Leaf gathering and compressing machine and method

US6263649A · kind A · utility

Inventors

• Thomas R. Gross · Sinzing, DE
• Earl R. Smith · Holland, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 31, 2000
• Grant date: Jul 24, 2001
• Expiry date: Jan 31, 2020

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A01G20/43
• WIPO field: Other special machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

The leaf gathering and compressing machine has an main frame supported on wheels and adapted to be attached to the drawbar of a tractor. A subframe is pivotally attached to the main frame. A leaf pickup assembly is mounted on the front of the subframe. A leaf feeder assembly with a plurality of augers journaled on the subframe receives leaves from the leaf pickup assembly and conveys the leaves to the rear. A compression auger in an auger housing, mounted on the subframe, receives leaves from the feeder assembly, compresses the leaves and conveys the leaves to the rear. The auger housing has a minimum diameter that is at least two inches larger than the compression auger diameter in a generally vertical transverse plane. A holding container mounted on the main frame communicates with a compression auger discharge.