U.S. patent application number 16/585126 was filed with the patent office on 2020-04-02 for ground contouring apparatus with provision for mounted accessories.
The applicant listed for this patent is Progressive IP Limited. Invention is credited to Rodney Warwick SHARP.
Application Number | 20200102717 16/585126 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 69947313 |
Filed Date | 2020-04-02 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200102717 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SHARP; Rodney Warwick |
April 2, 2020 |
GROUND CONTOURING APPARATUS WITH PROVISION FOR MOUNTED
ACCESSORIES
Abstract
Disclosed is a ground modifying apparatus of a type sometimes
known as levellers, typically as used on tractors and skid-steer
vehicles. In current practice these are used for preparing,
levelling, and contouring the ground. Such device includes at least
an accessory body portion supporting a ground modifying accessory
or includes a way to attach the same. The apparatus includes a
travelling carriage assembly pivotably attached by a carriage
pivot, about a rotational axis substantially parallel to a
longitudinal axis of the apparatus. The carriage pivot is
positioned lower than the center of gravity of the travelling
carriage assembly.
Inventors: |
SHARP; Rodney Warwick;
(Ngaruawahia, NZ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Progressive IP Limited |
Hamilton |
|
NZ |
|
|
Family ID: |
69947313 |
Appl. No.: |
16/585126 |
Filed: |
September 27, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62767325 |
Nov 14, 2018 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02F 3/844 20130101;
E02F 3/7672 20130101; E02F 3/847 20130101; E02F 3/8155 20130101;
E02F 3/962 20130101; E02F 3/7677 20130101; E02F 3/7631 20130101;
E02F 3/7668 20130101; E02F 9/265 20130101; E02F 3/3609 20130101;
E02F 3/815 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E02F 3/76 20060101
E02F003/76; E02F 3/84 20060101 E02F003/84; E02F 3/815 20060101
E02F003/815; E02F 9/26 20060101 E02F009/26 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 27, 2018 |
NZ |
746786 |
Claims
1. A ground modifying assembly comprising at least an accessory
body portion supporting a ground modifying accessory or includes
means for the attachment thereof, said ground modifying assembly
including a travelling carriage assembly which is pivotably
attached by a carriage pivot, about a rotational axis substantially
parallel to a longitudinal axis of said ground modifying assembly,
to said ground modifying assembly; said carriage pivot
characterised by being positioned lower than the centre of gravity
of said travelling carriage assembly.
2. A ground modifying assembly, as claimed in claim 1, which
includes a body mounting portion for connection to a vehicle or a
support depending from a vehicle, said arrangement further
characterised by having multiple linkages extending and connecting
said accessory body portion and body mounting portion, and where a
link may comprise one or more of either or both of: a fixed length
linkage, and an actuator.
3. A ground modifying assembly, as claimed in claim 2, in which
there are present at least two sets of linkages between the
accessory body portion and body mounting portion, each set of
linkages comprising at least two links, and wherein there is
present a set of linkages outwardly displaced from and either side
of the longitudinal centre axis of said ground modifying
assembly.
4. A ground modifying assembly, as claimed in claim 3, in which the
arrangement allows for relative vertical movement of said body
mounting portion relative to body mounting portion, but resists
relative alteration in the pitch of one to the other.
5. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 4 in which links
in a set of linkages are substantially parallel one to the
other.
6. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 3 in which said
sets of linkages allow roll rotation of said accessory body portion
relative to said body mounting portion, about an axis substantially
parallel to the longitudinal axis of said ground modifying
assembly.
7. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 6 which includes
at least one actuator to effect said roll rotations of said
accessory body portion relative to said body mounting portion.
8. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 2 in which a
ground modifying accessory comprises at least one of: a blade, a
mouldboard, a powered drum, a powered drum with protruding
features, and a rake.
9. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 2 in which a
ground modifying accessory comprises a blade or mouldboard, and
there is second a second ground modifying accessory ahead of said
blade or mouldboard.
10. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 9 in which
second ground modifying accessory is mounted on a pivoting
transverse mount, at least one actuator allowing for pivoting of
said transverse mount between accessory raised and accessory
lowered positions.
11. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 2 which
includes a scarifier module comprising a plurality of tines,
pivotably attached to the accessory body portion about a
substantially transverse axis.
12. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 1 in which said
travelling carriage assembly can be pivoted upwardly about a
substantially transverse axis to rest substantially above said
accessory body portion.
13. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 2 in which said
body mounting portion comprises a connection for one of: an
excavator arm bucket linkage, a standard quick-hitch arrangement
for skid-steer loaders, a linkage for tractor arms.
14. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 2 which
includes at least one positional aid comprising at least on of the
set comprising: a sensor, transmitter, and transceiver; a said
positional aid being associated with a guidance system, and wherein
information is passed from said positional aid to a control system
controlling one or more actuators affecting the relative position
between said accessory body portion and body mounting portion.
15. A ground modifying assembly as claimed in claim 1 when attached
to a vehicle.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is directed to ground modifying
apparatus of a type sometimes known as levellers, typically as used
on tractors and skid-steer vehicles. In current practice these are
used for preparing, levelling, and contouring the ground.
[0002] Many embodiments of such levellers will include a forward
wheeled carriage to assist in levelling operations, and which may
be fixed or able to fold upwardly when not needed. One of the
problems encountered in the art is a swinging pendulum motion of
the wheels/carriage when the tractor and attachment is reversed.
This motion can disturb the ground/surface which has just been
levelled or graded. It can also place significant stress forces on
the wheels/carriage and has been known to rip off wheels and
carriage components in practice.
[0003] Other embodiments of the present invention introduce
different, simpler geometries to vary the inclination of a blade
portion or ground modifying accessory, about an axis substantially
parallel to the direction of travel during use, as well as normal
elevation functions. Other embodiments also allow for additional
adjustments to the pitch and/or yaw of a blade or accessory
portion. Other embodiments allow for the retractable fitting of
ground fitting accessories ahead of a blade portion (or instead of)
so that they can benefit from the same attitudinal changes, and
include options for raising and lowering a forward mounted
accessory.
BACKGROUND DESCRIPTION
[0004] The present invention relates to levellers, a device
typically attached to tractors, excavators, and skid-steer vehicles
for the purpose of levelling and smoothing the ground. It is
envisaged however that the present invention may find other uses,
and be adapted therefore. The applicant has invented levelling
devices, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 10,323,382. For
simplicity, at least part of the present invention will be
described with reference to levellers such as described in this
publication, as setting part of the background for the inventions
herein.
[0005] Levellers, as they are often known, take many shapes and
designs, including those which are merely dragged along the ground.
Many, however, have blades (sometimes known as, or part of, mould
boards) for levelling and altering the contour of the ground. In
these versions, the height of the blade is typically able to be
altered, which allows the user control over grading, levelling
and/or sculpting the contour of the ground. Elevation adjustment is
sometimes achieved by raising the entire ground contouring
assembly, while others may rely on merely raising and lowering the
portion with the blade. One prior art device uses a central
hydraulic actuator to raise and lower the blade portion, which is
connected to the main body portion with two dual parallel arm
linkages. A wheeled carriage extending from the main body portion
helps keep the main body portion at a constant height relative to
the ground.
[0006] For agricultural applications, generally the contour of the
land needs merely to be smoothed. However, levellers have found use
in construction sites where they are commonly used to level large
areas for foundations, particularly concrete foundations. Here the
levelling needs to be precisely, and truly horizontal. Achieving
this requires operator skill, and patience. Wheeled versions, such
as described above, tend to be most popular as merely raising and
lowering the blade (as opposed to the entire ground modifying
assembly) is quicker and more precise, enabling quick responses.
When coupled with a laser levelling system, adjusting only the
blade elevation allows the operator to work much more quickly.
[0007] In many instances, not only must the blade elevation be
altered but so too must its inclination relative to the
tractor/skid steer to ensure that it is always at true horizontal.
If the tractor unit traverses a slope, a fixed inclination blade
will level the ground at the same inclination as the tractor unit
is. This makes levelling mounds and slopes to the true horizontal
extremely difficult.
[0008] To address this the prior art uses leveller attachment
arrangements (typically the ubiquitous Quick-Hitch) which include
an arrangement for varying the inclination of the attachment. These
rotational arrangements are expensive, and also add considerable
weight to the load carried by the tractor unit. They are also
limited in the degree of precision with respect to inclination to a
particular angle, and relatively slow to adjust. This slows any
levelling operation.
[0009] Accordingly, the inventor has identified a need for a
levelling unit, which can address the above issues, and at least
provide a blade portion able to be adjusted in elevation, and
inclination (about a rotational axis substantially the same as the
direction of travel), and which can be attached to standard
connections such as the Quick Hitch, while avoiding the use of
additional rotational assemblies.
[0010] In some situations ground preparation work needs to be
performed before levelling and grading can occur. In practice this
involves working the ground/site with a different implement. For
example, where a site is covered with grass or weed, something such
as what is commonly known as a "Harley Rake" may be used, which is
essentially a powered rotating drum rake. The radially protruding
tines on the powered rotating rake penetrate through the upper
layer of the ground, to effectively break up thatch, matted plant
material, compacted soil, and even light man made surface coverings
such as bitumen (depending on the design of the drum). Without this
prior treatment the blade tends to skid across the surface of the
ground.
[0011] In more difficult situations a fixed rake (i.e. not a
powered rotating rake) with downward ground penetrating tines may
be used to break up harder ground, or where foreign objects which
may damage a Harley rake may be present. This solution is more
likely to be used on old construction and demolition sites, or
where harder man-made coverings of asphalt and bitumen may be
present. Again, preparing the ground prior to subsequent operation
with a blade assembly allows more effective levelling to be
performed.
[0012] The problem with the prior art techniques is that the ground
must be worked more than once--first with a ground preparing tool,
and then the levelling/contouring operation. If the operator has
two machines, then one can be preparing the ground while the
leveller follows. The disadvantages of these techniques is the
extra cost for more tools, the extra time of multiple operations,
and the extra cost if more than one tractor is used. To the
industry these represent significant disadvantages in terms of time
and capital expense. It would therefore be a significant advantage
to the ground-working and construction industries if these
disadvantages could at least be partially addressed. It would be
useful to the industry also if an option to allow the use of a
ground modifying accessory with a blade was available. It would
also be useful if an option existed which could readily allow the
engagement and disengagement of such a ground modifying
accessory.
[0013] Also, more and more operators are using laser guidance
systems for controlling their attached implements. The additional
speed and accuracy of laser assisted guidance is making it almost a
necessity for operators to implement due to remain competitive and
meet accelerated timeframe expectations required on many jobs. The
downside is that such systems are an expensive investment, and
usually they are only implemented on a blade implement, and not on
other accessories as well. However, there is still advantage if
accessories performing ground preparation work are also able to be
controlled by laser guided assistance systems. Apart from reducing
the work required by a subsequent blade operation, there are some
instances where significant advantage may be obtained.
[0014] One such instance is in roadway repair and construction, and
by roadway we include paths, sidewalks, carparks, and similar
sealed areas. Quite often minimal and subtle grading is required
(more for water runoff requirements), and being able to use a laser
assisted power rake to prepare sublayers for final application of
concrete or asphalt can be advantageous.
[0015] It would therefore be of advantage to the roading,
groundworking, and construction industries at least, if the
additional cost of adding laser guided control systems to
individual ground-working accessories could be addressed.
[0016] It is also useful for some applications to not only be able
to modify the roll characteristics of a blade or accessory, but
sometimes also the pitch and/or yaw (using aircraft terminology).
This can be dictated by a number of factors, including the terrain
and materials being worked, but is sometimes useful. It would
therefore be useful if a leveller (and accessory where fitted)
could be controlled to provide for adjustments in either or both
pitch and roll as well according to user and operator choice.
[0017] As the applications of levelling type attachments grow in
the art, new problems arise or existing issues exacerbated. In
particular, as the levellers are increasingly used for site
levelling, grading and final ground preparation applications--at
least partly due to the maneuverability of skid-steer type mounted
combinations--problems with disturbing the finished surface become
more problematic as the vehicle and attachment combination are
reversed. The main identified issue is that when the combination is
reversed, the leading pivoted wheels/carriage (which now become
trailing wheels/carriage) start swinging about the pivot, sometimes
in a pendulum type effect, and start digging into the ground and
undoing the recently completed finishing work. This becomes a real
problem as often the only way for the tractor and attachment
combination to exit an area is by reversing.
[0018] Further, if a wheel or carriage portion digs into the ground
while a leveller is being reversed, considerable force can result
on parts of the wheel/carriage portion. It is not uncommon for
components to fail and wheels and other parts to be sheared off.
This is a longstanding issue in the industry which the prior art
has not been able to solve.
[0019] The versatility of ground levelling equipment, such as
described above, has lead to their use in more
applications--especially within construction, road, and landscaping
industries. These new applications continually raise new issues,
particularly regarding stability, maneuverability, and the use of
accessories other than (or as well as) blade; the need for lighter
and less expensive equipment which can be fitted to a greater range
of vehicles (with differing capacities) also represents a growing
need and want. This addresses not only the desire to mount
levellers on vehicles with lower capacity, but a need for less
expensive alternatives, and lighter frames to compensate for the
mounting of ground modifying accessories other than (or as well as)
blades. Hence there is a need in the industry for Accordingly it is
one object of the present invention to consider and address at
least some these issues and at least provide embodiments which go
some way towards addressing one or more of these problems and
issues.
[0020] At the very least it is an object of the present invention
to provide the public with a useful alternative choice or
choices.
[0021] 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
[0022] According to one aspect of the present invention there is
provided a ground contouring assembly comprising a body mounting
portion and an accessory body portion;
said two body portions being connected by body connecting linkages
which allow a substantially up and down vertical movement of the
accessory body portion, relative to the body mounting portion, and
in which the inclination of a ground modifying accessory associated
with the accessory body portion remains substantially the same
regardless of its vertical position; the body connecting linkages
also allowing a rotational movement of the accessory body portion,
relative to the body attachment portion, about a rotational axis
substantially perpendicular to a vertical plane passing lengthwise
along said ground modifying accessory; said body connecting
linkages including linear actuators, there being at least one being
present either side of the middle of the ground contouring assembly
when viewed in plan; said body connecting linkages also including
at least one pivot-ended stabilising linkage either side of the
middle of the ground contouring assembly when viewed in plan; and
wherein the body connecting linkages assist in maintaining relative
movement of the body portions to within the rotational and vertical
movements as defined above; the ground contouring assembly being
further characterised by including a rotatable accessory mounting
portion in turn comprising a transverse accessory mount capable of
at least partial rotation about an axis parallel to vertical plane
passing lengthwise along, said rotatable portion being positioned
forward of the ground modifying accessory, and above the level of
the ground modifying accessory; there being included mount rotation
means controlling the rotational attitude of said transverse
accessory mount.
[0023] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the ground modifying accessory comprises
a blade.
[0024] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which there is provided vertical side guards
positioned either side of the blade portion and extending forwardly
thereof.
[0025] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, wherein said rotatable accessory mounting portion
extends between said vertical side guards and are mounted
thereto.
[0026] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said mount rotation means is capable of
alternating the accessory mounting portion, with attached assembly,
between at least accessory retracted, and accessory engaged,
positions.
[0027] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said mount rotation means comprises a
linear actuator pivotably connected at one end to said transverse
accessory mount, and to the accessory body portion at its distal
end.
[0028] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the mount rotation means is able to be
engaged in a free mode, allowing substantially free rotation of the
accessory when in an accessory engaged mode.
[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which affixed to said rotatable accessory
mounting portion is a rotatable drum assembly.
[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said rotatable drum assembly comprise
drum side mounts to which a rotatable drum portion is connected,
said drum side mounts connected to said transverse accessory mount
and configured to act in conjunction with same to allow the
arrangement to alternate between an accessory retracted position in
which said rotatable drum portion is above the ground, as well as
the level of the lowest edge of the blade assembly, and an
accessory engaged position in which the drum is contactable, or in
proximity, with the ground.
[0031] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said rotatable drum assembly includes
drum power means for effecting powered rotation of said rotatable
drum portion.
[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said drum power means is positioned
within the body of the drum.
[0033] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said drum power means comprises an
inboard hydraulic motor positioned either end within the body of
the drum.
[0034] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which affixed or attachable to said rotatable
accessory mounting portion is scarifier assembly.
[0035] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said scarifier assembly comprises one or
more scarifier modules comprising a plurality of tines.
[0036] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the tips of said tines can interact with
the ground when in an accessory engaged position.
[0037] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the arrangement of the transverse
accessory mount and said scarifier modules is such that at least
part of a scarifier module can bear against a scarifier support
portion to its rear during operation in an accessory engaged
mode.
[0038] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said scarifier support portion comprises
either or both of the mouldboard portion and blade portion.
[0039] According to yet a further aspect of the present invention
there is provided a multi-adjustable ground contouring assembly for
mounting to a vehicle comprising a body mounting portion and an
accessory body portion; [0040] said body mounting portion and an
accessory body portion being connected by first and second sets of
connecting linkages; [0041] said first set of two connecting
linkages characterised by when viewed in plan, being connected to
said body mounting portion near its middle, [0042] (ii) when viewed
in plan being connected to said accessory body portion outwardly of
its middle; [0043] said second set of two connecting linkages
characterised by [0044] (i) when viewed in plan, being connected to
said body mounting portion outwardly of its middle, and [0045] (ii)
when viewed in plan being connected to said accessory body portion
outwardly of its middle, and by a distance substantially the same
from the middle as its connection to said body mounting portion;
[0046] and wherein either or both of said first and second set of
linkages comprise adjustable length actuators.
[0047] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided a multi-adjustable ground contouring assembly for
mounting to a vehicle, substantially as described above, in which
said adjustable length actuators are hydraulically operated.
[0048] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a multi-adjustable ground contouring assembly for
mounting to a vehicle, substantially as described above, in which
said first and second sets of connecting linkages being further
characterised by: [0049] (i) being vertically separated from each
other when viewed from the side; [0050] (ii) when viewed from the
side the mounting points of the connecting linkages of said first
set where they connect to the body mounting portion are vertically
separated from the mounting points of the connecting linkages of
said second set where they connect to the body mounting portion,
and [0051] (iii) when viewed from the side the mounting points of
the connecting linkages of said first set where they connect to the
accessory body portion are vertically separated from the mounting
points of the connecting linkages of said second set where they
connect to the accessory body portion; [0052] each said arm of said
first and second sets of connecting linkages being further
characterised by being pivotably connected to said blade body and
body mounting portions.
[0053] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a multi-adjustable ground contouring assembly for
mounting to a vehicle, substantially as described above, in which
the arrangement is further characterised in that the first and
second linkage arrangements allow for both vertical raising, and
rotation about an axis normal to the general plane of the accessory
body portion, while maintaining substantially the same forward
inclination of the accessory body portion, relative to the body
mounting portion. According to another aspect of the present
invention there is provided a ground contouring assembly,
substantially as described above, in which there are provided a set
of two body connecting linkages, comprising linear actuators,
either side of the middle of the ground contouring assembly when
viewed in plan.
[0054] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the connection point of the linear
actuators of each set to the body mounting portion are vertically
displaced relative to each other when the ground contouring
assembly is viewed from the side.
[0055] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the connection point of the linear
actuators of each set to the blade mounting portion are vertically
displaced relative to each other when the ground contouring
assembly is viewed from the side.
[0056] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which a pivot-ended stabilising linkage extends
diagonally between the two body portions when the ground contouring
assembly is viewed in plan.
[0057] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which pivot-ended stabilising linkages
extending either side of the middle of the ground contouring
assembly when viewed in plan, connect to the accessory body portion
at a point near its middle when viewed in plan.
[0058] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, wherein a pivot-ended stabilising linkage includes
a ball joint at least one end.
[0059] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the ball joint includes a spherical
resilient bush.
[0060] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed in plan, there is at least
one pivot-ended stabilising linkage extending substantially
perpendicular to the aforesaid permitted plane of relative movement
of the blade portion, and located at a position outwardly of the
middle of the ground contouring assembly when viewed in plan.
[0061] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which there is a substantially symmetrical
distribution of pivot-ended stabilising linkages either side of the
middle of the ground contouring assembly, when viewed in plan.
[0062] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which a said linear actuator is hydraulically
operated.
[0063] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the accessory body portion includes at
least one stabilising wheel.
[0064] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which a said stabilising wheel is alternable
between operational and non-operational configurations.
[0065] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the body mounting portion is attachable
to a vehicle.
[0066] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the vehicle is a skid-steer vehicle, an
excavator, or a tracked vehicle.
[0067] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the body mounting portion attaches by a
quick hitch mounting system.
[0068] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the body mounting portion attaches to an
existing blade mounted on said vehicle.
[0069] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, which includes at least one top hook assembly and
one bottom hook assembly, for hooking over the top and bottom
respectively of an existing blade on a vehicle.
[0070] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which either or both of the top and bottom hook
assemblies contain more than one hook element for hooking over the
top or bottom respectively of an existing blade on a vehicle.
[0071] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which either or both the top and bottom hook
assemblies can be tightened for drawing the ground contouring
assembly tightly against a said existing blade on a vehicle for
mounting thereto, and can be released or relaxed for dismounting
therefrom.
[0072] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which at least one of said hook assemblies
affixes to a point of the accessory body portion of the ground
contouring assembly.
[0073] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, when affixed to a vehicle.
[0074] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said linear actuators controlling
relevant movement of said accessory body portion are controlled by
a control arrangement coupled to a laser assisted guidance
system.
[0075] According to yet a further aspect of the present invention
there is provided a ground modifying assembly with a ground
modifying accessory, which also has a forward wheel portion, [0076]
wherein said wheel portion comprises a carriage with at least two
wheels; [0077] there being a carriage body portion to which said
wheels are attached; [0078] and wherein there is a carriage pivot
portion allowing rotation of said carriage body out of a horizontal
plane, [0079] said carriage pivot portion generally positioned
between at least two of said wheels.
[0080] According to another aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a ground modifying assembly substantially as described
above wherein the ground modifying accessory comprises a blade or
mouldboard.
[0081] According to another aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a ground modifying assembly substantially as described
above wherein the ground modifying assembly incorporates the
features of a ground contouring assembly substantially as described
above.
[0082] According to another aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a ground modifying assembly substantially as described
above wherein the arrangement of carriage pivot portion with
carriage body portion allows the elevation of said wheels, from the
ground or surface being worked, to alter.
[0083] According to another aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a ground modifying assembly substantially as described
above wherein said wheels are attached to the carriage body portion
by a trailing wheel arrangement.
[0084] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, when used for ground levelling operations.
[0085] According to a further of the present invention there is
provided a ground contouring assembly comprising a body attachment
portion and an accessory body portion; the two body portions being
connected by body connecting linkages which allow a substantially
translational movement of the accessory body portion, substantially
within a translational plane, relative to the accessory body
portion; [0086] said body connecting linkages including linear
actuators, there being at least one being present either side of
the middle of the ground contouring assembly when viewed in plan;
and wherein the body connecting linkages assist in maintaining
relative movement of the body portions to as described above, and
[0087] which includes a stabilising wheel arrangement on an arm
arrangement extending from the body attachment portion.
[0088] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described in the preceding paragraph, in which the arm arrangement
has a pivotable connection allowing the portion on which the
stabilising wheel arrangement to pivot upwardly so the stabilising
wheel arrangement clears the ground.
[0089] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described in the preceding two paragraphs, in which the arm
arrangement has a pivotable connection allowing the portion on
which the stabilising wheel arrangement to pivot upwardly so the
stabilising wheel arrangement is positionable substantially over
the blade portion.
[0090] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is ground contouring assembly, substantially as described above,
which includes an excavator attachment means.
[0091] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is ground contouring assembly, substantially as described above,
which includes an upwardly extending mount portion from the body
attachment portion, and an excavator quick hitch adaptor connected
thereto.
[0092] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is ground contouring assembly, substantially as described above, in
which the excavator quick hitch adaptor is pivotably connected to
the upwardly extending mount portion.
[0093] According to yet a further aspect of the present invention
there is provided a ground contouring assembly comprising a front
accessory body portion, and a rear body portion,
the two body portions connected to each other by at least four body
connecting linkages, said body connecting linkages, in plan view,
being distributed either side of a vertical longitudinal
centre-plane bisecting said two body portions, said body connecting
linkages including pivotable linkage connections to said body
portions to allow, when viewed from the side, the elevation to the
two body portions to alter.
[0094] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which a pivotable linkage connection allows at
least limited pivotable movement about at least one axis.
[0095] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which a pivotable linkage connection allows at
least limited effective pivotable movement about multiple axes.
[0096] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said body connecting linkages are
arranged into two linkage sets, a left linkage set to the left of
said longitudinal centre plane, and a right linkage set to the
right of said longitudinal centre plane.
[0097] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said left and right linkage sets are
approximately equidistant from said longitudinal centre plane.
[0098] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, in a linkage set, one linkage is
positioned higher in elevation than the other.
[0099] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, in a linkage set, the linkages are
within thirty degrees of each other.
[0100] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, in a linkage set, the linkages are
substantially parallel.
[0101] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the geometry of the ground contouring
assembly is such that it can adopt a conformation in which, when
viewed in plan, a plane passing through a linkage set is
substantially parallel in direction to said longitudinal centre
plane.
[0102] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the geometry of the ground contouring
assembly is such that it can adopt a conformation in which, when
viewed in plan, a plane passing through each linkage set is
concurrently substantially parallel in direction to said
longitudinal centre plane.
[0103] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which there is also included at least two
elevation controlling linkages which are adjustable in length.
[0104] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which an elevation controlling linkages extends
between said front accessory body portion and the rear body
portion.
[0105] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed from the side, with said
body connecting linkages nominally in a substantially horizontal
conformation, said elevation controlling linkages are at an angle
of at least, and including, 20 degrees to the horizontal.
[0106] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed from the side, one end of a
said elevation controlling linkage is connected at a higher
relative point on the rear body portion than it is on the front
accessory body portion.
[0107] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed from the side, one end of a
said elevation controlling linkage is connected at a lower relative
point on the rear body portion than it is on the front accessory
body portion.
[0108] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed from the side, one end of a
said elevation controlling linkage is connected at a point nearer
the top of the rear body portion and at a point closer to the
bottom on the front accessory body portion.
[0109] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed from the side, one end of a
said elevation controlling linkage is connected at a point nearer
the bottom of the rear body portion and at a point closer to the
top on the front accessory body portion.
[0110] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which an elevation controlling linkage
comprises an actuator.
[0111] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the actuator is hydraulic in
operation.
[0112] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed in plan, there is an
elevation controlling linkage either side of said longitudinal
centre plane.
[0113] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed in plan, the elevation
controlling linkages are to the outside of provided body connecting
linkages.
[0114] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed in plan, said elevation
controlling linkages are approximately equidistant from said
longitudinal centre plane.
[0115] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the elevation controlling linkages can be
lengthened and shortened by differing amounts from each other.
[0116] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, adjusting the length of the elevation
controlling linkages by different amounts to each other allows
rotation of the front accessory body portion relative to the rear
body portion about a longitudinal axis falling within the
longitudinal centre plane.
[0117] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which there are pivotable connections between
said elevation controlling linkages and said two body portions.
[0118] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said pivotable linkage connections allow,
when viewed in plan, sideways movement of the front accessory body
portion relative to the rear body portion.
[0119] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which there is provided a lateral shift control
linkage which determines any degree of sideways movement.
[0120] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which a lateral shift control linkage is of
fixed length, or able to be configured to a specific length, to
prevent relative sideways movement of the front accessory body and
rear body portions.
[0121] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which a lateral shift control linkage is of
controllable and adjustable length to control relative sideways
positioning of said front accessory portion to the rear body
portion.
[0122] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which one end of a lateral shift control
linkage is connected to a first lateral shift connection point
which is fixed relative to the rear body portion, and at its
alternate end to a second lateral shift connection point which is
fixed relative to the front accessory body portion.
[0123] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed in plan, said lateral shift
connection points are positioned near opposite ends respectively of
their associated body portion.
[0124] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which, when viewed in plan, said lateral shift
control linkage is substantially transverse and normal to said
longitudinal centre plane.
[0125] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the front accessory body portion
comprises a mouldboard with a blade edge.
[0126] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the front accessory body portion provides
the attachment of a blade edge along its lower edge.
[0127] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the front accessory body portion includes
a side guard at at least one end thereof.
[0128] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which a side guard is substantially planar to
said longitudinal centre plane.
[0129] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said rear body portion includes vehicle
attachment means, for attachment of the ground contouring assembly
to a vehicle.
[0130] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said vehicle attachment means includes an
excavator head mount, for connecting to the mount head of an
excavator type arm.
[0131] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which said vehicle attachment means comprises a
quick hitch adaptor for connection to industry quick hitch
mechanisms on tractors.
[0132] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which aforesaid actuators are connected to a
control system allowing for the provision of either or both of: (i)
manual control by an operator, and (ii) automated control.
[0133] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which automated control includes laser assisted
guidance.
[0134] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, which is attached to a vehicle.
[0135] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, in which the vehicle is an excavator.
[0136] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a ground contouring assembly, substantially as
described above, attached via a quick mount type system.
[0137] For simplicity of description, we shall generally refer to
the case of a ground modifying accessory as being a blade or
mouldboard (unless otherwise specified). The relative two
dimensional structure of a blade/mouldboard helps simplify the
understanding of the various geometries and features of various
embodiments in different configurations. It is envisaged that the
skilled reader, in light of the description herein, will understand
how other ground contacting and/or modifying accessories may be
substituted for a blade in various embodiments according to the
descriptions.
[0138] A preferred use of the present invention is for use in
levelling operations, which typically involves ground modification
and sometimes ground preparation and modification. A typical
example is a building site which must be levelled, often to true
horizontal. Prior to levelling there is like to be mounds, ridges,
dips, and various other features in the terrain which must be
reformed to being flat and level (typically horizontal, but the
final level could be an inclined plane). In simple situations the
site may be backfilled with sand, which is relatively simple to
grade. In other applications of the present invention, there may be
hard ground, weeds and thatched plant material, rubble, and
sometimes a paved surface such as bitumen/tarmac etc.
[0139] In typical situations and prior to levelling (which in the
context of this specification shall be considered to encompassing
any prior or concurrent ground modifying/preparation actions by the
leveller), a vehicle travelling across the ground is likely to
suffer from a degree of pitch and roll (the meaning being as
standard in aeronautics). If the blade is fixed relative to the
vehicle then it will be a time consuming and difficult challenge to
level the ground. Most skid steer vehicles and the like to which a
blade is mounted are able to lift the blade up and down. However
rotating them about an axis (such as the direction of travel) to
compensate for roll of the vehicle, is only possible when expensive
or heavy tilting hitch assemblies are employed to mount the blade
to the vehicle--not always a desirable or feasible option,
particularly for vehicles such as excavators.
[0140] Preferred embodiments of one aspect of the present invention
comprise, in simple form, a body mounting portion--which can be
affixed to (or employed as part of) a vehicle--and an accessory
body portion which includes or can have attached a ground modifying
accessory (such as a blade in its simplest form) for operations
such as ground levelling. A linkage assembly, in preferred
embodiments, has a geometry allowing restricted movements of the
accessory body portion relative to the body mounting portion--which
effectively means, when attached to a vehicle, restricted movement
of the blade relative to the vehicle.
[0141] The linkage assembly, as will be described more completely
herein, typically comprises a combination of stabilising linkages
(typically of fixed length) and linear actuators, which can be
lengthened or shortened to effect relative movement of the
accessory body portion with respect to the body mounting portion.
In preferred embodiments these linear actuators are hydraulically
operated, but need not be in all embodiments.
[0142] The geometry allows for the accessory body portion to
undergo several movements relative to the body mounting portion
(and hence vehicle). The first is an up and down movement. Here the
general plane of the blade can remain substantially the same during
the up and down movement, such that the movement is virtually an up
and down translational movement--i.e. the general plane of the
blade remains substantially within a translational plane. This
movement allows the elevation of the bottom of the blade to be
altered as the vehicle travels over mounds in the ground. Use may
be made of a laser guidance control system (or equivalent) to help
maintain the bottom of the blade/accessory at a particular
elevation relative to a ground reference point.
[0143] Here the lengthening and shortening of the linear actuators
control the up and down movement, while stabilising linkages help
prevent rotation of the blade plane about a vertical axis (yaw, in
the standard pitch, roll, yaw scenario).
[0144] Another permitted operation is rotation of the accessory
body portion about a rotational axis substantially perpendicular to
a translational plane such as described above. In other words,
typically in preferred embodiments about an axis representing the
direction of forward travel of the vehicle. This is the equivalent
of that typically allowed for by tilting hitch mounts, except this
time the linkage geometry of the levelling device provides this
feature at much lesser cost and weight.
[0145] Preferred embodiments ideally have a pair of stabilising
arms, ideally with ball joint connections at at least one end of
each, to also help restrict rotational movement of the general
plane of the blade to substantially within a said translational
plane as mentioned above--i.e. they help prevent rotation of the
blade or accessory body portion about a vertical axis as other
movements are effected.
[0146] Both the translational (i.e. up/down) and rotational
movements (about a forward facing axis) mentioned above may be
sequentially or simultaneously effected. Specialised embodiments
may also allow for some rotation of the accessory body portion, or
the blade itself, about a transverse (relative to the direction of
travel) axis as well.
[0147] The aforesaid movements will allow, in the case of a ground
contouring assembly mounted to a vehicle performing a ground
levelling operation, for the operator to maintain the bottom edge
of the blade at a fixed level relative to a reference (within the
limits of the capacity of the equipment to compensate for extremes
in the level of the ground). With the use of a laser reference
level guidance system to control the linear actuators, the
accessory body portion (and hence blade) can be automatically
maintained in an optimal elevation and tilt inclination to effect
levelling (relative to a reference plane which need not be
horizontal), ultimately within very tight tolerances.
[0148] The arrangement is also useful for attachment to excavator
mounts, though a different mounting system may need to be adopted
body mounting portion. Excavator mounting systems do not typically
allow for any rotational (about a forward axis) adjustment of an
attached blade--the ground contouring assembly of the present
invention includes this feature, thereby making it possible for
excavators to more effectively perform ground levelling
operations.
[0149] In more advanced embodiments there is provided a stabilising
wheel arrangement, typically forwardly of the blade. This wheel
arrangement may be alternately between operational (contacting the
ground) and non-operational positions. In a preferred arrangement
the arm arrangement includes a pivoting connection allowing the end
portion (with the stabilising wheel arrangement) to pivot upwardly
such that the wheels clear the ground. Preferably the stabilising
wheel arm of this embodiment pivots to a perpendicular position or
backwardly of perpendicular, and more preferably so that the end
arm portion and wheel arrangement are positioned behind the
pivotable connection. This arrangement, while simple in hindsight,
addresses a few significant issues and provide several realisable
advantages.
[0150] For instance, one of the problems encountered during use is
when an operator comes up to a boundary edge and the stabilising
wheel arrangement encounters the boundary (e.g. a fence, wall,
geographical feature) before the blade does. This means closest the
blade can get may be around 1600-1800 mm from the boundary. By
implementing the folding arm arrangement the length may typically
be reduced by around 1200 mm depending on the specific design. This
is much better for work in close confines. Also, as not all
applications of the invention may require the use of the
stabilising arm and thus the user has the option of either using
the stabilising arm or having it raised, effectively converting the
embodiment into a dual purpose utility device.
[0151] Additionally, for the transport of manufactured devices
(e.g. on a truck or a container), space--particularly length--is
critical. The ability to fold, as shown in the following
illustrations, can reduce the length by around 40% which
significantly decreases transport costs for multiple units when
exporting or transporting cross-country.
[0152] To further improve the versatility of the present invention,
a further specialised embodiment of the present invention allows
the ground contouring assembly to attach directly to the existing
blade of a vehicle--useful where a vehicle may not have a blade
able to be quickly removed, or at all.
[0153] Preferred implementations of these embodiments have at least
one first hook like feature for engaging the top edge of an
existing vehicle blade, and at least one second hook like feature
for engaging the bottom edge of said existing vehicle blade. At
least one of said first and second hook like features will include
tightening means (typically on a link to the ground contouring
assembly) which allows the ground contouring assembly to be drawn
tight against said existing vehicle blade--and subsequently relaxed
for release from the existing vehicle blade. This represent a quick
and effective system for securing ground contouring assembly to an
existing blade.
[0154] Hence, in summary, ideally the geometry of the linkages
between the body portions allow for the rotational angle of the
blade portion (and hence blade) to be altered relative to the
attachment portion, as well as its elevation relative thereto. In
this case we are using the attachment portion as our reference
point. In reality the blade edge itself will be come the fixed
point, relative to a reference point of true ground level and true
horizontal. Hence the blade will be maintained in the same position
(as far as is possible) despite changes in the pitch or roll of the
vehicle to which the ground contouring assembly is attached.
[0155] To allow for the relatively independent control of each end
of the blade portion, the primary stabilising linkages will have
pivoting ends--preferably a ball joint--to accommodate the geometry
changes as the actuators are extended or contracted. In this case
the geometry is chosen also to provide lateral stability of the two
body portions, as well as substantially maintaining their distance
of separation (major differences here as the blade changes position
can affect the outcome for a device mounted on a moving
vehicle).
[0156] For applications where ground preparation is necessary or
desirable, preferred embodiments also include an accessory mounting
system to allow for the attachment of accessories such as
scarifiers, or Harley rakes and the like. For simplicity of
description, reference will be made primarily to fixed tine
(non-powered) scarifier rakes and Harley rakes as representative
examples for illustrating the principles of this aspect of the
invention.
[0157] While a simple mounting bar could be added, operators often
work between areas with different characteristics. Continuously
fitting and removing accessories for when needed or not can make a
significant dent in productivity. Hence a more versatile solution
enabling a mounted accessory to be deployed when required can
potentially make a significant productivity advantage.
[0158] In simpler embodiments of a ground contouring assembly there
are provided side guards either side of the blade and mouldboard
elements. These are ideally strengthened or significantly strong to
allow the mounting of an accessory (such as a Harley rake,
scarifier, etc.) to be mounted between them. In these simpler
embodiments, the complete accessory can be mounted on pivotable
mounts on the side guards. This arrangement should allow the
mounted accessory to rotate between at least an accessory retracted
position, and at least one accessory engaged position (there may be
a degree of variation here to allow multiple or continuous
positions). While manual means may be used, provision may be made
on the mounted accessory for the connection of a linear actuator,
connected at its other end to a point on the ground contouring
assembly, to allow rotation of the mounted accessory between the
aforesaid accessory retracted and accessory engaged
configurations.
[0159] In more preferred embodiments, there is provided a
transverse accessory mount spanning said side guards, or similarly
acting supports. This is rotatably mounted to allow rotation about
a transverse axis, typically substantially parallel to the blade or
mouldboard. It is typically mounted forwardly of the mouldboard,
and the blade, and elevated above the latter. The distance forward
of the blade and mouldboard can vary according to the accessory and
its operation. While the mounting of a non-powered scarifier could
be close to the mouldboard and/or blade, a powered drum such as a
Harley rake may benefit from being further forward to allow space
between it and the blade for accumulated material. Hence a more
universal design of an accessory mount is likely to be further
forward, but it is envisaged that the provision of multiple
accessory mounts is within the scope of the present invention and
it is recognised that only the more forward mounting assembly may
be effectively operational (able to rotated between engaged and
retracted positions) if implements were fitted to both
simultaneously (e.g. a non-powered scarifier at the rear and a
Harley rake at the front, for instance).
[0160] Referring to the embodiment of a single rotatable accessory
mounting portion, there will typically be provided mount rotation
means to allow the transverse accessory mount (and any attached
accessory) to be managed between the aforesaid accessory engaged
and retracted positions. In its simplest form this may be a linear
actuator, probably hydraulic in operation, which the operator can
control by some means.
[0161] A potential advantage of the use of the rotating transverse
mount assembly is that a strong and reliable connection can be made
between the transverse accessory mount and side support elements
(e.g. side guards). Also the mount rotation means can remain
connected rather than having to be affixed every time an accessory
is changed, fitted, or removed. Also it is possible for the ground
contouring assembly to be raised, maneuvered so the transverse
accessory mount is above the accessory, and lowered down (guide
plates may be provided) so any connecting pins or attachments can
be secured. This can speed the process of fitting, removing, and
changing accessories as required.
[0162] Where a powered drum, such as a Harley rake, is the
accessory, advantage may be obtained by including inboard motors
within the body of the drum--as opposed to external chain drives,
etc. Such inboard motors may be hydraulic in operation, and fitted
at either end of the drum/body portion. This would allow an
accessory to extend the full width of the mouldboard and blade, and
side guards where present. The potentially realisable advantage in
practice is that it enables an operator to work the ground very
close to a boundary while working in either direction--where single
end chain drive systems are used, working close to a boundary is
only possible when the chain arrangement is farthest from the
boundary (hence the operator may need to travel to the end, turn
around, and come back in the favourable direction).
[0163] Where a fixed (non-powered) scarifier is fitted, the
scarifier may comprise one or more modules with downward tines
which are either connected directly to the transverse accessory
mount, or to a mount which itself attached to the transverse
accessory mount.
[0164] As scarifiers may undergo significant pressure in the
forward direction, they may be provided with back support. This
could be a fixed bar or element extending from or between the side
guards, or like. Alternatively part of the scarifier assembly may
bear against the mouldboard and/or blade (though preferably the
former) so that the accessory body portion bears some of the force
acting on the tines/scarifier.
[0165] In preferred embodiments there is included an option to
allow the mount rotation means to relax--e.g. for a linear actuator
to travel without resistance. Where a fixed scarifier, such as
above, is used, it is typically doing its primary work when the
ground contouring assembly is moving forward. If it is supported at
its rear by the mouldboard and/or blade (or other element(s)) then
the mount rotation means is temporarily redundant. In preferred
operation of a fixed scarifier, it can be more useful for the tines
to drag over the ground (instead of penetrating) when the ground
contouring assembly is being reversed. Hence the provision of a
relaxed mount rotation means would allow this to happen, though it
could be operated when the scarifier needed to be moved to an
accessory retracted position.
[0166] It is envisaged that this provision to relax the mount
rotation means may be useful for various accessories which may be
fitted to a transverse accessory mount.
[0167] The nature and operation of the embodiment described above
will be better described with reference to the drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0168] FIG. 1 is a partial plan view of one preferred embodiment of
the present invention,
[0169] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 in
an alternative configuration,
[0170] FIGS. 3a-3c are front views of the embodiment of FIG. 1,
where FIG. 3a illustrates the blade in a lowered position (about a
forward axis), FIG. 3b illustrates the blade in a raised position
(about a forward axis), and FIG. 3c illustrates the blade in an
inclined position (about a forward axis),
[0171] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
the present invention in a folded configuration,
[0172] FIG. 5 is a side diagrammatic view of the embodiment of FIG.
3,
[0173] FIG. 6 is a side diagrammatic view of FIG. 4 in an extended
configuration,
[0174] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the embodiment in FIG.
6,
[0175] FIG. 8 is a side diagrammatic view of a further embodiment
of the present invention attached to the existing blade of a
vehicle, and
[0176] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
8,
[0177] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of a
ground contouring assembly showing an embodiment of a rotatable
accessory mounting portion, without fitted accessory, in an
accessory retracted position,
[0178] FIG. 11 is a part side view of the embodiment of FIG. 10
with an embodiment of an accessory comprising a power drum fitted
and in a position between retracted and engaged configurations,
[0179] FIG. 12 is a side perspective view of an embodiment of a
ground contouring assembly with the embodiment of a power drum of
FIG. 11 in an accessory engaged position,
[0180] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional transverse plane diagrammatic
view of a power drum as used in the embodiments of FIGS. 11 and
12,
[0181] FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of an embodiment of a
ground contouring assembly illustrating laser guidance receivers
and mounts,
[0182] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a
scarifier accessory module,
[0183] FIG. 16 is a top-side perspective view of an alternative
embodiment of a ground contouring assembly showing a fixed
transverse mount arrangement with an embodiment of a scarifier
module, and an alternative embodiment of a forward support carriage
arrangement,
[0184] FIG. 17 is a top side perspective view of a further
embodiment of a ground contouring assembly ground contouring
assembly capable of yaw and pitch adjustment of the accessory body
portion.
[0185] FIG. 18 is a side diagrammatic view of the embodiment of
FIG. 17 in which the accessory body portion is pitched
forwardly,
[0186] FIG. 19 is a plan diagrammatic view of the embodiment of
FIGS. 17 and 18 with wheels in folded position and in which the yaw
of the accessory body portion about a vertical z-axis has been
adjusted,
[0187] FIG. 20 is a front diagrammatic view showing the general
principles of a preferred embodiment of a low pivot
carriage/walking beam,
[0188] FIG. 21 is the schematic diagram of the embodiment of FIG.
19 with the carriage portion pivoted out of the ground plane,
[0189] FIG. 22 is a partial side view of the embodiment of a
preferred embodiment of the present invention,
[0190] FIG. 23 is a partial left side, bottom-rear perspective view
of the embodiment of FIG. 2,
[0191] FIG. 24 is a partial plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 2,
and
[0192] FIG. 25 is a partial left side, top-front perspective view
of the embodiment of FIG. 2.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0193] With reference to the drawings (particularly FIGS. 1 and 2),
and by way of example only, there is provided a ground contouring
assembly (generally indicated by arrow 1) comprising a body
attachment portion (generally indicated by arrow 2) and an
accessory body portion (generally indicated by arrow 3);
the two body portions (2, 3) being connected by body connecting
linkages (5-7) which allow a substantially translational movement
of the accessory body portion (3), substantially parallel and
relative to the accessory body portion (2)--see for instance FIGS.
3a and 3b; the body connecting linkages (5-7) also allowing a
rotational movement of the accessory body portion (3), relative to
the body attachment portion (2), about a rotational axis
substantially in the direction of forward travel (9) of the
assembly (1)--see for instance FIG. 3c; said body connecting
linkages including linear actuators (5a, b), there being at least
one linear actuator (5) being present either side of the middle
(10) of the ground contouring assembly (1) when viewed in plan;
said body connecting linkages (5-7) also including at least one
pivot-ended stabilising linkage (6-7) either side of the middle
(10) of the ground contouring assembly (1) when viewed in plan; and
wherein the body connecting linkages (5-7) assist in maintaining
relative movement of the body portions to as described above.
[0194] The body attachment portion (2) includes a quick-hitch
arrangement (4) such as commonly used on skid-steer tractors.
[0195] With reference to FIG. 3 in the illustrated embodiment (1)
there are two hydraulically controlled upper linear actuators (5a,
b) which can be independently controlled to alter the relationship
of each end of the blade portion (3) relative to the body
attachment portion (2). This is best illustrated in FIG. 2, where
right hand actuator (5b) is contracted relative to left hand
actuator (5a) to adopt a configuration such as shown in FIG. 3c.
While lower linkages (7) may comprise connecting arms, these may
also comprise hydraulically controlled lower linear actuators which
work in cooperation with actuators (5) to allow the accessory body
portion to adopt the configurations shown in FIG. 3, and
combinations thereof. This arrangement can also allow for
alteration of the inclination of the blade (11) about a transverse
axis, under the control of the operator.
[0196] The stabilising linkages, pivot-ended linkages (6a, b) (7a,
b) have ball joint ends where they attach to at least one of the
body portions (2, 3) which is necessary to allow for the permitted
relative movements of the body portions (2, 3). In the present
invention a spherical bush is used in the joints--this joint (14)
can be clearly seen in the stabilising arms (6) where they (in this
embodiment) attach to a central mounting point (15) on the body
mounting portion (2).
[0197] The geometry of the remaining connecting linkages
(stabilising arms (6-7)) assist in maintaining the relationship
between the two body portions (2, 3) as movement occurs (such as
shown in FIG. 3). In this arrangement the distance of separation
between the body portions (2, 3) remains substantially the same, as
does their relative forward/rearward inclinations (i.e. inclination
being rotation about a transverse axis) relative to each other
(though some flexibility is allowed here in the design of the
geometry in various embodiments).
[0198] The primary permitted relative movements between the body
portions (2, 3) are, when viewed from the front and wherein the
body attachment portion (2) is considered fixed in position,
relative upward and downward movement of the accessory body portion
(3) relative to the body attachment portion (2), as well as
allowing relative upward and downward movement of each end of the
accessory body portion (3) relative to the body attachment portion
(2)--allowing also for inclination of the blade portion (3)
(relative to the body attachment portion (2)), such as shown in
FIG. 2.
[0199] Accordingly there is provided a precise alteration of the
elevation and rotational inclination of the blade relative to the
quick hitch (4) (which follows the roll inclination of the vehicle
in response to ground contours) without the need for heavy and
expensive quick hitch rotational attachments. The arrangement of
the illustrated embodiment theoretically provides for faster (quick
response movements are important for a moving vehicle) changes to
the elevation and rotational inclination of the blade, as well as
being much more precise.
[0200] The actuators can also be coupled to a laser levelling
control system (sensors or emitters can be mounted on arms (not
shown) which fix at positions (12) on the blade portion (3)) so
that the blade (11) is maintained at true ground elevation and the
horizontal, regardless of any pitching and rolling movements of the
vehicle to which it (1) is attached. As mentioned above, the
quicker responsiveness of the present embodiment also allows the
vehicle to travel faster.
[0201] Preliminary trials by the inventor, have indicated that the
present invention when used with a laser levelling system can level
ground to a much higher degree of precision (.+-.3 mm compared to
.+-.10 mm) approximately 12 times faster than when using a similar
arrangement with a prior art device. This represents a very
significant advance in the art in terms of productivity and
precision. Accordingly this also opens the present invention up to
other applications where a tool on a moving vehicle needs to be
maintained at a precise inclination and elevation.
[0202] In FIGS. 4 and 5 we see a folding embodiment of the present
invention, where a provided stabilising arm assembly (30) has a
folding end portion (31) on which a ground contacting stabilising
wheel arrangement (32) is mounted.
[0203] In FIG. 5 the reduced front to rear length of the apparatus
is evident, as are the potential transport benefits. Similarly, the
closer proximity of the blade (11) to the front of the apparatus,
for close work, can be gauged.
[0204] In FIGS. 6 and 7 we see a further embodiment suitable for
attachment to an excavator. Rather than a quick hitch (4) we have
an arm arrangement (50) to which is pivotably attached (53) a T-pin
(51) comprising a quick hitch adaptor (which may be of different
quick connect configurations) to which the quick hitch adaptor (54)
of an excavator's (not shown) dipper arm (52) may be attached. This
arrangement makes the ground contouring assembly available for use
with excavators, a new and novel arrangement which significantly
improves the versatility of both excavators and levelling
devices.
[0205] In FIGS. 8 and 9 we see an alternative mounting system to
the ubiquitous quick hitch (4), the body mounting portion (70)
attaching to the existing blade (71) of a vehicle (not shown for
simplicity).
[0206] Here at least one upper hook portion (72) affixed to the
body mounting portion (70) hooks over the top of the existing blade
(71). A contacting bar (78) may be provided on the body mounting
portion (70) to help accommodate the different curves of blades and
reduce possible damage to the blade (71).
[0207] A lower hook portion (73) connected by a flexible linkage
(74) to an adjustable linking element (75), in turn connected to an
element (79) associated with the body mounting portion (70), helps
secure the ground contouring assembly (1) to the existing blade
(71) as the adjustable element(s) (75) are tightened. The
adjustable element (75) may simply be a turnbuckle in a preferred
element, and may be provided with an arm (76) to help tighten the
turnbuckle, and provide additional stabilisation when the distal
end of the arm (76) is connected to a point (77) on the accessory
body portion (3) after tightening.
[0208] In FIG. 10 we see an embodiment of a modified ground
modifying assembly including a rotatable accessory mounting portion
(101) comprising a transverse accessory mount (102), in simplest
form comprising rectangular hollow section bar, connected at each
end to side supporting elements (in this case comprising side
guards) (106) by rotatable mounts (105) allowing at least partial
rotation of the mount (102) about a transverse axis substantially
in parallel with the general plane of the blade (11) or mouldboard
(107) of the accessory body portion.
[0209] Linkage tabs (104a,b) allow for control of the rotation of
the mount (102) by allowing the connection of mount rotation means
comprising linear actuators (103a,b). In preferred embodiments
these are hydraulic and capable of progressive and continuous
control by the operator, and/or could be linked into an automated
control system. In this figure the mount (102) is shown in an
accessory retracted position.
[0210] In FIGS. 11 and 12 we see the inclusion of a power drum
assembly (generally indicated by arrow 110) such as a Harley rake
(114) to the rear of structure support wheel (32). Features such as
teeth or studs (115) may be provided on the Harley rake drum (114).
While the invention allows for such an assembly (110) to be
attached directly to side supports (106) by a rotatable mount (e.g.
105) at each end, the preferred arrangements utilise the rotatable
transverse accessory mount (101) of the embodiment of FIG. 10 for
easier fitment and removal of accessories (e.g. 110).
[0211] FIG. 12 provides a perspective view of the embodiment of
FIG. 10 with the power drum accessory (110) of FIG. 11 (and such as
detailed in FIG. 13) fitted and in the engaged position.
[0212] FIG. 13 illustrates a preferred power drum accessory (110)
arrangement such as would be used in preferred embodiments as
described in relation to FIGS. 11 and 13. As mentioned in the main
body of the specification it is desirable for operators to be able
to work close to boundaries and obstructions--e.g. foundation
walls, kerbing, marker poles, etc. In practice this can usually be
achieved in embodiments of the invention by minimising protrusions
outside of the width of the blade (11), or as more readily seen in
the pictures, outside of the side guards 106.
[0213] While the power drum could utilise a compact external
hydraulic motor at each end the option for preferred embodiments is
predominantly inboard hydraulic motors (112a,b) positioned largely
within the drum (114) itself. In this situation only the protective
cap and mount (111a,b) need extend outside of the planes defined by
the side guards (106) while allowing the drum (114) to extend the
full width within the extended vertical planes defined by the side
guards (106).
[0214] The protrusions (115) from the drum (114) are defined by
choice, and may be replaceable elements or formed into drum (114)
itself. The user is open to choice here. Various types of teeth,
blades, features may be provided along with different combinations
thereof--for instance the user choice for breaking asphalt and
road-seal may be different from dethatching and preparing areas
covered with vegetation.
[0215] Less destructive drum choices are also envisaged--for
instance the power drum may comprise a brush for finishing and
screening areas, finishing landscaped areas or lightly covering
sown seed, or even removing excess materials and debris on finished
areas (e.g. gravel chips on finish tar sealed roading and sidewalks
etc). It is intended that there will be user choice in the
selection of the properties of the power drum in a power drum
assembly (110).
[0216] FIG. 14 illustrates a different perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 12, and also shows the laser receiver unit
(116a,b) guide poles (117a,b) which can employed with various
embodiments of a ground contouring assembly (1) to enable it to be
used a laser guidance and levelling system, or full 3D guidance
system, such as becoming more common in the industry. There are
various manufacturers of such systems (including, for instance,
Leica.RTM.) which can provide accessory guidance and control
systems able to work with position transmitters and solutions for
use on various sites (and types of site). A potentially realisable
advantage of various embodiments of the present invention is that
when such laser assisted systems are used, any mounted accessories
on the accessory body portion also operate under the same laser
assisted control as the blade and benefit from the advantages
thereof. Hence a ground contouring assembly of the present
invention to which various accessories can be fitted provides a
useful advance in the industry--the multiple linkage arrangement
connecting the accessory body portion to the body attachment
portion allows for angling of the accessory under operator control
and/or in response to laser assisted control systems. No prior art
accessories such Harley rakes/power drums, scarifiers, etc are able
to be angled in response to changing ground contours and this
represents a significant disadvantage (multiple passes with
different accessories) in terms of time and accuracy for land and
site preparation and contouring.
[0217] The following specifications in relation to the embodiments
of FIG. 10 through 15 are not intended to be limiting but
representative only of a currently most preferred embodiment, and
to provide additional information to the skilled reader in
understanding a best preferred embodiment of the invention.
However, it should be appreciated that many of these parameters are
open to user choice and to suit a particular job. [0218] Typical
Drum diameter: 170 mm (without teeth) [0219] Typical Drum working
width: 1.940 mm [0220] Drum type: Steel, reversible in operation
without affecting levelling operation [0221] Typical Motor
displacement (per side): 160-380 cc, depending on base machine size
and hydraulic flow [0222] Typical Drum speed: adjustable from 0 to
240 RPM [0223] Typical Shaft diameter: 50 mm [0224] Typical Number
of teeth: 96 [0225] Typical Tooth type: 16 mm tungsten with button
or flat top, depending on type of work [0226] Typical Tooth height
(from surface of drum): 30 mm [0227] Typical Type of drive: Direct
with resilient internal toothed drive [0228] Typical Lubrication
and maintenance points: zero, grease free pivots, internal, oil
lubricated bearings [0229] Typical Drum support bearings: 2.times.
internal, oil lubricated, maintenance free [0230] Typical Angle of
retraction: 90 degrees to operating plane [0231] Typical Engagement
depth: Infinitely adjustable in operation from 100 above to 70 mm
below blade height [0232] Typical Stone barrier set height: 3
position in 40 mm increments [0233] Typical Clearance height with
drum removed: 560 mm [0234] Typical Drum forward length from blade:
540 mm [0235] Typical Drive motor extension width past side wing
gusset: 20 mm [0236] Typical Weight of drum and mount structure:
200 KG [0237] Typical Weight of pivot mounting structure: 40 KG
[0238] Typical Locking mechanism: Over centre latch mechanism with
positive tension in lock position [0239] Typical Tilt from level:
adjustable in manual or automatic mode, 0 to +/-12 degrees [0240]
Typical Control method: proportional hydraulic positioning using
electronic machine control [0241] Typical Grade Control: continuous
automatic from 2D laser or 3D data file, Dual GNSS or TPS capable
[0242] Typical Tooth engagement depth: manual set via hydraulic
cylinders [0243] Typical Maximum main fall: set by laser, typical
0-15% [0244] Typical Maximum cross fall: set by laser, typical
0-15% [0245] Typical Accuracy of cut: Typical +/-3 mm from
registered grade [0246] Typical laser system provider which might
be employed on embodiments--Leica.RTM.
[0247] FIG. 15 illustrates another accessory which may be fitted by
an operator to an accessory mount (102). In this case a scarifier
module (121) comprises a plurality of tines (123) are connected to
an accessory mount portion (122) for fitting to the transverse
mount (102). A pivot pin(s) (not shown) aligned with axis 124
allows for forward pivoting of the tines (123) allowing for them to
drag freely when the ground contouring assembly is being reversed
in operation. Alignment pins (125a, b) maintain spacing of the
tines.
[0248] Apertures (126) and (127) in the mount and tine portions
respectively allow an operator to temporarily lift the tines (123)
and place a pin in to lock them in an up position. This can be
useful for improving visibility for the operator in certain
operations where the tines are not required. This can still used in
conjunction with rotation of the transverse mount (102) to further
lift the tines (123).
[0249] Not visible is a rear tab or bar at the rear of the mount
ribs (128) which limits rearward travel of the tines (123) during
forward movement of the ground contouring assembly (1), and to
allow the tines (123) of the module (121) to be raised when the
accessory bar is moved to an accessory retracted position.
[0250] It should also be envisaged that the scarifier modules could
be positioned directly in front of the blade and mouldboards of the
ground contouring assembly to allow them to be used in conjunction
with another accessory on a transverse accessory mount (102),
allowing an operator to readily use both in conjunction or
alternate between use of the two accessories with relative ease of
operation and adjustment. It should also be appreciated that a
single scarifier module extending the full width of the mount (102)
could be used, or multiple smaller modules used as required.
[0251] FIG. 16 illustrates a further modification to various
embodiments of the present invention. In practice it is sometimes
necessary for operators to work around obstructions on a
site--these may be foundations for pillars or columns, and such
like. As an alternative to the larger folding wheel carriage
assembly (31, 32) of some embodiments of the invention, a
simplified pivoting carriage with single pivot (132) can be
provided and attached to a forwardly extending support (133), which
may be fixed or removable. This arrangement gives a greater
unobstructed distance (134) between the wheels (134) and projected
general vertical plane of the side guards. This increased clearance
make it easier for an operator to work close to, and around,
obstructions--potentially providing a cleaner job with minimal
manual follow up to finish problem areas. It should be noted that
in a number of situations a forward carriage is desirable to help
stop the ground contouring assembly (1) from nosing down into
softer materials and maintaining a more accurate natural level for
the tractor and ground contouring assembly combination.
[0252] As a variation of the aforesaid embodiments, there are
occasionally situations where an operator may require additional
flexibility in terms of being able to manipulate the orientation of
the accessory body portion (203). Such operations may include
tilting the accessory body portion forwardly or rearwardly (about a
transverse axis--i.e. altering the pitch of the accessory body
portion). Other operations may include rotating the angle of the
accessory body portion (203) about a vertical `z` axis--i.e. a yaw
type movement. And various combinations of these operations and
that of previously described embodiments. It should also be
appreciated that these operations also affect any accessories which
may also be mounted on the accessory body portion (203).
[0253] In order to achieve these additional operations, various
linkages of the previous embodiments (e.g., FIG. 8) may be
substituted with linear actuators.
[0254] FIG. 17 refers a modification of embodiments such as shown
in FIG. 8. For instance, to achieve pitch adjustment, linkages (7)
(e.g. FIG. 8) of the previous embodiments are substituted with
linear (typically hydraulic) actuators (207). These can be
lengthened or shortened (ideally in tandem) to adjust pitch--we
shall assume that other linkages/actuators remain at constant
length while visualising this. Once a desired pitch has been
achieved, their length may be maintained to retain this relative
pitch (though see also more sophisticated embodiments discussed
later). The beauty of this arrangement is that the actuators (207)
function primarily as adjustable linkages, enabling these variant
embodiments (e.g. FIG. 17) to still operate in the manner of the
embodiment of FIG. 1 (for instance).
[0255] Providing linear actuators (206) to replace linkages (6) of
FIG. 1 allows for the aforesaid yaw-like adjustments to be made.
Here the operation is a little different and will typically involve
extending one actuator (206) while retracting the other (206). The
geometry is also a little different and these actions may also
cause some roll-movement of the accessory body portion (203). While
this might be acceptable in some embodiments, providing actuators
(207) instead of fixed length linkages (e.g. 7) can help compensate
and allow adjustment to reduce these other pitch and/or roll
changes when adjusting yaw.
[0256] In practice it is likely that an operator may employ changes
to any one or more of pitch, yaw, and roll simultaneously. It is
envisaged that in most cases the operation of such advanced
embodiments of the present invention will be in conjunction with
laser assisted control systems--such as, for instance, provided by
companies such as Leica.RTM.. In these cases a control system for
the actuators (205, 206, 207 where provided) will be coupled with
the laser assisted control system to ensure the accessory body
portion (203) is maintained at the correct attitude/position as the
leveller and vehicle travels across terrain.
[0257] It is envisaged that even with laser assisted embodiments,
the operator may have direct (or indirect fly-by-wire type) control
over pitch and yaw, as these are often more influenced by the type
of terrain and material that the ground contouring assembly is
working on. It also envisaged that these embodiments may also be
used on non-laser assisted embodiments of a ground modifying
assembly with direct control of the actuators (205-207 where
provided) by the operator. There may also be fly-by-wire type
assisted operation using computational means with a control system
to enable the operator to more easily attain a particular attitude
of the accessory body portion (203)--it is envisaged that such
embodiments might even used modified joysticks or roller-ball type
controls for the operator, rather than individual controls for each
actuator and/or set thereof (i.e. 205-207 where provided). FIG. 18
illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 17 in which actuators (207) have
been shortened to enable the accessory body portion to pitch
forward relative to the ground (220)3. Once these actuators (207)
have been set and maintained at the required length, and assuming
also that actuators (206) are also maintained at constant length
(assuming these are present instead of linkages (6)) then operation
of actuators (205) will raise and lower the accessory body portion
(203) while maintaining substantially the same pitch. In fact,
operation of actuators will be substantially the same in effect as
for the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0258] With reference to FIGS. 20 and 21, and prior art ground
modifying assemblies with walking beams, existing prior art walking
beams (carriages supporting forward wheels) have their walking beam
pivot point above the walking beam, which is significantly above
the contact point of the tyres. This pivot is to allow the carriage
to rotate about a longitudinal axis (with respect to the
leveller/ground modifying assembly) to allow wheels on the carriage
to negotiate bumps and contours in uneven ground being worked.
[0259] As all other manufacturers position their pivot point in
this position, the applicant had also assumed this to be the
correct point, as the walking beam always hangs level when raised
off the ground. However, this has turned out not to be the
case.
[0260] When a ground modifying assembly is turned (particularly in
reverse) with the wheels raised at all, the natural motion of the
pendulum action of the suspended weight of the walking beam and
wheels assembly causes the leading wheel in the turn to contact the
ground. This is due to the centre of gravity being below the pivot
point. If the material is soft (which is the case at the end of a
push (forward operation of a ground modifying assembly) as it has
not had a blade or ground modifying accessory pass over it to
compact/level/contour it, the contacting wheel makes an impression
in the ground. In addition, the wheel may be pivoting around to
change direction, further compounding the impression in the soft
material. This immediately causes the walking beam to increase in
angle, further amplifying the problem. The walking beam will then
act as an anchor and drive the wheel into the soft ground, as the
high pivot point creates a high angle of attack to try and force
the whole ground modifying assembly around this point. Apart from
marking levelled and worked ground, it puts severe strain on the
assembly's structure. This all happens in a split second, so is
difficult for the operator to identify, as they are often looking
behind to see where they going.
[0261] The force can be extreme, causing even 40 mm wheel pivots
pins to be bent. All manufacturers have grappled with this issue
and a solution is a longfelt want. It is not uncommon in the
industry to have wheels torn completely off.
[0262] One solution of the present invention is to lower the pivot
point of the walking beam as low as possible to get it below the
centre of gravity of the walking beam assembly. Ideally the pivot
should be below the centre of gravity of the pivoting walking beam
assembly. There may be further advantage in some embodiments in
placing the beam pivot point below the rotational axis of the
wheels, but ground clearance (for various applications of a ground
modifying assembly is a practical consideration in calculating the
lowest practical pivot point in differing embodiments.
[0263] By lowering the beam pivot point, we can potentially realize
several effects: [0264] A walking beam's natural pendulum
tendencies in embodiments of the present invention differ from that
of the prior art (which has a pivot above the centre of gravity).
Thus, when a ground modifying assembly is turned with the wheels
raised, or not contacting the ground, the natural action is for the
leading wheel to RAISE and the trailing wheel to contact the
ground. As this wheel is behind the pivot point, it forms a natural
castor action, extending the length to the centre line. This
reduces any force to push the wheel into the soft ground. [0265]
The angle of attack is significantly reduced, as the pivot is
closer to the surface of the ground. Technically, if we placed the
pivot at ground level or below, there would be zero angle of
attack. Of course we have to leave some room above the ground, but
by lowering the pivot height compared to the prior art the angle
can be reduced significantly.
[0266] The down side is the walking beam will "fall" to either side
now when raised though the effects of this can be addressed with
solutions such as rubber bump stops.
[0267] FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrates a low pivot version of a
carriage in a schematic fashion. FIGS. 26 and 27 represent a
preferred embodiment. (501) represents the forward drawbar or
portion of the ground contouring assembly to which the carriage
portion is affixed. For reference, an example of a high pivot
walking beam such as previously used in the art, is illustrated in
FIG. 14, as well as other figures such as FIG. 5.
[0268] A downward extension (502) provides a suitable mounting
point for the carriage pivot portion (506). This carriage pivot
(506) connects the extension (502) to the lower extending portion
of the carriage body (505) to which the wheel assemblies (504) are
attached. The wheel assemblies (504) of this embodiment can rotate
about a substantially vertical axis by pivotable attachment (503).
Ideally the wheel assemblies are a trailing type assembly in this
embodiment, where (in plan) the central wheel pivot is offset from
vertical pivot (503).
[0269] The applicant has found that by positioning the carriage
pivot (506) below the central pivot of the wheels (504) the
pendulum and swinging effects of high mounted pivots (such as in
earlier figures) is reduced, minimised, or even eliminated. Hence
this arrangement may be applied to suitable embodiments of FIGS. 1
through 18.
[0270] FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate a working embodiment of a ground
modifying assembly (530) with and underslung pivot (506). In FIG.
27 a simple embodiment which might be used on an excavator arm is
shown. Here the ground working accessory (520) is a blade, and this
faces away from the wheel portion--typically an excavator will use
its boom/arm to draw the ground modifying assembly (530) towards
it. However it should be appreciated that this ground working
accessory (520, 521) may, in other embodiments, be substituted by
other body and accessory portions as in other figures of this
specification--or in other words, the underslung pivot (506)
carriage arrangement may be substituted for the wheeled carriage
portions appearing in embodiments illustrated in other figures
herein.
[0271] FIG. 26 illustrates how, when the apparatus is lifted from
the ground (or travelling over uneven ground) the front carriage
portion (503, 504, 505) will tilt to one side of the other (if
dangling) or tilt to follow ground contours. Rubber stops (518) may
be provided to lessen shock as it meets the maximum rotation
limit.
[0272] FIGS. 22 through 24 comprise a different embodiment of a
leveller which uses a simpler parallel type linkage arrangement.
This arrangement is potentially useful in some embodiments of
levellers (ground modifying assemblies), and particularly for
excavator mounted levellers. Depending on the size of an excavator
(or other vehicle with a movable support arm) there may be a weight
restriction on attached accessories which also has a bearing on the
maximum reach, maximum angle of inclination of a ground plane on
which the excavator/vehicle is working, etc.
[0273] In FIGS. 22 through 25 is shown an alternative embodiment
which uses a simpler linkage system which can yield a lighter
leveller type assembly--potentially a significant advantage for
excavators. There are also some other potentially realisable
benefits which can lead to increased usage and field of operation
of leveller assemblies. Such potential benefits may include: lower
manufacturing costs, lighter weight, simpler control of moving
parts.
[0274] We will refer back to FIG. 1, which represents the geometry
of the applicant's prior art levelling assembly for comparison.
Here the fixed diagonal linkages (6a, b) between the front
accessory body portion (3) and the rear body portion (2)
effectively prevents sideways lateral movement--which was
considered a desirable attribute for the intended uses of this
device. However, now the art and industry needs apparatus with
lateral adjustment.
[0275] In another embodiment of the present invention and with
reference to the drawings, and by way of example only, there is
provided a levelling assembly (see FIG. 22) comprising a front
accessory body portion (603), and a rear body portion (602),
the two body portions (602, 603) connected to each other by at
least four body connecting linkages (L605, L606, R605, R606), said
body connecting linkages, in plan view, being distributed either
side ((L605, L606) and (R605, R606)) of a vertical longitudinal
centre-plane (607) bisecting said two body portions (1602, 603),
said body connecting linkages ((L605, L606) and (R605, R606))
including pivotable linkage connections to said body portions (602,
603) to allow, when viewed from the side, the relative elevation to
the two body portions (602, 603) to alter.
[0276] The front accessory body portion (603) includes a blade
(608) attached to a mouldboard portion (609) and has collectively
been referred to as the "blade" previously in this specification.
Side guards (L610 and R610) may be provided or both sides, one side
only, omitted, or removably attached as required.
[0277] The rear body portion (602) provides a body structure
including a mounting point (612) for one end of an actuator (614)
comprising the lateral shift control linkage. A pivotable bush or
ball joint type connection may be provided here (612). The other
end (615) of the actuator (614) is attached to the front accessory
body portion (603) though due to the partially cut away view the
mounting attachment point is not fully visible.
[0278] The rear body portion (602) may also include an attached
quick hitch mount as required, and as is visible as item (4) in
FIG. 1.
[0279] In the side view of FIG. 24 from the left side, we can see
the upper (L605) and lower (L606) connecting linkages connected
(L705 and L706) to the structure of the body portion (602). FIG. 3
better shows the alternate end pivotable connections (L805 and
L806) for the respective linkages (L605 and L606) to the rear
structure of the front body portion (603). Referring back to FIG. 2
we can see the preferred substantially parallelogram arrangement of
this embodiment between the connecting linkages (L605, L606) and
the body portions (602, 603). The arrangement and geometry of the
right hand side is typically a mirror replication through the
centre plane (607).
[0280] FIG. 25 shows the left (L618) and right (R618) elevation
controlling linkages, comprising linear hydraulic actuators. FIG. 2
illustrates the diagonal mounting arrangement (from side view) of
left (equivalent to right) elevation controlling linkage (L618),
and its connection (L818) near the top of the rear body portion
(602) though the connection (L818) to the front body portion (603)
is obscured in this figure.
[0281] These elevation controlling linkages (L618, R618) may be
placed inwardly (closer to the centre plane (607)) or outwardly of
the left and right sets of connection linkages ((L605, L606) and
(R605, R606)) as convenient or desired.
[0282] The levelling apparatus may also include an excavator boom
arm quick mount (626) if this is a required vehicle mounting
option.
[0283] Laser sensor poles may be affixed at mounting points (L628,
R628) on the side guards (L610, R610) if required, and sensors (not
shown) attached.
[0284] A forward wheel assembly, possibly upwardly folding or
retractable may be provided on various embodiments though this may
not be required on all embodiments,
[0285] A kerb following wheel assembly may be provided on one or
both sides of the front accessory body portion (602) to assist an
operator in precision following of an existing structure or
feature.
[0286] With general reference to the embodiments of FIGS. 22
through 25, other embodiments are possible. For instance in the
applicant's previous levelling apparatus (U.S. Pat. No. 10,323,382)
the linkage geometry precluded relative lateral shifting of the
body portions in order to achieve rotation about a longitudinal
axis. Accordingly this document teaches away from the present
invention, as well as there being considerable changes in
geometry.
[0287] In preferred embodiments of the general parallel linkage
arrangement of FIGS. 22 through 25 there are ideally four
connecting linkages. These are typically divided into two sets of
two, which are conveniently referred to as left and right linkage
sets, and distributed (ideally substantially equidistantly)
outwardly of a vertical longitudinal centre plane (within which the
levelling assembly's longitudinal axis in use also lies). Typically
no connecting point for a connecting linkage is near the centre
plane in preferred embodiments.
[0288] When preferred embodiments are view from the side, the two
connecting linkages of each set are displaced vertically with
respect to each other--i.e. one appears positioned above the other,
and in preferred (but not necessarily all) embodiments is
vertically displaced one above the other. As (also in preferred
embodiments) the general planes of the two body portions are
roughly parallel to each other, from the side the arrangement of
the two connecting linkages (of a set) with the two body portions
form a quadrilateral. This may ideally be a parallelogram but in
practice may deviate from this precise geometry, and various
contributing elements to this parallelogram may (typically) each
fall up to (and including) 20 degrees of this ideal
parallelogram.
[0289] In order for there to be relative movement between the body
portions we need to have a pivotable connection between same and
the connecting linkages. While this may be a connection pivotable
about a single axis (suitable for simple more limited embodiments
of the present invention with a restricted range of movement), the
desired range of movement in preferred embodiments prefers a more
multi-axial range of movement such as provided by a ball joint. In
practice, a single axis mounted connection with a flexible bush
accommodating movement in other directions (such as by bush
compression) is often suitable--truck suspension arm/component
connections with compressible bushes are one example. At the end of
the day, a pivotable connection which allows for the desired
relative movements is used.
[0290] The elevation controlling linkages are typically also
connected to the body portions with pivotable connections
equivalent to the connecting linkages. The elevation controlling
linkages are typically actuators, and hydraulically controlled in
preferred embodiments. These are typically operated in tandem,
though users may operate them differently and in the geometry of
the preferred embodiment limited rotation of the two body portions
relative to each other is possible by altering the length of the
actuators by different amounts. This is useful where the leveller
is used to create an incline (e.g. roading etc.) during its
operation. Hence preferred embodiments of the present invention can
provide lateral and elevational translational movement, as well as
longitudinal axis rotational movement, relative between the front
and rear body portions.
[0291] Typically an elevation controlling linkage is mounted
substantially diagonally in side view, often being connected (in
side view) at or near the top of one body portion and at or near
the bottom of the other. Variations may exist in practice, though
the requirement is to be able to change the relative elevation of
one body portion to the other by altering the length of said
elevation controlling linkage.
[0292] It should be recognised that it is also possible to
substitute linear actuators for one or more of the connecting
linkages, so as to provide a greater range of relative
conformations between the front and rear body portions, though this
does add to the complexity and cost of the resulting apparatus.
However, for specialised applications, this may become a viable
option.
[0293] Lateral translation control may be provided by a lateral
shift control linkage. In simple terms this may be a substantially
transverse linear actuator connected at one end to the front
accessory body portion, and at the other end to (or an element
attached or part of) the rear body portion. Typically, in plan
view, one end of the lateral shift control actuator linkage will be
connected to one of the body portions at or towards its left side,
and the alternate end to the other of the body portion at or
towards its left side. While this actuator may be normal to the
longitudinal centre plane, in practice it may be at an angle to the
transverse so as to take advantage of suitable mounting points on
the body portion and/or to avoid obstruction with other parts,
portions, or components of the levelling assembly.
[0294] Laser sensor guide poles may be provided on various
embodiments, allowing for the mounting of laser guidance sensors
and their integration in to optionally provided laser guidance
control systems available in the market.
[0295] Various mounting systems may be provided. A typical almost
industry standard quick hitch mount (as commonly used on skid-steer
loaders) may be provided on various embodiments. Other options
include mounting attachments for boom arms such as commonly present
on excavator arms. Various options may be implemented according to
user need.
[0296] 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.
[0297] 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.
[0298] 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.
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