U.S. patent application number 10/727260 was filed with the patent office on 2005-06-09 for roof ripper.
Invention is credited to Goubeaux, Steven Lyn, Harris, Richard Henderson, Parker, Thomas W., Rowe, Michael Douglas, Wilson, Charles B..
Application Number | 20050120831 10/727260 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34633449 |
Filed Date | 2005-06-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050120831 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Parker, Thomas W. ; et
al. |
June 9, 2005 |
Roof ripper
Abstract
A shingle removal tool includes a base, a forwardly extending
blade, and a rearwardly extending shaft. A pair wheels are
rotatable about a laterally extending axis located rearward of the
blade. The blade has a planar portion forming a leading edge. The
shaft has an obtuse angle forming a forward portion having a
central axis which intersects the plane formed by the planar
portion between the planar portion and the wheels and a rearward
portion which intersects the plane formed by the planar portion
forward of the planar portion. A rear grip can be mounted to the
shaft either rigidly or for impact absorption and a fore grip can
be adjustable along the shaft.
Inventors: |
Parker, Thomas W.;
(Columbus, OH) ; Wilson, Charles B.; (Dublin,
OH) ; Goubeaux, Steven Lyn; (Tipp City, OH) ;
Harris, Richard Henderson; (Beavercreek, OH) ; Rowe,
Michael Douglas; (Kettering, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PORTER WRIGHT MORRIS & ARTHUR, LLP
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY GROUP
41 SOUTH HIGH STREET
28TH FLOOR
COLUMBUS
OH
43215
|
Family ID: |
34633449 |
Appl. No.: |
10/727260 |
Filed: |
December 3, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
81/45 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04D 15/003
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
081/045 |
International
Class: |
E04D 015/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A shingle removal tool comprising, in combination: a base; a
blade forwardly extending from the base; wherein the blade has a
planar portion forming a leading edge an elongate shaft rearwardly
extending from the base; a pair of wheels rotatably attached to the
base rearward of the blade; and wherein the wheels are laterally
spaced apart and have a common rotational axis.
2. The shingle removal tool according to claim 1, wherein the blade
removably mounted to the base.
3. The shingle removal tool according to claim 1, wherein the blade
and the wheels are positioned such that a plane formed by the
planar portion of the blade is substantially tangent to a radial
periphery of at least one of the wheels.
4. The shingle removal tool according to claim 1, wherein the shaft
extends from the base at a location forward of the wheels.
5. The shingle removal tool according to claim 1, wherein the shaft
has an obtuse angle therein forming a forward portion having a
central axis which intersects the plane formed by the planar
portion of the blade between the planar portion of the blade and
the wheels and a rearward portion which intersects the plane formed
by the planar portion of the blade forward of the planar portion of
the blade.
6. The shingle removal tool according to claim 5, further
comprising a rear grip having a passage slidably receiving a rear
end of the rearward portion of shaft therein such that the rear
grip is axially moveable relative to the shaft and a body of
resilient material located between the rear grip and the shaft to
absorb impacts as the rear grip axially moves forward relative to
the shaft.
7. The shingle removal tool according to claim 5, further
comprising a rear grip rigidly secured to the rearward portion of
the shaft and forming an acute angle with a central axis of the
rearward portion of the shaft.
8. The shingle removal tool according to claim 1, wherein the
wheels are rotatable about a laterally extending axle rigidly
secured to the base.
9. The shingle removal tool according to claim 1, further
comprising a rear grip located at a rearward end of the shaft and a
fore grip located along the shaft.
10. The shingle removal tool according to claim 1, further
comprising a rear grip having a passage slidably receiving a rear
end of the shaft therein such that the rear grip is axially
moveable relative to the shaft and a body of resilient material
located between the rear grip and the shaft to absorb impacts as
the rear grip axially moves forward relative to the shaft.
11. The shingle removal tool according to claim 1, further
comprising a fore grip located along the shaft and axially
adjustable along the length of the shaft.
12. The shingle removal tool according to claim 11, wherein the
position of the fore grip is axially adjustable along the length of
the shaft to a plurality of predetermined positions.
13. A shingle removal tool comprising, in combination: a base; a
blade forwardly extending from the base; an elongate shaft
rearwardly extending from the base; at least one wheel rotatably
attached to the base rearward of the blade; wherein the blade has a
planar portion forming a leading edge; and wherein the shaft has an
obtuse angle therein forming a forward portion having a central
axis which intersects the plane formed by the planar portion of the
blade between the planar portion of the blade and the at least one
wheel and a rearward portion which intersects the plane formed by
the planar portion of the blade forward of the planar portion of
the blade.
14. The shingle removal tool according to claim 13, further
comprising a rear grip having a passage slidably receiving a rear
end of the rearward portion of shaft therein such that the rear
grip is axially moveable relative to the shaft and a body of
resilient material located between the rear grip and the shaft to
absorb impacts as the rear grip axially moves forward relative to
the shaft.
15. The shingle removal tool according to claim 13, further
comprising a rear grip rigidly secured to the rearward portion of
the shaft and forming an acute angle with a central axis of the
rearward portion of the shaft.
16. The shingle removal tool according to claim 13, wherein the
shaft is a tube.
17. The shingle removal tool according to claim 13, further
comprising a fore grip located along the rearward portion of the
shaft and a rear grip located at a rear end of the rearward portion
of the shaft.
18. The shingle removal tool according to claim 13, further
comprising a fore grip located along rearward portion of the shaft
and axially adjustable along the length of the rearward portion of
the shaft.
19. The shingle removal tool according to claim 18, wherein the
position of the fore grip is axially adjustable along the length of
the shaft to a plurality of predetermined positions.
20. A shingle removal tool comprising, in combination: a base; a
blade forwardly extending from the base; an elongate shaft
rearwardly extending from the base; wherein the blade forms a
leading edge; a rear grip having a passage slidably receiving a
rear end of the shaft therein such that the rear grip is axially
moveable relative to the shaft; and a body of resilient material
located between the rear grip and the shaft to absorb impacts as
the rear grip axially moves forward relative to the shaft.
21. The shingle removal tool according to claim 20, wherein the
body comprises plastic.
22. The shingle removal tool according to claim 21, wherein the
body comprises polyurethane foam.
23. The shingle removal tool according to claim 20, further
comprising at least one wheel rotatably attached to the base
rearward of the blade.
24. The shingle removal tool according to claim 20, wherein the
blade has a planar portion forming the leading edge and the shaft
has an obtuse angle therein forming a forward portion having a
central axis which intersects the plane formed by the planar
portion of the blade between the planar portion of the blade and
the at least one wheel and a rearward portion which intersects the
plane formed by the planar portion of the blade forward of the
planar portion of the blade.
25. The shingle removal tool according to claim 20, further
comprising a fore grip located along the shaft.
26. The shingle removal tool according to claim 20, further
comprising a fore grip located along the shaft and axially
adjustable along the length of the shaft.
27. The shingle removal tool according to claim 26, wherein the
position of the fore grip is axially adjustable along the length of
the shaft to a plurality of predetermined positions.
28. A shingle removal tool comprising, in combination: a base; a
blade forwardly extending from the base; an elongate shaft
rearwardly extending from the base; wherein the blade forms a
leading edge; a rear grip located at a rear end of the shaft; and a
fore grip located along the shaft.
29. The shingle removal tool according to claim 28, wherein the
fore grip is axially adjustable along the length of the shaft.
30. The shingle removal tool according to claim 29, wherein the
position of the fore grip is axially adjustable along the length of
the shaft to a plurality of predetermined positions.
31. The shingle removal tool according to claim 28, wherein the
shaft is provided with a plurality of axially spaced apart openings
for receiving a fastener to secure the fore grip at a plurality of
alternative positions.
32. The shingle removal tool according to claim 28, further
comprising at least one wheel rotatably attached to the base
rearward of the blade.
33. The shingle removal tool according to claim 32, wherein the
blade has a planar portion which forms the leading edge and the
shaft has an obtuse angle therein forming a forward portion having
a central axis which intersects the plane formed by the planar
portion of the blade between the planar portion of the blade and
the at least one wheel and a rearward portion which intersects the
plane formed by the planar portion of the blade forward of the
planar portion of the blade.
34. The shingle removal tool according to claim 28, wherein the
rear grip has a passage slidably receiving a rear end of the shaft
therein such that the rear grip is axially moveable relative to the
shaft and a body of resilient material is located between the rear
grip and the shaft to absorb impacts as the rear grip axially moves
forward relative to the shaft.
35. A shingle removal tool comprising, in combination: a base; a
blade forwardly extending from the base; an elongate shaft
rearwardly extending from the base; a pair of laterally spaced
apart wheels rotatably about a laterally extending axis of rotation
located rearward of the blade; wherein the blade has a planar
portion forming a leading edge; wherein the shaft has an obtuse
angle therein forming a forward portion having a central axis which
intersects the plane formed by the planar portion of the blade
between the planar portion of the blade and the wheels and a
rearward portion which intersects the plane formed by the planar
portion of the blade forward of the planar portion of the blade;
and a rear grip located at a rear end of the shaft.
36. The shingle removal tool according to claim 35, wherein the
rear grip has a passage slidably receiving a rear end of the
rearward portion of shaft therein such that the rear grip is
axially moveable relative to the shaft and a body of resilient
material is located between the rear grip and the shaft to absorb
impacts as the rear grip axially moves forward relative to the
shaft.
37. The shingle removal tool according to claim 35, wherein the
rear grip is rigidly secured to the rearward portion of the shaft
and forms an acute angle with a central axis of the rearward
portion of the shaft.
38. The shingle removal tool according to claim 35, further
comprising a fore grip located along the shaft and axially
adjustable along the length of the shaft.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not Applicable
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH
[0002] Not Applicable
REFERENCE TO MICROFICHE APPENDIX
[0003] Not Applicable
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention generally relates to tools and, more
particularly, to roof rippers or tools for removing roofing
shingles, tar paper, nails and other like roofing materials.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Roofs of buildings are often covered by shingles. The
shingles are generally planar and somewhat soft and flexible The
shingles are installed in series one next to the other and
overlying, in staggered fashion, a lower coarse of similar
shingles. The shingles are typically installed over a layer of
roofing felt, tar paper, or the like. The shingles are normally
nailed to the roof with roofing nails that have wide, flat heads so
that they can securely hold the soft shingle material. The nails of
one coarse of shingles are covered by the next overlying coarse of
shingles. The nails are unexposed to protect the nails from the
elements.
[0006] When the roof needs re-shingled, a second layer of shingles
can be placed of the first layer of shingles in some instances but
it is usually not possible to add a third or more layer of shingles
because the roof structure may not be able to support the added
weight of the additional layers of shingles. Therefore, the old
layer or layers of shingles must be removed and discarded prior to
installing the new shingles. Shingle removal is a labor intensive
process and numerous shingle removing tools have been devised for
assisting a roofer to remove roofing materials.
[0007] Removing shingles is time-consuming and tedious task at
least partly because the shingles cover the nails and it is not
usually possible to merely raise the flap of one shingle to gain
access to the nails. It is typically difficult and inconvenient to
gain access to the nails. Shingle removal tools or pry bars of
various designs have been proposed which have a blade which is slid
between the shingles and the roof. The blade is often provided with
slots or notches to engage the nails so that a nail or group of
nails can be pried up from the roofing boards to remove the
shingles. While such tools may assist in removing the shingles, the
removal process remains a physically demanding operation.
Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved shingle
removal tool which eases removal of the shingles from the roof
and/or reduces fatigue of the user.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention provides a shingle removal tool which
overcomes at least some of the above-noted problems of the related
art. According to the present invention, a shingle removal tool
includes, in combination, a base and a blade forwardly extending
from the base. The blade has a planar portion forming a leading
edge. An elongate shaft rearwardly extends from the base. A pair of
wheels are rotatably attached to the base rearward of the blade.
The wheels are laterally spaced apart and have a common rotational
axis.
[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention, a
shingle removal tool includes, in combination, a base; a blade
forwardly extending from the base, and an elongate shaft rearwardly
extending from the base. At least one wheel is rotatably attached
to the base rearward of the blade. The blade has a planar portion
forming a leading edge. The shaft has an obtuse angle therein
forming a forward portion having a central axis which intersects
the plane formed by the planar portion of the blade between the
planar portion of the blade and the at least one wheel and a
rearward portion which intersects the plane formed by the planar
portion of the blade forward of the planar portion of the
blade.
[0010] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a
shingle removal tool includes, in combination, a base, a blade
forwardly extending from the base, and an elongate shaft rearwardly
extending from the base. The blade forms a leading edge. A rear
grip has a passage slidably receiving a rear end of the shaft
therein such that the rear grip is axially moveable relative to the
shaft. A body of resilient material is located between the rear
grip and the shaft to absorb impacts as the rear grip axially moves
forward relative to the shaft.
[0011] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a
shingle removal tool includes, in combination, a base, a blade
forwardly extending from the base, and an elongate shaft rearwardly
extending from the base. The blade forms a leading edge. A rear
grip located at a rear end of the shaft and a fore grip is located
along the shaft.
[0012] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a
shingle removal tool includes, in combination, a base, a blade
forwardly extending from the base, and an elongate shaft rearwardly
extending from the base. A pair of laterally spaced apart wheels
are rotatable about a laterally extending axis of rotation located
rearward of the blade. The blade has a planar portion forming a
leading edge and the blade and the wheels are positioned such that
a plane formed by the planar portion of the blade is substantially
tangent to a radial peripheries of the wheels. The shaft has an
obtuse angle forming a forward portion having a central axis which
intersects the plane formed by the planar portion of the blade
between the planar portion of the blade and the wheels and a
rearward portion which intersects the plane formed by the planar
portion of the blade forward of the planar portion of the blade. A
rear grip is located at a rear end of the shaft.
[0013] From the foregoing disclosure and the following more
detailed description of various preferred embodiments it will be
apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention
provides a significant advance in the technology of tools for
removing roofing materials such as shingles. Particularly
significant in this regard is the potential the invention affords
for providing a high quality, reliable, easily assembled and
disassembled, low cost assembly with improved operational
performance. Additional features and advantages of various
preferred embodiments will be better understood in view of the
detailed description provided below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] These and further features of the present invention will be
apparent with reference to the following description and drawings,
wherein:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a left side elevational view of a shingle removal
tool according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the shingle removal tool of
FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a rear elevational view of the shingle removal
tool of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of
FIG. 2;
[0019] FIG. 5 is an enlarged left side elevation view of a base of
the shingle removal tool of FIGS. 1 to 4;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the base of FIG. 5;
[0021] FIG. 7 is an enlarged left side elevation view of a blade of
the shingle removal tool of FIGS. 1 to 4;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the blade of FIG. 7;
[0023] FIG. 9 is an enlarged left side elevation view of a shaft of
the shingle removal tool of FIGS. 1 to 4;
[0024] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the shaft of FIG. 9;
[0025] FIG. 11 is an enlarged top plan view of a rear grip of the
shingle removal tool of FIGS. 1 to 4;
[0026] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 in
FIG. 11;
[0027] FIG. 13 is an enlarged top plan view of a fore grip of the
shingle removal tool of FIGS. 1 to 4;
[0028] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14 in
FIG. 13;
[0029] FIG. 15 is a left side elevational view of a shingle removal
tool according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the shingle removal tool of
FIG. 15;
[0031] FIG. 17 is a rear elevational view of the shingle removal
tool of FIGS. 15 and 16; and
[0032] FIG. 18 is an enlarged left side elevation view of a shaft
of the shingle removal tool of FIGS. 15 to 17.
[0033] It should be understood that the appended drawings are not
necessarily to scale, presenting a somewhat simplified
representation of various preferred features illustrative of the
basic principles of the invention. The specific design features of
the shingle removal tool as disclosed herein, including, for
example, specific dimensions, orientations, and shapes of the
various components will be determined in part by the particular
intended application and use environment. Certain features of the
illustrated embodiments have been enlarged or distorted relative to
others to facilitate visualization and clear understanding. In
particular, thin features may be thickened, for example, for
clarity or illustration. All references to direction and position,
unless otherwise indicated, refer to the orientation of the shingle
removal tool illustrated in the drawings. In general, up or upward
refers to an upward direction within the plane of the paper in FIG.
1 and down or downward refers to a downward direction within the
plane of the paper in FIG. 1. Also in general, fore or forward
refers to a direction toward the front of the shingle removal tool
and a leftward direction within the plane of the paper in FIG. 1.
Furthermore in general, aft, rear or rearward refers to a direction
toward the rear of the shingle removal tool and a rightward
direction within the plane of the paper in FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0034] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art, that is, to
those who have knowledge or experience in this area of technology,
that many uses and design variations are possible for the improved
tools disclosed herein. The following detailed discussion of
various alternative and preferred embodiments will illustrate the
general principles of the invention with reference to a tool for
removing shingles. Other embodiments suitable for other
applications will be apparent to those skilled in the art given the
benefit of this disclosure.
[0035] The term "unitary" is used herein and in the claims to mean
a member made of a single continuous material such as, for example,
a single cast or molded part. The term "integral" is used herein
and in the claims to mean members that are secured together such
as, for example, two members connected by welding or bolts. The
term "acute angle" is used herein and in the claims to mean an
angle which is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. The
term "obtuse angle" is used herein and in the claims to mean an
angle which is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180
degrees.
[0036] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 1 to 4 show a shingle
removal tool 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention. The illustrated shingle removal tool 10 includes a base
12, a blade, 14 a pair of wheels 16, a shaft or handle 18, a rear
grip 20, and a fore grip 22.
[0037] As best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the base 12 includes a frame
24, a shaft support or connector 26, and an axle 28. The
illustrated frame 24 includes unitary front, central and rear
generally planar portions 30, 32, 34 which are formed by bending a
generally flat plate. The front portion 30 is disposed at an acute
angle A relative to horizontal such that it slopes upward in a
rearward direction from a free or forward edge to a rearward edge.
The illustrated front portion 30 is disposed at an acute angle A of
about 35 degrees relative to horizontal but other suitable angles
can be utilized. The front portion 30 is sized and shaped, provided
with a plurality of openings 36, 38 and formed at an angle which
cooperates with the blade 14 for attachment and positioning of the
blade 14 as discussed in more detail hereinafter. The central
portion 32 extends rearwardly from the rearward edge of the front
portion 30 and is disposed at an acute angle B relative to
horizontal such that it slopes downward in a rearward direction
from a forward edge to a rearward edge. The illustrated central
portion 32 is disposed at an acute angle B of about 20 degrees
relative to horizontal but other suitable angles can be utilized.
The central portion 32 is provided with a notch or cut-out 40 at
its free edge for receiving the shaft connector 26 therein. The
central portion 32 is sized and shaped and formed at an angle which
cooperates with the shaft connector 26 for attachment and
positioning of the shaft 18 as discussed in more detail
hereinafter. The rear portion 34 extends upwardly from the rearward
edge of the central portion 32 and is disposed at an acute angle C
relative to horizontal such that it slopes downward in a rearward
direction from a free edge to a rearward edge connected to the
rearward edge of the central portion 32. The illustrated rear
portion 34 is disposed at an acute angle C of about 70 degrees
relative to horizontal but other suitable angles can be utilized.
The rear portion 34 is provided with a pair of tabs 42 which
rearwardly extend form opposite lateral edges of the rear portion
34 and are sized and shaped for attaching and supporting the axle
28 as described in more detail hereinafter. The rear portion 34 is
sized and shaped and formed at an angle which supports the shaft
connector 26 and the axle 28 as discussed in more detail
hereinafter. The frame 24 is formed of any suitable material such
as, for example, a metal such as steel. It is noted that while a
preferred frame 24 is described in detail herein, the frame 24 can
alternatively have other suitable sizes, structures, shapes, and
materials within the scope of the present invention.
[0038] The illustrated shaft connector 26 is in the from of a tube
having a central passage 44 sized for closely receiving a forward
end of the shaft 18 as described in more detail hereinafter. The
shaft connector 26 is rigidly secured to and extends from the upper
surface of the frame central portion 32 with a central axis 46
extending at an acute angle D relative to horizontal such that it
slopes upward in a rearward direction from a closed or forward end
at the frame central portion 32 to a rearward or open end. The
illustrated shaft connector 26 is disposed at an acute angle D of
about 70 degrees relative to horizontal but other suitable angles
can be utilized. The shaft connector 26 is formed of any suitable
material such as, for example, a metal such as steel. The shaft
connector 26 is rigidly secured to the frame 24 in any suitable
manner such as, for example, welding. It is noted that while a
preferred shaft connector 26 is described in detail herein, the
shaft connector 26 can alternatively have other suitable sizes,
structures, shapes, and materials within the scope of the present
invention.
[0039] The illustrated axle 28 is a laterally extending rod or tube
sized for rotatably attaching the wheels 16 to the frame 24 as
described in more detail hereinafter. The axle 28 forms a
horizontal and laterally extending rotational axis 48 for the
wheels 16. The opposed ends of the axle 28 are each provided with
an opening 50 sized and shaped to receive a fastener 52. See FIGS.
1 and 2) such as, for example, a cotter pin for retaining the
wheels 16 on the axle 28. Preferably, washers are provided between
the wheels 16 and the fasteners 52. The illustrated axle 28 is
rigidly secured to the frame 24 at the rear surface of the frame
rear portion 34 and below and engaging the tabs 42. The axle 28 is
formed of any suitable material such as, for example, a metal such
as steel. The axle 28 is rigidly secured to the frame 24 in any
suitable manner such as, for example, welding. It is noted that
while a preferred axle 28 is described in detail herein, the axle
28 can alternatively have other suitable sizes, structures, shapes,
and materials within the scope of the present invention. For
example, the axle 28 can alternatively be rotatable secured to the
frame 24 with the wheels 16 rigidly secured to the axle 28.
[0040] As best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the illustrated blade 14
includes unitary front or scraping and rear or connecting portions
54, 56 which are each generally planar and formed by bending a
generally flat plate. The scraping portion 54 extends horizontally
from a forward or leading edge 58 to a rearward edge. The leading
edge 58 of the scraping portion 54 is provided with a plurality of
laterally spaced apart slots or notches 60 sized and shaped to
receive the shanks of nails therein. The lower surface 62 of the
illustrated scraping portion 54 is substantially flat. The upper
surface 64 of the scraping portion 54 is also substantially flat
except for a taper 66 at the leading edge 58 to form a relatively
sharp leading edge 58 which slips under the shingles more easily.
The connecting portion 56 extends rearwardly from the rearward edge
of the scraping portion 54 and is disposed at an acute angle E
relative to horizontal such that it slopes upward in a rearward
direction from a forward edge connected to the scraping portion 54
to a free or rearward edge. The illustrated connecting portion 56
is disposed at an acute angle E of about 35 degrees relative to
horizontal but other suitable angles can be utilized. The
connecting portion 56 is sized and shaped to cooperate with the
forward portion of the base frame 24 in order to rigidly connect
the blade 14 to the base 12. The connecting portion 56 is provided
with a pair of openings 68 and a pair of downwardly extending
positioning tabs 70 which respectively cooperate with the openings
36, 38 in the front portion 30 of the base frame 24. The blade 14
is formed of any suitable material such as, for example, a metal
such as steel. It is noted that while a preferred blade 14 is
described in detail herein, the blade 14 can alternatively have
other suitable sizes, structures, shapes, and materials within the
scope of the present invention.
[0041] As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the illustrated blade 14 is
removably and rigidly attached to the base 12 by a pair of
fasteners 72 in the form of bolts with associated lock nuts. The
blade 14 is positioned with the connecting portion 56 located above
and engaging the front portion 30 of the base frame 24 with the
fasteners 72 extending through the openings 36, 68 in both the base
frame 24 and the blade 14. The tabs 70 of the blade 14 downwardly
extend into the other openings 38 in the frame 24 to locate the
desired position of the blade 14 relative to the frame 24 and to
provide additional strength. The blade 14 is preferably removably
attached to the base 12 so that the blade 14 can be replaced by the
user whenever the blade 14 is damaged or worn out. It is noted that
while the illustrated blade 14 is removably attached to the base
frame 24 by the fasteners 72, the blade 14 can alternatively be
unitary with the base frame 24, attached by suitable non-removable
means, or attached by other suitable types of removable means
within the scope of the present invention.
[0042] As best shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the illustrated pair wheels
16 are located on the opposed ends of the axle 28 and are rotatable
about the rotational axis 48 formed by the longitudinal axis of the
axle 28. The illustrated wheels 16 are retained on the axle 28 by
removable cotter pins 52 extending through the openings 50 in the
axle 28. It is noted that while the illustrated wheels 16 are
removably retained to the axle 28 by the cotter pins 52, the wheels
16 can alternatively be retained by suitable non-removable means or
retained by other suitable types of removable means within the
scope of the present invention. The wheels 16 are preferably
removably mounted so that they can be easily replaced when damaged
or worn out. Mounted in this location the illustrated wheels 16 are
laterally spaced apart and located rearward of the blade 14 and
base frame 24 and above the lower surface 62 of the blade 14. The
wheels 16 are preferably laterally spaced apart a distance adequate
to provide some lateral stability but less than the lateral width
of the blade leading edge 58. The wheels 16 are preferably
positioned such that the lower surface 62 of the blade 14 is
substantially tangent to the outer radial periphery or contacting
surface 74 of the wheels 16. Positioned in this manner the lower
surface 62 of the blade scraping portion 54 is generally parallel
to the support surface when the wheels 16 are engaging the support
surface and the support surface is planar or flat which allows the
wheels 16 to roll along the support surface as the blade 14 slides
or scrapes along the support surface. The wheels 16 are formed of
any suitable material such as, for example, a metal such as steel
or a polymer such as Urethane. The wheels 16 are preferably formed
of a material which is softer than the material of the axle 28 so
that the wheels 16 rather than the axle 28 wears upon rotation of
the wheels 16 on the axle 28. It is noted that while preferred
wheels 16 and wheel locations are described in detail herein, the
wheels 16 can alternatively have other suitable sizes, locations,
shapes, and materials within the scope of the present invention. It
is also noted that more than two wheels 16 can be utilized, only
one wheel 16 can be utilized, or the wheels 16 can be removed
within the scope of the invention.
[0043] As best shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the illustrated shaft 18 is
in the form of a tube having a central passage 76 extending between
open forward and rearward ends. The shaft 18 preferably has a bend
at an obtuse angle F connecting forward and rearward portions 78,
80. The bend is preferably sized to facilitate clearance for the
user's legs when using the tool 10 in a sitting position as well as
improving ergonomics of the user. The illustrated shaft 18 has a
bend with an obtuse angle F of about 145 degrees but other suitable
obtuse angles can be utilized. The bend has an obtuse angle
preferably in the range of about 115 to about 175 degrees and more
preferably in the range of about 130 to about 160 degrees. The
rearward portion 80 is preferably longer than the forward portion
78 and more preferably has a length about twice the length of the
forward portion 78. The illustrated shaft 18 is provided with an
opening 82 in the rearward portion 80 near the rearward end for
attaching the rear grip 20 as described in more detail hereinafter.
The illustrated shaft 18 is also provided with a plurality of
axially spaced apart openings 84 in the rearward portion near the
bend for attaching the fore grip 22 as described in more detail
hereinafter. The shaft 18 is formed of any suitable material such
as, for example, a metal such as steel. It is noted that while a
preferred shaft 18 is described in detail herein, the shaft 18 can
alternatively have other suitable sizes, structures, shapes, and
materials within the scope of the present invention.
[0044] As best shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the illustrated shaft 18, is
rigidly secured to the base 12. The forward end of the shaft 18 is
located within the base shaft connector 26. Positioned in this
manner, the forward portion 78 of the shaft 18 forms an obtuse
angle G relative to the scraping portion 54 of the blade 14. The
illustrated obtuse angle G is about 110 degrees but other suitable
angles can be utilized. The rearward portion 80 of the shaft 18
also forms an obtuse angle H relative to the scraping portion 54 of
the blade 14. The illustrated obtuse angle H is about 145 degrees
but other suitable angles can be utilized. Thus the central axis of
the forward portion 78 of the shaft 18 intersects the plane formed
by the blade scraping portion 54 at a point to the rear of the
blade 14 and forward of the wheels 16 while the rearward portion 80
of the shaft 18 is at a larger obtuse angle such that the central
axis of the rearward portion 80 of the shaft 18 intersects the
intersects the plane formed by the blade scraping portion 54 at a
point forward of the blade 14. The illustrated shaft 18 is secured
to the base 12 by welding. It is noted that while the illustrated
shaft 18 is non-removably attached to the base frame 24 by welding,
the shaft 18 can alternatively be unitary with the base frame 24,
attached by suitable removable means, or attached by other suitable
types of non-removable means within the scope of the present
invention.
[0045] As best shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the rear grip 20 includes
a tubular connecting portion 86 and a D-shaped grasping portion 88.
The connecting portion 86 is generally tubular shaped forming a
central passage 90 sized and shaped for slidably receiving the
rearward end of the shaft 18 therein as described in more detail
hereinafter. The passage 90 has an open or forward end and a closed
or rearward end at the grasping portion 88. A pair of opposed slots
92 are provided on opposite sides of the passage 90 for attaching
the rear grip 20 to the shaft 18 as described in more detail
hereinafter. The grasping portion 88 extends rearwardly from the
reward end of the connecting portion 86 and has a
cylindrical-shaped gripping surface 94. The illustrated gripping
surface 94 horizontally and laterally extends substantially
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 18. The
illustrated gripping surface 94 is also rearwardly spaced from the
rearward end of the connecting portion 86. The rear grip 20 is
formed of any suitable material such as, for example, a plastic
such as polypropylene. It is noted that while a preferred rear grip
20 is described in detail herein, the rear grip 20 can
alternatively have other suitable sizes, structures, shapes, and
materials within the scope of the present invention.
[0046] As best shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the illustrated rear grip 20
is attached to the shaft 18 in an axially slidable manner. The
rearward end of the shaft 18 is slidably received in the passage 90
of the connecting portion 86 such that the rear grip 20 can axially
move relative to the shaft 18. Axial movement of the rear grip 20
is limited by a pin or fastener 96 engaging ends of the slots 92.
The illustrated fastener 96 is a cotter pin secured by a washer and
retaining ring but any other suitable fastener or pin 96 can be
utilized within the scope of the present invention. The illustrated
fastener 96 extends through the opening 82 in the shaft and through
the slots 92 in the rear grip 20. The fastener 96 stays in a fixed
position relative to the shaft 18 and engages ends of the slots 92
to limit axial movement as the rear grip 20 slides relative to the
shaft 18 and fastener 96. It is noted that while a preferred
attachment arrangement is described in detail herein, the rear grip
20 can alternatively be slidably attached in other suitable manners
and/or have other suitable means for limiting axial movement of the
rear grip 20 within the scope of the present invention.
[0047] As best shown in FIG. 4, a body of resilient and impact
resistant material or shock absorber 98 is located within the
connecting portion 86 between the rearward end of the shaft 18 and
the closed end of the passage 90. In this position, the material 98
is in coaxial alignment between the shaft 18 and the rear grip 20.
The body 98 preferably substantially fills the passage 90 when the
rear grip 20 is in its full rearward position and biases the rear
grip 20 to its full rearward position. During use of the tool 10,
the body 98 resiliently permits axial movement between the rear
grip 20 and the shaft 18 to at least partially absorb impacts
transmitted through the shaft 18. The illustrated body 98 is disk
shaped and sized and shaped to be closely received within the
passage 90 of the rear grip connecting portion 86. The rearward end
of the illustrated shaft 18 is provided with a plug 100 to fill the
opening and provide a planar engagement surface for the body 98
which is the size of the rearward end of the shaft 18. The body 98
is formed of any suitable impact absorbing material such as, for
example, a foam such as polyurethane foam. It is noted that while a
preferred impact absorbing body 98 is described in detail herein,
the body 98 can alternatively have other suitable sizes,
structures, shapes, and materials within the scope of the present
invention. When in use, energy is transferred from the shaft 18 to
the material 98 whereby the material 98 is compressed between the
shaft 18 and the rear grip 20 to absorb some of the energy.
[0048] As best shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the illustrated fore grip
22 is generally tubular-shaped having a central passage 102 sided
and shaped to slidably receive the shaft 18 therethrough so that
the grip 22 is coaxially adjustable along the shaft 18. The
illustrated fore grip 22 is provided with a flange 104 near the
forward end which radially extends about the circumference of the
fore grip 22. Rearward of the flange 104, a cylindrically shaped
gripping surface 106 is provided which is coaxial with the shaft
18. The illustrated fore grip 22 also includes a pair of openings
108 located on opposite sides of the passage 102 near the forward
end of the fore grip 22. The openings 108 are sized and shaped to
receive a fastener 110 such as the illustrated bolt washer and lock
nut. The fastener 110 extends through one of the openings 84 in the
shaft 18 and the opposed openings 108 in the fore grip 22 to
rigidly and removably secure the fore grip 22 to the shaft 18. The
position of the fore grip 22 can be axially adjusted along the
length of the shaft 18 to a plurality of predetermined fixed
positions by moving the fastener 110 to one of the other openings
84. By adjusting the grip 22 to a position suitable for a
particular user, the grip 22 is more likely to keep the user's hand
from slipping off of the shaft 18. The illustrated fore grip 22 can
be moved to any one of three predetermined and fixed axial
positions but alternatively there can be a greater or lesser number
of fixed positions within the scope of the present invention. It is
noted that while a preferred fore grip position adjusting means is
described in detail herein, the fore grip 22 can alternatively have
other types of position adjusting means. It is also noted that
while the preferred fore grip 22 is movable between predetermined
fixed axial positions described in detail above, the fore grip 22
can alternatively be in a permanent fixed axial position or be
infinitely axially adjustable within the scope of the present
invention. The fore grip 22 can also be eliminated if desired.
[0049] During operation of the tool 10, the operator places one
hand on the fore grip 22 and their other hand on the rear grip 20.
The fore grip 22 is adjusted to an axial position along the shaft
18 which is the most comfortable and/or provides the best leverage
for the user to prevent the user's hand from slipping off of the
shaft 18 during use. Both the lower surface 62 of the blade
scraping portion 54 and the wheels 16 contact and support the tool
10 on the roof. The laterally spaced-apart wheels 16 provide
lateral stability of the tool 10 and reduce friction so that the
user has improved control of the tool 10. The bent shaft 18 enables
the user to sit on a sloping roof with the shaft 18 located above
their legs. The operator provides a forward force to the grips 20,
22 so that the blade scraping portion 54 slides under a shingle or
shingles. The wheels 16 and the ergonomically shaped shaft 18
reduce the force required to produce the forward motion of the tool
10. When the leading edge of the blade 14 contacts a nail or nails,
the rear grip 20 axially slides forward relative to the shaft 18 as
the body 98 compresses and at least partially absorbs the impact.
It is noted that the shape of the shaft 18 and rear grip 20 also
lessons any impact on the user. The nails are received in the slots
60 in the blade 14 and the operator provides a downward force on
the rear grip 20 to pivot the tool about a fulcrum 112 formed by
the wheels to raise the blade 14 and pry out the nails. The shingle
is then loose from the roof and can be discarded. The process is
continued until all of the shingles have been removed from the
roof.
[0050] FIGS. 15 to 17 show a shingle removal tool 200 according to
a second preferred embodiment of the present invention. The shingle
removal tool 200 is substantially the same as the shingle removal
tool 10 described in detail hereinabove except that the fore grip
22 is eliminated and a rear grip 202 is rigidly mounted and
integral with the shaft 18. It is noted that like reference numbers
are utilized to identify like structure between the embodiments. It
is also noted that the fore grip 22 can be included if desired.
[0051] As best shown in FIG. 18, the illustrated rear grip 202 is
rigidly mounted to the rearward end of the shaft 18. The rearward
grip 202 is generally D-shaped and upwardly extends forming an
acute angle I with the axis of the shaft 18. The illustrated acute
angle I is about 55 degrees but other suitable acute angles can be
utilized within the scope of the present invention. The acute angle
I is preferably in the range of about 45 to about 90 degrees and
more preferably in the range of about 45 to about 65 degrees. The
rear grip 202 forms a cylindrical-shaped gripping surface 94. The
illustrated gripping surface 94 horizontally and laterally extends
substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft
18. The illustrated gripping surface 94 is also rearwardly and
upwardly spaced from the rearward end of the shaft 18. Positioned
in this manner, impact loads transmitted through the shaft 18 to
the user are reduced. Also, this configuration improves ergonomics
of the user in a sitting position because the user can grab the
sides of the grip 202 instead of the rear gripping surface. The
rear grip 202 is formed of any suitable material such as, for
example, a metal such as steel. The illustrated rear grip 202 is
integral with the shaft 18 and secured by welding but other
suitable attachment means can be utilized. It is noted that while a
preferred rear grip 202 is described in detail herein, the rear
grip 202 can alternatively have other suitable sizes, structures,
shapes, and materials within the scope of the present
invention.
[0052] It is apparent from the foregoing disclosure that the tools
10, 200 according of the present invention not only ease removal of
the shingles from the roof, but also reduces fatigue to the
user.
[0053] It is noted that each of the features of the various
embodiments of the present invention can be used in any
combination. For example, the fixed handle of the second embodiment
can be alternatively used the first embodiment and the adjustable
fore grip of the first embodiment can alternatively be used with
the second embodiment.
[0054] From the foregoing disclosure and detailed description of
certain preferred embodiments, it will be apparent that various
modifications, additions and other alternative embodiments are
possible without departing from the true scope and spirit of the
present invention. The embodiments discussed were chosen and
described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the
present invention and its practical application to thereby enable
one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in
various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to
the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and
variations are within the scope of the present invention as
determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance
with the benefit to which they are fairly, legally, and equitably
entitled.
* * * * *