APPARATUS FOR COLLECTION OF NON-METALLIC AND METALLIC FOREIGN OBJECT DEBRIS

A system and method for collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris (FOD) is disclosed. The foreign object debris system consists of one or more debris collection modules and can be deployed in various width configurations. Debris collection modules can be pulled, pushed, attached to moving equipment, vehicles or to a tow trailer to provide motion. Each pickup module consists of a frame, a debris bin area, a brush, one or more rigid ramp(s) with replaceable tip(s). Multiple debris collection modules can be connected to form a wider or narrower sweeping width. As the foreign object debris system travels forward, debris travels up the tip(s) and ramp(s) and is deposited into a debris bin.

BACKGROUND

The field of the disclosure relates to sweeper apparatus, in particular to a sweeper apparatus for collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris (FOD).

Roads, airfields and other hard surfaces that vehicles, aircraft and equipment travel can become littered with foreign object debris which has the potential to damage vehicles, aircraft and equipment, or in some cases harm people, directly or indirectly. This debris can include but is not limited to tire fragments, rocks, gravel, sand, fasteners, paper, brush bristles, tools, nails, zipper pulls and vehicle parts. The debris can be both metallic and non-metallic.

Vehicles which encounter these larger objects have the potential of damage which could result in a loss of control and endanger the occupants. Similarly jet turbines mounted low on aircraft can ingest the debris and cause expensive damage or possibly harm the occupants. FOD programs exist to collect this dangerous debris using a variety of methods. Large debris can be collected by hand and smaller debris can be collected or pushed away from active areas using brushes or vacuums. Collecting debris by hand on an active roadway can be a dangerous job and an effective tool would be beneficial.

There is a desire for a device configured for collection of foreign object debris. A study at Chicago O'Hare Airport found that by weight only 20% of FOD is metallic and can be collected using a magnet, and that 71% of the debris collected is less than three cubic inches in size.

SUMMARY

A system and method for collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris (FOD) is disclosed. The foreign object debris system consists of one or more debris collection modules and can be deployed in various width configurations. Debris collection modules can be pulled, pushed, attached to moving equipment, vehicles or to a tow trailer to provide motion. Each pickup module consists of a frame, a debris bin area, a brush, and one or more rigid ramp(s) with replaceable tip(s). Multiple debris collection modules can be connected to form a wider or narrower sweeping width. As the foreign object debris system travels forward, debris travels up the tip(s) and ramp(s) and is deposited into a debris bin.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The purpose of this disclosure is a device is to collect debris that is unsightly or has the potential to damage equipment or endanger life. A debris collection module is disclosed. Each module houses one or more ramp(s) and tip(s) mounted at an angle to the ground surface which when moving forward scoop debris from the surface. A brush is mounted ahead of the ramp(s) and tip(s) to disrupt small debris and cause it to become airborne where the ramps can capture it. Each ramp has a series of rifles to prevent debris from returning to the ground surface. The ramp(s) have replaceable tip(s) to extend the overall lifetime of the device and reduce lifetime costs.

FIG.1is a diagram of a perspective view of an exemplary debris collection module. According toFIG.1, debris collection module100, has a chassis102with dimensions of22″ width X20″ length X4″ height with an approximate weight of 20 lbs. Debris collection module also has module connection clips104and wheels106that moves in the direction of travel. The module connection clips104connect the debris collection module100to a tow trailer or to other debris collection modules.

According toFIG.1, a debris collection module chassis102is suspended by wheels106, and drawn by a module connection clips104. The wheels106allow the debris collection modules to move easily and control the distance ramp tip(s) are from the ground. They also control the amount of downward pressure unsupported ramp tip(s) can exert. The wheels also help to ensure even wear on all wear parts. The module connection clips104allow the linking of several modules to each other to provide rigidity and still allow flexibility for surface conformance when being towed.

FIG.2is a diagram of a side view of the debris collection module. According toFIG.2, debris collection module200further comprises debris bin202located near the proximal end and wheels204that ensure even wear on all wear parts. Wheels204are made of polyurethane, but other materials such as plastic and rubber can be considered.

According toFIG.2, one (or more) rows of ramp assemblies206are placed near the center of the bottom surface of the debris collection module200. A ramp assembly consists of a ramp and tip. The ramp assemblies206scoop debris from the ground surface. The ramps206are angled upwards towards the debris bin and further consists of rifling208. The rifles (or rifling)208are configured to contain debris that does not have enough energy to get into the debris bin.

According toFIG.2, a row of brushes210is placed at the leading end of the debris collection module200. The brushes210disrupt and agitate small debris and allow it to be scooped by the ramps206. The brushes can also make small particles such as sand and stones airborne, so they are easily collected by the ramps. The brushes are mounted on a pivot212to extend the use life of the brushes. Furthermore, wear plates if used can control further brush erosion.

According toFIG.2, the debris collection module200is also shown with module connection clips214to link separate modules together or to a tow trailer.

FIG.3is a diagram of a perspective view of the debris collection module with a cover. According toFIG.3, debris collection module300a cover302, placed on the top surface of the debris collection module300and is held in place with magnets for easy removal and inspection of the debris collection module. The cover also allows airflow to aid in the collection and movement of collected debris into the debris bins.

According toFIG.3, debris collection module300further comprises a module stacking flange304and a ramp tip replacement cover306. The module stacking flange304is configured to enable multiple debris collection modules to be able to stack on top of each other. The ramp tip replacement cover306is a plate that can be open (and closed) to allow access to the ramp tips206to be maintained or replaced.

FIG.4is a diagram of a perspective view of the debris collection module with the cover open. According toFIG.4, debris collection module400is shown having a cover402opened. The bottom surface of cover402is lined with a plurality of magnets404. Cover402is kept closed with the magnets404.

FIG.5is a diagram of a perspective bottom view of the debris collection module. According toFIG.5, debris collection module500is shown having debris bin502and module stacking flange506.

FIG.6is a diagram of a side view of a typical ramp layout. According toFIG.6, the rigid ramp(s)602along with flexible tip(s)604and606are configured as a typical ramp layout600. The typical ramp layout600comprises of a rigid ramp602with a slot for flexible tips (a flexible tip604and a flexible tip606) to be installed, and a wear range608. The tips (tip604and tip606) can be made from a range of materials and hardnesses depending on where it will be used. Additionally, the tip(s) can have specialized features for use on different surfaces (as shown inFIGS.10-13).

According toFIG.6, the ramp layout600consists of a ramp602with rifling and a removeable and replaceable tip(s)604and606close to or contacting the ground surface. The tip(s)606has a wear range608. The tip(s)604and606can be replaced after the tips(s) are worn.

According toFIG.6, the lead in610on tip606guides the edge over obstructions. Furthermore, the tip606engages with the ramp602contact point612to reduce the chance of the tip606rolling under the ramp602. Furthermore, the tip604remains above the ground surface614to not catch/snag on edges, cracks or vegetation. Tip604also provides an unobstructed opening from side to side of the debris collection module for collection of large debris.

FIG.7is a diagram of a side view of the ramp layout with a sprung tip. According toFIG.7, ramp layout with sprung tips700further comprises a flexible feature702to maintain downward pressure on the tip.

FIG.8is a diagram of a perspective view of a ramp assembly. According toFIG.8, ramp assembly800consists of ramp806and tip(s)802are inserted into a ramp806. Individual tip(s)802can be replaced if they are damaged or worn out. Tip(s)802are made of polyurethane material and the ramp806is made of aluminum material. Other materials can also be used.

According toFIGS.6-8, a series of ramp(s)806with rifles held at an angle in a chassis to scoop debris from the ground surface are shown. As the debris makes its way to the top of the ramps, the debris falls into a debris bin just behind the ramp(s). A brush210(shown inFIG.2) precedes the ramp(s) to disrupt small debris lodged in the ground surface. Additionally, the brush210serves as a curtain to restrict larger debris from being propelled forwards due to impacting the ramps and increases the chance of capturing debris.

FIG.9is a diagram of a close-up view of the tip connection. According toFIG.9, a close-up of tip connection detail900is shown to include ramp902, tip locking feature904and tip906. The tip locking feature904is shown to securely connect (or mate) the ramp902to the tip906.

FIG.10is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary front supported tip. According toFIG.10, front supported tip1000is shown in perspective view, top plan view, front view and section view A-A. According to section view A-A, front supported tip1000further comprises a surface1002to prevent tip from being pulled under the ramp, a lead in1004on the supported tip guides the edge over obstructions and a rifle1006to prevent debris from falling back to the ground.

FIG.11is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary large debris tip. According toFIG.11, large debris tip1100is shown in perspective view, top plan view, front view and section view A-A. According to section view A-A, large debris tip1100sits above ground1102to capture large debris and not interfere with an uneven surface.

FIG.12is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary sprung tip. According toFIG.12, sprung tip1200is shown in perspective view, top plan view, front view and section view A-A. According to section view A-A, sprung tip1200further comprises a flexible feature1202to maintain downward pressure of tip, a surface1204to prevent the tip from being pulled under the ramp, a lead in1206on the tip that guides the edge over obstructions and a rifle1208to prevent debris from falling back to ground.

FIG.13is a diagram illustrating multiple views of an exemplary unsupported tip. According toFIG.13, unsupported tip1300is shown in perspective view, top plan view, front view and section view A-A. The unsupported tip is designed to work best on very flat even surfaces, with minimal obstacles such as joints, grooving or vegetation.

FIG.14is a diagram of a close-up view of the brush pivot detail. According toFIG.14, brush pivot detail1400is shown replacing worn brushes1402with replacement brush strips1404. Brush pivot detail1400further comprises a brush wear indicator1406attached to a brush pivot1408.

FIG.15is a diagram of a close-up view of the brush pivot detail with a wear plate. According toFIG.15, brush pivot detail with wear plate1500is shown further comprising a brush wear indicator1502and brush wear plate1504.

FIG.16is a diagram of a close-up view of the module connection clip detail. According toFIG.16, module connection clip detail1600is shown having a hook1602and latch1604.

FIG.17is a diagram of a close-up view of the pivoting link to trailer connection link. According toFIG.17, a pivoting link to trailer diagram1700is shown connecting debris collection module1702to tow trailer1704using a pivoting link1706.

FIG.18is a diagram of a close-up view of connected modules. According toFIG.18, connected modules1800is shown connecting debris collection modules together with module connection clips1802and to the tow trailer with pivoting link1804.

FIGS.19to22illustrate different configurations. Multiple debris collection modules can be connected to a tow trailer. The tow trailer can have folding side arms, a travel rack and a hitch to be towed by a vehicle.

FIG.19is a diagram of a wide sweeping configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in operation according to a direction of travel. According toFIG.19, the wide sweeping configuration1900consists of a tow trailer1902and multiple debris collection modules1904and hinged and wheeled side arms1906to conform to the ground.

According toFIG.19, the debris collection modules1904are positioned into two rows. In this embodiment, the front row of debris collection modules1904are connected to tow trailer1902and the rear row of linked debris collection modules1904are connected to the front row of debris collection modules1904using the module connection clips. Vertical flags1908are also shown to indicate the width of the tow trailer1902.

FIG.20is a diagram of a narrow sweeping configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in operation. According toFIG.20, two of the side arms2004of the tow trailer2002are folded upwards for travel or narrow sweeping. In narrow sweeping configuration, only three of the collection modules are deployed in the front row with two additional debris collection modules in the rear row. Unused debris collection modules2008are stored on the tow trailer.

FIG.21is a diagram of an alternate narrow sweeping configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in operation according to the direction of travel. According toFIG.21, alternate narrow sweeping configuration2100comprises tow trailer2102without folding side arms. All debris collection modules2104are shown to be deployed.

FIG.22is a diagram of a travel configuration of a plurality of debris collection modules in the direction of travel. According toFIG.22, in a travel configuration2200, the side arms2204of the tow trailer2202are folded. The debris collection modules2206are stacked on the travel rack2208.

FIG.23is a diagram illustrating an alternate debris collection module design. According toFIG.23, alternate debris collection module2300comprises a debris collection chassis2302without wheels. According toFIG.23, debris collection module chassis2302further comprises slots2304to allow height adjustment of the debris collection module chassis2302to conform to uneven ground. Debris collection module2300has a module connection slot2306to allow for variable widths.

FIG.24is a diagram illustrating an alternate module assembly design. According toFIG.24, alternate module assembly configuration2400consists of a frame2404to slot together multiple debris collection modules2402.

FIG.25is a diagram illustrating an alternate embodiment of a small debris collection system2502with a large debris system2504in operation in the direction of travel. According toFIG.25, alternate embodiment2500a small debris system2502and a larger debris system2504.

FIG.26is a diagram illustrating an alternate embodiment2600of the debris collection module with skid plates2602attached to the wheel mounting bolts2604. According toFIG.26, skid plates2602are affixed to the debris collection module2600in place of wheels.

Unique Features

Unique features of the apparatus for collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris may include one or more of the following:Collects non-metallic debris as well as metallic debrisModular design, allowing for easy expansion, better tracking of the ground surface as shown inFIGS.19-21.Removable tips allow for replacement of worn tips or installation of tip designed for different surfaces or environments as shown inFIGS.10-13Ramp design providing rigidity for wider and larger debris collection modules as necessary.The frame could use skid plates rather than wheels.Rather than linking modules together to increase width, a single wider module could be used as shown inFIGS.23-24Additional debris collection modules can be added for increased performanceTip(s) can have a feature to maintain ground pressure as shown inFIG.7Self-contained debris binDebris collection modules can be stacked for transporting.Pivoting brush increases brush life and maintains constant ground contactRamp profile can collect and retain debrisEasy to replace tip(s).The top cover can be opened for easy access, inspection and clean outDebris collection modules run on replaceable wheelsModular design can conform to terrain and connects to a tow trailer.Module connection clips and pivoting links provide stability and flexibilityDebris bin collects picked up debrisParts are replaceableDebris collection modules can be backed up

Additional Features

Additional features of the disclosure may include:Incorporating a rotating brush for lower speed sweepingIncorporating a blower to disturb or direct debrisAutomatic unloading of debris binDebris conveyor on the ramp to increase debris capacityIndependent movement of each wear parts (i.e., ramps) could lead to longer lifetimesAbility to collect very large debrisNo motors required, lower operating costsOn board debris storage on tow trailer allows debris to be contained when sweeping larger areasA high strength magnet can precede the debris collection modules, thereby decreasing the volume of debris in the bin and extending the sweeping time before cleanout.An additional high strength magnet after the debris collection modules to catch fine metallic particles such as steel shot which could bypass the main collection systemDifferent bristle materials can be used

According to the disclosure, a debris collection apparatus for the collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris, configured for motion is disclosed. The debris collection apparatus comprises a chassis, a plurality of wheels mounted on the chassis, a debris bin mounted at the distal end, a brush mounted at the proximal end, a ramp and tip assembly mounted between the brush and debris bin, the ramp and tip assembly further comprising one or more rigid main ramps with rifling and side wheels. The debris collection apparatus further comprises a latch to connect the apparatus to a tow trailer.

According to the disclosure, foreign object debris is collected by the brush, tips, ramps and deposited into the debris bin of the debris collection apparatus in the direction of motion. The debris collection apparatus further comprises a cover configured to be held in place with magnets.

According to the disclosure, the brushes of the debris collection apparatus are mounted on a pivot to extend the use life of the brushes.

According to the disclosure, the one or more rows of ramps with or without tips of the debris collection apparatus are placed near the center of the bottom surface of the debris collection module. The one or more sets of ramps with or without tips scoop debris from the ground surface and wherein the ramps are angled towards the debris bin and further consists of rifling.

According to the disclosure, the wheels on the sides of the debris collection apparatus help to ensure even wear on all parts. Furthermore, the debris collection apparatus further comprises wear plates configured to control brush erosion.

According to the disclosure, the debris collection apparatus further comprises a module stacking flange configured to a multiple apparatus to be able to stack on top of each other.

According to the disclosure, the debris collection apparatus further comprises a ramp tip replacement plate that can be open and closed to allow access to the tips to be maintained or replaced. The debris collection apparatus further comprises a brush wear indicator and a brush pivot.

According to the disclosure, a tow trailer apparatus for the collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris is disclosed. The tow trailer is configured for motion and further comprises a frame, a plurality of wheels, a connection mechanism to connect to a tow vehicle, a pair of foldable side arms that can be folded in a travel or narrow configuration and un-folded in a wide configuration and a connecting latch to connect the one or more collection debris modules to the tow trailer. The tow trailer apparatus is figured to store one or more collection debris modules in travel configuration and the tow trailer apparatus connects to one or more debris collection modules in a sweeping configuration in the direction of travel.

According to the disclosure, the tow trailer apparatus further comprises indicator flags. The sweeping configuration further comprises a wide sweeping and narrow sweeping configuration and wherein the side arms are deployed in wide sweeping configuration.

According to the disclosure, a ramp and tip assembly configured for the collection of non-metallic and metallic foreign object debris of a debris collection apparatus is disclosed. The ramp and tip assembly comprises a ramp connected to tip which is close to or contacting the ground surface. The ramp assembly consists of an angled ramp with rifling and a replaceable tips and the tips collect debris and direct it to the ramps and into the debris bin.

According to the disclosure, the tip of the ramp and tip assembly can be removed and replaced if worn out or damaged. The tip further tip engages with the front ramp at connection point to reduce the chance of the tip rolling under the ramp.

According to the disclosure, the ramp and tip assembly further comprise a lead in mechanism, the lead in mechanism configured to guide the tip over obstructions. The ramp and tip assembly further comprise a rigid slot that connects to the tip.

According to the disclosure, the tip of the ramp and tip assembly is made of metal, rubber or plastic. The tip remains above the ground surface to catch larger debris. Furthermore, the tip can have multiple configurations including a front supported tip (FIG.10), a large debris tip (FIG.11), a sprung tip (FIG.12) and an unsupported tip (FIG.13). The tips can be switched and replaced based on different types of debris and the desired operation.

While some embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in fully functioning mechanical, electrical and electrical-mechanical systems, other embodiments may be considered.

The specific embodiments described above have been shown by way of example and understood is that these embodiments may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms. Further understood is that the claims are not intended to be limited to the forms disclosed, but to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. While the foregoing written description of the system enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The system should therefore not be limited by the above-described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the system. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Information as herein shown and described in detail is fully capable of attaining the above-described object of the present disclosure, the presently preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, and is, thus, representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure fully encompasses other embodiments which may become obvious to those skilled in the art, and is to be limited, accordingly, by nothing other than the appended claims, wherein any reference to an element being made in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment and additional embodiments as regarded by those of ordinary skill in the art are hereby expressly incorporated by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims.

Moreover, no requirement exists for a system or method to address each problem sought to be resolved by the present disclosure, for such to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. However, various changes and modifications in form, material, workpiece, and fabrication material detail may be made, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as set forth in the appended claims, as may be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, are also encompassed by the present disclosure.