Patent Publication Number: US-2022225566-A1

Title: Method and apparatus for mounting a flail mower

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/179,595, filed on Feb. 19, 2021, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/139,547, filed on Jan. 20, 2021; the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to tractor mounted implements. More particularly, in one example, the present disclosure relates to a mounting frame and assembly for tractor mounted implements carried in front of a tractor. Specifically, in another example, the present disclosure relates to a mounting assembly operable to connect an implement to the forward end of a tractor while allowing for lateral pivoting of the implement about a longitudinal pivot axis. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Tractors are commonly used in many areas including agricultural, landscaping, snow-clearing, and other similar lines of work, and in both residential and commercial applications. Often, these tractors carry or are otherwise connected to one or more implements on the forward end and/or the rearward end thereof. Some examples of tractor mounted implements can include plows, earth engaging equipment, power brushes, mower attachments, and/or other similar landscaping and/or maintenance-type attachments. As used in smaller applications, such as residential and/or small commercial applications, tractors are particularly useful for mowing, other landscape maintenance, snow removal, and/or surface cleaning and preparation applications. 
     One of the more common uses of a tractor mounted implement is the use of a mowing attachment such as a flail mower or the like, which may be connected to a forward end of a tractor and driven by the tractor over an area to be mowed. These implements may vary in size and operation; however, it is common to use such implements over uneven or sloped terrains. 
     Typically, a forward-mounted tractor implement such as a flail mower includes a series of wheels and/or ground engaging skids to allow the implement to track the ground surface. When operated on a flat surface, these wheels and/or skids help support the implement at a proper operational height. When used with a mowing implement, this can help keep the cut of the associated landscaping at a substantially even height, thus providing a uniform appearance and allowing for regular maintenance. 
     When operated on uneven or sloped terrain; however, the use of wheels, and/or skids may cause an uneven operation of the associated implement. Where the implement is a mower, for example, this may result in an uneven cut and or further damage to the terrain. Typically, the issue arises in that the wheels and/or skids of the implement that track the ground may cause the implement to move or bounce as the slope and condition of the terrain changes. Alternatively, the implement may ride on one edge thus raising the opposite side off of the ground. For example, when utilizing a mowing implement on sloped terrain, current attachment assemblies maintain the mowing attachment in a level configuration. Where one side is in contact with a ground surface, such as on the high side of the terrain, that side of the mower may cut closer to the ground surface. On the opposite side, the mower may cut at a higher length, or on larger slopes, may disconnect from the ground surface entirely, Thus, on the high side of the slope, the vegetation to be cut too short and the mower may contact the ground surface, which may further damage the ground or the mowing attachment. At the same time, on the low side of the slope, the vegetation may be left too long, or may not be cut at all. 
     Current solutions typically involve various applications of shocks, springs, or the like to allow some vertical movement of the tractor implement as the implement is operated over uneven terrain. Other times, the attachment between the implement and the tractor is intentionally loosened or not fully secured to allow some play in the attachment mechanism, again, with the purpose of allowing some vertical movement of the implement. In both instances, these current solutions fall short as in they are inconsistent, and in the instance of loosened attachment points, may be dangerous to an operator, bystanders, and/or property as the loose attachment may cause failure and/or injury. Further, the addition of shocks, springs and other similar measures increase the cost, maintenance requirements, and probability of failure during operation while only minimally addressing these issues. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure addresses these and other issues by providing a method and apparatus for attaching a forward-mounted implement that may allow pivotal movement of the implement around a longitudinal axis to better maintain proper operational height when operating on uneven or sloped terrain. Further provided, the attachment mechanism of the present disclosure may allow for a secure and safe attachment to an associated tractor or other similar vehicle while simultaneously providing for a reduced production cost and less maintenance requirements. 
     In one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an attachment frame for a tractor mounted implement comprising: a first side member operable to connect to a frame of a tractor; a second side member spaced laterally apart from the first side member operable to connect to the frame of the tractor; a first cross member disposed between the first and second side member; and a second cross member forward of and connected to the first cross member operable to connect an implement to the first cross member, wherein the second cross member and the implement are rotatable relative to the first cross member about a longitudinal axis defined by a longitudinal centerline of the attachment frame. 
     In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method of maintaining a level orientation of an implement relative to a ground surface comprising: traversing a ground surface in a first condition with a tractor carrying an implement thereon; traversing the ground surface in a second condition with the tractor and implement; rotating the implement about a longitudinal axis defined by a centerline of an attachment frame connecting the implement to the tractor from a first position wherein the implement is generally horizontal relative to a cross member of the attachment frame to a second position wherein the implement is angled relative to the cross member of the attachment frame in response to the change of the ground surface from the first condition to the second condition; and biasing the implement back to the first position with a spring assembly when the level of the ground surface reverts to the first condition. 
     In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an attachment system for a tractor. The attachment system includes an implement that has a body. The attachment system also includes an attachment frame assembly that has a pivot assembly operably engaged with the implement. The attachment system also includes a striping assembly operably engaged with the implement inside of the interior chamber of the body. 
     This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the striping assembly is adapted to depress a predetermined amount of cut vegetation inside the interior chamber onto a lawn for creating a striping pattern into the lawn. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the implement and the striping assembly are moveable relative to the attachment frame assembly via the pivot assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the implement further comprises a flail mower. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the striping assembly is adapted to follow the contour of a ground surface via the rotation of the implement and the pivot assembly of the attachment frame assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the attachment frame assembly further comprises a first carrier having a first support arm and a second carrier positioned opposite to the first carrier relative to the implement and having a second support arm; wherein the striping assembly is disposed between the first carrier and the second carrier. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the attachment frame assembly further comprises a first coupler operably engaged to the first support arm, wherein the first coupler defines a first U-shaped groove; and a second coupler operably engaged to the second support arm, wherein the second coupler defines a second U-shaped groove. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the striping assembly further comprises a roller having a first end, an opposing second end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a first shaft extending away from the first end of the roller along the longitudinal axis; and an opposing second shaft extending away from the second end of the roller along the longitudinal axis. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that a first pillow block bearing operably engaged to the first coupler; and a second pillow block bearing operably engaged to the second coupler. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the first pillow block bearing is operable to receive and house the first shaft; and wherein the second pillow block bearing is operable to receive and house the second shaft. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the first pillow block bearing operably engages with the first coupler inside of the first U-shaped groove; and wherein the second pillow block bearing operably engages with the second coupler inside of the second U-shaped groove. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the roller is adapted to rotate about the longitudinal axis inside of the first pillow block bearing and the first coupler at the first shaft; and wherein the roller is adapted to rotate about the longitudinal axis inside of the second pillow block bearing and the second coupler at the second shaft. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that a portion the first support arm, a portion of the second support arm, the first coupler, and the second coupler are positioned inside of the interior chamber defined by the body of the implement. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that a first adjustment mechanism operably engaged to the first carrier and the first support arm; and a second adjustment mechanism operably engaged to the second carrier and the second support arm. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the implement and the striping assembly are selectively adjustable by each of the first adjustment mechanism and the second adjustment mechanism. 
     In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method. The method comprises the steps of operably engaging an implement having a striping assembly therein with an attachment system of a tractor; traversing a ground surface in a first condition with the tractor and the attachment system; cutting a section of lawn from the ground surface via at least one cutting blade of the implement; discharging a volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface; depressing the volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface in a first direction, via the striping assembly, inside of an interior chamber defined by a body of the implement; and creating a striping pattern on the lawn in the first direction. 
     This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the step of traversing the ground surface in the first condition with the tractor and the implement includes the implement being level with a centerline of the attachment system. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide the steps of traversing the ground surface in a second condition; rotating the implement and the striping assembly about a longitudinal axis defined by a centerline of an attachment frame assembly from a first position to a second position, wherein the implement and the striping assembly is generally horizontal relative to a cross member of the attachment frame assembly in the first position, and wherein the implement and the striping assembly is angled relative to the cross member of the attachment frame assembly in response to the change of the ground surface from the first condition to the second condition; and biasing the implement and the striping assembly back to the first position with a spring assembly when the level of the ground surface reverts to the first condition. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide the steps of traversing the ground surface in a third condition with the tractor along with the implement and the striping assembly; and rotating the implement and the striping assembly from one of the first position and the second position to a third position wherein the implement is angled relative to the cross member of the attachment frame assembly in an opposite direction than the second position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the implement is a flail mower. 
     In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an attachment system for a tractor. The attachment system has an implement having a body; an attachment frame assembly having pivot assemblies operably engaged to the implement; and a flip-up assembly operably engaged to the body of the implement and the attachment frame assembly, wherein the flip-up assembly is adapted to independently rotate the implement about a longitudinal axis relative to the attachment frame assembly. 
     This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a mechanical power source provided with the tractor, wherein the mechanical power source is adapted to pneumatically control the flip-up assembly to rotate the implement between an initial, non-pivoted position to a translated, pivoted position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the implement further comprises a first cross frame bracket operably engaged to an exterior surface of the body and defining a first slot and a first opening; and an opposing second cross bracket operably engaged to the exterior surface of the body and defining a second slot and a second opening. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the flip-up assembly further comprises a force generating device operably engaged to the body of the implement; a connector operably engaged to the force generating device, wherein the connector is operably engaged to the first cross frame bracket and the second cross frame bracket; and at least one mounting plate operably engaging the force generating device with the attachment frame assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the force generating device further comprises a cylinder having first end, an opposing second end, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween; a first protruding arm extending away from the cylinder orthogonal to the longitudinal axis; an opposing second protruding arm extending away from the cylinder orthogonal to the longitudinal axis; and a rod extending from the cylinder and moveable inside of the cylinder along the longitudinal axis. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the connector further comprises a support member defining a central passageway; a first lateral wall operably engaged with the support member, and a second opposing lateral wall operably engaged with the support member. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the flip-up assembly further comprises a locking mechanism operably engaging the connector with the first cross frame bracket and the second cross frame bracket. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the flip-up assembly further comprises a removable pin operably engageable with the implement and the attachment frame assembly for maintaining the implement between an initial, non-pivoted position and a translated, pivoted position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the removable pin is operably engaged with the first lateral wall and the second lateral wall of the connector in the initial, non-pivoted position; and wherein the removable pin is remote from the first opening and the second opening of the first cross frame bracket and the second cross frame bracket in the initial, non-pivoted position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the removable pin is operably engaged with the first cross frame bracket and the second cross frame bracket inside of the first opening and the second opening in the translated, pivoted position; and wherein the removable pin is remote from the first lateral wall and the second lateral wall of the connector in the translated, pivoted position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the at least one mounting plate further comprises an opposing second mounting plate operably engaging the force generating device with the attachment frame assembly, wherein the at least one mounting plate and the second mounting plate are operably engaged to one another. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the first protruding arm of the force generating device is operably engaged to the at least one mounting plate; and wherein the second protruding arm of the force generating device is operably engaged to the second mounting plate. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the flip-up assembly is operably engaged to the implement between the first cross frame bracket and the second cross frame bracket. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the implement further comprises: a first lateral arm having a first end operably engaged to a cross member of the attachment frame assembly and a second opposing end operably engaged to the implement, wherein the second end of the first lateral arm is adapted to allow independent rotation of the implement relative to the attachment frame assembly; and an opposing second lateral arm having a first end operably engaged to the cross member of the attachment frame assembly and an opposing second end of the second lateral arm operably engaged to the implement, wherein the second end of the second lateral arm is adapted to allow independent rotation of the implement relative to the attachment frame assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a bracket operably engaged to the attachment frame assembly, wherein the bracket is adapted to hold at least one hydraulic tubing away from the implement and the attachment frame assembly. 
     In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method of adjusting an implement with an attachment system. The method comprises the steps of: operably engaging the attachment system carrying an implement, an attachment frame assembly, and a flip-up assembly thereon with a tractor; raising the implement, the attachment frame assembly, and the flip-up assembly via a hydraulic motor of the tractor; actuating the flip-up assembly of the attachment system via a first input on a mechanical power source of the tractor; applying a first force, via the mechanical power source of the tractor, to a force generating device of the flip-up assembly; pivoting the implement, via the force generating device, away from a ground surface independent of the frame attachment assembly; and maintaining the implement at a desired angle relative to the frame attachment assembly. 
     This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a step of operably engaging a removable pin between the implement and the attachment frame assembly when the implement is maintained at an angle relative to the attachment frame assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide steps of actuating the flip-up assembly of the attachment system via a second input on the mechanical power source of the tractor; applying a second force, via the mechanical power source of the tractor, to the force generating device of the flip-up assembly; pivoting the implement, via the force generating device, towards the ground surface independent of the frame attachment assembly; and maintaining the implement substantially parallel to the frame attachment assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a step of operably engaging a removable pin between the implement and the attachment frame assembly to maintain the implement substantially parallel to the attachment frame assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the implement is a flail mower. 
     In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an attachment system for a tractor. The attachment system has a flail mower that has a body; an attachment frame assembly that has a pivot assembly operably engaged with the flail mower; and a striping assembly operably engaged with the flail mower, wherein the striping assembly is adapted to depress a predetermined amount of cut vegetation onto a lawn for creating a striping pattern into the lawn. 
     This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the flail mower further comprises an interior chamber defined by the body; wherein the striping assembly is operably engaged to the body inside of the interior chamber; and wherein striping assembly is adapted to depress a predetermined amount of cut vegetation onto a lawn inside of the interior chamber for creating a striping pattern into the lawn. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the flail mower further comprises: an interior chamber defined by the body; wherein the striping assembly is operably engaged to the body exterior to the interior chamber; and wherein striping assembly is adapted to depress a predetermined amount of cut vegetation onto a lawn exterior to the interior chamber for creating a striping pattern into the lawn. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the flail mower and the striping assembly are moveable relative to the attachment frame assembly via the pivot assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the striping assembly is adapted to follow the contour of a ground surface via the rotation of the flail mower and the pivot assembly of the attachment frame assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the attachment frame assembly further comprises a first carrier having a first support arm; and a second carrier positioned opposite to the first carrier relative to the implement and having a second support arm; wherein the striping assembly is disposed between the first carrier and the second carrier. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the attachment frame assembly further comprises a first coupler operably engaged to the first support arm, wherein the first coupler defines a first U-shaped groove; and a second coupler operably engaged to the second support arm, wherein the second coupler defines a second U-shaped groove. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the striping assembly further comprises a roller having a first end, an opposing second end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end; a first shaft extending away from the first end of the roller along the longitudinal axis; and an opposing second shaft extending away from the second end of the roller along the longitudinal axis. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the striping assembly further comprises: a first bearing operably engaged to the first coupler; and a second bearing operably engaged to the second coupler. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the first bearing is operable to receive and house the first shaft; and wherein the second bearing is operable to receive and house the second shaft. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the first bearing operably engages with the first coupler inside of the first U-shaped groove; and wherein the second bearing operably engages with the second U-shaped coupler inside of the second groove. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the roller is adapted to rotate about the longitudinal axis inside of the first bearing and the first coupler at the first shaft; and wherein the roller is adapted to rotate about the longitudinal axis inside of the second bearing and the second coupler at the second shaft. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that a portion the first support arm, a portion of the second support arm, the first coupler, and the second coupler are positioned inside of an interior chamber defined by the body of the flail mower. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a first adjustment mechanism operably engaged to the first carrier and the first support arm; and a second adjustment mechanism operably engaged to the second carrier and the second support arm. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the flail mower and the striping assembly are selectively adjustable by each of the first adjustment mechanism and the second adjustment mechanism. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the flail mower further comprises at least one cutting blade operably engaged to the body, wherein the at least one cutting blade is adapted to cut a predetermined amount of vegetation and discharge the predetermined amount of cut vegetation at a point intermediate the at least one cutting blade and the striping assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the striping assembly is adapted to create a striping pattern on the predetermined amount of cut vegetation after being discharged by the at least one cutting blade inside of the body of the flail mower. 
     In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide another method. The method comprises the steps of: operably engaging a flail mower having a striping assembly therein with an attachment system of a tractor; traversing a ground surface in a first condition with the tractor and the attachment system; cutting a section of lawn from the ground surface via at least one cutting blade of the flail mower; discharging a volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface; depressing the volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface in a first direction via the striping assembly; and creating a striping pattern on the lawn in the first direction. 
     This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a step of depressing the volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface, via the striping assembly, inside of an interior chamber defined by a body of the flail mower. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a step of depressing the volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface, via the striping assembly, exterior to an interior chamber defined by a body of the flail mower. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the step of discharging the volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface includes the volume of cut grass being discharged at a point intermediate the at least one cutting blade and the striping assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the step of traversing a ground surface in a first condition with the tractor and the flail mower includes the flail mower being level with a centerline of the attachment system. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide steps of traversing the ground surface in a second condition; rotating the flail mower and the striping assembly about a longitudinal axis defined by a centerline of the attachment frame assembly from a first position to a second position, wherein the flail mower and the striping assembly is generally horizontal relative to a cross member of an attachment frame assembly in the first position, and wherein the flail mower and the striping assembly is angled relative to the cross member of the attachment frame assembly in response to the change of the ground surface from the first condition to the second condition; and biasing the flail mower and the striping assembly back to the first position with a spring assembly when the level of the ground surface reverts to the first condition. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide steps of traversing the ground surface in a third condition with the tractor along with the flail mower and the striping assembly; and rotating the flail mower and the striping assembly from one of the first position and the second position to a third position wherein the flail mower is angled relative to the cross member of the attachment frame assembly in an opposite direction than the second position. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A sample embodiment of the disclosure is set forth in the following description, is shown in the drawings and is particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are fully incorporated herein and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate various examples, methods, and other example embodiments of various aspects of the disclosure. It will be appreciated that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g., boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent one example of the boundaries. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that in some examples one element may be designed as multiple elements or that multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some examples, an element shown as an internal component of another element may be implemented as an external component and vice versa. Furthermore, elements may not be drawn to scale. 
         FIG. 1  ( FIG. 1 ) is a side elevation view of a tractor and a forwardly-mounted implement utilizing an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  ( FIG. 2 ) is a top right side isometric perspective view of an implement and attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3  ( FIG. 3 ) is a top right isometric perspective close-up view of an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4  ( FIG. 4 ) is an overhead plan view of an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5  ( FIG. 5 ) is a bottom plan view of an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  ( FIG. 6 ) is a right side elevation view looking in the direction of the line indicated in  FIG. 4  according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 7  ( FIG. 7 ) is a right side elevation cross-sectional view looking in the direction of the line indicated in  FIG. 4  according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8  ( FIG. 8 ) is a right side elevation cross-sectional view looking in the direction of the line indicated in  FIG. 4  according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 9  ( FIG. 9 ) is a rear elevation cross-sectional view looking in the direction of the line indicated in  FIG. 4  according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 10A  ( FIG. 10A ) is a rear partial cross-sectional view looking in the direction of the line indicated in  FIG. 4  according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 10B  ( FIG. 10B ) is a rear cross-sectional operational view of a pivot assembly of an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11A  ( FIG. 11A ) is a rear elevation operational view of an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11B  ( FIG. 11B ) is a rear cross-sectional operational view of a pivot assembly of an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11C  ( FIG. 11C ) is a left side elevation operational view of an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12A  ( FIG. 12A ) is a rear elevation operational view of an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12B  ( FIG. 12B ) is a rear cross-sectional operational view of a pivot assembly of an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12C  ( FIG. 12C ) is a left side elevation operational view of an attachment mechanism according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 13  ( FIG. 13 ) is a bottom plan view of another forwardly-mounted implement utilizing a striping assembly according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 14  ( FIG. 14 ) is a right side cross-sectional operational view of the striping assembly as shown in  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 15  ( FIG. 15 ) is a right side elevation view of another forwardly-mounted implement utilizing a flip-up assembly according to one aspect of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 16  ( FIG. 16 ) is a partial top, rear, right side isometric perspective view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly as shown in  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 17  ( FIG. 17 ) is a partial top, rear, right side isometric perspective view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly as shown in  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 18  ( FIG. 18 ) is a top plan view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly as shown in  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 19  ( FIG. 19 ) is a partial cross-sectional view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly taken in the direction of line  19 - 19  labeled in  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 20  ( FIG. 20 ) is a partial cross-sectional view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly taken in the direction of line  20 - 20  labeled in  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 21  ( FIG. 21 ) is a partial top plan view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly shown in  FIG. 15 ; wherein a removable pin is being removed. 
         FIG. 22  ( FIG. 22 ) is a right side elevation view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly as shown in  FIG. 15 ; wherein the forwardly mounted implement and an attachment frame assembly is rotated via the tractor. 
         FIG. 23  ( FIG. 23 ) is a partial cross-sectional view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly taken in the direction of line  23 - 23  labeled in  FIG. 21 ; wherein a force generating device is translating the forwardly-mounted implement from an initial, non-pivoted position to a translated, pivoted position. 
         FIG. 23  ( FIG. 23 ) is a partial cross-sectional view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly taken in the direction of line  23 - 23  labeled in  FIG. 21 ; wherein a force generating device is transitioning the forwardly-mounted implement from an initial, non-pivoted position to a translated, pivoted position. 
         FIG. 24  ( FIG. 24 ) is a partial cross-sectional view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly taken in the direction of line  24 - 24  labeled in  FIG. 21 ; wherein the force generating device is transitioning the forwardly-mounted implement from an initial, non-pivoted position to a translated, pivoted position. 
         FIG. 25  ( FIG. 25 ) is a partial cross-sectional view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly as shown in  FIG. 24 ; wherein the force generating device transitioned the forwardly-mounted implement to the translated, pivoted position. 
         FIG. 26  ( FIG. 26 ) is a right side elevation view of the forwardly-mounted implement utilizing the flip-up assembly as shown in  FIG. 15 ; wherein the forwardly mounted implement transitioned to the translated, pivoted position independently of the attachment frame assembly. 
         FIG. 27  ( FIG. 27 ) is an exemplary method flowchart of striping a ground surface with an attachment system. 
         FIG. 28  ( FIG. 28 ) is an exemplary method flowchart of adjusting an implement with an attachment system. 
         FIG. 29  ( FIG. 29 ) is another exemplary method flowchart for striping a ground surface with an attachment system. 
     
    
    
     Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     With reference to  FIG. 1 , an attachment for connecting a forward-driven implement to a tractor is shown and generally indicated at  10 . At its most basic, the attachment system  10  includes an implement  12  connected to a tractor  14  using an attachment frame assembly  16 . 
     With references to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , implement  12  may be any implement  12  suitable for connection to a tractor, and although depicted and described herein as a front-driven implement, implement  12  may likewise be attached to a tractor  14  in any suitable position according to the desired implementation. For simplicity and clarity in the disclosure, implement  12  will be described generally as a flail mower; however, the attachment frame assembly  16  may be utilized with any suitable implement as will become apparent herein. 
     Implement  12  may include at least one ground-engaging member, which may be a wheel, a skid, a ski, or other suitable ground-engaging devices. Such ground-engaging surfaces are depicted and referenced herein as wheels  18  and skids  20 . Collectively, these ground-engaging members may define the operational height of implement  12  as discussed further herein. Where implement  12  is a flail mower, wheels  18  and/or skids  20  may be adjusted to set the cut height of the mower, aka the height at which vegetation will be cut by the blades of the flail mower. 
     Implement  12  may further include a body  22  which may house one or more operational aspects of the implement. For example, where implement  12  is a flail mower, body  22  may house the blades, axles, and/or various drive and operational components. Implement  12  may further include a power system  24  which may be or include a power take-off (PTO) system  24 . PTO  24  may further include a driveshaft  26  and other standard drive components, generally indicated at  28 . PTO  24  may be powered via connection to one or more systems carried by tractor  14  according to the desired implementation. According to one aspect, PTO  24  may be powered by a belt-driven system, generally shown at reference  30  in  FIG. 2 . According to another aspect, PTO  24  may be chain-driven, hydraulically powered or may utilize any other suitable power transfer system as dictated by the desired implementation. According to another aspect, PTO  24  may be connected to a separate motor, such as a motor carried by implement  12 , to power suitable aspects of implement  12 , again as dictated by the desired implementation. 
     Implement  12  may further include one or more frame components generally indicated at  32  and may further include one or more adjustment mechanisms indicated generally at  34 . It will be understood that these components, namely, frame components  32  and/or adjustment mechanisms  34 , may vary depending on the type, size, and/or desired operation of implement  12  and may be configured or constructed according to known configurations and/or operation as dictated by the desired implementation and the particulars of any specific implement  12  employed with attachment system  10 . It will be further understood that the adjustment mechanisms  34  may include one or more different types of adjustment mechanisms  34  that may allow for any suitable adjustments to implement as desired. According to one non-limiting example, adjustment mechanisms  34  may include operational height adjustment mechanisms as well as any suitable or desired adjustment system to raise or lower implement  12  from a stowed position to a deployed position and vice versa. Adjustment mechanisms  34  are therefore contemplated to include any suitable frame members, attachment mechanisms or fasteners, support members or structures, as well as any necessary and/or suitable adjustment means such as hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic actuators or the like. For purposes of clarity and simplicity in this disclosure, adjustment mechanisms  34  are understood to be included and operate according to known principles and will be omitted from further discussion herein unless specifically stated otherwise. Further, some structures and components described below may include mounting or attachment points for adjustment mechanisms  34  as needed, and will be omitted from discussion for clarity. It will be understood that these mounting and/or attachment points may be modified as necessary. 
     Frame components  32  of implement  12  may connect or otherwise secure implement  12  to the attachment frame assembly  16 , which will be discussed in further detail below. Generally, frame components  32  may include any necessary or desired elements to support implement  12  and its various elements, and may vary in size, type, configuration, placement, and connection as dictated by the type of implement  12  used and the operational and structural needs thereof. Accordingly, as discussed herein, frame components  32  of implement  12  are discussed generally and attachment of other components thereto and removal therefrom may be accomplished by any suitable means, unless specifically stated otherwise. 
     Tractor  14  is shown in  FIG. 1  and generally referenced as a tractor; however, it will be understood that tractor  14  may be any suitable powered vehicle capable of supporting, powering, and/or moving an implement  12  as discussed herein. According to a few non-limiting examples, tractor  14  may be a lawn tractor, a landscape tractor, a skid steer, a truck, an ATV or UTV, or any other suitable vehicle. Tractor  14  may further include a tractor frame  35  including one or more frame components operable to connect to attachment frame assembly  16  as discussed further herein. The components of tractor frame  35  may be standard components and include any suitable members for operable connection to a forward implement. It will be understood that the connection between tractor frame  35  and attachment frame assembly  16  may be accomplished through any suitable or desired means. 
     Accordingly, reference to tractor frame  35  will be understood to include any suitable components for operable connection to the elements and components of attachment frame assembly  16 , unless specifically stated otherwise. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 2-9 , attachment frame assembly  16  is shown and will be described in more detail. At its most basic, attachment frame assembly  16  may provide several advantages which will be discussed further with regards to the operation thereof. 
     Attachment frame assembly  16  may generally include three sections, namely, the mount frame section, or mount frame  36 , pivot assemblies  38 , and spring assembly  40 . Mount frame  36  may have a first side member  42  spaced apart from a second side member  44  and defining therebetween a transverse direction. Mount frame  36  may further include a first cross member  46 , an upper transverse support  48  and a lower transverse support  50 . Upper transverse support  48  may be spaced apart from lower transverse support  50  and may define a vertical direction therebetween. Mount frame  36  may further include a second cross member  52  which may be generally parallel to first cross member  46  and may extend transversely between the outermost edges or sides of implement  12  as discussed further herein. First and second cross member  46  may be pivotally connected to each other as discussed further below. 
     Attachment frame assembly  16  may be generally symmetrical about a center line indicated in  FIG. 3  as line C, which may extend longitudinally through a midpoint of attachment frame assembly  16 , except for spring assembly  40 , which may be positioned to one side of attachment frame assembly  16  without a counterpart on the opposite side. Attachment frame assembly  16  may be symmetrical about center line C in that a first side thereof may be a mirror image to a second side thereof, again excluding spring assembly  40 . Accordingly, where features or components are substantially similar or identical to their opposite side counterpart, such components will be similarly numbered with the reference letter A (referring to the first side which may be defined as the left side as oriented in  FIG. 3 ) or with the reference letter B (referring to the second side which may be defined as the right side as oriented in  FIG. 3 ). For example, first side member  42  may have a rear arm  54 A while second side member  44  may likewise have a rear arm  54 B. It will be understood that although first side is indicated and discussed herein as the left side and second side is indicated and discussed herein as the right side given that the majority of components are symmetrical and mirror imaged, either side of center line C could be designated the first or second side. For purposes of clarity, this disclosure will limit its discussion to components on the first side being to the left of center line C (as viewed by an operator of the tractor  14  and as oriented in  FIG. 3 ) and components on the second side being disposed on the right of center line C, unless specifically stated otherwise. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 3-9 , but as most easily seen in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , first and second side members  42 ,  44  include the rear arm  54 , which may generally define the rearward most portion of first and second side members  42 ,  44 , which may otherwise be understood to be the portion closest to tractor  14  and the portion that interacts with tractor frame  35 . Rear arm  54  may be spaced apart from a front arm  56  and may define generally therebetween a longitudinal direction, which may be substantially parallel to center line C and substantially parallel to the direction of travel for tractor  14  when connected to an implement  12  via attachment frame assembly  16 . Front arm  56  may extend forwardly and over second cross member  52  and may define a rotational maximum for second cross member  52  to prevent damage to implement  12  and to other components of attachment system  10 , as discussed further herein. According to one aspect, front arm  56  may allow for a maximum of thirty degrees of rotation to either the left or the right side relative to the horizontal plane P, as discussed below. 
     First and second side members  42  and  44  may have an outer face  58  which may be generally oriented away from center line C and may have an inner face  60  oriented towards the center line C of attachment frame assembly  16 . First and second side members  42  and  44  may further be oriented with front arm  56  at the top  62  of first and second side members  42  and  44 . First and second side members  42  and  44  may further include a lower portion, or bottom  64 , spaced vertically apart from top  62  which may include a lower pivot mount  66  for operational connection to lower pivot arms  116  as discussed further below. First and second side members  42  and  44  may be constructed of any suitable material including steel or other similar metals, or the like. 
     Second side member  44  may differ from first side member  42  in placement and orientation within frame  35 , but also in the inclusion of upper and lower spring assembly mounts  68  and  70 , respectively, for operational connection to second spring stop arm  152 , as discussed further below. The upper and lower spring assembly mounts  68 ,  70  may be omitted from first side member  42  when spring assembly  40  is oriented to the second side of center line C. It will be understood; however, that in applications and/or implementations with spring assembly  40  mounted to the left side of center line C or in applications and/or implementations with more than one spring assembly  40  employed, first side member  42  may be modified or otherwise provided with similar spring assembly mounts  68 ,  70  as dictated by the specific implementation thereof and as discussed further herein. 
     First and second side members  42  and  44  may further include a rear mounting slot  72  and mounting pins  74  for use in a standard connection with tractor frame  35  of tractor  14 . Both of first and second side members  42  and  44  may further include any shape or configuration for operation connection to the various components and need not be limited specifically to the configuration shown but instead may be modified according to the desired implementation. 
     First cross member  46  may extend laterally or transversely between first and second side members  42  and  44  and may include any suitable mounting hardware, as needed, to connect first cross member  46  to the inner faces  60 A and  60 B of first and second side members  42 ,  44 , as needed. According to one aspect, first cross member  46  may be welded to the inner faces  60 A,  60 B of side members  42 ,  44 . According to another aspect, first cross member  46  may be connected to side members  42  and  44  through any other suitable means, including but not limited to bolts, screws, rivets or the like. Alternatively, first cross member  46  may be integrally formed with first and second side members  42  and  44 . 
     According to one aspect, first cross member  46  may be tubular with a square cross section as depicted in  FIG. 8 . According to another aspect, first cross member  46  may be formed from multiple separate components and/or may be a single member with any suitable cross section. Where first cross member  46  is chosen as a tubular member having a square or substantially square cross section, first cross member  46  may include a top face  76  spaced vertically apart from a bottom face  78  and a rear face  80  spaced longitudinally apart from a front face  82 . 
     First cross member  46  may also include upper mounting flanges  84 A and  84 B extending upwards from top face  76 , with upper mounting flange  84 A just to the left of center line C and upper mounting flange  84 B disposed just to the right of center line C such that center line C may pass between upper mounting flanges  84 A and  84 B. Upper mounting flanges  84 A and  84 B may be affixed to one or more of top face  76 , front face  82 , and/or bottom face  78  of first cross member  46  and may provide an attachment point to center pivot linkage  106 , as discussed further below. 
     First cross member  46  may likewise include lower mounting arms  86 A and  86 B, which may extend downwards from bottom face  78  of first cross member for operational attachment to lower pivot mount  66 A and  66 B and lower pivot linkages  116 A and  116 B, as discussed further herein. 
     Upper and lower transverse supports  48  and  50  may be further connected to first cross member  46  and may extend between first and second side members  42  and  44  to provide support and additional structural integrity for first cross member  46  and first and second side members  42  and  44 . According to one aspect, upper transverse support  48  may extend rearwardly from first cross member  46  and may be affixed through welding, adhesives, or any suitable attachment means to the rear face  80  of first cross member  46  and may be substantially planar with the top face  76  of first cross member  46 . Upper support  48  may also be connected to or rest on top  62 A and  62 B of first and second side members  42  and  44 , or alternatively may be affixed or connected to infer faces  60 A and  60 B thereof. Upper support  48  may be affixed or connected to first and second side members  42 ,  44  through any suitable means including welding, adhesives, bolts, rivets, screws, or any other suitable attachment mechanism. 
     Similarly, lower transverse support  50  may extend rearwardly from first cross member  46  and may be generally planar with the bottom face  78  of first cross member  46 . As with upper support  48  and lower support  50  may be likewise affixed or otherwise attached to first and second side members  42  and  44  through any suitable means including welding, adhesives, bolts, rivets, screws, or any other suitable attachment mechanism. According to one aspect and as shown in the figures, upper and lower transverse supports  48  and  50  may be welded to first and second side members  42  and  44  and first cross member  46  which may include additional supports or welding points for structural integrity thereof. 
     Second cross member  52  may run substantially parallel to first cross member  46  and may likewise be formed as a tube having a square cross section. It will be similarly understood, however, that second cross member  52  may have any suitable shape and/or cross section. Second cross member  52  may be laterally symmetrical about center line C and may extend beyond the first and second side members  42  and  44 , extending out to the outermost edges of implement  12 . Where implement  12  is a flail mower, second cross member  52  may substantially define the back end of the flail mower. 
     Second cross member  52  may have a first end, which may be a left end, i.e. to the left of center line C and a second end, which may be a right end, for operational attachment to one or more frame components  32  of implement  12 . According to one aspect, second cross member  52  may attach to frame components through removable means, as best seen in  FIG. 2 , such as bolts or the like. According the another aspect, second cross member  52  may be more permanently attached to frame components  32  of implement  12  such that second cross member  52  could be considered to be one of the frame components  32  of implement  12  and may attach and detach from mount frame  36  or, more particularly, from first cross member  46  as discussed further herein. According to this aspect, each implement  12  to be utilized with this attachment system  10  may have a separate second cross member  52  attached to a rearward end therefrom for operable attachment to and detachment from frame  16  and first cross member  46 , as desired. 
     For purposes of this disclosure, second cross member  52  is depicted and described as a length of tubular steel having a square cross section (as best seen in  FIGS. 6-9 ) which, again, is intended as a non-limiting example. According to this aspect, second cross member  52  may therefore have a top face  88  spaced vertically apart from a bottom face  90  and a rear face  92  spaced longitudinally apart from a front face  94 . The length of cross member  52  may be determined based on the operational width of the implement  12  being used therewith and may vary according to the operational needs thereof. 
     Second cross member  52  may have upper mounting plates  96 A and  96 B, which may be affixed or attached to one or more of the top face  88 , bottom face  90 , and/or front face  94  of second cross member  52 . Upper mounting plates  96  may be sized and configured to operably connect to upper pivot assembly  102 , as discussed further below. Upper mounting plate  96 A may be the mounting plate to the left of center line C while upper mounting plate  96 B may be to the right of center line C. As best seen in  FIG. 3 , mounting plates  96 A and  96 B may be placed slightly further away from center line C than upper mounting flanges  84 A and  84 B of first cross member  46  such that mounting plates  96 A and  96 B are laterally outside of mounting flanges  84 A and  84 B. Mounting plates  96  may include a substantially U-shaped bracket  98  extending inwardly towards center line C which may further facilitate operable connection with upper pivot assembly  102 , as discussed below. Brackets  98  may extend inwardly towards center line C such that the bottom of the U-shaped bracket  98  provides a mounting plane which is parallel to and substantially planar to mounting flanges  84 A and  84 B. This substantially shared plane may allow for proper alignment of pivot assembly  102  components. 
     As best seen in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , second cross member  52  may further include lower mounting arms  100  similar to mounting arms  86  (extending downward from bottom face  90  thereof). Specifically, lower mounting arms  100  may be arranged in pairs and affixed to and extended downward from second cross member  52  for operational connection to lower pivot assemblies  104 A and  104 B, and may be affixed or otherwise attached to bottom face  90  of second cross member  52  through any suitable means such as welding, adhesive, or other similar attachment methods. 
     Included in attachment frame assembly  16  are three pivot assemblies  38  namely, upper pivot assembly  102  and two lower pivot assemblies  104 A and  104 B. As discussed below, pivot assemblies  38  may work in unison to allow pivotal movement of second cross member  52  relative to first cross member  46  about substantially central and longitudinal axis generally defined by center line C. This rotation about this longitudinal axis may allow implement  12  to have vertical and lateral movement relative to first cross member  46 . 
     Upper pivot assembly  102  may be best seen in  FIGS. 3, 4, and 9  and may include an upper pivot linkage  106  and an upper pivot ball  108 . Pivot linkage  106  may be a longitudinally extending plate that may be secured on a rearward end  110  between upper mounting flanges  84 A and  84 B and secured in place therein by any suitable means including by bolts  112 , as shown in the figures, or by any other suitable mechanism. According to another aspect, pivot linkage  106  may be welded and/or integrally formed with upper mounting flanges  84 A and  84 B as to constitute a single piece unit. Pivot linkage  106  may then extend forward and above second cross member  52  and may have a housing  107  formed in or fixed thereto that may contain upper pivot ball  108  therein. Housing  107  may be integrally formed with linkage  106 , or may alternatively be fixedly connected thereto via welding or any other suitable attachment mechanism. Therefore, as used herein, further reference to pivot linkage  106  is understood to include housing  107  therewith, unless specifically stated otherwise. Upper pivot ball  108  may then be aligned with brackets  98 A and  98 B and secured thereto with a pivot bolt  114 . Bolts  112  may differ from pivot bolts  114  in that bolts  112  may be designed or employed for securing two components together with no movement therebetween while pivot bolts  114  may be designed for securing a pivot ball such as upper pivot ball  108  or lower rear and front pivot balls  122  and  124  (discussed below) while not impeding or otherwise affecting the rotational movement thereof. 
     Upper pivot ball  108  may be a standard and commercially available hitch ball that may be secured within housing  107  in the pivot linkage  106  through known means including a tensioning screw or lock screw (not shown) or through any other suitable mechanism. According to one aspect, pivot ball  108  may be a ball joint commercially available from Danuser Machine Company or other similar type ball joints. Movement of pivot ball  108  within housing  107  of pivot linkage  106  may allow for partial rotational movement transverse to pivot linkage  106  and housing  107 , as discussed herein with reference to the movement of implement  12  and second cross member  52  relative to first cross member  46 . 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 3-9 , but as best seen in  FIGS. 5-9 , lower pivot assemblies  104 A and  104 B may be substantially similar to each other (but for their placement in mount frame  36 ) and may include a lower pivot linkage  116 , with  116 A representing the lower pivot linkage  116  to the left of center line C and connected to first side member  42  and with  116 B representing the lower pivot linkage  116  to the right of center line C and connected to second side member  44 . Lower pivot linkages  116 A and  116 B may be rigid or semi-rigid and may extend longitudinally from a rearward end  118  (closest to the tractor  14 ) to a forward end  120  (furthest from the tractor  14 ). Lower pivot linkages  116 A and  116 B may include a housing  117  at each end  118  and  120  thereof connecting linkages  116 A and  116 B to a lower rear pivot ball  122  and a lower front pivot ball  124 , respectively. As with linkage  106  and housing  107 , lower linkages  116 A and  116 B may be integrally formed with housings  117  at each end, or may alternatively be fixedly connected thereto via welding or any other suitable attachment mechanism. Similarly, as used herein, further reference to pivot linkages  116 A and  116 B are understood to include housings  117 , unless specifically stated otherwise. Rear and front pivot balls  122  and  124  may be substantially identical to each other and to upper pivot ball  108  of the upper pivot assembly  102  but for their location within pivot assemblies  38  and/or attachment frame assembly  16  overall. 
     Lower pivot linkages  116 A and  116 B may be sized such that rear pivot balls  122 A and  122 B may be aligned between the lower pivot mounts  66 A and  66 B of first and second side members  42  and  44  and the lower mounting arms  86 A and  86 B extending downward from first cross member  46 , as previously discussed herein. Rear pivot ball  122  and lower pivot linkage  116  may then be secured in position by pivot bolts, such as pivot bolts  114  or the like. 
     Similarly, lower pivot linkages  116 A and  116 B may extend forward such that the front pivot ball  124  may be aligned with and between lower mount arm pairs  100 A and  100 B extending downward from second cross member  52  and may be secured therein via pivot bolts  114 . This configuration, as best seen in  FIG. 5 , allows for pivot linkages  116  to be placed between first and second side members  42  and  44  closer to center line C while both allowing pivotal movement of second cross member  52  relative to first cross member  46  while also helping to support attachment frame assembly  16  for a more secure attachment between first and second cross members  46  and  52 . 
     Lower pivot linkages  116  may permit rotational movement of second cross member  52  and implement  12  as discussed further herein, but may further limit or prevent movement in other directions. For example, the rigid nature of lover linkages  116  may prevent front-to-back or side-to-side movement of second cross member  52  and implement  12 , while still allowing rotational movement about the pivot axis defined by centerline C, as discussed herein. 
     As previously discussed herein, the elements and components of attachment frame assembly  16  described up through this point in the disclosure may be generally symmetrical and/or mirror-imaged about center line C but for spring assembly  40 , which may be placed to one side of center line C. As depicted in the figures and discussed herein, spring assembly  40  may be located to the right of center line C, outside of second side member  44 . However, it will be understood that the positioning of spring assembly  40  could be reversed such that spring assembly  40  may be located to the left of center line C in a similar position outside of first side member  42 . According to another aspect, where desired or advantageous, a second spring assembly  40  may be provided such that two spring assemblies  40  may be employed to either side of center line C. Therefore, the following discussion of such spring assembly  40  may be understood to be applicable to any configuration including configurations with a single spring assembly  40  as disposed on either side of center line C, or in configurations employing more than one spring assemblies  40 . According to one aspect, where implement  12  includes a PTO system  24 , as shown in the figures, the weight of that PTO system  24  may be offset wholly or in part but the placement of spring assembly  40  on the opposite side of implement  12 . For example, where implement  12  is a flail mower having a PTO system  24  on the left side thereof, the placement of the spring assembly  40  on the right side thereof may further facilitate the weight balance about centerline C to keep implement level during transport and operation. 
     Spring assembly  40  may be, at its most basic, a biasing mechanism, which may bias the second cross member  52 , and therefore implement  12 , into a substantially level orientation wherein top face  88  of second cross member  52  is substantially coplanar with top face  76  of first cross member  46 . As discussed further below, in relation to the operation of attachment system  10 , the biasing force of spring assembly  40  ensures that rotational movement of second cross member  52  and thereby implement  12  only occurs when sufficient forces act upon implement  12  as to overcome the biasing force, thus reducing unwanted bouncing and/or unintentional rotation thereof. 
     Accordingly, spring assembly  40  may include an upper spring  126 , an upper spring mount  128 , a side plate  130 , a lower spring  132 , and a lower spring mount  134 , Upper and lower spring mounts  128 ,  134  may be connected to a spring mount plate  136 . 
     Upper spring  126  may be any suitable spring, such as a torsion spring, and may be coiled around a centrally located upper spring bolt  142 , which may substantially define a pivot axis about which upper spring  126  may rotate when force is applied. Upper spring mount  128  may further include an upper spring catch flange  138  which may interact with a first leg  140  of upper spring  126 . A second leg  144  of upper spring  126  may then extend rearwardly from the upper spring  126  coil and may interact with a top edge  146  of first spring stop arm  148  and a top edge  150  of second spring stop arm  152 . The combination of first and second spring stop arms  148 ,  150 , and the upper spring catch flange  138  may keep the legs  140 ,  144  of upper spring  126  under tension to provide downward biasing force to the second cross member  52  and implement  12 . This downward biasing force may be in the rotational direction opposite arrows AA, BB, and CC shown in  FIGS. 11A-11C . 
     Similarly, lower spring  132  may be any suitable spring, such as a torsion spring, and may be coiled around a centrally located lower spring bolt  158 , which may substantially define the pivot axis about which lower spring  132  may rotate when force is applied. Lower spring mount  134  may further include a lower spring catch flange  154  which may interact with a first leg  156  of lower spring  132 . A second leg  160  of lower spring  132  may then extend rearwardly from the lower spring  132  coil and may interact with a bottom edge  162  of first spring stop arm  148  and a bottom edge  164  of second spring stop arm  152 . The combination of first and second spring stop arms  148 ,  150 , and the lower spring catch flange  154  may keep the legs  156 ,  160  of lower spring  132  under tension to provide upward biasing force to the second cross member  52  and implement  12 . This upward biasing force may be in the rotational direction opposite arrows DD, EE, and FF shown in  FIGS. 12A-12C . 
     Spring assembly  40  may be carried by second cross member  52  such that side plate  130  and spring mount plate  136  may be welded or otherwise attached to one or more of top face  88 , rear face  92  and/or front face  94  of second cross member  52  for support thereof. Upper and lower spring bolts  142  and  158  may then be operable to connect upper spring mount  128 , lower spring mount  134  and spring mount plate  136  to side plate  130  while also extending through the coils of upper and lower springs  126  and  132  to secure upper and lower springs  126 ,  132  in position between the spring mounts  128 ,  134  and side plate  130 . Additional bolts or attachments may be provided to further secure spring assembly  40  together. For example, as depicted in  FIG. 3 , additional bolts  112  may be employed to further secure spring mounts  128 ,  134  to spring mount plate  136 . 
     Side plate  130  may then extend rearwardly from second cross member  52  and may include first spring stop arm  148  thereon, such that side plate  130  and first spring stop arm  148  may form an integral unit. Other than second spring stop arm  152 , spring assembly  40  may be entirely disconnected from mount frame  36  and/or pivot assemblies  38  but for the interaction of upper and lower springs  126  and  132  with second spring stop arm  152 . Second spring stop arm  152  may be disconnected from the remainder of spring assembly  40  in that it may be attached to, or otherwise carried by, outer face  60 B of second side member  44  at the upper spring assembly stop mount  68  and lower spring assembly top mount  70 , as discussed previously herein. 
     As discussed further below in more detail, the interaction of second arm  144  of upper spring  126  and second arm  160  of lower spring  132  with first and second spring stop arms  148  and  152  may provide the aforementioned biasing force to attachment frame assembly  16 . 
     Having thus described the elements and components of attachment system  10 , the operation and advantages thereof will not be discussed. 
     With reference to  FIG. 10A  through  FIG. 12C , attachment system  10  is shown in various operational configurations. At its most basic, attachment system  10  provides a longitudinal pivot axis that is generally defined by the center line C of attachment frame assembly  16 . This central axis is parallel to and generally defines the direction of travel for tractor  14  with implement  12  and attachment frame assembly  16  connected thereto. 
     With current or previous systems, when tractor is operated on a substantially even or flat ground surface, an implement attached thereto would remain horizontally level and may follow the ground; however, in such prior systems, when the ground surface is uneven or slanted, these current implements maintain their level orientation relative to tractor, not relative to ground. Accordingly, when the ground surface is slanted or uneven, one side of an implement connected thereto may be operated at a different height relative to the ground surface, which may cause an uneven application of the implement. Where the implement is, as discussed herein, a flail mower (or other mowing attachment), this may result in uneven cut height and/or damage to the ground surface as the current systems do not allow for horizontal adjustment. According to one simplified example, where the ground surface is sloped downwards right to left from the perspective of the operator of the tractor, a current system would provide that the right of the implement would remain in contact with the ground surface while the left side may raise up and may no longer contact the ground surface. Accordingly, current systems either result in uneven application of the implement, or alternatively tend to require multiple passes from multiple angles on uneven or sloped terrain to achieve a uniform application and result. Multiple passes; however, require additional time, expense, and danger as the additional passes and angles increase the chance of an accident occurring due to the uneven terrain and the number of times that terrain must be traversed. 
     With the attachment system  10  of the present disclosure, an implement  12  may be operated to more closely follow or track the terrain on which it is being used to provide a more consistent and level application of the implement regardless of the level and/or slope of that terrain. 
     With reference then to  FIG. 10A  and  FIG. 10B , when operated on a level and even surface, implement  12  may be generally maintained in a horizontal and level position by spring assembly  14 . This generally horizontal or level position may be a first position of the implement  12  and is based on the position of an imaginary midline M that laterally bisects first cross member  46 , as seen in the figures, to the ground surface  166  on which the implement  12  is being operated, and not relative to the tractor  14 . Specifically, the horizontal position is considered when the height H 1  of the midline M relative to the ground surface  166  on the left side of first cross member  46  is equal to height H 2  relative to the ground surface  166  on the right side thereof, as best seen in  FIG. 10A . 
     As best seen in  FIG. 10B , a horizontal axis A defined by pivot bolt  114  in upper pivot assembly  102  may be substantially parallel to the midline M of first cross member  46 . Further, the distance D 1  between the top face  88  of second cross member  52  and the forward arm  56 A of first side member  42  is equal to the distance D 2  between the top face  88  of second cross member  52  and the forward arm  56 B of second side member  44  when in this first position. 
     In the horizontal first position in particular, upper spring  126  may be positioned to provide biasing force on the top edges  146  and  150  of first and second spring stop arms  148  and  152 , respectively. This may maintain the top edges  146  and  150  in generally a level position wherein the top edges  146  and  150  are substantially positioned in the same plane. Likewise, lower spring  132  may provide biasing force to the bottom edges  162  and  164  of first and second spring stop arms  148  and  152 , respectively. Again, biasing these spring stop arms  148  and  152  into a position wherein the bottom edges  162  and  164  thereof are aligned and generally co-planar. Thus, in this position, both first and second cross members  46  and  52  are generally parallel and level relative to each other while upper pivot ball  108  is maintained in a generally level position. 
     With reference to  FIG. 11A  through  FIG. 11C , when the implement  12  is operated on a slope or on uneven ground wherein the right side (again from the perspective of the operator on tractor  14 ) is higher than the left side of implement, the ground surface may cause force to be applied to the right side wheel  18  and/or skids  20  of implement  12 , thus driving the right side up in the direction of arrow AA as seen in  FIG. 11A . In this configuration, the right side of implement  12  may be raised while causing the left side of implement  12  to be lower relative to the tractor  14 ; however, relative to the ground surface, the height H 1  of midline M of first cross member  46  is larger than height H 2 , thus providing that first cross member  46  is angled relative to the ground surface  166 , while second cross member  52  (and thereby implement  12 ) maintains contact with and is level relative to the ground surface  166 . Put another way, second cross member  52  and implement  12  track the ground surface while the first cross member  46  remains fixed relative to the tractor  14 . In this position, which may be a second position of the implement  12 , the second cross member  52  may likewise be angled relative to the first cross member  46 . 
     As best seen in  FIG. 11B , horizontal axis A defined by pivot bolt  114  in upper pivot assembly  102  may now be angled in a first direction relative to midline M of first cross member  46 . This angle (represented by angle A 1  defined above plane P, representing a parallel plane to midline M) may vary depending upon the slope of the ground surface  116 , with the maximum angle being defined by the position of forward arm  56 B in this first direction. According to one aspect, angle A 1  may have a maximum value of thirty degrees above the horizontal plane P. According to another aspect, angle A 1  may be any value between zero and approximately thirty degrees above the horizontal plane P, as defined by the placement of forward arm  56 B and the amount of upwards force applied to the right side of implement  12 . When implement  12  and second cross bar  52  are rotated as shown in  FIGS. 11A-11C , the distance D 1  between the top face  88  of second cross member  52  and the forward arm  56 A of first side member  42  is greater than the distance D 2  between the top face  88  of second cross member  52  and the forward arm  56 B of second side member  44 . 
     Further, in this second position shown in  FIGS. 11A-11C , the ground surface may exert sufficient force on the right side of implement  12  to overcome the biasing force asserted by upper spring  126 , thus driving the first spring stop arm  148  upwards and moving the second arm  144  of upper spring  126  from its position wherein it is engaged with the top edge  150  of second spring stop arm  152 . This may allow rotational movement of pivot balls  108 ,  122 A,  122 B,  124 A, and  124 B as well as the related angular movement of the related pivot linkages  106 ,  116 A, and  116 B. 
     When the implement is returned to more even or level ground, the biasing force provided by upper spring  126  of spring assembly  40  may cause the implement to return to a substantially horizontal or level position (e.g. to the first position as seen in  FIG. 10A ). 
     With reference to  FIG. 12A through 12C , when implement  12  is then operated on a ground surface  166  wherein the left side (again relative to the view of the operator of tractor  14 ) is higher than the right side, the ground surface  166  may similarly exert force on the left side of implement  12 , thus causing the left side to rotate upwards in the direction of arrow DD in  FIG. 12A . Again, in this position, which may be a third position, first cross member  46  may maintain a fixed orientation relative to tractor  14 , but may be angled relative to ground surface  166  as illustrated by the fact that height H 1  of midline M on the left side is now smaller than height H 2  on the right, relative to the ground surface  166 , as seen in  FIG. 12A . As with the second position, in this third position, second cross member  52  is likewise angled relative to first cross member  46 , albeit in a direction opposite that of the second position. 
     As best seen in  FIG. 12B , horizontal axis A defined by pivot bolt  114  in upper pivot assembly  102  may now be angled in a second direction relative to midline M of first cross member  46 . This angle (represented by angle A 2 , again defined above plane P) may vary depending upon the slope of the ground surface  116 , with the maximum angle being defined by the position of forward arm  56 A in this second direction. According to one aspect, angle A 2  may have a maximum value of thirty degrees above the horizontal plane P. According to another aspect, angle A 2  may be any value between zero and approximately thirty degrees above the horizontal plane P, as defined by the placement of forward arm  56 A and the amount of upwards force applied to the left side of implement  12 . When implement  12  and second cross bar  52  are rotated as shown in  FIGS. 12A-12C , the distance D 1  between the top face  88  of second cross member  52  and the forward arm  56 A of first side member  42  is less than the distance D 2  between the top face  88  of second cross member  52  and the forward arm  56 B of second side member  44 . 
     In this third position, the force exerted from the ground surface on the left side of implement  12  may overcome the biasing force of lower spring  132 , again causing a separation of the first spring stop arm  148  and second spring stop arm  152 , such that the top and bottom edges  146 ,  150 ,  162  and  164  thereof are no longer co-planar. Again, as discussed above, this may likewise cause pivot balls  108 ,  122 A,  122 B,  124 A, and  124 B to rotate and pivot linkages  106 ,  116 A, and  116 B to move angularly to allow for the rotation of implement  12 . When implement  12  is returned to a level surface, the biasing forces applied by spring assembly  40  will again cause implement  12  to return to a horizontal and level position (e.g.  FIG. 10A ). 
     The use of biasing springs  126 ,  132  helps ensure that implement  12  does not bounce when encountering small or minor imperfections or obstructions, thus preventing an uneven application of implement  12 . For example, where implement  12  is again a flail mower, without the biasing force of spring assembly  40 , when a wheel  18  encounters a rock or a small depression it may cause implement  12  to bounce, thus affecting the cut height momentarily and resulting in an uneven cut, or uneven spot. Accordingly, the presence of spring assembly  40  helps ensure that implement  12  remains both level relative to the ground surface, i.e. parallel to the ground surface, while also maintaining its position without bouncing or “slop” in the application thereof. 
     Additionally, the inclusion of spring assembly  40  may ensure that the transitions of implement  12  and second cross member  52  between positions may be incremental and continuous as tractor  14  and implement  12  traverse the ground surface  166  and as the ground surface changes in condition (i.e. as ground surface  166  changes between level, sloped, uneven, and/or any combinations thereof). 
     Similarly, the inclusion of spring assembly  40  and the biasing forces provided therefrom may allow implement  12  to maintain a level orientation when raised for transport but not otherwise in operation. In this instance, this would prevent the edges or sides of implement from contacting the ground when cornering or turning the tractor  14  but otherwise not employing or operating the implement  12 . 
     While spring assembly  40  may generally maintain the rotational positions of implement  12  and second cross member  52  relative to first cross member  46 , there may be instances where the slope of the ground surface  166  exceeds the rotational capability of implement  12  and second cross member  52 . In these instances, the inclusion of forward ends  56  of first and second side members  42  and  44 , and their positioning over second cross member  52 , may function as a rotational maximum stop. Put another way, forward ends  56  of side members  42 ,  44  may prevent over-rotation of implement  12  and second cross member  52  by mechanically blocking second cross member  52  from rotating beyond the structural limits of mounting frame  36 , pivot assemblies  38 , and/or spring assembly  40 , thus preventing damage thereto. 
     Accordingly, the advantages of the present attachment system  10  include that the tractor  14  and implement  12  need fewer operational passes over an area with uneven or sloped terrain, thus reducing time, cost, maintenance, and danger, while simultaneously providing for a uniform application of the implement  12  to the operational area. Further, the present system  10  has the advantage of reducing or eliminating the need or motivation to loosen or modify connections, thus increasing safety for the operator and/or bystanders, while also providing for less wear, resulting in a longer life for the implement  12 , tractor  14 , and attachment frame assembly  16 . 
     While described herein with regards to forward mounted implements, it will be understood that similar principles may be applied for side or rearward mounted implements. It will be further understood that the operation may change slightly for implements other than flail mowers; however, the same principles as discussed herein will still apply. 
       FIGS. 13 and 14  illustrates an alternative attachment system  10 ′. The attachment system  10 ′ is similar to the attachment system  10  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12 . The attachment system  10 ′ operably engages with the tractor  14  in a substantially similar way as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12 . As described and illustrated herein, the prime indicia accompanying certain callouts (e.g., attachment system  10 ′) signifies that additional members or components have been added these existing assemblies and/or members that were previously described and illustrated herein. As such, alternative attachment system  10 ′ has an implement  12 ′ that includes a striping assembly  200  operably engaged to an alternative attachment frame assembly  16 ′. The implement  12 ′ and all associated parts and/or assemblies of the implement  12 ′ are similar to implement  12  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12 , except as detailed below. In addition, the attachment frame assembly  16 ′ and all associated parts and/or assemblies of the attachment frame assembly  16 ′ are similar to attachment frame assembly  16  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12 , except as detailed below. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 14 , frame components  32 ′ may include a pair of carriers  32 A′,  32 B′ operably engaged with associated adjustment mechanisms  34 ′ provided on the implement  12 ′. The carriers  32 A′,  32 B′ are identical to one another and are engaged with the associated adjustment mechanism  34 ′ in a mirrored-image arrangement. Inasmuch as the carriers  32 A′,  32 B′ are identical, the following description will relate to first carrier  32 A′. It should be understood, however, that the description of the first carrier  32 A′ applies equally to the second carrier  32 B′. 
     Referring to  FIG. 14 , the first carrier  32 A′ may be operably engaged with a first adjustment mechanism  34 A′. In the illustrated embodiment, the first carrier  32 A′ is operably connected to an associated adjustment mechanism  34 ′ via locking mechanisms (e.g., fasteners and nuts). In another illustrated embodiment, a first carrier  32 A′ may be operably engaged with a first adjustment mechanism  34 A′ in any suitable way or arrangement. Such engagement between the first carrier  32 A′ and the adjustment mechanism  34 ′ allows a user to collectively adjust the implement  12 ′ and the striping assembly  200  together during operation of the implement  12 ′. As such, the implement  12 ′ and the striping assembly  200  may be maintained at any desired angle and/or height relative to a second cross member  52 ′ during operation via the engagement between the carriers  32 A′,  32 B′ and the associated adjustment mechanisms  34 ′, which is described in more detail below 
     In addition, the frame components  32 ′ may also include a pair of support arms  33 ′ that is operably engaged with the pair of carriers  32 A′,  32 B′ on the implement  12 ′. The support arms  33 ′ are identical to one another and are engaged with the pair of carriers  32 A′,  32 B′ in a mirrored-image arrangement. Inasmuch as the support arms  33 A′,  33 B′ are identical, the following description will relate to first support arm  33 A′. It should be understood, however, that the description of the first support arm  33 A′ applies equally to the second support arm  33 B′. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 14 , the first support arm  33 A′ has a front wall  170 A, an opposing rear wall  170 B, an outer wall  170 C positioned between the front wall  170 A and the rear wall  170 B, and an opposing inner wall  170 D positioned between the front wall  170 A and the rear wall  170 B. Still referring to  FIG. 14 , each of the front wall  170 A, rear wall  170 B, outer wall  170 C, and inner wall  170 D defines a set of notches  172 . The set of notches  172  defined in each of the front wall  170 A, rear wall  170 B, outer wall  170 C, and inner wall  170 D allows the front wall  170 A, rear wall  170 B, outer wall  170 C, and inner wall  170 D to operably engage with one another to define the first support arm  33 A′. The structural configuration of the second support arm  33 B′ is substantially similar to this structural configuration of the first support arm  33 A′. Still referring to  FIG. 14 , the front wall  170 A of the first support arm  33 A′ may be operably engaged with the outer wall  170 C, the inner wall  170 D, and the associated adjustment mechanism  34 ′. The inner wall  170 D of the first support arm  33 A′ may be operably engaged with the first carrier  32 A′ and the associated adjustment mechanism  34 ′ along with the front wall  170 A and the rear wall  170 B. In the illustrated embodiment, the front wall  170 A, rear wall  170 B, outer wall  170 C, and inner wall  170 D are operably connected to each other via the set of notches  172  to define the first support arm  33 A′. In other illustrated embodiments, a front wall, a rear wall, an outer wall, and an inner wall may be operably engaged in any suitable way and/or arrangement to define a support arm. Examples of operably engaging a front wall, a rear wall, an outer wall, and an inner wall include attaching, affixing, connecting, fastening, interlocking, joining, linking, locking, securing, welding, and other suitable way of operably engaging a front wall, a rear wall, an outer wall, and an inner wall for a particular embodiment. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 14 , the outer wall  170 C has a first portion  171 A and a second portion  171 B. The first portion  171 A defines the set of notches  172  to allow the outer wall  170 C to operably engage with the front and rear walls  170 A,  170 B. The second portion  171 B extends laterally away from the first portion  171 A where the second portion  171 B is substantially orthogonal to the first portion  171 A. In addition, the second portion  171 B has an exterior surface  173 A and an opposing interior surface  1736 . Such use of the second portion  171 B is described in more detail below. 
     A pair of couplers (not illustrated) may be operably engaged with the first and second support arms  33 A′,  33 B′. In particular, a first coupler may be operably engaged with the first support arm  33 A′, and a second coupler may be operably engaged with the second support arm  33 B′. The couplers are identical to one another and are engaged with the pair of support arms  33 A′,  33 B′ in a mirrored-image arrangement. Inasmuch as the couplers are identical, the following description will relate to first coupler. It should be understood, however, that the description of the first coupler applies equally to the second coupler. 
     A groove (not illustrated) may be defined by the first coupler that extends along a transverse axis of the first coupler orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the first coupler defining a U-shape. The groove is positioned between each end of the first coupler. In addition, the first groove of the first coupler and the second groove of the second coupler are coaxial with one another when the first coupler is operably engaged with the first support arm  33 A′ and the second coupler is operably engaged with the second support arm  33 B′. 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , the striping assembly  200  includes a roller  210 . The roller  210  has a first end  210 A, an opposing second end  210 B, and a longitudinal axis “XR” that extends therebetween. The roller  210  also has a circumferential wall  212  that extends from the first end  210 A to the second end  210 B along the longitudinal axis “XR” (as best seen in  FIG. 14 ). The roller  210  also has a first shaft  214 A that extends away from the first end  210 A of the roller  210  along the longitudinal axis “XR.” The roller  210  also has an opposing second shaft  2146  that extends away from the second end  210 B of the roller  210  along the longitudinal axis “XR.” In the illustrated embodiment, the first shaft  214 A and the second shaft  2146  extend away from one another on the roller  210 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 13 , a pair of pillow block bearings  180  may be operably engaged with the first and second shafts  214 A,  2146  of the roller  210 . In particular, a first pillow block bearing  180 A may be operably engaged with the first shaft  214 A, and a second pillow block bearing  1806  may be operably engaged with the second shaft  2146 . The pillow block bearings  180 A,  1806  are identical to one another and are engaged with the first and second shafts  214 A,  2146  in a mirrored-image arrangement. Inasmuch as the pillow block bearings  180 A,  1806  are identical, the following description will relate to first pillow block bearing  180 A. It should be understood, however, that the description of the first pillow block bearing  180 A applies equally to the second pillow block bearing  180 B. 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , the first pillow block bearing  180 A may be adapted to receive a connector and/or fastener for operably engaging the first pillow block bearing  180 A with the first coupler and the first support arm  33 A′. Similarly, the second pillow block bearing  1806  is adapted to receive a connector and/or fastener for operably engaging the second pillow block bearing  1806  with the second coupler and the second support arm  33 B′. In one exemplary embodiment, a first pillow block bearing may be operably engaged with a first coupler and a first support arm in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a first pillow block bearing with a first coupler and a first support arm include attaching, affixing, connecting, fastening, interlocking, joining, linking, locking, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a first pillow block bearing with a first coupler and a first support arm for a particular embodiment. In another exemplary embodiment, a second pillow block bearing may be operably engaged with a second coupler and a second support arm in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a second pillow block bearing with a second coupler and a second support arm include attaching, affixing, connecting, fastening, interlocking, joining, linking, locking, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a second pillow block bearing with a second coupler and a second support arm for a particular embodiment. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 13 , the first pillow block bearing  180 A may be adapted to receive the first shaft  214 A of the roller  210  such that the first pillow block bearing  180 A is operably engaged with the roller  210 . In addition, the second pillow block bearing  1806  may be adapted to receive the second shaft  214 A of the roller  210  such that the second pillow block bearing  1806  is operably engaged with the roller  210 . In one exemplary embodiment, a first pillow block bearing may define a set of attachment openings (not illustrated) for receiving fasteners to operably engage the first pillow block bearing with a first shaft of a roller. In another exemplary embodiment, a second pillow block bearing may define a set of attachment openings (not illustrated) for receiving fasteners to operably engage the second pillow block bearing with a second shaft of a roller. During operation of the striping assembly  200 , the roller  210  and the first and second pillow block bearings  180 A,  1806  rotate about the longitudinal axis “XR” of the roller  210  in either the clockwise direction (i.e., when the tractor  14  is traveling in a forward direction) or the counter-clockwise direction (i.e., when the tractor is moving in a rearward direction). 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the striping assembly  200  uses a roller  210  for striping a lawn with the implement  12 . While the striping assembly  200  includes a roller, such as roller  210 , a striping assembly may include any suitable device for striping a lawn. Examples of suitable devices that may be used for striping a lawn in a striping assembly include at least one heavy weight bar, at least one brush, at least one piece of rubber and/or similar types of flexible or resilient material, and other suitable devices that may be used for striping lawn in a striping assembly. 
     As described and illustrated herein, the term “lawn” or “lawns” may include any vegetation and/or organic material in which a striping assembly  200  may stripe certain patterns thereon during a cutting operation. As described herein, the lawn or lawns may include grass; however, it will be understood that other vegetation and/or organic material may be utilized as dictated by the desired implementation. Examples of other vegetation and/or organic material that may be included in the lawn or lawns include clover, weeds, flowers, cultivated plants, and other suitable vegetation and/or organic material found provided in a lawn or lawns. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, each end  210 A,  2106  of the roller  210  is operably engaged to a body  22 ′ of the implement  12 ′ via the couplers provided with the support arms  33 ′ at each end of the roller  210 . While the roller is operably engaged to the body  22 ′ of the implement  12 ′ via the couplers provided with the support arms  33 ′, other suitable structural configurations and/or arrangements may be used for operably engaging a roller with an implement. In one exemplary embodiment, a roller may be operably engaged to an implement via at least one support arm that is positioned between the ends of the roller. 
     When assembled, the striping assembly  200  and a portion of the support arms  33 A′,  33 B′ are positioned inside of an interior chamber  22 A defined by the body  22 ′ of the implement  12 ′. As illustrated in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the second portion  171 B of the outer wall  170 C of each support arm  33 A′,  33 B′, the couplers, the roller  210 , and the pillow block bearings  180  are positioned inside of an interior chamber  22 A′ defined by the body  22 ′ of the implement  12 ′. In addition, the striping assembly  200  is also positioned behind the at least one blade and/or cutting member  23  of the implement  12 ′ inside of the interior chamber  22 A′ defined by the body  22 ′ of the implement  12 ′. In  FIG. 14 , the striping assembly  200  is also positioned at a distance away from the blades  23  of the implement  12 ′ such that the striping assembly  200  may not impede or hinder the cutting ability of the blades  23  during a cutting operation. Moreover, the striping assembly  200  is positioned at a distance away from the blades and/or cutting member of the implement  12 ′ to suitably depress a predetermined amount of grass onto the lawn that is cut by the blades  23  of the implement  12 ′. Such operation of the cutting and striping by the implement  12 ′ and the striping assembly  200  is described in more detail below. 
     Having described the structure of the striping assembly  200  and the various components and connections thereof, methods of using the striping assembly  200  will now be described. 
     Prior to using the striping assembly  200 , the operator of the tractor  14  may manually adjust the implement  12 ′ (via the associated adjustment mechanisms  34 ′) to a desired height once the implement  12 ′ is operably engaged to the tractor  14 . Any height adjustment of the implement  12 ′ also adjusts the height of the striping assembly  200  due to the striping assembly  200  being operably engaged to the body  22 ′ of the implement  12 ′. Once a desired height is chosen for the implement  12 ′, the operator of the tractor  14  may then use the implement  12 ′ with the striping assembly  200  to cut and stripe a cut lawn “G” on the ground surface  166 . 
     During a cutting operation, the blades  23  of the implement  12 ′ may cut a desired height or volume of vegetation from the lawn. The cut vegetation at the desired height may be discharged or mulched onto the ground surface  166  via the blades  23  of the implement  12 ′. As illustrated in  FIG. 14 , the path of travel for the cut vegetation ends at the ground surface  166  at a point that is intermediate of the blades  23  and the roller  210  of the striping assembly  200 . As illustrated in  FIG. 14 , the path of travel for the cut vegetation has been denoted by an arrow labeled “CG”. At this point in the cutting process, the cut vegetation is covering the cut lawn “G” at a position forward of the roller  210 . 
     During a cutting operation, the roller  210  of the striping assembly  200  freely rotates about the longitudinal axis “XR” when the roller  210  contacts the ground surface  166  (such as the cut lawn “G”). Once the cut vegetation is covering the cut lawn “G”, the roller  210  of the striping assembly  200  then asserts a rotational pressing force onto the cut vegetation and the cut lawn “G”. The rotational pressing force asserted by the roller  210  may create a suitable stripping pattern “SG” that is be visible on the cut lawn “G”. In the illustrated embodiment, the creation of the striping pattern “SG” is created inside of the interior chamber  22 A′ of the body  22 ′ of the implement  12 ′. In another exemplary embodiment, a creation of a striping pattern may be created exterior to an interior chamber defined by a body of an implement. Furthermore, the process of cutting and striping a portion of the cut lawn “G” may be repeated until the cut lawn “G” has been fully and adequately cut by the operator. 
     While the striping assembly  200  has been illustrated and described herein as being operably engaged inside of the body  22  of the implement  12 ′, a striping assembly may be operably engaged to any suitable part of a body of an implement. In one exemplary embodiment, a striping assembly may be operably engaged to the outside of a body of an implement in which the striping assembly may be operably engaged to a rear portion of the body. In another exemplary embodiment, a striping assembly may be operably engaged to the outside of a body of an implement in which the striping assembly may be operably engaged to each side portion of the body. 
       FIGS. 15-26  illustrate an alternative attachment system  10 ″. The attachment system  10 ″ is similar to the attachment system  10  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12  and attachment system  10 ′ illustrated in  FIGS. 13-14 , excepted as detailed below. The attachment system  10 ″ operably engages with the tractor  14  in a substantially similar way as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12 . As described and illustrated herein, the prime indicia accompanying certain callouts (e.g., attachment system  10 ″) signifies that additional members or components have been added to these existing assemblies and/or members that were previously described and illustrated herein. As such, the alternative attachment system  10 ″ has an implement  12 ″ that includes a flip-up assembly  300  operably engaged to an alternative attachment frame assembly  16 ″. The implement  12 ″ and all associated parts and/or assemblies of the implement  12 ″ are similar to implement  12  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12 , except as detailed below. In addition, the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ and all associated parts and/or assemblies of the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ are similar to attachment frame assembly  16  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12 , except as detailed below. 
     As illustrated  FIG. 16  the implement  12 ″ may include at least one cross frame bracket  25 ″ that is operably engaged to the body  22 ″ of the implement  12 ″. The at least one cross frame bracket  25 ″ may include a first cross frame bracket  25 A″ and a second cross frame bracket  25 B″. The cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ are identical to one another and are engaged with the implement  12 ′ in a mirrored-image arrangement. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 16-17 , a first slot  27 A″ is defined by the first cross frame bracket  25 A″, and a second slot  27 B″ is defined by the second cross frame bracket  25 B″. Such use of the first slot  27 A″ and the second slot  27 B″ is described in more detail below. In addition, the cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ may also define openings  29 A″,  29 B″. The first cross frame bracket  25 A″ may define a first opening  29 A″ that is positioned above the first slot  27 A″. Similarly, the second cross frame bracket  25 B″ may define a second opening  29 B″ that is positioned above the second slot  27 B″. Still referring to  FIGS. 16-17 , the first opening  29 A″ and the second opening  29 B″ are coaxial with one another due to the positioning of the first cross frame bracket  25 A″ and the second cross frame bracket  25 B″ on the body  22 ″ of the implement  12 ′. Such use of the first and second openings  29 A″,  29 B″ is described in more detail below. While the first and second cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ may define first and second openings  29 A″,  29 B″, first and second cross frame brackets may define other suitable features. In one exemplary embodiment, a first cross frame bracket may define a first notch that extends into the first cross frame bracket, and a second cross frame bracket may define a second notch that extends into the second cross frame bracket. 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , the implement  12 ″ may have a pair of lateral arms  31 ″ that operably engage the implement  12 ″ to a cross member  52 ″ of the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ (substantially identical to the second cross member  52  of the attachment frame assembly  16  described above). Each lateral arm  31 ″ is identical to one another and is operably engaged with the cross member  52 ″ in a mirrored-image arrangement. Inasmuch as the lateral arms  31 ″ are identical, the following description will relate to a first lateral arm  31 . It should be understood, however, that the description of the first lateral arm  31 ″ applies equally to an opposing second lateral arm  31 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 16 , the first lateral arm  31 ″ has a first end  31 A″, an opposing second end  31 B″, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The first end  31 A″ of the first lateral arm  31 ″ operably engages with the cross member  52 ″ of the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ where the first end  31 A″ is immovable. The second end  31 B″ of the first lateral arm  31 ″ is adapted to operably engage with a bearing assembly  31 C″. The second end  31 B″ and the bearing assembly  31 C″ of the first lateral arm  31 ″ may be operably engaged to the body  22 ″ of the implement  12 ″ via an attachment assembly (e.g., a fastener operably engaged with a nut to operably engaged the second end  31 B″ and the bearing assembly  31 C″ of the first lateral arm  31 ″ to the body  22 ″). In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing assembly  31 C″ may allow rotation of the body  22 ″ of the implement  12 ″ relative to the first lateral arm  31 ″ and/or the cross member  52 ″ of the attachment frame assembly  16 ″. Such rotation of the implement  12 ″ is described in more detail below. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 16-18 , the flip-up assembly  300  may include a force generating device  310 . The force generating device  310  may be a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator or other similar device. As described herein, it may be a hydraulic actuator; however, it will be understood that other suitable devices may be utilized as dictated by the desired implementation. Examples of suitable devices for a force generating device in a flip-up assembly includes pneumatic actuator, electrical actuator, thermal actuators, mechanical actuators, and other suitable devices may be utilized as dictated by the desired implementation. 
     Referring to  FIG. 17 , the force generating device  310  includes a cylinder  312  that has a top end or first end  312 A, a bottom end or second end  312 B, and a longitudinal axis “XC” (best seen in  FIGS. 17 and 20 ) that extends therebetween. Referring to  FIGS. 24-25 , the cylinder  312  defines a central passageway (not illustrated) that extends between the top end  312 A and the bottom end  312 B. Referring to  FIGS. 16-17 , the cylinder  312  also defines a first inlet opening  316 A proximate to the top end  312 A of the cylinder  312 . The first inlet opening  316 A provides fluid communication between the central passageway and the external environment of the cylinder  312 . Still referring to  FIGS. 16-17 , the cylinder  312  also defines a second inlet opening  316 B proximate to the bottom end  312 B of the cylinder  312 . The second inlet opening  316 B provides fluid communication between the central passageway and the external environment of the cylinder  312 . Referring to  FIGS. 20 and 24 , the cylinder  312  defines a bottom opening (not illustrated) at the bottom end  312 B of the cylinder  312 . The bottom opening provides fluid communication between the central passageway and the external environment of the cylinder  312 . 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 19-20 and 23-25 , the force generating device  310  also includes a rod  318  that is provided inside a central passageway defined by the cylinder  312 . The rod  318  may include a piston (not illustrated) that is disposed inside of the cylinder  312 . During operation, the rod  318  linearly move between the top end  312 A and the bottom end  312 B of the cylinder  312  based on the force inputted into either the first inlet opening  316 A or the second inlet opening  316 B of the cylinder  312  to rotate the implement  12 ″ independently of the attachment frame assembly  16 ″, which is described in further detail below. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 17-18 , the cylinder  312  also includes a first protruding arm  320 A and an opposing second protruding arm  320 B. Each of first protruding arm  320 A and the second protruding arm  320 B are positioned proximate to the bottom end  312 B of the cylinder  312 . Additionally, each of the first protruding arm  320 A and the second protruding arm  320 B extends laterally away from the cylinder  312  and away from one another relative to a transverse axis of the cylinder  312  that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis “XC” of the cylinder  312 . Still referring to  FIGS. 17-18 , the force generating device  310  also includes a first bushing  322 A and a second bushing  322 B. The first bushing  322 A is sized and configured to receive and operably engage with the first protruding arm  320 A of the cylinder  312 . The second bushing  322 B is sized and configured to receive and operably engage with the second protruding arm  320 B of the cylinder  312 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 16-18 , the flip-up assembly  300  includes a connector  330  that operably engages with the rod  318  of the force generating device  310  (specifically at the bottom end of the rod  318  in  FIG. 20 ) and the cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ of the implement  12 ″. Referring to  FIG. 18 , the connector  330  includes a support member  332  that has a first end or right side  332 A, an opposing second side or left side  332 B, and a longitudinal axis that extends therebetween. Referring to  FIG. 20 , the support member  332  defines a passageway  334  that extends from the first end  332 A to the second end  332 B. In the illustrated embodiment, the passageway  334  is in fluid communication with the external environment surrounding the support member  332  at either the first end  332 A or the second end  332 B. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 17-18 , the connector  330  includes a first lateral plate  336 A and a second lateral plate  336 B operably engaged to the support member  332 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first lateral plate  336 A operably engages to the support member  332  proximate to the first end  332 A of the support member  332 . Additionally, the second lateral plate  336 B operably engages to the support member  332  proximate to the second end  332 B of the support member  332 . Each of the first lateral plate  336 A and the second lateral plate  336 B extends laterally away from the support member  332  along a longitudinal axis that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the support member  332 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 18 , the connector  330  also includes a first bushing  340 A and a second bushing  340 B. As illustrated in  FIGS. 17-18 , the first bushing  340 A is operably engaged with the support member  332  where the first bushing  340 A is operably engaged at the first end  332 A of the support member  332 . A portion of the first bushing  340 A is disposed inside of the passageway  334 , which is configured to be operably engaged with support member  332 , and another portion of the first bushing  340 A is disposed outside of the passageway  334 . Referring to  FIG. 18 , the second bushing  340 B is operably engaged with the support member  332  where the second bushing  340 B is operably engaged at the second end  332 B of the support member  332 . A portion of the second bushing  340 B is disposed inside of the passageway  334 , which is configured to be operably engaged with support member  332 , and another portion of the second bushing  340 B is disposed outside of the passageway  334 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 18-19 , each of the first bushing  340 A and the second bushing  340 B is adapted to receive a fastener  342 A of a locking mechanism  342 . In the illustrated embodiment, the fastener  342 A extends through each of the cross frame brackets  25 ″, the support member  332 , and the bushings  340 . The fastener  342 A remains operably engaged to the cross frame brackets  25 ″, the support member  332 , and the bushings  340  via a nut  342 B operably engaged to the fastener  342 A. The engagement between the fastener  342 A and the nut  342 B creates the locking mechanism  342  that operably engages the connector  330  and the force generating device  310  to the implement  12 ″. In addition, a first washer  342 C may be positioned proximate to the bolt head of the fastener  342 A, and a second washer  342 D may be positioned away from the bolt head of the fastener  342 A and proximate to the nut  342 B. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 23-25 , the locking mechanism  342  and the first and second bushings  340 A,  340 B slideably engage with the first and second cross frame brackets  25 ″ of the implement  12 ″. In the illustrated embodiment, an outer surface of the first bearing  340 A and/or the second washer  342 D may operably engage with the first cross frame bracket  25 A″ on opposing sides of the first cross frame bracket  25 A″. Such engagement of the first bearing  340 A and the second washer  342 D with the first cross frame bracket  25 A″ may allow the force generating device  310  and the connector  330  to be slidably moveable along the slot  27 A″ of the first cross frame bracket  25 A″ when pivoting and/or rotating the implement  12 ″ during operation. Similarly, an outer surface of the second bearing  340 B and/or the first washer  342 C may operably engage with the second cross frame bracket  25 B″ on opposing sides of the second cross frame bracket  25 B″. Such engagement of the second bearing  340 B and the first washer  342 C with the second cross frame bracket  25 B″ may allow for the force generating device  310  and the connector  330  to be slidably moveable along the slot  27 B″ of the second cross frame bracket  25 B″ when pivoting and/or rotating the implement  12 ″ during operation. Such movement during operation is described in more detail below. 
     Referring to  FIG. 20 , a liner  343  may be disposed inside of the connector  330  and extends between the first bushing  340 A and the second bushing  340 B. The liner  343  in the connector  330  may operably engage with the fastener  342 A of the locking mechanism  342  where the liner  343  is disposed circumferentially about the fastener  342 A. The liner  343  allows the fastener  342 A of the locking mechanism  342  to rotate inside of the first bushing  340 A and the second bushing  340 B during operation of the flip-up assembly  300 , which is described in more detail below. In one exemplary embodiment, a linear may be made of any suitable material to allow for a locking mechanism to rotate inside of a first bushing and a second bushing of a connector described and illustrated herein. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 16-18 , the flip-up assembly  300  may also include at least one mounting plate  360 . In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one mounting plate  260  includes first and second mounting plates  360 A,  360 B. The first and second mounting plates  360 A,  360 B may be operably engaged with one another and operably engaged with the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ via securement mechanisms (described in more detail below). The mounting plates  360 A,  360 B are identical to one another and are engaged with the attachment frame assembly  16  in a mirrored-image arrangement. Inasmuch as the mounting plates  360 A,  360 B are identical, the following description will relate to first mounting plate  360 A. It should be understood, however, that the description of the first mounting plate  360 A applies equally to the second mounting plate  360 B. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 17-18 , the first mounting plate  360 A has a front end or first end  361 A, an opposing rear end or second end  361 B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The first mounting plate  360 A also has an outer surface  362  that extends between front end  361 A and the rear end  361 B. The first mounting plate  360 A also has an opposing inner surface  363  that extends between the front end  361 A and the rear end  361 B. Referring to  FIG. 19 , the first mounting plate  360 A defines a front opening  364 A that is proximate to the front end  361 A of the first mounting plate  360 A and extends entirely through the first mounting plate  360 A such that the outer surface  362  and the inner surface  363  are in fluid communication at the front opening  364 A. 
     Referring to  FIG. 17 , the first mounting plate  360 A also defines a lower opening  364 B that is proximate to the rear end  361 B of the first mounting plate  360 A and extends entirely through the first mounting plate  360 A such that the outer surface  362  and the inner surface  363  are in fluid communication at the front opening  364 A. Referring to  FIG. 19 , the first mounting plate  360 A also defines a first plurality of attachment apertures  365 A and a second plurality of attachment apertures  365 B. The first plurality of attachment apertures  365 A is proximate to the rear end  361 B of the first mounting plate  360 A. The first plurality of attachment apertures  365 A extends entirely through the first mounting plate  360 A such that the outer surface  362  and the inner surface  363  are in fluid communication at the first plurality of attachment apertures  365 A. The second plurality of attachment apertures  365 B is defined between the first plurality of attachment apertures  365 A and the lower opening  364 B of the first mounting plate  360 A. The second plurality of attachment apertures  365 B extends entirely through the first mounting plate  360 A such that the outer surface  362  and the inner surface  363  are in fluid communication at the second plurality of attachment apertures  365 B. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 17-18 , at least one tubular member  366  may be provided between the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B. In one exemplar embodiment, the at least one tubular member  366  may be operably engaged to one of the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B. In another exemplary embodiment, the at least one tubular member  366  may be independent of the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one tubular member  366  may include a first tubular member  366 A that is provided between the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B. The first tubular member  366 A may be aligned with one of the attachment apertures  365 A of the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B where the first tubular member  366 A is coaxial with the one of the attachment apertures  365 A of the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one tubular member  366  may also include a second tubular member  366 B that is provided between the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B. The second tubular member  366 B may be aligned with another attachment aperture  365 A of the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B where the second tubular member  366 B is coaxial with the another attachment aperture  365 A of the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B. 
     Referring to  FIG. 18 , a first sleeve  367 A may be operably engaged with the first mounting plate  360 A inside of the front opening  364 A. The first sleeve  367 A may be operably engaged with the first bushing  322 A where the first sleeve  367 A is disposed circumferentially about the first bushing  322 A. Still referring to  FIG. 18 , a second sleeve  367 B may be operably engaged with the second mounting plate  360 B inside of the front opening  364 A. The second sleeve  367 B may be operably engaged with the second bushing  322 B where the second sleeve  367 B is disposed circumferentially about the second bushing  322 B. During operation of the flip-up assembly  300 , the first sleeve  367 A and the second sleeve  367 B allow the first bushing  322 A and second bushing  322 B to rotate inside of the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B. In order words, the first sleeve  367 A and the second sleeve  367 B allows the force generating device  310  to pivot inside of the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B, which is described in more detail below. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, upper mounting plates  96 A″,  96 B″ are similar to the upper mounting plates  96 A,  96 B described previously and illustrated herein, except as detailed below. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 17-18 , a securement mechanism  368  may be used to operably engage the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B to one another. In the illustrated embodiment, a securement mechanism  368  may include a fastener  369 A operably engaged to a nut  369 B for operably engage the first mounting plate  360 A and the second mounting plate  360 B to one another. As such, a fastener  369 A of a first securement mechanism  368 A may be inserted through the first mounting plate  360 A, the first tubular member  366 A, and the second mounting plate  360 B to be operably engaged with a nut  369 B of the first securement mechanism  368 A. A fastener  369 A of a second securement mechanism  368 B may be inserted through first mounting plate  360 A, the second tubular member  366 B, and the second mounting plate  360 B to be operably engaged with a nut  369 B of the second securement mechanism  368 B. Additional securement mechanisms  368  may be used to operably engage the first mounting plate  360 A to an upper mounting plate  96 A″ of the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ and the second mounting plate  360 B to an upper mounting plate  96 B″ of the attachment frame assembly  16 ″. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 17-18 , attachment mechanisms  370  may operably engage the mounting plates  360 A,  360 B with the upper mounting plates  96 A″,  96 B″. Such attachment mechanisms  370  are substantially similar to the configuration of the securement mechanism  368  described above where each attachment mechanism  370  includes a fastener, a nut, and other devices to suitable engage the mounting plates  360 A,  360 B with the first mount plate  96 A″ and the second mount plate  96 B″ 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 17-20 , the flip-up assembly  300  may also include a removable pin  380  to maintain the implement  12 ″ between an initial, non-pivoted position and a translated, pivoted position. The removable pin  380  operably engages with a top mounting plate  97 A″ and the upper mounting plate  96 A″ to maintain the first lateral plate  336 A of the connector  330  at the initial, non-pivoted position. Similarly, the removable pin  380  also operably engages with a top mounting plate  97 B″ and the upper mounting plate  96 B″ to maintain the second lateral plate  336 B of the connector  330  at the initial, non-pivoted position. When the removable pin  380  is provided with the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ and the implement  12 ″, the removable pin  380  prohibits the lateral movement of the implement  12 ″ caused by the flip-up assembly  300  when the implement  12 ″ and the tractor  14  are traveling over rough and/or uneven terrain. In other words, the removable pin  380  may directly abut the first lateral plate  336 A and the second lateral plate  336 B of the connector  330  to prevent movement of the implement  12 ″ caused by the flip-up assembly  300  when the implement  12 ″ and the tractor  14  are traveling over rough and/or uneven terrain. The removable pin  380  may define a through hole  380 A that is sized and configured to receive a clip or cotter pin  381 . The clip  381  prevents the removable pin  380  from backing out during a cutting operation or a maintenance/service operation. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 25-26 , the removable pin  380  may also maintain the implement  12 ″ at the translated, pivoted position. In the illustrated embodiment, the removable pin  380  may operably engage with the top mounting plate  97 A″ and the upper mounting plate  96 A″ to maintain the implement  12 ″ at the translated, pivoted position by also operably engaging with the first cross frame bracket  25 A″, via the first opening  29 A″. Similarly, the removable pin  380  may also operably engage with the top mounting plate  97 B″ and the upper mounting plate  96 B″ to maintain the implement  12 ″ at the translated, pivoted position by also operably engaging with the second cross frame bracket  25 B″, via the second opening  29 B″. An operator of the implement  12 ″ may desire to translate the implement  12 ′ from the initial, non-pivoted position to the translated, pivoted position for maintenance and/or service repairs of the implement  12 ″ before using the implement  12 ″ for a cutting operation or upon completion of using the implement  12 ″ for a cutting operation. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 16-17 , the flip-up assembly  300  may also include a pair of hydraulic tubing  390  that operably engages with the force generating device  310 . In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic tubing  390  is illustrated in diagrammatic form for clarity purposes. The first hydraulic tubing  390 A operably engages a mechanical power source (not illustrated) on the tractor  14  to the force generating device  310  at the first inlet opening  316 A. The second hydraulic tubing  390 B also operably engages the mechanical power source on the tractor to the force generating device  310  at the second inlet opening  316 B. Such connection between the mechanical power source of the tractor  14  and the force generating device  310  allows the operator to control the pivoting and/or rotation of the implement  12 ″ due to the operator having control over the mechanical power source on the tractor  14 . In the illustrated embodiment, the mechanical power source is a hydraulic pump. However, other types of mechanical power sources may be used to control the rotation of an implement. 
     While not illustrated herein, the flip-up assembly  300  may include a tubing bracket that may be operably engaged to the attachment frame assembly  16 ″. The tubing bracket may be adapted to hold and maintain the tubing  390  away from implement  12 ″ and the pivot assemblies  38 ″. Such capability of the tubing bracket would protect the tubing  390  from being pinched or compressed by any pivoting or moving parts associated with the implement  12 ″, the attachment frame assembly  16 ″, or the flip-up assembly  300 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 19-20 , the attachment system  10 ″ may include a striping assembly  200  as described herein and illustrated in  FIGS. 13-14 . During operation, striping assembly  200  may rotate with the implement  12 ″ when the flip-up assembly  300  rotates the implement  12 ″ from the initial, non-pivoted position to the translated, pivoted position. In addition, a roller  210  of the striping assembly  200  may rotate about its longitudinal axis “XR” that is defined along the length of the roller  210 . 
     Having described the structure of the flip-up assembly  300  and the various components and connections thereof, methods of using the flip-up assembly  300  will now be described. 
     Prior to utilizing to the flip-up assembly  300 , the operator may operably engage the tractor  14  with the attachment system  10 ″ that includes the flip-up assembly  300 . As such, the tractor frame  35  may operably engage with a rear arm  54 A″ of a first side member  42 ″ and a rear arm  54 B″ of a second side member  44 ″ substantially similar to the tractor frame operably engaging with the attachment system  10  described herein and illustrated in  FIGS. 1-12 . The operator may also operably connect the mechanical power source of the tractor  14  to the force generating device  310  of the flip-up assembly  300  via the pair of hydraulic tubing  390 . Once connected, the operator may then control the rotation of the implement  12 ″ from the tractor  14  through the force generating device  310 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 15 and 20 , the implement  12 ″ is provided in the initial, non-pivoted position where the implement  12 ″ is substantially parallel with the attachment frame assembly  16 ″. In other words, the implement  12 ″ is provided in the initial, non-pivoted position where the longitudinal axis of the implement  12 ″ is substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis “XM” ( FIG. 20 ) of the second cross member  52 ″. 
     In the initial, non-pivoted position, the removable pin  380  operably engages with a top mounting plate  97 A″ and the upper mounting plate  96 A″ to maintain the first lateral plate  336 A of the connector  330  at the initial, non-pivoted position. Similarly, the removable pin  380  also operably engages with a top mounting plate  97 B″ and the upper mounting plate  96 B″ to maintain the second lateral plate  336 B of the connector  330  at the initial, non-pivoted position. When the removable pin  380  is provided with the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ and the implement  12 ″, the removable pin  380  prohibits the lateral movement of the implement  12 ″ caused by the flip-up assembly  300  when the implement  12 ″ and the tractor  14  are traveling over rough and/or uneven terrain. In other words, the removable pin  380  may directly abut the first lateral plate  336 A and the second lateral plate  336 B of the connector  330  to prevent movement of the implement  12 ″ caused by the flip-up assembly  300  when the implement  12 ″ and the tractor  14  are traveling over rough and/or uneven terrain. 
     Once the operator has completed use of the implement  12 ″ for cutting a lawn, the operator may desire to transition the implement  12 ″ from the initial, non-pivoted position to the translated, pivoted position. To perform this task, the operator may remove the removable pin  380  from the upper mounting plates  96 A″,  96 B″, the top mounting plates  97 A″,  97 B″, and the cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″. The operator may remove the removable pin  380  by apply a first force directed away from the flip-up assembly  300  (see  FIG. 21 ). The first force applied by the operator onto the removable pin  380  is denoted by an arrow labeled “F 1 ” in  FIG. 21 . Such removal of the removable pin  380  allows the connector  330  to move along the slots  27 A″,  27 B″ of the cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ of the implement  12 ″ via the force exerted by the force generating device  310 . After removal of the removable pin  380 , the operator may operatively pivot the implement  12 ″ and the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ about a first axis of rotation “X 1 ” defined along a member operably engaging the tractor frame  35  to the tractor  14 . The rotation of the implement  12 ″ and the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ is denoted by an arrow labeled “R 1 ” in  FIG. 22 . Such pivoting of the implement  12 ″ and the attachment frame assembly  16  away from the ground surface  166  may be performed by making a first input on a hydraulic motor (not illustrated) of the tractor  14  (see  FIG. 22 ). Such pivot of the implement  12 ″ and the attachment frame assembly  16 ″ elevates the implement  12 ″ away from the ground surface  166  where the ground surface  166  may not hinder the pivoting of the implement  12 ″ by the flip-up assembly  300  (described below). Once elevated, the operator may then operably control the hydraulic motor of the tractor  14  by making a second input on said hydraulic motor to operatively pivot the implement  12 ″ from the initial, non-pivoted position to the translated, pivoted positioned. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 23-24 , a first input on the mechanical power source creates a first pressure differential inside of the cylinder  312  by exerting a second force against the rod  318  and the piston. Such second force exerted against the rod  318  is denoted by an arrow labeled “F 2 ” in  FIGS. 23-24 . The second force “F 2 ” exerted against the rod  318  inside of the cylinder  312  linearly moves the rod  318  away from the top end  312 A of the cylinder  312  towards the bottom end  312 B of the cylinder  312 . As the rod  318  linearly move downwardly towards the bottom end  312 B of the cylinder  312 , the bottom end of the rod  318  transitions the connector  330  downwardly away from the cylinder  312  (as illustrated in  FIGS. 23 and 24 ). The bushings  340 A,  340 B of the connector  330  allows the connector  330  to slideably move along the inner surfaces of the first and second cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ when force is exerted on the connector  330  via the rod  318 . 
     Once the fastener  342 A of the locking mechanism  342  reaches terminal ends  27 C″ of the slots  27 A″,  27 B″, the fastener  342 A of the locking mechanism  342  directly contacts the first and second cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ inside of the slots  27 A″,  27 B″. Such contact between the fastener  342 A and the cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ allows the force generating device  310  to pivot and/or rotate the implement  12 ″ due to the connector  330  being pinned against cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ while the force generating device  310  is exerting a downwardly third force against said connector  330  via the rod  318 . The third force exerted by the force generating device  310  is denoted by an arrow labeled “F 3 ” in  FIG. 25 . The bearing assemblies  31 C″ of the lateral arms  31 ″ allows the implement  12 ″ to rotation about the bearing assemblies  31 C″ from the initial, non-pivoted position to the translated, pivoted position. The operator may continue to make the first input on the mechanical power source of the tractor  14  until the openings  29 A″,  29 B″ of the first and second cross brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ are substantially aligned with the openings  96 C″ of the upper mounting plates  96 A″,  96 B″ and the openings F of the top mounting plates  97 A″,  97 B″ (see  FIG. 25 ). The rotation of the implement  12 ″ caused by the force generating device  310  is denoted by an arrow labeled “R 2 ” in  FIGS. 25-26 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 26 , the implement  12 ″ is provided in the translated, pivoted position. In this position, the implement  12 ″ pivoted independently of the attachment frame assembly via the flip-up assembly  300  provided with the implement  12 ″. Referring to  FIG. 26 , the implement  12 ″ has been rotated about an axis of rotation “X 2 ” defined between fasteners operably engaging the lateral arms  31 ″ to the implement  12 ″. Still referring to  FIG. 26 , the transverse axis of the implement  12 ″ is pivoted at an angle “A” relative to the axis of rotation “X 2 ” of the lateral arms  31 ″. 
     Once the openings  29 A″,  29 B″ are substantially aligned with the openings  96 C″ of the upper mounting plates  96 A″,  96 B″ and the openings  97 C″ of the top mounting plates  97 A″,  97 B″, the operator may then cease the second input on the mechanical power source of the tractor  14 . Such ceasing of the first input ceases the pressure differential created inside of the cylinder  312  via the mechanical power source. Such ceasing of the pressure differential created inside of the cylinder  312  also ceases the force exerted on the connector  330  by the rod  318 . The operator may then operably engage the removable pin  380  with the upper mounting plate  96 A″,  96 B″, the top mounting plates  97 A″,  97 B″, and the cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ to further ensure the implement  12 ″ remains at the translated, pivoted position (see  FIG. 25 ). Once the removable pin  380  is inserted into and operably engages with the upper mounting plate  96 A″,  96 B″, the top mounting plates  97 A″,  97 B″, and the cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″, the operator may then perform maintenance, repair, cleaning, and/or any other suitable function on the implement  12 ″. 
     Once the operator has completed maintenance, repair, cleaning, and/or any other suitable function on the implement  12 ″, the operator may rotate the implement  12 ″ from the translated, pivoted position to the initial, non-pivoted position. The operator may remove the clip  381  from the removable pin  380  and then remove the removable pin  380  from the upper mounting plate  96 A″,  96 B″, the top mounting plates  97 A″,  97 B″, and the cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ so that the implement  12 ″ is once again moveable. Such removal of the removable pin  380  allows the connector  330  to move along the slots  27 A″,  27 B″ of the cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″ of the implement  12 ″ via the force exerted by the force generating device  310 . After removal of the removable pin  380 , the operator may then operably control the mechanical power source of the tractor  14  by making a second input on said mechanical power source of the tractor  14 . The second input on the mechanical power source creates a second different pressure differential inside of the cylinder  312  where the rod  318  linearly move upwardly away from the bottom end  312 B of the cylinder  312  and towards the top end  312 A of the cylinder  312 . 
     As the rod  318  linearly move towards the top end  312 A of the cylinder  312 , the connector  330  transitions upwardly towards the cylinder  312  due to the bottom end of the rod  318  relieving force from connector  330 . Since the rod  318  is relieving force from the connector  330 , the connector  330  transitions upwardly towards the cylinder  312  due to the weight of the implement  12 ″ exerting a downward force on the implement  12 ″ causing the implement  12 ″ to rotate back to the initial, non-pivoted position. The bushings  340 A,  340 B of the connector  330  allows the connector  330  to slideably move along the inner surfaces of the first and second cross frame brackets  25 A″,  25 B″. The operator may continue to make the second input on the mechanical power source of the tractor  14  until the first lateral plate  336 A and the second lateral plate  336 B of the connector  330  are above the openings  96 C″ of the upper mounting plates  96 A″,  96 B″ and the openings  97 C″ of the top mounting plates  97 A″,  97 B″ (see  FIGS. 19 and 20 ). 
     Once the first lateral plate  336 A and the second lateral plate  336 B of the connector  330  are above the openings  96 C″ of the upper mounting plates  96 A″,  96 B″ and the openings  97 C″ of the top mounting plates  97 A″,  97 B″, the operator may then cease the second input on the mechanical power source of the tractor  14 . Such ceasing of the second input ceases the pressure differential created inside of the cylinder  312  via the mechanical power source. Such ceasing of the pressure differential created inside of the cylinder  312  also ceases the movement of the connector  330  by exerting a downward force on the connector  330  by the rod  318 . The operator may then operably engage the removable pin  380  with the upper mounting plate  96 A″,  96 B′ and the top mounting plates  97 A″,  97 B″ to further ensure the implement  12 ″ remains at the initial, non-pivoted position. The removable pin  380  may also operably engage with the first lateral plate  336 A and the second lateral plate  3366  to maintain the connector  330  and the implement  12 ″ at the initial, non-pivoted position. Once the removable pin  380  is inserted into and operably engages with the upper mounting plate  96 A″,  96 B′, the top mounting plates  97 A″,  97 B″, and the first and second lateral plates  336 A,  3366  of the connector  330 , the operator may then perform a cutting operation with the implement  12 ″ once again. 
       FIG. 27  illustrates a method  400 . An initial step  402  of method  400  comprises operably engaging the attachment system carrying an implement and a striping system thereon with a tractor. Another step  404  comprises traversing a ground surface in a first condition with the tractor and the attachment system. Another step  406  comprises cutting a section of lawn from the ground surface via at least one cutting blade of the implement. Another step  408  comprises discharging a volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface. Another step  410  comprises depressing the volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface in a first direction, via the striping assembly, inside of an interior chamber defined by a body of the implement. Another step  412  comprises creating a striping pattern in a first direction. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, method  400  may include additional steps herein. An optional step may further provide that the step of traversing a ground surface in a first condition with the tractor and the implement includes the implement being level with a centerline of the attachment system. Optional steps may further provide traversing the ground surface in a second condition; rotating the implement and the striping assembly about a longitudinal axis defined by a centerline of a attachment frame from a first position to a second position, wherein the implement and the striping assembly is generally horizontal relative to a cross member of the attachment frame assembly in the first position, and wherein the implement and the striping assembly is angled relative to the cross member of the attachment frame assembly in response to the change of ground surface from the first condition to the second condition; and biasing the implement and the striping assembly back to the first position with a spring assembly when the level of the ground surface reverts to the first condition. Optional steps may further provide traversing the ground surface in a third condition with the tractor along with the implement and the striping assembly; and rotating the implement and the striping assembly from one of the first position and the second position to a third position wherein the implement is angled relative to the cross member of the attachment frame assembly in an opposite direction than the second position. An optional step may further provide that the implement is a flail mower. 
       FIG. 28  illustrates a method  500  of adjusting an implement with an attachment system. An initial step  502  comprises operably engaging the attachment system carrying an implement, an attachment frame assembly, and a flip-up assembly thereon with a tractor. Another step  504  comprises raising the implement, the attachment frame assembly, and the flip-up assembly via a hydraulic motor of the tractor. Another step  506  comprises actuating the flip-up assembly of the attachment system via a first input on a mechanical power source of the tractor. Another step  508  comprises applying a first force, via the mechanical power source of the tractor, to a force generating device of the flip-up assembly. Another step  510  comprises pivoting the implement, via the force generating device, away from a ground surface independent of the frame attachment assembly. Another step  512  comprises maintaining the implement at a desired angle relative to the frame attachment assembly. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, method  500  may include additional steps of adjusting an implement with an attachment system. An optional step may further provide operably engaging a removable pin between the implement and the attachment frame assembly when the implement is maintained at an angle relative to the attachment frame assembly. Optional steps may further provide actuating the flip-up assembly of the attachment system via a second input on the mechanical power source of the tractor; applying a second force, via the mechanical power source of the tractor, to the force generating device of the flip-up assembly; pivoting the implement, via the force generating device, towards the ground surface independent of the frame attachment assembly; and maintaining the implement substantially parallel to the frame attachment assembly. An optional step may further provide operably engaging a removable pin between the implement and the attachment frame assembly to maintain the implement substantially parallel to the attachment frame assembly. An optional step may further provide that the implement is a flail mower. 
       FIG. 29  illustrates a method  600 . An initial step  602  of method  600  comprises operably engaging a flail mower having a striping assembly therein with an attachment system of a tractor. Another step  604  comprises traversing a ground surface in a first condition with the tractor and the attachment system. Another step  606  comprises cutting a section of lawn from the ground surface via at least one cutting blade of the flail mower. Another step  608  comprises discharging a volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface. Another step  610  comprises depressing the volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface in a first direction via the striping assembly. Another step  612  comprises creating a striping pattern on the lawn in the first direction. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, method  600  may include additional steps herein. An optional step may further provide that the step of traversing a ground surface in a first condition with the tractor and the flail mower includes the flail mower being level with a centerline of the attachment system. Optional steps may further provide traversing the ground surface in a second condition; rotating the flail mower and the striping assembly about a longitudinal axis defined by a centerline of an attachment frame assembly from a first position to a second position, wherein the flail mower and the striping assembly is generally horizontal relative to a cross member of the attachment frame assembly in the first position, and wherein the flail mower and the striping assembly is angled relative to the cross member of the attachment frame assembly in response to the change of ground surface from the first condition to the second condition; and biasing the flail mower and the striping assembly back to the first position with a spring assembly when the level of the ground surface reverts to the first condition. Optional steps may further provide traversing the ground surface in a third condition with the tractor along with the flail mower and the striping assembly; and rotating the flail mower and the striping assembly from one of the first position and the second position to a third position wherein the flail mower is angled relative to the cross member of the attachment frame assembly in an opposite direction than the second position. Another optional step may further provide depressing the volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface, via the striping assembly, inside of an interior chamber defined by a body of the flail mower. Another optional step may further provide depressing the volume of cut lawn onto the ground surface, via the striping assembly, exterior to an interior chamber defined by a body of the flail mower.” 
     Various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, of which an example has been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments. 
     While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure. 
     All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms. 
     The articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.” The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims (if at all), should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc. As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law. 
     As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc. 
     When a feature or element is herein referred to as being “on” another feature or element, it can be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and/or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly on” another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. It will also be understood that, when a feature or element is referred to as being “connected”, “attached” or “coupled” to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly attached” or “directly coupled” to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown can apply to other embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed “adjacent” another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature. 
     Spatially relative terms, such as “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper”, “above”, “behind”, “in front of”, and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature&#39;s relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “lateral”, “transverse”, “longitudinal”, and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise. 
     Although the terms “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various features/elements, these features/elements should not be limited by these terms, unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature/element from another feature/element. Thus, a first feature/element discussed herein could be termed a second feature/element, and similarly, a second feature/element discussed herein could be termed a first feature/element without departing from the teachings of the present invention. 
     An embodiment is an implementation or example of the present disclosure. Reference in the specification to “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “one particular embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” or “other embodiments,” or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the invention. The various appearances “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “one particular embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” or “other embodiments,” or the like, are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiments. 
     If this specification states a component, feature, structure, or characteristic “may”, “might”, or “could” be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included. If the specification or claim refers to “a” or “an” element, that does not mean there is only one of the element. If the specification or claims refer to “an additional” element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element. 
     As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word “about” or “approximately,” even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase “about” or “approximately” may be used when describing magnitude and/or position to indicate that the value and/or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and/or positions. For example, a numeric value may have a value that is +/−0.1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−2% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−5% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein. 
     Additionally, the method of performing the present disclosure may occur in a sequence different than those described herein. Accordingly, no sequence of the method should be read as a limitation unless explicitly stated. It is recognizable that performing some of the steps of the method in a different order could achieve a similar result. 
     In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, as set forth in the United States Patent Office Manual of Patent Examining Procedures. 
     In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed. 
     Moreover, the description and illustration of various embodiments of the disclosure are examples and the disclosure is not limited to the exact details shown or described.