Irrigation drive line protection system
US6220968A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 11, 1999 |
| Grant date | Apr 24, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 11, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA01G25/09
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A drive line protection system to shield the drive train of agricultural irrigation systems. The system is comprised of an endcap that attaches to the external face of a gearbox which itself engages the rotating elements of the drive train of an irrigation system. An elongated sleeve or endbell attaches to the endcap and is characterized by a first diameter at its proximal end and a second smaller diameter at its distal end. The proximal end of the endbell is attached to the endcap and extends outwardly along a drive shaft of the drive train. The larger first diameter permits the endbell to encase the coupler or linkage joining the gearbox and the drive shaft. The second diameter of the endbell permits the endbell to be necked down to the approximate diameter of a drive shaft protection tube. The adjustable drive shaft protection tube seats in the distal end of the endbell and extends substantially along the length of the drive shaft. In one embodiment, the endbell is provided with slots for receipt of deflectable locking tabs provided around the perimeter of the endcap wherein the locking tabs securely fasten the endbell in place during operation of the irrigation system but can b…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.