Patent Abstract:
A method includes adapting an all-terrain-vehicle transmission (ATV) shaft for coupling thereto. The method includes configuring an ATV transmission cover to allow the ATV transmission shaft to pass through the ATV cover, and modifying an ATV sub-transmission shift plate to provide a neutral position for the transmission, wherein the neutral position disconnects power to ATV wheels while providing power to the ATV transmission shaft. An apparatus includes an ATV transmission, having a transmission shaft and transmission housing, wherein the transmission shaft is configured to facilitate coupling thereto; and a transmission shaft extension releaseably connectable with the transmission shaft, the transmission housing having an opening through which the transmission shaft extension can be accessed such that energy can be transferred to an external device.

Full Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]     Co-pending, commonly assigned U.S. patent application entitled “ALL TERRAIN VEHICLE POWERED MOBILE DRILL,” filed on the same day as this application, attorney docket number 111803.P002. 
     
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION  
       [0002]     The invention relates generally to all terrain vehicles (ATV), and more specifically to a power takeoff adapted to an ATV and mechanical accessories that can be powered by the power takeoff such as a mobile drill.  
       ART BACKGROUND  
       [0003]     An all terrain vehicle (ATV) contains a motor, a frame, and wheels which combine to provide a vehicle that is capable of conveying an operator over varied and difficult terrain. Such a vehicle has been employed for various uses; some uses are but are not limited to, delivering hunters into a hunting area, delivering ice fishermen onto a lake, etc. Additionally, the ATV has been used as a platform to mount devices thereon, wherein the device contains an auxiliary power source, such as a lawn mowing attachment powered by a motor separate from the motor of the ATV.  
         [0004]     What is needed are methods and apparatuses for extracting power from the ATV engine without the need to include a separate power source for the attachment.  
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0005]     The invention may best be understood by referring to the following description and accompanying drawings that are used to illustrate embodiments of the invention. The invention is illustrated by way of example in the embodiments and is not limited in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like references indicate similar elements.  
         [0006]      FIG. 1  illustrates one embodiment of an all terrain vehicle adapted for use with a power takeoff.  
         [0007]      FIG. 2  shows one embodiment of an all terrain vehicle transmission with a power takeoff.  
         [0008]      FIG. 3  illustrates a sub-transmission shift assembly adapted to provide a neutral position according to one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0009]      FIG. 4A  depicts an all terrain vehicle transmission shaft extension according to one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0010]      FIG. 4B  shows a cross-sectional view of the all terrain vehicle transmission shaft extension illustrated in  FIG. 4A .  
         [0011]      FIG. 4C  shows an end view of the all terrain vehicle transmission shaft extension illustrated in  FIG. 4A .  
         [0012]      FIG. 4D  illustrates an exploded view of an all terrain vehicle transmission shaft extension and the transmission shaft according to one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0013]      FIG. 5  illustrates an all terrain vehicle power takeoff according to one embodiment of the invention utilizing an all terrain vehicle transmission shaft extension.  
         [0014]      FIG. 6  illustrates another embodiment of a power takeoff for an all terrain vehicle.  
         [0015]      FIG. 7  shows a system to redirect a rotating shaft direction according to one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0016]      FIG. 8  illustrates a power takeoff package according to one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0017]      FIG. 9  illustrates a mobile drill according to one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0018]      FIG. 10  shows a mobile drill powered by an all terrain vehicle power takeoff according to one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0019]      FIG. 11A  illustrates rotation of a drill mast about a Y axis according to one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0020]      FIG. 11B  illustrates rotation of a drill mast about an X axis according to one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0021]      FIG. 12  shows a mast extension according to one embodiment of the invention.  
         [0022]      FIG. 13  illustrates driving an impact hammer according to one embodiment of the invention.  
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0023]     In the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which like references indicate similar elements, and in which is shown by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to practice the invention. In other instances, well-known circuits, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure the understanding of this description. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the invention is defined only by the appended claims.  
         [0024]     Apparatuses and methods are described to provide a power takeoff for an all terrain vehicle (ATV) transmission. The power takeoff has general application to power various devices with power supplied from the ATV engine. A mobile drill is disclosed that derives power from an ATV power takeoff to power the drill and various accessories.  
         [0025]      FIG. 1  illustrates one embodiment of an all terrain vehicle (ATV) adapted for use with a power takeoff. With reference to  FIG. 1 , an ATV is shown generally at  100 . ATV  100  includes wheels  102 ,  104 ,  106 , and a fourth wheel (not shown). A cutaway view of the ATV body reveals the transmission  110 . Transmission  110  is generally composed of a main transmission and a sub-transmission. Power is extracted form the ATV engine by means of a power takeoff. A point from which to extract power is indicated by shaft  112 . Shaft  112  is capable of rotating and thereby supplying power to a mechanism coupled with shaft  112 .  
         [0026]     When operating a device coupled with the shaft  112 , it can be advantageous, though not required, to place the transmission in a neutral position; thereby, eliminating the application of power to the wheels  102 ,  104 , and  106 . In one embodiment, the transmission or sub-transmission of the all terrain vehicle can be shifted among a plurality of gears by the rotation of a rod (not shown) attached to a shift lever  114 , as viewed through a cutaway  124 . Shift lever  114  is connected by element  116  to a shift control lever  118 . Shift control lever  118  has a plurality of positions as shown within  FIG. 1 . High gear is indicated by the “H” as shown at  120 , a neutral position is indicated by “N” at  122 , a low gear position is indicated by “L” at  126 , and a super low gear position is indicated by “SL” at  128 . An operator (not shown) can move the shift control lever  118  to the positions as desired according to the various modes in which the ATV can be used with the power takeoff.  
         [0027]      FIG. 2  shows one embodiment of an all terrain vehicle transmission including a power takeoff. With reference to  FIG. 2 , an ATV transmission is shown generally at  250 . Transmission  250  has an outer case  252  which can house, in one or more embodiments, a sub-transmission. Typically, an ATV has a main transmission which allows an operator to shift between a plurality of gears. The ATV can also have a sub-transmission, which allows further shifting between a second plurality of gears, wherein the second plurality of gears affords a lower range of gearing than does the plurality of gears in the main transmission. A transmission or sub-transmission shift lever is indicated at  266 . The shift lever  266  causes rotation of shaft  267  as indicated by arrow  268 . Movement of shift lever  266  places the ATV transmission or sub-transmission in one of a plurality of gears as described in conjunction with  FIG. 1  above.  
         [0028]     A transmission shaft  256  is configured with coupling means such as the spline shown in  FIG. 2 . Other coupling means can be provided on the shaft  256 , such as but not limited to a slotted end, a square end, a keyed location, etc. Additionally, various mechanical devices can be coupled to the shaft  256 , such as a sheave, a sprocket, etc.; thereby, providing a means for moving the source of the power derived from the ATV engine (a further discussion of this topic is provided below in conjunction with  FIG. 7 ). In one embodiment, the power takeoff point can include a flange  254 . Flange  254  can be configured with support  258  as may be required in certain applications. For example, if an existing transmission case is being retrofitted with a flange, a flange support  258  can be provided to keep the stresses applied to the transmission case  252  within allowable levels during operation of devices attached to the power takeoff.  
         [0029]     In one embodiment, the flange  254  can receive a device  260 . Device  260  can be, in one embodiment, a hydraulic pump with intake and output ports  262  and  264 , into which, fluid is received and then output under pressure. In another embodiment, device  260  can be a generator or alternator; thereby, creating an electrical potential which can be used to power an electric motor or provide another function, such as, a power source for an arc welder.  
         [0030]      FIG. 3  illustrates a sub-transmission shift assembly adapted to provide a neutral position according to one embodiment of the invention. With reference to  FIG. 3 , a shift plate  302  is attached to a shift rod  304 . Shift rod  304  is supported by bearings (not shown); shift rod  304  is configured to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the plane of the figure as indicated by an arrow  306 . A shift lever  310  is fixedly attached to the shift plate  302 . A member  312  is rotateably attached to the shift lever  310  at connection  316 . Shift plate  302  is fixedly attached to shift rod  304 . Movement of the member  312  in the direction of arrow  314  results in rotation of the shift plate  302  (and the shift rod  304 ) about the longitudinal axis of the shift rod  304 . Various rotational positions of the shift plate correspond to placing the transmission in various gears. It will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art that member  312  can be replaced with other means for moving shift lever  310 , such as but not limited to a flexible cable, a chain and sprocket assembly, etc. The present invention is not limited by the way in which the shift rod is placed in a neutral position.  
         [0031]     A detent mechanism keeps the shift rod  304  oriented at a fixed position. The detent mechanism includes an arm  320  configured to rotate about pivot point  322 . A force is generated by a pre-stressed member  350 . The pre-stressed member  350  can be a spring which applies a force to the arm  320  which induces rotation of the arm  320  in a counterclockwise direction. The arm  320  has a lobe  324  that engages with a notch in the shift plate  302 . In one embodiment, that can correspond to a sub-transmission used in an Artic Cat 250 or 300 ATV, Suzuki LT-F4WDX, LT-F4WD, models 250, 300, King Quad, etc. ATV as shown in  FIG. 3 , the detent mechanism keeps the transmission in a “super low” position as indicated at  332  with annotation SL. Other notches corresponding to a gear position for “low” at  334  with annotation L and a gear position for “high” at  336  with annotation H are indicated on the shift plate  302 .  
         [0032]     In one embodiment, the stock shift plate in the Artic Cat and Suzuki transmissions mentioned above can be adapted to include a notch  338  which places the sub-transmission in neutral. Placing the sub-transmission in neutral deprives power from the wheels of the ATV which may be useful in some applications of a power takeoff unit. The notch  338  is located midway between the notch for “high” at  336  and the notch for “low” indicated at  334 . Another position of the shift rod  304  that corresponds to neutral can be found by placing a notch at location  340 . Location  340  is between the notch for “low”  334  and the notch for “super low”  324 .  
         [0033]      FIG. 4A  depicts an all terrain vehicle (ATV) transmission shaft extension according to one embodiment of the invention. An isometric view of the transmission shaft extension is shown generally at  400 . Some transmissions require the transmission shaft to be modified to provide a means for coupling to the transmission shaft in order to extract power from the engine via the transmission shaft. According to one embodiment, a transmission shaft is modified to accept a transmission shaft extension, such as the transmission shaft extension  400 . Transmission shaft extension  400  has a cylindrical first part  403  having an outer surface  406  and an inner surface  408 . Both the outer surface  406  and the inner surface  408  are characterized by respective diameters. Transmission shaft extension  400  has a second part  405  having an outer surface  402 . Outer surface  402  has an outer diameter and a splined inner surface indicated by  404 . A cylinder  410  is located as shown within the first portion. The cylinder  410  is one embodiment of a coupling structure that permits joining two shafts together. Other coupling structures can be used; examples include, but are not limited to, a threaded region of either the inner or outer surface, locking rings, an axial interlock mechanism, etc.  
         [0034]      FIG. 4B  shows a cross-sectional view at  430  of the all terrain vehicle transmission shaft extension illustrated in  FIG. 4A . In one embodiment, the first part  403  can be formed from a composite of two concentric cylindrical parts such as  436  and  434 . In one embodiment, inner cylindrical part  434  extends along the entire length of the first part and the second part. The inner part can be drilled to receive the rod  410 . Rod  410  can be press fit into the inner cylindrical part  434 . In one embodiment the outer diameter of rod  410  is 0.375 inches.  
         [0035]     In one embodiment, selected for use with an Artic Cat 250 or 300 ATV sub-transmission or a sub-transmission used in a Suzuki LT-F4WDX, LT-F4WD (e.g., 250, 300 &amp; King Quad), the inner cylindrical part  434  can be machined from a spline made by Spencer, Inc. model number “SP 738-20-11 S-32.” The outer diameter of the second part  402  is 0.785 inch. In one embodiment, the outer cylindrical part  436  is made from the inner race of a bearing made by Torrington, Inc., part number “IR-182216 MS-51962-12.” The outer diameter of the outer cylindrical part  406  measures 1.374 inch. The longitudinal extent of the second part, as indicated by  405   a , is 0.659 inch and the longitudinal extent of the first part, as indicated by  403   a , is 1.008 inch. In one embodiment, rod  410  is set back 0.246 inch from the edge of the outer cylindrical part as indicated at  407 .  
         [0036]      FIG. 4C  shows an end view, generally at  460 , of the all terrain vehicle (ATV) transmission shaft extension illustrated in  FIG. 4A . With reference to  FIG. 4C , the rod  410  is visible along with the inner surface  408  and outer surface  406  of the first cylindrical part, and the spline surface  404 .  
         [0037]      FIG. 4D  illustrates an exploded view of an all terrain vehicle (ATV) transmission shaft extension and the transmission shaft according to one embodiment of the invention. With reference to  FIG. 4D , in one embodiment, transmission shaft  480  can be an Artic Cat 250 or 300 ATV transmission shaft or a Suzuki LT-F4WDX, LT-F4WD (e.g., 250, 300 &amp; King Quad) ATV transmission shaft. Transmission shaft  480  has an end portion  476  and a shoulder  474 . In one embodiment, a slot  478  can be ground into the end portion  476  of transmission shaft  480 . After the slot  478  has been formed, the transmission shaft extension  400  can be mated with the transmission shaft  480  by moving the transmission shaft extension  400  in the direction indicated by arrows  472 .  
         [0038]     With respect to the transmissions mentioned above, the slot  478  can be ground according to various methods. According to one method, the transmission shaft  480  can be ground while installed in the ATV transmission. A transmission case cover can be removed exposing the transmission shaft; thereby, allowing the end portion  476  to be ground with a slot. In another method, the transmission shaft  480  can be removed from the transmission; thereby, allowing the shaft to be inserted into a milling machine, for example, while the slot  478  is formed.  
         [0039]     It will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art that other coupling techniques can be employed to create an extension for transmission shaft  480  within other embodiments of the invention. For example, shapes other than rods and slots such as  478  and  410  can be employed for coupling. The end portion  476  and the mating portion  408  can be configured with splines, threads, square cross-sections, etc., allowing the parts to mate; thereby, extending the effective length of the transmission shaft  480 .  
         [0040]      FIG. 5  illustrates an all terrain vehicle (ATV) power takeoff according to one embodiment of the invention utilizing an all terrain vehicle transmission shaft extension. With reference to  FIG. 5 , an ATV transmission is indicated generally at  500 . Typically, an ATV transmission is configured with a primary transmission and a sub-transmission, as described above. A transmission case, which may include the sub-transmission, has a left portion  502  and a right portion  504 . The transmission shaft  580  has a plurality of gears mounted thereon (not all are shown), such as a gear  520 . The gear  520  mates with a gear  522  as well as other gears (not shown) to provide the required transmission functionality. Only the pertinent portions of the transmission and/or sub-transmission are shown to preserve clarity during this description. In one embodiment, a transmission shaft extension  542  is configured with the transmission shaft  580  utilizing a slot  538  which mates with a rod  540  to provide an extension to the transmission shaft. The extension provides a means for coupling via the splines  544  to the transmission shaft extension. In one embodiment, the transmission shaft  580  and the transmission shaft extension can be prepared as described in conjunction with  FIG. 4A ,  FIG. 4B ,  FIG. 4C , and  FIG. 4D .  
         [0041]     In one embodiment, directed to providing a power takeoff in an Artic Cat 250 or 300 ATV transmission or a Suzuki LT-F4WDX, LT-F4WD (e.g., 250, 300 &amp; King Quad) transmission, bearing  506  is a bearing from Torrington, Inc. model number “HJ-223016 MS-51961-18.” The original stock bearing can be removed and replaced with the bearing mentioned above. It will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art that other configurations of transmission shaft extension  542  are possible utilizing other bearings and shaft geometry. The present invention is not limited to one bearing and shaft diameter. The transmission shaft  580  is supported in at least one other place by bearing  510 , shown in the opposite side of the transmission case.  
         [0042]     In one or more embodiments, it may be necessary to provide a hole within the transmission case  502  to allow the transmission shaft extension  542  to pass through. It will be noted by those of ordinary skill in the art that a hole can be formed in the transmission case  502  by various means, such as, but not limited to, drilling, milling, grinding, etc.  
         [0043]      FIG. 6  illustrates another embodiment of a power takeoff for an all terrain vehicle (ATV). With reference to  FIG. 6 , an ATV transmission is shown generally at  600 . The transmission case has a left portion  602  and a right portion  604 . Similar to  FIG. 5 , only the pertinent portion of the transmission and/or sub-transmission is shown in  FIG. 6  to preserve clarity during the discussion. A transmission shaft  602  is adapted for coupling thereto as shown with splines  608 . The transmission shaft can extend outside of the transmission case  602  (as indicated by end  606 ) or the transmission shaft can reside within the confines of the transmission case. The coupling surface  608  will allow power to be diverted from the ATV engine by way of the transmission shaft  602 . The transmission shaft  602  is supported on the right side by a bearing  612  and the left side by a bearing  610 . The transmission shaft  602  has a plurality (all are not shown) of gears mounted thereon such as a gear  620 . The gear  620  meshes with a gear  622  to provide transmission functionality. Power is diverted to a power takeoff by coupling to the transmission shaft as previously described. The orientation of the rotating shaft can be redirected as needed for various devices that can be powered by the power takeoff.  
         [0044]      FIG. 7  shows a system to redirect a rotating shaft direction according to one embodiment of the invention. With reference to  FIG. 7 , an ATV transmission is shown generally at  700 . The transmission includes a case  702 , a transmission shaft  704 , with one or more gears indicated by  706  and  708 . The transmission shaft is supported by a bearing (not shown) to allow rotation about a longitudinal axis. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 , a portion of the transmission shaft  704  extends out of the transmission case  702  as indicated at  710 . In the embodiment shown in the figure, power is redirected by means of a sheave system and bevel gears. It will be noted by those of ordinary skill in the art that other systems can be employed to redirect power, such as a flexible shaft, etc. In the embodiment shown, a first circular member  712  is coupled with a second circular member  714  utilizing an appropriate flexible power transfer device  716 . In one embodiment, circular member  712  and  714  can be sheaves and  716  can be a belt. In another embodiment,  712  and  714  can be sprockets and  716  can be a chain. Secondary shaft  718  is supported by bearings (not shown), and is driven at one end by circular member  714 . In one embodiment, the secondary shaft  718  has a bevel gear attached as shown at  722 , bevel gear  722  meshes with bevel gear  724  to rotate shaft  726  as shown by arrow  728 . Bearings (not shown) support shaft  726  allowing the shaft to rotate about its axis. Housing  720  contains shaft  726 , gears  722 ,  724 , and the associated bearings and other components needed to provide a remote location at which power can be extracted from the engine of the ATV. Such a remote location is another configuration for a power takeoff according to one or more embodiments of the invention. A complete power takeoff unit can be configured to house the necessary power takeoff components and associated auxiliary power systems according to several embodiment of the invention. Such auxiliary systems can facilitate operation, via a power takeoff, of a hydraulic motor, and an electric motor. A power takeoff can be configured to run attachments such as water pumps, grass cutters, winches, etc. The sheaves  712  and  714  can provide increased or decreased rotational speeds of the secondary shaft  718  relative to the transmission shaft  704 .  
         [0045]      FIG. 8  illustrates a power takeoff package according to one embodiment of the invention. With reference to  FIG. 8 , a power takeoff package is illustrated generally at  800 . In one embodiment, the power takeoff package includes a housing  802 . The housing  802  can be mounted in a convenient place on an ATV such as the back of ATV  100  ( FIG. 1 ). Power can be supplied to the power takeoff package  800  at  804 . Power supplied at  804  can be provided by means of a rotating shaft such as shaft  718  ( FIG. 7 ) or another suitable connection to an ATV transmission. Power supplied at  804  can be input to a hydraulic pump  806  wherein the pressure of fluid entering the pump at  810  is increased across the pump at  812 . High pressure hydraulic fluid is available at valve/control  816 . Valve/control  816  can be an integrated valve with a means for control or it can exist as a valve that is controlled by control  814 . A line  818  can serve as a high pressure output line and a line  820  can serve as a return line for the fluid. A load (not shown), such as a hydraulic motor, is connected to lines  818  and  820 . Fluid at low pressure returns via path  822  to a reservoir  808 . Reservoir  808  is connected via fluid path  810  to the hydraulic pump  806  thus completing the circuit of fluid flow.  
         [0046]     Fluid can be cooled at  840  within the housing  802  or external to the housing at  842 . Device  840  can include a heat exchanger that dissipates heat as fluid flows therein. A fan can supply a flow of air across the heat exchanger to increase the rate of cooling applied to the hydraulic fluid. Alternatively or in conjunction with cooling device  840  a cooling device  842  can be configured on an ATV external to housing  802  to provide cooling for the hydraulic fluid. Such a device can include a heat exchanger with a shroud that is configured to direct air across the heat exchanger as the vehicle is moving. An alternative embodiment can include a fan that provides a flow of cooling air across a heat exchanger while the vehicle is stationary. The heat exchanger can be configured to provide cooling for engine oil as well as hydraulic fluid. Such an arrangement can be beneficial when the power takeoff is running an apparatus that requires the ATV to be stationary since ATV engines are often air cooled.  
         [0047]     The control  814  is in communication with valves/control  816  as previously described. Control  814  can be a mechanically operated valve that stops the flow of hydraulic fluid and the control can switch the line that functions as the high pressure line with the return line; thereby, reversing the direction of the hydraulic motor (not shown) attached to lines  818  and  820 . Control  814  can be replaced or augmented by a wireless control  830 . Wireless control  830  can be configured with antenna  832  to communicate wirelessly with remote control  834 . Remote control  834  is equipped with antenna  836  and the pair is configured to provide wireless control of the hydraulic valves necessary to regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic motor (not shown). Data from various sensors can be sent wirelessly to control  834 , such as hydraulic fluid pressure, etc. Control  814  or  834  can also be configured with a control to regulate the speed of an ATV engine that provides power  804  to the power takeoff unit  800 .  
         [0048]      FIG. 9  illustrates a mobile drill according to one embodiment of the invention. With reference to  FIG. 9 a  mobile drill is shown generally at  900  configured on an all terrain vehicle (ATV). Mobile drill  900  includes an ATV having a transmission and/or sub-transmission configured with a power takeoff  902 . Power takeoff  902  is used to divert power to operate a drill head (not shown) via drill motor  908 . A drill mast  910  is movably coupled with the ATV at  912 ; the drill mast can rest in a cradle  914  during transit to the drill site. Movable couple  912  can provide rotation of the drill mast about two axes; thereby allowing the drill mast  910  to be plumbed without leveling the ATV as well as allowing the drill mast to be conveniently positioned for transit to the drill site. Rotation of the drill mast about one or more axes is referred to herein as a self-aligning mast. A self-aligning mast allows an operator to move the mobile drill to a drill site, align the mast vertically, and drill a hole in less time than it would take if the drill platform had to be leveled before drilling commenced. Additionally, increased drill platform stability is achieved by creating a self-aligning mast since mechanisms needed to level the drill platform are more problematic and prone to malfunction while drilling, especially on sloped ground. The self-aligning drill mast relies on the stability provided by the ATV in contact with the ground by means of the ATV tires and adjustable leg at the bottom of the drill mast. The adjustable leg at the bottom of the drill mast is described below in conjunction with  FIG. 10 .  
         [0049]     In one embodiment, the power takeoff  902  can power a hydraulic pump (which can be coincident therewith as shown in  FIG. 2 ), fluid flows along the path indicated by the dashed line to an oil reservoir  904 . Hydraulic fluid flows from the oil reservoir  904  along a dashed line to a control  906 . Hydraulic fluid flows from the control  906  via lines  916  to the drill motor  908 . In one embodiment, the drill motor  908  can be a hydraulic motor. The power system for the drill can be configured in different embodiments as will be evident to those of ordinary skill in the art. The present invention is not limited by the way in which the drill is configured on the ATV or the power system used to power the drill motor from an ATV engine.  
         [0050]      FIG. 10  shows a mobile drill powered by an all terrain vehicle (ATV) power takeoff according to one embodiment of the invention. With reference to  FIG. 10 , a mobile drill is shown generally at  1000 . A coordinate system (X,Y,Z) is indicated within  FIG. 10 , wherein the XY plane represents a level surface and the Z axis is perpendicular thereto. The mobile drill is positioned on the ground  1004 , which need not be level, since the drill mast can be self-aligned.  
         [0051]     The mobile drill includes an ATV  1002  configured with a drill mast  1008 , the drill mast  1008  is movably coupled to the ATV at  1010  for self-alignment. A drill motor  1012  is mounted on a carriage  1014 . The carriage  1014  is slidingly disposed on the drill mast  1008 . The carriage  1014  is coupled to a flexible member  1016 , such as a chain. Flexible member  1016  travels over sheave  1018  and is received by a winch  1020 . The winch  1020  is used to regulate a height of the drill motor  1012  relative to the ground  1004  as the hole  1006  is being drilled as well as after the hole has been drilled. The winch  1020  is used to retract the drill bit and associated parts that end up down-hole after drilling. The winch  1020  can be hydraulically operated in one or more embodiments or it can be manually operated in other embodiments.  
         [0052]     An adjustable leg  1051  provides contact with the ground and can include a contact pad  1052 . The adjustable leg can be manually operated utilizing a threaded rod or the adjustable leg can be power assisted. One method of providing power assist is to employ a hydraulic cylinder at  1051  to press the contact pad  1052  into contact with the ground  1004 , providing stability to the drill mast. The adjustable foot assists during removal of the drill from the hole during retraction by providing vertical rigidity to the system.  
         [0053]     In one embodiment, an ATV transmission or sub-transmission at  1022  is equipped with a power takeoff  1024 . In one embodiment, wherein a hydraulic motor is used as the drill motor  1012 , the power takeoff  1024  is coupled with fluid reservoir  1028  by lines  1026 , and with a control  1032 , by lines  1030 . Hydraulic fluid at high pressure is supplied via line  1036  to the drill motor  1012 . A low pressure hydraulic return line is not shown in order to keep the figure uncluttered. A reverse direction can be achieved within the hydraulic motor by reversing a direction of fluid flow through the motor with dual lines or a control valve can be incorporated into the hydraulic motor  1012  to provide a reverse function.  
         [0054]     The control  1032  can embody the functionality described in conjunction with  FIG. 8 , controlling the drill motor thereby. A remote control device  1040  can be used in conjunction with control  1032  to provide wireless control of the drill operations and control of a speed of an ATV engine. Since the drill motor is powered by diverting power from the ATV engine (utilizing the power takeoff) it can become necessary to regulate the speed of the ATV engine during drilling. The speed of the ATV engine can be controlled by an ATV throttle  1034 . In such an embodiment; it can be advantageous to mount the control  1032  on the opposite side of the ATV, proximate with the throttle  1034 . In another embodiment, the ATV engine speed can be maintained with a governor; thereby, maintaining a continuous ATV engine speed. The methods of control taught herein can be used in combination and are not mutually exclusive. For example, a wireless control can be configured along with a governor to maintain constant ATV engine speed.  
         [0055]     In another embodiment, a power takeoff package (similar to the description accompanying  FIG. 8 ) can be provided at  1028 , which would include an integration of controls, hydraulic fluid reservoir, etc. The hydraulic pump could also be combined therein as described in conjunction with  FIG. 7 .  
         [0056]     In one embodiment, the drill mast is constructed from a three inch square steel tube with a wall thickness of 0.120 inch. In one embodiment, the length of the drill mast is seven feet four inches. In one embodiment, when the drill mast is mounted on an Artic Cat 250 or 300 ATV or a Suzuki LT-F4WDX, LT-F4WD (e.g., 250, 300 &amp; King Quad) ATV the top of the drill mast is eight feet two inches above the surface of the ground  1004 .  
         [0057]     Many different types of drilling can be performed with the mobile drill according to various embodiments of the invention. For example, the mobile drill can be used for rock coring, mud rotary drilling, solid stem auger drilling, hollow stem auger drilling, including standard penetration test (SPT) driven impact sampling, etc.  
         [0058]     In one embodiment, directed to hollow stem auger drilling, drill sections that are two and one half feet in length are used. In one or more embodiments, the drill is a hollow auger design. A hollow auger drill bit head is a design that typically has four teeth disposed around the perimeter. Two of the teeth point toward the interior of the hollow auger and two teeth point toward the exterior of the hollow auger. Configured as described above, the mobile drill is capable of drilling to and taking standard penetration test (SPT) samples at depths of thirty to thirty five feet in dense soils and fifty to sixty feet in softer soils. In one embodiment the hydraulic pump powered by the power takeoff generates 3,000 pounds per square inch of pressure with a volume flow of 9.8 gallons per minute. SPT samples will be described in conjunction with  FIG. 13 . The low weight of an ATV provides a mobile drill that is light enough to pass over a seeded lawn without inflicting damage thereto, while still having sufficient power to drill to the desired depths.  
         [0059]     A sheave  1042  is rotateably coupled with a motor  1044 . The sheave  1042  is used to raise an impact hammer which can be used to drive a SPT sample tube into the ground as will be described in conjunction with  FIG. 13 . In one embodiment, the motor  1044  can be a hydraulic motor that is also controlled with control  1032  and/or control  1039 . The motor  1044  can be supplied with hydraulic fluid via lines  1040 . The ground  1004  need not exist as a flat plane. The drill contains the capability of self-aligning the mast with vertical by providing rotation about at least one axis.  
         [0060]      FIG. 11A  illustrates rotation of a drill mast about a Y axis according to one embodiment of the invention. In this example, the Y axis has been arbitrarily chosen to be parallel with an axis passing through an ATV axel. With reference to  FIG. 11A , a drill mast  1011  is rotateably coupled with a plate  1010 . The drill mast  1011  pivots about a Y axis at point  1018 . In one embodiment, a channel is provided at  1019  and a lock mechanism is indicated at  1020 . A lock mechanism includes a threaded bolt and nut that can be tightened; thereby, fixing the angle β indicated at  1026 . In one embodiment, the drill mast  1011  can rotate approximately 110 degrees relative to plate  1010  about point  1018 . Another range of adjustment about the Y axis is provided by the rotation of plate  1010  about point  1014 , making an angle α indicated at  1024 . In one embodiment, plate  1010  can rotate approximately ninety degrees relative to ATV frame  1012  about point  1014 . Rotation of plate  1010  relative to the ATV frame  1012  on axis  1014  allows the drill mast to be aligned even though the ATV may be placed on uneven ground.  
         [0061]      FIG. 11B  illustrates rotation of a drill mast about an X axis according to one embodiment of the invention. In this example the X axis has been arbitrarily chosen to be parallel with a longitudinal axis of an ATV. With reference to  FIG. 11B , rotation of the drill mast about the X axis is shown generally at  1150 . A drill mast  1011  is shown rotated at angle θ, indicated at  1070 , in order to align the drill mast with the vertical Z axis. In one embodiment, rotation about the X axis is accomplished with a mechanism consisting of two concentric cylinders. An inner cylinder  1162  can be fixedly attached to the drill mast  1011 . A second cylinder  1160  can be fixedly attached to bracket  1010 . A locking mechanism can be employed to fix the rotation of  1162  relative to  1160 ; thereby, fixing angle  1070 . Various locking mechanism can be configured to fix the rotation of  1162  relative to  1160 , such as bolt and nut clamp mechanisms. Gears can be provided to facilitate adjustment of the angle at  1070  by allowing precise rotation of the drill mast  1011  about axis  1164 .  
         [0062]     In one embodiment, the drill mast can be rotated to point sideways or in an upward direction in order to drill holes that are not vertically orientated. No limitation is placed on the orientation of the drill mast or the way in which the self-alignment is accomplished. For example, structures other than those shown in the figures can be employed to articulate the drill mast. In one embodiment, the axial pivots shown in the figures can be replaced with a ball and socket clamp. In one embodiment, the drill mast is attached to the “ball” and the “socket” is fastened to the drill platform. In one embodiment, the socket is configured with a clamp, such that when the clamp is loosened the drill mast can be articulated. When the desired position of the drill mast is achieved the clamp is secured; thereby, fixing the orientation of the drill mast. Other structures can be created to provide an articulated drill mast and are all within the intended scope of embodiments of the invention.  
         [0063]     In one or more embodiments, the drill mast can be released from the all terrain vehicle (ATV) while still receiving power from the ATV. When the drill mast is separated from the ATV, the drill mast can be supported by a drill mast stand, such as, but not limited to, a tripod, a frame, etc. The drill can then be used to drill holes as previously described, employing various drilling methods, such as but not limited to rock coring, mud rotary drilling, solid stem auger drilling, hollow stem auger drilling, etc. Separated from the ATV, the drill mast can be maneuvered into places that the ATV could not easily go or go at all, such as a basement of a building. If the space is confined, the drilling can proceed without the exhaust from the ATV being proximate to the operator during the drilling operation.  
         [0064]      FIG. 12  shows a mast extension according to one embodiment of the invention. With reference to  FIG. 12 , a mobile drill is shown generally at  1200 . A drill motor is mounted on a carriage  1214 . The carriage  1214  is slidingly disposed on a drill mast. A drill mast extension  1202  is mounted at the top of the drill mast. The drill mast extension has a forward sheave  1204  and a rear sheave  1206 . The drill mast extension and the sheaves  1204  and  1206  are used in conjunction with a winch to lift an impact hammer  1322  from point  1324  ( FIG. 13 ) above the top of the drill bit  1302  ( FIG. 13 ). With reference back to  FIG. 12 , in one embodiment, a winch used to lift the impact hammer includes a motor  1244  and a sheave  1242 . In one embodiment, the motor can be a hydraulic motor powered by a power takeoff that obtains power from an ATV engine. A flexible cord, such as a rope or similar member (not shown) is attached to point  1324  ( FIG. 13 ) and passes up over the first sheave  1204  across the rear sheave  1206  and is received on sheave  1242 , wherein several wraps are made around the sheave  1242 . The motor  1244  is engaged and the rope is wrapped onto the sheave  1242  raising the impact hammer thereby ( 1322   FIG. 13 ). In one embodiment, a hemp rope having a 0.75 inch outer diameter is used.  
         [0065]      FIG. 13  illustrates driving an impact hammer according to one embodiment of the invention during standard penetration test (SPT) sampling. With reference to  FIG. 13 , when the hole has been drilled to the desired depth by a drill bit  1302  having flutes  1304 , drill bit head  1306 , and drill teeth  1308 , the carriage  1214  ( FIG. 12 ) can pivot off to the side; thereby, allowing an impact hammer  1322  to drop down and contact a sample tube extension member  1314  when the rope is released from sheave  1242  ( FIG. 12 ). The sample tube extension member is fastened to a sample tube  1310 . The blow imparted from the impact hammer to the sample tube extension member  1320  drives the sample tube into the soil beneath the bottom of the hole drilled by the drill bit  1302 . In response to the blow imparted from the impact hammer, the sample tube  1310  passed through a hole in the drill bit head  1306 , indicated by dashed lines, thus filling the sample tube with a core sample of soil for analysis according to the SPT. The sample tube can be extracted from the hole by retracting the sample tube extension member with the drill motor  1012 , carriage  1014  and winch  1020  ( FIG. 10 ). In a similar fashion, the drill can be retracted from the hole while operating the drill in reverse direction; thereby, facilitating removal of the drill sections. As the drill is withdrawn from the hole, sections of the drill are removed and a length of drill remaining in the hole becomes shorter and shorter until the last piece is removed.  
         [0066]     A technique for minimizing the time required to take SPT samples while drilling a hole involves leaving the sample tube  1310  in the position shown in  FIG. 13  while drilling the hole. Such a technique, minimizes the time required to take SPT samples since time is not wasted removing the sample tube and associated sample tube extension members unnecessarily.  
         [0067]     The previous figures have been used to describe a mobile drill, wherein the drill motor is powered by a power takeoff that diverts power from an ATV engine. Other devices can be powered from the ATV power takeoff. These devices include, but are not limited to, a winch for lifting and loading game for transit. A water pump, a saw rig for cutting wood, a bush hog for cutting grass and brush, a soil tiller for plowing soil, etc.  
         [0068]     As used in this description, “one embodiment,” “one or more embodiments,” “an embodiment” or similar phrases mean that feature(s) being described are included in at least one embodiment of the invention. References to “one embodiment” or any reference to an embodiment in this description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment; however, neither are such embodiments mutually exclusive. Nor does “one embodiment” imply that there is but a single embodiment of the invention. For example, a feature, structure, act, etc. described in “one embodiment” may also be included in other embodiments. Thus, the invention may include a variety of combinations and/or integrations of the embodiments described herein.  
         [0069]     Thus methods and apparatuses for creating a power takeoff on an all terrain vehicle have been described. Devices that draw power from the power takeoff have been described, such as, but not limited to, a mobile drill.  
         [0070]     While the invention has been described in terms of several embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments described, but can be practiced with modification and alteration within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. The description is thus to be regarded as illustrative instead of limiting.

Technology Classification (CPC): 1