to the longitudinal edges, for a rectangular mouldboard (i.e. rectangular in appearance when viewed from the front, and where the longitudinal edges are substantially parallel to each other) the edge conversion axis is typically parallel to the longitudinal edges. Where both longitudinal edges are not parallel, the edge conversion axis may be parallel to either or neither of the longitudinal edges. In the latter case it may be substantially parallel to an imaginary axis midway between (or averaging) the vectors of the longitudinal edges, or comprise a vector between the vectors of the longitudinal edges. In general principle, the edge conversion axis should be such that rotation thereabout does not cause the mouldboard to interfere with the ground while undergoing rotation thereabout.

Typically, permitted rotation about the edge conversion axis is at least 150°, more preferably at least 180°, and more preferably by at least 200°. Rotation of the mouldboard about a vertical axis, should be permitted for at least 150°, more preferably at least 220°, even more preferably at least 330° and ideally continuously rotatable.

Powering of control devices is ideally hydraulic, to allow for utilisation of existing hydraulic circuits in most grading apparatus. Other power means (electrical, fossil fuel driven, manual) are also possible.

Mouldboard construction is typically of standardly used materials such as steel and iron. Hardened teeth or teeth inserts may comprise other materials. Other materials may also be considered and employed for various components of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Figures la-g are a partial sequence of drawings illustrating operation of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.,

Figure 2 is a diagrammatic view of a preferred embodiment of a mouldboard according to the present invention, and

Figure 3 is a diagrammatic view of a preferred embodiment of mouldboard attachment apparatus according to the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

With reference to the drawings, and by way of example only, there is illustrated in figure 2 a mouldboard (1) according to the present invention, with a mouldboard attachment means (2) for connection to mouldboard attachment apparatus (generally indicated by arrow 3) on a grader (generally indicated by arrow 14). The mouldboard attachment means (2) includes provision (5) for a pivotal connection to the mouldboard attachment apparatus (3). This pivot point (5) is positioned to the rear of the mouldboard (1) and approximately equidistant from the top and bottom longitudinal edges (6a, 6b) of the mouldboard (1). The pivot axis which passes therethrough (5) is preferably substantially parallel in direction to at least one of said longitudinal edges (6a, 6b), and is parallel to both in the illustrated embodiment. A connection point (8) allows for connection of a hydraulic ram (35) for varying the inclination of the mouldboard assembly (10) about the pivot axis (located at pivot connection point (5)). The connection point (8) may be slightly off- centre from the bisecting plane dividing the embodiment of figure 2 into a top half and bottom half. Various intermediate mechanical connections between the end of the ram (35) and connection point (8) may also be used to ensure that rotation (about the axis associated with connection point (5)) occurs smoothly in the same direction, rather than stopping and reversing when the ram is at its shortest length. Various mechanical solutions are known (and would be within the skill of the nominal skilled reader) to address this issue, and may be employed in various embodiments of the present invention.

One longitudinal edge (6a) allows for the connection of a blade (3) which typically of a different type to the second blade (4) on the other longitudinal edge (6b) of the mouldboard (1). This provides a modified mouldboard assembly (generally indicated by arrow 10).

The mouldboard attachment apparatus comprises a body portion (30) for attachment to the existing rotating platform of the grader (14), conventionally provided to vary the angle of an attached mouldboard about a vertical axis. Depending downwardly from the body portion (30) is at least one arm (31) providing a pivot mounting point (34) for connection to the pivot point (5) on the mouldboard assembly (10). These are positioned to allow rotation of the mouldboard assembly by at least 180° about the pivot axis passing through connection points (4, 34).

Inclination is controlled by a hydraulic ram (35) connection to the body portion (30) and attachable to the provided connection point (8) on the mouldboard assembly (10).

In operation, the attached mouldboard assembly (10) can be pivoted to allow grading with either of blades (3) or (4), through control of the hydraulic ram (35). Swapping between different mounted blades (3, 4) is best shown in the sequence of figures 1. In figures Ia through Ie the mouldboard assembly is pivoted by 180° about the pivot axis associated with connection points (5, 34). Then the mouldboard assembly (10) is swung 180° about a vertical axis (figures Ie through Ig) using the existing rotating mounting platform of a conventional grader. At this point the alternate blade (3) is now ready for use. It should be appreciated that rotation about both the aforesaid rotational axes may occur substantially simultaneously, and not necessarily sequentially.

The mouldboard' s (1) body is typically of steel according to normal practice though it is envisage that other materials may be used. Similarly the mouldboard attachment means (2) may be of steel and bolted, welded or otherwise affixed to the main body of the mouldboard (1). The pivotable connection pints (5) and (8) may merely comprise an aperture, though may also be modified by the use of a hardened sleeve insert or a bearing insert.

While the Standard rotating joint (generally indicated by arrow 33) on the grader (14) may be used to rotate the mouldboard about a vertical axis, this joint (which incorporates the mouldboard mount) may be modified - particularly if its rotation is limited. Ideally a rotation of at least 180° is desired, though greater or continuous rotation is preferred. Hence, it may be necessary to modify or replace this joint. Mouldboard attachment means which includes an independent (of the graders rotational joint) rotation joint may be used if substitution or modification of the existing grader's rotating joint is too difficult (or on apparatus where such a joint is not present.

Where the apparatus is used on grading apparatus where means for rotation of the mouldboard about a substantially vertical axis does not exist, mouldboard attachment apparatus intermediate the mouldboard (of the present invention) and the grading apparatus is necessary. For simplicity, this mouldboard attachment apparatus may comprise a rotating joint with means for attachment (typically to the underside) of the grading vehicle, and suitable connection points for the mouldboard and the inclination connection means. Reference may be made to the grading apparatus attachment means

(33) of figure Ia which illustrates the preferred key components of any mouldboard attachment means for preferred mounting of a mouldboard according to the present invention. Hence grading apparatus should be fitted with, or having existing components modified to, mouldboard attachment means such as generally illustrated by arrow (33) in figure Ia.

Examples of Use

The general description provides an outline of typical uses of the present invention. Most grader users are familiar with the use of different blades, and when they should be used. The difficulty of quickly changing blades has been identified as a key reason why the best blade for the job is not always used, instead using what is on the grader at the time to achieve a result. It is envisaged that a skilled operator will be well aware of what blade combinations to choose for a blade assembly on a particular job, and can now quickly swap the contacting edge by virtue of the present invention. Hence the present invention will find common use in conventional techniques.

An example of use in construction grading follows:

On large road construction sites (new or existing) some of the stages of this process are:

• Overlay area with a base-course / sub-base aggregate

• Cement or lime stabilize prepared overlay

• Compact, shape and trim road pavement to survey levels

Many times the cement/lime stabilized pavement has hardened before the final trim levels have been achieved resulting in high pavement areas that still need cutting down to survey levels and low pavement areas that need to be filled to survey levels.

The standard practice of dealing with this problem is to use either front or rear mounted scarifiers/rippers on the motor grader to loosen the hardened stabilized pavement. This type of practice causes a highly notable deformation of parallel lines imbedded into the pavement that is impossible to remove or fill and shows through to the final stages even when covered with chip sealing.

The sandvik-type blades have a consistent milling action that will shave these high areas without leaving a scarred pavement as it would then be easy to tidy over with the normal straight edged blade. Good practice dictates that sandvik type blades be used, though they are not for the reason of the difficulty and time involved for changing a blade according to standard methods and equipment.

This sandvik blade type of milling action can also be used as a more cost effective alternative in many cases to the more expensive milling machines, especially in locations where these types of machines are hard to come by. The present invention therefore presents the user with a cheaper and potentially better quality (finish) option than the prior art.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention as described herein. It should also be understood that the term "comprise" where used herein is not to be considered to be used in a limiting sense. Accordingly, 'comprise' does not represent nor define an exclusive set of items, but includes the possibility of other components and items being added to the list.

This specification is also based on the understanding of the inventor regarding the prior art. The prior art description should not be regarded as being authoritative disclosure on the true state of the prior art but rather as referencing considerations brought to the mind and attention of the inventor when developing this invention.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE:

1. A mouldboard for use on grading apparatus, said mouldboard comprising a body with separated first and second opposing edges, said first and second opposing edges either or both comprising a grading edge suitable for a grading operation, or provision for the attachment of one or more grading edge components to adapt said opposing edge for a grading operation; the body including mouldboard attachment means, including a pivotable connection portion, allowing connection of the mouldboard to said grading apparatus.

2. A mouldboard as claimed in claim 1 in which said mouldboard attachment means comprises at least one pivotable connection portion positioned between, and substantially equidistant from, said first and second opposing edges.

3. A mouldboard as claimed in claim 2 in which said pivotable connection portion allows for pivoting of said mouldboard about an edge conversion axis which is either or both of substantially parallel to either or both of said first and second opposing edges, or substantially parallel to a line bisecting said first and second opposing edges.

4. A mouldboard as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3 in which said mouldboard body has a leading face and a rearward face, and in which said pivotable connection portion is positioned rear of said rearward face of the body.

5. A mouldboard as claimed in any one of claims 2 through 4 in which the mouldboard includes an inclination control pivot portion, to which a device for controlling the inclination of the mouldboard, in relation to said edge conversion axis, is either connected or attachable.

6. A mouldboard as claimed in claim 5 in which said device for controlling the inclination of the mouldboard comprises at least one of: a hydraulic ram, a ratcheting arm, or an arm whose length can be varied and locked into place.

7. A mouldboard as claimed in claim 6 in which the alternate end of said device for controlling the inclination of the mouldboard is attachable to said grading apparatus or a component associated therewith.

8. A mouldboard as claimed in any one of claims 5 through 7 in which said inclination control pivot portion is positioned rearwardly of said pivotable connection portion.

9. A mouldboard as claimed in claim 8 in which said inclination control pivot portion is substantially equidistant from said first and second opposing edges.

10. A mouldboard as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the grading edges of either or both of said first and second opposing edges are selected from a group of grading edges comprising: a straight edge, a combed edge, a toothed edge, a sharpened edge, a variegated edge, a corrugated edge, a rippled edge, an edge with hardened teeth, and an edge with rotating attachments.

11. A mouldboard as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the grading edges of either or both of said first and second opposing edges comprise one or more powered components.

12. A mouldboard as claimed in claim 11 in which a powered component comprises a member of the group consisting of: rotating grinding wheels, rotating scarifiers, teeth whose angle changes and which angle may be about a substantially vertical axis.

13. A mouldboard as claimed in either claim 11 or claim 12 in which said powered components are powered by a hydraulic and/or electric feed from the grading apparatus.

14. A mouldboard as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which a leading face of the body is concave.

15. A mouldboard as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the body of the mouldboard, when viewed in plan is one of: substantially straight, curved, or 'V'-shaped.

16. A mouldboard as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the mouldboard attachment means is adapted to connect to a standard connection fitting used on grading apparatus.

17. Mouldboard attachment apparatus for use with a mouldboard as claimed in any one of claims 1 through 16, said mouldboard attachment apparatus comprising:

- a body portion for attachment to grading apparatus;

- at least one pivot mounting point for attachment to a pivotable connection portion on said mouldboard, and

18. Mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in claim 17 in which said inclination control means comprises a hydraulically powered arm.

19. Mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in claim 17 or claim 18 in which said inclination control means allows for rotation of said mouldboard, about a substantially horizontal axis, by at least 150°.

20. Mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in any one or claims 17 through 19 in which said pivot mounting point is on a moveable mounting portion in which either of both of the position and elevation thereof can be altered with respect to the body portion of said mouldboard attachment apparatus.

21. Mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in claim 20 in which the position and/or elevation of said moveable mounting portion can be altered by means of a hydraulically powered mechanism.

22. Mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 17 through 21 in which the mouldboard attachment apparatus is mountable to said grading apparatus at a point allowing rotation of an attached mouldboard, of commensurate size for the particular grading apparatus, about a substantially vertical axis and through a rotational arc of at least 150°.

23. Mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 17 through 21 in which rotation of the attached mouldboard by at least 360° is provided for.

24. Mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 17 through 23 which includes a rotating joint allowing for said rotation of said attached mouldboard.

25. Mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in claim 24 in which a rotary hydraulic joint is utilised for rotation of the attached mouldboard.

26. Mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in claim 24 or claim 25 in which rotation of the attached mouldboard by at least 180° is provided for by said rotating joint.

27. Mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in claim 24 or claim 25 in which continuous rotation of the attached mouldboard is provided for.

28. A modified mouldboard assembly for use on grading apparatus, said assembly comprising a mouldboard, as claimed in any one of claims 1 through 16, in combination with mouldboard attachment apparatus, as claimed in any one of claim 17 through 27; said apparatus being further characterised in that said mouldboard can be rotated by powered means through an arc of at least 150° about a said edge conversion axis.

29. A modified mouldboard assembly as claimed in claim 28 in which rotation through an arc of at least 200° is provided for.

30. A modified mouldboard assembly as claimed in claim 28 or claim 29, in which the modified mouldboard assembly includes a rotational joint for rotation of the mouldboard, about a substantially vertical axis, by at least 180°.

31. Grading apparatus comprising a mouldboard as claimed in any one of claims 1 through 16.

32. Grading apparatus comprising mouldboard attachment apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 22 through 27.

33. Grading apparatus as claimed in claim 31 or claim 32 in which said grading apparatus comprises a vehicle comprising one or more of: a vehicle typically known as a grader, a vehicle used for spreading, levelling and/or profiling ground contours in road construction or site levelling, a vehicle used in spreading levelling and/or profiling ballast for railroad use, and a vehicle used for clearing snow.

34. A method for modifying grading apparatus comprising the attachment of a mouldboard to grading apparatus; the grading apparatus being attached via a rotating joint allowing rotation of the mouldboard about a substantially vertical axis by an angle of at 180° or more; the mouldboard being attached by a pivotable connection allowing rotation of the mouldboard about a substantially horizontal axis through an angle of 150° or more.

35. A method as claimed in claim 34 in which the said rotations of the mouldboard are controllable by a user of the grading apparatus.

36. A method as claimed in claim 35 in which the rotations of the mouldboard are effected by hydraulically powered components.

37. A method as claimed in any one of claims 34 through 36 which uses a mouldboard as claimed in any one of claims 1 through 16.

38. A mouldboard with provision for two grading edges on opposing edges, substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.

39. Grading apparatus incorporating a mouldboard as claimed in claim 38, substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.

40. A method for modifying grading apparatus by the installation of a mouldboard as claimed in claim 38, said method being substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.