Abstract:
Various systems and methods for material sorting are described. As one example, a system for sorting materials is described that includes a material handler mounting component that is tailored for connection to a material handler. In addition, the system includes a cross conveyor that is connected to the material handler mounting component. An elevation adjustment device is connected to the cross conveyor, and is operable to allow modification of the elevation of a first end of the cross conveyor in relation to the elevation of a second end of the cross conveyor. A processing device is also attached to the cross conveyor near one end of the cross conveyor.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]     The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/586,301, filed Jul. 8, 2004. The entirety of the aforementioned application is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     The present inventions are generally related to agricultural machinery and more particularly to systems and methods for processing materials.  
         [0003]     Various maintenance operations utilized on turfgrass sites can require processed materials to be a particle size that can be suitable for topdressing and other maintenance operations. In order to be suitable for topdressing, processed topdressing materials should have large stones and large aggregate material removed. Removing these materials can allow topdressing materials to be incorporated into the turfgrass stand in a manner that can be consistent with practices utilized on golf courses, sports fields, and other turfgrass facilities. Screened and/or processed soil and compost material that can be purchased from suppliers may not meet a topdressing particle size requirement established by a specific turfgrass facility, so additional processing at a turfgrass facility may be required to produce a material with a desirable topdressing particle size. If stones and other large aggregate materials are not removed from topdressing materials, mowing machinery may be damaged by stones and large aggregate materials, additional labor may be required to remove these materials from topdressed turfgrass sites prior to mowing and utilization, and other adverse operational impacts may occur.  
         [0004]     Hence, for at least the aforementioned reasons, there exists a need in the art for advanced systems and methods for material processing.  
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0005]     The present inventions are generally related to agricultural machinery and more particularly to systems and methods for processing materials.  
         [0006]     The present invention provides various systems and methods for material sorting. In particular, various embodiments of the present invention provide systems for sorting materials that include a material handler mounting component that is tailored for connection to a material handler. In addition, the system includes a cross conveyor that is connected to the material handler mounting component. An elevation adjustment device is connected to the cross conveyor, and is operable to allow modification of the elevation of a first end of the cross conveyor in relation to the elevation of a second end of the cross conveyor. A processing device is also attached to the cross conveyor near one end of the cross conveyor.  
         [0007]     In some cases, the system further includes a material handler. Such a material handler can be, but is not limited to, a manure spreader, a soil spreader or a gravel spreader. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of material handlers that may be used in association with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0008]     In some instances of the embodiments, the processing device includes a rectangular box associated with a pivoting fence. The pivoting fence includes at least one pivot section, and in some cases five or more pivot sections. The pivot section(s) and/or the rectangular box may be formed of steel or some other suitable material. Further, in some cases, the pivot section(s) may include an upper pivot section and a lower pivot section. The lower pivot section may be adjustable such that a space between the lower pivot section and a conveyor belt associated with the cross conveyor may be adjusted.  
         [0009]     Yet other instances of the embodiments include a discharge regulator attached to the cross conveyor near the second end of the cross conveyor. In some instances, the system further comprises a power connector that is operable to draw power from the material handler for operation of one or more elements of the system. The power connector may be any type of connector or connection capable of drawing power from the material handler to be used in operating the system. Thus, as just one example, the power connector may be, but is not limited to, a hydraulic connector. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of other power connectors that may be used in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In one or more instances of the embodiments, a patterned conveyor belt is associated with the cross-conveyor.  
         [0010]     Other embodiments of the present invention provide methods for retrofitting material handling equipment. The methods include providing a cross-conveyor and a processing device. In addition, the methods include replacing a smooth belt associated with the cross-conveyor with a patterned cross-conveyor belt, and attaching the processing device to the cross-conveyor. In particular instances of the embodiments, the methods further include attaching the cross-conveyor to a material handler. In some cases, the processing device includes a rectangular box, and a pivoting fence that includes a plurality of pivot sections.  
         [0011]     Yet other embodiments of the present invention provide systems for soil processing that include a cross-conveyor with a conveyor belt supported by a cross-conveyor frame. In addition, the systems include a swivel kit that is operable to attach the cross-conveyor to a material handler. In one or more cases, the swivel kit includes a funnel operable to receive material from a material handler and transfer the material to the conveyor belt. The systems further include a processing device that is attached to the cross-conveyor near an end of the cross-conveyor. This processing device is operable to eliminate large particles from the material. In some instances of the embodiments, the system further includes an elevation adjustment device that is connected to the cross-conveyor. The elevation adjustment device is operable to allow modification of the elevation of one end of the cross-conveyor in relation to an opposite end of the cross-conveyor.  
         [0012]     This summary provides only a general outline of some embodiments according to the present invention. Many other objects, features, advantages and other embodiments of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0013]     A further understanding of the various embodiments of the present invention may be realized by reference to the figures which are described in remaining portions of the specification. In the figures, like reference numerals are used throughout several to refer to similar components. In some instances, a sub-label consisting of a lower case letter is associated with a reference numeral to denote one of multiple similar components. When reference is made to a reference numeral without specification to an existing sub-label, it is intended to refer to all such multiple similar components.  
         [0014]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a material sorting system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, and shown in relation to a material handler;  
         [0015]      FIG. 2A  is a perspective view of a processing component in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;  
         [0016]      FIG. 2B  is a top view of the processing component of  FIG. 2A ;  
         [0017]      FIG. 2C  is a side view of the processing component of  FIG. 2A ;  
         [0018]      FIG. 2D  is a front view of the processing component of  FIG. 2A  showing detail of a fence in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention;  
         [0019]      FIG. 2E  is a detailed rear view of a fence section associated with the fence of  FIG. 2D ;  
         [0020]      FIG. 2F  is a side view of the fence section of  FIG. 2E  showing a vertically adjustable lower fence section and a pivoting upper fence section in accordance with some embodiments of this present invention;  
         [0021]      FIG. 3A  is a view of an incline component, including a material handler attachment frame, a cross conveyor attachment frame, elevation adjustment rods, and an elevation pivot block in accordance with some embodiments of this present invention;  
         [0022]      FIG. 3B  is a view of the incline component of  FIG. 3A   
         [0023]      FIG. 3C  is a side view of the incline component of  FIG. 3A ;  
         [0024]      FIG. 3D  is a bottom view of a cross conveyor attachment frame associated with the incline component of  FIG. 3A , and in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention;  
         [0025]      FIG. 3E  is an end view of the incline component of  FIG. 3A  showing a material handler attachment frame and a cross conveyor attachment frame in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;  
         [0026]      FIG. 4A  is a top view of a discharge regulator in accordance with some embodiments of this present invention;  
         [0027]      FIG. 4B  is an end view of the discharge regulator of  FIG. 4A ; and  
         [0028]      FIG. 4C  is a side view of the discharge regulator of  FIG. 4A . 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0029]     The present invention is generally related to agricultural machinery and more particularly to systems and methods for processing materials.  
         [0030]     Some embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for processing soil, compost and other materials that can be used on turfgrass sites and other similar areas, including but not limited to golf courses and athletic fields. Such embodiments of the present invention may be accomplished in relation to a material handler, a cross conveyor and various other machinery that can be typically found in an equipment fleet at a golf course, athletic field or other large turfgrass facilities. Since these operations typically have this equipment, such embodiments of the present invention can offer systems and methods for processing materials that can create an additional use for equipment and can eliminate the need to purchase another additional piece of machinery, so a financial benefit can be generated. Such embodiments can provide systems and methods that can be utilized to process soils and organic waste materials generated at a golf course, athletic field or other large turfgrass maintenance facilities. These facilities may generate these wastes and may have a desire to process these wastes in a manner that may allow them to be used and not removed for disposal. Thus, such embodiments of the present invention can provide systems and methods for processing these wastes into materials suitable for use. As previously suggested, various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods that can be attached to other pieces of equipment and that can utilize power that can be generated by another piece of equipment. In some cases, systems provided herein do not include their own power source, but rather rely on another power source to operate. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will also recognize that systems in accordance with the present invention may also be made with an incorporated power source.  
         [0031]     In particular situations, one or more embodiments of the present invention may be used for processing soil, removing rocks and debris from bunker sand, processing aeration cores, processing compost materials, and processing numerous other types of materials that can be used and generated by large turf maintenance operations (golf course, sports fields, parks, etc.). Such embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in relation to a cross conveyor attached to a material handler equipped with a swivel kit. The swivel kit may be that available from one or more manufacturers and marketed under the brand names Ty-Crop, Dakota Peat, and Turfco. For example, the swivel kit may be, but is not limited to, a Ty-Crop swivel kit part #36002200 or a Turfco swivel kit part #86149. Similarly, various embodiments of the present invention may utilize commercially available material handlers and/or cross-conveyors including, but not limited to, a Ty-Crop material handler MH400 part #36001000 and/or cross conveyor part #36002002, a Turfco material handler is CR10 part #85440 and/or cross conveyor part #86147, Dakota Peat material handler Turf Tender 440 part #C4401 and/or side conveyor part #C44070, or some other combination thereof. When used to attach a cross conveyor to a material handler equipped with a swivel kit, various embodiments of the present invention may provide an economical apparatus for processing and recycling byproducts generated by a large turf maintenance operation that typically are disposed in landfills.  
         [0032]     In other situations, embodiments of the present invention can be used with a cross conveyor equipped material handler that can be hydraulically powered by a tractor or another piece of machinery capable of operating a material handler. Material suitable for processing can be placed in a material handler&#39;s main hopper and transported from the bottom of a material handler&#39;s hopper via a material handler&#39;s main conveyor belt that can form a movable floor in a material handler. Material transported by a main conveyor belt can be discharged through a swivel kit at an end of a material handler&#39;s main conveyor belt onto a cross conveyor. Typically, cross conveyors utilize smooth rubber belts to transport and discharge material out an end of a cross conveyor, however, performance of these present inventions can be enhanced if a cross conveyor&#39;s smooth, rubber belt can be changed to a belt that can be constructed of rubber and that can have a pattern capable of transporting and regulating soil particle size.  
         [0033]     In some cases, before material is deposited onto a cross conveyor, one or more embodiments of the present inventions may be utilized to attach a cross conveyor to a material handler. Such embodiments may include an incline component that can enable a cross conveyor to be positioned in numerous inclined operating positions that can be greater than an incline originally created when a cross conveyor is conventionally attached to a material handler equipped with a swivel kit. A patterned rubber belt that can replace a cross conveyor&#39;s manufacturer installed, smooth, rubber belt can increase the amount of material that can be transported up an adjusted incline of a cross conveyor and can influence the particle size of material processed by these present inventions. A patterned rubber, replacement belt on a cross conveyor can transport material to a location where a processing component that can include a plurality of adjustable, individual pivoting, tensioned fences can be attached to a cross conveyor. A processing component in conjunction with an altered elevation of a cross conveyor created by an incline component and a patterned belt can create a churning action at a processing component and a discharge component that can reduce the particle size of unprocessed material deposited in a material handler. A processing component&#39;s fence sections can regulate the particle size of a final product that can be discharged from an end of a cross conveyor.  
         [0034]     In some cases, large, waste material restricted by a processing component&#39;s fence sections can fall down an inclined cross conveyor away from a processing component and can accumulate against a discharge component that can be located at the lowest point on an inclined cross conveyor. Accumulated waste material can be released from this point by raising a discharge component that can include a section of flat rubber and can attach to a cross conveyor. A discharge component can allow waste material to fall to the ground from a cross conveyor and waste material can accumulate in a pile separate from a pile of processed soil.  
         [0035]     Some embodiments of the present invention provide various structural features that can make the mounting of the embodiment onto a cross conveyor and a material handler equipped with a swivel kit possible. The mounting can include, but is not necessarily limited to, attaching an incline component, a discharge regulator, and a patterned belt to a cross conveyor. In addition, a processing component may be attached. Such a processing component can include a frame, shaft, springs, adjustment rods, a plurality of pivoting fence sections, a fence stop, and mounting tabs. The incline component can include a material handler attachment frame, a shaft, elevation adjustment rods, a pivot block, leveling stops, and a cross conveyor attachment frame. The discharge regulator can include a frame and rubber section. A patterned belt can replace smooth belts typically utilized on cross conveyors and can transport material to a location on a cross conveyor where a processing component can be attached to a cross conveyor.  
         [0036]     In one particular instance of the embodiments, an incline component may be included that is constructed of welded steel and can include a material handler attachment frame, a cross conveyor attachment frame, a shaft, elevation adjustment rods, and an elevation pivot block. In such instances, the material handler attachment frame can be rectangular, can be designed to attach an incline component to a material handler, can be constructed from welded steel, can include two steel leveling stops with rubber bumpers, can include two steel blocks that can provide a pivot point that can link a material handler attachment frame to a shaft, can include four steel pieces welded to a material handler attachment frame that link it to elevation adjustment rods. The cross conveyor attachment frame can be rectangular, can be constructed from welded steel, can be used to attach an incline component to a cross conveyor, and can include two steel blocks that can provide a pivot point that can link a cross conveyor attachment frame to a shaft. A shaft can be constructed from steel and can link a material handler frame to a cross conveyor frame. Elevation adjustment rods can be constructed from steel, can include two steel rods, and can link a material handler frame to an elevation pivot block. An elevation pivot block can be constructed of steel, can regulate an incline created by elevation rods, can provide a link between elevation rods and an elevation pivot block, and can provide an attachment point between an incline component and a cross conveyor. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other configurations for the aforementioned components in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0037]     In the same instance, the processing component can be constructed of steel, can include a rectangular box, can include a pivoting fence, and can include a shaft. The rectangular box can be welded steel, can attach a processing component to a cross conveyor, can include two angled steel pieces that can direct material into a fence, can include four steel mounting brackets, can include a piece of steel that can provide alignment for a fence, and can provide a mounting location for a processing component&#39;s steel shaft. The pivoting fence can include numerous individual pivoting steel sections, can include vertically adjustable lower fence sections that can be bolted to pivoting upper fence sections, can include spring loaded adjustment rods that can attach pivoting steel sections to a rectangular box, can include pieces of steel welded to pivoting steel sections that can regulate the vertical position of a fence, and can provide a pivot point between pivoting steel sections and a shaft. A shaft can be constructed of steel and can provide a link between a rectangular box and a fence. The discharge component can be welded steel, can attach to a cross conveyor, can include a section of rubber, and can include two arms that rest on a cross conveyor. Again, based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other configurations for the aforementioned components in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0038]     An exemplary preferred embodiment of a present invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 1-4 .  FIG. 1  shows a processing component  60  that can be attached to a cross conveyor  12 . A cross conveyor attachment frame  42  can be attached to a cross conveyor  12 . A discharge regulator  90  can be attached to a cross conveyor  12 . An elevation pivot block  28  can be attached to a cross conveyor  12 . A patterned cross conveyor belt  14  in a cross conveyor  12 . Patterned cross conveyor belt  14  can be a rubber, patterned belt that can be used to replace a manufacturer provided, smooth rubber belt typically utilized on a cross conveyor  12 . A material handler attachment frame  22  can be attached to a material handler  10  equipped with a swivel kit  21 . Elevation adjustment rods  26  can connect an elevation pivot block  28  to a material handler attachment frame  22 . An incline component  20  can include a material handler attachment frame  22 , elevation adjustment rods  26 , an elevation pivot block  28 , and a cross conveyor attachment frame  42 .  
         [0039]     In general, material can be placed in the material handler  10  and then a material handler&#39;s belt transports the material to a location at an end of the material handler&#39;s belt where the material can fall through a swivel kit  21 . Swivel kit  21  can direct the material as it falls onto a patterned conveyor belt  14  that can be located on a cross conveyor  12 . An operational inclined position for cross conveyor  12  can be established with incline component  20 . Patterned conveyor belt  14  can transport the material up an inclined cross conveyor  12  where the material encounters a processing component  60 . When the material encounters a fence associated with processing component  60 , large particles can be processed to a particle size that can pass beyond processing component  60  into a pile of processed material. Alternatively, waste material that cannot be processed by processing component  60  can fall down patterned replacement belt  14  and can be discharged into a waste pile when discharge regulator  90  is raised.  
         [0040]      FIG. 2A  is a perspective view of a processing component  60  in accordance with some embodiments of these present invention. In general, processing component  60  provides an operational method for excluding large particles from inclusion in processed material. In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, processing component  60  can have a rectangular shape that can be created by welding together processing component frame sides  62 , a processing component frame front  63  and a processing component frame back  61 . Mounting tabs  74  can be welded perpendicular to processing component frame sides  62 . Angle plates  78  can extend below processing component frame sides  62 . A fence stop  76  can be welded perpendicular to a processing component frame sides  62 . A processing component shaft  64  can penetrate through processing component frame sides  62  and can be secured in place with set screws  83 . A vertically adjustable lower fence section  70  can be attached to the front of a pivoting upper fence section  72 . Clevis pins  84  can be inserted through holes in pivoting upper fence sections  72  and can be connected to a spring  66  that can connect to an adjustment rod  68  that can penetrate a processing component frame back  61  through a hole and can be secured with a nut  81  (shown in other views of  FIG. 2 ) and a nut  82 . Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0041]      FIG. 2B  shows a top view of processing component  60  in accordance with some embodiments of these present invention. In general, processing component  60  may provide an operational method for excluding large particles from inclusion in processed material. In one particular case of these exemplary embodiments, processing component  60  can have a rectangular shape that can include processing component frame sides  62  that can be constructed with 0.25 inch steel that can be 12.5 inches wide and can be 5 inches high, a processing component frame front  63  that can be constructed with 0.25 inch steel that can be 14.75 inches wide and can be 2.5 inches high, and a processing component frame back  61  that can be constructed with 0.25 inch steel that can be 14.75 inches wide and can be 5 inches high. Processing component sides  62  and a processing component frame front  63  and a processing component back  61  can be welded together to create a rectangular frame for a processing component  60 . Mounting tabs  74  can be welded perpendicular to processing component frame side  62 . Mounting tabs  74  that can be constructed with 0.25 inch steel that can be 1.5 inches by 1.5 inches and can have a 0.39 inch diameter hole in the center. Mounting tabs  74  can be welded at the ends of processing component frame sides  62  and 3 inches from the top of processing component frame sides  62 . Mounting tabs  74  can provide a location to bolt a processing component  60  to a cross conveyor  12 . Shaft collars  80  can be welded perpendicular to processing component frame sides  62 . Shaft collars  80  can be constructed using a 2 inch piece of 0.625 inch round steel tubing that can have a 0.25 inch wall thickness. Angle plates  78  can be welded at a 53 degree angle or another suitable angle in corners created by processing component frame front  63  and processing component frame sides  62 . Angle plates  78  can be constructed with 0.25 inch thick steel that can be 2.5 inches wide and can be 8 inches tall and can include a radius of 1.625 inches on the outside, bottom edge. Fence stop  76  can be welded perpendicular to processing component frame sides  62 . Fence stop  76  can be constructed with 0.75 inch steel angle iron that can be 14.25 inches wide. Fence stop  76  can be welded in an orientation that can allow the sides of a fence stop  76  to be positioned in a manner that can create a 45 degree angle relative to the top of a processing component  60  and can be welded to processing component frame sides  62  in a location that can be 5 inches from a processing component frame front  63 . Processing component shaft  64  can be inserted through processing component frame sides  62  and shaft collars  80  and pivoting upper fence section sleeves  73  and bushings  85 . Processing component shaft  64  can be constructed using 0.625 inch round steel that can be 15 inches long. Bushings  85  can be flanged bushings that can have a 0.062 inch bushing thickness and a 0.093 inch flange thickness. Processing component shaft  64  can be secured in place with set screws  83  that can be located in shaft collars  80 . Vertically adjustable lower fence sections  70  can be constructed with 0.25 inch thick steel that can be 2 inches wide and can be 4.875 inches high and can have two slots that can be 0.266 inch wide by 1.25 inches high and that can be located 1.5 inches from the top and 0.5 inch from the sides. Pivoting upper fence sections  72  can be constructed with 0.25 inch thick steel that can be 2 inches wide and can be 6.5 inches high and can have two 0.266 inch holes 0.75 inch from the bottom and 0.5 inch from the sides. Nuts and bolts  86  can secure an adjustable lower fence section  70  to a pivoting upper fence section  72  by means of two 0.266 inch by 1.25 inch slots that can be located in a vertically adjustable lower fence section  70  and two 0.266 inch holes that can be located in a pivoting upper fence section  72 . Pivoting upper fence section stops  71  can be constructed with 0.25 inch thick steel that can be shaped like an isosceles triangle with 2.5 inch long sides and a 1 inch hole that can be located 0.75 inch from a side. One 2.5 inch side of a pivoting upper fence section stop  71  can be welded to a pivoting upper fence section  72  so the other 2.5 inch side of this pivoting upper fence section stop  71  can be perpendicular to a pivoting upper fence section  72 . Pivoting upper fence section sleeves  73  can be 2 inches wide and can be constructed with 1 inch round steel tubing that can have a wall thickness of 0.125 inch can be inserted into 1.0 inch holes in pivoting upper fence section stops  71  and can be secured with a weld. Bushings  85  can be inserted into ends of pivoting upper fence section sleeves  73 . Clevis pins  84  can be 0.312 by 1.0 inch and can be inserted through a 0.343 inch hole in pivoting upper fence sections  72 . Springs  66  can be 0.75 inch in diameter and can be 2.5 inches long and can be connected to clevis pins  84  and adjustment rods  68 . Adjustment rods  68  can be constructed using 5/16-18 inch all thread that can be 7 inches long. Adjustment rods  68  can penetrate through a hole in processing component frame back  61  and can be secured in place with nuts  81  and nuts  82 . Adjustment rods  68  can be adjusted using nuts  81  and nuts  82  and this can regulate tension in springs  66 . Springs  66  can be connected to clevis pins  84  that can be inserted through a hole in pivoting upper fence sections  72 . Tension in springs  66  can cause pivoting upper fence section stops  71  to rest against a fence stop  76 . Regulation of tension in springs  66  can allow pivoting upper fence sections  72  to pivot and this can release material before it can become wedged underneath vertically adjustable lower fence sections  70  and possibly damage a patterned cross conveyor belt  14 . Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. For example, if increased or decreased productivity is required for processing component  60 , it may be desirable to increase and/or decrease all dimensions and/or component quantities in order to increase or decrease the width of processing component  60 .  
         [0042]      FIG. 2C  is a side view of processing component  60 . In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, processing component  60  can have a rectangular shape that can be created by welding together processing component frame sides  62 , a processing component frame front  63  and a processing component frame back  61 . Mounting tabs  74  can be welded perpendicular to processing component frame sides  62 . Angle plates  78  can extend below processing component frame sides  62 . Fence stop  76  can be welded perpendicular to processing component frame sides  62 . Processing component shaft  64  can penetrate through processing component frame sides  62  and can be secured in place with set screws  83 . Vertically adjustable lower fence sections  70  can be attached to the front of pivoting upper fence sections  72  with nuts and bolts  86 . Clevis pins  84  can be inserted through holes in pivoting upper fence sections  72  and can be connected to springs  66  that can connect to adjustment rods  68  that can penetrate a processing component frame back  61  through holes and can be secured with nuts  81  and nuts  82 . Again, based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0043]      FIG. 2D  is a front view of processing component. In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, processing component  60  can have a rectangular shape that can be created by welding together processing component frame sides  62  and a processing component frame front  63 . Mounting tabs  74  can be welded perpendicular to processing component frame sides  62 . Angle plates  78  can be welded in a front corner created by processing component frame sides  62  and a processing component frame front  63 . Processing component shaft  64  can penetrate through a hole in processing component sides  62  and shaft collars  80  and bushings  85  and pivoting upper fence section sleeves  73  and can be secured using set screws  83  that can be located in shaft collars  80 . Vertically adjustable lower fence sections  70  can be attached with nuts and bolts  86  to a front face of pivoting upper fence sections  72 . Nuts and bolts  86  can connect vertically adjustable fence sections  70  and pivoting upper fence sections  72  using two 0.266 inch by 1.25 inch slots that can be located in a vertically adjustable lower fence sections  70  and two 0.266 inch holes that can be located in pivoting upper fence sections  72 . Clevis pins  84  can be can be located in a 0.343 inch hole in pivoting upper fence sections  72 . Pivoting upper fence section stops  71  can be welded perpendicular to a pivoting upper fence section  72 . Again, based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0044]      FIG. 2E  is a rear view of vertically adjustable lower sections  70  and pivoting upper sections  72  of processing component  60 . In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, nuts and bolts  86  can attach vertically adjustable lower fence section  70  to a front face of pivoting upper fence section  72 . Bushings  85  can be inserted into ends of pivoting upper fence section sleeve  73 . Pivoting upper fence section stops  71  can be welded vertically to pivoting upper fence section  72 . Pivoting upper fence section sleeve  73  can be welded to pivoting upper fence section stops  71 .  
         [0045]     Small objects that encounter one or more of lower sections  70  can pass below the fence after initial contact or may be broken down to a particle size that can allow them to pass under the fence. A gap between lower sections  70  and patterned cross conveyor belt  14  determines a particle size that can be permitted to pass the fence after an initial contact or after processing occurs in a wave action that can be created directly in front of a fence. A resulting wave action is created when particles that are too large to pass under lower fence sections  70  repeatedly encounter a pattern present on patterned cross conveyor belt  14 . Eventually, the size of large particles can be reduced to a size that can pass under a fence in a gap that can exist between the fence and patterned cross conveyor belt  14 . Large particles that can not be reduced in size can remain in front of the fence and can eventually fall down inclined cross conveyor  12  and can accumulate in front of discharge regulator  90  and can be released into a waste pile if discharge regulator  90  is raised. Extremely large particles can remain in a material handler  10  if a gate at the rear of material handler  10  is adjusted to create a gap can not allow these extremely large particles to pass through to cross conveyor  12 . A screening device could also be placed on top of material handler  10  and this could remove extremely large particles. Several methods could be used to pre-process material that could contain large or extremely large particles before placement of material in material handler  10  and processing with the present invention. In one particular case, a pattern on patterned cross conveyor belt  14  and a fence position that can be created by adjusting vertically adjustable lower fence sections  70  can create a gap that can range from 0.125 inch to 0.5 inch.  
         [0046]     If a particle becomes wedged in a gap between patterned cross conveyor belt  14  and one of lower fence sections  70 , upper fence sections  72  associated with the contacted lower fence sections  70  will pivot and allow the particle to pass beyond the fence. When the particle has passed, the tension in spring  66  can cause the fence section or sections to reposition into an original operating position. Allowing a particle to pass the fence in this manner can eliminate potential damage to patterned replacement belt  14  and other equipment that could occur if a particle was to remain wedged in a gap under the fence.  
         [0047]      FIG. 2F  is a side view of vertically adjustable lower fence sections  70  and pivoting upper fence sections  72  of processing component  60 . In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, nuts and bolts  86  can attach a vertically adjustable lower fence section  70  to a front face of pivoting upper fence section  72 . Bushings  85  can be inserted into ends pivoting upper fence section stop  71 . Processing component shaft  64  can be inserted through bushing  85 . Pivoting upper fence section stops  71  can be welded vertically to pivoting upper fence section  72 . Again, based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0048]      FIG. 3A  provides a view of an incline component  20 . In general, incline component  20  can provide an operational method for adjusting an elevation of a cross conveyor  12 . As shown, incline component  20  can include a material handler attachment frame  22 , a cross conveyor attachment frame  42 , elevation adjustment rods  26 , and an elevation pivot block  28 , in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, adjustment rod plate  34  can be welded flat on one end of material handler attachment frame  22 . Adjustment rod connection tabs  35  can be welded perpendicular to adjustment rod plate  34  and can be connected to elevation adjustment rods  26  with nut and bolt  51 . Elevation pivot block  28  can be positioned along elevation adjustment rod  26  and can be secured in place using bolts  50  that can tighten against elevation adjustment rods  26 . Bolts  48  can thread into a hole on each end of elevation adjustment block  28  and can attach it to a cross conveyor  12 . Pins  49  can prevent elevation pivot block  28  from traveling beyond the ends of elevation adjustment rods  26 . Material handler attachment frame pivot end plate  32  can be welded flat to a material handler attachment frame  22 . Material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  can be welded perpendicular to a material handler attachment frame pivot end plate  32 . Shaft  24  can go through material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  and cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44 . The ends of shaft  24  can be secured in place with roll pins  53 . Cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46  is welded flat to cross conveyor attachment frame  42 . Cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44  can be welded perpendicular to cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46 . Nuts and bolts  55  can attach the cross conveyor attachment frame  42  to cross conveyor  12 . Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0049]      FIG. 3B  is a view of incline component  20 . In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, incline component  20  can include a material handler attachment frame  22 , a cross conveyor attachment frame  42 , elevation adjustment rods  26 , and an elevation pivot block  28 . Material handler attachment frame  22  can be a rectangular, flat frame that can be constructed with 0.25 inch thick steel that can be 28.5 inches long and can be 17.75 inches wide. Material handler attachment frame  22  can attach to a material handler  10  equipped with a swivel kit, directly to a material handler, or to a material handler or other equipment using additional hardware. An adjustment rod plate  34  can be constructed with 0.5 inch thick steel that can be 3 inches wide and can be 14 inches long and can be welded flat to an end of a material handler attachment frame  22 . Adjustment rod connection tabs  35  can be constructed with 0.25 inch thick steel that can be 1.5 inches by 1.5″ with a centered 0.344 inch hole and can be welded perpendicular to an adjustment rod plate  34 . Nuts and bolts  51  can pass through a hole in adjustment rod connection tabs  35  and a 0.344″ hole in elevation adjustment rods  26 . Elevation adjustment rods  26  can be constructed with 0.75 inch round steel that can be 28 inches long with a 0.25 inch hole 0.5″ from an end and a 0.344 inch hole 0.625 inch from another end. Adjustment rods  26  can pass through a 0.75 inch hole in an elevation pivot block  28  that can be constructed of 1 inch thick steel that can be 3 inches wide and can be 15 inches long and can have 0.5 inch by 0.5 inch notches in the corners of the same edge on opposite ends. Bolts  50  can be threaded into 0.312 inch holes that can be 5 inches from each end of elevation pivot block  28  and can tighten against elevation adjustment rods  26 . Bolts  48  can thread into a 0.5 inch hole on each end of an elevation adjustment block  28  and can attach an elevation adjustment block  28  to a cross conveyor  12 . Roll pins  49  can be used to prevent an elevation pivot block  28  from traveling beyond the ends of elevation adjustment rods  26 . Leveling stops  40  can be constructed with 1.5 inch square steel tubing that can be 5.375 inches long and can be welded perpendicular to a material handler attachment frame  22  in a location that can be 3 inches from an end of a material handler attachment frame  22  where an adjustment rod plate  34  can be welded. Leveling stops  40  can have a rubber bumper  52  attached to the top. Rubber bumpers  52  can be cone shaped, and in one particular case are one inch high and one and one half inches in diameter. A material handler attachment frame pivot end plate  32  can be constructed with 0.5 inch thick steel that can be 3 inches wide and can be 14 inches long and can be welded flat to a material handler attachment frame  22 . Material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  can be constructed with 1 inch thick steel that can be 3 inches wide and can be 4 inches long and can have a 1 inch hole that can be located 1.5 inches from the bottom and 1.5 inches from the side. Material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  can be welded 12 inches apart to a material handler attachment frame pivot end plate  32 . Bolts  54  can be threaded through material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  and can tighten against shaft  24 . Shaft  24  can be constructed with 1.0 inch round, solid steel that can be 16 inches long and can have 0.187 inch holes located 0.5 inch from each end. Ends of shaft  24  can be secured in place with roll pins  53 . A shaft  24  can pass through material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  and washers  56  and cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44 . Cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44  can be constructed of 1 inch thick steel that can be 3 inches wide and can be 4 inches long and can have a 1 inch hole located 1.5 inches from the bottom and 1.5 inches from a side and can be welded 3.25 inches from the ends of cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46 . Cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46  can be constructed with 0.5 inch thick steel that can be 3 inches wide and can be 17.75 inches long. Cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46  can be welded flat to a cross conveyor attachment frame  42 . A cross conveyor attachment frame  42  can be a rectangular, divided, flat frame that can be 17.75 inches by 12 inches. Cross conveyor attachment frame  42  can be constructed with five pieces of steel that can be welded together to form a flat, divided frame. Included in cross conveyor attachment frame  42  can be two side pieces that can be 0.25 inch thick steel that can be 2 inches wide and 17.75 inches long, two end pieces that can be 0.25 inch thick steel that can be 2 inches wide and 8 inches long, and a center piece that can be 0.25 inch thick steel that can be 2 inches wide and 8 inches long. Nuts and bolts  55  can be used to attach a cross conveyor attachment frame  42  to a cross conveyor  12 . Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize the dimensions, features, and/or shapes that may be utilized to incline component  20  in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. For example, if increased or decreased productivity is required, it may be desirable to increase and/or decrease all dimensions and/or component quantities in order to increase or decrease the dimensions of incline component  20 . Again, based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0050]      FIG. 3C  is a side view of incline component  20  that can include a material handler attachment frame  22 , a cross conveyor attachment frame  42 , elevation adjustment rods  26 , and an elevation pivot block  28 , in accordance with some embodiments of these present invention. In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, adjustment rod plate  34  can be welded flat on one end of material handler attachment frame  22 . Adjustment rod connection tabs  35  can be welded perpendicular to adjustment rod plate  34  and can be connected to elevation adjustment rods  26  with nut and bolt  51 . Elevation pivot block  28  can be positioned along elevation adjustment rod  26  and can be secured in place using bolts  50  and bolts  58  that can tighten against elevation adjustment rods  26 . Bolts  48  can thread into each end of elevation adjustment block  28  and can attach it to a cross conveyor  12 . Pins  49  can prevent elevation pivot block  28  from traveling beyond the ends of elevation adjustment rods  26 . Material handler attachment frame pivot end plate  32  can be welded flat to a material handler attachment frame  22 . Material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  can be welded perpendicular to a material handler attachment frame pivot end plate  32 . Bolts  54  can thread through material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  and can tighten against shaft  24 . Shaft  24  can go through material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  and cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44 . The ends of shaft  24  can be secured in place with roll pins  53 . Cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46  is welded flat to cross conveyor attachment frame  42 . Cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44  can be welded perpendicular to cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46 . Bolts  57  can be threaded through cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44  and can tighten against shaft  24 . Nuts and bolts  55  can attach the cross conveyor attachment frame  42  to cross conveyor  12 . Again, based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0051]      FIG. 3D  is a bottom view of cross conveyor attachment frame  42  of incline component  20 , in accordance with some embodiments of these present invention. In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46  can be welded flat against the cross conveyor attachment frame  42 . Cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44  can be welded perpendicular to cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46 . Bolts  57  can be threaded into cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44  and can tighten against shaft  24 . Nuts and bolts  55  can attach cross conveyor attachment frame  42  to the cross conveyor  12 . Again, based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0052]      FIG. 3E  is an end view of material handler attachment frame  22  and cross conveyor attachment frame  42  of incline component  20 . In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, material handler attachment frame pivot end plate  32  can be welded flat to material handler attachment frame  22 . Material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  can be welded perpendicular and on the ends of material handler attachment frame pivot end plate  32 . Bolts  54  can be threaded into material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30  and can tighten against shaft  24 . Cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46  can be welded flat to cross conveyor attachment frame  42 . Cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44  can be welded perpendicular to a cross conveyor attachment frame plate  46 . Bolts  57  can be threaded into cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44  and can tighten against shaft  24 . Nuts and bolts  55  can attach cross conveyor attachment frame  42  to cross conveyor  12 . Shaft  24  can go through cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44  and material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30 . Washers  56  can be placed on shaft  24  and can be between cross conveyor attachment frame pivot blocks  44  and material handler attachment frame pivot blocks  30 . The end of shaft  24  can be secured in place with roll pins  53 . Again, based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0053]      FIG. 4A  is a top view of a discharge regulator  90  in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In general, discharge regulator  90  can provide an operational method for discharging waste material from a cross conveyor  12 . In one particular case of these exemplary embodiments, discharge regulator frame  92  can be ‘U’ shaped and can have an end that can be constructed with 0.25 inch thick steel that can be 1.5 inches wide and can be 14.75 inches long. Discharge regulator frame  92  can have sides that can be constructed with 0.25 inch thick steel that can be 1.5 inches wide and can be 14.75 inches long. Three pieces that can be used to construct discharge regulator frame  92  can be welded together to create the ‘U’ shape. A 0.265 inch hole can be located on the sides 1 inch from the open end of the ‘U’ shaped discharge regulator frame  92  and 0.75 inch from an edge of the discharge regulator frame  92 . Nuts and bolts  99  can be inserted through a hole and can be used to attach discharge regulator frame  92  to a cross conveyor  12 . Rods  98  can be constructed with 0.5 inch round, solid steel that can be 5 inches long. Rod  98  can be inserted into a 0.5 inch hole in a discharge regulator frame  92  and welded perpendicular to discharge regulator frame  92 . Nuts and bolts  100  can secure a discharge regulator plate  94  and a rubber sheet  96  to a discharge regulator frame  92 . Discharge regulator plate  94  can be constructed with 0.25 inch steel that can be 1.5 inches wide and can be 14.75 inches long and can have five 0.265 inch holes that can be located 1 inch, 4.25 inches, 7.375 inches, 10.625, and 13.75 inches from an end. Discharge regulator frame  92  can have five 0.265 inch holes that can be located 1 inch, 4.25 inches, 7.375 inches, 10.625, and 13.75 inches from one side and that can align with holes in discharge regulator plate  94 . Rubber sheet  96  can be 0.25 inch thick rubber and can be 6.25 inches high and can be 14 inches wide. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize the dimensions, features, and/or shapes that may be utilized to develop discharge regulator  90  in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. For example, if increased or decreased productivity is required for processing component  60 , it may be desirable to increase and/or decrease all dimensions and/or component quantities in order to increase or decrease the width of discharge regulator  90 . Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0054]      FIG. 4B  is an end view of discharge regulator  90 , in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, rods  98  can be welded perpendicular to a discharge regulator frame  92 . Rubber sheet  96  can be secured in place between a discharge regulator plate  94  and a discharge regulator frame  92  with nuts and bolts  100 . Again, based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0055]      FIG. 4C  is a side view of discharge regulator  90 , in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In one particular case of the exemplary embodiment, rods  98  can be welded perpendicular to a discharge regulator frame  92 . Rubber sheet  96  is secured in place between a discharge regulator plate  94  and a discharge regulator frame  92  with nuts and bolts  100 . Nuts and bolts  99  can attach a discharge regulator frame  92  to a cross conveyor  12 . Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other dimensions, features, shapes, and/or constructions may be utilized to develop the aforementioned components in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0056]     Some of the methods in accordance with the present invention provide for retrofitting existing equipment to operate in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. Such retrofitting may include replacing a manufacturer installed cross conveyor belt associated with cross conveyor  12  with a patterned cross conveyor belt  14 . Processing component  60  can be attached at an end of cross conveyor  12  using nuts and bolts that can be used in conjunction with mounting tabs  74  and holes that can be drilled in a cross conveyor  12 . A cross conveyor attachment frame  42  can be attached to a location in or near the middle of a cross conveyor  12 . Nuts and bolts  55  can be used in conjunction with holes in cross conveyor attachment frame  42  and holes that can be drilled in a cross conveyor  12  to attach a cross conveyor attachment frame  42  to a cross conveyor  12 . A discharge regulator  90  can be installed at an end of a cross conveyor  12 . Nuts and bolts  99  can be used in conjunction with holes drilled in a cross conveyor  12  and holes in a discharge regulator frame  92  to attach a discharge regulator  90 . An elevation pivot block  28  can be attached to a cross conveyor  12  with bolts  48  that can be inserted through holes drilled in a cross conveyor  12  and threaded into an elevation pivot block  28 . Bolts  50  and bolts  58  and bolts  57  and bolts  54  can be loosened so elevation rods  26  can slide through an elevation pivot block  28  and rubber bumpers  52  can come to rest against a cross conveyor  12  and a material handler attachment frame  22  can be in a position parallel to a cross conveyor  12 . Material handler attachment frame  22  can be attached to a material handler  10  that can be equipped with a swivel kit using material handler attachment hardware and/or other suitable hardware. Nuts and bolts  86  can be used to place vertically adjustable lower fence sections  70  in an optimal operating position relative to patterned cross conveyor belt  14 . Placing vertically adjustable lower fence sections  70  in an optimal operating position can influence a particle size of a processed material that can pass through a processing component  60 .  
         [0057]     Other methods in accordance with embodiments of the present invention provide for processing using the equipment in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The processing preparation procedures can include positioning the equipment by raising an end of a cross conveyor  12  where a processing component  60  can be attached. Raising this end of a cross conveyor  12  can allow elevation rods  26  to move through an elevation pivot block  28 . An optimal operational position for a cross conveyor  12  can be a position that can place a cross conveyor  12  at a 45 degree angle relative to ground. When an optimal operational angle for a cross conveyor  12  can be obtained, bolts  50  and bolts  58  and bolts  57  and bolts  54  can be tightened. A proper operating position can be maintained by tightening bolts  50  and bolts  58  and bolts  57  and bolts  54 .  
         [0058]     When a material is processed, a tractor or another suitable power source can be connected to a material handler  10 . A cross conveyor  12  can be oriented so it can point directly behind a material handler  10 . Material can be placed in a material handler  10 . Controls associated with a material handler  10  can be used to put a material handler&#39;s belt in motion and can be used to put a patterned cross conveyor belt  14  in motion. When belts associated with cross conveyor  12  and material handler  10  can be put in motion, material can be deposited onto a patterned cross conveyor belt  14  from a material handler  10 . In some cases, material handler  10  is equipped with a swivel kit  21 . A patterned cross conveyor belt  14  can move the material up an inclined cross conveyor  12  to a processing component  60 . At this location, material can contact vertically adjustable lower fence sections  70  and processing can occur. A desirable processed material can pass beyond processing component  60  to a pile. Waste material can be retained in front of a processing component  60  and can eventually fall down an inclined cross conveyor  12  and can be discharged to a separate pile when a discharge regulator  90  can be raised.  
         [0059]     In conclusion, the present invention provides novel systems, methods and arrangements for handling material. While detailed descriptions of one or more embodiments of the invention have been given above, various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art without varying from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, the above description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims.