Patent ID: 12233537

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure. As used in the specification, and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term “comprising” and variations thereof as used herein is used synonymously with the term “including” and variations thereof and are open, non-limiting terms. The terms “optional” or “optionally” used herein mean that the subsequently described feature, event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said feature, event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, an aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. As used herein, the terms “about” or “approximately” when referring to a measurable value such as an amount, a percentage, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of ±20%, ±10%, ±5%, or ±1% from the measurable value. While implementations will be described for rolling collectors configured to pick up small items such as nuts (e.g., acorns, almonds, walnuts, chestnuts, hickory nuts, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, sweet gum balls, and the like), it will become evident to those skilled in the art that the implementations are not limited thereto, but are applicable for rolling collectors configured to pick up other small items including, but not limited to, bullet casings, screws, nuts and/or bolts, balls, and pine cones.

Referring now toFIGS.1-7, rolling collectors according to implementations described herein are described. For example, a rolling collector100according to an aspect of this disclosure is described with reference toFIGS.1-4. The rolling collector100includes a collector frame110, a roller assembly120, a remover mechanism130, and a trailer tongue140. Referring now toFIG.3, the collector frame110includes a first side110aand a second side110bspaced laterally apart and interconnected by at least one cross member (described below). The first and second sides110aand110bare formed from a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the first and second sides110aand110bare metal. Optionally, the first and second sides110aand110bare flat metal such as sheet metal or flat plate metal. It should be understood that metal is provided only as an example material. This disclosure contemplates that the first and second sides110aand110bcan be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or composite material. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the first and second sides110aand110b(and/or other components of the rolling collector100) may be formed using a laser cutting machine such as a computer numerical control (CNC) machine. Laser cutting machines and processes are known in the art and therefore not described in further detail herein. Additionally, each of the first and second sides110aand110bincludes a plurality of components (seeFIG.3) or alternatively can be a single component (not shown). When a side includes a plurality of components, the components can be connected by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism. Optionally, in some implementations, the first side110aand/or the second side110bincludes one or more holes, notches, grooves, etc. to facilitate assembly of the rolling collector100.

As discussed above, the first and second sides110aand110bare interconnected by at least one cross member. The cross member (or cross members) can be attached perpendicularly between the first and second sides110aand110b. As shown inFIG.3, the first and second sides110aand110bare interconnected by at least two cross members110cand110d. The first side110aand the second side110bare attached at opposite ends of the cross members. It should be understood that the number and/or arrangement of cross members110cand110dinFIG.3are provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates providing different numbers and/or arrangements of cross members. Similarly to the first and second sides110aand110b, the cross members110cand110dare formed from a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the cross members110cand110dare metal. Optionally, the cross members110cand110dare metal bars or tubing such as flat bar, round bar, angle bar, or metal tubing (e.g., round, square, rectangular). For example, inFIG.3, cross member110cis an angle bar and cross member110dis metal tubing. It should be understood that metal is provided only as an example material. This disclosure contemplates that cross members110cand110dcan be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or composite material. Additionally, the first and second sides110aand110bcan be connected to cross members110cand110dby one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism. Optionally, in some implementations, cross members110cand/or110dincludes one or more holes, notches, grooves, etc. to facilitate assembly of the rolling collector100.

The roller assembly120is rotationally coupled between the first side110aand the second side110b. Referring now toFIG.4, the roller assembly120includes a plurality of tine wheel units122, where each of the tine wheel units122includes a plurality of flexible tines124. As shown inFIGS.1and2, the tine wheel units122are arranged in a side-by-side manner between the first and second sides of the rolling collector100. Referring again toFIG.4, in some implementations, a tine wheel unit122includes a rim126and a plurality of spokes128. Each of the spokes128extends radially from a center of the tine wheel unit122to the rim126. It should be understood that the number and/or arrangement of the spokes128shown inFIG.4are provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates providing tine wheel units122having different numbers and/or arrangement of spokes128. Additionally, each of the flexible tines124extends radially outward from the rim126. It should be understood that the number and/or arrangement of the flexible tines124shown inFIG.4are provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates providing tine wheel units122having different numbers and/or arrangement of flexible tines124.

The flexible tines124are spaced laterally from one another and are configured to pick up small items as rolling assembly120rolls over the items by flexibly entraining a small item (e.g., nut, bullet casing, etc.) between adjacent flexible tines124. In at least the lateral direction, the flexible tines124are spaced at least a distance approximately equal to the narrowest dimension of the small item the rolling collector100is designed and configured to pick up. For example, for nuts the spacing of the flexible tines124is approximately equal to the narrowest width of the nut casing, whether the nut casing is oval (pecans), round (walnuts), or another cross section. Alternatively, for bullet casings, the flexible tines124are laterally spaced from one another a distance approximately equal to the diameter of a bullet casing. It should be understood that spacing of flexible tines124need not be precisely adapted for the type of small item being gathered because flexible tines124are flexible. It is only necessary that the play between adjacent tine wheel units122, the flexibility of flexible tines124, and any other looseness in the structure of the roller assembly120be sufficient to allow small items to be jammed between adjacent flexible tines124tightly enough to be restrained there until removed from the roller assembly120by the remover mechanism130.

The remover mechanism130is arranged between the first and second sides of the rolling collector100. The remover mechanism130is connected to the collector frame110, for example, by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism. The remover mechanism130includes a plurality of teeth, each of the teeth extending respectively between two adjacent tine wheel units122. Optionally, the remover mechanism130includes a remover cross member132attached to the collector frame110(seeFIG.5). The teeth are pivotably connected to the remover cross member132. In other words, the remover mechanism130is a large comb-like structure with a plurality of teeth connected to the remover cross member132. The remover mechanism130is designed and configured such that the teeth protrude between adjacent tine wheel units122. When a small item (e.g., nut, bullet casing, etc.) jammed between adjacent flexible tines124encounters the remover mechanism130, the small item is pried from the grip of the flexible tines124as the rolling assembly120rotates. The small item then slides across remover mechanism130and into a collection basket165. The remover cross member132is formed from a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the remover cross member132is metal such a round bar or metal tubing. It should be understood that metal is provided only as an example material. This disclosure contemplates that the remover cross member132can be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or composite material. The teeth are also formed of a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the teeth are formed from plastic or composite material. It should be understood that plastic and composite material are provided only as example materials. This disclosure contemplates that the teeth can be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, metal, wood, or fiberglass.

In some implementations, the rolling collector is configured for center pull operations (see e.g.,FIG.11B). In these implementations, the rolling collector is pulled along directly behind a tow vehicle. This disclosure contemplates that a tow vehicle can be a tractor, truck, golf cart, utility vehicle, or other motorized vehicle. Referring to now toFIGS.1-3and6, the rolling collector100includes a trailer tongue140. The trailer tongue140extends forwardly from the rolling collector100. The trailer tongue140is formed from a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the trailer tongue140is metal. Optionally, the trailer tongue140is a metal bar or tubing such as flat bar, round bar, angle bar, or metal tubing (e.g., round, square, rectangular). For example, the trailer tongue140can optionally be rectangular or square metal tubing. It should be understood that metal is provided only as an example material. This disclosure contemplates that the trailer tongue140can be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or composite material. The trailer tongue140is attached to the collector frame110between the first side110aand the second side110bof the rolling collector100. Optionally, the trailer tongue140is coupled approximately midline (or centerline) with respect to the collector frame110, e.g., approximately ½ the distance between the first side110aand the second side110bof the rolling collector100. The trailer tongue140can be coupled to the collector frame110(e.g., to a cross member) by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism.

Additionally, as shown inFIGS.1-3and6, the trailer tongue140has a hitch coupler142, e.g., a coupler configured to receive a ball mount. This disclosure contemplates that the hitch coupler142can be configured to receive another type of mount including, but not limited to, a pintle hook or other mount attached to a tow vehicle. Optionally, the trailer tongue140is coupled to the collector frame110via a tongue height adjustment plate144(seeFIG.3). For example, the tongue height adjustment plate144, which is attached to the collector frame110, can include a plurality of holes, each at different heights. The trailer tongue140can be coupled to the collector frame110by inserting a screw, bolt, pin, etc. into one or more holes of the tongue height adjustment plate144at an appropriate height to maintain a level collection basket height for a given tow vehicle. Maintaining level collection baskets165ensures that the collection baskets165hold the most product.

In other implementations, the rolling collector is configured for side pull operations (see e.g.,FIG.10). In these implementations, the rolling collector is pulled along behind and to the rear of a tow vehicle but offset to one side of the tow vehicle. Unlike center pull operations, the side pull configuration guarantees that the rolling collector will roll over an area and collect small items (e.g., nuts, bullet casings, etc.) before the tow vehicle rolls over the same area. It should be understood that the tow vehicle's wheels can damage (e.g., crush) small items, which can result in loss of product. As noted above, this disclosure contemplates that a tow vehicle can be a tractor, truck, golf cart, utility vehicle, or other motorized vehicle. Referring now toFIG.5, the rolling collector200includes a side dragger extension frame202. InFIG.5, the side dragger extension frame202includes two components202aand202barranged in a “Y” configuration. Component202bextends perpendicularly outward with respect to one side of the rolling collector200(e.g., left side inFIG.5), while component202aextends outwardly at an angle between the side of the rolling collector200and component202b. It should be understood that the side dragger extension frame202shown inFIG.5is provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates that the side dragger extension frame202can have other configurations than shown inFIG.5, including a different number and/or arrangements of components. Additionally, it should be understood that the side dragger extension frame202can be mounted on either side (left or right) of the rolling collector200.

The side dragger extension frame202is formed from a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the side dragger extension frame202is metal. Optionally, the side dragger extension frame202is a metal bar or tubing such as flat bar, round bar, angle bar, or metal tubing (e.g., round, square, rectangular). For example, the side dragger extension frame202can optionally be rectangular or square metal tubing. It should be understood that metal is provided only as an example material. This disclosure contemplates that the side dragger extension frame202can be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or composite material. The side dragger extension frame202is coupled to a side of the rolling collector200. The side dragger extension frame202can be coupled to the collector frame110by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism.

The rolling collector200also includes a trailer tongue240coupled to the side dragger extension frame202. The trailer tongue240extends forwardly from the rolling collector200. The trailer tongue240is formed from a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the trailer tongue240is metal. Optionally, the trailer tongue240is a metal bar or tubing such as flat bar, round bar, angle bar, or metal tubing (e.g., round, square, rectangular). For example, the trailer tongue240can optionally be rectangular or square metal tubing. It should be understood that metal is provided only as an example material. This disclosure contemplates that the trailer tongue240can be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or composite material. The trailer tongue240can be coupled to the side dragger extension frame202by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism.

Additionally, as shown inFIG.5, the trailer tongue240has a hitch coupler242, e.g., a coupler configured to receive a ball mount. This disclosure contemplates that the hitch coupler242can be configured to receive another type of mount including, but not limited to, a pintle hook or other mount attached to a tow vehicle. Optionally, the trailer tongue240is coupled to the side dragger extension frame202via a tongue height adjustment plate244. For example, the tongue height adjustment plate244, which is attached to the side dragger extension frame202, can include a plurality of holes, each at different heights. The trailer tongue240can be coupled to the side dragger extension frame202by inserting a screw, bolt, pin, etc. into one or more holes of the tongue height adjustment plate244at an appropriate height to maintain a level collection basket height for a given tow vehicle.

Referring now toFIG.4, the skeleton structure300of the roller assembly120according to aspects of the disclosure is described. The skeleton structure300includes a pair of hubs310(referred to individually as hub310aand hub310b) and a plurality of struts315. The struts315are configured to support the plurality of the tine wheel units122, which are arranged in a side-by-side manner between the pair of hubs310. The tine wheel units122are arranged around and supported by the struts315. The skeleton structure300provides more rigidity (and is less flexible) than an axle used in conventional rolling collectors. The skeleton structure300facilitates the ability to arrange the tine wheel units122in a side-by-side manner between the pair of hubs310for greater distances without deformation of the support structure. For example, the distance between the pair of hubs310is optionally greater than 18 inches, and optionally up to between about 36-42 inches in some implementations. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that an axle used in conventional rolling collectors may experience deformation (e.g. sagging) and would be less durable than the skeleton structure300. InFIG.4, the skeleton structure300includes four struts315, each arranged to contact a spoke128of a tine wheel unit122. It should be understood that the number and/or arrangement of the struts315shown inFIG.4is provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates that the skeleton structure300can include a different number and/or arrangement of struts315.

The pair of hubs310and struts315are formed from a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the pair of hubs310and struts315are metal. Optionally, the pair of hubs310are flat metal such as sheet metal or flat plate metal. Optionally, the struts315are metal bars or tubing such as flat bar, round bar, angle bar, or metal tubing (e.g., round, square, rectangular). For example, inFIG.4, the pair of hubs310are flat metal, and the struts315are angle bar. It should be understood that metal is provided only as an example material. This disclosure contemplates that the pair of hubs310and struts315can be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or composite material.

As shown inFIG.4, a first hub310aand a second hub310bof the pair of hubs310are attached to respective opposite ends of each of the struts315. In particular, hub310ais perpendicularly mounted to strut ends315a-315d, and hub310bis perpendicularly mounted to strut ends315a′-315d′. Additionally, the hubs310aand310bcan be coupled to the struts315by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism. Optionally, in some implementations, the hubs310and struts315include one or more holes, notches, grooves, etc. to facilitate assembly of the skeleton structure300.

Optionally, in some implementations, the skeleton structure300further includes a center shaft360in addition to the struts315. As shown inFIG.4, the center shaft360extends between the first hub310aand the second hub310b. The center shaft360extends approximately in parallel with each of the struts315. As discussed above, each tine wheel unit122includes a plurality of spokes128that extend radially from a center of the tine wheel unit122to the rim126. Optionally, the center of each of the tine wheel units122is shaped (e.g., circular) to accommodate the center shaft360. The center shaft360is formed of a rigid material such as plastic or metal. As discussed above, the struts315provide more rigid support for the tine wheel units122than using an axle (e.g., center shaft360) alone.

Referring now toFIGS.1-4, the skeleton structure300is rotationally coupled between the first side110aand the second side110bof the rolling collector100. For example, in some implementations, each of the first hub310aand the second hub310bincludes a respective stub shaft320(seeFIG.4), and the respective stub shafts320are supported by the first side110aand the second side110bof the rolling collector100. In this implementation, the respective stub shafts320can be supported in a respective hole, notch, groove, etc. formed in the first side110aand the second side110bof the rolling collector100. In other implementations, the rolling collector100optionally includes a pair of bearing assemblies350, where a first bearing assembly and a second bearing assembly of the pair of bearing assemblies350are coupled to the first side110aand the second side110b, respectively, and the respective stub shafts are installed within and supported by the pair of bearing assemblies350. Bearing assemblies are mechanical elements that constrain motion and/or reduce friction between moving parts. Bearing assemblies are well known in the art and therefore not described in further detail herein. In yet another implementation, each of the first side110aand the second side110bof the rolling collector100optionally includes a respective stub shaft, and a first bearing assembly and a second bearing assembly of the pair of bearing assemblies350are coupled to the first hub310aand the second hub310bof the skeleton structure300, respectively. The respective stub shafts are installed within and supported by the pair of bearing assemblies350.

Optionally, in some implementations, the rolling collector100further includes a lifting mechanism150. The lifting mechanism150is configured to raise the roller assembly120above a collection surface (e.g., the ground) when the user is not collecting small items (e.g., nuts, bullet casings, etc.). This is useful, for example, when the user is transporting the rolling collector100to/from storage, or when the user is transporting the rolling collector100between collection areas. It should be understood that raising the roller assembly120above the collection surface reduces wear and tear on the roller assembly120when not in use, which prolongs the useful lifetime of the rolling collector100. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that towable rolling collectors are more susceptible to wear and tear than those operated manually by a user.

Referring now toFIGS.1,2,6, and7, the lifting mechanism150includes a plurality of wheels154and a lift support frame152. Optionally, the lifting mechanism150further includes a lift handle158coupled to the lift support frame152. As described below, the lift handle158is configured to move the lift support frame152between an engaged position and a non-engaged position. The lift support frame152and lift handle158are formed from a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the lift support frame152and lift handle158are metal. Optionally, the lift support frame152and lift handle158are flat metal such as sheet metal or flat plate metal or metal bars or tubing such as flat bar, round bar, angle bar, or metal tubing (e.g., round, square, rectangular). It should be understood that metal is provided only as an example material. This disclosure contemplates that lift support frame152and lift handle158can be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or composite material. Additionally, the lift support frame152and lift handle158can be coupled to each other and/or to the collector frame110by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism.

The lifting mechanism150is rotationally coupled to the collector frame110, for example, such that the lift support frame152is movable around a respective rotational mounting point156located at each of the first and second sides of the rolling collector100. The wheels154are located adjacent to and outboard of the roller assembly120, e.g., one wheel154on each side of the rolling collector100. The wheels154are rotationally coupled to the lift support frame152. The lifting mechanism150is moveable between a first position (also referred to herein as “engaged position”) that raises the roller assembly120above a collection surface and a second position (also referred to herein as “non-engaged position”) where the roller assembly120contacts the collection surface. In the engaged position, the roller assembly120is suspended above the collection surface by the wheels154.FIG.1illustrates the rolling collector100with the lifting mechanism150in the engaged position (i.e., lift handle158positioned forward). In the engaged position, the rolling collector100is supported by the wheels154, and the roller assembly120is not operational. In the non-engaged position, the roller assembly120is in contact with the collection surface.FIG.2illustrates the rolling collector100with the lifting mechanism150in the non-engaged position (i.e., lift handle158positioned rearward). In the non-engaged position, the rolling collector100is supported by the roller assembly120, and the roller assembly120is operational. The lifting mechanism150is sized and shaped to hold the lift support frame152in the engaged position or the non-engaged position. In other words, the lifting mechanism150does not require a lock, safety pin, etc. to hold the lift support frame152in the engaged position or the non-engaged position. Optionally, as shown inFIGS.1,3, and5, a lift catch mechanism118can be provided on collector frame110. The lift catch mechanism118assists in maintaining the lifting mechanism (e.g., lifting mechanism150shown inFIG.2) in the non-engaged position. For example, the lift catch mechanism118is sized and shaped to provide a mechanical stop. It should be understood that lift catch mechanisms118can be provided on either or both sides of the collector frame110. It should also be understood that the size, shape, and/or arrangement of the lift catch mechanism118shown inFIGS.1,3, and5are provided only as an example.

Referring again toFIGS.1-4, the collector frame110includes a lower basket seat portion170arranged forwardly with respect to the roller assembly120. Optionally, the lower basket seat portion170is formed by one or more of the first side110a, the second side110b, and cross members110cand110d. The lower basket seat portion170is configured to accommodate one or more collection baskets165. As discussed above, when a small item (e.g., nut, bullet casing, etc.) jammed between adjacent flexible tines encounters the remover mechanism130, the small item is pried from the grip of the flexible tines as the rolling assembly120rotates, and the small item then slides across remover mechanism130and into a collection basket165. Optionally, in some implementations, the collection baskets165are of common size, e.g., 8 inch by 16 inch by 24 inch baskets or 8 inch by 16 inch by 12 inch baskets. InFIGS.1-4, the lower basket seat portion170is designed and configured to accommodate two baskets arranged side-by-side. This disclosure contemplates that the lower basket seat portion170can be designed and configured to accommodate a different number of collection baskets and/or collection baskets of various sizes.

Optionally, in some implementations, the collector frame110includes an upper basket seat portion160arranged above the roller assembly120. The upper basket seat portion160is configured to accommodate one or more collection baskets165. This disclosure contemplates that excess collection baskets165(e.g. full or empty baskets) can be stacked on the upper basket seat portion160, and that collection baskets165can be moved between the lower basket seat portion170and the upper basket seat portion160as needed during operation of the rolling collector100. Optionally, the upper basket seat portion160includes one or more tie down anchors162,164. It should be understood that the one or more tie down anchors162,164can be used to secure collection baskets165to the upper basket seat portion160, for example, using string, rope, bungee cords, straps, etc. It should also be understood that the size, shape, number and/or arrangement of tie down anchors162,164shown in the figures are provided only as examples. This disclosure contemplates providing a different size, shape, number and/or arrangement of tie down anchors162,164.

Referring now toFIG.3, the upper basket seat portion160includes a first basket seat side160aand a second basket seat side160bspaced laterally apart and interconnected by at least one basket seat cross member160cand160d. The basket seat cross member (or cross members) can be attached perpendicularly between the first and second basket seat sides160aand160b. As shown inFIG.3, the first basket seat side160aand the second basket seat side160bare connected at opposite ends of the basket seat cross members160cand160d. The first and second basket seat sides160aand160bcan be connected to the basket seat cross members160cand160dby one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism. It should be understood that the number and/or arrangement of basket seat cross members160cand160dinFIG.3are provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates providing different numbers and/or arrangements of basket seat cross members.

Additionally, the first and second basket seat sides160aand160band basket seat cross members160cand160dare formed from a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the first and second basket seat sides160aand160band basket seat cross members160cand160dare metal. Optionally, the first and second basket seat sides160aand160band basket seat cross members160cand160dare flat metal such as sheet metal or flat plate metal. It should be understood that metal is provided only as an example material. This disclosure contemplates that the first and second basket seat sides160aand160band basket seat cross members160cand160dcan be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or composite material. Additionally, each of the first and second basket seat sides160aand160bincludes a plurality of components (seeFIG.3) or alternatively can be a single component (not shown). When a side includes a plurality of components, the components can be connected by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism. Optionally, in some implementations, the first and second basket seat sides160aand160band basket seat cross members160cand160dincludes one or more holes, notches, grooves, etc. to facilitate assembly of the rolling collector100.

Optionally, in some implementations, the rolling collector100further includes a baffle mechanism180, which is shown inFIG.7. The baffle mechanism180is configured to deflect objects into a collection basket. As discussed above, when a small item (e.g., nut, bullet casing, etc.) jammed between adjacent flexible tines encounters the remover mechanism130, the small item is pried from the grip of the flexible tines as the rolling assembly120rotates, and the small item then slides across remover mechanism130and into a collection basket. The baffle mechanism180is configured to deflect errant small items into a collection basket. With the baffle member180installed, the rolling collector can be towed at higher speeds without loss of product. This disclosure contemplates that the baffle mechanism180is made of any suitable material for deflecting the small items to be collected by the rolling collector100. As shown inFIG.7, the baffle mechanism180can be coupled between the first and second sides of the rolling collector100. The baffle member is arranged forward with respect to the roller assembly120and above the lower basket seat portion170. Additionally, the baffle mechanism180can be configured for quick installation/removal in order to provide access to the collection baskets.

Optionally, in some implementations, the collector frame110includes a rear bumper member190, which is shown inFIG.6. The rear bumper member190is formed from a rigid material. For example, in some implementations, the rear bumper member190is metal. Optionally, the rear bumper member190is a metal bar or tubing such as flat bar, round bar, angle bar, or metal tubing (e.g., round, square, rectangular). For example, inFIG.6, the rear bumper member190is metal tubing. It should be understood that metal is provided only as an example material. This disclosure contemplates that the rear bumper member190can be formed from other suitable rigid material including, but not limited to, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or composite material. Additionally, the rear bumper member190can be coupled to the collector frame110by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism. As shown inFIG.6, the rear bumper member190can be attached between the first and second sides of the rolling collector100.

The rear bumper member190optionally has a rear hitch mount192, e.g., a ball mount, lunette ring, or other type of hitch mount. This facilitates additional rolling collector(s) to be towed one behind another, optionally where each rolling collector has a roller assembly configured to pick up different-sized small items (e.g., nuts, bullet casings, etc.). Such a towing configuration allows the user to collect a plurality of different-sized small items per pass, which is particularly useful for certain types of nut harvesting applications (e.g., chestnut harvesting). This arrangement allows the user to broaden collection coverage per pass by towing multiple rolling collectors at the same time. Optionally, the rear bumper member190includes one or more tie down anchors for securing string, rope, bungee cords, straps, etc.

Optionally, in some implementations, the rolling collector100optionally further includes a push handle coupled to the collector frame110, the push handle extending upwards from the collector frame110. The push handle can be used by the user for manual operation, for example, to reposition the rolling collector100for storage and/or during hitching operations.

Referring now toFIG.7, a towable rolling collector configured for side-by-side operation is shown (see e.g.,FIGS.9and12). The rolling collector100shown inFIG.7includes many of the same features of the rolling collector100shown inFIGS.1-3and6and these features are not described in further detail below. The rolling collector100inFIG.7further includes a post member400. The post member400is also shown inFIG.8. Optionally, in some implementations, the post member400is a piece of lumber such as a 4 inch by 4 inch (4×4) post, for example. Although lumber is provided as an example material, this disclosure contemplates that the post member400can be formed of other suitable materials including, but not limited to, metal. A hitch mount404is provided at a first end of the post member400. The hitch mount404is coupled to the post member400via a first bracket402. The first bracket402is attached to the post member400by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism. A pair of draw pins412aand412bare provided at a second end of the post member400. The second end is spaced apart from and opposite to the first end. The pair of draw pins412aand412bare coupled to the post member400via a pair of brackets410aand410b. The pair of brackets410aand410bare attached to the post member400by one or more fasteners such as welded joints, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, or other fastening mechanism. It should be understood that the number and/or arrangement of the hitch mounts and draw pins shown inFIGS.7and8are provided only as examples. For example, a post member can optionally include more or less hitch mounts than shown inFIGS.7and8. In one non-limiting example, draw pins can be provided centrally on the post member with hitch mounts provided at opposite ends.

The pair of draw pins412aand412bare mounted at an appropriate distance (and spacing between) to facilitate connection to a lift arm of a tractor, which is the tow vehicle. In this way, the post member400extends laterally from the rear of the tractor to the rolling collector100, which is pulled along behind and to the rear of the tractor but offset to one side of the tractor. Optionally, a plurality of post members400can be provided, e.g., one for each lift arm (left and right) of the tractor. Additionally, it should be understood that the tractor can tow an additional rolling collector in a center pull configuration. In other words, the tractor can be configured to tow multiple rolling collectors100(e.g., 2 or 3) in a side-by-side configuration. This allows the user to broaden collection coverage per pass by towing multiple rolling collectors at the same time.

Referring now toFIGS.9-12, example tow vehicle configurations are described. This disclosure contemplates that a tow vehicle can be a tractor, truck, golf cart, utility vehicle, or other motorized vehicle. Additionally, it should be understood that the configurations shown inFIGS.9-12are provided only as examples and that other towing configurations are possible according to this disclosure.

FIG.9illustrates a tractor500towing a plurality of rolling collectors100. InFIG.9, the forward rolling collector100is in a side-by-side configuration (see e.g.,FIG.7) and the rear rolling collector100is in a center pull configuration (see e.g.,FIG.1). In particular, the post member400is coupled to the lift arm of the tractor500via the pair of draw pins412aand412b. In this way, the post member400extends laterally from the rear of the tractor500to the rolling collectors100, which are pulled along behind and to the rear of the tractor500but offset to one side of the tractor500. In this configuration, the rolling collectors100can be maneuvered to pick up small objects such as nuts without being crushed by the wheels of the tractor500. As shown inFIG.9, the hitch coupler142of the trailer tongue140of the forward rolling collector100is coupled to a hitch mount of the post member400(which is coupled via the first bracket402), and the hitch coupler of the trailer tongue140of the rear rolling collector100is coupled to a rear hitch mount provided on the rear bumper member of the forward rolling collector100. It should be understood that the number of rolling collectors shown inFIG.9(i.e., two rolling collectors) are provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates a towing configuration with more than two rolling collectors100.

FIG.10illustrates a lawn mower502towing a rolling collector200for side pull operations. The rolling collector200includes the trailer tongue240, which is coupled to the side dragger extension frame202and extends forwardly from the rolling collector200. In this configuration, the rolling collector200can be maneuvered to pick up small objects such as nuts without being crushed by the wheels of the lawn mower502. As shown inFIG.10, the hitch coupler242of the trailer tongue240is coupled to a hitch mount on the lawn mower502. It should be understood that the number of rolling collectors shown inFIG.10(i.e., one rolling collector) is provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates a towing configuration with more than one rolling collector200.

FIG.11Aillustrates a lawn mower502towing a plurality of rolling collectors100,200. InFIG.11A, the forward rolling collector200is in a side pull configuration (see e.g.,FIG.5) and the rear rolling collector100is in a center pull configuration (see e.g.,FIG.1). In particular, rolling collector200is configured for side pull operations and includes a trailer tongue, which is coupled to the side dragger extension frame202and extends forwardly from the rolling collector200. The hitch coupler242of the trailer tongue240is coupled to a hitch mount on the lawn mower502. Additionally, the hitch coupler of the trailer tongue140of the rolling collector100is coupled to a rear hitch mount provided on the rear bumper member of the rolling collector200. In this configuration, the rolling collectors100,200can be maneuvered to pick up small objects such as nuts without being crushed by the wheels of the lawn mower502. It should be understood that the number of rolling collectors shown inFIG.11A(i.e., two rolling collectors) are provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates a towing configuration with more than two rolling collectors.

FIG.11Billustrates a lawn mower502towing a plurality of rolling collectors100for center pull operations. InFIG.11B, both rolling collectors100are in a center pull configuration (see e.g.,FIG.1). As shown inFIG.11B, the hitch coupler of the trailer tongue140of a forward rolling collector100is coupled to a hitch mount of the lawn mower502, and the hitch coupler of the trailer tongue140of a rearward rolling collector100is coupled to a rear hitch mount provided on the rear bumper member of the forward rolling collector100. It should be understood that the number of rolling collectors shown inFIG.11B(i.e., two rolling collectors) are provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates a towing configuration with more than two rolling collectors.

FIG.12illustrates a tractor500towing a plurality of rolling collectors100. InFIG.12, the rolling collectors100are arranged in two rows and three columns behind the tractor500. It should be understood that the number of rolling collectors shown inFIG.12(i.e., six rolling collectors) are provided only as an example. This disclosure contemplates a towing configuration with more or less than six rolling collectors. InFIG.12, the post member400is coupled to the lift arm of the tractor500via the pair of draw pins412aand412b. In this way, the post member400extends laterally from the rear of the tractor500in both directions. Hitch mounts (i.e., left, right, and center) are provided on the post member such that the rolling collectors100are pulled along behind and to the rear of the tractor500. One column of rolling collectors100is offset to the left side of the tractor500. One column of rolling collectors100is offset to the right side of the tractor500. One column of rolling collectors100is located centrally with respect to the tractor500. In other words, the rolling collectors100are arranged in a side-by-side configuration.

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.