Patent ID: 6158948
Filing Date: 2000-12-12
Classification: B60P,E01F

Abstract:
A system for collecting traffic cones comprising, in combination:a plurality of cones each having a weighted lower extent with a generally cylindrical configuration with a first diameter and a first height, an upper extent with a generally cylindrical configuration with the first diameter and a second height about 1/2 the first height, and an intermediate extent with a generally cylindrical configuration integrally coupled between the upper extent and the lower extent in coaxial relationship therewith, the intermediate extent having a third height less than the second height and a second diameter about 1/2 the first diameter;a tractor with a cab compartment having a seat therein and a mechanized rotating coupler;a trailer having a rectangular configuration with a top face, a bottom face, and a peripheral side wall formed therebetween defined by a pair of side walls and a rear face thus affording an open front, the trailer further including two rear wheels rotatably mounted to the bottom face thereof adjacent to the rear face and a conveyor assembly including a plurality of rollers each with a width equal to less than 1/3 a width of the trailer and rotatably mounted to the top face of the trailer along an entire length of one of the side faces thereof, the rollers having a belt mounted thereon, a leading one of the rollers having a first extension extending therefrom and rotatable therewith, a right angle gear joint coupled to an end of the extension with a second extension extending forwardly therefrom in perpendicular relationship with the first extension and rotatable with the gear joint, the second extension being rotatable with the rotating coupler of the tractor for effecting the movement of the conveyor towards the rear face of the trailer;a pick-up assembly including a rotating adapter mounted on the tractor above the cab for rotating about a vertical axis, a telescoping member having an inboard end pivotally coupled to the rotating adapter about a horizontal axis and an outboard end having a C-shaped clamp pivotally coupled thereto, wherein the pick-up assembly is adapted to maneuver the C-shaped clamp between the cones and further clamp the intermediate extent thereof for picking up the cones and positioning the same on the conveyor of the trailer.