CROWNING GRADER ASSEMBLY

A crowning grader assembly connects with a machine to grade a road or driveway. The crowning grader assembly has a rear drive mount and a forward drive mount. The grader assembly is configured to be selectively connected to the machine and be pushed forward from the rear drive mount or be connected to the machine and be pulled forward from the forward drive mount. The grader assembly has components that allow the blade of the grader assembly to be moved or set to a desired angle through the use of various actuators to set a desired crowning angle of the blade to impart to the road during operation of the grader assembly.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure is directed to a grader assembly that utilizes a blade to grade a road or driveway.

BACKGROUND ART

Off-road work vehicles of various types may have one or more implements for carrying out various work operations. Motor graders, for example, may have a blade, sometimes referred to as a “moldboard,” for performing ground clearing or smoothing operations of a work site.

A work site may be prepared using a plurality of such work vehicles, each with a respective grading implement. However, sometimes there is only a single machine at a particular work site. This machine may be a skid steer style device or can be a tractor with a traditional three point hitch assembly.

Yet, different types of graders can be used depending on the machine that connects to the grader.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

What is needed is a universal crowning grader assembly that has multiple drive mounts that allows the crowning grader assembly to connect with different machines that are available at the work site. Then, the crowning grader assembly can be used to grade a road or driveway. The crowning grader assembly of the present disclosure addresses this and other issues by providing a crowning grader assembly that may have a rear drive mount and a forward drive mount. This allows the grader assembly to be connected to a machine and be pushed forward from the rear drive mount or be connected to a machine (the same machine or a different machine) and be pulled forward from the forward drive mount. The present disclosure also teaches a grader assembly having components that allow the blade of the grader assembly to be moved or set to a desired angle through the use of various actuators or other mechanical mechanisms. For example, the grader assembly has a variety of actuators to move the blade to set a desired crowning angle for the road. Alternatively, the blade may be manually moved. Additionally, the blade may be moved relative to a direction that extends front-to-back on the grader assembly. Further optionally, the blade may be moved relative to a direction that extends side-to-side on the grader assembly.

In one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a crowning grader assembly, or simply, a grader assembly comprising: a front end opposite a rear end defining a first direction therebetween, and a first side opposite a second side defining a second direction therebetween, and a top opposite a bottom defining a third direction therebetween, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are orthogonal to each other; a frame including a first side member, a second side member, a rear member, and a front member, wherein the first side member and the second side member extend in the first direction between the front end to the rear end, wherein the rear member and the front member extend in the second direction between the first side member and the second side member; a moveable blade coupled to the frame, wherein the moveable blade is positioned between the first side member and the second side member and is positioned between the rear member and the front member, and the moveable blade having a first side and a second side, wherein at least one of the first side and the second side the moveable blade is moveable relative to the third direction; at least one drive mount coupled to one of the rear member and the front member, wherein the at least one drive mount is configured to couple with a machine to move the grader assembly forward in the first direction. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a first blade mount coupled to the first side member, wherein the first side of the moveable blade is coupled to the first blade mount; and a second blade mount coupled to the second side member, wherein the second side of the moveable blade is coupled to the second blade mount. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the second blade mount is disposed rearward from the first blade mount relative to the first direction. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a length of the moveable blade that extends from the first side of the moveable blade to the second side of the moveable blade, wherein the length of the moveable blade lies along a blade axis; a transverse axis of the grader assembly extending in the second direction; an angle defined between the moveable blade axis and the transverse axis, wherein the angle is adjustable relative to the first direction depending on an orientation of the moveable blade relative to one of the first blade mount and the second blade mount, wherein the angle is adjustable between about 15 degrees and 25 degrees. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that one of the first mount and the second mount is a slide mount adapted to slide the moveable blade in the first direction to adjust the angle between the blade axis and the transverse axis. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a length of the moveable blade that extends from the first side of the moveable blade to the second side of the moveable blade, wherein the length of the moveable blade lies along a blade axis; a lower edge of the moveable blade; a lower horizontal plane of the grader assembly; a crowning angle defined between the lower edge of the moveable blade and the horizontal plane, wherein the crowning angle is adjustable depending on an orientation of the lower edge relative to the horizontal plane, wherein the angle is adjustable in response to actuation of moveable blade from at least one component coupled to one of the first side mount and the second side mount. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a manual jack coupled with the first mount and the first side of the moveable blade, wherein actuation of the manual jack raises and lowers the lower edge of the moveable blade. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a hydraulic actuator coupled with the second mount and the second side of the moveable blade, wherein actuation of the hydraulic actuator raises and lowers the lower edge of the moveable blade. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a support flange that is part of the first mount, wherein the support flange defines a slot; a slide bracket coupled to the support flange, wherein the slide bracket slides in the third direction along or within the slot, wherein the slide bracket is coupled with the first side of the moveable blade, and the lower edge of the moveable blade moves in the third direction in response the slide bracket being slid along or within the slot. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a support flange that is part of the second mount, wherein the support flange defines a slot; a slide bracket coupled to the support flange, wherein the slide bracket slides in the third direction along or within the slot, wherein the slide bracket is coupled with the second side of the moveable blade, and the lower edge of the moveable blade moves in the third direction in response the slide bracket being slid along or within the slot. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a rear drive mount coupled to the rear member to allow the grader assembly to be pushed forward from the rear end; and a forward drive mount coupled to the front member to all the grader assembly to be pulled forward from the front end. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide an actuator, wherein the moveable blade is moveable in the first direction in response to movement of the actuator. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a sensor to gather data pertaining to surrounding environment or operation of the grader assembly, wherein sensed data is evaluated and processed with machine learning to predict or identify underlying patterns and relationships of sensed data pertaining to surrounding environment or operation of the grader assembly.

In another aspect, another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method of operation for a grader assembly comprising: selectively coupling a machine to one of a rear drive mount and a front drive mount on a grader assembly, wherein the rear drive mount and the front drive mount are coupled to a frame including a first side member, a second side member, a rear member, and a front member, wherein the first side member and the second side member extend in a first direction between the front end to the rear end, wherein the rear member and the front member extend in a second direction between the first side member and the second side member, and the frame including a top opposite a bottom defining a third direction therebetween, wherein the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are orthogonal to each other; moving at least one side of a moveable blade in the third direction, wherein the moveable blade is coupled to the frame and positioned between the first side member and the second side member and positioned between the rear member and the front member; setting a lower edge of the moveable blade at a crowning angle, wherein the crowning angle is defined between a horizontal plane and the lower edge; wherein if the machine was selectively coupled to rear drive mount of the grader assembly, then pushing the grader assembly in the first direction via the machine; and wherein if the machine was selectively coupled to the front drive mount of the grader assembly, then pulling the grader assembly in the first direction via the machine; and grading a road with the moveable blade set at the crowning angle. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide moving a first side of the blade member in the third direction, wherein the first side of the moveable blade moves relative to a first blade mount coupled to the first side member, wherein the first side of the moveable blade is coupled to the first blade mount; and moving a second side of the blade member in the third direction, wherein the second side of the moveable blade moves relative to a second blade mount coupled to the second side member, wherein the second side of the moveable blade is coupled to the second blade mount, wherein the second blade mount is disposed rearward from the first blade mount relative to the first direction. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide actuating a manual jack coupled to the first blade mount to impart movement in the third direction to the first side of the moveable blade. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide sliding a slide bracket along a support flange that is part of the first blade mount, wherein the slide bracket includes a pin that travels between bounded ends of a slot defined in the support flange; and wherein the bounded ends of the slot bound a maximum position and a minimal position of the lower edge at the first side of the moveable blade that define a range of travel of the lower edge at the first side of the moveable blade in the third direction, wherein the range of travel extends from two inches below the bottom to one inch above the bottom. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide actuating a hydraulic actuator coupled to the second blade mount to impart movement in the third direction to the second side of the moveable blade. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide sliding a slide bracket along a support flange that is part of the first blade mount, wherein the slide bracket includes a pin that travels between bounded ends of a slot defined in the support flange; wherein the bounded ends of the slot bound a maximum position and a minimal position of the lower edge at the second side of the moveable blade that define a range of travel of the lower edge at the second side of the moveable blade in the third direction, wherein the range of travel extends from four inches below the bottom to one and a half inches above the bottom. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide moving at least one side of a moveable blade in the first direction, wherein the moveable blade is coupled to the frame and positioned between the first side member and the second side member and positioned between the rear member and the front member; wherein the moveable blade includes a length that extends from the first side of the moveable blade to the second side of the moveable blade, wherein the length of the moveable blade lies along a blade axis; and adjusting an angle defined between the moveable blade axis and a transverse axis of the grader assembly that extends in the second direction, wherein the angle is adjustable between about 15 degrees and 25 degrees.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1-FIG.10depict a crowning grader assembly, or simply a grader assembly, generally at10. Grader assembly10includes a front end12opposite a rear end14defining a first direction13therebetween, and a first side16opposite a second side18defining a second direction15therebetween, and a top20opposite a bottom22defining a third direction17therebetween. The first direction13, the second direction15, and the third direction17are orthogonal to each other and may be considered cardinal coordinate directions or planes.

Grader10includes a frame24having a first side member26, a second side member28, a rear member30, and a front member32. The first side member26and the second side28member extend in the first direction13between the front end12and the rear end14. The rear member30and the front member32extend in the second direction15between the first side member26and the second side member28.

Grader assembly10has a width measured in the second direction15from the first side member26to the second side member28. The width of the grader assembly10may be in a range from about 75 inches to about 100 inches. In one particular example, the width of the grader assembly10is about 87 inches. Grader assembly10may have a height measured in the third direction17extending from the bottom22to the uppermost portion of handle82on jack62. The overall height may be in a range from about 25 inches to about 30 inches. In one particular example, the height is about 27.5 inches. Grader assembly10may have a length measured in the first direction13from the front end12to the rear end14that is in a range from about 40 inches to about 80 inches. In one particular embodiment, the length of the grader assembly10is about 60 inches.

Grader10includes at least one drive mount36coupled to one of the rear member30and the front member32. The at least one drive mount36is configured to be coupled with a machine to move the grader assembly10forward in the first direction13. In the shown configuration, the at least one drive mount may have two drive mounts. Namely, a rear drive mount38coupled to the rear member30to allow the grader assembly10to be pushed forward from the rear end14and a front drive mount40coupled to the front member32to all the grader assembly10to be pulled forward in the first direction13from the front end12. Thus, grader assembly10may be selectively coupled to a machine to allow an operator to selectively choose whether to push grader assembly10via rear drive mount38or pull grader assembly10via front drive mount40.

Grader10includes a moveable blade34coupled to the frame24. The moveable blade34is positioned between the first side member26and the second side member28. The moveable blade34is positioned between the rear member30and the front member32. The moveable blade34is moveable in at least the first direction13and the third direction17when the frame24is stationary or moving forward in the first direction13. The moveable blade may also be optionally moveable in the second direction15. Moveable blade34has a face or front surface, which may be concavely curved and shaped to move material when grader assembly10is in operation to grade a surface, such as a roadway, driveway or the like.

Moveable blade34has a length measured from the first side42to the second side44. In one particular embodiment, the length of the moveable blade34may be in a range from about 70 inches to about 95 inches. In one particular embodiment, the length of the moveable blade34is 84 inches from its first side42to its second side44.

Grader assembly10includes a first blade mount46and a second blade mount48. The first blade mount46is coupled to the first side member26. The second blade mount48is coupled to the second side member28. Moveable blade34includes a first side42of the moveable blade34and a second side44of the moveable blade34. The first side42of the moveable blade34is coupled to the first blade mount46and the second side44of the moveable blade34is coupled to the second blade mount48. In one exemplary embodiment, the second blade mount48is disposed rearward (i.e., closer to rear end14) from the first blade mount46relative to the first direction13.

FIG.2depicts the length of the moveable blade34extends from the first side42of the moveable blade34to the second side44of the moveable blade34. Given that the second blade mount48is positioned rearward of the first blade mount46, the length of the moveable blade34extends from adjacent the front end12to adjacent the rear end14in addition to extending between the first side16and the second side18of grader assembly10. Stated otherwise, the blade34extends diagonally across the width of grader assembly10. The length of the moveable blade34lies along a blade axis50. A transverse axis52of the grader assembly10extends parallel to the second direction15. An angle54is defined between the moveable blade axis50and the transverse axis52. The angle54is adjustable depending on an orientation of the moveable blade34. In one exemplary embodiment, the angle54is adjusted by moving the first side42of moveable blade34and the second side44of the moveable blade34relative to one of the first blade mount46and the second blade mount48, respectively. For example, the first side42of moveable blade34may be moved forward or backward parallel to the first direction13. Alternatively, second side44of the moveable blade3434may be moved forward or backward parallel to the first direction13. The angle54is adjustable between about 15 degrees and 25 degrees. One exemplary manner to effectuate the adjustability of the angle54is to provide one of the first mount46and the second mount48(or both) in the form of a slide mount that is configured to slide the moveable blade34in the first direction13to adjust the angle54between the blade axis50and the transverse axis52. Other embodiments can provide stationary side mounts that are coupled with actuators, such as hydraulic, mechanical, or electrical actuators, to push or pull the sides of the moveable blade while the mount remains stationary.

Moveable blade34also includes a lower edge56that defines portion of the front surface or face of blade34. There is also a lower horizontal plane58of the grader assembly10. A crowning angle60(FIG.8DandFIG.8E) is defined between the lower edge56of the moveable blade34and the horizontal plane58. The crowning angle60is adjustable depending on an orientation of the lower edge56relative to the horizontal plane58. The crowning angle60is adjustable in response to actuation of moveable blade34from at least one component coupled to or defining one of the first side mount46and the second side mount48.

For example, at the first side mount46, there may be a manual jack62coupled with the first mount46and the first side42of the moveable blade34. In this example, actuation of the manual jack62raises and lowers the lower edge56of the moveable blade34to adjust the crowning angle60. In another example, at the second side mount48, there may be a hydraulic actuator64coupled with the second side mount48and the second side44of the moveable blade34. In this example, the hydraulic actuator64raises and lowers the lower edge56of the moveable blade34to adjust the crowning angle60. While one manual actuator and one hydraulic actuator is shown, it is to be understood that other types of mechanical actuators, electrical actuators, or non-mechanical and non-electrical actuators could be utilized. Further, although the actuators are shown herein as different types (i.e., one is a manual jack and one is a hydraulic actuator), it is to be understood that both actuators could be of the same type (i.e., both could be hydraulic or both could be manual). In the shown embodiment, the acutators are each positioned rearward of the blade34so as to not interfere with the operation of the blade when it performs the grading or crowning function. However, it may be possible to reconfigure the structural arrangement of the actuators to position one or both of them forward of the blade. Additionally, it may be possible to reconfigure the structural arrangement of the actuators to position one or both of them outwardly to the side of the blade34.

In one embodiment, the manual actuator is manual jack62, however other types of manual actuators could be used. For example, in lieu of the manual jack62, there are several other types of manual actuators that could be used to move a side of the moveable blade in the third (vertical) direction in the described grader assembly10. Some examples include: a hand crank mechanism can be used to manually rotate a shaft connected to the blade, allowing for vertical movement of the blade34; a screw mechanism, such as a lead screw or ball screw, can be turned manually to move the blade vertically by converting rotational motion into linear motion; various types of levers and linkages can be designed to provide mechanical advantage and allow manual control of the blade's vertical position; a handwheel connected to a vertical adjustment mechanism can be turned manually to raise or lower the blade in the third direction; a manually operated hydraulic hand pump can be used to power a hydraulic cylinder connected to the blade, controlling its vertical movement; a ratchet and pawl mechanism can be used to incrementally adjust the blade's vertical position, providing control in the third direction; or a manually adjustable cam mechanism can be designed to lift or lower the blade in the third direction when turned.

In one embodiment, the hydraulic actuator64could be substituted for another type of non-manual actuator. There are there are several other types of non-manual actuators that could be used to move a side of the moveable blade in the third (vertical) direction in the described grader assembly in lieu of actuator64. For example, electric actuators use electric motors to drive linear or rotational movement, and they can be used to move the blade vertically in the third direction; pneumatic actuators use compressed air to generate linear or rotary motion, providing a means to move the blade vertically; solenoid actuators use electromagnetic forces to create linear motion and can be used to control the vertical movement of the blade; piezoelectric actuators use piezoelectric materials to generate precise and fine movements, making them suitable for adjusting the blade's position in the third direction; linear motors use electromagnetic principles to produce linear motion and can be employed to move the blade vertically in the third direction; a mechanical linkage driven by an electric or rotational motor can be used to move the blade vertically, providing precise control; a rotary actuator can be adapted to provide a vertical movement for the blade by converting rotational motion to linear motion; or a gear mechanism, such as a rack and pinion, can be motorized to move the blade vertically by converting rotational motion to linear movement.

Frame24is defined by the first side member26, the second side member28, the rear member30and the front member32connected together to form a rigid structure that is generally rectangular. Frame24defines an interior space66. The moveable blade34is located within the interior space66. Further the actuators may also be positioned within the interior space.

With continued reference to frame24, the first side member26includes a rear end68and a forward end70. The lower surface of the first side member26may include or may be defined by a wear bar or wear pad72that extends between the rear end68and forward end70. Rear member30is rigidly secured to the first side member30adjacent the rear end68thereof. Forward member32is rigidly secured adjacent to the first side member26adjacent the forward end70thereof. Rear member30and forward member32extend in the second direction15towards the second side18of grader assembly10. In one particular embodiment, the length of the rear member30and the length of the front member32are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the length of the first side member26. Second side member28has a rear end that is rigidly connected with the rear member30and a forward end that is rigidly connected with the forward member32. Similar to the first side member26, the second side member28may have a wear pad72extending from the rear end to the forward end of the second side member28.

Rear member30is a rigid structure extending between the first side member26and the second side member28. On the rear member30is the at least one drive mount36, and more particularly, the rear drive mount38. The rear drive mount38extends rearward in the first direction13from the rear surface of rear member30. Rear drive mount38is a rigid plate defining a standard skid steer bracket. The rear drive mount38enables a skid steer attachment to enable a machine, such as a skid steer or a tractor having a skid steer coupler, to connect with grader assembly10and push the grader assembly10forward in the first direction13from the rear.

Although the rear drive mount38is exemplified as a skid steer bracket/mount. Other types of mounts are entirely possible. Each mount type that can be the rear drive mount38has its own structural configuration and method of attachment. Some alternative rear drive mount types include the following. Rear drive mount38could be a three-point hitch mount, which usually comprises of two lower arms extending from the rear member of the frame and a top link extending from the top or rear member. The lower arms attach to the vehicle's three-point hitch, providing stability and allowing the vehicle to push the grader assembly10forward. Alternatively, rear drive mount38could be a front loader mount, which usually includes brackets or arms extending from the front member of the frame. The brackets or arms attach to the front loader of the vehicle, enabling the vehicle to push the grader assembly10forward. Alternatively, rear drive mount38could be a tractor mount, which usually includes a rear hitch plate or structure on the rear member of the grader frame. The rear hitch plate or structure is attached to the tractor's hitch, allowing the tractor to push the grader assembly10forward. Alternatively, rear drive mount38could be a hydraulic quick coupler mount. This mount includes a hydraulic quick coupler mechanism on the rear or front member of the frame. The hydraulic quick coupler connects to a compatible hydraulic system on the vehicle, enabling hydraulic power for pushing the grader assembly forward. Alternatively, rear drive mount38could be a pintle hitch mount, which has a pintle hook or loop on the rear member of the frame. The pintle hook is attached to a pintle hitch on the vehicle, allowing the vehicle to push the grader assembly10forward.

The at least one drive mount36additionally includes the forward drive mount40that is mounted or coupled to the forward member32. In one particular embodiment, the forward drive mount40is a three-point hitch assembly. The forward drive mount40may be supported by support members74that extend in the first direction13between the forward member32and the rear member30. The forward ends of the support members74define two of the three contact points for the three-point hitch assembly of the forward drive mount40. The third contact point of the three-point hitch assembly may be defined by a member offset from the two contact points on the support members74. In the shown embodiment, the third point of the three-point hitch is positioned above the two points relative to the third direction. However, it would be possible for the hitch to be inverted if required to meet the application specific needs of a complementary hitch on the machine pulling the grader10when selectively chosen by the operator. Three-point hitch assembly defining the forward drive mount40is located centrally between the first side member26and the second side member28relative to the second direction15. In the shown embodiment, the moveable blade34is positioned below the support members74relative to the third direction17.

Although the forward drive mount40is exemplified as a three-point hitch. Other types of mounts are entirely possible. Each mount type that can be the forward drive mount40has its own structural configuration and method of attachment. Some alternative forward drive mount types include the following. Forward drive mount38could be a drawbar mount, which usually involves a long, horizontal bar or drawbar attached to the front member of the grader frame. The drawbar is connected to the towing vehicle via a hitch, enabling the vehicle to pull the grader assembly10forward. Alternatively, forward drive mount38could be a gooseneck hitch mount includes a vertical extension or gooseneck attached to the front member of the grader frame. The gooseneck is connected to a gooseneck hitch on the towing vehicle, allowing the vehicle to pull the grader assembly forward. Alternatively, forward drive mount38could be fifth wheel hitch mount, which features a fifth wheel coupling mechanism attached to the front member of the grader frame. The fifth wheel is connected to a compatible fifth wheel hitch on the towing vehicle, enabling the vehicle to pull the grader assembly forward. Alternatively, forward drive mount38could be pintle hitch mount with a pintle hook or loop on the front member of the grader frame. The pintle hook is attached to a pintle hitch on the towing vehicle, allowing the vehicle to pull the grader assembly forward. Alternatively, forward drive mount38could be a tow bar mount which has a rigid or extendable tow bar attached to the front member of the grader frame. The tow bar is connected to a towing vehicle's hitch or tow ball, enabling the vehicle to pull the grader assembly forward.

First member32includes a plurality of holders76that extend upwardly from the top surface of front member32. The holders76are configured to be connected with ripper shanks78. Each ripper shank78has an upper end that is held or pinned in place at one of the holders76. In one particular embodiment, at least one, some, or all of the ripper shanks78may have a plurality of apertures extending through the body of the ripper shanks in the second direction15at various intervals relative to the third direction17(i.e., a plurality of distinct vertically aligned through holes). These apertures allows the ripper shanks78to be adjustable in the third direction17at various increments. In one particular embodiment, the ripper shanks78are adjustable at one inch increments relative to the third direction17. Accordingly, an operator can remove a pin to move the ripper shanks78in the third direction17(i.e., raise or lower the shanks78) based on the application specific needs of operating the grader assembly10. Further, as shown inFIG.1, there may be instances where there are more holders76than there are ripper shanks78. This allows adjustability for the operator to selectively choose where to place the ripper shanks78relative to the second direction15along the length of the front member32(which is effectively the width of grader assembly10). Further, it allows the operator to add extra shanks78if required to meet certain application specific needs and depending on the material or strata (i.e., the type of roadway material, such as concrete, asphalt, rocks, sub-base or the like) being ripped by the ripper shanks78.

FIG.3depicts that the first mount46having the jack62is disposed closer to the front end12of grader assembly10than the rear end14albeit behind the blade34. Jack62is connected with a flange bracket80that extends upwardly from the top surface of the first side member26. Flange bracket80is a rigid plate having a width oriented in the first direction13and a height oriented in the third direction17. In one particular embodiment, the height of the flange bracket80is greater than its width. Jack62is mounted to one side of the flange bracket so as to be disposed closer to the interior space66of frame24than the bracket80. Jack62includes a handle82that may rotate about an axis84in order to move a lower end86in the third direction17(i.e., raise or lower the lower end86). The lower end86of jack62is coupled, either directly or indirectly, with the first side42of the moveable blade34. Rotation of the handle82about the jack axis84effectuates the lower end86of the jack62to translate upward or downward in the third direction17in order to adjust the crowning angle60of the moveable blade34. Further, if the jack62is substituted for one of the other actuators detailed previously, then the bracket80will modified to accommodate that other type of actuator.

FIG.4depicts that the hydraulic actuator64is disposed within the interior space66of frame24behind the blade34. Hydraulic actuator64is coupled with the second mount48and is either directly or indirectly coupled with the second side44of moveable blade34. Hydraulic actuator64is disposed closer to the rear end14than the forward end12. Hydraulic actuator64includes a piston and cylinder assembly. One end of the piston and cylinder assembly may be directly or indirectly coupled to the second mount48and the other end may be directly or indirectly coupled to the second side44of the moveable blade34. The hydraulic actuator64is configured to expand and contract in the third direction17. Movement of the hydraulic actuator64in the third direction17effectuates movement of the moveable blade in the third direction17(i.e., raises or lowers) to adjust the crowning angle60. Further, if the actuator64is substituted for one of the other actuators detailed previously, then the mount48will modified to accommodate that other type of actuator.

FIG.6depicts that the lower edge56of moveable blade34extends downwardly in the third direction17below the lower limit of the shanks78that are connected to the frame24. In one embodiment, the lower edge56extends about 1 to four inches below the lower limit of shanks78.

FIG.8Adepicts a machine or device, such as a tractor or other powered driveable machine118(such as a skid-steer), regardless of whether it is manned or unmanned, having a coupler116. Coupler116releasably connects with rear drive mount38. Various hydraulic actuators on the machine118may be utilized to tilt or raise the grader assembly when the coupler116releasably connects with rear drive mount38. Coupler116is complementary to rear drive mount38. In one particular embodiment, the coupler116and rear drive mount38are configured as a conventional skid-steer configuration. When the coupler116is connected with the rear drive mount38, the machine118may push the grader assembly, from the rear end14, forward in the first direction13.

FIG.8Aalso depicts the operation of rotating handle82about axis84via arrow120. As described in greater detail herein, the rotation of handle82effectuates rotational-to-translational movement of jack62to impart movement of the lower edge56of moveable blade34to adjust the crowning angle60.

FIG.8Bdepicts that the lower end86of the jack62is connected with a slide bracket88. Bracket88includes a pin90that extends in the first direction13(into the page shown inFIG.8B). Pin90slides within a slot92defined in a support flange94. Support flange94is rigidly secured to an inner surface of the first side member26and extends inwardly into the interior space66of frame24. The support flange94may be rigidly secured and fixed in a certain position that allows the lower end86and pin90to move in the third direction17relative to support flange94. In one particular embodiment, the pin90is indirectly coupled to the first side42of the moveable blade34. In another particular embodiment, the pin90may be directly coupled with the first side42of moveable blade34. Thus, in either coupling configuration, movement of the lower end86of jack62causes pin90to slide within slot92in the third direction as indication by arrow96. Movement of the pin90within the slot92effectuates movement of the first side42of the moveable blade34in the third direction17as indicated by arrow98. Movement of the moveable blade34in the direction of arrow98adjusts the crowing angle60near the first side42of the moveable blade34. The slot92formed within support flange94may be a directly linear slot extending fully through the support flange94in the first direction13. In other embodiments, slot92may be formed with a slight curve that effectuates and assist in the tilting of moveable blade relative to an axis extending in the first direction13.

In one particular embodiment, the movement of jack62may adjust the lower edge56of the moveable blade34to provide a range of travel in the third direction17that extends from two inches below the bottom of wear pad72to one inch above the bottom of wear pad72relative to the third direction17.

FIG.8Cdepicts the second blade mount48as comprising a support flange100defining a slot102. A slide bracket104is coupled with a support flange100. Slide bracket104includes a pin or screw106that slides within slot102in the third direction17. Support flange100extends inwardly into the interior space66defined by frame24from the second side member28. Support flange100is rigidly connected to second side member28. The slide bracket104or the pin106is directly or indirectly coupled to the second side44of the moveable blade34.

The hydraulic actuator64includes a lower end108that is directly or indirectly coupled with the slide bracket104. Movement of the hydraulic actuator64in the third direction17is indicated by arrow109. When the hydraulic actuator64moves in the direction of arrow109, which is parallel to the third direction17, the slide bracket104moves in the third direction17as indicated by arrow110. Slide bracket104being indirectly coupled with the second side44of the moveable blade34causes the lower edge56to move in the third direction17to adjust the crowning angle60as desired by the operator.

FIG.8Cdepicts the range of travel of the hydraulic actuator64as having a range of travel that may move the lower edge56of the moveable blade34from one and a half inches below the bottom of wear pad72to four and a half inches above the bottom of wear pad72.

While the jack62and the hydraulic actuator64have been shown on respective sides16,18or grader assembly10it is to be understood that these components may be replaced with similar components. For example, another embodiment of the grader assembly could utilize a hydraulic actuator at both the first mount46and the second mount48(or any of the other non-manual actuators identified herein). Alternatively, a manual jack, such as jack62may be utilized at both the first mount46and the second mount48(or any of the other manual actuators identified herein). Thus, grader assembly10is shown with one of each, namely, a hydraulic actuator64and a manual jack62(i.e., a manual actuator), so that a reader of the present disclosure will understand that either option is possible and envisioned within the scope of the present disclosure without departing from the teaching herein.

FIG.8Doperationally depicts the movement of moveable blade34to adjust, vary, or alter the crowning angle60. As mentioned herein, the slide bracket88slides within slot92on support flange94. The dimension of travel of the slide bracket88is bound by the length, shape, and possible curvature of slot92.FIG.8Ddepicts that the lower end86of jack62is in its uppermost or raised position relative to the third direction17. Further, as mentioned previously, the range of travel afforded to the lower edge56of the moveable blade34at the first side42thereof is based on the sliding movement of side bracket88within slot92, which can move the lower edge56from one inch above the horizontal plane58to two inches below the horizontal plane58(as shown inFIG.8E).FIG.8Ddepicts the position of the moveable blade34having its first side42in the upper most or raised position, in which the lower edge56at the first side42is about one inch above the horizontal plane58. The position of the moveable blade34depicted inFIG.8Drepresents after an operator has rotated handle82about the jack axis84, as indicated by arrow120(FIG.8A), which raises or translates the lower end86upward in the third direction17as indicated by arrow112. The rotational-to-translational movement of the lower end86effectuates the sliding movement of bracket88inasmuch as the bracket88is rigidly secured to lower end86. Thus, the slide bracket88slides upwardly in the third direction17as indicated by arrow112within slot92in response to an operator rotating handle82about axis84.

With continued reference toFIG.8D, the second side44of moveable blade34is shown in a lowered position. Similar to the first side42of the moveable blade34, the second side44of the moveable blade34is moveable in the third direction between a lowered position and a raised position.FIG.8Ddepicts the lowered position of the moveable blade at the second side44in which the slide bracket104, which is part of the collective second mount48, is at its lowermost path of travel of slot102. As mentioned previously, the path of travel associated with the second mount48enables the second side44of the moveable blade at the lower edge56to move from one and a half inches below horizontal plane58to four and a half inches above horizontal plane58.

In order to move the slide bracket104, which is directly or indirectly coupled to the first side42of moveable blade34, to the lowered position, the hydraulic actuator64moves a portion thereof downwardly in the third direction17and indicated by arrow114.

Thus, the exemplary operational configuration ofFIG.8Ddepicts the first side42of the moveable blade34in a raised positon bound by slot92and the second side44of the moveable blade34in a lowered positon bound by slot102. Thus, what is shown inFIG.8Dis the operational embodiment in which the lower edge56of the moveable blade34at the first side42thereof, is one inch above plane58and the lower edge56of the moveable blade34, at the second side44thereof, is one and a half inches below horizontal plane58.

FIG.8Edepicts that the lower end86of jack62is in its lowermost or lowered position relative to the third direction17. Further, as mentioned previously, the range of travel afforded to the lower edge56of the moveable blade34at the first side42thereof is based on the sliding movement of side bracket88within slot92, which can move the lower edge56from one inch above the horizontal plane58(as shown inFIG.8D) to two inches below the horizontal plane58.FIG.8Edepicts the position of the moveable blade34having its first side42in the lowermost or lowered position, in which the lower edge56at the first side42is about two inches below the horizontal plane58. The position of the moveable blade34depicted inFIG.8Erepresents after an operator has rotated handle82about the jack axis84in an opposite manner from the rotational direction used to raise the first side42of moveable blade34, which lowers or translates the lower end86downward in the third direction17as indicated by arrow122. The rotational-to-translational movement of the lower end86effectuates the sliding movement of bracket88inasmuch as the bracket88is rigidly secured to lower end86. Thus, the slide bracket88slides downward in the third direction17as indicated by arrow122within slot92in response to an operator rotating handle82about axis84.

With continued reference toFIG.8Ethe second side44of moveable blade34is shown in a raised position. Similar to the first side42of the moveable blade34, the second side44of the moveable blade34is moveable in the third direction between a lowered position and a raised position.FIG.8Edepicts the raised position of the moveable blade at the second side44in which the slide bracket104, which is part of the collective second mount48, is at its uppermost most path of travel of slot102. As mentioned previously, the path of travel associated with the second mount48enables the second side44of the moveable blade at the lower edge56to move from one and a half inches below horizontal plane58to four and a half inches above horizontal plane58. Thus, the raised position ofFIG.8Edepicts the lower edge56at the second side44of moveable blade34as being four and a half inches above horizontal plane58.

In order to move the slide bracket104, which is directly or indirectly coupled to the second side44of moveable blade34, to the raised position, the hydraulic actuator64moves a portion thereof upward in the third direction17and indicated by arrow124.

Thus, the exemplary operational configuration ofFIG.8Edepicts the first side42of the moveable blade34in a lowered positon bound by slot92and the second side44of the moveable blade34in a raised positon bound by slot102. Thus, what is shown inFIG.8Eis the operational embodiment in which the lower edge56of the moveable blade34at the first side42thereof, is two inches below plane58and the lower edge56of the moveable blade34, at the second side44thereof, is four and a half inches above horizontal plane58.

FIG.9depicts an operational view of the machine118or a different machine being used to pull the grader assembly10forward from the front12of grader assembly10. The machine118may have a rear coupler126that couples to the front drive mount40on grader assembly10. The exemplary rear coupler126may be a three-point hitch that releasably connects with forward drive mount40. However as stated previously, any of the identified different types of front drive mounts40are entirely possible. Various hydraulic actuators on the machine118may be utilized to tilt or raise the grader assembly10when the coupler126releasably connects with forward drive mount40. Coupler126is complementary to forward drive mount40. When the coupler126is connected with the forward drive mount40, the machine118may pull the grader assembly, from the front end12, forward in the first direction13.

FIG.10depict an alternative embodiment of grader assembly10in which components may be utilized to move the first side42and second side44of moveable blade34in the first direction13. There may be an actuator128coupled, directly or indirectly, to the first side member26of frame24and an actuator130coupled, directly or indirectly, to the second side member28of frame. Actuator128is coupled, directly or indirectly, to the first side42of moveable blade34. Movement of actuator128in the first direction13causes the first side42of moveable blade34to move in the first direction13. Actuator130is coupled, directly or indirectly, to the second side44of moveable blade34. Movement of actuator130in the first direction13causes the second side44of moveable blade34to move in the first direction13. Movement of actuators128,130alters angle54between about 15 degrees and 25 degrees.

The grader assembly10may additionally include one or more sensors to sense or gather data pertaining to the surrounding environment or operation of the grader assembly10. Some exemplary sensors capable of being electronically coupled with the grader assembly10(either directly connected to the grader assembly10or remotely connected thereto) may include but are not limited to: accelerometers sensing accelerations experienced during rotation, translation, velocity/speed, location traveled, elevation gained; gyroscopes sensing movements during angular orientation and/or rotation, and rotation; altimeters sensing barometric pressure, altitude change, terrain climbed, local pressure changes, submersion in liquid; impellers measuring the amount of fluid passing thereby; Global Positioning sensors sensing location, elevation, distance traveled, velocity/speed; audio sensors sensing local environmental sound levels, or voice detection; Photo/Light sensors sensing ambient light intensity, ambient, Day/night, UV exposure; TV/IR sensors sensing light wavelength; Temperature sensors sensing machine or motor temperature, ambient air temperature, and environmental temperature; and Moisture Sensors sensing surrounding moisture levels.

If sensors are utilized to gather data relating to the assembly10of the present disclosure, then sensed data may be evaluated and processed with artificial intelligence (AI). Analyzing data gathered from sensors using artificial intelligence involves the process of extracting meaningful insights and patterns from raw sensor data to produce refined and actionable results. Raw data is gathered from various sensors, for example those which have been identified herein or others, capturing relevant information based on the intended analysis. This data is then preprocessed to clean, organize, and structure it for effective analysis. Features that represent key characteristics or attributes of the data are extracted. These features serve as inputs for AI algorithms, encapsulating relevant information essential for the analysis. A suitable AI model, such as machine learning or deep learning (regardless of whether it is supervised or unsupervised), is chosen based on the nature of the data and the desired analysis outcome. The model is then trained using labeled or unlabeled data to learn the underlying patterns and relationships. The model is fine-tuned and optimized to enhance its performance and accuracy. This process involves adjusting parameters, architectures, and algorithms to achieve better results. The trained model is used to make predictions or inferences on new, unseen data. The model processes the extracted features and generates refined output based on the patterns it has learned during training. The results produced by the AI model are refined through post-processing techniques to ensure accuracy and relevance. These refined results are then interpreted to extract meaningful insights and derive actionable conclusions. Feedback from the refined results is used to improve the AI model iteratively. The process involves incorporating new data, adjusting the model, and enhancing the analysis based on real-world feedback and evolving requirements.

The grader assembly10may include wireless communication logic coupled to sensors on the grader assembly10. The sensors gather data and provide the data to the wireless communication logic. Then, the wireless communication logic may transmit the data gathered from the sensors to a remote device. Thus, the wireless communication logic may be part of a broader communication system, in which one or several grader assemblies may be networked together to report alerts and, more generally, to be accessed and controlled remotely. Depending on the types of transceivers installed in the grader assembly10, the system may use a variety of protocols (e.g., Wifi, ZigBee, MiWi, Bluetooth) for communication. In one example, each of the grader assemblies may have its own IP address and may communicate directly with a router or gateway. This would typically be the case if the communication protocol is WiFi.

In another example, a point-to-point communication protocol like MiWi or ZigBee is used. One or more of the grader assembly10may serve as a repeater, or the grader assemblies may be connected together in a mesh network to relay signals from one grader assembly10to the next. However, the individual grader assembly10in this scheme typically would not have IP addresses of their own. Instead, one or more of the grader assemblies communicates with a repeater that does have an IP address, or another type of address, identifier, or credential needed to communicate with an outside network. The repeater communicates with the router or gateway.

In either communication scheme, the router or gateway communicates with a communication network, such as the Internet, although in some embodiments, the communication network may be a private network that uses transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP) and other common Internet protocols but does not interface with the broader Internet, or does so only selectively through a firewall.

The system that receives and processes signals from the grader assembly10may differ from embodiment to embodiment. In one embodiment, alerts and signals from the grader assembly10are sent through an e-mail or simple message service (SMS; text message) gateway so that they can be sent as e-mails or SMS text messages to a remote device, such as a smartphone, laptop, or tablet computer, monitored by a responsible individual, group of individuals, or department, such as a maintenance department or a roadway paving crew. Thus, if a particular grader assembly10creates an alert because of a data point gathered by one or more sensors, that alert can be sent, in e-mail or SMS form, directly to the individual responsible for fixing it. Of course, e-mail and SMS are only two examples of communication methods that may be used; in other embodiments, different forms of communication may be used.

In other embodiments, alerts and other data from the sensors on the grader assembly10may also be sent to a work tracking system that allows the individual, or the organization for which he or she works, to track the status of the various alerts that are received, to schedule particular workers to repair a particular grader assembly10or the roadway itself based on when the road was grader by grader assembly10, and to track the status of those repair jobs. A work tracking system would typically be a server, such as a Web server, that provides an interface individuals and organizations can use, typically through the communication network. In addition to its work tracking functions, the work tracker may allow broader data logging and analysis functions. For example, operational data may be calculated from the data collected by the sensors on grader assembly10, and the system may be able to provide aggregate machine operational data for grader assembly10or group of grader assemblies.

The system also allows individuals to access the grader assembly10for configuration and diagnostic purposes. In that case, the individual processors or microcontrollers of the grader assembly10may be configured to act as Web servers that use a protocol like hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) to provide an online interface that can be used to configure the grader assembly10. In some embodiments, the systems may be used to configure several grader assemblies at once. For example, if several grader assemblies are of the same model and are in similar locations in the same location, it may not be necessary to configure the grader assemblies individually. Instead, an individual may provide configuration information, including baseline operational parameters, for several grader assemblies at once.

As described herein, aspects of the present disclosure may include one or more electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, or other similar secondary components and/or systems therein. The present disclosure is therefore contemplated and will be understood to include any necessary operational components thereof. For example, electrical components will be understood to include any suitable and necessary wiring, fuses, or the like for normal operation thereof. Similarly, any pneumatic systems provided may include any secondary or peripheral components such as air hoses, compressors, valves, meters, or the like. It will be further understood that any connections between various components not explicitly described herein may be made through any suitable means including mechanical fasteners, or more permanent attachment means, such as welding or the like. Alternatively, where feasible and/or desirable, various components of the present disclosure may be integrally formed as a single unit.

Furthermore, the logic(s) presented herein for accomplishing various methods of this system may be directed towards improvements in existing computer-centric or internet-centric technology that may not have previous analog versions. The logic(s) may provide specific functionality directly related to structure that addresses and resolves some problems identified herein. The logic(s) may also provide significantly more advantages to solve these problems by providing an exemplary inventive concept as specific logic structure and concordant functionality of the method and system. Furthermore, the logic(s) may also provide specific computer implemented rules that improve on existing technological processes. The logic(s) provided herein extends beyond merely gathering data, analyzing the information, and displaying the results. Further, portions or all of the present disclosure may rely on underlying equations that are derived from the specific arrangement of the equipment or components as recited herein. Thus, portions of the present disclosure as it relates to the specific arrangement of the components are not directed to abstract ideas. Furthermore, the present disclosure and the appended claims present teachings that involve more than performance of well-understood, routine, and conventional activities previously known to the industry. In some of the method or process of the present disclosure, which may incorporate some aspects of natural phenomenon, the process or method steps are additional features that are new and useful.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the term “effecting” or a phrase or claim element beginning with the term “effecting” should be understood to mean to cause something to happen or to bring something about. For example, effecting an event to occur may be caused by actions of a first party even though a second party actually performed the event or had the event occur to the second party. Stated otherwise, effecting refers to one party giving another party the tools, objects, or resources to cause an event to occur. Thus, in this example a claim element of “effecting an event to occur” would mean that a first party is giving a second party the tools or resources needed for the second party to perform the event, however the affirmative single action is the responsibility of the first party to provide the tools or resources to cause said event to occur.

To the extent that the present disclosure has utilized the term “invention” in various titles or sections of this specification, this term was included as required by the formatting requirements of word document submissions pursuant the guidelines/requirements of the United States Patent and Trademark Office and shall not, in any manner, be considered a disavowal of any subject matter.