US20240125067A1

US20240125067A1 - Snowthrower scraper

Info

Publication number: US20240125067A1
Application number: US18/480,688
Authority: US
Inventors: Derek S. Duchscherer; Todd A. Porter; Paul F. Koltz; Brian A. Hanson; Chris A. Wadzinski
Original assignee: Toro Co
Current assignee: Toro Co
Priority date: 2022-10-14
Filing date: 2023-10-04
Publication date: 2024-04-18

Abstract

An auger housing as part of a snowthrower or part of a snowthrower implement for attachment with a vehicle. The auger housing may include a rear wall and spaced-apart first and second sidewalls connected to one another by the rear wall to define a front-facing collection opening. The rear wall may define a lower edge extending between the first and second sidewalls along a transverse direction. The auger housing may also include an oscillating scraper connected to the lower edge of the rear wall. The oscillating scraper extends downwardly from the lower edge toward a ground surface and is configured to move relative to the rear wall in a reciprocating motion.

Description

This application claims priority to and/or the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/416,308, filed 14 Oct. 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Embodiments described herein are directed generally to snowthrowers and snowthrower implements, and more specifically, to chisels or scrapers for use with snowthrowers and snowthrower implements.

BACKGROUND

Walk-behind snowthrowers and snowthrower implements (e.g., for attaching to a utility vehicle) typically fall into one of two categories. Two-stage snowthrowers include a horizontally-mounted, rigid helical auger that cuts snow and moves it at a low speed transversely toward a discharge area. Once the snow reaches the discharge area, a higher speed impeller collects and ejects the snow outwardly away from the snowthrower through a discharge chute. Wheels supporting two-stage snowthrowers are typically powered to propel the snowthrower over a ground surface during operation.
Conversely, single-stage snowthrowers typically achieve both snow collection and ejection using a horizontally mounted, high-speed rotor. The rotor may be shaped to move the snow transversely toward a discharge area. At or near the discharge area, the rotor may include paddles configured to directly eject the snow outwardly through a discharge chute.
Regardless of the category of snow collection and ejection, the snowthrower may traverse a ground surface having compacted snow and/or ice. As such, while snow located upon the ground surface may be transported and ejected by the snowthrower, the compacted snow and/or ice may remain on the ground surface after the snowthrower passes.

SUMMARY

Embodiments described herein may provide a snowthrower that includes an auger housing, an auger, and an oscillating scraper. The auger housing may include spaced-apart first and second sidewalls connected to one another by a rear wall to define a front-facing collection opening. The auger housing may include a lower edge extending between the first and second sidewalls along a transverse direction. The auger may be positioned within the auger housing between the collection opening and the rear wall. The oscillating scraper may be connected to the lower edge of the auger housing. The oscillating scraper may extend downwardly from the lower edge toward a ground surface and may be configured to move relative to the auger housing in a reciprocating motion.
Other embodiments described herein may provide an auger housing that includes a rear wall, spaced apart first and second sidewalls, and an oscillating scraper. The spaced-apart first and second sidewalls may be connected to one another by the rear wall to define a front-facing collection opening. The rear wall may include a lower edge extending between the first and second sidewalls along a transverse direction. The oscillating scraper may be connected to the lower edge of the rear wall. The oscillating scraper may extend downwardly from the lower edge toward a ground surface and may be configured to move relative to the rear wall in a reciprocating motion.
Yet other embodiments described herein may provide a snowthrower implement for attachment with a utility vehicle, the snowthrower implement may include an auger housing, an auger, and an oscillating scraper. The auger housing may include spaced-apart first and second sidewalls connected to one another by a rear wall to define a front-facing collection opening. The auger housing may include a lower edge extending between the first and second sidewalls along a transverse direction. The auger may be positioned within the auger housing between the collection opening and the rear wall. The oscillating scraper may be connected to the lower edge of the auger housing. The oscillating scraper may extend downwardly from the lower edge toward a ground surface and may be configured to move relative to the auger housing in a reciprocating motion.
The above summary is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation. Rather, a more complete understanding of various illustrative embodiments will become apparent and appreciated by reference to the following Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments in view of the accompanying figures of the drawing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

Exemplary embodiments will be further described with reference to the figures of the drawing, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a left front perspective view of a snowthrower in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an isolated front left perspective view of an auger housing similar to that shown in the snowthrower of FIG. 1 with an oscillating scraper exploded therefrom;

FIG. 3 is a left front perspective view of an auger housing of a snowthrower in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure with some structure (e.g., tires) removed;

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of an auger housing of the snowthrower of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of the auger housing of FIG. 3 ;

FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic view of an auger housing in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing including an oscillating scraper configured to move in a transverse direction;

FIG. 7 is a partial diagrammatic view of an auger housing in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing including an oscillating scraper configured to move in a fore and aft direction;

FIG. 8 is a partial diagrammatic view of an auger housing in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing including an oscillating scraper configured to move in a vertical direction;

FIG. 9 is a partial diagrammatic view of an auger housing in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing including an oscillating scraper configured to move in a direction along a plane of the oscillating scraper; and

FIG. 10 a left front perspective view of a snowthrower implement attached to a utility vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The figures are rendered primarily for clarity and, as a result, are not necessarily drawn to scale. Moreover, various structure/components, including but not limited to fasteners, electrical components (wiring, cables, etc.), and the like, may be shown diagrammatically or removed from some or all of the views to better illustrate aspects of the depicted embodiments, or where inclusion of such structure/components is not necessary to an understanding of the various exemplary embodiments described. The lack of illustration/description of such structure/components in a particular figure is, however, not to be interpreted as limiting the various embodiments in any way.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying figures of the drawing which form a part hereof. It is to be understood that other embodiments, which may not be described and/or illustrated herein, are certainly contemplated. Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, and all terms expressing direction/orientation (e.g., vertical, horizontal, parallel, perpendicular, etc.) in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” The term “and/or” (if used) means one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements. “I.e.” is used as an abbreviation for id est and means “that is.” “E.g.,” is used as an abbreviation for exempli gratia, and means “for example.”
A snowthrower (or snowthrower implement) is an efficient solution in many snow removal applications. For two-stage snowthrowers, an auger positioned within a portion of a housing (e.g., an auger housing) of the snowthrower rotates (e.g., about a transverse axis) to collect snow and push the snow towards an impeller that ejects the snow from the housing (e.g., through a discharge outlet or chute). Conversely, in single-stage snowthrowers, both snow collection and ejection are handled by a spinning rotor. While snowthrowers are efficient at removing snow, on occasion compacted snow and/or ice remain on the ground surface even after the snowthrower passes thereover.
Exemplary snowthrowers described herein may include an oscillating scraper or chisel configured to break up or displace (e.g., agitate or disrupt) the compacted snow and/or ice as the snowthrower passes over. Further, in some embodiments, the oscillating scraper of the snowthrower may be positioned such that pieces of displaced compacted snow and/or ice may pass into the auger housing and be ejected through the discharge outlet.
The oscillating scraper may be operably connected to the housing and extending downward towards the ground surface. The oscillating scraper may not contact the ground surface (e.g., when the snowthrower is in an operating position), but may be spaced apart therefrom. Additionally, the oscillating scraper may be configured to move relative to the housing (e.g., translating, pivoting, rotating, etc.) to interact with the compacted snow and/or ice and break up the same. Specifically, in one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper may be configured to move back and forth according to a determined frequency and distance of translation.
With reference to the figures of the drawing, wherein like reference numerals designate like parts and assemblies throughout the several views, FIG. 1 illustrates a variable speed, self-propelled, two-stage snowthrower 100. While so described and illustrated, such a construction is not limiting as aspects of the depicted/described embodiments may find application to other types of snowthrowers (e.g., those that attach as implements to general purpose vehicles, single-stage snowthrowers, etc.) as well as to other types of power equipment.
It is noted that the terms “comprises” and variations thereof do not have a limiting meaning where these terms appear in the accompanying description and claims. Further, “a,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably herein. Moreover, relative terms such as “left,” “right,” “front,” “fore,” “forward,” “rear,” “aft,” “rearward,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “upper,” “lower,” “above,” “below,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” and the like may be used herein and, if so, are from the perspective of one operating the snowthrower 100 while the snowthrower is in an operating configuration, e.g., while the snowthrower 100 is positioned such that wheels 106 and skids 118 rest upon a generally horizontal ground surface 103 as shown in FIG. 1 . These terms are used only to simplify the description, however, and not to limit the interpretation of any described embodiment. In a similar manner, terms such as “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various elements. However, such terms are provided merely to simplify identification of the element(s). Accordingly, if an element is described as “first,” there may or may not be any other subsequent elements—that is, a “second” element is not necessarily present. It is further understood that the description of any particular element as being operatively attached, connected, or coupled to another element may indicate that the elements are either directly attached, connected, or coupled to one another, or are indirectly attached, coupled, or connected to one another via intervening elements.
Still further, the suffixes “a” and “b” may be used throughout this description to denote various left- and right-side parts/features, respectively. However, in most pertinent respects, the parts/features denoted with “a” and “b” suffixes are substantially identical to, or mirror images of, one another. It is understood that, unless otherwise noted, the description of an individual part/feature (e.g., part/feature identified with an “a” suffix) also applies to the opposing part/feature (e.g., part/feature identified with a “b” suffix). Similarly, the description of a part/feature identified with no suffix may apply, unless noted otherwise, to both the corresponding left and right part/feature.
As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the snowthrower 100 may include a chassis or frame 102 (having first and second lateral sides and defining a centerline longitudinal axis 101) supporting a power source or prime mover, e.g., internal combustion engine 104 or electric motor. One or more (e.g., a pair of) ground support members, e.g., first and second drive members (e.g., wheels 106), may be coupled, one on or near each of a first (e.g., left) and a second (e.g., right) side of the frame 102 (left drive wheel 106 a is mostly visible in FIG. 1 , while right drive wheel 106 b is only partially visible in FIG. 1 ). As further described below, the wheels 106 may be selectively powered by the engine 104, in one embodiment, to propel the snowthrower 100 over the ground surface 103 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 101 (when travelling in a straight line). In some embodiments, the snowthrower 100 may turn due to differential rotation of each wheel 106 a, 106 b. While described and illustrated herein as using an internal combustion engine, other prime movers (such as an electrical motor) are also possible. The engine 104 may be attached to the frame 102 at a location selected to approximately equalize a weight supported by each of the wheels 106.
The snowthrower 100 may include a housing 110 (e.g., an auger housing 130) attached to the frame 102 and an auger 160 positioned within the housing 110. The housing 110 may define a partially enclosed volume such that the housing may at least partially surround or enclose the auger 160. Lowermost portions of the housing 110 (e.g., skids 118), together with the wheels 106, may form ground contact portions of the snowthrower 100.
The housing 110 may define a front-facing collection opening 111 positioned forward of the auger 160. The auger 160 is adapted for rotating (e.g., via engine 104 power) within, and relative to, the housing 110 about a transverse direction or auger axis 161. The housing 110 may include a pair of spaced-apart sidewalls 112 connected to one another by a rear wall 114 such that the housing forms the generally front-facing collection opening 111 defining a partially enclosed volume or chamber containing the auger 160. An upper wall 115 of the housing may also be provided. Regardless of the wall configuration, the auger may be positioned between the collection opening 111 and the rear wall 114 as shown in FIG. 1 .
As used herein, “longitudinal axis” or “longitudinal direction” refers to a long axis of the snowthrower 100, e.g., the centerline longitudinal axis 101 extending in the travel or fore-and-aft direction as shown in FIG. 1 . “Transverse” or “transverse axis” or “transverse direction” refers to a direction or axis extending side-to-side, e.g., a horizontal axis that is normal or transverse to the longitudinal axis 101 of the vehicle, like the auger axis 161.
The housing 110 may also define a discharge opening or outlet 116 and a discharge chute 120. The discharge chute 120 may be operatively coupled to the housing 110 such that the discharge chute 120 fluidly communicates with the discharge outlet 116 so that snow within the housing 110 may be ejected through the discharge chute 120 (via the discharge outlet 116). For example, the discharge chute 120 may include sidewalls 122 that define a passageway. This passageway of the chute 120 may communicate with the partially enclosed volume of the housing 110 (through the discharge outlet 116) and, thus, with the front-facing collection opening 111.
The discharge chute 120 may be adapted to rotate about a chute axis and may include an adjustable deflector to help direct snow exiting the discharge chute 120, as known in the art. Additionally, in some embodiments, the sidewalls 122 of the discharge chute 120 may taper outwardly as the sidewalls 122 extend downwardly and connect to the housing 110. The tapered sidewalls 122 may assist in guiding snow from the discharge outlet 116 and through the discharge chute 120. Additionally, the tapered sidewalls 122 may allow any snow buildup or ice to drop downward through the discharge chute 120 without obstruction.
In some embodiments, the housing 110 includes both the auger housing 130 and an impeller housing 140. The auger housing 130 and the impeller housing 140 may be coupled together to form the structure of the housing 110. In some embodiments, the impeller housing 140 may be integral with the auger housing 130 or attach at a rear portion of the auger housing 130. In other words, the auger housing 130 and the impeller housing 140 may be a singular unit that forms the housing 110. The housing 110, as described herein, may include a material selected from (e.g., be formed from) aluminum, steel, plastic, etc.
The snowthrower 100 may also include the auger 160 positioned within the auger housing 130 between the collection opening 111 and the rear wall 114. The auger 160 may be adapted to rotate, relative to the auger housing 130, about an auger axis 161. The auger 160 may be adapted to rotate such that snow entering the collection opening 111 is collected by the auger 160 and moved towards the center of the auger housing 130. Specifically, the auger 160 may rotate such that snow captured between the sidewalls 112 is directed towards the center of the collection opening 111, where it then enters the impeller housing 140. The auger 160 may be driven or rotated by an auger gear housing 176 (e.g., see FIGS. 1 and 4 ) that is operatively coupled to the engine 104. Further, the auger 160 may be coupled to an auger shaft 109 (which is, e.g., rotatably coupled between the sidewalls 112; see also FIG. 4 ) that extends along the auger axis 161, about which the auger 160 rotates.
In one or more embodiments, the impeller housing 140 may also define the discharge outlet 116. Snow that is collected by the housing 110 passes through the auger housing 130 (via the auger 160) into the impeller housing 140 and is then ejected through the discharge outlet 116. The discharge outlet 116 may be located at any suitable position along the housing 110. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , the impeller housing 140 defines the discharge outlet 116 at a top of the impeller housing 140. As described herein, the discharge chute 120 may be attached to the impeller housing 140 and in fluid communication with the discharge outlet 116 such that snow ejected through the discharge outlet 116 may be directed in a specific direction by the discharge chute 120.
The snowthrower 100 may also include an impeller 141 (see FIG. 4 ) that is adapted to receive snow transported by the auger 160 and to eject snow outwardly through the discharge outlet 116. In one or more embodiments, the impeller may be positioned within the impeller housing 140 proximate the discharge outlet 116. The impeller may be operatively coupled to the engine 104 to rotate about an axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 101 (see FIG. 1 ). The impeller may include blades that are positioned radially, spaced away from the axis of the impeller, and oriented such that snow delivered by the auger is ejected by the blades through the discharge outlet 116. Furthermore, the impeller may be coupled to a drive shaft that is operatively coupled to the auger gear housing 176 such that rotational motion from the engine rotates both the auger 160 (via auger shaft 109) through the auger gear housing, and the impeller.
The auger housing 130 may also define a lower edge 132 extending between the first and second sidewalls 112 along a transverse direction (e.g., parallel to the auger axis 161), e.g., as shown in FIG. 2 . For example, the lower edge 132 may be located at a bottom-most edge of the rear wall 114. In one or more embodiments, the lower edge 132 may be considered a lower edge of the housing 110. Further, the snowthrower 100 may include an oscillating scraper 150 connected to the lower edge 132 of the auger housing 130. FIG. 2 illustrates the oscillating scraper 150 exploded from the lower edge 132 of the auger housing 130 for better clarity, but the oscillating scraper 150 may be movably connected to the auger housing 130 (e.g., overlapping the lower edge 132). Specifically, the oscillating scraper 150 may extend downwardly from the lower edge 132 toward the ground surface 103.
Further, the oscillating scraper 150 may be configured to move relative to the housing 110 (e.g., to the auger housing 130) in a reciprocating motion. In other words, the oscillating scraper 150 may move back and forth relative to the housing 110. The oscillating scraper 150 may be positioned such that it makes contact with compacted snow and/or ice on the ground surface. As such, the oscillating scraper 150 may interact with compacted snow and/or ice through the reciprocating motion to loosen or break up the compacted snow and/or ice. Therefore, in addition to ejecting loose snow on the ground surface, the snowthrower 100 may clear the ground surface from compacted snow and/or ice. It is noted that while the oscillating scraper 150 includes the word oscillating, any scraper, chisel, or impact element is contemplated herein (e.g., rotating, pivoting, etc.).
The oscillating scraper 150 may be configured to move a specified distance and at a specified rate relative to the housing 110. For example, the oscillating scraper 150 may be configured to move at a frequency of about 1-200 Hertz (Hz). In one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may move relative to the housing 110 at an ultrasonic oscillation rate of about, e.g., 6,500 Hz to 40,000 Hz. Further, for example, the oscillating scraper 150 may move (e.g., translate) back and forth by a total distance of about 0.025 inches to 0.5 inches (e.g., more specifically about 0.05 inches to 0.375 inches).
Furthermore, the snowthrower 100 may include an actuator 108 (e.g., represented diagrammatically in FIG. 3 ) configured to move the oscillating scraper 150 relative to the housing 110. For example, the actuator 108 may include an electric motor, a rotary motor, a cam apparatus, piston apparatus, axial cam, electro-magnetic actuator, servo motor, spring/solenoid, linear actuator, etc. The actuator 108 may be operably connected to the oscillating scraper 150 to control the reciprocating motion thereof. Specifically, the reciprocating motion of the oscillating scraper 150 (e.g., relative to the housing 110) may be selectively actuated by the operator. In other words, the operator may choose when to start and stop the reciprocating motion of the oscillating scraper 150. In one or more embodiments, the reciprocating motion of the oscillating scraper 150 may be tied to actuation (engagement or disengagement) of the auger 160 movement.
Further, in one or more embodiments, the snowthrower 100 may include an overload protection system that prevents placing excess strain on the oscillating scraper 150. For example, the snowthrower 100 may include various electronic components (e.g., an accelerometer, position sensor, force sensor/load cell, power/amperage management, etc.) that determine, e.g., whether a threshold is exceeded that is indicative of a threshold strain on the oscillating scraper 150.
The oscillating scraper 150 may include any number of suitable portions. For example, in one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may include one portion extending between the first and second sidewalls 112. As shown in FIG. 4 , the oscillating scraper 150 may extend along all or most of a length of the lower edge 132 along the transverse direction. In one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may extend for a length less than a length of the lower edge 132 along the transverse direction (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6 ). In one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may include two or more portions extending between the first and second sidewalls 112. The two or more portions may be positioned such that a gap exists between each adjacent portion of the oscillating scraper 150. The gap may be any suitable size between, e.g., greater than or equal to 0 inches and less than or equal to 0.5 inches, less than or equal to 1 inch, less than or equal to 1.5 inches, less than or equal 2 inches, etc. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , the oscillating scraper 150 may include a first portion 151 and a second portion 152 (e.g., the portions are delineated using broken lines). Further, the first and second portions 151, 152 of the oscillating scraper 150 may be separated by a gap 153.
The oscillating scraper 150 may include more than one portion for a variety of different reasons. For example, the stress applied across the oscillating scraper 150 may be spread across multiple portions. Also, for example, including a gap (e.g., gap 153) between adjacent portions of the oscillating scraper 150 may provide relief to any one portion (e.g., by providing a space for debris, snow, and/or ice to pass through). Further, the multiple portions of the oscillating scraper 150 may move (e.g., in a reciprocating motion) together or independent from one another.
The oscillating scraper 150 may be movably connected (e.g., to allow for reciprocating motion) to the housing 110 (e.g., the auger housing 130) in any suitable way. For example, in one or more embodiments, one of the auger housing 130 and the oscillating scraper 150 may define one or more pins 172 and the other of the auger housing 130 and the oscillating scraper 150 may define one or more slots 171 configured to receive the one or more pins 172. Specifically, the one or more pins 172 may be retained within the one or more slots 171 and also movable along the one or more slots 171. The one or more slots 171 may define a linear or non-linear path. In one or more embodiments, the auger housing 130 may define an axle or pin upon which the scraper 150 may pivot or rotate. For example, the scraper 150 may pivot or rotate relative to the housing 130 such that at least a portion of the scraper 150 interacts with compacted snow and/or ice during revolutions or rotations of the scraper 150. Further, the scraper 150 may define a cylinder or drum, e.g., with protrusions/blades extending therefrom to interact with compacted snow and/or ice. In one or more embodiments, the scraper 150 may be movably attached to the housing using, e.g., springs, pivots, dampers, pillow blocks, etc.
The oscillating scraper 150 may define any suitable width 155 (see FIG. 2 , e.g., measured within the plane of the scraper 150 in a direction generally corresponding to the direction of the longitudinal axis 101). For example, the oscillating scraper 150 may define a width of about 1 inch to 12 inches (e.g., more specifically about 2.6 inches). In some embodiments, the width of the oscillating scraper 150 may be determined based on the distance between the lower edge 132 of the housing 110 and the ground surface 103. In other words, the width of the oscillating scraper 150 may be less than a width that would allow for the oscillating scraper 150 to extend into the ground surface 103 when connected to the housing 110. The oscillating scraper 150 may define any suitable thickness (e.g., the thickness is visible in FIG. 5 ). For example, the oscillating scraper 150 may define a thickness of about 0.025 inches to 0.5 inches (e.g., more specifically 0.05 inches to 0.375 inches).
The oscillating scraper 150 may include (e.g., be formed of) any suitable material such as, e.g., aluminum, steel, plastic, etc.
It is noted that while the oscillating scraper 150 illustrated in FIG. 2 shows a flat rectangular shape, any suitable form factor is contemplated herein. For example, in one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may define a texture or shaped edge to assist in breaking up compacted snow and/or ice. In one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may define a cylinder that is connected to the housing 110 proximate the leading edge 132. Further, the cylinder may define a textured outer surface to assist in breaking up the compacted snow and/or ice. Further yet, in one or more embodiments, the cylinder may be configured to roll or pivot about an axis and/or may be biased towards the ground surface. In one or more embodiments, the scraper 150 may define a multi-bladed rotating scraper that, e.g., trips during impact and rotates to the next edge. In one or more embodiments, the scraper 150 may define a serrated outer surface, a thin edge to flex (e.g., with contact to the snow/ice or ground surface), wedges, etc.
A side view of the housing 110 (e.g., auger housing 130) showing the lower edge 132 and the oscillating scraper 150 in broken lines (e.g., representing structure located behind the sidewall 112) is illustrated in FIG. 5 . The oscillating scraper 150 may include a cantilevered member having an upper end 154 movably connected to the lower edge of the housing 110 and a leading end 156 positioned at or near the ground surface 103. The leading end 156 of the oscillating scraper 150 may extend (be cantilevered) from the lower edge 132 for any suitable distance.
For example, in one or more embodiments, the leading end 156 of the oscillating scraper 150 may protrude (be cantilevered) about 0 inches to 3 inches below a lowest-most point of a profile of the auger 160 (e.g., an outer surface of revolution or virtual cylinder of the auger illustrated in broken lines in FIG. 5 ). Also, as described herein, the auger housing 130 may include a skid 118 coupled to the sidewall 112. The skid 118 may define a lower surface 119 configured to support the auger housing 130 upon the ground surface 103 when the snowthrower 100 is in an operating position. The leading end 156 of the oscillating scraper 150 may be positioned about 0 inches to 3 inches vertically above an elevation of the lower surface 119 of the skid 118 (e.g., the ground surface 103). In other words, the leading end 156 of the oscillating scraper 150 may be positioned such that a minimum distance between the leading end 156 and the ground surface 103 (e.g. through the reciprocating motion) is about 0 inches to 3 inches. Therefore, the leading end 156 of the oscillating scraper 150 may be prevented from interacting with the ground surface 103 during operation. In one or more embodiments, the leading end 156 of the scraper 150 may be in intermittent contact with the ground surface 103 during operation.
The oscillating scraper 150 may extend at any suitable angle relative the ground surface 103 (or, e.g., any portion of the housing 110), when the snowthrower 100 is in an operating position. For example, the oscillating scraper 150 may extend forward and at an angle of less than or equal to 90 degrees, less than or equal to 75 degrees, or less than or equal to 60 degrees relative to the ground surface 103 when the snowthrower 100 is in an operating position on the ground surface 103. In one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may extend rearward and at an angle of less than or equal to 90 degrees, less than or equal to 75 degrees, or less than or equal to 60 degrees relative to the ground surface 103. In one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may extend at an angle of 90 degrees relative to the ground surface 103 (e.g., perpendicular to the ground surface 103). In one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may extend relative to the rear wall 114 (e.g., at the lower edge 132) at an angle of about 0 degrees, less than or equal to 15 degrees, less than or equal to 30 degrees, etc.
Furthermore, the scraper 150 may interact with the ground surface 103 in a variety of different ways. For example, in one or more embodiments, the scraper 150 may define a multi-arm rotating scraper that may, e.g., trip during impact or proximity to the ground surface and rotated to the next edge. Also, in one or more embodiments, the scraper 150 may include a spring loaded trip edge (e.g., similar to a plow), may be sliding or slotted, may be pivoting, rotating, etc.
In some embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 extends rearward from the lower edge 132 of the housing 110 such that the oscillating scraper 150 may drag behind the lower edge 132. Further, in such embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may be biased towards the ground surface 103, e.g., such that the oscillating scraper 150 may be in contact with compacted snow and/or ice but may deflect over various obstacles. As such, the oscillating scraper 150 may break up compacted snow and/or ice, but because the oscillating scraper 150 is behind the lower edge 132, the broken up snow and/or ice may not travel into the auger housing 130 to be ejected through the discharge outlet 116. Instead, the operator may make a second pass over the scraped or chiseled area to collect the compacted snow and/or ice that was broken up into the auger 160.
FIG. 6 illustrates an auger housing 130, with the auger removed therefrom, and an oscillating scraper 150 operably connected to the lower edge 132 of the housing. The oscillating scraper 150 may define an upper surface 158 that is positioned to form a continuous path with an inner surface 138 of the auger housing 130 (e.g., to direct the broken up compacted snow and/or ice back into the auger). In other words, the oscillating scraper 150 may define a smooth transition with the auger housing 130 to prevent snow and/or ice from becoming stuck therebetween (e.g., avoiding a ledge or lip on which snow may become caught).
Further, FIG. 6 illustrates an oscillating scraper 150 that may be configured to move along the transverse direction (e.g., parallel to the auger axis 161) relative to the auger housing 130. In other words, the oscillating scraper 150 may define a reciprocating motion that travels back and forth between the sidewalls 112. A first position of the oscillating scraper 150 is represented by the solid lines in FIG. 6 , and a second position (e.g., showing the reciprocating motion along the transverse direction) is represented by the broken lines in FIG. 6 . In one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may be configured to translate over a total distance (peak-to-peak amplitude) of about 0.025 inches to 1 inch (e.g., more specifically 0.05 inches to 0.75 inches) along the transverse direction.
In one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may be configured to move in a direction perpendicular to the transverse direction relative to the auger housing 130. For example, as shown in FIG. 7 , the oscillating scraper 150 is shown in two separate positions (again represented by solid and broken lines) that are fore and aft from one another (e.g., along the longitudinal axis 101). In other words, the oscillating scraper 150 may move forward and backward relative to the auger housing 130. The oscillating scraper 150 may be configured to translate over a total distance (peak-to-peak amplitude) of about 0.025 inches to 0.5 inches (e.g., more specifically 0.05 inches to 0.375 inches) in the direction perpendicular to the transverse direction relative to the auger housing 130 (e.g., a reciprocating motion that is forward and backward).
In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 8 , the oscillating scraper 150 is shown in two separate positions (again represented by solid and broken lines) that are spaced apart in the vertical direction (e.g., when the snowthrower 100 is in the operating position). In other words, the oscillating scraper 150 may move upward and downward relative to the auger housing 130. The oscillating scraper 150 may be configured to translate over a total distance (peak-to-peak amplitude) of about 0.025 inches to 0.75 inches (e.g., more specifically 0.05 inches to 0.5 inches) in the direction perpendicular to the transverse direction relative to the auger housing 130 (e.g., a reciprocating motion that is upward and downward).
Additionally, in one or more embodiments, the oscillating scraper 150 may move in a direction along the plane of the oscillating scraper 150. In other words, the oscillating scraper 150 may extend and retract while maintaining a position with a plane. As shown in FIG. 9 , the oscillating scraper 150 is shown in two separate positions (again represented by solid and broken lines). The oscillating scraper 150 may be configured to translate for a distance of about 0.025 inches to 0.5 inches (e.g., more specifically 0.05 inches to 0.375 inches) within the plane of the oscillating scraper 150 (e.g., extending and retracting). Furthermore, the oscillating scraper 150 may move in any combination of directions described herein.
The oscillating scraper 150 and characteristics thereof may also apply to a snowthrower implement 210 attached to a utility vehicle 200 as illustrated in FIG. 10 . The implement 210 may be configured in a manner similar to the snowthrowers as described herein above.
Illustrative embodiments are described and reference has been made to possible variations of the same. These and other variations, combinations, and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and it should be understood that the claims are not limited to the illustrative embodiments set forth herein.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A snowthrower comprising:

an auger housing comprising spaced-apart first and second sidewalls connected to one another by a rear wall to define a front-facing collection opening, wherein the auger housing comprises a lower edge extending between the first and second sidewalls along a transverse direction;

an auger positioned within the auger housing between the collection opening and the rear wall; and

an oscillating scraper connected to the lower edge of the auger housing, the oscillating scraper extending downwardly from the lower edge toward a ground surface and configured to move relative to the auger housing in a reciprocating motion.

2. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper is configured to move along the transverse direction relative to the auger housing.

3. The snowthrower of claim 2, wherein the oscillating scraper is configured to translate over a total distance of about 0.05 inches to 0.75 inches along the transverse direction.

4. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper is configured to move in a direction perpendicular to the transverse direction relative to the auger housing.

5. The snowthrower of claim 4, wherein the oscillating scraper is configured to translate over a total distance of about 0.05 inches to 0.375 inches in the direction perpendicular to the transverse direction.

6. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper is configured to move at a frequency of about 1-200 Hertz.

7. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper comprises one portion extending between the first and second sidewalls.

8. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper extends along all or most of a length of the lower edge of the auger housing along the transverse direction.

9. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper comprises two or more portions extending between the first and second sidewalls and positioned such that a gap exists between each adjacent portion of the oscillating scraper.

10. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper defines a thickness of about 0.05 inches to 0.375 inches.

11. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper defines a width of about 1 inch to 12 inches.

12. The snowthrower of claim 1, further comprising an actuator configured to move the oscillating scraper relative to the auger housing.

13. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein one of the auger housing and the oscillating scraper defines one or more pins and the other of the auger housing and the oscillating scraper defines one or more slots configured to receive the one or more pins.

14. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper defines a leading end cantilevered from the lower edge of the auger housing, wherein the leading end protrudes about 0 inches to 3 inches below a lowest-most point of a profile of the auger.

15. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the auger housing comprises a skid coupled to the first or second sidewall, wherein the skid defines a lower surface configured to support the auger housing upon the ground surface when the snowthrower is in an operating position, wherein the oscillating scraper defines a leading end cantilevered from the lower edge of the auger housing, wherein the leading end is positioned about 0 inches to 3 inches vertically above an elevation of the lower surface of the skid.

16. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper defines an upper surface that is positioned to form a continuous path with an inner surface of the auger housing.

17. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper extends at an angle of less than or equal to 90 degrees relative to the ground surface when the snowthrower is in an operating position on the ground surface.

18. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper comprises a material selected from aluminum, steel, and plastic.

19. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the oscillating scraper comprises a cantilevered member having an upper end movably connected to the lower edge of the auger housing, and a leading end positioned at or near the ground surface.

20. The snowthrower of claim 1, wherein the reciprocating motion of the oscillating scraper relative to the auger housing is selectively actuated.

21. A snowthrower implement for attachment with a utility vehicle, wherein the snowthrower implement comprises: